bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of Surgical Resection for Lymph Node or Pulmonary Recurrence of Esophageal Cancer After Definitive Treatment
Authors: Shimada Ayako , Tsushima Takahiro , Tsubosa Yasuhiro , Booka Eisuke , Takebayashi Katsushi , Niihara Masahiro , Isaka Mitsuhiro , Ohde Yasuhisa , Machida Nozomu , Onozawa Yusuke , Yasui Hirofumi , Takeuchi Hiroya , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: January 2019

Background

Despite the poor prognosis of recurrent esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC), long‐term survival could be achieved in a subset of patients who successfully underwent surgical resection for recurrence. In this study, we investigated the outcomes of surgical resection for lymph node (LN) or pulmonary (PUL) recurrence in ESCC patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of ESCC patients who underwent surgical resection between January 2008 and March 2015 for either LN or PUL recurrence after complete response (CR) by chemoradiotherapy or R0 esophagectomy. Every patient fulfilled the original institutional criteria: no recurrence at primary site; recurrence involving in only one organ; expectation of complete resection; and for PUL recurrence, no rapid growth with at least 2 months of observation.

Results

Among the 13 patients analyzed, surgical resection was performed in nine and four patients with LN and PUL recurrence, respectively. R0 resection was achieved in all patients with no fatal surgical complications. Mean duration from the day of the first CR/R0 to the recurrence was 809 (110–2575) days. Median recurrence‐free survival following surgical resection for recurrence and overall survival following the first diagnosis of recurrence was 387 and 1297 days, respectively.

Conclusion

Surgical resection for LN or PUL recurrence of ESCC according to our institutional criteria can be performed safely for selected patients.
Preparation of MCrAlY–Al2O3 Composite Coatings with Enhanced Oxidation Resistance through a Novel Powder Manufacturing Process
Authors: Bai Mingwen , Song Bo , Reddy Liam , Hussain Tanvir
Published: January 2019

MCrAlY–Al2O3 composite coatings were prepared by high-velocity oxygen fuel thermal spraying with bespoke composite powder feedstock for high-temperature applications. Powder processing via a suspension route was employed to achieve a fine dispersion of α-Al2O3 submicron particles on the MCrAlY powder surface. This was, however, compromised by ~ 50% less flowability of the feedstock during spraying. Nevertheless, the novel powder manufacturing process introduced in this study has shown potential as an alternative route to prepare tailored composite powder feedstock for the production of metal matrix composites. In addition, the newly developed MCrAlY–Al2O3 composite coatings exhibited superior oxidation resistance, compared to conventional MCrAlY coatings, with the formation of nearly exclusively Al2O3 scale after isothermal oxidation at 900 °C for 10 h. The addition of α-Al2O3 particles in the MCrAlY coatings as a second phase was found to have promoted the formation of YAG oxides (YxAlyOz) during spraying and also accelerated the outwards diffusion of Al, which resulted in enhanced oxidation resistance.
Bifurcation of nonlinear bound states in the periodic Gross-Pitaevskii equation with 𝒫𝒯-symmetry
Authors: Dohnal Tomáš , Pelinovsky Dmitry
Published: January 2019

The stationary Gross–Pitaevskii equation in one dimension is considered with a complex periodic potential satisfying the conditions of the 𝒫𝒯 (parity-time reversal) symmetry. Under rather general assumptions on the potentials, we prove bifurcations of 𝒫𝒯-symmetric nonlinear bound states from the end points of a real interval in the spectrum of the non-selfadjoint linear Schrödinger operator with a complex 𝒫𝒯-symmetric periodic potential. The nonlinear bound states are approximated by the effective amplitude equation, which bears the form of the cubic nonlinear Schrödinger equation. In addition, we provide sufficient conditions for the appearance of complex spectral bands when the complex 𝒫𝒯-symmetric potential has an asymptotically small imaginary part.
A p(x)-Laplacian extension of the Díaz-Saa inequality and some applications
Authors: Takáč Peter , Giacomoni Jacques
Published: January 2019

The main result of this work is a new extension of the well-known inequality by Díaz and Saa which, in our case, involves an anisotropic operator, such as the p(x)-Laplacian, $\Delta _{p(x)}u\equiv {\rm div}( \vert \nabla u \vert ^{p(x)-2}\nabla u)$. Our present extension of this inequality enables us to establish several new results on the uniqueness of solutions and comparison principles for some anisotropic quasilinear elliptic equations. Our proofs take advantage of certain convexity properties of the energy functional associated with the p(x)-Laplacian.
The Gopen–Yang Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Questionnaire: development and validation of a clinical questionnaire to assess subjective symptoms in patients undergoing surgical repair of superior semicircular canal dehiscence
Authors: Voth B L , Sheppard J P , Barnette N E , Ong V , Nguyen T , Jacky Chen C H , Duong C , Arsenault J J , Lagman C , Gopen Q , Yang I
Published: January 2019

Objective

To characterise subjective symptoms in patients undergoing surgical repair of superior semicircular canal dehiscence.

Methods

Questionnaires assessing symptom severity and impact on function and quality of life were administered to patients before superior semicircular canal dehiscence surgery, between June 2011 and March 2016. Questionnaire sections included general quality of life, internal amplified sounds, dizziness and tinnitus, with scores of 0–100 points.

Results

Twenty-three patients completed the questionnaire before surgery. Section scores (mean±standard deviation) were: 38.2 ± 25.2 for general quality of life, 52.5 ± 23.9 for internal amplified sounds, 35.1 ± 28.8 for dizziness, 33.3 ± 30.7 for tinnitus, and 39.8 ± 22.2 for the composite score. Cronbach's α statistic averaged 0.93 (range, 0.84–0.97) across section scores, and 0.83 for the composite score.

