bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Mineral Is More Heterogeneously Distributed in the Femoral Heads of Osteoporotic and Diabetic Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Parle Eoin , Tio Sherdya , Behre Annie , Carey John J , Murphy Colin G , O'Brien Timothy F , Curtin William A , Kearns Stephen R , McCabe John P , Coleman Cynthia M , Vaughan Ted J , McNamara Laoise M
Published: November 2019

Osteoporosis is associated with systemic bone loss, leading to a significant deterioration of bone microarchitecture and an increased fracture risk. Although recent studies have shown that the distribution of bone mineral becomes more heterogeneous because of estrogen deficiency in animal models of osteoporosis, it is not known whether osteoporosis alters mineral distribution in human bone. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can also increase bone fracture risk and is associated with impaired bone cell function, compromised collagen structure, and reduced mechanical properties. However, it is not known whether alterations in mineral distribution arise in diabetic (DB) patients’ bone. In this study, we quantify mineral content distribution and tissue microarchitecture (by μCT) and mechanical properties (by compression testing) of cancellous bone from femoral heads of osteoporotic (OP; n = 10), DB (n = 7), and osteoarthritic (OA; n = 7) patients. We report that though OP cancellous bone has significantly deteriorated compressive mechanical properties and significantly compromised microarchitecture compared with OA controls, there is also a significant increase in the mean mineral content. Moreover, the heterogeneity of the mineral content in OP bone is significantly higher than controls (+25%) and is explained by a significant increase in bone volume at high mineral levels. We propose that these mineral alterations act to exacerbate the already reduced bone quality caused by reduced cancellous bone volume during osteoporosis. We show for the first time that cancellous bone mineralization is significantly more heterogeneous (+26%) in patients presenting with T2DM compared with OA (non‐DB) controls, and that this heterogeneity is characterized by a significant increase in bone volume at low mineral levels. Despite these mineralization changes, bone microarchitecture and mechanical properties are not significantly different between OA groups with and without T2DM. Nonetheless, the observed alterations in mineral heterogeneity may play an important tissue‐level role in bone fragility associated with OP and DB bone. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Oxidative stress–mediated photoactivation of carbazole inhibits human skin cell physiology
Authors: Srivastav Ajeet K. , Dubey Divya , Chopra Deepti , Singh Jyoti , Negi Sandeep , Mujtaba Syed Faiz , Dwivedi Ashish , Ray Ratan Singh
Published: November 2019

Prolonged exposure of the earth's surface to the sun's ultraviolet radiation may result in various skin diseases and cataract. Carbazole (CBZ), as a polycyclic‐aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), is blended with a five‐member nitrogen‐containing ring. It is found in cigarette smoke, coal, eye kohl, tattoo ink, and wood combustion and affects various types of flora and fauna. Our findings suggest that CBZ generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) like through type‐I photodynamic reaction and causes phototoxicity in the human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT), which has been proved by mitochondrial dehydrogenase and neutral red uptake assays. CBZ induces single strand DNA damage. We have investigated the involvement of the apoptotic pattern of cell death and confirmed it by cytochrome C release from mitochondria and caspase‐9 activation. Similarly, photo‐micronuclei formation was associated to CBZ‐induced phototoxicity. The results of this study strongly support that the upregulation of bax, cyto‐C, apaf‐1, casp‐9 and down regulation of bcl2, keap‐1, nrf‐2, and hmox‐1 genes cause apoptopic cell death. Downregulation of antioxidant genes showed a significant amount of ROS generation by photosensitized CBZ. Therefore, the current study will be a step forward to safeguard human beings from sunlight‐induced photosensitive CBZ prolonged exposure.
Clinical value of combined detection of reactive oxygen species modulator 1 and adenosine deaminase in pleural effusion in the identification of NSCLC associated malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wang Junjun , Fu Jiali , Hu Lijuan , Zheng Xiaoyong , Wang Yumin , Chen Bicheng
Published: November 2019

Background

Reactive oxygen species modulator 1 (ROMO1) is recognized to be involved in cell proliferation and is elevated in serum of various cancer patients. However, ROMO1 had little research in distinguishing between malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) and benign pleural effusions (BPEs).

Methods

Malignant pleural effusion samples from patients with non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and benign pleural effusion (BPE) samples containing tuberculous and inflammatory pleural effusions were collected. The samples were tested for ROMO1, pleural effusion adenosine deaminase (pADA), pleural effusion carbohydrate antigen (pCA125, pCA153, pCA199), pleural effusion ferritin (pFER), and pleural effusion lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) levels, and the other relevant partial clinical data that were gathered were used to conduct statistical analysis.

Results

The ROMO1, pCA125, pCA199, pCA153, pADA + ROMO1, pCA153 + ROMO1, pCA125 + ROMO1, and pCA199 + ROMO1 levels in MPE were appreciably higher in comparison with BPE group (all P = .000). The concentration of pADA in MPE was markedly lower than BPE (P = .000). When the cutoff = 0.38, the sensitivity of combined detection of ROMO1 + pADA is 98.67% and the specificity is 70.73%, respectively, and the AUC (0.941) is the highest among other parameters.

