bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the role played by the chirality of ligands on the aggregation of heterometallic CuII‐HgII complexes
Authors: Maxim Catalin , Muntean Dorian , Andruh Marius
Published: July 2019

Copper(II) complexes constructed from enantiopure Schiff‐base ligands derived from o‐vanillin and methionine or from their racemic mixture have been employed as metalloligands towards mercury(II) ions. The nature of the heterometallic CuII‐HgII complexes (coordination polymers or oligonucler species), resulted from the reactions of the copper(II) complexes with HgCl2 or HgI2, is different. The enantiopure metalloligands lead to chiral coordination polymers, 1∞[{Cu(R‐/S‐valmet)(H2O)}2HgCl2]·5H2O·CH3OH and 2∞[{Cu2(R‐/S‐valmet)2(μ‐H2O)(H2O)2}HgI2]·4H2O. The reaction of the racemic mixture of the metalloligands with HgX2 affords discrete complexes: [{Cu(R,S‐valmet)(H2O)2}2HgCl2]·2H2O and [{Cu(R,S‐valmet)(H2O)(CH3OH)}2Hg2I4].
Standortplanung für die Herstellung CO2‐basierter Chemikalien am Beispiel der Olefinproduktion
Authors: Thonemann Nils , Stießel Sebastian , Maga Daniel , Hiebel Markus , Dresen Boris , Hunstock Björn , Deerberg Görge , Weidner Eckhard
Published: July 2019

Die rohstoffliche Nutzung von CO2 gewinnt in Anbetracht des Klimaschutzes und als alternative Rohstoffbasis zunehmend an Bedeutung. Sowohl elektrochemische Direktsynthesen als auch thermochemische Verfahren zur CO2‐Konversion gehen mit einem hohen Bedarf an elektrischer Energie einher. Ein Beitrag zum Klimaschutz ist nur im Fall einer CO2‐armen Stromerzeugung möglich, wie sie z. B. durch die Nutzung von Windkraft oder Solarenergie realisiert werden kann. Vor diesem Hintergrund präsentiert der vorliegende Artikel eine Methodik zur Identifizierung von geeigneten Standorten für die CO2‐basierte Produktion von Olefinen in Deutschland.
Computational Design of One‐Dimensional Ferromagnetic Semiconductors in Transition Metal Embedded Stannaspherene Nanowires
Authors: Li Xingxing , Yang Jinlong
Published: July 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Developing low dimensional semiconductors with moderate band gaps, intrinsic ferromagnetism and large magnetic anisotropy energies (MAEs) is very desirable for high‐speed nano‐spintronic devices, which, however, still remains a big challenge. Here, via first principles calculations, a potential route to realize such materials is proposed based on a new class of one‐dimensional transition metal (TM) embedded stannaspherene (Sn122–) nanowires [TM2(Sn12)]∞ (TM = Ti‐Ni). Three semiconductors with robust ferromagnetism are achieved with TM = V, Cr and Fe, which all exhibit direct or quasi‐direct band gaps around 1.0 eV, rendering their great potentials for visible light optoelectronic applications. Interestingly, [Cr2(Sn12)]∞ and [Fe2(Sn12)]∞ are both identified as bipolar magnetic semiconductors (BMS) with valence and conduction band edges spin polarized in the opposite directions, which are promising for realizing switch of carriers’ spin orientation by electrical gating, while [V2(Sn12)]∞ exhibits a half semiconductor (HSC) property with valence and conduction band edges spin polarized in the same direction and can be used for spin‐polarized carriers generation. Moreover, sizable MAEs are discovered in these nanowires, which are at least two orders of magnitude larger than those of Fe, Co and Ni bulks and also significantly larger than current ferromagnetic semiconductors.
Encoding Clinical Data with the Human Phenotype Ontology for Computational Differential Diagnostics
Authors: Köhler Sebastian , Øien N. Christine , Buske Orion J. , Groza Tudor , Jacobsen Julius O. B. , McNamara Craig , Vasilevsky Nicole , Carmody Leigh C. , Gourdine J. P. , Gargano Michael , McMurry Julie A. , Danis Daniel , Mungall Christopher J. , Smedley Damian , Haendel Melissa , Robinson Peter N.
Published: July 2019

The Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) is a standardized set of phenotypic terms that are organized in a hierarchical fashion. It is a widely used resource for capturing human disease phenotypes for computational analysis to support differential diagnostics. The HPO is frequently used to create a set of terms that accurately describe the observed clinical abnormalities of an individual being evaluated for suspected rare genetic disease. This profile is compared with computational disease profiles in the HPO database with the aim of identifying genetic diseases with comparable phenotypic profiles. The computational analysis can be coupled with the analysis of whole‐exome or whole‐genome sequencing data through applications such as Exomiser. This article explains how to choose an optimal set of HPO terms for these cases and enter them with software, such as PhenoTips and PatientArchive, and demonstrates how to use Phenomizer and Exomiser to generate a computational differential diagnosis. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evaluation of swallowing function in patients with oropharyngeal secretions
Authors: Yamaguchi Taiki , Mikushi Shinya , Ayuse Takao
Published: July 2019

Background

Several studies have reported a strong association between the presence of oropharyngeal secretions in the laryngeal vestibule and the likelihood of aspiration of food or liquid. However, no previous studies have evaluated the accumulation of saliva and swallowing dynamics.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the factors related to decreased function that result in saliva accumulation based on images from videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing (VF) performed on the same day as videoendoscopic examination of swallowing (VE).

