bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoadjuvant or Adjuvant Chemotherapy Plus Concurrent CRT Versus Concurrent CRT Alone in the Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Study Based on EBV DNA
Authors: Liu Li-Ting , Chen Qiu-Yan , Tang Lin-Quan , Guo Shan-Shan , Guo Ling , Mo Hao-Yuan , Li Yang , Tang Qing-Nan , Sun Xue-Song , Liang Yu-Jing , Zhao Chong , Guo Xiang , Qian Chao-Nan , Zeng Mu-Sheng , Bei Jin-Xin , Hong Ming-Huang , Shao Jian-Yong , Sun Ying , Ma Jun , Mai Hai-Qiang
Published: June 2019

Background: The goal of this study was to explore the value of adding neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) or adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) with different risks of treatment failure. Patients and Methods: A total of 2,263 eligible patients with stage III–IVb NPC treated with CCRT ± NACT or ACT were included in this retrospective study. Distant metastasis–free survival (DMFS), overall survival, and progression-free survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and differences were compared using the log-rank test. Results: Patients in the low-risk group (stage N0–1 disease and Epstein-Barr virus [EBV] DNA <4,000 copies/mL) who received NACT followed by CCRT achieved significantly better 5-year DMFS than those treated with CCRT alone (96.2% vs 91.3%; P= .008). Multivariate analyses also demonstrated that additional NACT was the only independent prognostic factor for DMFS (hazard ratio, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.22–0.80; P=.009). In both the intermediate-risk group (stage N0–1 disease and EBV DNA ≥4,000 copies/mL and stage N2–3 disease and EBV DNA <4,000 copies/mL) and the high-risk group (stage N2–3 disease and EBV DNA ≥4,000 copies/mL), comparison of NACT or ACT + CCRT versus CCRT alone indicated no significantly better survival for all end points. Conclusions: The addition of NACT to CCRT could reduce distant failure in patients with low risk of treatment failure.
Preexisting Autoimmune Disease: Implications for Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy in Solid Tumors
Authors: Kennedy Laura C. , Bhatia Shailender , Thompson John A. , Grivas Petros
Published: June 2019

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is rapidly expanding to the treatment of many cancer types, both in the metastatic setting and as an adjuvant to other therapies. Clinical trials using ICIs have largely excluded patients with preexisting autoimmune diseases due to concerns for increased toxicity. However, emerging evidence shows that ICIs may be considered in some patients with autoimmunity. This review discusses the commonalities between clinical autoimmune diseases and ICI-induced immunotherapy-related adverse events, and summarizes the existing case series that describes patients with solid tumors who have a preexisting autoimmune disease. This review also discusses which patients with autoimmunity could be considered reasonable candidates for ICI therapy.
THE PEDAGOGICAL IMPARTIALITY REQUIREMENT IN QUEBEC’S ETHICS AND RELIGIOUS CULTURE CURRICULUM: IS IT CONSISTENT WITH TEACHER AUTONOMY AND CHARTER RIGHTS?
Authors: Maxwell Bruce
Published: June 2019

Quebec’s Ethics and Religious Culture program (ERC) requires teachers to adopt a professional stance of pedagogical impartiality. This article examines the complex regulatory framework surrounding the impartiality requirement from the perspectives of teachers’ legally recognized right to professional autonomy, their constitutional rights to religious freedom and freedom of expression, and the related issue of impartiality as a pedagogical device when teaching about controversial issues. The paper’s brief review of the jurisprudence does not support a decisive answer to the question of whether the legal basis of the impartiality ERC’s impartiality requirement is sound. However, it does reveal that the impartiality requirement is more legally fragile than it might appear at first glance.
IN SITU HYBRID SPACES AS GENERATIVE SITES FOR TEACHER PREPARATION
Authors: Schnellert Leyton , Kozak Donna
Published: June 2019

In this study, a university professor and school district literacy coordinator co-designed and co-taught a literacy methods course where teacher candidates participated in dynamic learning in classrooms, exploring how theory can meet practice when students’ funds of knowledge are valued through responsive teaching. Case study methodology was taken up to understand and enhance this in situ teacher education approach. Four themes were derived through qualitative analysis: 1) theory / practice connections in situ; 2) diverse learners and the need for responsivity in teaching; 3) in situ learning through collaboration; and 4) benefits and tensions at the school and program level. Findings suggest that school / university in situ teacher education partnerships can provide rich contextual and situational learning that disrupt normative conceptions of teaching, learning and literacy.
L’EXPÉRIENCE DE L’ÉVALUATION SCOLAIRE CHEZ LES ÉCOLIERS ET COLLÉGIENS. CONTRIBUTION À LA CONNAISSANCE DES PROCESSUS MOTIVATIONNELS À L’ÉCOLE
Authors: Bénit Stéphane , Sarremejane Philippe
Published: June 2019

Cet article tente de comprendre, au travers de l’exploitation quantitative provenant d’un questionnaire administré à des collégiens, la façon dont les écoliers et collégiens français réagissent aux verdicts scolaires. L’analyse menée tente de distinguer les effets de deux pratiques évaluatives distinctes : l’évaluation par compétences et la notation scolaire. L’évaluation par compétence proposée plus fréquemment à l’école primaire limite chez certains élèves en difficulté le découragement scolaire mais ne peut, à l’instar de la notation scolaire totalement s’affranchir d’une certaine peur de rater. Enfin, notre étude montre que les élèves enquêtés travaillent essentiellement dans le but d’obtenir de bons résultats scolaires et la perspective d’un métier futur.
Predictors and Motivation for Seat Belt Use – A Case Study in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Injac Zoran , Vujanić Milan , Pešić Dalibor , Antić Boris
Published: June 2019

