bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Mechanical and Thermal Loads during Lithium‐Ion Pouch Cell Formation and Their Impacts on Process Time
Authors: Heimes Heiner Hans , Offermanns Christian , Mohsseni Ahmad , Laufen Hendrik , Westerhoff Uwe , Hoffmann Louisa , Niehoff Philip , Kurrat Michael , Winter Martin , Kampker Achim
Published: April 2019

The most cost‐intensive components of the battery system for electric vehicles are the lithium‐ion battery cells. Thus, to reduce the overall cost of a battery system, a clear objective is to reduce the production cost of lithium‐ion battery cells. Cost drivers are to be identified, which are essential to enable potentials for cost reduction. In particular, the formation and aging process represents a high potential for process cost reduction because of its enormous process time expenditure. The automotive industry requires up to 3 weeks for the formation and aging process of a single lithium‐ion battery cell. Due to the high relevance of these processes, the research project OptiZellForm as part of the ProZell Cluster examines those production steps in detail. Environmental conditions such as mechanical load and elevated temperature as well as the electrical and chemical properties influencing the formation and aging process are investigated. The focus of this study is the investigation of the mechanical exertion and elevated temperature with regard to the reduction of the formation process duration and thus the reduction of the production cost. For this reason, a specially designed device is used to investigate these parameters for lithium‐ion battery cells.
The Effect of Soil Organic Matter, Electrical Conductivity and Acidity on the Soil's Carbon Sequestration Ability Via Two Species of Tamarisk (TamarixSpp.)
Authors: Iranmanesh Mahbobeh , Sadeghi Hossein
Published: April 2019

Carbon sequestration constitutes a part of the carbon cycle. It is a term used for describing carbon exchange with the environment. This study was conducted to evaluate how soil organic matter and other related parameters affect carbon sequestration in the soil via the presence of two plantsTamarix aphyllaandTamarix kotschyi. Two ranges of depth (0–15 and 15–30 cm) were studied in the soil. This study was carried out in two separate factorial experiments using a randomized complete design (RCD) with three replications, in a semiarid environment throughout the year 2015. The results showed that the soil which hostedTamarix kotschyihad a higher level of acidity, and higher saturation percentage, carbon in its organic form and organic matter. Furthermore, the depth ranges of 0–15 cm in the soil had higher percentages of organic carbon, organic matter and carbon sequestration. However, the 0–15 cm range of depth had a lower percentage of moisture compared to the 15–30 cm range of depth. Correlation coefficients revealed that the percentages of acidity and organic matter could be considered as essential parameters when determining carbon sequestration. Generally, it was concluded thatT. kotschyicontributed to the most substantial level of carbon sequestration at the depth range of 0–15 cm in the soil (P ≤ 0.01). © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: e13230, 2019
Role of surface microstructure of Mo back contact on alkali atom diffusion and Ga grading in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film solar cells
Authors: Gong Junbo , Kong Yifan , Li Jianmin , Wang Xiangqi , Que Yande , Zhang Zengming , Ding Zejun , Xiao Xudong
Published: April 2019

While the major function of molybdenum (Mo) back contact on soda‐lime glass (SLG) substrate in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells is to provide good adhesion and good conductivity, its role as the transportation channel for alkali elements from SLG substrate to CIGS layer has often been overlooked. In this work, we have intentionally fabricated tri‐layered structure in contrast to the conventional bi‐layered structure for Mo back contact with the microstructure of the thin topmost Mo layer manipulated by the Ar pressure and water vapor during sputtering deposition. It has been discovered that the CIGS solar cell conversion efficiency can be greatly affected by this thin topmost Mo layer of the back contact. Investigations on the elemental depth profiles in the CIGS devices and the chemical states of Mo on the back contact surfaces have revealed that the surface layer of Mo back contact has a strong effect on the diffusion of alkali elements from SLG into CIGS absorber layer, which in turn influences the formation of Ga gradient in the CIGS layer and thus the solar cell performance. It was revealed that Mo(OH)6 and MoO3 formed on the surface of Mo back contact play a key role in determining the K atom distribution and Ga gradient. A reaction mechanism was also proposed.
Investigation of biomass (pine wood) gasification: Experiments and Aspen Plus simulation
Authors: Huang Fenxia , Jin Shiping
Published: April 2019

Biomass gasification is currently a hot research topic. To achieve a high hydrogen content in the product gas, the gasification feedstock used in this study is air‐dried pine woodchips. Experiments are performed in a downdraft gasifier by varying the operation parameters of the particle size (60 mesh, 80 mesh, 100 mesh), temperature point (700, 750, 800, 850, 900°C), and steam‐to‐biomass mass (S/B) ratio (0, 0.7, 1.4, 2.1, 2.8). The main effects of particle size, temperature, and S/B ratio on the composition of the product gas are analyzed to predict the optimal operation parameters of biomass feedstock. For pine woodchip gasification, the optimal particle size is 80 mesh or 0.17 mm, the preferred temperature is 850°C, and the optimal S/B ratio is 1.4. Although there is an error between the experiment and the simulation, the difference is not significant. The Aspen Plus model can provide guidance for the gasification of pine woodchips and can be extended to the gasification of other kinds of biomass.
Occurrence and Species-Specific Distribution of Plastic Debris in Wild Freshwater Fish from the Pearl River Catchment, China
Authors: Zheng Ke , Fan Yujuan , Zhu Zewen , Chen Guangshi , Tang Caiming , Peng Xianzhi
Published: April 2019

