bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimización de un sistema de cultivo in vitro basado en cotiledonesmaduros para la inducción de callos embriogénicos en algarrobo (Ceratoniasiliqua L.)
Authors: Lozzi Assia , Abdelwahd Rabha , Alami-Halimi Driss , Mentag Rachid , Abousalim Abdelhadi
Published: December 2018

Introducción:  El algarrobo  (Ceratonia  siliqua  L.) es  una de las especies cultivadas   másimportantes en el área mediterránea. La especie tiene alta demanda en el mercado, pero losmétodos tradicionales de propagación no han logrado satisfacerla; por tanto, el uso de técnicasin vitro parece apropiado para el establecimiento de huertos a gran escala. Objetivos:  Evaluar los efectos  de cinco genotipos de algarrobo en la inducción de callosembrionarios y optimizar la composición del medio de cultivo para un mejor crecimiento.Materiales y métodos: Las semillas maduras de C. siliqua de la variedad “Dkar”, que crecenen cinco regiones de Marruecos, se utilizaron como fuentes de explantes de cotiledones. Seevaluaron cinco genotipos  (‘GH’, ‘GO’, ‘GM’, ‘GA’, y ‘GB’)  y cuatro medios de cultivo(MS, B5, WPM y DKW) suplementados con tres concentraciones de 2,4-D (2.5, 5 y 10 µM).La sacarosa y el manitol se analizaron en concentraciones de 0, 45, 90, 135 y 180 µM.Resultados y discusión:  Los genotipos mostraron niveles altos de inducción de callo (75 a100 %). El medio Gamborg (B5) suplementado con 2.5 µM 2,4-D produjo el mayor peso seco(32.5 g) de callos con coloración blanco cremoso. La mayor cantidad de callos friables decolor blanco cremoso se obtuvo en el medio suplementado con 90 mM de sacarosa. El análisishistológico   mostró   la   presencia   de   centros   meristemáticos   que   se   convirtieron   en   masasembriogénicas y proembriones globulares.Conclusión:  Los  cotiledones maduros   de  C.   siliqua  tienen  potencial  para la   inducción  yproliferación  de callos   embrionarios.  Este estudio  pretende   contribuir  al desarrollo   de unprotocolo apropiado para la propagación masiva de algarrobo.
Obtención de microorganismos en suelos de un bosque de niebla, para la degradación de hidrocarburos aromáticos
Authors: Cruz-Narváez Yair , Rico-Arzate Enrique , Castro-Arellano José J. , Noriega-Altamirano Gerardo , Piña-Escobedo Alberto , Murugesan Selvasankar , García-Mena Jaime
Published: December 2018

Introducción: El impacto de sustancias contaminantes en el ambiente es un tema importante en el mundo, especialmente el de los combustibles fósiles. La capacidad de los microrganismos para degradar estos contaminantes se ha estudiado y caracterizado recientemente. 
Objetivo: Analizar la capacidad de grupos de microorganismos, obtenidos del ecosistema de bosque de niebla en México, para la degradación de compuestos aromáticos (benceno, tolueno, etilbenceno y antraceno). 
Materiales y métodos: Las muestras de microbiomas se recolectaron en la Sierra Madre del Sur en el estado de Oaxaca. Los microorganismos se aislaron e identificaron mediante técnicas moleculares. Posteriormente, la capacidad de los microorganismos para degradar hidrocarburos aromáticos, en un biorreactor de lecho empacado, se evaluó cuantitativamente mediante cromatografía HPLC-PDA.
Resultados y discusión: Cincuenta grupos de microorganismos se recolectaron, cultivaron y caracterizaron genéticamente. En la diversidad genética predominaron Lactobacillus, Prevotella y géneros de la familia Acetobacteraceae. En el proceso de biodegradación de hidrocarburos, la concentración de contaminantes disminuyó 97 % y se produjo mineralización de 91 % en un tiempo menor de 25 h. 
Conclusión: Los microorganismos mostraron importante actividad degradadora de los compuestos aromáticos. La biodiversidad en el bosque de niebla en la región Loxicha es clave para garantizar los servicios ecosistémicos, por ello, es importante emprender exploraciones para evaluar el uso de estos microbiomas bacterianos.
Régimen hídrico e intercambio de gases de Prosopis laevigata (Humb. &Bonpl. ex Willd.) M. C. Johnst. en dos ecosistemas semiáridos del sur de Sonora
Authors: Rodríguez-Sauceda Elvia N. , Argentel-Martínez Leandris , Morales-Coronado Denisse
Published: December 2018

Introducción:  Entre  las   condiciones  adversas   de  los   ecosistemas  forestales,   lasalinidad   y   la   sequía   son   los   factores   abióticos   que   modifican   mayormente   laexpresión genética y productiva de las especies.Objetivo: Se evaluó el efecto de la salinidad y la sequía en el régimen hídrico eintercambio de gases del mezquite (Prosopis laevigata [Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.] M.C. Johnst.) en sitios semiáridos Eco Camping y Bahía de Lobos del sur de Sonora,México.Materiales y métodos:  Los potenciales hídrico y osmótico se determinaron en laraíz, tallo y hojas de plantas tomadas al azar con caracteres morfológicos similares(altura  de  1.5  m  y  diámetro del tallo  de 0.15  m medido a 1.3  m).  Además,  seevaluaron la fotosíntesis, transpiración y eficiencia de uso de agua.Resultados   y   discusión:  Los   potenciales   hídrico   y   osmótico   disminuyeronsignificativamente (P  = 0.0043); el potencial osmótico fue el más bajo en los tresórganos medidos, formando un gradiente de potenciales, aspecto que explica elmantenimiento de la transpiración en ambas condiciones (salinidad y sequía). Lafotosíntesis no varió significativamente, pero si la transpiración. En ambos sitios, laeficiencia de uso de agua superó los 6 μmol CO2/H2O; sin embargo, hubo mayor eficiencia en el ecosistema salino, debido a la disminución de la transpiración. Conclusión:  El mezquite tiene capacidad para tolerar las condiciones estresantesde salinidad y sequía en el sur de Sonora, evidenciando menor afectación en lasrelaciones hídricas e intercambio de gases en la condición de salinidad.
Occupational risk perception: A scale development study
Authors: Aksoy Berna , Pasli Gurdogan Eylem
Published: December 2018

