bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The nutritional importance of invertebrates to female Cebus capucinus imitator in a highly seasonal tropical dry forest
Authors: Bergstrom Mackenzie L. , Hogan Jeremy D. , Melin Amanda D. , Fedigan Linda M.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Invertebrates are important foods for many primates and provide valuable nutrients often unavailable from plant sources. We examine the diet of white‐faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus imitator) to determine: (a) timing and types of invertebrate food consumption; (b) whether invertebrate consumption varies with availability of plant foods; and (c) how invertebrates contribute to energy and protein intake of females during different reproductive states.

Materials and methods

We analyze 2 years of behavioral data from 25 adult female capuchins to determine which invertebrates are eaten. We describe annual and monthly invertebrate consumption patterns, and, employing circular statistics, analyze seasonal consumption of the four most important invertebrate groups eaten. We apply logistic regression analyses to tree density and fruit energy data to determine whether capuchin invertebrate foraging is related to fruit energy availability of their most commonly consumed fruits. We evaluate the nutritional contribution of invertebrates to energetic and protein requirements of females over time and across reproductive stages.

Results

Capuchins consumed invertebrates from 21 identifiable groups, but their diet was dominated by four orders: Lepidoptera, Orthoptera, Hemiptera, and Hymenoptera. All four orders were consumed in a significantly seasonal pattern, and reduced fruit energy availability was a significant predictor of increased invertebrate foraging. Capuchin females often required invertebrate energy intake to meet their overall monthly energetic needs, particularly while they were lactating, even though they appear to exceed their protein requirements every month.

Discussion

These results indicate that invertebrate consumption is critical for capuchin energetic needs, particularly during periods of reduced fruit availability and lactation.
Can patch size and patch distance improve the recolonization of mussel‐seed beds exploited for aquaculture?
Authors: Barrientos Sara , Barreiro Rodolfo , Olmedo Mercedes , Piñeiro‐Corbeira Cristina
Published: August 2019

Industrial‐scale exploitation of mussel seed from the rocky intertidal of north‐western Iberia is known to be detrimental for many organisms that live on or among the competitively dominant Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis).

Searching for practices that may ameliorate the damage caused by mussel‐seed harvesting, the influence of two properties of the exploitation (patch size and patch distance) on the recolonization of the intertidal assemblage was assessed using a split‐plot design, replicating the techniques used by professional collectors. Patch recolonization was monitored by monthly records of the cover of sessile and sedentary organisms within and outside clearings throughout the official closed season (7 months).

Patch distance and patch size had a moderate influence on recolonization. Regardless of size and/or distance, richness and diversity stayed below control values until the end of the study, whereas total coverage was significantly smaller in the smallest patches than in control plots, but it recovered to control values in medium and large ones. Patch separation had a mostly non‐significant effect on assemblage attributes, except for a slightly greater richness and diversity in patches cleared close together than when they were apart.

Larger, close patches were more readily recolonized than smaller, isolated ones, possibly because the neighbouring herbivores had a negative impact during the early recolonization of the open space during the season when the shore is closed to commercial seed mussel harvesting. Nonetheless, the recolonizing assemblage consistently displayed a distinctive species composition until the end of the study, in part because clearings favoured the arrival of early colonizers, such as Ulva spp., Chthamalus sp., or Porphyra umbilicalis.

The consistently distinctive species composition of the recolonizing assemblage suggests that time—a too short closed season—rather than patch size and/or distance is the major obstacle to a more complete recovery of mussel‐seed exploited beds.
Disordered Antigens and Epitope Overlap Between Anti–Citrullinated Protein Antibodies and Rheumatoid Factor in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Zheng Zihao , Mergaert Aisha M. , Fahmy Lauren M. , Bawadekar Mandar , Holmes Caitlyn L. , Ong Irene M. , Bridges Alan J. , Newton Michael A. , Shelef Miriam A.
Published: August 2019

Objective

Anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) and rheumatoid factor (RF) are commonly present in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) without a clear rationale for their coexistence. Moreover, autoantibodies develop against proteins with different posttranslational modifications and native proteins without obvious unifying characteristics of the antigens. We undertook this study to broadly evaluate autoantibody binding in seronegative and seropositive RA to identify novel features of reactivity.

Methods

An array was created using a total of 172,828 native peptides, citrulline‐containing peptides, and homocitrulline‐containing peptides derived primarily from proteins citrullinated in the rheumatoid joint. IgG and IgM binding to peptides were compared between cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP)–positive RF+, CCP+RF−, CCP−RF+, and CCP−RF− serum from RA patients (n = 48) and controls (n = 12). IgG‐bound and endogenously citrullinated peptides were analyzed for amino acid patterns and predictors of intrinsic disorder, i.e., unstable 3‐dimensional structure. Binding to IgG‐derived peptides was specifically evaluated. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay confirmed key results.

Results

Broadly, CCP+RF+ patients had high citrulline‐specific IgG binding to array peptides and CCP+RF− and CCP−RF+ patients had modest citrulline‐specific IgG binding (median Z scores 3.02, 1.42, and 0.75, respectively; P < 0.0001). All RA groups had low homocitrulline‐specific binding. CCP+RF+ patients had moderate IgG binding to native peptides (median Z score 2.38; P < 0.0001). The highest IgG binding was to citrulline‐containing peptides, irrespective of protein identity, especially if citrulline was adjacent to glycine or serine, motifs also seen in endogenous citrullination in the rheumatoid joint. Highly bound peptides had multiple features predictive of disorder. IgG from CCP+RF+ patients targeted citrulline‐containing IgG‐derived peptides.

