bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nigrosome 1 imaging in REM sleep behavior disorder and its association with dopaminergic decline
Authors: Barber Thomas R. , Griffanti Ludovica , Bradley Kevin M. , McGowan Daniel R. , Lo Christine , Mackay Clare E. , Hu Michele T. , Klein Johannes C.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) patients have a high risk of developing a Parkinsonian disorder, offering an opportunity for neuroprotective intervention. Predicting near‐term conversion, however, remains a challenge. Dopamine transporter imaging, while informative, is expensive and not widely available. Here, we investigate the utility of susceptibility‐weighted MRI (SWI) to detect abnormalities of the substantia nigra in RBD, and explore their association with striatal dopaminergic deficits.

Methods

SWI of the substantia nigra was performed in 46 RBD patients, 27 Parkinson’s patients, and 32 control subjects. Dorsal nigral hyperintensity (DNH) was scored by two blinded raters, and separately quantified using a semiautomated process. Forty‐two RBD patients were also imaged with 123I‐ioflupane single‐photon emission computed tomography (DaT SPECT/CT).

Results

Consensus visual DNH classification was possible in 87% of participants. 27.5% of RBD patients had lost DNH, compared with 7.7% of control subjects and 96% of Parkinson’s patients. RBD patients lacking DNH had significantly lower putamen dopaminergic SPECT/CT activity compared to RBD patients with DNH present (specific uptake ratios 1.89 vs. 2.33, P = 0.002). The mean quantified DNH signal intensity declined in a stepwise pattern, with RBD patients having lower intensity than controls (0.837 vs. 0.877, P = 0.01) but higher than PD patients (0.837 vs. 0.765, P < 0.001).

Interpretation

Over one quarter of RBD patients have abnormal substantia nigra SWI reminiscent of Parkinson’s, which is associated with a greater dopaminergic deficit. This modality may help enrich neuroprotective trials with early converters.
Developmentally Engineered Callus Organoid Bioassemblies Exhibit Predictive In Vivo Long Bone Healing
Authors: Nilsson Hall Gabriella , Mendes Luís Freitas , Gklava Charikleia , Geris Liesbet , Luyten Frank P. , Papantoniou Ioannis
Published: December 2019

Clinical translation of cell‐based products is hampered by their limited predictive in vivo performance. To overcome this hurdle, engineering strategies advocate to fabricate tissue products through processes that mimic development and regeneration, a strategy applicable for the healing of large bone defects, an unmet medical need. Natural fracture healing occurs through the formation of a cartilage intermediate, termed “soft callus,” which is transformed into bone following a process that recapitulates developmental events. The main contributors to the soft callus are cells derived from the periosteum, containing potent skeletal stem cells. Herein, cells derived from human periosteum are used for the scalable production of microspheroids that are differentiated into callus organoids. The organoids attain autonomy and exhibit the capacity to form ectopic bone microorgans in vivo. This potency is linked to specific gene signatures mimicking those found in developing and healing long bones. Furthermore, callus organoids spontaneously bioassemble in vitro into large engineered tissues able to heal murine critical‐sized long bone defects. The regenerated bone exhibits similar morphological properties to those of native tibia. These callus organoids can be viewed as a living “bio‐ink” allowing bottom‐up manufacturing of multimodular tissues with complex geometric features and inbuilt quality attributes.
Crystallization Control of Ternary‐Cation Perovskite Absorber in Triple‐Mesoscopic Layer for Efficient Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Qifei , Zhang Wenhao , Zhang Zhihui , Liu Shuang , Wu Jiawen , Guan Yanjun , Mei Anyi , Rong Yaoguang , Hu Yue , Han Hongwei
Published: December 2019

Controlling the crystallization of organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite is of vital importance to achieve high performing perovskite solar cells. The growth mechanism of perovskites has been intensively studied in devices with planar structures and traditional structures. However, for the printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells, it is difficult to study the crystallization mechanism of perovskite owing to the complicated mesoporous structure. Here, a solvent evaporation controlled crystallization method to achieve ideal crystallization in the mesoscopic structure is provided. Combining results of scanning electron microscope and X‐ray diffraction, it is found that adjusting the evaporation rate of solvent can control the crystallization rate of perovskite and a model for the crystallization process during annealing in mesoporous structures is proposed. Finally, a homogeneous pore filling in the mesoscopic structure without any additives is successfully achieved and a stabilized power conversion efficiency of 16.26% using ternary‐cation perovskite absorber is realized. The findings will provide better understanding of perovskite crystallization in printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells and pave the way for the commercialization of perovskite solar cells.
Mechanism of Sodium Storage in Hard Carbon: An X‐Ray Scattering Analysis
Authors: Morikawa Yusuke , Nishimura Shin‐ichi , Hashimoto Ryu‐ichi , Ohnuma Masato , Yamada Atsuo
Published: December 2019

