bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real‐time corrosion monitoring of aluminium alloys under chloride‐contaminated atmospheric conditions
Authors: Diler Erwan , Peltier Fabienne , Becker Johan , Thierry Dominique
Published: February 2021

In this study, the use of electrical resistance (ER) sensors to monitor the corrosion of Al94Cu6 alloy is assessed and compared with 2024‐T3 coupons. Under uniform corrosion, a good correlation was found between the ER sensors and mass loss on coupons. Three different chloride depositions are studied: (i) pre‐contamination with dry/wet cycles, (ii) Volvo standard accelerated corrosion test and (iii) neutral salt spray test. The obtained results show good reproducibility of the ER sensors under all tested conditions. This suggests that ER sensors more levelled the effect of localised corrosion through a large surface evaluation compared with cross‐sections. The corrosion thickness obtained with the ER sensors does not correspond to the mean depth obtained by cross‐sections. This can be explained by the distribution and size of the localised corrosion events according to a finite element model proposed. The ER method allows obtaining useful real‐time corrosion data for the understanding of the corrosion mechanisms and the development of accelerated tests. The chloride concentration, the frequency of salt application and wet/dry cycles have a strong influence on the corrosion rate of aluminium alloys.
Molecular Weight Distribution of Two Types of Living Chains Formed during Nitroxide‐Mediated Polymerization of Styrene
Authors: Kim Kyoungho , Lee Jieun , Cho Hong Y. , Lee Eun Ho , Lee Seo‐Hui , Chang Taihyun , Jeon Heung Bae , Paik Hyun‐jong
Published: February 2021

Different types of polymer chains generated during the nitroxide‐mediated polymerization of styrene are separated for the first time, and their molecular weight distribution (MWD) is investigated. Living and dead chains are monitored during the reaction; specifically, two types of living chains derived from the initiation of the alkoxyamine (RT) and the self‐initiation of styrene and dead chains present in the as‐prepared polystyrene (PS). To distinguish between each polymer species, different numbers of hydroxyl groups are introduced onto the T and R groups of the alkoxyamine (one and two groups, respectively). Each living and dead chains is resolved according to the distinct number of hydroxyl groups on its chain‐end using high‐performance liquid chromatography. Molecular structures of the fractionated PS are characterized using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and the results of which show two distinct initiation paths: one originating from RT and the other from the self‐initiation of styrene. Molecular weight and MWD are measured using size‐exclusion chromatography and reveal a narrow MWD for the living chains derived from RT. Contrastingly, a broad and skewed MWD is observed for the other living chains derived from the self‐initiation of styrene and the dead chains.
Constructing Cylindrical Nanostructures Via Directional Morphology Evolution Induced by Seeded Polymerization
Authors: Shen Liangliang , Lu Qunzan , Chen Qiumeng , Li Yahui , Wu Xuan , Shen Jianliang
Published: February 2021

Herein, spindle‐shaped block copolymer (BCP) nanoparticles are used in seeded polymerization of methyl methacrylate as a novel approach to generating cylindrical nanostructures. The chain‐extension of BCP seeds by an amorphous coil‐type polymer within the seed core composed of semifluorinated liquid‐crystalline blocks triggers the deforming, stretching, and directional growth of the seeds along the long axis, eventually leads to nanorods.
Prevention of mammary carcinogenesis in MMTV‐neu mice by targeting RLIP
Authors: Singhal Jyotsana , Kulkarni Prakash , Horne David , Awasthi Sanjay , Salgia Ravi , Singhal Sharad S.
Published: February 2021

The overexpression and amplification of the protooncogene neu (ERBB2) play an important role in the development of aggressive breast cancer (BC) in humans. Ral‐interacting protein (RLIP), a modular stress‐response protein with pleiotropic functions, is overexpressed in several types of cancer, including BC. Here, we show that blocking RLIP attenuates the deleterious effects caused by the loss of the tumor suppressor p53 and inhibits the growth of human BC both in vitro and in vivo in MMTV‐neu mice. In addition, we show that treatment with the diet‐derived, RLIP‐targeting chemotherapeutic 2′‐hydroxyflavanone (2HF), alone or in combination with RLIP‐specific antisense RNA or antibodies, significantly reduced the cumulative incidence and/or burden of mammary hyperplasia and carcinoma in MMTV‐neu mice. 2HF treatment correlated with reduced tumor cell proliferation and increased apoptosis, and the average number of Ki67‐positive (proliferating) cells was significantly lower in the tumors of 2HF‐treated mice than in the tumors of control mice. Furthermore, targeting RLIP also resulted in the overexpression of E‐cadherin and the infiltration of CD3+ T cells into mammary tumors. Taken together, these results underscore the translational potential of RLIP‐targeting agents and provide a strong rationale to validate them in the clinic.
α‐Synuclein Spread from Olfactory Bulb Causes Hyposmia, Anxiety, and Memory Loss in BAC‐SNCA Mice
Authors: Uemura Norihito , Ueda Jun , Yoshihara Toru , Ikuno Masashi , Uemura Maiko T. , Yamakado Hodaka , Asano Masahide , Trojanowski John Q. , Takahashi Ryosuke
Published: February 2021

Background

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) show motor symptoms as well as various non‐motor symptoms. Postmortem studies of PD have suggested that initial alpha‐synuclein (α‐Syn) pathology develops independently in the olfactory bulb and lower brainstem, spreading from there stereotypically. However, it remains unclear how these two pathological pathways contribute to the clinicopathological progression of PD.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the clinicopathological contribution of α‐Syn spread from the olfactory bulb.

