bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypotrichosis‐lymphedema‐telangiectasia syndrome: Report of ileal atresia associated with a SOX18 de novo pathogenic variant and review of the phenotypic spectrum
Authors: Coulie Richard , Niyazov Dmitriy M. , Gambello Michael J. , Fastré Elodie , Brouillard Pascal , Vikkula Miikka
Published: April 2021

Hypotrichosis‐lymphedema‐telangiectasia syndrome (HLTS) is a rare condition caused by pathogenic variants in the SOX18 gene. SOX18 plays a key role in angio‐ and lymphangiogenesis due to its expression in venous endothelial cells from which the lymphatic system develops. It is also expressed in embryonic hair follicles, heart, and vascular smooth muscle cells. The main clinical symptoms of HLTS include sparse hair, alopecia totalis, lymphedema, most often affecting lower limbs, and telangiectatic lesions. Only 10 patients with a SOX18 pathogenic variant have been described that presented with additional features such as hydrocele, renal failure, arterial or pulmonary hypertension, aortic dilatation, and facial dysmorphism. Here, we summarize these phenotypic variations and report an additional HLTS patient, with a 14‐nucleotide de novo duplication in SOX18 and congenital ileal atresia, a feature not previously associated with HLTS.
On‐Surface Synthesis of Giant Conjugated Macrocycles
Authors: Fan Cunrui , Sun Bangjin , Li Zhanbo , Shi Jiwei , Lin Tao , Fan Jian , Shi Ziliang
Published: April 2021

We have achieved an on‐surface synthesis of giant conjugated macrocycles having a diameter of ≈7 nm and consisting of up to 30 subunits. The synthesis started with a debrominative coupling of the molecular precursors on a hot Ag(111) surface, leading to the formation of arched oligomeric chains and macrocycles. These products were revealed by scanning tunneling microscopy in combination with density functional theory to be covalent oligomers. These intermediates also display C–Ag organometallic bonds between parallel molecular subunits due to site‐selective debromination and the asymmetric molecular conformation. Subsequent cyclodehydrogenation at higher temperatures steered the final conjugation of the macrocycles. Our findings provide a novel design strategy toward π‐conjugated macrocycles and open up new opportunities for the precise synthesis of organic nanostructures.
Physical Separation of H2 Activation from Hydrogenation Chemistry Reveals the Specific Role of Secondary Metal Catalysts
Authors: Kurimoto Aiko , Jansonius Ryan P. , Huang Aoxue , Marelli Antonio M. , Dvorak David J. , Hunt Camden , Berlinguette Curtis P.
Published: April 2021

An electrocatalytic palladium membrane reactor (ePMR) uses electricity and water to drive hydrogenation without H2 gas. The device contains a palladium membrane to physically separate the formation of reactive hydrogen atoms from hydrogenation of the unsaturated organic substrate. This separation provides an opportunity to independently measure the hydrogenation reaction at a surface without any competing H2 activation or proton reduction chemistry. We took advantage of this feature to test how different metal catalysts coated on the palladium membrane affect the rates of hydrogenation of C=O and C=C bonds. Hydrogenation occurs at the secondary metal catalyst and not the underlying palladium membrane. These secondary catalysts also serve to accelerate the reaction and draw a higher flux of hydrogen through the membrane. These results reveal insights into hydrogenation chemistry that would be challenging using thermal or electrochemical hydrogenation experiments.
Graphene oxide‐carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogel beads for uptake and release study of doxorubicin
Authors: Ayucitra Aning , Angkawijaya Artik Elisa , Ju Yi‐Hsu , Gunarto Chintya , Go Alchris Woo , Ismadji Suryadi
Published: April 2021

Graphene oxide (GO)‐based hydrogel beads were synthesized by physical crosslinking of GO with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) to produce a pH‐sensitive drug carrier with selective drug‐release properties. Four different GO/CMC composite hydrogel beads (GCB) were prepared with GO oxidized at 30°C and 5q0°C with varying GO loading 1 or 5 mg/ml. Physicochemical properties of the synthesized GO and its composite beads were provided in this work. A mild oxidation temperature of 50°C produce GO‐50 with satisfactory oxidation degree as shown by intensity ratio of D and G bands (ID/IG) and carbon to oxygen (C/O) ratios of 0.991 and 1.94, respectively. The highest loading capacity of doxorubicin (DOX) was 4.2494 mg/g for GCB synthesized from GO‐50 with dispersion concentration of 5 mg/ml (GCB‐50.5), corresponding to its abundant oxygen‐containing functional groups. The release profile of DOX also confirmed its strong pH‐sensitive behavior. The in vitro cytotoxicity tests on 7F2 cells by MTT assay revealed that GCBs have a higher percentage of viability than that of their GO precursors due to the incorporation of CMC into the beads. The prepared hydrogel beads thus can potentially be used as an effective and viable DOX carrier.
Atomically Dispersed Pd Atoms on a Simple MgO Support with an Ultralow Loading for Selective Hydrogenation of Acetylene to Ethylene
Authors: Qin Chao , Guo Qing , Guo Jianping , Chen Ping
Published: April 2021