Background and objective: The determination of occupational risk perception is the basic tool for making attitude and behaviour changes, for improving health and safety sense.  In the present paper, we aim to develop a reliable and valid occupational risk perception measurement.Methods: Cross-sectional survey design was used in the 2015-2016 academic year with a sample of involved students studying in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th grades (N = 439). 423 nursing students was recruited in the study. We evaluated the reliability and validity, consistency by using explanatory and confirmatory factor analysis, Cronbach’s alpha values and The Pearson correlation coefficients of the new scale.Results: After the explanatory factor analysis the scale was composed of 17 items and 3 subscales which named psychological and ergonomic risks subscale and person and institution-related risks subscale and the physical environment subscale. The Cronbach’s alpha of the scale was 0.826. The scale’s confirmatory factor analysis showed good conformance.Conclusions: The scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool for measuring occupational risk perceptions among nursing students. This scale is used to determine the occupational risk perceptions in the field of healthcare.
Using Learning Centers to Improve the Language and Academic Skills of Preschool Children
Authors: Uyanik Aktulun Ozgun , Inal Kiziltepe Gozde
Published: December 2018

A mixed-methods research design was employed to investigate the impact of use of learning centers to supportlanguage and academic skills of children aged 61–72 months. The sample of quantitative data of the study consistedof 70 children (35 in the experimental group and 35 in the control group). In the quantitative dimension of the study,data were collected using the “Kaufman Survey of Early Academic and Language Skills,” “Progress in Maths 6 Test,”and the “Control List for the Evaluation of the Print Awareness of Pre-School Children” scales. In the qualitativedimension of the study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the teachers of the experimental groupthrough the “Teacher Interview Form” developed by the researchers. During the implementation period, learningcenters were established and organized in such a way that the 35 children in the experimental group could use themfor about 75–90 minutes every day for eight weeks. The results obtained from the study reveal that arrangementsmade in the learning centers provide important contributions to the development of children’s language, literacy andmathematics skills.
An Example of Distortion in Turkish Social Studies and History Textbooks: Slavery
Authors: Kiriş Avaroğulları Ayten , Avaroğulları Muhammet
Published: December 2018

This study focuses on how issues of slavery are discussed in the social studies and history textbooks in Turkey. Atotal of 16 textbooks were examined. 7 of these books were published by the Ministry of National Education andothers by various private publishers. A qualitative research design is adopted and the data were classified accordingto the themes that emerged during the process of the researchers' familiarity with the subject. The findings show thatslavery issues are either distorted or omitted in textbooks. The first one of the distortions and omissions in thetextbooks is that slavery is reflected as if it were only experienced in western societies. Secondly, the textbookspresent an image that Islam banned slavery and hence, it is implied that slavery did not take place in Turkish history.Another distortion or deficiency is the presentation of slavery as a problem of distant past. Finally, slavery ispresented as a situation only black people were subjected. The findings required a two-way discussion. Therefore,firstly, identity issues are discussed within the framework of social identity theory. Finally, suggestions were madeon what to do in these and similar situations in the textbooks.
Prevalence of Spousal Abuse among Married Persons in South East Nigeria: Implications for Counselling
Authors: Onoyase Anna
Published: December 2018

The study investigated prevalence of Spousal Abuse among Married Persons in South-East Nigeria: Implications for Counselling. Three research questions were formulated to guide the study. The research design adopted for the study was Ex-post Facto. The instrument used to collect data for the research was the “Prevalence of Spousal Abuse Among Married Persons Questionnaire” (POSAAMPQ). Content and facial validity of the instrument were established through expert judgement. The instrument has a reliability coefficient of 0.85 using test re-test method. The investigator used 3 research Assistants to administer 230 copies of the questionnaire on 230 respondents married persons in the 3 states where the investigation was conducted. The data collected from the field work were collated and standard deviation and mean score analysis were carried out for the 15 items in order to answer the 3 research questions raised in the study. The benchmark of 2.50 was chosen for either agreeing or disagreeing with each of the 15 items. The study revealed that there was prevalence of economic abuse among the married persons, there was no prevalence of physical abuse among the married persons. Finally, the investigation indicated that there was prevalence of verbal abuse among the married persons. Some of the recommendations include: Spouses should develop mutual respect for themselves and thus refrain from taking their partners’ money without permission, couples should have a thorough understanding of their partners so as to avoid issues that may trigger off anger and thereby prevent wanton destruction of properties.
Dos torres y un relato histórico en revisión: Santa Perpètua de Gaià (Tarragona) y Vallferosa (Lleida)
Authors: Menchon Joan
Published: December 2018