Methods

We conducted pathological and behavioral analyses of human α‐Syn bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic mice injected with α‐Syn preformed fibrils into the bilateral olfactory bulb up to 10 months postinjection.

Results

α‐Syn preformed fibril injections induced more widespread α‐Syn pathology in the transgenic mice than that in wild‐type mice. Severe α‐Syn pathology in the transgenic mice injected with α‐Syn preformed fibrils was initially observed along the olfactory pathway and later in the brain regions that are included in the limbic system and have connections with it. The α‐Syn pathology was accompanied by regional atrophy, neuron loss, reactive astrogliosis, and microglial activation, which were remarkable in the hippocampus. Behavioral analyses revealed hyposmia, followed by anxiety‐like behavior and memory impairment, but not motor dysfunction, depression‐like behavior, or circadian rhythm disturbance.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that α‐Syn spread from the olfactory bulb mainly affects the olfactory pathway and limbic system as well as its related regions, leading to the development of hyposmia, anxiety, and memory loss in PD. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Closed‐Loop Deep Brain Stimulation for Essential Tremor Based on Thalamic Local Field Potentials
Authors: He Shenghong , Baig Fahd , Mostofi Abteen , Pogosyan Alek , Debarros Jean , Green Alexander L. , Aziz Tipu Z. , Pereira Erlick , Brown Peter , Tan Huiling
Published: February 2021

Background

High‐frequency thalamic stimulation is an effective therapy for essential tremor, which mainly affects voluntary movements and/or sustained postures. However, continuous stimulation may deliver unnecessary current to the brain due to the intermittent nature of the tremor.

Objective

We proposed to close the loop of thalamic stimulation by detecting tremor‐provoking movement states using local field potentials recorded from the same electrodes implanted for stimulation, so that the stimulation is only delivered when necessary.

Methods

Eight patients with essential tremor participated in this study. Patient‐specific support vector machine classifiers were first trained using data recorded while the patient performed tremor‐provoking movements. Then, the trained models were applied in real‐time to detect these movements and triggered the delivery of stimulation.

Results

Using the proposed method, stimulation was switched on for 80.37 ± 7.06% of the time when tremor‐evoking movements were present. In comparison, the stimulation was switched on for 12.71 ± 7.06% of the time when the patients were at rest and tremor‐free. Compared with continuous stimulation, a similar amount of tremor suppression was achieved while only delivering 36.62 ± 13.49% of the energy used in continuous stimulation.

Conclusions

The results suggest that responsive thalamic stimulation for essential tremor based on tremor‐provoking movement detection can be achieved without any requirement for external sensors or additional electrocorticography strips. Further research is required to investigate whether the decoding model is stable across time and generalizable to the variety of activities patients may engage with in everyday life. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The Rh blood group system and its role in alloimmunization rate among sickle cell disease and sickle thalassemia patients in Iran
Authors: Jalali Far Mohammad Ali , Oodi Arezoo , Amirizadeh Naser , Mohammadipour Mahshid , Keikhaei Dehdezi Bijan
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The alloimmunization following blood transfusion can be life‐threatening. The Rh alloantibodies are one of the most common causes contributing to alloimmunization. This study aimed to evaluate the rate and causes of alloimmunization and to determine the Rh phenotypes and genotypes among sickle cell disease (SCD) and sickle thalassemia (Sβ).

Materials and Methods

Our study included 104 SCD and Sβ patients referring to Baghaei 2 Hospital of Ahvaz in 2019 using a non‐random simple sampling method. The blood samples were collected for Rh phenotypes, alloantibody screening and identification, and molecular tests. The SSP‐PCR and RFLP methods with the Pst 1 enzyme were used.

Results

The alloimmunization rate was 9.6% and 13.2% based on immunohematological tests and medical records, respectively. The main alloantibodies (90%) were anti‐Rh, and 40% of the patients had multiple alloantibodies. A significant correlation was found between gender and alloimmunization. The phenotypes of DCce (37.5%), DCcEe (24%), Dce (20.2%), and dce (5.8%) and genotypes of R1r (25%), R1R2 (20.2%), R1R1 (18.3%), and R1R0 (10.6%) were the most prevalent. The R1R2 was a frequent genotype in Sβ.

Conclusion

R0r′ and R1R0 genotypes were limited to our population in Iran. Due to the differences in RH genotypes between our population and others, the blood transfusion from other ethnicities increased our total alloimmunization rate.
MHA releases largest real‐time data from MH help‐seekers
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2021

Throughout the COVID‐19 pandemic, Mental Health America (MHA) has witnessed increasing numbers of people experiencing anxiety, depression, psychosis, loneliness and other mental health concerns, according to the release Feb. 3 of its 2020 full‐year data from its real‐time online mental health screening program.
Transient performance analysis of a heliostat field: Using artificial neural network to predict the net radiation
Authors: M. Salilih Elias , M. Abusorrah Abdullah , H. Abu‐Hamdeh Nidal
Published: February 2021