We report a simple and efficient Pd/MgO catalyst loaded with ppm level of Pd (7.8 ppm) for semi‐hydrogenation of acetylene to ethylene. The catalyst showed excellent performance with high acetylene conversion (97%), high ethylene selectivity (89%) and good stability. Moreover, the atomically dispersed Pd atoms are inactive for ethylene hydrogenation. Isotopic and FTIR results suggest that H2 dissociates at isolated Pd atoms in a heterolytic manner forming O−H bond, which may account for the high selectivity.
Can we expect contribution from environmental, social, governance performance to sustainable development?
Authors: Tanjung Miranda
Published: April 2021

This work is among the first studies to review the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) ESG Leaders Index in Asian countries and other emerging markets, such as Brazil, China, and Russia. The relationships among gross domestic product (GDP), human development index (HDI), and a set of key indicators are the fundamental argument of this study. By applying 2SLS estimation from 2010 to 2018, this research examines the connection between environmental, social, governance (ESG) index, GDP growth, and HDI from nine countries as rated in the MSCI ESG Index. The objective is to test whether the index can be efficiently utilized to justify the notion that the adoption of ESG principles can positively influence sustainable development and inclusive growth. The post estimations reveal close relationships between the ESG index and GDP growth. However, the index is not an effective instrument for measuring the connection between HDI‐ESG because it has not yet had a direct effect on HDI. With this result, the index can be utilized to measure the connections with and investments made by countries and corporations for sustainable development.
Testing social identity models of collective action in an Iranian environmental movement
Authors: Keshavarzi Saeed , McGarty Craig , Khajehnoori Bijan
Published: April 2021

The social identity model of collective action (SIMCA) and the encapsulation model of the social identity of collective action (EMSICA) are well‐known models that have been applied to protest action. The current study tests the predictive value of the core constructs in the models (social identification, perceived injustice and group efficacy) in a peaceful pro‐environmental program. Specifically, we sought to answer whether the two models provide equally good accounts of (self‐reported) past participation and of intended participation. To do so, we conducted a survey of 382 participants of a sustained environmental collective action program (Nature Cleaners) in Iran. Our findings underlined the important role of social identification in predicting environmental action. The results also showed that SIMCA was more relevant for intentions to participate, whereas paths specified by EMSICA better predicted past participation. The results provide a demonstration of the applicability of collective action models to the domain of pro‐environmental action in the Iranian cultural context where collective action is rarely studied. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of studying collective action in a wider range of situations and contexts.
Nitrogen‐Neutral Amino Acids Refinery: Deamination of Amino Acids for Bio‐Alcohol and Ammonia Production
Authors: Choi Kwon‐Young
Published: April 2021

Amino acids are a valuable bioresource that contains both the acid form of carbon and the amine group of nitrogen. Amino acids not only constitute proteins and the building blocks for living organisms but also provide a key intermediate for controlling the nitrogen balance in cells. The production of amino acids using microorganisms has, along with the development of biotechnology, created a large market for biochemicals. In parallel, there have been various biochemical production methods using pulmonary proteins or direct amino acids as biomass through enzymatic bioconversion or whole‐cell biotransformation. The deamination of amino acids facilitated the applications of 2‐keto and acrylic acids, in particular, for biofuels of bio alcohol, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, as building blocks for polymers, and other versatile industrial chemicals. In this review, we report on the application of amino acids derived from biochemicals initiated by deamination reactions using deaminase, ammonia‐lyase, and oxidase enzymes for biotechnology applications.
A survey of twin‐row cropping systems in North Carolina
Authors: Tilley M. Scott , Jordan David L. , Heiniger Ronnie W. , Vann Rachel , Crozier Carl R. , Gatiboni Luke
Published: April 2021

Twin‐row (TR) cropping systems have maintained a presence in North Carolina (NC) for more than 30 years. Introduced as an alternative to the single‐row (SR) configuration, it is hypothesized individual plants arranged 7‐ to 9‐inches apart see a decrease in plant‐to‐plant competition. However, the success of TR remains elusive. Only a handful of farmers across NC have been able to increase yield through the implementation of TR. As higher yields are achieved in research using SR, the use of TR is becoming less attractive to growers looking to modernize. In order to understand future trends, two surveys were administered across the state of NC with the following objectives: (a) identify standard production practices used such as row spacing, TR spacing, starter fertilizer placement, and layby application methods, (b) evaluate grower testimonies concerning observed plant stress under diverse environmental conditions, and (c) identify the successes and limitations observed with TR production. Of the 461 farmers surveyed in the general survey, 42% stated they are planting on narrow (30 inch or less) SR with 58% still planting on 36‐inch or greater row spacing. Within the 58%, 148 farmers stated they are considering a transition from wide (>30 inches) to narrow row systems. One hundred and twenty farmers said they would remain on wide SR. In time, 74% of growers will potentially be planting on narrow rows. Twenty‐eight TR farmers (6%) were identified. Two of the 28 twin‐row growers stated they would be reverting back to single‐row production.
Eichhornia crassipes as biosorbent for industrial wastewater treatment: Equilibrium and kinetic studies
Authors: Prasad Rajnikant , Sharma Dayanand , Yadav Kunwar D. , Ibrahim Hussameldin
Published: April 2021

