bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic characteristics of a solar‐aided coal‐fired power generation system under direct normal irradiance (DNI) feedforward control
Authors: Pang Liping , Lv Peixin , Duan Liqiang , Yang Yongping
Published: December 2019

A solar‐aided coal‐fired power generation (SAPG) system is a new type of power generation system in the field of solar thermal power generation. However, the instability of solar radiation will cause fluctuations in steam temperature, which is unfavorable for the operation of boilers and steam turbines. Based on a 600 MW subcritical coal‐fired power generation unit, TRNSYS software is applied to establish a transient simulation model of SAPG in this paper. A dynamic feedforward control system for steam temperature is set up. Some essential parameters, such as the fuel consumption rate, solar‐heated steam extraction rate, water spraying flow rate, and flue gas damper opening, are under the control of direct normal irradiance (DNI). Then, the dynamic characteristics of SAPG are analyzed using typical weather data. The simulation results show that under the fuel‐saving mode, when solar irradiation changes, the SAPG system achieves a coal reduction of 4.9% by using the steam temperature control system with DNI feedforward control, and the main steam temperature fluctuation is less than 5°C with the reheat steam temperature reduced within a reasonable range. The power generation fluctuation is less than 10 MW, and the solar‐to‐electricity efficiency reaches 22.5%. Some parameters on both the flue gas side and the water/steam side in the utility boiler are simulated to demonstrate the effectiveness of DNI control.
Trombe walls with phase change materials: A review
Authors: Omara Adil A. M. , Abuelnuor Abuelnuor A. A.
Published: December 2019

Solar energy utilization for covering the heating loads of buildings is an innovative and clean way to reduce electricity consumption. A Trombe wall is a classical passive solar heating system used in buildings. Increasing the weights and volumes of Trombe walls can increase their heat storage capacities. However, this process increases a building's dead load, which is considered a problem by structural engineers. Among the alternatives for solving this problem is to use phase change materials (PCMs) for higher heat storage. This work presents a comprehensive review on the different advantages of integrating PCMs with Trombe walls. The article shows that the satisfactory heat storage capacity of PCMs can improve indoor air thermal circulation and decrease indoor air temperature fluctuations. In addition, the effectiveness of PCMs in providing protection from overheating, and improving the efficiency of the energy management process and energy saving of Trombe walls is demonstrated.
Corporate foresight as a microfoundation of dynamic capabilities
Authors: Schwarz Jan Oliver , Rohrbeck René , Wach Bernhard
Published: December 2019

The dynamic capabilities perspective is aimed at explaining how firms achieve and sustain competitive advantages, especially in environments that become volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA). In this paper, we combine factors that explain dynamic capabilities on the firm level with factors of dynamic managerial capabilities on the individual level. In addition to the dynamic capabilities theory, we draw on corporate foresight (CF) literature to test the impact of CF training. We find that both the organizational‐level practices and the individual‐level training of leaders are positively associated with firm‐level outcomes. We further observe that this relationship is mediated by dynamic managerial capabilities (i.e., the ability of leaders to challenge current business models, make decisions under uncertainty, and reconfigure organizational resources). Our findings emphasize the importance of training leaders and building organizational CF practices to build the dynamic capabilities needed in VUCA environments.
Gpr126/Adgrg6 contributes to the terminal Schwann cell response at the neuromuscular junction following peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Jablonka‐Shariff Albina , Lu Chuieng‐Yi , Campbell Katherine , Monk Kelly R. , Snyder‐Warwick Alison K.
Published: December 2019

Gpr126/Adgrg6 is an adhesion G protein‐coupled receptor essential for Schwann cell (SC) myelination with important contributions to repair after nerve crush injury. Despite critical functions in myelinating SCs, the role of Gpr126 within nonmyelinating terminal Schwann cells (tSCs) at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), is not known. tSCs have important functions in synaptic maintenance and reinnervation, and after injury tSCs extend cytoplasmic processes to guide regenerating axons to the denervated NMJ. In this study, we show that Gpr126 is expressed in tSCs, and that absence of Gpr126 in SCs (SC‐specific Gpr126 knockout, cGpr126) results in a NMJ maintenance defect in the hindlimbs of aged mice, but not in young adult mice. After nerve transection and repair, cGpr126 mice display delayed NMJ reinnervation, altered tSC morphology with decreased S100β expression, and reduced tSC cytoplasmic process extensions. The immune response promoting reinnervation at the NMJ following nerve injury is also altered with decreased macrophage infiltration, Tnfα, and anomalous cytokine expression compared to NMJs of control mice. In addition, Vegfa expression is decreased in muscle, suggesting that cGpr126 non‐cell autonomously modulates angiogenesis after nerve injury. In sum, cGpr126 mice demonstrated delayed NMJ reinnervation and decreased muscle mass following nerve transection and repair compared to control littermates. The integral function of Gpr126 in tSCs at the NMJ provides the framework for new therapeutic targets for neuromuscular disease.
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Derived From Liver Mesenchymal Cells Mediates Tight Junction Assembly in Mouse Intrahepatic Bile Ducts
Authors: Sato Ayako , Kakinuma Sei , Miyoshi Masato , Kamiya Akihide , Tsunoda Tomoyuki , Kaneko Shun , Tsuchiya Jun , Shimizu Taro , Takeichi Eiko , Nitta Sayuri , Kawai‐Kitahata Fukiko , Murakawa Miyako , Itsui Yasuhiro , Nakagawa Mina , Azuma Seishin , Koshikawa Naohiko , Seiki Motoharu , Nakauchi Hiromitsu , Asahina Yasuhiro , Watanabe Mamoru
Published: December 2019

