bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oroxylin A inhibits Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpes virus (KSHV) vIL‐6–mediated lymphatic reprogramming of vascular endothelial cells through modulating PPARγ/Prox1 axis
Authors: Zhu Xiaofei , Chen Yun , Zhu Wenqiang , Ji Mingde , Xu Jing , Guo Yuanyuan , Gao Feng , Gu Wanjian , Yang Xuewen , Zhang Chunbing
Published: October 2018

Background and purpose

Kaposi's sarcoma–associated herpes virus (KSHV) vIL‐6 is sufficient to induce lymphatic reprogramming of vascular endothelial cells, which is a key event in Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) development. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of Chinese herb oroxylin A on lymphatic reprogramming and neovascularization by KSHV vIL‐6 in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

The lymphatic‐phenotype endothelial cell line was generated by lentiviral KSHV vIL‐6 infection. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined by MTT assay or flow cytometry with annexin V/propidium iodide staining. Migration, invasion, and neovascularization of the vIL‐6‐expressing lymphatic‐phenotype endothelial cells were determined by wound healing assay, transwell chamber assay, microtubule formation assay, and chick chorioallantoic membrane assay, respectively. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were used to test the expression of Prox1, VEGFR3, podoplanin, LYVE‐1, and PPARγ in cells. Co‐localization of Prox1 and PPARγ was determined by immunofluorescence. Ubiquitination of Prox1 was detected by in vivo ubiquitination assay.

Results

The lymphatic‐phenotype endothelial cell line expressing KSHV vIL‐6 was successfully generated. Oroxylin A induced cellular invasion abrogation, apoptosis induction, and neovascularization inhibition of the vIL‐6‐expressing endothelial cells. Mechanically, oroxylin A elevated PPARγ expression, which in turn interacted with and facilitated Prox1 to undergo ubiquitinational degradation, and subsequently leads to VEGFR3, LYVE‐1, and podoplanin reduction.

Conclusion

Through modulating PPARγ/Prox1 axis, oroxylin A inhibits lymphatic reprogramming and neovascularization of KSHV vIL‐6. Thus, oroxylin A may serve as a candidate for the treatment of KS as well as other aggressive angiomas.
Prevalence of human herpesviruses infections in nonmalignant tonsils: The SPLIT study
Authors: Kourieh Aboud , Gheit Tarik , Tommasino Massimo , Dalstein Véronique , Clifford Gary M. , Lacau St Guily Jean , Clavel Christine , Franceschi Silvia , Combes Jean‐Damien ,   for the SPLIT study group
Published: October 2018

Objective

To assess the prevalence of all known human herpesviruses (HHV) in tonsils of an age‐stratified large sample of immunocompetent children and adults.

Methods

Patients undergoing tonsillectomy for benign indications were recruited in 19 French hospitals. After resection, the entire outer surfaces of right and left half tonsils were extensively brushed. A highly sensitive species‐specific multiplex assay was used to detect herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1), HSV2, Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV; types 1 and 2), and human cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA in 688, as well as varicella zoster virus (VZV), HHV6A, HHV6B, HHV7, and Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) DNA in a subset of 440 tonsil brushings.

Results

Overall 85% of tonsil brushing samples were infected with at least one HHV species. HHV7 and EBV were the most prevalent (≈70%), followed by HHV6B (≈50%), HSV1, CMV, VZV (≈2%), and KSHV and HSV2 (<1%), while HHV6A was not detected. EBV prevalence was significantly higher in adults than in children, whereas it was opposite for HHV6B and VZV. No difference in HHV prevalence was observed by sex. In multivariate analysis, EBV detection was associated with age greater than or equal to 15 years (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5‐2.3) and marginally with tobacco smoking (PR = 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1‐1.3).

Conclusion

Differing patterns of HHV infection in tonsils in a large age‐stratified population were described. This study is by far the largest available and shows that EBV, HHV6B, and HHV7 are commonly detected in the tonsils in both men and women, in contrast to other HHVs.
Zebrafish models for personalized psychiatry: Insights from individual, strain and sex differences, and modeling gene x environment interactions
Authors: Volgin Andrey D. , Yakovlev Oleg A. , Demin Konstantin A. , de Abreu Murilo S. , Alekseeva Polina A. , Friend Ashton J. , Lakstygal Anton M. , Amstislavskaya Tamara G. , Bao Wandong , Song Cai , Kalueff Allan V.
Published: October 2018

Currently becoming widely recognized, personalized psychiatry focuses on unique physiological and genetic profiles of patients to best tailor their therapy. However, the role of individual differences, as well as genetic and environmental factors, in human psychiatric disorders remains poorly understood. Animal experimental models are a valuable tool to improve our understanding of disease pathophysiology and its molecular mechanisms. Due to high reproduction capability, fully sequenced genome, easy gene editing, and high genetic and physiological homology with humans, zebrafish (Danio rerio) are emerging as a novel powerful model in biomedicine. Mounting evidence supports zebrafish as a useful model organism in CNS research. Robustly expressed in these fish, individual, strain, and sex differences shape their CNS responses to genetic, environmental, and pharmacological manipulations. Here, we discuss zebrafish as a promising complementary translational tool to further advance patient‐centered personalized psychiatry.
Ammonia losses from urea applied to winter wheat over four consecutive years and potential mitigation by urease inhibitors
Authors: Schraml Martine , Weber Andreas , Heil Kurt , Gutser Reinhold , Schmidhalter Urs
Published: October 2018