Hard carbon is a standard anode material for Na‐ion batteries. However, its low crystallinity and diverse microstructures make obtaining a full understanding of the sodium storage mechanism challenging. Here, the results of a systematic ex situ small and wide angle X‐ray scattering study of a series of nanostructured hard carbons, which reveal clear evidence of sodium storage in the graphene–graphene interlayers and nanopores, are presented. Particularly, an emergence of a broad peak around q ≈ 2.0–2.1 Å−1 in the low voltage region is suggested to be an indicator that sodium is densely confined in the nanopores. Thus, classical X‐ray scattering techniques are demonstrated to be effective in elucidating the overall reaction scheme of Na insertion into hard carbon.
Phase 2 study of efgartigimod, a novel FcRn antagonist, in adult patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Newland Adrian C. , Sánchez‐González Blanca , Rejtő László , Egyed Miklos , Romanyuk Nataliya , Godar Marie , Verschueren Katrien , Gandini Domenica , Ulrichts Peter , Beauchamp Jon , Dreier Torsten , Ward E. Sally , Michel Marc , Liebman Howard A. , de Haard Hans , Leupin Nicolas , Kuter David J.
Published: December 2019

Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired autoimmune bleeding disorder, characterized by a low platelet count (<100 × 109/L) in the absence of other causes associated with thrombocytopenia. In most patients, IgG autoantibodies directed against platelet receptors can be detected. They accelerate platelet clearance and destruction, inhibit platelet production, and impair platelet function, resulting in increased risk of bleeding and impaired quality of life. Efgartigimod is a human IgG1 antibody Fc‐fragment, a natural ligand of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), engineered for increased affinity to FcRn, while preserving its characteristic pH‐dependent binding. Efgartigimod blocks FcRn, preventing IgG recycling, and causing targeted IgG degradation. In this Phase 2 study, 38 patients were randomized 1:1:1 to receive four weekly intravenous infusions of either placebo (N = 12) or efgartigimod at a dose of 5 mg/kg (N = 13) or 10 mg/kg (N = 13). This short treatment cycle of efgartigimod in patients with ITP, predominantly refractory to previous lines of therapy, was shown to be well tolerated, and demonstrated a favorable safety profile consistent with Phase 1 data. Efgartigimod induced a rapid reduction of total IgG levels (up to 63.7% mean change from baseline), which was associated with clinically relevant increases in platelet counts (46% patients on efgartigimod vs 25% on placebo achieved a platelet count of ≥50 × 109/L on at least two occasions, and 38% vs 0% achieved ≥50 × 109/L for at least 10 cumulative days), and a reduced proportion of patients with bleeding. Taken together, these data warrant further evaluation of FcRn antagonism as a novel therapeutic approach in ITP.
Neue Kandidaten für die nichtlineare Optik im Tief‐UV‐Bereich
Authors: Mutailipu Miriding , Pan Shilie
Published: December 2019

Fortschritte bei der Erzeugung kohärenter Laser unter 200 nm sowie Geräten und Techniken zu deren Betrieb haben die Entwicklung von NLO‐Materialien mit der Fähigkeit zur Phasenanpassung im tiefen UV‐Spektralbereich (Tief‐UV) stark beschleunigt. Allerdings erfüllen nur wenige Kristalle die technischen Anforderungen, und bis heute konzentriert man sich im Wesentlichen darauf, die nächsten konkurrenzfähigen Kandidaten zu finden. Demzufolge wurden mehrere Kristalle entwickelt, die großes Potenzial zur Erzeugung von harmonischem, kohärentem Licht im tiefen UV bieten und von neu entwickelten Systemen mit neuartigen NLO‐aktiven Einheiten und Chromophoren profitieren. Wir bieten hier eine Übersicht der Entwicklung dieser neuen Kandidaten im Bereich der Tief‐UV‐NLO‐Materialien, diskutieren Fortschritte bei der Suche nach überlegenen Systemen und beim Verständnis der Struktur‐Eigenschafts‐Beziehungen. Unser Ziel ist eine klare Darstellung der Entwicklung aktueller NLO‐Kandidaten für tiefes UV. Außerdem hoffen wir, das Auffinden neuer, hocheffizienter Kandidaten durch diesen Aufsatz zu beschleunigen.
Preparation, formulation, and chemical characterization of silver nanoparticles using Melissa officinalis leaf aqueous extract for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia in vitro and in vivo conditions
Authors: Ahmeda Ahmad , Zangeneh Akram , Zangeneh Mohammad Mahdi
Published: December 2019

The demand for nanoparticles is increasing day by day due to their wide range of applications in various areas including pharmaceutical industry. Nanoparticles are formally synthesized by chemical methods in which the toxic and flammable chemicals are used. Synthesis of nanoparticles from various biological systems has been reported, but among all, biosynthesis of nanoparticles from plants is considered as the most suitable method. The current study confirms the potential of aqueous extract of Melissa officinalis grown under in vitro condition for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Also, we revealed the cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and anti‐acute myeloid leukemia effects of AgNPs compared to mitoxantrone in a leukemic mouse model. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using several techniques including UV–Vis., FT‐IR, TEM, FE‐SEM, and EDS. In vivo experiment, induction of acute myeloid leukemia was done by DMBA in 75 mice. The obtained results were fed into SPSS‐22 software and analyzed by one‐way ANOVA. By quantitative real‐time PCR, S1PR1 and S1PR5 mRNA expression in lymphocytes were significantly (p ≤ 0.01) increased by treating the leukemic mice with the AgNPs and mitoxantrone. Also, AgNPs similar to mitoxantrone, significantly (p ≤ 0.01) enhanced the platelet, lymphocyte, and RBC parameters and the anti‐inflammatory cytokines (IL4, IL5, IL10, IL13, and IFNα) and reduced the total WBC, blast, monocyte, neutrophil, eosinophil, and basophil counts and the pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL1, IL6, IL12, IL18, IFNY, and TNFα) as compared to the untreated mice. In vitro experiment, AgNPs similar to mitoxantrone had low cell viability dose‐dependently against murine C1498, human HL‐60/vcr, and 32D‐FLT3‐ITD cell lines without any cytotoxicity on HUVEC cell line. Furthermore, the DPPH assay showed similar antioxidant potentials for AgNPs and mitoxantrone. Above results approve the excellent anti‐acute myeloid leukemia, cytotoxicity, and antioxidant properties of AgNPs compared to mitoxantrone.
Modeling and interpretation of membrane capacitive deionization responses to different salt load
Authors: Zhu Siyu , Yu Jian , Stewart Ty C. , Tang H. Larry
Published: December 2019

Membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) has been found to offer beneficial aspects compared with regular capacitive deionization as a promising process for water desalination. This research varied the salt load in a bench‐scale MCDI system and presented a kinetic model for describing its dynamic response of electrosorption and desorption. A pseudofirst‐order kinetic model was found to describe the MCDI process well according to graphical analyses of fitting results. Both regression and verification R2 values were greater than 0.97. Utilization of the model for the prediction of MCDI performance under the influences of initial salt concentration and flow rate led to proper calibration strategies. The impacts of the two parameters on both electrosorption and desorption can be interpreted by a layer resistance theory. Results of this research are beneficial for water professionals for improving desalination efficiency of an MCDI system as consideration of parameter settings is necessary for proper calibration and operation.
The antioxidant 2,3‐dichloro,5,8‐dihydroxy,1,4‐naphthoquinone inhibits acetyl‐cholinesterase activity and amyloid β42aggregation: A dual target therapeutic candidate compound for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Khelifi Imen , Tourrette Audrey , Dhouafli Zohra , Bouajila Jalloul , Efferth Thomas , Abdelfatah Sara , Ksouri Riadh , Hayouni El Akrem
Published: December 2019

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by amyloid β aggregation and cholinergic neurodegeneration. In the present study, pure DDN (2,3‐dichloro‐5,8‐dihydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone) was examined, for the first time, for its dual potential as inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Aβ42aggregation. Such investigation was encouraged by thein vitrohigh antioxidant potential of DDN. Indeed, it revealed interesting antioxidant activity with IC50values of 9.8 and 4.3 µM for ABTS and reducing power, respectively. The ability of DDN to counteract Aβ42aggregation was evaluated by thioflavine‐T assay. Strong inhibition of Aβ42aggregation of more than 90% at 25 µM was measured. Moreover, results showed that DDN inhibited AChE (IC50= 14.5 µM). To better understand the interactions between DDN and AChE, molecular docking was performed. Obtained data predicted a high interaction characterized by hydrogen bonding at TYR337 as for galanthamine (positive control). Several residues involved in AChE hydrophobic interactions were similarly implicated in binding of this domain to DDN (ASP74, THR83, and TYR124). All these data would be useless if DDN could not pass the blood–brain barrier. So, DDN was loaded into alginate microspheres to enhance its stability and bioavailability. Thereafter, drug release profiles were assessed using immersion cell apparatus.
Distribution of congenital anomalies by race/ethnicity and geospatial location in Oklahoma, 1997–2009
Authors: Janitz Amanda E. , Dao Hanh Dung , Campbell Janis E. , Stoner Julie A. , Peck Jennifer D.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Congenital anomalies were the leading cause of infant mortality, responsible for 23 and 21% of deaths in Oklahoma and the USA, respectively, in 2016. We aimed to determine the prevalence by race/ethnicity and spatial distribution of congenital anomalies to identify geographic and racial/ethnic disparities, particularly among American Indian/Alaska Natives (AI/AN).

Methods

We evaluated the prevalence of anomalies by type and race/ethnicity among 648,074 live births in Oklahoma from 1997 to 2009. Prevalence proportion ratios (PPRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using Poisson regression. We used Moran's I and Getis‐Ord Gi* to evaluate spatial clustering for neural tube defects, critical congenital heart defects (CCHDs), and oral clefts among births whose residence geocoded to the ZIP code or finer level.

Results

Overall prevalence of anomalies among live births was 3.9%. Non‐Hispanic (NH) African American (PPR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.83, 0.91), Asian/Pacific Islander (PPR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.63, 0.78), and Hispanic (PPR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.83, 0.91) children had a lower prevalence of anomalies compared to NH whites. The prevalence in NH AI/AN children was similar to NH whites (PPR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.97, 1.05). However, differences in specific types of anomalies were observed by race/ethnicity. We observed no spatial autocorrelation for CCHD and oral clefts. Neural tube defects demonstrated spatial autocorrelation (p < .0001). Local hot spots varied by anomaly.

