bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Resin‐Bound Peptoid as a Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalyst for Oxidation Reactions
Authors: Stamatin Yekaterina , Maayan Galia
Published: December 2019

Reusable solid‐grafted catalysts have environmental and economical advantages over soluble catalysts. Numerous catalysts, including peptides, were immobilized on solid supports to enable their recyclability. Nevertheless, the few catalytic peptoids – N‐substituted glycine oligomers – reported to date were only used off‐resin. The soluble peptoids BT and DI, a trimer and dimer having two catalytic side‐chains, were developed as bio‐inspired oxidation catalysts. BT has an additional structure‐directing group, which enables intramolecular cooperativity between the two catalytic groups (“intra‐peptoid” mode). Thus, it catalyzes the oxidation of primary alcohols with much higher efficiency than DI. Herein, we present resin‐bound BT and DI (TG‐BT and TG‐DI) as the first insoluble and recyclable catalytic peptoids. We discovered that though TG‐BT also operates through the intra‐peptoid cooperativity mode, it is less efficient than BT, even after several cycles. On the other hand, TG‐DI is far more active than DI and can be recycled several times to enable a much higher turn‐over‐number. Our studies revealed that TG‐DI operates through an intra‐resin cooperativity mode, and this enables its high activity compared with DI, BT and TG‐BT.
Learning to fear pain after observing another's pain: An experimental study in schoolchildren
Authors: Van Lierde Elke , Goubert Liesbet , Vervoort Tine , Hughes Gethin , Van den Bussche Eva
Published: December 2019

Background

Children of individuals with chronic pain have an increased vulnerability to experience pain problems, possibly through observation of pain in their parents. As pain‐related fear (PRF) is a critical factor in the development and maintenance of chronic pain, the current experimental study examined the acquisition of PRF through observational learning and subsequent extinction after first‐hand experience of the feared stimulus.

Methods

Healthy children (8–16 years) observed either their mother or a stranger performing two cold pressor tasks (CPT) filled with coloured water. In a differential conditioning procedure, one colour (CS+) was combined with genuine painful facial expressions and the other colour (CS−) with neutral facial expressions. Following this observation phase, children performed both CPTs (10°C) themselves.

Results

Children expected the CS+ to be more painful than the CS− and they reported being more afraid and hesitant to immerse in the CS+ compared to the CS−. Moreover, this fear was reflected in children's level of arousal in anticipation of CPT performance. This learned association extinguished after performing both CPTs. Effects were not moderated by whether the child observed their mother or a stranger, by the child's pain catastrophizing, trait PRF or trait anxiety. Remarkably, learning effects increased when the child perceived a larger difference between the model's painful and neutral facial expressions.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence for observational learning of PRF and subsequent extinction in schoolchildren. This acquisition of PRF by observing parental pain may contribute to vulnerabilities in children of parents with chronic pain.

Significance

Children may acquire pain‐related fear by observing pain in others and this learned fear can diminish after first‐hand experience. Remarkably, observational learning did not depend on the children's relationship with the model, but it did depend on the intensity of pain that is perceived. A better understanding of the impact of observing (parental) pain may help clarify the intergenerational transmission of risk for pain and inform the development of preventive programs.
Evaluation of polymorphisms in repair and detoxification genes in alcohol drinkers and non‐drinkers using capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Oliveira de Araújo Melo Caroline , Cidália Vieira Thaís , Duarte Gigonzac Marc Alexandre , Soares Fortes Jakeline , Moreira Duarte Sabrina Sara , da Cruz Aparecido Divino , Silva Daniela de Melo e
Published: December 2019

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) causes about 3.3 million deaths around the world each year. It is the primary risk factor for the global burden of diseases in American countries. Long‐term abuse of alcohol induces numerous molecular and biochemical changes in tissues exposed to alcohol. The toxic effects of alcohol are mediated by DNA damage through various mechanisms, such as induction of oxidative damage, DNA adducts, crosslinks, and DNA strand breaks. The main aim of the current study was to compare the frequency of SNP polymorphisms in XRCC1 (rs7997782) and GSTP1 (rs1695) genes involved in DNA repair of single strand breaks (SSB) and xenobiotic detoxification between alcohol addicts and a control group comprised of non‐drinkers. Genetic polymorphisms were identified following allelic specific PCR designed to generate the amplicons containing the variants. Then amplicons were sequenced, and sequences were aligned against the human genome reference deposited in GenBank using the CLC Sequence Viewer software (version 7.6.1). The GG homozygotes in rs1695 (GSTP1) were significantly (p = 0.023) 3.8x more frequent among those with AUD when compared to the control group. No SNP variation was observed in rs7997782 (XRCC1). rs1695 variant has been associated with susceptibility to various diseases, including those related to alcohol consumption.
Power sources sizing for a fuel cell hybrid vehicle
Authors: Sadek Hani , Chedid Riad , Fares Dima
Published: December 2019

