bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timing of Development of the Permanent Mandibular Dentition: New Reference Values from the Fels Longitudinal Study
Authors: Šešelj Maja , Sherwood Richard J. , Konigsberg Lyle W.
Published: March 2019

Estimating chronological age or assessing the rate of maturation in immature individuals is an important task in biological anthropology and clinical practice. One of the most reliable ways of doing this is by evaluating one's dental development, specifically tooth mineralization. However, few chronologies include reference values for very young children, and few provide an extensive documentation of the range of variation surrounding the reported reference values. We present a new chronology of development of permanent mandibular canine and postcanine teeth from birth through age 28 years, based on over 6,000 radiographs of 590 participants of the Fels Longitudinal Study, recorded between 1940 and 1982. Tooth mineralization was scored following the 14‐stage system of Moorrees, Fanning, and Hunt (Moorrees et al., 1963a) with an additional crypt stage. We calculated ages of attainment, as well as average age in stage, using transition analysis. We find that variation increases throughout ontogeny for all teeth, though it is generally comparable between girls and boys. The tempo of dental development tends to be faster in girls. Compared to the classic chronology of Moorrees et al. (1963a), partly based on Fels radiographs, in our sample the development of crowns tends to occur at earlier, and development of roots at increasingly later ages. Our results are more similar to chronologies based on more recent, clinical samples (Liversidge, 2009), though the development of tooth roots in our sample occurs at older ages. Anat Rec, 302:1733–1753, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Neuronal PAS Domain 2 (Npas2)‐Deficient Fibroblasts Accelerate Skin Wound Healing and Dermal Collagen Reconstruction
Authors: Sasaki Hodaka , Hokugo Akishige , Wang Lixin , Morinaga Kenzo , Ngo John T. , Okawa Hiroko , Nishimura Ichiro
Published: March 2019

The circadian clock, which consists of endogenous self‐sustained and cell‐autonomous oscillations in mammalian cells, is known to regulate a wide range of peripheral tissues. The unique upregulation of a clock gene, neuronal PAS domain protein 2 (Npas2), observed along with fibroblast aging prompted us to investigate the role of Npas2 in the homeostasis of dermal structure using in vivo and in vitro wound healing models. Time‐course healing of a full‐thickness skin punched wound exhibited significantly faster wound closure in Npas2−/− mice than wild‐type (WT) C57Bl/6J mice. Dorsal skin fibroblasts isolated from WT, Npas2+/−, and Npas2−/− mice exhibited consistent profiles of core clock gene expression except for Npas2 and Per2. In vitro behavioral characterizations of dermal fibroblasts revealed that Npas2−/− mutation was associated with increased proliferation, migration, and cell contraction measured by floating collagen gel contraction and single‐cell force contraction assays. Npas2 knockout fibroblasts carrying sustained the high expression level of type XII and XIV FAICT collagens and synthesized dermis‐like thick collagen fibers in vitro. Confocal laser scanning microscopy demonstrated the reconstruction of dermis‐like collagen architecture in the wound healing area of Npas2−/− mice. This study indicates that the induced Npas2 expression in fibroblasts may interfere with skin homeostasis, wound healing, and dermal tissue reconstruction, providing a basis for novel therapeutic target and strategy. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systems Metabolic Engineering Strategies for Non‐Natural Microbial Polyester Production
Authors: Lee Youngjoon , Cho In J. , Choi So Y. , Lee Sang Y.
Published: March 2019

Plastics, used everyday, are mostly synthetic polymers derived from fossil resources, and their accumulation is becoming a serious concern worldwide. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are naturally produced polyesters synthesized and intracellularly accumulated by many different microorganisms. PHAs are good alternatives to petroleum‐based plastics because they possess a wide range of material properties depending on monomer types and molecular weights. In addition, PHAs are biodegradable and can be produced from renewable biomass. Thus, producing PHAs through the development of high‐performance engineered microorganisms and efficient bioprocesses gained much interest. In addition, non‐natural polyesters comprising 2‐hydroxycarboxylic acids as monomers have been produced by fermentation of metabolically engineered bacteria. For example, poly(lactic acid) and poly(lactic acid‐co‐glycolic acid), which have been chemically synthesized using the corresponding monomers either fermentatively or chemically produced, can be produced by metabolically engineered bacteria by one‐step fermentation. Recently, PHAs containing aromatic monomers could be produced by fermentation of metabolically engineered bacteria. Here, metabolic engineering strategies applied in developing microbial strains capable of producing non‐natural polyesters in a stepwise manner are reviewed. It is hoped that the detailed strategies described will be helpful for designing metabolic engineering strategies for developing diverse microbial strains capable of producing various polymers that can replace petroleum‐derived polymers.
Clinical features of freezing of gait in Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Sawada Makoto , Wada‐Isoe Kenji , Hanajima Ritsuko , Nakashima Kenji
Published: March 2019

Objective

To clarify the clinical features of freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients by classification into two groups: Clinically observed FOG (CFOG) and self‐reported FOG (SFOG).

Methods

Two hundred twenty‐nine PD patients were medically examined in an examination room as well as subjected to a New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (NFOG‐Q) and analysis of nonmotor symptoms including sleep, cognition, depression, and fatigue.