Freshwater systems are an important source and vector of plastic debris found in oceans. However, plastic debris in freshwater organisms has not been well studied. The occurrence, characterization, polymer composition, and seasonal and spatial distribution of plastic debris were investigated in 9 species of wild freshwater fish from the Pearl River catchment, south China. Approximately 50% of the total fish (n = 279) belonging to 9 species were found to ingest plastic debris with an average abundance of 7.0 ± 23.8 items/individual, indicating wide plastic contamination in the Pearl River catchment. Plastic debris were predominantly transparent or white in color, fibers or fragments in shape, and polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene–propylene copolymer (PE-PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in polymer composition. A species-specific distribution of the plastic debris was observed in terms of abundance, shape, and polymer composition. Redbelly tilapia had the highest (27.4 ± 54.0 items/individual), whereas common carp had the lowest (0.2 ± 0.4 items/individual) abundance of the plastic debris in their gastrointestinal tracts. Fibers of PET were predominant in the freshwater species except in barbel chubs, which had mostly PE-PP fragments. Omnivores and bottom-dwellers were more likely to ingest plastic debris. Seasonal variation was observed, with generally higher abundance of plastic debris in fish collected in the dry season than in the wet season. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:1504–1513. © 2019 SETAC
Distributed energy‐efficient channel assignment in cognitive mesh network for IoT systems
Authors: Ul Hasan Najam , Ejaz Waleed , Anpalagan Alagan
Published: April 2019

Internet of Things (IoT) has attracted a lot of attention to solve the real‐world problem to improve quality of life. Cognitive radio mesh networks (CRMNs) can provide connectivity to a large number of IoT nodes and have the potential to self‐organize and reconfigure to make efficient use of spectrum resources. The growing concern regarding energy consumption in communication infrastructure and low power IoT nodes has led researchers to regard minimizing of energy consumption. In this paper, we propose a distributed energy‐efficient channel assignment in CRMNs for the IoT systems. We formulate an optimization problem for channel assignment and sharing in CRMNs for IoT systems with an objective to maximize energy‐efficiency of the network. We consider constraints on both intra and inter‐link interference. We then propose two distributed approaches to solve the channel assignment problem: (1) greedy approach and (2) game theoretic approach while considering the scalability and self‐organization requirements of the CRMNs for the IoT systems. We then present extensive simulation results to demonstrate the performance of proposed schemes.
Programmable intelligent spaces for Industry 4.0: Indoor visual localization driving attocell networks
Authors: do Carmo Alexandre P. , Vassallo Raquel F. , de Queiroz Felippe M. , Picoreti Rodolfo , Fernandes Mariana R. , Gomes Roberta L. , Martinello Magnos , Dominicini Cristina K. , Guimarães Rafael , Garcia Anilton S. , Ribeiro Moises R. N. , Simeonidou Dimitra
Published: April 2019

Real‐time and mission‐critical applications for Industry 4.0 demand fast and reliable communication. Therefore, knowing devices' location is essential, but GPS is of little use indoors, whereas electromagnetic impairments and interferences demand new approaches to ensure reliability. The challenges include real‐time feedback with end‐to‐end (E2E) low latency; high data density due to large number of IoT devices per area; and smaller communication cells, which increases the handover frequency and complexity. To tackle these issues, we introduce a programmable intelligent space (PIS) to deploy attocells, enable E2E programmability, and provide a precise computer vision localization system and networking programmability based on software‐defined networking. To validate our approach, experiments were conducted, controlling a mobile robot through a trajectory. We demonstrate the need for higher camera frame rate to achieve tighter precision, evaluating different trade‐offs on localization, bandwidth, and latency. Results have shown that PIS wireless attocell handover achieves seamlessly mobile communication, delivering packets within the deadline window, with similar performance to a no handover baseline.
Microglial proliferation and monocyte infiltration contribute to microgliosis following status epilepticus
Authors: Feng Lijie , Murugan Madhuvika , Bosco Dale B. , Liu Yong , Peng Jiyun , Worrell Gregory A. , Wang Hai‐Long , Ta Lauren E. , Richardson Jason R. , Shen Yuxian , Wu Long‐Jun
Published: April 2019

Microglial activation has been recognized as a major contributor to inflammation of the epileptic brain. Seizures are commonly accompanied by remarkable microgliosis and loss of neurons. In this study, we utilize the CX3CR1GFP/+ CCR2RFP/+ genetic mouse model, in which CX3CR1+ resident microglia and CCR2+ monocytes are labeled with GFP and RFP, respectively. Using a combination of time‐lapse two‐photon imaging and whole‐cell patch clamp recording, we determined the distinct morphological, dynamic, and electrophysiological characteristics of infiltrated monocytes and resident microglia, and the evolution of their behavior at different time points following kainic acid‐induced seizures. Seizure activated microglia presented enlarged somas with less ramified processes, whereas, infiltrated monocytes were smaller, highly motile cells that lacked processes. Moreover, resident microglia, but not infiltrated monocytes, proliferate locally in the hippocampus after seizure. Microglial proliferation was dependent on the colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF‐1R) pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of CSF‐1R reduced seizure‐induced microglial proliferation, which correlated with attenuation of neuronal death without altering acute seizure behaviors. Taken together, we demonstrated that proliferation of activated resident microglia contributes to neuronal death in the hippocampus via CSF‐1R after status epilepticus, providing potential therapeutic targets for neuroprotection in epilepsy.
Altered static and dynamic functional network connectivity in Alzheimer's disease and subcortical ischemic vascular disease: shared and specific brain connectivity abnormalities
Authors: Fu Zening , Caprihan Arvind , Chen Jiayu , Du Yuhui , Adair John C. , Sui Jing , Rosenberg Gary A. , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: April 2019