The dynamic analysis of the relative position of the sun ray from the heliostat mirrors in a heliostat solar field is performed. Solar angles, such as solar azimuth and solar elevation angles, are carried out in hourly basis for selected 4 days chosen as representative days to investigate the solar angles for the four seasons of the year. The dynamic position of each heliostat mirror relative to the south and ground is also simulated in this study. Surface azimuth and surface tilt angles are the two variables, which are modeled to determine the position of the mirrors. Furthermore, the hourly variation of the incident angle of the sun ray on each surface of the mirror is determined using well‐established set of equations. By utilizing artificial neural network (ANN) and the calculated hourly incident angles of each mirror, the hourly direct normal irradiance (DNI) data of the considered site, and surface area of the mirrors, the total amount of radiation power reflected by the heliostat field is determined in hourly basis for a whole year. The total daily reflected energy of the field was calculated for 365 days. The daily energy reflected by the heliostat field was maximum during January 20 and June 28 with the approximated value of 100 kWh/day. Finally, monthly mean energy output of the field was compared for the 12 months of the year. The average energy output of the heliostat field ranged from 65.00 to 65.27 kWh/day.
Multiple solutions for a class of noncooperative critical nonlocal system with variable exponents
Authors: Song Yueqiang , Shi Shaoyun
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we consider a class of noncooperative critical nonlocal system with variable exponents of the form:

where
is the gradient of a C1‐function
with respect to the variable
. We also assume that
, here
is the critical Sobolev exponent for variable exponents. With the help of the limit index theory and the concentration‐compactness principles for fractional Sobolev spaces with variable exponents, we establish the existence of infinitely many solutions for the problem under the suitable conditions on the nonlinearity.
A partial inverse Sturm‐Liouville problem on an arbitrary graph
Authors: Bondarenko Natalia P.
Published: February 2021

The Sturm‐Liouville operator with singular potentials of class
on a graph of arbitrary geometrical structure is considered. We study the partial inverse problem, which consists in the recovery of the potential on a boundary edge of the graph from a subspectrum under the assumption that the potentials on the other edges are known a priori. We obtain (i) the uniqueness theorem, (ii) a reconstruction algorithm, (iii) global solvability, and (iv) local solvability and stability for this inverse problem. Our method is based on reduction of the partial inverse problem on a graph to the Sturm‐Liouville problem on a finite interval with entire analytic functions in the boundary condition.
Spatial segregation limit of competition systems and free boundary problems
Authors: Lou Bendong , Yang Jian
Published: February 2021

We consider a PDE/ODE system for two pairs of competing species and study the spatial segregation limit as the interspecific competition rate tends to infinity. We show that the limiting problem is a one‐phase Stefan problem for nonlinear diffusion equations.
Infinitely many solutions for a generalized p(·)‐Laplace equation involving Leray–Lions type operators
Authors: Hai Ha Hoang , Ho Ky , Sim Inbo
Published: February 2021

We study the existence of infinitely many solutions for a generalized p(·)‐Laplace equation involving Leray–Lions operators. Firstly, under a p(·)‐sublinear condition for nonlinear term, we obtain a sequence of solutions approaching 0 by showing a new a priori bound for solutions. Secondly, for a p(·)‐superlinear condition, we produce a sequence of solutions whose Sobolev norms diverge to infinity when the nonlinear term satisfies a couple of generalized Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz type conditions in which each associated energy functional holds the Palais–Smale condition. Lastly, we deal with a case without the Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz type condition in which an associated energy functional holds the Cerami condition and establish a sequence of solutions whose Sobolev norms diverge to infinity.
Existence of positive solutions of second‐order delayed differential system on infinite interval
Authors: Ding Ran , Wang Fanglei , Yang Nannan , Ru Yuanfang
Published: February 2021

The present paper is focused on the analysis on the existence of positive solutions of a second‐order differential system with two delays

by using two well‐known fixed point theorems.
Perturbation and construction of almost self‐located robust frames with applications to erasure recovery
Authors: Jiang Zhen , Yang Shouzhi , Zheng Xianwei
Published: February 2021

In the frame theory, stability is one of the most important properties of frames. In this paper, we investigate the stability of the almost self‐located robust frames, which can reconstruct signals from its unordered partial frame coefficients. We give conditions on the stability of almost self‐located robustness of frames in erasure recovery. We prove that the property of almost self‐located robustness is preserved with respect to an invertible operator, and consequently, every almost self‐robust frame can be transformed into an almost self‐located robust Parseval frame by using a special invertible transformation. We also present some construction methods of almost self‐located robust frames. In particular, we show that every frame can be rescaled to an almost self‐located frame after adding a suitable vector.
Development and evaluation of a GEANT4‐based Monte Carlo Model of a 0.35 T MR‐guided radiation therapy (MRgRT) linear accelerator
Authors: Khan Ahtesham Ullah , Simiele Eric A. , Lotey Rajiv , DeWerd Larry A. , Yadav Poonam
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The aim of this work was to develop and benchmark a magnetic resonance (MR)‐guided linear accelerator head model using the GEANT4 Monte Carlo (MC) code. The validated model was compared to the treatment planning system (TPS) and was also used to quantify the electron return effect (ERE) at a lung–water interface.