The use of seat belts, for drivers and car occupants, results in reducing the rate of fatalities and severe road injuries. In this research, the methodology of the survey was applied through the self-reporting behaviour of the respondents who determined the subjective risk based on the attitudes of the traffic participants. To evaluate the statistical significance of the categorical variables, Pearson's chi-square test was used. For certain groups of examinees, the results of the relationship (association) between socio demographic characteristics were analysed as predictors of behaviour with the degree of seat belt use. Some other predictors of behaviour, such as the road and mood predictors were analysed as well. Interest was also focused on finding out what motivated certain groups of examinees to use the seat belt. Based on the results of this research, it is possible to classify the drivers and car occupants into certain groups with respect to the seat belt use while driving. This can help in determining the ways of eliminating problems related to the low degree of seat belt use.
Alternate Criteria in LP Solutions of Public Transport Line Planning
Authors: Černý Jan , Peško Štefan , Černá Anna
Published: June 2019

In the paper, the public transportation line planning means planning of routes and frequencies of vehicles on them. In the world literature, different criteria are used in this context; mainly the variable costs of lines, the fixed costs of lines, the fixed plus variable costs of lines, the number of direct travellers, the total or average riding time and the total or average travelling time. The current paper adds two more: the total number of used vehicles (to be minimized when all passengers are transported) and relative excess of supply over demand (to be maximized without exceeding the number of available vehicles). Basic mathematical models for both cases are presented and the motivation of such approach is described including a brief excursion into the history of the Czech and Slovak research of line planning where the use of these objectives has arisen. Further, the basic models were modified for the cases of fourteen special practical requirements, e.g. heterogeneous vehicle fleet (= rolling stock), limitation of transfers, elastic demand, limited total number of lines, etc. The brief outline of the experience with practical use is added as well.
Methodology of Acquiring Valid Data by Combining Oil Tankers’ Noon Report and Automatic Identification System Satellite Data
Authors: Safaei Ali Akbar , Ghassemi Hassan , Ghiasi Mahmoud
Published: June 2019

Fuel consumption of marine vessels plays an important role in both generating air pollution and ship operational expenses where the global environmental concerns toward air pollution and economics of shipping operation are being increased. In order to optimize ship fuel consumption, the fuel consumption prediction for her envisaged voyage is to be known. To predict fuel consumption of a ship, noon report (NR) data are available source to be analysed by different techniques. Because of the possible human error attributed to the method of NR data collection, it involves risk of possible inaccuracy. Therefore, in this study, to acquire pure valid data, the NR raw data of two very large crude carriers (VLCCs) composed with their respective Automatic Identification System (AIS) satellite data. Then, well-known models i.e. K-Mean, Self-Organizing Map (SOM), Outlier Score Base (OSB) and Histogram of Outlier Score Base (HSOB) methods are applied to the collected tankers NR during a year. The new enriched data derived are compared to the raw NR to distinguish the most fitted methodology of accruing pure valid data. Expected value and root mean square methods are applied to evaluate the accuracy of the methodologies. It is concluded that measured expected value and root mean square for HOSB are indicating high coherence with the harmony of the primary NR data.
Methanol and Ethanol as Alternative Fuels for Shipping
Authors: Radonja Radoslav , Bebić Dragan , Glujić Darko
Published: June 2019

Over the past decade regulatory emission control has been adopted and even stricter emission reductions are being considered. In order to comply with the present and future regulations the ship owners and engine manufacturers are facing a difficult task. The shipping industry is presently offering multiple choices such as scrubbers and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), dual fuel engines, Liquefied Natural Gas / Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LNG/LPG) powered engines, and lately the introduction of methanol and ethanol as alternative fuels. This work presents a short overview of the possible use of methanol and ethanol as lternative fuels in shipping. The first part of this work deals with physical properties of methanol and ethanol, production and availability, as well as advantages and disadvantages in comparison with other fuels. In the second part the cost perspective is presented together with the cost-benefit analysis, which is the most important aspect in the ship owner’s decision whether to invest into the new alternative. Methanol and ethanol are not magical solutions, but rather another alternative which, from the cost perspective, offers a potential under certain circumstances. These circumstances are competitive prices in comparison to Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and time spent in Emission Control Area (ECA) which should be a large portion of the total sailing time. In this paper the scientific methodology was followed by using the method of compilation, the descriptive and the comparative methods.
Determining cellular CTCF and cohesin abundances to constrain 3D genome models
Authors: Cattoglio Claudia , Pustova Iryna , Walther Nike , Ho Jaclyn J , Hantsche-Grininger Merle , Inouye Carla J , Hossain M Julius , Dailey Gina M , Ellenberg Jan , Darzacq Xavier , Tjian Robert , Hansen Anders S
Published: June 2019