Conclusion

The Gopen–Yang Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Questionnaire provides a holistic, patient-centred characterisation of superior semicircular canal dehiscence symptoms. Internal consistency analysis validated the questionnaire and provided a quantitative framework for further optimisation in the clinical setting.
Stigma, isolation and depression among older adults living with HIV in rural areas
Authors: Quinn Katherine G. , Murphy Molly K. , Nigogosyan Zack , Petroll Andrew E.
Published: January 2019

There is a growing population of ageing individuals living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Older adults living with HIV often contend with intersecting stigmas including HIV stigma, ageism and, for some, homonegativity and/or racism. Although the HIV stigma literature is quite robust, research on the relationship between HIV stigma, social support and mental wellbeing among older adults living with HIV is limited. This study begins to address this gap by examining how intersectional stigma affects social support and mental wellbeing among rural-dwelling older adults living with HIV. Qualitative interviews were conducted by phone with 29 older adults living with HIV, over the age of 50, living in rural areas of the United States of America. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic content analysis in MAXQDA qualitative analysis software. Analysis revealed three primary themes. The first had to do with gossip and non-disclosure of HIV status, which intersected with ageism and homonegativity to exacerbate experiences that fell within the remaining themes of experiences of physical and psychological isolation and loneliness, and shame and silence surrounding depression. The prevalence of social isolation and the effects of limited social support among older adults living with HIV are prominent and indicate a need for tailored interventions within the HIV care continuum for older adults living with HIV.
An Analysis of Documents Guiding Palliative Care in Five Canadian Provinces
Authors: Hill Carolyn , Duggleby Wendy , Venturato Lorraine , Durepos Pamela , Kulasegaram Pereya , Hunter Paulette , McCleary Lynn , Sussman Tamara , Thompson Genevieve , Surtees Doug , Wickson-Griffiths Abigail , Kaasalainen Sharon
Published: January 2019

Cette étude avait pour but d’analyser le niveau de concordance et la portée du contenu en matière de soins palliatifs dans les documents directeurs de haut niveau visant les soins pour les personnes résidant en centres de soins de longue durée au Canada. Une recherche systématique a été menée en vue d’analyser les documents de niveau national et ceux provenant de cinq provinces (Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Québec). Vingt-cinq documents ont été sélectionnés en fonction des critères d’inclusion à partir de 273 documents identifiés dans la recherche systématique. La majorité de ces documents ont été créés sur le plan national (48 %) ou en Ontario (28 %). Les sujets abordés variaient en matière de soins palliatifs et les soins de longue durée n’étaient que minimalement traités. Un nombre restreint de documents directeurs sur les soins palliatifs ont été relevés. Aucun de ces documents ne traitait spécifiquement des soins de longue durée, et les documents identifiés manquaient d’uniformité en matière de soins palliatifs. Il est essentiel que les principes encadrant les soins palliatifs soient présentés et concordants dans les documents directeurs afin d’améliorer la qualité de vie et les soins pour les résidents en soins de longue durée à travers le Canada.
IS BUSINESS CYCLE ASYMMETRY INTRINSIC IN INDUSTRIALIZED ECONOMIES?
Authors: Morley James , Panovska Irina B.
Published: January 2019

We consider a model-averaged forecast-based estimate of the output gap to measure economic slack in 10 industrialized economies. Our measure takes changes in the long-run growth rate into account and, by addressing model uncertainty using equal weights on different forecast-based estimates, is robust to different assumptions about the underlying structure of the economy. For all 10 countries in the sample, we find that the estimated output gap has much larger negative movements during recessions than positive movements in expansions, suggesting business cycle asymmetry is an intrinsic characteristic of industrialized economies. Furthermore, the estimated output gap is always strongly negatively correlated with future output growth and unemployment and positively correlated with capacity utilization. It also implies a convex Phillips Curve in many cases. The model-averaged output gap is reliable in real time in the sense of being subject to relatively small revisions.
Origin and Dynamics of Saltwater Intrusion in a Regional Aquifer: Combining 3‐D Saltwater Modeling With Geophysical and Geochemical Data
Authors: Meyer Rena , Engesgaard Peter , Sonnenborg Torben O.
Published: January 2019

Worldwide, aquifers in low‐lying coastal areas are threatened by saltwater occurrence, as a result of small head gradients, high groundwater abstraction rates, and drain management of the landscape, which is likely to intensify with climate change. Numerical models can serve as tools to identify the sources of the salt and thus to increase understanding of the driving mechanisms and important parameters controlling the extent of saltwater intrusions. This way, areas vulnerable to sea level rise can be identified and managed. Challenges include unknown initial salt concentrations, heterogeneous geology, and anthropogenic alterations. In this study, hydrogeological, geophysical, and geochemical data are used to develop a numerical density‐dependent groundwater flow and transport model with the objective to understand the history of a saltwater‐affected groundwater system and its likely response to historic and future changes. The extent of the simulated saltwater intrusion compares well with Airborne Electromagnetic data that show salt water up to 20 km inland. The results reveal that the salt water originates from a combination of laterally intruding seawater and vertically infiltrating transgression water. Main features controlling the progression of the modern seawater into the coastal aquifers are high permeable, deep Miocene sand aquifers, buried valleys that provide preferential flow paths in combination with extensive Miocene clay layers that delay saltwater intrusion. Anthropogenic activity enhances the saltwater inflow from the ocean and induces transient conditions. Future scenarios show that saltwater progression due to nonstationarity leads to enhanced contamination of the deeper aquifers. Climate change affects primarily the shallow aquifer systems.
Fox Receives 2018 Walter Sullivan Award for Excellence in Science Journalism–Features
Authors:   AGU
Published: January 2019