Methods

The average energy, including the spread in the energy distribution, and the radial intensity distribution of the incident electron beam were iteratively optimized in order to match the simulated beam profiles and percent depth dose (PDD) data to measured data. The GEANT4 MC model was then compared to the TPS model using several photon beam tests including oblique beams, an off‐axis aperture, and heterogeneous phantoms. The benchmarked MC model was utilized to compute output factors (OFs) with the 0.35 T magnetic field turned on and off. The ERE was quantified at a lung–water interface by simulating PDD curves with and without the magnetic field for 6.6 × 6.6  and 2.5 × 2.5  field sizes. A 2%/2 mm gamma criterion was used to compare the MC model with the TPS data throughout this study.

Results

The final incident electron beam parameters were 6.0 MeV average energy with a 1.5 MeV full width at half maximum (FWHM) Gaussian energy spread and a 1.0 mm FWHM Gaussian radial intensity distribution. The MC‐simulated OFs were found to be in agreement with the TPS‐calculated and measured OFs, and no statistical difference was observed between the 0.35 T and 0.0 T OFs. Good agreement was observed between the TPS‐calculated and MC‐simulated data for the photon beam tests with gamma pass rates ranging from 96% to 100%. An increase of 4.3% in the ERE was observed for the 6.6 × 6.6  field size relative to the 2.5 × 2.5  field size. The ratio of the 0.35 T PDD to the 0.0 T PDD was found to be up to 1.098 near lung–water interfaces for the 6.6 × 6.6  field size using the MC model.

Conclusions

A vendor‐independent Monte Carlo model has been developed and benchmarked for a 0.35 T/6 MV MR‐linac. Good agreement was obtained between the GEANT4 and TPS models except near heterogeneity interfaces.
Accelerated white matter lesion analysis based on simultaneous T1 and T2∗ quantification using magnetic resonance fingerprinting and deep learning
Authors: Hermann Ingo , Martínez‐Heras Eloy , Rieger Benedikt , Schmidt Ralf , Golla Alena‐Kathrin , Hong Jia‐Sheng , Lee Wei‐Kai , Yu‐Te Wu , Nagtegaal Martijn , Solana Elisabeth , Llufriu Sara , Gass Achim , Schad Lothar R. , Weingärtner Sebastian , Zöllner Frank G.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To develop an accelerated postprocessing pipeline for reproducible and efficient assessment of white matter lesions using quantitative magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) and deep learning.

Methods

MRF using echo‐planar imaging (EPI) scans with varying repetition and echo times were acquired for whole brain quantification of and in 50 subjects with multiple sclerosis (MS) and 10 healthy volunteers along 2 centers. MRF and parametric maps were distortion corrected and denoised. A CNN was trained to reconstruct the and parametric maps, and the WM and GM probability maps.

Results

Deep learning‐based postprocessing reduced reconstruction and image processing times from hours to a few seconds while maintaining high accuracy, reliability, and precision. Mean absolute error performed the best for (deviations 5.6%) and the logarithmic hyperbolic cosinus loss the best for (deviations 6.0%).

Conclusions

MRF is a fast and robust tool for quantitative and mapping. Its long reconstruction and several postprocessing steps can be facilitated and accelerated using deep learning.
On the implementation and validation of a three‐dimensional pressure‐dependent bounding surface plasticity model for soil nonlinear wave propagation and soil‐structure interaction analyses
Authors: Zhang Wenyang , Lim Keng‐Wit , Ghahari S. Farid , Arduino Pedro , Taciroglu Ertugrul
Published: February 2021

Numerous experiments and prior analyses have confirmed that soil inelasticity, which is known to come into effect even at very low strain levels, can significantly affect site response and dynamic soil‐structure interaction (SSI) behavior. To date, only a few studies were able to consider multi‐axial wave propagation problems with appropriate models of soil nonlinearity. Most existing works are limited to either homogeneous soil configurations or equivalent linear soil models. The instances wherein soil nonlinearity is accurately considered have been confined to single element tests and one‐dimensional problems. In this study, an improved pressure‐dependent bounding surface plasticity soil model—with appropriate plastic strain rate direction definition and overshooting correction scheme—is implemented in Abaqus, and validated using recordings from both the Lotung borehole array and centrifuge test data on embedded flexible structures. The implemented model is capable of comprehensively reproducing complex soil behaviors, such as stiffness degradation, damping, dilatancy, and compaction while under a wide strain range, and under general loading conditions using only a few material parameters to be calibrated. Consequently, numerically predicted results are observed to be in better agreement with experimentally measured data, in comparison with linear and another plasticity model, which include accelerations, and bending and hoop strains along the walls of the specimen structures, for low‐ as well as high‐amplitude input motions.
Synthesis and comparison of in‐situ carbon‐decorated sodium manganese vanadium phosphate cathode and sodium‐ion full‐cell configurations
Authors: Niu Yubin , Yi Zhaoyan , Zhao Yanan , Xu Maowen
Published: February 2021

