bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Gs-coupled purinergic receptor boosts Ca2+ influx and vascular contractility during diabetic hyperglycemia
Authors: Prada Maria Paz , Syed Arsalan U , Buonarati Olivia R , Reddy Gopireddy R , Nystoriak Matthew A , Ghosh Debapriya , Simó Sergi , Sato Daisuke , Sasse Kent C , Ward Sean M , Santana Luis F , Xiang Yang K , Hell Johannes W , Nieves-Cintrón Madeline , Navedo Manuel F
Published: March 2019

Elevated glucose increases vascular reactivity by promoting L-type CaV1.2 channel (LTCC) activity by protein kinase A (PKA). Yet, how glucose activates PKA is unknown. We hypothesized that a Gs-coupled P2Y receptor is an upstream activator of PKA mediating LTCC potentiation during diabetic hyperglycemia. Experiments in apyrase-treated cells suggested involvement of a P2Y receptor underlying the glucose effects on LTTCs. Using human tissue, expression for P2Y11, the only Gs-coupled P2Y receptor, was detected in nanometer proximity to CaV1.2 and PKA. FRET-based experiments revealed that the selective P2Y11 agonist NF546 and elevated glucose stimulate cAMP production resulting in enhanced PKA-dependent LTCC activity. These changes were blocked by the selective P2Y11 inhibitor NF340. Comparable results were observed in mouse tissue, suggesting that a P2Y11-like receptor is mediating the glucose response in these cells. These findings established a key role for P2Y11 in regulating PKA-dependent LTCC function and vascular reactivity during diabetic hyperglycemia.
Studying gap junctions with PARIS
Authors: Kick Daniel R , Schulz David J
Published: March 2019

A new genetically encoded system manipulates the pH inside cells to detect whether they are coupled to each other.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in soil, roots and rhizosphere ofMedicago truncatula: diversity and heterogeneity under semi-arid conditions
Authors: Mahmoudi Neji , Cruz Cristina , Mahdhi Mosbah , Mars Mohamed , Caeiro Maria F.
Published: March 2019

Mycorrhizal symbioses are considered indicators of ecosystem biodiversity. However, their diversity and relevance in arid and semi-arid ecosystems are poorly understood. This study addressed this subject, the main objective being to evaluate arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) diversity and heterogeneity in a semi-arid region. Samples of bulk and rhizosphere soil and fine roots ofMedicago truncatulawere collected at four different sites with the same aridity index (6.1), in Bou-Hedma National Park, Tunisia, a semi-arid ecosystem. AMF taxa were assessed by 454- pyrosequencing and identified by BLAST matching of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) against the MaarjAMdatabase, targeting AMF SSUrRNAgene diversity. Roots were the hotspots of AMF diversity (107 OTUs out of a total of 138). Of the 138 OTUs, 113 found correspondence in the MaarjAMdatabase, with 32 AMF virtual taxa (VTX),19 Site-exclusive (SE) and 13 common to at least two sites (Non-site exclusive, NSE); the remaining 25 OTUs grouped in 16 putative new AMF taxa (pNTX), each one consisting of OTUs sharing pairwise distances not higher than 3%. We found a high diversity and heterogeneity of AMF across the four sites, which showed, in a regression analysis, significant relation to six out of the eight environmental parameters evaluated: grazing activity and soil texture, electrical conductivity, organic matter, total phosphorus and total nitrogen. AMF colonization of plants also presented significant differences among the four sites, as well as spore density, microbial biomass and several enzymatic activities (dehydrogenase, β-glucosidase and phosphatase) evaluated in rhizosphere soils. The four sites clustered in two groups in a hierarchical clustering evaluation based on their AMF diversity (total numbers of OTU, VTX and pNTX) and the parameters referred above. The crucial role of abiotic factors, other than aridity index, on AMF community composition, was evidenced by the high heterogeneity found between AMF communities across sites under identical aridity conditions.
Comparative transcriptomics of sympatric species of coral reef fishes (genus: Haemulon)
Authors: Bernal Moisés A. , Dixon Groves B. , Matz Mikhail V. , Rocha Luiz A.
Published: March 2019

Background

Coral reefs are major hotspots of diversity for marine fishes, yet there is still ongoing debate on the mechanisms that promote divergence in these rich ecosystems. Our understanding of how diversity originates in this environment could be enhanced by investigating the evolutionary dynamics of closely related fishes with overlapping ranges. Here, we focus on grunts of the genus Haemulon, a group of coral reef fishes with 15 species in the Western Atlantic, 11 of which are syntopic.

Methods

Wild fish samples from three sympatric species of the Caribbean: Haemulon flavolineatum, H. carbonarium and H. macrostomum, were collected while SCUBA diving. RNA was extracted from livers, and the transcriptomes were assembled and annotated to investigate positive selection (Pairwise dN/dS) and patterns of gene expression between the three species.

Results

Pairwise dN/dS analyses showed evidence of positive selection for genes associated with immune response, cranial morphology and formation of the anterior–posterior axis. Analyses of gene expression revealed that despite their sympatric distribution, H. macrostomum showed upregulation of oxidation-reduction machinery, while there was evidence for activation of immune response in H. carbonarium.

