bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Miniaturized Disposable Buckypaper-Polymer Substrate Based Electrochemical Purine Sensing Platform
Authors: Salve Mary , Amreen Khairunnisa , Rajurkar Pranshu , Pattnaik Prasant Kumar , Goel Sanket
Published: September 2020

Herein, the construction of a novel, low-cost and disposable electrochemical sensor is presented by using recyclable material as an alternative with bucky paper (BP) as an electrode material. The polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) obtained from a drinking bottle was used as sensing platform. The CO2 laser were used for producing sensing substrate and the desired three electrode pattern of BP. This was attached on the PET substrate using double side tape. The lamination process was used to define the geometric area and for insulating the electrode. The determination of Xanthine (Xn) and Uric Acid (UA) were carried out as a proof of concept with unmodified BP surface. The electrochemical behaviour of Xn and UA were studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The anodic peak for Xn and UA were observed at 0.4 V and 0.2 V respectively. The calibration curve for Xn and UA were obtained in the linear range 10 µM -500 µM and 50 µM - 1000 µM respectively. The LOD obtained for Xn and UA was 6 µM and 22.5 µM respectively. Finally, the proposed method was applied for determination of Xn and UA in human serum sample with good selectivity and high sensitivity.
Synthesis of Near-Infrared Mechanoluminescence Material Via Organic Acid-Aided Process
Authors: Fujio Yuki , Xu Chao-Nan , Terasaki Nao
Published: September 2020

Mechanoluminescence (ML) material starts receiving attention as two-dimensionally visualizing physical phenomena such as strain, stress, or load. This paper focused on the synthesis of ML materials with multi-elements using an organic acid-aided method and the optical properties of ML materials such as SrAl2O4 doped with Eu2+, Eu2++Cr3+, Eu2++Nd3+, or Eu2++Cr3++Nd3+ ions, which emit multi-wavelength luminescence including visible, NIR, and SWIR ranges. From the characterizations of the synthesized materials, we conclude that the organic acid-aided method can synthesize even the complex ML material including multi-elements. Moreover, The SrAl2O4 doped with Eu2+, Cr3+, and Nd3+ ions showed the highest ML intensity in the wavelength range of 750 – 1000 nm compared to the other synthesized ML materials, although there was almost no difference in the crystal structure and particle morphology.
The Gate Cut Process Window Discussion
Authors: Ji Shi-liang , Han Qiu-Hua , Zhang Hai-Yang
Published: September 2020

The technology of FinFET has led to the continuity of device scaling and enabled the prolongation of Moore’s Law towards the 7nm and beyond nodes. The gate cut last scheme will be widely adopted since it can provide better SiP/SiGe growth environment, improve yield and enhance electrical performance. Moving the gate cut to dummy poly gate removal is one of the solutions. However, this approach suffer smaller process window, and it is difficult to balance head to head bridge and work function metal (WFM) line end residence. This scheme requires that the gate cut process should be carefully designed and strictly controlled to achieve the purpose of not loss the yield.This paper mainly introduces several common defects of gate cut last scheme, and analyzes the root causes and characteristics. At last, the reasonable solution on gate cut last process are given.
Ni-BTC Derived Porous Ni/C/Graphene Composite for Highly Sensitive Non-enzymatic Electrochemical Glucose Detection
Authors: Li Guofu , Chen Di , Chen Yingjie , Dong Lifeng
Published: September 2020

Electrochemical detection of glucose, including enzymatic and non-enzymatic detections, has gained widespread attention in both biomedical and healthcare fields. Non-enzymatic detection has lower cost, better stability, and simpler immobilization operation, but it lacks sensitivity and reproducibility. Herein, a highly sensitive non-enzymatic glucose detection electrocatalyst is synthesized by in-situ compositing porous Ni/C nanoparticles with graphene (G). By using a highly porous precursor, the Ni/C/G composite exhibits massive exposure and homogeneous distribution of metal active sites and spatially sequential structure, and thereby the composite demonstrates improved steadiness, electron transfer rate, superior electrocatalytic activity towards glucose oxidation, such as a high sensitivity of 1030 μA mM−1 cm−2 in alkaline media. Therefore, the Ni/C/G can be utilized as electrocatalysts for applications in non-enzymatic glucose detection, and the preparation strategy can be further developed to synthesize other low-cost nanomaterials for non-enzyme glucose sensors.
Novel MgHf4P6O24 as a Solid Electrolyte in Mg-Sensors
Authors: Adamu Mohammed , Kale Girish M.
Published: September 2020

In this research paper, the results of the ac-electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) of MgHf4P6O24 solid electrolyte employing a two-probe technique between 182-764oC, and from 100 mHz to 32 MHz have been reported for the first time. The results indicate that MgHf4P6O24 is an excellent Mg2+-cation conducting solid electrolyte. The ionic conductivity of MgHf4P6O24 was found to be 4.52 x 10-4 Scm-1 at 747oC and the material exhibited no signature of phase change unlike the MgZr4P6O24 solid electrolyte during the sintering and impedance measurements suggesting that both materials and operational stability has been successfully maintained at 1000 ≤ T/oC ≤ 1300. In addition to this, the design, fabrication and testing of solid-state electrochemical Mg-sensors incorporating MgHf4P6O24 as a solid electrolyte has been successfully demonstrated in molten Al-Mg dilute alloys for the first time in this study. The high-temperature Mg-sensors were designed using the novel Mg2+-cation conducting solid electrolyte by incorporating a biphasic powder mixture of MgCr2O4 + Cr2O3 + O2 as a solid-state reference electrode, which has shown promising trend after successfully sensing the Mg dissolved in molten Al at 700±5oC.
Effects of Hexamethyldisilazane Modification on Gas-Sensing Properties of Semiconductor Gas Sensors
Authors: Ueda Taro , Fukuura Hiroto , Kamada Kai , Hyodo Takeo , Shimizu Yasuhiro
Published: September 2020