Carbon‐decorated Na3.5Mn0.5V1.5(PO4)3 (NMVP@C) composite was synthesized by one‐step solid‐state method. As a cathode material, the as‐obtained material shows a pair of significant redox peaks with highly reversible discharge capacity of 102.8 mAh g–1 at a current density of 100 mA g–1. More optimistically, when increased to 1600 mA g–1, a capacity retention of 69.6% (54.7 mAh g–1) can still be maintained even after 10000 cycles. The electrochemical performance of full‐cell consisted of NMVP@C as cathode and NaTi2(PO4)3 (NTP) or commercialized hard carbon (HC) as anode was tested. The results show that both full‐cells display a pair of obvious redox peaks whose equilibrium potentials are about 1.29 and 3.35 V, respectively, and exhibit excellent capacity and rate performance. At a current density of 1600 mA g–1, they deliver high discharge capacities of 75.4 and 78.2 mAh g–1, respectively. After 2343 cycles, NMVP@C//NTP can achieve a specific capacity of 42.4 mAh g–1, that is 58.2% of initial specific capacity, and that of NMVP@C//HC is only 35.7%. Overall, whether for half‐ or full‐cell, NMVP@C shows excellent electrochemical performance, demonstrating that our synthesis strategy is effective in improving performance.
Dual actions of 5‐MeO‐DIPT at the serotonin transporter and serotonin 5‐HT1A receptor in the mouse striatum and prefrontal cortex
Authors: Hagino Yoko , Hall Frank Scott , Uhl George R. , Sora Ichiro , Ikeda Kazutaka
Published: February 2021

Aims

5‐Methoxy‐N,N‐diisopropyltryptamine (5‐MeO‐DIPT) is a synthetic orally active hallucinogenic tryptamine analogue. The present study examined whether the effects of 5‐MeO‐DIPT involve the serotonin transporter (SERT) and serotonin 5‐hydroxytryptamine‐1A (5‐HT1A) receptor in the striatum and prefrontal cortex (PFC).

Methods

We investigated the effects of 5‐MeO‐DIPT on extracellular 5‐HT (5‐HTex) and dopamine (DAex) levels in the striatum and PFC in wildtype and SERT knockout (KO) mice using in vivo microdialysis, and for comparison the effects of the 5‐HT1A receptor antagonist WAY100635 and the 5‐HT1A receptor agonist 8‐OH‐DPAT on 5‐HTex.

Results

5‐MeO‐DIPT decreased 5‐HTex levels in the striatum, but not PFC. In SERT‐KO mice, 5‐MeO‐DIPT did not affect 5‐HTex levels in the striatum or PFC. In the presence of WAY100635, 5‐MeO‐DIPT substantially increased 5‐HTex levels, suggesting that 5‐MeO‐DIPT acts on SERT and these effects are masked by its 5‐HT1A actions in the absence of WAY100635. 8‐OH‐DPAT decreased 5‐HTex levels in the striatum and PFC in wildtype mice. WAY100635 antagonized the 8‐OH‐DPAT‐induced decrease in 5‐HTex levels. In SERT‐KO mice, 8‐OH‐DPAT did not decrease 5‐HTex levels in the striatum and PFC. 5‐MeO‐DIPT dose‐dependently increased DAex levels in the PFC, but not striatum, in wildtype and SERT‐KO mice. The increase in DAex levels that was induced by 5‐MeO‐DIPT was not antagonized by WAY100635.

Conclusion

5‐MeO‐DIPT influences both 5‐HTex and DAex levels in the striatum and PFC. 5‐MeO‐DIPT dually acts on SERT and 5‐HT1A receptors so that elevations in 5‐HTex levels produced by reuptake inhibition are limited by actions of the drug on 5‐HT1A receptors.
Effects of RORγt overexpression on the murine central nervous system
Authors: Sasaki Tetsuya , Nagata Rei , Takahashi Satoru , Takei Yosuke
Published: February 2021

Objective

T helper 17 (Th17) cells are a subset of CD4+ T cells that produce interleukin (IL)‐17A. Recent studies showed that an increase in circulating IL‐17A causes cognitive dysfunction, although it is unknown how increased systemic IL‐17A affects brain function. Using transgenic mice overexpressing RORγt, a transcription factor essential for differentiation of Th17 cells (RORγt Tg mice), we examined changes in the brain caused by chronically increased IL‐17A resulting from excessive activation of Th17 cells.

Results

RORγt Tg mice exhibited elevated Rorc and IL‐17A mRNA expression in the colon, as well as a chronic increase in circulating IL‐17A. We found that the immunoreactivity of Iba1 and density of microglia were lower in the dentate gyrus of RORγt Tg mice compared with wild‐type mice. However, GFAP+ astrocytes were unchanged in the hippocampi of RORγt Tg mice. Levels of synaptic proteins were not significantly different between RORγt Tg and wild‐type mouse brains. In addition, novel object location test results indicated no difference in preference between these mice.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that a continuous increase of IL‐17A in response to RORγt overexpression resulted in decreased microglia activity in the dentate gyrus, but had only a subtle effect on murine hippocampal functions.
Geophysical investigations for the identification of active seismic faults below alluvium for seismic hazard assessment
Authors: Cercato Michele , De Donno Giorgio , Desideri Francesco Saverio , Di Giambattista Luca
Published: February 2021

