bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding global commodities trade and consumption place the world’s primates at risk of extinction
Authors: Estrada Alejandro , Garber Paul A. , Chaudhary Abhishek
Published: June 2019

As a consequence of recent human activities. populations of approximately 75% of the world’s primates are in decline, and more than 60% of species (n= 512) are threatened with extinction. Major anthropogenic pressures on primate persistence include the widespread loss and degradation of natural habitats caused by the expansion of industrial agriculture, pastureland for cattle, logging, mining, and fossil fuel extraction. This is the result of growing global market demands for agricultural and nonagricultural commodities. Here, we profile the effects of international trade of forest-risk agricultural and nonagricultural commodities, namely soybean, oil palm, natural rubber, beef, forestry products, fossil fuels, metals, minerals, and gemstones on habitat conversion in the Neotropics, Africa, and South and Southeast Asia. Total estimated forest loss for these regions between 2001 and 2017 wasca179 million ha. The average percent of commodity-driven permanent deforestation for the period 2001–2015 was highest in Southeast Asia (47%) followed by the Neotropics (26%), South Asia (26%), and Africa (7%). Commodities exports increased significantly between 2000 and 2016 in all primate range regions leading to the widespread conversion of forested land to agricultural fields and an increase in natural resource extraction. In 2016, US $1.1 trillion of natural-resource commodities were traded by countries in primate range regions. The Neotropics accounted for 41% of the total value of these exports, Southeast Asia for 27%, Africa 21%, and South Asia 11%. Major commodity exporters in 2016 were Brazil, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and South Africa, countries of high primate diversity and endemism. Among the top 10 importers were China, the US, Japan, and Switzerland. Primate range countries lag far behind importer nations in food security and gross domestic product per capita, suggesting that trade and commodity-driven land-use have done little to generate wealth and well-being in primate habitat countries. Modeling of land-use and projected extinction of primate species by 2050 and 2100 under a business as usual scenario for 61 primate range countries indicate that each country is expected to see a significant increase in the number of species threatened with extinction. To mitigate this impending crisis, we advocate the “greening” of trade, a global shift toward a low-meat diet, reduced consumption of oil seed, diminished use of tropical timber, fossil fuels, metals, minerals, and gemstones from the tropics, accompanied by a stronger and sustained global resolve to regulate and reverse the negative impacts of growing unsustainable global demands and commodity trade on income inequality, and the destruction of primates and their habitats.
Everybody Present: Exploring the Use of an In-Class Meditation Intervention to Promote Positive Mental Health Among University Students
Authors: Gardner Paula , Kerridge Kaitlyn
Published: June 2019

There is a growing mental health crisis among university students in Canada. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the effect of an in-class mindfulness intervention on the mental health of undergraduate students. Cross-sectional design was used and data were collected using self-reported questionnaires that included scale-rated and open-ended questions (n = 435). Integrating open-ended themes with statistical findings, the final analysis suggests the intervention had a positive effect on the mental health of student participants. A classroom environment that fosters learning, builds community, and encourages compassion were identified as ways in which the intervention “works” to promote positive mental health.
Effect of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) Variety and Plant Spacing on Grain and Fodder Yield
Authors: Augustine Boakye Boateng, , Godfre Wilson,
Published: June 2019

A field experiment was conducted to examine the effect of plant spacing on grain and fodder yield of four cowpeas varieties. Four cowpea varieties i.e. Asetenapa, Asomdwe, Hewale and Videza were sown with three plant spacing i.e. 30 x 15 cm, 45 x 15 cm and 60 x 15 cm at Samboligo in the Bongo District of the Upper East of Ghana.  The experiment was laid in randomized complete block with four replicates in factorial fashion. Cowpea variety and plant spacing significantly influenced grain yield, 1000 seed weight, nodules per plant and plant height. Plant spacing had no significant effect on stem girth, pods per plant, pod length and seed per pods. Variety ‘Hewale’ produced the highest grain yield of 991.3 kg ha-1 while Asetenapa produced the highest fodder yield of 1025.5 kg ha-1. Interactive effect between Asomdwe and 45 x 15 cm had the highest 1000 seed weight (170.6 g) while Asetenapa and 30 x 15 cm produced the highest grain yield (1072.9 kg ha-1). Variety ‘Hewale’ is recommended for commercial grain production while Asetenapa for fodder production. Asetenapa and 30 x 15 cm combination is recommended for commercial grain production.
Uncertainty of Treatment of Serratia marcescens Endocarditis
Authors: Goodberlet Melanie , Schontz Michael , McLaughlin Kevin , Kelly Julie
Published: June 2019

Aim: To discuss two patient cases of Serratia marcescens endocarditis and the paucity of literature regarding treatment options.

Presentation of Case: Patient 1 was a 29-year old male who presented with native mitral valve Serratia marcescens endocarditis presumed secondary to intravenous drug use. He was empirically treated with vancomycin and piperacillin/tazobactam then transitioned to meropenem and gentamicin 1 mg/kg every 8 hours. He was maintained on vancomycin monotherapy for days 4-14. Gentamicin was restarted on hospital day 14 at 7 mg/kg every 36 hours for 6 weeks. He underwent mitral valve replacement on hospital day 20. He was readmitted on day 42 with splenic lesions and enlarging mycotic aneurysms. Patient 2 was a 38-year old male with native aortic valve Serratia marcescens endocarditis with septic emboli presumed secondary to intravenous drug use. He was treated with vancomycin and cefepime then was transitioned to ceftriaxone and levofloxacin. The patient underwent aortic valve replacement on hospital day 3 and was transitioned to meropenem and levofloxacin for 6 weeks.