SnO2-based sensors were modified with hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS), and their sensing properties to CH4 and H2 were examined. The HMDS modification decreased the CH4 response and increased the H2 response of all the sensors tested. In addition, the response time of all the sensors to H2 remained unchanged by the HMDS modification, even though their response time to CH4 and their recovery times to both CH4 and H2 tended to become long with an increase in the amount of HMDS modified. The XPS analyses suggested that the formation of a SiO2 thin layer on the surface of SnO2 by the HMDS modification. The existence of the SiO2 thin layer moderately decreased the amount of negatively charged oxygen adsorbates on the SnO2 surface, and drastically restricted the diffusion of large-sized gases, CH4 and O2, to the SnO2 surface. They are possible reasons why the HMDS modification enhanced the H2 response of the sensors.
Overview on Lithium-Ion Battery 3D-Printing By Means of Material Extrusion
Authors: Maurel Alexis , Grugeon Sylvie , Armand Michel , Fleutot Benoit , Courty Matthieu , Prashantha Kalappa , Davoisne Carine , Tortajada Hugues , Panier Stéphane , Dupont Loic
Published: September 2020

Among the various additive manufacturing processes, material extrusion techniques recently emerged as an encouraging option in order to 3D-print lithium-ion battery components. In this work, an overview of the recent advances and progress on the ink material extrusion, known as liquid deposition modeling (LDM), as well as the thermoplastic material extrusion process, known originally as the trademark Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), is discussed. Representing a promising route to achieve complete lithium-ion batteries in a single print without the necessity to perform any post-processes, a particular consideration is devoted to the FDM process. Trends, prospects as well as an exhaustive list of the parameters still requiring further investigations are provided, thus paving the way towards the next generation of FDM 3D-printed lithium-ion batteries.
(Invited) 3D Printing of Soft-Matter Mono Pump in Infant Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) for Blood Pumping
Authors: Yeh Yee Cheng , Yamada Naoya , Watanabe Yosuke , Shiblee MD Nahin Islam , Ogawa Jun , Khosla Ajit , Kawakami Masaru , Akamatsu Teruaki , Furukawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2020

We want to develop a soft-matter Mono pump for infant Ventricular Assist Device (VAD). In this research, we have developed the Mono pump, which is made of soft materials and hard materials to study the effect of applying the soft materials to the Mono pump. The stator of the 3D printed Mono pump was made with biocompatible soft materials called Inter Cross-linking Network (ICN) gels. We believe that ICN gels have not only specific toughness and low friction but also excellent biocompatibility that can prevent blood cell trauma and the transplant rejection. Moreover, the rotor is made of hard materials using commercial resin or filament based 3D printers, (Form 2 and Flashforge Creator). Finally, we will compare the practical and theoretical displacement from the flow rate measurement to implement the best performance of the Mono pump in practical use.
(Invited) Design of Hydrogel Material and 3D-Printed Molding for Imitating the Tactile Textured Properties of Moon Jellyfish
Authors: Ogawa Jun , Yamada Naoya , Watanabe Yosuke , Khosla Ajit , Kawakami Masaru , Furukawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2020

To artificially reproduce the true swimming of a real jellyfish, it is important to find a material that highly approximates the constituent material of the jellyfish and propose a method for shaping it into a three-dimensional model. The body composition of moon jellyfish is gelatinous with a water content of 95% or more, and it has a specific gravity capable of floating in a fluid with a slight flow. This study develops a translucent white hydrogel with this property, and we propose a method for three-dimensional molding of this material as an artificial jellyfish. This paper compares the texture and behavior of artificial jellyfish caused by differences in hydrogel materials and discusses the differences among these features. In addition, we introduce an approach to verify the swimming of hydrogel jellyfish using position-based dynamics-based soft body simulation in virtual space and controllable magnetic stirrer.
(Invited) TheSimultaneous 3D Printing of White and Transparent Gels for Medical Models
Authors: Yamazaki Yuta , Saito Azusa , Yamazaki Masahiro , Watanabe Yosuke , Shiblee MD Nahin Islam , Khosla Ajit , Ogawa Jun , Kawakami Masaru , Nango Jun , Furukawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2020

Hydrogels containing a large amount of water have biocompatibility and appropriate softness close to the living tissue. The purpose of this research is 3D printing of new type of gel organ models in order to overcome problems associated with general organ model . In this work, we used RepRap SWIM-ER (3D gel printer) which is developed in our laboratory. Here, we developed a new printing process using RepRap SWIM-ER that can change the transparency and mechanical properties of the printed gels locally by changing the printing parameters. In the new printing process, multiple gel turbidity is achieved in a single printing objects which was previously only printed in a single transparency. New gel organ models have been developed with new gel printing method using RepRap SWIM-ER. Gel organ models makes it possible to use for medical devices and the touch more realistic.
(Invited) 3D Printing and Wireless Power Transfer Systems for Soft Robotics Applications
Authors: Oruganti Sai Kiran , Khosla Ajit
Published: September 2020