Conclusion

The combined detection of ROMO1 + ADA in pleural effusion is an effective biomarker for identifying MPE caused by NSCLC.
Randomization procedures in single‐case intervention research contexts: (Some of) “the rest of the story”
Authors: Levin Joel R. , Kratochwill Thomas R. , Ferron John M.
Published: November 2019

Following up on articles recently published in this journal, the present contribution tells (some of) “the rest of the story” about the value of randomization in single‐case intervention research investigations. Invoking principles of internal, statistical‐conclusion, and external validity, we begin by emphasizing the critical distinction between design randomization and analysis randomization, along with the necessary correspondence between the two. Four different types of single‐case design‐and‐analysis randomization are then discussed. The persistent negative influence of serially dependent single‐case outcome observations is highlighted, accompanied by examples of inappropriate applications of parametric and nonparametric tests that have appeared in the literature. We conclude by presenting valid applications of single‐case randomization procedures in various single‐case intervention contexts, with specific reference to a freely available Excel‐based software package that can be accessed to incorporate the present randomization schemes into a wide variety of single‐case intervention designs and analyses.
Using microscopic techniques for taxonomic implications of seed and fruits of Delphinium L. (sensu lato) (Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Hadidchi Anahita , Attar Farideh , Ullah Fazal
Published: November 2019

In present research, micromorphological characters of the genus Delphinium L. (sensu lato) Ranunculaceae seeds and fruits were studied using microscopic techniques. A total of 37 species were studied using light (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate seeds and fruits micromorphological characteristics for the taxonomic identification and species relationship in the genus. For each taxon, 33 characters were observed and studied. All characters were analyzed using MVSP software and UPGMA method by using dissimilarity index (average taxonomic distance). Considerable differences were observed in trichomes shape of fruit and seed color features. The results revealed that all studied taxa are separated into three clades. The first clade consists of D. pallidiflorum and D. semibarbatum, which have black seed and two types of glandular and crispate trichomes in fruit. The second clade consists of D. speciosum, D. szowitsianum, D. dasystachyson, D. aquilegifolium, D. ursinum, C. trigonelloides, and C. camptocarpa, which had a brown color seeds, two types of glandular and villous trichomes on fruits also have been observed. The remaining species were classified as third clade having various colors including yellow, black, and brown color seeds, the trichome shapes included one of the following forms strigose, villous, trichomes less, glandular, hooked, and crispate trichomes in fruits. The aim of the present study is to use micromorphological characters of seeds and fruits for the taxonomic identification and species delimitation in the genus Delphinium.
Implementing non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in the Netherlands: An interview study exploring opinions about and experiences with societal pressure, reimbursement, and an expanding scope
Authors: Bakkeren Iris M. , Kater‐Kuipers Adriana , Bunnik Eline M. , Go Attie T. J. I. , Tibben Aad , de Beaufort Inez D. , Galjaard Robert‐Jan H. , Riedijk Sam R.
Published: November 2019

The noninvasive prenatal test (NIPT) as the first trimester prenatal screening (FTS) for trisomies 21, 18, and 13 is offered to all pregnant women in the Netherlands. NIPT using genome sequencing allows for an expansion of the scope of FTS and the introduction of NIPT gives rise to ethical and societal concerns about deliberated decision‐making, pressure to engage in screening, and possible lack of equal access due to the financial contribution (€175) to NIPT. We explored the opinions and experiences of pregnant women, who were offered FTS, about these concerns, and the possibility of a broadened scope. Nineteen pregnant women representing a diversity of backgrounds were interviewed using a semi‐structured interview guide. Eight women did not opt for prenatal screening while 11 did (NIPT = 4, combined test = 7). Women experienced a free choice to accept or decline prenatal screening, despite sometimes receiving advice from others. Prior to pretest counseling, some women had already deliberated about what an abnormal test result would mean to them. Others accepted or declined FTS without deliberation. The current Dutch policy of requiring a co‐payment was acceptable to some, who believed that it functioned as a threshold to think carefully about FTS. Others were concerned that a financial threshold would lead to unequal access to screening. Finally, pregnant women found it difficult to formulate opinions on the scope of FTS, because of lack of knowledge. Life expectancy, severity, and treatability were considered important criteria for the inclusion of a condition in NIPT.
Differentiation Between Benign and Nonbenign Meningiomas by Using Texture Analysis From Multiparametric MRI
Authors: Ke Chao , Chen Haolin , Lv Xiaofei , Li Haojiang , Zhang Yun , Chen Maodong , Hu Daokun , Ruan Guangying , Zhang Yu , Zhang Youming , Liu Lizhi , Feng Yanqiu
Published: November 2019

Background

It is difficult to prospectively differentiate between benign (World Health Organization [WHO] I) and nonbenign (WHO II and III) meningiomas.

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of preoperative differentiation between benign and nonbenign meningiomas by using texture analysis from multiparametric MR data.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

In all, 184 patients with meningioma (139 benign and 45 nonbenign) were included as the training cohort and 79 patients with meningioma (60 benign and 19 nonbenign) were included as the external validation cohort.

Field Strength/Sequence

T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted, and contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted imaging were performed on 1.5 or 3.0T MR systems from two centers.

