bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An alternatively spliced, non-signaling insulin receptor modulates insulin sensitivity via insulin peptide sequestration in C. elegans
Authors: Martinez Bryan A , Reis Rodrigues Pedro , Nuñez Medina Ricardo M , Mondal Prosenjit , Harrison Neale J , Lone Museer A , Webster Amanda , Gurkar Aditi U , Grill Brock , Gill Matthew S
Published: February 2020

In the nematode C. elegans, insulin signaling regulates development and aging in response to the secretion of numerous insulin peptides. Here, we describe a novel, non-signaling isoform of the nematode insulin receptor (IR), DAF-2B, that modulates insulin signaling by sequestration of insulin peptides. DAF-2B arises via alternative splicing and retains the extracellular ligand binding domain but lacks the intracellular signaling domain. A daf-2b splicing reporter revealed active regulation of this transcript through development, particularly in the dauer larva, a diapause stage associated with longevity. CRISPR knock-in of mScarlet into the daf-2b genomic locus confirmed that DAF-2B is expressed in vivo and is likely secreted. Genetic studies indicate that DAF-2B influences dauer entry, dauer recovery and adult lifespan by altering insulin sensitivity according to the prevailing insulin milieu. Thus, in C. elegans alternative splicing at the daf-2 locus generates a truncated IR that fine-tunes insulin signaling in response to the environment.
A novel origin for calcium selectivity
Authors: Suárez-Delgado Esteban , Islas León D
Published: February 2020

A native calcium ion channel has been identified in bacteria for the first time.
Holistic Environmental Approaches and Aichi Biodiversity Targets: accomplishments and perspectives for marine ecosystems
Authors: Dreujou Elliot , Carrier-Belleau Charlotte , Goldsmit Jesica , Fiorentino Dario , Ben-Hamadou Radhouane , Muelbert Jose H. , Godbold Jasmin A. , Daigle Rémi M. , Beauchesne David
Published: February 2020

In order to help safeguard biodiversity from global changes, the Conference of the Parties developed a Strategic Plan for Biodiversity for the period 2011–2020 that included a list of twenty specific objectives known as the Aichi Biodiversity Targets. With the end of that timeframe in sight, and despite major advancements in biodiversity conservation, evidence suggests that the majority of the Targets are unlikely to be met. This article is part of a series of perspective pieces from the 4th World Conference on Marine Biodiversity (May 2018, Montréal, Canada) to identify next steps towards successful biodiversity conservation in marine environments. We specifically reviewed holistic environmental assessment studies (HEA) and their contribution to reaching the Targets. Our analysis was based on multiple environmental approaches which can be considered as holistic, and we discuss how HEA can contribute to the Aichi Biodiversity Targets in the near future. We found that only a few HEA articles considered a specific Biodiversity Target in their research, and that Target 11, which focuses on marine protected areas, was the most commonly cited. We propose five research priorities to enhance HEA for marine biodiversity conservation beyond 2020: (i) expand the use of holistic approaches in environmental assessments, (ii) standardize HEA vocabulary, (iii) enhance data collection, sharing and management, (iv) consider ecosystem spatio-temporal variability and (v) integrate ecosystem services in HEA. The consideration of these priorities will promote the value of HEA and will benefit the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity.
A comparative study of machine learning algorithms for predicting acute kidney injury after liver cancer resection
Authors: Lei Lei , Wang Ying , Xue Qiong , Tong Jianhua , Zhou Cheng-Mao , Yang Jian-Jun
Published: February 2020

Objective

Machine learning methods may have better or comparable predictive ability than traditional analysis. We explore machine learning methods to predict the likelihood of acute kidney injury after liver cancer resection.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis cohort study. We reviewed data from patients who had undergone resection of primary hepatocellular carcinoma between January 2008 and October 2015.

Results

The analysis included 1,173 hepatectomy patients, 77 (6.6%) of whom had AKI and 1,096 (93.4%) who did not. The importance matrix for the Gbdt algorithm model shows that age, cholesterol, tumor size, surgery duration and PLT were the five most important parameters. Figure 1 shows that Age, tumor size and surgery duration had weak positive correlations with AKI. Cholesterol and PLT also had weak negative correlations with AKI. The models constructed by the four machine learning algorithms in the training group were compared. Among the four machine learning algorithms, random forest and gbm had the highest accuracy, 0.989 and 0.970 respectively. The precision of four of the five algorithms was 1, random forest being the exception. Among the test group, gbm had the highest accuracy (0.932). Random forest and gbm had the highest precision, both being 0.333. The AUC values for the four algorithms were: Gbdt (0.772), gbm (0.725), forest (0.662) and DecisionTree (0.628).