Adsorption is an economical and widely used technique for removing dye from wastewater, especially for non‐biodegradable pollutants. In this study, the effectiveness of water hyacinth (WH) as an adsorbent for the removal of methylene blue (MB) was conducted in a batch process. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize WH. The influence of operational parameters such as dye concentration, pH, WH dose, and contact time was studied to determine the most favourable experimental conditions. Dubinin Radushkevich, Freundlich, Langmuir, and Temkin isotherms were used to fit the equilibrium data for mechanistic understating of the adsorption process. It was found that Freundlich isotherm had the best fit for equilibrium adsorption data with the highest correlation coefficient value (R2 = 0.996). The kinetic data of adsorption showed R2 = 0.99, following the pseudo‐second‐order model for a dye concentration of 50–200 mg L−1. The results also showed that the maximum removal was obtained at pH of 8, dye concentration of 200 mg L−1, with an equilibrium time of 90 min, and an adsorbent dose of 3 g L−1. The Temkin isotherm equilibrium binding constant (AT) = 11.00 L g−1 and heat of adsorption of 53.08 J mol−1 suggest physical adsorption. The investigation uncovered WH as a productive and efficient adsorbent for the expulsion of MB from wastewater.
Quantitative Estimates for Regular Lagrangian Flows withBVVector Fields
Authors: Nguyen Quoc‐Hung
Published: April 2021

This paper is devoted to the study of flows associated to non‐smooth vector fields. We prove the well‐posedness of regular Lagrangian flows associated to vector fieldsB = (B1, …, Bd) ∈ L1(ℝ+; L1(ℝd) + L∞(ℝd))satisfyingbj ∈ L1(ℝ+, BV(ℝd))anddiv(B) ∈ L1(ℝ+; L∞(ℝd))ford,m ≥ 2, whereare singular kernels inℝd. Moreover, we also show that there exist an autonomous vector‐fieldB ∈ L1(ℝ2) + L∞(ℝ2)and singular kernels, singular Radon measuresμijkinℝ2satisfyingin distributional sense for somem ≥ 2and fork,i = 1, 2such that regular Lagrangian flows associated to vector fieldBare not unique. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Influence of Synthesis Temperature on the Phases Developed and Optical Properties of Manganese Sulfide and Zinc Sulfide
Authors: Heiba Zein K. , Mohamed Mohamed Bakr , Farag Noura M. , Ahmed Sameh. I.
Published: April 2021

Nano MnS and ZnS samples are prepared through a simple thermolysis procedure. The effect of synthesis temperature on the different phases formed and their percentages, and on the lattice parameters and crystallite size of MnS and ZnS is examined using Rietveld analysis for X‐ray diffraction patterns. The minimum synthesis temperature at which MnS can be formed by the present simple procedure is 250 °C, while ZnS can be prepared at a lower temperature of 200 °C. For manganese sulfide, traces of Mn3O4 phase appear at 300 °C and increase with temperature, while ZnS resists oxidation until 500 °C; pure ZnO forms at 700 °C. The MnS and ZnS samples, obtained at all temperatures, are found to be biphasic; cubic and hexagonal. The nano nature of the samples and the particle morphology are investigated by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy is applied to follow the characteristic vibration bands in both systems. The values of the different energy gaps depend on the crystallite size, phases’ percentages, and the preparation temperature. The photoluminescence intensity and the emitted colors from MnS and ZnS depend on the synthesis temperature.
Impact of maternal engrafted cytomegalovirus‐specific CD8+ T cells in a patient with severe combined immunodeficiency
Authors: Koh June‐Young , Lee Sang‐Bo , Kim Borahm , Park Younhee , Choi Jong Rak , Son Sohee , Kim Yae‐Jean , Hahn Seung Min , Ahn Jong Gyun , Kang Ji‐Man , Shin Eui‐Cheol
Published: April 2021

Objectives

In patients with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), the immune system often fails to eradicate maternal cells that enter the foetus via the placenta, resulting in transplacental maternal engraftment (TME) syndrome. However, the clinical significance of TME has not been comprehensively elucidated.

Methods

Here, we describe a patient with SCID with a novel frameshift IL2RG mutation associated with maternal engrafted CD8+ T cells that had been expanded by viral infection. To evaluate the origin of the expanded T cells, we HLA‐typed the myeloid and T cells of the patient and analysed the immunological characteristics of the expanded CD8+ T cells using T‐cell receptor (TCR) repertoire and flow cytometry analysis.

Results

In our patient, the maternal engrafted CD8+ T cells expanded and exerted in vitro antiviral function against human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection before and after haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). After haploidentical HCT from the maternal donor, maternal engrafted CMV‐specific CD8+ T cells were maintained, successfully proliferated and activated against CMV. We found no evidence of acute graft‐versus‐host disease or infectious complications other than recurrent episodes of CMV viraemia, which were well controlled by ganciclovir and, possibly by, the maternal engrafted CMV‐specific CD8+ T cells.