Douglas Fox received the Walter Sullivan Award for Excellence in Science Journalism–Features at the 2018 AGU Fall Meeting Honors Ceremony, held 12 December in Washington, D. C. The award “is presented annually to a journalist for a feature story or series in any medium except books that makes information about the Earth and space sciences accessible and interesting to the general public.”
Extracellular aggregated alpha synuclein primarily triggers lysosomal dysfunction in neural cells prevented by trehalose
Authors: Hoffmann Anna-Carin , Minakaki Georgia , Menges Stefanie , Salvi Rachele , Savitskiy Sergey , Kazman Aida , Vicente Miranda Hugo , Mielenz Dirk , Klucken Jochen , Winkler Jürgen , Xiang Wei
Published: January 2019

Cell-to-cell propagation of aggregated alpha synuclein (aSyn) has been suggested to play an important role in the progression of alpha synucleinopathies. A critical step for the propagation process is the accumulation of extracellular aSyn within recipient cells. Here, we investigated the trafficking of distinct exogenous aSyn forms and addressed the mechanisms influencing their accumulation in recipient cells. The aggregated aSyn species (oligomers and fibrils) exhibited more pronounced accumulation within recipient cells than aSyn monomers. In particular, internalized extracellular aSyn in the aggregated forms was able to seed the aggregation of endogenous aSyn. Following uptake, aSyn was detected along endosome-to-lysosome and autophagosome-to-lysosome routes. Intriguingly, aggregated aSyn resulted in lysosomal activity impairment, accompanied by the accumulation of dilated lysosomes. Moreover, analysis of autophagy-related protein markers suggested decreased autophagosome clearance. In contrast, the endocytic pathway, proteasome activity, and mitochondrial homeostasis were not substantially affected in recipient cells. Our data suggests that extracellularly added aggregated aSyn primarily impairs lysosomal activity, consequently leading to aSyn accumulation within recipient cells. Importantly, the autophagy inducer trehalose prevented lysosomal alterations and attenuated aSyn accumulation within aSyn-exposed cells. Our study underscores the importance of lysosomes for the propagation of aSyn pathology, thereby proposing these organelles as interventional targets.
The effect of apolipoprotein E polymorphism on serum metabolome – a population-based 10-year follow-up study
Authors: Karjalainen Juho-Pekka , Mononen Nina , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Lehtimäki Miikael , Juonala Markus , Ala-Korpela Mika , Kähönen Mika , Raitakari Olli , Lehtimäki Terho
Published: January 2019

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is the key regulator of plasma lipids, mediating altered functionalities in lipoprotein metabolism – affecting the risk of coronary artery (CAD) and Alzheimer’s diseases, as well as longevity. Searching pathways influenced by apoE prior to adverse manifestations, we utilized a metabolome dataset of 228 nuclear-magnetic-resonance-measured serum parameters with a 10-year follow-up from the population-based Young Finns Study cohort of 2,234 apoE-genotyped (rs7412, rs429358) adults, aged 24–39 at baseline. At the end of our follow-up, by limiting FDR-corrected p < 0.05, regression analyses revealed 180/228 apoE-polymorphism-related associations with the studied metabolites, in all subjects – without indications of apoE x sex interactions. Across all measured apoE- and apoB-containing lipoproteins, ε4 allele had consistently atherogenic and ε2 protective effect on particle concentrations of free/esterified cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids and total lipids. As novel findings, ε4 associated with glycoprotein acetyls, LDL-diameter and isoleucine – all reported biomarkers of CAD-risk, inflammation, diabetes and total mortality. ApoE-subgroup differences persisted through our 10-year follow-up, although some variation of individual metabolite levels was noticed. In conclusion, apoE polymorphism associate with a complex metabolic change, including aberrations in multiple novel biomarkers related to elevated cardiometabolic and all-cause mortality risk, extending our understanding about the role of apoE in health and disease.
Anatomic grooved stem mitigates strain shielding compared to established total hip arthroplasty stem designs in finite-element models
Authors: Heyland Mark , Checa Sara , Kendoff Daniel , Duda Georg N.
Published: January 2019

Aseptic loosening remains a major problem for uncemented femoral components in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Ideally, bone adaptation after THA manifests minimally and local bone density reduction is widely avoided. Different design features may help to approximate initial, post-THA bone strain to levels pre-THA. Strain-shielding effects of different SP-CL stem design features are systematically analyzed and compared to CLS Spotorno and CORAIL using finite element models and physiological musculoskeletal loading conditions. All designs show substantial proximal strain-shielding: 50% reduced medial surface strain, 40–50% reduction at lateral surface, >120 µm/m root mean square error (RMSE) compared to intact bone in Gruen zone 1 and >60 µm/m RMSE in Gruen zones 2, 6, and 7. Geometrical changes (ribs, grooves, cross sections, stem length, anatomic curvature) have a considerable effect on strain-shielding; up to 20%. Combinations of reduced stem stiffness with larger proximal contact area (anatomically curved, grooves) lead to less strain-shielding compared to clinically established implant designs. We found that only the combination of a structurally flexible stem with anatomical curvature and grooves improves strain-shielding compared to other designs. The clinical implications in vivo of this initial strain-shielding difference are currently under evaluation in an ongoing clinical analysis.
Ice-Templated W-Cu Composites with High Anisotropy
Authors: Röthlisberger André , Häberli Sandra , Krogh Fabio , Galinski Henning , Dunand David C. , Spolenak Ralph
Published: January 2019