Formation of intrahepatic bile ducts (IHBDs) proceeds in accordance with their microenvironment. Particularly, mesenchymal cells around portal veins regulate the differentiation and ductular morphogenesis of cholangiocytes in the developing liver; however, further studies are needed to fully understand the arrangement of IHBDs into a continuous hierarchical network. This study aims to clarify the interaction between biliary and liver mesenchymal cells during IHBD formation. To identify candidate factors contributing to this cell–cell interaction, mesenchymal cells were isolated from embryonic day 16.5 matrix metalloproteinase 14 (MMP14)‐deficient (knockout [KO]) mice livers, in which IHBD formation is retarded, and compared with those of the wild type (WT). WT mesenchymal cells significantly facilitated the formation of luminal structures comprised of hepatoblast‐derived cholangiocytes (cholangiocytic cysts), whereas MMP14‐KO mesenchymal cells failed to promote cyst formation. Comprehensive analysis revealed that expression of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) was significantly suppressed in MMP14‐KO mesenchymal cells. VIP and VIP receptor 1 (VIPR1) were mainly expressed in periportal mesenchymal cells and cholangiocytic progenitors during IHBD development, respectively, in vivo. VIP/VIPR1 signaling significantly encouraged cholangiocytic cyst formation and up‐regulated tight junction protein 1, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, and aquaporin 1, in vitro. VIP antagonist significantly suppressed the tight junction assembly and the up‐regulation of ion/water transporters during IHBD development in vivo. In a cholestatic injury model of adult mice, exogenous VIP administration promoted the restoration of damaged tight junctions in bile ducts and improved hyperbilirubinemia. Conclusion: VIP is produced by periportal mesenchymal cells during the perinatal stage. It supports bile duct development by establishing tight junctions and up‐regulating ion/water transporters in cholangiocytes. VIP contributes to prompt recovery from cholestatic damage through the establishment of tight junctions in the bile ducts.
A computational model of systems memory consolidation and reconsolidation
Authors: Helfer Peter , Shultz Thomas R.
Published: December 2019

In the mammalian brain, newly acquired memories depend on the hippocampus (HPC) for maintenance and recall, but over time, the neocortex takes over these functions, rendering memories HPC‐independent. The process responsible for this transformation is calledsystems memory consolidation. Reactivation of a well‐consolidated memory can trigger a temporary return to a HPC‐dependent state, a phenomenon known assystems memory reconsolidation. The neural mechanisms underlying systems memory consolidation and reconsolidation are not well understood. Here, we propose a neural model based on well‐documented mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and stability and describe a computational implementation that demonstrates the model's ability to account for a range of findings from the systems consolidation and reconsolidation literature. We derive several predictions from the computational model and suggest experiments that may test its validity.
Characteristics and risk factors of bortezomib induced peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review of phase III trials
Authors: Li Tiffany , Timmins Hannah C. , King Tracy , Kiernan Matthew C. , Goldstein David , Park Susanna B.
Published: December 2019

Bortezomib‐induced peripheral neuropathy (BIPN) is a common toxicity associated with the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), typically requiring dose reduction, delay, or cessation of treatment protocol.

This systematic review aimed to investigate risk factors, trends, and variability associated with the development of BIPN. Searches were undertaken using Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Additional studies were identified by investigating authors' bibliographic references cited by original and review articles.

Articles that reported on neuropathy in phase III randomised control trials involving bortezomib in any treatment arm for the treatment of MM were included in this review.

A total of 43 full text articles met criteria, which examined 23 phase III trials (N = 8218). Overall incidence of neuropathy ranged from 8.4% to 80.5% (median = 37.8%) and severe neuropathy (grade 3‐4) ranged from 1% to 33.2% (median = 8%). Similar reports of neuropathy of any grade and severe neuropathy were observed between the newly diagnosed and relapsed cohort. Bortezomib regimens with reduced dose intensity were associated with reduced neuropathy incidence. Increased cumulative dosing levels, intravenous compared with subcutaneous administration and combination therapy with thalidomide were associated with higher rates of BIPN.

This analysis revealed that BIPN is a significant toxicity. More sensitive measures are required to capture the incidence and severity of BIPN. Better understanding of risk factors and reversibility profiles will minimise the number of cancer survivors living with residual treatment side effects.
Radiotherapy in mantle cell lymphoma: A literature review
Authors: Ben Barouch Sharon , Kuruvilla John , Tsang Richard W. , Yashphe Eva , Sarid Nadav
Published: December 2019