Discussion: The treatment strategies for both patients demonstrates that the optimal treatment strategy for Serratia marcescens endocarditis remains unclear. The gentamicin dosing for patient 1 demonstrates “synergy” and extended-interval dosing. Despite both dosing strategies being used, the patient continued to exhibit complications of the infection. Patient 2 demonstrates successful treatment of the infection with surgical intervention and a carbapenem/fluoroquinolone regimen.

Conclusion: These cases demonstrates that much remains unclear in the treatment of Serratia marcescens endocarditis and more studies and case reports are needed.
Impact of Crop Establishment Methods and Weed Management Practices on Productivity and Profitability of Rice-Wheat System in Indo Gangetic Plains
Authors: Kumar H. S. Ravi , Singh Udai Pratap , Singh Shiv Prakash , Singh Yashwant , Sravan Uppu Sai
Published: June 2019

Declining productivity of rice-wheat system in Indo–Gangetic Plains poses risk to conventional practices because of high production cost and low input use efficiency. Four crop establishment methods (CEM) and four weed management practices (WMP) were compared in a 2–year study to determine the productivity and profitability of rice-wheat system. Growth, yield traits and yields of rice was uninfluenced by CEM. Zero tillage rice (ZTR)–zero tillage wheat (ZTW) exhibited highest improvement in mean wheat yield, system productivity and profitability by 7.5%, 4.0% and 16.0%, respectively over conventional tillage rice (CTR)–conventional tillage wheat (CTW). CTR–ZTW recorded minimum total weed density and biomass in system. Post emergence application of bispyribac 25 g ha-1 + azimsulfuron 35 g ha-1 (bis + azim) in rice at 20 days after sowing (DAS)/days after transplanting (DAT); clodinofop 60 g ha-1 + carfentrazone 20 g ha-1 (clod + carf) in wheat at 30–35 DAS minimized total weed density and biomass, increased growth, productivity and profitability of the system. Results suggest that higher growth, productivity and profitability of rice–wheat system may be achieved by adoption of ZTR–ZTW with application of bis + azim in rice and clod + carf in wheat.
Urinary exosomal proteins as (pan‐)cancer biomarkers: insights from the proteome
Authors: Erozenci Leyla Ayse , Böttger Franziska , Bijnsdorp Irene V. , Jimenez Connie R.
Published: June 2019

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from cells under both physiological and pathological conditions, and may, thus, be present in biofluids. Urine is one of the most accessible biofluids implemented in clinical diagnostics. Recent mass spectrometry (MS)‐based proteomic analyses have enabled high‐throughput, deep proteome profiling of urinary EVs for the discovery, quantification and characterization of cancer‐specific exosome biomarkers. The protein cargo of urine exosomes is emerging as an attractive source for biomarkers, not only for urological cancers, such as prostate, bladder and kidney cancer, but potentially also for nonurological cancers, including gastric, lung, oesophageal and colorectal cancer. More recently, exosome proteomics dissected protein cargo in the lumen and at the surface of EVs, and unexpectedly indicated that RNA‐ and DNA‐binding proteins might also be present on vesicular surfaces. Here, we analyse MS‐based proteomic data on urinary exosomes from cancer patients, and discuss the potential of urinary exosome‐derived biomarkers in cancer.
Aberrantly expressed PLOD1 promotes cancer aggressiveness in bladder cancer: a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target
Authors: Yamada Yasutaka , Kato Mayuko , Arai Takayuki , Sanada Hiroki , Uchida Akifumi , Misono Shunsuke , Sakamoto Shinichi , Komiya Akira , Ichikawa Tomohiko , Seki Naohiko
Published: June 2019

Bladder cancer (BC) is the ninth most malignant tumor worldwide. Some BC patients will develop muscle‐invasive BC (MIBC), which has a 5‐year survival rate of approximately 60% due to metastasis. As such, there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic and diagnostic targets for MIBC. Analysis of novel antitumor microRNA (miRNA)‐mediated cancer networks is an effective strategy for exploring therapeutic targets and prognostic markers in cancers. Our previous miRNA analysis revealed that miR‐140‐5p acts as an antitumor miRNA in BC cells. Here, we investigated miR‐140‐5p regulation of BC molecular pathogenesis. Procollagen‐lysine, 2‐oxoglutarate 5‐dioxygenase 1 (PLOD1) was found to be directly regulated by miR‐140‐5p, and aberrant expression of PLOD1 was observed in BC clinical specimens. High PLOD1 expression was significantly associated with a poor prognosis (disease‐free survival: P = 0.0204; overall survival: P = 0.000174). Multivariate analysis showed PLOD1 expression to be an independent prognostic factor in BC patients (hazard ratio = 1.51, P = 0.0099). Furthermore, downregulation of PLOD1 by siRNAs and a specific inhibitor significantly decreased BC cell aggressiveness. Aberrant expression of PLOD1 was closely associated with BC pathogenesis. In summary, the present study showed that PLOD1 may be a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target for BC.
American Indians Have a Higher Risk of Sjögren's Syndrome and More Disease Activity Than European Americans and African Americans
Authors: Scofield R. Hal , Sharma Rohan , Pezant Nathan , Kelly Jennifer A. , Radfar Lida , Lewis David M. , Kaufman C. Erick , Cioli Sarah , Harris Judy , Grundahl Kiely , Rhodus Nelson L. , Wallace Daniel J. , Weisman Michael H. , Venuturupalli Swamy , Brennan Michael T. , Koelsch Kristi A. , Lessard Christopher J. , Montgomery Courtney G. , Sivils Kathy L. , Rasmussen Astrid
Published: June 2019