La explicación clásica de la Historia de los actuales territorios de Cataluña propone un largo proceso de reconquista desde las comarcas pirenaicas. El enemigo a batir fue el Islam, que había irrumpido de forma violenta y rápida en el 711. La formación de la Marca Hispánica siguiendo la cordillera del Pirineo generaría una zona tampón para proteger el imperio carolingio y, con el tiempo, sería el origen de los condados pirenaicos que formarán los condados catalanes. Su expansión hacia el sur generaría líneas de frontera defendidas por castillos, así como territorios deshabitados o fuera del control condal o islámico.La revisión histórica y arqueológica de este proceso apunta a una realidad diferente en la cual se observa la continuidad de población desde el mundo antiguo, aunque con una forma de organización diferente.Los estudios arqueológicos y análisis de 14C nos indican que construcciones militares hasta ahora explicadas como fortificaciones de la frontera feudal son muy anteriores, por lo cual el relato histórico ha de ser revisado profundamente. Son los ejemplos de Santa Perpètua de Gaià y Vallferosa.
Ecteinascidins – new antineoplastic drugs from the depths of the seas
Authors: Pawłowska Natalia , Czajkowska Anna , Bielawska Anna , Bielawski Krzysztof
Published: December 2018

Trabectedin, also known as ecteinascidin 743 (Et-743), is a tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid that was originally isolated from the Caribbean sea squirt Ecteinascidia turbinata. Trabectedin is one of the first anticancer drugs of marine origin that has been approved in the European Union. The compound is used to treat patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma in case of failure of conventional anthracyclines and ifosfamide therapy and in the treatment of recurrent platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin. The mechanism of action of trabectedin is based on interaction with the minor groove of DNA double helix. It triggers a cascade of events that interfere with several transcription factors, DNA binding proteins and DNA repair pathways, resulting in G2/M cell cycle arrest and ultimately apoptosis. Moreover, emerging evidence indicates that Et-743 has dual effects. In addition to induce direct growth inhibition, cell death and differentiation of malignant cells it also affects the tumor microenvironment by reducing the production of key inflammatory mediators.
A multifaceted mechanism of action may explain positive results when trabectedin is used
in the treatment of cancer that exhibits resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics. The
widespread use of ecteinascidins in therapy as well as in clinical trials is, however, limited
by the high price of these compounds. Therefore, intensive work is being carried out on the
search for synthetic analogues of ecteinascidins with equally high activity against tumor cells.
The physiological role of nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 and their potential clinical significance
Authors: Skorupska Anna , Ożyhar Andrzej , Bystranowska Dominika
Published: December 2018

Nucleobindin-2 is a multidomain protein. Nucleobindin-2 can be cleaved into three peptide products: nesfatin-1, nesfatin-2 and nesfatin-3. It has been also shown that both Nucleobindin-2 and nesfatin-1 exhibit anorexigenic effect in rodents. In this review, we focused on a systematic characteristic of Nucleobindin-2, its anorexigenic effect and discussed possible mechanisms of its action. The first one is associated with melanocortin system and is leptin independent. The second – involves neurons that produce orexigenic neuropeptide Y. This has allowed integrating key findings which have important implications for treatment of obesity. We also presented Nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 as proteins which might become potentially important for understanding and treatment of such diseases as epilepsy, acute appendicitis or cancer. It has been shown that the Nucleobindin-2 function in cancerogenesis may be dual. The high level of Nucleobindin-2 and nesfatin-1 expression was found in colony, breast and endometrium cancer cells. Additionally, Nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 induced the proliferation process of these cells. In the future, Nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 may be used as a potential biomarker in diagnosis. However, Nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 inhibited ovarian and adrenocortical cancer cells proliferation and stimulated its apoptosis. The action of both proteins involved variety of metabolic pathways. The knowledge about activity control of Nucleobindin- 2/nesfatin-1 may contribute to new breakthrough in medicine.
The influence of glycyrrhetinic acid (enoxolone) toothpaste on periodontal treatment outcomes and salivary levels of IL-8, TNF-α, IL-17, MCP-1 and VEGF in patients with chronic periodontitis
Authors: Kaczyński Tomasz , Miskiewicz Andrzej , Górski Bartłomiej , Radkowski Marek , Strzemecki Damian , Kryczka Tomasz , Górska Renata
Published: December 2018

This study evaluates the influence of glycyrrhetinic acid (enoxolone) toothpaste on the results of scaling and root planing as well as salivary levels of IL-8, TNF-α, IL-17, MCP-1 and VEGF in patients with chronic periodontitis. Clinical parameters and biomarkers of periodontitis were assessed longitudinally to determine response to the therapy. A 3-month case-controlled study of adults with chronic periodontitis was performed, with 18 patients receiving scaling and root planing and enoxlone toothpaste (group A) and 18 with scaling and root planing with regular toothpaste (group B). Clinical measurements of periodontal disease were recorded and saliva samples were collected at week 0 and 12. Samples were analyzed for immune markers: Interleukin-8 (IL-8), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-17 (IL-17), Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein -1 (MCP-1) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). All parameters of periodontal health improved significantly in both groups by week 12 (p<0.01) with no significant differences between groups. However, improvements in group A were greater than in group B. IL-8, TNF-α, IL-17, MCP-1 and VEGF levels decreased significantly from baseline (p<0.01) in group A only. Salivary levels of IL-8, TNF-α, IL-17, MCP-1 and VEGF seem to reflect disease severity and response to therapy, suggesting their potential utility for monitoring periodontal disease status. Greater improvements of periodontal parameters and significant reduction of salivary biomarkers’ levels suggest potential benefits of glycyrrhetinic acid toothpaste in periodontal therapy.
Ellipse packing in 2D cell tessellation: A theoretical explanation for Lewis’s law and Aboav-Weaire’s law
Authors: Xu Kai
Published: December 2018

Background: To date, the theoretical bases of Lewis’s law and Aboav-Weaire’s law are still unclear.