Discussion

Overall, our analyses suggest closely related grunts show important differences in genes associated with body shape and feeding morphology, a result in-line with previous morphological studies in the group. Further, despite their overlapping distribution they interact with their environment in distinct fashions. This is the largest compendium of genomic information for grunts thus far, representing a valuable resource for future studies in this unique group of coral reef fishes.
Assessment of Bioenergy Potential of Lemon Grass
Authors: Rabe A. M. , Aleiro B. L. , Galadima A. , Baqi S. , Maikudi H. M.
Published: March 2019

Grasses can serve as an alternative biomass for the production of bioenergy which plays a vital role in solving some of the challenges faced in the production of renewable energy and also help in tackling some of the environmental challenges faced all over the world. In this research, the phytochemical and biofuel content of Cymbopogon citratus was assessed. The phytochemical screening and proximate analysis were carried out according to standard qualitative and quantitative methods. Alkaloids, balsam, flavonoids, glycosides, saponin, carbohydrates, protein, volatile oil, minerals are analyzed. Bioenergy was produced using enzymatic hydrolysis after pretreatment under different pH viz: pH 5, pH 7 and pH 8 all under an ambient temperature of 36˚C. Each of the pretreated samples of varying pH was then fermented using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Each of the pre-treatment under three different pH was made in triplicate. The absorbance was determined for reducing sugar and at the end of the production, the pretreated samples were subjected to Gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy to analyze the end product of bioenergy produced. The result for phytochemicals shows the presence of flavonoids and alkaloids (1.60%) followed by volatile oil (7%), saponin (3.20%) and tannins (0.6%). The result for proximate analysis shows that lemon grass has the highest percentage of carbohydrates (87.63%). This was followed by ash (11.67%), protein (11.14%) and fibres (2.83%). However, the mineral analysis shows the presence of Calcium (1.88 mg/ml), Magnesium (0.13 mg/ml), Phosphorous (5.87 mg/ml), Potassium (2866.67 mg/ml) and Sodium (89.17 mg/ml). The absorbance in C. citratus is higher at pH 5 (0.0651). The GC-MS analysis of the bioenergy produced shows the presence of Ethyl alcohol (bioethanol) in all the samples at different pH. Hydrazine carboxamide was present in all the treatments under different pH. In addition glycidol, acetyldehyde, acetic acid, 1,2-propanediamine were found present, having fuel potential and are good source of gasoline. These are produced as a result of fermentation and enzymatic activities of the organic compound present in the biomass sample used.
Therapeutic Effects of Bee Venom
Authors: Aliyazicioglu Rezzan
Published: March 2019

Bee venom (BV) has a long history of use in Korea for the relief of pain symptoms and for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. There is some evidence for the underlying mechanisms involved in the venom’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities. Recent clinical and experimental reearch has confirmed that the venom and its active components can be applied to a broad spectrum of immunological and neurodegenerative diseases, including autoimmune diseases and Parkinson’s disease. BV has been shown to exhibit these effects by modulating immune cells in the periphery, together with glial cells and neurons in the central nervous system. This review sets out the latest scientific evidence concerning the therapeutic effects of BV and various components thereof in the context of a number of diseases, and provides a detailed description of the mechanisms.
Incidence of Vertical-Transmission of HIV and Its Correlation with Maternal Gestational Age at Antenatal Booking in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Buseri Fiekumo Igbida , Eze Evelyn Mgbeoma , Golden Ngowari
Published: March 2019

Background: Pregnancy associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)- infection poses risk to the fetus due to vertical-transmission. This can be prevented through administration of antiretroviral drugs. Our objective was to investigate the incidence of vertical-transmission of HIV and its correlation with maternal gestational age at antenatal booking with immediate commencement of antiretroviral therapy in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria.

Methods: All antenatal attendees and their HIV-exposed newborns were screened for HIV-infection between April, 2016 and May, 2017 using qualitative rapid ELISA kits and HIV-DNA PCR technique. The HIV-positive antenatal attendees were placed on daily single-dose triple antiretroviral regimen (efavirenz, lamivudine, tenofovir, 600/300/300mg tablet) with multivitamins from the first day of booking and continued afterward. The HIV-exposed babies were placed on 5ml daily single-dose triple antiretroviral chemoprophylaxis on the first day of delivery and continued until blood collection at 6 weeks for HIV diagnosis. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software (version 17.0) was used for data analysis.

Results: We found 4.34% overall prevalence of HIV-1 infection among the antenatal attendees and 7.57% incidence of mother-to-child transmission. There was significant difference between gestational age at booking with commencement of ART and the number of HIV-positive babies (χ2=7.113, df=2, P<0.05). There was no vertical transmission among the attendees who booked at first trimester, 35.7% at second trimester and 64.3% at third trimester. There was no statistically significant gender difference (P>0.05) between the number of infected males, 42.9% and females, 57.1%.