Conclusion

Disordered antigens, which are frequently citrullinated, and common epitopes for ACPAs and RF are potentially unifying features for RA autoantibodies.
Controlling the multi‐plant networked system with external perturbations via adaptive model‐based event‐triggered strategy
Authors: Yang Pan , Feng Jianwen , Fu Xinchu , Xu Chen , Wang Jingyi
Published: August 2019

This paper concerns the multi‐plant networked control system with external perturbations by applying the adaptive model‐based event‐triggered control strategy. Compared with existing works, we introduce multiple plants topology in order to smooth the information exchanges among different plants. Gained insight into the adaptive model features in the view of event‐triggered thought, the event‐triggered rules, determining when the control inputs update, are obtained using the Lyapunov technique to reduce the communication cost. By designing some adaptive updating laws combined with the concept of event‐triggered, the unknown parameters in uncertain multi‐plant networked control systems are real‐time online estimated and adjusted with respect to the relevant nominal systems at event‐triggered instants. To avoid Zeno phenomena, a lower bound of event‐triggered execution interval is discussed. Furthermore, given the external perturbations,
gain stability theory is introduced to analyze the stability of multi‐plant networked control systems with bounded perturbations, and then the sufficient conditions related to the multiple plants topology structure are derived. Finally, a numerical simulation is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of our theoretic results.
Oseltamivir use in pregnancy: Risk of birth defects, preterm delivery, and small for gestational age infants
Authors: Chambers Christina D. , Johnson Diana , Xu Ronghui , Luo Yunjun , Jones Kenneth L. ,   the OTIS Collaborative Research Group
Published: August 2019

Background

Influenza infection during pregnancy increases risks for adverse outcomes for both mother and fetus. For this reason, treatment for infection or postexposure prophylaxis with a neuraminidase inhibitor, such as oseltamivir, may be needed.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2017, the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS) MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies enrolled pregnant women in the United States and Canada who were or were not treated with oseltamivir in a prospective cohort study. Data were collected on major birth defects, spontaneous abortion, preterm delivery, and small for gestational age birth size. Crude relative risks (RRs) or hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated together with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for these outcomes.

Results

There were 716 subjects available for analysis; 112 were exposed to oseltamivir sometime in pregnancy and 604 were unexposed. 2/30 (6.7%) first‐trimester‐exposed pregnancies resulted in a fetus or infant with one or more major birth defects compared to 48/604 (7.9%) in the unexposed cohort (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.19, 2.80). There were no spontaneous abortions reported. Risk of preterm delivery was not elevated in exposed versus comparison women (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.26, 1.63). RRs for small for gestational age infants on weight, length, and head circumference following oseltamivir exposure anytime in pregnancy ranged from 0.70 to 1.30 with all 95% CIs including 1.

Conclusion

We found no evidence of increased risks with oseltamivir for any of the outcomes evaluated. While numbers are small, these data are reassuring for pregnant women who need to be treated for infection or for postexposure prophylaxis.
Die Polarlehrer
Authors: Lehmann Rainer , Kallfelz Monika
Published: August 2019

Das Internationale Polarjahr 2007/08 ermöglichte Lehrkräften die aktive Teilnahme an wissenschaftlichen Polarexpeditionen in die Arktis und Antarktis. Diese Art von Fortbildung führte zu unmittelbaren Erfahrungen, die hautnah Schülerinnen und Schülern vermittelt wurden. Sie ist Teil des Arbeitskreises Polarlehrer der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Polarforschung. Zudem initiieren Polarlehrer auch unterschiedlichste Polar‐Projekte für die junge Generation an ihren Schulen. Sie tauschen sich auf Arbeitskreis‐Treffen aus, pflegen die Zusammenarbeit mit Wissenschaftlern und publizieren Unterrichtsmaterialien. Ziel ist die Vermittlung aktueller Forschungsfragen, ‐methoden und ‐ergebnisse. Sie sollen die Kompetenzen der Schülerinnen und Schüler zum Klimawandel und den besonders betroffenen Polarregionen fördern.
Mikroplastik als Gesundheitsgefahr für den Menschen
Authors: Naegelen Isabelle
Published: August 2019

Erst kürzlich, im Oktober des vergangenen Jahres, haben Forscher Mikroplastik in menschlichen Stuhlproben nachgewiesen. Obwohl zu diesem Zeitpunkt noch nicht viele Erkenntnisse zum Thema Mikroplastik im Menschen vorlagen, hat diese Schlagzeile weithin schockiert. Denn die Belastung von Mikroplastik ist heute in unserer Umwelt überall vorzufinden: in unserer Atemluft, in unserem landwirtschaftlichen Boden und in unserem Grundwasser.
Das Laufrad‐Essay – Laufen für die Forschung
Authors: Weinand Selina
Published: August 2019