Subcortical ischemic vascular disease (SIVD) is a major subtype of vascular dementia with features that overlap clinically with Alzheimer's disease (AD), confounding diagnosis. Neuroimaging is a more specific and biologically based approach for detecting brain changes and thus may help to distinguish these diseases. There is still a lack of knowledge regarding the shared and specific functional brain abnormalities, especially functional connectivity changes in relation to AD and SIVD. In this study, we investigated both static functional network connectivity (sFNC) and dynamic FNC (dFNC) between 54 intrinsic connectivity networks in 19 AD patients, 19 SIVD patients, and 38 age‐matched healthy controls. The results show that both patient groups have increased sFNC between the visual and cerebellar (CB) domains but decreased sFNC between the cognitive‐control and CB domains. SIVD has specifically decreased sFNC within the sensorimotor domain while AD has specifically altered sFNC between the default‐mode and CB domains. In addition, SIVD has more occurrences and a longer dwell time in the weakly connected dFNC states, but with fewer occurrences and a shorter dwell time in the strongly connected dFNC states. AD has both similar and opposite changes in certain dynamic features. More importantly, the dynamic features are found to be associated with cognitive performance. Our findings highlight similar and distinct functional connectivity alterations in AD and SIVD from both static and dynamic perspectives and indicate dFNC to be a more important biomarker for dementia since its progressively altered patterns can better track cognitive impairment in AD and SIVD.
Dynamic stream network intermittence explains emergent dissolved organic carbon chemostasis in headwaters
Authors: Hale Rebecca L. , Godsey Sarah E.
Published: April 2019

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations vary among headwaters, with variation typically decreasing with watershed area. We hypothesized that streamflow intermittence could be an important source of variation in DOC concentrations across a small watershed, through (a) temporal legacies of drying on organic matter accumulation and biotic communities and (b) spatial patterns of connectivity with DOC sources. To test these hypotheses, we conducted three synoptic water chemistry sampling campaigns across a 25.5‐km2 watershed in south‐eastern Idaho during early spring, late summer, and late fall. Using changepoint analysis, we found that DOC variability collapsed at a consistent location (watershed areas ~1.3 to ~1.8 km2) across seasons, which coincided with the watershed area where variability in streamflow intermittence collapsed (~1.5 km2). To test hypothesized mechanisms through which intermittence may affect DOC, we developed temporal, spatial, and spatio‐temporal metrics of streamflow intermittence and related these to DOC concentrations. Streamflow intermittence was a strong predictor of DOC across seasons, but different metrics predicted DOC depending on season. Seasonal changes in the effects of intermittence on DOC reflected seasonal changes from instream to flowpath controls. A metric that captured spatial connectivity to sources significantly predicted DOC during high flows, when DOC is typically controlled by transport. In contrast, a reach‐scale temporal metric of intermittence predicted DOC during the late growing season, when DOC is typically controlled by instream processes and when legacy effects of drying (e.g., diminished biological communities) would likely affect DOC. The effects of intermittence on DOC extend beyond temporal legacies at a point. Our results suggest that legacy effects of intermittence do not propagate downstream in this system. Instead, snapshots of spatial patterns of intermittence upstream of a reach are critical for understanding spatial patterns of DOC through connectivity to DOC sources, and these processes drive patterns of DOC even in perennial reaches.
Dissipative Self‐Assembly of Peptides
Authors: Tena‐Solsona Marta , Boekhoven Job
Published: April 2019

In molecular self‐assembly, molecules interact with each other by non‐covalent interactions to form larger structures. The process occurs in‐equilibrium, which means that molecules can leave the assembly and reassemble elsewhere, but that occurs on average with equal rates. For self‐assembly, peptides have proven to be a particularly useful building block, in part because of their versatility. Biology also uses self‐assembly to create functional materials. For example, components of the cytoskeleton, like actin filament and microtubules, are self‐assembled proteins. In other words, biology uses the same building blocks and design rules as supramolecular chemists to create functional structures. However, biological assemblies are vastly more complex than their synthetic counterparts. The discrepancy is in part because proteins are more complex than the peptides we use as building blocks. Another contributing factor to the difference in complexity is that most assemblies in living systems exist out of equilibrium. To use peptides for complex functions as biology does, we should understand and be able to create peptide assemblies out of equilibrium. In this work, we review recent advances towards the creation of peptide assemblies that exist out of equilibrium driven by an external energy source.
Comparative evaluation of consensus mechanisms in cryptocurrencies
Authors: Hazari Shihab S. , Mahmoud Qusay H.
Published: April 2019