Controlling anisotropy in self-assembled structures enables engineering of materials with highly directional response. Here, we harness the anisotropic growth of ice walls in a thermal gradient to assemble an anisotropic refractory metal structure, which is then infiltrated with Cu to make a composite. Using experiments and simulations, we demonstrate on the specific example of tungsten-copper composites the effect of anisotropy on the electrical and mechanical properties. The measured strength and resistivity are compared to isotropic tungsten-copper composites fabricated by standard powder metallurgical methods. Our results have the potential to fuel the development of more efficient materials, used in electrical power grids and solar-thermal energy conversion systems. The method presented here can be used with a variety of refractory metals and ceramics, which fosters the opportunity to design and functionalize a vast class of new anisotropic load-bearing hybrid metal composites with highly directional properties.
Birth weight percentiles by sex and gestational age for twins born in southern China
Authors: Miao Huazhang , Yao Fei , Wu Yuntao , Zhang Xiu , He Rubi , Li Bing , Zhao Qingguo
Published: January 2019

Mean birth weight of twins is known to be lower than that of singletons, however, southern China lacks a twin-specific birth weight reference. In this paper, we use data from the Birth Certificate System in southern China, collected between January 1st 2014 and December 31st 2017 and including 161,076 twins, to calculate sex- and gestational week-specific birth weight percentiles (the 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, and 97th). We applied generalized additive models for location, scale and shape (GAMLSS) when calculating the birth weight percentiles, and calculated percentiles for monochorionic and dichorionic twins separately. We next used data collected between Jan 1st 2018 and Apr 30th 2018, encompassing 12,371 live births, to calculate the SGA and LGA ratios using birth weight references in Australia, South Korea and China (based on birth defects surveillance system) and birth weight percentiles calculated in this study. Compared to dichorionic twins, monochorionic twins had lower birth weights at 25 to 42 weeks of gestation. The calculated SGA and LGA ratios were relatively stable compared to the other references.
Optical limiting properties of surface functionalized nanodiamonds probed by the Z-scan method
Authors: Muller O. , Pichot V. , Merlat L. , Spitzer D.
Published: January 2019

This work focuses on the optical limiting behavior of surface modified nanodiamonds (DNDs) namely, amino-terminated DNDs (DND-NH2) and hydrogen-terminated DNDs (DND-H). Their relevant nonlinear optical properties for optical limiting are compared to those of unfunctionalized DNDs. The optical limitation is characterized by means of nonlinear transmittance, Z-scan, and scattered intensity assessments when submitted to a nanosecond pulsed Nd:YAG laser operating at a wavelength of 532 nm. It is stated that the largest nonlinear attenuation is attributed to the DND-H system, whereas the exceedingly low threshold values for optical limiting for the DND-H and the DND-NH2 systems is attributed to their negative electron affinity character (NEA). Using Z-scan experiments, it is shown that nonlinear refraction combined with a significant nonlinear absorption predominates in the DND-H suspension, while the pure thermal origin of the nonlinear refractive index change is conjectured in the case of the DNDs. Besides, an amazing valley to peak profile was measured on DND - NH2indicating an unexpected positive sign of the nonlinear refraction coefficient. In addition, a stronger backscattered intensity signal is highlighted for the unfunctionalized DNDs through nonlinear scattering measurements.
Upregulated long noncoding RNA LOC105375913 induces tubulointerstitial fibrosis in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Han Runhong , Hu Shuai , Qin Weisong , Shi Jingsong , Zeng Caihong , Bao Hao , Liu Zhihong
Published: January 2019

Tubulointerstitial fibrosis impacts renal prognosis of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Based on transcriptomic analysis, we found that the level of LOC105375913 was increased in tubular cells of FSGS patients. C3a induced the expression of LOC105375913, which promoted the expression of fibronectin and collagen I in tubular cells. Silence of snail reversed the level of fibronectin and collagen I in cells overexpressing LOC105375913. MiR-27b was predicted and confirmed to regulate the expression of snail in tubular cells, and LOC105375913 contained the response element of miR-27b. The competitive binding between LOC105375913 and miR-27b increased the level of snail and promoted fibrogenesis in tubular cells. Upstream, p38 and XBP-1s regulated the expression of LOC105375913. Inhibition of p38 or silence of XBP-1s decreased the level of LOC105375913, and suppressed the expression of snail, fibronectin and collagen I in tubular cells treated with C3a. Overexpression of LOC105375913 decreased the level of miR-27b, increased the level of snail and caused tubulointerstitial fibrosis in mice. In conclusion, the activation of C3a/p38/XBP-1s pathway induces the expression of LOC105375913 in tubular cells, and LOC105375913 increases the level of snail and induces tubulointerstitial fibrosis through competitive binding of miR-27b in tubular cells of FSGS patients.
Sulphur and carbon isotopes as tracers of past sub-seafloor microbial activity
Authors: Meister Patrick , Brunner Benjamin , Picard Aude , Böttcher Michael E. , Jørgensen Bo Barker
Published: January 2019