Conclusions

Machine learning technology can predict acute kidney injury after hepatectomy. Age, cholesterol, tumor size, surgery duration and PLT influence the likelihood and development of postoperative acute kidney injury.
Forelimb musculoskeletal-tendinous growth in frogs
Authors: Soliz Mónica , Tulli María Jose , Abdala Virginia
Published: February 2020

The tendons unite and transmit the strength of the muscles to the bones, allowing movement dexterity, the distribution of the strength of the limbs to the digits, and an improved muscle performance for a wide range of locomotor activities. Tissue differentiation and maturation of the structures involved in locomotion are completed during the juvenile stage; however, few studies have investigated the ontogenetic variation of the musculoskeletal-tendinous system. We ask whether all those integrated tissues and limb structures growth synchronically between them and along with body length. We examined the ontogenetic variation in selected muscles, tendons and bones of the forelimbs in seventy-seven specimens belonging to seven anuran species of different clades and of three age categories, and investigate the relative growth of the forelimb musculoskeletal-tendinous structures throughout ontogeny. Ten muscles and nine tendons and their respective large bones (humerus and radioulna) were removed intact, and their length was measured and analyzed through a multivariate approach of allometry. We obtained an allometry coefficient, which indicates how the coefficient departures from isometry as well as allometric trends. Our data suggest that along with the post-metamorphic ontogeny, muscles tend to elongate proportionally to bone length, with a positive allometric trend. On the contrary, tendons show a negative allometric growth trend. Only two species show different patterns:Rhinella granulosaandPhysalaemus biligonigerus, with an isometric and positive growth of muscles and bones, and most tendons being isometric.
The body plan ofHalszkaraptor escuilliei(Dinosauria, Theropoda) is not a transitional form along the evolution of dromaeosaurid hypercarnivory
Authors: Cau Andrea
Published: February 2020

The dromaeosaurid theropodHalszkaraptor escuillieiis characterized by several unusual features absent in other paravians, part of which has been interpreted as diagnostic of a novel lineage adapted to a semiaquatic ecology. Recently, these evolutionary and ecological interpretations have been challenged, andHalszkaraptorhas been claimed to be a transitional form between non-dromaeosaurid maniraptoriforms and other dromaeosaurids: following that reevaluation, its peculiar body plan would represent the retention of several maniraptoran plesiomorphies, lost among other dromaeosaurids, and not an adaptation to a novel ecology. This alternative scenario is here carefully investigated and tested. It is shown that most statements supporting this scenario are based on misinterpretation of anatomical traits and bibliography. Once these statements have been corrected, character state transition optimization over a well-supported phylogenetic framework indicates that the large majority of the peculiar features of theHalszkaraptorlineage are derived novelties acquired by the latter after its divergence from the last ancestor shared with eudromaeosaurs, and thus are not maniraptoriform plesiomorphies. At least seven novelties of theHalszkaraptorlineage are convergently acquired with spinosaurids, and are integrated in semiaquatic adaptations: one of these is reported here for the first time. The amount of morphological divergence of Halszkaraptorinae from the ancestral dromaeosaurid condition is comparable to those of Microraptorinae and Velociraptorinae. Among extant taxa, the sawbills (Mergini, Anseriformes) show the closest ecomorphological similarity with the peculiar body plan inferred forHalszkaraptor. The halszkaraptorinebauplanis thus confirmed as a derived amphibious specialization, and does not represent a “transitional” stage along the evolution of dromaeosaurids.
Novel association between TGFA, TGFB1, IRF1, PTGS2 and IKBKB single-nucleotide polymorphisms and occurrence, severity and treatment response of major depressive disorder
Authors: Bialek Katarzyna , Czarny Piotr , Watala Cezary , Wigner Paulina , Talarowska Monika , Galecki Piotr , Szemraj Janusz , Sliwinski Tomasz
Published: February 2020

Background

Activation of the immune system might affect the severity of depressive episodes as well as response to the antidepressant treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the occurrence of variant alleles of analyzed SNPs are involved in prevalence and progression of depression. Moreover, selected genes and SNPs have not been investigated in context of the disease severity and treatment. Therefore, six polymorphisms were selected: g.41354391A>G-TGFB1(rs1800469), g.132484229C>A-IRF(rs2070729), g.186643058A>G-PTGS2(rs5275), g.186640617C>T-PTGS2(rs4648308), g.70677994G>A-TGFA(rs2166975) and g.42140549G>T–IKBKB(rs5029748).

Methods

A total of 360 (180 patients and 180 controls) DNA samples were genotyped using TaqMan probes.

Results

We observed that A/G of the rs2166975TGFA, A/C of rs2070729IRF1and G/T of rs5029748IKBKBwere associated with an increased risk of depression development while the T/T of rs5029748IKBKB, T/T of rs4648308PTGS2and G/G of rs2166975TGFAreduced this risk. We also stratified the study group according to gender and found that genotype A/G and allele G of the rs2166975TGFA, G/T of rs5029748IKBKBas well as C allele of rs4648308PTGS2, homozygote A/A and allele A of rs5275PTGS2were associated with increased risk of depression development in men while homozygote G/G of rs5275PTGS2decreased this risk. Moreover, C/T of rs4648308PTGS2and A/G of rs5275PTGS2was positively correlated with the risk of the disease occurrence in women. Furthermore, a gene–gene analysis revealed a link between studied polymorphisms and depression. In addition, A/A of rs1800469TGFB1was associated with earlier age of onset of the disease while G/G of this SNP increased severity of the depressive episode. Interestingly, A/C of rs2070729IRF1and T/T of rs5029748IKBKBmay modulate the effectiveness of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors therapy. In conclusion, studied SNPs may modulate the risk of occurrence, age of onset, severity of the disease and response to the antidepressant treatment.
Flood Mapping of Fadama Areas in Ile Ife, Nigeria Using Geospatial Techniques
Authors: Adewoyin J. E. , Ogunyemi S. A. , Samson S. A. , Adamu M. O. , Fasote O.
Published: February 2020

Flooding is a serious, common, and costly hazard that many countries face regularly, therefore a global concern. Vulnerability to flood hazards is likely to increase unless effective flood mitigation and management activities are implemented. Flooding is one of the most common environmental issues in the southern and the eastern part of Nigeria alongside with deforestation and erosion.

