bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals PERP upregulated duringSalmonellaEnteritidis challenge in laying ducks
Authors: Zhang Yu , Gu Tian‐tian , Chen Yang , Huang Yu , Du Jinping , Lu Lizhi , Zhu Guo‐qiang , Xu Qi , Chen Guo‐hong
Published: November 2018

SalmonellaEnteritidis (SE) can be transmitted to eggs through cecum or the ovary from infected layers and causes food poisoning in humans. The mechanism of cecal transmission has been extensively studied. However, the mechanism and route of transovarian transmission of SE remain unclear. In this study, the ducks were orally inoculated with SE, and the ovarian follicles and stroma were collected to detect SE infection. The immune responses were triggered and the innate and adaptive immune genes (TLR4, NOD1, AvβD7, and IL‐1β) were upregulated significantly during the SE challenge. Moreover, the ovary tissues (small follicle and stroma) of susceptible and resistant–laying ducks were performed by RNA sequencing. We obtained and identified 23 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between susceptible and resistant–laying ducks in both small follicle and stroma tissues (p < 0.05). The DEGs were predominately identified in the p53 signaling pathway. The expression of key genes (p53, MDM2, PERP, caspase‐3, and Bcl‐2) involved in the signaling pathway was significantly higher in granulosa cells (dGCs) from SE‐infected ducks than those from uninfected ducks. Moreover, the overexpression of PERP resulted in further induction of p53, MDM2, caspase‐3, and Bcl‐2 during SE infection in dGCs. Whereas, an opposite trend was observed with the knockdown of PERP. Besides, it is further revealed that the PERP could enhance cell apoptosis, SE adhesion, and SE invasion in SE‐infected dGCs overexpression. Altogether, our results demonstrate the duck PERP involved in the ovarian local immune niche through p53 signaling pathway in dGCs challenged with SE.
α‐2‐Macroglobulin induces the shedding of microvesicles from cutaneous wound myofibroblasts
Authors: Laberge Alexandra , Ayoub Akram , Arif Syrine , Larochelle Sébastien , Garnier Alain , Moulin Véronique J.
Published: November 2018

Microvesicles (MVs) are recognized as an important class of cell‐to‐cell messengers. Although the properties of MVs are increasingly documented, the mechanisms regulating MV biogenesis remain debated. Myofibroblasts are a key cellular component of wound healing and have been shown to produce MVs upon stimulation with serum. However, the mediator(s) responsible for the observed effect of serum on MV release have yet to be identified. To isolate the molecule(s) of interest, serum proteins were sequentially separated using chromatography, selective precipitation, and electrophoresis. MV production was assessed throughout the purification and after stimulation of myofibroblasts with two potent purified molecules. α‐2‐Macroglobulin (A2M) was thereby found to dose‐dependently stimulate MV release. We confirmed the presence of the A2M receptor, low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐1 (LRP1), on myofibroblasts. Inhibition of LRP1 resulted in a significant decrease in MV production. Together, our results suggest that A2M positively regulates MV shedding through the activation of LRP1 on myofibroblasts.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00460 promotes carcinogenesis via sponging miR‐613 in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Feng Li , Yang Bin , Tang Xiao‐Di
Published: November 2018

Long intergenic noncoding RNA 460 (LINC00460) has been identified as a critical regulator for multiple types of cancers. However, the biological role and underlying mechanism in human papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) still remain unclear and need to be uncovered. This study was aimed to ascertain the biological role and molecular mechanism of LINC00460 in PTC progression. Our findings revealed that the level of LINC00460 was significantly upregulated in PTC tissues and cell lines, which was positively correlated with advanced tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) stage and lymph node metastasis. Cellular experiments exhibited that knockdown of LINC00460 decreased proliferative, migratory, and invasive abilities of PTC cells. Mechanism assays noted that knockdown of LINC00460 suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and inhibited expression of sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2, a target of miR‐613) in PTC cells, at least in part, by regulating miR‐613. These findings suggested that LINC00460 could function as a competing endogenous RNA to regulate SphK2 expression by sponging miR‐613 in PTC. Targeting LINC00460 could be a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with PTC.
The possible role of bacteria, viruses, and parasites in initiation and exacerbation of irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Shariati Aref , Fallah Fateme , Pormohammad Ali , Taghipour Ali , Safari Hossein , chirani Alireza salami , Sabour Sahar , Alizadeh‐Sani Mahmood , Azimi Taher
Published: November 2018

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prolonged and disabling functional gastrointestinal disorder with the incidence rate of 18% in the world. IBS could seriously affect lifetime of patients and cause high economic burden on the community. The pathophysiology of the IBS is hardly understood, whereas several possible mechanisms, such as visceral hypersensitivity, irregular gut motility, abnormal brain–gut relations, and the role of infectious agents, are implicated in initiation and development of this syndrome. Different studies demonstrated an alteration in B‐lymphocytes, mast cells (MC), T‐lymphocytes, and cytokine concentrations in intestinal mucosa or systemic circulation that are likely to contribute to the formation of the IBS. Therefore, IBS could be developed in those with genetic predisposition. Infections’ role in initiation and exacerbation of IBS has been investigated by quite several clinical studies; moreover, the possible role of some pathogens in development and exacerbation of this disease has been described. It appears that the main obligatory pathogens correspond with the IBS disease, Clostridium difficile, Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis, Campylobacter concisus, Campylobacter jejuni, Chlamydia trachomatis, Helicobacter pylori, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella spp, Shigella spp, and viruses, particularly noroviruses. A number of pathogenic parasites (Blastocystis, Dientamoeba fragilis, and Giardia lamblia) may also be involved in the progression and exacerbation of the disease. Based on the current knowledge, the current study concludes that the most common bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens may be involved in the development and progression of IBS.
Effect of Ethical Leadership and Interactional Justice on Employee Work Attitudes
Authors: Charoensap Anoma , Virakul Busaya , Senasu Kalayanee , Ayman Roya
Published: November 2018