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a B‐cell malignancy, comprising between 3% and 10% of all adult‐onset non‐Hodgkin lymphomas. MCL is considered incurable with current treatment modalities and most patients require multiple lines of treatment during their lifetime. MCL is very sensitive to radiotherapy (RT), even when delivered in low doses. In limited‐stage MCL, RT can enable the de‐escalation of systemic therapy. RT monotherapy is a valid option for frail patients. In advanced‐stage disease, RT is very potent mode of palliation, even in heavily pretreated and chemo‐resistant patients. Furthermore, it can provide a respite during which systemic treatment is unnecessary. In general, RT has a favorable toxicity profile and can be repeated as necessary for local relapse or distant disease. This effective, safe, and relatively inexpensive modality of therapy has been underutilized for patients with MCL. In this review, we will outline the use of RT for limited and advanced‐stage disease and its potential application in combination with novel drugs.
Impacts of future climate on the hydrology of a northern headwaters basin and its implications for a downstream deltaic ecosystem
Authors: Rokaya Prabin , Peters Daniel L. , Elshamy Mohamed , Budhathoki Sujata , Lindenschmidt Karl‐Erich
Published: December 2019

Anthropogenic and climatic‐induced changes to flow regimes pose significant risks to river systems. Northern rivers and their deltas are particularly vulnerable due to the disproportionate warming of the Northern Hemisphere compared with the Southern Hemisphere. Of special interest is the Peace–Athabasca Delta (PAD) in western Canada, a productive deltaic lake and wetland ecosystem, which has been recognized as a Ramsar site. Both climate‐ and regulation‐induced changes to the hydrological regime of the Peace River have raised concerns over the delta's ecological health. With the damming of the headwaters, the role of downstream unregulated tributaries has become more important in maintaining, to a certain degree, a natural flow regime, particularly during open‐water conditions. However, their flow contributions to the mainstem river under future climatic conditions remain largely uncertain. In this study, we first evaluated the ability of a land‐surface hydrological model to simulate hydro‐ecological relevant indicators, highlighting the model's strengths and weaknesses. Then, we investigated the streamflow conditions in the Smoky River, the largest unregulated tributary of the Peace River, in the 2071–2100 versus the 1981–2010 periods. Our modelling results revealed significant changes in the hydrological regime of the Smoky River, such as increased discharge in winter (+190%) and spring (+130%) but reduced summer flows (−33%) in the 2071–2100 period compared with the baseline period, which will have implications for the sustainability of the downstream PAD. In particular, the projected reductions in 30‐day and 90‐day maximum flows in the Smoky River will affect open‐water flooding, which is important in maintaining lake levels and connectivity to perimeter delta wetlands in the Peace sector of the PAD. The evaluation of breakup and freeze‐up flows for the 2071–2100 period showed mixed implications for the ice‐jam flooding, which is essential for recharging high‐elevation deltaic basins. Thus, despite projected increase in annual and spring runoff in the 2071–2100 period from the Smoky sub‐basin, the sustainability of the PAD still remains uncertain.
Antitumour immunity invoked by hepatic arterial infusion of first‐line oxaliplatin predicts durable colorectal cancer control after liver metastasis ablation: 8–12 years of follow‐up
Authors: Abrahamsson Hanna , Jensen Benny V. , Berven Lise L. , Nielsen Dorte L. , Šaltytė Benth Jūratė , Johansen Jakob S. , Larsen Finn O. , Johansen Julia S. , Ree Anne H.
Published: December 2019

In colorectal cancer (CRC), hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) chemotherapy may convert primarily unresectable CRC liver metastases (CLM) into resectability, although the risk of metastatic recurrence remains high after CLM ablation. We investigated the role of antitumour immunity invoked by first‐line oxaliplatin‐HAI for long‐term CLM outcome. In a prospective study cohort of primarily unresectable CLM, we assessed patients' fms‐related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (FLT3LG) in serum, reflecting opportune intratumoural immune activity, at baseline and following 1–3 sequences of oxaliplatin‐HAI. The end points were CLM resectability and overall survival. Patients who presented an immediate twofold increment of circulating FLT3LG during the treatment and at its completion were scored as CLM resectable (16.4% with both features), were alive at final follow‐up 8–12 years later. All patients experienced FLT3LG increase during the treatment course, but those who remained unresectable or had the disease converted but presented a slow and gradual FLT3LG accretion, later died of the metastatic disease. These data provide further support to our previous findings that tumour‐directed immunity invoked by oxaliplatin‐containing therapy predicts excellent outcome of early advanced CRC if macroscopic tumour ablation is rendered possible by the ‘classic’ tumour response to the cytotoxic treatment.
Next generation technologies for smart healthcare: challenges, vision, model, trends and future directions
Authors: Tuli Shreshth , Tuli Shikhar , Wander Gurleen , Wander Praneet , Gill Sukhpal Singh , Dustdar Schahram , Sakellariou Rizos , Rana Omer
Published: December 2019

Modern industry employs technologies for automation that may include Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud and/or Fog Computing, 5G as well as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), or Blockchain. Currently, a part of research for the new industrial era is in the direction of improving healthcare services. This work throws light on some of the major challenges in providing affordable, efficient, secure and reliable healthcare from the viewpoint of computer and medical sciences. We describe a vision of how a holistic model can fulfill the growing demands of healthcare industry, and explain a conceptual model that can provide a complete solution for these increasing demands. In our model, we elucidate the components and their interaction at different levels, leveraging state‐of‐the art technologies in IoT, Fog computing, AI, ML and Blockchain. We finally describe current trends in this field and propose future directions to explore emerging paradigms and technologies on evolution of healthcare leveraging next generation computing systems.
Chitosan is a potential inhibitor of ovarian cancer: Molecular aspects
Authors: Chamani Maryam , Maleki Dana Parisa , Chaichian Shahla , Moazzami Bahram , Asemi Zatollah
Published: December 2019