Die innere Uhr ist nicht nur bei uns Menschen für die Steuerung der physiologischen Prozesse verantwortlich, sondern wahrscheinlichin allen Organismen der Welt! Bekannt ist, dass das sogenannte Schrittmacherzentrum im Gehirn liegt und von Lichteinstrahlung beeinflusst wird. Dieses Schrittmacherzentrum erhält Eingänge, die die Informationen über den Licht‐Dunkel‐Wechsel weitergeben, und besitzt Ausgänge zu Effektor‐Organen, die dann die Aktivität steuern. Mit Hilfe eines Laufrad‐Essays können Informationen über das Schrittmacherzentrum in Erfahrung gebracht werden.
Polyphenol Characterization, Antioxidant and Skin Whitening Properties of Alnus cordata Stem Bark
Authors: Smeriglio Antonella , D'Angelo Valeria , Denaro Marcella , Trombetta Domenico , Raimondo Francesco Maria , Germanò Maria Paola
Published: August 2019

In this study, we investigated the phenolic composition of the crude extract (MeOH 80 %) of Alnus cordata (Loisel.) Duby stem bark (ACE) and its antioxidant and skin whitening properties. RP‐LC‐DAD analysis showed a high content of hydroxycinnamic acids (47.64 %), flavanones (26.74 %) and diarylheptanoids (17.69 %). Furthermore, ACE exhibited a dose‐dependent antioxidant and free‐radical scavenging activity, expressed as half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50): Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC, IC50 1.78 μg mL−1)>Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC, IC50 3.47 μg mL−1)>2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH, IC50 5.83 μg mL−1)>β‐carotene bleaching (IC50 11.58 μg mL−1)>Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP, IC50 17.28 μg mL−1). Moreover, ACE was able to inhibit in vitro tyrosinase activity (IC50 77.44 μg mL−1), l‐DOPA auto‐oxidation (IC50 39.58 μg mL−1) and in an in vivo model it exhibited bleaching effects on the pigmentation of zebrafish embryos (72 h post fertilization) without affecting their development and survival. In conclusion, results show that A. cordata stem bark may be considered a potential source of agents for the treatment of skin disorders due to its bleaching properties and favorable safety profiles, associated to a good antioxidant power.
Influence of the facility caseload on the subsequent survival of men with localized prostate cancer undergoing radical prostatectomy
Authors: Barzi Afsaneh , Lara Primo N. , Tsao‐Wei Denice , Yang Dongyun , Gill Inderbir S. , Daneshmand Siamak , Klein Eric A. , Pinski Jacek K. , Penson David F. , Quinn David I. , Sadeghi Sarmad
Published: August 2019

Background

Several studies have investigated the relationship between experience measured by caseload and oncological outcomes, economics, and access to care for prostate cancer care. Oncological outcomes have been limited to biochemical failure after radical prostatectomy. Questions remain regarding the more definitive measures of outcomes and their relationship with caseload.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was used to investigate the outcomes of radical prostatectomy in the United States. With overall survival (OS) as the primary outcome, the relationship between the facility annual caseload (FAC) for all prostate cancer encounters and the facility annual surgical caseload (FASC) for those requiring radical prostatectomy was examined with a Cox proportional hazards model. Four volume groups were defined by caseload: <50th percentile (volume group 1 [VG1]), 50th to 74th percentiles (volume group 2 [VG2]), 75th to 89th percentiles (volume group 3 [VG3]), and ≥90th percentile (volume group 4 [VG4]). By FAC/FASC, 11%/8%, 17%/18%, 25%/26%, and 47%/49% of patients were treated in VG1 through VG4, respectively.

Results

Between 2004 and 2014, 488,389 patients underwent radical prostatectomy. At a median follow‐up of 60.75 months, the median OS was not reached. There was a significant OS benefit as the caseload increased. For FAC, the adjusted OS difference between VG1 and VG4 at 90th percentile survivorship reached 13.2 months (hazard ratio [HR], 1.30; 95% CI, 1.23‐1.36; P < .0001). For FASC, this was 11.3 months (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.192‐1.321; P < .0001).

Conclusions

There is a statistically significant OS advantage from performing radical prostatectomy at a facility with a high annual caseload. Caseload measured by all prostate cancer encounters is a better predictor of favorable outcomes than the number of surgeries performed at a facility.

Lay Summary

An in‐depth analysis of 488,389 cases of radical prostatectomy performed in more than 1000 facilities over a 10‐year period showed better survival when surgery was performed in facilities with more experience and greater caseload.

A survival difference of up to 13 months was observed when comparing patients treated at less experienced versus more experienced centers.  

Experience across all stages of prostate cancer was a stronger predictor of survival outcome than just the number of surgeries performed.
Race and delays in breast cancer treatment across the care continuum in the Carolina Breast Cancer Study
Authors: Reeder‐Hayes Katherine E. , Mayer Sophie E. , Olshan Andrew F. , Wheeler Stephanie B. , Carey Lisa A. , Tse Chiu‐Kit , Bell Mary Elizabeth , Troester Melissa A.
Published: August 2019

Background

After controlling for baseline disease factors, researchers have found that black women have worse breast cancer survival, and this suggests that treatment differences may contribute to poorer outcomes. Delays in initiating and completing treatment are one proposed mechanism.