The existence of active faults hidden below Quaternary alluvium is a common geological scenario for intermontane basins, such as the areas struck by the recent earthquakes in Central Italy, and is of great importance for seismic hazard evaluation. Finding hidden faults is a challenging task from the geophysicist's point of view since the goal is twofold: to identify the seismic bedrock at a certain depth; and to detect lateral variations or dislocations that may indicate the presence of a fault. We propose a mixed approach encompassing at first single‐station seismic noise measurements, to detect sudden lateral variations in the bedrock surface in a fast and cost‐effective way, which might serve as a proxy for the potential identification of fault zones. Then, more accurate electrical resistivity tomography investigations are carried out only at selected sites as indicated by the preliminary noise analysis, as electrical methods cannot effectively be employed at a large scale for time and economic limitations. Surface‐wave dispersion analysis is jointly interpreted together with ambient noise data to improve the seismic characterization of the alluvium, giving further insight on the assessment of the depth to bedrock. The proposed approach can be an effective way to manage and investigate a large portion of the territory within a sensible budget, as commonly needed in seismic hazard assessment and microzonation studies. We present a real‐world application to the San Vittorino Plain (Central Italy) close to the epicentre of the 24 August 2016 Amatrice earthquake, where the geological faulted bedrock is covered by alluvial sediments of the Velino River up to a maximum estimated thickness of 150–200 m. Although engineered for the post‐earthquake reconstruction emergency, the approach employed in our study can be adopted in other areas of similar geology, to ease the application of seismic microzonation in time of seismic silence as a tool for long‐term land planning and management.
The Effect of Concomitant Proton Pump Inhibitor and Cabozantinib on the Outcomes of Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Rassy Elie , Cerbone Luigi , Auclin Edouard , Benchimoll-Zouari Axelle , Flippot Ronan , Alves Costa Silva Carolina , Colomba Emeline , Geraud Arthur , Guida Annalisa , Mir Olivier , Combarel David , Paci Angelo , Escudier Bernard , Albiges Laurence
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Cabozantinib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is approved for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Cabozantinib is a weak base that exhibits a pH-dependent solubility profile in vitro which raises concerns about its bioavailability in patients treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether PPI use has an impact on the efficacy, safety, and residual concentration (Ctrough) of cabozantinib in patients with mRCC.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective review of a prospectively collected electronic database of patients with mRCC who received cabozantinib at Gustave Roussy between February 2014 and December 2018. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis and the Cox proportional-hazard model for uni- and multivariate analysis. In parallel, we conducted a pharmacokinetic study of cabozantinib in a distinct cohort of 50 mRCC patients, in which cabozantinib Ctrough was assayed using a validated tandem mass spectrometry–liquid chromatography method.

Results

We identified 99 patients treated with cabozantinib, including 43 patients being PPI users. With a median follow-up of 30.3 months, PPI users showed similar progression-free survival and overall survival outcomes compared with PPI nonusers. Similarly, the incidence of adverse events was not significantly different between the PPI users and nonusers, although PPI users required dose reductions more often. In the independent pharmacokinetic cohort, of whom 21 received PPI concomitantly, Ctrough was similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

In line with the pharmacologic data, the concomitant use of PPI does not significantly impact the efficacy or safety of cabozantinib in patients with mRCC.

Implications for Practice

Drug interactions, especially between targeted therapies and proton pump inhibitors (PPI), were shown to potentially impact the outcomes of cancer patients. Cabozantinib, a current therapeutic standard in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), exhibits a pH-dependent solubility profile, which raises concerns about its bioavailability in patients treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPI). At the present time, there is no evidence regarding the effect of PPIs on cabozantinib's efficacy and safety in patients with mRCC. This study found that the concomitant use of PPI during cabozantinib treatment in mRCC patients does not appear to impact the residual concentration, efficacy, and safety of cabozantinib in a real-life context.
A Novel Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma with STRN Exon 2 and ALK Exon 20: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Miyagawa Chiho , Takaya Hisamitsu , Sakai Kazuko , Nishio Kazuto , Konishi Maho , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Shimada Toshihide , Matsumura Noriomi
Published: February 2021

Recently, several malignant peritoneal mesotheliomas (MPMs), occurring in young women without asbestos exposure and with fusion genes such as anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) and Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1, have been reported. In the present case, we encountered MPM with STRN-ALK fusion in a 17-year-old female adolescent. The case did not respond to chemotherapy and is currently in a clinical trial of alectinib. This is the fourth reported case of MPM with STRN-ALK fusion. Of the 45 cancer cases with STRN-ALK fusion in which the fusion partners were examined, all cases except for the current case showed fusion of exon 3 of STRN and exon 20 of ALK. This is the first case with fusion of exon 2 of STRN and exon 20 of ALK. Further advances in cancer genomic medicine may help clarify the clinical significance of this new fusion.

Key Points

Malignant peritoneal mesotheliomas (MPMs) can occur in young women without asbestos exposure and show fusion genes that activate anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) by gene rearrangement. ALK rearrangement and the fusion partner can be detected by companion diagnostics and by next generation sequencing. Patients with MPMs with ALK rearrangement may benefit from target therapy.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Nigeria
Authors: Ijezie Ogochukwu Ann , Okagbue Hilary Izuchukwu , Oloyede Olufemi Adebari , Heaslip Vanessa , Davies Philip , Healy Jane
Published: February 2021