Objective

To describe the clinical and serologic manifestations of Sjögren's syndrome (SS) in ethnic groups of the US.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 648 patients with primary SS: 20 African American (AA), 164 American Indian (AI), 426 European American (EA), and 38 patients of other races evaluated in a multidisciplinary Sjögren’s International Collaborative Clinical Alliance research clinic.

Results

AA subjects comprised 3.1% of the SS cohort, much lower than the percentage of AA in the state of Oklahoma (P = 3.01 × E – 05), the US (P = 2.24E – 13), or a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) cohort at the same institution (P = 4.26 × 10E – 27). In contrast, the percentage of AI in the SS cohort (25.3%) was much higher than expected (P = 3.17E – 09 versus SLE cohort, P = 6.36 – 26 versus Oklahoma, and P = 8.14E – 96 versus US population). The SS classification criteria were similar between AA and EA, but subjects of AI ancestry had lower rates of abnormal tear and salivary flow, as well as anti‐Ro/SSA and anti‐La/SSB antibodies. Paradoxically, AI had higher levels of disease activity (mean ± SD European League Against Rheumatism Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index score 3.77 ± 4.78) in comparison to EA (2.90 ± 4.12; P = 0.011) and more extraglandular manifestations affecting mainly the articular and glandular domains. Meanwhile, AA patients were characterized by higher rates of hypergammaglobulinemia (odds ratio [OR] 1.39 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.39–8.65]; P = 0.01), elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (OR 3.95 [95% CI 1.46–9.95]; P = 0.009), and parotid enlargement (OR 4.40 [95% CI 1.49–13.07]; P = 0.02).

Conclusion

AI are affected at high rates with SS but present with few classical features, potentially preventing timely diagnosis. In contrast to SLE, SS is infrequent and not more severe among AA, but the triad of hypergammaglobulinemia, increased ESR, and parotid enlargement warrants extra vigilance for lymphomagenesis.
Artificial Heart Based on Electrically Controlled Non‐Toxic Liquid Metal Pump
Authors: Li Guangyong , Du Jianke , Zhang Aibing , Lee Dong‐weon
Published: June 2019

A novel approach is introduced to realize an artificial heart based on redistribution of charges on the surface of liquid metal droplets. The unique feature is that liquid metal droplets can be shaped into various forms when a driving voltage is applied at a specific condition. In addition, the deformed liquid metal droplets are easily restored to their original spherical shape by eliminating the driving voltage. The motions of electrically controlled liquid metal droplets make it possible to mimic the heartbeat. The heartbeat motions are precisely controlled by the modulation of the driving voltage amplitude and frequency. The maximum flow rate is ≈70 µL min−1 at 1.5 Vpp and 2 Hz square wave. To the best of our knowledge, this is the instance mimicking the artificial heart based on the electrically controlled liquid metal droplets. The experimental results reveal that the proposed deformation mechanism creates new opportunities in the field of soft robotics.
High‐Efficiency and Tunable Circular‐Polarization Beam Splitting with a Liquid‐Filled All‐Metallic Catenary Meta‐Mirror
Authors: Xie Xin , Pu Mingbo , Liu Kaipeng , Ma Xiaoliang , Li Xiong , Yang Jianing , Luo Xiangang
Published: June 2019

Circular‐polarization beam splitting is one functionality of interest in polarization control. However, current splitters suffer from limitations in either efficiency or tunability. It is theoretically and experimentally demonstrated that a meta‐mirror composed of catenary‐shaped metallic gratings can efficiently deflect left‐handed and right‐handed circularly polarized waves in opposite directions with power efficiency of over 90%. This ultrahigh efficiency is attributed to the nearly perfect polarization conversion and continuous phase profile of the metallic catenary structure. Furthermore, the meta‐mirror demonstrates high beam‐splitting tunability with ethanol injected into the catenary groove. By controlling ethanol depth, the working frequency for peak deflection can be continuously tuned from 10.5 to 8.5 GHz. It is believed that this approach can provide valuable guidance for efficient and dynamic control of electromagnetic waves for various applications.
Thermoresponsive and Protease‐Cleavable Interferon‐Polypeptide Conjugates with Spatiotemporally Programmed Two‐Step Release Kinetics for Tumor Therapy
Authors: Wang Zhuoran , Guo Jianwen , Sun Jiawei , Liang Ping , Wei Yan , Deng Xuliang , Gao Weiping
Published: June 2019