Methods

Phase 3 of the Carolina Breast Cancer Study involved a large, population‐based cohort of women with incident breast cancer. For this analysis, we included black women (n = 1328) and white women (n = 1331) with stage I to III disease whose treatment included surgery with or without adjuvant therapies. A novel treatment pathway grouping was used to benchmark the treatment duration (surgery only, surgery plus chemotherapy, surgery plus radiation, or all 3). Models controlled for the treatment pathway, age, and tumor characteristics and for demographic factors related to health care access. Exploratory analyses of the association between delays and cancer recurrence were performed.

Results

In fully adjusted analyses, blacks had 1.73 times higher odds of treatment initiation more than 60 days after their diagnosis in comparison with whites (odds ratio [OR], 1.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04‐2.90). Black race was also associated with a longer treatment duration. Blacks were also more likely to be in the highest quartile of treatment duration (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.41‐2.02), even after adjustments for demographic and tumor characteristics (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.04‐1.64). A nonsignificant trend toward a higher recurrence risk was observed for patients with delayed initiation (hazard ratio, 1.44; 95% CI, 0.89‐2.33) or the longest duration (hazard ratio, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.87‐1.59).

Conclusions

Black women more often had delayed treatment initiation and a longer duration than whites receiving similar treatment. Interventions that target access barriers may be needed to improve timely delivery of care.
Impact of baseline coronary flow and its distribution on fractional flow reserve prediction
Authors: Müller Lucas O. , Fossan Fredrik E. , Bråten Anders T. , Jørgensen Arve , Wiseth Rune , Hellevik Leif R.
Published: August 2019

Model‐based prediction of fractional flow reserve (FFR) in the context of stable coronary artery disease (CAD) diagnosis requires a number of modelling assumptions. One of these assumptions is the definition of a baseline coronary flow, ie, total coronary flow at rest prior to the administration of drugs needed to perform invasive measurements. Here we explore the impact of several methods available in the literature to estimate and distribute baseline coronary flow on FFR predictions obtained with a reduced‐order model. We consider 63 patients with suspected stable CAD, for a total of 105 invasive FFR measurements. First, we improve a reduced‐order model with respect to previous results and validate its performance versus results obtained with a 3D model. Next, we assess the impact of a wide range of methods to impose and distribute baseline coronary flow on FFR prediction, which proved to have a significant impact on diagnostic performance. However, none of the proposed methods resulted in a significant improvement of prediction error standard deviation. Finally, we show that intrinsic uncertainties related to stenosis geometry and the effect of hyperemic inducing drugs have to be addressed in order to improve FFR prediction accuracy.
Regional difference in microRNA regulation in the skull vault
Authors: Chen Guiqian , Yao Yifeng , Xu Guangtao , Zhang Xingen
Published: August 2019

Background

The murine calvaria has several membrane bones with different tissue origins (e.g., neural crest‐derived frontal bone vs. mesoderm‐derived parietal bone). Neural crest‐derived frontal bone exhibits superior osteogenic activities and bone regeneration. MicroRNA (miRNA) has been emerged as a crucial regulator during organogenesis and is involved in a range of developmental processes. However, the underlying roles of miRNA regulation in frontal bone and parietal bone is unknown.

Results

Total of 83 significantly expressed known miRNAs were identified in frontal bones versus parietal bones. The significantly enriched gene ontology and KEGG pathway that were predicted by the enrichment miRNAs were involved in several biological processes (cell differentiation, cell adhesion, and transcription), and multiple osteogenic pathways (e.g., focal adhesion, MAPK, VEGF, Wnt, and insulin signaling pathway. Focal adhesion and insulin signaling pathway were selected for target verification and functional analysis, and several genes were predicted to be targets genes by the differentially expressed miRNAs, and these targets genes were tested with significant expressions.

Conclusions

Our results revealed a novel pattern of miRNAs in murine calvaria with dual tissue origins, and explorations of these miRNAs will be valuable for the translational studies to enhance osteogenic potential and bone regeneration in the clinic.
Floristic Quality Assessment: a critique, a defense, and a primer
Authors: Spyreas Greg
Published: August 2019

Floristic Quality Assessment (FQA) measures have become extraordinarily influential ecological metrics in North America over the past 20 yr. Government agencies, conservation organizations, land managers, and researchers alike utilize this plant‐based measure to evaluate habitat conservation value, ecological integrity, and naturalness. Its relative uniqueness, utility, and ease of use, among vegetation measures, portend the continued popularity of FQA going forward. FQA's use and influence far exceeds its study—where the literature addressing questions and criticisms regarding its methodology and ecological meaning has not kept pace with reliance upon it. Furthermore, the lack of literature review has led to disorder and confusion among its users. This review addresses these issues in three parts. First, it concisely explains the metrics and their methods, and most importantly, it synthesizes the often‐misinterpreted conceptual basis behind FQA. The bulk of the review then tackles common questions from researchers and non‐technical users alike regarding the measures. It does this with two lists. The first list reviews FQA's most common criticisms and summarizes evidence for and against them. The second list confronts the most common mistakes surrounding FQA, regarding both its application and misunderstanding in the literature. In each instance, straightforward guidelines and answers to uncertainties are emphasized.
Evaluation of pyruvate decarboxylase‐negative Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains for the production of succinic acid
Authors: Zahoor Ahmed , Küttner Felix T. F. , Blank Lars M. , Ebert Birgitta E.
Published: August 2019