This article chronicles the present situation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Nigeria. A systematic search was conducted on three bibliographic databases: MEDLINE Complete, Web of Science and Scopus, and supplemented with grey literature searches to assess studies on the effect of COVID‐19 on these individuals in Nigeria with data on this group from December 2019 to July 2020. There were no studies found concerning individuals with IDD in Nigeria. This article argues for an urgent call to action by Nigerian policymakers to make data available to help understand the impact of COVID‐19 and to develop and implement appropriate interventions. This article provides steps to support and care for these individuals in Nigeria. Forecasting models are recommended which offer better approaches in yielding accurate predictions and provide valuable decisions in the event of future threats and infectious disease outbreak in Nigeria.
FINANCING THE WAR ON DRUGS: THE IMPACT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT GRANTS ON RACIAL DISPARITIES IN DRUG ARRESTS
Authors: Cox Robynn , Cunningham Jamein P.
Published: February 2021

This study estimates the impact of the discretionary Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Program (EBMGP) on drug arrests and crime. The 1986 and 1988 Anti‐Drug Abuse Act allocated federal funds to state and local municipalities to combat illicit drug use and violent crime associated with drug sales and trafficking. The results show that the implementation of the EBMGP resulted in an increase in police hiring, an increase in drug sales arrest rates for Blacks and Whites, and a decrease in total crime. Nonetheless, Black‐White racial disparity in the drug sales arrest rate still significantly increases by approximately 1 for every 1,000 Black residents. Our findings highlight the role of federal crime control policies in state and local policing. Although, the EBMGP was a color‐blind policy initiative, it was not race neutral in its implementation.
Experimental and numerical investigation of T‐joints with multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Li Qian , Zhu Ming , Tao Guo Quan , Xie Cong
Published: February 2021

Combined experimental and numerical methods were used to study the mechanical properties of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) enhanced composite T‐joints in this article. Herein, an enhanced interface model was created based on the interface mechanical properties with MWCNTs obtained by a flatwise tension test and a single‐lap shear test. Then, the finite element model of composite T‐joints with MWCNTs was developed with a cohesive zone model to study the damage initiation, evolution, and final failure process of T‐joints. Meanwhile, a quasi‐static tensile test of the T‐joints was carried out to compare with the numerical analysis results. The study results showed that the out‐of‐plane tensile strength and the in‐plane shear strength of MWCNTs enhanced composite increased by up to 26.3%(@3 g/m2) and 23.4%(@2 g/m2), respectively. The properties of the filler, which was the weakest part of the T‐joints, can be enhanced by adding MWCNTs. The overall bearing capacity of the T‐joints was 18.8%(@2 g/m2 MWCNTs) increase under tensile loading. Predictions given by the FEM of composite T‐joints were in good agreement with the experimental results. This article provides a method for analyzing and predicting the complex composite structure enhanced with MWCNTs, which can be used for functional structure design.
When learners lead themselves: A psychometric investigation of the Revised Self‐Leadership Questionnaire in Thais
Authors: Boonyarit Itsara
Published: February 2021

Self‐leadership is an ability to influence oneself, which is considered as an instrumental part of personal effectiveness. In the current study, the Revised Self‐Leadership Questionnaire was translated into Thai, called the RSLQ‐Thai Version, and its psychometric properties of construct validity were examined using structural equation modeling. Packages of questionnaires, including the RSLQ‐Thai Version and its related variables, were administered to 350 undergraduate students in a university located in North Thailand. Data were analysed using structural equation modeling. Results provided support for the evidence of the construct validity of the RSLQ‐Thai Version. Evidence for convergent validity, a second‐order factor model of self‐leadership, with respect to the two alternative models, reported better fit indices. This means that the scale is assessing self‐leadership, which is consistent with its own theoretical construct. Moreover, dimensions of self‐leadership were distinct from extraversion and conscientiousness, revealing evidence of discriminant validity. Evidence of nomological validity supported the theoretical network of the self‐leadership construct. Self‐leadership had a significant positive direct effect on academic self‐efficacy and had positive indirect effects on satisfaction with life, flourishing, and academic performance through academic self‐efficacy as the mediator. Implications for future research are discussed.
Strategies to attenuate the competence regulon in Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Lella Muralikrishna , Tal‐Gan Yftah
Published: February 2021

Streptococcus pneumoniae is an opportunistic respiratory human pathogen that poses a continuing threat to human health. Natural competence for genetic transformation in S. pneumoniae plays an important role in aiding pathogenicity and it is the best‐characterized feature to acquire antimicrobial resistance genes by a frequent process of recombination. In S. pneumoniae, competence, along with virulence factor production, is controlled by a cell‐density communication mechanism termed the competence regulon. In this review, we present the recent advances in the development of alternative methods to attenuate the pathogenicity of S. pneumoniae by targeting the various stages of the non‐essential competence regulon communication system. We mainly focus on new developments related to competitively intercepting the competence regulon signaling through the introduction of promising dominant‐negative Competence Stimulating Peptide (CSP) scaffolds. We also discuss recent reports on antibiotics that can block CSP export by disturbing the proton motive force across the membrane and various ways to control the pneumococcal pathogenicity by activating the counter signaling circuit and targeting the pneumococcal proteome.
Tailoring the rheology and electrical properties of polyamide 66 nanocomposites with hybrid filler approach: graphene and carbon nanotubes
Authors: Palacios Jordana K , Ben Fekih Achraf , Yus Argon Cristina , Irusta Silvia , Jestin Simon , Dagréou Sylvie
Published: February 2021

