bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evapotranspiração potencial (ETp) e real (ETr) para diferentes usos da terra em uma bacia hidrográfica no sul do Brasil
Authors: Gotardo Rafael , Pinheiro Adilson , Kaufmann Vander , Piazza Gustavo Antônio , Torres Edson
Published: August 2019

A evapotranspiração pode ser determinada por métodos diretos ou indiretos, sendo que sua verificação é realizada pela comparação com os dados medidos. Este estudo teve por objetivo determinar a evapotranspiração real (ETr) para diferentes usos da terra que compõe a paisagem agrícola da bacia hidrográfica do Ribeirão Concórdia, comparando com a evapotranspiração potencial (ETp). Os usos da terra analisados foram: agricultura, floresta nativa, pastagem e reflorestamento. A ETp foi estimada pelo método Penman-Monteith (FAO-56) a partir de dados de uma estação meteorológica de superfície, e a ETr determinada por equipamentos instalados em campo, como lisímetros volumétricos, calhas de escoamento superficial e interceptadores de precipitação abaixo do dossel vegetativo nas áreas de mata nativa e reflorestamento. A precipitação na região se mostrou desuniforme e com valores acima da precipitação regional, em função das chuvas orográficas ocorridas na região. A área de floresta nativa teve um volume de interceptação de 11,2% maior que a área de reflorestamento. As chuvas de até 6,5mm foram totalmente interceptadas pelo dossel vegetativo, enquanto no reflorestamento esse valor foi de apenas 2,1mm. O método de Penman-Monteith superestimou os valores de evapotranspiração em todos os usos da terra. O armazenamento de água no solo teve pouca variação em função do ciclo hidrológico ser um sistema dinâmico e entrar em equilíbrio ao longo do tempo. O escoamento superficial foi elevado nas áreas agrícola em função do manejo de solo adotado pelos produtores. O método do balanço hídrico se mostrou eficiente na determinação da ETr em uma escala de tempo decendial.
Indicadores edáficos para o monitoramento da recuperação de área de preservação permanente degradada
Authors: Pessi Dhonatan Diego , Claudio Aguinaldo Antonio , Weis Maíra Guarlot , Batista Natacha Gabriela Brun dos Santos , Barbosa Domingos Sávio , Silva Normandes Matos da
Published: August 2019

São poucas as pesquisas que trabalham a qualidade do solo sob o enfoque de recuperação de áreas de preservação permanente degradadas. Objetivou-se analisar os atributos físicos (densidade e umidade do solo e porosidade), químicos (pH e matéria orgânica) e biológicos (biomassa da serapilheira) em ambientes com três diferentes tipos de usos da terra (mata de galeria, unidade demonstrativa de restauração ecológica e pastagem) em duas profundidades do solo (0-10 e 10,1 a 20cm). O delineamento experimental foi o de parcelas subdivididas em blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições, num esquema fatorial 3x2, com 30 parcelas. A análise estatística se deu por análise de variância, teste de F e comparação de médias pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Avaliou-se que é necessário um incremento, em média, de 2,1% no teor de matéria orgânica e de 27,2% na produção de serapilheira, para que o solo da unidade demonstrativa de restauração ecológica (UDRE) se assemelhe à área de mata de galeria. Os dados fornecem subsídios para dinamizar o processo de recuperação ambiental da área de estudo.
A Prospective Observational Study on the Appraisal of Common Cause and Efficacy of Continuous Phototherapy in Patients with Neonatal Jaundice
Authors: Premsai V. , Ramya G. , Chowdary Y. Kavya , Hussaini Syeda Zaineb Humaira , Aparna C.
Published: August 2019

Background: Neonatal jaundice is generally harmless, but high concentrations of unconjugated bilirubin may rarely cause kernicterus. Hyperbilirubinemia is the most common cause of neonatal readmission to the hospital, in the majority of cases.

Aims: The study aims to determine incidence rate of neonatal jaundice as well as evaluate the commonest cause and determine the efficacy of continuous phototherapy.

Study Design: A Prospective observational study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Avis Ankura hospital for women and children. It is a well-recognized, authorized hospital where obstetrics and neonatal care is provided. The study was conducted between October 2018 to March 2019.

Methodology: The study was conducted in Avis Ankura hospital for women and children. It is a well-recognized, authorized hospital where obstetrics and neonatal care is provided. A total of 162 neonates were considered. Informed consent was obtained from all the subject’s care takers. Subjects enrolled in the study were admitted in NICUs’. This study appraises the conventional cause of NNJ, evaluates the efficacy of continuous phototherapy and detects the phototherapy induced adverse reactions by using Naranjo’s causality assessment scale.

Results: Among 162 patients, 94 patients (58%) were found to be males and 68 patients (42%) were found to be females. Low birth weight neonates (43.20%) were found to be more prone to neonatal jaundices. In this study, it was found that duration of phototherapy was longer in extremely low birth weight neonates (34 hours) in relation to birth weight and average duration of phototherapy. Based on the conventional cause, physiological cause (56.79%) was observed to be highest among other causes of neonatal jaundice. The short term adverse reactions due to phototherapy were identified using Naranjo’s Causality Assessment Scale. The TSB levels were increased before phototherapy (pre- treatment) and decreased after phototherapies (post-treatment) which were assessed by using American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines.