Methods

This retrospective study investigated 47 patients with dysphagia who underwent VF and VE on the same day. Saliva accumulation in the pharynx was assessed on VE and classified by the Murray secretion scale. Pharyngeal residue was assessed on VF. In addition, displacement of the hyoid bone and larynx on swallowing and the opening size of the esophageal orifice were measured, and contact between the base of the tongue and the posterior pharyngeal wall was examined on VF.

Results

Moderate correlations were found between saliva accumulation and perpendicular displacement of the larynx and upper esophageal sphincter opening. The percentage of patients showing contact between the base of the tongue and the posterior pharyngeal wall was significantly greater in those with a saliva accumulation score of 0 or 1.

Conclusion

Less laryngeal elevation and upper esophageal sphincter opening and absence of contact between the base of the tongue and the posterior pharyngeal wall when swallowing tended to result in accumulation of saliva in the pharynx.
Does financial availability sustain financial, innovative, and environmental performance? Relation via opportunity recognition
Authors: Memon Aasma , Yong An Zhang , Memon Muhammad Qasim
Published: July 2019

Traditionally, firms tend to incline toward financial performance and profitability to surge shareholder's wealth. In the modern day, in addition to financial performance, innovative and environmental performance has also become a central effort. However, all firms are not flourished in the achievement of financial, innovative, and environmental performance, particularly small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), which need adequate financial resources due to lack of resources and can search for opportunities to boost their performance. This research examines the role of financial availability in financial, innovative, and environmental performance with a mediating role of opportunity recognition. Empirical evidence is collected through structured questionnaires from 347 SMEs operating in the emerging market Pakistan. Hypotheses are tested in Analysis of a Moment Structure (AMOS) using structural equation modeling. Results indicate that satisfactory financial resources significantly contribute to financial and innovative performance but play an insignificant role in environmental performance as well. In addition, firms with enough financial capital recognize new opportunities significantly via opportunity recognition mediator, where partially mediating the relation between financial availability and financial/innovative performance. However, firms fully mediate the link between financial availability and environmental performance. Our research findings recommend CEOs and top managers to utilize their financial resources in an efficient way to achieve the advantage of the new opportunity recognition, superior financial, innovative, and environmental performance.
A High‐Surface‐Area Carbon‐Coated 3D Nickel Nanomesh for Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Kee Yongho , Bardé Fanny , Vereecken Philippe M.
Published: July 2019

Nanostructured electrodes show great promises for application in batteries and could improve their energy and power density. Herein, a carbon‐coated 3D Ni nanomesh was used as an air cathode for non‐aqueous Li–air (O2) battery applications. A 3 μm thick 3D Ni nanomesh was fabricated, showing an excellent surface area/footprint area ratio (90 cm2:1 cm2) and uniformly distributed pores, on which a conformal amorphous carbon coating was applied for the first time. This carbon‐coated 3D Ni nanomesh showed an approximately 100 times larger charge‐footprint capacity than that of the glassy carbon electrode. Owing to its tunable properties, a capacity higher than 6 mAh cm−2 could be achieved for a carbon‐coated 3D Ni nanomesh with a thickness of 100 μm, whereas the practical capacities of current air electrodes are in the range of 2 mAh cm−2.
Anonymous identity authentication mechanism for hybrid architecture in mobile crowd sensing networks
Authors: Tao Dan , Ma Pengchen , Obaidat Mohammad S.
Published: July 2019

In the context of mobile crowd sensing (MCS), the security and privacy protection is an important research topic. We investigate an anonymous identity authentication mechanism for MCS networks in this manuscript. To solve the defects of single authentication system, we firstly analyze the design requirements and put forward a hybrid authentication architecture by combining public key infrastructure (PKI) and combined public key (CPK). To ensure key security, we propose a CPK algorithm based on an elliptic curve cryptosystem (ECC) to generate user's key pair and meet the security requirements of users. Particularly, we enrich the Doley‐Yao attacker model in an authentication environment and introduce the concept of “pseudonym set” into the authentication interaction process to solve the large‐scale key management. Finally, we evaluate the proposed anonymous identity authentication mechanism by function verification and performance analysis. Substantial experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our solutions that contribute to privacy protection for the process of authentication by the means of pseudonym.
Secrecy outage performance analysis of MIMO underlay cognitive radio networks with delayed CSI and transmitter antenna selection
Authors: Thakur Anshu , Kumar Ashok , Gupta Nitin , Singh Ajay
Published: July 2019