Microbial life below the seafloor has changed over geological time, but these changes are often not obvious, as they are not recorded in the sediment. Sulphur (S) isotope values in pyrite extracted from a Plio- to Holocene sequence of the Peru Margin (Ocean Drilling Program, ODP, Site 1229) show a down-core pattern that correlates with the pattern of carbon (C) isotopes in diagenetic dolomite. Early formation of the pyrite is indicated by the mineralogical composition of iron, showing a high degree of pyritization throughout the sedimentary sequence. Hence, the S-record could not have been substantially overprinted by later pyrite formation. The S- and C-isotope profiles show, thus, evidence for two episodes of enhanced microbial methane production with a very shallow sulphate-methane transition zone. The events of high activity are correlated with zones of elevated organic C content in the stratigraphic sequence. Our results demonstrate how isotopic signatures preserved in diagenetic mineral phases provide information on changes of past biogeochemical activity in a dynamic sub-seafloor biosphere.
Association between preterm delivery and bacterial vaginosis with or without treatment
Authors: Shimaoka Masao , Yo Yoshie , Doh Kunihiko , Kotani Yasushi , Suzuki Ayako , Tsuji Isao , Mandai Masaki , Matsumura Noriomi
Published: January 2019

The relationship between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and preterm delivery has become well known in recent years, although there are few studies on: (i) the differences in test results during the early gestational (EGP) and middle gestational (MGP) periods; (ii) the significance of the intermediate (I) group that does not develop overt BV; or (iii) the therapeutic effects of metronidazole. We performed a retrospective study to analyze the relationship between the vaginal bacterial status and the preterm delivery rate. Without treatment, the preterm delivery rate was higher in the BV subgroup than in the I and normal (N) subgroups (p = 0.021) in the EGP, whereas the rates in the BV and I subgroups were higher than in the N subgroup in the MGP (p = 0.0003). Although treatment of BV by metronidazole vaginal tablets significantly increased the N subgroup in the MGP (p = 0.020), there was no significant improvement in the preterm delivery rate. Decreasing the rate of preterm delivery requires development of treatment methods that will further increase the percentage of patients who test N during the MGP after BV during the EGP.
High Expression of long non-coding RNA PVT1 predicts metastasis in Han and Uygur Patients with Gastric Cancer in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Ren Xianxian , Cao Dongdong , Yang Li , Li Xia , Zhang Wei , Xiao Yongbiao , Xi Yu , Li Feng , Li Dongmei , Pan Zemin
Published: January 2019

To analyze the level and diagnostic value of plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) in gastric cancer (GC) of Han and Uygur in Xinjiang, China, we collected 42 GC and 47 normal gastric tissues and performed tissue microarray. In situ hybridization was used to detect PVT1, while immunohistochemistry was used to analyze c-myc. The relationship between PVT1, c-myc and clinical pathological features was investigated. We then analyzed the expression of PVT1 in six GC cell lines. RNA interference was used to silence PVT1 in BGC823 and AGS cells. c-myc was detected by western blotting after silencing PVT1, while proliferation, invasion and migration ability were also analyzed. We found that PVT1 and c-myc were highly expressed in both Han and Uygur GC tissues. In Han GC, PVT1 was correlated with lymph node metastasis and primary tumor site. In Uygur GC, both PVT1 and c-myc were correlated with lymph node metastasis and clinical staging. PVT1 was positively correlated with c-myc. BGC823 and AGS cells exhibited high levels of PVT1. When PVT1 expression was silenced, the expression of c-myc decreased, while migration and invasion ability were also decreased in cells. PVT1 could therefore be a potential biomarker to predict the metastatic tendency of GC in both Han and Uygur patients.
Can anterior repositioning splint effectively treat temporomandibular joint disc displacement?
Authors: Ma Zhigui , Xie Qianyang , Yang Chi , Zhang Shanyong , Shen Yuqing , Abdelrehem Ahmed
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to determine whether anterior repositioning splint (ARS) can effectively treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) anterior disc displacement with reduction (DDwR) in juvenile Class II patients. This study investigated disc repositioning clinically and through use of MRI with 12-month follow up. Patients with skeletal Class II malocclusions and DDwR diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were treated with ARS. The efficacy of ARS was assessed clinically and by means of MRI before treatment (T0), immediately after bite registration (T1), at the end of treatment (T2), and at 12 months after functional appliance treatment (T3). Improvement in TMJ pain, TMJ noises, and range of mandibular movement were assessed. MRI evaluation was based on disc-condylar relationship in parasagittal images. Seventy-two juvenile patients with 91 joints were included in this study. The average age was 15.7 years old (range, 10–20 years) at first visit. There were statistically significant reductions in TMJ pain, disability in daily life and TMJ clicking (P < 0.01). MRI at T2 indicated that the success rate was 92.31% (84/91), but decreased to 72.53% (66/91) at T3. The unsuccessful splint disc capture was mainly observed in late adolescence, especially over 18 years old. Using MRI results as the gold standard, we found that clinical assessment had an accuracy rate of 75.82% at 12-month follow-up. In conclusion, although success rate for ARS treatment decreased over time, both clinical findings and MRI examination indicate that the ARS is relatively effective in repositioning the DDwR, especially for patients in early puberty. However, further and larger studies are needed to evaluate the outcome with ARS.
Deformation twinning mechanism in hexagonal-close-packed crystals
Authors: Jiang Shan , Jiang Zhongtao , Chen Qiaowang
Published: January 2019