The purposes of the current study were to (a) examine the direct effects of ethical leadership on three employee work attitudes—affective organizational commitment (AC‐ORG), affective commitment to the supervisor (AC‐SUP), and job satisfaction and (b) explore the mediating roles of two types of interactional justice—interpersonal justice (IPJ) and informational justice (IFJ)—on the effects of ethical leadership and employee work attitudes. Data were collected from 862 participants and structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed for data analysis. The results indicated that ethical leadership had strong and direct effects on employee work attitudes. Moreover, the effects of ethical leadership on AC‐SUP and on job satisfaction were found to be partially mediated by IFJ, while IPJ was found to have no mediating role. These research findings demonstrate the importance of ethical leadership and IFJ to employees, leaders, and organizations. The research contributes substantial knowledge to the leadership field because it confirms the importance of ethics to leadership effectiveness.
Rainfall monitoring network design using conditioned Latin hypercube sampling and satellite precipitation estimates: An application in the ungauged Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Contreras Juan , Ballari Daniela , de Bruin Sytze , Samaniego Esteban
Published: November 2018

Rain gauge networks are crucial for enhancing the spatio‐temporal characterization of precipitation. In tropical regions, scarcity of rain gauge data, climatic variability, and variable spatial accessibility make conventional approaches to design rain gauge networks inadequate and impractical. In this study, we propose the use of conditioned Latin hypercube sampling (cLHS) method with multi‐temporal layers of remotely sensed precipitation measurements for capturing the spatio‐temporal precipitation patterns in ungauged areas. The study was conducted in the Amazon region of Ecuador, for which monthly precipitation averages were derived based on a 16‐year period of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM 3B43 V7) data which were used as prior information to select representative sampling points through cLHS. Two scenarios for the sampling design were considered and evaluated, one without and one with restrictions on accessible sites according to the proximity to roads and settlements. Results showed that both optimized networks captured the variability of precipitation according to the TRMM climatology. Furthermore, evaluation against an independent satellite precipitation data set showed that the optimized networks support mapping precipitation based on ordinary kriging (OK). Comparison with regular and random sampling methods showed that particularly when a practical scenario is considered, the optimized network provided more reliable results over time, highlighting the suitability of the network to capture temporal changes and map precipitation with high accuracy. The proposed approach could be easily adopted in other ungauged and poorly accessible regions for rain gauge network design as well as to the design of multi‐objective monitoring networks.
A mixed application of an objective synoptic classification and spatial regression models for deriving winter precipitation regimes in the Eastern Pyrenees
Authors: Lemus‐Canovas Marc , Ninyerola Miquel , Lopez‐Bustins Joan A. , Manguan Santiago , Garcia‐Sellés Carles
Published: November 2018

Management of hydric resources in alpine mountains requires spatial knowledge of precipitation as a variable of noteworthy importance in the study of hydrological hazards (avalanches, landslides, floods, etc.), especially during the winter season. We therefore study the spatial distribution of mean daily precipitation (MDP) and daily precipitation probability (DPP) in the Eastern Pyrenees, based on a previous objective synoptic classification defining the most frequent atmospheric patterns during the winter season (November–May) between 1990 and 2015. The synoptic classification provided 12 circulation weather types. For each of these, we obtained MDP maps and DPP maps possessing a threshold equal to, or greater than, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 mm. The best fit of the models was obtained in the DPP ≥ 2 mm, with an adjusted R2 of around 0.8, followed by the models showing MDP and DPP ≥ 5 mm, with an adjusted R2 generally between 0.7 and 0.8. Finally, we performed an unsupervised classification of the 12 MDP models in order to obtain a categorical and simplified cartography explaining the winter precipitation regimes in the Eastern Pyrenees.
Tracing individuals and populations of the tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum (Cuvier, 1818), from Brazilian hatcheries using microsatellite markers
Authors: Aguiar Jonas da Paz , Fazzi‐Gomes Paola F , Hamoy Igor G , dos Santos Sidney EB , Sampaio Iracilda
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

In recent years, tracing of alimentary produce of animal origin has become increasingly important, for economic, food safety and ecological reasons. The tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum, is the native fish most farmed in Brazil. The reliable identification of the origin of tambaquis (wild or farmed) offered for sale to the general public has become necessary to satisfy regulatory norms and uphold consumer confidence. Molecular methods based on the analysis of DNA sequences have often been used to evaluate the potential for tracing farmed fish, given their reliability and precision.

