bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Much Oxygen Can a MXene Surface Take Before It Breaks?
Authors: Persson Ingemar , Halim Joseph , Hansen Thomas W. , Wagner Jakob B. , Darakchieva Vanya , Palisaitis Justinas , Rosen Johanna , Persson Per O. Å.
Published: February 2020

Tuning and tailoring of surface terminating functional species hold the key to unlock unprecedented properties for a wide range of applications of the largest 2D family known as MXenes. However, a few routes for surface tailoring are explored and little is known about the extent to which the terminating species can saturate the MXene surfaces. Among available terminations, atomic oxygen is of interest for electrochemical energy storage, hydrogen evolution reaction, photocatalysis, etc. However, controlled oxidation of the surfaces is not trivial due to the favored formation of oxides. In the present contribution, single sheets of Ti3C2Tx MXene, inherently terminated by F and O, are defluorinated by heating in vacuum and subsequentially exposed to O2 gas at temperatures up to 450 °C in situ, in an environmental transmission electron microscope. Results include exclusive termination by O on the MXene surfaces and eventual supersaturation (x > 2) with a retained MXene sheet structure. Upon extended O exposure, the MXene structure transforms into TiO2 and desorbs surface bound H2O and CO2 reaction products. These results are fundamental for understanding the oxidation, the presence of water on MXene surfaces, and the degradation of MXenes, and pave way for further tailoring of MXene surfaces.
Whole‐Genome Promoter Profiling of Plasma DNA Exhibits Diagnostic Value for Placenta‐Origin Pregnancy Complications
Authors: Guo Zhiwei , Yang Fang , Zhang Jun , Zhang Zhigang , Li Kun , Tian Qi , Hou Hongying , Xu Cailing , Lu Qianwen , Ren Zhonglu , Yang Xiaoxue , Lv Zenglu , Wang Ke , Yang Xinping , Wu Yingsong , Yang Xuexi
Published: February 2020

Placenta‐origin pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and macrosomia (MA) are common occurrences in pregnancy, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality for both mother and fetus. However, despite their frequency, there are no reliable methods for the early diagnosis of these complications. Since cfDNA is mainly derived from placental trophoblasts and maternal hematopoietic cells, it might have information for gene expression which can be used for disease prediction. Here, low coverage whole‐genome sequencing on plasma DNA from 2,199 pregnancies is performed based on retrospective cohorts of 3,200 pregnant women. Read depth in the promoter regions is examined to define read‐depth distribution patterns of promoters for pregnancy complications and controls. Using machine learning methods, classifiers for predicting pregnancy complications are developed. Using these classifiers, complications are successfully predicted with an accuracy of 80.3%, 78.9%, 72.1%, and 83.0% for MA, FGR, GDM, and PE, respectively. The findings suggest that promoter profiling of cfDNA may be used as a biological biomarker for predicting pregnancy complications at early gestational age.
4D Self‐Morphing Culture Substrate for Modulating Cell Differentiation
Authors: Miao Shida , Cui Haitao , Esworthy Timothy , Mahadik Bhushan , Lee Se‐jun , Zhou Xuan , Hann Sung Yun , Fisher John P. , Zhang Lijie Grace
Published: February 2020

As the most versatile and promising cell source, stem cells have been studied in regenerative medicine for two decades. Currently available culturing techniques utilize a 2D or 3D microenvironment for supporting the growth and proliferation of stem cells. However, these culture systems fail to fully reflect the supportive biological environment in which stem cells reside in vivo, which contain dynamic biophysical growth cues. Herein, a 4D programmable culture substrate with a self‐morphing capability is presented as a means to enhance dynamic cell growth and induce differentiation of stem cells. To function as a model system, a 4D neural culture substrate is fabricated using a combination of printing and imprinting techniques keyed to the different biological features of neural stem cells (NSCs) at different differentiation stages. Results show the 4D culture substrate demonstrates a time‐dependent self‐morphing process that plays an essential role in regulating NSC behaviors in a spatiotemporal manner and enhances neural differentiation of NSCs along with significant axonal alignment. This study of a customized, dynamic substrate revolutionizes current stem cell therapies, and can further have a far‐reaching impact on improving tissue regeneration and mimicking specific disease progression, as well as other impacts on materials and life science research.
3D Graphene‐Based H2‐Production Photocatalyst and Electrocatalyst
Authors: Kuang Panyong , Sayed Mahmoud , Fan Jiajie , Cheng Bei , Yu Jiaguo
Published: February 2020

Hydrogen (H2) has been deemed as the most promising and valuable alternative to nonrenewable fossil fuels. Photocatalytic and electrocatalytic water splitting are considered to be the most efficient and environmentally friendly approaches for the sustainable H2 evolution reaction (HER). Graphene with a 3D framework has been utilized for the HER due to its unique structure and properties, including its hierarchical network, large specific surface area, diverse pore distribution, outstanding light absorption ability, and excellent electrical conductivity. The large specific surface area and hierarchically porous structure of 3D graphene can not only maximize the exposure of active sites but also promote electron transfer and gas product diffusion. In addition, the free‐standing 3D graphene monolith is easily recycled compared with powder phase support, which can prevent the loss of active catalysts. By making full use of the aforementioned merits, 3D graphene‐based composite materials show great promise as high‐performance catalysts toward photocatalytic and electrocatalytic HER. In this review, recent advances in fabricating 3D graphene‐based composite materials and their applications in both photocatalytic and electrocatalytic HER are summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the current challenges and future vision associated with the design, fabrication, and integration of 3D graphene‐based composite materials toward HER are put forward.
A Montero Auction Mechanism to Regulate Antimicrobial Consumption in Agriculture
Authors: Belay Dagim G. , Abate Tenaw G. , Jensen Jørgen Dejgaard
Published: February 2020