Dicarboxylic acids are important bio‐based building blocks, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae is postulated to be an advantageous host for their fermentative production. Here, we engineered a pyruvate decarboxylase‐negative S. cerevisiae strain for succinic acid production to exploit its promising properties, that is, lack of ethanol production and accumulation of the precursor pyruvate. The metabolic engineering steps included genomic integration of a biosynthesis pathway based on the reductive branch of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and a dicarboxylic acid transporter. Further modifications were the combined deletion of GPD1 and FUM1 and multi‐copy integration of the native PYC2 gene, encoding a pyruvate carboxylase required to drain pyruvate into the synthesis pathway. The effect of increased redox cofactor supply was tested by modulating oxygen limitation and supplementing formate. The physiologic analysis of the differently engineered strains focused on elucidating metabolic bottlenecks. The data not only highlight the importance of a balanced activity of pathway enzymes and selective export systems but also shows the importance to find an optimal trade‐off between redox cofactor supply and energy availability in the form of ATP.
Numerical investigation of thermal performance of single‐walled carbon nanotube nanofluid under turbulent flow conditions
Authors: Fadodun Olatomide Gbenga , Amosun Adebimpe Amos , Salau Ayodeji Olalekan , Ogundeji Johnson Ayodeji
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a numerical study is performed to investigate the effect of Reynolds number and nanoparticle concentration on the thermal performance of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) nanofluids flowing through a straight pipe with constant heat flux in a turbulent flow regime. The governing equations (continuity, momentum, energy, rate of turbulent production, and rate of turbulent dissipation) are solved using a computational fluid dynamic approach (ie, finite volume method). In the sensitivity analysis, the Reynolds number is varied between (10 000‐200 000) and nanoparticle concentration between (0%‐0.25%). The simulation results show that convective heat transfer (average Nusselt number) increases by 7.48% while the pressure drop and pumping power increase by 119% and 199%, respectively. In addition, at low Reynolds number (104), increase in nanoparticle concentration (0%‐0.25%) decreases entropy production rate by 16.95%. However, at higher Reynolds number (2*105), the entropy production rate increases by 149.77%. Furthermore, other results such as entropy generation number, Bejan number, second thermodynamic law efficiency, and thermal performance factor, which combine the first and second law of thermodynamics, are presented as functions of Reynolds number and nanoparticle's concentration. The overall result shows that SWCNT nanofluid will only be beneficial at low Reynolds number of (10 000‐50 000).
Polyphenols extract from lotus seedpod (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.): Phenolic compositions, antioxidant, and antiproliferative activities
Authors: Shen Yingbin , Guan Yifu , Song Xun , He Jialiang , Xie Zhenxing , Zhang Youwei , Zhang Hui , Tang Dan
Published: August 2019

Seedpod, the nonedible portion of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.), was reported to be rich in polyphenols. The objective of this study was to investigate the major bioactive polyphenols of the lotus seedpods. The total polyphenol content (TPC) from ethanol extract of lotus seedpod (PELS) was found to be 34.23 μg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/mg extract. Four polyphenolic compounds were identified in the PELS, comprised of one flavan‐3‐ol (catechin) and three flavonoids (kaemferol, quercetin and hyperoside). In vitro antioxidant and antiproliferative properties of the PELS were evaluated. PELS exhibited 89.38%, 99.82%, 68.25%, and 95.82% scavenging activities against 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide, hydroxyl, and 2,2ʹazinobis‐3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) radicals, respectively, at 1.6 mg/ml. The Fe3+ reducing power of PELS was 0.605 at 0.32 mg/ml, which is comparable to glutathione (GSH). The PELS showed 31.79% metal chelating capacity and 87.79% inhibition of linoleic acid auto‐oxidation at 1.6 mg/ml. PELS showed cytotoxicity toward HepG2 and LNcap cell lines in vitro with IC50 values at 44.59 and 11.50 μg/ml, respectively. The findings of this study provide evidences that the inedible lotus seedpod could be a source for natural antioxidants and anticancer agents.
Implementation of continuous free play schedules in Australian childcare services: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jones Jannah , Wolfenden Luke , Grady Alice , Finch Meghan , Bolsewicz Katarzyna , Wedesweiler Taya , Yoong Sze Lin
Published: August 2019

Issue addressed

Modifying the scheduling of physical activity opportunities to provide children with more frequent opportunities for outdoor free play has been demonstrated to increase child physical activity while in care. The primary aim of this study was to describe the implementation of continuous free play schedules to allow children to access outdoor play areas, consistent with sector guidelines in a national sample of Australian childcare services. Secondary aims were to investigate the associations between the implementation of such schedules and service characteristics, and assess the perceived barriers and enablers to implementation.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was undertaken with a random sample of 326 centre‐based childcare services located across Australia. Childcare service characteristics, continuous free play scheduling and perceived barriers and enablers to implementation were assessed via a survey administered to service managers online or via telephone.

Results

A total of 203 service managers (62%) reported implementing a continuous free play schedule, for three periods of 126 minutes per period, each day on average. Service type (long day care services), size (services with higher numbers of child enrolments [≥80 children]) and socio‐economic area (services located in lower socio‐economic areas) were associated with the implementation of a continuous free play schedule. The most prevalent barriers to implementation included insufficient staff to ensure adequate supervision of children (69%) and service layout being unsuitable (65%), while the most prevalent enablers included advice on how to overcome staffing or supervision issues (89%) and to re‐orientate the service layout (54%).