Results

The prevalence of CFOG was 17.9%, while 53.7% of the patients without CFOG reported the presence of FOG via the NFOG‐Q. Univariate analysis revealed that CFOG was associated with longer disease duration, motor dysfunction, sleepiness, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction. These symptoms, excluding akinesia, apathy, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep Behavior Disorder, and cognitive dysfunction, were also associated with SFOG. Multivariate analysis revealed that long PD duration, postural instability, and gait difficulty (PIGD), along with fatigue, were independent factors for SFOG.

Conclusions

SFOG and CFOG have many common clinical features. Although the clinical relevance of SFOG remains unclear, careful attention should be paid to related features in clinical practice.
N‐Methylmesoporphyrin IX Exhibits G‐Quadruplex‐Specific Photocleavage Activity
Authors: McBrayer Dominic , Schoonover Michelle , Long Kimberly J. , Escobedo Ruby , Kerwin Sean M.
Published: March 2019

N‐Methylmesoporphyrin IX (NMM) has long been known as a G‐quadruplex DNA (G4) ligand. However, there has been little investigation into its G‐quadruplex photocleavage activity. Herein, we demonstrate that NMM is a highly selective photocleavage agent for G4 structures but not duplex DNA. Analysis of the cleavage products by PAGE demonstrates that G4 photocleavage by NMM occurs at sites similar to those cleaved by TMPyP4, a nonselective DNA photocleavage agent. Although NMM is shown here to generate singlet oxygen in the presence of both duplex and G4, the lack of increased photocleavage in D2O indicated that singlet oxygen is not involved in the photocleavage of G4 by NMM.
The combined use of stent retriever and neuro‐aspiration as successful bail‐out reperfusion strategy in a patient with embolic myocardial infarction
Authors: Crimi Gabriele , Moramarco Lorenzo , Mandurino‐Mirizzi Alessandro , Quaretti Pietro , Ferrario Maurizio
Published: March 2019

Embolic myocardial infarction account for ≈3% of all ST‐segment myocardial infarction and represents a challenge often left no‐reperfused because current thrombectomy technologies are inefficient to grab thrombus wedged into distal coronary arteries. We present the case of a 34‐year‐old man who presented with anterior STEMI and a proximal left anterior descending coronary artery ulcerated plaque with a great thrombus burden, which led to distal embolization. Failure of several attempts of manual and rheolytic thrombectomy, led us to use the “Solumbra technique”, the combined use of stent retriever and Penumbra catheter was successful in restoring patency and flow.
Percutaneous ultrasound guided thrombin injection for axillary artery pseudoaneurysm following stenting of the arterial duct in two infants: Case report with review of literature
Authors: Karmegaraj Balaganesh , Prabhu Nirmalkumar , Kappanayil Mahesh , Kumar Raman K.
Published: March 2019

We report pseudoaneurysm of the axillary artery following stenting of the arterial duct in two infants. They were both successfully managed by ultrasound guided thrombin injection with preservation of native arterial flow. We also review the relevant literature.
[Zn4O] Cluster‐Based Metal‐Organic Frameworks as Catalysts for Conversion of CO2
Authors: Qiao Wanzhen , Song Tianqun , Zhao Bin
Published: March 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

One unique two‐dimensional (2D) Zn‐MOF {Na[Zn1.5(μ4‐O)(L)]}n (1) was synthesized under hydrothermal conditions and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Four Zn atoms are bridged through μ4‐O to form [Zn4O] clusters, which are further linked to form a 2D layer network through sharing Zn as vertexes. 1 exhibits high thermal stability up to 280 °C and keeps stable in common solvents and water solutions with pH ranging from 1 to 13. The catalytic studies reveal that compound 1 exhibits excellent catalytic activity for cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides into cyclic carbonates under mild conditions. Furthermore, 1 demonstrates good generality in CO2 coupling reaction with extensive epoxides. Importantly, 1 can be reused for at least five times without significant reduction in catalytic ability.
Titin‐truncating variants are associated with heart failure events in patients with left ventricular non‐compaction cardiomyopathy
Authors: Li Shijie , Zhang Ce , Liu Nana , Bai Hui , Hou Cuihong , Song Lei , Pu Jielin
Published: March 2019

Background

Titin‐truncating variants (TTNtv) have been recognized as the most prevalent genetic cause of dilated cardiomyopathy. However, their effects on phenotypes of left ventricular non‐compaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) remain largely unknown.

Hypothesis

The presence of TTNtv may have an effect on the phenotype of LVNC.

Methods

TTN was comprehensively screened by targeted sequencing in a cohort of 83 adult patients with LVNC. Baseline and follow‐up data of all participants were collected. The primary endpoint was a composite of death and heart transplantation. The secondary endpoint was heart failure (HF) events, a composite of HF‐related death, heart transplantation, and HF hospitalization.

Results

Overall, 13 TTNtv were identified in 13 patients, with 9 TTNtv located in the A‐band of titin. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between patients with and without TTNtv. During a median follow‐up of 4.4 years, no significant difference in death and heart transplantation between the two groups was observed. However, more HF events occurred in TTNtv carriers than in non‐carriers (P = 0.006). Multivariable analyses showed that TTNtv were associated with an increased risk of HF events independent of sex, age, and baseline cardiac function (hazard ratio: 3.25, 95% confidence interval: 1.50‐7.01, P = 0.003). Sensitivity analysis excluding non‐A‐band TTNtv yielded similar results, but with less strength.

