bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Ferrocene Based Naphthoquinones and its Application as Novel Non‐enzymatic Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Ertas Nevroz Aslan , Kavak Emrah , Salman Fırat , Kazici Hilal Celik , Kivrak Hilal , Kivrak Arif
Published: January 2020

At present, a highly sensitive hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) sensor is fabricated by ferrocene based naphthaquinone derivatives as 2,3‐Diferrocenyl‐1,4‐naphthoquinone and 2‐bromo‐3‐ferrocenyl‐1,4‐naphthoquinone. These ferrocene based naphthaquinone derivatives are characterized by H‐NMR and C‐NMR. The electrochemical properties of these ferrocene based naphthaquinone are investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) on modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The modified electrode with ferrocene based naphthaquinone derivatives exhibits an improved voltammetric response to the H2O2 redox reaction. 2‐bromo‐3‐ferrocenyl‐1,4‐naphthoquinone show excellent non‐enzymatic sensing ability towards H2O2 response with a detection limitation of 2.7 μmol/L a wide detection range from 10 μM to 400 μM in H2O2 detection. The sensor also exhibits short response time (1 s) and good sensitivity of 71.4 μA mM−1 cm−2 and stability. Furthermore, the DPV method exhibited very high sensitivity (18999 μA mM−1 cm−2) and low detection limit (0.66 μM) compared to the CA method. Ferrocene based naphthaquinone derivative based sensors have a lower cost and high stability. Thus, this novel non‐enzyme sensor has potential application in H2O2 detection.
Enhancement in MS‐based peptide detection by microfluidic free‐flow zone electrophoresis
Authors: Kinde Tristan F. , Hess Natalie , Dutta Debashis
Published: January 2020

Matrix components are known to significantly alter the ionization of a target analyte in ESI‐based measurements particularly when working with complex biological samples. This issue however may be alleviated by extracting the analyte of interest from the original sample into a relatively simple matrix compatible with ESI mass‐spectrometric analysis. In this article, we report a microfluidic device that enables such extraction of small peptide molecules into an ESI‐compatible solvent stream significantly improving both the sensitivity and reproducibility of the measurements. The reported device realizes this analyte extraction capability based on the free‐flow zone electrophoretic fractionation process using a set of internal electrodes placed across the width of the analysis channel. Employing lateral electric fields and separation distances of 75 V/cm and 600 µm, respectively, efficient extraction of the model peptide human angiotensin II was demonstrated allowing a reduction in its detection limit by one to three orders of magnitude using the ESI‐MS method. The noted result was obtained in our experiments both for a relatively simple specimen comprising DNA strands and angiotensin II as well as for human serum samples spiked with the same model peptide.
River, Coastal and Estuarine Morphodynamics Selected papers from the 10th anniversary of the RCEM Symposium
Authors: Zolezzi Guido , Carniello Luca , D'Alpaos Andrea , Lanzoni Stefano , Tubino Marco
Published: January 2020

This Special Issue collects 17 selected contributions from participants to the 10th edition of the RCEM (River, Coastal and Estuarine Morphodynamics) Symposium, organized in Padova‐Trento (Italy) in September 2017. The series of biennial RCEM symposia has the key goal of enhancing interaction and promoting integration among the scientific communities focused on the morphological dynamics of river, coastal and estuarine environments, through various combinations of theoretical, observational, experimental and modelling approaches. The 17 contributions to this Special Issue contain four state‐of‐science reviews and overall offer a broad view of the cross‐cutting perspective adopted when addressing morphodynamics. Such a perspective accounts for the mutual interplay between morphology, fluid dynamics and other environmental factors, and has presently become a widespread paradigm to address landscape evolution. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of superfine grinding on physicochemical and antioxidant properties of soybean residue powder
Authors: Li Guanghui , Guo Weiyun , Gao Xueli , Wang Yonghui , Sun Sisheng
Published: January 2020

Soybean residue is an underutilized, nutrient‐rich by‐product of soybean processing. To enhance its value, we subjected soybean residue to superfine grinding and measured the resulting physiochemical properties and antioxidant activities. We prepared powders with particle sizes of 115.35, 77.93, 39.38, 25.01, and 20.44 μm. As particle size decreased, the surface area (from 96.46 to 198.32 m2/kg) and swelling capacity (from 2.05 to 10.62 ml/g) increased. Conversely, we observed decreases in the surface‐number mean (from 23.07 to 11.20 μm), volume‐surface mean (from 141.70 to 27.96 μm), angles of repose (from 48.30° to 31.46°), water holding capacity (from 7.86 to 4.39 g/g), and oil binding capacity (from 1.78 to 1.42 g/g). The water solubility index and antioxidant activity (reducing power and free radical scavenging activities of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′‐azino‐di‐(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline sulfonic acid)) improved as particle size decreased. In conclusion, superfine grinding improved some properties of soybean residue. Additionally, our findings provide theoretical support for using superfine grinding in industrial food applications.
Statistical based hydromechanical models to estimate poroelastic effects of CO2 injection into a closed reservoir
Authors: Raziperchikolaee Samin , Mishra Srikanta
Published: January 2020