The Bitcoin cryptocurrency allows entities in a peer‐to‐peer network to reach consensus about the state of the blockchain through a set of cryptographic algorithms and economic incentives. Bitcoin uses a proof of work system, but there are other consensus mechanisms used by other cryptocurrencies. The performance of a cryptocurrency depends on the consensus mechanism used. This paper presents the results of a comparative evaluation that has been conducted on various significant consensus mechanisms. The unique characteristics, as well as drawbacks of each mechanism, are highlighted, together with their applications. The mechanisms are also classified into major types and those types are evaluated elaborately. The paper concludes with a discussion of the open challenges related to the available solutions.
LGBTQ+ Addiction Research: An Analysis of the Journal of Addictions & Offender Counseling
Authors: Chaney Michael P.
Published: April 2019

Articles published in the Journal of Addictions & Offender Counseling (JAOC) from 1980 to 2018 were examined to see how LGBTQ+ issues are represented. This study also investigated whether sexual orientation and gender identity were reported in empirical studies in JAOC.
Black American Men's Treatment Experiences in Mental Health Court: A Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Stare Bryan G. , Fernando Delini M.
Published: April 2019

In this qualitative study, the authors examined young adult Black American men's perceptions of treatment in mental health diversion programs. Findings included 3 themes: helpful treatment factors, cognitive dissonance, and treatment barriers. The authors explore counseling competency and advocacy considerations for judicial settings.
Strontium enhances BMP‐2 mediated bone regeneration in a femoral murine bone defect model
Authors: Quade Mandy , Vater Corina , Schlootz Saskia , Bolte Julia , Langanke Robert , Bretschneider Henriette , Gelinsky Michael , Goodman Stuart B. , Zwingenberger Stefan
Published: April 2019

The application of strontium is one option for the clinical treatment of osteoporosis—a disease characterized by reduced bone density and quality—in order to reduce the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. Unlike other drugs used in osteoporosis therapy, strontium shows a dual effect on bone metabolism by attenuating cellular resorption and simultaneously enhancing new bone tissue formation. Current concerns regarding the systemic application of highly dosed strontium ranelate led to the development of strontium‐modified scaffolds based on mineralized collagen (MCM) capable to release biologically active Sr2+ ions directly at the fracture site. In this study, we investigated the regenerative potential of these scaffolds. For in vitro investigations, human mesenchymal stromal cells were cultivated on the scaffolds for 21 days (w/ and w/o osteogenic supplements). Biochemical analysis revealed a significant promoting effect on proliferation rate and osteogenic differentiation on strontium‐modified scaffolds. In vivo, scaffolds were implanted in a murine segmental bone defect model—partly additionally functionalized with the osteogenic growth factor bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP‐2). After 6 weeks, bridging calluses were obtained in BMP‐2 functionalized scaffolds; the quality of the newly formed bone tissue by means of morphological scores was clearly enhanced in strontium‐modified scaffolds. Histological analysis revealed increased numbers of osteoblasts and blood vessels, decreased numbers of osteoclasts, and significantly enhanced mechanical properties. These results indicate that the combined release of Sr2+ ions and BMP‐2 from the biomimetic scaffolds is a promising strategy to enhance bone regeneration, especially in patients suffering from osteoporosis. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 108B:174–182, 2020.
Adverse events during apheresis: A 10‐year experience at a tertiary academic medical center
Authors: Kundrapu Sirisha , Datla Sireesha , Griffin Vanessa , Maitta Robert W.
Published: April 2019

Background

Apheresis can be associated with adverse events (AEs). Available studies published on apheresis‐associated AEs lack uniformity of data. Unfortunately, there is no common database in the United States (US) to report apheresis‐associated AEs. We evaluated our institutional incidence of apheresis‐associated AEs and compared it with published literature.

Study design and methods

We conducted a 10‐year retrospective study of apheresis procedures and associated AEs at our facility, a tertiary academic medical center, from 2007 to 2016. Concurrently, a literature search was conducted on AEs associated with apheresis procedures. Twenty‐eight studies including data from US and other countries' facilities were analyzed.

Results

The overall AE incidence was 6.9% (396/5684 procedures). Frequency of AEs associated with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) was higher (8.5%, P < .0001) compared to other apheresis procedures. Significant correlation between number of TPE and AEs (Spearman rho [rs] = 0.7, P = .002) was encountered. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease over time of moderate and severe AEs (rs = −0.64, P = .04 and rs = −0.83, P = .003 respectively). Comparison of our institutional AEs (6.9%) to data from other countries (9.8%) and US (22.6%) indicated a significant difference (P < .0001).