Conclusion

Our findings elucidate a possible functional role of TME in controlling CMV infection in patient with SCID and suggest an optimal strategy for donor selection in patients with SCID with TME.
Energy aware tree‐based sink relocation routing protocol to improve the lifetime of wireless sensor networks
Authors: A Keerthika , V Berlin Hency
Published: April 2021

In wireless sensor network (WSN), the design of routing protocols focuses mainly on the energy efficiency based on the application of the network. Over the past years, researchers developed many solutions to protract the life expectancy of the network by reducing the consumption of energy by each node. One of the main approaches is the usage of sink in mobility; this reduces the hotspot problem and energy consumption. Aiming at this problem, the paper proposes a new routing algorithm which supports the sink mobility with energy aware tree‐based sink relocation routing protocol (TBSR) using adaptive fuzzy decision‐making approach (AF‐MADM). In TBSR, a self ‐organized routing tree is formed, which reduces the consumption of energy. In the beginning, the clustering process is employed using fuzzy possibilistic C‐means (FPCM) algorithm. Further, the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) with multiplicative exponential weighting model is developed for optimal decision making to select the root node. Then the selected root node creates a routing tree based on the distance and energy of the sensor nodes. Then each node uses its cluster information and the distance of the neighbors to select the parent node. For relocating the sink node, the proposed protocol calculates the energy along with hop count and path capacity. These methods make TBSR an energetic and analogous protocol. Results show that the proposed TBSR improves on the energy consumption and the lifetime of the network compared with existing protocols. The simulation is carried out in OMNET++ platform.
Intrapopulation foraging niche variation between phenotypes and genotypes of Spirit bear populations
Authors: Service Christina N. , Ingram Travis , Reimchen Thomas E. , Darimont Chris T.
Published: April 2021

Foraging niche variation within a species can contribute to the maintenance of phenotypic diversity. The multiniche model posits that phenotypes occupying different niches can contribute to the maintenance of balanced polymorphisms. Using coastal populations of black bears (Ursus americanus kermodei)from British Columbia, Canada, we examined potential foraging niche divergence between phenotypes (black and white “Spirit” coat color) and between genotypes (black‐coated homozygote and heterozygous). We applied the Bayesian multivariate models, with biotracers of diet (δ13C and δ15N) together comprising the response variable, to draw inference about foraging niche variation. Variance–covariance matrices from multivariate linear mixed‐effect models were visualized as the Bayesian standard ellipses in δ13C and δ15N isotopic space to assess potential seasonal and annual niche variation between phenotypes and genotypes. We did not detect a difference in annual isotopic foraging niche area in comparisons between genotypes or phenotypes. Consistent with previous field experimental and isotopic analyses, however, we found that white phenotype Spirit bears were modestly more enriched in δ15N during the fall foraging season, though with our modest sample sizes these results were not significant. Although also not statistically significant, variation in isotopic niches between genotypes revealed that heterozygotes were moderately more enriched in δ13C along hair segments grown during fall foraging compared with black‐coated homozygotes. To the extent to which the pattern of elevated δ15N and δ13C may signal the consumption of salmon (Oncorhynchusspp.), as well as the influence of salmon consumption on reproductive fitness, these results suggest that black‐coated heterozygotes could have a minor selective advantage in the fall compared with black‐coated homozygotes. More broadly, our multivariate approach, coupled with knowledge of genetic variation underlying a polymorphic trait, provides new insight into the potential role of a multiniche mechanism in maintaining this rare morph of conservation priority in Canada's Great Bear Rainforest and could offer new understanding into polymorphisms in other systems.
A preliminary isotope‐based evapotranspiration partitioning approach for tropical Costa Rica
Authors: Iraheta Alberto , Birkel Christian , Benegas Laura , Ríos Ney , Sánchez‐Murillo Ricardo , Beyer Matthias
Published: April 2021

Spatially and seasonally distributed information on transpiration (T) fluxes is limited in the tropics. Here, we applied a coupled isotope mass balance model to separate water fluxes of T and evapotranspiration (ET) from precipitation (P). The mean annual T was estimated at a resolution of 100 m for Costa Rica (51,100 km2) and a partitioning of monthly T and evaporation (E) for the 2370‐km2 San Carlos catchment. The dominant flux in the forest ecosystems was T with a mean annual T of 1086 mm that ranged from 700 mm in Tropical Montane Very Humid Forest to 1400 mm in Subtropical and Tropical Low Montane Rainforests. We estimated an average 85% of ET was T, which is concurrent with expectations for forested tropical regions, but varied according to model parameterization and data sources. A model comparison exercise showed a range of mean annual T estimates from 988 to 1465 mm and a range of T/P from 0.35 to 0.5 with temperature and relative humidity exhibiting the highest impact on the model results. Across Costa Rica, we estimated an average loss of precipitation by T of 38% (1085 mm), whereas interception (I) constitutes 10% (230 mm) and direct evaporation (E) only 7% (192 mm). Similarly, the results at the catchment scale indicated that monthly T contributes 76% (85‐mm monthly average) to total ET and E corresponds to 24% (24‐mm monthly average). The T rates exhibited an opposite seasonality to rainfall with highest T over the drier months from December to April with a peak in March (101–144 mm) and the minimum T in September (53–71 mm). Around 17% (79–130 mm) of precipitation over the catchment area is lost to T, both E (10–35 mm) and I (15–38 mm) correspond to 5%. Despite the inherent uncertainties of the data assumptions and simplifications, including data interpolation errors, the coupled isotope mass balance model showed in comparison to other global products reasonable water partitioning for different ecosystems in Costa Rica and the San Carlos catchment area. These results can help to evaluate the impact of land cover conversion on the hydrological cycle in Costa Rica, and the simple isotope‐based model could be transferred to different biomes of the tropics.
Synthetic Strategies towards Imidazopyridinones and 7‐Azaoxindoles and their Evaluation as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Blindheim Fredrik Heen , Olsen Cecilie Elisabeth , Krogh Søgaard Caroline , Otterlei Marit , Sundby Eirik , Hoff Bård Helge
Published: April 2021