Assessment

Tumor segmentation and radiological characteristic (RC) evaluation were performed by experienced radiologists. The texture features were extracted from preprocessed images and combined with RCs, and then the combined features were reduced by using a two‐step feature selection. Three single‐sequence models and a multiparametric MRI (the combination of single sequences) model were constructed and then evaluated with the external validation cohort.

Statistical Tests

Area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy (Acc), f1‐score (F1), sensitivity (Sen), and specificity (Spec), were calculated to quantify the performance of the models.

Results

Among the four texture models, the multiparametric MRI model demonstrated the best performance for differentiating between benign and nonbenign meningiomas in both the training and external validation cohorts (AUC 0.91, Acc 89%, F1 0.88, Sen 0.93, and Spec 0.87 in the training cohort; AUC 0.83, Acc 80%, F1 0.77, Sen 0.84, and Spec 0.78 in the validation cohort).

Data Conclusion

Nonbenign meningiomas might be preoperatively differentiated from benign meningiomas by using texture analysis from multiparametric MR data.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1810–1820.
Multiparametric MR Investigation of Proteoglycan Diffusivity, T2 Relaxation, and Concentration in an Ex Vivo Model of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Wang Min , Tsang Adrian , Tam Vivian , Chan Danny , Cao Peng , Wu Ed X.
Published: November 2019

Background

Proteoglycan (PG) is a major component of the intervertebral disc extracellular matrix (ECM) that acts to hydrate the disc nucleus. Early detection of PG degradation is valuable for both diagnosis and preclinical research of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD).

Purpose

To compare different MR techniques for detecting early degradative changes of PG in IVDD.

Study Type: Prospective.

Phantom/Specimen

Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) phantom/bovine discs with papain injection and human cadaveric discs.

Field Strength/Sequences

7T/diffusion‐weighted MR spectroscopy (DW‐MRS), T2‐weighted MRS (T2W‐MRS), and chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging.

Assessment

DW‐MRS, T2W‐MRS, and CEST imaging were applied longitudinally to measure PG diffusivity, T2 value, overall content, and spatial distribution in the disc nucleus with enzyme‐induced proteolytic ECM degradation (n = 8). Similar MR measurements were applied in GAG phantom and human cadaveric discs with different levels of degeneration (n = 6).

Statistical Tests

T‐tests were conducted to measure the differences of PG properties between pre‐ and post‐enzyme injection. Linear regression and mixed‐effects models were used to assess the associations among different PG properties as well as the degeneration grades in human cadaveric discs.

Results

In bovine discs, PG diffusivity increased most rapidly after the enzyme was injected into the disc nucleus (12 hours postinjection, t = 5.76, P = 0.0007). The PG T2 value did not change significantly (t < 1.54, P > 0.17 for all timepoints) during ECM degradation and was not associated with PG diffusivity (t = 0.06, P = 0.95). PG distribution change was more rapid than overall PG content and was strongly associated with PG diffusivity increase (t = –9.25, P < 1 × 10‐8). In severely degenerated human cadaveric discs, the PG ADCs and T2 values were both associated with degeneration grades.

Data Conclusion

PG diffusivity is a direct biomarker for early ECM degradation, while PG distribution can be an indirect biomarker for early IVDD.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1390–1400.
Prognostic Value of Late Gadolinium Enhancement in Predicting Life‐Threatening Arrhythmias in Heart Failure Patients With Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yue Ting , Chen Bing‐Hua , Wu Lian‐Ming , Xu Jian‐Rong , Pu Jun
Published: November 2019

Background

The presence of late gadolinium enhanced (LGE), which may enable better evaluation of myocardial impairment, would help predict the occurrence of life‐threatening arrhythmias and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients suffering from ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) and nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) patients and who underwent a process of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD).

Purpose

To evaluate the prognostic value of cardiac MR‐LGE for ICM and NICM patients with ICD.

Study Type

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Population

A total of 33 studies of 3457 patients were included.

Field Strength

1. 5T and 3.0T, LGE.

Assessment

PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science were systematically searched for studies reporting LGE in ICM or NICM patients with ICD implantation with several kinds of endpoints: MACE, life‐threatening arrhythmia, cardiovascular mortality, and all‐cause mortality.

Statistical Tests

A meta‐analysis was performed using a random‐effects model to calculate odds ratios or standard mean differences (SMDs) for binary and continuous data.

Results

MR‐LGE was positive in 1923 (55.6%) of ICM and NICM patients. LGE‐present patients were more likely to have life‐threatening arrhythmia (odds ratio [OR]: 5.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.8–6.8), MACE (OR: 5.2; 95% CI: 3.8–6.9), cardiovascular mortality (OR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.2–4.6), and all‐cause mortality (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.3–3.4) compared with those without LGE. Moreover, ICM and NICM patients with LGE both had increased life‐threatening arrhythmia (OR: 4.6; 95% CI: 2.7–8.0; OR: 5.2; 95% CI: 3.6–7.8, respectively) and MACE (OR: 4.7; 95% CI: 2.8–7.9; OR: 4.7; 95% CI: 2.7–8.1, respectively).