Conclusion

Overall our incidence of AEs was significantly lower than current published literature. Incidence of AEs published in other countries is significantly lower than US rates. Differences in incidence of AEs emphasize need for uniform reporting and stratification of AEs and development of a common database to report AEs. Therefore, we propose a grading rationale in order to standardize reporting of AEs.
Tao‐Hong‐Si‐Wu decoction reduces ischemia reperfusion rat myoblast cells calcium overloading and inflammation through the Wnt/IP3R/CAMKII pathway
Authors: Fuping Zhu , Wuping Li , Linhua Wang , Chengxi Pan , Fuqiang Zhou , Yi Zhang , Aijun Wang
Published: April 2019

Limb ischemia reperfusion (LIRI) injury is associated with serious local and systemic effects. Reperfusion may augment tissue injury in excess of that produced by ischemia alone. Calcium overloading and inflammation are considered to be two of the pathological mechanisms of limb ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Tao‐Hong‐Si‐Wu decoction (THSWD) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine with a powerful anti‐inflammatory properties. We studied the probable restorative effect of THSWD on limb I/R‐induced calcium overloading and inflammation in myoblast obtained from gastrocnemius muscle tissues of Sprague‐Dawley rats (Frizzled Z5,a wnt5a blocker; KN‐93, a calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CamkII) blocker; XeC, a IP3R blocker as positive controls). The simulated ischemia and reperfusion(I/R) solutions were used to imitate LIRI environment. The results showed that after I/R treatment, the secretion of proinflammatory factors (TNF‐α and IL‐1β) and Wnt5a/Ca2+ signal molecules (wnt5a, camkII, and IP3R) upregulated significantly, the Ca2+ concentration enhanced too in myoblast cells. THSWD pretreatment decreased the secretion of TNF‐α and IL‐1β, Ca2+ concentration; and abated the Wnt5a/Ca2+ signal molecules of wnt5a, camkII and IP3R expression activated by I/R injury; but could not abated the Wnt11 and protein kinase C (PKC) expression significantly, the results was similar with Frizzled Z5 treatment cells. Our research illustrated that THSWD may have a mitigating effect on LIRI targeting Wnt/IP3R/CAMKII but not Wnt/IP3R/PKC signaling pathway for the first time. This study may encourage the use of THSWD in the critical clinical settings with LIRI.
Proteasome‐associated cysteine deubiquitinases are molecular targets of environmental optical brightener compounds
Authors: Castro Isel , Ekinci Elmira , Huang Xuemei , Cheaito Hassan Ali , Ahn Young‐Hoon , Olivero‐Verbel Jesus , Dou Q. Ping
Published: April 2019

The levels of organic pollutants, such as optical brightener (OB) compounds, in the global environment have been increasing in recent years. The toxicological effects and signal transduction systems associated with OB toxicity have not been thoroughly studied. The ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS) plays a crucial role in regulating multiple essential cellular processes, and proteasome‐associated cysteine deubiquitinases (DUBs), ubiquitin C‐terminal hydrolase L5 (UCHL5) and USP14, are two major regulators for (de)ubiquitination and stability of many important target proteins. Therefore, potential inhibition of UCHL5 and USP14 activities by some environmental chemicals might cause in vivo toxicity. In the current study we hypothesize that electrophilic OB compounds, such as 4,4′‐diamino‐2,2′‐stilbenedisulfonic acid(DAST), fluorescent brightener 28 (FB‐28) and FB‐71, can interact with the catalytic triads (CYS, HIS, and ASP) of UCHL5 and USP14 and inhibit their enzymatic activities, leading to cell growth suppression. This hypothesis is supported by our findings presented in this study. Results from in silico computational docking and ubiquitin vinyl sulfone assay confirmed the UCHL5/USP14‐inhibitory activities of these OB compounds that have potencies in an order of: FB‐71 > FB‐28 > DAST. Furthermore, inhibition of these two proteasomal DUBs by OBs resulted in cell growth inhibition and apoptosis induction in two human breast cancer cell models. In addition, we found that OB‐mediated DUB inhibition triggers a feedback reaction in which expression of UCHL5 and USP14 proteins is increased to compromise the suppressed activities. Our study suggests that these commonly used OB compounds may target and inhibit proteasomal cysteine DUBs, which should contribute to their toxicological effects in vivo.
Modeling halogen bonding with planewave density functional theory: Accuracy and challenges
Authors: Ang Shi Jun , Ser Cher Tian , Wong Ming Wah
Published: April 2019

Inspired by the recent interest of halogen bonding (XB) in the solid state, we detail a comprehensive benchmark study of planewave DFT geometry and interaction energy of lone‐pair (LP) type and aromatic (AR) type halogen bonded complexes, using PAW and USPP pseudopotentials. For LP‐type XB dimers, PBE‐PAW generally agrees with PBE/aug‐cc‐pVQZ(−pp) geometries but significantly overbinds compared to CCSD(T)/aug‐cc‐pVQZ(‐pp). Grimme's D3 dispersion corrections to PBE‐PAW gives better agreement to the MP2/cc‐pVTZ(‐pp) results for AR‐type dimers. For interaction energies, PBE‐PAW may overbind or underbind for weaker XBs but clearly overbinds for stronger XBs. D3 dispersion corrections exacerbate the overbinding problem for LP‐type complexes but significantly improves agreement for AR‐type complexes compared to CCSD(T)/CBS. Finally, for periodic XB crystals, planewave PBE methods slightly underestimate the XB lengths by 0.03 to 0.05 Å. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Study on morphology of LaFeO3 nanofibers under different voltage connections
Authors: Guo Meiling , Li Shudan , Wang Xiuhua , Gao Kun
Published: April 2019