There is need to have information on flood risk and basis for priority setting on political decision on risk mitigation and management of fadama farmers in the study area and since there is lack of information on these, hence the study.

The study mapped out fadama areas in the study area (Ife East and Ife Central), identified areas susceptible to flooding, studied the effect of flooding on fadama production in terms of economic and social implication and examined the mitigating efforts of farmers.

Eleven Fadama points were mapped out and almost all are in the low elevation (3.5–7.1% slope) which made them prone to/or at risk of flooding during high peak of rainy season. Majority of the fadama farmers have a means of militating against flood by dredging the water ways but no government intervention has been done to assist them. All Fadama farmers are literate, therefore any assistance by the government would be embraced and not misunderstood.
Factors Influencing the Lipid Content and Fatty Acids Composition of Freshwater Fish: A Review
Authors: Všetičková Lucie , Suchý Pavel , Straková Eva
Published: February 2020

Fish farming has a long tradition in Central Europe. Aquaculture is highly developed here and even so, freshwater fish meat consumption is still very low. Freshwater fish meat is an important source of n–3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), principally eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which have an indisputable effect on human health and prevent the genesis of human coronary disease. Previous researches revealed many aspects affecting the PUFA quantity. In general, the fatty acid composition of fish lipids affects age, seasonal change, nutrition, sex, reproductive cycle, geographical location, etc. This review represents a step towards the characterization of the fatty acid composition of economically important freshwater fish species from different points of view, including the above-mentioned factors and taking into consideration the way of stunning and differences of lipid composition in individual fish body sections.
Effects of Air Pollution on the Vital Capacity of Commercial Motorcyclists in Nigeria Population
Authors: Ezeja G. U. , Onwudiwe C. U. , Nwodo O. D. , Umahi-Ottah G. , Nwobodo N. D.
Published: February 2020

Background: Ambient air pollution is a serious challenge to human health in most West African countries including Nigeria.

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the effects of dust inhalation on the vital capacity of commercial motorcyclists in Abakaliki metropolis.

Methods: 200 subjects participated in this study, 100 commercial motorcyclists (test group) and 100 non-motorcyclists (control group). The mean ± S.D of their age, height and weight were calculated. Vital capacity was measured using a spirometer. A questionnaire and consent form was filled by every participant before the commencement of the study. A handheld laser dust measuring device called air sampler PCE-PCO 1 was used to analyze the quantity, quality and sizes of particulate matters present in the research area.

Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics; Mean and standard deviations were calculated and the Z-test was used to test if the mean were significantly different. Level of significance was set at 95%.

Results: The age of participants were within the range of 25 – 30 years. Commercial motorcyclists were exposed to particulate matter 0.5, 1.0 and 2.5 µm. The vital capacity of commercial motorcyclists was significantly lower than that of non-motorcyclists (p =0.01). Furthermore, a significant decrease in the vital capacity of commercial motorcyclists was observed when correlated with the number of years spent in the job (p = 0.03). There was also a significant correlation between vital capacity and hours spent per week among commercial motorcyclists (r = 0.245).

Conclusion: Commercial motorcyclists need to be encouraged to adopt respiratory health safety strategies like use of full-face helmets, practice of active cycle of breathing techniques and also, be educated on air pollution hazards by public health workers.
Mild and Regioselective Three‐component Heteroarylation‐Nitration of Alkenes with Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines and tert‐Butyl Nitrite
Authors: Zhang Jie , Xie Shentong , Liu Ping , Sun Peipei
Published: February 2020

An efficient and regioselective three‐component heteroarylation‐nitration of alkenes with imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines and tert‐butyl nitrite has been developed. The process tolerants a variety of functional groups under mild conditions in the absence of catalysts and additives to give nitro functionalized imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine derivatives in moderate to good yields. The reaction is also applicable for some other aza‐heterocycles.

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From Unipolar, WORM‐Type to Ambipolar, Bistable Organic Electret Memory Device by Controlling Minority Lateral Transport
Authors: He Waner , Xu Wenchao , He Huixin , Jing Xiaosai , Liu Chuan , Feng Jiajun , Luo Chunlai , Fan Zhen , Wu Sujuan , Gao Jinwei , Zhou Guofu , Lu Xubing , Liu Junming
Published: February 2020

Write‐once‐read‐many (WORM) memory behavior is often observed in polymer electret memory (PEM) devices, greatly limiting their overall performance. This paper systematically investigates the device physics of PEM devices with poly(α‐methylstyrene) as a charge trapping layer and pentacene as a semiconductor channel. The combined experiments on transistors, capacitances, and optical spectroscopy reveal that both the WORM memory behavior after negative and positive pulses and the gradual formation of memory after the continuous scanning are the results of the deficiency in minority (electrons) transport and trapping. Corresponding quantitative models are established and well explain the two‐stage, gradual trapping processes to form memory. By reducing the structural disorder and lateral channel length, ambipolar, bistable memory and much faster formation of memory window is obtained based on the same PEM device. The insights into device physics of PEM devices are expected to facilitate the design of organic, nonvolatile memory devices with high programming and erasing efficiencies.
All‐Hydrocarbon MEA for PEM Water Electrolysis Combining Low Hydrogen Crossover and High Efficiency
Authors: Klose Carolin , Saatkamp Torben , Münchinger Andreas , Bohn Luca , Titvinidze Giorgi , Breitwieser Matthias , Kreuer Klaus‐Dieter , Vierrath Severin
Published: February 2020