Urea is not only the most important mineral nitrogen (N) fertilizer worldwide, but it is also the mineral N fertilizer with one of the highest potential for ammonia (NH3) losses. The European emission inventory guidebook estimates an average loss of 16% of the applied urea as NH3. For mitigating NH3 losses from urea, the best option would be to immediately incorporate the fertilizer. However, the addition of a urease inhibitor (UI) represents a potent alternative. In a multi‐year experiment from 2002 to 2005, 17 measurement periods were conducted in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and on bare soil in Southern Germany to evaluate the extent of NH3 losses following the application of urea and to determine the mitigating effect of urease inhibitors. In all measurement periods, 80 kg N ha−1 as urea without or with the UI N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (nBTPT) 0.3% w/w or N‐(isopropoxycarbonyl) phosphoric acid triamide (IPAT) 0.4% w/w were applied. For 6–24 d following fertilizer application, NH3 emissions were continuously measured using a dynamic chamber system. Generally, low NH3 emissions were detected from urea, varying between 0.1 and 2.7% of the N applied to winter wheat and between 2.6 and 16.3% of the N applied on bare soil. Addition of the UIs IPAT and nBTPT had a significant effect on the course of NH3 emissions and reduced losses on average by 32% and 24%, respectively.
Oxidation evaluation of free astaxanthin and astaxanthin esters in Pacific white shrimp during iced storage and frozen storage
Authors: Qiao Xing , Yang Lu , Gao Qun , Yang Shu , Li Zhaojie , Xu Jie , Xue Changhu
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

In this paper, the changes in free astaxanthin (F‐AST) and astaxanthin esters (AST‐Es) in Litopenaeus vannamei during iced storage and frozen storage were investigated. The liquid chromatography–atmospheric pressure chemical ionization tandem mass spectrometry method was used to quantify the molecular species of AST‐Es in shrimp during storage.

RESULTS

Based on the analysis of autoxidation products, apo‐12‐astaxanthinal and apo‐13‐astaxanthinone docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) ester were identified as the major oxidation products of F‐AST and AST‐Es in L. vannamei during storage. The total astaxanthin (T‐AST) content decreased by 34.51% after 7 days in iced storage. In contrast, the content of T‐AST decreased by 43.76% after 12 weeks in frozen storage. The content of F‐AST decreased by 29.99% while 13‐cis‐astaxanthin increased after 3 days in iced storage, which indicated that degradation of AST was accompanied by isomerization. Total volatile basic nitrogen and T‐AST content showed a significant negative correlation while in frozen storage, where the concentration of T‐AST might be one indicator to evaluate shrimp freshness.

CONCLUSION

The correlation coefficients between phenol oxidase, lipoxygenase, apo‐12‐astaxanthinal, and apo‐13‐astaxanthinone DHA ester were all greater than 0.97 (P < 0.01). This correlation indicates that phenol oxidase and lipoxygenase were the main internal factors to improve oxygenation of astaxanthin in L. vannamei. These results provide a theoretical basis for further study of oxidation and the degradation mechanism in astaxanthin, as well as a new idea for the development and utilization of astaxanthin compounds in Pacific white shrimp. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Hunters’ responses to urine‐based scent bans tackling chronic wasting disease
Authors: Song Hwanseok , McComas Katherine A. , Schuler Krysten L.
Published: October 2018

Wildlife managers and researchers have suspected that urine‐based lure products collected from captive cervids could be potential media contributing to the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in deer (Odocoileus spp.). Although personnel in multiple wildlife agencies have taken the precautionary approach to prohibit the sales or use of urine‐based lure products, it is not well understood whether hunters will accept and willingly cooperate with these policies. To address this gap in the literature, we examine hunters’ attitudes and behavioral intentions toward a hypothetical policy proposing to ban urine‐based products and how risk beliefs, trait psychological reactance, and hunting experience affect these responses. In May 2017, we recruited 739 members of an online advocacy group of deer hunters to complete a web‐based survey with experimental elements. Overall, participants held positive attitudes toward the proposed policy to ban these products and high intentions to cooperate. Participants also characterized CWD as an increasing risk that was associated with dread, well known to science, and observable. These risk beliefs were positively related to attitudes and behavioral intentions to comply with the policy. In contrast, trait psychological reactance and prior experience using urine‐based scents were negatively related to attitudes and behavioral intentions. Findings indicate that wildlife management agency personnel communicating with the public may find better acceptance of controversial CWD policies by first establishing a shared understanding of its risks through thorough risk communication. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Is HPV‐Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer Becoming More Common in Older Patients?
Authors: Thompson James D. , Harari Paul M. , Hartig Gregory K.
Published: October 2018

Objective

To evaluate changing age demographics over a 15‐year period for patients with HPV‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Study Design

Retrospective review of patients identified with p16‐positive OPSCC at our institution over a 15‐year timeframe.

Materials/Methods: p16‐positive immunohistochemistry was used as a surrogate for HPV‐associated OPSCC. Patients were categorized according to year of diagnosis (2002‐2010 versus 2011‐2016). Mean age and proportion of patients over age 65 were statistically evaluated and compared.