Continuous LaFeO3 nanowires and nanobelts were successfully synthesized using a sol–gel assisted electrospinning method followed by calcination at 500°C in air. The thermal decomposition processes of LaFeO3 are carefully investigated and the best calcining temperature was found to be 500°C. The two nanofibers obtained were characterized using X‐ray diffraction analysis, which shows single phase and the structure of nanobelts has higher crystallinity than that of the nanowires. The scanning electron microscopy reveals that the diameter of the obtained LaFeO3 nanowires is 139.3 nm. And the thickness and width of the nanobelts are 80 and 459 nm. Moreover, the electrospun LaFeO3 nanobelts are endowed with a higher specific surface area compared with the nanowires, which results from the regular one dimensional morphology without any detectable agglomeration and a rough surface.
INHBA gene silencing inhibits gastric cancer cell migration and invasion by impeding activation of the TGF‐β signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Zong‐Lin , Qin Lu , Peng Xu‐Bin , Hu Yu , Liu Bo
Published: April 2019

Gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth largest cancer in the world, with a 5‐year survival rate of <30%. Thus, this study intends to investigate the effects of inhibin βA (INHBA) gene silencing on the migration and invasion of GC cells via the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling pathway. Initially, this study determined the expression of INHBA and the TGF‐β signaling pathway‐related genes in GC tissues. After that, to assess the effect of INHBA silencing on GC progression, GC cells were transfected with short hairpin RNAs that targeted INHBA in order to detect the expression of INHBA and the TGF‐β signaling pathway‐related genes, as well as cell migration, invasion, and proliferation abilities. Finally, a tumor xenograft model in nude mice was constructed to verify the effect that the silencing of INHBA had on tumor growth. Highly expressed INHBA and activated TGF‐β signaling pathways were observed in GC tissues. In response to shINHBA‐1 and shINHBA‐2, the TGF‐β signaling pathway was inhibited in GC cells, whereas the GC cell migration, invasion, proliferation, and tumor growth were significantly dampened. On the basis of the observations and findings of this study, INHBA gene silencing inhibited the progression of GC by inactivating the TGF‐β signaling pathway, which provides a potential target in the treatment of GC.
C1q/TNF‐related protein‐9 promotes macrophage polarization and improves cardiac dysfunction after myocardial infarction
Authors: Liu Mingxin , Yin Lin , Li Wei , Hu Juan , Wang Huibo , Ye Bingjie , Tang Yanhong , Huang Congxin
Published: April 2019

The timely regulation of inflammatory M1 macrophage polarization toward regenerative M2 macrophages suggests the possibility of immunotherapy after myocardial infarction (MI). C1q/TNF‐related protein‐9 (CTRP9) has anti‐inflammatory effects and can ameliorate heart function in mice after long‐term myocardial infarction. The role of CTRP9 in macrophage polarization remains completely unclear. This study determined whether CTRP9 can preserve post‐MI early cardiac function through the regulation of macrophage polarization. In the present study, an adenovirus‐delivered CTRP9 supplement promoted macrophage polarization at Day 3 post MI and improved cardiac function at Day 7 post MI. Pretreatment with gCTRP9 promoted the M1 to M2 polarization transition and attenuated inflammation after lipopolysaccharide + interferon‐γ stimulation; the effects were partly abrogated by the adenosine monophosphate kinase (AMPK) inhibitor compound C and were obviously reinforced by pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, a nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) inhibitor. Meanwhile, CTPR9 markedly reduced the expression of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), and NF‐κB p65 phosphorylation by promoting AMPK phosphorylation in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, the competitive binding of gCTRP9 and LPS to the myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2)/TLR4 complex was associated with direct binding to MD2, thereby inhibiting the downstream signaling molecule MyD88. Taken together, we demonstrated that CTRP9 improved post‐MI early cardiac function, at least in part, by modulating M1/M2 macrophage polarization, largely via the TLR4/MD2/MyD88 and AMPK‐NF‐κB pathways.
FGF23 regulates atrial fibrosis in atrial fibrillation by mediating the STAT3 and SMAD3 pathways
Authors: Dong Quanbin , Li Shaochuan , Wang Weixue , Han Lu , Xia Zirong , Wu Yanqing , Tang Yanhua , Li Juxiang , Cheng Xiaoshu
Published: April 2019

High fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) concentrations are a strong predictor of atrial fibrillation (AF), but researchers have not clearly determined the mechanism by which FGF23 causes atrial fibrosis in patients with AF. This study aims to elucidate the mechanism by which FGF23 induces atrial fibrosis in patients with AF. Immunohistochemistry was used to study the expression of FGF23, FGFR4, and fibrotic factors in patients with a normal sinus rhythm (SR) and patients with AF. Cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were cocultured with different concentrations of the recombinant FGF23 protein. Compared with the SR group, the levels of FGF23, FGFR4, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), and collagen‐1 were significantly increased in the AF group. Exposure to high concentrations of the recombinant FGF23 protein increased the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activated α‐SMA, collagen‐1, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and SMAD3 signaling in cultured CFs. The levels of fibrotic proteins in CFs stimulated with high concentrations of the recombinant FGF23 protein were reversed by N‐acetylcysteine (NAC, a ROS inhibitor), ship information system 3 (a SMAD3 inhibitor), and Stattic (a STAT3 inhibitor). Furthermore, compared to untreated CFs, CFs treated with the recombinant FGF23 protein were characterized by an increased interaction between STAT3 and SMAD3. Based on these results, FGF23 induces atrial fibrosis in patients with AF by increasing ROS production and subsequently activating STAT3 and SMAD3 signaling.
Mesoglycan induces keratinocyte activation by triggering syndecan‐4 pathway and the formation of the annexin A1/S100A11 complex
Authors: Bizzarro Valentina , Belvedere Raffaella , Pessolano Emanuela , Parente Luca , Petrella Francesco , Perretti Mauro , Petrella Antonello
Published: April 2019