In this study, a statistical‐based methodology is used to evaluate the poroelastic effects of injection during CO2 geologic sequestration in a closed reservoir. We constructed a series of hydromechanical models to evaluate the poroelastic effect of injection by quantifying total stress changes inside the reservoir, reservoir displacement, and surface uplift. The models are representative of closed carbonate reef reservoirs of the Michigan basin. A combination of experimental design for seven independent parameters (depth, caprock and reservoir Young's modulus, caprock and reservoir Poisson's ratio, pressure, and Biot's coefficient) and response surface modeling was used to develop statistical‐based reduced‐order models. We performed 147 numerical simulations to develop simplified models. The poroelastic model responses were captured using a standard quadratic model with full interaction terms, as well as a reduced model with only statistically significant coefficients. The interpretation of reduced‐order models, using R2 loss method, shows that while surface uplift depends mainly on the depth of the reservoir, stress increase depends mainly on Biot's coefficient. The developed statistical‐based models provide a quick tool to evaluate the poroelastic effect of injection into the closed carbonate reservoirs of the Michigan basin. Reduced‐order models were then combined with a Monte Carlo simulation to perform poroelastic uncertainty analyses and achieve a better understanding of the poroelastic performance of CO2 storage in the closed carbonate system of the Michigan basin. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecast of long‐term EUA price probability using momentum strategy and GBM simulation
Authors: Vulin Domagoj , Arnaut Maja , Karasalihović Sedlar Daria
Published: January 2020

CO2 storage projects are financially intensive and, without the European Union emission trading scheme that encourages CO2 emission reduction projects, they will not be cost effective, that is, feasible. Similar to the huge uncertainties involved in long‐term energy price prediction, CO2 market price is volatile. In this paper, indicators for key CO2 price changes are detected by moving average analysis. To prove the validity of the methods, geometric Brownian motion (GBM) simulations were performed for different drift and volatility values. Drift, the standard deviation of CO2 price changes and CO2 volatility were used on a daily, weekly and monthly basis for short term simulations and on a weekly basis for long term simulations. GBM simulation can help determine the probability of a European emission allowances (EUA) price, which is featured by great variations, depending on the period. Signals for periods were determined by momentum strategy, with 60 days for short and 365 days for the long moving average. They show correlation with natural gas prices, that is, EUA signals appear 13–17 months after the signal in natural gas price. Among the vast number of proposed hybrid prediction models, this correlation allows the prediction of a long‐term price trend. It seems that back‐loading measures obstructed risk estimates because they resulted in extreme price drift in some periods, as the consequence of rebalancing in supply and demand. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of Light‐Induced Molecular Switcher for the Driver of the Quantum Cellular Automata (QCA) Based on the Transition through the Intramolecular Charge Transfer (ICT) Structure
Authors: Zilberg Shmuel
Published: January 2020

The design of light‐induced switcher for the molecular QCA driver was discussed. The driver‐cell with two connected chromophores was proposed as a basic model of the molecular light‐induced trigger. One of the chromophores will conjugate with a left diagonal and the second chromophore will conjugate with a right diagonal. Some differences between two chromophores can allow selective controlling of the switch to the left or to the right. The following three‐steps mechanism for QCA switcher was suggested – light‐induced transition through ICT area (a), initiation of the driver‘s polarization (b) and the beginning of the signal transition to the other cells (c). The principal physical characteristics of the driver‘s trigger was proposed, and the corresponding chemical implementation was discussed. Three kinds of processes leading to ICT were discussed as mechanisms suggested for potential switchers: 1) Irradiation leading to the ICT excited state; 2) Chemical reaction with ICT transition state; 3) Excited State Intramolecular Proton Transfer (ESIPT). The common features of these processes are the non‐radiative transition to the initial state after excitation, with the back transition going through the highly polar charge transfer (CT) area.
Cross‐lateralisation in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and motor skill performance
Authors: Musálek Martin , Scharoun Benson Sara M. , Lejcarova Alena , Bryden Pamela J.
Published: January 2020

Cross‐lateralisation and increased motor difficulties have been reported in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Nevertheless, the question of how crossed (i.e. mixed preference) or uncrossed (i.e. same side preference) lateralisation impacts motor performance in children with ADHD has yet to be examined. In this study, previously validated observational measures of hand and foot preference were used to identify right‐handed children with ADHD who display cross‐ (n = 29) and uncross‐lateralisation (n = 31). An uncross‐lateralised typically developing (TD) group (n = 32) was also identified, and included as a control. Motor performance was assessed with seven valid and reliable fine and gross motor tasks performed with both preferred and non‐preferred limbs. Group, task and sex‐related effects were examined. Findings revealed that male (but not female) cross‐lateralised children with ADHD performed significantly worse, respectively, in two of the fine motor tasks (spiral tracing [p < .01], and dot filling [p < .05]). Results suggest that cross‐lateralised hand and foot preference may affect complex motor skills in male children with ADHD. Furthermore, characteristics of ADHD may manifest differently in male and female children. Findings highlight the importance of considering both hand and foot preference when targeting motor interventions for children with ADHD.
Collagen‐I/silk‐fibroin biocomposite exhibits microscalar confinement of cells and induces anisotropic morphology and migration of embedded fibroblasts
Authors: Konar Subhajit , Edwina Privita , Ramanujam Vaibavi , Arunachalakasi Arockiarajan , Bajpai Saumendra Kumar
Published: January 2020