Fuel cell hybrid vehicles (FCHV) are attractive alternatives to fossil fuel based ones in terms of lowering levels of polluting emissions. This paper presents a methodology for modeling, sizing, and power management of FCHV. The aim of the study is to achieve the lowest cost of driving over different driving cycles taking into consideration the vehicle specifications and minimum drivability constraints. The tunnel dynamic programming (TDP) is used to find the optimal power split between the battery and the fuel cell to meet the power demand for driving. On the other hand, since cost is a major barrier hindering the commercialization of FCHV, Pareto front is used to determine the best combination of sizes to achieve the lowest operational cost. The analysis covers different driving cycles including a combination of the highway and urban driving cycles mimicking a realistic one. The focus on lithium titanate battery and the combination of TDP‐Pareto front are the significant contributions of this paper. Comparative results against a commercial hybrid vehicle showed that the proposed model found a more efficient design in terms of hydrogen consumption and more capable in meeting aggressive drivability constraints as the electric motor size selected is greater.
The study on the modern sedimentary system of Buha River Delta in Qinghai Lake
Authors: Chen Ji , Jiang Zaixing , Zhang Wanyi , Liu Chao , Han Chao
Published: December 2019

Qinghai Lake forming in the Miocene is the largest faulted brackish lake in China. Different researchers conducted comprehensive study via multidisciplinary methods between 1960 and 1970, but modern sedimentary researchers mostly focus on a single facies instead of trying to systemically understand the sedimentary systems of Qinghai Lake and its surrounding areas. Based on observation of outcrop and bathymetry, remote sensing imagery, and meteorological data, the combined research of the modern sedimentary systems in Buha River of Qinghai Lake is conducted, assisted by mechanical analysis and geochemical test. The theory of “source‐to‐sink” system is presented in this study. Based on sedimentary facies analysis in single sites and linear “source‐to‐sink” sedimentary system are well built. The delta of Buha River develops underwater distributary, underwater natural levee, mouth bar, sheet sand, and delta front slope. The control factors of Buha River Delta sedimentary systems include provenance lithology, topography, drainage, vegetational species, plant coverage, wave, coastal current, and lake level fluctuation.
Applied Learning through Collaborative Educational Experiences
Authors: Loes Chad N.
Published: December 2019

This chapter explores the use of collaborative learning and its associated outcomes in higher education settings.
Co‐curricular Involvement and Student Leadership as Catalysts for Student Learning
Authors: Haber‐Curran Paige
Published: December 2019

This chapter focuses on co‐curricular involvement and student leadership as applied learning experiences. Key considerations are presented for shaping environments and opportunities to scaffold and guide students’ learning.
Internships and Applied Work‐Based Learning Experiences in Higher Education
Authors: Wagner Alan , Strach Patricia
Published: December 2019

This chapter describes applied work‐based learning, situates participation against student employment, provides features of effective applied work‐based learning experiences, examines evidence of effects, and discusses challenges to implement and sustain effective experiences.
Improving sensory representations using episodic memory
Authors: Görler Richard , Wiskott Laurenz , Cheng Sen
Published: December 2019

The medial temporal lobe (MTL) is well known to be essential for declarative memory. However, a growing body of research suggests that MTL structures might be involved in perceptual processes as well. Our previous modeling work suggests that sensory representations in cortex influence the accuracy of episodic memory retrieved from the MTL. We adopt that model here to show that, conversely, episodic memory can also influence the quality of sensory representations. We model the effect of episodic memory as (a) repeatedly replaying episodes from memory and (b) recombining episode fragments to form novel sequences that are more informative for learning sensory representations than the original episodes. We demonstrate that the performance in visual discrimination tasks is superior when episodic memory is present and that this difference is due to episodic memory driving the learning of a more optimized sensory representation. We conclude that the MTL can, even if it has only a purely mnemonic function, influence perceptual discrimination indirectly.
Motivational design to grab attention, establish relevance, build confidence, and achieve satisfaction about evidence‐based medicine for pharmacists
Authors: Lounsbery Jody L. , Reidt Shannon L. , Pittenger Amy L.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

A primary challenge of effectively teaching evidence‐based medicine (EBM) is a lack of learner motivation for the topic. The objective was to evaluate an online, EBM course created using motivational design principles.

Methods

An online EBM continuing education course was designed and delivered to pharmacy residents. The validated Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (IMMS) and an open‐ended survey based on Keller's Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction (ARCS) components were used to evaluate the design and instructional materials. A mixed‐methods approach was used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data sources.

Results

Twenty‐six (96%) participants successfully completed the course. The overall mean score for the course was 87%. The mean IMMS score was 126.2 (standard deviation [SD] = 14.6). Mean scores for individual ARCS components were relevance 3.8 (SD = 1.0), confidence 3.7 (SD = 1.1), attention 3.4 (SD = 1.1), and satisfaction 3.0 (SD = 1.0). Design principles identified as being positive influencers of the ARCS components included organized and logical flow of activities, realistic examples and personalized application expectations, a manageable amount of effort and enough flexibility to fit into the busy practice position, and reminder prompts regarding upcoming due dates. The use of multiple learning formats (videos, readings, online discussions, etc.) emerged as positive influences of confidence and satisfaction.