Hydrocarbon ionomers bear the potential to significantly lower the material cost and increase the efficiency of proton‐exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWE). However, no fully hydrocarbon membrane electrode assembly (MEA) with a performance comparable to Nafion‐MEAs has been reported. PEMWE‐MEAs are presented comprising sPPS as membrane and electrode binder reaching 3.5 A cm−2 at 1.8 V and thus clearly outperforming state‐of‐the‐art Nafion‐MEAs (N115 as membrane, 1.5 A cm−2 at 1.8 V) due to a significantly lower high frequency resistance (57 ± 4 mΩ cm² vs 161 ± 7 mΩ cm²). Additionally, pure sPPS‐membranes show a three times lower gas crossover (<0.3 mA cm−2) than Nafion N115‐membranes (>1.1 mA cm−2) in a fully humidified surrogate test. Furthermore, more than 80 h of continuous operation is shown for sPPS‐MEAs in a preliminary durability test (constant current hold at 1 A cm−2 at 80 °C). These results rely on the unique transport properties of sulfonated poly(phenylene sulfone) (sPPS) that combines high proton conductivity with low gas crossover.
Improved plant yield efficiency alleviates the erratic optimum density in maize
Authors: Mylonas Ioannis , Sinapidou Evaggelia , Remountakis Emmanouel , Sistanis Iosif , Pankou Chrysanthi , Ninou Elissavet , Papadopoulos Ioannis , Papathanasiou Fokion , Lithourgidis Anastasios , Gekas Fotakis , Dordas Christos , Tzantarmas Constantinos , Kargiotidou Anastasia , Tokamani Maria , Sandaltzopoulos Raphael , Tokatlidis Ioannis S.
Published: February 2020

Plant yield efficiency (PYE) reflects the ability of the single‐plant to respond to additional inputs and is fully expressed at the nil‐competition regime (an ultra‐low density to preclude inter‐plant interference for inputs). The purpose of this study was to determine if PYE could prevent the erratic optimum plant density–yield interaction effect in maize (Zea mays L.). Seven hybrids were evaluated across five environments at four densities, under both the normal‐input regime (NIR) and low‐input regime (LIR). Plant yield efficiency was measured at the lowest density approaching the nil‐competition regime (0.74 plants m–2), while crop (per area) yield potential was estimated at the highest density corresponding to the typical farming density in the NIR (8.89 plants m–2). In terms of optimum density, the hybrids varied extensively in the NIR (6.64–8.81 plants m–2) but performed similarly in the LIR (5.11–5.61 plants m–2). The hybrid displaying the highest PYE also had high harvest index (HI) and low anthesis to silking interval (ASI) and was proved the most stable according to various stability statistics including the genotype and genotype by environment (GGE) biplot model. In conclusion, crop yield by density interaction is a matter of hybrid. Hybrids with low PYE have inconsistent optimum density, which is a causal factor of yield loss in rainfed maize. High PYE improves hybrid flexibility and performance at low densities ultimately enhancing crop resilience to extremely fluctuating environments.
Virtual Texture Generated Using Elastomeric Conductive Block Copolymer in a Wireless Multimodal Haptic Glove
Authors: Keef Colin V. , Kayser Laure V. , Tronboll Stazia , Carpenter Cody W. , Root Nicholas B. , Finn Mickey , O'Connor Timothy F. , Abuhamdieh Sami N. , Davies Daniel M. , Runser Rory , Meng Ying Shirley , Ramachandran Vilayanur S. , Lipomi Darren J.
Published: February 2020

Haptic devices are in general more adept at mimicking the bulk properties of materials than they are at mimicking the surface properties. Herein, a haptic glove is described which is capable of producing sensations reminiscent of three types of near‐surface properties: hardness, temperature, and roughness. To accomplish this mixed mode of stimulation, three types of haptic actuators are combined: vibrotactile motors, thermoelectric devices, and electrotactile electrodes made from a stretchable conductive polymer synthesized in the laboratory. This polymer consists of a stretchable polyanion which serves as a scaffold for the polymerization of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene). The scaffold is synthesized using controlled radical polymerization to afford material of low dispersity, relatively high conductivity, and low impedance relative to metals. The glove is equipped with flex sensors to make it possible to control a robotic hand and a hand in virtual reality (VR). In psychophysical experiments, human participants are able to discern combinations of electrotactile, vibrotactile, and thermal stimulation in VR. Participants trained to associate these sensations with roughness, hardness, and temperature have an overall accuracy of 98%, whereas untrained participants have an accuracy of 85%. Sensations can similarly be conveyed using a robotic hand equipped with sensors for pressure and temperature.
Frontline treatment with the combination obinutuzumab ± chlorambucil for chronic lymphocytic leukemia outside clinical trials: Results of a multinational, multicenter study by ERIC and the Israeli CLL study group
Authors: Herishanu Yair , Shaulov Adir , Fineman Riva , Bašić‐Kinda Sandra , Aviv Ariel , Wasik‐Szczepanek Ewa , Jaksic Ozren , Zdrenghea Mihnea , Greenbaum Uri , Mandac Inga , Simkovic Martin , Morawska Marta , Benjamini Ohad , Spacek Martin , Nemets Anatoly , Bairey Osnat , Trentin Livio , Ruchlemer Rosa , Laurenti Luca , Stanca Ciocan Oana , Doubek Michael , Shvidel Lev , Dali Nagib , Mirás Fátima , De Meûter Anne , Dimou Maria , Mauro Francesca R. , Coscia Marta , Bumbea Horia , Szász Róbert , Tadmor Tamar , Gutwein Odit , Gentile Massimo , Scarfò Lydia , Tedeschi Alessandra , Sportoletti Paolo , Gimeno Vázquez Eva , Marquet Juan , Assouline Sarit , Papaioannou Maria , Braester Andrei , Levato Luciano , Gregor Michael , Rigolin Gian M. , Loscertales Javier , Medina Perez Angeles , Nijziel Marten R. , Popov Viola M. , Collado Rosa , Slavutsky Irma , Itchaki Gilad , Ringelstein Shimrit , Goldschmidt Neta , Perry Chava , Levi Shai , Polliack Aaron , Ghia Paolo
Published: February 2020