Achieving a quantitative and predictive understanding of 3D genome architecture remains a major challenge, as it requires quantitative measurements of the key proteins involved. Here, we report the quantification of CTCF and cohesin, two causal regulators of topologically associating domains (TADs) in mammalian cells. Extending our previous imaging studies (Hansen et al., 2017), we estimate bounds on the density of putatively DNA loop-extruding cohesin complexes and CTCF binding site occupancy. Furthermore, co-immunoprecipitation studies of an endogenously tagged subunit (Rad21) suggest the presence of cohesin dimers and/or oligomers. Finally, based on our cell lines with accurately measured protein abundances, we report a method to conveniently determine the number of molecules of any Halo-tagged protein in the cell. We anticipate that our results and the established tool for measuring cellular protein abundances will advance a more quantitative understanding of 3D genome organization, and facilitate protein quantification, key to comprehend diverse biological processes.
Conformational switches control early maturation of the eukaryotic small ribosomal subunit
Authors: Hunziker Mirjam , Barandun Jonas , Buzovetsky Olga , Steckler Caitlin , Molina Henrik , Klinge Sebastian
Published: June 2019

Eukaryotic ribosome biogenesis is initiated with the transcription of pre-ribosomal RNA at the 5’ external transcribed spacer, which directs the early association of assembly factors but is absent from the mature ribosome. The subsequent co-transcriptional association of ribosome assembly factors with pre-ribosomal RNA results in the formation of the small subunit processome. Here we show that stable rRNA domains of the small ribosomal subunit can independently recruit their own biogenesis factors in vivo. The final assembly and compaction of the small subunit processome requires the presence of the 5’ external transcribed spacer RNA and all ribosomal RNA domains. Additionally, our cryo-electron microscopy structure of the earliest nucleolar pre-ribosomal assembly - the 5’ external transcribed spacer ribonucleoprotein – provides a mechanism for how conformational changes in multi-protein complexes can be employed to regulate the accessibility of binding sites and therefore define the chronology of maturation events during early stages of ribosome assembly.
A FRET sensor of C-terminal movement reveals VRAC activation by plasma membrane DAG signaling rather than ionic strength
Authors: König Benjamin , Hao Yuchen , Schwartz Sophia , Plested Andrew JR , Stauber Tobias
Published: June 2019

Volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs) are central to cell volume regulation. Recently identified as hetero-hexamers formed by LRRC8 proteins, their activation mechanism remains elusive. Here, we measured Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between fluorescent proteins fused to the C-termini of LRRC8 subunits. Inter-subunit FRET from LRRC8 complexes tracked VRAC activation. With patch-clamp fluorometry, we confirmed that the cytoplasmic domains rearrange during VRAC opening. With these FRET reporters, we determined VRAC activation, non-invasively, in live cells and their subcompartments. Reduced intracellular ionic strength did not directly activate VRACs, and VRACs were not activated on endomembranes. Instead, pharmacological manipulation of diacylglycerol (DAG), and protein kinase D (PKD) activity, activated or inhibited plasma membrane-localized VRACs. Finally, we resolved previous contradictory reports concerning VRAC activation, using FRET to detect robust activation by PMA that was absent during whole-cell patch clamp. Overall, non-invasive VRAC measurement by FRET is an essential tool for unraveling its activation mechanism.
Absolute quantification of cohesin, CTCF and their regulators in human cells
Authors: Holzmann Johann , Politi Antonio Z , Nagasaka Kota , Hantsche-Grininger Merle , Walther Nike , Koch Birgit , Fuchs Johannes , Dürnberger Gerhard , Tang Wen , Ladurner Rene , Stocsits Roman R , Busslinger Georg A , Novák Béla , Mechtler Karl , Davidson Iain Finley , Ellenberg Jan , Peters Jan-Michael
Published: June 2019

The organisation of mammalian genomes into loops and topologically associating domains (TADs) contributes to chromatin structure, gene expression and recombination. TADs and many loops are formed by cohesin and positioned by CTCF. In proliferating cells, cohesin also mediates sister chromatid cohesion, which is essential for chromosome segregation. Current models of chromatin folding and cohesion are based on assumptions of how many cohesin and CTCF molecules organise the genome. Here we have measured absolute copy numbers and dynamics of cohesin, CTCF, NIPBL, WAPL and sororin by mass spectrometry, fluorescence-correlation spectroscopy and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching in HeLa cells. In G1-phase, there are ~250,000 nuclear cohesin complexes, of which ~ 160,000 are chromatin-bound. Comparison with chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing data implies that some genomic cohesin and CTCF enrichment sites are unoccupied in single cells at any one time. We discuss the implications of these findings for how cohesin can contribute to genome organisation and cohesion.
Cystic fibrosis drug ivacaftor stimulates CFTR channels at picomolar concentrations
Authors: Csanády László , Töröcsik Beáta
Published: June 2019

The devastating inherited disease cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) anion channel. The recent approval of the CFTR potentiator drug ivacaftor (Vx-770) for the treatment of CF patients has marked the advent of causative CF therapy. Currently, thousands of patients are being treated with the drug, and its molecular mechanism of action is under intensive investigation. Here we determine the solubility profile and true stimulatory potency of Vx-770 towards wild-type (WT) and mutant human CFTR channels in cell-free patches of membrane. We find that its aqueous solubility is ~200 fold lower (~60 nanomolar), whereas the potency of its stimulatory effect is >100 fold higher, than reported, and is unexpectedly fully reversible. Strong, but greatly delayed, channel activation by picomolar Vx-770 identifies multiple sequential slow steps in the activation pathway. These findings provide solid guidelines for the design of in vitro studies using Vx-770.
Repeatedly adopting power postures does not affect hormonal correlates of dominance and affiliative behavior
Authors: Metzler Hannah , Grèzes Julie
Published: June 2019