Results

From 2002 to 2010, 100 patients were identified with p16‐positive OPSCC, mean age at diagnosis was 55.2, and the proportion of patients over 65 was 10.0%. From 2011 to 2016, 188 patients were identified with p16‐positive OPSCC, mean age was 58.5, and the proportion of patients over 65 was 19.6%. Both the mean age difference and the difference in proportion of patients over 65 were statistically significant (P = .001 and P = .034, respectively).

Conclusion

The mean age at diagnosis and proportion of patients over 65 has increased over the past 15 years at our institution. This data suggests that HPV‐associated OPSCC is being diagnosed more frequently in older persons and that the age demographic may be shifting. Confirmation of this trend with larger patient numbers on a national level will be valuable. This study highlights the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion for HPV‐associated OPSCC regardless of patient age.

Level of evidence

4
The impacts of iron limitation and ocean acidification on the cellular stoichiometry, photophysiology, and transcriptome of Phaeocystis antarctica
Authors: Koch Florian , Beszteri Sara , Harms Lars , Trimborn Scarlett
Published: October 2018

Phaeocystis antarctica is an integral player of the phytoplankton community of the Southern Ocean (SO), the world's largest high‐nutrient low‐chlorophyll region, and faces chronic iron (Fe) limitation. As the SO is responsible for 40% of anthropogenic CO2 uptake, P. antarctica must also deal with ocean acidification (OA). However, mechanistic studies investigating the effects of Fe limitation and OA on trace metal (TM) stoichiometry, transcriptomic, and photophysiological responses of this species, as well as on the Fe chemistry, are lacking. This study reveals that P. antarctica responded strongly to Fe limitation by reducing its growth rate and particulate organic carbon (POC) production. Cellular concentrations of all TMs, not just Fe, were greatly reduced, suggesting that Fe limitation may drive cells into secondary limitation by another TM. P. antarctica was able to adjust its photophysiology in response to Fe limitation, resulting in similar absolute electron transport rates across PSII. Even though OA‐stimulated growth in Fe‐limited and ‐replete treatments, the slight reduction in cellular POC resulted in no net effect on POC production. In addition, relatively few genes were differentially expressed due to OA. Finally, this study demonstrates that, under our culture conditions, OA did not affect inorganic Fe or humic‐acid‐like substances in seawater but triggered the production of humic‐acid‐like substances by P. antarctica. This species is well adapted to OA under all Fe conditions, giving it a competitive advantage over more sensitive species in a future ocean.
Guided Cell Attachment via Aligned Electrospinning of Glycopolymers
Authors: Liu Renjie , Becer Caglar Remzi , Screen Hazel R. C.
Published: October 2018

The creation of biomaterials with aligned fibers offers broad applications in tissue regeneration, guiding cell organization and physiological cues, and providing appropriate mechanical properties for many biomedical applications. Herein, for the first time, highly aligned electrospun membranes are designed and developed using glycopolymers. The membranes retain the strong mechanical properties of polycaprolactone, and fiber alignment facilitates the creation of anisotropic mechanical properties, enabling failure stress to be manipulated by an order of magnitude relative to randomly ordered fibers. Biocompatibility and cell attachment in these materials are characterized using tenocytes as a cell model. Both random and aligned fiber glycopolymers show promising biocompatibility, but aligned glycopolymer fibers additionally offer patterning to guide cell organization. These materials potentially provide a novel platform for tissue regeneration studies, demonstrating that the sugar–lectin interaction can produce materials capable of managing cell guidance.
A comparison of accelerated corrosion tests for the assessment of the intergranular corrosion susceptibility of bare 6000 aluminum sheets
Authors: Cornejo Marina , Hentschel Thomas , Koschel Diana , Matthies Christiane , Peguet Lionel , Rosefort Marcel , Schnatterer Christian , Szala Elizabeth , Zander Daniela
Published: October 2018

Two highly accelerated lab tests, ISO 11846 Method B and PV1113, three cyclic tests, VDA621‐415 (also known as ISO11997 Cycle B), VDA233‐102, and ASTM G85 Annex 2 as well as an accelerated urban outdoor exposure were investigated and compared with respect to their suitability for the evaluation of the IGC susceptibility of bare 6000 aluminum alloys. AA6014 and AA6016, each tested in a low and a high Cu containing variant, suffered, predominantly, intergranular corrosion (IGC) when tested under ISO 11846 and PV1113 conditions. The results obtained by ISO11846 were systematically higher compared to those measured using PV1113. VDA621‐415 (ISO11997 Cycle B) and VDA233‐102 caused only slight localized corrosion, which occurred as IGC, too; however, the density of attack was low. ASTM G85 A2 was the only test that predominantly caused pitting corrosion to occur on all materials.
Crystalline CO2‐Based Aliphatic Polycarbonates with Long Alkyl Chains
Authors: Kunze Lena , Wolfs Jonas , Verkoyen Patrick , Frey Holger
Published: October 2018