Conclusion: From this study, it was concluded that males were more prone to develop neonatal jaundice when compared with females. Physiological jaundice contributes majority of cases   among the total cases. The use of phototherapy was inversely related to gestational age and birth weight.
The Effect of Solid (Granular) and Liquid (Foliar) Fertilizers Application on the Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L) in Soils of Obubra, Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Akpa E. A. , Agah L. J.
Published: August 2019

The research was carried out in the month of April, 2018 to determine the effect of solid (granular) and liquid (foliar) fertilizers application on the growth and yield of maize in soils of Obubra. Five (5) composite soil samples were collected at the depth of 0-20 cm for the analysis of physical and chemical properties before application of the fertilizers. The experimental layout was randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three treatments and five replications in a plot area of 25 m x 20 m (500 m2) which corresponds to 0.05 ha-1. The plot was designed and blocked into subplots, each measuring 6 m x 4 m (24 m2). Each block was separated from the other with a distance of one meter (1 m) apart and between subplots 0.5 m apart. Three treatments made up of treatment one (T1) zero application at 0 kg ha-1, treatment two (T2) liquid (foliar) N.P.K 20:20:20 at the rate of 100 mil of N, 50 mil of P2O5, 33.3 mil of Mp ha-1 and treatment three (T3) solid (granular) N.P.K 20:20:20 at the rate of 44.4 kg of N, 40 kg of P2O5 and 33.3 kg of Mp  ha-1 were replicated five times making a total of fifteen (15) subplots. Parameters of plant heights and number of leaves were observed at 6 and 8 weeks after planting. Plant heights, number of leaves, number of cobs, weight of 1000 seeds in each subplot and weight of grain after shelling were analyzed respectively. Results on soil analyses showed that the soil texture was sandy loam with deficiencies in primary nutrients and other nutrients. On the plant heights, the result was significant (P≤0.05) and on the number of leaves, the result for 6 weeks was not significant (P≥0.05) while that of 8 weeks was significant (P≤0.05). On the number of cobs, 1000 seeds and weight of grain after shelling were also significant (P≤0.05). The solid (granular) fertilizer showed to be more effective than liquid (foliar) fertilizer and should therefore be recommended for the growth and yield of maize in the area.
Genital Tract Tuberculosis in a 42-year Female Masquerading as Ovarian Malignancy
Authors: Ebughe G. A. , Ugbem T. I. , Omoronyia E. E.
Published: August 2019

Female genital tuberculosis is one the known causes of infertility in the tropics. The symptom complex are diverse and it is one of the known causes of pyrexia of unknown origin. Instances of mimicry of ovarian cancer with raised CA125, have been reported. We present a case report in a 42-year-old woman with abdominal pain and progressive abdominal pain of 3 weeks durations, who had confounding symptom of raised CA125, forcing a presumptive diagnosis of ovarian cancer. She had exploratory total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH). The surgical findings and histopathological diagnosis were suggestive of tuberculosis, for which she is undergoing treatment and showing remarkable improvement.
Mathematical Modelling of Tungiasis Disease Dynamics Incorporating Hygiene as a Control Strategy
Authors: Mbuthia Faith Kabura , Chepkwony Isaac
Published: August 2019

Tungiasis is a disease that mostly affects the children,the disabled,alcoholics and the aged in Kenya and other parts of the world.Despite the intensive research that has been doneon tungiasis disease,the disease remains a threat in Muranga County.In this research, weformulated a model which is mathematical in nature and derived a system of ordinary differentialequations from it,which we used to study the dynamics of tungiasis disease, incorporating properhygiene as a control measure.The basic reproduction number, R0, is calculated using the nextgeneration matrix.We determined the equilibrium points of the model and also carried out theirstability analysis. From stability, both disease free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium points of the model were found to be locally asymptotically stable when R0 < 1 and R0 > 1 respectively.Numerical simulation of the model carried out showed that effective proper hygiene leads to afaster decrease in the spread of tungiasis.
Hemifacial Microsomia: A Mini Review
Authors: Sharma Shilpa Ashok , Patil Sayali Vikram Pagar , Mudhol Anupama , Shashidhar Jyothi
Published: August 2019

Hemifacial Microsomia (HFM) is a congenital anomaly involving embryological derivatives of the first and second branchial arches and characterized mainly by mandibular hypoplasia and unilateral or bilateral microtia; although, other facial structures may be affected. It may have long-term effects on psychological development and social well-being, due to unaesthetic facial appearance, functional disturbances and complex medical treatments.
Participatory Varieties Selection and Evaluation of Improved Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) On-Farm at Different Agro-ecologies in Wolaita Zones Southern, Ethiopia
Authors: Kiffo Birhanu Lencha
Published: August 2019

Aim: Ethiopia is considered to be one of the major producers of sweet potato and involves major lands for this purpose. Whereas, varieties of sweet potato that yields maximum are not yet known. So this particular study is aimed to identify the variety for high yield, quality sweet potato, as well as its quantitative evaluation to be done.

Materials and Methods: Area situated at Wolaita zone of SNNP regional state is considered as study venue; whereas the performance of fields is evaluated and specified the number of crop yield of that particular area.

Results and Discussion: Eleven sweet potato varieties and four local varieties were prepared for the preliminary evaluation. Observations came up with the following varieties namely OFSP1, Kulfo, Koka 6 and Hawassa 83 which were mostly preferred by farmers. Both sweet potatoes had high acceptability; with an average score of 10,11,12,16, (A) and 17, 18 19, (B) out of a maximum of 20, without any significant differences in preference. The varieties were divided into four sets, with each set having two test varieties and the check variety. This is to ensure that farmers will not have difficulty in evaluating and comparing too many varieties.