Although ovarian cancer has a lower prevalence than breast cancer, its mortality rate is three times higher, which is reported to increase in the coming years. As the early stages of ovarian cancer do not have any obvious symptoms, in most of the cases, this cancer is diagnosed at advanced stages with a poor prognosis. Moreover, in many patients who are diagnosed with advanced stage, relapse of the disease and drug resistance are observed. Over the past years, these women have been treated with chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgeries. However, the chemotherapy could affect the healthy tissues in addition to the malignancies. Therefore, discovering new diagnostic and therapeutic options seems to be a crucial need. Unlike the common invasive and/or nonspecific treatments, nanomedicine is trying to find a new way for cancer imaging, diagnosis, and drug delivery method. Nanoparticles (NPs), which has recently drawn attention, can be used in order to reduce the toxicity and frequent dosing of drugs, tumor‐specific delivery, and early diagnosis for malignancies. Chitosan as an NP and product of chitin deacetylation has multiple characteristics, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and safety. In this review, we cover the studies concerned with the role of chitosan in finding solutions to overcome the problems faced in ovarian cancer treatments. Furthermore, we highlight how chitosan is being used in delivering chemotherapy drugs, gene therapy, and imaging methods for both detection and image‐guided therapies.
Estimation of a dynamic stochastic frontier model using likelihood‐based approaches
Authors: Lai Hung‐pin , Kumbhakar Subal C.
Published: December 2019

This paper considers a panel stochastic production frontier model that allows the dynamic adjustment of technical inefficiency. In particular, we assume that inefficiency follows an AR(1) process. That is, the current year's inefficiency for a firm depends on its past inefficiency plus a transient inefficiency incurred in the current year. Interfirm variations in the transient inefficiency are explained by some firm‐specific covariates. We consider four likelihood‐based approaches to estimate the model: the full maximum likelihood, pairwise composite likelihood, marginal composite likelihood, and quasi‐maximum likelihood approaches. Moreover, we provide Monte Carlo simulation results to examine and compare the finite‐sample performances of the four above‐mentioned likelihood‐based estimators of the parameters. Finally, we provide an empirical application of a panel of 73 Finnish electricity distribution companies observed during 2008–2014 to illustrate the working of our proposed models.
Acoustic radiation force optical coherence elastography for evaluating mechanical properties of soft condensed matters and its biological applications
Authors: Liu Hsiao‐Chuan , Kijanka Piotr , Urban Matthew W.
Published: December 2019

Evaluating mechanical properties of biological soft tissues and viscous mucus is challenging because of complicated dynamic behaviors. Soft condensed matter models have been successfully used to explain a number of dynamical behaviors. Here, we reported that optical coherence elastography (OCE) is capable of quantifying mechanical properties of soft condensed matters, micellar fluids. A 7.5 MHz focused transducer was utilized to generate acoustic radiation force exerted on the surface of soft condensed matters in order to produce Rayleigh waves. The waves were recorded by optical coherence tomography (OCT). The Kelvin‐Voigt model was adopted to evaluate shear modulus and loss modulus of soft condensed matters. The results reported that various concentrations of micellar fluids can provide reasonable ranges of elasticity from 65.71 to 428.78 Pa and viscosity from 0.035 to 0.283 Pa·s, which are close to ranges for actual biological samples, like mucus. OCE might be a promising tool to differentiate pathologic mucus samples from healthy cases as advanced applications in the future.
Dual growth factor delivery using PLGA nanoparticles in silk fibroin/PEGDMA hydrogels for articular cartilage tissue engineering
Authors: Fathi‐Achachelouei Milad , Keskin Dilek , Bat Erhan , Vrana Nihal E. , Tezcaner Aysen
Published: December 2019

Degeneration of articular cartilage due to damages, diseases, or age‐related factors can significantly decrease the mobility of the patients. Various tissue engineering approaches which take advantage of stem cells and growth factors in a three‐dimensional constructs have been used for reconstructing articular tissue. Proliferative impact of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and chondrogenic differentiation effect of transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1) over mesenchymal stem cells have previously been verified. In this study, silk fibroin (SF) and of poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) were used to provide a versatile platform for preparing hydrogels with tunable mechanical, swelling and degradation properties through physical and chemical crosslinking as a microenvironment for chondrogenic differentiation in the presence of bFGF and TGF‐β1 releasing nanoparticles (NPs) for the first time. Scaffolds with compressive moduli ranging from 95.70 ± 17.82 to 338.05 ± 38.24 kPa were obtained by changing both concentration PEGDMA and volume ratio of PEGDMA with 8% SF. Highest cell viability was observed in PEGDMA 10%‐SF 8% (1:1) [PEG10‐SF8(1:1)] hydrogel group. Release of bFGF and TGF‐β1 within PEG10‐SF8(1:1) hydrogels resulted in higher DNA and glycosaminoglycans amounts indicating synergistic effect of dual release over proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells in hydrogels, respectively. Our results suggested that simultaneous delivery of bFGF and TGF‐β1 through utilization of PLGA NPs within PEG10‐SF8(1:1) hydrogel provided a novel and versatile means for articular cartilage regeneration as they allow for dosage‐ and site‐specific multiple growth factor delivery.
If momma ain't happy with the mentoring relationship, ain't nobody happy with the mentoring relationship: Parental satisfaction as a predictor of mentoring match strength and length
Authors: Shamblen Stephen R. , Courser Matthew W. , Schweinhart April M. , Thompson Kirsten
Published: December 2019