RESULTS

Full likelihood and Bayesian approaches proved to be the most efficient for the identification, respectively, of individuals and populations for most of the fish sampled from seven hatcheries and one wild stock. The exclusion method and genetic distances were the least effective approaches for the identification of individuals and populations. The Bayesian method identified correctly more than 99% of the fry from most stocks, except those of the Santarém hatchery and River Amazon wild stock, which presented the best results for individual identification.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of populations was effective for most hatcheries, although the identification of individuals from most stocks was hampered by the reduced genetic variability. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Specific prognostic factors in hepatitis B virus‐related and non‐hepatitis B virus–related intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma after macroscopic curative resection
Authors: Huang Jianbo , Wang Xiangyu , Zhu Ying , Wang Zheng , Li Jianhua , Xu Da , Wang Shenghao , Li Tian‐En , Lu Lu
Published: November 2018

Background

The hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) was recognized as a unique subtype of iCCA, within particular features in demography, clinicopathology, and genealogy. However, how they predict prognosis, in particular, for HBV‐ and non‐HBV–related iCCA is still unclear.

Methods

Demographic, clinicopathologic, and genetic features were retrospectively collected and reviewed to determine the specific prognostic factors, precisely predicting the overall survival (OS) in HBV‐related (n = 119) and non‐HBV–related (
n = 149) iCCA patients, respectively.

Results

In HBV‐related iCCA, TP53 mutation, vascular invasion, extrahepatic metastasis, and serum levels of alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) were independent prognostic factors for OS. In non‐HBV–related iCCA, RAS/
RAF mutation and lymphatic metastasis independently predicted the OS of patients. Tumor differentiation and serum levels of CA19‐9 were significantly associated with OS in both HBV‐ and non‐HBV–related iCCA patients. In a subset analysis, TP53 and RAS/RAF mutations were consistently related to poorer outcome in HBV‐ and non‐HBV–related iCCA, respectively.

Conclusions

The HBV‐ and non‐HBV–related iCCA have different prognostic factors for the OS.
Hypomethylation of mismatch repair genes MLH1 and MSH2 is associated with chemotolerance of breast carcinoma: Clinical significance
Authors: Dasgupta Hemantika , Islam Saimul , Alam Neyaz , Roy Anup , Roychoudhury Susanta , Panda Chinmay Kumar
Published: November 2018

Background and Objectives

The aim of the study was to understand the importance of mismatch repair genes MLH1 and MSH2 in chemotolerance and prognosis of breast carcinoma (BC).

Methods

First, the alterations (deletion/methylation/expression) of MLH1 and MSH2 were analyzed in 45 neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT)‐treated and 133 pretherapeutic BC samples. The chemotolerant BC cells were characterized by treating two BC cell lines MCF‐7 and MDA MB 231 with two anthracycline antitumor antibiotics, doxorubicin and nogalamycin.

Results

The deletion frequencies were 32% to 38% in MLH1/MSH2 genes and promoter methylation frequencies were 49% to 62% in MLH1 and 41% to 51% in MSH2 in both NACT‐treated and pretherapeutic samples. The overall alteration of MLH1 and MSH2 was 58% to 71% in the samples. Reduced messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression were found in both the genes and it showed concordance with the molecular alterations. NACT‐treated patients showed better prognosis. The chemotherapeutic drug induced increased mRNA/protein expression of the genes in BC cell lines was due to their promoter hypomethylation, as analyzed by quantitative methylation assay. This phenomenon was also evident in NACT‐treated BC samples.

Conclusion

MLH1/MSH2 genes play a critical role in the development of BC. Hypomethylation of MLH1/MSH2 genes might be important in chemotolerance of the disease.
The impact of failure to achieve symptom control after resection of functional neuroendocrine tumors: An 8‐institution study from the US Neuroendocrine Tumor Study Group
Authors: Zaidi Mohammad Y. , Lopez‐Aguiar Alexandra G. , Poultsides George A. , Dillhoff Mary , Rocha Flavio G. , Idrees Kamran , Nathan Hari , Winslow Emily R. , Fields Ryan C. , Cardona Kenneth , Maithel Shishir K. ,   and other members of the US Neuroendocrine Tumor Study Group
Published: November 2018

Background

The goals of resection of functional neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are two‐fold: Oncological benefit and symptom control. The interaction between the two is not well understood.

Methods

All patients with functional NETs of the pancreas, duodenum, and ampulla who underwent curative‐intent resection between 2000 and 2016 were identified. Using Cox regression analysis, factors associated with reduced recurrence‐free survival (RFS) were identified.

Results

Two‐hundred and thirty patients underwent curative‐intent resection. Fifty‐three percent were insulinomas, 35% gastrinomas, and 12% were other types. Twenty‐one percent had a known genetic syndrome, 23% had lymph node (LN) positivity, 80% underwent an R0 resection, and 14% had no postoperative symptom improvement (SI). Factors associated with reduced RFS included noninsulinoma histology, the presence of a known genetic syndrome, LN positivity, R1 margin, and lack of SI. On multivariable analysis, only the failure to achieve SI following resection was associated with reduced RFS. Considering only those patients with an R0 resection, failure to achieve SI was associated with worse 3‐year RFS compared with patients having SI (36% vs 80%; P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Failure to achieve symptomatic improvement after resection of functional NETs is associated with worse RFS. These patients may benefit from short‐interval surveillance imaging postoperatively to assess for earlier radiographical disease recurrence.
Clinico‐pathological features and survival of patients with malignant exocrine pancreatic neoplasms: The AC Camargo Cancer Center experience
Authors: Fonseca de Jesus Victor Hugo , Guedes Camandaroba Marcos Pedro , Spina Donadio Mauro Daniel , Cabral Audrey , Pimentel Muniz Thiago , de Moura Leite Luciana , Ferreira Sant’Ana Lucas , Luiz da Costa Wilson , Curado Maria Paula , Coimbra Felipe José Fernandez
Published: November 2018