Cognitive radio network is an emerging solution to deal with spectrum scarcity and to utilize the radio spectrum in opportunistic and efficient manner. Secure data transmission is one of the important issues in these kind of networks. This work studies the secrecy outage performance of a multiple‐input multiple‐output underlay cognitive wiretap radio network system over Rayleigh fading channel with delayed channel state information. This work considers that the secondary transmitter is equipped with multiple antennas and confidential information is transmitted from to multiantenna receiver in the presence of multiantenna eavesdropper. Further, the transmit antenna selection scheme is considered at secondary transmitter to reduce the complexity of antenna selection and to make it more practicable. To improve the quality of signal, this work considers maximal ratio combining (MRC) at secondary receiver, while selection combining and MRC techniques are utilized at the eavesdropper. The closed form expression for exact, asymptotic, and intercept secrecy outage probability has been derived, and the simulation is done for the validation of analytical results. The derived results reveal deterioration of channel secrecy performance with outdated channel state information, and the eavesdropper with outdated channel state information has also an adverse effect. Moreover, the diversity order that can be achieved in underlay cognitive radio network with outdated channel state information is unity.
Grain size fractionation by process‐driven sorting in sandy to muddy deltas
Authors: van der Vegt Helena , Storms Joep E.A. , Walstra Dirk‐Jan R. , Nordahl Kjetil , Howes Nick C. , Martinius Allard W.
Published: July 2019

Modern and ancient analogues are often consulted by geologists to help understand subsurface systems. While modern analogues provide information on the areal relationship between facies, ancient systems provide detailed data on the vertical facies variations, typically along a two‐dimensional outcrop. Combining data from modern and ancient systems effectively requires translating areal morphology, which is often still evolving, to the related sediments preserved in three dimensions. Process‐based models simulate both depositional processes while preserving stratigraphy. These models can be employed to unravel the relationship between sediment supply and preserved deposits in natural systems and to help integrate field data. Four synthetic deltas were modelled using different sediment supply compositions, from coarse to very fine sand systems. The resultant sedimentary deposits are classified into architectural elements, and the grain size composition of each architectural element is studied over time. Facies that are extensive in their horizontal dimensions are often less abundant in three‐dimensional preserved deposits. Between deltas, grain size compositions of a specific architectural element type (e.g. mouth bars) are more similar than their corresponding sediment supply compositions. This is due to selective deposition of grain size classes across each architectural element type. This selective deposition causes overrepresentation of the same range of grain sizes, even for systems with different sediment supply compositions. When a particular supply composition does not contain enough of the overrepresented grain size class for a particular architectural element, that element will be under‐supplied and constitute a smaller proportion of the overall delta deposits. It is imperative to account for over‐representation of grain size classes in particular architectural elements when estimating palaeo‐sediment supply, delta architecture and morphology from field data. Even when data availability/accessibility does not allow the inclusion of distal deposits in field studies, process‐based simulations can contribute valuable information on sediment sorting patterns in three dimensions.
Body condition (Wr) and reproductive potential of bighead and silver carp hybrids: Postzygotic selection in the Mississippi River Basin
Authors: Lamer James T. , Ruebush Blake C. , McClelland Michael A. , Epifanio John M. , Sass Greg G.
Published: July 2019

Invasive bighead (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) and silver carp (H. molitrix) are reproductively isolated in their native range, but form a bimodal, multigenerational hybrid swarm within the Mississippi River Basin (MRB). Despite observed F1 hybrid superiority in experimental settings, effects of postzygotic selection on bighead and silver carp hybrids have not been tested in a natural system. Individual parent and hybrid genotypes were resolved at 57 species‐specific loci and used to evaluate postzygotic selection for body condition (Wr) and female reproductive potential (presence of spawning stage gonads and gonadosomatic index [GSI]) in the MRB during 2009–2011. Body condition in the Marseilles Reach, Illinois River declined with a decrease in species‐specific allele frequency from 1.0 to 0.4 for each species and early generation hybrids (F1, F2, and first‐generation backcross) had lower mean Wr than late generation hybrids (2nd+ generation backcrosses) and parentals. Proportions of stage IV and stage V (spawning stage) female gonads differed between bighead and silver carp, but not among parentals and their early and late generation hybrids within the MRB. Mean GSI values did not differ between parentals and hybrids. Because reproductive potential did not differ between hybrids and parentals, our results suggest that early generation hybrids occur in low frequency either as a factor of poor condition (Wr) and postreproductive survival, infrequent reproductive encounters by parental bighead and silver carp, or selection pressures acting on juvenile or immature life stages. Our results suggest that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the postzygotic success of bighead and silver carp hybrids in the Mississippi River Basin.
Development of network structure and synchronized firing patterns in dissociated culture of neurons
Authors: Kayama Atsushi , Yada Yuichiro , Takahashi Hirokazu
Published: July 2019

Spatiotemporal patterns of neural activities develop repeatability, diversity, and hierarchy. In the present study, we attempted to elucidate how these dynamical properties are associated with a network structure in primary cultures of dissociated neurons. High‐density CMOS electrode array investigated spatiotemporal activity patterns of dissociated neuronal cultures throughout development. Additionally, based on the spatiotemporal patterns in each test culture, a structure of functional network was estimated with transfer entropy in a pairwise manner. Consequently, repeatability increased with connection strength, dispersity, and clustering at the early developmental stage. Subsequently, hierarchy developed with connection strength and dispersity. These results demonstrated that a repertoire of activity patterns developed with some characteristics of network structure.
Plant species dominance increases pollination complementarity and plant reproductive function
Authors: Stavert Jamie R. , Bartomeus Ignasi , Beggs Jacqueline R. , Gaskett Anne C. , Pattemore David E.
Published: July 2019