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an easily available, renewable carbon source and can be utilized as a comonomer in the catalytic ring‐opening polymerization of epoxides to generate aliphatic polycarbonates. Dodecyl glycidyl ether (DDGE) is copolymerized with CO2 and propylene oxide (PO) to obtain aliphatic poly(dodecyl glycidyl ether carbonate) and poly(propylene carbonate‐co‐dodecyl glycidyl ether carbonate) copolymers, respectively. The polymerization proceeds at 30 °C and high CO2 pressure utilizing the established binary catalytic system (R,R)‐Co(salen)Cl/[PPN]Cl. The copolymers with varying DDGE:PO ratios are characterized via NMR, FT‐IR spectroscopy, and SEC, exhibiting high molecular weights between 11 400 and 37 900 g mol−1 with dispersities (Ð = M
w/M
n) in the range of 1.37–1.61. Copolymers with T
gs of −11 °C or T
ms from 5 to 15 °C and thermal decomposition >200 °C depending on the comonomer ratio, are obtained as determined by differential scanning calorimetry/TGA.
Polylactide‐Based Amphiphilic Block Copolymers: Crystallization‐Induced Self‐Assembly and Stereocomplexation
Authors: Noack Sebastian , Schanzenbach Dirk , Koetz Joachim , Schlaad Helmut
Published: October 2018

The aqueous self‐assembly behavior of a series of poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(l‐/d‐lactide) block copolymers and corresponding stereocomplexes is examined by differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. Block copolymers assemble into spherical micelles and worm‐like aggregates at room temperature, whereby the fraction of the latter seemingly increases with decreasing lactide weight fraction or hydrophobicity. The formation of the worm‐like aggregates arises from the crystallization of the polylactide by which the spherical micelles become colloidally unstable and fuse epitaxically with other micelles. The self‐assembly behavior of the stereocomplex aggregates is found to be different from that of the block copolymers, resulting in rather irregular‐shaped clusters of spherical micelles and pearl‐necklace‐like structures.
Influence of Alkaline Hornification Treatment Cycles on the Mechanical Behavior in Curaua Fibers
Authors: Santos Renata. D. , Ferreira Saulo R. , Oliveira Geiza E. , Silva Flavio A. , Souza Fernando G. , Toledo Filho Romildo D.
Published: October 2018

A well‐known treatment applied in vegetable fibers in both paper and cellulose industry is named hornification. This treatment consists in soaking and drying cycles aiming promoting a reducing in the water absorption capability of the fibers, which causes a stiffening in the cellulosic structure increasing the dimensional stability and consequently their mechanical properties. In this work is presented an analysis of the effect of alkaline hornification, using a calcium hydroxide (CH) 0.7% w/v solution, after 01, 05, and 10 cycles of soaking and drying on the structure changes, mechanical answer, durability performance, and adherence behavior of curaua fibers in the cementitious matrix. The fiber structure as well as their physical and chemical characteristics are evaluated before and after hornification treatment by X‐ray diffraction (DRX), Thermogravimetry (TGA), Fourier Transformade Infrared (FTIR), and Scanning Electronic Microscope (SEM), while their mechanical answer is evaluated by direct tensile tests. The obtained results indicate that the hornification treatment alters the morphological, physical, and chemical fiber properties, improving their mechanical properties. However, when the number of cycles is excessive, this kind of treatment may cause a decreasing in fiber mechanical properties.
Derivatization of Milk Protein Using Poly (Acrylamide): Its Characterization and Application
Authors: Sinha Sweta
Published: October 2018

Major milk protein Casein (CAS) is chemically modified (grafting) using Acrylamide monomer by Microwave Assisted technique. The grafting of the poly (Acrylamide) (PAM) chains on the backbone of Casein is confirmed through the various physicochemical studies. The Intrinsic viscosity and Number Average Molecular Weight of Casein appreciably improved on grafting of poly (Acrylamide) chains. Further, flocculation efficacy of the graft copolymer is optimized in coal fine suspension and the optimized grade is studied in municipal wastewater through Jar test procedure, toward possible application as flocculant for wastewater treatment.
Optimizing Properties of Natural Rubber Compounds Using Tetrabutylammonium bis(N‐phenylsulfonyldithiocarbimate)zincate(II) as Accelerator
Authors: de Arruda Mariana Moura Sampaio , Visconte Leila Léa Yuan , Linhares Igor Antunes , Cunha Leandro Marcos Gomes , da Silva Ana Lúcia Nazareth
Published: October 2018

The rheometric properties of natural rubber compounds containing the compound tetrabutylammonium bis(N‐phenylsulfonyldithiocarbimate)zincate(II) as the accelerator are modulated by means of the response surface methodology (RSM), where the Face Centred Central Composite Design (FCCD) with three factors and three levels was chosen with the objective to obtain the relationship among the evaluated properties and factor levels. The factors in the experimental design are the amounts of both accelerator and sulfur and the vulcanization temperature. The compounds are evaluated as for the scorch time, optimum vulcanization time, and maximum torque. For each of these properties the Regression analysis, the pareto diagram and the fitted surface are obtained. Concerning the scorch and optimum vulcanization times, the most important factors are the vulcanization temperature and the amount of accelerator, respectively. Regarding the maximum torque, the most significant factors are the amounts of sulfur and accelerator. Considering the optimum vulcanization time a regression model with good accuracy could be obtained. The function desirability is used to obtain an optimum condition for an adequate cure system related to a set of desired intervals for the properties of interest.
It's not hot air: Using GOES‐16 infrared window bands to diagnose adjacent summertime air masses
Authors: Gerth Jordan J.
Published: October 2018