Discussion

Evidence‐based medicine can be a challenging topic for pharmacy learners. Motivational design was an effective strategy to help learners gain knowledge and skills related to EBM.
Current status and future outlook of nano‐based systems for burn wound management
Authors: Abazari Morteza , Ghaffari Azadeh , Rashidzadeh Hamid , Momeni badeleh Safa , Maleki Yaser
Published: December 2019

Wound healing process is a natural and intricate response of the body to its injuries and includes a well‐orchestrated sequence of biochemical and cellular phenomena to restore the integrity of skin and injured tissues. Complex nature and associated complications of burn wounds lead to an incomplete and prolonged recovery of these types of wounds. Among different materials and systems which have been used in treating the wounds, nanotechnology driven therapeutic systems showed a great opportunity to improvement and enhancement of the healing process of different type of wounds. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the recent studies about the various nanotechnology‐based management of burn wounds and the future outlook of these systems in this area. Laboratory and animal models for assessing the efficacy of these systems in burn wound management also discussed.
Heterogeneity and Spatial Distribution of Intravertebral Trabecular Bone Mineral Density in the Lumbar Spine Is Associated With Prevalent Vertebral Fracture
Authors: Kaiser Jarred , Allaire Brett , Fein Paul M , Lu Darlene , Adams Alexander , Kiel Douglas P , Jarraya Mohamed , Guermazi Ali , Demissie Serkalem , Samelson Elizabeth J , Bouxsein Mary L , Morgan Elise F
Published: December 2019

The spatial heterogeneity in trabecular bone density within the vertebral centrum is associated with vertebral strength and could explain why volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) exhibits low sensitivity in identifying fracture risk. This study evaluated whether the heterogeneity and spatial distribution of trabecular vBMD are associated with prevalent vertebral fracture. We examined the volumetric quantitative computed tomography (QCT) scans of the L3 vertebra in 148 participants in the Framingham Heart Study Multidetector CT study. Of these individuals, 37 were identified as cases of prevalent fracture, and 111 were controls, matched on sex and age with three controls per case. vBMD was calculated within 5-mm contiguous cubic regions of the centrum. Two measures of heterogeneity were calculated: (i) interquartile range (IQR); and (ii) quartile coefficient of variation (QCV). Ratios in the spatial distributions of the trabecular vBMD were also calculated: anterior/posterior, central/outer, superior/mid-transverse, and inferior/mid-transverse. Heterogeneity and spatial distributions were compared between cases and controls using Wilcoxon rank sum tests and t tests and tested for association with prevalent fractures with conditional logistic regressions independent of integral vBMD. Prevalent fracture cases had lower mean ± SD integral vBMD (134 ± 38 versus165 ± 42 mg/cm3, p < .001), higher QCV (0.22 ± 0.13 versus 0.17 ± 0.09, p = .003), and lower anterior/posterior rBMD (0.65 ± 0.13 versus 0.78 ± 0.16, p < .001) than controls. QCV was positively associated with increased odds of prevalent fracture (OR 1.61; 95% CI, 1.04 to 2.49; p = .034), but this association was not independent of integral vBMD (p = .598). Increased anterior/posterior trabecular vBMD ratio was associated with decreased odds of prevalent fracture independent of integral vBMD (OR 0.38; 95% CI, 0.20 to 0.71; p = .003). In conclusion, increased trabecular vBMD in the anterior versus posterior centrum, but not trabecular vBMD heterogeneity, was associated with decreased risk of prevalent fracture independent of integral vBMD. Regional measurements of trabecular vBMD could aid in determining the risk and underlying mechanisms of vertebral fracture. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Myeloma Cells Down-Regulate Adiponectin in Bone Marrow Adipocytes Via TNF-Alpha
Authors: Morris Emma V , Suchacki Karla J , Hocking Joseph , Cartwright Rachel , Sowman Aneka , Gamez Beatriz , Lea Ryan , Drake Matthew T , Cawthorn William P , Edwards Claire M
Published: December 2019

Multiple myeloma is caused by abnormal plasma cells that accumulate in the bone marrow and interact with resident cells of the bone microenvironment to drive disease progression and development of an osteolytic bone disease. Bone marrow adipocytes (BMAds) are emerging as having important endocrine functions that can support myeloma cell growth and survival. However, how BMAds respond to infiltrating tumor cells remains poorly understood. Using the C57BL/KaLwRij murine model of myeloma, bone marrow adiposity was found to be increased in early stage myeloma with BMAds localizing along the tumor-bone interface at later stages of disease. Myeloma cells were found to uptake BMAd-derived lipids in vitro and in vivo, although lipid uptake was not associated with the ability of BMAds to promote myeloma cell growth and survival. However, BMAd-derived factors were found to increase myeloma cell migration, viability, and the evasion of apoptosis. BMAds are a major source of adiponectin, which is known to be myeloma-suppressive. Myeloma cells were found to downregulate adiponectin specifically in a model of BMAds but not in white adipocytes. The ability of myeloma cells to downregulate adiponectin was dependent at least in part on TNF-α. Collectively our data support the link between increased bone marrow adiposity and myeloma progression. By demonstrating how TNF-α downregulates BMAd-derived adiponectin, we reveal a new mechanism by which myeloma cells alter the bone microenvironment to support disease progression. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
LncRNA HOXB‐AS1 promotes cell growth in multiple myeloma via FUT4 mRNA stability by ELAVL1
Authors: Chen Rongsheng , Zhang Xiaobo , Wang Changsheng
Published: December 2019