Conclusion: High incidence of vertical-transmission of HIV was obtained from those HIV-positive mothers who registered late for antenatal care. Therefore, strong advocacy for early entry into antenatal care is solicited.
Genetic Parameters and Population of Coriander Reaction to Meloidogyne incognita Race 1
Authors: Santos Ana Maria Maciel Dos , Costa Kleyton Danilo da Silva , Costa Cristina dos Santos Ribeiro , Silva Michelangelo de Oliveira , Menezes Dimas , Filho José Luiz Sandes de Carvalho , Nascimento Denisson Lima Do
Published: March 2019

The genetic parameters provide indispensable information about the genetic behavior of the study population regarding the characters evaluated, providing subsidy to the breeder on the decision about the best selection method to adopt in order to realize a genetic gain and maintain adequate variability. In this sense, the present study was carried out to verify the reaction and to estimate genetic parameters of a population of coriander composed of two cultivars (Verdão and HTV Dom Luiz) and 49 half-siblings progenies parasitized by Meloidogyne incognita race 1. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in the Department of Agronomy of the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco. The 51 cultivars and progenies were arranged in a randomized block design with four replicates and each experimental plot was composed of eight plants. The sowing was carried out in a tray of 128 cell- expanded polystyrene filled with commercial substrate, 1,000 eggs/cell of the pathogen were inoculated on the same day of sowing. After 30 days of inoculation, the number of galls was quantified in the root system, the pathogen’s eggs were extracted and, after the quantification of the eggs, the reproduction factor was estimated for each genotype. Data of the three characteristics were compared by Scott-Knott clustering test, then classified as resistant or susceptible, and genetic parameters estimated. The genotypes differed from each other at 1% probability level for all the characters under study. Heritabilities were high and positive with values ​​of 75.91 for number of galls in the root system and 96.72 for the number of eggs. Based on the phenotypic and genotypic correlations, it was possible to select desired genotypes based on the number of galls in the initial selection cycles, making selection and recombination possible in the same cycle. Twelve (12) progenies were selected for their resistance to the pathogen.
Health Care Expenditure in Nigeria and National Productivity: A Review
Authors: Olatubi Matthew Idowu , Oyediran Olufemi Oyebanji , Adubi Iyanuoluwa Oreofe , Ogidan Oluwakemi Christie
Published: March 2019

National productivity of any nation is a function of the health of such nation which is usually an offshoot of how much such nation invests into the health care system. This paper assesses the health care expenditure of Nigeria and resultant effects on the national productivity. An overview of literature shows that health care expenditure in Nigeria is very poor and low compared to other developing nations even in Africa. The little money that is made available is invested majorly in the curative aspect of health care as against preventive health care that promotes national productivity. This paper suggests that to achieve the much needed improvement in national productivity, special attention must be paid to increasing national investment in health sector especially in primary prevention.
External Debt and Economic Growth of Nigeria: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Ademola S. Sajuyigbe, , Tajudeen A. Odetayo, , Adewumi Z. Adeyemi,
Published: March 2019

The study investigates the impact of external debt on economic growth in Nigeria for the period 1999-2015. The data for this study was obtained mainly from secondary sources mainly from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletins and Debt Management Office. Time series data on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as a proxy for Economic Growth, External Debt Stock (EXDS), External Debt Service Payment (EDSP), and Exchange Rate (EXGR) were used for the analysis. The techniques of Estimation employed in the study include Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) test, Johansen Co-integration, Vector Error Correction Mechanism and Granger Causality Test. Results show that external debt has an inverse effect on economic growth in Nigeria. Subsequently, the study recommends that government should empower Debt Management Office to set the mechanism in place, ensure that loans are utilised for purposes they are meant for and prosecute corrupt public officers who siphoned the money.
The Factors of Declining Agricultural Growth in Bangladesh and Its Impact on Food Security
Authors: Rezvi Minhazur Rahman
Published: March 2019

Agriculture is an important sector of Bangladesh economy because it has a positive role in food security, employment and livelihoods. Around 84 percent of rural people rely on agriculture sector directly or indirectly for their livelihood. However, in last 17 years, the shares of agriculture in GDP are steadily declining. However, Bangladesh is the most vulnerable country in the world due to climate change. Based on secondary data, the study intends to describe the impacts of climatic causes on declining agricultural growth in the country. The paper also discusses impact of population growth, urbanization, loss of arable land etc on agriculture production of Bangladesh. The trend of declining agricultural growth has negative effect on food security. As a consequence of declining agricultural growth, food security has emerged a big challenge for Bangladesh. The paper analyses the impacts of declining agriculture growth on food security as well as other causes.
An Empirical Study on Socio-economic Status of Women Labor in Rice Husking Mill of Bangladesh
Authors: Tama Riffat Ara Zannat , Ying Liu , Happy Fardous Ara , Hoque Md Mahmudul
Published: March 2019