Much evidence exists on whether an individual's perception of a match relationship impacts match strength and length, but relatively less is known about whether parental perceptions of the match (i.e., whether the match is meeting their goals) impacts the length and strength of mentoring relationships. These relationships were examined in a sample of 350 newly formed youth–mentor matches who completed multiple measures of match strength and satisfaction with the match. Parents/guardians were also surveyed about their level of satisfaction with the match. The primary finding of this paper was that parent/guardian dissatisfaction with the match relationships meeting goals was the only significant predictor of a higher likelihood of match closure. Although youth and mentor self‐reports of satisfaction with how match time was spent were the strongest predictors of volunteer and youth match strength ratings, parent/guardian satisfaction with the match relationship also remained a strong predictor of match strength. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Factors associated with perceived containment
Authors: Fite Paula J. , Griffith Rebecca , Tampke Elizabeth C. , Stone Katie J. , Srivastava Vishnupriya
Published: December 2019

There is growing evidence indicating that a lack of perceived containment, or youth's beliefs about whether adults can control their behavior, is associated with problem behavior. However, little research has examined factors that may contribute to perceived containment, which would be helpful in further tailoring prevention and intervention efforts for problem behavior. The current study evaluated associations between callous‐unemotional (C/U) traits, peer delinquency, neighborhood problems, and perceived containment. Associations were examined using a sample of detained youth. Findings indicated that while all three factors were correlated with perceived containment, only C/U traits (particularly the callousness and uncaring subscales) and peer delinquency were uniquely associated with perceived containment. Further, C/U traits did not moderate the links between peer delinquency or neighborhood problems and perceived containment. This study supports the influence of both individual and contextual factors on perceived containment, suggesting multiple factors to target for prevention and intervention.
Health professionals’ practice for young people with, or at risk of, Li–Fraumeni syndrome: An Australasian survey
Authors: Forbes Shepherd Rowan , Keogh Louise A. , Werner‐Lin Allison , Delatycki Martin B. , Forrest Laura E.
Published: December 2019

Li–Fraumeni syndrome (LFS), a rare cancer syndrome caused by pathogenic germline variants in TP53, has serious implications for adolescents and young adults (AYAs; aged 15–39 years). The early‐onset and multi‐organ cancer risk associated with LFS means health professionals must concurrently contend with the developmental needs of individuals who are diagnosed from a young age, and recent changes in practice due to advances in whole‐body cancer surveillance. To help understand how current practice meets the developmental needs of AYAs with, or at risk of, LFS, we conducted a national online survey to explore the experiences of health professionals who care for this population in Australia and New Zealand. Forty‐three respondents completed the survey (56% genetic counselors), one‐third of whom had facilitated predictive TP53 testing for minors (n = 14/43, 33%). In hypothetical scenarios describing 15‐year‐olds eligible for predictive TP53 testing, respondents were more supportive of testing for emotionally mature compared to immature minors (p = .009); and more supportive of adolescent wishes compared to parental wishes for testing (p = .020) when families held discordant views on testing. Genetic health professionals were more likely than oncology health professionals to address psychological (p = .017) and information needs about reproductive options for LFS during consultations than to refer them on (p = .004). All respondents supported comprehensive risk management for LFS, but noted important medical, logistical, and psychosocial limitations for AYAs. This study offers valuable insight into developmentally appropriate practices of Australasian health professionals who care for AYAs with, or at risk of, LFS. These findings suggest they may foster the autonomy of minors undergoing predictive TP53 genetic testing and be supportive of new whole‐body risk management guidelines.
Combining the use of a fetal fraction‐based risk algorithm and probability of an informative redraw in noninvasive prenatal testing for fetal aneuploidy
Authors: Benn Peter , Martin Kimberly , McKanna Trudy , Valenti Elizabeth , Billings Paul , Demko Zachary
Published: December 2019