Data Conclusion

The presence of MR‐LGE may worsen the prognosis for adverse cardiovascular events in both ICM and NIMC patients who benefit more from ICDs.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1422–1439.
Size of Medial Knee Osteophytes Correlates With Knee Alignment But Not With Coronal Laxity in Patients With Medial Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ishii Yoshinori , Noguchi Hideo , Sato Junko , Ishii Hana , Ishii Ryo , Todoroki Koji , Ezawa Nobukazu , Toyabe Shin‐ichi
Published: November 2019

The severity of osteoarthritis (OA) has been related to osteophyte size. However, the effects on osteophyte size of repeated and increased loading associated with joint laxity and varus misalignment remain unclear. We investigated these relationships in patients with medial knee OA and compared the performances of computed tomography (CT) and radiography for assessing osteophyte parameters. We examined knee joint alignment on radiographs and knee laxity using arthrometry in 191 patients with medial knee OA who were undergoing total knee arthroplasty. We also measured femur and tibia osteophyte distance (largest perpendicular distance from the cortical line to outer margin of the osteophyte) using radiography and CT, osteophyte areas (largest area surrounded by the outer margin of an osteophyte) by CT and determined the locations of the osteophytes in the femur and tibia by CT. We then analyzed the correlations between the variables using Spearman's rank correlation tests. Osteophyte sizes in the femur and tibia as determined by radiography (distance) or CT (distance and area) were positively correlated with the degree of varus alignment but not with medial or lateral laxity. There was also a significant correlation between maximum osteophyte distances measured by radiography and CT. The greatest number and the largest osteophytes were located in the posterior third of the femur and middle third of the tibia, respectively. Osteophyte size was correlated with preoperative knee alignment but not with knee laxity in patients with medial knee OA. Osteophyte size can be evaluated using conventional radiography, without the need for CT. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:639–644, 2020
An Exemplar Imidazoline Surfactant for Corrosion Inhibitor Studies: Synthesis, Characterization, and Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Kousar Kiran , Ljungdahl Thomas , Wetzel Alexander , Dowhyj Michael , Oskarsson Hans , Walton Alex S. , Walczak Monika S. , Lindsay Robert
Published: November 2019

An optimized one‐pot recipe has been developed to synthesize a surfactant molecule, referred to as OMID, consisting of an imidazoline head group and aliphatic tail, which is an exemplar corrosion inhibitor for carbon steel in acidic solutions. As evidenced by gas chromatography, 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance, and Fourier‐transform infrared data, a high‐purity product was achieved without the use of either a solvent or catalyst. Critical micelle concentration values and corrosion inhibition efficiencies (
η%) were determined in aqueous solutions of hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid using surface tensiometry and linear polarization resistance measurements, respectively. Hydrolysis of the imidazoline head group as a function of pH (0–11) was explored with ultraviolet–visible absorption spectroscopy. In addition, N 1s and C 1s X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy data were acquired from both surface‐adsorbed OMID and a multilayer of the imidazoline head group of OMID. These latter data are highly relevant to those attempting to understand OMID inhibition chemistry.
Assessment of emulsion gels formulated with chestnut (Castanea sativa M.) flour and chia (Salvia hispanica L) oil as partial fat replacers in pork burger formulation
Authors: Lucas‐González Raquel , Roldán‐Verdu Alba , Sayas‐Barberá Estrella , Fernández‐López Juana , Pérez‐Álvarez José A , Viuda‐Martos Manuel
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect on chemical composition, physico‐chemical properties, cooking characteristics, fatty acid profile, lipid oxidation, and sensory acceptability of an oil‐in‐water emulsion gel that was prepared with chestnut flour, chia oil, gellan gum, and water (CEG), used as a fat replacer in pork burgers. The original mixture was used as a control sample (CS). The other samples were formulated partially replacing pork backfat with 5% of CEG (CEG5%) and 10% of CEG (CEG10%).

RESULTS

Proximate analysis of samples showed several differences between samples. The CEG addition was found to be effective for improving the cooking yield while diameter reduction and thickness increase were positively affected. As regards lipid oxidation, in cooked burger, the 2‐thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values for CS, CEG5% and CEG10% were 0.46, 0.57, and 0.59 mg malonaldehyde/kg sample, respectively. The linolenic and linolenic acid content of pork burger increased as CEG addition increased. Sensory properties for CS and CEG5% were similar whereas CEG10% showed the highest sensory scores.

CONCLUSIONS

A combination of chestnut flour and chia oil could be used as a novel ingredient to develop pork burgers with a better nutritional profile without diminishing their sensory and physico‐chemical properties. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of partial replacement of dietary fish meal by bioprocessed plant protein concentrates on growth performance, hematology, nutrient digestibility and digestive enzyme activities in juvenile Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Moniruzzaman Mohammad , Damusaru Jim Hyacinth , Won Seonghun , Cho Seong‐Jun , Chang Kyung Hoon , Bai Sungchul C
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Bioprocessing of plant feedstuff can be a novel approach for reducing the overwhelming dependence on fish meal in aquaculture. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei fed solid‐state fermented protein concentrates in order to replace fish meal in the diet.