Background

Adopting expansive vs. constrictive postures related to high vs. low levels of social power has been suggested to induce changes in testosterone and cortisol levels, and thereby to mimic hormonal correlates of dominance behavior. However, these findings have been challenged by several non-replications recently. Despite this growing body of evidence that does not support posture effects on hormone levels, the question remains as to whether repeatedly holding postures over time and/or assessing hormonal responses at different time points would yield different outcomes. The current study assesses these methodological characteristics as possible reasons for previous null-findings. Additionally, it investigates for the first time whether expansive and constrictive postures impact progesterone levels, a suggested correlate of affiliative motives and behavior. By testing the effects of repeated but short posture manipulations in between the blocks of a social task while using a cover story, it further fulfills the conditions previously raised as potentially necessary for the effects to occur.

Methods

A total of 82 male participants repeatedly adopted an expansive or constrictive posture for 2 min in between blocks of a task that consisted in categorizing faces based on first impressions. Saliva samples were taken at two different time points in a time window in which hormonal responses to stress, competition and other manipulations are known to be strongest.

Results

Neither testosterone and cortisol levels linked to dominance behaviors, nor progesterone levels related to affiliative tendencies, responded differently to adopting expansive as opposed to constrictive postures. The present results suggest that even repeated power posing in a context where social stimuli are task-relevant does not elicit changes in hormone levels.
Mir-421 in plasma as a potential diagnostic biomarker for precancerous gastric lesions and early gastric cancer
Authors: Chen Jianlin , Wu Lihua , Sun Yifan , Yin Qi , Chen Xianhua , Liang Siqun , Meng Qingyan , Long Haihua , Li Fangying , Luo Changjun , Xiao Xiaorong
Published: June 2019

Objective

MicroRNA (miR)-421 plays a key role in cancer progression. It has been reported that circulating miR-421may be a potential tumor marker for the diagnosis of several cancers. However, the role of miR-421 in plasma as a potential biomarker in the diagnosis of precancerous gastric lesions (Pre) and early-stage gastric cancer (GC) remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated miR-421 in plasma as a novel potential biomarker for the detection of precancerous gastric lesions and early-stage (GC).

Materials & Methods

The miRNA content was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). MiR-421 content in all subjects was normalized by endogenous miRNA (miR-16). The diagnostic value of miR-421 for Pre and GC was assessed by comparing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis with traditional tumor markers, including CEA, CA125, CA153, CA211 and CA50. The correlation between the expression of miR-421 and the pathological characteristics of Pre and GC was analyzed.

Results

Elevated expression of miR-421 in plasma can robustly distinguish the normal population from Pre and GC cases, especially in the early stages of gastric cancer cases (all p < 0.05). The ROC analyses showed that the area under the ROC curve (AUC), sensitivity, accuracy and Youden index of miR-421 were superior to traditional tumor markers (CEA, CA125, CA153, CA211, and CA50) in GC diagnosis, while its specificity was higher than CEA, CA153 and CA50 (all p < 0.05). MiR-421 in plasma had higher AUC value than AFP, CA153, CA211 and CA50 in the diagnosis of Pre (all p < 0.05), while specificity, accuracy and Youden index of miR-421 was only lower than CA211. The efficiency of miR-421 in the diagnosis of GC was significantly higher than that of CA211 and CA50, and it was significantly higher than CA153, CA211 and CA50 in the diagnosis of Pre (all p < 0.05). In addition, up-regulation of miR-421 occurred initially in precancerous gastric lesions as well as in the early stage of GC.

Conclusions

Overexpression of plasma miR-421 is a novel biomarker for the detection of precancerous lesions and early gastric cancer.
A tropomyosin receptor kinase family protein, NTRK2 is a potential predictive biomarker for lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Xiang , Xu Zhijie , Chen Xi , Ren Xinxin , Wei Jie , Zhou Shuyi , Yang Xue , Zeng Shuangshuang , Qian Long , Wu Geting , Gong Zhicheng , Yan Yuanliang
Published: June 2019

Neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (NTRK2) is a member of the tropomyosin receptor kinase family associated with the tumor development. However, the detailed function of NTRK2 in lung cancer, especially in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), is still not fully understood. Here, we investigated the effects of NTRK2 on LUAD biology. Through analyzing bioinformatics data derived from several databases, such as Oncomine, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis and UALCAN, we found that NTRK2 expression was significantly decreased in LUAD tissues. Clinical data acquired from Wanderer database, which is linked to The Cancer Genome Atlas database, demonstrated that the expression and methylation site of NTRK2 were significantly related to the clinical characteristics and prognosis of LUAD. Furthermore, NTRK2 expression was increased remarkably after treatment with the protein kinase B (AKT) inhibitor MK2206 and the anticancer agent actinomycin D. Functional enrichment analysis of NTRK2-associated coexpression genes was further conducted. Together, our results suggested that downregulated NTRK2 might be used in the diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of LUAD patients, or as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of LUAD.
Comprehensive analysis of an lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA competing endogenous RNA network in pulpitis
Authors: Lei Fangcao , Zhang Han , Xie Xiaoli
Published: June 2019

Background

Pulpitis is a common inflammatory disease that affects dental pulp. It is important to understand the molecular signals of inflammation and repair associated with this process. Increasing evidence has revealed that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), via competitively sponging microRNAs (miRNAs), can act as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) to regulate inflammation and reparative responses. The aim of this study was to elucidate the potential roles of lncRNA, miRNA and messenger RNA (mRNA) ceRNA networks in pulpitis tissues compared to normal control tissues.