Wireless power transfer (WPT) to electrical and electronic systems is an attractive substitute to conductor wiring. The problem of delivery of power to multiple sensors in an Industrial environment is well known. The conductors of these power supplies are susceptible to breakage, short circuit, electronic signal cross talk, among others. Perhaps a major challenge would be in the area of soft robotics, where flexible sensors are desired. In these areas a physical wiring is going to compromise the physical flexibility of the sensors. A free positioning WPT system is going to allow the necessary flexibility as there is no physical conductor and the transceivers need not be perfectly aligned for efficient delivery of power.
(Invited) Texture Control of 3D Printing: Effect of Internal Structure of 3D Printed Foods on their Fracture Process in Compression
Authors: Suzuki Shunsuke , Ogawa Jun , Watanabe Yosuke , Shiblee MD Nahin Islam , Khosla Ajit , Kawakami Masaru , Nango Jun , Furukawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2020

3D food printer has been attracting attention in recent years as a method for creating foods with shapes and textures tailored to individual preferences and needs. The goal of this study is to investigate the differences in the internal structure of food and how the texture changes. In this study, we made cookies with various internal structures and investigated their compression fracture process.
(Invited) Formation of Liposomes Containing Pre-Gel Solution and 3D-Printing Applications by Droplet-Shooting Method
Authors: Adachi Kanako , Yoshida Kazunari , Makino Masato , Morita Masamune , Watanabe Yosuke , Shiblee MD Nahin Islam , Ogawa Jun , Khosla Ajit , Kawakami Masaru , Furukawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2020

In order to develop a new mechanical material by using liposomes and gels, we are attempting to encapsulate gels into liposomes using the Droplet-Shooting method. We have adopted "gelatin" and "shape-memory gel" as the inner materials of liposomes to make liposome reinforce because liposome is too soft to use as a mechanical material. Both types of gels make it difficult to form the liposome. Therefore, we investigated the effect of the gel on the formation of the liposome. We also developed a 3D printer for the Liposome-Gel composite systems as a first step to use liposomes, which have been used as Drug Delivery System (DDS) and cell models, as a mechanical material. We believe that this will enable us to discover the potential of artificial living tissues as mechanical materials.
Electrochemical Properties and Fluorination of Cyclopropane Derivatives Bearing Arylthio Groups
Authors: Oyanagi Sayaka , Ishii Hideki , Inagi Shinsuke , Fuchigami Toshio
Published: September 2020

Electrochemical analyses of phenylthiocyclopropane derivatives and bis(arylthio)cyclopropanes were comparatively studied by cyclic voltammetric measurements. Based on the substituent effects on their oxidation potentials, a cyclopropane ring was confirmed to have a double bond system as reported. Anodic fluorination of phenylthiocyclopropanes resulted in the formation of sulfoxide and/or ring opening fluorinated products while 1,1-bis(arylthio)cyclopropanes afforded mainly desulfurizative monofluorinated cyclopropanes and sulfoxides together with ring opening fluorinated products. This is the first successful electrochemical fluorination of a cyclopropane ring.
PDGF/MEK/ERK axis represses Ca2+clearance via decreasing the abundance of plasma membrane Ca2+pump PMCA4 in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells
Authors: Deng Liyu , Chen Jidong , Wang Ting , Chen Bin , Yang Lei , Liao Jing , Chen Yuqin , Wang Jian , Tang Haiyang , Yi Junbo , Kang Kang , Li Li , Gou Deming
Published: September 2020

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare and lethal disease characterized by vascular remodeling and vasoconstriction, which is associated with increased intracellular calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i). Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) is the most potent mitogen for pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and is involved in vascular remodeling during PAH development. PDGF signaling has been proved to participate in maintaining Ca2+homeostasis of PASMCs; however, the mechanism needs to be further elucidated. Here, we illuminate that the expression of plasma membrane calcium-transporting ATPase 4 (PMCA4) was downregulated in PASMCs after PDGF-BB stimulation, which could be abolished by restraining the mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK/ERK). Functionally, suppression of PMCA4 attenuated the [Ca2+]iclearance in PASMCs after Ca2+entry, promoting cell proliferation and elevating cell locomotion through mediating formation of focal adhesion. Additionally, the expression of PMCA4 was decreased in the pulmonary artery of monocrotaline (MCT)- or hypoxia-induced PAH rats. Moreover, knockdown of PMCA4 could increase the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and wall thickness (WT) of pulmonary artery in rats raised under normal conditions. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the importance of the PDGF/MEK/ERK/PMCA4 axis in intracellular Ca2+homeostasis in PASMCs, indicating a functional role of PMCA4 in pulmonary arterial remodeling and PAH development.
Increased vascular α1-adrenergic receptor sensitivity in older adults with posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Hartwig Cortnie L. , Sprick Justin D. , Jeong Jinhee , Hu Yingtian , Morison Doree G. , Stein C. Michael , Paranjape Sachin , Park Jeanie
Published: September 2020

