bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germline Missense Variants in BRCA1: New Trends and Challenges for Clinical Annotation
Authors: Golubeva Volha A. , Nepomuceno Thales C. , Monteiro Alvaro N. A.
Published: April 2019

Genetic testing allows for the identification of germline DNA variations, which are associated with a significant increase in the risk of developing breast cancer (BC) and ovarian cancer (OC). Detection of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variant triggers several clinical management actions, which may include increased surveillance and prophylactic surgery for healthy carriers or treatment with the PARP inhibitor therapy for carriers diagnosed with cancer. Thus, standardized validated criteria for the annotation of BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants according to their pathogenicity are necessary to support clinical decision-making and ensure improved outcomes. Upon detection, variants whose pathogenicity can be inferred by the genetic code are typically classified as pathogenic, likely pathogenic, likely benign, or benign. Variants whose impact on function cannot be directly inferred by the genetic code are labeled as variants of uncertain clinical significance (VUS) and are evaluated by multifactorial likelihood models that use personal and family history of cancer, segregation data, prediction tools, and co-occurrence with a pathogenic BRCA variant. Missense variants, coding alterations that replace a single amino acid residue with another, are a class of variants for which determination of clinical relevance is particularly challenging. Here, we discuss current issues in the missense variant classification by following a typical life cycle of a BRCA1 missense variant through detection, annotation and information dissemination. Advances in massively parallel sequencing have led to a substantial increase in VUS findings. Although the comprehensive assessment and classification of missense variants according to their pathogenicity remains the bottleneck, new developments in functional analysis, high throughput assays, data sharing, and statistical models are rapidly changing this scenario.
Proteasome 26S Subunit, non-ATPase 3 (PSMD3) Regulates Breast Cancer by Stabilizing HER2 from Degradation
Authors: Fararjeh Abdulfattah Salah , Chen Li-Ching , Ho Yuan-Soon , Cheng Tzu-Chun , Liu Yun-Ru , Chang Hang-Lung , Chang Hui-Wen , Wu Chih-Hsiung , Tu Shih-Hsin
Published: April 2019

It is well-known that human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is critical for breast cancer (BC) development and progression. Several studies have revealed the role of the ubiquitin/proteasome system (UPS) in cancer. In this study, we investigated the expression level of Proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase 3 (PSMD3) in BC using BC cell lines, human BC tissue samples, Oncomine, and TCGA databases and studied the PSMD3-HER2 protein interaction. PSMD3 was upregulated in BC, particularly in the HER2+ subtype. PSMD3 immunostaining was detected in the cytoplasm and nucleus of BC tumor tissues. Strong interaction between PSMD3 and HER2 at the protein level was observed. Knockdown of PSMD3 significantly impaired the stability of HER2, inhibited BC cell proliferation and colony formation, and induced cell apoptosis. Ubiquitination process was strongly enhanced after knockdown of PSMD3 in association with decreased HER2 level. Accumulation and Localization of LAMP-1 in the cell membrane with decreased HER2 immunostaining was observed after knockdown of PSMD3. High expression level of PSMD3 was associated with HER2 expression (p < 0.001), tumor size (p < 0.001), and clinical stage (p = 0.036). High expression level of PSMD3 predicted a short overall survival (OS), particularly for HER2+. Overall, we provide a novel function for PSMD3 in stabilizing HER2 from degradation in HER2+ BC, which suggests that PSMD3 is a novel target for HER2+ BC.
The Role of HOX Transcription Factors in Cancer Predisposition and Progression
Authors: Li Bo , Huang Qilai , Wei Gong-Hong
Published: April 2019

Homeobox (HOX) transcription factors, encoded by a subset of homeodomain superfamily genes, play pivotal roles in many aspects of cellular physiology, embryonic development, and tissue homeostasis. Findings over the past decade have revealed that mutations in HOX genes can lead to increased cancer predisposition, and HOX genes might mediate the effect of many other cancer susceptibility factors by recognizing or executing altered genetic information. Remarkably, several lines of evidence highlight the interplays between HOX transcription factors and cancer risk loci discovered by genome-wide association studies, thereby gaining molecular and biological insight into cancer etiology. In addition, deregulated HOX gene expression impacts various aspects of cancer progression, including tumor angiogenesis, cell autophagy, proliferation, apoptosis, tumor cell migration, and metabolism. In this review, we will discuss the fundamental roles of HOX genes in cancer susceptibility and progression, highlighting multiple molecular mechanisms of HOX involved gene misregulation, as well as their potential implications in clinical practice.
Synthesis of Ribavirin, Tecadenoson, and Cladribine by Enzymatic Transglycosylation
Authors: Rabuffetti Marco , Bavaro Teodora , Semproli Riccardo , Cattaneo Giulia , Massone Michela , Morelli Carlo F. , Speranza Giovanna , Ubiali Daniela
Published: April 2019

