bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Hierarchical NiCo Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheet Arrays Decorated with Noble Metal Nanoparticles for Enhanced Urea Electrocatalysis
Authors: Khalafallah Diab , Xiaoyu Li , Zhi Mingjia , Hong Zhanglian
Published: October 2019

The electrocatalysis of urea represents an important potential as an efficient technology for sustainable energy development. This anodic reaction generates hydrogen or electrical power through direct electrooxidation of urea molecules, but is greatly inhibited by its slow kinetics. Therefore, tailoring highly efficient, earth‐abundant, and durable electrocatalysts for urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is a fundamental for the enhancement of green energy conversion technologies. Herein, we report a scalable synthetic strategy to construct three‐dimensional (3D) nickel‐cobalt layered double hydroxide nanosheet arrays (NiCo−LDH NSAs) with silver (Ag0) or gold (Au0) and palladium (Pd0) intercalants as high performance catalysts for UOR. Experimental results suggest that the interlayer spacing of multi‐anions LDH NSAs can effectively afford synergetic effects of increased electrochemical surface area, better exposure of catalytically active sites, and favorable adsorption energy of urea molecules. As expected, the deposition of noble metal nanoparticles (NPs) could successfully modulate the electronic structure, delivering a rise to significantly improved UOR activity. Specifically, the Au/NiCo−LDH hybrid exhibits a superior electro‐catalytic performance toward urea electrooxidation with a highest current. These findings offer an effective pathway to prepare potential earth‐abundant electrocatalysts for direct urea fuel cells (DUFCs).
Electrochemical Characterization of Nicotinamide Riboside
Authors: Goines Sondrica , Dick Jeffrey E.
Published: October 2019

To improve quality of life, nicotinamide riboside (NR) has become a go‐to supplement to serve as a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+/NADH). NAD+ is a cofactor used in various extra‐ and intra‐cellular metabolic pathways by enzymes that maintain physiological functions like vision, hearing, and cognitive behavior. Unfortunately, innate NAD+ levels decline over time giving rise to a need for NAD+ boosters like NR to fight age‐related diseases. To better understand redox pathways of NR in biological systems, we chose to study the electrochemistry of NR. Here, we electrochemically characterize NR in aqueous solutions using voltammetry, amperometry, bulk electrolysis, and mass spectrometry. We found the reduction of NR (Ep,c=−1.1 V vs. Ag/AgCl) is a diffusion‐controlled reaction and calculated a diffusion coefficient of 4.6
0.1×10−6 cm2 ⋅ s−1. Square wave voltammetry indicated NR is reduced by one electron, and cyclic voltammetry suggested a major kinetic product, oxidizable at Ep,a=+0.15 V vs. Ag/AgCl. Bulk electrolysis confirmed the species at +0.15 V vs. Ag/AgCl was a kinetic product, and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry of the bulk electrolysis products revealed the thermodynamic product was a dimer (NR2). Finally, we studied the reduction of NR in whole cell lysate, which is shown to differ markedly from simple buffer solutions.
Anlagentechnik
Authors: Grebe Thorsten , Baumann Heinz , Last Wolfgang
Published: October 2019

Ekato Rühr‐ und Mischtechnik hat das neue Geschäftsfeld „Process Plants“ aufgebaut. Es bietet neben den Industrierührwerken auch die komplette Anlagentechnik an.
Entwicklung neuer Strukturen
Authors: Schmidt Kilian , Rippberger Sigfried , Poss Stefan
Published: October 2019

Neue Herausforderungen bestimmen die Entwicklung angepasster poröser Medien. Das virtuelle Entwerfen und Testen von porösen Medien kann helfen, die Entwicklungszeiten zu verkürzen und Kosten bei der Auswahl oder Entwicklung neuer Strukturen zu sparen.
Kapillarfluss‐Porometer
Authors: Schönfeld Fabian
Published: October 2019

Die Anwendungsgebiete poröser Materialien haben sich in den vergangenen Jahren und Jahrzehnten stark vergrößert und werden dies auch in Zukunft tun. Dabei wird das gezielte Erzeugen spezifischer Oberflächen und Porensysteme eine immer größere Rolle spielen, um die eingesetzten Materialien für spezifische Anwendungen zu designen. Entsprechend wichtig sind analytische Methoden und Geräte, um die erzeugten Materialien auf ihre Eignung hin zu untersuchen.
Is screening for psychosocial risk factors associated with mental health care in older adults with cancer undergoing surgery?
Authors: Trevino Kelly M. , Nelson Christian J. , Saracino Rebecca M. , Korc‐Grodzicki Beatriz , Sarraf Saman , Shahrokni Armin
Published: October 2019

Background

Surgery is a notable stressor for older adults with cancer, who often are medically and psychosocially complex. The current study examined rates of preoperative psychosocial risk factors in older adults with cancer who were undergoing elective surgery and the relationship between these risk factors and the provision of mental health services during the postoperative hospitalization.

Methods

A total of 1211 patients aged ≥75 years who were referred to the geriatrics service at a comprehensive cancer center were enrolled. Patients underwent elective surgery with a length of stay of ≥3 days and were followed for at least 30 days after surgery. A comprehensive geriatric assessment was administered as part of routine preoperative care. Bivariate relationships between demographic and surgical characteristics and the preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment and the receipt of mental health services during the postoperative hospitalization period were examined. Characteristics with bivariate relationships that were significant at the level of P < .10 were entered into a multivariable regression predicting postoperative mental health service use.