Background

Pancreatic cancer plays an important role in cancer‐related mortality. Few studies have been performed in Brazil to characterize patients affected by this disease. We aimed to describe the clinico‐pathological characteristics and the survival of patients with pancreatic cancer seen at AC Camargo Cancer Center (ACCCC).

Methods

We included patients ≥ 18‐year old, with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic cancer, that attended at least one visit at ACCCC from 2008 to 2016.

Results

The study included 739 patients. Median age at diagnosis was 64 years. Most patients were male. About 5% presented a family history of pancreatic cancer. A total of 40% had diabetes and 51.4% presented with ECOG performance status 1. Tumors most often arose in the pancreatic head and roughly half of the patients had metastatic disease at presentation. Median overall survival of patients with potentially resectable disease submitted to surgery at ACCCC was 35.4 months. Median overall survival times of patients with the unresectable and metastatic disease were 14.1 and 9.3 months, respectively.

Conclusions

The features of our population match those of studies done in developed countries. We believe multicentric data from patients with pancreatic cancer in Brazil could enable more effective preventive and therapeutic approaches to the disease.
Laparoscopic synchronous resection of colorectal cancer and liver metastases: A systematic review
Authors: Moris Dimitrios , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Machairas Nikolaos , Merath Katiuscha , Cerullo Marcelo , Hasemaki Natasha , Prodromidou Anastasia , Cloyd Jordan M , Pawlik Timothy M
Published: November 2018

While colorectal and hepatic resections are commonly performed through a laparoscopic approach, the safety and feasibility of total laparoscopic synchronous resections (LSR) of colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) have not been established. In this systematic review, short‐ and long‐term outcomes were comparable for patients undergoing LSR and open synchronous resection. LSR was safe and feasible for patients with synchronous CRLM and should be considered in well‐selected patients.
Current management of regional lymph nodes in patients with melanoma
Authors: Bartlett Edmund K.
Published: November 2018

The publication of recent randomized trials has prompted a significant shift in both our understanding and the management of patients with melanoma. Here, the current management of the regional lymph nodes in patients with melanoma is discussed. This review focuses on selection for sentinel lymph node biopsy, management of the positive sentinel node, management of the clinically positive node, and the controversy over the therapeutic value of early nodal intervention.
Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Imaging With Virtual Touch Tissue Quantification Enables Characterization of Mild Hypoxic‐Ischemic Brain Damage in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Zhu Zhen‐Hua , Peng Ke‐ping , Liu Ming‐hui , Tian Gui‐xiang
Published: November 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the measurement of brain tissue stiffness using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography with virtual touch tissue quantification can improve the early detection of neonatal hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage in rats.

Methods

Seven‐day‐old Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups: the mild asphyxia (n = 30), moderate asphyxia (n = 30), and sham control (n = 10) groups. Rats in the mild and moderate asphyxia groups were exposed to 8% oxygen (hypoxia) for 30 and 60 minutes, respectively, at 1 hour after ligation of the right common carotid artery. An ultrasound diagnostic instrument was used to obtain 2‐dimensional ultrasound images, and ARFI with virtual touch tissue quantification was used to measure shear wave velocity preoperatively and at 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. Hematoxylin‐eosin staining was used to evaluate brain damage.

Results

Two‐dimensional ultrasound imaging detected swelling and increased echogenicity at 48 to 72 hours in the mild asphyxia group and at 24 to 72 hours in the moderate asphyxia group. The shear wave velocity substantially increased from 0.65 ± 0.04 m/s preoperatively to 0.78 ± 0.07 m/s at 72 hours in the moderate asphyxia group and from 0.64 ± 0.04 m/s preoperatively to 0.70 ± 0.03 m/s at 72 hours in the mild asphyxia group. The changes in the shear wave velocity coincided with the histopathologic changes in the brain, which included neuronal demyelination, hyperplasia, and necrosis; edema around vascular structures; and hemorrhage in the ependymal and periventricular areas.

Conclusion

Shear wave velocity data obtained with the virtual touch tissue quantification technique may be used for early diagnosis of neonatal hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage.
Automated Quantification of Vocal Fold Motion in a Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury Mouse Model
Authors: Haney Megan M. , Hamad Ali , Leary Emily , Bunyak Filiz , Lever Teresa E.
Published: November 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

The goal of this study was to objectively examine vocal fold (VF) motion dynamics after iatrogenic recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury in a mouse surgical model. Furthermore, we sought to identify a method of inducing injury with a consistent recovery pattern from which we can begin to evaluate spontaneous recovery and test therapeutic interventions.

Study Design

Animal model.