Microstructural anisotropy of tumor‐associated matrix correlates with invasion of cancer cells into the surrounding matrix during metastasis. Here, we report the fabrication and characterization of a three‐dimensional (3D) silk‐fibroin/collagen‐I bio‐composite based cell‐culture model that exhibits microstructural and biochemical anisotropy. Using RGD‐deficient silk‐fibroin fibers to confine collagen‐I gelation, we develop a silk‐fibroin/collagen‐I (SFC) bio‐composite in a one‐step process allowing control over the microstructural and biochemical anisotropy and the pore‐size. Two forms of the SFC bio‐composite are reported: a sandwich (Sfc) configuration amenable to live‐cell microscopy and an unsupported membrane (Mfc) for use as a scaffold. Both microscalar and macroscalar mechanical properties of the SFC bio‐composite are characterized using atomic force microscope (AFM)‐based indentation and tensile‐testing. We find that the modulus of stiffness of both Sfc and Mfc can be controlled and falls in the physiological range of 5–20 kPa. Furthermore, the modulus of stiffness of Mfc exhibits a ~200% increase in axial direction of microstructure, as compared to lateral direction. This implies a highly anisotropic mechanical stiffness of the microenvironment. Live‐cell morphology and migration studies show that both the morphology and the migration of NIH‐3 T3 fibroblasts is anisotropic and correlates with microstructural anisotropy. Our results show that SFC bio‐composite permits proliferation of cells in both Sfc and Mfc configuration, promotes cell‐migration along the major axis of anisotropy and together with morphological and migration data, suggest a potential application of both the composite configurations as a biomimetic scaffold for tissue engineering applications.
Community‐based Youth Participatory Action Research studies with a focus on youth health and well‐being: A systematic review
Authors: Branquinho Cátia , Tomé Gina , Grothausen Teresa , Gaspar de Matos Margarida
Published: January 2020

On the basis of the systematic literature review, we investigate the characteristics of community‐based Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) programs with a focus on health and well‐being and their recommendations for future programs. The study was based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses diagram. Most included a case study design, mixed or qualitative methodology, interview as data collection, and YPAR youth in data reporting. The sample differs between studies, and most of the work took place in the United States. The stages (raise awareness, capacitation, design, motivation, implementation, evaluation, dissemination, and replication) are evident as a fundamental strategy in these programs.
Implementation of high‐resolution melting analysis of the porcupine (PORCN) gene for molecular diagnosis of focal dermal hypoplasia: Identification of a novel mutation
Authors: Martínez‐Saucedo Mirna , Ornelas‐Fuentes Carolina , Dedden Mark , Sánchez‐Urbina Rocío , Díaz‐García Héctor , Aquino‐Jarquin Guillermo , Moreno‐Salgado Rodrigo , Granados‐Riveron Javier T.
Published: January 2020

Background

Focal dermal hypoplasia (FDH) is rare X‐linked dominant disease characterized by atrophy and linear pigmentation of the skin, split hand/foot deformities and ocular anomalies. FDH is caused by mutations of the Porcupine (PORCN) gene, which encodes an enzyme that catalyzes the palmitoylation of Wnt ligands required for their secretion. High resolution melting analysis (HRM) is a technique that allows rapid, labor‐efficient, low‐cost detection of genomic variants. In the present study, we report the successful implementation of HRM in the molecular diagnosis of FDH.

Methods

Polymerase chain reaction and HRM assays were designed and optimized for each of the coding exons of the PORCN gene, processing genomic DNA samples form a non‐affected control and a patient complying with the FDH diagnostic criteria. The causal mutation was characterized by Sanger sequencing from an amplicon showing a HRM trace suggesting heterozygous variation and was validated using an amplification‐refractory mutation system (ARMS) assay.

Results

The melting profiles suggested the presence of a variant in the patient within exon 1. Sanger sequencing revealed a previously unknown C to T transition replacing a glutamine codon for a premature stop codon at position 28, which was validated using ARMS.

Conclusions

Next‐generation sequencing facilitates the molecular diagnosis of monogenic disorders; however, its cost–benefit ratio is not optimal when a single, small or medium size causal gene is already identified and the clinical diagnostic presumption is strong. Under those conditions, as it is the case for FDH, HRM represents a cost‐ and labor‐effective approach.
Low abundance of TFPI‐2 by both promoter methylation and miR‐27a‐3p regulation is linked with poor clinical outcome in gastric cancer
Authors: Geng Guangyong , Liu Xin , Xu Aman , Lu Zhen , Chen Kaiwei , He Juntong , Qi Dongjiang , Yuan Xiao
Published: January 2020

Background

The tumor suppressor role of tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI‐2) has been reported in various tumors. The present study aimed to improve the understanding of the oncogenic properties of TFPI‐2 in gastric cancer.

Methods

Relative expression of TFPI‐2 was determined by a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting, respectively. Cell viability was measured via a cell counting kit‐8 assay and proliferation was evaluated by a colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis was assessed with a caspase‐3 activity kit and invasion was evaluated by a transwell chamber assay. The methylation level of TFPI‐2 promoter was assayed by methylation‐specific PCR. The regulatory effect of miR‐27a‐3p on TFPI‐2 was analyzed with a luciferase reporter assay. The direct association between miR‐27a‐3p and TFPI‐2 was shown by biotin‐labelling pulldown.