Discussion

The prevalence of anomalies by race/ethnicity and geography differed by race/ethnicity and region, though this varied by anomaly. Additional research is needed to identify behavioral or environmental factors to target for prevention.
For whose benefit? Black and Minority Ethnic training programmes in higher education institutions in England, UK
Authors: Bhopal Kalwant
Published: December 2019

Inequalities continue to exist in higher education, with Black and minority ethnic (BME) academics less likely to be professors or occupy senior decision‐making roles compared to their White colleagues. In order to increase BME representation in senior decision‐making roles, specific programmes targeted at BME groups have recently been introduced in higher education institutions (HEIs). This article draws on research carried out on two such programmes in England. By using principles of critical race theory (CRT), I argue that racism continues to play a key role in the lack of BME groups in senior leadership roles and that such programmes benefit HEIs rather than contributing to a commitment to inclusion, equity and creating a diverse workforce. Furthermore, such programmes work for the benefit of HEIs to perpetuate and reinforce White privilege, rather than addressing structural inequalities.
Selective Detection of Trace Metronidazole by Using a Magnetic Molecularly Imprinted Polymer‐based Fluorescent Probe
Authors: Tan Nai‐Di , Lan Chengwu , Yin Jian‐Hang , Meng Lei , Xu Na
Published: December 2019

A magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer‐based fluorescent (MIP‐FL) probe has been synthesized by embedding glutathione‐stabilized gold nanoclusters (GSH‐AuNCs) and Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4NPs) into silica composites. The Fe3O4NPs/AuNCs@MIPs are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy. The results show that the spherical Fe3O4NPs/AuNCs@MIPs contain a core‐shell structure with GSH‐AuNCs anchored on the surface of silica‐protected Fe3O4NPs. As a fluorescence probe (excitation: 360 nm, emission: 615 nm), Fe3O4NPs/AuNCs@MIPs can selectively detect metronidazole (MNZ) among other nitroimidazoles (ronidazole, ornidazole, and tinidazole). During the detection, the fluorescence intensity of the MIP‐FL probe drops gradually with increasing MNZ concentration. The sensitive linear range of the fluorescence probe is from 0 to 5 μM, and the limit of detection is 4.2 nM. After the recognition sites interact with the template, the occurrence of charge transfer from the GSH‐AuNCs to MNZ results in fluorescence quenching. Finally, a real sample test has been performed in spiked milk. Satisfactory recoveries spanning from 96% to 102% indicate that Fe3O4NPs/AuNCs@MIPs enable highly sensitive detection of MNZ based on fluorescence signal output, while the MIPs also have enrichment potential for the target from complex samples due to the magnetic properties.
ISO 14001, EMAS and environmental performance: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Erauskin‐Tolosa Artitzar , Zubeltzu‐Jaka Eugenio , Heras‐Saizarbitoria Iñaki , Boiral Olivier
Published: December 2019

The adoption of voluntary environmental certifications such as ISO 14001 and Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) has gained momentum in the last two decades. The scholarly literature has analyzed in depth the performance implications of the adoption of these certificates. Yet the findings are scattered and inconclusive. This article aims to shed light on this issue by meta‐analyzing the influence of the adoption of voluntary environmental certifications on corporate environmental performance, drawing on a sample of 53 scholarly studies analyzing a total of 182,926 companies. The findings show a positive influence of ISO 14001 and EMAS certifications on corporate environmental performance. A set of underlying moderating effects are also identified, such as a more pronounced positive effect for adoptions based on environmental innovation and for firms with a more mature certification. Implications for scholars, managers, and other stakeholders are discussed.
Physicochemical properties of enzymatically modified pea protein‐enriched flour treated by different enzymes to varying levels of hydrolysis
Authors: Konieczny Dellaney , Stone Andrea K. , Korber Darren R. , Nickerson Michael T. , Tanaka Takuji
Published: December 2019

Background and objectives

Air‐classified pea protein‐enriched flour (PPEF) was modified with trypsin, Savinase, papain, and pepsin to achieve 2%–4% and 10%–12% degrees of hydrolysis, and the surface and functional properties of the hydrolyzed products were assessed.

Findings

Surface hydrophobicity increased from 13.3 to 48.5 A.U. with papain treatment. Surface charge became more electronegative from −12.6 to −19.0 mV with pepsin treatment. However, solubility of hydrolyzed PPEF at all pH values tested (4.0, 7.0, and 10.0), regardless of enzyme treatment, decreased. Low solubility of hydrolyzed proteins negatively impacted solubility‐dependant functional properties: foaming properties and emulsifying properties decreased. However solubility‐independent properties (water‐ and oil‐holding capacity; WHC and OHC, respectively) improved with proteolysis, increasing from 0.6 g/g to 1.4–2.0 g/g and from 0.7 g/g to 1.0–1.5 g/g, respectively.

Conclusions

Papain treatment yielded the best results in terms of both OHC and WHC of PPEF.