Conclusion: Variety of the potatoes that are preferred by the farmers is different from each other, which are come up with Participatory varietal selection (PVS) technique. So as differences in ranking are also preferred by them, which later ensure the genetically diverse factors and differentials in growing yield of the crops.
Determination of Hydro Geological and Petroleum Potential Using High Resolution Aeromagnetic Data, Over Matsina and Environs, Part of Nigerian Sector of Chad Basin, North Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Kasidi S. , Yusuf S. N.
Published: August 2019

Two dimensional spectral analyses of high resolution aeromagnetic data was carried out over matsina and environs North Eastern Nigeria to determine hydrocarbon and groundwater potentials. The analysis was done using Oasis Montaj version 8.2. The result obtained indicates the existence of two source depths. The shallower magnetic sources varies between 0.35 to 0.55 m and deeper magnetic sources also varies between 0.6 to 2000 m. The shallower magnetic sources could be as a result of basic intrusive within the Borno Basin, while the deeper sources correspond to the basement topography underlying the Chad formation. Comparing the result with what was obtained in Gubio, Maiduguri sub basin, it is apparent that the sedimentary thickness over Matsina and and Environs cannot be a potential site for oil exploration rather for ground water exploration.
Epidemiological Studies of Waterborne Diseases in Relation to Bacteriological Quality of Water
Authors: Abdulkadir Nafi’u , O. Afolabi Rebecca , M. Usman Hizbullahi , Mustapha Gani , A. Abubakar Umar
Published: August 2019

Aim of the Study: Waterborne diseases are global burden with the increase in a number of cases more especially in rural areas of developing countries. We investigated the epidemiological distribution of waterborne diseases and bacteriological quality of water in Bodinga Sokoto Nigeria.

Research Design: The study used a retrospective design and determined the prevalence of some selected waterborne diseases and sanitary inspection. An experimental design was used for the determination of bacterial pollution in some water sources.

Place and Duration: The study was conducted at the General Hospital Bodinga and Department of Microbiology Sokoto State University within the period of one year.

Methods: A retrospective data of health records were collected from an out-patient register in Bodinga General Hospital, covered a period of three years from January to December (2015 -2017). A number of samples of water were collected from different sources in Bodinga, Danchadi, and Takatuku and were analyzed using the standard method.

Results: We found the most common waterborne diseases in the area are dysentery, 517(40.7%) typhoid 375(29.5%), gastroenteritis 202(15.9%) and diarrhoea 105(8.3%), while skin infection and cholera account for 36(2.8%) each. We observed that the diseases are widely distributed in the rainy season with high occurrence of 732(57.59%) cases than a dry season having 539(42.41%) cases. Male are more prone to diseases with 706 cases than female having 565 cases and 25-above years, as well as Children below the age of 5, are more vulnerable to diseases with the occurrence of 481 and 331 respectively.

Conclusion: This study suggests a possible strong relationship between waterborne diseases and poor water quality which contributed to the spread of diseases in the study area.
Population Health and Trauma‐Informed Practice: Implications for Programs, Systems, and Policies
Authors: Tebes Jacob Kraemer , Champine Robey B. , Matlin Samantha L. , Strambler Michael J.
Published: August 2019

Population studies indicate that trauma exposure is ubiquitous and has a significant impact on health. Trauma‐informed practice seeks to address the health consequences of trauma through integrative responses that incorporate an understanding of the effects of trauma, the multiple pathways to recovery, and the potential for re‐traumatization. Current trauma‐informed practice considers trauma exposure an individual clinical problem rather than a societal problem with population health consequences. Population health refers to the aggregated health status of individuals who share some characteristic, such as trauma exposure, and includes the study of determinants that shape the distribution of health outcomes in specific populations. In this paper, we describe a population health perspective for trauma‐informed practice that complements the current clinical perspective, and then discuss implications of that perspective for programs, systems, and policies. We summarize essential concepts about trauma over the life course and describe principles of population health science relevant to trauma‐informed practice. We then discuss implications of these principles by identifying four priorities for trauma‐informed practice from a population health perspective: (a) adopting trauma‐informed policies to prevent trauma exposure and to foster resilience in the aftermath of trauma; (b) infusing trauma‐informed practice into everyday activities so it is a routine part of interpersonal transactions; (c) incorporating trauma‐informed practices into existing service systems; and (d) adapting existing treatments to incorporate trauma‐informed principles for population health impact.
Exploring Community Mobilization in Northern Quebec: Motivators, Challenges, and Resilience in Action
Authors: Fraser Sarah Louise , Hordyk Shawn‐Renee , Etok Nancy , Weetaltuk Caroline
Published: August 2019