Results

TFPI‐2 was down‐regulated in gastric cancer, which associated with an unfavorable prognosis clinically. Ectopic introduction of TFPI‐2 greatly compromised cell viability, colony formation and invasive capacity, and also induced cell apoptosis simultaneously. The promoter region of TFPI‐2 was extensively methylated in gastric cancer tissues compared to normal tissues, suggesting the epigenetic inhibition of TFPI‐2 expression. We further identified that TFPI‐2 functioned as sponge RNA against miR‐27a‐3p. Most importantly, miR‐27a‐3p‐specific inhibitor significantly exerted a tumor suppressor function akin to TFPI‐2 itself, and the anti‐tumoral activities were completely abolished by TFPI‐2 knockdown.

Conclusions

We found that the epigenetically suppressed TFPI‐2 compromised sponging effects with respect to miR‐27a‐3p in gastric cancer, which consequently and mechanistically contributed to the tumor biology of gastric cancer.
NIS‐promoted multicomponent reaction of 2‐aminopyridines with aldehydes and nitromethane for the synthesis of 3‐nitroimidazo[1.2‐a]pyridines
Authors: Sun Jinwei , Yang Xinrui , Liu Yun , Wang Yi , Pan Yi
Published: January 2020

An efficient synthesis of 3‐nitroimidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines has been developed via N‐iodosuccinimide (NIS)‐mediated multicomponents reaction of 2‐aminopyridines, aldehydes, and nitromethane under metal‐free conditions. This protocol has many advantages such as broad substituent scope, mild and eco‐friendly conditions, high step economy, and good yields.
Cyclization ofN‐benzyl cyanoacetamide: Novel synthesis and biological activity of pyrrole, pyrimidine, and pyran derivatives
Authors: Hamed Eman O. , Assy Mohamed G. , Shalaby Adel M. , Sayed Rawda E.
Published: January 2020

Heteroannulation ofN‐Benzyl cyanoacetamide1to a new series of heterocycles has been developed. Thus, reaction of1with different polarized π systems afforded pyrrolo4, pyridone6, pyridine8, and diazapene10derivatives, respectively.N‐Benzyl cyanoacetamide that undergo condensation reaction with salicylaldehyde yielded pyran derivative11. Nitrosation of11furnished condensed pyran13. Compound11reacted with benzaldehyde, carbon disulfide (cyclizing agent), and ammonium thiocyanate to provide pyrane17, thiazine18, and thiourea20derivatives, respectively. Cinnamoyl isothiocyanate was reacted with compound11to produce non‐isolable thiourea derivative21. The newly synthesized compounds have been characterized by infrared (IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) spectral data. The compounds were then evaluated for antibacterial and anticancer activities.
Interreader Agreement of Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System on MRI: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kang Ji Hun , Choi Sang Hyun , Lee Ji Sung , Park Seong Ho , Kim Kyung Won , Kim So Yeon , Lee Seung Soo , Byun Jae Ho
Published: January 2020

Background

Use of the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI‐RADS) is increasing, but the reported results for interreader agreement seem quite variable.

Purpose

To systematically determine the interreader agreement of LI‐RADS on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to determine the sources of heterogeneity between the reported results.

Study Type

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Subjects

Fifteen original articles with 2968 lesions.

Field Strength

1.5T and 3.0T.

Assessment

Two reviewers independently performed the data extraction. The reviewers identified and reviewed the original articles reporting the interreader agreement of LI‐RADS using MRI.

Statistical Tests

The meta‐analytic pooled intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for lesion size and kappa value (κ) for major features (arterial‐phase hyperenhancement [APHE], nonperipheral washout [WO], enhancing capsule [EC]) and LI‐RADS categorization (LR) were calculated using the random‐effects model. Sensitivity analysis and meta‐regression analysis were performed to explore the cause of study heterogeneity.

Results

The meta‐analytic pooled ICC of lesion size was 0.97 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–1.00). Meta‐analytic pooled κ of APHE, WO, EC, and LR were 0.72 (95% CI, 0.62–0.82), 0.69 (95% CI, 0.60–0.78), 0.66 (95% CI, 0.58–0.74), and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.56–0.85), respectively. Substantial study heterogeneity was noted in all five variables (I2 ≥ 89.1%, P < 0.001). Study design, type, and clarity of blinding review were factors that significantly influenced study heterogeneity (P ≤ 0.05).

Data Conclusion

LI‐RADS demonstrated overall substantial interreader agreement for major features and the category on MRI, but showed heterogeneous results between studies.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:795–804.
Effectiveness of scaling and root planing with and without adjunct probiotic therapy in the treatment of chronic periodontitis amongshammausers and non‐users: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vohra Fahim , Bukhari Ishfaq A. , Sheikh Saeed A. , Albaijan Refal , Naseem Mustafa , Hussain Mudassir
Published: January 2020

Background

Effectiveness of scaling and root planing (SRP) with/without adjunct probiotic (Lactobacillus reuteri) treatment towards the reduction in periodontal inflammatory parameters (clinical attachment loss [AL], marginal bone loss [MBL], plaque index [PI], and bleeding on probing [BOP] inshammausers and non‐users [controls] with chronic periodontitis [CP]) remains uninvestigated. The aim of the present randomized controlled trial was to compare the efficacy of SRP with and without adjunct probiotic therapy (PT) in the treatment of CP amongshammausers and controls (individuals not using tobacco in any form).