RESULTS

In the first trial, a group of 15 shrimp (average 3.88 g) were randomly distributed into aquaria in triplicate according to the experimental diets. Ten isonitrogenous (400 g kg−1 CP) and isolipidic (90 g kg−1 CL) diets were formulated to contain high‐protein fish meal (HFM) and low‐protein fish meal (LFM), and four types of bioprocessed protein concentrates (BPCs) as a replacement of fish meal (BPC‐A, ‐B, ‐C and ‐D) each at 30% and 50% FM replacement levels. BPC‐A was a solid‐state fermented mixture of soybean and corn gluten meals; BPC‐B was pre‐treated acid‐hydrolyzed BPC‐A; BPC‐C and BPC‐D were BPC‐A + 2% shrimp soluble extract (SSE) and BPC‐B + 2% SSE, respectively. After 8 weeks, shrimp fed the HFM, BPC‐B, BPC‐C and BPC‐D diets showed significantly higher growth performance at 30% FM replacement than those of shrimp fed the BPC diets at 50% FM replacement. Interestingly, shrimp fed the BPC‐D diet could replace up to 50% FM replacement. In the second trial, the results show that apparent digestibility coefficients of feeds and apparent digestibility coefficients of ingredients for crude protein were significantly higher in fish fed the BPC‐B, BPC‐C and BPC‐D diets.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated successful partial replacement of high‐protein fish meal using high‐quality fermented protein concentrates from plant sources. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Fine‐Scale Habitat Selection by Breeding White‐Tailed Ptarmigan in Colorado
Authors: Spear Shelley L. , Aldridge Cameron L. , Wann Gregory T. , Braun Clait E.
Published: November 2019

Species distributions are influenced by climate and topography in alpine ecosystems, yet resource selection studies of alpine species are uncommon. Basic characteristics of habitats used by alpine‐endemic white‐tailed ptarmigan (Lagopus leucura) have been described to explain foraging behavior, morphology, and survival in many alpine regions; however, there is a lack of information about fine‐scale habitat selection for nesting and brood‐rearing, particularly in the southern extent of the species’ range. Few studies have tested whether nest and brood‐site selection by white‐tailed ptarmigan are influenced by fine‐scale components such as vegetation and arthropod communities. We assessed these fine‐scale habitat characteristics analyzing paired use‐available resource selection for nest (n = 61) and brood (n = 54) sites. We used conditional logistic regression for data collected in 2 alpine areas along the Front Range of Colorado, USA, during 2014 and 2015. We evaluated resource selection at larger (patch) and finer (nest site) scales. Nest‐site selection at the patch scale was best predicted by cover (%) of forage forbs, rock and gravel, and shrubs. Forage forb cover explained more variation in our top nest model at the patch scale when compared to models with specific vegetation species. Females placed their nests along elevational gradients but more so at lower elevations and selected for less graminoid cover at the nest‐site scale. Brood habitat selection at the patch level was influenced by cover (%) of rock and gravel and proximity to shrubs (m). Analysis of a subset of our brood data (n = 34) revealed females selected brood habitat that contained high arthropod abundance (e.g., Cicadellidae) over high vegetation cover, likely as a response to meet dietary requirements of chicks. Our results demonstrate how and where white‐tailed ptarmigan are currently selecting these different breeding sites in Colorado's alpine, giving us insight into consequences this alpine‐endemic bird may face if their breeding habitat is altered. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Grazing exclusion erodes the forbs functional group without altering offspring recruitment composition in a typical steppe
Authors: Zhao Ling‐Ping , Cui Zeng , Liu Yu , Chang Xiaofeng , Wu Gao‐Lin
Published: November 2019

The underlying mechanism of grazing exclusion on grassland community structure and dynamics may be determined by offspring recruitment. However, little is known about the role of plant functional groups in community recruitment. A chronosequence of grazing‐excluded grasslands was selected to analyze the aboveground community composition and offspring recruitment based on plant functional groups. Grazing exclusion significantly increased grasses biomass (111.7–480.7%), height (95.6–241.8%), and coverage (84.8–148.5%) and decreased grasses density (10.2–59.7%). Grazing exclusion eroded total species richness (13.2–25.0%) and forbs richness (16.6–39.4%). Grazing exclusion shifted the dominance from forbs to grasses. Grasses functional group (GFG) determined community structure, but forbs functional group (FFG) regulated species diversity in typical steppe. Clonal recruitment played a decisive role in the community regeneration, especially tiller recruit mode by GFG. Grazing exclusion had different effects on offspring recruitment of grasses and FFG. Total asexual, grasses asexual, and tiller offspring density both first significantly increased and then significantly decreased with grazing exclusion time. Forbs asexual offspring density did not significantly decrease in 10‐ and 20‐year grazing exclusion grasslands but significantly reduced after 30 years. Change in community dominance caused by grazing or grazing exclusion did not alter the tiller recruitment dominance in this area. Our results indicate that grazing exclusion presents a negative effect on community regeneration and biodiversity conservation in the studied typical steppe.
Post‐Pump Chorea and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy‐Like Syndrome Following Major Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Park Kye Won , Choi Nari , Ryu Ho‐Sung , Kim Ho Jin , Lee Chong S. , Chung Sun Ju
Published: November 2019

Background

Post‐pump chorea and progressive‐supranuclear palsy (PSP)–like syndrome after aortic surgery are 2 distinct movement disorders following major cardiac surgeries.