The first in the next‐generation series of the US Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites system (GOES), GOES‐16, is providing improved quality satellite imagery of atmospheric phenomena and land features over the Americas and the Atlantic Ocean, benefitting scientists and operational meteorologists. A frontal passage separating distinct air masses for a typical warm season case over the Upper Midwest on August 30, 2017, is examined in a discussion on the value of GOES‐16 infrared window band imagery. The “split window” difference between the 10.3 and 12.3 μm long wave infrared bands, a traditional approach to characterizing visually low‐level water vapour in cloud‐free scenes, is compared with the 3.9 μm short wave infrared window band for identifying two distinct air masses. Surface station temperatures and dew points confirm modest moisture pooling ahead of the southward‐moving front. These window bands are not new to the geostationary orbit, but with GOES‐16, they are available at higher bit depths and at better spatial, spectral and temporal resolutions. This makes identifying and analysing fronts and air masses more apparent compared with legacy imagery, particularly during the day if properly enhanced. While a hindrance to quantitative approaches, solar contamination in the 3.9 μm band can be beneficial to analysts performing this task visually.
Clinical whole‐exome sequencing results impact medical management
Authors: Niguidula Nancy , Alamillo Christina , Shahmirzadi Mowlavi Layla , Powis Zöe , Cohen Julie S. , Farwell Hagman Kelly D.
Published: October 2018

Background

Clinical diagnostic whole‐exome sequencing (WES) is a powerful tool for patients with undiagnosed genetic disorders. To demonstrate the clinical utility, we surveyed healthcare providers (HCP) about changes in medical management and treatment, diagnostic testing, reproductive planning, and use of educational services subsequent to WES testing.

Methods

For a period of 18 months, an 18‐question survey was sent to HCPs attached to the WES reports. We analyzed the molecular diagnosis, patient clinical features, and the medical management changes reported in the returned surveys.

Results

A total of 62 (2.2% of 2,876) surveys were returned, consisting of 37.1% patients with a positive or likely positive pathogenic alteration, 51.6% negative results, 9.7% uncertain findings, and 1 patient (1.6%) with a novel candidate finding. Overall, 100% of the HCPs of patients with positive or likely positive WES results (n = 23) and HCPs of patients with uncertain WES results (n = 6) responded positively to one of the 18 queries. Of note, 37.5% of the HCPs of patients with negative WES results (n = 32) responded positively to at least one query.

Conclusion

Overall, these data clearly demonstrate the clinical utility of WES by demonstrating the impact on medical management irrespective of the exome result.
Mandatory Access Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs and Prescription Drug Abuse
Authors: Grecu Anca M. , Dave Dhaval M. , Saffer Henry
Published: October 2018

Despite the significant cost of prescription (Rx) drug abuse and calls from policymakers for effective interventions, there is limited research on the effects of policies intended to limit such abuse. This study estimates the effects of prescription drug monitoring (PDMP) programs, which constitute a key policy targeting access to non‐medical use of Rx drugs. Based on objective indicators of abuse as measured by substance abuse treatment admissions and mortality related to Rx drugs, estimates do not suggest any substantial effects of instituting an operational PDMP. We find, however, that mandatory‐access provisions, which raised PDMP utilization rates by actually requiring providers to query the PDMP prior to prescribing a controlled drug, are significantly associated with a reduction in Rx drug abuse. The effects are driven primarily by a reduction in opioid abuse, generally strongest among young adults (ages 18 to 24), and underscore important dynamics in the policy response. Robustness checks are consistent with a causal interpretation of these effects. We also assess potential spillovers of mandatory PDMPs on the use of other illicit drugs and find a complementary reduction in admissions related to cocaine and marijuana abuse.
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in chemotherapy‐induced aplasia in children with high‐risk acute myeloid leukemia or myelodysplasia
Authors: Kussman Ashleigh , Shyr David , Hale Gregory , Oshrine Benjamin , Petrovic Aleksandra
Published: October 2018

Relapse remains the most common cause of treatment failure after hematopoietic cell transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia. Inability to achieve hematologic complete remission has been a barrier to transplant for patients with refractory disease. We describe six children with refractory myeloid disease undergoing transplant in chemotherapy‐induced aplasia, as a strategy to facilitate curative therapy in refractory patients. Clofarabine‐ or high‐dose cytarabine‐based chemotherapy regimens were used to achieve marrow aplasia, followed by reduced‐intensity conditioning and allogeneic transplant before hematologic recovery. Long‐term disease control was achieved in five, with one transplant‐related mortality, suggesting the feasibility of this approach.
Development of pediatric oncology supportive care indicators: Evaluation of febrile neutropenia care in the north of the Netherlands
Authors: ten Berg Sanne , Loeffen Erik A. H. , van de Wetering Marianne D. , Martens Daniëlle H. J. , van Ede Carla M. , Kremer Leontien C. M. , Tissing Wim J. E.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a common complication of the intensive treatment strategies used in pediatric oncology. By close adherence to high‐quality guidelines, which can be evaluated by indicators, the burden of FN can potentially be reduced.