Despite the impressive progress in nucleoside chemistry to date, the synthesis of nucleoside analogues is still a challenge. Chemoenzymatic synthesis has been proven to overcome most of the constraints of conventional nucleoside chemistry. A purine nucleoside phosphorylase from Aeromonas hydrophila (AhPNP) has been used herein to catalyze the synthesis of Ribavirin, Tecadenoson, and Cladribine, by a “one-pot, one-enzyme” transglycosylation, which is the transfer of the carbohydrate moiety from a nucleoside donor to a heterocyclic base. As the sugar donor, 7-methylguanosine iodide and its 2′-deoxy counterpart were synthesized and incubated either with the “purine-like” base or the modified purine of the three selected APIs. Good conversions (49–67%) were achieved in all cases under screening conditions. Following this synthetic scheme, 7-methylguanine arabinoside iodide was also prepared with the purpose to synthesize the antiviral Vidarabine by a novel approach. However, in this case, neither the phosphorolysis of the sugar donor, nor the transglycosylation reaction were observed. This study was enlarged to two other ribonucleosides structurally related to Ribavirin and Tecadenoson, namely, Acadesine, or AICAR, and 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine, or CCPA. Only the formation of CCPA was observed (52%). This study paves the way for the development of a new synthesis of the target APIs at a preparative scale. Furthermore, the screening herein reported contributes to the collection of new data about the specific substrate requirements of AhPNP.
Tailoring a Soluble Diiron Monooxygenase for Synthesis of Aromatic N-oxides
Authors: Petkevičius Vytautas , Vaitekūnas Justas , Vaitkus Dovydas , Čėnas Narimantas , Meškys Rolandas
Published: April 2019

The aromatic N-oxides have received increased attention over the last few years due to their potential application in medicine, agriculture and organic chemistry. As a green alternative in their synthesis, the biocatalytic method employing whole cells of Escherichia coli bearing phenol monooxygenase like protein PmlABCDEF (from here on – PML monooxygenase) has been introduced. In this work, site-directed mutagenesis was used to study the contributions of active site neighboring residues I106, A113, G109, F181, F200, F209 to the regiospecificity of N-oxidation. Based on chromogenic indole oxidation screening, a collection of PML mutants with altered catalytic properties was created. Among the tested mutants, the A113G variant acquired the most distinguishable N-oxidations capacity. This new variant of PML was able to produce dioxides (quinoxaline-1,4-dioxide, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine-1,4-dioxide) and specific mono-N-oxides (2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine-1-oxide) that were unachievable using the wild type PML. This mutant also featured reshaped regioselectivity as N-oxidation shifted towards quinazoline-1-oxide compared to quinazoline-3-oxide that is produced by the wild type PML.
Assessing Therapeutic Efficacy in Real-time by Hyperpolarized Magnetic Resonance Metabolic Imaging
Authors: Dutta Prasanta , Salzillo Travis C. , Pudakalakatti Shivanand , Gammon Seth T. , Kaipparettu Benny A. , McAllister Florencia , Wagner Shawn , Frigo Daniel E. , Logothetis Christopher J. , Zacharias Niki M. , Bhattacharya Pratip K.
Published: April 2019

Precisely measuring tumor-associated alterations in metabolism clinically will enable the efficient assessment of therapeutic responses. Advances in imaging technologies can exploit the differences in cancer-associated cell metabolism as compared to normal tissue metabolism, linking changes in target metabolism to therapeutic efficacy. Metabolic imaging by Positron Emission Tomography (PET) employing 2-fluoro-deoxy-glucose ([18F]FDG) has been used as a routine diagnostic tool in the clinic. Recently developed hyperpolarized Magnetic Resonance (HP-MR), which radically increases the sensitivity of conventional MRI, has created a renewed interest in functional and metabolic imaging. The successful translation of this technique to the clinic was achieved recently with measurements of 13C-pyruvate metabolism. Here, we review the potential clinical roles for metabolic imaging with hyperpolarized MRI as applied in assessing therapeutic intervention in different cancer systems.
Extracellular Matrix Component Remodeling in Respiratory Diseases: What Has Been Found in Clinical and Experimental Studies?
Authors: Ito Juliana T. , Lourenço Juliana D. , Righetti Renato F. , Tibério Iolanda F.L.C. , Prado Carla M. , Lopes Fernanda D.T.Q.S.
Published: April 2019

Changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the lungs are associated with the progression of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Experimental and clinical studies have revealed that structural changes in ECM components occur under chronic inflammatory conditions, and these changes are associated with impaired lung function. In bronchial asthma, elastic and collagen fiber remodeling, mostly in the airway walls, is associated with an increase in mucus secretion, leading to airway hyperreactivity. In COPD, changes in collagen subtypes I and III and elastin, interfere with the mechanical properties of the lungs, and are believed to play a pivotal role in decreased lung elasticity, during emphysema progression. In ARDS, interstitial edema is often accompanied by excessive deposition of fibronectin and collagen subtypes I and III, which can lead to respiratory failure in the intensive care unit. This review uses experimental models and human studies to describe how inflammatory conditions and ECM remodeling contribute to the loss of lung function in these respiratory diseases.
Regulation of Microtubule Nucleation in Mouse Bone Marrow-Derived Mast Cells by Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase SHP-1
Authors: Klebanovych Anastasiya , Sládková Vladimíra , Sulimenko Tetyana , Vosecká Věra , Rubíková Zuzana , Čapek Martin , Dráberová Eduarda , Dráber Pavel , Sulimenko Vadym
Published: April 2019