The economy of Bangladesh mainly depends on agriculture. Any development can’t be possible because females and males are equally distributed in the country. Women can play a vital role if they properly participated in farm activities as well as in other income-generating activities outside the home. Rice mills are very much dependent on human labour, and almost 5 millions of unorganised workers are working in different rice mills, and more than 60 per cent of them is a female worker. But the working environment suffers from different discrimination and harassment issues between male and female workers. The present study aimed to find out the socio-economic status of women labour at rice husking mill of Bangladesh. Discrimination between male and female workers and the factor affecting the standard of living of women’s household will be focused. The study was carried out in two districts namely Mymensingh and Sherpur. From each district, rice husking mill was selected by using a cluster sampling technique, and 70 male and 70 female labours were considered as a sample. The survey was conducted by direct interviews using a questionnaire. Data generated were analysed by using tabular and statistical techniques. The average family size of the respondents was 4.46, and 57.05% of the participants were females while 42.95% were males in the household and 65.71% of female had no education. 88% of the women’s main occupation was in the rice mill as a daily paid labour. Average wage rate of male and female worker was 184.31 Tk. And 135.95 Tk., respectively. Age, education, number of family member, total land, number of earning member, the wage of women labour and working time and experience were the factors influencing income and living standard of female labours. There were various social violence cases against female labours in the working environment of rice husking mills. In the study area, 93% of female workers get lower wages, 90% of them had no accommodation facility. Besides they did not have sanitation facility (80%), opportunity to take rest at the middle of work (64%) and meal support (71%).
Value Chain Analysis of Potato in Ilam District, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Keshav Prasad , Yadav Surendra
Published: March 2019

The purpose of the study was to analyze the value chain of potato in the Ilam district. Potato is one of the major stable food and source of income for the majority rural farmers of the Ilam district. Using random sampling techniques, data were collected using semi-structured household survey with 165 respondents, 50 traders, input and service providers and along with 5 focus group discussion. Data were analyzed using SPSS and excel software. Results of the compound annual growth analysis showed that area, production and productivity is increasing significantly by 8.12, 2.87 and 2.79% respectively over 19 years in the country and 3.78, 2.84, and 3.55 respectively in the Ilam district. The farmers are generally growing local variety however; they also grow some improved varieties. The benefit cost ratio of local varieties is very low (0.68) whereas for improved varieties higher (1.73). Farmers do not adopt the grading and packaging which is generally done by the traders. The import of potato sharply increasing over the years which was 46,097 t worth of NPR 35.74 million in 2008/09 and reached to 249,368 t worth of NPR 531.25 million in 2016/17 which is 14.86 fold increases in value within 8 years. The value chain analysis reveals that, the margin received by the farmers is 27% of the retail price whereas traders and wholesalers deals in big quantities and extract substantial margin. The major constraints of potato production are diseases accompanied by weak availability of seed, high production cost, decreasing labor availability, and weak backward and forward linkage. Therefore, findings suggest that, government and developing agencies should support farmers organizations for the adoption of new variety, involve in quality seed production, integrated management of diseases, reduce cost of production, develop agricultural marketing infrastructures to boost up the production and make market access to the farmers.
Perception of Elderly towards Social Security Allowance in Nepal
Authors: Malakar Indra , Chalise Hom Nath
Published: March 2019

With the worldwide increase in life expectancy, insecurities in life are increasing generally to old aged people which have never been known before. Universal Old Age Allowance distributed in cash to the elderly 70 years and above is the main social security system provided by Nepal Government to the Nepalese elderly. The main objective of this article is to explore the perception of the elderly on old age allowance in Nepal. This study has used both quantitative and qualitative data for the study purpose. Data for this purpose was gathered from Kirtipur Municipality of Kathmandu district. Total sample was 47 senior citizens receiving Social Security Allowance. For the qualitative purpose few case studies were also included.

Mean age of the respondents was 77.21 (±4.73) years. Age ranged from 70 years to 96 years. 55.3% of the participants were female, 65.9% of the participants were illiterate. This study found Old Age Allowance (OAA) is the main source of income of the elderly and this money is used for multiple purposes: buying daily consuming food and clothes (87.2%), health related expenditure (51.1%), with offspring (14.9%) and travelling (6.4%). This study found 61.7 percentage of the elderly expressed that the old age allowance was insufficient. Further, receiving OAA was not easy as they have to wait for a longer period to receive such benefits in the office, irregularities from government to provide such allowance on time. People who were satisfied from this allowance reported it was an honour from government and they can use this money on their own.

This finding based on sample of small population cannot be generalized to whole population but the issues explored in this study may give some idea how elderly allowance is perceived in Nepal. A detailed in depth study related to OAA is required and government should take some initiative for the better management of OAA with alternative way other than cash which leads to sustainability of the program.
Perampanel-induced, new-onset food aversion in a 29-year-old female with medically refractory frontal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Marvanova Marketa
Published: March 2019

Background

Perampanel is a selective, noncompetitive amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid glutamate receptor antagonist indicated for management of partial-onset and primary generalized seizures in epilepsy patients aged ≥12 years.