Methods

The right RLN in C57BL/6J mice was crushed for 30 seconds using an aneurysm clip with 1.3‐N closing force. Transoral laryngoscopy enabled visualization of VF movement prior to surgery, immediately post‐crush, and at two endpoints: 3 days (n = 5) and 2 weeks (n = 5). VF motion was quantified with our custom motion‐analysis software. At each endpoint, RLN samples were collected for transmission electron microscopy for correlation with VF motion dynamics.

Results

Our VF tracking software permitted automated quantification of several measures of VF dynamics, such as range and frequency of motion. By 2 weeks post‐injury, the frequency of VF movement on the right (injured) side equaled the left, yet range of motion only partially recovered. These objective outcome measures enabled detection of VF dysfunction that persisted at 2 weeks post‐crush. Transmission electron microscopy images revealed RLN degeneration 3 days post‐crush and partial regeneration at 2 weeks, consistent with functional results obtained with automated VF tracking.

Conclusions

Our motion‐analysis software provides novel objective, quantitative, and repeatable metrics to detect and describe subtle VF dysfunction in mice that corresponds with underlying RLN degeneration and recovery. Adaptation of our tracking software for use with human patients is underway.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:E247–E254, 2019
Treatment of benign pigmented lesions using a novel Dermal Cooling System
Authors: Vazirnia Aria , Ortiz Arisa E.
Published: November 2018

Benign pigmented lesions are among the most common dermatologic diagnoses that patients seek treatments for. Treatment modalities range from cryotherapy to light and laser‐based technologies. These treatments have been shown to be effective, yet may lead to dyschromia or significant downtime. Therefore, we report the first clinical experience with a novel Dermal Cooling System that provides localized and controlled freezing to benign pigmented lesions. Twenty patients seeking treatment for benign pigmented lesions were treated with the Dermal Cooling System at the laser and cosmetic dermatology clinic at the University of California, San Diego. Photographs were captured at baseline and follow‐up visits. Two blinded investigators reviewed and graded the photographs. Most patients experienced improvement after 1 month following the first treatment. Macular or slightly raised lesions responded best. Treatment side effects were transient, lasted a maximum of 3 days, and included erythema, swelling, itching, and darkening. There was no observed long‐term dyschromia. The novel Dermal Cooling System shows promise in the treatment of flat to slightly raised benign pigmented lesions with little‐to‐no downtime. Further clinical experience is necessary to continue to optimize treatment parameters. Lasers Surg. Med. 51:59–61, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Methacrylate‐Terminated Block Copolymers with Reduced Transesterification by Controlled Ring‐Opening Polymerization
Authors: Ruiz‐Cantu Laura A. , Pearce Amanda K. , Burroughs Laurence , Bennett Thomas M. , Vasey Catherine E. , Wildman Ricky , Irvine Derek J. , Alexander Cameron , Taresco Vincenzo
Published: November 2018

This work presents a robust method to achieve the synthesis of low molecular weight polyesters via ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) initiated by 2‐hydroxyethyl‐methacrylate (HEMA) when using triazabicyclodecene (TBD) as catalyst. The effect that the HEMA:TBD ratio has upon the final reaction rate and final polymer molecular architecture is discussed. The optimum HEMA:TBD ratio and reaction conditions required to minimize competing transesterification reactions are determined, in order to synthesize successfully the target ROP macromonomer species containing only a single 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl end‐group. Additionally, to confirm the terminal end‐group fidelity of the product macromonomers and confirm TBD utility for block copolymer manufacture, a small series of di‐block polyesters are synthesized using TBD and shown to exhibit good control over the final polymer structure whilst negating the side transesterification reactions, irrespective of the monomers used.
SPG7: The Great Imitator of MSA‐C Within the ILOCAs
Authors: Salgado Paula , Latorre Anna , Del Gamba Claudia , Menozzi Elisa , Balint Bettina , Bhatia Kailash P.
Published: November 2018

View Supplementary Video 1
Relative controllability of delay differential systems with impulses and linear parts defined by permutable matrices
Authors: You Zhongli , Wang JinRong , O'Regan Donal , Zhou Yong
Published: November 2018

This paper investigates the relative controllability of delay differential systems with linear impulses and linear parts defined by permutable matrices. We use the impulsive delay Grammian matrix to discuss the relatively controllability of impulsive linear delay controlled systems and we use the Krasnoselskii's fixed point theorem to discuss the relatively controllability of impulsive semilinear delay controlled systems. Finally, two examples are presented to illustrate our theoretical results.
Research on the acquisition of time‐reversed electromagnetic waves based on Fourier transform theory
Authors: Zhou Hong‐Cheng , Wang Bing‐Zhong , Wang Yu , Chen Wei‐Rong , Yan Zhong‐Ming
Published: November 2018

This paper mainly researches on the realization of time reversal mirror (TRM) based on the analog signal processing technology. Using chirped dispersive delay lines (CDDL) and based on Fourier transform theory, the solution for achieving time reversal (TR) waveform transformation has been concept proposed and theoretically analyzed. Furthermore, using two designed delay lines with the slope of −0.4 ns/GHz, the paper experimentally achieves time‐reversed waveform for a microwave signal with the time length of 1 ns. Compared to conventional implementation scheme systems with CDDLs, the newly suggested one is more stable with higher time‐bandwidth products and is able to process longer time duration and wider bandwidth, which provide theoretical basis for physically achieving time‐reversed systems.
Nonlinear free and forced vibration analysis of FG‐CNTRC annular sector plates
Authors: Ansari Reza , Torabi Jalal
Published: November 2018