Livestock production accounts for the lion's share of antibiotic consumption worldwide, and the sector is a significant contributor to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Because farmers do not consider the contribution of their individual consumption of antibiotics to AMR, regulations are necessary to ensure optimal use. However, previously suggested regulatory instruments are either inefficient or nearly impossible to implement, mainly because they fail to address the information asymmetry that exists between farmers and regulators. In this article, we customize and suggest an efficient and incentive‐compatible regulatory instrument for antibiotic use based on the Montero auction mechanism (2008). We analytically and empirically demonstrate that the proposed auction mechanism is welfare improving as compared to current regulations. For the empirical analysis, we calibrate a simulation model for the Danish livestock sector based on farm accounts data for different types of livestock farms and combine it with calibrated demand functions for antibiotic allowances and a calibrated damage function. Based on the simulation results and the implementation of systems such as the Danish VETSTAT (a detailed accounting of farmers' antibiotic use), we anticipate that the proposed mechanism can be effectively used in the future.
Adhesion between oppositely charged polyelectrolytes in salt solution
Authors: Alfhaid Latifah , Williams Nicholas H. , Geoghegan Mark
Published: February 2020

The adhesion at the aqueous interface between a polyacid hydrogel and a grafted polycation layer (brush) is shown to be reversible on the addition of sodium chloride, which screens the charges on the gel and brush. Furthermore, it is shown that a double‐network (DN) hydrogel both exhibits adhesive failure and stronger adhesion with the brush than a simple poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) hydrogel, which undergoes cohesive failure on detachment. The adhesive force at the hydrogel–brush interface significantly increases after adding dilute salt solution (of 0.001 M). Once the concentration of salt solution is raised above 0.05 M, both the adhesive force and work done in detaching both single‐network and DN hydrogels from the brush surface are notably reduced. This result confirms that reversible adhesion between a hydrogel and polymer brush in salt solutions is possible, although a DN gel is required for adhesive failure.
Feeding ecology and population delineation of south‐eastern Atlantic and south‐western Indian Ocean humpback whales using stable isotope analysis
Authors: Montanari Shaena , Kershaw Francine , Rosenbaum Howard C.
Published: February 2020

Population delineation is vital for effectively managing and protecting populations of all at‐risk species. Population boundaries of Southern Hemisphere humpback whales on their breeding and feeding grounds have not been fully resolved. A number of methods have been used to delineate breeding stocks of Southern Hemisphere humpbacks, but ecological characteristics determined via stable isotope analysis provide valuable information to contrast other data sources.

In this study, stable isotope analysis is used to investigate potential separation of humpback whale populations on Southern Hemisphere feeding grounds as evidenced by carbon and nitrogen isotope values in their skin as proxies of diet.

One hundred samples of whale skin obtained from biopsies in sampling localities off the coasts of Gabon, Mayotte (Mozambique Channel), and Madagascar were analysed for carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope ratios. The results showed a statistically significant difference in the mean δ15N values for whales between the populations from Gabon and Madagascar (7.0 ± 0.1‰ and 7.6 ± 0.1‰), and Gabon and Mayotte (7.6 ± 0.1‰ and 7.2 ± 0.1‰), indicating that these breeding stocks are potentially visiting different areas of the feeding grounds outside of the breeding season.

The results from this study indicate that at least some breeding stocks may show fidelity to separate feeding areas and do not widely mix with individuals from other breeding stocks while feeding.
Positive Effects of a Young Systemic Environment and High Growth Differentiation Factor 11 Levels on Chondrocyte Proliferation and Cartilage Matrix Synthesis in Old Mice
Authors: Li Lu , Wei Xiaochun , Wang Dongming , Lv Zhi , Geng Xiang , Li Pengcui , Lu Jiangong , Wang Kaihang , Wang Xiaohu , Sun Jian , Cao Xiaoming , Wei Lei
Published: February 2020

Objective

To investigate the effects of a young systemic environment and growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF‐11) on aging cartilage.

Methods

A heterochronic parabiosis model (2‐month‐old mouse and 12‐month‐old mouse [Y/O]), an isochronic parabiosis model (12‐month‐old mouse and 12‐month‐old mouse [O/O]), and 12‐month‐old mice alone (O) were evaluated. Knee joints and chondrocytes from old mice were examined by radiography, histology, cell proliferation assays, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction 16 weeks after parabiosis surgery. GDF‐11 was injected into 12‐month‐old mouse joints daily for 16 weeks. Cartilage degeneration, cell proliferation, and osteoarthritis‐related gene expression were evaluated.