Worldwide, anthropogenic change is causing biodiversity loss, disrupting many critical ecosystem functions. Most studies investigating the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning focus on species richness, predominantly within the context of productivity‐related functions. Consequently, there is limited understanding of how other biodiversity measures, such as species evenness (the distribution of abundance among species), affect complex multitrophic functions such as pollination. We explore the effect of species evenness on the ecosystem function of pollination using a controlled experiment with selected plants and insects in flight cages. We manipulated the relative abundances of plant and pollinator species, while holding species richness, composition, dominance order, and total abundance constant. Then, we tested how numerical species evenness affected network structure and consequently, seed production, in our artificial communities. Contrary to our expectation, numerical dominance in plant communities increased complementarity in pollinator use (reduced pollinator sharing) among plant species. As predicted by theory, this increased complementarity resulted in higher seed production for the most dominant and rare plant species in our cages. Our results show that in a controlled experimental setting, numerical species evenness can alter important aspects of plant–pollinator networks and plant reproduction, irrespective of species richness, composition, and total abundance. Extending this understanding of how species evenness affects ecosystem functioning to natural systems is crucial as anthropogenic disturbances continue to alter species’ abundances, likely disrupting ecosystem functions long before extinctions occur.
Background pharmacological therapy in the ANTHEM‐HF: comparison to contemporary trials of novel heart failure therapies
Authors: Premchand Rajendra K. , Sharma Kamal , Mittal Sanjay , Monteiro Rufino , Libbus Imad , Ardell Jeffrey L. , Gregory Douglas D. , KenKnight Bruce H. , Amurthur Badri , DiCarlo Lorenzo A. , Anand Inder S.
Published: July 2019

Aims

Clinical trials of new heart failure (HF) therapies administer guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT) as background pharmacologic treatment (BPT). In the ANTHEM‐HF Pilot Study, addition of autonomic regulation therapy to GDMT significantly improved left ventricular function, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, 6 min walk distance, and quality of life in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). A post hoc analysis was performed to compare BPT in ANTHEM‐HF with two other trials of novel HF therapies: the PARADIGM‐HF study of sacubitril–valsartan and the SHIFT study of ivadrabine. All three studies evaluated patients with HFrEF, and the recommendations for use of GDMT were similar. A left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% was required for entry into ANTHEM‐HF and PARADIGM‐HF and ≤35% for SHIFT. NYHA 2 or 3 symptoms were required for entry into ANTHEM‐HF, and patients with predominantly NYHA 2 or 3 symptoms were enrolled in PARADIGM‐HF and SHIFT.

Methods and results

Data on BPT were obtained from peer‐reviewed publications and the public domain. Pearson's χ2 test was used to evaluate differences in proportions, and Student's unpaired t‐test was used to evaluate differences in mean values. The minimum period of stable GDMT required before randomization was longer in ANTHEM‐HF: 3 months vs. 1 month in PARADIGM‐HF and SHIFT, respectively. When compared with PARADIGM‐HF and SHIFT, more patients in ANTHEM‐HF received beta‐blockers (100% vs. 93% and 89%, P < 0.04 and P < 0.007) and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (75% vs. 55% and 61%, P < 0.002 and P < 0.03). More patients in PARADIGM‐HF received an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker than in ANTHEM‐HF or SHIFT (100% vs. 85%, P < 0.0001, and 100% vs. 91%, P < 0.001), which was related to PARADIGM's design. When beta‐blocker doses in ANTHEM‐HF and SHIFT were compared, significantly fewer patients in ANTHEM‐HF received doses ≥100% of target (10% vs. 23%, P < 0.02), and fewer patients tended to receive doses ≥50% of target (17% vs. 26%, P = 0.11). When ANTHEM‐HF and PARADIGM‐HF were compared, more patients in ANTHEM‐HF tended to receive doses ≥100% of target (10% vs. 7%, P = 0.36), and fewer patients tended to receive doses ≥50% of target (17% vs. 20%, P = 0.56).

Conclusions

Background treatment with GDMT in ANTHEM‐HF compared favourably with that in two other contemporary trials of new HF therapies. The minimum period of stable GDMT required before randomization was longer, and GDMT remained unchanged for the study's duration. These findings serve to further support the potential role of autonomic regulation therapy as an adjunct to GDMT for patients with HFrEF.
Good to Bad or Bad to Bad? What is the relationship between valence and the trait content of the Big Two?
Authors: Oliveira Manuel , Garcia‐Marques Teresa , Garcia‐Marques Leonel , Dotsch Ron
Published: July 2019

In this article we directly assessed the relationship between valence and relevant traits of the Big Two dimensions (i.e., communion and agency). Drawing on previous research, we expected that the relationship with valence would be less monotonous and more variable in direction across agency‐related traits, compared to communion‐related traits. In three repeated measures studies we assessed the perceived valence of each trait dimension on a continuum of seven points. Studies 1 and 2 defined each continuum verbally. In Study 3 each continuum was defined by facial features. Results across these studies show that valence is linearly and more consistently related with communion‐related traits than with agency‐related traits. Within agency, however, competence established a positive linear relationship with valence, whereas dominance showed a target‐sensitive relationship with valence: quadratic in evaluation of trait concepts, and negative and linear in face evaluation. We discuss the implications of these data for Big Two‐related research.
Analysis of ALK, MYCN, and the ALK ligand ALKAL2 (FAM150B/AUGα) in neuroblastoma patient samples with chromosome arm 2p rearrangements
Authors: Javanmardi Niloufar , Fransson Susanne , Djos Anna , Umapathy Ganesh , Östensson Malin , Milosevic Jelena , Borenäs Marcus , Hallberg Bengt , Kogner Per , Martinsson Tommy , Palmer Ruth H.
Published: July 2019