Multiple myeloma (MM) is defined as the second most common hematological tumor in the globe. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play stimulative or suppressive role in the progression of different carcinomas. The investigation of lncRNAs in MM is still inadequate. LncRNA HOXB cluster antisense RNA 1 (HOXB‐AS1) was once revealed to facilitate glioma progression by affecting cellular activities of glioma cells. However, whether HOXB‐AS1 participates in the development of MM still remains an enigma. In this study, we unveiled that HOXB‐AS1 was highly expressed in MM and loss‐of‐function assays certified that HOXB‐AS1 obstruction suppressed MM cell proliferation, and stimulated cell apoptosis. In addition, HOXB‐AS1 could modulate fucosyltransferase 4 (FUT4) and FUT4‐mediated Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. In subsequence, it was observed from mechanism assays that HOXB‐AS1 enhanced the interaction between ELAVL1 and FUT4 so as to stabilize FUT4 messenger RNA. In the end, rescue experiments affirmed that HOXB‐AS1 affected the cell growth through FUT4 in MM. In conclusion, the whole modulation mechanism of HOXB‐AS1/ELAVL1/FUT4 axis in MM was validated in this study, which suggested that HOXB‐AS1 might function as a powerful and promising therapeutic biomarker for the clinical treatment of patients with MM.
Gene expression and DNA methylation analyses suggest that immune process‐related ADCY6 is a prognostic factor of luminal‐like breast cancer
Authors: Li Weijing , Sang Meixiang , Hao Xiaoguang , Jia Li , Wang Yong , Shan Baoen
Published: December 2019

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that seriously threatens women's health, and luminal‐like cancer subtypes account for the majority of the cases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships among DNA methylation, gene expression profile, and the tumor‐immune microenvironment of luminal‐like breast cancer, and to identify the potential key genes that regulate immune cell infiltration in luminal‐like breast cancer. The ESTIMATE algorithm was applied to calculate immune scores and stromal scores of patients with breast cancer. Kaplan‐Meier curves were generated for survival analysis. The clusterProfile package was used for Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis. The protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database and Cytoscape software. Correlations between ADCY6 expression and immune cell infiltration‐related pathways were analyzed by gene set variation analysis. R software was used for the statistical analysis and figure generation. Disease‐free survival was higher in the immune score‐high group than it was in the immune score‐low group, while the stromal score had no correlation with prognosis. There were 515 genes that differed in both gene expression and DNA methylation levels, and these genes were mainly enriched in immune process‐related pathways. ADCY6 was enriched in module A of the PPI network. Patients with downregulation and hypermethylation of ADCY6 associated with a better prognosis. ADCY6 expression was negatively correlated with the activation of immune process‐related signaling pathways, immune checkpoint receptors, and ligands, except for CLEC4G. DNA methylation was found to be involved in the regulation of the key cellular pathways of luminal‐like breast cancer immune cell infiltration. Additionally, ADCY6 was identified as a prognostic factor involved in the DNA methylation‐regulated immune processes in luminal‐like breast cancer.
Sarcopenia, long‐term conditions, and multimorbidity: findings from UK Biobank participants
Authors: Dodds Richard M. , Granic Antoneta , Robinson Sian M. , Sayer Avan A.
Published: December 2019

Background

Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle strength and mass, predicts adverse outcomes and becomes common with age. There is recognition that sarcopenia may occur at younger ages in those with long‐term conditions (LTCs) as well as those with multimorbidity (the presence of two or more LTCs), but their relationships have been little explored. Our aims were to describe the prevalence of sarcopenia in UK Biobank, a large sample of men and women aged 40–70 years, and to explore relationships with different categories of LTCs and multimorbidity.

Methods

We used data from 499 046 participants in the baseline of UK Biobank. Our main outcome was probable sarcopenia based on maximum grip strength below sex‐specific cut‐points. Participants' LTCs were recorded during an interview and categorized against a hierarchy. We used logistic regression to examine the independent associations between each category of LTCs and probable sarcopenia, including adjustment for age, sex, and body mass index. We also examined the association with multimorbidity.

Results

Probable sarcopenia had an overall prevalence of 5.3% and increased with age. The categories with the strongest associations with probable sarcopenia were musculoskeletal/trauma [OR 2.17 (95% CI: 2.11, 2.23)], endocrine/diabetes [OR 1.49 (95% CI: 1.45, 1.55)], and neurological/psychiatric [OR 1.39 (95% CI: 1.34, 1.43)] LTCs. Almost half of the sample (44.5%) had multimorbidity, and they were at nearly twice the odds of probable sarcopenia [OR 1.96 (95% CI: 1.91, 2.02)] compared with those without.