Methods

The oligo and limma packages were used to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs (DElncRNAs and DEmRNAs, respectively) based on expression profiles in two datasets, GSE92681 and GSE77459, from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were further analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks and modules were established to screen hub genes using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) and the Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin for Cytoscape, respectively. Furthermore, an lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA-hub genes regulatory network was constructed to investigate mechanisms related to the progression and prognosis of pulpitis. Then, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied to verify critical lncRNAs that may significantly affect the pathogenesis in inflamed and normal human dental pulp.

Results

A total of 644 upregulated and 264 downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in pulpitis samples were identified from the GSE77459 dataset, while 8 up- and 19 downregulated probes associated with lncRNA were identified from the GSE92681 dataset. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) based on STRING analysis revealed a network of DEGs containing 4,929 edges and 623 nodes. Upon combined analysis of the constructed PPI network and the MCODE results, 10 hub genes, including IL6, IL8, PTPRC, IL1B, TLR2, ITGAM, CCL2, PIK3CG, ICAM1, and PIK3CD, were detected in the network. Next, a ceRNA regulatory relationship consisting of one lncRNA (PVT1), one miRNA (hsa-miR-455-5p) and two mRNAs (SOCS3 and PLXNC1) was established. Then, we constructed the network in which the regulatory relationship between ceRNA and hub genes was summarized. Finally, our qRT-PCR results confirmed significantly higher levels of PVT1 transcript in inflamed pulp than in normal pulp tissues (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Our study identified a novel lncRNA-mediated ceRNA regulatory mechanisms in the pathogenesis of pulpitis.
Coleoptera genome and transcriptome sequences reveal numerous differences in neuropeptide signaling between species
Authors: Veenstra Jan A.
Published: June 2019

Background

Insect neuropeptides are interesting for the potential their receptors hold as plausible targets for a novel generation of pesticides. Neuropeptide genes have been identified in a number of different species belonging to a variety of insects. Results suggest significant neuropeptide variation between different orders, but much less is known of neuropeptidome variability within an insect order. I therefore compared the neuropeptidomes of a number of Coleoptera.

Methodology

Publicly available genome sequences, transcriptomes and the original sequence data in the form of short sequence read archives were analyzed for the presence or absence of genes coding neuropeptides as well as some neuropeptide receptors in seventeen beetle species.

Results

Significant differences exist between the Coleoptera analyzed here, while many neuropeptides that were previously characterized from Tribolium castaneum appear very similar in all species, some are not and others are lacking in one or more species. On the other hand, leucokinin, which was presumed to be universally absent from Coleoptera, is still present in non-Polyphaga beetles.

Conclusion

The variability in neuropeptidome composition between species from the same insect order may be as large as the one that exists between species from different orders.
Importance of active layer freeze-thaw cycles on the riverine dissolved carbon export on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau permafrost region
Authors: Song Chunlin , Wang Genxu , Mao Tianxu , Chen Xiaopeng , Huang Kewei , Sun Xiangyang , Hu Zhaoyong
Published: June 2019

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) is experiencing severe permafrost degradation, which can affect the hydrological and biogeochemical processes. Yet how the permafrost change affects riverine carbon export remains uncertain. Here, we investigated the seasonal variations of dissolved inorganic and organic carbon (DIC and DOC) during flow seasons in a watershed located in the central QTP permafrost region. The results showed that riverine DIC concentrations (27.81 ± 9.75 mg L−1) were much higher than DOC concentrations (6.57 ± 2.24 mg L−1). DIC and DOC fluxes were 3.95 and 0.94 g C m−2 year−1, respectively. DIC concentrations increased from initial thaw (May) to freeze period (October), while DOC concentrations remained relatively steady. Daily dissolved carbon concentrations were more closely correlated with baseflow than that with total runoff. Spatially, average DIC and DOC concentrations were positively correlated with vegetation coverage but negatively correlated with bare land coverage. DIC concentrations increased with the thawed and frozen depths due to increased soil interflow, more thaw-released carbon, more groundwater contribution, and possibly more carbonate weathering by soil CO2 formed carbonic acid. The DIC and DOC fluxes increased with thawed depth and decreased with frozen layer thickness. The seasonality of riverine dissolved carbon export was highly dependent on active layer thawing and freezing processes, which highlights the importance of changing permafrost for riverine carbon export. Future warming in the QTP permafrost region may alter the quantity and mechanisms of riverine carbon export.
Mid-term Safety and Efficacy of Transcatheter Closure of Ostium Secundum Atrial Septal Defect under Transthoracic Echocardiographic Guidance in Children Weighing Less than 15 Kg
Authors: Arora Harmeet Singh , Bharadwaj Prashant , Chadha Davinder Singh , Malani Susheel , Ghosh Arijit Kumar , Pathak Kamal , Shukla Deepak , Shouche Sachin , Mishra Satish Kumar , Singh Jaswinder , S. Sethi Brijindera
Published: June 2019

Background: Transcatheter device closure of ostium secundum atrial septal defect is a safe & effective intervention in older children, & is usually done under transesophageal echocardiography guidance. However, the procedure under transthoracic echocardiography guidance, especially in smaller children, is done only at few centers, the data of which is scarce.