Results

Osteoarthritis Research Society International scores in old mice were significantly lower in the Y/O group than in the O/O and O groups (both P < 0.05). The percentage of 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine–positive chondrocytes in old mice was significantly higher in the Y/O group than in the other groups (P < 0.05). Type II collagen (CII) and SOX9 messenger RNA levels differed in cartilage from old mice in the Y/O group compared to the O/O and O groups (both P < 0.05). RUNX‐2, CX, and matrix metalloproteinase 13 levels were significantly lower in cartilage from old mice in the Y/O group compared to the O/O and O groups (both P < 0.05). Similar results were obtained for protein expression levels and after GDF‐11 treatment in vitro and in vivo. Phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2/3) levels were higher in the recombinant GDF‐11–treated group than in the control group.

Conclusion

A young systemic environment promotes chondrocyte proliferation and cartilage matrix synthesis in old mice. GDF‐11, a “young factor,” contributes to these effects through the up‐regulation of pSmad2/3.
Spectrum of EGFR aberrations and potential clinical implications: insights from integrative pan‐cancer analysis
Authors: Liu Haijing , Zhang Bo , Sun Zhifu
Published: February 2020

Background

Human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an oncogenic gene and one of top targets of precision therapy in lung cancer with EGFR mutations. Although there are many reports for some individual cancers, comprehensive profiling of EGFR mutations, overexpression, amplification, DNA methylation, and their clinical associations across many different cancers simultaneously was not available. This study aimed to fill the gap and provide insights to the alteration spectrum of EGFR and its therapeutic and prognostic implications.

Methods

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets for 32 cancer types involving 11,314 patients were analyzed for alterations (mutations and amplification/deletion), abnormal expression and DNA methylation in EGFR gene. Mutation frequency, genomic location distribution, functional impact, and clinical targeted therapy implication were compared among different cancer types, and their associations with patient survival were analyzed.

Results

EGFR alteration frequency, mutation sites across functional domains, amplification, overexpression, and DNA methylation patterns differed greatly among different cancer types. The overall mutation frequency in all cancers combined was relatively low. Targetable mutations, mainly in lung cancer, were primarily found in the Pkinase_Tyr domain. Glioblastoma multiforme had the highest rate of alterations, but it was dominated by gene amplification and most mutations were in the Furin‐like domain where targeted therapy was less effective. Low‐grade glioma often had gene amplification and increased EGFR expression which was associated with poor outcome. Colon and pancreatic adenocarcinoma had very few EGFR mutations; however, high EGFR expression was significantly associated with short patient survival. Squamous cell carcinoma regardless of their sites (the head and neck, lung, or esophagus) exhibited similar characteristics with an alteration frequency of about 5.0%, was dominated by gene amplification, and had increased EGFR expression generally associated with short patient survival. DNA methylation was highly associated with EGFR expression and patient outcomes in some cancers.

Conclusions

EGFR aberration type, frequency, distribution in functional domains, and expression vary from cancer to cancer. While mutations in the Pkinase_Tyr domain are more important for treatment selection, increased expression from amplification or deregulation affects more tumor types and leads to worse outcome, which calls for new treatment strategies for these EGFR‐driven tumors.
A signature of 33 immune‐related gene pairs predicts clinical outcome in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sun Xiao‐Yan , Yu Shi‐Zhe , Zhang Hua‐Peng , Li Jie , Guo Wen‐Zhi , Zhang Shui‐Jun
Published: February 2020

Objective

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become the second most common tumor type that contributes to cancer‐related death worldwide. The study aimed to establish a robust immune‐related gene pair (IRGP) signature for predicting the prognosis of HCC patients.

Methods

Two RNA‐seq datasets (The Cancer Genome Atlas Program and International Cancer Genome Consortium) and one microarray dataset (GSE14520) were included in this study. We used a series of immune‐related genes from the ImmPort database to construct gene pairs. Lasso penalized Cox proportional hazards regression was employed to develop the best prognostic signature. We assigned patients into two groups with low immune risk and high immune risk. Then, the prognostic ability of the signature was evaluated by a log‐rank test and a Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

After 1000 iterations, the 33‐immune gene pair model obtained the highest frequency. As a result, we chose the 33 immune gene pairs to establish the immune‐related prognostic signature. As we expected, the immune‐related signature accurately predicted the prognosis of HCC patients, and high‐risk groups showed poor prognosis in the training datasets and testing datasets as well as in the validation datasets. Furthermore, the immune‐related gene pair (IRGP) signature also showed higher predictive accuracy than three existing prognostic signatures.

Conclusion

Our prognostic signature, which reflects the link between the immune microenvironment and HCC patient outcome, is promising for prognosis prediction in HCC.
Hyaluronan‐binding protein 1 (HABP1) overexpression triggers induction of senescence in fibroblasts cells
Authors: Vikramdeo Kunwar Somesh , Saha Paramita , Dutta Shubhra , Kumar Naveen , Roy Chowdhury Anindya , Kumar Sudhir , Tyagi Rakesh Kumar , Ghosh Ilora , Datta Kasturi
Published: February 2020