Nunavimmiut (people of the land) are the Indigenous peoples of the northern peninsula of the province of Quebec. Communities of Nunavik and its regional organizations have been making concerted efforts in implementing community‐based strategies to support family wellbeing. These community strategies are grounded in many of the values underpinning community psychology: favoring empowerment‐oriented approaches, fostering community capacity, and transforming organizational cultures to allow for new modes of interaction, as well as new policies and practices that are grounded in community and culture. Despite the growing support and expectation for community mobilization, there is still very little research on the processes and challenges to such mobilization. In this study, we explored the unique challenges and facilitators to community endeavors in northern Quebec in order to better understand the complex dynamics and the strengths that Inuit build upon. We first used a focused ethnographic approach in the context of a 5‐year community mobilization project in Nunavik. We then conducted 12 individual interviews and two small group interviews with Inuit working on community‐based wellbeing‐oriented mobilization projects in four additional communities. Results expose how sociogeographical realities and colonialism influence the process of community mobilization. They also highlight the values and motivational factors that lead community members to move beyond these influences.
Organocatalytic Enantioselective Conia‐Ene‐Type Carbocyclization of Ynamide Cyclohexanones: Regiodivergent Synthesis of Morphans and Normorphans
Authors: Xu Yin , Sun Qing , Tan Tong‐De , Yang Ming‐Yang , Yuan Peng , Wu Shao‐Qi , Lu Xin , Hong Xin , Ye Long‐Wu
Published: August 2019

Described herein is an organocatalytic enantioselective desymmetrizing cycloisomerization of arylsulfonyl‐protected ynamide cyclohexanones, representing the first metal‐free asymmetric Conia‐ene‐type carbocyclization. This method allows the highly efficient and atom‐economical construction of a range of valuable morphans with wide substrate scope and excellent enantioselectivity (up to 97 % ee). In addition, such a cycloisomerization of alkylsulfonyl‐protected ynamide cyclohexanones can lead to the divergent synthesis of normorphans as the main products with high enantioselectivity (up to 90 % ee). Moreover, theoretical calculations are employed to elucidate the origins of regioselectivity and enantioselectivity.
Is cross‐lingual readability assessment possible?
Authors: Madrazo Azpiazu Ion , Pera Maria Soledad
Published: August 2019

Most research efforts related to automatic readability assessment focus on the design of strategies that apply to a specific language. These state‐of‐the‐art strategies are highly dependent on linguistic features that best suit the language for which they were intended, constraining their adaptability and making it difficult to determine whether they would remain effective if they were applied to estimate the level of difficulty of texts in other languages. In this article, we present the results of a study designed to determine the feasibility of a cross‐lingual readability assessment strategy. For doing so, we first analyzed the most common features used for readability assessment and determined their influence on the readability prediction process of 6 different languages: English, Spanish, Basque, Italian, French, and Catalan. In addition, we developed a cross‐lingual readability assessment strategy that serves as a means to empirically explore the potential advantages of employing a single strategy (and set of features) for readability assessment in different languages, including interlanguage prediction agreement and prediction accuracy improvement for low‐resource languages.
Definitions of “Metadata”: A Brief Survey of International Standards
Authors: Furner Jonathan
Published: August 2019

A search on the term “metadata” in the International Organization for Standardization's Online Browsing Platform (ISO OBP) reveals that there are 96 separate ISO standards that provide definitions of the term. Between them, these standards supply 46 different definitions—a lack of standardization that we might not have expected, given the context. In fact, if we make creative use of Simpson's index of concentration (originally devised as a measure of ecological diversity) to measure the degree of standardization of definition in this case, we arrive at a value of 0.05, on a scale of zero to one. It is suggested, however, that the situation is not as problematic as it might seem: that low cross‐domain levels of standardization of definition should not be cause for concern.
A comprehensive practical laboratory course on protein engineering: Evolution of a glycine oxidase variant active on the herbicide glyphosate
Authors: Rosini Elena , Pollegioni Loredano
Published: August 2019

Protein engineering represents a modern approach to generate novel proteins for the different fields of biotechnology. Here, we report about an 8‐day laboratory activity in which students generate enzyme variants to degrade the herbicide glyphosate. The students conduct a true research experiment in an important field (bioremediation by novel, engineered enzymes) and are introduced to widely used techniques in molecular biology and protein biochemistry laboratories. Based on a docking analysis of glycine (the original substrate) and of glyphosate into the active site of glycine oxidase, residues putatively involved in substrate selectivity are identified that will become the target of site‐saturation mutagenesis. Each group of students focuses on the library generated at one position and selects the most active variant based on colorimetric screening. Following protein overexpression in Escherichia coli, the selected glycine oxidase variants are purified and their kinetic properties on glycine and glyphosate assessed. The best variant identified by the whole class is then used for detecting the herbicide in water. With the help of the professor, students can improve technical skills, ability to evaluate results, team work activity, and critical thinking. © 2019 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 47(6):689–699, 2019.
What Do We Find Attractive about the Face?: Survey Study with Application to Aesthetic Surgery
Authors: Vučinić Nikola , Tubbs R. Shane , Erić Mirela , Vujić Zorica , Marić Dušica , Vuković Boris
Published: August 2019