Gain of chromosome arm 2p is a previously described entity in neuroblastoma (NB). This genomic address is home to two important oncogenes in NB—MYCN and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). MYCN amplification is a critical prognostic factor coupled with poor prognosis in NB. Mutation of the ALK receptor tyrosine kinase has been described in both somatic and familial NB. Here, ALK activation occurs in the context of the full‐length receptor, exemplified by activating point mutations in NB. ALK overexpression and activation, in the absence of genetic mutation has also been described in NB. In addition, the recently identified ALK ligand ALKAL2 (previously described as FAM150B and AUGα) is also found on the distal portion of 2p, at 2p25. Here we analyze 356 NB tumor samples and discuss observations indicating that gain of 2p has implications for the development of NB. Finally, we put forward the hypothesis that the effect of 2p gain may result from a combination of MYCN, ALK, and the ALK ligand ALKAL2.
Geochronology and geochemistry of late Carboniferous–Middle Jurassic magmatism in the Helong area, NE China: Implications for the tectonic transition from the Paleo‐Asian oceanic to circum‐Pacific regime
Authors: Tang Jie , Li Ao‐Peng , Xu Wen‐Liang
Published: July 2019

In this study, we present new U–Pb zircon ages and whole‐rock major and trace element data for the late Carboniferous–Middle Jurassic intrusive rocks in the Helong area, NE China. These data constrain the timing of tectonic transition from the Paleo‐Asian oceanic regime to the circum‐Pacific regime. U–Pb zircon dating indicates that the late Carboniferous–Middle Jurassic magmatic events in the Helong area can be subdivided into late Carboniferous, middle Permian, Early–Middle Triassic, Late Triassic, Early Jurassic, and early Middle Jurassic. The late Carboniferous granodiorites and middle Permian monzogranites belong to the calc‐alkaline series and have an affinity to I‐type granitoids, suggesting that they formed in a typical Andean‐type continental arc setting due to the southward subduction of the Paleo‐Asian oceanic plate beneath the NCC. The Middle Triassic granodiorites and monzogranites in the Helong area exhibit an affinity to adakitic rocks with their parental magma derived by the partial melting of thickened lower continental crust. The Late Triassic I‐type monzogranites and coeval ultramafic–mafic rocks constitute a bimodal igneous rock association, together with coeval A‐type granites and rhyolites, signifying an extensional environment. Combined with the absence of 240‐ to 225‐Ma sedimentation, the study area experienced a change from Early–Middle Triassic compression to Late Triassic extension related to the final closure of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean. The Early–early Middle Jurassic gabbros, diorites, granodiorites, and monzogranites are calc‐alkaline in nature and enriched in LREE and LILE but depleted in HREE and HFSE. Combined with the spatial variations in K contents of Early Jurassic igneous rocks in NE China from the continental margin to intracontinental region, and the presence of an Early Jurassic accretionary complex, we suggest that Early–early Middle Jurassic magmatism in the Helong area formed in an active continental margin setting related to the subduction of the Paleo‐Pacific Plate beneath Eurasia. We conclude that the tectonic transition from the Paleo‐Asian oceanic regime to the circum‐Pacific regime occurred in the Late Triassic–Early Jurassic.
A data‐driven approach to stimulus selection reveals an image‐based representation of objects in high‐level visual areas
Authors: Coggan David D. , Giannakopoulou Afrodite , Ali Sanah , Goz Burcu , Watson David M. , Hartley Tom , Baker Daniel H. , Andrews Timothy J.
Published: July 2019

The ventral visual pathway is directly involved in the perception and recognition of objects. However, the extent to which the neural representation of objects in this region reflects low‐level or high‐level properties remains unresolved. A problem in resolving this issue is that only a small proportion of the objects experienced during natural viewing can be shown during a typical experiment. This can lead to an uneven sampling of objects that biases our understanding of how they are represented. To address this issue, we developed a data‐driven approach to stimulus selection that involved describing a large number objects in terms of their image properties. In the first experiment, clusters of objects were evenly selected from this multi‐dimensional image space. Although the clusters did not have any consistent semantic features, each elicited a distinct pattern of neural response. In the second experiment, we asked whether high‐level, category‐selective patterns of response could be elicited by objects from other categories, but with similar image properties. Object clusters were selected based on the similarity of their image properties to objects from five different categories (bottle, chair, face, house, and shoe). The pattern of response to each metameric object cluster was similar to the pattern elicited by objects from the corresponding category. For example, the pattern for bottles was similar to the pattern for objects with similar image properties to bottles. In both experiments, the patterns of response were consistent across participants providing evidence for common organising principles. This study provides a more ecological approach to understanding the perceptual representations of objects and reveals the importance of image properties.
Heterogeneity of first‐line palliative systemic treatment in synchronous metastatic esophagogastric cancer patients: A real‐world evidence study
Authors: Dijksterhuis Willemieke P.M. , Verhoeven Rob H.A. , Slingerland Marije , Haj Mohammad Nadia , de Vos‐Geelen Judith , Beerepoot Laurens V. , van Voorthuizen Theo , Creemers Geert‐Jan , van Oijen Martijn G.H. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W.M.
Published: July 2019