The antigen-mediated activation of mast cells initiates signaling events leading to their degranulation, to the release of inflammatory mediators, and to the synthesis of cytokines and chemokines. Although rapid and transient microtubule reorganization during activation has been described, the molecular mechanisms that control their rearrangement are largely unknown. Microtubule nucleation is mediated by γ-tubulin complexes. In this study, we report on the regulation of microtubule nucleation in bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) by Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1; Ptpn6). Reciprocal immunoprecipitation experiments and pull-down assays revealed that SHP-1 is present in complexes containing γ-tubulin complex proteins and protein tyrosine kinase Syk. Microtubule regrowth experiments in cells with deleted SHP-1 showed a stimulation of microtubule nucleation, and phenotypic rescue experiments confirmed that SHP-1 represents a negative regulator of microtubule nucleation in BMMCs. Moreover, the inhibition of the SHP-1 activity by inhibitors TPI-1 and NSC87877 also augmented microtubule nucleation. The regulation was due to changes in γ-tubulin accumulation. Further experiments with antigen-activated cells showed that the deletion of SHP-1 stimulated the generation of microtubule protrusions, the activity of Syk kinase, and degranulation. Our data suggest a novel mechanism for the suppression of microtubule formation in the later stages of mast cell activation.
Regulating the BCL2 Family to Improve Sensitivity to Microtubule Targeting Agents
Authors: Whitaker Robert H. , Placzek William J.
Published: April 2019

Chemotherapeutic targeting of microtubules has been the standard of care in treating a variety of malignancies for decades. During mitosis, increased microtubule dynamics are necessary for mitotic spindle formation and successful chromosomal segregation. Microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) disrupt the dynamics necessary for successful spindle assembly and trigger programmed cell death (apoptosis). As the critical regulators of apoptosis, anti-apoptotic BCL2 family members are often amplified during carcinogenesis that can result in MTA resistance. This review outlines how BCL2 family regulation is positioned within the context of MTA treatment and explores the potential of combination therapy of MTAs with emerging BCL2 family inhibitors.
Ultra-High Light Extraction Efficiency and Ultra-Thin Mini-LED Solution by Freeform Surface Chip Scale Package Array
Authors: Huang Che-Hsuan , Kang Chieh-Yu , Chang Shu-Hsiu , Lin Chih-Hao , Lin Chun-Yu , Wu Tingzhu , Sher Chin-Wei , Lin Chien-Chung , Lee Po-Tsung , Kuo Hao-Chung
Published: April 2019

In this study, we present a novel type of package, freeform-designed chip scale package (FDCSP), which has ultra-high light extraction efficiency and bat-wing light field. For the backlight application, mainstream solutions are chip-scale package (CSP) and surface-mount device package (SMD). Comparing with these two mainstream types of package, the light extraction efficiency of CSP, SMD, and FDCSP are 88%, 60%, and 96%, respectively. In addition to ultra-high light extraction efficiency, because of the 160-degree bat-wing light field, FDCSP could provide a thinner and low power consumption mini-LED solution with a smaller number of LEDs than CSP and SMD light source array.
Editorial: Entropy in Networked Control
Authors: Kawan Christoph
Published: April 2019

This is an editorial article summarizing the scope and contents of the Special Issue Entropy in Networked Control.
An Examination of Reading Specialist Candidates’ Knowledge and Self-Efficacy in Behavior and Classroom Management: An Instrumental Case Study
Authors: Beasley Keshona T. , Bernadowski Carianne
Published: April 2019

Today’s reading specialists are faced with students who not only present reading problems but, the likelihood of behavior problems. Thus, reading specialists must be prepared to implement behavior management strategies that de-escalate these problems. Reading specialists’ training programs are budding with the potential for innovative practices that could be launched for ground-breaking learning. However, current trends display training programs still utilize traditional methods for training. This qualitative instrumental case study examined a purposeful sample of reading specialist candidates at a small, private university in the United States. The study explored the effects of utilizing simulation as a new way to train and prepare reading specialist candidates with behavior management strategies when teaching children with reading problems. During the study, simulated exercises were utilized to train the candidates and explore their ability in identifying behavior, and their knowledge and use of appropriate strategies, and self- efficacy before and after the training program. The post-knowledge gained through the simulation classroom experience revealed, that not only did reading specialist candidates expand their arsenal of strategies, but they also gained understanding of the background knowledge and diagnostic implications that can contribute to various behaviors or disorders. Candidates reported that after training, they felt prepared to implement behavior strategies when faced with children who may display behavior problems.
Developing a Real-time Monitoring Traceability System for Cold Chain of Tricholoma matsutake
Authors: Li Xinwu , Yang Lin , Duan Yanqing , Wu Zhigang , Zhang Xiaoshuan
Published: April 2019