The atomic structure of {10 $$\bar{{\bf{1}}}$$

1
¯

2} twin boundary (TB) from a deformed Mg-3Al-1Zn (AZ31) magnesium alloy was examined by using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). By comparing the lattice structure of TB with the previously established model, a kind of special atomic combinations, here named primitive cells (PCs), were discovered at the TB. The PCs reorientation induced mechanism of twinning in hexagonal-close-packed (HCP) crystals was hence verificated. Meanwhile, the relationship between the misorientation of adjacent layers of PCs and the width of TB was discussed. The verification of the mechanism clarifies the twinning mechanism in HCP crystals and opens up opportunities for further researches.
Antenatal Glucocorticoid Exposure Results in Sex-Specific and Transgenerational Changes in Prefrontal Cortex Gene Transcription that Relate to Behavioural Outcomes
Authors: Constantinof Andrea , Moisiadis Vasilis G. , Kostaki Alisa , Szyf Moshe , Matthews Stephen G.
Published: January 2019

Synthetic glucocorticoids (sGC) are administered to women at risk for pre-term delivery to reduce respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is important in regulating stress responses and related behaviours and expresses high levels of glucocorticoid receptors (GR). Further, antenatal exposure to sGC results in a hyperactive phenotype in first generation (F1) juvenile male and female offspring, as well as F2 and F3 juvenile females from the paternal lineage. We hypothesized that multiple courses of antenatal sGC modify gene expression in the PFC, that these effects are sex-specific and maintained across multiple generations, and that the gene sets affected relate to modified locomotor activity. We performed RNA sequencing on PFC of F1 juvenile males and females, as well as F2 and F3 juvenile females from the paternal lineage and used regression modelling to relate gene expression and behavior. Antenatal sGC resulted in sex-specific and generation-specific changes in gene expression. Further, the expression of 4 genes (C9orf116, Calb1, Glra3, and Gpr52) explained 20–29% of the observed variability in locomotor activity. Antenatal exposure to sGC profoundly influences the developing PFC; effects are evident across multiple generations and may drive altered behavioural phenotypes.
Impaired activation of lesional CD8+ T-cells is associated with enhanced expression of Programmed Death-1 in Indian Post Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis
Authors: Mukherjee Shibabrata , Sengupta Ritika , Mukhopadhyay Debanjan , Braun Claudia , Mitra Sneha , Roy Susmita , Kanti Das Nilay , Chatterjee Uttara , von Stebut Esther , Chatterjee Mitali
Published: January 2019

Post Kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL), caused by Leishmania donovani is the dermal sequel of Visceral Leishmaniasis and importantly, is the proposed disease reservoir. The survival of Leishmania parasites within monocytes/macrophages hinges on its ability to effectively nullify immune activation mechanisms. Thus, delineating the disease-promoting immune mechanisms can facilitate development of immunotherapeutic strategies. Accordingly, in the absence of an animal model, this study aimed to delineate the status of CD8+ T-cells in patients with PKDL. At disease presentation, the absence of CD4+ T-cells at lesional sites was concomitant with an overwhelming infiltration of CD8+ T-cells that demonstrated an absence of Perforin, Granzyme and Zap-70, along with an enhanced expression of Programmed Death-1 (PD-1) and the skin-homing CCL17. Additionally, the lesional CCR4+CD8+ population was associated with an enhanced expression of IL-10 and IL-5. In circulation, the enhanced CD8+CCR4+ T-cell population and raised levels of CCL17/22 was associated with an increased frequency of PD-1, while CD127 was decreased. Taken together, in PKDL, the enhanced plasma and lesional CCL17 accounted for the dermal homing of CD8+CCR4+ T-cells, that along with a concomitant upregulation of PD-1 and IL-10 mediated immune inactivation, emphasizing the need for designing immunotherapies capable of reinvigorating T-cell potency.
Corolla retention after pollination facilitates the development of fertilized ovules in Fritillaria delavayi (Liliaceae)
Authors: Gao Yongqian , Wang Changming , Song Bo , Du Fan
Published: January 2019

Corollas (or perianths), considered to contribute to pollinator attraction during anthesis, persist after anthesis in many plants. However, their post-floral function has been little investigated within a cost-benefit framework. We explored the adaptive significance of corolla retention after anthesis for reproduction inFritillaria delavayi, a perennial herb endemic to the alpine areas of the Hengduan Mountains, southwestern China. We examined whether the persistent corollas enhance reproductive success during seed development. Persistent corollas increased fruit temperature on sunny days, and greatly decreased the intensity of ultraviolet-B/C (UV-B/C) radiation reaching fruits. When corollas were removed immediately after pollination, fecundity and progeny quality were adversely affected. Measurements of flower mass and size showed no further corolla growth during fruiting, and respiration and transpiration tests demonstrated that both respiration rate and transpiration rate of corollas were much lower during fruiting than during flowering, indicating a slight additional resource investment in corolla retention after anthesis. Thus, seed production byF. delavayimay be facilitated by corolla retention during seed development at only a small physiological cost. We conclude that corolla retention may be an adaptive strategy that enhances female reproductive success by having a protective role for ripening seeds in the harsh conditions at high elevation.
Characterizing Branching Vascular Network Morphology in Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Huang Chu-Hsuan , Yeh Po-Ting , Hsieh Yi-Ting , Ho Tzyy-Chang , Yang Chung-May , Yang Chang-Hao
Published: January 2019