Cases

We herein report 3 patients with movement disorders that developed after major cardiac surgeries. Two patients developed post‐pump chorea after pulmonary endarterectomy, and 1 further case developed PSP‐like syndrome after aortic replacement surgery. The 2 conditions share several common aspects. Both are preceded by surgeries that undergo cardiopulmonary bypass and deep hypothermia circulatory arrest procedures. Most cases present with biphasic course. However, post‐pump chorea occurs in all age populations after any surgeries that undergo deep hypothermia circulatory arrest, whereas PSP‐like syndrome is reported exclusively in the adult population after aortic surgery.

Conclusions

Post‐pump chorea and PSP‐like syndrome are neurologic complications of major cardiac surgeries that should not be underrecognized. Further reports to establish their common pathogenic mechanism should be encouraged.
Functional Inhibitory Control Dynamics in Impulse Control Disorders in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Paz‐Alonso Pedro M. , Navalpotro‐Gomez I. , Boddy P. , Dacosta‐Aguayo R. , Delgado‐Alvarado M. , Quiroga‐Varela A. , Jimenez‐Urbieta H. , Carreiras M. , Rodriguez‐Oroz Maria C.
Published: November 2019

Background

Impulse control disorders related to alterations in the mesocorticolimbic dopamine network occur in Parkinson's disease (PD). Our objective was to investigate the functional neural substrates of reward processing and inhibitory control in these patients.

Methods

Eighteen PD patients with impulse control disorders, 17 without this complication, and 18 healthy controls performed a version of the Iowa Gambling Task during functional magnetic resonance scanning under 3 conditions: positive, negative, and mixed feedback. Whole‐brain contrasts, regions of interest, time courses, functional connectivity analyses, and brain‐behavior associations were examined.

Results

PD patients with impulse control disorders exhibited hyperactivation in subcortical and cortical regions typically associated with reward processing and inhibitory control compared with their PD and healthy control counterparts. Time‐course analyses revealed that only PD patients with impulse control disorders exhibited stronger signal intensity during the initial versus final periods of the negative‐feedback condition in bilateral insula, and right ventral striatum. Interestingly, hyperactivation of all the examined right‐lateralized frontostriatal areas during negative feedback was positively associated with impulse control disorder severity. Importantly, positive associations between impulse control disorder severity and regional activations in the right insula and right inferior frontal gyrus, but not the right subthalamic nucleus, were mediated by functional connectivity with the right ventral striatum.

Conclusions

During a reward‐based task, PD patients with impulse control disorders showed hyperactivation in a right‐lateralized network of regions including the subthalamic nucleus that was strongly associated with impulse control disorder severity. In these patients, the right ventral striatum in particular played a critical role in modulating the functional dynamics of right‐lateralized inhibitory‐control frontal regions when facing penalties. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Modulating the tumor microenvironment with new therapeutic nanoparticles: A promising paradigm for tumor treatment
Authors: Zhang Yinlong , Ho Shih‐Hsin , Li Bozhao , Nie Guangjun , Li Suping
Published: November 2019

To better make nanomedicine entering the clinic, developing new rationally designed nanotherapeutics with a deeper understanding of tumor biology is required. The tumor microenvironment is similar to the inflammatory response in a healing wound, the milieu of which promotes tumor cell invasion and metastasis. Successful targeting of the microenvironmental components with effective nanotherapeutics to modulate the tumor microvessels or restore the homeostatic mechanisms in the tumor stroma will offer new hope for cancer treatment. We here highlight the progress in constructing nanotherapeutics to target or modulate the tumor microenvironment. We discuss the factors necessary for nanomedicines to become a new paradigm in cancer therapy, including the selection of drugs and therapeutic targets, controllable synthesis, and tempo‐spatial drug release.
A 300 GHz power‐combined frequency doubler based on E‐plane 90°‐hybrid and Y‐junction
Authors: Ding Jiang‐Qiao , Maestrini Alain , Gatilova Lina , Shi Sheng‐Cai
Published: November 2019

In this article, a 300 GHz power‐combined frequency doubler using two chips in a single waveguide block is developed to acheive high power handling capability. Each doubler chip integrated with six diodes on a 5‐μm‐thick GaAs membrane is manufactured by the LERMA‐C2N Schottky process. In the power combining architecture, the input wave is split into two paths with a 90° relative phase shift by using a 90° hybrid coupler, and the in‐phase E‐field power combining between the output ports is provided by an E‐plane Y‐junction. This doubler can enjoy comparable performance of bandwidth and efficiency as the single‐chip version except with the twice input power handling. Partial results including ~8 mW output power and ~15% efficiency have been delivered in the band of 260‐310 GHz when pumping with 20‐60 mW input power, which indicates that this dual‐chip doubler can work availably. Such E‐plane power‐combined doubler can be further served to drive high‐power terahertz multiplier chains, and also pump multipixel heterodyne detectors.
On a virtual network functions placement and routing problem: Some properties and a comparison of two formulations
Authors: Addis Bernardetta , Carello Giuliana , Gao Meihui
Published: November 2019