The appearance of the face is one of the most important factors influencing our perception of beauty. However, few studies have attempted to quantitate what one perceives as beauty. Therefore, this study was conducted with the goal of providing physicians with anatomical data that demonstrate which facial traits most influence our perception of one's attractiveness. In the first phase of the study, faces of 60 participants (30 males and 30 females) were photographed. Next, the photographs were shown to another group of 120 study members (60 males and 60 females), who evaluated the facial features using a Visual Analogue Scale. The highest rated facial parts were then measured using the ImageJ program. In men, the most attractive parts of the face were Type 1:2 lips, a Type IV nose of medium width, blue eyes, brown hair, and a very narrow face. Among females, the most attractive parts of the face were Type 2:1 lips, Type III and V noses of medium width, dark brown eyes, blonde hair, and a narrow face. This is the first study in which the most aesthetically important facial parts have been comprehensively examined. The results obtained in our study show a higher degree of representativeness compared to other studies due to a different methodological approach and can be used as an aesthetic guide and can help in the planning of aesthetic surgery such as lip augmentation and rhinoplasty. Clin. Anat. 33:214–222, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Normal variations in position and relations of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel: A cross‐sectional observational study using clinical magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Sanmugalingam Nimalan , Rault Marcus E.G. , Toms Andoni P.
Published: August 2019

A standard relationship of the median nerve to neighboring tendons in the carpal tunnel has been described, but descriptions of normal variations are limited. The aim of this study is to describe the variation in position of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel and the variability in relation to adjacent tendons on clinical MR studies. A retrospective study was performed, analyzing 37 wrist MR examinations performed on a 3T MR machine. Primary endpoints involved measuring the four coordinates of the median nerve in relation to anatomical bony landmarks performed on a single‐slice image. The secondary endpoints were anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral relations of the median nerve. The mean distance from hook of hamate to trapezium was 21.8 mm with a mean depth of 9.6 mm. The mean position of the median nerve from the hook of the hamate was 12.5 mm with a depth of 2.9 mm. The most common radial relations to the median nerve in descending order of frequencies were FPL, FDS 2, and FDS 3, the most common dorsal relations were FDS 2 and then FDS 3, and the most common ulnar relations were FDS 3 and then FDS 2. The position of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel is variable both in ulna‐to‐radial and dorsal to palmar directions, and variations in relation to neighboring tendons are also common. Clin. Anat. 33:598–604, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel method with which to visualize the human sinuatrial node: Application for a better understanding of the gross anatomy of this part of the conduction system
Authors: Nooma Kunimitsu , Saga Tsuyoshi , Iwanaga Joe , Tabira Yoko , Watanabe Koichi , Tubbs R. Shane , Yamaki Koh‐ichi
Published: August 2019

For various clinical/surgical procedures, it is important to accurately understand the location of the sinuatrial node (SAN). Therefore, this study's goal was to develop a new and simple method to visualize the SAN in human hearts. A total of 16 formalin‐fixed human hearts were used in the study. After the epicardium was removed, the fat tissue on the myocardium's surface was brushed and removed in a solution of 40°C water with a surfactant to show the SAN's location. Once the structure considered to be the SAN was observed, histological observation was conducted with Masson's trichrome staining to confirm its identity. The working myocardium, SAN branch of the coronary artery, and the structure believed to be the SAN were observed in all specimens. Histological analysis confirmed this structure to be the SAN. We believe that the method described herein might contribute to a better understanding of the SAN's morphologic features and serve as an improved teaching aide. Clin. Anat. 33:232–236, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Side Variations of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Coronal Angles: Implications for ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Mayer Catherine , Barner Kyle , Lorimer Shannon , Tran Quoc , Baer Jacob , Keim Janssen Sarah , McCumber Travis , Wright Barth
Published: August 2019

Current literature has shown a biomechanical advantage of recreating the native coronal obliquity of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during grating procedures; however, the majority of studies on ACL morphological variation have been performed unilaterally. This cadaveric study aimed to evaluate sided ACL coronal angle of inclination variation including trend analysis with sex, age, height, and femoral condyle width. The ACLs of 57 embalmed cadaveric specimens were evaluated bilaterally for a total of 114 ACLs. The knees were flexed to 110°. A 0.70‐mm wire measured coronal angulation through the lateral tibial plateau and the medial ACL border. An image taken of the wire allowed digital measurement with the ImageJ software. IBM SPSS was utilized for statistical analysis. Bilateral measurements demonstrated a difference in an individual's sided ACL angulation (P < 0.001). Right‐sided angulation was greater in 61.4% (35/57). In cadavers with greater right‐side angulation, right ACLs averaged 66.2° versus left ACLs averaged 60.9° (P < 0.001). Cadavers with greater left‐sided ACL angles demonstrated average left ACLs measuring 65.5° versus right ACLs measuring 60.6° (P < 0.001). Right‐sided angles were greater in 69.7% of females. Understanding the anatomy of the ACL's native coronal angle and variations between a patient's knees is imperative during reconstruction surgery to aid in anatomic tunnel placement for improved knee motion and rotational knee kinematics following surgery. A statistically significant difference exists between an individual's right and left ACL coronal angles of inclination. Clin. Anat. 32:1102–1106, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of Co Supported on Co−Al Spinel Catalysts from Exsolution of Amorphous Co−Al Oxides for Carbon Dioxide Reforming of Methane
Authors: Wong Yee Jie , Koh Mei Kee , Khairudin Nor Fazila , Ichikawa Satoshi , Morikawa Yoshitada , Mohamed Abdul Rahman
Published: August 2019