Methods

The study was conducted in accordance with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials guidelines. Patient demographics were recorded using a questionnaire. Therapeutically, patients were allotted into four groups as follows: 1) group 1: Shamma chewers that underwent SRP alone; 2) group 2: Shamma‐chewers that underwent SRP + PT; 3) group 3: Non‐chewers that underwent SRP alone; and 4) group 4: Non‐chewers that underwent SRP + PT. Periodontal parameters (PI, BOP, PD, clinical AL and mesial and distal MBL) were measured on all teeth except third molars at baseline and at 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐ups. Level of significance was set atP < 0.05.

Results

In total, 31, 32, 31, and 33 individuals were included in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Amongshammausers, there was no significant difference in the scores of PI, BOP, PD, clinical AL and MBL when SRP was performed with/without adjunct PT. Amongst controls, SRP with adjunct PT was more effective in reducing PI (P < 0.05), BOP (P < 0.05) and PD (P < 0.05) at 3‐month follow‐up. There was no significant difference in periodontal parameters at 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐ups in patients that underwent SRP with and without adjunct PT.

Conclusions

Habitualshammause compromises the outcome of SRP in patients with CP. Among patients that do not use any form of ST product, SRP is an effective treatment modality for the treatment of CP, and this relationship is independent of use of adjunct PT.
Long term crop management effects on soil organic carbon, structure, and water retention in a cropland soil in central Ohio, USA
Authors: Yadav Surender Singh , Guzman Jose G. , Meena Ram Swaroop , Lal Rattan , Yadav Gulab Singh
Published: January 2020

The objective of this study was to determine 13‐year management effects on soil properties between a corn–soybean (Zea mays–Glycine max) cropping system (CSRS) and vegetable production systems (VPS) on a soil in central Ohio. Three treatments included in the VPS were: (1) addition of wood chips, (2) permanent raised beds (PRB) with black polyethylene film (20 μm thick), and (3) bare soil surface (BSS). Additionally, (4) animal manure was applied in all CSRS and VPS treatments except for the wood chips (WCP) added plot in the VPS. Research data from the study show that relatively more soil organic carbon (SOC) stock in the 0–20 cm soil depth of the BSS treatment (100.6 Mg ha−1) was primarily due to differences in the type of soil amendments applied. For example, composted poultry manure was applied in the BSS and PRB plots, compared with input of fresh dairy manure mixed with straw being applied in the CSRS. Furthermore, soil management practices that aided in avoiding or reducing soil compaction (i.e., PRB or application of WCP in the surface) resulted in the overall improvement in soil structure and water retention, compared with that under chisel and disc ploughing done in the CSRS. The highest plant available water capacity (1.79 cm) was observed in the CSRS compared with 0.97 cm under BSS and PRB plots. These trends suggest that the type and amount of animal manure is critical to increasing SOC stocks in intensively cultivated VPS and CSRS in central Ohio, while also improving soil structure and water retention.
Factors associated with MRI detection of occult lesions in newly diagnosed breast cancers
Authors: Wecsler Julie , Jeong Young Ju , Raghavendra Akshara S. , Mack Wendy J. , Tripathy Debasish , Yamashita Mary W. , Sheth Pulin A. , Hovanessian Larsen Linda , Russell Christy A. , MacDonald Heather , Sener Stephen F. , Lang Julie E.
Published: January 2020

Background

The use of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for newly diagnosed breast cancer remains controversial. We examined factors associated with detection of occult multicentric, multifocal, and contralateral malignant lesions only seen by MRI.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing preoperative MRI for breast cancer. Clinicopathologic data were assessed regarding the findings of multifocality, multicentricity, and the presence of contralateral lesions. We analyzed the association of factors with these findings on MRI.

Results

Of 857 patients undergoing MRI, 770 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 54.7 years. Biopsy‐proven detection rates by MRI for multifocal, multicentric, and contralateral cancers were 6.2% (48 of 770), 1.9% (15 of 770) and 3.1% (24 of 770), respectively. African American race and heterogeneously or extremely dense mammographic density were associated with multifocal cancers on MRI. Larger lesion size and mammographic density were associated with multicentric cancers. Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) and progesterone receptor (PR)‐positivity were associated with contralateral cancers.

Conclusions

African American race, heterogeneously or extremely dense mammographic density, ILC, and PR‐positivity were associated with additional biopsy‐proven cancers based on MRI. These factors should be considered when assessing the clinical utility of preoperative breast MRI.
Diagnosis of Acute Heart Failure Using Inferior Vena Cava Ultrasound
Authors: Darwish Omar S. , Mahayni Abdullah , Kataria Saisha , Zuniga Eric , Zhang Lishi , Amin Alpesh
Published: January 2020

Objectives

The utility of bedside inferior vena cava (IVC) ultrasound (US) in the diagnosis of heart failure (HF) is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether IVC parameters in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) are statistically different from those without HF.

Methods

The MEDLINE database of English‐language publications from 1966 to August 2018 was searched. Retrospective and prospective studies that included either IVC expiratory diameter (IVCexp) or IVC collapsibility index (IVC‐CI) values were collected in patients with and without HF. to determine whether there was a statistical difference in the IVC parameters between these groups.