Some women undergoing noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) do not receive an informative result due to low fetal fraction (FF). A proportion of these are at increased risk for fetal trisomy 13, 18, or triploidy, while others have no change from their prior risk. Women with an initial uninformative NIPT need to be counseled about any such change in their risk for fetal abnormality and also the probability that a redraw will be informative. To help in the decision making, we reviewed a dataset of single nucleotide polymorphism‐based NIPT with uninformative results where a redraw was received. Risk for trisomy 13, 18, or triploidy was evaluated using a fetal fraction‐based risk (FFBR) algorithm. Risk‐unchanged women were further analyzed using a regression model to determine the likelihood of an informative redraw. Of 2,644 women with an uninformative NIPT and a redraw, 1,147 (43.4%) were high risk for trisomy 13, 18, or triploidy. 1,497 (56.6%) were risk unchanged and, of these, 975 (65.1%) cases had an informative redraw (i.e., risks were available for 2,122 (80%) of those initially classified as uninformative). The regression model for the risk‐unchanged cases provided a new table for predicting an informative redraw. Likelihood of a successful redraw was significantly (p < .001) dependent on the initial FF, maternal weight, and time between blood draws. We conclude that the FFBR algorithm and the predictive model for an informative redraw provide complementary additions in the management of women presented with an initially uninformative SNP‐based NIPT due to low FF. We suggest approaches for the counseling and follow‐up testing for women with an initially uninformative NIPT.
Water T2 Mapping in Fatty Infiltrated Thigh Muscles of Patients With Neuromuscular Diseases Using a T2‐Prepared 3D Turbo Spin Echo With SPAIR
Authors: Schlaeger Sarah , Weidlich Dominik , Klupp Elisabeth , Montagnese Federica , Deschauer Marcus , Schoser Benedikt , Bublitz Sarah , Ruschke Stefan , Zimmer Claus , Rummeny Ernst J. , Kirschke Jan S. , Karampinos Dimitrios C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Muscle water T2 (T2w) has been proposed as a biomarker to monitor disease activity and therapy effectiveness in patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMD). Multi‐echo spin‐echo (MESE) is known to be affected by fatty infiltration. A T2‐prepared 3D turbo spin echo (TSE) is an alternative method for T2 mapping, but has been only applied in healthy muscles.

Purpose

To examine the performance of T2‐prepared 3D TSE in combination with spectral adiabatic inversion recovery (SPAIR) in measuring T2w in fatty infiltrated muscles based on simulations and in vivo measurements in thigh muscles of patients with NMD.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

One healthy volunteer, 34 NMD patients.

Field Strength/Sequence

T2‐prepared stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), SPAIR STEAM MRS, and SPAIR T2‐prepared STEAM MRS were performed in the subcutaneous fat of a healthy volunteer's thigh. T2 mapping based on SPAIR 2D MESE and SPAIR T2‐prepared 3D TSE was performed in the NMD patients' thigh region. Multi‐TE STEAM MRS was performed for measuring a reference T2w at different thigh locations.

Assessment

The behavior of the fat spectrum in the SPAIR T2‐prepared 3D TSE was simulated using Bloch simulations. The in vivo T2 results of the imaging methods were compared to the in vivo T2w MRS results.

Statistical Tests

Pearson correlation coefficient with slope and intercept, relative error.

Results

The simulated T2 for the SPAIR T2‐prepared 3D TSE sequence remained constant within a relative error of not more than 4% up to a fat fraction of 80%. In vivo T2 values of SPAIR T2‐prepared 3D TSE were in good agreement with the T2w values of STEAM MRS (R = 0.86; slope = 1.12; intercept = –1.41 ms). In vivo T2 values of SPAIR 2D MESE showed large deviations from the T2w values of STEAM MRS (R = 0.14; slope = 0.32; intercept = 38.83 ms).

Data Conclusion

The proposed SPAIR T2‐prepared 3D TSE shows reduced sensitivity to fatty infiltration for T2w mapping in the thigh muscles of NMD patients.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1727–1736.
Feasibility of Point Shear Wave Elastography for Evaluating Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Wei Mei , Ye Xianjun
Published: December 2019

Objectives

In the mode of Virtual Touch quantification (Siemens AG, Erlangen, Germany), point shear wave elastography (p‐SWE) is widely used for noninvasive assessments of tissue stiffness, which may be useful in the evaluation of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

Methods

Thirty patients with type 2 diabetes and 20 control participants (7 with myoma of the uterus and 13 with kidney stones) were enrolled in this prospective study. The 30 patients were further divided into patients with DPN and patients without DPN. Conventional ultrasound examinations and p‐SWE were used to examine the tibial nerve in the popliteal fossa.

Results

Tibial nerve stiffness values in the overall patient group, patients with DPN, and patients without DPN were all significantly higher than in the control group (P < .05). The cutoff value of p‐SWE for assessing DPN was 2.60 m/s; at that threshold, sensitivity was 63.33%, and specificity was 92.50%.

Conclusions

Point SWE was useful for the noninvasive assessment of DPN and had high specificity. The increased stiffness in patients without DPN indicated that the tibial nerve might be affected by diabetes.
Spatial Motion of Arytenoid Cartilage Using Dynamic Computed Tomography Combined with Euler Angles
Authors: Ma Yanli , Bao Huijing , Wang Xi , Chen Xi , Zhang Zheyi , Wang Jinan , Zhuang Peiyun , Jiang Jack J. , Wilson Azure , Wu Chenxu
Published: December 2019

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of dynamic computed tomography in recording and describing the spatial motion characteristics of the arytenoid cartilage.

Methods

Dynamic computed tomography recorded the real‐time motion trajectory of the arytenoid cartilage during inspiration and phonation. A stationary coordinate system was established with the cricoid cartilage as a reference and a motion coordinate system was established using the movement of the arytenoid cartilage. The Euler angles of the arytenoid cartilage movement were calculated by transformation of the two coordinate systems, and the spatial motion characteristics of the arytenoid cartilage were quantitatively studied.