In this study, redox exsolution method was used to synthesize Co/Co−Al spinel for dry reforming. The aim is to improve metal‐support interaction, which enhances the catalyst's stability and minimizes carbon deposition. The synthesized catalysts were observed as Co embedded on Co deficient CoAl2O4‐like spinel (denoted as Co−Al spinel). The reduction temperature was optimized at 750 °C. Investigations on the effect of Co loading revealed that optimum Co loading is needed to control the Co particle size, providing balance between limiting carbon deposition rate and preventing dissolution of Co into the support. The best performing catalyst, Co‐15, in which the molar ratio of Co and Al is 15 : 85 produced a stable 81.5 % and 87.4 % conversions for CH4 and CO2 continuously over 24 h of reaction time with 13.51 wt% of carbon deposition. The strong metal‐support interaction of Co and Co−Al spinel in Co‐15 stabilizes and prevents the sintering of Co particles, enhancing the efficiency for dry reforming reaction.
Bifunctional Ion Pair Catalysts from Chiral α‐Amino Acids
Authors: Wang Hongyu , Zheng Changwu , Zhao Gang
Published: August 2019

Asymmetric ion pair catalysis presents a powerful strategy for the construction of chiral molecules. However, the ion‐pair interactions are weakly directional and result in difficultly controlling the conformational constraint for high stereo‐ inductions. Based on the hydrogen bonding interactions, we have successfully designed and synthesized a new family of bifunctional ion pair catalysts derived from chiral amino acids via simple operations. With these chiral ammonium salts and phosphonium salts in hand, the enantioselective construction of C—C and C—X bonds was realized in our lab.
In Silico Design of MDM2‐Targeting Peptides from a Naturally Occurring Constrained Peptide
Authors: Ma He , Qiu Peiju , Harvey Peta J. , Li Xiao , Zhang Zheyu , Xu Qingliang , Liang Jiazhen , Kaas Quentin , Craik David J. , Yang Jinbo , Jiang Tao , Bi Xiaolin , Yu Rilei
Published: August 2019

Naturally occurring constrained peptides are frequently used as scaffolds for bioactive peptide grating due to their high stability. Here, we used in silico methods to design several constrained peptides comprising a scorpion toxin scaffold, a MDM2 binding epitope, and a cluster of positively charged residues. The designed peptides displayed varied binding affinity to MDM2 despite differing by only one or two residues. One of the peptides, SC426, had nanomolar binding affinity (KD=6.6±2.6 nm) to MDM2, and exhibited stronger inhibitory activity on the proliferation of HCT116 cells (p53‐wild type) and SW480 cells (p53‐mutant) than that of nutlin‐3a. Binding mode analysis of the designed peptide at MDM2 suggests that the conserved “FWL” epitope was buried in the hydrophobic binding pocket, and the residues located at the periphery of the binding site contributed to the high binding affinity of SC426. Overall, in silico design of miniproteins with therapeutic potential through epitope grafting to the naturally occurring constrained peptide is an effective strategy.
Local and global energies for shape analysis in medical imaging
Authors: Varano Valerio , Piras Paolo , Gabriele Stefano , Teresi Luciano , Nardinocchi Paola , Dryden Ian L. , Torromeo Concetta , Schiariti Michele , Puddu Paolo E.
Published: August 2019

In a previous contribution, a new Riemannian shape space, named TPS space, was introduced to perform statistics on shape data. This space was endowed with a Riemannian metric and a flat connection, with torsion, compatible with the given metric. This connection allows the definition of a Parallel Transport of the deformation compatible with the three‐fold decomposition in spherical, deviatoric, and non‐affine components. Such a parallel transport also conserves the Γ‐energy, strictly related to the total elastic strain energy stored by the body in the original deformation. A new approach is here presented in order to calculate the bending energy on the body alone (body bending energy) and to restrict it exclusively within physical boundaries of objects involved in the deformation analysis. The novelty of this new procedure resides in the fact that we propose a new metric to be preserved during the TPS direct transport. This allows transporting the shape change more coherently with the mechanical meaning of the deformation. The geometry of the TPS space is then further discussed in order to better represent the relationship between the Γ‐energy, the strain energy, and the so‐called bending energy densities.
Tmem2 restricts atrioventricular canal differentiation by regulating degradation of hyaluronic acid
Authors: Hernandez Lydia , Ryckebüsch Lucile , Wang Carole , Ling Rachel , Yelon Deborah
Published: August 2019

Background

Atrioventricular valve development relies upon the precisely defined dimensions of the atrioventricular canal (AVC). Current models suggest that Wnt signaling plays an important role atop a pathway that promotes AVC development. The factors that confine AVC differentiation to the appropriate location, however, are less well understood.

Results

Transmembrane protein 2 (Tmem2) is a key player in restricting AVC differentiation: in zebrafish, tmem2 mutants display an expansion of AVC characteristics, but the molecular mechanism of Tmem2 function in this context remains unclear. Through structure‐function analysis, we demonstrate that the extracellular portion of Tmem2 is crucial for its role in restricting AVC boundaries. Importantly, the Tmem2 ectodomain contains regions implicated in the depolymerization of hyaluronic acid (HA). We find that tmem2 mutant hearts exhibit excess HA deposition alongside broadened distribution of Wnt signaling. Moreover, addition of ectopic hyaluronidase can restore the restriction of AVC differentiation in tmem2 mutants. Finally, we show that alteration of a residue important for HA depolymerization impairs the efficacy of Tmem2 function during AVC development.