Imidazopyridinones and 7‐azaoxindoles are two classes of heterocyclic compounds with only limited previous use in organic and medicinal chemistry. Various synthetic methods and routes have been evaluated to identify safe and robust chemistry to advanced imidazopyridinone building blocks and inhibitor structures. Preparation of the 7‐azaoxindoles was challenged by instability of the core scaffold. Key to the successful isolation of the target structure was development of a mild Suzuki cross‐coupling in non‐aqueous media. The imidazopyridinones were potent inhibitors of the E. coli thymidylate monophosphate kinase, while the 7‐azaoxindole showed low activity. The compounds were inactive in cell‐based studies, indicating poor cell wall penetration.
Free tuition plan helps close equity gaps
Authors: Bannister Mary
Published: April 2021

“I've seen the gaps in access to education,” said B. Donta Truss, Vice President for Enrollment Development and Educational Outreach at Grand Valley State University. Truss began his current role at GVSU in July 2020 and helped launch the university's free tuition program, the Grand Valley Pledge.
Synthesis of the C1−C16 Polyol‐Containing Macrolactone of 13‐Desmethyl Lyngbouilloside, an Unnatural Analog of the Originally Assigned Structure of (−)‐Lyngbouilloside
Authors: Ganguly Arghya , Javed Salim , Bodugam Mahipal , Dissanayake Gihan C. , Chegondi Rambabu , Hanson Paul R.
Published: April 2021

The synthesis of the C1−C16 polyol‐containing macrolactone of 13‐desmethyl lyngbouilloside, an unnatural analog of the originally assigned structure of (−)‐lyngbouilloside is reported. Synthesis of the C1−C16 acyclic backbone is achieved via iterative use of a phosphate tether‐mediated one‐pot sequential, RCM/CM/chemoselective diimide reduction, with concomitant use of a regio‐ and diastereoselective cuprate addition using Me2Zn/CuCN ⋅ 2LiCl or Pd‐catalyzed reductive allylic transposition, respectively on bicyclo[4.3.1]phosphate‐containing subunits. Subsequent oxidative cleavage and Roskamp homologation completes the pathway to the C1−C16 acyclic fragment. Two routes to the macrocyclic core were explored with mixed success, (i) a Boeckman‐type acylketene trapping of the C13 secondary carbinol and (ii) an alternative route employing acid‐catalyzed pyran‐mixed ketal formation via reaction of the C7 secondary carbinol with the β‐keto ester using trimethylorthoformate, and subsequent Yamaguchi cyclization.
Bayesian estimation of the exact affine Stone index demand system: Replicating the Lewbel and Pendakur (2009) results
Authors: Ramírez‐Hassan Andrés
Published: April 2021

This paper proposes a Bayesian approach to perform inference in the exact affine Stone index (EASI) demand system that was proposed by Lewbel and Pendakur (2009), while taking into account nonlinearity and endogeneity. A Bayesian approach enables us to easily handle censored data, test and impose inequality restrictions (strict cost monotonicity) and concavity of the cost function, and perform inference of nonlinear functions of the parameter estimates as by‐product of the posterior chains. We compare our proposal with Lewbel and Pendakur (2009)'s results, based on iterative linear three‐stage least squares (3SLS). Although we found no statistically significant differences in point estimates between these two approaches, it seems that ignoring censoring overestimates precision.
Upregulated lnc‐HZ02 and miR‐hz02 inhibited migration and invasion by downregulating the FAK/SRC/PI3K/AKT pathway in BPDE‐treated trophoblast cells
Authors: Guo Jiarong , Li Rui , Xu Zhongyan , Tian Peng , Wang Rong , Li Youzhu , Qiu Xia , Zou Peng , He Mei , Ao Lin , Liu Qicai , Zhang Huidong
Published: April 2021

BPDE (benzo(a)pyren‐7,8‐dihydrodiol‐9,10‐epoxide), a metabolite of environmental carcinogenic BaP, weakens the migration and invasion of human villous trophoblast cells and may further induce miscarriage. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified that in trophoblast Swan 71 and HTR‐8/SVneo cells, miR‐hz02 upregulates the level of lnc‐HZ02, which inhibits the expression of an RNA‐binding protein HuR. HuR could interact with FAK mRNA and promote its mRNA stability, thus upregulating the FAK level and the FAK/SRC/PI3K/AKT pathway, and finally maintaining the normal migration and invasion of trophoblast cells. If trophoblast cells are exposed to BPDE, both miR‐hz02 and lnc‐HZ02 are upregulated, which reduce the level of HuR, weaken the interactions of HuR with FAK mRNA, downregulate FAK level and the FAK/SRC/PI3K/AKT pathway, and finally inhibit cell migration and invasion. This study provides a novel scientific understanding of the dysfunctions of human trophoblast cells.
Free energy change estimation: The Divide and Conquer MBAR method
Authors: Jia Xiangyu , Ge Hu , Mei Ye
Published: April 2021