Results

Displacement of the cricoid cartilage was primarily inferior during inspiration. During phonation, the displacement was mainly superior. When the glottis closed, the superior displacement was about 5–8 mm within 0.56 s. During inspiration, the arytenoid cartilage was displaced superiorly approximately 1–2 mm each 0.56 s. The rotation angle was subtle with slight rotation around the XYZ axis, with a range of 5–10 degrees. During phonation, the displacement of the arytenoid cartilage was mainly inferior (about 4–6 mm), anterior (about 2–4 mm) and medial (about 1–2 mm). The motion of the arytenoid cartilage mainly consisted of medial rolling, and there was an alternating movement of anterior‐posterior tilting. The arytenoid cartilage rolled medially (about 20–40 degrees within 0.56 s), accompanied by anterior‐posterior tilting (about 15–20 degrees within 0.56 s).

Conclusion

Dynamic computed tomography recordings of arytenoid cartilage movement can be combined with Euler transformations as a tool to study the spatial characteristics of laryngeal structures during phonation.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:E646–E653, 2020
LncRNA miR143HG suppresses miR‐21 through methylation to inhibit cell invasion and migration
Authors: Xun Wu , Cen Wei , Dahai Yu , Huaqing Wei , Jiping Su , Mengzhu Guo , Ning Meng
Published: December 2019

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA miR143HG in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC).

Methods

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and paired t test were used to measure and compare expression levels of miR143HG and miR‐21 in LSCC and nontumor tissues. To analyze the interactions between miR143HG and miR‐21, UM‐SCC‐17A cells were transfected miR143HG expression vector or miR‐21 mimic. The effects of miR143HG and miR‐21 overexpression on UM‐SCC‐17A cell invasion and migration were analyzed by transwell assays.

Results

We found that miR143HG was downregulated in LSCC and inversely correlated with miR‐21. In LSCC cells, miR143HG overexpression led to the downregulated expression of miR‐21, whereas miR‐21 overexpression failed to affect miR143HG. Methylation‐specific PCR results showed that miR143HG overexpression led to increased methylation of miR‐21. Low expression levels of miR143HG were correlated with poor survival. Overexpression of miR143HG led to decreased, whereas miR‐21 overexpression resulted in increased rate of LSCC cell migration and invasion. In addition, miR‐21 overexpression led to reduced effects of miR143HG on cell invasion and migration.

Conclusion

Therefore, miR143HG suppresses miR‐21 via methylation to regulate cell behaviors in LSCC.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:E640–E645, 2020
Soil organic carbon increment sources and crop yields under long‐term conservation tillage practices in wheat‐maize systems
Authors: Liu Zhen , Gao Tianping , Tian Shenzhong , Hu Hengyu , Li Geng , Ning Tangyuan
Published: December 2019

Long‐term tillage and straw incorporation significantly affect soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration and crop yield. However, the studies on the SOC sources under multicropping system are relatively few. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of conservation tillage on SOC and crop yields and distinguish the SOC sources from wheat (C3) and maize (C4). Therefore, the dynamics of SOC, SOC sequestration, and crop yield were evaluated during 15 years of conservation agriculture under conventional tillage (CT), subsoiling (ST), rotary tillage (RT), and zero tillage (ZT) without or with straw incorporation (CTS, STS, RTS, and ZTS, respectively). The results indicated that the highest mean SOC concentration in the 0‐ to 30‐cm soil was found under STS (11.80 g kg−1), which increased by 2.29 g kg−1 than that under CT, whereas RT had the lowest mean SOC concentration (8.10 g kg−1). The increases in annual yield ranged from 0.58 (ZT) to 4.93 (ST) Mg ha−1 during 2005–2017. In comparison with the annual yield of CT, that of STS increased by 2 Mg ha−1 and was significantly higher than other treatments (p < .05) except ZTS and CTS. In comparison with CT, the SOC stock and carbon sequestration rate of STS were the highest and increased by 15.64 Mg ha−1 and 1.05 Mg ha−1 yr−1, respectively, in the 0‐ to 30‐cm soil. Moreover, the relative contribution of wheat residues to SOC was higher than maize residues under all treatments. Thus, subsoiling combined with C3 straw incorporation was more suitable for restoring degraded land and increasing yields.
Dynamic monitoring of desertification in Naiman Banner based on feature space models with typical surface parameters derived from LANDSAT images
Authors: Guo Bing , Zang Wenqian , Han Baomin , Yang Fei , Luo Wei , He Tianli , Fan Yewen , Yang Xiao , Chen Shuting
Published: December 2019

Naiman Banner is one of the most typical semi‐arid vulnerable ecological zones that is characterized by vegetation degradation and severe desertification. Previous studies mostly utilized a single feature space or only the linear correlation model to monitor desertification. In this study, the optimal monitoring model that fully considers the multiple feature spaces and the nonlinear relationship between surface parameters in Naiman Banner was determined, and then the spatial–temporal evolution patterns of the desertification from 1989 to 2017 were analyzed. The results showed that: (a) The albedo–normalized difference vegetation index point‐to‐point model was applicable to areas with high‐vegetation coverage, whereas the albedo–modified soil‐adjusted vegetation index (MSAVI) linear model had better applicability in areas with relatively low vegetation coverage. Considering the surface cover, the desertification monitoring index based on albedo‐MSAVI linear model had the best applicability. (b) During 1989–2017, the total desertification area percentage of Naiman County decreased from 90.85% in 1989 to 63.35% in 2017, showing a significant downward trend. (c) During the past 30 years, the desertification process was significantly influenced by human activities, such as ‘Three‐North’ Shelterbelt, Returning Farmland to Forestry, and Returning Farmland to Grassland (d) The desertification levels of unused land and grassland with low coverage was relatively high, whereas the desertification degree of cultivated and forest lands was low. These results can be used as an effective reference for the remote sensing monitoring and evaluation of desertification and can provide data and decision support for the ecological restoration of the region.
Cardiac and Liver Disease in Children: Implications for Management Before and After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Ruth Nicola D. , Drury Nigel E. , Bennett James , Kelly Deirdre A.
Published: December 2019