Patient History

A 29-year-old, white female with significant history of medically refractory frontal lobe epilepsy, status post right frontal and temporal resections, was initiated on perampanel as an add-on therapy to phenytoin extended-release (330 mg/d) and clonazepam (2.5 mg/d). She previously failed several antiepileptic drugs because of inefficacy and/or intolerance. Perampanel was initiated at 2 mg/d and the dose was increased by 2 mg/d increments every 2 to 3 weeks. Following the first dose, nausea and drowsiness were reported but resolved the following day. Three days after titration to 6 mg/d, the patient developed complete food aversion and became more irritable and anxious while no seizure frequency improvement was noted. No change of sense of taste was reported. After reduction to 4 mg/d, adverse effects improved but did not completely resolve until 2 months following perampanel discontinuation.

Review of Literature

A PubMed search revealed no published literature or case reports of perampanel-induced food aversion or anorexia in a presence or absence of phenytoin and clonazepam.

Conclusion

In this report, a temporal relationship was observed between perampanel dose-increase and the development of food aversion. Return to baseline appetite and eating habits following perampanel discontinuation strongly suggest perampanel involvement. At this time, the exact mechanism(s) behind food aversion associated with perampanel is/are unknown.
Human aldehyde oxidase (hAOX1): structure determination of the Moco‐free form of the natural variant G1269R and biophysical studies of single nucleotide polymorphisms
Authors: Mota Cristiano , Esmaeeli Mariam , Coelho Catarina , Santos‐Silva Teresa , Wolff Martin , Foti Alessandro , Leimkühler Silke , Romão Maria João
Published: March 2019

Human aldehyde oxidase (hAOX1) is a molybdenum enzyme with high toxicological importance, but its physiological role is still unknown. hAOX1 metabolizes different classes of xenobiotics and is one of the main drug‐metabolizing enzymes in the liver, along with cytochrome P450. hAOX1 oxidizes and inactivates a large number of drug molecules and has been responsible for the failure of several phase I clinical trials. The interindividual variability of drug‐metabolizing enzymes caused by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is highly relevant in pharmaceutical treatments. In this study, we present the crystal structure of the inactive variant G1269R, revealing the first structure of a molybdenum cofactor (Moco)‐free form of hAOX1. These data allowed to model, for the first time, the flexible Gate 1 that controls access to the active site. Furthermore, we inspected the thermostability of wild‐type hAOX1 and hAOX1 with various SNPs (L438V, R1231H, G1269R or S1271L) by CD spectroscopy and ThermoFAD, revealing that amino acid exchanges close to the Moco site can impact protein stability up to 10 °C. These results correlated with biochemical and structural data and enhance our understanding of hAOX1 and the effect of SNPs in the gene encoding this enzyme in the human population.

Enzymes

Aldehyde oxidase (EC1.2.3.1); xanthine dehydrogenase (EC1.17.1.4); xanthine oxidase (EC1.1.3.2).

Databases

Structural data are available in the Protein Data Bank under the accession number 6Q6Q.
Geometric and dosimetric impact of anatomical changes for MR‐only radiation therapy for the prostate
Authors: Nejad‐Davarani Siamak P. , Sevak Parag , Moncion Michael , Garbarino Kimberly , Weiss Steffen , Kim Joshua , Schultz Lonni , Elshaikh Mohamed A. , Renisch Steffen , Glide‐Hurst Carri
Published: March 2019

Purpose

With the move towards magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a primary treatment planning modality option for men with prostate cancer, it becomes critical to quantify the potential uncertainties introduced for MR‐only planning. This work characterized geometric and dosimetric intra‐fractional changes between the prostate, seminal vesicles (SVs), and organs at risk (OARs) in response to bladder filling conditions.

Materials and methods

T2‐weighted and mDixon sequences (3–4 time points/subject, at 1, 1.5 and 3.0 T with totally 34 evaluable time points) were acquired in nine subjects using a fixed bladder filling protocol (bladder void, 20 oz water consumed pre‐imaging, 10 oz mid‐session). Using mDixon images, Magnetic Resonance for Calculating Attenuation (MR‐CAT) synthetic computed tomography (CT) images were generated by classifying voxels as muscle, adipose, spongy, and compact bone and by assignment of bulk Hounsfield Unit values. Organs including the prostate, SVs, bladder, and rectum were delineated on the T2 images at each time point by one physician. The displacement of the prostate and SVs was assessed based on the shift of the center of mass of the delineated organs from the reference state (fullest bladder). Changes in dose plans at different bladder states were assessed based on volumetric modulated arc radiotherapy (VMAT) plans generated for the reference state.

Results

Bladder volume reduction of 70 ± 14% from the final to initial time point (relative to the final volume) was observed in the subject population. In the empty bladder condition, the dose delivered to 95% of the planning target volume (PTV) (D95%) reduced significantly for all cases (11.53 ± 6.00%) likely due to anterior shifts of prostate/SVs relative to full bladder conditions. D15% to the bladder increased consistently in all subjects (42.27 ± 40.52%). Changes in D15% to the rectum were patient‐specific, ranging from −23.93% to 22.28% (−0.76 ± 15.30%).