Conclusions

There is scope to support the implementation of continuous free play schedules consistent with childcare sector guidelines.

So what?

Future intervention research that targets the reported barriers and enablers to implementation is needed.
Communication system architecture of an industrial‐scale microgrid: A case study
Authors: Cagnano Alessia , Sherazi Hafiz H. R. , De Tuglie Enrico
Published: August 2019

The industrial‐scale microgrids are revolutionizing the way commercial and industrial organizations traditionally anticipated to feed their production facilities for meeting up the energy demands. Due to the large volume and a diverse range of heterogeneous electrical components combining together in these microgrids, setting up a proper communication system becomes challenging. Along many others, the authors have also found it challenging to properly set up a communication system during the deployment of industrial‐scale experimental microgrid at PrInCE Lab. This paper is aimed at providing the guidelines for the research and industrial communities outlining the set of communication challenges along the way and highlighting their possible remedies with the intention to make it possible even for the nontechnical industrial staff handling these issues with ease while setting up their own industrial microgrids.
Dual zinc catalysts for L‐lactide polymerization and reaction of CO2 with cyclohexene oxide
Authors: Wang Wei‐Chu , Hsu Shih‐Hsien , Su Yu‐Chia , Chen Hsuan‐Ying , Lin Chu‐Chieh
Published: August 2019

A series of zinc complexes, [L
XZnEt] (1–5) and [L
XZn
2(OAc)
3] (6–9), associated with NNO‐tridentate Schiff base ligands (2‐(((2‐((cyclohexyl[methyl]amino)methyl)phenyl)imino)methyl)phenolate (CAP) derivatives), were synthesized, and their activity toward ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of L‐lactide (LA) and the reaction of CO2 with cyclohexene oxide were also investigated. All of [L
XZnEt] revealed excellent catalytic activity to ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of LA in the presence of benzyl alcohol. Among them, [L
HZnEt] (1) showed the highest activity with 82% conversation within 45 s. In contrast, [L
XZn
2(OAc)
3] (6–9) were inactive in ROP of L‐lactide. In addition, all of these Zn complexes demonstrated moderate activity in the reaction of CO2 with cyclohexene oxide in the presence of Bu4NCl.
Work after work: The impact of new service delivery models on work hours
Authors: Bavafa Hessam , Terwiesch Christian
Published: August 2019

In many professional service organizations (PSOs), a single server such as a physician or lawyer delivers services to customers across multiple channels. In these settings, there exists a risk that work obligations encroach on the personal lives of the servers. We empirically examine this concern in the primary care setting of physicians providing care to patients following the introduction of a new service delivery channel, e‐visits. Our data cover an 8.5‐year timespan and include 3.3 million patient encounters, including about one million e‐visits. We find that e‐visit adoption nearly doubles the number of hours containing work (defined as office visits or e‐visits) each week. Of the additional hours containing such work, only 49% are in weekday business hours; the rest are in weekday evenings or early mornings (37%) and on weekends (14%). We also show that increases in office or e‐visit workloads lead to more post‐workday activity in the e‐visit channel. We conclude the analysis by examining the impact of these workloads on e‐visit work content, as measured by the number of words and amount of time spent on each e‐visit; we estimate precise but practically small effects of workload on these work content outcomes.
Phospholipid Content of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 Is Modulated by the Growth Phase Rather Than the Immobilization State
Authors: Le Sénéchal Caroline , Crouzet Marc , Costaglioli Patricia , Barthe Christophe , Buré Corinne , Vilain Sébastien
Published: August 2019

Biofilms have significance in medical, industrial, and environmental settings, and can cause important damage. As biofilms are tolerant to various stresses, including antibiotics, it is necessary to better understand their formation. For this reason, we characterized the phospholipidome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic pathogen involved in numerous infections, during the first steps of the biofilm development. By a liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry time‐course analysis over a 24‐h period, we compared the phospholipid (PL) composition of immobilized (attached) and planktonic (unattached) P. aeruginosa PAO1 cells. Our results showed that the PL content of P. aeruginosa PAO1 was mainly modulated by the incubation time, thus related to bacterial growth but also, more modestly, by the immobilization state. We observed that relative amounts of PL varied over time with two main profiles and that these profiles are correlated to its fatty acid composition, including the degree of unsaturation. A statistical analysis revealed that the PL contents of both attached and unattached PAO1 cells were significantly different mainly after 3 and 6 h of incubation and that the amounts of two PL presented a statistical difference between attached and unattached cells all along the 24‐h period: PtdEtn 16:0_18:1 and PtdEtn 18:1_18:1.
Life History of the Gray Snapper at the Warm Edge of Its Distribution Range in the Caribbean
Authors: Andrade Hector , Santos Jorge
Published: August 2019