There is close interaction between the functions of the liver and heart affecting the presentation, diagnosis, and outcome of acute and chronic cardiac and liver disease. Conditions affecting both organ systems should be considered when proposing transplantation because the interaction between cardiac disease and liver disease has implications for diagnosis, management, selection for transplantation, and, ultimately, for longterm outcomes after liver transplantation (LT). The combination of cardiac and liver disease is well recognized in adults but is less appreciated in pediatric patients. The focus of this review is to describe conditions affecting both the liver and heart and how they affect selection and management of LT in the pediatric population.
Endogenous Interleukin 18 Suppresses Liver Regeneration After Hepatectomy in Mice
Authors: Ma Tao , Zhang Yibo , Lao Mengyi , Chen Wen , Hu Qida , Zhi Xiao , Chen Zhiliang , Bai Xueli , Dang Xiaowei , Liang Tingbo
Published: December 2019

The comprehensive role of interleukin (IL) 18 during liver regeneration is barely studied. Our aim is to evaluate the role of IL18 in liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PH) in mice. The expression profile of IL18 in the liver and the gut after 70% PH was measured. Liver samples after 70% and 85% PH from IL18 knockout (IL18−/−) mice and wild type (WT) mice were collected for comparison of liver regeneration. The effect of recombinant IL18 on liver regeneration was tested in IL18−/− mice, and the utility of IL18 binding protein (BP) was also evaluated following 70% PH in WT mice. Expression levels of IL18 in the liver and the gut elevated after 70% PH. The liver weight/body weight ratios (LBWRs) after PH were significantly higher in IL18−/− mice than those in WT mice. Recombinant IL18 injection significantly decreased LBWR at 7 days after 70% PH in IL18−/− mice. The expression of cyclin D1, EdU labeling index, and Ki‐67 proliferation index were much higher in IL18−/− mice than those in WT mice after 70% PH. The expression level of glypican 3 (GPC3) in WT mice significantly elevated during liver regeneration. In contrast, the expression level of GPC3 in IL18−/− mice remained roughly unchanged during liver regeneration. IL18BP injection significantly increased the LBWR at 7 days after 70% PH in WT mice. In conclusion, endogenous IL18 inhibited liver regeneration after PH in mice, possibly through up‐regulating GPC3. IL18BP may be an effective agent to promote liver regeneration after PH.
PELP1 signaling contributes to medulloblastoma progression by regulating the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Luo Yiliao , Li Mengxing , Pratap Uday P. , Viswanadhapalli Suryavathi , Liu Junhao , Venkata Prabhakar P. , Altwegg Kristin A. , Palacios Bridgitte E. , Li Xiaonan , Chen Yihong , Rao Manjeet K. , Brenner Andrew J. , Sareddy Gangadhara R. , Vadlamudi Ratna K.
Published: December 2019

Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common and deadliest brain tumor in children. Proline‐, glutamic acid‐, and leucine‐rich protein 1 (PELP1) is a scaffolding protein and its oncogenic signaling is implicated in the progression of several cancers. However, the role of PELP1 in the progression of MB remains unknown. The objective of this study is to examine the role of PELP1 in the progression of MB. Immunohistochemical analysis of MB tissue microarrays revealed that PELP1 is overexpressed in the MB specimens compared to normal brain. Knockdown of PELP1 reduced cell proliferation, cell survival, and cell invasion of MB cell lines. The RNA‐sequencing analysis revealed that PELP1 knockdown significantly downregulated the pathways related to inflammation and extracellular matrix. Gene set enrichment analysis confirmed that the PELP1‐regulated genes were negatively correlated with nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), extracellular matrix, and angiogenesis gene sets. Interestingly, PELP1 knockdown reduced the expression of NF‐κB target genes, NF‐κB reporter activity, and inhibited the nuclear translocation of p65. Importantly, the knockdown of PELP1 significantly reduced in vivo MB progression in orthotopic models and improved the overall mice survival. Collectively, these results suggest that PELP1 could be a novel target for therapeutic intervention in MB.
On a final value problem for fractional reaction‐diffusion equation with Riemann‐Liouville fractional derivative
Authors: Tran Ngoc , Au Vo Van , Zhou Yong , Huy Tuan Nguyen
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we study a backward problem for a fractional diffusion equation with nonlinear source in a bounded domain. By applying the properties of Mittag‐Leffler functions and Banach fixed point theorem, we establish some results above the existence, uniqueness, and regularity of the mild solutions of the proposed problem in some suitable space. Moreover, we also show the ill‐posedness of our problem in the sense of Hadamard. The regularized solution is given, and the convergence rate between the regularized solution and the exact solution is also obtained.