In recent years, considerable progress has been made in frontline therapy for elderly/physically unfit patients with CLL. The combination of obinutuzumab and chlorambucil (O‐Clb) has been shown to prolong progression free survival (PFS, median PFS‐31.5 months) and overall survival (OS) compared to chlorambucil alone. More recently, obinutuzumab given in combination with either ibrutinib or venetoclax improved PFS but not OS when compared to O‐Clb. In this retrospective multinational, multicenter co‐operative study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of frontline treatment with O ± Clb in unfit patients with CLL, in a “real‐world” setting. Patients with documented del (17p13.1)/TP53 mutation were excluded. A total of 437 patients (median age, 75.9 years; median CIRS score, 8; median creatinine clearance, 61.1 mL/min) were included. The clinical overall response rate was 80.3% (clinical complete and partial responses in 38.7% and 41.6% of patients, respectively). Median observation time was 14.1 months and estimated median PFS was 27.6 months (95% CI, 24.2‐31.0). In a multivariate analysis, high‐risk disease [del (11q22.3) and/or IGHV‐unmutated], lymph nodes of diameter > 5 cm, obinutuzumab monotherapy and reduced cumulative dose of obinutuzumab, were all independently associated with shorter PFS. The median OS has not yet been reached and estimated 2‐year OS is 88%. In conclusion, in a “real‐world” setting, frontline treatment with O‐Clb achieves PFS comparable to that reported in clinical trials. Inferior outcomes were noted in patients with del (11q22.3) and/or unmutated IGHV and those treated with obinutuzumab‐monotherapy. Thus, O‐Clb can be still considered as legitimate frontline therapy for unfit CLL patients with low‐risk disease.
Seasonal variations in physical activity and sedentary behavior among preschool children in a Central China city
Authors: Chang Zhenya , Wang Shuming , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Seasonality is an important factor in children's physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB); thus, the aim of this study was to explore the seasonal characteristics of Chinese preschool children's PA and SB.

Method

Preschool children (n = 65) from a kindergarten middle class in Changsha, the capital city of Hunan Province in Central China, were recruited, and a three‐axis accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X‐BT) was used to longitudinally track their PA and SB status. One‐way repeated‐measures ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) and Friedman tests were employed for analysis, with significance set at P < .05.

Results

The levels of both total of physical activity and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity were the highest in spring and the lowest in winter. The level of SB was the opposite, being the lowest in spring and the highest in winter, whereas there were no significant differences in light physical activity across different seasons. The seasonality of PA in preschool children may be influenced by several factors, such as gender, time period, preschool education curriculum, and weather conditions.

Conclusions

Seasonal variation in PA and SB are considered important for child educators, who should combine related factors to construct potentially ideal interventions to promote the PA of children during different seasons.
My life among the apes
Authors: Mitani John C.
Published: February 2020

I have spent over 40 years studying the behavior of our closest living relatives, the apes. In this paper, I review my research on the spacing, mating, and vocal behavior of gibbons and orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) and the vocal and social behavior of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). I devote special attention to results derived from a 25‐year‐long study of a remarkable and extraordinarily large group of chimpanzees that has recently fissioned at Ngogo in Kibale National Park, Uganda. I conclude with some advice for the next generation of field primatologists.
Divergent Biomimetic Total Syntheses of Ganocins A–C, Ganocochlearins C and D, and Cochlearol T
Authors: Shao Hui , Gao Xiaonan , Wang Zhong‐Tian , Gao Ziwei , Zhao Yu‐Ming
Published: February 2020

A divergent synthetic approach to six Ganoderma meroterpenoids, namely ganocins A–C, ganocochlearins C and D, and cochlearol T, has been developed for the first time. This synthetic route features a two‐phase strategy which includes early‐stage rapid construction of a common planar tricyclic intermediate followed by highly selective late‐stage transformations into various Ganoderma meroterpenoids. Key to the strategy are a bioinspired intramolecular hetero‐Diels–Alder reaction and Stahl‐type oxidative aromatization, allowing efficient formation of the common tricyclic phenol intermediate. A nucleophilic dearomatization of the phenol unit, combined with a regioselective 1,4‐reduction of the resulting dienone, enabled rapid access to ganocins B and C. Additionally, site‐selective Mukaiyama hydration, followed by an intramolecular oxa‐Michael addition/triflation cascade, served as a key strategic element in the chemical synthesis of ganocin A.
Improvement of adhesion properties of enzyme‐loaded coating on random packing in transesterification
Authors: Wang Honghai , Lu Yifan , Liang Jun , Duan Baoxuan , Li Chunli , Yin Yi
Published: February 2020