Protein‐polymer conjugates show improved pharmacokinetics but reduced bioactivity and tumor penetration as compared to native proteins, resulting in limited antitumor efficacy. To address this dilemma, genetic engineering of a body temperature‐responsive and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐cleavable conjugate of interferon alpha (IFNα) and elastin‐like polypeptide (ELP) is reported with spatiotemporally programmed two‐step release kinetics for tumor therapy. Notably, the conjugate could phase separate to form a depot postsubcutaneous injection, leading to 1‐month zero‐order release kinetics. Furthermore, it could selectively be cleaved by MMPs that are overexpressed in tumors to release IFNα from ELP and thus to recover the bioactivity of IFNα. Consequently, it exhibits dramatically enhanced tumor accumulation, tumor penetration, and antitumor efficacy as compared to free IFNα in two mouse models of melanoma and ovarian tumor. These findings may provide an intelligent technology of thermoresponsive and protease‐cleavable protein‐polymer conjugates with spatiotemporally programmed two‐step release kinetics for tumor treatment.
Paramagnetic Carbon Nanosheets with Random Hole Defects and Oxygenated Functional Groups
Authors: Jung Sun‐Min , Park Jungmin , Shin Dongbin , Jeong Hu Young , Lee DongKyu , Jeon In‐Yup , Cho HyungJoon , Park Noejung , Yoo Jung‐Woo , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: June 2019

Ordered graphitic carbon nanosheets (GCNs) were, for the first time, synthesized by the direct condensation of multifunctional phenylacetyl building blocks (monomers) in the presence of phosphorous pentoxide. The GCNs had highly ordered structures with random hole defects and oxygenated functional groups, showing paramagnetism. The results of combined structural and magnetic analyses indicate that the hole defects and functional groups are associated with the appearance and stabilization of unpaired spins. DFT calculations further suggest that the emergence of stabilized spin moments near the edge groups necessitates the presence of functionalized carbon atoms around the hole defects. That is, both hole defects and oxygenated functional groups are essential ingredients for the generation and stabilization of spins in GCNs.
Pd/PC‐Phos‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Intermolecular Denitrogenative Cyclization of Benzotriazoles with Allenes and N‐Allenamides
Authors: Zhang Pei‐Chao , Han Jie , Zhang Junliang
Published: June 2019

Reported herein is an asymmetric Pd/PC‐Phos‐catalyzed denitrogenative cyclization of benzotriazoles with allenes and N‐allenamides, representing the first example of enantioselective denitrogenative cyclizations of benzotriazoles. A series of optically active 3‐methyleneindolines were obtained in good yields with high ee values. The use of inexpensive and readily available starting materials, high regio‐ and enantioselectivity, a broad substrate scope, mild reaction conditions, no need for base, as well as versatile functionalization of the 3‐methyleneindolines make this approach attractive.
Synthesis and evaluation of N, O‐doped hypercrosslinked polymers and their performance in CO2 capture
Authors: Liu Yin , Jia Xiangkun , Liu Jin , Fan Xinlong , Zhang Baoliang , Zhang Aibo , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: June 2019

A series of N, O‐doped hypercrosslinked microporous polymers (HCPs) with high surface area and rich microporosity were constructed via facile Friedel‐Crafts alkylation promoted by anhydrous ferric chloride (FeCl3), which used benzyl alcohol (BA) and 2‐phenylimidazole (PID) as the basic building blocks. The effects of structural composition on the pore properties and gas adsorption properties of prepared HCPs were systematically investigated. The results show that by adjusting the ratio of PID to BA, the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) specific surface area and pore volume of the prepared HCPs can be controlled, and the BET specific surface area of the polymers range from 732–992 m2/g. Gas uptake experiments indicate that the obtained HCPs exhibit very high CO2 adsorption capacity up to 3.55 mmol/g at 273 K/1.0 bar. Simultaneously, these N, O‐doped HCPs also show quite high isosteric heat of CO2 sorption at the low coverage (up to 33 kJ/mol). In addition, the prepared HCPs have excellent selective adsorption performance, and the optimal selective adsorption of CO2/N2 is 62. These results demonstrate that these prepared HCPs are potential candidates for applications in CO2 capture.
Immunogenomic profiles associated with response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with rectal cancer
Authors: Akiyoshi T , Tanaka N , Kiyotani K , Gotoh O , Yamamoto N , Oba K , Fukunaga Y , Ueno M , Mori S
Published: June 2019

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests that radiotherapy success has an immune-associated component. The immunogenomic profiles associated with responses to chemoradiotherapy (CRT) were assessed in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer in this study.

Methods

CD8+ tumour-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) and stromal lymphocyte densities were assessed by immunohistochemistry using pretreatment biopsies from patients with advanced rectal cancer who had preoperative CRT. Whole-exome sequencing and gene expression microarray analysis were conducted to investigate the genomic properties associated with the response to CRT and CD8+ TIL density. Response to CRT was determined based on Dworak tumour regression grade (TRG); tumours with complete (TRG 4) or near-complete (TRG 3) regression were grouped as good responders, and those with TRG 1 as non-responders.

Results

Immunohistochemical examinations (275 patients) showed that pre-CRT CD8+ TIL density was associated with better response to CRT and improved recurrence-free survival, whereas pre-CRT stromal CD8+ cell density was not associated with either response to CRT or recurrence-free survival. Whole-exome sequencing (74 patients) showed that the numbers of single-nucleotide variations (SNVs) and neoantigens predicted from SNVs were higher in good responders than in non-responders, and these correlated positively with CD8+ TIL density (rs = 0·315 and rs = 0·334 respectively). Gene expression microarray (90 patients) showed that CD8A expression correlated positively with the expression of programmed cell death 1 (PDCD1) (rs = 0·264) and lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG3) (rs = 0·507).