This article deals with the large amplitude free and forced vibration analysis of functionally graded carbon nanotube‐reinforced composite (FG‐CNTRC) annular sector plates based on a numerical approach. The modified rule of mixture is used to estimate the material properties. The equations of motion are developed based on the first‐order shear deformation theory (FSDT) and the von Kármán geometric nonlinearity. First, the discretized form of energy functional of structure is given with the aid of variational differential quadrature method. Then, a time periodic discretization is performed and the frequency response of the nanocomposite plate is determined using the pseudo‐arc length continuation method. After verifying the correctness of the proposed approach, a comprehensive parametric study is presented to investigate the effects of important factors on the nonlinear vibration characteristics of the FG‐CNTRC annular sector plates. The results imply that the volume fraction and distribution type of nanotubes have considerable effects on the fundamental frequency as well as nonlinear frequency response curves. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1364–E1377, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Aluminosilicate‐epoxy resin composite as novel material for electrical insulation with enhanced mechanical properties and improved thermal conductivity
Authors: Rybak Andrzej , Nieroda Jolanta
Published: November 2018

Material used as an electrical insulation has to combine many features, mainly dielectric, mechanical, and thermal parameters should be preserved. Appropriately selected polymer matrix and a suitable filler allow to obtain a multifunctional material for electrical devices. In the presented work, different types of commercial aluminosilicate fillers were used in order to obtain electrical insulation with enhanced properties in relation to reference silica‐epoxy resin composite. Thermal conductivity, mechanical parameters, dielectric properties and structure‐properties relationship were studied in order to examine the influence of size, amount and type of silanization of the filler. Composites filled with aluminosilicates exhibit much better mechanical properties as well as enhanced dielectric properties with 61% relative increase of thermal conductivity when they were compared with silica‐epoxy resin sample. The obtained results indicate that aluminosilicates are very attractive fillers for epoxy‐based composites used as an electrical insulation in power devices. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3182–3188, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Target‐Mediated Drug Disposition Model for Bispecific Antibodies: Properties, Approximation, and Optimal Dosing Strategy
Authors: Schropp Johannes , Khot Antari , Shah Dhaval K. , Koch Gilbert
Published: November 2018

Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) bind to two different targets, and create two binary and one ternary complex (TC). These molecules have shown promise as immuno‐oncology drugs, and the TC is considered the pharmacologically active species that drives their pharmacodynamic effect. Here, we have presented a general target‐mediated drug disposition (TMDD) model for these BsAbs, which bind to two different targets on different cell membranes. The model includes four different binding events for BsAbs, turnover of the targets, and internalization of the complexes. In addition, a quasi‐equilibrium (QE) approximation with decreased number of binding parameters and, if necessary, reduced internalization parameters is presented. The model is further used to investigate the kinetics of BsAb and TC concentrations. Our analysis shows that larger doses of BsAbs may delay the build‐up of the TC. Consequently, a method to compute the optimal dosing strategy of BsAbs, which will immediately create and maintain maximal possible TC concentration, is presented.
Study of Filament Resistive Switching in New Pt/Co0.2TiO3.2/ITO Devices for Application in Non‐Volatile Memory
Authors: Góis Meirielle M. , Valença Eduardo , Machado Rogerio , Lopez Elvis O. , Mello Alexandre , Rodrigues Cleber L. , Macêdo Marcelo A.
Published: November 2018

In this work, the authors present a study of the resistive switching effect (RS) in Co0.2TiO3.2 (CTO) in a thin film structure Pt/CTO/ITO. The identification of a structure of low crystallinity with different deposition times is seen in the diffractograms with a certain tendency of orientation in the plane (311) of the inverted spinel of space group Fd‐3m. Electrical measurements I–V highlight the appearance of RS effect predominated by unipolar filamentary mechanism. The retention of charge in the device shows good stability and separation of HRS‐LRS states with ROFF/RON ≈106 ratio. The authors are able to demonstrate that Co0.2TiO3.2 presents promising performance for application in non‐volatile memories.
Structural and Electrical Properties of Nb3I8 Layered Crystal
Authors: Kim Bum Jun , Jeong Byung Joo , Oh Seungbae , Chae Sudong , Choi Kyung Hwan , Nanda Sitansu Sekhar , Nasir Tuqeer , Lee Sang Hoon , Kim Kwan‐Woo , Lim Hyung Kyu , Chi Linlin , Choi Ik Jun , Hong Min‐Ki , Yi Dong Kee , Yu Hak Ki , Lee Jae‐Hyun , Choi Jae‐Young
Published: November 2018

Centimeter‐size single‐crystalline Nb3I8, a new family of two‐dimensional materials, is first synthesized by a vapor transport reaction of niobium and iodine. Through the mechanical exfoliation method, the bulk Nb3I8 crystal is cleaved to monolayer and multi‐layered flakes. It is confirmed to consist of numerous monolayers of Nb3I8 bonded by weak van der Waals interaction. By utilizing atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM), the information on structure and electrical properties is obtained at the same time. The analysis results show that the surface potential difference and the work function tend to increase as the Nb3I8 becomes thicker due to the interlayer screening effect. The results for the work function variation dependence on thickness are useful for selecting a suitable metal electrode for future Nb3I8‐based nano‐devices which can have a significant impact on performance.
Local Structural Origin of the Crystallization Tendency of Pure and Alloyed Sb
Authors: Ronneberger Ider , Chen Yuhan , Zhang Wei , Mazzarello Riccardo
Published: November 2018