Wound healing is a dynamic process comprising multiple events, such as inflammation, re‐epithelialization, and tissue remodeling. Re‐epithelialization phase is characterized by the engagement of several cell populations, mainly of keratinocytes that sequentially go through cycles of migration, proliferation, and differentiation to restore skin functions. Troubles can arise during the re‐epithelialization phase of skin wound healing particularly in keratinocyte migration, resulting in chronic non‐healing lesions, which represent a serious clinical problem. Over the last decades, the efforts aimed to find new pharmacological approaches for wound care were made, yet almost all current therapeutic strategies used remain inadequate or even ineffective. As such, it is crucial to identify new drugs that can enable a proper regeneration of the epithelium in wounded skin. Here, we have investigated the effects of the fibrinolytic drug mesoglycan, a glycosaminoglycans mixture derived from porcine intestinal mucosa on HaCaT human keratinocytes that were used as in vitro experimental model of skin re‐epithelialization. We found that mesoglycan induces keratinocyte migration and early differentiation by triggering the syndecan‐4/PKCα pathway and that these effects were at least in part, because of the formation of the annexin A1/S100A11 complex. Our data suggest that mesoglycan may be useful as a new pro‐healing drug for skin wound care.
miR‐218‐5p regulates skin and hair follicle development through Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway by targeting SFRP2
Authors: Zhao Bohao , Chen Yang , Yang Naisu , Chen Qiuran , Bao Zhiyuan , Liu Ming , Hu Shuaishuai , Li Jiali , Wu Xinsheng
Published: April 2019

The hair follicle is a complex biological system involved in a dynamic process governed by gene regulation. MicroRNAs play a critical role in the regulation of gene expression. We demonstrated that the expression of miR‐218‐5p and SFRP2 showed the opposite relationship in catagen and telogen phases and that miR‐218‐5p promoted the growth of hair shafts. The luciferase reporter assays confirmed that SFRP2 is the direct target of miR‐218‐5p. The expression of miR‐218‐5p may decrease the expression of SFRP2, which activates the Wnt signaling pathway, including the regulation of downstream genes and β‐catenin/T‐cell‐specific factor transcriptional activity. Moreover, miR‐218‐5p enhanced apoptosis, but inhibition of miR‐218‐5p decreased apoptosis and inhibited RAB‐9 cell proliferation. In this study, we show that miR‐218‐5p positively regulates the Wnt signaling pathway by targeting SFRP2 and acts as a dynamic governor during skin and hair follicle development.
Scanning electron microscopy leads to identification of novel nonedible oil seeds as energy crops
Authors: Munir Mamoona , Ahmad Mushtaq , Waseem Amir , Zafar Muhammad , Saeed Muhammad , Wakeel Aneela , Nazish Moona , Sultana Shazia
Published: April 2019

Currently, exploration of alternative energy resources is hotly debated among the scientific community owing to rising energy crises and environmental issues. Biodiesel, as renewable energy source proves to be a better option and substitute to petro diesel. In this regard, nonedible seeds could be a better feedstock for synthesizing biodiesel due to their cost effectiveness and environmental friendly attributes. The present study, therefore, deals with the exploration and identification of micromorphologic features among eight novel nonedible oil yielding seeds via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as potential feedstock for biodiesel industry. Light microscopic studies revealed that seeds size vary from 0.1–2.9 cm in length to 0.1–3 cm in width. Moreover, a great variation in seed color from black, green, and different shades of brown was also observed. Seeds ultra‐structure examination by SEM exhibit great variation in seed shape, size, color, sculpturing and periclinal wall shape and arrangement and so on. All the understudy seeds vary from rounded, irregular, subspherical, ellipsoidal, reniform, flattened, polygonal, ovate, pyriform, oblong, and globose shape. Seeds wall structure exhibits great variation from entire, angular, straight, irregular, polygonal, smooth, and elongated. The periclinal wall pattern exhibits variation from flat to slightly concave‐convex with straight, angular, undulate, or dentate seeds margin. Among the studied species only Argemone ochroleuca Linn. (Papaveraceae) possess micropylar peak, ridged raphe, and basal helium. The obtained results from the present study would therefore, suggest that SEM could be a useful tool in refreshing the veiled micromorphological features among different oil yielding seeds which in turn helps the researchers for their correct identification, exploration, authentication, and seeds classification in future.
Evaluation of endoscopic reintervention for self‐expandable metallic stent obstruction after stent‐in‐stent placement for malignant hilar biliary obstruction
Authors: Okuno Mitsuru , Mukai Tsuyoshi , Iwashita Takuji , Ichikawa Hironao , Iwasa Yuhei , Mita Naoki , Yoshida Kensaku , Iwata Keisuke , Tomita Eiichi , Shimizu Masahito
Published: April 2019

Background

Bilateral self‐expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement is effective for long‐term management of unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction (UMHBO). However, endoscopic reintervention (ERI) for bilateral SEMSs is not well‐studied. This study aimed to evaluate ERI efficacy after stent‐in‐stent placement.