Methods: A prospective study was undertaken to assess the mid-term efficacy and outcome of transcatheter device closure of ostium secundum atrial septal defect  under transthoracic echocardiographic guidance, in children <15 Kg.

Results: Eighty three children with ostium secundum atrial septal defect  were included in the study. Median age of the study population was 3.5 years (1.9-5.6 years), and median weight of 11.6 Kg (7.6 - 14.9 Kg). The primary and secondary procedural success rates were 94% and 96.4% respectively. Post procedure patients were followed up for 12-30 months. Device related major complications were encountered in 4 (4.8%) cases. The total occlusion rates of the defect at 24 hours, 1 month and 3 months post procedure were 94%, 98.8% and 100% respectively.

Conclusion: The transcatheter device closure of ostium secundum atrial septal defect  under transthoracic echocardiography guidance, in children <15 Kg, has a high short and mid-term safety and efficacy.
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilization on the Growth and Quality of Tamarind Seedlings Irrigated with Saline Water
Authors: Fatima Reynaldo Teodoro de , Lourdes Gomes da Silva Maria de , Nobrega Jackson Silva , Nobre Reginaldo Gomes , Montenegro Agra Pollyanna Freire , Andrade Figueiredo Francisco Romário , Andrade Ferreira Jean Telvio , Paloma da Silva Leal Márcia , Bezerra Fabiano Simplicio
Published: June 2019

Aims: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen fertilization on the production of Tamarindus indica L. seedlings irrigated with saline water.

Study Design:  A randomized complete block design was used in a 4 x 4 factorial scheme, whose factors were the electrical conductivity levels of the irrigation water.

Place and Duration of Study: The work was conducted under protected environment conditions (greenhouse) at the Federal University of Campina Grande, Center for Agro-Food Sciences and Technology, Campus of Pombal-PB, Brazil, in the period from January and March 2017.

Methodology: Effects of doses of 0, 100, 200 and 300 mg of nitrogen (N) dm-3 and electrical conductivity levels of the irrigation water (ECw) (0.3, 2.1, 3.7 and 5.2 dS m-1) on growth of Tamarindus indica L. have been studied.

Results: The growth of the seedlings was reduced by the increase of the electrical conductivity of the irrigation water, however, irrigation with ECw water of 2.15 dS m-1, promotes acceptable reductions of 10% in the morphology of the tamarind tree.

Conclusion: The use of nitrogen fertilization with urea did not attenuate the deleterious effects of irrigation water salinity or promoted improvements of the quality of the tamarind seedlings.
ANALISA QUANTITY TAKE-OFF DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN AUTODESK REVIT
Authors: Laorent Danny , Nugraha Paulus , Budiman Januar
Published: June 2019

Quantity Take-Off merupakan salah satu upaya dari kontraktor dengan melakukan perhitungan volume, yang nantinya akan digunakan sebagai bahan untuk menyusun BQ dalam tender dan nantinya juga dijadikan bahan untuk melakukan procurement. Oleh sebab kontraktor yang dapat melakukan quantity take-off dengan akurat akan mendapatkan beberapa keuntungan seperti pengefisiensian material yang datang karena sesuai dengan aktual. Autodesk Revit merupakan sebuah tools atau aplikasi yang berbasis Building Information Modeling (BIM) yang mampu melakukan quantity take-off. Dalam penelitian ini akan dibahas bagaimana kelebihan dan kelemahan dari  Autodek Revit dalam melakukan quantity take-off pada volume beton, bila dibandingkan dengan metode yang selama ini dipakai, yaitu menghitung volume dengan menggunakan gambar dari Autocad dan dengan bantuan Microsoft Excel. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Autodesk Revit dapat melakukan quantity take-off dengan baik dan memiliki beberapa kelebihan seperti, memiliki efisiensi terhadap waktu karena dapat menghitung volume dengan lebih cepat dibandingkan dengan metode sebelumnya, apalagi bila terdapat perubahan desain. Akan tetapi dalam membuat permodelan pada Revit membutuhkan waktu yang cukup lama dan harus teliti agar memperoleh hasil yang akurat. 

 

Quantity Take-Off is one of the efforts of contractors to make calculations volume, which will be used as the object for making Bill of Quantity in the tender and will also be made to make procurement. Therefore contractors who can do quantity take-off accurately will get some advantages such as efficiency material that came as it was in accordance with the actual. Autodesk Revit is a tools or application based on Building Information Modeling (BIM) which is capable of performing quantity take-off. In this research will be discussed how advantages and deficiency of Autodek Revit in quantity take-off to calculate concrete volume, when compared with the method that have been used, it is calculating volume using image from Autocad and help with Microsoft Excel. Result of this research showed that Autodesk Revit can do quantity take-off with good and has a number of advantages such as, have efficiency to the time because they can calculate volume with more rapidly than method before, especially if there is a redesign. But in making modeling in Revit takes a lot of time for a long time to have a careful and is to be accurate results.
Diversion of Undistributed Pharmaceutical Ketamine in the US
Authors: Palamar Joseph J. , Rutherford Caroline , Keyes Katherine M.
Published: December 2024