In the present study, the Divide and Conquer MBAR (DC‐MBAR) method is proposed to predict the free energies based on the data sampled by multi‐states simulations. For DC‐MBAR method, the overlap between any two alchemical states is calculated first and those with sufficient overlap are defined as the adjacent states. Unlike the traditional MBAR method, which calculates the free energy of each state using all the data at once, DC‐MBAR focuses on predicting the free energy changes between adjacent states. To estimate the free energy changes accurately, the other states with overlaps with the two adjacent states bigger than the defined threshold are included in the MBAR equation. At a specific threshold, the free energies predicted by DC‐MBAR are very close to those calculated by the traditional MABR method. Furthermore, DC‐MBAR scheme can reduce both the computation and memory cost. One important characteristic of DC‐MBAR method is linear scaling, which means the CPU time with the change of the number of states is a straight‐line relation. As the pair‐based calculations are mutually independent and parallelizable, all accessible CPU cores on the HPC cluster could be utilized, which makes DC‐MBAR strategy more efficient.
Myocardial T1 Values at 1.5 T: Normal Values for General Electric Scanners and Sex‐Related Differences
Authors: Meloni Antonella , Martini Nicola , Positano Vincenzo , D'Angelo Gennaro , Barison Andrea , Todiere Giancarlo , Grigoratos Chrysanthos , Barra Valerio , Pistoia Laura , Gargani Luna , Ripoli Andrea , Pepe Alessia
Published: April 2021

Background

No data are available about normal ranges for native T1 in human myocardium using General Electric (GE) scanners.

Purpose

To establish normal ranges for myocardial T1 values and evaluate regional variability and the influence of physiological factors.

Study type

Prospective.

Subjects

One hundred healthy volunteers with normal electrocardiogram, no cardiovascular/systemic diseases, or risk factors (age range: 20–70 years; 50 females).

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T/Steady‐state free precession cine and a modified Look–Locker inversion recovery sequence in diastole (also in systole for 61 volunteers).

Assessment

Image analysis was performed by operators with >10 years experience in cardiac MR using commercially available software. T1 values were calculated for 16 myocardial segments, and the global value was the mean. Segments were grouped according to circumferential region (anterior, septal, inferior, and lateral) and to level (basal, medial, apical). Twenty images were analyzed twice by the same operator and by a different operator to assess reproducibility.

Statistical Tests

Independent‐samples t‐test or Mann–Whitney test; paired sample t‐test or Wilcoxon signed‐rank test; one‐way repeated measures ANOVA or Friedman tests; Pearson's or Spearman's correlation. Reproducibility evaluated using coefficient of variability (CoV).

Results

Due to artifacts and/or partial‐volume effects, 45/1600 (2.8%) segments were excluded. A good intra‐ and inter‐operator reproducibility was detected (CoV < 5%). There were significant differences in segmental T1 values (P < 0.05). A significant circumferential variability was present (P < 0.05): the mean native T1 value over the lateral region was significantly lower than in the other three regions. An increasing gradient from basal to apical slices was detected (P < 0.05). Segmental and global T1 values were not associated with age (range P = 0.052–0.911) but were significantly lower in males than in females (global: 993 ± 32 vs. 1037 ± 27 ms; P < 0.05) and significantly correlated with heart rate (range R for segmental values = 0.247–0.920; P < 0.05). Almost all segmental T1 values were inversely correlated with wall thickness (R from −0.233 to −0.514; P < 0.05). Systolic T1 values were significantly lower than diastolic values in basal anteroseptal segment, in all medial segments except the inferior one, and in all apical segments (P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

Myocardial T1 values differ among myocardial regions, are influenced by sex, heart rate, and wall thickness and vary according to the cardiac cycle in healthy adults.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Determination of minor isotope ratios of individual uranium particles by accelerator mass spectrometry
Authors: Gao Jie , Zhao Yong‐Gang , He Ming , Zhao Qing‐Zhang , Shen Yan
Published: April 2021

The determination of uranium isotope ratios in uranium particle is an essential technique in the analysis of environmental samples for nuclear safeguards. At present, mass spectrometry has been widely used to measure isotope ratios of uranium particles. We developed a new analytical method for measuring minor isotope ratios of individual uranium particles directly. The technique includes single particle identification by energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer (EDX), transfer by scanning electron microscope (SEM) combined with micromanipulator and isotope ratios analysis with accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). The minor isotope ratios of individual uranium particles with four isotopic abundances and different sizes from certified reference materials were measured by AMS. The results show that the relative error (RE, i.e., the deviation of measured value from the certified value) of 234U/235U and 234U/236U isotope ratios was 9.0% and 19.3%, respectively, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) was within 9.9% and 16%, respectively. The minimum particle determined was about 2 μm. The method was found to be an alternative analytical means for nuclear safeguards.
Chromatomembrane preconcentration of phenols using a new 3D printed microflow cell followed by reversed‐phase HPLC determination
Authors: Moskvin L.N. , Rodinkov О.V. , Moskvin А.L. , Spivakovskii V. , Vlasov A.Y. , Bugaichenko A.S. , Samokhin А.S. , Nesterenko P.N.
Published: April 2021