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an independent risk factor for the development of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Patients with PTSD have heightened blood pressure and sympathetic nervous system reactivity; however, it is unclear if patients with PTSD have exaggerated vasoconstriction in response to sympathetic nerve activation that could also contribute to increased blood pressure reactivity. Therefore, we hypothesized that patients with PTSD have increased sensitivity of vascular α1-adrenergic receptors (α1ARs), the major mediators of vasoconstriction in response to release of norepinephrine at sympathetic nerve terminals. To assess vascular α1AR sensitivity, we measured the degree of venoconstriction in a dorsal hand vein in response to exponentially increasing doses of the selective α1AR agonist, phenylephrine (PE), in 9 patients with PTSD (age = 59 ± 2 yr) and 10 age-matched controls (age = 60 ± 1 yr). Individual dose-response curves were generated to determine the dose of PE that induces 50% of maximal venoconstriction (i.e., PE ED50) reflective of vascular α1AR sensitivity. In support of our hypothesis, PE ED50values were lower in PTSD compared with controls (245 ± 54 ng/min vs. 1,995 ± 459 ng/min, P = 0.012), indicating increased vascular α1AR sensitivity in PTSD. The PTSD group also had an increase in slope of rise in venoconstriction, indicative of an altered venoconstrictive reactivity to PE compared with controls (19.8% ± 1.2% vs. 15.1% ± 1.2%, P = 0.009). Heightened vascular α1AR sensitivity in PTSD may contribute to augmented vasoconstriction and blood pressure reactivity to sympathoexcitation and to increased cardiovascular disease risk in this patient population.
Flight training in a migratory bird drives metabolic gene expression in the flight muscle but not liver, and dietary fat quality influences select genes
Authors: DeMoranville Kristen J. , Carter Wales A. , Pierce Barbara J. , McWilliams Scott R.
Published: September 2020

Training and diet are hypothesized to directly stimulate key molecular pathways that mediate animal performance, and flight training, dietary fats, and dietary antioxidants are likely important in modulating molecular metabolism in migratory birds. This study experimentally investigated how long-distance flight training, as well as diet composition, affected the expression of key metabolic genes in the pectoralis muscle and the liver of European starlings ( Sturnus vulgaris, n = 95). Starlings were fed diets composed of either a high or low polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA; 18:2n-6) and supplemented with or without a water-soluble antioxidant, and one-half of these birds were flight trained in a wind-tunnel while the rest were untrained. We measured the expression of 7 (liver) or 10 (pectoralis) key metabolic genes in flight-trained and untrained birds. Fifty percent of genes involved in mitochondrial metabolism and fat utilization were upregulated by flight training in the pectoralis ( P < 0.05), whereas flight training increased the expression of only one gene responsible for fatty acid hydrolysis [lipoprotein lipase (LPL)] in the liver ( P = 0.04). Dietary PUFA influenced the gene expression of LPL and fat transporter fatty acid translocase (CD36) in the pectoralis and one metabolic transcription factor [peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α (PPARα)] in the liver, whereas dietary antioxidants had no effect on the metabolic genes measured in this study. Flight training initiated a simpler causal network between PPARγ coactivators, PPARs, and metabolic genes involved in mitochondrial metabolism and fat storage in the pectoralis. Molecular metabolism is modulated by flight training and dietary fat quality in a migratory songbird, indicating that these environmental factors will affect the migratory performance of birds in the wild.
Effects of L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channel blockade on cholinergic and thermal sweating in habitually trained and untrained men
Authors: Amano Tatsuro , Fujii Naoto , Kenny Glen P. , Okamoto Yumi , Inoue Yoshimitsu , Kondo Narihiko
Published: September 2020

We evaluated the hypothesis that the activation of L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels contributes to exercise training-induced augmentation in cholinergic sweating. On separate days, 10 habitually trained and 10 untrained men participated in two experimental protocols. Prior to each protocol, we administered 1% verapamil (Verapamil, L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channel blocker) and saline (Control) at forearm skin sites on both arms via transdermal iontophoresis. In protocol 1, we administered low (0.001%) and high (1%) doses of pilocarpine at both the verapamil-treated and verapamil-untreated forearm sites. In protocol 2, participants were passively heated by immersing their limbs in hot water (43°C) until rectal temperature increased by 1.0°C above baseline resting levels. Sweat rate at all forearm sites was continuously measured throughout both protocols. Pilocarpine-induced sweating in Control was higher in trained than in untrained men for both the concentrations of pilocarpine (both P ≤ 0.001). Pilocarpine-induced sweating at the low-dose site was attenuated at the Verapamil versus the Control site in both the groups (both P ≤ 0.004), albeit the reduction was greater in trained as compared with in untrained men ( P = 0.005). The verapamil-mediated reduction in sweating remained intact at the high-dose pilocarpine site in the untrained men ( P = 0.004) but not the trained men ( P = 0.180). Sweating did not differ between Control and Verapamil sites with increases in rectal temperature in both groups (interaction, P = 0.571). We show that activation of L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels modulates sweat production in habitually trained men induced by a low dose of pilocarpine. However, no effect on sweating was observed during passive heating in either group.
Sex differences in integrated neurocardiovascular control of blood pressure following acute intermittent hypercapnic hypoxia
Authors: Jacob Dain W. , Ott Elizabeth P. , Baker Sarah E. , Scruggs Zachariah M. , Ivie Clayton L. , Harper Jennifer L. , Manrique-Acevedo Camila M. , Limberg Jacqueline K.
Published: September 2020