Results

Approximately one‐fifth of the total sample (20.6%) received postoperative mental health services. In multivariable analyses, high distress (P = .007) and poor social support (P = .02) were found to be associated with a greater likelihood of the receipt of mental health services. Of those patients with high distress and poor social support, only approximately one‐quarter (24.6%‐25.5%) received mental health care.

Conclusions

Distressed older adults and those with low levels of support preoperatively were found to be more likely to receive mental health services after surgery. Nevertheless, less than one‐third of these patients received inpatient postoperative mental health care, indicating that barriers to translating screening into the provision of psychosocial services remain.
Barriers and facilitators of risk‐based health care for adult survivors of childhood cancer: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Ford Jennifer S. , Tonorezos Emily S. , Mertens Ann C. , Hudson Melissa M. , Casillas Jacqueline , Foster Barbara M. , Moskowitz Chaya S. , Smith Stephanie M. , Chou Joanne F. , Buchanan George , Robison Leslie L. , Oeffinger Kevin C.
Published: October 2019

Background

Optimal risk‐based survivor health care includes surveillance for late effects and education targeted at reducing or preventing risky health behaviors. Understanding the reasons for a lack of risk‐based follow‐up care is essential.

Methods

Adult participants from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study were surveyed about having a cancer‐related visit in the past 2 years and the likelihood of having a cancer‐related visit in the future. Additional factors thought to be related to the primary outcomes were also assessed.

Results

Nine hundred seventy‐five survivors completed the survey. Twenty‐seven percent (95% confidence interval [CI], 24%‐30%) had a cancer‐related medical visit in the previous 2 years, and 41% (95% CI, 38%‐44%) planned to have such a visit within the next 2 years. The likelihood of having had a cancer‐related visit within the last 2 years was higher among survivors assigning greater importance to these visits (relative risk [RR], 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1‐1.3), perceiving greater susceptibility to health problems (RR, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1‐1.3), having a moderate to life‐threatening chronic health problem related to their cancer (RR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.7‐2.7), seeing a primary care provider for a cancer‐related problem (RR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.0‐1.6), having a cancer treatment summary (RR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.0‐1.6), and endorsing greater confidence in physicians' abilities to address questions and concerns (RR, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.0‐1.3).

Conclusions

Educational interventions improving awareness of treatment history and susceptibility to cancer‐related late effects and corresponding risk‐based care are likely to be beneficial for survivors of childhood cancers.
Sensory cutaneous papillae in the sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus L.): II. Ontogeny and immunocytochemical characterization of solitary chemosensory cells
Authors: Suntres Tina E. , Daghfous Gheylen , Ananvoranich Sirinart , Dubuc Réjean , Zielinski Barbara S.
Published: October 2019

Solitary chemosensory cells (SCCs) and their innervating fibers are located in the respiratory system of many vertebrates, including papillae on lamprey gill pores. In order to gain stronger insight for the role of these chemosensory cells, we examined immunocytochemical and innervation characteristics, as well as abundance at the different stages of the lamprey life cycle. The SCCs were distinguished from the surrounding epithelial cells by calretinin and phospholipase C140 immunoreactivity. Nerve fibers extended into the gill pore papillae, as far as the SCCs and serotonergic fibers extended from the underlying dermis into the papillar base. Gill pore papillae were absent and SCCs were sparse during the larval stage and in newly transformed lamprey. Few SCCs were located on small nub‐like papillae during the parasitic juvenile stage, but SCCs were abundant on prominent papillae in migrating and in spawning adults. These findings show similarities between the SCCs in lampreys and other vertebrates and suggest that gill SCC function may be important during the feeding juvenile and the adult stages of the lamprey life cycle.
Multiparametric assessment of the impact of opsin expression and anesthesia on striatal cholinergic neurons and auditory brainstem activity
Authors: Carrasco Andres , Tamura Atsushi , Pommer Stefan , Chouinard Julie A. , Kurima Kiyoto , Barzaghi Paolo , Wickens Jeffery R.
Published: October 2019

Recent developments in genetic engineering have established murine models that permit the selective control of cholinergic neurons via optical stimulation. Despite copious benefits granted by these experimental advances, the sensory physiognomy of these organisms has remained poorly understood. Therefore, the present study evaluates sensory and neuronal response properties of animal models developed for the study of optically induced acetylcholine release regulation. Auditory brainstem responses, fluorescence imaging, and patch clamp recording techniques were used to assess the impact of viral infection, sex, age, and anesthetic agents across the ascending auditory pathway of ChAT‐Cre and ChAT‐ChR2(Ai32) mice. Data analyses revealed that neither genetic configuration nor adeno‐associated viral infection alters the early stages of auditory processing or the cellular response properties of cholinergic neurons. However, anesthetic agent and dosage amount profoundly modulate the response properties of brainstem neurons. Last, analyses of age‐related hearing loss in virally infected ChAT‐Cre mice did not differ from those reported in wild type animals. This investigation demonstrates that ChAT‐Cre and ChAT‐ChR2(Ai32) mice are viable models for the study of cholinergic modulation in auditory processing, and it emphasizes the need for prudence in the selection of anesthetic procedures.
Divisible load scheduling of image processing applications on the heterogeneous star and tree networks using a new genetic algorithm
Authors: Nikbakht Aali Sahar , Bagherzadeh Nader
Published: October 2019