Tricholoma matsutake (T. matsutake) is a special type of fungus known as "the king of bacteria", and has the very high economic value. However, it is also very difficult to transport due to its corruptibility. Therefore, tracing and tracking the quality and safety of T. matsutake in the cold chain is very important and necessary. Based on changes in the cold chain environmental parameters determine the safety of T. matsutake is a viable option. This paper developed and tested a real-time monitoring traceability system (RM-TM) using emerging Internet of Things (IoT) technologies for monitoring the cold chain logistics environmental parameters of T. matsutake. Finally, system testing and evaluation have shown that RM-TM can track and monitor temperature, humidity, oxygen and carbon dioxide fluctuations in the cold chain in real-time. In addition, the collected data can be used to increase the transparency of cold chain logistics and to more effectively control quality, safety, and traceability. In general, the system evaluation results show that it is reliable and meets the requirements of users.
Open Source Data Logging and Data Visualization for an Isolated PV System
Authors: Jiang Bojian , Iqbal M. Tariq
Published: April 2019

Monitoring the operation of an isolated photovoltaic (PV) system needs both data loggers and web transfer to collect the sensor data. The data includes the measurement of the voltage and current of the PV system and for local weather. The PV system in Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) is 5 m away from the window, where the weather data is collected. In reality, PV systems are approximately 25–50 m away from the weather sensors. It is, therefore, more meaningful to realize the sensor communications by wireless transfer than long cables, which can significantly reduce the cables of a large PV system with long distances among sensors. The PC receives all the sensor data and transfers hem to a web server (Thingspeak). A web server is applied to monitor the operation of the system instead of a local server when its users are far away from the location, even though the local server allows more frequent data logging (once per second). The data transformation between the PC and the web server must guarantee the stability and robustness of the program. The system alarm that reports the disconnection failure is also necessary to notify the users. This paper will first introduce the general system setup, then present each part of the system in detail, and finally, analyze the collected data.
Design of Robust Fuzzy Logic Controller Based on the Levenberg Marquardt Algorithm and Fault Ride Trough Strategies for a Grid-Connected PV System
Authors: Islam Saif Ul , Zeb Kamran , Din Waqar Ud , Khan Imran , Ishfaq Muhammad , Hussain Altaf , Busarello Tiago Davi Curi , Kim Hee Je
Published: April 2019

This paper emphasizes the design and investigation of a new optimization scheme for a grid-connected photovoltaic system (PVS) under unbalance faults. The proposed scheme includes fuzzy logic controller (FLC) based on the Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) optimization technique in coordination with bridge-type-fault-current limiter (BFCL) as the fault ride through (FRT) Strategy. The LM optimization-based control is an iterative process with a fast and robust response and is always convergent. The BFCL reduces the fault currents to rated values without compromising at ripples. A keen and critical comparison of the designed strategy is carried out with a conventionally tuned proportional-integral (PI) controller in coordination with the crowbar FRT strategy. A 100kW MATLAB/Simulink model of a photovoltaic system is used for simulation and analysis of unbalance faults at the point of common-coupling (PCC) and at 5 km away from PCC. It is found that grid-connected PVS is highly influenced by the fault type and less effected by the distribution line length. The simulation results authenticated smooth, stable, ripples with free, robust, and fault-tolerant behavior of the proposed scheme.
Uncertainty-Based Models for Optimal Management of Energy Hubs Considering Demand Response
Authors: Najafi Arsalan , Marzband Mousa , Mohamadi-Ivatloo Behnam , Contreras Javier , Pourakbari-Kasmaei Mahdi , Lehtonen Matti , Godina Radu
Published: April 2019

Energy hub (EH) is a concept that is commonly used to describe multi-carrier energy systems. New advances in the area of energy conversion and storage have resulted in the development of EHs. The efficiency and capability of power systems can be improved by using EHs. This paper proposes an Information Gap Decision Theory (IGDT)-based model for EH management, taking into account the demand response (DR). The proposed model is applied to a semi-realistic case study with large consumers within a day ahead of the scheduling time horizon. The EH has some inputs including real-time (RT) and day-ahead (DA) electricity market prices, wind turbine generation, and natural gas network data. It also has electricity and heat demands as part of the output. The management of the EH is investigated considering the uncertainty in RT electricity market prices and wind turbine generation. The decisions are robust against uncertainties using the IGDT method. DR is added to the decision-making process in order to increase the flexibility of the decisions made. The numerical results demonstrate that considering DR in the IGDT-based EH management system changes the decision-making process. The results of the IGDT and stochastic programming model have been shown for more comprehension.
The Magnetic Field and Impedances in Three-Phase Rectangular Busbars with a Finite Length
Authors: Kusiak Dariusz
Published: April 2019

The paper presents an analytical method for calculating impedances of rectangular bus ducts. The method is based on the partial inductance theory—in particular, the impedance of rectangular busbars in a three-phase system with a neutral conductor is described. The results of resistances and reactances of these systems of multiple rectangular conductors were obtained. Skin and proximity effects were taken into account. The measurements of the impedance of shielded and unshielded high-current busducts of rectangular conductors were also carried out. The magnetic field of the busbars was determined with several methods.
Aeration to Improve Biogas Production by Recalcitrant Feedstock
Authors: Loughrin John , Lovanh Nanh
Published: April 2019