Repetitive hypoxic apneas, similar to those observed in sleep apnea, result in resetting of the sympathetic baroreflex to higher blood pressures (BP). This baroreflex resetting is associated with hypertension in preclinical models of sleep apnea (intermittent hypoxia, IH); however, the majority of understanding comes from males. There are data to suggest that female rats exposed to IH do not develop high BP. Clinical data further support sex differences in the development of hypertension in sleep apnea, but mechanistic data are lacking. Here we examined sex-related differences in the effect of IH on sympathetic control of BP in humans. We hypothesized that after acute IH we would observe a rise in muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and arterial BP in young men ( n = 30) that would be absent in young women ( n = 19). BP and MSNA were measured during normoxic rest before and after 30 min of IH. Baroreflex sensitivity (modified Oxford) was evaluated before and after IH. A rise in mean BP following IH was observed in men (+2.0 ± 0.7 mmHg, P = 0.03), whereas no change was observed in women (−2.7 ± 1.2 mmHg, P = 0.11). The elevation in MSNA following IH was not different between groups (4.7 ± 1.1 vs. 3.8 ± 1.2 bursts/min, P = 0.65). Sympathetic baroreflex sensitivity did not change after IH in either group ( P > 0.05). Our results support sex-related differences in the effect of IH on neurovascular control of BP and show that any BP-raising effects of IH are absent in young women. These data enhance our understanding of sex-specific mechanisms that may contribute to BP changes in sleep apnea.
Cannabidiol activation of vagal afferent neurons requires TRPA1
Authors: Kowalski Cody W. , Ragozzino Forrest J. , Lindberg Jonathan E. M. , Peterson BreeAnne , Lugo Janelle M. , McLaughlin Ryan J. , Peters James H.
Published: September 2020

Cannabidiol is legal in many US states and is used as a panacea for a host of different symptoms; however, little research has been conducted on its cellular actions. The efficacy of CBD in clinical populations has been demonstrated for certain conditions, including some forms of epilepsy, depression, and anxiety, all of which can also be treated with vagal nerve stimulation. Our current work indicates that CBD has direct excitatory effects on vagal afferent neurons that are mediated by TRPA1, augmented by TRPV1, and attenuated following chronic exposure to cannabis vapor. Together, these findings detail a novel excitatory action of CBD at vagal afferent neurons that may contribute to the vagal mimetic effects of CBD and adaptation following chronic cannabis use.
Frequency-dependent spike-pattern changes in motor cortex during thalamic deep brain stimulation
Authors: Bello Edward M. , Agnesi Filippo , Xiao Yizi , Dao Joan , Johnson Matthew D.
Published: September 2020

The network mechanisms of thalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) are not well understood at the cellular level. This study investigated the neuronal firing rate and pattern changes in the motor cortex resulting from stimulation of the cerebellar-receiving area of the motor thalamus. We showed that there is a nonintuitive relationship between general entropy-based spike-pattern measures and phase-locked regularization to DBS.
Cellular-scale silicon probes for high-density, precisely localized neurophysiology
Authors: Egert Daniel , Pettibone Jeffrey R. , Lemke Stefan , Patel Paras R. , Caldwell Ciara M. , Cai Dawen , Ganguly Karunesh , Chestek Cynthia A. , Berke Joshua D.
Published: September 2020

Devices with many electrodes penetrating into the brain are an important tool for investigating neural information processing, but they are typically large compared with neurons. This results in substantial damage and makes it harder to reconstruct recording locations within brain circuits. This paper presents high-channel-count silicon probes with much smaller features and a method for slicing through probe, brain, and skull all together. This allows probe tips to be directly observed relative to immunohistochemical markers.
The intrinsic neonatal hippocampal network: rsfMRI findings
Authors: Howell Athena L. , Osher David E. , Li Jin , Saygin Zeynep M.
Published: September 2020

Although both animal data and human data suggest that the hippocampus is immature at birth, to date, there are no direct assessments of human hippocampal functional connectivity (FC) very early in life. Our study explores the FC of the hippocampus to the cortex at birth, allowing insight into the development of human memory systems. In particular, we find that adults and neonates exhibit vastly different hippocampal connectivity profiles—a finding that likely has large developmental implications.
Diverse coactive neurons encode stimulus-driven and stimulus-independent variables
Authors: Xia Ji , Marks Tyler D. , Goard Michael J. , Wessel Ralf
Published: September 2020

V1 neurons covary largely independently of individual neuron’s response reliability. A single neuron’s response reliability imposes only a weak constraint on its encoding capabilities. Visual stimulus instructs a neuron’s reliability and coactivation pattern. Network models revealed using clustered external inputs.
Situating the left-lateralized language network in the broader organization of multiple specialized large-scale distributed networks
Authors: Braga Rodrigo M. , DiNicola Lauren M. , Becker Hannah C. , Buckner Randy L.
Published: September 2020

This research shows that a language network can be identified within individuals using functional connectivity. Organizational details reveal that the language network shares a common spatial motif with other association networks, including default and frontoparietal control networks. The language network is activated by language task demands, whereas closely juxtaposed networks are not, suggesting that similarly organized but differentially specialized distributed networks populate association cortex.
Cementless Metaphyseal Sleeve Fixation in Revision Knee Arthroplasty: Our Experience with an Arabic Population at the Midterm
Authors: Algarni Abdulrahman D.
Published: September 2020