Significance and novelty

The resultant hydrolyzates have potential for baked goods and processed meat applications because of their increased OHC and WHC.
vWFpp/ADAMTS13 ratio is a useful marker of postliver transplantation thrombotic microangiopathy: A pediatric case report
Authors: Duquenne Lisa , Balbeur Samuel , Everard Emilie , Reding Raymond , Eeckhoudt Stéphane , Brichard Bénédicte , Godefroid Nathalie , Derycke Emilien , Komuta Mina , Scheers Isabelle , Smets Françoise , Sokal Etienne , Stéphenne Xavier
Published: December 2019

vWFpp/ADAMTS13 ratio should be further studied as a useful marker for diagnosis of thrombotic microangiopathy postliver transplantation. Immunosuppressive regimen modification and plasma supplementation can lead to recovery.
Improved Interfacial Bonding Strength and Reliability of Functionalized Graphene Oxide for Cement Reinforcement Applications
Authors: Wang Nan , Wang Shuping , Tang Luping , Ye Lilei , Cullbrand Björn , Zehri Abdelhafid , Tebikachew Behabitu Ergette , Liu Johan
Published: December 2019

Poor bonding strength between nanomaterials and cement composites inevitably lead to the failure of reinforcement. Herein, a novel functionalization method for the fabrication of functionalized graphene oxide (FGO), which is capable of forming highly reliable covalent bonds with cement hydration products, and therefore, suitable for use as an efficient reinforcing agent for cement composites, is discussed. The bonding strength between cement and aggregates was improved more than 21 times with the reinforcement of FGO. The fabricated FGO also demonstrated many important features, including high reliability in cement pastes, good dispersibility, and efficient structural refinement of cement hydration products. With the incorporation of FGO, cement mortar samples demonstrated up to 40 % increased early and ultimate strength. Such results make the fast demolding and manufacture of light constructions become highly possible, and show strong advantages on improving productivity, saving cost, and reducing CO2 emissions in practical applications.
A Constrained and “Inverted” [3+3] Salphen Macrocycle with an ortho‐Phenylethynyl Substitution Pattern
Authors: Urbani Maxence , Torres Tomas
Published: December 2019

A [3+3] Schiff‐base salphen macrocycle (7 a) was synthesized by imine condensation between ortho‐phenylenediamine and ortho‐phenylethynyl‐bridged bis(5‐salicylaldehyde) precursors. The triangular‐shaped macrocycle 7 a has a nonclassical (or “inverted”) design in which the N2O2 coordination pockets are located at the sides instead of the corners. Compound 7 a could be synthesized in a reasonably good yield (64 %) considering the steric constraints imposed by the ortho substitution pattern. Subsequent zinc metalation afforded the corresponding Zn metallomacrocycle 7 b. Spectroscopic experiments evidenced weak (7 a) to strong (7 b) self‐aggregation behavior in solution. Their ability to self‐organize at the supramolecular level was further studied in the solid state by AFM and TEM, which revealed the formation of large bundles of fibers with lengths of several micrometers and widths of nanometers.
Synthesis of Enaminone‐Pd(II) Complexes and Their Application in Catalysing Aqueous Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross Coupling Reaction
Authors: Fu Leiqing , Cao Xiaoji , Wan Jie‐Ping , Liu Yunyun
Published: December 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

A series of Pd(II)‐enaminone complexes, termed Pd(eao)2, have been synthesized and characterized. The investigation on the catalytic activities of these new Pd(II)‐reagents has proved that the Pd(eao)2‐1 possesses excellent catalytic activity for the Suzuki‐ Miyaura cross coupling reactions of aryl bromides/chlorides with aryl/vinyl boronic acids in the environmentally benign media of aqueous PEG400 at low loading (5 mol‰). The superiority of this Pd(II)‐reagent to those commercial Pd(II) and Pd(0) catalysts in catalyzing the reactions has been confirmed by parallel experiments. What's more, Pd(eao)2‐2 has been found as a practical catalyst for the homo‐coupling reactions of aryl boronic acids.
Wage losses among spouses of women with nonmetastatic breast cancer
Authors: Humphries Brittany , Lauzier Sophie , Drolet Mélanie , Coyle Douglas , Mâsse Benoît , Provencher Louise , Robidoux André , Maunsell Elizabeth
Published: December 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the wage losses incurred by spouses of women with nonmetastatic breast cancer in the 6 months after the diagnosis.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of spouses of women diagnosed with nonmetastatic breast cancer who were recruited in 8 hospitals in the province of Quebec (Canada) was performed. Information for estimating wage losses was collected by telephone interviews conducted 1 and 6 months after the diagnosis. Log‐binomial regressions were used to identify personal, medical, and employment characteristics associated with experiencing wage losses, and generalized linear models were used to identify characteristics associated with the proportion of usual wages lost.

Results

Overall, 829 women (86% participation) and 406 spouses (75% participation) consented to participate. Among the 279 employed spouses, 78.5% experienced work absences because of breast cancer. Spouses were compensated for 66.3% of their salary on average during their absence. The median wage loss was $0 (mean, $1820) (2003 Canadian dollars). Spouses were more likely to experience losses if they were self‐employed or lived 50 km or farther from the hospital. Among spouses who experienced wage losses, those who were self‐employed or whose partners had invasive breast cancer lost a higher proportion of wages.