Conclusions

The presence of TTNtv may be a genetic modifier of LVNC and confer a higher risk of HF events among adult patients. Studies of larger cohorts are needed to confirm our findings.
Prediction of spontaneous closure of ventricular septal defect and guidance for clinical follow‐up
Authors: Li Xinyang , Ren Weidong , Song Guang , Zhang Xintong
Published: March 2019

Aim

To predict the spontaneous closure of ventricular septal defect (VSD) and assist pediatrician to manage VSD children.

Methods

Between January 2008 and December 2016, 132 children diagnosed with isolated VSD by echocardiography were enrolled. All participating children were followed‐up by echocardiography yearly until the closure of VSD or 6 years old. The clinical indicators and echocardiographic parameters of patients were collected. Statistically significant factors were used to establish a Logistic Regression model for predicting spontaneous closure of VSD. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the specificity and sensitivity of Logistic Regression model.

Results

Spontaneous closure occurred in 60% of all patients; 57% in perimembranous VSD (p‐VSD) and 64% in muscular VSD (m‐VSD) patients. Initial diagnosis age, defect size, aneurysms tissue of the ventricular membranous septum (ATVMS), pulmonary hypertension (PH), and left ventricular diastolic dimension (LVDD) were statistically significant. Defect size, ATVMS and LVDD were determined by the Logistic Regression model as representative factor. P‐VSD and m‐VSD model had areas under the ROC curves 0.854 and 0.898, respectively.

Conclusion

We inferred that defect size, ATVMS and LVDD were characteristic and representative predictors for spontaneous closure of VSD. And we summarized the prognostic factors and recommended a follow‐up criteria to assist the pediatrician managing VSD children.
Do repeated firings affect the color properties of porcelain‐fused‐metal restorations that are fabricated differently?
Authors: Çelik Ersan , Tulga Ayça
Published: March 2019

Repeated firings can affect the quality of the porcelain color. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of repeated firings on the color changes of porcelain‐fused‐metal restorations that are manufactured using different methods. A total of 60 cylindrical shaped cobalt–chromium alloys (Ø = 10 mm and h = 1.5 mm) were fabricated using casting (C), milling (M), direct metal laser sintering with and without annealing (EL+, EL‐), and selective laser melting with and without annealing (CL+, CL‐). The samples were veneered with A2 (as indicated by the Vita Shade Guide) dentin porcelain of 2 mm thickness. Then the samples subjected to the repeated firings (2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th, and 10th), and the color of each sample was recorded using a spectrophotometer. The CIEDE2000 (ΔE00) formula was used to calculate color differences of the samples on repeated firings. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post‐hoc Tukey's test were utilized to analyze the results (a = 05). The L*, a*, and b* values of porcelain‐fused‐metal specimens were significantly affected by the number of firings (P < 0.001) and fabrication techniques (P < 0.001). The ΔE00 values for C, M, CL‐, and EL‐ groups after 10th firing were above 0.8 unit, which indicates that visually perceivable color differences are clinically acceptable. On the other hand, the ΔE00 values for CL+ and EL+ groups were above the PT value after 8th repeated firings. The color properties of porcelain‐fused‐metal restorations were affected by the fabrication techniques and the number of firings.
Periodontal health in a cohort of subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Roy Margaux , Gastaldi Giacomo , Courvoisier Delphine S. , Mombelli Andrea , Giannopoulou Catherine
Published: March 2019

To evaluate periodontal health and oral health behaviors in a cohort of subjects with type 1 diabetes (T1D), 50 persons with T1D (30 males and 20 females; mean age: 35.2 years) were recruited from the Diabetology Unit of the Geneva University Hospitals; 50 nondiabetic persons matched for gender, age, and smoking status comprised the control group. We assessed periodontal health using the gingival index (GI), plaque index, probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and clinical attachment level (CAL) and recorded self‐reported attitudes and behaviors regarding dental care. The two groups were compared using conditional logistic regression. With respect to the mean PD, CAL, and the mean number of sites with PD >4 mm that bled upon probing, there were no significant differences between the groups. However, subjects with diabetes had significantly more plaque and gingival inflammation and presented more sites with BOP compared with control subjects. Further analysis of the subjects in younger (<40 years) and older (>40 years) cohorts revealed a marked difference in GI between younger healthy and controls, which was also present in older patients and controls but much reduced in magnitude and significance. This marked difference in the gingival health of young versus old diabetic patients to matched controls may provide diagnostic advantages and screening and prevention opportunities to exploit. In spite of similar self‐reported oral hygiene habits and frequency of dental visits, patients with T1D presented more plaque and more inflammation than healthy controls, particularly in the younger subjects. Gingivitis in young T1D patients may be an early indicator for more complicated diabetes and periodontitis in the future. Thus, patients with T1D mellitus should be screened for signs of periodontal disease early and should be motivated and instructed in good oral hygiene practices.
Hierarchical Porous and Zinc‐Ion‐Crosslinked PIM‐1 Nanocomposite as a CO2 Cycloaddition Catalyst with High Efficiency
Authors: Pan Ying , Zhai Xiaofei , Yin Jian , Zhang Tianqi , Ma Liujia , Zhou Yi , Zhang Yufeng , Meng Jianqiang
Published: March 2019