Phase change materials are highly important for technological applications in data storage. This work is focused on the family of phase‐change materials comprising antimony alloys. The crystallization of amorphous models of Sb, Ge15Sb85, and In15Sb85 generated by simulated quenching from the melt is investigated. The structural properties of these alloys are also analyzed and their crystallization kinetics is elucidated in terms of the local structural motifs.
Thermally Induced Wurtzite to h‐BN Structural Transition
Authors: Zhang Wenya , Fan Zhaochuan
Published: November 2018

Wurtzite (WZ) and hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) are closely related crystal structures, both of which belong to the hexagonal crystal family. However, the WZ structure is commonly found in binary compounds such as ZnO and CdS, whereas crystals having a h‐BN structure are very rare. In this study, a WZ→h‐BN structural transition is predicted to take place at high temperatures using molecular dynamic simulations with a generic pair potential model. This transition is entropically driven, whereby cations in crystal show extremely high mobility and are able to jump between nearby lattice sites when the temperature is higher than the critical point. Density function theory calculations for 14 AB compounds show that ZnO is the best candidate material that will undergo the WZ→h‐BN transition at high temperatures. This study predicts a new ferroelectric–paraelectric phase transition in WZ crystals that will change the materials’ physical properties such as piezoelectricity and pyroelectricity.
Adsorption of Heavy Metal Ions by Carbon‐Nanofibers‐Blended Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Sun Wanying , Wu Haiming , Xu Zhiwei , Li Cuiyu , Qian Xiaoming , Chen Lei
Published: November 2018

By spinning different proportions of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and polyacrylonitrile into filaments, discussing the structure of CNTs exposed on the surface of nanofibers after carbonization treatment at different temperatures, and the relationship between CNTs and pores in carbon nanofibers. Different pH, dosage, initial concentration of pollutants and adsorption time on the adsorption of Cr(VI) was studied on carbon nanofiber porous materials with carbon nanotubes. The results showed that the specific surface area of carbon nanofibers blended with CNTs increased to 37.627 m2/g and the pore volume reached 3.832cc/g. The porous adsorption material can reach the adsorption capacity of 25.17mgg−1 within 20 min. When the adsorption reached equilibrium, the adsorption capacity reached 76.62mgg−1.
Anti‐Inflammatory, Radical Scavenging Mechanism of New 4‐Aryl‐[1,3]‐thiazol‐2‐yl‐2‐quinoline Carbohydrazides and Quinolinyl[1,3]‐thiazolo[3,2‐b][1,2,4]triazoles
Authors: Srinivasa Shashidhar Bharadwaj , Poojary Boja , Brahmavara Usha , Das Anupam Jyoti , Middha Sushil Kumar
Published: November 2018

Quinolines, thiazole and many thiazolotriazoles have been given insistence because of diversification in medicinal and biological properties associated with them. In view of these observations, it is therefore proposed to synthesize and study the biological properties of some novel quinolinylthiazolotriazole derivatives. All derivatives were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectra. All compounds 5 a–g and 7 a–g series were screened for antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory potential. In 5 a‐g series, compounds 5 c (4‐NO2) and 5 a (4‐Br) derivatives showed free radical scavenging activity with IC50 values of 425.9 μg/ml and 413.3 μg/ml. In 7 a‐g series, compound 7 c (3‐NO2) and 7 g (4‐OH) derivatives showed highest free radical scavenging activity with IC50 values 7.75 μg/ml and 14.06 μg/ml. Compounds 5 a, 5 c, 7 c and 7 g exhibited pronounced anti‐inflammatory activity among all other synthesized compounds. Molecular docking studies revealed good binding through hydrogen bonding with catalytic residues as well as neighboring residues at the active site of target protein trypsin. Among all the synthesized compounds 5 c, 5 a, 7 c and 7 g showed least binding energy values of −10.70 kcal/mol, −9.69 kcal/mol, −11.47 kcal/mol and −9.83 kcal/mol respectively. Results from antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and in silico studies suggest that the synthesized compounds may be potential antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory agents and can act as lead molecules in drug discovery.
A Cellulose Derived Nanotubular MoO3/SnO2 Composite with Superior Lithium Storage Properties
Authors: Qi Dongmei , Chu Huiya , Wang Kun , Li Xue , Huang Jianguo
Published: November 2018