Conclusions

Variations in the bladder and rectal volume can significantly dislocate the prostate and OARs, which can negatively impact the dose delivered to these organs. This warrants proper preparation of patients during treatment and imaging sessions, especially when imaging required longer scan times such as MR protocols.
Step Rate and Worsening of Patellofemoral and Tibiofemoral Joint Osteoarthritis in Women and Men: The Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study
Authors: Hart Harvi F. , Gross K. Douglas , Crossley Kay M. , Barton Christian J. , Felson David T. , Guermazi Ali , Roemer Frank , Segal Neil A. , Lewis Cora E. , Nevitt Michael C. , Stefanik Joshua J.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To determine the association of self‐selected walking step rate with worsening of cartilage damage in the patellofemoral (PF) joint and tibiofemoral (TF) joint compartments at a 2‐year follow‐up visit.

Methods

The Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study (MOST) is a prospective cohort of men and women with or at risk of knee osteoarthritis. Self‐selected step rate was measured using an instrumented GAITRite walkway (CIR Systems) at the 60‐month visit. Cartilage damage was semiquantitatively graded on magnetic resonance images at the 60‐ and 84‐month visits in the medial and lateral PF and TF compartments. Step rate was divided into quartiles, and logistic regression was used to determine the association of step rate with the risk of worsening cartilage damage in men and women separately. Analyses were adjusted for age, body mass index, and knee injury/surgery.

Results

A total of 1,089 participants were included. Mean ± SD age was 66.9 ± 7.5 years, mean ± SD body mass index was 29.6 ± 4.7 kg/m2, and 62.3% of the participants were women. Women with the lowest step rate had increased risk of lateral PF (risk ratio [RR] 2.1 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.1–3.8]) and TF (RR 1.8 [95% CI 1.1–2.9]) cartilage damage worsening 2 years later compared to those with the highest step rate. Men with the lowest step rate had increased risk of medial TF cartilage damage worsening 2 years later (RR 2.1 [95% CI 1.1–3.9]).

Conclusion

Lower step rate was associated with increased risk of cartilage damage worsening in the lateral PF and TF compartments in women and worsening medial TF joint damage in men. Future research is necessary to understand the influence of step rate manipulation on joint biomechanics in women and men.
Systematic Review of Recommendations on the Use of Disease‐Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cancer
Authors: Lopez‐Olivo Maria A. , Colmegna Inés , Karpes Matusevich Aliza R. , Qi Susan Ruyu , Zamora Natalia V. , Sharma Robin , Pratt Gregory , Suarez‐Almazor Maria E.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To evaluate consensus recommendations regarding management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in patients with cancer.

Methods

We searched electronic databases, guideline registries, and relevant web sites for cancer‐specific recommendations on RA management. Reviewers independently selected and appraised the recommendations according to the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument. We identified similarities and discrepancies among recommendations.

Results

Of 4,077 unique citations, 39 recommendations were identified, of which half described their consensus process. Average scores for the AGREE II domains ranged from 33% to 87%. Cancer risk in RA was addressed in 79% of recommendations, with acknowledgement of increased overall cancer risk. Recommendations did not agree on the safety of using disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in RA patients with cancer, except for the contraindication of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors in patients at risk for lymphoma. Most recommendations agreed that RA treatment should be stopped and re‐evaluated with a new diagnosis of cancer. Recommendations for patients with a history of cancer differed depending on the drug, cancer type, and time since cancer diagnosis. Few recommendations addressed all issues.

Conclusion

Recommendations for the treatment of RA in patients with cancer often fail to meet expected methodologic criteria. There was agreement on the need for caution when prescribing DMARDs to these patients. However, several areas continue to lack consensus, and given the paucity of evidence, there is an urgent need for research and expert opinion to guide and standardize the management of RA in patients with cancer.
Association Between Weight Loss and Spontaneous Changes in Physical Inactivity in Overweight/Obese Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis: An Eight‐Week Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bartholdy Cecilie , Christensen Robin , Kristensen Lars Erik , Gudbergsen Henrik , Bliddal Henning , Overgaard Anders , Rasmussen Marianne U. , Henriksen Marius
Published: March 2019

Objective

To describe spontaneous changes in time spent being physically inactive that is measured continuously by accelerometry during an 8‐week weight‐loss intervention in overweight/obese individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

This study was designed as an observational cohort study including individuals from an OA outpatient clinic who were concomitantly overweight/obese and had symptomatic knee OA. Participants completed an 8‐week dietary intervention that had been previously shown to induce substantial weight loss. The main outcome was accelerometer‐based measurement of daily physical inactivity for 24 hours during the 8‐week intervention period that was presented as change in the average daily time spent inactive (sitting, reclined, or sleeping) from 1 week prior to intervention to the last week of the intervention.

Results

A total of 124 participants completed the dietary intervention and had valid accelerometer recordings. The mean weight loss was 12.7 kg (95% confidence interval [95% CI] –13.2, –12.1; P < 0.0001) after 8 weeks, which corresponded to a decrease in body mass index of 4.3 kg/m2 (95% CI –4.5, –4.2; P < 0.0001). Significant improvements in OA symptoms (assessed by the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS]) was found across all subscales; an improvement of 12.8 points (95% CI 10.6, 15.0; P < 0.0001) was observed for pain using the KOOS. No statistically significant change occurred in the average daily time spent inactive from baseline to follow‐up (mean change 8.8 minutes/day [95% CI –12.1, 29.7]; P = 0.41).