The mass diffusion of internet applications, both from computers and mobiles, has yielded to an increasing demand for network services with which the expensive and not flexible hardware appliances cannot keep up. On the other hand, computational capability has become available on the network nodes connected with computing servers and the cloud. This has suggested the network functions virtualization paradigm: services are provided on a software basis thus giving a flexible and cost effective response to the request for services. The network functions virtualization proposes challenging optimization problems such as the virtual network functions (VNFs) chaining problem, where service instances must be located on some network nodes and each demand must be routed through the services it requires. Most of the literature is currently focused on heuristic solutions, rather than on studying the problem properties or comparing approaches. With the aim of investigating the problem properties and comparing existing formulations, both from the theoretical and the numerical points of view, we consider a single service VNFs chaining problem, with different link and service capacities and the objective of minimizing the number of installed VNF instances.
Novel synthesis of copper oxide on fabric samples by cathodic cage plasma deposition
Authors: Fernades Fernanda , Filho Edglay Rocha , Souza Ivan , Nascimento Igor , Sousa Rômulo , Almeida Edalmy , Feitor Michele , Costa Thércio , Naeem Muhammad , Iqbal Javed
Published: November 2019

The fabrics with copper or copper oxide deposition are of considerable interest because of exceptional antibacterial properties, which are useable in medical, textiles, and hygiene applications. Unfortunately, the conventional techniques take long processing time, complex equipment, and combination of several processing steps (nanoparticles synthesis and their deposition on fabrics). In this novel study, cathodic cage plasma deposition assisted with copper cathodic cage is used for the synthesis of the copper oxide on polyester and polyamide fabrics. For the enhancement of synthesis efficiency, the effect of cathodic cage lid thickness is also investigated. The samples are assessed by using scanning electron microscopy, elemental dispersive spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It is found that using cathodic cage plasma deposition, fabrics can be successfully synthesized by the copper oxide with comparatively small treatment time, cost‐effectively, and environmentally friendly. Interestingly, cathodic cage plasma treatment is already proved to be working effectively on industrial scale; thus, it is predicted to be of noteworthy importance for fabrics processing on large‐scale garments manufacturing and hospitals.
Synthesis and Properties of Novel Side‐Chain Sulfonated Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone)s for Proton Exchange Membranes
Authors: Xiao Lei , Chen Xing , Xu Jingjing , Chen Kangcheng , Fang Jianhua
Published: November 2019

A series of novel side‐chain sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) (SPAES) multiblock and random copolymers were synthesized by condensation polymerization from a new disulfonated aryl sulfone monomer, 4,4′‐difluoro‐2,2′‐bis(3‐sulfobenzoyl)diphenyl sulfone disodium salt (DFBSPS). The chemical structures of DFBSPS and the SPAESs were characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. The SPAES membranes prepared by solution cast method exhibited high tensile strength (50–71 MPa) and high radical oxidative stability. They could keep their morphology and maintain proton conductivities after hydrolysis test in 95 °C water for 1000 h. They also showed smaller swelling ratio in in‐plane direction than in through‐plane direction and such an anisotropic effect was more significant for the multiblock copolymers than for the random ones. The multiblock copolymer membranes exhibited higher proton conductivity than the random ones with similar ion exchange capacities (IECs). Preliminary hydrogen‐oxygen fuel cell tests were performed at 60 °C and 80% relative humidity (RH). The results showed that the single cell equipped with the multibiock copolymer membrane SB3 exhibited 0.12 W cm−2 higher maximum output power density than the one equipped with the random copolymer membrane SR3 (with the same IEC), indicating much better performance of the former. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2304–2313
A summary of high quality online information resources for parents with cancer who have adolescent and young adult children: A scoping review
Authors: Weeks Nicole , McDonald Fiona E.J. , Patterson Pandora , Konings Stephanie , Coad Jane
Published: November 2019

Objective

Parents with cancer want information about maintaining family functioning despite cancer. This scoping review assesses what online information resources are available to help parents with cancer maintain family functioning, the quality of the available information, and whether resources provide specific advice for parents of adolescent and young adult (AYA) children.

Methods

To identify available relevant English‐language online information resources, we imitated a parental online information search using three search engines (Google, Yahoo, and Bing). Online resources from the last 10 years for parents with cancer addressing family functioning were included. These resources were rated using the DISCERN instrument—a tool for rating the reliability and quality of health information resources.

Results

684 results were screened and 33 online information resources from the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and Ireland met the inclusion criteria. Average DISCERN quality was 54/80 (95% CI:50‐58), which is typical for online health information. The highest rated resources provided information for parents on supporting their AYA children's needs for information and support with feelings, but few comprehensively covered other specific AYA needs. Details on resource weaknesses as identified by the DISCERN are presented.