Conclusion

Pre-CRT neoantigen-specific CD8+ T cell priming may be a key event in CRT responses where immune checkpoint molecules could be useful targets to enhance tumour regression.
Development and validation of a staging system for gastric adenocarcinoma after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy
Authors: Lin J X , Yoon C , Desiderio J , Yi B C , Li P , Zheng C H , Parisi A , Huang C M , Strong V E , Yoon S S
Published: June 2019

Background

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy is commonly used for patients with locally advanced gastric adenocarcinoma. The eighth AJCC ypTNM staging system was validated based on patients undergoing more limited lymphadenectomy (less than D2). The aim of this study was to develop a system for accurate staging of patients with locally advanced gastric adenocarcinoma who receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy.

Methods

A modified system of ypTNM was developed, based on overall survival (OS) of patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and validated using data from an international cohort of patients who had similar treatment.

Results

Of 325 patients in the derivation cohort, 33 (10·2 per cent) had ypT0 N0/+ tumours, which are not classifiable under the AJCC system. The 5-year OS rate for modified ypTNM stages I, II, IIIA and IIIB was 89, 71, 42·3 and 10 per cent respectively, compared with 82, 65·2 and 24·1 for AJCC stages I, II and III respectively. The concordance index (0·730 versus 0·709), estimated area under the curve (0·765 versus 0·740) and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve throughout the observation period were all superior for modified ypTNM staging. For the validation cohort of 186 patients, the modified system was again better at separating patients into prognostic groups for OS.

Conclusion

The modified ypTNM staging system improves the accuracy of OS prediction for patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy.
Circular RNA screening from EIF3a in lung cancer
Authors: Huang Ma‐Sha , Yuan Fu‐Qiang , Gao Yang , Liu Jun‐Yan , Chen Yi‐Xin , Wang Chen‐Jing , He Bai‐Mei , Zhou Hong‐Hao , Liu Zhao‐Qian
Published: June 2019

Eukaryotic initiation factor 3 (EIF3) is one of the largest and most complex translation initiation factors, which consists of 13 subunits named eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit A (EIF3a) to EIF3m. EIF3a is the largest subunit of EIF3. Previous studies suggested that EIF3a is a housekeeping gene, recent results have found that EIF3a is closely related to the tumorigenesis and drug resistance. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) derived from biologically important gene can play an important role in gene regulation. However, the mechanism underlying circRNAs’ biological functions is not well understood yet. In this work, we screened 31 EIF3a‐derived circRNAs, in which two circEIF3as were identified to be correlated with cisplatin drug sensitivity in lung cancer. Two circEIF3as were found involved in RNA‐binding proteins‐mediated biological processes and may be related to translational regulation according to bioinformatics analyses. CircEIF3as, the transcriptional initiation factor EIF3a transcribed circRNAs, are associated with both drug sensitivity and translation regulation. These findings mean that they may have a functional synergy effect with EIF3a or be valuable therapeutic targets for treatment like EIF3a. This is the first study that exploits circRNAs screening from EIF3a in lung cancer, our findings provide a novel perspective on the function of EIF3a and circEIF3as in lung cancer.
Transcatheter closure of sinus venosus atrial septal defect with anomalous pulmonary venous drainage: Innovative technique with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Abdullah Hussein A. M. , Alsalkhi Hussein A. , Khalid Khalid A.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Surgical closure of sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) is the standard management. A safe and effective transcatheter approach will be an attractive option.

Objectives

To assess the feasibility and long‐term safety of transcatheter closure of SVASD with anomalous pulmonary venous drainage.

Patients and methods

From July 2011 to October 2013, four patients with large SVASD and anomalous right upper pulmonary venous (RUPV) drainage underwent transcatheter closure of their defects at Ibn‐Albitar Center for Cardiac Surgery, Baghdad, Iraq. Two patients with superior vena cava (SVC)‐type SVASD underwent closure using covered Cheatham‐Platinum (CP) stents with no need for septal occluder. The other two patients had large RA‐type SVASD who underwent closure using covered CP stents only in one patient and stents and device in the other one. An angiogram in the RUPV during balloon inflation in the SVC was done to ensure that the RUPV drains back to the left atrium. The covered CP stent was mounted and hand crimped onto Z‐Med™ or BIB‐balloon catheters and deployed in the desired location under transesophageal echocardiography guidance.

Results

The two patients with SVC‐type SVASD underwent successful closure using two overlapping covered CP stents implanted in the SVC, thus creating total septation between the SVC and the RUPV. The RA‐type SVASD patients underwent closure using two overlapping covered CP stents. One with mild to moderate residual shunt that completely disappeared at 12 months follow‐up after implantation of a second 45 mm CP stent. A significant residual shunt in the second patient was closed successfully using a PFO device.