The stability of immobilized enzyme on packing is an important factor to limit the development of enzyme‐catalyzed reaction distillation. The modified sol loaded with Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) was fixed on random packing (316 L stainless steel wire mesh) by spraying method to form an enzyme‐loaded coating, which was applied to catalyze the esterification of ethyl acetate and n‐butanol. The addition of 1‐[3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ureido (UPS) enhanced the stability of the CALB, and the mechanism of its combination was explored from a microscopic perspective. And then, it was confirmed by scratch resistance test that adhesion of enzyme‐loaded coating in packing was improved 19%. The esterification reaction showed that the addition of UPS had little effect on the conversion rate while improving the stability of the coating. These results suggest that the effect of UPS treatment on the enzyme‐loaded coating performance significantly enhanced the long‐term effect of enzyme‐loaded packing.
Highly stretchable hydrogels for sensitive pressure sensor and programmable surface patterning by thermal bubble inkjet technology
Authors: Huang Zheguan , Feng Xiaoyuan , Zhang Tingting , Liu Zhibin , Zhu Bojie , Xie Yonglin
Published: February 2020

Hydrogels with tough strength, programmable deformation are crucial for their practical applications. In this work, we reported the preparation and the programmable shape deformations of highly stretchable hydrogel. The graphene oxide/polyacrylamide/sodium alginate composite hydrogel was prepared, its microstructure and mechanical properties were studied. An aqueous calcium solution was selectively printed onto the hydrogel surfaces using an inkjet printer, resulting in programmable deformation of the composite hydrogel by creating regions of swelling/deswelling when subjected to external stimulations. Next, we fabricated a pressure‐capacitance hydrogel sensor to demonstrate its application. Furthermore, the deformation rate and extent of the hydrogels can be controlled by adjusting the printing pattern position, number, length, and calcium solution concentration. Finally, several complex 2D and 3D shapes were fabricated by printing appropriate patterns on one or both surfaces of the hydrogel sheets.
Development and characterization of 17 microsatellite markers for Sonchus oleraceus
Authors: Kim Seon‐Hee , Kim Hye‐Been , Cho Min‐Seong , Kim Chang‐Seok , Kim Seung‐Chul
Published: February 2020

Premise

The common sowthistle, Sonchus oleraceus (Asteraceae), is a globally invasive weedy species. In order to investigate its genetic diversity, population genetic structure, and evolutionary history, we developed and characterized nuclear simple sequence repeat markers (SSRs or microsatellites).

Methods and Results

Seventeen microsatellite primer pairs were developed based on the Illumina sequence data. Ten developed SSR loci were polymorphic in four populations sampled from broad geographical regions. The number of alleles per locus ranged from one to 11, and the levels of observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.000 to 1.000 and from 0.000 to 0.801, respectively. Up to 82% of the newly developed primer pairs were successfully amplified in the congeneric taxa S. asper, S. asper subsp. glaucescens, S. canariensis, and S. palmensis.

Conclusions

The SSR markers developed in this study will be useful for future population genetic studies on S. oleraceus and other congeneric species.
Integrated bioinformatics analysis of the crucial candidate genes and pathways associated with glucocorticoid resistance in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Chen Yanxin , Jiang Peifang , Wen Jingjing , Wu Zhengjun , Li Jiazheng , Chen Yuwen , Wang Lingyan , Gan Donghui , Chen Yingyu , Yang Ting , Lin Minhui , Hu Jianda
Published: February 2020

Glucocorticoids (GC) are the foundation of the chemotherapy regimen in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, resistance to GC is observed more frequently than resistance to other chemotherapy agents in patients with ALL relapse. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the development of GC resistance in ALL has not yet been fully uncovered. In this study, we used bioinformatic analysis methods to integrate the candidate genes and pathways participating in GC resistance in ALL and subsequently verified the bioinformatics findings with in vitro cell experiments. Ninety‐nine significant common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with GC resistance were determined by integrating two gene profile datasets, including GC‐sensitive and ‐resistant samples. Using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and REACTOME pathways analysis, the signaling pathways in which DEGs were significantly enriched were clustered. The GC resistance‐related biologically functional interactions were visualized as DEG‐associated Protein–Protein Interaction (PPI) network complexes, with 98 nodes and 127 edges. MYC, a node which displayed the highest connectivity in all edges, was highlighted as the core gene in the PPI network. Increased C‐MYC expression was observed in adriamycin‐resistant BALL‐1/ADR cells, which we demonstrated was also resistant to dexamethasone. These results outlined a panorama in which the solitary and scattered experimental results were integrated and expanded. The potential promising target of the candidate pathways and genes involved in GC resistance of ALL was concomitantly revealed.
Local delivery of dinutuximab from lyophilized silk fibroin foams for treatment of an orthotopic neuroblastoma model
Authors: Ornell Kimberly J. , Taylor Jordan S. , Zeki Jasmine , Ikegaki Naohiko , Shimada Hiroyuki , Coburn Jeannine M. , Chiu Bill
Published: February 2020