Methods: Software R with package Conicfit was used to fit ellipses based on geometric parameters of polygonal cells of red alga Pyropia haitanensis.

Results: The average form deviation of vertexes from the fitted ellipse was 0 \(\pm\) 3.1 % (8,291 vertices in 1375 cells were examined). The area of polygonal cell was 0.9 \(\pm\)0.1 times of the area of the ellipse’s maximal inscribed polygon (EMIP). These results indicated that the polygonal cells could be considered as ellipse’s inscribed polygons (EIPs) and tended to form EMIPs. This phenomenon was named as ellipse packing. Based on the numbers of cell edges, cell area and geometries of fitted ellipses, we derived and verified the new relations of Lewis’s law and Aboav-Weaire’s law.

Lewis’s law for a n-edged cell:

\[cell\ area=0.5nab\sin\left(\frac{2\pi}{n}\right)\left(1-\frac{3}{n^2}\right)\]

Aboav-Weaire’s law:

\[average\ side\ number\ of\ neighboring\ cells=6+\frac{6-n}{n}\times \left(\frac{a}{b}+\frac{3}{n^2}\right)\]

where \(a\) and \(b\) are the semi-major axis and the semi-minor axis of fitted ellipse, respectively.

Conclusions: Ellipse packing is a short-range order which places restrictions on the direction of cell division and the turning angles of cell edges. The ellipse packing requires allometric growth of cell edges. Lewis’s law describes the effect of deformation from EMIP to EIP on area. Aboav-Weaire’s law mainly reflects the effect of deformation from circle to ellipse on number of neighboring cells, and the deformation from EMIP to EIP has only a minor effect. The results of this study could help to simulate the dynamics of cell topology during growth.
Relating Efficiency with Service Compliance Indices in Public Transportation Using Slack-based Measure Data Envelopment Analysis and Shadow Prices
Authors: Yushimito Wilfredo F , Alves, Jr. Paulo N , Canessa Enrique , De Mateo Filadelfo
Published: December 2018

In many countries, bus operators are private companies whose service has been leased by government agencies. These agencies develop service compliance indices or measures to keep track of factors such as passenger satisfaction, frequency, and regularity but do not necessarily include the objectives of the operators in the assessment. In this paper, we used slack-based measure data envelopment analysis (SBM) to investigate whether it is possible for a bus operator to be efficient (from a private perspective) and match required standards of frequency and regularity. In doing so, data collected from two major bus operators in Santiago, Chile has been used comprising 99 services. The results show that when private objectives, namely revenues, are included in the analysis, bus operators do not necessarily seek to improve the regularity of their service. Moreover, it was found that some bus services are on the efficient frontier while keeping low performance measure standards. Using the shadow prices of the models, it was also found that improving the performance measures will be hard for many bus services unless there is a significant change in factors that are not under control of the operators (i.e., number of stops, length of the route, etc.). This shows the difficulty of correctly aligning the private objectives of operators with agencies’ objectives.
A Computational Method for Measuring Transport Related Carbon Emissions in a Healthcare Supply Network under Mixed Uncertainty: An Empirical Study
Authors: Nasrollahi Meisam , Razmi Jafar , Ghodsi Reza
Published: December 2018

Measuring carbon emissions is an essential step in taking required action to fight global warming. This research presents a computational method for measuring transport related carbon emissions in a healthcare supply network. The network configuration significantly impacts carbon emissions. First, a multi-objective mathematical programing model is developed for designing a healthcare supply network in the form of a two-graph location routing problem under demand and fuel consumption uncertainty. Objective functions are minimizing total cost and minimizing total fuel consumption. In the presented model, the demand of each customer must be completely satisfied in each time period, and backlog is not permitted. The number and capacity of vehicles are determined, and vehicles are heterogeneous. Furthermore, fuel consumption depends on traveling distance, vehicle and road conditions, and the load of a vehicle. The centroid method is applied to face demand uncertainty. Next, a multi-objective non-dominated ranked genetic algorithm (M-NRGA) is proposed to solve the model. Then, a Monte Carlo based approach is presented for measuring transport-related carbon emissions based on fuel consumption in supply network. Finally, the proposed approach is applied to the case of a healthcare supply network in the Fars province in Iran. The obtained results illustrate that the proposed approach is a practical tool in designing healthcare supply networks and measuring transport-related carbon emissions in the network.
Extended SSD VMAT treatment for total body irradiation
Authors: Pierce Greg , Balogh Alex , Frederick Rebecca , Gordon Deborah , Yarschenko Adam , Hudson Alana
Published: December 2018