Hyaluronan‐binding protein 1 (HABP1), a multi‐compartmental, multi‐functional protein has a wide range of functions, which can be attributed to its ability to associate with a variety of cellular ligands. Earlier we have reported that HABP1 overexpression in rat normal fibroblasts (F‐HABP07) shows chronic generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), induction of autophagy, and apoptosis. However, a significant proportion of cells remained viable after the majority went through apoptosis from 60 to 72 h. In this study, an attempt has been made to delineate the cellular events in the declined population of surviving cells. It has been elucidated here that, these cells at later time points of growth, that is, 72 and 84 h, not only appeared to shrink but also are devoid of autophagic vacuoles and displayed polyploidy. F‐HABP07 cells exhibited an altered cytoskeletal structure from their parental cell line F111, assumed to be caused upon inhibition of actin polymerization and decrease in IQ motif‐containing GTPase activating protein 1 (IQGAP1), a key protein associated with maintenance of cytoskeletal integrity. Enhanced expression and nuclear localization of AKT observed in F‐HABP07 cells appears to be contributing toward the maintenance of high ROS levels in these cells and also potentially modulating the IQGAP1 activity. These observations, in fact have been considered to result in sustained DNA damage, which then leads to increased expression of p53 and activation of p21 and carry out the cellular events responsible for senescence. Subsequent assessment of the presence of positive β‐gal staining and enhanced expression of p16INK4a in F‐HABP07, confirmed that HABP1 overexpressing fibroblasts undergo senescence.
Comparative effectiveness research applied to medical devices: Which PFO closure device is the best?
Authors: Won Hoyoun , Carroll John D.
Published: February 2020

Key Points

Device‐to‐device comparisons are of interest and of potential practical value for clinicians.

The study design to achieve a high level of scientific evidence requires a prospective, multicenter, randomized trial with a large number of patients and addressing all important outcomes related to device effectiveness and safety.

The study by Fleming and coauthors comparing six different devices is provocative and interesting and has several virtues, but does not meet most of these standards, so readers should be cautious in deciding their device preferences.
A presumed case of Darbepoetin‐induced myocardial infarction in the patient with MDS‐RARS
Authors: Zafar Aneeqa Ahsan , Kouides Peter
Published: February 2020

Our case is only the 2nd such reported case of atherothrombosis from ESAs and highlights the increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients receiving erythropoietin‐stimulating agents specially patients with underlying MDS where targeting a lower hemoglobin goal and optimizing other cardiovascular risk factors might be beneficial in preventing future cardiovascular mortality.
Overview of Synthetic Methods to Prepare Plasmonic Transition‐Metal Nitride Nanoparticles
Authors: Karaballi Reem A. , Monfared Yashar E. , Dasog Mita
Published: February 2020

The search for new plasmonic materials that are low‐cost, chemically and thermally stable, and exhibit low optical losses has garnered significant attention among researchers. Recently, metal nitrides have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional, noble‐metal‐based plasmonic materials, such as silver and gold. Many of the initial studies on metal nitrides have focused on computational prediction of the plasmonic properties of these materials. In recent years, several synthetic methods have been developed to enable empirical analysis. This review highlights synthetic techniques for the preparation of plasmonic metal nitride nanoparticles, which are predominantly free‐standing, by using solid‐state and solid–gas phase reactions, nonthermal and arc plasma methods, and laser ablation. The physical properties of the nanoparticles, such as shape, size, crystallinity, and optical response, obtained with such synthetic methods are also summarized.
Experimentelle Untersuchung zur Mehrphasenströmung in öleingespritzten Mehrphasenschraubenspindelpumpen
Authors: Lottis Marian , Deeb Mohammad , Luke Andrea
Published: February 2020

Für die Förderung von Gemischen mit hohen Gasanteilen erfolgt die Entwicklung eines neuen Kühlkonzepts, indem das Prozessfluid in flüssiger Phase extern in die Förderkammer einer Mehrphasenpumpe eingespritzt wird. Neben der Regulierung des Thermomanagements trägt dies zur Spaltabdichtung bei, so dass der effektiv geförderte Volumenstrom steigt. Zur Untersuchung der Thermo‐ und Fluiddynamik einer solchen Mehrphasenpumpe wird ein transparentes Förderkammermodell der Pumpe mit externer Fluideinspritzung entwickelt. Das Förderkammermodell ermöglicht Experimente hinsichtlich der Fluiddynamik in den Spalten durch Variation der Anzahl und Richtung der Einspritzungen.
A coupled one dimension and transmission line model for arterial flow simulation
Authors: Baker Nathaniel , Clarke Richard , Ho Harvey
Published: February 2020

A broad choice of numerical schemes and methods currently exists for blood flow simulations. The results rely critically on the prescription of boundary conditions. The outflow boundary condition for a one‐dimensional (1D) flow solver is usually prescribed via a Windkessel or lumped parameter model. The weakness of such an approach is the determination of the parameters. In the present work, we use an alternative approach, that is, a reflection coefficient (RC), to lumped parameter models for distal boundary conditions. With such a RC, the number of parameters required is reduced to one. We derive the theoretical foundation for the RC. Specifically, we couple a transmission line theory for peripheral resistance with a 1D arterial flow solver. We apply this method to a healthy and a stenosed virtual aorta, and show this method can reproduce some subtle features in arterial pressure propagation, such as the steepened pressure waveform and the reflection from the stenosed site. In summary, the RC parameter has strong physical implications in the theory of wave propagation and may be used in flow simulations where reflections need to be explicitly modeled.

Novelty Statement

A novel coupled one‐dimensional‐transimission line model has been developed in this work with detailed implementations.

Only one outflow boundary condition, that is, the refection coefficient is required in the model.