Immunotherapy targeting GD2 is a primary treatment for patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma. Dinutuximab is a monoclonal antibody with great clinical promise but is limited by side effects such as severe pain. Local delivery has emerged as a potential mechanism to deliver higher doses of therapeutics into the tumor bed, while limiting systemic toxicity. We aim to deliver dinutuximab locally in a lyophilized silk fibroin foam for the treatment of an orthotopic neuroblastoma mouse model. Dinutuximab‐loaded silk fibroin foams were fabricated through lyophilization. In vitro release profile and bioactivity of the release through complement‐dependent cytotoxicity were characterized. MYCN‐amplified neuroblastoma cells (KELLY) were injected into the left gland of mice to generate an orthotopic neuroblastoma model. Once the tumor volume reached 100 mm3, dinutuximab‐, human IgG‐, or buffer‐loaded foams were implanted into the tumor and growth was monitored using high‐resolution ultrasound. Post‐resection histology was performed on tumors. Dinutuximab‐loaded silk fibroin foams exhibited a burst release, with slow release thereafter in vitro with maintenance of bioactivity. The dinutuximab‐loaded foam significantly inhibited xenograft tumor growth compared to IgG‐ and buffer‐loaded foams. Histological analysis revealed the presence of dinutuximab within the tumor and neutrophils and macrophages infiltrating into dinutuximab‐loaded silk foam. Tumors treated with local dinutuximab had decreased MYCN expression on histology compared to control or IgG‐treated tumors. Silk fibroin foams offer a mechanism for local release of dinutuximab within the neuroblastoma tumor. This local delivery achieved a significant decrease in tumor growth rate in a mouse orthotopic tumor model.
An immune relevant signature for predicting prognoses and immunotherapeutic responses in patients with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC)
Authors: Jiang Wen , Zhu Dandan , Wang Chenghe , Zhu Yu
Published: February 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are novel treatments that significantly improve the survival time of MIBC patients, but immunotherapeutic responses are different among MIBC patients. Therefore, it is urgent to find predictive biomarkers that can accurately identify MIBC patients who are sensitive to ICIs. In this study, we computed the relative abundances of 24 immune cells based on the expression profiles of MIBC patients using single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA). Unsupervised clustering analysis of the 24 immune cells was performed to classify MIBC patients into different immune‐infiltrating groups. Genome (gene mutation and copy number variation), transcriptome (mRNA, lncRNA, and miRNA), and functional enrichment were found to be heterogeneous among different immune‐infiltrating groups. We identified 282 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with immune infiltration by comparing the expression profiles of patients with different immune infiltration profiles, and 20 core prognostic DEGs were identified by univariate Cox regression analysis. An immune‐relevant gene signature (TIM signature) consisting of nine key prognostic DEGs (CCDC80, CD3D, CIITA, FN1, GBP4, GNLY, SPINK1, UBD, and VIM) was constructed using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and subgroup analysis confirmed that the TIM signature was an ideal biomarker for predicting the prognosis of MIBC patients. Its value in predicting immunotherapeutic responses was also validated in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort (AUC = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.63‐0.74) and the IMvigor210 cohort (AUC = 0.64, 95% = 0.55‐0.74). The TIM signature demonstrates a powerful ability to distinguish MIBC patients with different prognoses and immunotherapeutic responses, but more prospective studies are needed to assess its reliability in the future.
Characterization of Secondary Metabolites in Flowers of Sanguisorba officinalisL. by HPLC‐DAD‐MSn and GC/MS
Authors: Bunse Marek , Lorenz Peter , Stintzing Florian C. , Kammerer Dietmar R.
Published: February 2020

The investigations reported here focus on an in‐depth characterization of the secondary metabolite profile of Sanguisorba officinalis flowers. For this purpose, fresh flowers were extracted with MeOH/H2O and EtOH/H2O and the resulting crude extracts fractionated using CH2Cl2, AcOEt, and BuOH. Individual compounds were characterized by high performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometric detection (HPLC‐DAD‐MSn and GC/MS). MeOH/H2O extraction and LC/MSn investigations revealed the occurrence of flavonoid glycosides (quercetin, kaempferol), ellagitannin glycosides and four anthocyanins. Among the latter, two components, i. e., cyanidin‐malonyl‐glucose and cyanidin‐galloyl‐hexose, have not been reported for S. officinalis so far. Furthermore, phenylethylamine was characterized for the first time in Sanguisorba by pH value dependent extraction with CH2Cl2. In addition, AcOEt and BuOH extracts were analyzed by GC/MS both prior to and after acid hydrolysis of secondary metabolites. For this purpose, the extracts were treated with 1 n HCl solution (105 °C, 1 h) and derivatized with BSTFA. Analyses revealed the occurrence of several classes of phenolic compounds, such as gallic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid and ellagic acid derivatives. Additionally, the most prominent ursane‐type triterpenoid (ziyu‐glycoside I) from Sanguisorba and its corresponding aglycone isomers were detected and assigned based on their characteristic fragmentation patterns.
Drivers for Change in Higher Education
Authors: Maxwell Nan , Gallagher Sean
Published: February 2020