Chromatomembrane process represents a universal approach to the separation of compounds in liquid–gas and liquid‐liquid phases systems. However, the broad application of chromatomembrane separation methods in chemical analysis is restricted by the absence of serially produced chromatomembrane flow cells and the difficulties of their laboratory production. The present work addresses the preparation of chromatomembrane flow cell by using 3D printing. Fused deposition modeling and stereolithography were modes for the production of the flow cell using acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene and polyacrylate‐based Anycubic UV resins respectively. The separation and analytical performance of the 3D‐printed flow cell were compared with a polyimide unit fabricated by a milling machine, the trial addressing the determination of phenol in the air. The method is based on chromatomembrane absorption of the analytes in 95 μL of the aqueous phase positioned in the cell. Reversed‐phase HPLC with fluorimetric detection was applied for the determination of the absorbed analytes. The detection limit of phenols (phenol and m‐cresol) in the air was 0.9 μg/m3 by absorption preconcentration time of 10 min. The volumetric flow rate of the analyzed air through the chromatomembrane cell using an electrodriven aspirator was 0.1 L/min.
The Current Management of Hepatorenal Syndrome–Acute Kidney Injury in the United States and the Potential of Terlipressin
Authors: Flamm Steven L. , Brown Kimberly , Wadei Hani M. , Brown Robert S. , Kugelmas Marcelo , Samaniego‐Picota Milagros , Burra Patrizia , Poordad Fred , Saab Sammy
Published: April 2021

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in the setting of cirrhosis (hepatorenal syndrome [HRS]–AKI) is a severe and often fatal complication of end‐stage liver disease. The goals of treatment are to reverse renal failure and prolong survival in patients who are critically ill. However, interventions have limited efficacy, and mortality rates remain high. In the United States, the mainstay of pharmacologic therapy consists of the off‐label use of vasoconstrictive agents in combination with plasma expanders, a strategy that produces modest effects. Liver transplantation is the ultimate solution but is only an option in a minority of patients because contraindications to transplantation are common and organ availability is limited. Renal replacement therapy is a temporary option but is known to confer an extremely poor short‐term prognosis in patients with HRS‐AKI and at best serves as a bridge to liver transplantation for the minority of patients who are transplantation candidates. The high mortality rate associated with HRS‐AKI in the United States is a reflection of the suboptimal standard of care. Improved therapeutic options to treat HRS‐AKI are sought. Terlipressin is a drug approved in Europe for treatment of HRS‐AKI and supported by recommendations for first‐line therapy by some liver societies and experts around the world. This review article will discuss the substantial unmet medical need associated with HRS‐AKI and the potential benefits if terlipressin was approved in the United States.
Direct Observation of Photo‐Induced Reversible Sol–Gel Transition in Block Copolymer Self‐Assembly Containing an Azobenzene Ionic Liquid
Authors: Mizuno Haruna , Hashimoto Kei , Shigenobu Keisuke , Kokubo Hisashi , Ueno Kazuhide , Watanabe Masayoshi
Published: April 2021

Using atomic force microscopy, the photo‐induced reversible changes in a block copolymer self‐assembly containing an azobenzene ionic liquid, which undergoes sol–gel transition is directly observed. This is the first report on the sol–gel transition of an ABA‐type block copolymer consisting of upper critical solution temperature (UCST)‐type A blocks in a photoresponsive ionic liquid mixture. The sol–gel transition is accompanied by an order‐to‐disorder structural change, which subsequently induces a change in the ionic conductivity. Surprisingly, the photo‐induced ionic conductivity and rheological changes occurs rapidly (≈30 s) despite the dense (≈80 wt%) polymeric system. The rapid structural change is probably attributable to the fast diffusion of the ionic liquid.
What is known about factors improving physiotherapists' adherence to high value interventions in nonspecific low back pain? A scoping review protocol
Authors: Shah Sweni , Prakash V.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Despite multiple guidelines providing best practice treatment recommendations for managing low back pain (LBP), current evidence suggests that physiotherapists across the world often provide costly, ineffective, unnecessary, even harmful care. The purpose of this scoping review is to establish the body of evidence regarding factors that improve or hinder physiotherapist's adherence to high‐value interventions in the management of non‐specific LBP.

Methods

This scoping review will be conducted based on the methodological framework for scoping review recommended by Arksey & O'Malley's and Levac. Three electronic databases will be searched: MEDLINE, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus. A search of grey literature will also be performed. The search will cover studies published in English from the inception of each database to the present date. The reference lists of all included reports and articles will be hand‐searched for additional results. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts for assessment against the eligibility criteria. Data will be extracted and presented in tabular form and a narrative summary that aligns with the review's aim.

Ethics and dissemination

This scoping review does not require ethics approval. Results of this scoping review will be disseminated via conference presentation and/or publication in a scientific journal. We will also disseminate the results as part of stakeholder meetings with physiotherapists including clinicians, academicians, researchers and administrators managing non‐specific LBP. A summary of the key results will be shared across social networking sites in the form of infographics.
The cumulative incidence of dysphagia and dysphagia‐free survival in persons diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Perry Bridget J. , Nelson Jason , Wong John B. , Kent David M.
Published: April 2021

Introduction/Aims

Dysphagia worsens mortality and quality of life for persons diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), yet our understanding of its incidence and timing remains limited. In this study we sought to estimate dysphagia incidence and dysphagia‐free survival over time.

Methods

Using data from the Pooled Resource Open‐Access ALS Clinical Trials Database, we compared characteristics of persons with and without dysphagia upon study entry. To account for competing mortality risk, we used Kaplan‐Meier curves to estimate the cumulative incidence of dysphagia and the median number of days until the development of dysphagia or death in those without dysphagia at study entry.