The divisible load scheduling of image processing applications on the heterogeneous star and multi‐level tree networks is addressed in this paper. In our platforms, processors and network links have different speeds. In addition, computation and communication overheads are considered. A new genetic algorithm for minimizing the processing time of low‐level image applications using divisible load theory is introduced. The closed‐form solution for the processing time, the image fractions that should be allocated to each processor, the optimum number of participating processors, and the optimal sequence for load distribution are derived. The new concept of equivalent processor in tree network is introduced and the effect of different image and kernel sizes on processing time and speed up are investigated. Finally, to indicate the efficiency of our algorithm, several numerical experiments are presented.
Anti‐Oxidizing Radical Polymer‐Incorporated Perovskite Layers and their Photovoltaic Characteristics in Solar Cells
Authors: Suwa Koki , Oyaizu Kenichi , Segawa Hiroshi , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: October 2019

A small amount of a radical‐bearing redox‐active polymer, poly(1‐oxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐4‐yl methacrylate) (PTMA), incorporated into the photovoltaic organo‐lead halide perovskite layer significantly enhanced durability of both the perovskite layer and its solar cell and even exposure to ambient air or oxygen. PTMA acted as an eliminating agent of the superoxide anion radical formed upon light irradiation on the layer, which can react with the perovskite compound and decompose it to lead halide. A cell fabricated with a PTMA‐incorporated perovskite layer and a hole‐transporting polytriarylamine layer gave a photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 18.8 % (18.2 % for the control without PTMA). The photovoltaic current was not reduced in the presence of PTMA in the perovskite layer probably owing to a carrier conductivity of PTMA. The incorporated PTMA also worked as a water‐repelling coating for providing humidity‐resistance to the organo‐lead halide perovskite layer.
Risk of malignancy and clinical outcomes of cyst fluid only nodules in the thyroid based on ultrasound and aspiration cytology
Authors: Kanematsu Risa , Hirokawa Mitsuyoshi , Higuchi Miyoko , Suzuki Ayana , Aga Hitomi , Tanaka Aki , Yamao Naoki , Hayashi Toshitetsu , Kuma Seiji , Miyauchi Akira
Published: October 2019

Background

The number of extensive studies focusing on cyst fluid only (CFO) thyroid nodules is limited, and the risk of malignancy (ROM) in CFO nodules has not been well‐established. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate CFO nodules using cytology and ultrasound. In addition, we sought to define the ROM and determine the recommended clinical management of CFO nodules.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed cytological preparations of 678 nodules that were originally identified as CFO nodules, including conventional specimens in 209 nodules, liquid based cytology (LBC) specimens in 221 nodules, and both conventional and LBC specimens in 248 nodules. Ultrasound reports with representative photographs were also reviewed.

Results

Of the 678 CFO nodules, 214 (31.6%) were reclassified into other categories, including non‐diagnostic/unsatisfactory (ND/UNS) except for CFO (n = 15), benign (n = 198), and malignant (n = 1). Conventional preparations (33.5%) were more frequently reclassified than LBC preparations (13.6%; P < .0001). Re‐aspiration for diagnosis was performed for only one calcified nodule. The rates of surgical resection and malignancy were 3.0% and 0.2%, respectively. Based on American Thyroid Association guidelines and the Kuma Hospital ultrasound classification, worrisome sonographic features were identified in 5.8% and 0% of CFO nodules, respectively.

Conclusion

We propose that CFO nodules should be classified as separate from ND/UNS nodules; they should be categorized as a subtype of benign nodules. However, it is essential that fine‐needle aspiration cytology be performed under ultrasound‐guided real‐time visualization of needle placement in the target nodule in all cases.
Allometric relationships for Quercus gambelii and Robinia neomexicana for biomass estimation following disturbance
Authors: Krofcheck Dan J. , Litvak Marcy E. , Hurteau Matthew D.
Published: October 2019

In the southwestern USA, increases in size, frequency, and severity of wildfire are driving the conversion of forests to shrub‐dominated ecosystems. Increases in drought extent and severity, coupled with the way that shrub‐dominated systems are perpetuated by high‐severity fire, predisposes these post‐disturbance landscapes to remain in a non‐forest condition. Consequently, understanding the distribution of aboveground biomass in post‐disturbance, shrub‐dominated ecosystems is central to constraining the uncertainty surrounding how these ecosystems interact with light and water to sequester carbon. Here we present allometric regressions for Quercus gambelii (Gambel oak) and Robinia neomexicana (New Mexico locust), two species that dominate post‐fire landscapes in the southwestern USA. Our allometric regressions are designed to be driven by either field plot or high‐resolution remote sensing data, using either shrub area or shrub volume to estimate biomass.
Evaluation of a novel thermophilic nitrifying Bacillaceae species Aliibacillus thermotolerans BM62T promoting nitrogen retention in livestock manure compost
Authors: Xu Jie , Xu Xiuhong , Han Yue , Sheng Siyuan , Meng Qingxin , Wang Zeyi , Liu Wenyue , Di Lubin
Published: October 2019