Conclusions

We have shown an overall prevalence of 5.3% of probable sarcopenia at ages 40–70 in UK Biobank. The risk of probable sarcopenia was higher in those with some categories of LTCs, suggesting that these groups may stand to benefit from assessment of sarcopenia, during mid‐life as well as old age.
Facile synthesis of novel heterocyclic compounds based on pyridine moiety with pharmaceutical activities
Authors: Mahmoud Naglaa F. H. , El‐Sewedy Ahmed
Published: December 2019

A novel run of fused heterocyclic derivatives containing pyridine moieties has been disclosed by allowing 2‐amino‐4‐phenyl‐6‐(phenyl amino)pyridine‐3,5‐dicarbonitrile 1 to undergo annulation reactions with different reagents. Most of synthesized compounds have moderate to strong antitumor activity against HePG‐2 and MCF‐7. Moreover, MOE 2014.09 software was used to run the computational studies to support the biological activity results. The assigned structures for all the newly prepared derivatives were ascertained on the basis of elemental analyses and spectral data.
Self‐adaptive fractional‐order LQ‐PID voltage controller for robust disturbance compensation in DC‐DC buck converters
Authors: Saleem Omer , Awan Fahim Gohar , Mahmood‐ul‐Hasan Khalid , Ahmad Muaaz
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a state‐dependent self‐tuning fractional control strategy for a DC‐DC buck converter in order to enhance its output voltage regulation and disturbance attenuation capability. The proposed control scheme primarily employs a ubiquitous proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controller, where gains are optimally selected using a linear‐quadratic state‐space tuning approach. The optimal PID controller is then augmented with fractional‐order integral and derivative operators in order to improve the controller's degrees‐of‐freedom as well as the system's overall time‐domain performance. The fractional controller's robustness against bounded exogenous disturbances, contributed by the input fluctuations and load‐step transients, is further enhanced by adaptively modulating the fractional‐orders of the integro‐differential operators as a smooth nonlinear function of controlled‐variable's error‐dynamics. An online dynamic adjustment law, comprising of a zero‐mean Gaussian function of error and its derivative, is used to individually update the two fractional orders after every sampling interval. The error derivative is evaluated by measuring the output capacitor's current in order to compensate the noise injected by parasitic impedance. The other controller parameters are tuned via particle‐swarm‐optimization algorithm. The proposed self‐adaptive control strategy renders rapid transits, minimum transient recovery time, and minimal fluctuations around steady state in the response. Its efficacy is validated through hardware in‐the‐loop experiments conducted on a buck converter prototype.
Thermal seasons in northern Europe in projected future climate
Authors: Ruosteenoja Kimmo , Markkanen Tiina , Räisänen Jouni
Published: December 2019

Global warming acts to prolong thermal summers and shorten winters. In this work, future changes in the lengths and timing of four thermal seasons in northern Europe, with threshold temperatures 0 and 10°C, are derived from bias‐adjusted output data from 23 CMIP5 global climate models. Three future periods and two Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios are discussed. The focus is on the period 2040–2069 under RCP4.5, which approximately corresponds to a 2°C global warming relative to the preindustrial era. By the period 2040–2069, the average length of the thermal summer increases by nearly 30 days relative to 1971–2000, and the thermal winter shortens by 30–60 days. The timing of the thermal springs advances while autumns delay. Within the model ensemble, there is a high linear correlation between the modelled annual‐mean temperature increase and shifts in the thermal seasons. Thermal summers lengthen by about 10 days and winters shorten by 10–24 days per 1°C of local warming. In the mid‐21st century, about two‐thirds of all summers (winters) are projected to be very long (very short) according to the baseline‐period standards, with an anomaly greater than 20 days relative to the late‐20th century temporal mean. The proportion of years without a thermal winter increases remarkably in the Baltic countries and southern Scandinavian peninsula. Implications of the changing thermal seasons on nature and human society are discussed in a literature review.
Regulation of the biosynthesis of endogenous nitric oxide and abscisic acid in stored peaches by exogenous nitric oxide and abscisic acid
Authors: Tian Wen , Huang Dandan , Geng Biao , Zhang Qitong , Feng Jianrong , Zhu Shuhua
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide (NO) and abscisic acid (ABA) are important regulators of plant response to cold stress, and they interact in response to cold signals. The primary goal of this study was to determine the roles of exogenous NO and ABA on the synthesis of endogenous NO and ABA in cold‐stored peach fruit.

RESULTS

Exogenous NO and ABA maintained a relatively high content of NO, increased nitrate reductase (NR) activity, and inhibited the activity of NO synthase (NOS)‐like and the levels of polyamine biosynthesis in peaches during cold storage. Treatments of potassium 2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide (c‐PTIO), NO, N‐nitro‐l‐Arg‐methyl ester (L‐NAME), and sodium tungstate did not influence ABA content. Exogenous ABA increased the content of carotenoids and the activities of aldehyde oxidase (AO), 9‐cis‐epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED), and zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP) of ABA synthesis in peaches during cold storage, and upregulated the gene expression of PpAO1, PpNCED1, PpNCED2, and PpZEP. The production of endogenous NO was differentially inhibited by NO scavengers, ABA inhibitors, and NR inhibitors, but not affected by NOS‐like inhibitors during cold storage.

CONCLUSION

Exogenous NO and ABA can induce endogenous NO synthesis in cold‐stored peaches by the nitrate reductase pathway, and ABA can mediate endogenous ABA synthesis by the autocatalytic reaction. NO does not regulate ABA synthesis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Predicting the Number of Fibular Segments to Reconstruct Mandibular Defects
Authors: Shkedy Yotam , Howlett Joel , Wang Edward , Ongko Jennifer , Scott Durham J. , Prisman Eitan
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Several classification schemes have been proposed to categorize mandibular defects following surgical resection; however, there is a paucity of data to guide an optimal reconstruction. This study examines the feasibility of using a geometric algorithm to simplify and determine the optimal reconstruction for a given mandibular defect. This algorithm is then applied to three different mandible defect classification schemes to correlate the defect type and number of bony segments required for reconstruction.