Conclusion

Physical inactivity remains stable despite a clinically significant weight loss and improvements in knee OA symptoms. Change in inactivity does not seem to occur spontaneously, suggesting that focused efforts to reduce inactive behaviors are needed.
Qualitative Study of Treatment Preferences for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Pharmacotherapy Acceptance: Indigenous Patient Perspectives
Authors: Loyola‐Sanchez Adalberto , Hazlewood Glen , Crowshoe Lynden , Linkert Tessa , Hull Pauline M. , Marshall Deborah , Barnabe Cheryl
Published: March 2019

Objective

To explore patient preferences that influence decision‐making in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by indigenous patients living in southern Alberta, Canada.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative narrative‐based study within a social constructivist framework. Thirteen in‐depth interviews with indigenous patients with RA who had attended 1 of 3 rheumatology practices in southern Alberta (1 rural and 2 urban) were completed. Codes generated through 2 phases of analysis were condensed into main themes, triangulated, and used to produce theoretical statements.

Results

Patients preferred to use a combination of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments to manage their RA. Nonpharmacologic treatments included physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual strategies. Patients’ preferences for taking medications varied and were influenced by factors that were clinical (i.e., trust in health providers and understanding drugs’ mechanisms of action, benefits, harms, and administration burden), familial (i.e., support), and societal (i.e., access to medications and stigmatization of drug dependency).

Conclusion

Indigenous patients apply a holistic approach to the nonpharmacologic management of RA. Increases in preferences for RA medications could be supported through enhanced communication strategies to increase patient understanding of medication effects and health provider recognition of societal and familial influences on patient decisions. A patient–provider relationship based on trust was fundamental to reaching mutual understanding and should be fostered by models of practice that promote cultural safety, empathy, compassion, openness, acknowledgment, and respect of cultural differences.
Superoleophilic Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Effective Hydrocarbon Removal from Water
Authors: Sarcletti Marco , Vivod Dustin , Luchs Tobias , Rejek Tobias , Portilla Luis , Müller Lukas , Dietrich Hanno , Hirsch Andreas , Zahn Dirk , Halik Marcus
Published: February 2019

Various hydrocarbons are efficiently extracted from water by using a new sorbent material based on covalently functionalized magnetic nanoparticles. The functionalization of the magnetite nanoparticles with a self‐assembled monolayer of hexadecylphosphonic acid renders the nanoparticles oleophilic and the magnetic nature of magnetite allows for simple extraction of the hydrocarbon‐soaked sorbent. The sorbent material is capable of extracting single contaminants such as alkanes and aromatics and complex hydrocarbon mixtures such as crude oils in high extraction rates of up to 14 times the sorbent volume. Experimental results are explained by molecular dynamics simulations on the adsorption of single components from a hydrocarbon‐water mixture to the alkylphosphonic acid layer on the nanoparticles. The core–shell sorbent material is highly stable and therefore, reusable over several successive extraction cycles without degradation. The extraction performance is determined at different water temperatures, different water sources, and different magnetic core materials and evaluated compared to heptadecanoic acid functionalized magnetite. The new sorbent material provides the opportunity for an efficient, reliable, inexpensive, and environmental friendly removal of hydrocarbons from water.
A Low‐Cost and Facile Method for the Preparation of Fe‐N/C‐Based Hybrids with Superior Catalytic Performance toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Yanpei , Wang Nan , Jia Ning , Wang Jing , Sun Jie , Shi Feng , Liu Zong‐Huai , Jiang Ruibin
Published: March 2019

Fe‐N‐doped graphitic carbon materials exhibit high efficiency and durability for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Although iron has relatively low price, the precursors for carbon and nitrogen used in previous studies have relatively high cost. Here reported is the preparation of highly efficient Fe‐N/C‐based ORR electrocatalysts by use of low‐cost urea as the precursors. Fe‐N/C‐based hybrids are prepared through a two‐step pyrolysis. During the first‐step pyrolysis, the precursors convert into g‐C3N4 with Fe located into the sixfold cavities, which ensures the relatively uniform distribution of Fe. The second‐step pyrolysis converts Fe‐g‐C3N4 into Fe‐N/C‐based hybrids which contain multiple types of active components, Fe moieties (FeCxNy or FeNx), Fe and Fe3N nanoparticles, for ORR. The obtained Fe‐N/C‐based hybrids display a superior electrocatalytic performance for ORR with an onset potential of 0.940 V and half‐wave potential of 0.810 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, which are comparable to those of Pt/C at the same catalyst loading. The hybrids show higher tolerance to methanol and much greater long‐term stability than commercial Pt/C. The findings provide a cost‐effective approach for the preparation of high efficient and stable electrocatalysts for ORR and will be very helpful to the development of electrochemical energy storage and conversion.
Unconventional Inorganic‐Based Memristive Devices for Advanced Intelligent Systems
Authors: Sung Sang Hyun , Kim Do Hyun , Kim Tae Jin , Kang Il‐Suk , Lee Keon Jae
Published: March 2019