Digestion of wastes to produce biogas is complicated by poor degradation of feedstocks. Research has shown that waste digestion can be enhanced by the addition of low levels of aeration without harming the microbes responsible for methane production. This research has been done at small scales and without provision to retain the aeration in the digestate. In this paper, low levels of aeration were provided to poultry litter slurry through a sub-surface manifold that retained air in the sludge. Digestate (133 L) was supplied 0, 200, 800, or 2000 mL/day air in 200 mL increments throughout the day via a manifold with a volume of 380 mL. Digesters were fed 400 g of poultry litter once weekly until day 84 and then 600 g thereafter. Aeration at 200 and 800 mL/day increased biogas production by 14 and 73% compared to anaerobic digestion while aeration at 2000 mL/day decreased biogas production by 19%. Biogas quality was similar in all digesters albeit carbon dioxide and methane were lowest in the 2000 mL/day treatment. Increasing feed to 600 g/week decreased gas production without affecting biogas quality. Degradation of wood disks placed within the digesters was enhanced by aeration.
Influence Maximization in Social Network Considering Memory Effect and Social Reinforcement Effect
Authors: Wang Fei , Zhu Zhenfang , Liu Peiyu , Wang Peipei
Published: April 2019

Social networks have attracted a lot of attention as novel information or advertisement diffusion media for viral marketing. Influence maximization describes the problem of finding a small subset of seed nodes in a social network that could maximize the spread of influence. A lot of algorithms have been proposed to solve this problem. Recently, in order to achieve more realistic viral marketing scenarios, some constrained versions of influence maximization, which consider time constraints, budget constraints and so on, have been proposed. However, none of them considers the memory effect and the social reinforcement effect, which are ubiquitous properties of social networks. In this paper, we define a new constrained version of the influence maximization problem that captures the social reinforcement and memory effects. We first propose a novel propagation model to capture the dynamics of the memory and social reinforcement effects. Then, we modify two baseline algorithms and design a new algorithm to solve the problem under the model. Experiments show that our algorithm achieves the best performance with relatively low time complexity. We also demonstrate that the new version captures some important properties of viral marketing in social networks, such as such as social reinforcements, and could explain some phenomena that cannot be explained by existing influence maximization problem definitions.
The Alternative Splicing Landscape of Brassica napus Infected with Leptosphaeria maculans
Authors: Ma Jin-Qi , Wei Li-Juan , Lin Ai , Zhang Chao , Sun Wei , Yang Bo , Lu Kun , Li Jia-Na
Published: April 2019

Alternative splicing (AS) is a post-transcriptional regulatory process that enhances transcriptome diversity, thereby affecting plant growth, development, and stress responses. To identify the new transcripts and changes in the isoform-level AS landscape of rapeseed (Brassica napus) infected with the fungal pathogen Leptosphaeria maculans, we compared eight RNA-seq libraries prepared from mock-inoculated and inoculated B. napus cotyledons and stems. The AS events that occurred in stems were almost the same as those in cotyledons, with intron retention representing the most common AS pattern. We identified 1892 differentially spliced genes between inoculated and uninoculated plants. We performed a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify eight co-expression modules and their Hub genes, which are the genes most connected with other genes within each module. There are nine Hub genes, encoding nine transcription factors, which represent key regulators of each module, including members of the NAC, WRKY, TRAF, AP2/ERF-ERF, C2H2, C2C2-GATA, HMG, bHLH, and C2C2-CO-like families. Finally, 52 and 117 alternatively spliced genes in cotyledons and stems were also differentially expressed between mock-infected and infected materials, such as HMG and C2C2-Dof; which have dual regulatory mechanisms in response to L. maculans. The splicing of the candidate genes identified in this study could be exploited to improve resistance to L. maculans.
Household Registration System, Migration, and Inequity in Healthcare Access
Authors: Yuan Bocong , Li Jiannan , Wang Zhaoguo , Wu Lily
Published: April 2019

This study investigates the influence of the household registration system on rural–urban disparity in healthcare access (including healthcare quality, blood pressure check, blood test, vision test, dental examination, and breast exam), using data from a large-scale nationwide life history survey that covered 150 counties across 28 provinces and municipalities in China. In contrast to the findings of many previous studies that emphasize the disparity in the residence place as the cause of rural–urban disparity in healthcare access, this study finds that the residence place just has a very limited influence on healthcare access in China, and what really matters is the household registration type. Our empirical results show that people with a non-rural household registration type generally have better healthcare access than those with a rural one. For rural residents, changing the registration type of their household (from rural to non-rural) can improve their healthcare access, whereas changing the residence place or migrating from rural to urban areas have no effect. Therefore, mere rural-to-urban migration may not be a valid measure to eliminate the rural–urban disparity in healthcare access, unless the institution of healthcare resource allocation is reformed.
Social Media Mentions of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) Battery-Related Overheating, Fires, and Explosions: Findings from a Pilot Study
Authors: Trigger Sarah , Coleman Blair
Published: April 2019

Serious injuries may result from electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) battery malfunctions, including overheating, fires, and explosions (O/F/E). This pilot study assessed the usefulness of social media monitoring as a tool for gathering information surrounding ENDS battery O/F/E, including changes in the volume and nature of social media mentions over time. Brandwatch, a social media monitoring tool, was queried to examine ENDS battery-related O/F/E over a one-month period, annually, from 2013–2017. Two researchers qualitatively coded the social media mentions for relevance and coded the relevant mentions by event type and theme. The total number of mentions coded as relevant (n = 947) for the one-month period increased each year. Mentions of first-person events were relatively infrequent (3.6% of relevant mentions), while mentions describing events that happened to someone else increased over time (60.4% of relevant mentions). A relatively small proportion of mentions expressed concern around a potential event and advice on how to prevent future events (4.8% and 10.5% of relevant mentions, respectively). Findings suggest that social media mentions around ENDS battery O/F/E events have increased over recent years. Social media monitoring can complement traditional surveillance systems to elucidate the extent to which ENDS O/F/E events are occurring.
Data Consistency Theory and Case Study for Scientific Big Data
Authors: Shi Peng , Cui Yulin , Xu Kangming , Zhang Mingmei , Ding Lianhong
Published: April 2019