Methods

Computed tomography (CT) scans of 48 mandibles were decomposed into curvilinear representations and analyzed using the Ramer‐Douglas‐Peucker algorithm. In total, 720 mandibular defects were created and subsequently analyzed utilizing three commonly referenced classification systems. For each defect, the number of bony segments required to reconstruct each defect was computed.

Results

A wide variance in the number of segments needed for optimal reconstruction was observed across existing classifications. A six‐segment total mandible reconstruction best reconstituted mandibular form in all 48 mandibles.

Conclusion

Defect classification schemes are not adaptable to predicting the number of fibula segments required for a given defect. Additionally, cephalometric templates may not be applicable in all clinical settings. The Ramer‐Douglas‐Peucker algorithm is well suited for providing case‐specific predictions of reconstruction plans in a reproducible manner.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 130:E619–E624, 2020
Estimation of soil available potassium in Chinese agricultural fields using a modified sodium tetraphenyl boron method
Authors: Chen Xiaoqin , Li Ting , Lu Dianjun , Cheng Liang , Zhou Jianmin , Wang Huoyan
Published: December 2019

China has a long history and has made a substantial contribution to global crop production, but lacking in potassium (K) mineral resource, have led to numerous studies of K availability in Chinese agricultural soils. In this study, we collected 2,428 surface soil samples from nine important agricultural regions to investigate available K reserves in Chinese agricultural soils. Soil highly available K (HAK) and maximally available K (MAK) were estimated using a modified sodium tetraphenyl boron (NaTPB) method. With HAK and MAK distribution maps constructed, the characteristics of available K contents distribution were visibly observed as higher in Western and Northern China, and lower in the East and South. We then used the Kriging method to estimate the HAK reserve and its potential utilization. The soil HAK reserve was predicted to maintain only crops producing >70% of the relative biomass yield for approximately 10 years in the absence of external K application. With straw returning, this utilization period was predicted to increase to about 40 years. Soil MAK content was generally less than 1,000 mg kg–1, and reached as low as <500 mg kg–1 throughout most of central and Eastern China. The results of this study graphically demonstrate the shortage of K storage in Chinese agricultural soil and its looming sustainability crisis. These findings provide a scientific basis support the improved use and protection of agricultural resources in China.
The effect of urban point source contamination on microplastic levels in water and organisms in a cold‐water stream
Authors: Simmerman Claire B. , Coleman Wasik Jill K.
Published: December 2019

We examined the influence of point and nonpoint source contamination on microplastic (MP) levels in water, macroinvertebrates, and trout in a small, cold‐water stream in western Wisconsin, U.S.A. We collected samples along an urbanization gradient centered around a 6‐mile corridor that receives numerous MP inputs from stormwater outfalls and a wastewater plant. We digested samples using a wet peroxide oxidation method. Particles filtered from digestates were stained with Nile Red dye, then viewed using fluorescence microscopy. We quantified fluorescing MPs using ImageJ software. MP concentrations in water increased significantly from upstream to downstream reaches and appeared to influence organism MP levels. Macroinvertebrates and trout collected upstream of the city had significantly lower MP levels than macroinvertebrates and trout collected within the city, and for trout, downstream of the city. MP particle lengths were significantly longer in macroinvertebrates compared to water and trout, perhaps indicating preferential accumulation of longer particles from the water column.
Development of Poor Cell Adhesive Immersion Precipitation Membranes Based on Supramolecular Bis‐Urea Polymers
Authors: van Gaal Ronald C. , van Sprang Johnick F. , Borneman Zandrie , Dankers Patricia Y. W.
Published: December 2019

A variety of biomedical applications requires tailored membranes; fabrication through a mix‐and‐match approach is simple and desired. Polymers based on supramolecular bis‐urea (BU) moieties are capable of modular integration through directed non‐covalent stacking. Here, it is proposed that non‐cell adhesive properties can be introduced in polycaprolactone‐BU‐based membranes by the addition of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐BU during immersion precipitation membrane fabrication, while unmodified PEG is not retained in the membrane. PEG‐BU addition results in denser membranes with a similar pore size compared to pristine membranes, while PEG addition induces defect formation. Infrared spectroscopy and surface hydrophobicity measurements indicate that PEG‐BU is retained during membrane processing. Additionally, PEG‐BU incorporation successfully leads to poor cell adhesive surfaces. No evidence is observed to indicate PEG retention. The results obtained indicate that the BU system enables intimate mixing of BU‐modified polymers after processing. Collectively, the results provide the first steps toward BU‐based immersion precipitated supramolecular membranes for biomedical applications.
Ultrasound/Optical Dual‐Modality Imaging for Evaluation of Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques with Osteopontin Targeted Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Sulei , Gou Tiantian , Wang Qi , Chen Min , Chen Ze , Xu Mengqi , Wang Yabin , Han Dong , Cao Ruihua , Liu Junsong , Liang Ping , Dai Zhifei , Cao Feng
Published: December 2019