Methods

Data of 31 patients who underwent ERI from May 2000 to July 2018 were analyzed.

Results

The technical success rate was 80.7% (25/31) and no adverse events occurred. The functional success rate was 100% (25/25). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the angle between the bilateral SEMSs (ABBS) >104° (odds ratio 50.49, 95% CI 3.370–2131, P = 0.0039) and overgrowth (odds ratio 25.70, 95% CI 1.121–1234, P = 0.0423) were risk factors for ERI failure. Multiple liver metastases, which sometimes cause overgrowth, were also risk factors. After ERI, some patients underwent additional SEMS (n = 4), plastic stent (n = 14) placement, or internal cleaning of the initial SEMS alone (n = 7). There were no significant intergroup differences in the 50% time to recurrent biliary obstruction.

Conclusions

ABBS >104° and overgrowth were risk factors for ERI failure after stent‐in‐stent placement. In the decision‐making process for initial SEMS placement for UMHBO, patient condition should be considered, including the angle between bilateral bile ducts and multiple liver metastases.
Killing them softly: Ontogeny of jaw mechanics and stiffness in mollusk‐feeding freshwater stingrays
Authors: Rutledge Kelsi M. , Summers Adam P. , Kolmann Matthew A.
Published: April 2019

Durophagous predators consume hard‐shelled prey such as bivalves, gastropods, and large crustaceans, typically by crushing the mineralized exoskeleton. This is costly from the point of view of the bite forces involved, handling times, and the stresses inflicted on the predator's skeleton. It is not uncommon for durophagous taxa to display an ontogenetic shift from softer to harder prey items, implying that it is relatively difficult for smaller animals to consume shelled prey. Batoid fishes (rays, skates, sawfishes, and guitarfishes) have independently evolved durophagy multiple times, despite the challenges associated with crushing prey harder than their own cartilaginous skeleton.Potamotrygon leopoldiis a durophagous freshwater ray endemic to the Xingu River in Brazil, with a jaw morphology superficially similar to its distant durophagous marine relatives, eagle rays (e.g.,Aetomylaeus, Aetobatus). We used second moment of area as a proxy for the ability to resist bending and analyzed the arrangement of the mineralized skeleton of the jaw ofP. leopoldiover ontogeny using data from computed tomography (CT) scans. The jaws ofP. leopoldido not resist bending nearly as well as other durophagous elasmobranchs, and the jaws are stiffest nearest the joints rather than beneath the dentition. While second moment has similar material distribution over ontogeny, mineralization of the jaws under the teeth increases with age. Neonate rays have low jaw stiffness and poor mineralization, suggesting thatP. leopoldimay not feed on hard‐shelled prey early in life. These differences in the shape, stiffness and mineralization of the jaws ofP. leopoldicompared to its durophagous relatives show there are several solutions to the problem of crushing shelled prey with a compliant skeleton.
Biexponential R2* relaxometry for estimation of liver iron concentration in children: A better fit for high liver iron states
Authors: Barrera Christian A. , Khrichenko Dmitry , Serai Suraj D. , Hartung Helge D. , Biko David M. , Otero Hansel J.
Published: April 2019

Background

R2* relaxometry's capacity to calculate liver iron concentration (LIC) is limited in patients with severe overload. Hemosiderin increases in these patients, which exhibits a non‐monoexponential decay that renders a failed R2* analysis.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To evaluate a biexponential R2* relaxometry model in children with different ranges of iron overload.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

In all, 181 children with different conditions associated with iron overload.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T, T2*‐weighted gradient echo sequence.

Assessment

Bi‐ and monoexponential R2* relaxometry were measured in the liver using two regions of interest (ROIs) using a nonproprietary software: one encompassing the whole liver parenchyma (ROI‐1) and the other only the periphery (ROI‐2). These were drawn by a single trained observer. The residuals for each fitting model were estimated. A ratio between the residuals of the mono‐ and biexponential models was calculated to identify the best fitting model. Patients with 1) residual ratio ≥1.5 and 2) R2*fast ≥R2*slow were considered as having a predominant biexponential behavior.

Statistical Tests

Nonparametric tests, Bland–Altman plots, linear correlation, intraclass correlation coefficient. Patients were divided according to their LIC into stable (n = 23), mild (n = 58), moderate (n = 61), and severe (n = 39).

Results

The biexponential model was more suitable for patients with severe iron overload when compared with the other three LIC categories (P < 0.001) for both ROIs. For ROI‐1, 37 subjects met criteria for a predominant biexponential behavior. The slow component (5.7%) had a lower fraction than the fast component (94.2%). For ROI‐2, 22 subjects met criteria for a predominant biexponential behavior. The slow component (4.7%) had a lower fraction than the fast component (95.2%). The intraobserver variability between both ROIs was excellent.

Data Conclusion

The biexponential R2* relaxometry model is more suitable in children with severe iron overload.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1191–1198.