CO2 cycloaddition to epoxides is an effective and economical utilization method to alleviate the current excessive CO2 emission situation. The development of catalysts with both high catalytic efficiency and high recyclability is necessary but challenging. In this context, a heterogeneous catalyst was synthesized based on a zinc‐ion‐crosslinked polymer with intrinsic microporosity (PIM‐1). The high microporosity of PIM‐1 promoted a high Zn2+ loading rate. Additionally, the relatively stable ionic bond formed between Zn2+ and the PIM‐1 framework through electrostatic interaction ensured high loading stability. In the process of CO2 cycloaddition with propylene epoxide, an optimized conversion of 90 % with a turnover frequency as high as 9533 h−1 could be achieved within 0.5 h at 100 °C and 2 MPa. After 15 cycles, the catalytic efficiency did not demonstrate a significant decline, and the catalyst was able to recover most of its activity after Zn2+ reloading. This work thereby provides a strategically designed CO2 conversion catalyst based on an ionic crosslinked polymer with intrinsic microporosity.
Rapid Quantification of the Total Viable Bacterial Population on Human Hands Using Flow Cytometry with SYBR® Green I
Authors: Singh Atheesha , Yelverton Christopher J. , Barnard Tobias G.
Published: March 2019

Background

Monitoring the efficiency of hand washing typically relies on determining the presence or absence of targeted organisms on the hands, not necessarily determining if the method is working. The results focus on the organism studied and do not give a true reflection of the efficiency of the hygiene intervention. To obtain a better picture, this study tested flow cytometry with SYBR® Green I to quantify bacterial populations on the hands of participants in a healthcare training clinic at a University in South Africa.

Methods

Participants “washed” both hands in a buffer solution in a sterile bag, and the total and viable bacterial populations numbers were determined using flow cytometry and compared with standard culture‐based methods, testing for total coliforms, E. coli and heterotrophic organisms (IDEXX Colilert®‐18 Quanti‐Trays™ and SimPlates®) and fastidious organisms with hemolytic activity (Blood Agar).

Results

Compared to the culture‐based method, flow cytometry rapidly distinguished total, viable, and dead bacterial populations in all samples. As expected, the culture‐based methods gave lower bacterial counts and were limited by the detection limit of each test, requiring further testing with additional costs. Although the exact bacterial species in the population could not be identified with flow cytometry, viable counts from flow cytometric analysis were two times more precise than the data obtained with any of the culture‐based methods tested.

Conclusions

Flow cytometry was found to be suitable for immediate, accurate, and automatic detection of bacteria, and because it describes the viable bacterial population, it is ideal to monitor hand hygiene interventions. © 2019 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Melanocortin 4 receptor–mediated effects of amylin on thermogenesis and regulation of food intake
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Fan Kuikui , Li Qiang , Pan Deng , Hai Rihan , Du Chenguang
Published: March 2019

Aims

Amylin, a pancreatic hormone cosecreted with insulin, exerts important anorexic and weight‐loss effects. Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) signalling plays a critical role in energy homeostasis; however, its role on amylin‐dependent regulation of food intake and adaptive thermogenesis of interscapular brown adipose tissue (IBAT) are unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of amylin on food intake and thermogenesis on IBAT via the MC4R pathway in mice.

Materials and methods

Acute food consumption and thermogenesis in IBAT were measured in male wild‐type (WT) and MC4R‐deficient mice following intraperitoneal injection of amylin and SHU9119, an MC3R/4R antagonist, to determine the role of the central melanocortin system on the hypothalamus and IBAT.

Results

Amylin (50 μg/kg) suppressed feeding and stimulated thermogenesis on IBAT via activation of the MC4R system in mice. Pharmacological blockade of MC4R using SHU9119 (50 μg/kg) attenuated amylin‐induced inhibition of feeding and stimulation of thermogenesis in IBAT. No changes were observed when SHU9119 was injected alone. Moreover, amylin significantly increased MC4R expression and c‐Fos neuronal signals in the arcuate nucleus and significantly increased acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC) phosphorylation in the hypothalamus and IBAT and uncoupling protein‐1 (UCP1) expression in the IBAT of WT mice via the MC4R pathway.