Conclusion

Transcatheter closure of SVASD through SVC stent insertion with or without subsequent device implantation is feasible and effective.
Sudden floating thrombus formation on the delivery cable before Amplatzer‐Amulet device deployment during left atrial appendage occlusion: The need for a standardized anticoagulation
Authors: Talanas Giuseppe , Sanna Giuseppe D. , Portoghese Michele , Parodi Guido
Published: June 2019

Anticoagulation is of paramount importance during left atrial appendage occlusion procedure (LAAOP) to prevent periprocedural stroke. We present the case of a 66‐year‐old male patient who was scheduled to undergo LAAOP because of a prior intracranial bleeding. After transesophageal echocardiography‐guided transseptal puncture, intravenous heparin 5,000 IUs were administered obtaining an ACT greater than 300 s. We planned to implant an Amplatzer‐Amulet 25 mm LAA occluder through the dedicated 12F delivery sheath. After starting the tug test, TEE suddenly showed a floating thrombus whose proximal part was connected to the delivery cable. Because transesophageal echocardiography showed a good position of the device, we decided to release it and to quickly retrieve as a unit into the right atrium both the delivery cable with attached thrombus and the delivery sheath. We discuss about periprocedural anticoagulation dosing and monitoring and the importance to have specific studies in the setting of LAAOP.
Transvenous interventional implantation of CRT‐D in a critically ill Mustard patient waiting for heart transplant
Authors: Mörtsell David , Thilén Ulf , Tydén Patrik , Kongstad Ole
Published: June 2019

Cardiac resynchronization therapy may stabilize patients with severe heart failure awaiting heart transplant. Transvenous interventional implantation aided by intracardiac echocardiography is feasible in patients with adult congenital heart disease.
Intracytoplasmic crystalline inclusions in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Ramlal Bharat , DiGiuseppe Joseph A.
Published: June 2019

Neoplastic B cells may have cytoplasmic inclusions that are visible in routine peripheral blood smears by light microscopy.
Complementary Approaches to Imaging Subcellular Lipid Architectures in Live Bacteria Using Phosphorescent Iridium Complexes and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Ranieri Anna Maria , Caporale Chiara , Fiorini Valentina , Hubbard Alysia , Rigby Paul , Stagni Stefano , Watkin Elizabeth , Ogden Mark I. , Hackett Mark J. , Massi Massimiliano
Published: June 2019

A family of three neutral iridium(III) tetrazolato complexes are investigated as bacterial imaging agents. The complexes offer a facile tuning of the emission colour from green (520 nm) to red (600 nm) in aqueous media, while keeping the excitation wavelength unchanged. The three complexes do not inhibit the bacterial growth of Bacillus Cereus, used as a model in this study, and exhibit extremely fast cellular uptake. After a minute incubation time, the nontoxic complexes show subcellular localisation in spherical structures identified as lipid vacuoles. Confocal Raman imaging has been exploited for the first time on live bacteria, to provide direct and label‐free mapping of the lipid‐enriched organelles within B. cereus, complementing the use of luminescent probes. Examination of the Raman spectra not only confirmed the presence of lipophilic inclusions in B. cereus but offered additional information about their chemical composition, suggesting that the lipid vacuoles may contain polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB).
Dynamic Supramolecular Ruthenium‐Based Gels Responsive to Visible/NIR Light and Heat
Authors: Teasdale Ian , Theis Sabrina , Iturmendi Aitziber , Strobel Moritz , Hild Sabine , Jacak Jaroslaw , Mayrhofer Philipp , Monkowius Uwe
Published: June 2019

A simple supramolecular crosslinked gel is reported with a photosensitive ruthenium bipyridine complex functioning as a crosslinker and poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (P4VP) as a macromolecular ligand. Irradiation of the organogels in H2O/MeOH with visible and NIR light (in a multiphoton process) leads to cleavage of pyridine moieties from the ruthenium complex breaking the cross‐links and causing degelation and hence solubilization of the P4VP chains. Real‐time (RT) photorheology experiments of thin films showed a rapid degelation in several seconds, whereas larger bulk samples could also be photocleaved. Furthermore, the gels could be reformed or healed by simple heating of the system and restoration of the metal–ligand crosslinks. The relatively simple dynamic system with a high sensitivity towards light in the visible and NIR region make them interesting positive photoresists for nano/micropatterning applications, as was demonstrated by writing, erasing, and rewriting of the gels by single‐ and multiphoton lithography.
Enantioselective ene‐reduction of E‐2‐cyano‐3‐(furan‐2‐yl) acrylamide by marine and terrestrial fungi and absolute configuration of (R)‐2‐cyano‐3‐(furan‐2‐yl) propanamide determined by calculations of electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra
Authors: Jimenez David E.Q. , Barreiro Juliana C. , dos Santos Fernando M. , de Vasconcellos Suzan P. , Porto André L.M. , Batista João M.
Published: June 2019

This work reports the green organic chemistry synthesis of E‐2‐cyano‐3(furan‐2‐yl) acrylamide under microwave radiation (55 W), as well as the use of filamentous marine and terrestrial‐derived fungi, in the first ene‐reduction of 2‐cyano‐3‐(furan‐2‐yl) acrylamide to (R)‐2‐cyano‐3‐(furan‐2‐yl)propanamide. The fungal strains screened included Penicillium citrinum CBMAI 1186, Trichoderma sp. CBMAI 932 and Aspergillus sydowii CBMAI 935, and the filamentous terrestrial fungi Aspergillus sp. FPZSP 146 and Aspergillus sp. FPZSP 152. A compound with an uncommon CN‐bearing stereogenic center at the α‐C position was obtained by enantioselective reactions mediated in the presence of the microorganisms yielding the (R)‐2‐cyano‐3‐(furan‐2‐yl) propanamide 3a. Its isolated yield and e.e. ranged from 86% to 98% and 39% to 99%, respectively. The absolute configuration of the biotransformation products was determined by time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) calculations of electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. Finally, the tautomerization of 2‐cyano‐3‐(furan‐2‐yl) propanamide 3a to form an achiral ketenimine was observed and investigated in presence of protic solvents.
Degradation of Styrene from Waste Gas Stream by Advanced Oxidation Processes
Authors: Kočí Kamila , Reli Martin , Troppová Ivana , Prostějovský Tomáš , Žebrák Radim
Published: June 2019