Aliibacillus thermotolerans BM62T is a novel thermophilic nitrifying bacterium, which belongings to the family Bacillaceae. A laboratory scale composting was done to evaluate the effect of adding strain BM62T on nitrogen retention during the process of animal waste compost. During the whole composting process, the ammonia emission of the compost with BM62T added was 29.71% lower than that of the control compost. In addition, the emission amount reduced in the warming and high temperature period accounted for 92.19% of the total emission amount reduced by the addition of strain BM62T. In the early stage of composting (0–14 days), the ammonium content in the BM62T‐added compost was significantly lower than that of the control compost, while the content of nitrite and nitrate was significantly higher than that of the control compost. At the end of composting, the nitrate content in the BM62T‐added compost (3.25 g/kg DM) was significantly higher than that of the control compost (0.14 g/kg DM). The number of thermophilic bacteria increased by 73.07% and that of thermophilic nitrifying bacteria increased by 75.56% in the compost with BM62T added. While the number of thermophilic bacteria increased by 29.61% and that of thermophilic nitrifying bacteria increased by 31.72% in the control compost. These results showed that BM62T could effectively reduce the ammonia emission especially during the high temperature period of compost, which make it has good application value in livestock and poultry manure compost treatment for promoting nitrogen retention.
Numerical simulation of fluid‐solid coupling of fractured rock mass considering changes in fracture stiffness
Authors: Qiao Yuandong , Zhang Cun , Zhang Lei , Zhao Wei
Published: October 2019

The fluid‐solid coupling simulation of fractured coal and rock is helpful to study the influence of the fracture structure on the stress sensitivity of the permeability. Therefore, a key factor in improving the reliability of such a numerical simulation is selecting parameters that match measured laboratory results. This paper firstly illustrates the use of a common inversion method to select the fluid‐solid coupling parameters through the constant joint stiffness method (CJSM). The main principle, application range, and the shortcomings of this method (CJSM) are analyzed: It can be used to simulate the measured results in a lower stress range. However, the stress sensitivity of permeability is zero when the stress reaches the critical stress (the stress where the hydraulic aperture reaches the residual hydraulic aperture). In order to solve this problem, a numerical simulation method for fluid‐solid coupling using the varying joint stiffness method (VJSM) is proposed based on the characteristic that the compressibility of a fracture decreases with increasing stress. In this method, the compressibility of the hydraulic aperture can be changed by increasing the joint stiffness during the loading process. Thus, the hydraulic aperture can continuously change and there is no need to set the residual hydraulic aperture. Finally, fluid‐solid coupling simulations under different stress states were performed using the VJSM in this study. The numerical simulation results were basically consistent with the experimental results, which indicated that a fluid‐solid coupling simulation using the VJSM can match experimental results very well and can be further used to study the influence of the persistent fracture angle on the permeability.
The RNA binding protein fragile X mental retardation protein promotes myelin sheath growth
Authors: Doll Caleb A. , Yergert Katie M. , Appel Bruce H.
Published: October 2019

During development, oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system extend a multitude of processes that wrap axons with myelin. The highly polarized oligodendrocytes generate myelin sheaths on many different axons, which are far removed from the cell body. Neurons use RNA binding proteins to transport, stabilize, and locally translate mRNA in distal domains of neurons. Local synthesis of synaptic proteins during neurodevelopment facilitates the rapid structural and functional changes underlying neural plasticity and avoids extensive protein transport. We hypothesize that RNA binding proteins also regulate local mRNA regulation in oligodendrocytes to promote myelin sheath growth. Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), an RNA binding protein that plays essential roles in the growth and maturation of neurons, is also expressed in oligodendrocytes. To determine whether oligodendrocytes require FMRP for myelin sheath development, we examined fmr1−/− mutant zebrafish and drove FMR1 expression specifically in oligodendrocytes. We found oligodendrocytes in fmr1−/− mutants developed myelin sheaths of diminished length, a phenotype that can be autonomously rescued in oligodendrocytes with FMR1 expression. Myelin basic protein (Mbp), an essential myelin protein, was reduced in myelin tracts of fmr1−/− mutants, but loss of FMRP function did not impact the localization of mbpa transcript in myelin. Finally, expression of FMR1‐I304N, a missense allele that abrogates FMRP association with ribosomes, failed to rescue fmr1−/− mutant sheath growth and induced short myelin sheaths in oligodendrocytes of wild‐type larvae. Taken together, these data suggest that FMRP promotes sheath growth through local regulation of translation.
Deletion of calcineurin from GFAP‐expressing astrocytes impairs excitability of cerebellar and hippocampal neurons through astroglial Na+/K+ ATPase
Authors: Tapella Laura , Soda Teresa , Mapelli Lisa , Bortolotto Valeria , Bondi Heather , Ruffinatti Federico A. , Dematteis Giulia , Stevano Alessio , Dionisi Marianna , Ummarino Simone , Di Ruscio Annalisa , Distasi Carla , Grilli Mariagrazia , Genazzani Armando A. , D'Angelo Egidio , Moccia Francesco , Lim Dmitry
Published: October 2019