Big data technique is a series of novel technologies to deal with large amounts of data from various sources. Unfortunately, it is inevitable that the data from different sources conflict with each other from the aspects of format, semantics, and value. To solve the problem of conflicts, the paper proposes data consistency theory for scientific big data, including the basic concepts, properties, and quantitative evaluation method. Data consistency can be divided into different grades as complete consistency, strong consistency, weak consistency, and conditional consistency according to consistency degree and application demand. The case study is executed on material creep testing data. The analysis results show that the theory can solve the problem of conflicts in scientific big data.
Current Status of Forest Health Policy in the United States
Authors: Gandhi Kamal J. K. , Campbell Faith , Abrams Jesse
Published: April 2019

Federal policies related to forestry and forest health (specifically, insects and diseases) have the potential to affect management practices, terms of international and interstate trade, and long-term sustainability and conservation. Our objectives were to review existing federal policies, the role of federal agencies in managing forest health, and guidance for future policy efforts. Since the 1940s, various federal policies relevant to forest health have been established, and several US Department of Agriculture (USDA) agencies have been empowered to assist with prevention, quarantine, detection, management, and control of insects and diseases. Overall, our review showed that relatively few national policies directly address forest health as a stand-alone objective, as most of them are embedded within forestry bills. Federal funding for forest health issues and the number of personnel dedicated to such issues have declined dramatically for some agencies. Concomitantly, native species continue to gain pestiferous status while non-native species continue to establish and cause impacts in the US. To enhance our ability and capacity to deal with current and future threats, concerted efforts are needed to advocate for both resources and stand-alone policy tools that take seriously the complexity of emerging sustainability challenges in both private and public forestlands.
Engineered Fat Graft Enhanced with Adipose-Derived Stromal Vascular Fraction Cells for Regenerative Medicine: Clinical, Histological and Instrumental Evaluation in Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Gentile Pietro , Casella Donato , Palma Enza , Calabrese Claudio
Published: April 2019

The areas in which Stromal Vascular Fraction cells (SVFs) have been used include radiotherapy based tissue damage after mastectomy, breast augmentation, calvarial defects, Crohn’s fistulas, and damaged skeletal muscle. Currently, the authors present their experience using regenerative cell therapy in breast reconstruction. The goal of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the use of Engineered Fat Graft Enhanced with Adipose-derived Stromal Vascular Fraction cells (EF-e-A) in breast reconstruction. 121 patients that were affected by the outcomes of breast oncoplastic surgery were treated with EF-e-A, comparing the results with the control group (n = 50) treated with not enhanced fat graft (EF-ne-A). The preoperative evaluation included a complete clinical examination, a photographic assessment, biopsy, magnetic resonance (MRI) of the soft tissue, and ultrasound (US). Postoperative follow-up took place at two, seven, 15, 21, 36 weeks, and then annually. In 72.8% (n = 88) of breast reconstruction treated with EF-e-A, we observed a restoration of the breast contour and an increase of 12.8 mm in the three-dimensional volume after 12 weeks, which was only observed in 27.3% (n = 33) of patients in the control group that was treated with EF-ne-A. Transplanted fat tissue reabsorption was analyzed with instrumental MRI and US. Volumetric persistence in the study group was higher (70.8%) than that in the control group (41.4%) (p < 0.0001 vs. control group). The use of EF-e-A was safe and effective in this series of treated cases.
A Novel Segmented Structure and Control Method for a Permanent-Magnet Linear Generator to Broaden the Range of Efficient Energy Capture
Authors: Qiu Shuheng , Wang Haifeng
Published: April 2019

Wave energy, a high-quality renewable energy, is abundant in reserves and relatively stable. However, the wave energy power of the same sea area varies greatly in different seasons. The traditional linear generator cannot work efficiently in such a wide power range. This paper presents a segmented permanent-magnet linear generator structure, which is especially designed for the wave energy converter. This type of linear generator can match the wave energy power by increasing or decreasing the specific primary unit, making the generator more efficient over a wider range of wave power than the traditional type. This paper verifies the correctness by finite element analysis.
Biodentine™ Boosts, WhiteProRoot®MTA Increases and Life® Suppresses Odontoblast Activity
Authors: Paula Anabela , Laranjo Mafalda , Marto Carlos Miguel , Abrantes Ana Margarida , Casalta-Lopes João , Gonçalves Ana Cristina , Sarmento-Ribeiro Ana Bela , Ferreira Manuel M. , Botelho Maria Filomena , Carrilho Eunice
Published: April 2019