Conclusions

Taken together, our data support a model in which HA degradation, regulated by Tmem2, limits the distribution of Wnt signaling and thereby confines the differentiation of the AVC.
Long‐term outcomes in treated males with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa—A prospective, gender‐matched study
Authors: Strobel Christine , Quadflieg Norbert , Naab Silke , Voderholzer Ulrich , Fichter Manfred M.
Published: August 2019

Objective

We report on the long‐term outcome of males compared to females treated for anorexia nervosa (AN) or bulimia nervosa (BN).

Methods

A total of 119 males with AN and 60 males with BN were reassessed 5.8 ± 4.6 and 7.5 ± 5.9 years (respectively) after treatment and compared to matched female patients.

Results

At follow‐up, males with AN had a higher body weight than females. For AN, remission rates (40% males vs. 41% females) did not differ at follow‐up. And at follow‐up, more males (34%) than females (19%) had an eating disorder not otherwise specified (ED‐NOS; p < .01). At follow‐up of AN, there was no binge‐eating disorder (BED) and obesity was rare. For BN, remission rates (44% males vs. 50% females) and frequency of AN, BN, BED and ED‐NOS did not differ at follow‐up. Males with AN scored lower than females at follow‐up on most subscales of the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI) and on somatization, obsessive–compulsive symptoms, and depression (Brief Symptom Inventory). Males with BN scored lower than females with BN on perfectionism and higher on interpersonal distrust (EDI) at follow‐up.

Discussion

Results from the scarce literature on males with ED are inconclusive regarding longer term outcome. In the present study, males with AN showed a slightly better outcome than females. In BN, outcome was about the same in males and females. According to our study, existing treatment is equally effective in both males and females. Additional research on the need of gender‐specific diagnosis and therapy is required.
Halogen‐Exchange Fluorination of β‐Chlorovinyl Aldehydes – Unexpected Cascade Transformations in the Fluorination of 4‐Chloro‐2H‐chromene and 4‐Chloro‐2H‐thiochromene‐3‐carbaldehydes
Authors: Somasundaram Muthuramalingam , Garg Jai Anand , Naidu Shivaji , Ramkumar Venkatachalam , Saiganesh Ramanathan , Kabilan Senthamaraikannan , Balasubramanian Kalpattu Kuppuswamy
Published: August 2019

Halogen‐exchange (Halex) fluorinations in vinylic systems are rare; under controlled conditions, halex fluorination of vinylic aldehydes, 1‐chloro‐3H‐benzo[f]chromene‐2‐carbaldehyde (8) and 4‐chloro‐2H‐benzo[h]chromene‐3‐carbaldehyde (11) successfully furnished their respective fluoro exchanged derivatives 1‐fluoro‐3H‐benzo[f]chromene‐2‐carbaldehyde 9 and 4‐fluoro‐2H‐benzo[h]chromene‐3‐carbaldehyde 12. However, 4‐chlorobenzopyran‐3‐carbadehydes (3) underwent a novel cascade reaction exclusively via the fluorine exchanged intermediate to afford 2,3‐dihydro‐3,3′‐methylenebischromones (4). Under similar conditions, in a somewhat different manner, the thio analogous system, 4‐chlorobenzothiopyran‐3‐carbaldehydes (1) yielded 3,3′‐methylene bisthiochromen‐4‐ones (2) also in a domino fashion. Sterically hindered vinylic aldehyde, 4‐chloro‐2,2‐dimethyl‐benzopyran‐3‐carbaldehyde (18) exhibited a totally different behavior by affording a bicyclic benzopyran annulated bisacetal (19). The mechanism of these transformations has been investigated.
Myelin status and oligodendrocyte lineage cells over time after spinal cord injury: What do we know and what still needs to be unwrapped?
Authors: Pukos Nicole , Goodus Matthew T. , Sahinkaya Fatma R. , McTigue Dana M.
Published: August 2019

Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects over 17,000 individuals in the United States per year, resulting in sudden motor, sensory and autonomic impairments below the level of injury. These deficits may be due at least in part to the loss of oligodendrocytes and demyelination of spared axons as it leads to slowed or blocked conduction through the lesion site. It has long been accepted that progenitor cells form new oligodendrocytes after SCI, resulting in the acute formation of new myelin on demyelinated axons. However, the chronicity of demyelination and the functional significance of remyelination remain contentious. Here we review work examining demyelination and remyelination after SCI as well as the current understanding of oligodendrocyte lineage cell responses to spinal trauma, including the surprisingly long‐lasting response of NG2+ oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) to proliferate and differentiate into new myelinating oligodendrocytes for months after SCI. OPCs are highly sensitive to microenvironmental changes, and therefore respond to the ever‐changing post‐SCI milieu, including influx of blood, monocytes and neutrophils; activation of microglia and macrophages; changes in cytokines, chemokines and growth factors such as ciliary neurotrophic factor and fibroblast growth factor‐2; glutamate excitotoxicity; and axon degeneration and sprouting. We discuss how these changes relate to spontaneous oligodendrogenesis and remyelination, the evidence for and against demyelination being an important clinical problem and if remyelination contributes to motor recovery.
Inflammation‐induced mammalian target of rapamycin signaling is essential for retina regeneration
Authors: Zhang Zhiqiang , Hou Haitao , Yu Shuguang , Zhou Cuiping , Zhang Xiaoli , Li Na , Zhang Shuqiang , Song Kaida , Lu Ying , Liu Dong , Lu Hong , Xu Hui
Published: August 2019