Objectives

The aims of this study were tripartite—(1) to develop structure, process, and outcome indicators, (2) to evaluate the implementation of the Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG) guideline on FN, and (3) to produce baseline measures on local quality of FN care (in the north of the Netherlands).

Methods

Seven indicators derived from the DCOG guideline were developed. Regarding structure indicators, we gathered information from all local centers providing care for children with cancer (n = 9). Regarding process and outcome indicators, we collected individual patient data from one academic and two shared‐care hospitals. Children (<18 years) were included if they had been diagnosed with cancer in 2014 or 2015 and had suffered from FN.

Results

Six out of nine hospitals used the DCOG guideline on FN and three hospitals used an outdated supportive care handbook. Regarding individual patient data, we included 119 FN episodes in 59 patients. All FN episodes without focus were initially treated with guideline‐based antibiotics. Of all FN episodes, 18.5% resulted in intensive care unit (ICU) admittance. Cumulative incidence of death during FN was 1.74%.

Conclusion

Adherence to the DCOG guideline at the individual patient level was excellent. However, indicators concerning mortality and ICU admittances showed that FN still has devastating consequences. Subsequently, we will implement these indicators nationwide in order to improve FN care.
Dark Proteins Important for Cellular Function
Authors: Schafferhans Andrea , O'Donoghue Seán I. , Heinzinger Michael , Rost Burkhard
Published: October 2018

Despite substantial and successful projects for structural genomics, many proteins remain for which neither experimental structures nor homology‐based models are known for any part of the amino acid sequence. These have been called "dark proteins," in contrast to non‐dark proteins, in which at least part of the sequence has a known or inferred structure. It has been hypothesized that non‐dark proteins may be more abundantly expressed than dark proteins, which are known to have much fewer sequence relatives. Surprisingly, the opposite has been observed: human dark and non‐dark proteins had quite similar levels of expression, in terms of both mRNA and protein abundance. Such high levels of expression strongly indicate that dark proteins—as a group—are important for cellular function. This is remarkable, given how carefully structural biologists have focused on proteins crucial for function, and highlights the important challenge posed by dark proteins in future research.
The Platelet Releasate is Altered in Human Pregnancy
Authors: Szklanna Paulina B. , Parsons Martin E. , Wynne Kieran , O'Connor Hugh , Egan Karl , Allen Seamus , Ní Áinle Fionnuala , Maguire Patricia B.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Healthy pregnancy is characterized by an increase in platelet activation and a decrease in the number of circulating platelets with gestation. Despite this recognized importance, proteomic studies investigating platelets in healthy pregnancy have not been performed. As platelet cargo can be altered in different conditions, it is hypothesized that platelets may store a relevant and bespoke collection of molecules during pregnancy.

Experimental design

Comparative label‐free quantitative proteomic profiling of platelet releasates (PRs) is performed from 18 healthy pregnant and 13 non‐pregnant women using an MS/MS approach.

Results

Of the 723 proteins identified, 69 PR proteins are found to be differentially released from platelets in pregnancy, including proteins only expressed during pregnancy such as pregnancy‐specific glycoproteins and human placental lactogen. Moreover, the population of exosomal vesicles present in the PR is also modified in pregnancy. Receiver operating characteristic analysis shows the predictive ability of 11 PR proteins to distinctly classify pregnant and nonpregnant women with an area under the curve of 0.876, a sensitivity of 88.9%, and a specificity of 84.6%.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Taken together this demonstrates that platelets and their released cargo are ‘educated’ in physiologic stressful conditions such as pregnancy and may represent a promising platform to study pregnancy complications.
Simple One‐Step Fabrication of Semiconductive Lateral Heterostructures Using Bipolar Electrodeposition
Authors: Jamilpanah Loghman , Azizmohseni Sina , Hosseini Seyed Ali , Hasheminejad Meisam , Vesali Newsha , Iraji Zad Azam , Pourfath Mahdi , Mohseni Seyed Majid
Published: October 2018

Unidirectional current flow is at the heart of modern electronics, which has been conceived by making p–n junctions or Schottky barriers between different kinds of materials. Within such elements, however, synthesis of thin film lateral heterostructures has so far remained challenging. Here, a one‐step simple synthesis of p‐type, n‐type, and metallic lateral heterostructures using bipolar electrodeposition (BPE) technique is reported. Molybdenum oxides and sulfides with gradient of oxygen and sulfur are deposited at a metallic substrate. A lateral heterostructure is achieved with electrical properties that change from p‐ to n‐type semiconductor and then to metal by moving in the plane of the layer. This effect is observed due to an increase in MoO­2 and reduction of MoSx from one side to the other side of the structure. Finally, by transferring the layer onto a dielectric substrate, the current–voltage (I–V) characteristic of the layer is found to show a rectifying behavior with a low threshold of 0.45 V and a rectification of about 10 at relatively low applied voltages.
A theoretical study of the microhydration processes of iodine nitrogen oxides
Authors: Villard Arnaud , Khanniche Sarah , Fortin Camille , Cantrel Laurent , Černušák Ivan , Louis Florent
Published: October 2018