Reflections for a pulse wave from aortic terminals as well as from a stenotic site are numerically simulated.
Assessment and treatment of sleep problems in bipolar disorder—A guide for psychologists and clinically focused review
Authors: Morton Emma , Murray Greg
Published: February 2020

Sleep problems are highly prevalent in bipolar disorder (BD) and constitute an important therapeutic focus in this population: They are highly impairing and distressing, are an area of subjective importance to consumers, and likely play a role in predicting/triggering mood episodes. The aim of this review is to orient psychologists and psychotherapists to current research relevant to their clinical practice with people with BD, including (a) the prevalence and presentation of sleep problems, (b) the impacts and correlates of impaired sleep, and (c) the relationship between sleep problems and mood symptoms (including the predictive/triggering role of sleep in BD mood relapses). Detailed recommendations for assessment and cognitive–behavioural intervention strategies for use in BD are described. It will be concluded that although some sleep problems and comorbidities require interdisciplinary collaboration, a range of evidence‐informed strategies can be effectively and appropriately applied by clinical psychologists and psychotherapists.
Unraveling complex traits in wheat: Approaches for analyzing genotype × environment interactions in a multienvironment study of falling numbers
Authors: Sjoberg Stephanie M. , Carter Arron H. , Steber Camille M. , Garland‐Campbell Kimberly A.
Published: February 2020

Multienvironment trials provide useful information about highly variable, complex plant traits like yield and quality but are difficult to analyze due to their frequently unbalanced nature, with genotypes and locations varying from year to year. Our objective was to use multiple approaches, including joint regression and principal components analysis, to characterize patterns in the genotype × environment interactions across an unbalanced 3‐yr multienvironment wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) variety trial dataset, examining falling number (FN) test results in wheat. The FN test measures the decrease in flour gelling capacity resulting from starch digestion by the enzyme α‐amylase. Low FN and high‐α‐amylase grain is discounted because it is associated with poor end‐use quality. Low FN can be caused by susceptibility either to preharvest sprouting when it rains before harvest or to late‐maturity α‐amylase induction by temperature fluctuations during grain maturation. The most effective and visually intuitive approach for selecting varieties with high FN across variable environments was a combination of joint regression, such as Finlay–Wilkinson and Eberhart and Russell, with biplot methods such as the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model (AMMI) and the genotype main effects and genotype × environment interaction model (GGE). We identify stable lines for FN resistance and provide a means to analyze unbalanced, multienvironment data from breeding and variety trials.
RNA chaperones: Potential candidates for engineering salt tolerance in rice
Authors: Ganie Showkat Ahmad
Published: February 2020

RNA chaperone activity is crucial for proper folding and expression of messenger RNAs under abiotic stresses. There is functional conservation of plant and bacterial RNA chaperones, and they have been characterized mainly with respect to cold stress. The aim of this article was to compile all published rice (Oryza sativa L.) RNA chaperone genes, and to logically associate their RNA chaperone activity with salt tolerance. Based on the effects on transgenic plants under other abiotic stresses and the related published literature about the role of RNA chaperones in other plant species, I speculate that rice RNA chaperones are promising candidates for engineering salt tolerance in rice. Existing microarray data, showing that RNA chaperones of rice are highly responsive to salinity, are reviewed. Future functional studies will be required to characterize the range of functions of RNA chaperones in rice and other plants. Research avenues proposed in this review article provide a potential path to exciting research on rice salt tolerance.
Energy‐efficient void avoidance geographic routing protocol for underwater sensor networks
Authors: Alasarpanahi Hamed , Ayatollahitafti Vahid , Gandomi Abolfazl
Published: February 2020

Underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs) consist of a group of sensors that send the information to the sonobuoys at the surface level. Void area, however, is one of the challenges faced by UWSNs. When a sensor falls in a void area of communication, it causes problems such as high latency, power consumption, or packet loss. In this paper, an energy‐efficient void avoidance geographic routing protocol (EVAGR) has been proposed to handle the void area with low amount of energy consumption. In this protocol, a suitable set of forwarding nodes is selected using a weight function, and the data packets are forwarded to the nodes inside the set. The weight function includes the consumed energy and the depth of the candidate neighboring nodes, and candidate neighboring node selection is based on the packet advancement of the neighboring nodes toward the sonobuoys. Extensive simulation experiments were performed to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed protocol. Simulation results revealed that the proposed protocol can effectively achieve better performance in terms of energy consumption, packet drop, and routing overhead compared with the similar routing protocol.
Message trust‐based secure multipath routing protocol for opportunistic networks
Authors: Dhurandher Sanjay K. , Singh Jagdeep , Woungang Isaac , Kumar Raghav , Gupta Geetanshu
Published: February 2020