Results

A total of 27 articles with a total of 1472 patients with AHF were included. The standard mean differences for the IVCexp and IVC‐CI for the control group versus the AHF group were found to be statistically significant (P < .0001). The combined mean IVCexp values were 15.11 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 14.19–16.02 mm) for the control group and 20.26 mm (95% CI, 14.82–25.71 mm) for the AHF group. The combined mean IVC‐CI values were 61.6% (95% CI, 48.4%–74.7%) for the control group and 30.5% (95% CI, 26.4%–34.6%) for the AHF group.

Conclusions

Bedside IVC US showed that a statistically significant difference existed in the IVC parameters between patients with and without AHF. Based on mean calculations, an IVCexp of greater than 2.0 cm and an IVC‐CI of less than 30% are reasonable cutoffs to suggest that a patient with acute dyspnea is more likely to have AHF than a non‐AHF condition. Given the high degree of heterogeneity across the studies and the high risk of bias, larger randomized studies are warranted to explore the use of IVC US in patients with HF.
Experimental measurement of rolling bearing torque loss in a modified Four‐Ball machine: An improved setup
Authors: Marques Pedro M. T. , Martins Ramiro C. , Seabra Jorge H. O.
Published: January 2020

This work presents an improved method for the measurement of the rolling bearing torque loss using a modified Four‐Ball machine. The new assembly allowed precise and accurate rolling bearing torque loss, while operating at constant temperature, controlled by means of liquid cooling‐heating system in which a thermal fluid is carried through the centre of the driving shaft. Several rolling bearing test campaigns are performed, using a fully formulated ISO VG 150 poly‐α‐olefin gear oil. The frictional torque loss is measured and compared with models available and the surface roughness of the rolling bearing races is observed using an optical profilometer.
Probing the nonuniform corrosion of pipeline weldments under stepwise increasing solution temperature using a coupled multielement electrical resistance sensor
Authors: Zhu Yesen , Xu Yunze , Song Shide , Wang Xiaona , Liu Gang , Huang Yi
Published: January 2020

A coupled multielement electrical resistance sensor (MERS) was designed to probe the nonuniform corrosion of an X65 pipeline weldment under a stepwise increasing solution temperature. In conjunction with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements, the initiation and propagation of the nonuniform corrosion on different welding areas, that is, base metal (BM), heat‐affected zone (HAZ), and welding metal (WM) were well understood. The results show that the contributions of galvanic current (current flowing across the three different welding areas) and internal current (current flowing in a certain welding area) for the steel loss of BM, HAZ, and WM were significantly different under each solution temperature. The main contributor to the steel loss of HAZ gradually transformed from internal current to galvanic current with the solution temperature increasing. The WM would change from anodes to cathodes due to the preprecipitation of the FeCO3 crystals on WM when the solution temperature increased over 40°C. The BM would transform from cathodes to anodes at 40°C and the steel loss of BM was mainly induced by the internal current in BM over the whole test duration.
Changes in mechanical properties of dental alloys induced by saliva and oral probiotic supplements
Authors: Musa Trolic I. , Turco G. , Contardo L. , Perissinotto F. , Katic V. , Spalj S.
Published: January 2020

The effects of the saliva and oral probiotic supplements on roughness, friction and microhardness of the stainless steel (SS) and nickel‐titanium (NiTi) alloys used in dentistry was studied. The specimens of stainless steel, uncoated, rhodium‐coated and nitrided NiTi were exposed to artificial saliva with pH 4.8 and artificial saliva with addition of probiotic supplements containing bacteria Lactobacillus reuteri Prodentis through 28 days. First 5 days specimens were subjected to thermocycling to simulate intraoral conditions, 2500 cycles from 5 °C to 50 °C and the following days to the temperature of the 37±2 °C. Analyses demonstrated that oral probiotic supplements do not influence microhardness, roughness or friction of stainless steel above the influence of saliva. Probiotics increase roughness in NiTi, but without significant influence on friction, while microhardness in NiTi is not influenced. Surface nitriding reduces the influence of probiotics on roughness while rhodium coating increases it.
Effect of friction stir welding process parameters on the tensile strength of dissimilar aluminum alloy AA2024‐T3 and AA7075‐T6 joints
Authors: Padmanaban R. , Balusamy V. , Vaira Vignesh R.
Published: January 2020

This work investigates the influence of friction stir welding parameters on the mechanical properties of the dissimilar joint between AA2024‐T3 and AA7075‐T6. Experiments are conducted consistent with the three‐level face‐centered composite design. Response surface methodology is used to develop the regression model for predicting the tensile strength of the joints. The analysis of variance technique is used to access the adequacy of the developed model. The model is used to study the effect of key operating process parameters namely, tool rotation speed, welding speed and shoulder diameter on the tensile strength of the joints. The results indicate that friction stir welding of aluminum alloys at a tool rotation speed of 1050 min−1, welding speed of 40 mm/min and a shoulder diameter of 17.5 mm would produce defect less joint with high tensile strength.
Benthic Habitats, as Derived from Classification of Side-Scan-Sonar Mapping Data, Are Important Determinants of Reef-Fish Assemblage Structure in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Switzer Theodore S. , Tyler-Jedlund Amanda J. , Keenan Sean F. , Weather Eric J.
Published: January 2020