Because of the high mortality of coronary atherosclerotic heart diseases, it is necessary to develop novel early detection methods for vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. Phenotype transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a vital role in progressed atherosclerotic plaques. Osteopontin (OPN) is one of the biomarkers for phenotypic conversion of VSMCs. Significant higher OPN expression is found in foam cells along with the aggravating capacity of macrophage recruitment due to its arginine‐glycine‐aspartate sequence and interaction with CD44. Herein, a dual‐modality imaging probe, OPN targeted nanoparticles (Cy5.5‐anti‐OPN‐PEG‐PLA‐PFOB, denoted as COP‐NPs), is constructed to identify the molecular characteristics of high‐risk atherosclerosis by ultrasound and optical imaging. Characterization, biocompatibility, good binding sensibility, and specificity are evaluated in vitro. For in vivo study, apolipoprotein E deficien (ApoE−/−) mice fed with high fat diet for 20–24 weeks are used as atherosclerotic model. Ultrasound and optical imaging reveal that the nanoparticles are accumulated in the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. OPN targeted nanoparticles are demonstrated to be a good contrast agent in molecular imaging of synthetic VSMCs and foam cells, which can be a promising tool to identify the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques.
Fabrication of Photothermally Responsive Nanocomposite Hydrogel through 3D Printing
Authors: Zhang Lun , Zhang Xueqian , Li Lei , Liu Yinghao , Wang Dong , Xu Liqiang , Bao Jianjun , Zhang Aimin
Published: December 2019

The responsive hydrogels have received great attention in many fields. However, the molding method and response mode of such hydrogels are criticized when it comes to real applications. In this work, a novel class of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide)/graphene oxide (PNIPAm/GO) nanocomposite hydrogel through self‐assembly three‐dimensional (3D) printing via ultraviolet light polymerization. The precursor is ordinarily constituted by NIPAm monomer, crosslinker, and water mixed with a photoinitiator, besides the introduction of nanoclay adjusts the shear thinning properties to an optimal level, which is important for the 3D printing precision. Then, the graphite oxide as infrared light absorber endows the hydrogel fast photothermal excited responsivity instead of conventional temperature response. The shrinkage and swelling of the composite hydrogel can be controlled by turning the near‐infrared light on or off. Meanwhile, the reversible behavior of as‐prepared hydrogel is easily regulated by altering the content of GO and illumination time of near‐infrared light. Additionally, a round tube is obtained based on the as‐prepared hydrogel, which can be driven to get a pencil, indicating their potential applications in actuator and other functional program.
Microbiota changes in a pediatric acute lymphocytic leukemia mouse model
Authors: Song Yajing , Gyarmati Peter
Published: December 2019

Hematological malignancies are the most common type of pediatric cancers, and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is the most frequently occurring hematological malignancy during childhood. A major cause of mortality in leukemia is bloodstream infection (BSI). The aim of the current study was to explore the gut microbiota in ALL and its potential functional alterations. High‐throughput sequencing was used to characterize the bacterial and fungal microbiota in feces and their predicted functional characteristics in a xenotransplant pediatric ALL mouse model. Our work shows that gut microbiota significantly changes in leukemia, which may result in functional alterations. This study may provide potential therapeutic or preventive strategies of BSI in ALL.
Valuation of a startup: Moving towards strategic approaches
Authors: Dhochak Monika , Doliya Prince
Published: December 2019

The valuation of a new venture is often considered to be a combative point of negotiation between venture capitalists and entrepreneurs. To bridge this gap, the present study aims to comprehend the link between startup valuation and established strategic management theories. The purpose of this study is to prioritize the theories from the strategic management literature in the valuation of a startup to assess firm performance using evidence from India, an emerging market. This study addresses research questions such as whether strategic theories (internal‐based theory, industry‐based theory, and network‐based theory) enable the valuation of a new venture and how venture capitalists prioritize and vary the importance of these theories to assess the economic value of a new venture. The strategic management theories are prioritized using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process, a multicriteria decision‐making technique for the valuation of a venture. The present study develops an integrative multicriteria fuzzy decision‐making approach to measure the relative importance of the strategic input variables. The results of the study validate the inclusion of strategic variables and provide a systematic approach to follow and measure the important factors when valuing a new venture. Such outcomes of the study help to theoretically and practically build a valuation foundation for both venture capitalists and entrepreneurs. This study brings increased rigor to the venture capital valuation literature by introducing a supplementary method to identify and measure the importance of these theories in new venture valuation.
Mathematical studies of the solution of Burgers' equations by Adomian decomposition method
Authors: Zeidan Dia , Chau Chi Kin , Lu Tzon‐Tzer , Zheng Wei‐Quan
Published: December 2019