Opportunistic networks (OppNets) are composed of wireless nodes opportunistically communicating with each other. These networks are designed to operate in a challenging environment characterized by high delay, intermittent connectivity, and no guarantee of fixed path between the sender and the destination nodes. One of the most vital issues in designing and maintaining practical networks over a time period is the security of the messages flowing in OppNets. This paper proposes a new method called message trust‐based secure multipath routing protocol (MT‐SMRP) for opportunistic networks. Various routing protocols such as ProPHet, Epidemic, and HiBOp, to name a few, have been proposed for OppNets, but none of these have applied a secure multipath routing technique. The proposed MT‐SMRP scheme relays the message to the destination through the disjoint paths, each applying a soft‐encryption technique to prevent message fabrication attacks. Simulations are conducted using the Haggle Infocom'06 real mobility data traces, showing that when time‐to‐live is varied, (1) the proposed MT‐SMRP scheme outperforms D‐MUST by 18.10%, 7.55%, 3.275%, respectively, in terms of delivery probability, messages dropped, and average latency; (2) it also outperforms SHBPR by 21.30%, 7.44%, and 4.85%, respectively, in terms of delivery probability, messages dropped, and average latency. Under similar performance metrics, the performance of MT‐SMRP is also shown to be better than that of D‐MUST and SHBPR when the buffer size (respondents. the message generation interval) is varied.
Impact of diabetes on clinical outcome of patients with heart failure undergoing ICD and CRT procedures: results from the German Device Registry
Authors: Kaya Elif , Senges Jochen , Hochadel Matthias , Eckardt Lars , Andresen Dietrich , Ince Hüseyin , Spitzer Stefan G. , Kleemann Thomas , Maier Sebastian S.K. , Jung Werner , Stellbrink Christoph , Rassaf Tienush , Wakili Reza
Published: February 2020

Aims

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has a negative impact on prognosis in patients with heart failure (HF). The role impact of DM in HF patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices might differ and remains unclear. The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of DM on periprocedural complications and clinical outcome in HF patients undergoing ICD or CRT implantation.

Methods and results

Within the German Device Registry, data from 50 German centres were collected between January 2007 and February 2014. A retrospective analysis of n = 5329 patients undergoing ICD implantation was conducted. Patients' characteristics, procedural data, periprocedural complications, and post‐procedural clinical outcome, including a composite clinical endpoint of all‐cause mortality, stroke, and myocardial infarction (MACCE), were analysed. Subgroup analysis were performed for ICD and CRT implantations. Median follow‐up was 15.7 (12.9; 20.0) and 16.2 (12.8; 21.2) months in DM and non‐DM patients. Of 5329 patients enrolled, n = 1448 (27.2%) had a diagnosis of DM. Within the cohort, 94% of DM and 90% of non‐DM patients had a diagnosis of HF. Patients with DM were older, had higher body mass index, and higher rate of cardiovascular comorbidities compared with non‐DM patients. Unadjusted and adjusted analyses revealed similar all‐over intrahospital periprocedural complication rates in both groups (4.1% vs 3.9%). Unadjusted Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed higher all‐cause mortality after 1 year (9.0% vs 6.3%; log‐rank P = 0.001) with higher MACCE rates (10.0% vs 7.3%; P < 0.001) in the DM group versus non‐DM patients. After multivariable adjustment for relevant covariates, the association of DM to MACCE disappeared [HR 1.11 (0.89‐1.38)]. Because chronic kidney disease (CKD) was clearly associated with increased 1 year MACCE after multivariate adjustment [odds ratio (OR) 2.11 (1.68–2.64)], a subgroup analysis was performed showing a strong trend towards more perioperative complications in DM patients with CKD [OR 2.16 (0.9–5.21)], while no effect of DM was observed in patients without CKD [OR 0.73 (0.42–1.28)].

Conclusions

The overall risk of periprocedural complications and short‐term (1 year) clinical outcome in patients with DM and HF undergoing ICD or CRT defibrillator (CRT‐D) implantation was not increased. In contrast, CKD was associated with an increased risk of 1 year MACCE in HF patients undergoing ICD/CRT‐D implantation.
Distinct variation in taste quality of Congou black tea during a single spring season
Authors: Yu Penghui , Huang Hao , Zhao Xi , Zhong Ni , Zheng Hongfa , Gong Yushun
Published: February 2020

The quality of Congou black tea fluctuates greatly with the changing seasons. However, variations in the taste quality of Congou black tea manufactured during a single spring season are far from clear. Here, we analyzed the taste quality of HuangJinCha (HJC) Congou black tea using sensory evaluation and found the taste quality of black tea manufactured in the early spring was better than that manufactured in the late spring. Principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis for the data from the electronic tongue confirmed the variation and revealed that April 4 may be the critical time point at which variations in taste quality become apparent. The contents of tea polyphenols (TP), total catechins (TC), total flavones, (‐)‐epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), (‐)‐epicatechin gallate (ECG), and gallic acid (GA) showed increasing trends, whereas total amino acids (TAA) declined over time. Moreover, the variations in total amino acids (r = 0.846) and total flavones (r = ‐ 0.858) were highly significantly correlated with the average taste quality score (p < .01), suggesting these compounds were the primary factors responsible for the fluctuation in taste quality of Congou black tea processed during a single spring season.
Optimal Tilt Angle Determination for PV Panels Using Real Time Data Acquisition
Authors: Sharma Manoj Kumar , Kumar Deepak , Dhundhara Sandeep , Gaur Dipesh , Verma Yajvender Pal
Published: February 2020