Astrocytes perform important housekeeping functions in the nervous system including maintenance of adequate neuronal excitability, although the regulatory mechanisms are currently poorly understood. The astrocytic Ca2+/calmodulin‐activated phosphatase calcineurin (CaN) is implicated in the development of reactive gliosis and neuroinflammation, but its roles, including the control of neuronal excitability, in healthy brain is unknown. We have generated a mouse line with conditional knockout (KO) of CaN B1 (CaNB1) in glial fibrillary acidic protein‐expressing astrocytes (astroglial calcineurin KO [ACN‐KO]). Here, we report that postnatal and astrocyte‐specific ablation of CaNB1 did not alter normal growth and development as well as adult neurogenesis. Yet, we found that specific deletion of astrocytic CaN selectively impairs intrinsic neuronal excitability in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons and cerebellar granule cells (CGCs). This impairment was associated with a decrease in after hyperpolarization in CGC, while passive properties were unchanged, suggesting impairment of K+ homeostasis. Indeed, blockade of Na+/K+‐ATPase (NKA) with ouabain phenocopied the electrophysiological alterations observed in ACN‐KO CGCs. In addition, NKA activity was significantly lower in cerebellar and hippocampal lysates and in pure astrocytic cultures from ACN‐KO mice. While no changes were found in protein levels, NKA activity was inhibited by the specific CaN inhibitor FK506 in both cerebellar lysates and primary astroglia from control mice, suggesting that CaN directly modulates NKA activity and in this manner controls neuronal excitability. In summary, our data provide formal evidence for the notion that astroglia is fundamental for controlling basic neuronal functions and place CaN center‐stage as an astrocytic Ca2+‐sensitive switch.
Assessment of corneal viscoelasticity using elastic wave optical coherence elastography
Authors: Jin Zi , Zhou Yuheng , Shen Meixiao , Wang Yuanyuan , Lu Fan , Zhu Dexi
Published: October 2019

The corneal viscoelasticity have great clinical significance, such as the early diagnosis of keratoconus. In this work, an analysis method which utilized the elastic wave velocity, frequency and energy attenuation to assess the corneal viscoelasticity is presented. Using phase‐resolved optical coherence tomography, the spatial‐temporal displacement map is derived. The phase velocity dispersion curve and center frequency are obtained by transforming the displacement map into the wavenumber‐frequency domain through the 2D fast Fourier transform (FFT). The shear modulus is calculated through Rayleigh wave equation using the phase velocity in the high frequency. The normalized energy distribution is plotted by transforming the displacement map into the spatial‐frequency domain through the 1D FFT. The energy attenuation coefficient is derived by exponential fitting to calculate the viscous modulus. Different concentrations of tissue‐mimicking phantoms and porcine corneas are imaged to validate this method, which demonstrates that the method has the capability to assess the corneal viscoelasticity.
MicroRNA‐132 suppresses migration and invasion of renal carcinoma cells
Authors: Yu Yi , Lu Wenbao , Zhou Xinmin , Huang Hua , Shen Shaochen , Guo Lian
Published: October 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to explain the effects of microRNA‐132 in renal cell carcinoma by regulating FOXM1 expression.

Methods

Thirty patients with renal cell carcinoma admitted to our hospital were enrolled, and their adjacent normal tissues and cancer tissues were taken. The expression of microRNA‐132 was measured by in situ hybridization (ISH) and RT‐PCR, and the expression of FOXM1 was evaluated by RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the correlation between microRNA‐132 and FOXM1 was analyzed. In the cell experiment, the KETR‐3 cells were divided into three groups: Negative control (NC) group were treated with nothing; blank (BL) group were transfected with empty vector; and microRNA‐132 (miRNA) group were transfected with microRNA‐132. The cell invasion and migration abilities among groups were assessed by transwell and wound healing assays. The expression levels of related proteins (FOXM1, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, VEGF‐alpha, and uPAR) were determined by Western blot.

Results

Depending on clinical data, we found that FOXM1 protein expression of renal cell carcinoma tissues was higher than that in adjacent normal tissues. MiRNA‐132 was negative correlation with FOXM1. In vitro, the number of invasive cells and wound healing rate in the microRNA group were significantly suppressed than those in the NC group (P < 0.05, respectively). In the Western blot assay, the results showed that the protein expression levels of FOXM1, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, VEGF‐α, and uPAR were significantly inhibited in the miRNA group compared with the NC group (P < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusion

miRNA‐132 had anti‐tumor effects in renal cell carcinoma by suppressing FOXM1 expression.
Systematics study through scanning electron microscopy; a tool for the authentication of herbal drug Mentha suaveolens Ehrh
Authors: Ayaz Asma , Zaman Wajid , Ullah Fazal , Saqib Saddam , Jamshed Shayan , Bahadur Saraj , Shakoor Abdul , Arshad Bushra
Published: October 2019

In all over the world, herbal drugs are usually adulterated with similar species or varieties due to incorrect identification. Most of herbal products devoid purity and quality, therefore an attempt was carried out to identify plant species and authenticate its herbal drug products from Mentha suaveolens. Microscopy tools provide an excellent platform to identify plants at species level. In this study, microscopic and pharmacokinetic parameters of M. suaveolens were observed. Plant species were collected from high diverse areas of Northern Pakistan. Macro and micro‐morphology including palynology and anatomical features were analyzed to study M. suaveolens. Species characteristics were studied, while implementing microscopic techniques for the delimitation and identification of the species. Traditionally Mentha species are used to cure several diseases that is, digestive disorders, respiratory disorders. Micromorphology (stem, leaves, flowers structure, length etc.), palynology (shape, size of pollen etc.), and anatomical characters (types of stomata, epidermal cell shape, and trichomes) were studied. Micromorphology and anatomical characters were of great interest and significance to discuss the taxonomy of the species. Taxonomic characters were studied to characterize and authenticate the species. The aim of the present study is to observe in detail the taxonomic identification of the species in term of morphology, palynology, and foliar epidermal anatomy for the correct identification along with their medicinal uses in the area.
Prostate diffusion MRI with minimal echo time using eddy current nulled convex optimized diffusion encoding
Authors: Zhang Zhaohuan , Moulin Kevin , Aliotta Eric , Shakeri Sepideh , Afshari Mirak Sohrab , Hosseiny Melina , Raman Steven , Ennis Daniel B. , Wu Holden H.
Published: October 2019