This work reports for the first time the structures and the thermodynamics of the microhydrates of iodine nitrogen oxides (INOx). Monohydrates and dihydrates were investigated for five different INOx species (INO, INO2, cis‐IONO, trans‐IONO, and IONO2). The structures of the water complexes were characterized at the ωB97XD/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level of theory. Coupled‐cluster calculations were performed with the ANO‐RCC‐VQZP basis sets. Standard reaction enthalpy and standard Gibbs free reaction energy (ΔrG°298 K) were computed for all aggregates. The variation of ΔrG°[T] as a function of temperature reveals that only IONO2 will be hydrated at tropospheric temperatures (T < 270 K). Its dihydration reaction remains a favored process in the same conditions. All INOx species will not be hydrated in gas phase in the containment building of a pressurized water reactor for which temperatures are greater than 400 K.
Investment in Outside Options as Opportunistic Behavior: An Experimental Investigation
Authors: Morita Hodaka , Servátka Maroš
Published: October 2018

Ex‐post opportunistic behavior, commonly present in bilateral trade relationships, is a key element of the transaction cost economics. Investment in outside options is a prime example of such opportunism and often leads to inefficiency, for example by exerting effort to search for alternative business partners even if it does not add trade value. We experimentally investigate a bilateral trade relationship in which standard theory assuming self‐regarding preferences predicts that the seller will be better off by investing in the outside option to improve his bargaining position. The seller's investment, however, might negatively affect the buyer's other‐regarding preferences if the investment is viewed as opportunistic. We find overall support for our hypotheses that arise from the link between other‐regarding behavior and opportunism. Our findings suggest that when the transaction cost economics approach is applied to the design of a governance structure, other‐regarding preferences should be taken into account.
Give Me Liberty, or I Will Produce Underground: Effects of Economic Freedom on the Shadow Economy
Authors: Berdiev Aziz N. , Saunoris James W. , Schneider Friedrich
Published: October 2018

This article examines the impact of economic freedom on the shadow economy. Using panel data on over 100 countries from 2000 to 2015, we find that economic freedom is effective at reducing the spread of the shadow economy. Moreover, after disaggregating economic freedom into its five main components, the results suggest that all aspects of economic freedom significantly mitigate shadow activities with freedom from regulation exhibiting the largest impact. Overall, these findings are robust after accounting for alternate measures of the shadow economy, simultaneity, outliers, and nonlinearities. Thus, countries aiming to combat the spread of shadow activities would benefit from policies that support economic freedom.
Pre‐Play Learning and the Preference Reversal Phenomenon
Authors: Kim Younjun , Hoffman Elizabeth
Published: October 2018

Elicited preference rankings for two lotteries are typically inconsistent across choice and pricing tasks. We test whether pre‐play learning makes preference rankings consistent. Pre‐play learning denotes ex‐ante lottery learning, where subjects observe playing lotteries before making decisions. We find that pre‐play learning makes the average selling prices for the p‐bet, of subjects who choose the p‐bet, higher than their average selling prices for the $‐bet. However, pre‐play learning is not strong enough to equalize the rates of standard and non‐standard reversals, although pre‐play learning reduces the rate of standard reversals.
Simultaneous Control over Lattice Doping and Nanocluster Modification of a Hybrid CuOx/TiO2 Photocatalyst during Flame Synthesis for Enhancing Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Yang Fan , Liu Menglei , Chen Xin , Xu Zuwei , Zhao Haibo
Published: October 2018

Noble metal‐free hybrid photocatalysts have recently been extensively studied for their applications in the environment and energy field. However, rational design over these photocatalysts is still a challenging task because the detailed mechanism of multi‐component catalysts is not well understood yet. Here, we highlight a state‐of‐the‐art approach, one‐step flame spray pyrolysis (FSP), for preparing high‐efficiency hybrid CuOx/TiO2 photocatalysts, where simultaneous control over lattice doping and nanocluster modification of Cu species on a TiO2 support is achieved. Effective engineering of Cu valence is achieved, where the surface Cu+ content varies from 15% to as high as 100%. Meanwhile, a high percentage (70–80 mol%) of TiO2 photocatalytic active phase (anatase) is also maintained in the flame‐made catalysts. A dramatic enhancement in photocatalytic H2 evolution efficiency of the hybrid catalyst is attained. The maximum photocatalytic H2 evolution rate of the hybrid CuOx/TiO2 catalyst under Xe lamp in a methanol aqueous solution can reach as high as 112.6 µmol h−1, which is ≈22.1 times higher than that of commercial P25 TiO2. Mechanism investigation via density functional theory calculation and photoluminescence spectra validates that the bulk defect levels and surface‐deposited CuOx nanoclusters play key roles in charge separation and extending spectral response.
Investigation on Coherent Jet Potential Core Length in an Electric Arc Furnace
Authors: Tang Guangwu , Chen Yuchao , Silaen Armin K. , Krotov Yury , Riley Michael F. , Zhou Chenn Q.
Published: October 2018