(1) Background: When pulp exposure occurs, reparative dentinogenesis can be induced by direct pulp capping to maintain the vitality and function of the tissue. The aim of this work was to assess the cytotoxicity and bioactivity of three different direct pulp capping materials, calcium hydroxide (Life®), mineral trioxide aggregate (WhiteProRoot®MTA) and calcium silicate (Biodentine™), in an odontoblast-like mouse cell line (MDPC-23). (2) Methods: Metabolic activity was assessed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide test (MTT)assay, viability by the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay, and the type of death and cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry. Alkaline phosphatase was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and dentin sialoprotein expression was assessed by immunocytochemistry. Mineralization was determined by the Alizarin Red S colorimetric assay and quantified by spectrophotometry. (3) Results: Life® induced a decrease in metabolic activity and viability, which is associated with an increase cell death. WhiteProRoot®MTA and Biodentine™ induced similar effects in cytotoxicity assays, with an increase in the expression of dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and formation of mineralized deposits, especially with Biodentine™. (4) Conclusions: The results of WhiteProRoot®MTA confirm its indication for these therapies, justifying its recognition as the “gold standard”. Biodentine™ may be an alternative, since they promote the same cellular response that mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) does.
Ordered ZnO/Ni Hollow Microsphere Arrays as Anode Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Shen Shijie , Zhong Wenwu , Huang Xiaohua , Lin Yan , Wang Tianle
Published: April 2019

Well-designed nanostructures are very important for the electrochemical performance of lithium-ion electrode materials. In order to improve the electrochemical performance of ZnO-based anode materials, ZnO/Ni composite film, assembled by ordered hollow microsphere arrays, is designed and fabricated by means of magnetron sputtering technique using a colloidal crystal template composed of a monolayer of ordered polystyrene (PS) microspheres. The ordered hollow microsphere structure as well as the constituent Ni component of the ZnO/Ni film show major advantages of homogenizing electrode reactions, enhancing electrode reaction kinetics and accommodating volume change of active materials, so they can reduce electrode polarization and stabilize electrode structure. Consequently, the resulting ordered ZnO/Ni hollow microspheres arrays deliver an initial charge capacity of 685 mAh g−1, an initial coulombic efficiency of 68%, and a capacity retention rate of 69% after 100 cycles, all of which are higher than those of the pure ZnO film. These results show progress in developing more stable ZnO-based anode materials for lithium ion batteries.
The Directional Solidification, Microstructural Characterization and Deformation Behavior of β-Solidifying TiAl Alloy
Authors: Cui Ning , Wu Qianqian , Wang Jin , Lv Binjiang , Kong Fantao
Published: April 2019

A β-solidifying Ti–43Al–2Cr–2Mn–0.2Y alloy was directionally solidified by the optical floating zone melting method. The microstructure is mainly characterized by γ/α2 lamellae with specific orientations, which exhibits straight boundaries. The β phase is randomly distributed in the lamellar microstructure, indicating that the β phase cannot be directionally solidified. The directional solidification of γ/α2 lamellae was not affected by the precipitation of the β phase. Hot compression tests show that the deformation behavior of the β-containing lamellar microstructure also exhibits the anisotropic characteristic. The deformation resistance of the lamellae is lowest when the loading axis is aligned 45° to the lamellar interface. Microstructural observation shows that the decomposition of the lamellar microstructure tends to begin around the β phase, which benefits from the promotion of a soft β phase in the deformation. Moreover, the deformation mechanism of the lamellar microstructure was also studied. The bulging of the γ phase boundaries, the decomposition of α2 lamellae and the disappearance of γ/γ interfaces were considered as the main coarsening mechanisms of the lamellar microstructure.
An Efficient Leaching of Palladium from Spent Catalysts through Oxidation with Fe(III)
Authors: Ding Yunji , Zheng Huandong , Li Jiayi , Zhang Shengen , Liu Bo , Ekberg Christian
Published: April 2019

Reclamation of spent catalysts for the efficient recovery of palladium (Pd) is gaining growing attention due to its scarcity and high supply risk. Currently Pd extraction from spent catalysts through an efficient, economical, and green method has remained a challenge. In this study, Fe3+ is utilized for leaching through oxidation of Pd in a mild condition. Before leaching, distillation was proposed to remove and recover the organics from spent catalysts. The effects of HCl concentration, Fe3+ concentration, NaCl concentration, leaching time, and temperature on the leaching efficiency of Pd were investigated to determine the optimum leaching conditions. The results show that Pd extraction and dissolution of Al2O3 increase with higher HCl concentration. The effect of NaCl on Pd leaching efficiency is significant at low acid concentration (2.0 mol/L HCl). The leaching efficiency was 99.5% for Pd under the following conditions: 2.0 mol/L HCl, 4.0 mol/L NaCl, and 0.67 mol/L Fe3+ at 80 °C for 90 min. The leaching kinetics fits best to the shrinking-core model of surface chemical reaction. The activation energy for the leaching of Pd was 47.6 kJ/mol. PdCl42− was selectively adsorbed by anion exchange resin. The filtrate containing adequate H+, Cl-, and Fe3+ was reused as leaching agent. Pd leaching efficiency was over 96% after five cycle times. This study provides an efficient process for recovery of Pd from spent catalysts.
Bioelectrochemical Properties of Enzyme-Containing Multilayer Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules Modified with Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Reshetilov Anatoly , Plekhanova Yulia , Tarasov Sergei , Tikhonenko Sergei , Dubrovsky Alexey , Kim Alexander , Kashin Vadim , Machulin Andrey , Wang Gou-Jen , Kolesov Vladimir , Kuznetsova Iren
Published: April 2019