Solar energy is one of the promising renewable energy sources which has the potential to meet the future energy demand around the world. To maximize the irradiance fall, solar panels are generally equipped with a motor tracking system and are placed at a specific tilt angle. However, tracking methods are not cost‐effective and a fixed tilt angle is not productive. This study proposes a method for harnessing maximum output from photovoltaic (PV) panels throughout the year by determining the optimal tilt angle. The investigation is performed on real‐time solar PV panels of 5 kWp rated capacity installed at 10°, 20°, 25°, 30°, and 40° angle on the rooftop of engineering institute situated at Chandigarh, India. The real‐time power generation response for a year is used to find the optimal tilt angle. The results obtained from the practical setup are validated by comparing it with the simulation results of the regression analysis. In addition, the impact of the optimal angle on total power generation and carbon emissions is analyzed. The results reveal that the proposed approach is quite effective to increase the power generation of PV panels up to 7–8% and can be practically implemented in any location throughout the world.
Transoral robotic surgery for recurrent cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract—Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hardman John , Liu ZiWei , Brady Grainne , Roe Justin , Kerawala Cyrus , Riva Francesco , Clarke Peter , Kim Dae , Bhide Shreerang , Nutting Christopher , Harrington Kevin , Paleri Vinidh
Published: February 2020

Background

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for recurrent head and neck (H&N) cancer is an emerging but relatively infrequent procedure.

Methods

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies reporting survival data and functional outcomes for patients undergoing TORS for previously treated H&N cancers.

Results

Eight hundred seventy‐eight records were identified, of which eight were eligible for inclusion, covering 161 cases (range 1‐64). The pooled rates were as follows: 2‐year overall survival 73.8% (4 studies, range 70.6‐75.0, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 65.4 to 81.5, [I2 0.0%, P = 1.0]); 2‐year disease‐free survival 74.8% (4 studies, range 56.2‐92.0, 95% CI 63.3 to 84.8, [I2 36.9%, P = .2]); postoperative hemorrhage 9.3% (4 studies, range 3.3‐13.3, 95% CI 4.7 to 15.1, [I2 0.0%, P = .5]).

Conclusions

Functional and oncological outcomes are favorable, although the follow‐up is limited in the literature. Larger cohorts with longer follow‐up are needed for definitive conclusions to be drawn.
Baseline and interim PET‐based outcome prediction in peripheral T‐cell lymphoma: A subgroup analysis of the PETAL trial
Authors: Schmitz Christine , Rekowski Jan , Müller Stefan P. , Hertenstein Bernd , Franzius Christiane , Ganser Arnold , Bengel Frank M. , Kroschinsky Frank , Kotzerke Jörg , La Rosée Paul , Freesmeyer Martin , Hoeffkes Heinz‐Gert , Hertel Andreas , Behringer Dirk , Mesters Rolf , Weckesser Matthias , Mahlmann Stefan , Haberkorn Uwe , Martens Uwe , Prange‐Krex Gabriele , Brenner Winfried , Giagounidis Aristoteles , Moeller Regina , Runde Volker , Sandmann Matthias , Hautzel Hubertus , Wilop Stefan , Krohn Thomas , Dürk Heinz , Heike Michael , Alashkar Ferras , Brinkmann Marcus , Trenn Guido , Wacker Dietmar , Kreisel‐Büstgens Christiane , Bernhard Helga , Heil Gerhard , Larisch Rolf , Kurch Lars , Jöckel Karl‐Heinz , Hoelzer Dieter , Klapper Wolfram , Boellaard Ronald , Dührsen Ulrich , Hüttmann Andreas
Published: February 2020

The prospective randomized Positron Emission Tomography (PET)‐Guided Therapy of Aggressive Non‐Hodgkin Lymphomas (PETAL) trial was designed to test the ability of interim PET (iPET) to direct therapy. As reported previously, outcome remained unaffected by iPET‐based treatment changes. In this subgroup analysis, we studied the prognostic value of baseline total metabolic tumor volume (TMTV) and iPET response in 76 patients with T‐cell lymphoma. TMTV was measured using the 41% maximum standardized uptake value (SUV41max) and SUV4 thresholding methods. Interim PET was performed after two treatment cycles and evaluated using the ΔSUVmax approach and the Deauville scale. Because of significant differences in outcome, patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)‐positive lymphoma were analyzed separately from patients with ALK‐negative lymphoma. In the latter, TMTV was statistically significantly correlated with progression‐free survival, with thresholds best dichotomizing the population, of 232 cm3 using SUV41max and 460 cm3 using SUV4. For iPET response, the respective thresholds were 46.9% SUVmax reduction and Deauville score 1‐4 vs 5. The proportion of poor prognosis patients was 46% and 29% for TMTV by SUV41max and SUV4, and 29% and 25% for iPET response by ΔSUVmax and Deauville, respectively. At diagnosis, the hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) for poor prognosis vs good prognosis patients according to TMTV was 2.291 (1.135‐4.624) for SUV41max and 3.206 (1.524‐6.743) for SUV4. At iPET, it was 3.910 (1.891‐8.087) for ΔSUVmax and 4.371 (2.079‐9.187) for Deauville. On multivariable analysis, only TMTV and iPET response independently predicted survival. Patients with high baseline TMTV and poor iPET response (22% of the population) invariably progressed or died within the first year (hazard ratio, 9.031 [3.651‐22.336]). Due to small numbers and events, PET did not predict survival in ALK‐positive lymphoma. Baseline TMTV and iPET response are promising tools to select patients with ALK‐negative T‐cell lymphoma for early allogeneic transplantation or innovative therapies.
Reproductive factors and risk of breast cancer by tumor subtypes among Ghanaian women: A population‐based case–control study
Authors: Figueroa Jonine D. , Davis Lynn Brittny C. , Edusei Lawrence , Titiloye Nicholas , Adjei Ernest , Clegg‐Lamptey Joe‐Nat , Yarney Joel , Wiafe‐Addai Beatrice , Awuah Baffour , Duggan Maire A. , Wiafe Seth , Nyarko Kofi , Aitpillah Francis , Ansong Daniel , Hewitt Stephen M. , Ahearn Thomas , Garcia‐Closas Montserrat , Brinton Louise A. ,   the Ghana Breast Health Study Team
Published: February 2020