Conclusion

The melanocortin system was involved in amylin‐induced suppression of food intake and activation of thermogenesis in both the hypothalamus and IBAT via modulation of ACC phosphorylation and UCP1 expression.
In vivo Characterization of the Radiosensitizing Effect of a Very Low Dose of BrdU in Murine Cells Exposed to Low‐Dose Radiation
Authors: Cruz‐Vallejo Virginia , Ortíz‐Muñiz Rocío , Vallarino‐Kelly Teresita , Cervantes‐Ríos Elsa , Morales‐Ramírez Pedro
Published: March 2019

The aim of the present study was to characterize the in vivo radiosensitizing effect of a very low dose of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) in mice exposed to low‐dose radiation by establishing the following: (1) the radiosensitizing effect during DNA synthesis using single‐cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) in murine bone marrow cells, and (2) the number and timing of the mechanisms of genotoxicity and cytotoxicity, as well as the correlation of both end points, using flow cytometry analysis of the kinetics of micronucleus induction in reticulocytes. Groups of mice received intraperitoneal injections of 0.125 mg/g of BrdU 24 h prior to irradiation with 0.5 Gy of 60Co gamma rays. DNA breaks measured using SCGE were determined at 30 min after exposure to radiation. The kinetics of micronucleated reticulocyte (MN‐RET) induction was determined every 8 h after irradiation up to 72 h. The results from both experimental models indicated that low‐level BrdU incorporation into DNA increased the sensitivity to 0.5 Gy of radiation, particularly in the S phase. The formation of micronuclei by gamma rays was produced at three different times using two main mechanisms. In the BrdU‐substituted cells, the second mechanism was associated with a high cytotoxic effect that was absent in the irradiated BrdU‐unsubstituted cells. The third mechanism, in which micronucleus formation was increased in irradiated substituted cells compared with the irradiated nonsubstituted control cells, was also related to an increase in cytotoxicity. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 60:534–545, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of combining redox flow and lead‐acid batteries with On‐grid and stand‐alone photovoltaic systems
Authors: Sadeghi Saber , Javaran Ebrahim Jahanshahi
Published: March 2019

The present study deals with multi‐objective optimization of stand‐alone and grid‐connected photovoltaic systems in combination with lead‐acid battery (LAB) and flow battery energy storage devices, from economic, reliability, and environmental points of view. The desired electrical load is the one of typical household applications in remote areas of Kerman, Iran. In the off‐grid scenario, at hours the desired load cannot be met by the combined panel‐battery system, a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is used as an auxiliary system to improve the system reliability. In the stand‐alone scenario, Pareto frontier in loss of power supply, annualized cost (ANC), and CO2 emission coordinate systems, with and without using SOFC is described. Furthermore, in the on‐grid scenario, according to the purchasing strategy, the money should be paid by each household to supply the desired electrical load is determined for both flow and LAB storage systems. Finally, the sensitivity analysis is done in both off‐grid and grid‐connected cases to find the effect of inflation and nominal interest rates on the ANCs. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13146, 2019
Optimal sizing of gas engine in combined cooling heat and power systems by a proposed evaluation function and genetic algorithm optimization methods based on 4E analysis
Authors: Saadi‐Quchan Atigh Hasan , Deymi‐Dashtebayaz Mahdi , Bak‐Khoshnevis Abdolamir
Published: March 2019

Determining the optimum size of the prime mover of combined cooling heating and power (CCHP) systems due to significant impact on energetic, environmental and economic results of these systems is very vital and essential. In this study, based on energy, exergy, environmental, and economic (4E) analysis the optimum capacity of the gas engine (GE) for CCHP systems have been investigated. The evaluation study performed by using a proposed evaluation function (EF) and genetic algorithm (GA) optimization methods for a sample official building in Iran. Regarding eight constraints, the optimum size of GE based on EF and GA optimization methods calculated 70 and 74.3437 kW, respectively. By comparing the results obtained from EF and GA methods, it was concluded that EF method calculate the same optimal capacity with little difference and with the same accuracy of GA method. This is while proposed EF method does not have the complexity of GA optimization algorithm and is simpler. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13146, 2019
Experimental investigation on direct injection diesel engine fuelled with addition of titanium dioxide nanoparticle to M. elangi biodiesel for varying injection pressures
Authors: Krupakaran R.L. , Hariprasasd T. , Gopalakrishna A.
Published: March 2019

Nowadays, rapid increase in vehicle population led to increase in demand of fossil fuel. Decrease in availability of crude oil made the researchers to find a renewable alternative fuel, biofuels. Methyl esters are preferred as alternative to petro‐diesel engines. The present experimental study of Mimusops elangi methyl ester (MEME) is used as biodiesel on single cylinder four stroke, direct injection air cooled diesel engine at a constant speed of 1500 rpm at various loads. The general optimum biodiesel blends 20MEME‐80D (20%MEME‐80%Diesel) with optimum of 25 ppm TiO2 nanoparticle additives were taken for the experiment. The injection pressure of the engine is varied from 180 bar to 240 bar in the steps of 20 bar. The results of experimental investigation reported that the change in injection pressure 220 bar with modified fuel (20MEME‐80D + 25 ppm TiO2 nanoparticle) shows better performance and emission characteristics in the diesel engine. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13146, 2019
Detailed performance model of carbon dioxide absorption utilizing titanium dioxide nanoparticles in a wetted wall column
Authors: Rashidi Hamed , Sohrabi Roham
Published: March 2019