The latest progresses in software engineering such as cloud computing, big data analysis, and machine learning have accelerated the emergence of advanced intelligent systems (AIS). However, the current computing system has significant challenges in dealing with unstructured data (e.g., image, voice, physiological signals) because the von‐Neumann bottleneck induces latency and power consumption issues. Neuromorphic computing, which imitates the behaviors of neuron and synapse within the biological neural network, is considered a promising solution beyond von‐Neumann architecture, since its collocated structure of processor and memory enables parallel processing of unstructured data with remarkable efficiency. Memristors are considered as next‐generation nonvolatile memory devices due to fast speed, low power, and excellent scalability. However, a low reliability and leakage current issues remain as obstacle to the commercialization of memristors. Memristive devices have been widely investigated as a strong candidate for artificial synapses since their resistance modulation characteristics under electrical stimulus are analogous to the plasticity of the brain synapse. Although emulation of synaptic behavior by single memristor cells is demonstrated by many researchers, the development of fully functional memristive neural network requires further investigations. This paper introduces the recent advances and developments in the field of inorganic‐based unconventional memristive devices for future AIS applications.
No‐Interference Reading for Optical Information Storage and Ultra‐Multiple Anti‐Counterfeiting Applications by Designing Targeted Recombination in Charge Carrier Trapping Phosphors
Authors: Long Zhangwen , Wen Yugeng , Zhou Junhe , Qiu Jianbei , Wu Hao , Xu Xuhui , Yu Xue , Zhou Dacheng , Yu Jie , Wang Qi
Published: March 2019

Charge carrier trapping phosphors are one of the most fascinating candidates for next‐generation optical information storage technology and advanced anti‐counterfeiting applications. However, there is a challenge in that shallow traps can result in interference with the real‐time reading of optical information, and the anti‐counterfeiting level also needs to be further enhanced. Here, a novel quasi‐layer‐structured Ca3Ga4O9:Bi3+ phosphor is introduced to address this challenge, based on the targeted recombination phenomenon. This material shows turning electron‐trapping ability and obvious differences in photoluminescence, long persistent luminescence, and photo‐stimulated luminescence processes, which are beneficial in achieving information reading without interference and provide multiple anti‐counterfeiting. As a proof of concept, information reading without interference is experimentally achieved by choosing an appropriate filter and excitation wavelength, and multiple anti‐counterfeiting applications are demonstrated using a simple seal‐photocopy method. The results indicate that the targeted recombination strategy is very effective for achieving multifunctional applications of charge carrier trapping phosphors.
Computational Materials Science: Discovering and Accelerating Future Technologies
Authors: Tahini Hassan A. , Tan Xin , Smith Sean C.
Published: March 2019

Moving the boundaries of knowledge, scientific research and technologies forward through the field of computational materials science requires a combination of fundamental understanding of materials properties, an appreciation of the limitations with our current approaches, and the ability to embrace new and emergent technologies. This short Essay highlights the works of the authors in the special issue “Computational Materials Design” published in Advanced Theory and Simulations. It emphasises the role that computational materials design plays in rationalizing and guiding experimental efforts in in the fields of catalysis, semiconductors, hydrogels, and solid‐state electrolytes. Increases in computational power together with accurate hybrid functionals within density functional theory are enabling more reliable and trustworthy descriptions of solids for various electronic and optoelectronic applications. Additionally, high‐throughput screening and machine learning are rapidly becoming indispensable tools in computational materials science across diverse applications such as engineering and predicting new catalysts. Such advances are setting the pace for our discovery of new and novel materials of the future.
Red Phosphorus Potassium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Chang Wei‐Chung , Wu Jen‐Hsuan , Chen Kuan‐Ting , Tuan Hsing‐Yu
Published: March 2019

Phosphorus (P) possesses the highest theoretical specific capacity (865 mA h g−1) among all the elements for potassium‐ion battery (PIB) anodes. Although Red P (RP) has intrinsic advantages over its allotropes, including low cost and nontoxicity, and simpler preparation, it is yet unknown to effectively activate it into a high‐performance PIB anode. Here, high‐performance RP PIB anodes are reported. Two important factors are found to facilitate RP react with K‐ions reversibly: i) nanoscale RP particles are dispersed evenly in a conductive carbon matrix composed of multiwall carbon nanotubes and Ketjen black that provide an efficient electrical pathway and a tough scaffold. ii) The results of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectrum and the electrochemical performance perhaps show that no PC bond formation is beneficial to allow K‐ions to react with RP effectively. As a result, the RP/C electrodes deliver a reversible specific capacity of ≈750 mA h g−1 and exhibit a high‐rate capability (≈300 mA h g−1 at 1000 mA g−1). RP/C full cells using potassium manganese hexacyanoferrate as cathode show a long cycling life (680 cycles) at a current density of 1000 mA g−1, in addition, a pouch‐type battery is built to demonstrate practical applications.