Knowledge of the life history of populations at the warm edge of their distributional range can provide a better understanding of how they will adapt to climate warming, including potential poleward redistribution. The range of Gray Snapper Lutjanus griseus has the potential to expand along its northern temperate fringe, but little is known about this species in the warmest portion of its range. We studied the age, growth, reproduction, and mortality of commercially caught Gray Snapper in the Guatemalan Caribbean, where sea surface temperature consistently exceeds 26°C. Longevity was estimated as 10 years, and von Bertalanffy growth parameters that were consolidated through Bayesian estimation incorporating earlier estimates from the Caribbean region were as follows: asymptotic length (L∞) was 35 cm, the growth coefficient (K) was 0.56 year−1, and the theoretical age at zero length (t0) was −0.7 year. Gray Snapper grew slowest in April, prior to the rainy season, and at the onset of the reproductive season, which lasted to September. Fifty percent of the Gray Snapper matured at 31 cm and at 3.5 years of age. Gray Snapper had a lower maximum size, longevity, and peak reproductive investment, a protracted spawning season and reproductive life span, and elevated natural mortality at the warm edge of their distribution relative to temperate climates. Despite the plasticity in life history of Gray Snapper observed in this study, their potential to further adapt to warming remains unknown.
Regularized solution for nonlinear elliptic equations with random discrete data
Authors: Duc Phuong Nguyen , Tuan Nguyen Huy , Baleanu Dumitru , Hoang Luc Nguyen
Published: August 2019

The aim of this paper is to study the Cauchy problem of determining a solution of nonlinear elliptic equations with random discrete data. A study showing that this problem is severely ill posed in the sense of Hadamard, ie, the solution does not depend continuously on the initial data. It is therefore necessary to regularize the in‐stable solution of the problem. First, we use the trigonometric of nonparametric regression associated with the truncation method in order to offer the regularized solution. Then, under some presumption on the true solution, we give errors estimates and convergence rate in L2‐norm. A numerical example is also constructed to illustrate the main results.
Dissipativity and synchronization control of fractional‐order memristive neural networks with reaction‐diffusion terms
Authors: Li Wenhua , Gao Xingbao , Li Ruoxia
Published: August 2019

This paper deals with the dissipativity and synchronization control of fractional‐order memristive neural networks (FOMNNs) with reaction‐diffusion terms. By means of fractional Halanay inequality, Wirtinger inequality, and Lyapunov functional, some sufficient conditions are provided to ensure global dissipativity and exponential synchronization of FOMNNs with reaction‐diffusion terms, respectively. The underlying model and the obtained results are more general since the reaction‐diffusion terms are first introduced into FOMNNs. The given conditions are easy to be checked, and the correctness of the obtained results is confirmed by a living example.
Eye‐controlled, power wheelchair performs well for ALS patients
Authors: Elliott Michael A. , Malvar Henrique , Maassel Lindsey L. , Campbell Jon , Kulkarni Harish , Spiridonova Irina , Sophy Noelle , Beavers Jay , Paradiso Ann , Needham Chuck , Rifley Jamie , Duffield Maggie , Crawford Jeremy , Wood Becky , Cox Emily J. , Scanlan James M.
Published: August 2019

Background

Our pilot study tested the feasibility and performance of an eye‐controlled power wheelchair for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients.

Methods

In this prospective pilot study, participants drove the wheelchair three times around an indoor course. We assessed the time to complete the course; starting and stopping on command; turning 90, 135, and 180 degrees; time to backup; and obstacle negotiation. Following their use of the wheelchair, subjects were given a questionnaire to assess user experience.

Results

Twelve patients participated, and all were able to complete three trials without difficulty. Eight participants completed all of the individual tasks (eg, turning, stopping, etc.) without any errors. Overall performance ratings were high across all participants (4.6/5‐excellent).

Conclusions

Our eye‐controlled power wheelchair prototype is feasible and has a very favorable user experience. This system has the potential to improve the mobility and independence of ALS patients, and other groups with motor impairments.
Local FK506 delivery at the direct nerve repair site improves nerve regeneration
Authors: Davis Brett , Hilgart David , Erickson Sierra , Labroo Pratima , Burton Joshua , Sant Himanshu , Shea Jill , Gale Bruce , Agarwal Jay
Published: August 2019

Introduction

The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of local tacrolimus (FK506) delivery to improve outcomes in the setting of nerve transection injury.

Methods

FK506 embedded poly(lactide‐co‐caprolactone) films capable of extended, localized release of FK506 were developed. FK506 rate of release testing and bioactivity assay was performed. Mouse sciatic nerve transection and direct repair model was used to evaluate the effect extended, local delivery of FK506 had on nerve regeneration outcomes.

Results

Linear release of FK506 was observed for 30 days and released FK506 matched control levels of neurite extension in the dorsal root ganglion assay. Groups treated with local FK506 had greater gastrocnemius muscle weight, foot electromyogram, and number of axons distal of the repair site than non‐FK506 groups.