This chapter introduces the drivers for change in the credentialing market that has arisen in the new era of work and learning. It analyzes the factors that are driving interest in shorter competency‐based credentials, and identifies emerging trends that community colleges might consider when structuring their credentials.
Using Smaller Credentials to Build Flexible Degree Completion and Career Pathways
Authors: Perea Brenda
Published: February 2020

This chapter describes the role microcredentials can play within the context of guided pathways and degree completion, illustrated through three case studies of community colleges and systems.
Building a Consistent Terminology in the Market for New Credentials
Authors: Maxwell Nan , Gallagher Sean
Published: February 2020

This chapter proposes a glossary of terms related to the market for new credentials, based on established and emerging consensus definitions
Contemporary balloon aortic valvuloplasty: Changing indications and refined technique
Authors: Dall'Ara Gianni , Tumscitz Carlo , Grotti Simone , Santarelli Andrea , Balducelli Marco , Tarantino Fabio , Saia Francesco
Published: February 2020

Even if un to improve long‐term prognosis, balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) may be useful in selected patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis either as a bridge to surgical or transcatheter valve replacement (aortic valve replacement [AVR] or transcatheter aortic valve implantation [TAVI]) or as a triage strategy for patients with uncertain indications. International guidelines recommend BAV as: a “bridge” to AVR/TAVI, a “trial” in patients with undetermined symptoms, or a “bridge‐to‐decision” in case of comorbidities. However, in clinical practice, BAV is also used as a palliative measure to improve hemodynamics and quality of life in many patients who are excluded from AVR/TAVI. Finally, BAV is often performed during TAVI to facilitate prosthesis delivery, optimize frame expansion, or for bioprosthetic valve fracture in selected valve‐in‐valve procedures. Technical innovations, which allow for a mini‐invasive approach via transradial access and pacing delivered through the wire, have led to a decrease in complications over time. This review focuses on contemporary BAV with a specific emphasis on new indications, innovative techniques, and specific complex patient subgroups.
Kinetics of Photoinduced Reactions at the Single‐Molecule Level: The KACB Method
Authors: Kawai Kiyohiko , Maruyama Atsushi
Published: February 2020

The kinetics of photoinduced reactions can be approached by laser flash photolysis techniques. Although such techniques allow for a detailed understanding of the important photophysics of molecules, they normally require a substantial amount of sample for measurements (>1 nmol), and thus, they are difficult to apply to analytical and diagnostic applications. The photophysics of a fluorescent molecule can be accessed by monitoring the kinetics of the fluctuation of fluorescence, which is called blinking. Blinking is a phenomenon that can be monitored only if molecules are observed at the single‐molecule level. In bulk solution, blinking kinetics can be measured by using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), which normally requires more than 105 times less sample than that required for laser flash photolysis. Blinking is controlled to extract fruitful microenvironmental information around a fluorescent molecule, by using a method named kinetic analysis based on the control of fluorescence blinking (KACB). This Concept highlights the adaption of the KACB method to investigate the local conformation of DNA with less than 1 pmol of DNA sample.
A Comprehensive Study on Tetraaryltetrabenzoporphyrins
Authors: Ruppel Michael , Lungerich Dominik , Sturm Sabrina , Lippert Rainer , Hampel Frank , Jux Norbert
Published: February 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Lungerich and Jux at the Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuernberg. The image depicts the synthetic feasibility with a “TATBP tuning shop”, which shows the change of the four meso aryl substituents to modify the performance of the molecule. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201904718.
Surface‐Deactivated Core–Shell Metal–Organic Framework by Simple Ligand Exchange for Enhanced Size Discrimination in Aerobic Oxidation of Alcohols
Authors: Kim Seongwoo , Lee Jooyeon , Jeoung Sungeun , Moon Hoi Ri , Kim Min
Published: February 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are an attractive catalyst support for stable immobilization of the active sites in their scaffold due to the high tunability of organic ligands. The active site‐functionalized ligands can be easily employed to construct MOFs as porous heterogeneous catalysts. However, the existence of active sites on the external surfaces as well as internal pores of MOFs seriously impedes the selective reaction in the pore. Herein, through a simple post‐synthetic ligand exchange (PSE) method we synthesized surface‐deactivated (only core‐active) core–shell‐type MOF catalysts, which contain 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)oxyl (TEMPO) groups on the ligand as active sites for aerobic oxidation of alcohols. The porous but catalytically inactive shell ensured the size‐selective permeability by sieving effects and induced all reactions to take place in the pores of the catalytically active core. Because PSE is a facile and universal approach, this can be rapidly applied to a variety of MOF‐based catalysts for enhancing reaction selectivity.
Recent Advances and Perspectives in the Synthesis and Applications of Tetrahydrocarbazol‐4‐ones†
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Hu Xu‐Dong , Liu Wen‐Bo
Published: February 2020

Tetrahydrocarbazol‐4‐one represents a prevalent framework of numerous natural products and pharmaceuticals. This review summaries the recent synthetic progresses of this core structure, including Fischer indolization, oxidative and reductive coupling, α‐arylative cyclization by means of transition‐ metal catalysis or under metal‐free conditions, and other methods. The recently emerged enantioselective catalytic methods of tetrahydrocarbazol‐4‐ ones are also described. The mechanistic insights and applications of these strategies as a key step in the total (formal) synthesis of complex alkaloids are highlighted as well.