In this work, we develop a total body irradiation technique that utilizes arc delivery, a buildup spoiler, and inverse optimized multileaf collimator (MLC) motion to shield organs at risk. The current treatment beam model is verified to confirm its applicability at extended source‐to‐surface distance (SSD). The delivery involves 7–8 volumetric modulated arc therapy arcs delivered to the patient in the supine and prone positions. The patient is positioned at a 90° couch angle on a custom bed with a 1 cm acrylic spoiler to increase surface dose. Single‐step optimization using a patient CT scan provides enhanced dose homogeneity and limits organ at risk dose. Dosimetric data of 109 TBI patients treated with this technique is presented along with the clinical workflow. Treatment planning system (TPS) verification measurements were performed at an extended SSD of 175 cm. Measurements included: a 4‐point absolute depth‐dose curve, profiles at 1.5, 5, and 10 cm depth, absolute point‐dose measurements of an treatment field, 2D Gafchromic® films at four locations, and measurements of surface dose at multiple locations of a Alderson phantom. The results of the patient DVH parameters were: Body‐5 mm D98 95.3 ± 1.5%, Body‐5 mm D2 114.0 ± 3.6%, MLD 102.8 ± 2.1%. Differences between measured and calculated absolute depth‐dose values were all <2%. Profiles at extended SSD had a maximum point difference of 1.3%. Gamma pass rates of 2D films were greater than 90% at 5%/1 mm. Surface dose measurements with film confirmed surface dose values of >90% of the prescription dose. In conclusion, the inverse optimized delivery method presented in the paper has been used to deliver homogenous dose to over 100 patients. The method provides superior patient comfort utilizing a commercial TPS. In addition, the ability to easily shield organs at risk is available through the use of MLCs.
Prevalence of Foot Pain Across an International Consortium of Population‐Based Cohorts
Authors: Gates Lucy S. , Arden Nigel K. , Hannan Marian T. , Roddy Edward , Gill Tiffany K. , Hill Catherine L. , Dufour Alyssa B. , Rathod‐Mistry Trishna , Thomas Martin J. , Menz Hylton B. , Bowen Catherine J. , Golightly Yvonne M.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Despite the potential burden of foot pain, some of the most fundamental epidemiologic questions surrounding the foot remain poorly explored. The prevalence of foot pain has proven to be difficult to compare across existing studies due to variations in case definitions. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of foot pain in several international population‐based cohorts using original data and to explore differences in the case definitions used.

Methods

Foot pain variables were examined in 5 cohorts: the Chingford 1000 Women Study, the Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project, the Framingham Foot Study, the Clinical Assessment Study of the Foot, and the North West Adelaide Health Study. One question about foot pain was chosen from each cohort based on its similarity to the American College of Rheumatology pain question.

Results

The precise definition of foot pain varied between the cohorts. The prevalence of foot pain ranged from 13% to 36% and was lowest in the cohort in which the case definition specific to pain was used, compared to the 4 remaining cohorts in which a definition included components of pain, aching, or stiffness. Foot pain was generally more prevalent in women and obese individuals and generally increased with age, with the prevalence being much lower in younger participants (ages 20–44 years).

Conclusion

Foot pain is common and is associated with female sex, older age, and obesity. Estimates of the prevalence of foot pain are likely to be affected by the case definition used. Therefore, in future population studies, the use of consistent measures of data collection must be considered.
Effect of High‐Pressure Torsion on the Thermal and Mechanical Properties of La62Cu12Ni12Al14 Bulk Metallic Glass
Authors: Guo Jing , Joo Soo‐Hyun , Pi Donghai , Kim Wooyeol , Song Yuepeng , Kim Hyoung Seop , Zhang Xiaohui , Kong Dan
Published: December 2018

Even though bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) are generally brittle, they receive large plastic deformations of over 1000% shear strain without fracturing through the application of combined shear and hydrostatic stresses. In this study, the effects of the severe plastic deformation by high‐pressure torsion (HPT) on the thermal and mechanical properties of La62Cu12Ni12Al14 BMG are investigated. Crystallization is not detected during the HPT processes with 5, 15, and 30 revolutions. However, increase in glass transition temperature, crystallization temperature, fracture strength, and fracture strain, and decrease in the coefficient of thermal expansion and hardness due to the HPT process are found. These changes in the properties are attributable to the increased free volume that results from the rejuvenated structure in the HPT‐processed BMG. In addition, the fracture in the HPT‐processed La62Cu12Ni12Al14 BMG proceeds through a softening mechanism in the microscale region.
Superwettability‐Based Interfacial Chemical Reactions
Authors: Wu Yuchen , Feng Jiangang , Gao Hanfei , Feng Xinjian , Jiang Lei
Published: December 2018

Superwetting interfaces arising from the cooperation of surface energy and multiscale micro/nanostructures are extensively studied in biological systems. Fundamental understandings gained from biological interfaces boost the control of wettability under different dimensionalities, such as 2D surfaces, 1D fibers and channels, and 3D architectures, thus permitting manipulation of the transport physics of liquids, gases, and ions, which profoundly impacts chemical reactions and material fabrication. In this context, the progress of new chemistry based on superwetting interfaces is highlighted, beginning with mass transport dynamics, including liquid, gas, and ion transport. In the following sections, the impacts of the superwettability‐mediated transport dynamics on chemical reactions and material fabrication is discussed. Superwettability science has greatly enhanced the efficiency of chemical reactions, including photocatalytic, bioelectronic, electrochemical, and organic catalytic reactions, by realizing efficient mass transport. For material fabrication, superwetting interfaces are pivotal in the manipulation of the transport and microfluidic dynamics of liquids on solid surfaces, leading to the spatially regulated growth of low‐dimensional single‐crystalline arrays and high‐quality polymer films. Finally, a perspective on future directions is presented.
On‐Surface Synthesis of Graphyne‐Based Nanostructures
Authors: Li Xuechao , Zhang Haiming , Chi Lifeng
Published: December 2018