This study examines the prevalence and characteristics of reported diversion of undistributed ketamine in the US.
Bioactive Nanoparticle‐Embedded Micro/Nanofibrous Dressing with Improved Angiogenesis and Immunoregulation for Facilitating Burn Wound Healing
Authors: Yang Lerong , Wu Yiyang , Yang Bangqi , Huang Hongjun , He Haoqiang , Liu Siyi , Huang Chanting , Qin Zainen , Zheng Li , Shen Chong , Zhao Jinmin
Published: December 2024

In the context of severe burn injuries, the presence of excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), prolonged microbial infection, and compromised angiogenesis can contribute to the metabolic reprogramming of macrophages, resulting in a dysregulated inflammatory response that hinders the healing process. In this study, cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeNPs) are encapsulated within a silk fibroin‐poly(e‐caprolactone) polymer to create an electrospun PSF/CeNPs nanofiber membrane (PSF/membrane). This membrane is further modified through the addition of an angiopoietin‐1 mimetic peptide, QHREDGS, resulting in the formation of QPSF/CeNPs (QHREDGS modified PSF/CeNPs membrane). In vitro assessments revealed that the QPSF/CeNPs displayed the intended ability to regulate ROS levels, favorable biocompatibility with cells, promoted endothelial cell attachment and growth, exhibited anti‐inflammatory properties through the modulation of macrophage phenotypes from M1 to M2, as well as pro‐angiogenetic and antibacterial effects. In vivo, the membrane dressing demonstrated an acceleration of burn wound healing, promotion of angiogenesis, downregulation of inflammatory factors, and enhancement of collagen deposition. This bioactive membrane dressing shows potential as a clinical therapy for promoting the regeneration of both acute and chronically damaged skin tissue.
Nanoformula Design for Inducing Non‐Apoptotic Cell Death Regulation: A Powerful Booster for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Hu Yi , Yu Qing , Li Xia , Wang Juan , Guo Lanping , Huang Luqi , Gao Wenyuan
Published: December 2024

Cancer treatment has witnessed revolutionary advancements marked by the emergence of immunotherapy, specifically immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). However, the inherent low immunogenicity of tumor cells and the intricate immunosuppressive network within the tumor microenvironment (TME) pose significant challenges to the further development of immunotherapy. Nanotechnology has ushered in unprecedented opportunities and vast prospects for tumor immunotherapy. Nevertheless, traditional nano‐formulations often rely on inducing apoptosis to kill cancer cells, which encounters the issue of immune silencing, hindering effective tumor immune activation.

The non‐apoptotic modes of regulated cell death (RCD), including pyroptosis, ferroptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, and cuproptosis, have gradually garnered attention. These non‐apoptotic cell death pathways can induce effective immunogenic cell death (ICD), enhancing cancer immunotherapy. This review comprehensively explores advanced nano‐formulation design strategies and their applications in enhancing cancer immunotherapy by promoting non‐apoptotic RCD in recent years. It also discusses the potential advantages of these strategies in inducing tumor‐specific non‐apoptotic RCD. By deeply understanding the significance of non‐apoptotic RCD in synergistic cancer immunotherapy, this article provides valuable insights for developing more advanced nano‐delivery systems that can robustly induce highly immunogenic non‐apoptotic modes, offering novel research and development avenues to address the clinical challenges encountered by immunotherapy represented by ICB.
Wearable Single‐Electrode Capacitive Sensor with Large Penetration Depth for Intelligent Deep Tissue and Hemorrhage Monitoring
Authors: Cheng Yu‐Jen , Kim Shawn , White Nathan , Wang Xu , Ringgold Kristyn , Neidig Lauren , Kwon Younghoon , Chung Jae‐Hyun
Published: December 2024

Monitoring deep tissue biometrics is crucial in various clinical settings, including internal hemorrhage. Although optical and impedance tomography techniques offer real‐time monitoring with minimal medical infrastructure, they still face challenges in accurately assessing deeper tissues in wearable formats. This study introduces a novel single‐electrode capacitive sensor designed to measure deep tissue capacitance changes caused by variations in dielectric constant and pressure. The sensor features a carbon nanotube‐paper composite (CPC) electrode integrated with a multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)‐embedded foam. The CPC electrode, with its large surface area and high‐aspect‐ratio fibers, generates a high electric field for deeper tissue penetration, improving deep tissue monitoring performance. Penetration depth is characterized using surrogate tissue, heart, and lung models. Additionally, the integration of pressure‐sensitive MWCNT foam significantly enhances the sensitivity, enabling precise detection of regional blood volume and tissue displacement. The novel sensing mechanism is applied to detect internal hemorrhage in a porcine model. By employing a machine learning algorithm, the sensor accurately estimates the severity of internal hemorrhage, offering a noninvasive alternative to catheter‐based systems. This advancement lays the foundation for a real‐time wearable system that monitors deep tissue health metrics, such as blood volume, blood pressure, as well as heart and lung functions.
Metal‐Organic Frameworks: A Solution for Greener Polymeric Materials with Low Fire Hazards
Authors: Sun Xiuhong , Miao Weijia , Pan Ye‐Tang , Song Pingan , Gaan Sabyasachi , Ibarra Laia Haurie , Yang Rongjie
Published: December 2024