Background

Prostate diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) using monopolar encoding is sensitive to eddy‐current‐induced distortion artifacts. Twice‐refocused bipolar encoding suppresses eddy current artifacts, but increases echo time (TE), leading to lower signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). Optimization of the diffusion encoding might improve prostate DWI.

Purpose

To evaluate eddy current nulled convex optimized diffusion encoding (ENCODE) for prostate DWI with minimal TE.

Study Type

Prospective cohort study.

Population

A diffusion phantom, an ex vivo prostate specimen, 10 healthy male subjects (27 ± 3 years old), and five prostate cancer patients (62 ± 7 years old).

Field Strength/Sequence

3T; single‐shot spin‐echo echoplanar DWI.

Assessment

Eddy‐current artifacts, TE, SNR, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and image quality scores from three independent readers were compared between monopolar, bipolar, and ENCODE prostate DWI for standard‐resolution (1.6 × 1.6 mm2, partial Fourier factor [pF] = 6/8) and higher‐resolution protocols (1.6 × 1.6 mm2, pF = off; 1.0 × 1.0 mm2, pF = 6/8).

Statistical Testing

SNR and ADC differences between techniques were tested with Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests (P < 0.05 considered significant).

Results

Eddy current suppression with ENCODE was comparable to bipolar encoding (mean coefficient of variation across three diffusion directions of 9.4% and 9%). For a standard‐resolution protocol, ENCODE achieved similar TE as monopolar and reduced TE by 14 msec compared to bipolar, resulting in 27% and 29% higher mean SNR in prostate transition zone (TZ) and peripheral zone (PZ) (P < 0.05) compared to bipolar, respectively. For higher‐resolution protocols, ENCODE achieved the shortest TE (67 msec), with 17–21% and 58–70% higher mean SNR compared to monopolar (TE = 77 msec) and bipolar (TE = 102 msec) in PZ and TZ (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found in mean TZ (P = 0.91) and PZ ADC (P = 0.94) between the three techniques. ENCODE achieved similar or higher image quality scores than bipolar DWI in patients, with mean intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.77 for overall quality between three independent readers.

Data Conclusion

ENCODE minimizes TE (improves SNR) and reduces eddy‐current distortion for prostate DWI compared to monopolar and bipolar encoding.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1526–1539.
Metabolic mapping of Schisandra chinensis lignans and their metabolites in rats using a metabolomic approach based on HPLC with quadrupole time‐of‐flight MS/MS spectrometry
Authors: Wang Jiaye , Jiang Bin , Shan Yingying , Wang Xiaoli , Lv Xi , Mohamed Jihan , Li He , Wang Chunmei , Chen Jianguang , Sun Jinghui
Published: October 2019

Schisandra chinensis lignans are the main active components of the traditional Chinese medicine Schisandra chinensis in East Asia. At present, there are more and more medicines and health foods in which the total S. chinensis lignans extracts are considered as the main active components, but little research has been done on the active components of S. chinensis lignans in the blood and main target organs. In this study, the components of S. chinensis lignans in the blood, liver and brain tissues of rats at different time points after the intragastrical administration of S. chinensis lignans were determined by a metabolomic method based on high‐performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry spectrometry. Twelve Schisandra chinensis lignans and 15 metabolites in the blood, liver, and brain of rats were identified. The results showed that the main metabolic ways of S. chinensis lignans in rats were hydroxylation, demethylation, and demethylation‐hydroxylation, and some of them might undergo demethylation, dehydrogenation, epoxidation, and elimination reaction. The time‐dose characteristics of S. chinensis lignans and their metabolites in the blood and target organs were analyzed, which may be helpful to elucidate the active substances that really exert the pharmacodynamic effects of S. chinensis lignans in organisms.
Does Operator Experience and the Q‐Box Diameter Affect the Repeatability of Liver Stiffness Measurements Obtained by 2‐Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography?
Authors: Wang Huipeng , Zheng Pengchao , Sang Liang , Wang Xuemei
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The purpose of this research was to evaluate whether operator experience and the quantitative analysis system (Q‐Box; SuperSonic Imagine, Aix‐en‐Provence, France) diameter affect the repeatability of liver stiffness measurements.

Methods

We enrolled 417 outpatients. All measurements were performed by 2 operators, including an expert and a novice. Each patient was continuously measured 3 times by the 2 operators. The Q‐Box diameter was adjusted to 10, 20, and 30 mm each time, and the mean elasticity values were recorded. Intraobserver repeatability was evaluated by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Interobserver repeatability was evaluated by the ICC, coefficient of variation (CV), and Bland‐Altman plots.