Conclusions

Although spouses took some time off work, for many, the resulting wage losses were modest because of compensation received. Still, the types of compensation used may hide other forms of burden for families facing breast cancer.
Evaluation of BRAF, RAS, RET/PTC, and PAX8/PPARg alterations in different Bethesda diagnostic categories: A multicentric prospective study on the validity of the 7‐gene panel test in 1172 thyroid FNAs deriving from different hospitals in South Italy
Authors: Bellevicine Claudio , Migliatico Ilaria , Sgariglia Roberta , Nacchio Mariantonia , Vigliar Elena , Pisapia Pasquale , Iaccarino Antonino , Bruzzese Dario , Fonderico Francesco , Salvatore Domenico , Biondi Bernadette , Masone Stefania , Novizio Vincenzo , Scavuzzo Francesco , Serino Domenico , De Palma Maurizio , Chiofalo Maria Grazia , Botti Gerardo , Pezzullo Luciano , Nuzzo Vincenzo , Spiezia Stefano , De Chiara Giovanni , Iorio Sergio , Conzo Giovanni , Docimo Giovanni , Faggiano Antongiulio , Bongiovanni Massimo , Malapelle Umberto , Colao Annamaria , Triassi Maria , Troncone Giancarlo ,   for the Tiroide Network
Published: December 2019

Background

Thyroid fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) is a reliable and cost‐effective diagnostic tool for establishing the nature of thyroid nodules, although up to 30% of FNAs are still classified as “indeterminate.” Molecular testing of FNAs could improve preoperative diagnosis, thereby reducing unnecessary surgery. In this multicenter prospective study the authors investigated, using a 7‐gene assay, the distribution and diagnostic impact of BRAF, RAS, RET/PTC, and PAX8/PPARg, the most frequent genomic alterations occurring during thyroid oncogenesis.

Methods

In total, of 1172 routine FNAs from 7 centers in southern Italy were classified according to the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology. Each specimen was tested, and molecular data were compared with available histology or cytologic follow‐up.

Results

In particular, for atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance cases, the 7‐gene test confirmed the high positive predictive value of BRAFV600E and BRAF‐like mutations (80%) and the moderate positive predictive value of RAS‐like alterations (32.4%), suggesting different surgical management, depending on the type of mutation. The rate of mutation‐positive FNAs was strictly related to the risk of malignancy of each diagnostic class, supporting the identification of prognostically relevant diagnostic categories.

Conclusions

The 7‐gene panel test improves the preoperative risk stratification of indeterminate thyroid FNAs, especially when considering the biologic significance of the different types of mutations. Moreover, the rate of mutation‐positive FNAs is related to the risk of malignancy of each diagnostic class.
Coronary artery plaque growth: A two‐way coupled shear stress–driven model
Authors: Arzani Amirhossein
Published: December 2019

Atherosclerosis in coronary arteries can lead to plaque growth, stenosis formation, and blockage of the blood flow supplying the heart tissue. Several studies have shown that hemodynamics play an important role in the growth of coronary artery plaques. Specifically, low wall shear stress (WSS) appears to be the leading hemodynamic parameter promoting atherosclerotic plaque growth, which in turn influences the blood flow and WSS distribution. Therefore, a two‐way coupled interaction exists between WSS and atherosclerosis growth. In this work, a computational framework was developed to study the coupling between WSS and plaque growth in coronary arteries. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to quantify WSS distribution. Surface mesh nodes were moved in the inward normal direction according to a growth model based on WSS. After each growth stage, the geometry was updated and the CFD simulation repeated to find updated WSS values for the next growth stage. One hundred twenty growth stages were simulated in an idealized tube and an image‐based left anterior descending artery. An automated framework was developed using open‐source software to couple CFD simulations with growth. Changes in plaque morphology and hemodynamic patterns during different growth stages are presented. The results show larger plaque growth towards the downstream segment of the plaque, agreeing with the reported clinical observations. The developed framework could be used to establish hemodynamic‐driven growth models and study the interaction between these processes.
Multiobjective noncooperative game model for cost‐based task scheduling in cloud computing
Authors: Gao Ziyan , Wang Yong , Gao Yifan , Ren Xingtian
Published: December 2019

Task scheduling is an important issue in Cloud Computing. Cloud Computing often covers a range of different kinds of nodes, which offers a complex environment. To handle this complexity, as while as to process task scheduling in different scenarios of Cloud Computing, many algorithms have been studied. In this paper, we propose a game theory–based algorithm to the Cloud Computing task scheduling problem on the principle of minimizing the cost in the Cloud Computing. The Cloud Computing task scheduling problem is treated as a noncooperative game. The experiment results demonstrate that the game‐based algorithm has a desirable capability to reduce the cost in the Cloud Computing.
Efficient MPI‐AllReduce for large‐scale deep learning on GPU‐clusters
Authors: Thao Nguyen Truong , Wahib Mohamed , Takano Ryousei
Published: December 2019

Training models on large‐scale GPUs‐accelerated clusters are becoming a commonplace due to the increase in complexity and size in deep learning models. One of the main challenges for distributed training is the collective communication overhead for large message sizes: up to hundreds of MB. In this paper, we propose two hierarchical distributed memory multileader AllReduce algorithms optimized for GPU‐accelerated clusters (named lr_lr and lr_rab), in which GPUs inside a computing node perform an intra‐node communication phase to gather and store results of local reduced values to designated GPUs (known as node leaders). Node leaders then keep a role as an inter‐node communicator. Each leader exchanges one part of reduced values to the leaders of the other nodes in parallel. Hence, we are capable of significantly reducing the time for injecting data into the inter‐node network. We also overlap the inter‐node and intra‐node communication by implementing our proposal in a pipelined manner. We evaluate those algorithms on the discrete‐event simulation Simgrid. We show that our algorithms, lr_lr and lr_rab, can cut down the execution time of an AllReduce microbenchmark that uses the logical ring algorithm (lr) by up to 45% and 51%, respectively. With the pipelined implementation, our lr_lr_pipe achieves 15% performance improvement when compared with lr_lr. In addition, the simulation result also projects power savings for the network devices of up to 23% and 32%.
Prospective evaluation of clinical symptoms of chemotherapy‐induced oral mucositis in adult patients with acute leukemia: A preliminary study
Authors: Lee Yeon‐Hee , Hong Junshik , Kim Inho , Choi Youngnim , Park Hee‐Kyung
Published: December 2019

Objective

The objective of this study was to prospectively evaluate the clinical features of chemotherapy‐induced oral mucositis (CIOM) in adult patients with acute leukemia and the aggravating factors for such symptoms.