Increasingly restrictive management regulations have greatly reduced the utility of fishery-dependent data for characterizing temporal changes in the abundance of managed fish populations, so fishery-independent data are becoming more important for the accurate assessment of stock status. A notable downside to fishery-independent data is the high cost of conducting surveys, and efforts to maximize survey efficiency are critical given ongoing reductions in agency funding. We conducted a pilot study to explore the utility of classifying side-scan-sonar mapping data to provide a practical a priori characterization of reef habitat in the eastern Gulf of Mexico. An analysis of side-scan-sonar mapping data identified five distinct reef habitat types (low-relief hard bottom, mixed hard bottom, fragmented hard bottom, ledges, and potholes) that were subsequently sampled with stereo baited remote underwater video (S-BRUV) arrays and trap-mounted GoPro cameras. The permutational analysis of variance indicated that the assemblage structure of reef fish differed significantly (P <0.01) among all of the pairs of habitats except ledges and fragmented hard bottom; assemblage structure did not differ among cameras (P =0.45). Overall species richness and diversity were significantly higher in the habitats with greater vertical relief, as were the abundances of several economically and ecologically important reef fishes, although many taxa were observed across all of the habitat types. Benthic habitats that are identified from side-scan-sonar mapping data are important determinants of reef-fish assemblage structure and may prove to be useful as a stratification scheme for reef-fish surveys, although additional research is necessary to explore the transferability of these results to the rest of the eastern Gulf of Mexico.
Pelvic floor and abdominal muscle responses during hypopressive exercises in women with pelvic floor dysfunction
Authors: Navarro Brazález Beatriz , Sánchez Sánchez Beatriz , Prieto Gómez Virginia , De La Villa Polo Pedro , McLean Linda , Torres Lacomba María
Published: January 2020

Aim

To measure the neuromuscular activation of the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles concurrently with vaginal closure forces induced during a hypopressive exercise (HE) and to identify the contribution of the HEs sequences (posture and maneuver) in the muscle's activation.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study design was employed. Sixty‐six women who had participated in a physical therapy program focused on HEs were recruited. Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) activation was measured using surface electromyography (sEMG) in supine and in the orthostatic position, and vaginal closure force was measured through vaginal dynamometry in supine. Activation of the abdominal, gluteal, and hip adductor muscles was measured using sEMG. Maximum effort voluntary contractions (MVCs) of the PFMs and reference contractions of the abdominal and hip muscles were acquired for normalization purposes. A HE was then performed in a supine position with one leg raised, then in an orthostatic position.

Results

During the supine HE, the peak PFM sEMG amplitude was 74.4% to 86.5% (49.6%‐109.6%) of MVC, the peak vaginal closure force was between 51.2% and 55.7% (95.5%‐382.9%) of MVC, and the muscles of the lateral abdominal wall were activated between 25.4% and 35.3% of the reference contraction. During the orthostatic HE, PFM activation was 61.4% (40.1%‐105.6%) of MVC, and the lateral abdominal wall muscles contracted at 22.8% of the reference activation level.

Conclusions

The PFMs, abdominal, gluteal, and adductor muscles are activated during the performance of a HE. The activation level of the PFMs and abdominal muscles is likely insufficient to result in strength gains; however, they could have an endurance effect.
Interpretation of uroflow curves: A global survey measuring inter and intra rater reliability
Authors: Netto Jose M. B. , Hittelman Adam , Lambert Sarah , Murphy Kaitlyn , Collette‐Gardere Therese , Franco Israel
Published: January 2020

Introduction

There is a large amount of intra and inter observer variability in defining curve shapes. This study aims to evaluate inter and intra rater reliability (RR) on evaluating uroflow curves in a broad spectrum of international practitioners.

Methods

Eight hundred sixty‐four questionnaires were sent by email to health professionals that care for children with voiding dysfunction. It included demographic questions and 11 different uroflow curves and two duplicates.

Results

Four hundred forty‐one emails were opened and 29.5% of those responded. Seventy percent of responders were physicians, including 46% pediatric urologists. Europe, South America, North America, Oceania, and Asia represented respondents. For the repeated bell smooth curve the intra rater agreement was 82.1% utilizing the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) classification and 92.3% for the shape of the curve (bell, plateau, and tower [BPT]) (P = .04). For the repeated interrupted plateau curve it was 69.5% and 97.5% for ICCS and for the continuity of the curve (smooth or fractionated [SF]) classifications, respectively (P < .001). The curves were then divided into two groups for evaluation of inter RR. For the set of seven smooth curves, the inter RR was low in all classifications with α = .282, .497, and .242 for ICCS, SF, and BPT, respectively. The group of six fractionated curves showed a slightly better agreement with α = .533, .404, and .662 for ICCS, SF, and BPT, respectively.

Conclusions

This is the largest study looking at inter and intra RR of uroflows in a disparate population of readers. It was evident from our findings that inter RR was poor and additionally intra RR was equally poor, indicating the unreliability of uroflow shapes to be used for research purposes.
Factorized sensitivity estimation for artifact suppression in phase‐cycled bSSFP MRI
Authors: Bıyık Erdem , Keskin Kübra , UH Dar Salman , Koç Aykut , Çukur Tolga
Published: January 2020

Objective: Balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) imaging suffers from banding artifacts in the presence of magnetic field inhomogeneity. The purpose of this study is to identify an efficient strategy to reconstruct banding‐free bSSFP images from multi‐coil multi‐acquisition datasets.