Results

Patients with dysphagia upon study entry were more likely to have bulbar onset and had faster rates of functional decline and shorter diagnostic delays. The cumulative incidence of new‐onset dysphagia was 44% at 1 year and 64% at 2 years after trial enrollment for those with spinal onset, and 85% and 92% for those with bulbar onset. The median duration of dysphagia‐free survival after trial enrollment was 11.5 months for those with spinal onset and 3.2 months for those with bulbar onset.

Discussion

Our findings underscore the high risk for dysphagia development and support the need for early dysphagia referral and evaluation to minimize the risk of serious dysphagia‐related complications.
Numerical investigation of the effect of weather conditions on the escalation and propagation of fire‐induced domino effect
Authors: Malik Asher Ahmed , Nasif Mohammad Shakir , Mokhtar Ainul Akmar , Mohd Tohir Mohd Zahirasri
Published: April 2021

Fire‐induced domino accidents are less probable but highly consequent. Although past studies conducted risk assessment of such events, classical models were used for impact estimation. Moreover the influence of varying weather on evolution of fire domino effect was not investigated, where past research necessitates the use of computational fluid dynamics to perform such analysis. This paper adopts a consolidated risk analysis approach to perform consequence modeling using fire dynamics simulator. Various atmospheric conditions were incorporated in the model. The outcomes were used in probabilistic analysis to estimate the escalation probabilities. Risk of domino events was presented as domino levels. It was found that 37% reduction in humidity ratio resulted in 10% decrease in tanks failure time. At 3 and 6 m/s winds, the failure time of tank in flame direction reduced by 56% and 80%, whereas the escalation probability increased by 3 and 4 orders respectively. The tank farm failed in 11.3 and 12.85 min at 3 and 6 m/s respectively, which is less than the suggested mitigation time.
Phonological Awareness Materials in Utah Kindergartens: A Case Study in the Science of Reading
Authors: Brown Kathleen J. , Patrick Kelly C. , Fields Matthew K. , Craig Grace T.
Published: April 2021

Since well before the release of the National Reading Panel report in 2000, phonemic awareness has been an important topic for reading researchers. However, it is unclear the extent to which commercial materials for phonemic awareness instruction are consistent with that report and subsequent research. In the current study, we investigated the use of commercial kindergarten materials for such instruction in one state and suggest that the most widely used materials have areas of inconsistency with the science of reading. Notably, the commercial materials reviewed here did not take orthographic development into sufficient account. Additionally, the materials did not use letters and did not limit focus to one or two skills. Implications for classroom instruction, teacher education, commercial materials development, and future research are identified.
An historical instance of urban unsustainability that astounds to this day
Authors: Mella Piero , Gazzola Patrizia
Published: April 2021

The aim of the paper is to present how the interaction between the micro behaviours of individual families and the collective macro behaviour of the city of Pavia produced a unique historical phenomenon that, on the one hand, has amazed Italy and the whole world for its striking number of towers and on the other represents a clear example of urban housing unsustainability in the Middle Ages. In the paper, using a simulation software, the micro and macro effects of the accumulation of towers in the city of Pavia are shown. The study of the behaviour of collectivities has been a very complex subject of analysis and for this reason, a fascinating and interesting one as well. To understand, explain and, to a certain extent, control collective phenomena, the Theory of Combinatory Systems was recently formalized. This theory describes, interprets and simulates the most relevant collective phenomena and their observable effects. With the aid of a simple probabilistic combinatory automaton, we have simulated the dynamics of the formation of the towered town of Pavia, Italy, which is unique in all the world, as can be observed in the historical descriptions or by a visit to this ancient Italian town.
Editorial: Let's talk about P(ee)
Authors: Mayer Brooke K.
Published: April 2021

Practitioner points

Phosphorus recycling and reuse are imperative, and the water industry has an important role to play in this effort.

Technologies capable of removing phosphorus to ultra‐low levels and subsequent recovery for phosphorus reuse are needed.

Inorganic ion exchange resins and organic bioadsorbents are promising for phosphorus removal and recovery as part of the waste‐to‐resource paradigm.
$$ \mathrm{T}\overline{\mathrm{T}} $$-deformed nonlinear Schrödinger
Authors: Ceschin Paolo , Conti Riccardo , Tateo Roberto
Published: April 2021

Abstract

The $$ \mathrm{T}\overline{\mathrm{T}} $$
T

T
¯

-deformed classical Lagrangian of a 2D Lorentz invariant theory can be derived from the original one, perturbed only at first order by the bare $$ \mathrm{T}\overline{\mathrm{T}} $$
T

T
¯

composite field, through a field-dependent change of coordinates. Considering, as an example, the nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) model with generic potential, we apply this idea to non-relativistic models. The form of the deformed Lagrangian contains a square-root and is similar but different from that for relativistic bosons. We study the deformed bright, grey and Peregrine’s soliton solutions. Contrary to naive expectations, the $$ \mathrm{T}\overline{\mathrm{T}} $$
T

T
¯

-perturbation of nonlinear Schrödinger NLS with quartic potential does not trivially emerge from a standard non-relativistic limit of the deformed sinh-Gordon field theory. The c → ∞ outcome corresponds to a different type of irrelevant deformation. We derive the corresponding Poisson bracket structure, the equations of motion and discuss various interesting aspects of this alternative type of perturbation, including links with the recent literature.