The optimal first‐line palliative systemic treatment strategy for metastatic esophagogastric cancer is not well defined. The aim of our study was to explore real‐world use of first‐line systemic treatment in esophagogastric cancer and assess the effect of treatment strategy on overall survival (OS), time to failure (TTF) of first‐line treatment and toxicity. We selected synchronous metastatic esophagogastric cancer patients treated with systemic therapy (2010–2016) from the nationwide Netherlands Cancer Registry (n = 2,204). Systemic treatment strategies were divided into monotherapy, doublet and triplet chemotherapy, and trastuzumab‐containing regimens. Data on OS were available for all patients, on TTF for patients diagnosed from 2010 to 2015 (n = 1,700), and on toxicity for patients diagnosed from 2010 to 2014 (n = 1,221). OS and TTF were analyzed using multivariable Cox regression, with adjustment for relevant tumor and patient characteristics. Up to 45 different systemic treatment regimens were found to be administered, with a median TTF of 4.6 and OS of 7.5 months. Most patients (45%) were treated with doublet chemotherapy; 34% received triplets, 10% monotherapy and 10% a trastuzumab‐containing regimen. The highest median OS was found in patients receiving a trastuzumab‐containing regimen (11.9 months). Triplet chemotherapy showed equal survival rates compared to doublets (OS: HR 0.92, 95%CI 0.83–1.02; TTF: HR 0.92, 95%CI 0.82–1.04) but significantly more grade 3–5 toxicity than doublets (33% vs. 21%, respectively). In conclusion, heterogeneity of first‐line palliative systemic treatment in metastatic esophagogastric cancer patients is striking. Based on our data, doublet chemotherapy is the preferred treatment strategy because of similar survival and less toxicity compared to triplets.
Circulating tumor DNA quantity is related to tumor volume and both predict survival in metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Strijker Marin , Soer Eline C. , de Pastena Matteo , Creemers Aafke , Balduzzi Alberto , Beagan Jamie J. , Busch Olivier R. , van Delden Otto M. , Halfwerk Hans , van Hooft Jeanin E. , van Lienden Krijn P. , Marchegiani Giovanni , Meijer Sybren L. , van Noesel Carel J. , Reinten Roy J. , Roos Eva , Schokker Sandor , Verheij Joanne , van de Vijver Marc J. , Waasdorp Cynthia , Wilmink Johanna W. , Ylstra Bauke , Besselink Marc G. , Bijlsma Maarten F. , Dijk Frederike , van Laarhoven Hanneke W.
Published: July 2019

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is assumed to reflect tumor burden and has been suggested as a tool for prognostication and follow‐up in patients with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC). However, the prognostic value of ctDNA and its relation with tumor burden has yet to be substantiated, especially in mPDAC. In this retrospective analysis of prospectively collected samples, cell‐free DNA from plasma samples of 58 treatment‐naive mPDAC patients was isolated and sequenced using a custom‐made pancreatobiliary NGS panel. Pathogenic mutations were detected in 26/58 (44.8%) samples. Cross‐check with droplet digital PCR showed good agreement in Bland–Altman analysis (p = 0.217, nonsignificance indicating good agreement). In patients with liver metastases, ctDNA was more frequently detected (24/37, p < 0.001). Tumor volume (3D reconstructions from imaging) and ctDNA variant allele frequency (VAF) were correlated (Spearman's ρ = 0.544, p < 0.001). Median overall survival (OS) was 3.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6–4.9) versus 8.4 (95% CI 1.6–15.1) months in patients with detectable versus undetectable ctDNA (p = 0.005). Both ctDNA VAF and tumor volume independently predicted OS after adjustment for carbohydrate antigen 19.9 and treatment regimen (hazard ratio [HR] 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.09, p = 0.005; HR 1.00, 95% CI 1.01–1.05, p = 0.003). In conclusion, our study showed that ctDNA detection rates are higher in patients with larger tumor volume and liver metastases. Nevertheless, measurements may diverge and, thus, can provide complementary information. Both ctDNA VAF and tumor volume were strong predictors of OS.
Multiclassifier for severity‐level categorization of glioma tumors using multimodal magnetic resonance imaging brain images
Authors: Michael Mahesh K. , Arokia Renjit J.
Published: July 2019

Brain tumor segmentation and classification is a crucial challenge in diagnosing, planning, and treating brain tumors. This article proposes an automatic method that categorizes the severity level of the tumors to render an effective diagnosis. The proposed fractional Jaya optimizer‐deep convolutional neural network undergoes the severity classification based on the features obtained from the segments of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images. The segments are obtained using the particle swarm optimization that ensures the optimal selection of the segments from the MRI image and yields the core tumor and the edema tumor regions. The experimentation using the BRATS database reveals that the proposed method acquired a maximal accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of 0.9414, 0.9429, and 0.9708, respectively.
Cellular transformations in near‐infrared light‐induced apoptosis in cancer cells revealed by label‐free CARS imaging
Authors: Levchenko Svitlana M. , Kuzmin Andrey N. , Pliss Artem , Ohulchanskyy Tymish Y. , Prasad Paras N. , Qu Junle
Published: July 2019