Objective. Metaphyseal sleeve (MS) fixation in revision knee arthroplasty (RKA) among Western populations has been reported with very encouraging outcomes. The aim of this study was to report our experience with the use of MS in RKA among an Arabic population. Clinical and radiographic outcomes and implant survivorship were reported at a minimum follow-up of 2 years and a mean follow-up of 4.1 years. Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted on prospectively collected data of patients who underwent RKA with a MS in combination with a cementless stem (femoral or tibial). Range of motion (ROM) and Knee Society Score (KSS) were obtained pre- and postoperatively. Complications, occurrence of stem-tip pain, and implant survival were documented. Knee radiographs were obtained to evaluate the alignment and osseointegration or loosening of the MS. Results. A total of 52 sleeves (27 tibial and 25 femoral) implanted in 27 RKAs (27 patients) were included. The mean follow-up period was 4.1 ± 1.8 (2–7.5) years. Postoperatively, the ROM improved from 89.3 ± 9.2 to 106.3 ± 11.4 (p = 0.19) and the KSS also significantly improved, from 102.9 ± 35.6 to 130.2 ± 33.7 (p < 0.001). One patient (3.7%) developed heterotopic ossification, and another one (3.7 %) had a stem-tip pain on the tibial side; both were managed conservatively. One patient (3.7 %) sustained a fracture and required reoperation. None of the sleeves showed progressive radiolucent lines, and none required revision. The aseptic survivorship and overall survivorship at a mean of 4.1 years were 100% and 96.3%, respectively. Conclusion. MS provided successful midterm outcomes that were maintained in obese patients with different levels of constraint. Our series supports their use as a viable option in RKA.
Changes in the Demographic and Clinicopathological Characteristics of Thyroid Cancer: A Population-Based Investigation in Algeria, 1993-2013
Authors: Boukheris Houda , Bettayeb Arslan , Anderson Lesley Ann , Achour Zineb , Benbachir Fatma Zohra , Attar Sarra , Saim Hafida , Rouigeb Kada , Berber Necib
Published: September 2020

Over the last three decades, the incidence of thyroid cancer has increased worldwide. The reasons for this increase remain controversial. In Algeria, however, to date, information on thyroid cancer has been limited to a hospital-based case series. We analyzed data from a population-based cohort study in Oran District, Algeria, to describe demographic and clinicopathological characteristics of patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer between 1993 and 2013. Medical records and pathology reports of thyroid cancer patients who had surgery were reviewed. Changes in demographic and clinicopathological features over the 21-year period are described. During the study period, thyroid cancer was diagnosed in 1248 women (86.5%, mean age 43.7±15.2 years) and 195 men (23.4%, mean age 48.1±15.9 years). Most cases (83.1% for women and 69.8% for men) sought a diagnosis following a self-neck check. The most common histologic types were papillary (58.3%), follicular (29.7%), anaplastic (4.1%), and medullary (0.8%) carcinomas. The incidence of papillary carcinomas significantly increased (p<0.001) while the incidence of other histologic types significantly decreased over time. Tumor size overall significantly decreased (p<0.001) while the frequency of small (≤20 mm) and larger (>20 mm) carcinomas significantly increased (p<0.05). The frequency of thyroid cancers with capsular effractions and angioinvasions also decreased over time. Thyroid cancer incidence in Algeria has increased substantially in line with international trends with changes in clinical practice being a possible contributing factor. However, the increasing papillary-to-follicular cancer ratio may be due to changes in iodine nutrition status in Algeria. Further research, including exploration of biological and molecular features of thyroid cancer, will enable a better understanding of risk factors and etiopathogenetic mechanisms.
Chaperone-Mediated Autophagy Markers LAMP2A and HSC70 Are Independent Adverse Prognostic Markers in Primary Resected Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Lung
Authors: Losmanová Tereza , Janser Félice A. , Humbert Magali , Tokarchuk Igor , Schläfli Anna M. , Neppl Christina , Schmid Ralph A. , Tschan Mario P. , Langer Rupert , Berezowska Sabina
Published: September 2020

LAMP2A and HSC70 are crucial players in chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), a targeted, lysosome-dependent protein degradation pathway. Elevated LAMP2A levels, indicative of increased CMA activity, are observed in several malignancies, and CMA downregulation may be exploited therapeutically. We evaluated the impact of LAMP2A and HSC70 in pulmonary squamous cell carcinomas (pSQCC). Antibodies were validated by knockdown and overexpression experiments using three different cell lines. Expression levels in tissue were analyzed by immunohistochemistry in a cohort of 336 consecutive pSQCC using tissue microarrays. There was no significant correlation between the two markers among each other and no association with pathological parameters (TNM categories, grading). However, both high LAMP2A and HSC70 expression were associated with worse outcome, including overall survival (OS;p=0.012andp=0.001) and disease free survival (DFS;p=0.049andp=0.036). In multivariate analysis, both markers and a combination of them were independent adverse prognostic factors for OS (LAMP2Ahigh:HR=2.059;p<0.001; HSC70high:HR=1.987;p<0.001; LAMP2Ahigh/HSC70high:HR=1.529;p<0.001) and DFS (LAMP2Ahigh:HR=1.709;p=0.004; HSC70high:HR=1.484;p=0.027; LAMP2Ahigh/HSC70high:HR=1.342,p<0.001). The negative prognostic impact of high LAMP2A and HSC70 and their variable expression in pSQCC may justify the use of these proteins as potential biomarkers for future CMA-inhibiting therapies.
Microstructure and Corrosion Behavior of Laser-Cladding CeO2-Doped Ni-Based Composite Coatings on TC4
Authors: Ye Fangxia , Shao Wenxuan , Ye Xuchao , Liu Mingxia , Xie Yanxiang , Bian Peiying , Wang Xiaoyan , Liu Ling , Wu Hong
Published: September 2020