Method: Previous techniques either assume that a naïve coil‐combination is performed a priori resulting in suboptimal artifact suppression, or that artifact suppression is performed for each coil separately at the expense of significant computational burden. Here we propose a tailored method that factorizes the estimation of coil and bSSFP sensitivity profiles for improved accuracy and/or speed.

Results: In vivo experiments show that the proposed method outperforms naïve coil‐combination and coil‐by‐coil processing in terms of both reconstruction quality and time.

Conclusion: The proposed method enables computationally efficient artifact suppression for phase‐cycled bSSFP imaging with modern coil arrays. Rapid imaging applications can efficiently benefit from the improved robustness of bSSFP imaging against field inhomogeneity.
A case of probable interpersonal violence from the Early Neolithic site at Smilčić, Croatia
Authors: Janković Ivor , Marijanović Brunislav , Čavka Mislav , Carić Mario , Novak Mario
Published: January 2020

Archaeological excavations at the Early/Middle Neolithic site at Smilčić‐Barica in 2016/2017 revealed skeletal remains of three people. Of particular interest is the skeleton from Grave 2, directly dated to 5616 and 5485 cal BCE, that is, to the Early Neolithic Impresso Pottery Culture. The skeleton was positioned on its left side, in a crouched position with bended knees and its right arm flexed at the elbow. Based on metric and morphological observations, the skeleton belongs to a young male, aged between 25 and 35 years. The most interesting feature is a penetrating trauma, probably caused by a projectile, located at intertrochanteric crest on the posterior proximal side on the left femur. A 15 × 4 × 3 mm lithic fragment is still embedded in the bone. Due to post‐mortem damage around the injury, it was not possible to establish possible signs of healing and/or inflammation. However, osteogenic reaction around the fragment is noted on computer tomography, indicating survival for a longer period. This is the earliest example of interpersonal violence recorded on the eastern Adriatic coast.
The WORD: Outcomes of a Behavioral Weight Loss Maintenance Effectiveness Trial in Rural Black Adults of Faith
Authors: Yeary Karen H. Kim , Cornell Carol E. , Moore Page C. , Gauss C. Heath , Prewitt T. Elaine , Turner Jerome
Published: January 2020

Objective

Rural black communities bear a disproportionate burden of obesity. To increase reach among underserved groups, community‐based weight loss and maintenance interventions are crucial.

Methods

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) was adapted for rural black adults of faith to create The Wholeness, Oneness, Righteousness, Deliverance (WORD) trial, a group‐based, community health worker–delivered weight loss intervention. A Weight Loss Only arm (16 sessions) was compared with a Weight Loss + Maintenance arm (16 + 12 sessions) in a cluster randomized controlled trial of 31 churches (n = 440). Weight and related behaviors were assessed at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months.

Results

The WORD produced weight loss from baseline to 6 months (percentage body weight change −2.47 [−3.13 to −1.80]). Among those who lost 5% of their baseline weight, there was a statistical trend of lower weight regain in the Weight Loss + Maintenance arm compared with control. Maintenance arm participants reported higher activity at 12 months. There were no between‐arm differences at 18 months.

Conclusions

The WORD produced weight loss from baseline to 6 months on par with that produced by other DPP adaptations for black communities, including adaptations using health professionals. Weight regain was also consistent with that reported in prior literature. Continuing sessions as part of the church’s mission may foster adoption of DPP‐based weight loss programs.
Implantation‐based passivating contacts for crystalline silicon front/rear contacted solar cells
Authors: Limodio Gianluca , Yang Guangtao , De Groot Yvar , Procel Paul , Mazzarella Luana , Weber Arthur W. , Isabella Olindo , Zeman Miro
Published: January 2020

In this work, we develop SiOx/poly‐Si carrier‐selective contacts grown by low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition and boron or phosphorus doped by ion implantation. We investigate their passivation properties on symmetric structures while varying the thickness of poly‐Si in a wide range (20‐250 nm). Dose and energy of implantation as well as temperature and time of annealing were optimized, achieving implied open‐circuit voltage well above 700 mV for electron‐selective contacts regardless the poly‐Si layer thickness. In case of hole‐selective contacts, the passivation quality decreases by thinning the poly‐Si layer. For both poly‐Si doping types, forming gas annealing helps to augment the passivation quality. The optimized doped poly‐Si layers are then implemented in c‐Si solar cells featuring SiO2/poly‐Si contacts with different polarities on both front and rear sides in a lean manufacturing process free from transparent conductive oxide (TCO). At cell level, open‐circuit voltage degrades when thinner p‐type poly‐Si layer is employed, while a consistent gain in short circuit current is measured when front poly‐Si thickness is thinned down from 250 to 35 nm (up to +4 mA/cm2). We circumvent this limitation by decoupling front and rear layer thickness obtaining, on one hand, reasonably high current (JSC‐EQE = 38.2 mA/cm2) and, on the other hand, relatively high VOC of approximately 690 mV. The best TCO‐free device using Ti‐seeded Cu‐plated front contact exhibits a fill factor of 75.2% and conversion efficiency of 19.6%.