This study analyze the morphological characteristics of branching vascular networks (BVN) in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and correlate imaging characteristics with clinical presentations. We presented a retrospective observational case series for fifty cases of PCV confirmed by indocyanine green angiography. Macular OCTA were done by the AngioVue. The PCV cases were classified by distinct morphologic patterns of BVN by two retina specialists and clinical features were analyzed. The sensitivity of polyp detection by OCTA was 86% after manual segmentation and that of BVN was 90%. Three distinct morphologic patterns of BVN were identified. (1) The “Trunk” pattern (47%) exhibited major vessel trunk with features including presence of drusens, thin choroid, and larger BVN area. (2) The “Glomeruli” pattern (33%) showed anastomotic vascular network without major trunk. (3) The “Stick” pattern (20%) had localized BVN and the thickest choroid. Subtypes 2 and 3 held higher recurrence rate. In conclusions, the precise visualization of BVN on OCTA supported that OCTA might be a noninvasive tool to study the morphology of BVN in PCV, which exhibits three different morphological types. Identifying the morphology of BVN has the potential to prognosticate outcomes in PCV patients.
Modulation of miRNA expression in natural populations of A. thaliana along a wide altitudinal gradient of Indian Himalayas
Authors: Tripathi Abhinandan Mani , Singh Akanksha , Singh Rajneesh , Verma Ashwani Kumar , Roy Sribash
Published: January 2019

Plant populations growing along an altitudinal gradient are exposed to different environmental conditions. They are excellent resources to study regulatory mechanisms adopted by plants to respond to different environmental stresses. Regulation by miRNA is one of such strategies. Here, we report how different miRNAs are preferentially expressed in the three natural populations of A. thaliana originating from a wide altitudinal range. The expression level of miRNAs was mostly governed by temperature and radiation. Majority of the identified miRNAs expressed commonly in the three populations. However, 30 miRNAs expressed significantly at different level between the low and the high altitude populations. Most of these miRNAs regulate the genes associated with different developmental processes, abiotic stresses including UV, cold, secondary metabolites, etc. Further, the expression of miR397 and miR858 involved in lignin biosynthesis and regulation of secondary metabolites respectively, may be regulated by light intensity. A few miRNAs expressed at increasing level with the increase in the altitude of the site indicating environment driven tight regulation of these miRNAs. Further, several novel miRNAs and isomiR diversity specific to the Himalayas are reported which might have an adaptive advantage. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on miRNA expression from natural plant populations.
A novel electrochemical strategy based on porous 3D graphene-starch architecture and silver deposition for ultrasensitive detection of neuron-specific enolase
Authors: Fang Yishan , Li Yanping , Zhang Ming , Cui Bo , Hu Qiong , Wang Lishi
Published: January 2019

This work was aimed at designing a novel and ultrasensitive electrochemical immunoassay strategy to detect neuron-specific enolase (NSE) with a triple signal amplification strategy.
Dual role of BSA for synthesis of MnO2nanoparticles and their mediated fluorescent turn-on probe for glutathione determination and cancer cell recognition
Authors: Wang Qi , Zhang Yuan , Wang Xiaodong , Wu Yuehuan , Dong Chuan , Shuang Shaomin
Published: January 2019

Scheme of the MnO2NP-mediated fluorescence turn-off-on process of CDs with MnO2NPs and GSH.
Reducing the overpotential of an aprotic Li–O2 battery using a conductive graphene interlayer
Authors: Zhao Liyuan , Xing Yi , Xie Xiaoyi , Lai Jingning , Zhao Nana , Chen Nan , Li Li , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: January 2019

A conductive graphene interlayer promotes the decomposition of Li2O2, resulting in an ultralow overpotential of a Li–O2 battery.
Sterol A-ring plasticity in hedgehog protein cholesterolysis supports a primitive substrate selectivity mechanism
Authors: Ciulla Daniel A. , Wagner Andrew G. , Liu Xinyue , Cooper Courtney L. , Jorgensen Michael T. , Wang Chunyu , Goyal Puja , Banavali Nilesh K. , Pezzullo John L. , Giner José-Luis , Callahan Brian P.
Published: January 2019

The enzymatic agent of hedgehog protein cholesterolysis accommodates substrate sterols with undersized, oversized and distorted ring systems relative to cholesterol.
Small-molecule-based human genome G4 profiling reveals potential gene regulation activity
Authors: Zeng Weiwu , Wu Fan , Liu Chaoxing , Yang Yan , Wang Bingyao , Yuan Yushu , Wang Jiaqi , Chen Yuqi , Fu Boshi , Wu Zhiguo , Zhou Xiang
Published: January 2019

Small-molecule-based G4 isolation from genomic DNA has enabled the identification of a total of 51 446 PQSs (potential G-quadruplex sites).
An analysis of the effect of zirconium precursors of MOF-808 on its thermal stability, and structural and surface properties
Authors: Ardila-Suárez Carolina , Rodríguez-Pereira Jhonatan , Baldovino-Medrano Víctor G. , Ramírez-Caballero Gustavo E.
Published: January 2019

Different zirconium precursors lead to different bulk properties but similar defective surfaces.
Membrane disintegration by the antimicrobial peptide (P)GKY20: lipid segregation and domain formation
Authors: Oliva Rosario , Del Vecchio Pompea , Grimaldi Antonio , Notomista Eugenio , Cafaro Valeria , Pane Katia , Schuabb Vitor , Winter Roland , Petraccone Luigi
Published: January 2019

AFM, DSC and fluorescence spectroscopy have been used to reveal the action mechanism of the antimicrobial peptide (P)GKY20.
EVB and polarizable MM study of energy relaxation in fluorine–acetonitrile reactions
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyong , Harvey Jeremy N.
Published: January 2019

Many-body effects can impact on rates of energy transfer from a ‘hot’ DF solute to acetonitrile solvent.
Quantifying the conceptual problems associated with the isotropic NICS through analyses of its underlying density
Authors: Acke Guillaume , Van Damme Sofie , Havenith Remco W. A. , Bultinck Patrick
Published: January 2019