During the electric arc furnace (EAF) refining stage, coherent jets are used to increase the depth of oxygen jet penetration for better oxygen efficiency and stirring of the liquid steel. A coherent jet is defined when the supersonic jet is shrouded by a flame envelope, which leads to a higher potential core length (the length up to which the axial jet velocity equals the exit velocity at the nozzle). In this paper, a coherent jet computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is developed with detailed consideration of compressible flow properties and combustion effects. The model is validated by comparing the coherent jet axial velocity profile with experimental measurements. Simulation results show that the combustion reaction mechanism used has a significant effect on prediction of flame temperature, which will affect potential core length. The current model uses a 28‐step reaction mechanism to achieve both computational efficiency and model accuracy. Turbulence model modification is necessary for accurately predicting the flow properties. The current proposed modifications are needed for accurate prediction of both compressibility and temperature gradient effects.
Numerical Simulation of Heat Transfer and Scale Formation in a Reheat Furnace
Authors: Liu Xiang , Worl Bethany , Tang Guangwu , Silaen Armin K. , Cox Jeffrey , Johnson Kurt , Bodnar Rick , Zhou Chenn Q.
Published: October 2018

In steel rolling mills, reheat furnaces are used to reheat slabs to high temperatures in a highly oxidizing environment; this results in the formation of iron oxide scale on the slab surface. Scale formation poses an ongoing material and economic loss to industry and should be minimized where feasible. The kinetics of scale growth are complex and still not fully understood. Previous studies that modeled scale formation with mathematical methods are limited to simple case studies. Here, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is used to simulate slab reheat furnace operations and to investigate complicated physical phenomenon. This paper proposes a new numerical method to model scale growth under varying conditions/characteristics including temperature, gas atmosphere composition, and steel grade. This method uses a mixed linear‐parabolic equation to model both the initial surface reaction (and scale formation) and the subsequent solid‐state ion diffusion through the developed scale. This model can be used to predict the amount of scale that will form on a slab under certain conditions. Model predictions were found to be consistent with experimental data.
A new algorithm for improving the numerical stability of power system state estimation
Authors: Abood Hatim G. , Sreeram Victor , Mishra Yateendra
Published: October 2018

State estimation (SE) is based on an iterative process for solving weighted least squares (WLS) via the so‐called normal equations (NE). This process is prone to numerical instability and may lead to an ill‐conditioned state estimator in many cases. Although several methods have been proposed in the past to deal with the ill‐conditioning problem in high‐voltage transmission systems, the SE stability of low‐voltage distribution systems remains a challenge due to fewer measurements and high R/X ratios. This paper highlights the main reasons for the ill‐conditioning problem and focuses on the impact of the R/X ratio of the distribution systems. NE‐based SE uses a comparatively simple algorithm with much lower storage size. Hence, this paper proposes a regularized version of the WLS state estimator to solve the problem of ill‐conditioning using an adjustable regularization parameter. Simulation results on U.K. 18‐bus and radial 33‐bus distribution systems show improved performance in terms of reducing the computational complexity, measurements redundancy, the impact of high R/X ratios and improving the accuracy and numerical stability of the SE solution. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
An adaptive voltage‐regulation control strategy of an electric spring based on output current feedback
Authors: Chen Yixi , Ma Gang , Wang Ying , Xu Guchao
Published: October 2018

With the increasing penetration of distributed generation (DG) in power systems, the voltage instability problem of power systems is receiving a great deal of attention. As new power electronics equipment, an electric spring (ES) can effectively restrain the bus voltage fluctuation caused by DG, and in addition achieve the new control paradigm of load demand following power generation. In this article, an adaptive voltage‐regulation control strategy of ES is proposed, in which the proportional integral (PI) postgain changes dynamically according to the real‐time output current of the ES. The simulation results show that, when the proposed control strategy is applied, bus voltage can still be stabilized effectively by the ES under the condition that noncritical loads change. The proposed control strategy brings the adaptive voltage‐regulation capability of the ES, and therefore, it can be in series with multiple noncritical loads reliably and safely, and accordingly the costs can be greatly reduced. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A framework based on Twitter and big data analytics to enhance sustainability performance
Authors: Queiroz Maciel M.
Published: October 2018

This study presents two environmental frameworks based on Twitter and the big data analytics approach. This research aims to provide novel frameworks for the use of environmental decision makers, practitioners, and scholars to enhance environmental management and sustainability performance. An example of framework utilization is supplied with a case study of the hashtag #CleanerProduction.
Carbon footprint of transportation habits in a Brazilian university
Authors: Barros Murillo Vetroni , da Silva Barbara Pavão Apolinário , Piekarski Cassiano Moro , da Luz Leila Mendes , Yoshino Rui Tadashi , Tesser Daniel Poletto
Published: October 2018

Currently, atmospheric emissions coming from industry and means of transportation are expanding at a fast pace across the globe. This study aims to measure the carbon footprint of the Federal University of Technology – Paraná (UTFPR) Ponta Grossa Campus, in terms of the means of transportation used by instructors and students on their commutes between their homes and the university. A survey was applied within the academic community to obtain transportation data. Data were generated using the Umberto NXT Universal software, along with a life‐cycle assessment analysis, using the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards ISO 14040, 14044, and the Ecoinvent 3 database. The results show that 90.67% of instructors travel to the university in their cars, which contributes to a high carbon footprint potential; that is, an emission of 51.91 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (kg CO2equiv.) per month per instructor. For students, the emission is 6.97 kg CO2equiv. into the atmosphere per month per individual for those students who use the bus, as 63.32% of the university's students use public transportation to get around. In this way, the study provides a lesson regarding the environmental impact of the academic community, and it generates knowledge and aims at a more sustainable future by reducing environmental impacts through the means of transport that people choose to use.