Higher proportions of early‐onset and estrogen receptor (ER) negative cancers are observed in women of African ancestry than in women of European ancestry. Differences in risk factor distributions and associations by age at diagnosis and ER status may explain this disparity. We analyzed data from 1,126 cases (aged 18–74 years) with invasive breast cancer and 2,106 controls recruited from a population‐based case–control study in Ghana. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated for menstrual and reproductive factors using polytomous logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders. Among controls, medians for age at menarche, parity, age at first birth, and breastfeeding/pregnancy were 15 years, 4 births, 20 years and 18 months, respectively. For women ≥50 years, parity and extended breastfeeding were associated with decreased risks: >5 births vs. nulliparous, OR 0.40 (95% CI 0.20–0.83) and 0.71 (95% CI 0.51–0.98) for ≥19 vs. <13 breastfeeding months/pregnancy, which did not differ by ER. In contrast, for earlier onset cases (<50 years) parity was associated with increased risk for ER‐negative tumors (p‐heterogeneity by ER = 0.02), which was offset by extended breastfeeding. Similar associations were observed by intrinsic‐like subtypes. Less consistent relationships were observed with ages at menarche and first birth. Reproductive risk factor distributions are different from European populations but exhibited etiologic heterogeneity by age at diagnosis and ER status similar to other populations. Differences in reproductive patterns and subtype heterogeneity are consistent with racial disparities in subtype distributions.
Supramolecular Polymers – we've Come Full Circle
Authors: Aida Takuzo , Meijer E.W.
Published: February 2020

Since the first polymers were discovered, scientists have debated their structures. Before Hermann Staudinger published the brilliant concept of macromolecules, polymer properties were generally believed to be based on the colloidal aggregation of small particles or molecules. From 1920 onwards, polymers and macromolecules are synonymous with each other; i. e. materials made by many covalent bonds connecting monomers in 2 or 3 dimensions. Although supramolecular interactions between macromolecular chains are evidently important, e. g. in nylons, it was unheard of to proposing polymeric materials based on the interaction of small molecules. Breakthroughs in supramolecular chemistry, however, showed that polymer materials can be made by small molecules using strong directional secondary interactions; the field of supramolecular polymers emerged. In a way, we have come full circle. In this essay we give a personal story about the birth of supramolecular polymers, with special emphasis on their structures, way of formation, and the dynamic nature of their bonding. The adaptivity of supramolecular polymers has become a major asset for novel applications, e. g. in the direction for the sustainable use of polymers, but also in biomedicine and electronics as well as self‐healing materials. The lessons learned in the past years include aspects that forecast a bright future for the use of supramolecular interactions in polymer materials in general and for supramolecular polymers in particular. In order to give full tribute to Staudinger in the year celebrating 100 years of macromolecules, we will show that many of the concepts of macromolecular polymers apply to supramolecular polymers, with only one important difference with fascinating consequences: the dynamic nature of the bonds that form polymer chains.
MT‐102 prevents tissue wasting and improves survival in a rat model of severe cancer cachexia
Authors: Pötsch Mareike S. , Ishida Junichi , Palus Sandra , Tschirner Anika , von Haehling Stephan , Doehner Wolfram , Anker Stefan D. , Springer Jochen
Published: February 2020

Background

Cachexia, a common manifestation of malignant cancer, is associated with wasting of skeletal muscle and fat tissue. In this study, we investigated the effects of a new first in class anabolic catabolic transforming agent on skeletal muscle in a rat model of cancer cachexia.

Methods

Young male Wistar Han rats were intraperitoneally inoculated with 108 Yoshida hepatoma AH‐130 cells and once daily treated with 0.3 mg kg−1, 3 mg kg−1 MT‐102, or placebo by gavage.

Results

Three mg kg−1d−1 MT‐102 not only prevented progressive loss of fat mass (−6 ± 2 g vs ‐12 ± 1 g; P < 0.001); lean mass (+1 ± 10 g vs. −37 ± 2 g; P < 0.001) and body weight (+1 ± 13 g vs. −60 ± 2 g; P < 0.001) were remained. Quality of life was also improved as indicated by a higher food intake 12.9 ± 3.1 g and 4.3 ± 0.5 g, 3 mg kg−1d−1 MT‐102 vs. placebo, respectively, P < 0.001) and a higher spontaneous activity (52 369 ± 6521 counts/24 h and 29 509 ± 1775 counts/24 h, 3 mg·kg‐1d‐1 MT‐102 vs. placebo, respectively, P < 0.01) on Day 11. Most importantly, survival was improved (HR = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.16–0.51, P < 0.001). The molecular mechanisms behind these effects involve reduction of overall protein degradation and activation of protein synthesis, assessed by measurement of proteasome and caspase‐6 activity or Western blot analysis, respectively.

Conclusions

The present study shows that 3 mg kg−1 MT‐102 reduces catabolism, while inducing anabolism in skeletal muscle leading to an improved survival.