Conclusions

Several high‐quality resources for parents with cancer were identified from multiple countries, allowing health professionals internationally to direct patients with cancer to relevant high quality online information. Highlighted limitations in resource quality and scope will guide future resource development and revision, ensuring more comprehensive high quality information is available to support families affected by parental cancer internationally.
Current surface issues in additive manufacturing
Authors: Magnien Julien , Cosemans Patrick , Nutal Nicolas , Kairet Thomas
Published: November 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM), the 30‐year‐old method, to make parts by stacking thin layers of a raw material‐like powder is still in evolution. Among the drawbacks of AM, surface quality is often reported, especially when the raw material is powder. The roughness, Ra, can vary between 10 and 20 µm, with a peak‐to‐valley distance which can reach 0.2 mm, depending on the AM technology. This has an impact on mechanical properties, especially on fatigue. One of the approaches to attain the surface requirements is dedicated post‐treatment. The present paper investigates the origin of AM roughness to highlight the need for suitable post‐treatment.
Quantitative Proteomics Analysis Revealed the Potential Role of lncRNA Ftx in Promoting Gastric Cancer Progression
Authors: Zhu Lihui , Jia Ruzhen , Zhang Junyong , Li Xiao , Qin Chengyong , Zhao Qi
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The molecular pathogenesis of gastric cancer is still ambiguous till now. Here, it is demonstrated that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) Ftx acts as a novel tumor promotor of gastric cancer and a potent regulator of hexokinase‐2 (HK2).

Experimental design

The role of lncRNA Ftx is detected in the loss and gain‐of‐function models of gastric cancer cells. Tandem mass tags combined with multidimensional LC and MS analyses are performed to decipher comparative proteomic profiles of gastric cancer cells in response to lncRNA Ftx knockdown and overexpression. Real‐time roteomics‐clinical applications (PCR) and western blot are used to validate the proteomic data.

Results

A total of 5124 proteins are quantified and indicated in diverse biological functions and metabolic related signaling pathways. Interestingly, HK2, which is downregulated when lncRNA Ftx is deleted and upregulated while lncRNA Ftx is overexpressed, is further validated in gastric cancer cells.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

The present study suggests lncRNA Ftx promotes gastric cancer progression by upregulating HK2, which provides a new perspective for the mechanism of gastric cancer progression, and thus identifies potential therapeutic targets for gastric cancer.
The Dundee Resource for Sequence Analysis and Structure Prediction
Authors: MacGowan Stuart A. , Madeira Fábio , Britto‐Borges Thiago , Warowny Mateusz , Drozdetskiy Alexey , Procter James B. , Barton Geoffrey J.
Published: November 2019

The Dundee Resource for Sequence Analysis and Structure Prediction (DRSASP; http://www.compbio.dundee.ac.uk/drsasp.html) is a collection of web services provided by the Barton Group at the University of Dundee. DRSASP's flagship services are the JPred4 webserver for secondary structure and solvent accessibility prediction and the JABAWS 2.2 webserver for multiple sequence alignment, disorder prediction, amino acid conservation calculations, and specificity‐determining site prediction. DRSASP resources are available through conventional web interfaces and APIs but are also integrated into the Jalview sequence analysis workbench, which enables the composition of multitool interactive workflows. Other existing Barton Group tools are being brought under the banner of DRSASP, including NoD (Nucleolar localization sequence detector) and 14‐3‐3‐Pred. New resources are being developed that enable the analysis of population genetic data in evolutionary and 3D structural contexts. Existing resources are actively developed to exploit new technologies and maintain parity with evolving web standards. DRSASP provides substantial computational resources for public use, and since 2016 DRSASP services have completed over 1.5 million jobs.
Re‐emigration of foreign‐born residents from Sweden: 1990–2015
Authors: Monti Andrea
Published: November 2019

This paper is an analysis of patterns and determinants of return and onward migration among foreign‐born individuals residing in Sweden from 1990 to 2015. Who is emigrating, and where do they go? What are the determinants of return and onward migration? Increased diversity in international migration flows includes an increase in repeat migration. However, studies of re‐emigration have often failed to appropriately distinguish emigration types and have traditionally been limited to economic analysis of labour migrants. Using high‐quality register data from Sweden, this paper analyses re‐emigration through the conditions upon first immigration and evolving social and economic integration in the host country. Although return migration is found to be the main form of remigration type, onward migration is more prominent among specific migrant groups such as forced migrants. Additionally, various determinants of return and onward migration stress the importance of treating them as distinct phenomena within the migration literature.
Polypyrrole coatings on rheocast aluminum‐silicon alloy: A correlation between properties and electrodeposition conditions
Authors: Eslami Maryam , Speranza Giorgio , Deflorian Flavio , Zanella Caterina
Published: November 2019

The effect of the electrolyte composition and the deposition potential range on the physical properties and possible corrosion protection effect of polypyrrole coatings on rheocast aluminum–2.5 % silicon alloy is investigated. Solutions with different concentrations of sodium nitrate and an electron transfer mediator reagent were used for the electrodeposition. Polypyrrole coating is able to hinder the entrance of electrolyte. Upon the penetration of chloride ions, the coating can induce passivation of the alloy's surface by its reduction. The thickness of the coating and its ion‐barrier properties, controlled by the electrodeposition conditions, are shown as the important factors influencing the protection efficiency. However, localized drastic galvanic coupling at the polypyrrole/aluminum interface forms blisters, causes failure, and limits the possible protection.