Photobiomodulation (PBM) involves light to activate cellular signaling pathways leading to cell proliferation or death. In this work, fluorescence and Coherent anti‐Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) imaging techniques were applied to assess apoptosis in human cervical cancer cells (HeLa) induced by near infrared (NIR) laser light (808 nm). Using the Caspase 3/7 fluorescent probe to identify apoptotic cells, we found that the pro‐apoptotic effect is significantly dependent of irradiation dose. The highest apoptosis rate was noted for the lower irradiation doses, that is, 0.3 J/cm2 (~58%) and 3 J/cm2 (~28%). The impact of light doses on proteins/lipids intracellular metabolism and distribution was evaluated using CARS imaging, which revealed apoptosis‐associated reorganization of nuclear proteins and cytoplasmic lipids after irradiation with 0.3 J/cm2. Doses of NIR light causing apoptosis (0.3, 3 and 30 J/cm2) induced a gradual increase in the nuclear protein level over time, in contrast to proteins in cells non‐irradiated and irradiated with 10 J/cm2. Furthermore, irradiation of the cells with the 0.3 J/cm2 dose resulted in lipid droplets (LDs) accumulation, which was apparently caused by an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. We suggest that PBM induced apoptosis could be caused by the ability of NIR light to trigger excessive LDs formation which, in turn, induces cellular cytotoxicity.
Biomineralization of poly‐l‐lactide spongy bone scaffolds obtained by freeze‐extraction method
Authors: Budnicka Monika , Szymaniak Monika , Kołbuk Dorota , Ruśkowski Paweł , Gadomska‐Gajadhur Agnieszka
Published: July 2019

Implants in the form of polymer scaffolds are commonly used to regenerate bone tissue after traumas or tooth extractions. However, few implant formation methods enable building polymer scaffolds allowing to reconstruct larger bone losses without immune response. Spacious, porous poly‐l‐lactide implants with considerable volume were obtained using the phase inversion method with the freeze‐extraction variant. The calcium phosphate (CaP) coating was deposited on implant surfaces with the biomimetic method to improve the implant's osteoconductivity. The substitues morphology was characterized—porosity, size and shape of pores; mechanical properties, mass absorbability of implants before and after mineralization. The characteristics were provided with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), static compression test and hydrostatic weighing, respectively. The presence of CaPs in the entire volume of the implant was confirmed with SEM and infrared spectroscopy with Fourier transform (FTIR). The biocompatibility of scaffolds was confirmed with in vitro quantitative test and microscopic observations. The obtained results show that the implants can be used in tissue engineering as a vehicle of platelet‐rich plasma to regenerate critical spongy bone losses.
Therapeutic compression materials and wound dressings for chronic venous insufficiency: A comprehensive review
Authors: Wu Xinbo , Liu Rong , Lao Terence T
Published: July 2019

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common disorder worldwide. Related pathophysiological mechanisms reportedly involve venous pooling and reduced venous return, leading to heaviness, aching, itchiness, tiredness, varicosities, pigmentation, and even lower limb ulceration. Approaches adopted to manage CVI at various stages of clinical‐etiology‐anatomy‐pathophysiology include compression therapy, pharmacological treatment, ultrasound treatment, surgery, electrical or wireless microcurrent stimulation, and pulsed electromagnetic treatment. Among these, polymer‐based therapeutic compression materials and wound dressings play increasingly key roles in treating all stages of CVI because of their unique physical, mechanical, chemical, and biological functions. However, the characteristics, working mechanisms, and effectiveness of these CVI treatment materials are not comprehensively understood. The present systematic review examines the structures, properties, types, and applications of various polymer‐based compression materials and wound dressings used in prophylaxis and treatment of CVI. Existing problems, limitations, and future trends of CVI treatment materials are also discussed. This review could contribute to the design and application of new functional polymer materials and dressings to enhance the efficiency of CVI treatments, thereby facilitating patients' self‐care ability and long‐term health improvement.
Synthesis, characterization, and cytocompatibility of yttria stabilized zirconia nanopowders for creating a window to the brain
Authors: Rutherford Dana , Exarhos Stephen , Xu Changlu , Niacaris Matt , Mariano Crystal , Dayap Bryce , Mangolini Lorenzo , Liu Huinan
Published: July 2019