Discussion

Results of this study indicate that extended, localized delivery of FK506 to nerve injuries can improve nerve regeneration outcomes in a mouse sciatic nerve transection and repair.
Learn how to source story ideas using LinkedIn
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: August 2019

In last month's column, we talked about LinkedIn's marketing campaign option, sponsored InMail. This issue, we'll continue the conversation about what's often dubbed “the professional social media platform” or “like Facebook, but for your professional network.” Aside from using LinkedIn for paid opportunities, you can also use it as a research tool and, even better, to connect organically with your target audience.
Potential of very thin and high‐efficiency silicon heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Sai Hitoshi , Oku Toshiki , Sato Yoshiki , Tanabe Mayumi , Matsui Takuya , Matsubara Koji
Published: August 2019

Thin crystalline silicon (c‐Si) solar cells are highly attractive for realizing light‐weight and flexible wafer‐based solar cells as well as for reducing the material cost. Silicon heterojunction (SHJ) architecture using hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H) is suitable for realizing very thin c‐Si cells, because of its capability of excellent surface passivation. In this work, the potential of very thin c‐Si solar cells is examined by characterizing SHJ solar cells with a wide range of thicknesses from 50 to 400 μm. A trade‐off between the open‐circuit voltage (VOC) and the short circuit current density (JSC) against wafer thickness is clearly observed in these SHJ cells, whereas a decrease in fill factor (FF) is found for thin SHJ cells below 80 μm. The loss analysis for the thin SHJ cells with numerical simulation clarifies that the infrared parasitic absorption loss due to the supporting layers is enhanced for thinner wafers, which limits the JSC in the thin SHJ cells. In addition, it is confirmed that the FF is more sensitive to surface recombination than the VOC, and this tendency becomes more pronounced with the decrease in the wafer thickness. A high efficiency of 22% is achieved in a SHJ solar cell with a thickness of only 46 μm, demonstrating a high potential for flexible high‐efficiency c‐Si solar cells.
A simplified version of adaptive super‐twisting control
Authors: Gutierrez Susana V. , De León‐Morales Jesús , Plestan Franck , Salas‐Peña Oscar
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a simplified super‐twisting control with adaptive gain is proposed for a class of nonlinear uncertain systems. A strong Lyapunov function is constructed to design a sliding mode controller with adaptive gain. Furthermore, the analysis of the finite time convergence towards the equilibrium point of the closed‐loop system is detailed. Regarding previous works from literature, the main contribution of this approach is the simplification of the gain tuning process by maintaining a high level of performance. Finally, simulation results for tracking control of a quadrotor are given to show the performance of the proposed algorithm.
A repairable connection for earthquake‐resisting moment frames
Authors: Richards Paul
Published: August 2019

Nominated for the Bernt Johansson Outstanding Paper Awards at Nordic Steel 2019

Most steel moment frames are designed so that the beams act as structural fuses during earthquake loading. This approach, while good for saving lives, has poor resilience because it is difficult to replace damaged beams in a building. A repairable steel moment‐frame connection has been developed that may be attractive to engineers and building contractors. The connection has a fuse plate bolted to the beam bottom flange which experiences shear yielding during severe earthquakes, protecting both the column and the beam. After an earthquake, the fuse plates can be removed and replaced to unlock residual frame deformations and prepare the building for another event.

Full‐scale experiments were conducted to validate the performance of this repairable connection. Two tests were performed with a W690 #αμπ##ξ000Δ7; 125 beam and W530 #αμπ##ξ000Δ7; 196 column. The tests demonstrated rotation capacities of at least 0.05 rad, which exceeds AISC requirements for special moment frames. The fuse plate was effective in preventing beam damage in each test, and the second test demonstrated that the connection could be repaired by replacing the fuse plate.
Compression behaviour of trapezoidal steel sheets with transverse corrugations
Authors: Vales Pedro Casariego , Ribera Miquel Casafont , Ballester Miquel Ferrer , Carvajal Frederic Marimón
Published: August 2019

Nominated for the Bernt Johansson Outstanding Paper Awards at Nordic Steel 2019

Over the past few decades, the cold‐formed steel industry has developed a manufacturing technique for producing self‐supporting arches from trapezoidal steel sheets. The press‐forming procedure is based on introducing transverse corrugations into the main direction of the flat profile in order to bend it. The main problem is that these indentations, which are essential to curve the profile, change the effective properties of the original steel sheet. Currently, there is no design code or standardized test procedure that can be used to obtain the effective properties of the corrugated profile. This research project analyses the behaviour of the corrugated profile when it is subjected to pure compression and compares it with the behaviour of the flat profile.
Towards a prognosis of fatigue life using a Two‐Stage‐Model
Authors: Röscher Stefanie , Knobloch Markus
Published: August 2019

Nominated for the Bernt Johansson Outstanding Paper Awards at Nordic Steel 2019

This paper presents a Two‐Stage‐Model for determining the fatigue life of steel structures. The model follows the distinction between crack initiation and crack propagation according to the phenomenological background. The first stage uses the local strain‐life approach to predict the number of cycles for crack initiation Ni considering the cyclic material behaviour as well as the load‐time history. The second stage calculates the crack propagation based on a linear‐elastic fracture mechanics approach. Using X‐FEM in combination with cyclic loading, an arbitrary, solution‐dependent crack path is achieved to determine the number of cycles for propagation Np. The Two‐Stage‐Model was applied to butt welds to determine their total fatigue life Nf in terms of a proof‐of‐concept study. The study investigated the ability of the model to consider the influence of the weld geometry, i.e. plate thickness and weld imperfections (excess and vertical offset). The results are presented by means of S‐N curves for initiation life, propagation life and total fatigue life. A comparison with experimental results provided in the literature shows that the Two‐Stage‐Model can reflect the weld quality of butt welds in terms of fatigue life.