Subjects

Thirty‐seven prospective patients aged ≥19 years with acute leukemia undergoing chemotherapy were enrolled. Oral and clinical investigations were performed at baseline and on Day 14 after starting chemotherapy. The presence and severity of cancer‐induced oral mucositis were demonstrated using the World Health Organization (WHO) scoring system.

Results

On Day 14, we found that oral mucositis had developed in eight patients (21.6%). Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients was a predictor of increased WHO scores (β = 1.937, p < .001). Regarding oral sites, ventral tongue (β = 1.670), soft palate (β = 1.242), and buccal mucosa (β = 0.593) were predictors for increased scores. In addition, the increase in WHO scores was positively correlated with the number of oral lesions (r = .521), the difficulty in eating (r = .250), and the overall oral health (r = .534; all p < .05).

Conclusion

The main factors affecting the severity of CIOM symptoms were the treatment with HSCT and the location of oral lesions. The incidence of CIOM and WHO scores were not significantly different between the subgroups of disease. Our findings will help clinicians investigate the oral findings after chemotherapy in adult patients with acute leukemia.
Cytomorphologic features of small cell carcinoma of lung in effusion fluid using a liquid‐based cytology technique
Authors: Kim Lucia , Choi Suk‐Jin , Park In‐Suh , Han Jee‐Young , Kim Joon‐Mee , Chu Young‐Chae
Published: December 2019

Background

Liquid‐based cytology (LBC) testing induces morphologic changes due to the use of specific fixatives and preparation techniques, and the cytologies of effusions determined in this manner differ morphologically from those of conventional cytopreparation (CCP) smear methods. We compared the cytologic features of pulmonary small cell carcinoma in effusion fluid using CCP and LBC preparations.

Methods

Fifty‐three malignant effusion specimens from 36 patients with small cell carcinoma were examined, including 41 LBCs from 27 patients and 12 CCPs from 9 patients.

Results

LBC and CCP preparations preserved the typical features of small cell carcinoma, that is, nuclear molding, very high nuclear to cytoplasmic ratio and granular chromatin. The architectural patterns involved small cohesive clusters and chains with nuclear molding, tight three‐dimensional clusters, or single cell dispersion were preserved in both preparations. Oval nuclei (83.3% vs 26.8%, P < .001) and a discernable rim of cytoplasm (66.7% vs 26.8%, P = .043) were more frequently identified in CCPs, whereas cellular degeneration and dry artifact were more frequent in LBC preparations (73.2% vs 8.3%, P < .001). LBC had a tendency to show frequent nuclear size variation (51.2% vs 25.0%) than CCP.

Conclusion

LBC tends to show more degeneration and dry artifact with exaggerated irregular nuclear shape and nuclear size variation and scanty cytoplasm than CCP. Cytopathologists should be familiar with the cytomorphologic spectrum of this tumor in CCP and LBC prepared effusions.
Spatial variation in exploited metapopulations obscures risk of collapse
Authors: Okamoto Daniel K. , Hessing‐Lewis Margot , Samhouri Jameal F. , Shelton Andrew O. , Stier Adrian , Levin Philip S. , Salomon Anne K.
Published: December 2019

Unanticipated declines among exploited species have commonly occurred despite harvests that appeared sustainable prior to collapse. This is particularly true in the oceans where spatial scales of management are often mismatched with spatially complex metapopulations. We explore causes, consequences, and potential solutions for spatial mismatches in harvested metapopulations in three ways. First, we generate novel theory illustrating when and how harvesting metapopulations increases spatial variability and in turn masks local‐scale volatility. Second, we illustrate why spatial variability in harvested metapopulations leads to negative consequences using an empirical example of a Pacific herring metapopulation. Finally, we construct a numerical management strategy evaluation model to identify and highlight potential solutions for mismatches in spatial scale and spatial variability. Our results highlight that spatial complexity can promote stability at large scales, however, ignoring spatial complexity produces cryptic and negative consequences for people and animals that interact with resources at small scales. Harvesting metapopulations magnifies spatial variability, which creates discrepancies between regional and local trends while increasing risk of local population collapses. Such effects asymmetrically impact locally constrained fishers and predators, which are more exposed to risks of localized collapses. Importantly, we show that dynamically optimizing harvest can minimize local risk without sacrificing yield. Thus, multiple nested scales of management may be necessary to avoid cryptic collapses in metapopulations and the ensuing ecological, social, and economic consequences.
The effectiveness of hazing African lions as a conflict mitigation tool: implications for carnivore management
Authors: Petracca Lisanne S. , Frair Jacqueline L. , Bastille‐Rousseau Guillaume , Hunt Jane E. , Macdonald David W. , Sibanda Lovemore , Loveridge Andrew J.
Published: December 2019