Physical absorption of carbon dioxide was investigated in a wetted wall column (WWC) using a nanofluid containing titanium dioxide. Central composite response surface design (CCD) has been applied to give useful information about the main and interaction effects of the operational parameters. A quadratic mathematical model has been derived to clearly give a proper model for obtained experimental observations. The model adequacy has been analyzed by the use of analysis of variance (ANOVA), R‐squared coefficients, and lack of fit tests. The predicted values were found to be in good agreement with the general trend of experimental results. The interactive effects of the three effective absorption variables, namely temperature, liquid flow rate, and nanofluid concentration have been evaluated at five levels on the liquid mass transfer coefficient. Measurements of liquid‐side mass transfer coefficient elucidated that the absorption temperature of 25°C, the nanofluid flow rate of 299.88 mL/min, and the nanofluid concentration of 1.0%w, considerably enhances the absorption of carbon dioxide over twice. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: e13211, 2019
A review of the estimation and heating methods for lithium‐ion batteries pack at the cold environment
Authors: Peng Xiongbin , Chen Siqi , Garg Akhil , Bao Nengsheng , Panda Biranchi
Published: March 2019

The application of lithium‐ion batteries especially for electric vehicles has been limited by the factors of safety, lifetime, charging time, and cost. One of the principal limitations is that the performance of Li‐ion batteries drops intensely in a cold environment. Cold environment dramatically reduces the available capacity of the batteries and increases its internal impedance at the same time. Therefore, the estimation of state‐of‐health is of great importance in battery performance evaluation and lifetime prediction. Furthermore, the heating methods need to be developed to ensure that batteries work in abnormal temperature conditions. This paper conducts a comprehensive review specifically on the poor performance of lithium‐ion cells under severe conditions. The content contains three sections. First, a comprehensive study on the aging mechanisms of lithium‐ion batteries at cold temperatures is undertaken. Second, the estimation methods of the health state of the batteries are conducted, which is vital to understand the fundamentals and quantify the performance and aging effects for lithium‐ion batteries. Third, the heating methods are classified and studied in detail to reduce the degradation mechanism and promote the performance of lithium‐ion batteries under sub‐zero conditions.
Influence radius of gas extraction borehole in an anisotropic coal seam: Underground in‐situ measurement and modeling
Authors: Yue Gaowei , Liu Hui , Yue Jiwei , Li Minmin , Liang Weimin
Published: March 2019

Coal seam degasification by in‐seam drilling borehole is one of the popular techniques for coal mine methane (CMM) control. How to address the conflict between borehole numbers and drainage durations always arouses researchers’ interests. Furthermore, since coal has anisotropy structures, how the anisotropy feature of coal associated with bedding and cleat structure affects the influence radius of the drainage borehole has rarely been considered. In order to address the above‐mentioned issues, this work not only conducted underground in‐situ measurement of the borehole influence radius within 200 days in an anisotropy coal seam at Jiulishan coal mine in China, but also modeled the influence radius evolvement around borehole in an anisotropy coal seam using finite‐element based COMSOL package. The underground in‐situ measurement revealed an anisotropy feature of borehole influence radius associated with coal bedding and cleat structures. The influence radius of borehole parallel to the bedding plane in butt cleat direction is much larger than that perpendicular to the bedding plane. Ten permeability measurements of coal show that the permeability of coal parallel to the bedding plane in butt cleat direction is higher than that perpendicular to the bedding plane. Simulation results of the gas transport model in coal are consistent with underground in‐situ measurement in determining the influence radius of drainage borehole in the anisotropy coal seam. Based on modeling results, the ellipse influence area of borehole in an anisotropy coal seam is proposed, and the relationship between the influence radius of borehole and drainage time is obtained. On the basis of these findings, the proper in‐seam borehole arrangements for a specific mining panel at different drainage durations are determined. The finding of this work will be fundamental for addressing the conflict between minimizing the cost of borehole arrangement and increasing coal mining productions by adjusting CMM drainage durations.
Metastatic risk stratification of clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients based on genomic aberrations
Authors: Grimm Julia , Zeuschner Philip , Janssen Martin , Wagenpfeil Stefan , Hartmann Arndt , Stöhr Christine , Keck Bastian , Kahlmeyer Andreas , Stöckle Michael , Junker Kerstin
Published: March 2019

Prognostic markers for the definition of the individual metastatic risk in renal cell carcinoma are still missing. The aim of our study was to establish a total number of specific aberrations (TNSA) genetic score as a new prognostic test for metastatic risk evaluation. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed on isolated cell nuclei of 100 ccRCCs (50 M1/50 M0) and 100 FFPE sections (second cohort, 32 M1/68 M0). For each chromosomal region (1q21.3, 7q36.3, 9p21.3p24.1, 20q11.21q13.32) cut‐off values were determined by receiver‐operator curve (ROC)‐curve analysis. TNSA was calculated based on the dichotomized specific CNVs. The prognostic significance of CNVs was proven by Cox and logistic regression. TNSA was the best predictor of metastasis and recurrence free survival in both cohorts. We derived an algorithm for risk stratification by combining TNSA and T‐category, which increased the prognostic accuracy to 87% (specificity = 86%, sensitivity = 88%). This model divides patients into two risk groups with significantly different RFS, CSS, and OS (P = 3.8×10−5, P = 5×10−6 and P = 3.57×10−8 respectively). The genetic risk model was superior to Leibovich score and was able to identify patients with metachronous metastatic spread which were incorrectly classified as “low” or “intermediate risk.” We present a new tool for individual risk stratification by combining genetic alterations with clinico‐pathologic parameters. Interphase FISH proves to be a dependable method for prognostic evaluation in primary tumor tissue on isolated cell nuclei as well as on FFPE sections. Especially in organ‐confined tumors the genetic score seems to be an important tool to identify patients at high risk for metastatic disease.
Validity of narrow band imaging in the detection of oral and oropharyngeal malignant lesions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ansari Umair H. , Wong Eugene , Smith Murray , Singh Narinder , Palme Carsten E. , Smith Mark C. , Riffat Faruque
Published: March 2019

Background

This meta‐analysis describes the validity of narrow band imaging (NBI) in the assessment of suspicious oral lesions.