The successful synthesis of stacking graphdiynes has stimulated numerous fascinating applications. However, it still remains challenging to prepare atomically precise 2D graphdiyne and other graphyne‐based structures. The development of on‐surface synthesis has contributed to many secondary graphyne‐based structures that are directive in fabricating extended graphyne networks. Herein, the recent progress concerning on‐surface synthesis of graphyne‐based nanostructures, especially atomically precise graphdiyne nanowires, is summarized.
Ultrastrong Medium‐Entropy Single‐Phase Alloys Designed via Severe Lattice Distortion
Authors: Sohn Seok Su , Kwiatkowski da Silva Alisson , Ikeda Yuji , Körmann Fritz , Lu Wenjun , Choi Won Seok , Gault Baptiste , Ponge Dirk , Neugebauer Jörg , Raabe Dierk
Published: December 2018

Severe lattice distortion is a core effect in the design of multiprincipal element alloys with the aim to enhance yield strength, a key indicator in structural engineering. Yet, the yield strength values of medium‐ and high‐entropy alloys investigated so far do not substantially exceed those of conventional alloys owing to the insufficient utilization of lattice distortion. Here it is shown that a simple VCoNi equiatomic medium‐entropy alloy exhibits a near 1 GPa yield strength and good ductility, outperforming conventional solid‐solution alloys. It is demonstrated that a wide fluctuation of the atomic bond distances in such alloys, i.e., severe lattice distortion, improves both yield stress and its sensitivity to grain size. In addition, the dislocation‐mediated plasticity effectively enhances the strength–ductility relationship by generating nanosized dislocation substructures due to massive pinning. The results demonstrate that severe lattice distortion is a key property for identifying extra‐strong materials for structural engineering applications.
From Self‐Assembly Hierarchical h‐BN Patterns to Centimeter‐Scale Uniform Monolayer h‐BN Film
Authors: Geng Dechao , Zhao Xiaoxu , Zhou Ke , Fu Wei , Xu Zhiping , Pennycook Stephen J. , Ang Lay Kee , Yang Hui Ying
Published: December 2018

The self‐assembly into highly ordered pattern is a universal phenomenon with unprecedented natural properties. However, the nonequilibrium processes in complex systems demand rigorous molecular formation mechanism, which are highly important for fundamental research. Herein, a large‐scale formation of highly self‐assembly hierarchical hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) superordered structures on a liquid Cu surface by the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method is demonstrated. The hierarchical h‐BN superordered structure is found to be composed of two vertical stacking parts: one part is underneath h‐BN film and the other part is top orientated branched h‐BN patterns. In addition, the size, orientation, and morphology of the h‐BN superordered structures can be precisely tuned by varying the gas flow rate and growth time. A kinetics‐limited growth mechanism is proposed to elucidate the formation process, owing a well consistency with experimental results. Further, by mechanically peeling off the top few‐layer h‐BN, centimeter‐scale uniform monolayer h‐BN film is produced, demonstrating a direct and facile top‐down fabrication method. This synthesis of highly ordered hierarchical h‐BN patterns and following uniform monolayer h‐BN film can be applied to other 2D materials, paving way for great potential in the investigation of growth mechanism and construction of homo‐ and heterostructures.
Gate‐Tunable Photoresponse Time in Black Phosphorus–MoS2 Heterojunctions
Authors: Walmsley Thayer S. , Chamlagain Bhim , Rijal Upendra , Wang Tianjiao , Zhou Zhixian , Xu Ya‐Qiong
Published: December 2018

Gate‐/wavelength‐dependent scanning photocurrent measurements of black phosphorous (BP)–MoS2 heterojunctions have shown that the Schottky barrier at the MoS2–metal interface plays an important role in the photoresponse dynamics of the heterojunction. When the Fermi level is close to the conduction band of MoS2, photoexcited carriers can tunnel through the narrow depletion region at the MoS2–metal interface, leading to a short response time of 13 µs regardless of the incident laser wavelength. This response speed is comparable or better than that of other few‐layer BP–MoS2 heterojunctions. Conversely, when the MoS2 channel is in the off‐state, the resulting sizeable Schottky barrier and depletion width make it difficult for photoexcited carriers to overcome the barrier. This significantly delays the carrier transit time and thus the photoresponse speed, leading to a wavelength‐dependent response time since the photoexcited carriers induced by short wavelength photons have a higher probability to overcome the Schottky barrier at the MoS2–metal interface than long wavelength photons. These studies not only shed light on the fundamental understanding of photoresponse dynamics in BP–MoS2 heterojunctions, but also open new avenues for engineering the interfaces between 2D materials and metal contacts to reduce the response time of 2D optoelectronics.
Rapid assessment of hyperdiploidy in plasma cell disorders using a novel multi‐parametric flow cytometry method
Authors: Sidana Surbhi , Jevremovic Dragan , Ketterling Rhett P. , Tandon Nidhi , Dispenzieri Angela , Gertz Morie A. , Greipp Patricia T , Baughn Linda B. , Buadi Francis K. , Lacy Martha Q. , Morice William , Hanson Curtis , Timm Michael , Dingli David , Hayman Suzanne R. , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Kapoor Prashant , Kyle Robert A. , Leung Nelson , Go Ronald S. , Lust John A. , Rajkumar S. Vincent , Kumar Shaji K.
Published: December 2018