Waste‐air treatment is experimentally investigated by advanced oxidation processes utilizing UV irradiation combined with ozone and hydrogen peroxide. The effect of operating parameters, such as an initial concentration of styrene and flow rate of gas, on the removal of styrene is studied in a photochemical pilot plant unit. The conversion of styrene decreases with an increasing initial styrene concentration and with a decreasing retention time (higher flow rate) of waste gas. The highest conversion of styrene (87%) is achieved under lower initial styrene concentration (100 ppm) and lower flow rate (42 m3 h−1). The energy per order is also calculated for the advanced oxidation process. Electrical energy per order is calculated for all the experimental conditions and it was found that the energy consumption is of about 0.070 kWh m−3 per order, for the 87% styrene removal at 100 ppm of initial styrene concentration and 42 m3 h−1 flow rate. The combination of UV irradiation and ozone is significantly more efficient with lower electrical energy need per order in comparison with combination of UV irradiation and hydrogen peroxide. Therefore, the advanced oxidation process represents a promising treatment technology for the management of waste‐air, and the pilot plant unit designed for high flow rates of waste‐gas streams is suitable for an industrial use.
Comparing optimal and heuristic taskgraph scheduling on parallel machines with frequency scaling
Authors: Eitschberger Patrick , Keller Jörg
Published: June 2019

We investigate static scheduling of taskgraphs onto parallel machines where the frequency of processors can be scaled at runtime. Given a deadline until which execution of the resulting schedule must be completed, we aim at minimizing the energy consumed by the parallel processors during execution. We present optimal and heuristic solutions to this problem and partial problems. We quantify the increase in energy consumption when switching from a globally optimal solution via a combination of optimal partial solutions to heuristic solutions. We find that, on our set of benchmark taskgraphs, the increase is 32.56% on average for a combination of heuristic solutions and thus tolerable.
Biofilm formation on polyetheretherketone and titanium surfaces
Authors: Barkarmo Sargon , Longhorn Daniel , Leer Kiran , Johansson Carina B. , Stenport Victoria , Franco‐Tabares Sebastian , Kuehne Sarah A. , Sammons Rachel
Published: June 2019

Objective

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a polymer used in devices in orthopedic and dental rehabilitation. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare biofilm formation by a range of important oral bacterial species on PEEK, blasted PEEK, commercially pure titanium (cp‐Ti), and titanium‐6 aluminium‐4 vanadium (Ti6Al4V).

Material and methods

Coin‐shaped samples were manufactured, and the surfaces were characterized using optical interferometry, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements. Bacterial species of Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus oralis, Enterococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus gordonii were cultured on the four material surfaces for varying amounts of time. Biofilms were quantified following staining with crystal violet.

Results

Roughness and contact angle results showed blasted PEEK > PEEK > cp‐Ti = Ti6Al4V. There was increased biofilm formation on blasted PEEK by S. sanguinis, S. oralis, and S. gordonii, whereas the bacterial adhesion was similar on PEEK, cp‐Ti, and Ti6Al4V. The bacterial growth of E. faecalis was significantly higher on cp‐Ti compared with the other three groups.

Conclusion

The results, taking into consideration the biofilm formation, suggest that PEEK should perform as well as cp‐Ti or TiAl6V4 when used as a dental restorative material.
Improving green product development performance from green vision and organizational culture perspectives
Authors: Chen Yu‐Shan , Lin Shu‐Hsien , Lin Chun‐Yu , Hung Shu‐Tzu , Chang Chih‐Wei , Huang Ching‐Wen
Published: June 2019

The main purpose of this study is to how to enhance the green product development performance from the perspectives of green vision and organizational culture. This study explores the influences of a green shared vision and the environmental organizational culture on the green product development performance in Taiwan's manufacturing industry. It also examines the mediation effect of the green absorptive capacity. The empirical results indicate that both the green shared vision and environmental organizational culture have positive effects on the green absorptive capacity, which in turn positively affects the green product development performance. In particular, the green absorptive capacity completely mediates the relationship between the green shared vision and green product development performance, whereas it partially mediates the relationship between the environmental organizational culture and green product development performance.
The electric field of an electron in an electron–hole plasma with degenerate electrons: Possibility of formation of a superconductivity state
Authors: Sadykova S.P. , Rukhadze A.A.
Published: June 2019

We consider the possibility of the formation of a superconductivity state either in a semiconductor or in an electron–hole plasma with degenerate electrons due to the attractive forces between the electrons as a result of the exchange effects through the electron–hole sound wave by an analogy to the phonon waves in a solid state. We have determined an interaction potential between two electrons in a degenerate electron–hole plasma. The potential appears to be attractive at distances much larger than the Debye radius and decreases as 1/r3. We discuss the conditions in which the bound electron state, the so‐called “Cooper Pair,” in a such field can be formed.
Novel analogs of sulfasalazine as system xc− antiporter inhibitors: Insights from the molecular modeling studies
Authors: Patel Dhavalkumar , Kharkar Prashant S. , Gandhi Neha S. , Kaur Ekjot , Dutt Shilpee , Nandave Mukesh
Published: June 2019