Laser-cladding CeO2-doped Ni-based composite coatings were prepared on the surface of a titanium alloy, and the effects of CeO2 addition on the microstructure, microhardness, and corrosion resistance of the prepared coatings were studied. The results showed that TiC, NiTi, Ni3Ti, and Ti2Ni phases were formed on the prepared coatings. Moreover, the addition of CeO2 in laser-cladding coatings effectively refined the microstructure and reduced the number of cracks generated in the laser-cladding process. When the amount of CeO2 was 2%, the number of cracks in the laser-cladding coating was significantly reduced compared with that of 0%. When the content of CeO2 was 2% or 3%, the microhardness of laser-cladding coatings reached the maximum value. At the same time, it was found that the appropriate addition of CeO2 was helpful to improve the corrosion resistance of the laser-cladding coating. However, excessive CeO2 addition could reduce the corrosion resistance of the laser-cladding coating.
How to Enhance Digital Support for Cross-Organisational Health Care Teams? A User-Based Explorative Study
Authors: Smaradottir Berglind F. , Berntsen Gro K. Rosvold , Fensli Rune W.
Published: September 2020

Health care service provision of individualised treatment to an ageing population prone to chronic conditions and multimorbidities is threatened. There is a need for digitally supported care, that is, (1) person-centred, (2) integrated, and (3) proactive. The research project 3P, Patients and Professionals in Productive Teams, aimed to validate and verify the prerequisites for health care systems run with patient-centred service models. This paper presents an explorative study of the digital support of a cross-organisational health care team in Norway, providing services to elderly frail people with multimorbidities in hospital discharge transition. Qualitative research methods were employed, with interviews and observations to map and evaluate the information flow and the digital support of collaborative work across organisations. The evaluation showed a lacking interoperability between the digital systems and a limited support for cross-organisational teamwork, causing raised manual efforts to maintain the information flow. Tools for coordination and planning across organisations were lacking. To enhance the situation, principles for a cloud-based health portal are proposed with a shared workspace, teamwork functionality for cross-organisational health care teams, and automatic back-end synchronisation of stored information. The main implications of this paper lie in the proposed principles which are transferable to a multitude of clinical contexts, where ad-hoc based access to shared medical information is of importance for decision-making and life-saving treatment.
Pesticides Use Practice by Market Gardeners in Lome (Togo)
Authors: Diallo Aboudoulatif , Zotchi Komi , Lawson-evi Povi , Bakoma Batomayena , Badjabaissi Essotolom , Kwashie Eklu-Gadegkeku
Published: September 2020

Pesticides are more and more used in African countries. The aim of this study is to evaluate the risk and the impact of pesticides on gardener’s health. It is a transversal descriptive study, which referred to vegetable growers, held in Lomé on the period from May 20 to June 5, 2017. Forty-eight (48) growers participated in the study. Men accounted for 70.8% of the study population against 29.2% of women. The level of education was primary (47.9%) in the majority of cases. Married people or couples represented 77.1% of cases. Most gardeners (72.9%) has no training in the use of pesticides. Pesticides were consistently applied (100%), including insecticides (72.7%), herbicides (9.1%), and fungicides (18.2%). Of 20 pesticides collected, 9 (45%) were approved by our authorities. Only 43.8% of growers were supplied with pesticides from authorized structures of agricultural products. Branches of plants (79.2%) were the spray means of most of the pesticides. Most gardeners (79, 2%) did not use personal protective equipment because of lack of resources for 81.6% of them. Water and environment contamination risk by pesticides was known by only 6.3% of gardeners. Among the adverse effects reported, pruritus was the majority in 85.4% of cases followed by headache (70.8%), cough (68.8%), and muscle pain (64.6%). The training of gardeners, monitoring and control of this informal sector, and the monitoring of unregistered pesticides will help to reduce the risk of poisoning of gardeners and consumers of vegetables as well as environmental pollution.
Leukoerythroblastosis as an Unusual Presentation of Parvovirus B19 Infection in a Sickle Cell Patient
Authors: Patel Pratik A. , Weinzierl Elizabeth P. , Wechsler Daniel S.
Published: September 2020

Parvovirus B19 infection in pediatrics most commonly causes fifth disease, a mild viral illness. Hematologic manifestations include severe anemia, especially in patients with chronic hemolytic anemias or who are immunocompromised. Because of the shortened life span of erythrocytes in patients with sickle cell disease, parvovirus infection can cause transient aplastic crisis which can be life-threatening. However, leukocytosis and thrombocytosis are rarely seen. We report leukoerythroblastosis as an unusual presentation of acute parvovirus B19 infection in a previously splenectomized 12-year-old boy with sickle cell disease.
Experimental Study on MICP Aqueous Solution under the Action of Different Organic Substrates
Authors: Zheng Huai-miao , Wu Ling-ling , Tong Kai-wen , Hu Lin , Yu Qing , He Gui-cheng , Zhang Zhi-jun
Published: September 2020