Methods

Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched for trial studies comparing NBI with conventional modalities in the oral cavity (OC) and oropharynx (OP) for the detection of dysplastic and malignant change.

Results

Seven studies were found, and generally supported the utility of NBI in different clinical settings, although there were exceptions. Pooled data from 4 studies of NBI validity demonstrated high summary specificity and sensitivity for a wide range of suspicious lesions of the OC or OP (75.7% with 95% CI 65.1%‐83.9%, and 91.5% with 95% CI 81.8%‐96.3%, respectively). Summary positive likelihood ratio (LR+) was 8.91 (95% CI 4.1‐19.6) and 0.27 (95% CI 0.18‐0.39), respectively.

Conclusions

NBI is a promising diagnostic and surveillance tool for suspicious lesions in the OC or OP; however, higher powered studies will define precise NBI criterion and clinical recommendations.
Leadership behavior: A partial test of the employee work passion model
Authors: Egan Richard , Zigarmi Drea , Richardson Alice
Published: March 2019

This study examined empirical associations between employee cognitive perceptions of leader behavior (directive behavior, supportive behavior) and leader values (self‐concern, other orientation), employee positive affect and negative affect, and employee work intentions indicative of (dis)passionate employees. An internet‐based self‐report questionnaire survey was administered to 409 employees within three private sector organizations in Australia. Structural equation modeling indicated that supportive behavior, other‐orientation, and self‐concern had respective indirect effects on work intentions through employee positive affect. Employee positive affect was a stronger predictor of employee work intentions than was employee negative affect. Implications of these findings for theory and practice are discussed.
Chronic long‐term exposure to cadmium air pollution and breast cancer risk in the French E3N cohort
Authors: Amadou Amina , Praud Delphine , Coudon Thomas , Danjou Aurélie M.N. , Faure Elodie , Leffondré Karen , Le Romancer Muriel , Severi Gianluca , Salizzoni Pietro , Mancini Francesca Romana , Fervers Béatrice
Published: March 2019

Cadmium, due to its estrogen‐like activity, has been suspected to increase the risk of breast cancer; however, epidemiological studies have reported inconsistent findings. We conducted a case–control study (4,059 cases and 4,059 matched controls) nested within the E3N French cohort study to estimate the risk of breast cancer associated with long‐term exposure to airborne cadmium pollution, and its effect according to molecular subtype of breast cancer (estrogen receptor negative/positive [ER−/ER+] and progesterone receptor negative/positive [PR−/PR+]). Atmospheric exposure to cadmium was assessed using a Geographic Information System‐based metric, which included subject's residence‐to‐cadmium source distance, wind direction, exposure duration and stack height. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using conditional logistic regression. Overall, there was no significant association between cumulative dose of airborne cadmium exposure and the risk of overall, premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer. However, by ER and PR status, inverse associations were observed for ER− (ORQ5 vs. Q1 = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.41–0.95, ptrend = 0.043) and for ER−/PR− breast tumors (ORQ4 vs. Q1 = 0.62; 95% CI: 0.40–0.95, ORQ5 vs. Q1 = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.42–1.07, ptrend = 0.088). Our study provides no evidence of an association between exposure to cadmium and risk of breast cancer overall but suggests that cadmium might be related to a decreased risk of ER− and ER−/PR− breast tumors. These observations and other possible effects linked to hormone receptor status warrant further investigations.
Evaluation of nonmedical use of prescription stimulants by college students at three northeastern pharmacy schools
Authors: Yuan Brenda W. , Yang Irene , Simmons Daniel J. , O'Leary Jordan , Lei Jamie , Brunetti Luigi , Asal Nicole , Ezzo Danielle , Toscani Michael , Barone Joseph
Published: March 2019

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of self‐reported nonmedical prescription stimulant use among college students of three northeastern pharmacy schools in the United States by examining the relationship of nonmedical use with underlying factors, academic performance, consequences associated with drug abuse, and quality of life (QOL).

Methods

This study was approved by the respective institutional review boards of the pharmacy schools involved. Data were collected from consenting students in their first, second, and third professional years using an anonymous survey between April and September 2017. The survey assessed underlying factors, self‐reported grade point average (GPA), and patterns of nonmedical use. Patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measures included were the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST‐10) to assess consequences associated with drug abuse and the Short Form (SF‐12) to measure QOL.