The non‐degradability of polymeric materials and the flammability of their products have resulted in significant environmental pollution. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) serve as innovative flame retardants, featuring a high specific surface area, ample pore volume, and customizable structure. By leveraging the structural adjustability of MOFs, biological modifiers containing flame retardant elements can be integrated into MOFs, thereby ensuring flame retardation while imparting biodegradable properties. Moreover, the issue of material pollution can be effectively addressed by utilizing MOFs as flame retardants within renewable polymer matrices. Recently, an increasing number of researchers have concentrated on developing green flame‐retardant polymer materials using MOFs. However, as far as is known, no comprehensive review on green polymers with minimal fire risk produced using MOFs currently exists. Consequently, this study reviews the recent advancements in the development of green flame‐retardant polymer materials utilizing MOFs, covering the preparation and utilization of bio‐based and recyclable MOFs. Additionally, a flame‐retardant renewable matrix based on MOFs is also synthesized. Furthermore, this review anticipates discussing the benefits and drawbacks associated with using MOFs to manufacture green flame‐retardant polymer products. This work aims to assist researchers in rapidly comprehending the most recent advancements in this field and guiding efficient design.
Stable Biotherapeutic Penetration Screening in Critically Small Colorectal Metastatic Cancer Biopsies Allows for Oncolytic Virus‐Delivered Chemotherapeutic Response Assessment through 3D Bioprinted Organoid Expansion
Authors: McGuckin Colin , Forraz Nico , Milet Clément , Lacroix Mathieu , Sbirkov Yordan , Sarafian Victoria , Ebel Caroline , Spindler Anita , Koerper Véronique , Quéméneur Eric , Balloul Jean‐Marc , Erbs Philippe
Published: December 2024

Oncolytic viral‐delivered chemotherapeutics have exciting potential for metastatic cancer therapies, including colorectal cancer, but require advanced screening systems for better patient prediction. We optimized primary metastatic colorectal tumor processing and 3D (3‐dimensional) bioprinted tumors to prove efficacy as long‐term screening systems. Normally, this time period would use animals, but we show it is possible to gain useful data in vitro before preclinical stages, to reduce animal modeling and give better clinical trial predictions. Liver tumors were collected from 12 colorectal cancer patients, evaluated for expansion, 3D bioprinted, and tested for ability to create long‐term organoid models with screening of oncolytic viral‐loaded FCU1 enzyme conversion of 5‐fluorocytosine (5‐FC) into the highly toxic 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU). Donated tumor size was the limiting factor. 75% of patients could be used for screening of viral delivery. Response between patients was overall positive, with good secondary tumor development, outer active cellular content and inner necrotic core. Oncolytic challenge shows good screening potential and cellular targeting, demonstrating an added bystander effect, optimizing the low‐dose. Stable long‐term metastatic organoid models were made, lasting many months, with potential for retesting rather than one‐off analysis. Oncolytic virus‐delivered chemotherapy is promising and warrants further investigation for metastatic colorectal cancers.
Comprehensive Review on Slot‐Die‐Based Perovskite Photovoltaics: Mechanisms, Materials, Methods, and Marketability
Authors: Shin Thant Ko Ko , Seriwattanachai Chaowaphat , Jittham Thantham , Thamangraksat Naruedej , Sakata Patawee , Kanjanaboos Pongsakorn
Published: December 2024

As the world edges closer to perovskite solar cell (PSC) commercialization, state‐of‐the‐art materials and processes become publicized to a much lesser degree. From current insights into perovskite industry standards, slot‐die coating is the number one method for fabricating the perovskite layer. Other significant layers can be done using varying techniques. Hence, in this review article, all 115 existing slot‐die‐based PSC publications to date together with related literature are crystallized to set stages for future scalable perovskite research. Through investigation of the effects of materials, processes, and structures on performance, stability, and cost of slot‐die coating is presented. In the end, power output x operating lifetime per cost is the most influential factor for market consideration. The roll‐to‐roll compatibility of the slot‐die coating together with low‐cost materials and lean processes present a cost‐effective strategy for successful commercialization.
The Elastic Covalent Polycysteine Crosslinked Binary Hollow FeS2 Nanospheres for Highly Reversible Sodium Storage
Authors: Li Yue , Zhao Ruiyang , Liu Fusheng , Qin Guohui , He Xiangming
Published: December 2024

The high irreversibility to FeS2‐based anode thwarts its applicability in sodium ion batteries (SIBs), originally stem from the sluggish Na+ insertion/extraction kinetics, confined by the high desolvation barrier, the thick electric double layer (EDL) and the long transport routine inside FeS2. Herein, the covalent polypeptide oligomers (Pcy) based on cysteine (Cy) with β‐sheet configuration grafted binary hollow carbon coupled FeS2@Fe2O3 heterostructure, i.e., FeS2/Fe2O3@C@Pcy, are designed to achieve low desolvation barrier, the contracted EDL via weakened coulombic interaction stems from the zwitterionic feature and enhanced Na+ transport capacity inside FeS2. The semi‐interpenetrating oligomers possessing a weak coordination environment, massively accelerate the desolvation kinetics, additionally, the orderly and dense vertical occupation within the inner Helmholtz plane (IHP) also enormously reduces thickness of EDL. The binary hollow structure complex possessing typical ion looping routine considerably expedites the Na+ transport kinetics inside anode. Both experimental and theoretical trials demonstrate such FeS2 composite manifests a high reversibility in Na+ storage in virtue of exceptional structure stability, rapid ion transport kinetics, and swift reaction kinetics.