The precipitation rate and cementation strength of calcium carbonate crystals during the process of microorganism-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) are key factors that affect the application effect of this technology. In order to improve the quality of calcium carbonate formation in the MICP process, egg white protein with a volume fraction of 20%, bovine serum albumin with a mass fraction of 0.3%, sucrose with a mass fraction of 5%, bamboo leaves with a mass concentration of 25 g/L, and bamboo leaf-magnesium chloride (Mg2+/Ca2+=4:1) were added during the experiment of different groups of MICP solutions. The results of the solution test study showed that there was no obvious lag period for bacterial growth under the action of organic matrix. The concentration of bacteria in the reaction solution was higher under the action of sucrose and egg white. The conversion rate of Ca2+ under the action of egg white was the fastest, which was about 2.5 times higher than that of the control group. After 14 days of grouting reaction, it was found that the proportion of calcite-type calcium carbonate produced under the action of egg white was the highest, and the Ca element accounted for 66.24% in the solidified material. Sucrose was second; bovine serum albumin was the lowest. The calcium carbonate crystals generated by the control of each organic matrix had a high degree of pore size matching with the tailings under a dry-wet cycle. The structural characteristics of the calcium carbonate crystals, such as crystal form, morphology, and particle size, were mainly due to the interaction between the organic matrix and the calcium carbonate crystals. This study proves that the addition of the organic matrix can improve the formation rate and crystal structure of calcium carbonate during MICP, thus providing a new reference for the development of MICP technology.
Exploring the Dynamical Behavior of Information Diffusion in D2D Communication Environment
Authors: Zhang Zufan , Liu Anqi , Yi Yinxue , Yang Maobin
Published: September 2020

This paper is dedicated to exploring the dynamical behavior of information diffusion in the Device-to-Device (D2D) communication environment for information security, so as to study how to accelerate the dissemination of beneficial information and curb the spread of malicious information. A mathematical model of information diffusion considering the combined impact of user awareness and social tie between users is proposed. The equilibrium of the model and its stability are fully analyzed. Very importantly, there is a unique (viral) equilibrium that is globally asymptotically stable without any preconditions. This means that the spread of malicious information in the D2D communication environment cannot be completely eliminated whatever measures are taken, but its diffusion scale can be controlled by adjusting the value of the equilibrium, and then the goal of pursuing the best control effect at the minimum cost can be achieved. In the same way, the dissemination scale of beneficial information can be expanded. Finally, the obtained main theoretical results are illustrated by some examples, and some suggestions are also given.
Applications of Acupuncture Therapy in Modulating the Plasticity of Neurodegenerative Disease and Depression: Do MicroRNA and Neurotrophin BDNF Shed Light on the Underlying Mechanism?
Authors: Li Xia , Zhao Jun , Li Zhigang , Zhang Li , Huo Zejun
Published: September 2020

As the global population ages, the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases has risen. Furthermore, it has been suggested that depression, especially in elderly people, may also be an indication of latent neurodegeneration. Stroke, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are usually accompanied by depression. The urgent challenge is further enforced by psychiatric comorbid conditions, particularly the feeling of despair in these patients. Fortunately, as our understanding of the neurobiological substrates of maladies affecting the central nervous system (CNS) has increased, more therapeutic options and novel potential biological mechanisms have been presented: (1) Neurodegenerative diseases share some similarities in their pathological characteristics, including changes in neuron structure or function and neuronal plasticity. (2) MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that contribute to the pathogenesis of diverse neurological disease. (3) One ubiquitous neurotrophin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), is crucial for the development of the nervous system. Accumulating data have indicated that miRNAs not only are related to BDNF regulation but also can directly bind with the 3′-UTR of BDNF to regulate BDNF and participate in neuroplasticity. In this short review, we present evidence of shared biological substrates among stroke, AD, PD, and depression and summarize the possible influencing mechanisms of acupuncture on the neuroplasticity of these diseases. We discuss neuroplasticity underscored by the roles of miRNAs and BDNF, which might further reveal the potential biological mechanism of neurodegenerative diseases and depression by acupuncture.
Cisplatin-Induced Stria Vascularis Damage Is Associated with Inflammation and Fibrosis
Authors: Zhang Na , Cai Jing , Xu Lei , Wang Haibo , Liu Wenwen
Published: September 2020

The stria vascularis (SV) generates the endocochlear potential (EP) in the inner ear and is necessary for proper hair cell (HC) mechanotransduction and hearing. Cell junctions are indispensable for the establishment of compositionally distinct fluid compartments in the inner ear. Ototoxic drug cisplatin can damage SV and cause sensorineural hearing loss; however, the underlying mechanisms behind such injury are unclear. In this study, after the intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin (3 mg/kg/day for 7 days) in mice, we determined the auditory function by EP recording and auditory brainstem response (ABR) analysis, observed the ultrastructure of SV by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and examined the expression and distribution of cell junction proteins by western blot, PCR, and immunofluorescence staining. We discovered that the EP was significantly reduced while ABR thresholds were significantly elevated in cisplatin-treated mice; cisplatin induced ultrastructural changes in marginal cells (MCs), endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, etc. We found that cisplatin insulted auditory function not only by reducing the expression of zonula occludens protein-1 (ZO-1) in MCs of the SV but also by decreasing the expression of connexin 26 (Cx26) and connexin 43 (Cx43) in MCs and basal cells (BCs). More importantly, cisplatin induced activations of perivascular-resident macrophage-like melanocytes (PVM/Ms) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) as well as increased expressions of profibrotic proteins such as laminin and collagen IV in SV. Thus, our results firstly showed that cisplatin induced fibrosis, inflammation, and the complex expression change of cell junctions in SV.