Human–carnivore conflict (HCC) represents one of the greatest threats to rural livelihoods and the persistence of large carnivores. The application of aversive conditioning, the association of unpleasant stimuli with the occurrence of unwanted behaviors, to mitigate HCC has achieved mixed results within and across species, making a better understanding of the factors driving intervention success critical to inform management practices. We explored the degree to which the chasing of African lions (Panthera leo) out of no tolerance zones conditions lion behavior to reduce their rate of return into community lands or rate of repeated livestock killing, providing evidence‐based understanding of program outcomes. We used data from 15 global positioning system (GPS)‐collared lions adjacent to Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe, with each lion receiving 0–17 conditioning treatments, and analyzed the data using recurrent event survival analysis and logistic regression. Chases were most successful (i.e., lion pushed out of the no tolerance zone by sunrise of the following day) in the dry season (i.e., when wild prey were more predictable), in areas closer to the park, and for individuals from smaller and more stable prides (i.e., had not lost a pride male within six months). Adult females and subadult males were more likely than adult males to reenter community lands, and subadult males were most likely to repeatedly depredate livestock. While livestock depredation has decreased since program initiation, the individuals in this study were overall not less likely to enter community lands or depredate livestock in response to chases when chases were considered isolated events. Rather, it was the consistency of deterrence events that proved most important in reducing livestock depredations, likely because of a stronger reinforcement between the undesired behavior and the negative stimulus. However, lions that had previously habitually killed livestock had greater depredation rates even after several conditioning treatments. Aversive conditioning holds promise in the management of carnivores that depredate livestock, but intervention must be consistent, ideally early in the development of problem behaviors, to maximize intervention effectiveness. Methods that separate wildlife from people (i.e., fencing, livestock enclosure fortification), in combination with aversive conditioning, may be needed to provide a sustainable, long‐term solution.
Quantifying Aedes aegypti dispersal in space and time: a modeling approach
Authors: Marcantonio Matteo , Reyes Trinidad , Barker Christopher M.
Published: December 2019

The dispersal of the invasive mosquito Aedes aegypti in urbanized areas has received attention due to the hazard that this species poses to human health. However, we know little about this process at temperate latitudes, especially in recently colonized semi‐arid regions of the southwestern United States that differ ecologically from more typical habitats in the tropics. We collected data on Ae. aegypti dispersal through a mark–release–recapture (MRR) study in Central California. We employed stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen to mark released mosquitoes. We characterized Ae. aegypti dispersal capacity using both traditional measures of central tendency and dispersal kernel theory coupled with space–time models, allowing for effects of environmental factors to provide more reliable dispersal estimates. Dispersal of Ae. aegypti was similar between females and males, and we found the mean distances traveled to be 224–240 m from the release location when estimated by conventional methods. Model‐based inference allowed for a more nuanced interpretation, with even greater dispersal distances possible depending on direction and environmental context. Our results showed that experimental conditions, such as spatial arrangement of traps and duration of the recapture period, as well as environmental conditions, such as wind speed and direction, altered the probability of recapturing marked mosquitoes, and therefore the observed dispersal pattern. This represents the first assessment of Ae. aegypti dispersal in the semi‐arid southwestern United States, which is unique among published studies in that the period of peak annual Ae. aegypti abundance coincides with cumulative precipitation close to zero. Results show that this species dispersed on average farther than commonly documented for other areas of the world. Our findings provide information for defining spatial control strategies, such as incompatible insect technique, which rely on a clear understanding of dispersal rates among neighboring areas.
Two‐Dimensional Transition Metal Carbides and Nitrides (MXenes): Synthesis, Properties, and Electrochemical Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Zhang Chuanfang (John) , Ma Yonglu , Zhang Xuetao , Abdolhosseinzadeh Sina , Sheng Hongwei , Lan Wei , Pakdel Amir , Heier Jakob , Nüesch Frank
Published: December 2019

A family of 2D transition metal carbides and nitrides known as MXenes has received increasing attention since the discovery of Ti3C2 in 2011. To date, about 30 different MXenes with well‐defined structures and properties have been synthesized, and many more are theoretically predicted to exist. Due to the numerous assets including excellent mechanical properties, metallic conductivity, unique in‐plane anisotropic structure, tunable band gap, and so on, MXenes rapidly positioned themselves at the forefront of the 2D materials world and have found numerous promising applications. Particular interest is devoted to applications in electrochemical energy storage, whereby 2D MXenes work either as electrodes, additives, separators, or hosts. This review summarizes recent advances in the synthesis, fundamental properties and composites of MXene and highlights the state‐of‐the‐art electrochemical performance of MXene‐based electrodes/devices. The progresses in the field of supercapacitors and Li‐ion batteries, Li‐S batteries, Na‐ and other alkali metal ion batteries are reviewed, and current challenges and new opportunities for MXenes in this surging energy storage field are presented. In the focus of interest is the possibility to boost device‐level performance, particularly that of rechargeable batteries, which are of utmost importance in future energy technologies. Very recently, the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to the inventors of the Li‐ion battery. For sure, this will provide an additional stimulation to study fundamental aspects of electrochemical energy storage.