Despite correlations with other aromaticity descriptors, the NICS is based on fields that have no features chemists associate with aromaticity.
A 3D walking palm-like core–shell CoMoO4@NiCo2S4@nickel foam composite for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Hussain Iftikhar , Ali Awais , Lamiel Charmaine , Mohamed Saad Gomaa , Sahoo Sumanta , Shim Jae-Jin
Published: January 2019

3D core–shell binder-free CoMoO4@NiCo2S4@NF with excellent stability and high capacitance was developed as a positive electrode material for supercapacitors.
Novel design of hollow g-C3N4 nanofibers decorated with MoS2 and S, N-doped graphene for ternary heterostructures
Authors: Kang Suhee , Jang Joonyoung , Ahn Sung-hoon , Lee Caroline Sunyong
Published: January 2019

Herein, we newly design 1-dimensional ternary structure of HGCNF/MoS2/SNG via a one-pot hydrothermal treatment at relatively low temperature and showed a higher double layer capacitance with HER activity.
Generation and reactivity of neutral 1,3-benzazaphosphole and anionic 1,3-benzazaphospholide ytterbium(iii) complexes
Authors: Ying Huacheng , Gong Mingzhu , Pi Chengfu
Published: January 2019

We reported several ytterbium(iii) complexes based on neutral 1,3-benzazaphosphole and anionic 1,3-benzazaphospholide ligands.
Catechol and 1,2,4,5-tetrahydroxybenzene functionalized cyclodiphosphazane ligands: synthesis, structural studies, and transition metal complexes
Authors: Pandey Madhusudan K. , Kunchur Harish S. , Ananthnag Guddekoppa S. , Mague Joel T. , Balakrishna Maravanji S.
Published: January 2019

This paper describes the syntheses of two novel cyclodiphosphazane derivatives and their coordination chemistry with CuI, RuII, RhI, PdIIand AuIis also described.
Loading Co3N nanoparticles as efficient cocatalysts over Zn0.5Cd0.5S for enhanced H2 evolution under visible light
Authors: Jin Zhanbin , Wei Tingting , Lixue Li Lixue Li , Li Fengyan , Tao Ran , Xu Lin
Published: January 2019

Co3N nanoparticles were decorated on Cd0.5Zn0.5S as highly efficient co-catalysts via a facile method. The H2 evolution activity of Co3N(2 wt%)/Cd0.5Zn0.5S is 25 times higher than that of pure Cd0.5Zn0.5S.
Biobased phenol and furan derivative coupling for the synthesis of functional monomers
Authors: Decostanzi Mélanie , Auvergne Rémi , Boutevin Bernard , Caillol Sylvain
Published: January 2019

Generally, chemistry, and in particular polymer chemistry, faces the major challenge of finding solutions to ensure the sustainable and environmentally benign development of industry to meet consumer needs.
Pickering emulsion-enhanced interfacial biocatalysis: tailored alginate microparticles act as particulate emulsifier and enzyme carrier
Authors: Yang Xin , Wang Yaolei , Bai Ruixue , Ma Hulin , Wang Weihao , Sun Hejia , Dong Yuman , Qu Fengmei , Tang Qiming , Guo Ting , Binks Bernard P. , Meng Tao
Published: January 2019

A robust Pickering emulsion stabilized by lipase-immobilized alginate gel microparticles with a coating of silanized titania nanoparticles is developed for biphasic biocatalysis.
Efficient metal-free aminoiodination of alkenes with N-fluorobenzenesulfonimide under mild conditions
Authors: Lei Bowen , Miao Qi , Ma Lifang , Fu Ruoqi , Hu Fangrong , Ni Ni , Li Ziyuan
Published: January 2019

A novel regioselective and stereoselective transition-metal-free aminoiodination of alkenes through an iodonium intermediate using NFSI as both the oxidant and amino precursor under mild conditions with a broad alkene scope is disclosed.
Aryltrifluoromethylative cyclization of unactivated alkenes by the use of PhICF3Cl under catalyst-free conditions
Authors: Guo Jia , Xu Cong , Liu Xiaowei , Wang Mang
Published: January 2019

A concise and catalyst-free aryltrifluoromethylative cyclization of unactivated alkenes has been developed herein.
A flowing pair of particles in inertial microfluidics
Authors: Schaaf Christian , Rühle Felix , Stark Holger
Published: January 2019

A flowing pair of particles in inertial microfluidics gives important insights into understanding and controlling the collective dynamics of particles like cells or droplets in microfluidic devices. For rigid particles we determine the two-particle lift force profiles, which govern their coupled dynamics.
Vapor-induced motion of two pure liquid droplets
Authors: Wen Yanqing , Kim Paul Y. , Shi Shaowei , Wang Dong , Man Xingkun , Doi Masao , Russell Thomas P.
Published: January 2019

The evaporating liquid droplets on a surface move from the high evaporation side to the low evaporation side.
A self-assembled peptide nucleic acid–microRNA nanocomplex for dual modulation of cancer-related microRNAs
Authors: Wang Xingxing , Xiao Xiao , Zhang Bingsen , Li Jinbo , Zhang Yan
Published: January 2019

A peptide nucleic acid–microRNA nanocomplex was prepared and used for dual-modulation of cancer-related microRNAs in target cancer cells.
Xanthate-mediated synthesis of (E)-alkenes by semi-hydrogenation of alkynes using water as the hydrogen donor
Authors: Luo Xianglin , Chen Xiuwen , Chen Lu , Zhang Kun , Li Yibiao
Published: January 2019

An environmentally sustainable alternative for thetrans-selective semi-hydrogenation of the Csp–Csp triple bond through double hydrosulfuration and desulphurization procedure by xanthate was reported.