The aim was to improve the processability and reduce the melt viscosity of well‐known nanocomposites based on polyamide 66 (PA66) and carbon nanotubes (CNT), while keeping the good electrical conductivity gained after the addition of CNT. Thus, a nanocomposite based on PA66 as the thermoplastic matrix and 3% of CNT was selected. At this composition, a percolated network is created and the material is electrically conductive. The approach followed was the addition of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) of two different lateral sizes to obtain a PA66 nanocomposite with hybrid filler: CNT/GNP. In addition, a third nanocomposite of PA66 with GNP only was prepared for comparison purposes. The rheological characterization determined that adding 1% of GNP of 2 μm particle size decreased the viscosity of the system by 87%. However, the electrical conductivity was diminished to some extent, from 10−5to 10−9 S cm−1approximately. The Cross rheology model described successfully the experimental rheological data. The CNT/GNP nanocomposite exhibited faster relaxations, almost four orders of magnitude, in comparison with the CNT nanocomposite but slower than the GNP nanocomposite. The nanoparticles improved the crystallization ability of PA66 acting as nucleating agents and increasing the PA66 crystallization temperature by almost 10 °C. Self‐nucleation experiments demonstrated a supernucleation feature of the hybrid filler. The nucleation efficiency was about 500%. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
The sputter deposition of broadband transparent and highly conductive cerium and hydrogen co‐doped indium oxide and its transfer to silicon heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Tutsch Leonard , Sai Hitoshi , Matsui Takuya , Bivour Martin , Hermle Martin , Koida Takashi
Published: February 2021

Indium oxide doped with tin (ITO) is the most commonly used material for lateral transport window layers in silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells, as it currently offers the best combination of physical properties, industrial deposition capability, and module reliability. However, typically applied ITO layers by far do not exploit the full electro‐optical potential of the indium oxide material class, resulting in optical and electrical losses limiting the solar cell efficiency. In this work, cerium and hydrogen co‐doped indium oxide thin films are developed for their application as high‐performance transparent conductive oxide layers in SHJ devices. Amorphous In2O3:Ce,H layers are fabricated via radio frequency magnetron sputtering, before being crystallized during post‐deposition thermal treatments compatible with the SHJ temperature stability. The resulting excellent electro‐optical film properties are on par with values so far solely reported for reactive plasma deposited films. It is shown that the surface morphology of the substrate (planar or textured) has a strong impact on the film properties, and further, the critical role of the atmosphere present during post‐deposition annealing is elucidated. Finally, the large potential of an optimally processed In2O3:Ce,H window layer in SHJ cells is demonstrated, quantified by a gain in short circuit current density of 0.6 mA/cm2 without impairing the resistive losses in comparison to the usage of a baseline ITO layer.
Effect of natural extract from waste corn meal on stabilization of natural rubber
Authors: Promhuad Khwanchat , Prasopdee Thridsawan , Smitthipong Wirasak
Published: February 2021

Natural rubber (NR) consists of rubber and non‐rubber components. Under prolonged storage, non‐rubber components of NR promote network or gel formation and increase Mooney viscosity, a phenomenon otherwise known as the storage hardening phenomenon. Generally, NR properties can be stabilized by commercial synthetic stabilizers such as hydroxylamine sulfate, hydrazine stearate, and so forth. The objective of this study is to prepare constant viscosity (CV) NR with natural extract (NE) from waste corn meal. The effect of NE on storage hardening of NR was investigated. Several types of samples were prepared: NR without stabilizer, NR with 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 phr (parts per hundred rubber) of NE. Samples were characterized immediately and after 12 weeks of storage time at room temperature. Physical and mechanical properties of all NR samples changed with time, but less with 2.0 phr NE because it inhibits network formation within NR. These results suggest NE is a natural stabilizer for preparing environmentally friendly CV natural rubber.
Phenyl(triazolyl)carbene revisited: Unique role of triazolyl group on carbene chemistry
Authors: Hirai Katsuyuki , Yamaguchi Masao , Okazaki Takao , Kitagawa Toshikazu , Tomioka Hideo
Published: February 2021

The chemistry of (1,4‐diphenyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐yl)(phenyl)carbenes (1T), originally reported by Smith et al., was reinvestigated by using modern spectroscopic methods as well as density functional theory (DFT) calculations, and the results were compared with that observed for analogous diphenylcarbene (1H) to clarify the role of triazole group in diarylcarbene chemistry. Product analysis indicated that 1T gave two intramolecular cyclization products (2 and 3) formed as a result of a formal attack of carbene on the phenyl rings at 1‐ and 4‐positions of the triazole ring. The results were closely similar to that observed for 1H. The behaviors of triplet carbene 31T were directly monitored not only by electron spin resonance (ESR) and UV‐Vis spectroscopic methods in rigid matrix at low temperature but also by laser flash photolysis in solution at room temperature and compared with those observed for 31H. Whereas the lifetime of 31T was some 2 orders of magnitude longer than that of 31H, the reactivity of 31T toward typical triplet trapping reagents was greater than that of 31H. In order to elucidate these rather conflicting observations, geometries and relative energies of carbenes 1T and 1H as well as species involved in the reactions leading to the final products were calculated by the DFT method. The results are interpreted as indicating that 31H decays by participating in the reaction of upper‐lying 11H much more easily than 31T. The difference in the reactivity toward external trapping reagents is explicable by taking into account the difference in steric crowdedness around carbene center between the two.