Trisomies of odd numbered chromosomes are seen in nearly half of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and typically correlate with a hyperdiploid state and better overall survival (OS). We compared DNA ploidy of monoclonal plasma cells (as a surrogate for the presence of trisomies) assessed simultaneously by PCPRO (plasma cell proliferative index), a novel method that estimates DNA index by multi‐parametric flow cytometry to fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in 1703 patients with plasma cell disorders. The distribution of ploidy was hyperdiploid: 759 (45%), diploid 765 (45%), hypodiploid: 71 (4%), tetraploid/near‐tetraploid: 108 (6%). FISH identified trisomies in 82% (621/756) of patients with hyperdiploidy by PCPRO and no trisomy by FISH was observed in 88% (730/834) of patients without hyperdiploidy. 95% (795/834) of patients without hyperdiploidy on PCPRO had one or less trisomy by FISH. Sensitivity and specificity of PCPRO for detecting hyperdiploidy was 86% (621/725) and 84% (730/865), respectively. Sensitivity increased to 94% (579/618) for patients with more than one trisomy. Newly diagnosed MM patients with hyperdiploidy on PCPRO (147/275) had better OS compared to nonhyperdiploid patients (median not reached vs 59 months, P = 0.008) and better progression free survival (median: 33 vs 23 months, P = 0.03). Within the hyperdiploidy group, patients with high‐hyperdiploidy (DNA index: 1.19‐1.50) versus those with low‐hyperdiploidy (DNA index: 1.05‐1.18) had superior OS (3 year OS of 88% vs 68% P = 0.03). Ploidy assessment by flow cytometry can provide rapid, valuable prognostic information and also reduces the number of copy number FISH probes required and hence the cost of FISH.
Consolidation therapy with the combination of bortezomib and lenalidomide (VR) without dexamethasone in multiple myeloma patients after transplant: Effects on survival and bone outcomes in the absence of bisphosphonates
Authors: Terpos Evangelos , Kastritis Efstathios , Ntanasis‐Stathopoulos Ioannis , Christoulas Dimitrios , Papatheodorou Athanasios , Eleutherakis‐Papaiakovou Evangelos , Kanellias Nikolaos , Fotiou Despina , Ziogas Dimitrios C. , Migkou Magdalini , Roussou Maria , Trougakos Ioannis P. , Gavriatopoulou Maria , Dimopoulos Meletios A.
Published: December 2018

Optimizing consolidation treatment in transplant‐eligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients in order to improve efficacy and bone‐related outcomes is intriguing. We conducted an open‐label, prospective study evaluating the efficacy and safety of bortezomib and lenalidomide (VR) consolidation after ASCT, in the absence of dexamethasone and bisphosphonates. Fifty‐nine patients, who received bortezomib‐based induction, were given 4 cycles of VR starting on day 100 post‐ASCT. After ASCT, 58% of patients improved their response status, while following VR consolidation 39% further deepened their response; stringent complete response rates increased to 51% after VR from 24% post‐ASCT. VR consolidation resulted in a significant reduction of soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand/osteoprotegerin ratio and sclerostin circulating levels, which was more pronounced among patients achieving very good partial response or better. After a median follow‐up of 62 months, no skeletal‐related events (SREs) were observed, despite the lack of bisphosphonates administration. The median TTP after ASCT was 37 months, while median overall survival (OS) has not been reached yet; the probability of 4‐ and 5‐year OS was 81% and 64%, respectively. In conclusion, VR consolidation is an effective, dexamethasone‐ and bisphosphonate‐free approach, which offers long OS with improvements on bone metabolism and no SREs.
Automated assays for von Willebrand factor activity
Authors: Higgins Russell A. , Goodwin Andrew J.
Published: December 2018

von Willebrand factor (VWF) ristocetin cofactor activity (VWF:RCo) by platelet aggregometry has been considered the gold standard for evaluating the ability of VWF to bind platelets for over 40 years. Many automated systems no longer require platelets and rather rely on agglutination of latex particles. Automated methods of measuring VWF activity have improved performance characteristics and are performed on the same coagulation instruments used for routine testing via immunoturbidimetric methodology. Alternatively, a newer chemiluminescence assay system for measuring VWF activity demonstrates excellent performance characteristics. As these methods are becoming widely used, it is important to assess their performance in diagnosing and monitoring different types of von Willebrand disease. We review the automated methodologies and the published performance of these VWF assays. Advantages and limitations of these automated methods are discussed.
Brief report: Population‐based reversal of the adverse impact of opioids on disability in Washington State workers’ compensation
Authors: Franklin Gary M. , Mercier Mark , Mai Jaymie , Tuman Doug , Fulton‐Kehoe Deborah , Wickizer Thomas , Sears Jeanne M.
Published: December 2018

Background

Evidence has associated opioid use initiated early in a workers’ compensation claim with subsequent disability. In 2013, the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (DLI) implemented procedures based on new regulations that require improvement in pain and function to approve opioids beyond the acute pain period.

Methods

We measured opioid prescriptions between 6 and 12 weeks following injury, an indicator of persistent opioid use. Actuarial data for the association of any opioid use versus no opioid use with development of lost time payments are reported.

Results

Prior authorization with hard stops led to a sustained drop in persistent opioid use, from nearly 5% in 2013 to less than 1% in 2017. This reduction was also associated with reversal of the increased lost work time patterns seen from 1999 to 2010.