Upon retina injury, Müller glia in the zebrafish retina respond by generating multipotent progenitors to repair the retina. However, the complete mechanisms underlying retina regeneration remain elusive. Here we report inflammation‐induced mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in the Müller glia is essential for retina regeneration in adult zebrafish. We show after a stab injury, mTOR is rapidly activated in Müller glia and later Müller glia‐derived progenitor cells (MGPCs). Importantly, mTOR is required for Müller glia dedifferentiation, as well as the proliferation of Müller glia and MGPCs. Interestingly, transient mTOR inhibition by rapamycin only reversibly suppresses MGPC proliferation, while its longer suppression by knocking down Raptor significantly inhibits the regeneration of retinal neurons. We further show mTOR promotes retina regeneration by regulating the mRNA expression of key reprogramming factors ascl1a and lin‐28a, cell cycle‐related genes and critical cytokines. Surprisingly, we identify microglia/macrophage‐mediated inflammation as an important upstream regulator of mTOR in the Müller glia and it promotes retina regeneration through mTOR. Our study not only demonstrates the important functions of mTOR but also reveals an interesting link between inflammation and the mTOR signaling during retina regeneration.
Dynamic functional connectivity states characterize NREM sleep and wakefulness
Authors: Zhou Shuqin , Zou Guangyuan , Xu Jing , Su Zihui , Zhu Huaiqiu , Zou Qihong , Gao Jia‐Hong
Published: August 2019

According to recent neuroimaging studies, temporal fluctuations in functional connectivity patterns can be clustered into dynamic functional connectivity (DFC) states and correspond to fluctuations in vigilance. However, whether there consistently exist DFC states associated with wakefulness and sleep stages and what are the characteristics and electrophysiological origin of these states remain unclear. The aims of the current study were to investigate the properties of DFC in different sleep stages and to explore the relationship between the characteristics of DFC and slow‐wave activity. We collected both eyes‐closed wakefulness and sleep data from 48 healthy young volunteers with simultaneous electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) recordings. EEG data were employed as the gold standard of sleep stage scoring, and DFC states were estimated based on fMRI data. The results demonstrated that DFC states of the fMRI signals consistently corresponded to wakefulness and nonrapid eye movement sleep stages independent of the number of clusters. Furthermore, the mean dwell time of these states significantly correlated with slow‐wave activity. The inclusion or omission of regression of the global signal and the selection of parcellation schemes exerted minimal effects on the current findings. These results provide strong evidence that DFC states underlying fMRI signals match the fluctuations of vigilance and suggest a possible electrophysiological source of DFC states corresponding to vigilance states.
Downregulation of microRNA‐135b promotes atherosclerotic plaque stabilization in atherosclerotic mice by upregulating erythropoietin receptor
Authors: Wu Bo‐Wen , Liu Yu , Wu Mi‐Shan , Meng Yun‐Hui , Lu Meng , Guo Jin‐Dong , Zhou Yu‐Hui
Published: August 2019

Atherosclerotic plaque rupture is an important pathophysiologic mechanism of acute coronary syndrome. Emerging microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the atherosclerotic plaque formation and macrophage autophagy during the development of atherosclerosis (AS). Hence, this study was conducted to explore the role microRNA‐135b (miR‐135b) in macrophages and atherosclerotic plaque in mouse models of AS. The expression of miR‐135b and erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) was altered in atherosclerotic mice to clarify their effect on inflammation, cell activities of aortic tissues, and macrophage autophagy. The obtained findings unraveled that miR‐135b was upregulated and EPOR was downregulated in atherosclerotic mice. Upregulated miR‐135b expression promoted cell apoptosis and inflammation, along with inhibited cell proliferation and decreased macrophage autophagy. Notably, miR‐135 was validated to target EPOR and activate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Moreover, miR‐135b inhibition attenuated inflammation, atherosclerotic plaque development, and promoted macrophage autophagy. Besides, the effect of miR‐135b inhibition was reversed in response to EPOR silencing. Taken conjointly, the study revealed that inhibition of miR‐135b promoted macrophage autophagy and atherosclerotic plaque stabilization in atherosclerotic mice by inactivating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and upregulating EPOR.
Delivery of long chain C16 and C24 ceramide in HeLa cells using oxidized graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Suhrland Cassandra , Truman Jean‐Philip , Obeid Lina M. , Sitharaman Balaji
Published: August 2019

The bioactive sphingolipid ceramide has many important roles in cell signaling processes, particularly in signaling programmed cell death in cancer. However, ceramide levels are often impaired in multi‐drug resistant and radiation resistant cancers due to the dysregulation of ceramide metabolism. Restoration of ceramide levels through external delivery therefore represents a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of resistant cancers. However, as a lipid, ceramide is extremely hydrophobic and requires a delivery system to enter cells. Here we report the development of a method to load significant amounts of the long chain C16 and C24 ceramides onto oxidized graphene nanoribbons (O‐GNRs) derived from carbon nanotubes. Using O‐GNRs as a delivery system for these ceramides, we were able to induce significant biological effects in HeLa cells in conjunction with C6 ceramide and ultraviolet radiation treatment. However, we found that O‐GNRs themselves exert significant biological effects and can interfere with the actions of these ceramides and ultraviolet treatment. Loading of ceramides onto O‐GNRs did not have a significant effect on the entry of the nanoparticles into cells. Despite the need for further improvement, these data represent an important first step in the development of O‐GNRs as a delivery system for long chain ceramides.