Results

The study group included 241 male and 176 female patients. The expert operator had higher ICCs than the novice operator at each Q‐Box diameter. The overall interobserver agreement was excellent, and the results showed that compared to other groups, the ICC was the lowest and the CV was the largest for the 30‐mm‐diameter group. The ICC and CV values were similar between the 10‐ and 20 mm‐diameter groups. The Bland‐Altman plots showed that the mean difference was –0.2 kPa for the 10‐, 20‐, and 30 mm‐diameter groups. However, the limits of agreement were the largest in the 30‐mm‐diameter group and were similar between the 10‐ and 20‐mm‐diameter groups.

Conclusions

The repeatability of liver stiffness measurements is affected not only by experience but also by the Q‐Box diameter.
A Stroke of Luck: Abolition of Parkinson's Tremor With Stroke
Authors: Sugumar Tripthi , Shankar V. , Ramesh Rithvik
Published: October 2019

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Whole exome sequencing reveals novel CEP104 mutations in a Chinese patient with Joubert syndrome
Authors: Luo Minna , Cao Li , Cao Zongfu , Ma Siyu , Shen Yue , Yang Di , Lu Chao , Lin Zaisheng , Liu Zhimin , Yu Yufei , Cai Ruikun , Chen Cuixia , Gao Huafang , Wang Xueyan , Cao Muqing , Ma Xu
Published: October 2019

Background

Joubert syndrome (JS, OMIM: 213300) is a recessive developmental disorder characterized by cerebellar vermis hypoplasia and a distinctive mid‐hindbrain malformation called the “molar tooth sign” on axial magnetic resonance imaging. To date, more than 35 ciliary genes have been identified as the causative genes of JS.

Methods

Whole exome sequencing was performed to detect the causative gene mutations in a Chinese patient with JS followed by Sanger sequencing. RT‐PCR and Sanger sequencing were used to confirm the abnormal transcript of centrosomal protein 104 (CEP104, OMIM: 616690).

Results

We identified two novel heterozygous mutations of CEP104 in the proband, which were c.2364+1G>A and c.414delC (p.Asn138Lysfs*11) (GenBank: NM_014704.3) and consistent with the autosomal recessive inheritance mode.

Conclusion

Our study reported the fourth case of JS patients with CEP104 mutations, which expands the mutation spectrum of CEP104 and elucidates the clinical heterogeneity of JS.
Design of ultra‐wideband antenna with high‐selectivity band notches using fragment‐type etch pattern
Authors: Du Yijun , Wu Xiaopo , Sidén Johan , Wang Gang
Published: October 2019

By specifying objective functions defining the two bands to be notched with high roll‐off criteria (ROCs), optimization searching for the best fragment‐type etch pattern on ultra‐wideband (UWB) antenna is implemented by using multi‐objective optimization. The optimization with too many objective functions requires special treatment to improve the searching efficiency. In this design, two slits are preset on appropriate positions on different sides of the UWB radiator to constrain the decision space for etch pattern searching and yield two initial notched bands to speed up the optimization. For demonstration, a UWB patch antenna is designed with dual‐band notches of ROC = 0.63 at WiMAX band and ROC = 0.65 at WLAN band. Both the simulation and measurement results indicate that there is significant improvement of the selectivity of the dual‐band notches.
Investigating Nonlethal Age Estimation in a Lentic Brook Trout Population
Authors: Taylor Timothy N. , Cross Benjamin K. , Moore Barry C.
Published: October 2019

Routine lethal sampling on small, conservation, or threatened populations may be unsustainable. Therefore, determining if alternative, nonlethal structures can provide accurate age data is important. We evaluated nonlethal structures (scales and pectoral fin rays) in conjunction with otoliths collected from lentic Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis in Washington State. We used age-bias plots, percent agreement, and coefficient of variation to determine how scale or fin ray age estimates compared with otolith estimates, which had been validated in a previous study. Prior experience with aging specific structure types was the primary variable affecting age agreement with validated otolith-determined age among three age readers. In general, fin rays and scales did not consistently reflect otolith age. Between-structure coefficient of variation was 17.8–19.1% for scales and fin rays, and between-structure percent agreement (within 1 year) was 80–82%. Individual percent agreement within 1 year was highest (92% and 86% for fin rays and scales, respectively) and coefficient of variation was lowest (9.0% and 14.8%, respectively) for the most experienced reader. Agreement of age estimates between readers improved with experience aging specific structures. Our study suggests that otolith data remains the preferred option.
Is radiotherapy required in first‐line treatment of stage I diffuse anaplastic Wilms tumor? A report of SIOP‐RTSG, AIEOP, JWiTS, and UKCCSG
Authors: Fajardo Raquel Dávila , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , van Tinteren Harm , Spreafico Filippo , Acha Thomas , Bergeron Christophe , de Camargo Beatriz , Oldenburger Foppe , Rübe Christian , Oue Takaharu , Vokuhl Christian , de Krijger Ronald R. , Vujanic Gordan , Sebire Neil , Coulomb‐L'Hermine Aurore , Collini Paola , Gandola Lorenza , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Graf Norbert , Janssens Geert O. , van Grotel Martine
Published: October 2019

Background

As a significant proportion of relapses occurred in the tumor bed or abdomen on patients with the fifth National Wilms Tumor Study stage I anaplastic Wilms tumor (WT), flank radiotherapy was added for stage I anaplastic WT in the subsequent study of the Children's Oncology Group (AREN0321). Preliminary results revealed reduction of relapse rate and improved survival. In cases treated with preoperative chemotherapy, such as in International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP), the value of radiotherapy has never been studied. The aim of this observational study is to describe the pattern of recurrence and survival of patients with stage I diffuse anaplastic WT (DAWT) after induction chemotherapy.