Transparent cranial window to the brain is highly desirable for brain therapies because such cranial implant would allow for continuous monitoring of brain disorders and long‐term delivery of photodynamic therapy into the brain without repeated surgeries for opening skull. Nanostructured yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) is a potential candidate for the window to the brain application because of its promising mechanical and optical properties. In this study, a new process using aerosol spray pyrolysis was established for synthesizing 6–7 nm YSZ nanopowders with precisely controlled compositions. YSZ nanopowders with 3 M ratios of yttria to zirconia, specifically 3, 6, and 8% yttria in zirconia (referred to as 3YSZ, 6YSZ, and 8YSZ, respectively) were synthesized and characterized. The size, structure, and composition of the produced YSZ nanoparticles are highly controllable and scalable. The in vitro cytocompatibility of the YSZ nanoparticles with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) was investigated using a direct exposure culture method for cranial implant applications. Nondoped ZrO2 and commercially available 8YSZ (named as C_8YSZ) served as controls for the in vitro cell studies. BMSCs exhibited normal morphology when cultured with the YSZs of 3 M ratios in the concentrations of 10 mM, 30 mM, and 60 mM, as well as ZrO2 and C_8YSZ controls. The BMSCs cultured with 3YSZ and 6YSZ showed no statistical differences in cell adhesion density when compared with the ZrO2 and C_8YSZ controls at respective concentrations of 10–60 mM. The possible release of YSZ nanoparticles from cranial window implants should be carefully considered and further studied.
Unfolded protein response regulates P53 expression in the pulmonary endothelium
Authors: Akhter Mohammad S. , Uddin Mohammad A. , Barabutis Nektarios
Published: July 2019

Lung endothelial barrier dysfunction leads to severe pathologies, including the lethal Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. P53 has been associated with anti‐inflammatory activities. The current study employs a variety of unfolded protein response (UPR) activators and inhibitors to investigate the regulation of P53 by UPR in lung cells. The bovine cells that were exposed to the UPR inductors brefeldin A, dithiothreitol, and thapsigargin; demonstrated elevated expression levels of P53 compared to the vehicle‐treated cells. On the contrary, the UPR inhibitors N‐acetyl cysteine, kifunensine, and ATP‐competitive IRE1α kinase‐inhibiting RNase attenuator; produced the opposite effects. The outcomes of the present study reveal a positive regulation between UPR and P53. Since it has been shown that a mild induction of the unfolded protein response opposes inflammation, we suggest that P53 is involved in those protective activities in the lung.
G allele of rs7853346 polymorphism in PTENP1 enhances the proliferation of multiple myeloma cancer stem cells by promoting the expression of PTENP1 and its downstream signaling molecules
Authors: Zhang Yehua , Xu Changqing
Published: July 2019

Noncoding RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), are shown to be associated with the pathogenesis of various diseases, such as multiple myeloma (MM). Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the role of rs7853346 polymorphism in PTENP1, and its downstream signaling molecules, in the pathology of MM. Forty‐three multiple myeloma patients and 35 healthy subjects were recruited and divided into CC, CG, and GG groups according to their genotypes of rs7853346 polymorphism in PTENP1. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western‐blot analyses and immunohistochemistry assays were utilized to compare the expression of PTENP1, miR‐19b, and TSC1 between different groups. In addition, the relationship between PTENP1, miR‐19b, and TSC1, as well as the role of PTENP1 in MM, was explored. Higher levels of PTENP1 and TSC1 mesenger RNA (mRNA) were observed in the MM group, along with a lower level of miR‐19b. Moreover, the protein level of TSC1 in the MM group was evidently upregulated compared to that in the negative control (NC) group. Meanwhile, compared to the CG and GG groups, the CC group showed higher levels of PTENP1 and TSC1 mRNA, as well as a lower level of miR‐19b. According to the results of real‐time PCR, a negative correlation with a correlation coefficient of −0.05 was established between PTENP1 and miR‐19b expression. Similarly, a negative correlation with a correlation coefficient of −0.05 was also established between miR‐19b and TSC1 expression. In addition, the transfection of pcDNA‐PTENP1 or anti‐miR‐19b into cells significantly suppressed miR‐19b expression but obviously increased TSC1 expression. The G allele of rs7853346 polymorphism enhances the proliferation of MM cancer stem cells by promoting the expression of PTENP1 as well as its downstream signaling molecules. Therefore, rs7853346 may become a novel biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of MM.
Development of a novel six‐long noncoding RNA signature predicting survival of patients with bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Gao Xin , Zhang Shufang , Chen Yinyi , Wen Xiaohong , Chen Mei , Wang Shunlan , Zhang Yingai
Published: July 2019

Bladder urothelial carcinoma is a malignant tumor with a high incidence in the uropoietic system. Considerable studies have shown that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) plays an important role in the development and progression of bladder urothelial carcinoma. In this study, the lncRNA expression and clinical data of 377 bladder urothelial carcinoma patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database and differentially expressed lncRNAs in cancer and normal groups were evaluated. Univariate COX and multivariate COX regression analyses of prognosis were performed on differentially expressed lncRNAs in the training data sets, six prognosis‐related lncRNAs (LINC02195, LINC01484, LINC01468, SMC2‐AS1, AC011298.1, and PTPRD‐AS1) were assessed, and a six‐lncRNA signature was constructed. The predictive capability of this six‐lncRNA signature was validated in the testing data sets and entire data sets. The prognostic ability of the six‐lncRNA signature was independent of other clinical elements after multivariate COX regression and stratified analyses of with other clinical elements. We performed functional enrichment analysis with the six prognosis‐related lncRNAs. Results of functional enrichment revealed that these prognosis‐related lncRNAs might promote the development and metastasis of bladder urothelial carcinoma. In summary, the six‐lncRNA signature that we developed could effectively predict the prognosis of bladder urothelial carcinoma patients. This six‐lncRNA signature might be a novel independent prognostic marker of bladder urothelial carcinoma. Moreover, it also provides novel insights into the mechanism of bladder urothelial carcinoma.