Results

In total, 651 responses of 1201 students surveyed were collected. In the included sample, 11.6% of students reported nonmedical use of prescription stimulants during college, with varying reported frequencies from 36% using once or twice to 8% using regularly. Factors associated with increased odds of nonmedical use with statistical significance included male gender (odds ratio [OR] 2.75, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.68‐4.52, P = 0.001) and fraternity or sorority involvement (OR 2.84, 95% CI: 1.72‐4.70, P = 0.001). Nonmedical users had statistically lower GPAs (3.38, 95% CI: 3.44‐3.50) than nonusers (3.47, 95% CI: 3.30‐3.45, P = 0.02), and increased risks associated with drug abuse, as measured by the DAST‐10. No significant differences in QOL were found between nonmedical users and nonusers, as measured by the SF‐12.

Conclusion

The findings examined the impact of nonmedical prescription stimulant use by pharmacy students and found that nonmedical use was similar to rates observed by college students in other studies. Nonmedical use is associated with lower GPA and increased risks associated with drug abuse. More research must be conducted to understand and increase awareness of the effects of prescription stimulants.
Potential of contrast agents to enhance in vivo confocal microscopy and optical coherence tomography in dermatology: A review
Authors: Ring Hans C. , Israelsen Niels M. , Bang Ole , Haedersdal Merete , Mogensen Mette
Published: March 2019

Distinction between normal skin and pathology can be a diagnostic challenge. This systematic review summarizes how various contrast agents, either topically delivered or injected into the skin, affect distinction between skin disease and normal skin when imaged by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and confocal microscopy (CM). A systematic review of in vivo OCT and CM studies using exogenous contrast agents on healthy human skin or skin disease was performed. In total, nine CM studies and one OCT study were eligible. Four contrast agents aluminum chloride (AlCl) n = 2, indocyanine green (ICG) n = 3, sodium fluorescein n = 3 and acetic acid n = 1 applied to CM in variety of skin diseases. ICG, acetic acid and AlCl showed promise to increase contrast of tumor nests in keratinocyte carcinomas. Fluorescein and ICG enhanced contrast of keratinocytes and adnexal structures. In OCT of healthy skin gold nanoshells, increased contrast of natural skin openings. Contrast agents may improve delineation and diagnosis of skin cancers; ICG, acetic acid and AlCl have potential in CM and gold nanoshells facilitate visualization of adnexal skin structures in OCT. However, as utility of bedside optical imaging increases, further studies with robust methodological quality are necessary to implement contrast agents into routine dermatological practice.
Sex, but not skin tone affects penetration of red‐light (660 nm) through sites susceptible to sports injury in lean live and cadaveric tissues
Authors: Hu Di , van Zeyl Marc , Valter Krisztina , Potas Jason R.
Published: March 2019

Red‐light treatment is emerging as a novel therapy for promoting tissue recovery but data on red‐light penetration through human tissues are lacking. We aimed to: (1) determine the effect of light irradiance, tissue thickness, skin tone, sex and bone/muscle content on 660 nm light penetration through common sites of sports injuries, and (2) establish if cadaver tissues serve as a useful model for predicting red‐light penetration in live tissues. Live and cadaver human tissues were exposed to 660 nm light at locations across the skull, spinal cord and upper and lower limbs. Red‐light was produced by a light emitting diode array of various irradiances (15‐500 mW/cm2) and measured by a light‐probe positioned on the tissue surface opposite to the light emitting diodes. 100 mW/cm2 successfully penetrated tissue <50 mm thick; a disproportionate irradiance increase was required to achieve deeper penetration. Penetration was unaffected by skin tone, increased with irradiance and relative bone/muscle composition, and decreased with greater tissue thickness and in males. Live and cadaveric tissue penetration did not differ statistically for tissues <50 mm but cadavers required more red‐light to penetrate >50 mm. These results assist clinicians and researchers in determining red‐light treatment intensities for penetrating human tissues.
Crocin inhibits the migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of gastric cancer cells via miR‐320/KLF5/HIF‐1α signaling
Authors: Zhou Ying , Xu Qihua , Shang Jingjuan , Lu Lihua , Chen Guoyan
Published: March 2019

The biological activities of crocin, one of the main bioactive compounds of saffron, include anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, and anticancer effects. Crocin has been shown to trigger the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells, but its effect on the metastasis of gastric cancer cells remains unclear. Krüppel‐like factor 5 (KLF5) and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) are important transcription factors in the development of gastric cancer. KLF5 and HIF‐1α expression were analyzed in gastric cancer tissues and cells. Following exposure to crocin, AGS and HGC‐27 gastric cancer cells were assessed with regard to migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) as well as the expression of KLF5, HIF‐1α, and microRNA‐320 (miR‐320). The miR‐320/KLF5/HIF‐1α signaling pathway became the focus for further investigation of the mechanism of crocin in gastric cancer cell migration, invasion, and EMT. KLF5 and HIF‐1α expression were elevated in gastric cancer tissues and cells, and KLF5 expression was positively correlated with the HIF‐1α level in gastric cancer tissues. Crocin was associated with reduced expression of KLF5 and HIF‐1α, whereas miR‐320 expression was increased. Crocin also inhibited the migration, invasion, and EMT of gastric cancer cells. Upregulation of KLF5 attenuated crocin's function and elevated HIF‐1α expression. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that
KLF5 was a target gene of miR‐320. Crocin modulated KLF5 expression via elevation of miR‐320 expression. In conclusion, crocin inhibits the EMT, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer cells, and this activity is mediated through miR‐320/KLF5/HIF‐1α signaling.