In this paper, a novel Adomian decomposition method (ADM) is developed for the solution of Burgers' equation. While high level of this method for differential equations are found in the literature, this work covers most of the necessary details required to apply ADM for partial differential equations. The present ADM has the capability to produce three different types of solutions, namely, explicit exact solution, analytic solution, and semi‐analytic solution. In the best cases, when a closed‐form solution exists, ADM is able to capture this exact solution, while most of the numerical methods can only provide an approximation solution. The proposed ADM is validated using different test cases dealing with inviscid and viscous Burgers' equations. Satisfactory results are obtained for all test cases, and, particularly, results reported in this paper agree well with those reported by other researchers.
A nonlocal problem with integral gluing condition for a third‐order loaded equation with parabolic‐hyperbolic operator involving fractional derivatives
Authors: Agarwal Praveen , Kh.Abdullaev Obidjon
Published: December 2019

This work devoted to prove of uniqueness and existence of solution of the nonlocal problem with integral gluing condition for the loaded parabolic‐hyperbolic type equation involving Caputo derivatives which loaded parts in Riemann‐Liouville integral‐differential operator. Using the method of integral energy, the uniqueness of solution have been proved. Existence of solution was proved by the method of integral equations.
Technical Note: Dosimetric characterization of the dynamic beam flattening MLC sequence on a ring shaped, Jawless Linear Accelerator with double stacked MLC
Authors: Bollinger Douglas , Laugeman Eric , Li Taoran , Hilliard Jessica , Heermann Ana , Kim Hyun , Hugo Geoff , Mutic Sasa , Dong Lei , Cai Bin
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To characterize the dosimetric features and limitations of the dynamic beam flattening (DBF) on the Halcyon 2.0 linear accelerator (Varian Medical Systems).

Methods

A predefined multi‐leaf collimator (MLC) sequence was introduced and used to flatten the 6 MV flattening filter free (FFF) beam on the Halcyon 2.0. Dosimetric characterizations of the flattened beams, including beam flatness, symmetry, percent depth dose (PDD), output factor and MU linearity, were investigated. Flatness and symmetry were obtained from profile measurements with both radiographic films (EDR2) and a two dimensional ion‐chamber array (IC Profiler, Sun Nuclear Corporation). MU linearity, output factors, and PDDs were measured in a water tank with a CC13 ion chamber (Scanditronix Wellhöfer, Nuremburg, Germany). In addition, the effect of the DBF sequence on 3D plan quality was evaluated by creating DBF plans for a 4‐field box rectum and an AP/PA spine plan. Patient specific QA was performed on these plans.

Results

At 100 cm SSD and 10 cm depth, a flatness of <3% was observed on both transversal and radial profiles for all square field sizes ≥10 cm with DBF. For both larger and smaller field sizes the flatness showed a tendency to increase as the fields got bigger or smaller, respectively. Similar trends in flatness were observed at all depths measured. All measured output factors for square field sizes ≥5 cm were within 1% of the TPS prediction. Linearity was ≤2.02% for all measurements. For both treatment sites, the MD judged the plans created for the Halcyon without the use of DBF not to be clinically acceptable, however considered both the TrueBeam plan and the Halcyon plan with the DBF sequence to be clinically acceptable.

Conclusions

The DBF sequence on the Halcyon and its characteristics were investigated. The analysis indicates that the DBF sequence can be used on the Halcyon to generate clinically acceptable 3D treatment plans.
Semiautomated Process for Enumeration of Fishes from Recreational-Grade Side-Scan Sonar Imagery
Authors: Lawson Katelyn M. , Ridgway Josey L. , Mueller Andy T. , Faulkner Jacob D. A. , Calfee Robin D.
Published: December 2019

The use of hydroacoustic techniques is increasing as scientists search for less invasive ways to monitor fish populations, and using recreational side-scan sonar (SSS) imagery for monitoring has become more common in aquatic resource management over the last 15 years due in part to its low cost and user-friendly interface. The time-consuming nature of manually counting fish targets has limited the use of the data that is collected by these systems in research or management contexts. To reduce the time and effort that is required to enumerate acoustic targets that are presumed to be fish, we developed a semiautomated process that rapidly quantifies targets from recreational SSS imagery by using an open-source image processing software. Perceived fish targets were enumerated using a set of macroinstructions that performed similarly to manual enumeration by three experienced assessors. This method reduced variation that arises from individual assessors and eliminated the prohibitive time constraints that are associated with manual processing. Herein, we describe how our semiautomated process could be used in fisheries management contexts after further research and development of sampling methods. Future research will focus on field validation, quantifying relative abundance, testing across a broader range of environmental conditions, and exploring other applications for fisheries management.
Crack nucleation in saturated porous media
Authors: Dormieux Luc , Lemarchand Eric , Carlioz Thomas , Jeannin Laurent
Published: December 2019

Crack nucleation has been the subject of important contributions in the last two last decades. However, it seems that few attention has been granted to the case of saturated porous media. This is the question addressed in the present paper which is devoted to nucleation in traction mode. From a physical point of view, nucleation is a sudden phenomenon, so that the material response is both adiabatic and undrained. In the spirit of the variational approach, the nucleated crack is viewed as the final state of a region of space in which the material undergoes a full damage process. In traction mode, the opening of a saturated crack in undrained condition induces a drop of fluid pressure. In case of low fluid compressibility, the presence of the fluid delays the brittle failure usually associated with nucleation, as long as the fluid pressure remains above the saturation vapor pressure. Nucleation is therefore possible only if a partial vaporization of the fluid takes place.