System xc− (Sxc−), a cystine‐glutamate antiporter, is established as an interesting target for the treatment of several pathologies including epileptic seizures, glioma, neurodegenerative diseases, and multiple sclerosis. Erastin, sorafenib, and sulfasalazine (SSZ) are a few of the established inhibitors of Sxc−. However, its pharmacological inhibition with novel and potent agents is still very much required due to potential issues, for example, potency, bioavailability, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability, with the current lead molecules such as SSZ. Therefore, in this study, we report the synthesis and structure–activity relationships (SAR) of SSZ derivatives along with molecular docking and dynamics simulations using the developed homology model of xCT chain of Sxc− antiporter. The generated homology model attempted to address the limitations of previously reported comparative protein models, thereby increasing the confidence in the computational modeling studies. The main objective of the present study was to derive a suitable lead structure from SSZ eliminating its potential issues for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a deadly and malignant grade IV astrocytoma. The designed compounds with favorable Sxc− inhibitory activity following in vitro Sxc− inhibition studies, showed moderately potent cytotoxicity in patient‐derived human glioblastoma cells, thereby generating potential interest in these compounds. The xCT‐ligand model can be further optimized in search of potent lead molecules for novel drug discovery and development studies.
Enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: Outcomes and predictors of change in a real‐world setting
Authors: Dalle Grave Riccardo , Sartirana Massimiliano , Calugi Simona
Published: June 2019

Objective

The study aimed to establish the outcomes and predictors of change in a cohort of adolescents with anorexia nervosa treated via enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT‐E) in a real‐world clinical setting.

Method

Forty‐nine adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa were recruited from consecutive referrals to a clinical eating disorder service offering outpatient CBT‐E. Body Mass Index centiles and Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, Brief Symptom Inventory, and Clinical Impairment Assessment scores were recorded at admission, at the end of treatment, and at 20‐week follow‐up.

Results

Thirty‐five patients (71.4%) who finished the program showed both considerable weight gain and reduced scores for clinical impairment and eating disorder and general psychopathology. Changes remained stable at 20 weeks. No baseline predictors of drop‐out or treatment outcomes were detected.

Conclusions

Based on these results, CBT‐E seems suitable for adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa seeking treatment in a real‐world clinical setting.
Positive roadside edge effects on artificial nest survival in a lowland Atlantic Forest
Authors: da Silva Gleidson Ramos , Diniz Pedro , Banhos Aureo , Duca Charles
Published: June 2019

Road construction is considered to be one of the primary causes of forest fragmentation, and little is known about how roads affect bird reproductive success. The objective of this study was to assess the survival rate of artificial nests along an edge associated with a highway and in the interior of a tabuleiro forest. The study was performed at the Sooretama Biological Reserve, on the margins of federal highway BR‐101, between September and October 2015. A total of 168 artificial nests with a Common quail (Coturnix coturnix) egg in each nest were placed along six sampling transects, at distances of 2, 25, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 m from the highway toward the forest interior. We used logistic regression and estimated daily survival rate (DSR) using the “Nest Survival” function in the program MARK to estimate artificial nest survival and assessed the effect of the distance from the highway. The artificial nest survival rate was significantly higher on the highway margins than at other distances. The results show that artificial nests located up to 25 m from the highway have a greater success probability (over 95%) and a significant decrease in success probability more than 50 m from the highway. Although we cannot rule out other nonroad‐specific edge effects on artificial nest predation, our results suggest that the impacts of the highway (e.g., noise, vibration, visual stimuli) cause predators to avoid the road's surroundings (up to 25 m into the forest) when selecting their feeding sites, which partially supports the predation release hypothesis.
High‐resolution melting of the cytochrome B gene in fecal DNA: A powerful approach for fox species identification of the Lycalopex genus in Chile
Authors: Anabalón Leonardo , Encina‐Montoya Francisco , Sánchez Pamela , Solano Jaime , Benavente Felipe , Guiñez Basilio , Olivares Flavio , Oberti Carlos , Vega Rolando
Published: June 2019

Easy, economic, precise species authentication is currently necessary in many areas of research and diagnosis in molecular biology applied to conservation studies of endangered species. Here, we present a new method for the identification of three fox species of the Lycalopex genus in Chile. We developed an assay based on high‐resolution melt analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome B gene, allowing a simple, low cost, fast, and accurate species determination. To validate the assay applicability for noninvasive samples, we collected fecal samples in the Atacama Desert, finding unexpectedly one species outside of its known distribution range. We conclude that the assay has a potential to become a valuable tool for a standardized genetic monitoring of the Lycalopex species in Chile.
On consensus in multiagent systems with quantized signal communication
Authors: Furusaka Takumi , Sato Takao , Araki Nozomu , Konishi Yasuo
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we consider the consensus control of multiagent systems with quantized signal communication. In such a network system, when the static quantizer is used, the control performance is degraded because of the influence of the quantization error. To compensate the quantization error, in a conventional method, a probabilistic quantizer is used. On the other hand, in this paper, the dynamic quantizer is introduced instead of the static quantizer. Because the dynamic quantizer is optimally designed, the control performance of the proposed method can be improved better than the conventional methods. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through numerical examples.