Methods

Retrospective data analysis of the pattern of relapse and survival of all patients with stage I DAWT were included in recent SIOP, L'Associazone Italiana Ematologica Oncologia Pediatrica (AIEOP), Japan Wilms Tumor Study Group (JWiTS), United Kingdom Children's Cancer Study Group (UKCCSG) renal tumor registries. Postoperative treatment consisted of actinomycin D, vincristine, and doxorubicin for 28 weeks without local irradiation.

Results

One hundred nine cases with stage I DAWT were identified, of which 95 cases received preoperative chemotherapy. Of these, seven patients underwent preoperative true‐cut biopsy. Sixteen of the 95 patients relapsed (17%), six locally, four at distant site, and six combined, and all treated according to SIOP 2001 relapse protocol, which resulted in a 5‐year overall survival of 93%.

Conclusion

Despite 13% locoregional relapse rate, an excellent rescue rate was achieved after salvage treatment, in patients with stage I DAWT whose first‐line treatment comprised three‐drug chemotherapy (including doxorubicin), without flank irradiation. Therefore, we continue not to advocate the use of radiotherapy in first‐line treatment after preoperative chemotherapy in stage I DAWT in the next SIOP protocol.
Clinical decisions following implementation of asparaginase activity monitoring in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Experience from a single‐center study
Authors: Nadeem Komail , Colantonio David , Kircanski Ida , Naqvi Ahmed , Hitzler Johann , Whitlock James A. , Dupuis L. Lee
Published: October 2019

We undertook this retrospective study to describe decisions made following asparaginase activity monitoring implementation at our center. Clinically apparent reactions (CARs) and asparaginase activity monitoring costs were described. Patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, aged <18 years who received asparaginase between April 2016 and September 2017, were included. Decisions made following receipt of asparaginase activity results were categorized as continuation, modification, premedication, or discontinuation. We included 129 patients (median age: 5.33 years) receiving 565 asparaginase doses. CARs were observed following 25 asparaginase doses (19/361 [5.3%] pegaspargase). A total of 224 asparaginase activity levels were ordered in 88 patients. Following receipt of 190 asparaginase activity results, asparaginase therapy was continued, modified, or premedicated in 188 (98.9%), 1 (0.005%), and 1 (0.005%) cases, respectively. Inadequate asparaginase activity was observed in three patients receiving Erwinia asparaginase. Asparaginase activity monitoring allowed patients with pegaspargase‐associated CAR and adequate activity to continue therapy unchanged and was cost neutral.
Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) reinforced polymer nanocomposite systems—A review
Authors: Gaddam Sashivinay Kumar , Pothu Ramyakrishna , Boddula Rajender
Published: October 2019

Research on polymer matrix‐enhancement using a carbon nanomaterial as the high‐potential filler has attracted considerable attention to meet the increasing demand for advanced polymer composites which show promising applications in a wide variety of fields. Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) is the most stable allotrope of carbon nitrides and its inherent electron‐rich properties, basic surface functionalities, and hydrogen bond motifs make it a potential candidate in catalysis and in other fields. This article reviews a new application of graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) as a reinforcement material into polymer composites. It focuses on the enhancement of tribological, thermomechanical, self‐healing, anticorrosion, and flame‐retardant properties hybrid composite materials via the incorporation of g‐C3N4 filler. The leading purpose of this review is to stress the significance of g‐C3N4 as a reinforcement material in polymer composites.
Shear Stress‐Dependent Viscosity Master Curves for Practical Applications
Authors: Steller Ryszard , Iwko Jacek
Published: October 2019

It was shown using several examples that the ratio of apparent viscosity and Newtonian viscosity at the same temperature as function of shear stress is independent of temperature. It means that viscosity curves for different homogeneous polymer systems measured in various temperatures create a common master curve, which is very convenient for practical calculations of many technically important flows. It was also shown that for such systems, the stress dependence can be often very well described by simple function of Kohlrausch type. Moreover, it was found that for small‐amplitude oscillatory shear, similar master curves can be created by representing the absolute value of complex viscosity or its components as functions of absolute value of complex modulus. For nonhomogeneous systems, second‐order temperature effects may appear. They were taken into account by additional rule based on the so‐called no‐flow temperature. It was also shown that the first normal stress difference as function of shear stress is temperature independent. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:44–54, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Keeping the human in the data scientist: Shaping human‐centered data science education
Authors: Anderson Theresa Dirndorfer , Parker Nicola
Published: October 2019

Human‐centered approaches are still relatively novel for data science practice, where data‐driven analytics are often framed as ways to supersede human judgments. This poster presents core design principles devised by the authors to build a data science curriculum foregrounding ethics and valuing creative human capacities alongside strong data analytic skills. The curriculum design transforms human‐centered principles into practice. The poster visually illustrates the trajectory of these principles in relation to three specific graduate attributes, using a selection of deep dives into the learning design. To illustrate the specific power information theory and practice has to shape data science training, the poster uses evocative quotes from information science theorists and displays how their work significantly influenced the overall philosophy of the program, student activities and assessments. Using ‘gamestorming’ techniques during the poster session, the audience is invited to contribute further insights about ways to nurture the deeply human capacities of the data scientists we train.