This work investigated changes in the biochemical parameters of multilayer membrane structures, emerging at their modification with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The structures were represented by polyelectrolyte microcapsules (PMCs) containing glucose oxidase (GOx). PMCs were made using sodium polystyrene sulfonate (polyanion) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (polycation). Three compositions were considered: with MWCNTs incorporated between polyelectrolyte layers; with MWCNTs inserted into the hollow of the microcapsule; and with MWCNTs incorporated simultaneously into the hollow and between polyelectrolyte layers. The impedance spectra showed modifications using MWCNTs to cause a significant decrease in the PMC active resistance from 2560 to 25 kOhm. The cyclic current–voltage curves featured a current rise at modifications of multilayer MWCNT structures. A PMC-based composition was the basis of a receptor element of an amperometric biosensor. The sensitivity of glucose detection by the biosensor was 0.30 and 0.05 μA/mM for PMCs/MWCNTs/GOx and PMCs/GOx compositions, respectively. The biosensor was insensitive to the presence of ethanol or citric acid in the sample. Polyelectrolyte microcapsules based on a multilayer membrane incorporating the enzyme and MWCNTs can be efficient in developing biosensors and microbial fuel cells.
Characterisation and Performance Optimisation of WC-MC/M(C,N)-Co Hardmetals
Authors: Hochenauer Roman , Lengauer Walter
Published: April 2019

WC-MC/M(C,N)-Co hardmetals with 10 wt% Co were prepared in undoped, as well as in either Cr- or V-doped form. The starting formulations contained 5 wt% TiC or 5% (TiC+TiN), the latter with two different TiC/TiN ratios, and 10 wt% (Ta,Nb)C. For each composition, a low-C grade (Ms ≈ 75%) and a high-C grade (Ms ≈ 88%) was adjusted by C or W addition, to end up with 18 different hardmetal formulations, prepared in an industrial process. Model alloys, MC and M(C,N) phases with a composition reflecting the composition of these phases in the hardmetal were prepared, too. A variety of data was collected: binder phase and hard phase compositions of model alloys by wavelength-dispersive electron-probe microanalysis (WDS-EPMA), liquid phase formation temperatures in model alloys with free C and eta by differential thermal analysis (DTA), respectively, thermal conductivities of MC and M(C,N) phases and hardmetals by laser-flash temperature conductivity and heat capacity measurements up to 950 °C, crystallite-size distribution by electron backscatter diffraction EBSD, hardness HV30, Palmqvist-Shetty fracture toughness KIC, Weibull evaluation of the transverse rupture strength (TRS), oxidation resistance in air as well as milling tests on coated hardmetals with Ti(C,N)/Al2O3 and (Ti,Al)N layers.
Two Hydrothermal Events at the Shuiyindong Carlin-Type Gold Deposit in Southwestern China: Insight from Sm–Nd Dating of Fluorite and Calcite
Authors: Tan Qinping , Xia Yong , Xie Zhuojun , Wang Zepeng , Wei Dongtian , Zhao Yimeng , Yan Jun , Li Songtao
Published: April 2019

The Shuiyindong Gold Mine hosts one of the largest and highest-grade, strata-bound Carlin-type gold deposits discovered to date in Southwestern China. The outcrop stratigraphy and drill core data of the deposit reveal Middle–Upper Permian and Lower Triassic formations. The ore is mainly hosted in Upper Permian bioclastic limestone near the axis of an anticline. The gold is mainly hosted in arsenian pyrite and arsenopyrite, mainly existing in the form of crystal lattice gold, submicroscopic particles and nanoparticles. Fluorite commonly occurs at the vicinity of an unconformity between the Middle–Upper Permian formations, which is proposed to be the structural conduit that fed the ore fluids. Calcite commonly fills fractures at the periphery of decarbonated rocks, which contain high grade orebodies. This study aimed to verify the occurrence of two distinct hydrothermal events at the Shuiyindong, based on Sm–Nd isotope dating of the fluorite and calcite. For this purpose, rare-earth element (REE) concentrations, Sm/Nd isotope ratios, and Sm–Nd isochron ages of the fluorite and calcite were determined. The fluorite and calcite contain relatively high total concentrations of REE (12.3–25.6 μg/g and 5.71–31.7 μg/g, respectively), exhibit variable Sm/Nd ratios (0.52–1.03 and 0.57–1.71, respectively), and yield Sm–Nd isochron ages of 200.1 ± 8.6 Ma and 150.2 ± 2.2 Ma, with slightly different initial ε Nd ( t ) values of −4.4 and −1.1, respectively. These two groups of Sm–Nd isochron ages suggest two episodes of hydrothermal events at the Shuiyindong gold deposit. The age of the calcite probably represents the late stage of the gold mineralization period. The initial ε Nd ( t ) values of the fluorite and calcite indicate that the Nd was probably derived from mixtures of basaltic volcanic tuff and bioclastic limestone from the Permian formations.