A hierarchically nanotubular MoO3/SnO2 composite was synthesized based on the layer‐by‐layer self−assemble process followed by a calcination treatment, employing natural cellulose substance (commercial filter paper) as structural scaffold. This nanocomposite is composed of molybdenum trioxide nanocrystallites immobilized as a thin layer on the tin oxide nanotube surface. As being utilized as a host material for lithium storage, the MoO3/SnO2 nanocomposite exhibited high reversible specific capacity, good cyclability and enhanced rate performance as compared with the pure SnO2 and MoO3 counter materials. For the nanotubular MoO3/SnO2 composite with 48.9 wt% MoO3 content, it delivered an initial discharge capacity of 1930.6 mAh g−1 and a stable specific capacity of 1084.1 mAh g−1 after 100 discharge/charge cycles at a current density of 100 mA g−1. The excellent lithium storage performance of the MoO3/SnO2 composite is benefited from the sophisticated hierarchically three‐dimensional network structures and the synergistic interaction between MoO3 and SnO2 components upon repeated lithiation/delithiation processes.
A Tunneling Dielectric Layer Free Floating Gate Nonvolatile Memory Employing Type‐I Core–Shell Quantum Dots as Discrete Charge‐Trapping/Tunneling Centers
Authors: Yan Chengyuan , Wen Jiamin , Lin Peng , Sun Zhenhua
Published: November 2018

A nonvolatile memory with a floating gate structure is fabricated using ZnSe@ZnS core–shell quantum dots as discrete charge‐trapping/tunneling centers. Systematical investigation reveals that the spontaneous recovery of the trapped charges in the ZnSe core can be effectively avoided by the type‐I energy band structure of the quantum dots. The surface oleic acid ligand surrounding the quantum dots can also play a role of energy barrier to prevent unintentional charge recovery. The device based on the quantum dots demonstrates a large memory window, stable retention, and good endurance. What is more, integrating charge‐trapping and tunneling components into one quantum dot, which is solution synthesizable and processible, can largely simplify the processing of the floating gate nonvolatile memory. This research reveals the promising application potential of type‐I core–shell nanoparticles as the discrete charge‐trapping/tunneling centers in nonvolatile memory in terms of performance, cost, and flexibility.
Develop skill sets that transfer across institutions
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2018

As an undergraduate at George Fox University, Danielle Ambrose worked in the Registrar's Office, first as a student‐employee, and then later as a transition assistant while the current transition assistant was on maternity leave. “When I graduated, I thought I never wanted to do that again — the Registrar's Office can be kind of an intense place to work,” Ambrose said. Fast forward and Ambrose has worked in the Registrar's Office for several different institutions as an enrollment counselor, enrollment specialist, assistant registrar, and university registrar.
Rapid Relief: Thyroidectomy is a Quicker Cure than Radioactive Iodine Ablation (RAI) in Patients with Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Davis James R. , Dackiw Alan P. , Holt Shelby A. , Nwariaku Fiemu E. , Oltmann Sarah C.
Published: November 2018

Background

Time to hormonal control after definitive management of hyperthyroidism is unknown but may influence patient and physician decision making when choosing between treatment options. The hypothesis is that the euthyroid state is achieved faster after thyroidectomy than RAI ablation.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing definitive therapy for hyperthyroidism was performed. Outcomes after thyroidectomy were compared to RAI.

Results

Over 3 years, 217 patients underwent definitive therapy for hyperthyroidism at a county hospital: 121 patients received RAI, and 96 patients underwent thyroidectomy. Age was equivalent (p = 0.72). More males underwent RAI (25% vs 15%, p = 0.05). Endocrinologists referred for both treatments equally (p = 0.82). Both treatments were offered after a minimum 1‐year trial of medical management (p = 0.15). RAI patients mostly had Graves (93%), versus 73% of thyroidectomy patients (p < 0.001). Thyroidectomy patients more frequently had eye symptoms (35% vs 13%, p < 0.001), compressive symptoms (74% vs 15%, p < 0.001), or were pregnant/nursing (14% vs 0, p < 0.001). While the thyroidectomy patients had a documented discussion of all treatment modalities, 79% of RAI patients did not have a documented discussion regarding the option of surgical management (p < 0.001). Both treatment groups achieved an euthyroid state (71% vs 65%, p = 0.39). Thyroidectomy patients became euthyroid faster [3 months (2–7 months) versus 9 months (4–14 months); p < 0.001].

Conclusions

Thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism renders a patient to an euthyroid state faster than RAI. This finding may be important for patients and clinicians considering definitive options for hyperthyroidism.
An Online P300 Brain–Computer Interface Based on Tactile Selective Attention of Somatosensory Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Li Jianing , Pu Jiangbo , Cui Hongyan , Xie Xiaobo , Xu Shengpu , Li Ting , Hu Yong
Published: November 2018

Purpose

P300 component of event related potentials in response to visual and auditory stimulation has been widely used in brain–computer interfaces (BCI). In clinical applications, tactile stimulus based on somatosensory electrical stimulation is an alternative for patients with impaired vision or hearing. This study presents an online P300 BCI based on somatosensory electrical stimulation paradigm. P300 signals were elicited by tactile selective attention of electrical stimuli on four fingers.

Methods

Fifteen healthy subjects participated in this study. Participants’ task was to focus their attention on the target finger and count the number. The classification of P300 signals was performed by step-wise linear discriminate analysis.

Results

The average classification accuracy of the somatosensory BCI was 79.81 ± 7.91%, with the information transfer rate at 4.9 ± 1.3 bits/min. The BCI performance on different time windows was also evaluated in the present study.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the feasibility of employing somatosensory electrical stimuli to build a practical online P300 BCI without taxing the visual and auditory channel, providing a wider application prospect in clinical applications and daily life. We anticipate our diagram to be a starting point for more explorations on utilizing electrical somatosensory stimuli in conjunction with portable BCI for neural rehabilitation.