Conclusions

Prior authorization targeted at preventing transition to chronic opioid use can prevent and reverse adverse time loss development that has occurred on a population basis concomitant with the opioid epidemic.
Brain growth in modern humans using multiple developmental databases
Authors: Vannucci Robert C. , Vannucci Susan J.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Currently, there are several published articles detailing brain growth in modern humans. The contained databases were derived using disparate methodologies. The objective of the present investigation was to determine the level of agreement among several collections of immature modern human brains.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐one developmental collections of endocranial volume, brain weight, or brain volume were selected for analysis, including one skeletal, six autopsy, and 14 computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging samples. Step‐wise comparisons were determined, using conversion factors for brain specific gravity and size of the subarachnoid space.

Results

Derived brain weights are comparable and increase especially during the first year of postnatal life, with a further slight increase (+8–10%) between one and five years, and little change thereafter. The expansion in brain size occurs earlier than body size. Significant sex differences are apparent at all stages of development. Combining all datasets produced a composite database consisting of 3,491 brain weight values, with ages near birth through 18 years. Individual brain weights ranged from 190 to 1,792 g, and mean brain weights ranged from 457 to 1,365 g, with an overall mean and standard deviation of 897 ± 387 g.

Conclusions

The investigation compares modern human collections regarding brain size trajectories from birth through 18 years of age. The 21 datasets are then incorporated into a single composite database. All major age groups and both sexes are well represented. The composite database should prove useful to other investigators interested in developmental aspects of the modern human brain.
Critical illness and the role of the microbiome
Authors: Otani Shunsuke , Chihade Deena B. , Coopersmith Craig M.
Published: December 2018

The number of microbes living within the intestinal lumen is similar to the number of all cells of human origin in the host. Although historically little attention has been paid to the massive microbial community residing inside each of us, the last few years have witnessed an explosion of information related to the role of the microbiome in the maintenance of health and in the pathogenesis of disease. Here, we review data suggesting that the microbiome is converted into a pathobiome in critical illness and potential strategies for targeting the microbiome for therapeutic gain in the intensive care unit.
Facile preparation of Ag/Ag2WO4/g‐C3N4 ternary plasmonic photocatalyst and its visible‐light photocatalytic activity
Authors: Li Jiang , Zhu Xiaolu , Qiu Fengxian , Zhang Tao , Hu Fengping , Peng Xiaoming
Published: December 2018

Introducing plasmonic metals into semiconductor materials has been proven to be an attractive strategy for enhancing photocatalytic activity in the visible region. In this work, a novel and efficient Ag/Ag2WO4/g‐C3N4 (AACN) ternary plasmonic photocatalyst was successfully synthesized using a facile one‐step in situ hydrothermal method. The composition, structure, morphology and optical absorption properties of AACN were investigated using X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, respectively. Photocatalytic performance of AACN was evaluated via rhodamine B and tetracycline degradation. The results indicated that AACN had excellent photocatalytic performance for rhodamine B degradation with a rate constant of 0.0125 min−1, which was higher than those of Ag2WO4 and Ag/Ag2WO4. Characterization and photocatalytic tests showed that the strong coupling effect between the Ag/Ag2WO4 nanoparticles and the exfoliated ultrathin g‐C3N4 nanosheets was superior for visible‐light responsivity and reduced the recombination rate of photogenerated electrons and holes. A proposed mechanism is also discussed according to the band energy structure and the experimental results.
Biological and catalytic evaluation of Ru(II)‐p‐cymene complexes of Schiff base ligands: Impact of ligand appended moiety on photo‐induced DNA and protein cleavage, cytotoxicity and C‐H activation
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Durairaj , Srinath Santhanam , Baskar Baburaj , Bhuvanesh Nattamai S.P. , Ganeshpandian Mani
Published: December 2018

Two organometallic Ru(II)‐p‐cymene complexes of the type [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(L)Cl]PF6 1 and 2, where L is N,N‐bis(4‐isopropylbenzylidene)ethane‐1,2‐diamine (bien, L1) or N,N‐bis (pyren‐2‐ylmethylene)ethane‐1,2‐diamine (bpen, L2) have been prepared and characterized well. Because of appended pyrenyl groups in coordinated bpen ligand, the complex 2 exhibits higher DNA and protein binding than complex 1 in which isopropylbenzyl groups are incorporated. Interestingly, the luminescent characteristic complex 2 is unique in displaying DNA cleavage after light activation by UVA light at 365 nm through oxygen dependent mechanism. AFM analysis attests the photo‐induced DNA fragmentation ability of complex 2. Also, the complex 2 cleaves the protein after light exposure in a non‐specific manner suggesting that it can act as a protein photo cleaving agent. In contrast to the trend of DNA and protein interaction of complexes, the complex 1 exhibits cytotoxic activity against human breast carcinoma (MCF‐7) and liver carcinoma (HepG2) with potency higher than that of complex 2 due to enhanced hydrophobicity of isopropyl groups present in p‐cymene and bien ligands. Indeed, complex 2 is inactive against MCF‐7 and HepG2 cancer cell lines even up to 200 μM concentration. The AO/EB staining assay reveals that the complex 1 is able to induce late apoptotic mode of cell death in breast cancer cells, which is further confirmed by inter‐nucleosomal DNA cleavage. Furthermore, the complexes 1 and 2 are evaluated for their catalytic activities and found to be working well for the β‐carboline directed C–H arylation to afford the desired products in good yield (40–47%).