bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compensatory and additive helper effects in the cooperatively breeding Seychelles warbler (Acrocephalus sechellensis)
Authors: van Boheemen Lotte A. , Hammers Martijn , Kingma Sjouke A. , Richardson David S. , Burke Terry , Komdeur Jan , Dugdale Hannah L.
Published: February 2019

In cooperatively breeding species, care provided by helpers may affect the dominant breeders’ investment trade‐offs between current and future reproduction. By negatively compensating for such additional care, breeders can reduce costs of reproduction and improve their own chances of survival. Alternatively, helper care can be additive to that of dominants, increasing the fledging fitness of the current brood. However, the influence helpers have on brood care may be affected by group size and territory quality. Therefore, the impact of helping needs to be disentangled from other factors determining offspring investment before conclusive inferences about the effect of help on additive and compensatory care can be made. We used 20 years of provisioning data to investigate the effect of helping on provisioning rates in the facultative cooperatively breeding Seychelles warbler Acrocephalus sechellensis. Our extensive dataset allowed us to statistically disentangle the effects of helper presence, living in larger groups and different food availability. We show compensatory and additive care (i.e., partial compensation) in response to helper provisioning. Helpers lightened the provisioning load of the dominant male and female and increased total provisioning to nestlings. This was irrespective of group size or territory quality (food availability). Moreover, our results illustrate sex‐specific variation in parental care over the course of the breeding event. We discriminate between temporal variation, group size, and territory quality processes affecting cooperative care and as such, gain further insight into the importance of these factors to the evolutionary maintenance of helping behavior.
Visible Light‐Promoted Beckmann Rearrangements: Separating Sequential Photochemical and Thermal Phenomena in a Continuous Flow Reactor
Authors: Chen Yuesu , Cantillo David , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: February 2019

The Beckmann rearrangement of oximes to amides typically requires strong acids or highly reactive, hazardous electrophiles and/or elevated temperatures to proceed. A very attractive alternative is the in situ generation of Vilsmeier–Haack reagents, by means of photoredox catalysis, as promoters for the thermal Beckmann rearrangement. Investigation of the reaction parameters for this light‐induced method using a one‐pot strategy has shown that the reaction is limited by the different temperatures required for each of the two sequential steps. Using a continuous flow reactor, the photochemical and thermal processes have been separated by integrating a flow photoreactor unit at low temperature for the electrophile generation with a second reactor unit, at high temperature, where the rearrangement takes place. This strategy has enabled excellent conversions and yields for a diverse set of oximes, minimizing the formation of side products obtained with the original one‐pot method.
Evaluation of ForenSeq™ Signature Prep Kit B on predicting eye and hair coloration as well as biogeographical ancestry by using Universal Analysis Software (UAS) and available web‐tools
Authors: Sharma Vishakha , Jani Krupa , Khosla Pavan , Butler Erin , Siegel Donald , Wurmbach Elisa
Published: February 2019

This study examined 266 individuals from various populations including African American, East Asian, South Asian, European, and mixed populations to evaluate the ForenSeq™ Signature Prep Kit Primer Mix B. Focus was placed on phenotypic and biogeographical ancestry predictions by Illumina's Universal Analysis Software (UAS). These outcomes were compared to those obtained through web‐tools developed at the Erasmus Medical Center (EMC) and available from the Forensic Resource/Reference on Genetics‐knowledge base (FROG‐kb), as well as to eye color predictions by the 8‐plex system. Due to drop‐outs, predictions for eye and hair color by UAS failed for various samples in each run. By including reads below thresholds, predictions could be obtained for all samples through the web‐tools. Eye and hair color predictions for African Americans, East Asians, and South Asians showed no errors. Difficulties however, were noted in intermediate (neither blue nor brown) eye color predictions. These were mitigated by the 8‐plex system through exclusion of one eye color (e.g. “not brown”). Additionally, notable discrepancies were observed in hair color predictions, where some black/dark‐brown haired individuals were predicted to have blond hair. Overall, ancestry predictions were more accurate by FROG‐kb compared to UAS, which did not predict South Asian ancestry, particularly Indian individuals.
Ethanol‐mediated compaction and cross‐linking enhance mechanical properties and degradation resistance while maintaining cytocompatibility of a nucleus pulposus scaffold
Authors: Walters Joshua D. , Gill Sanjitpal S. , Mercuri Jeremy J.
Published: February 2019

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a complex, cell‐mediated process originating in the nucleus pulposus (NP) and is associated with extracellular matrix catabolism leading to disc height loss and impaired spine kinematics. Previously, we developed an acellular bovine NP (ABNP) for NP replacement that emulated human NP matrix composition and supported cell seeding; however, its mechanical properties were lower than those reported for human NP. To address this, we investigated ethanol‐mediated compaction and cross‐linking to enhance the ABNP's dynamic mechanical properties and degradation resistance while maintaining its cytocompatibility. First, volumetric and mechanical effects of compaction only were confirmed by evaluating scaffolds after various immersion times in buffered 28% ethanol. It was found that compaction reached equilibrium at ~30% compaction after 45 min, and dynamic mechanical properties significantly increased 2–6× after 120 min of submersion. This was incorporated into a cross‐linking treatment, through which scaffolds were subjected to 120 min precompaction in buffered 28% ethanol prior to carbodiimide cross‐linking. Their dynamic mechanical properties were evaluated before and after accelerated degradation by ADAMTS‐5 or MMP‐13. Cytocompatibility was determined by seeding stem cells onto scaffolds and evaluating viability through metabolic activity and fluorescent staining. Compacted and cross‐linked scaffolds showed significant increases in DMA properties without detrimentally altering their cytocompatibility, and these mechanical gains were maintained following enzymatic exposure. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B:2488–2499, 2019.
Upregulation of long noncoding RNA SNHG20 promotes cell growth and metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via modulating ATM‐JAK‐PD‐L1 pathway
Authors: Zhang Chunrong , Jiang Feng , Su Chuan , Xie Pengfei , Xu Lin
Published: February 2019

Increasing evidence have proved that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play significant roles in tumorigenesis and development of various cancers. However, the effect of small nucleolar RNA host gene 20 (SNHG20) on the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains to be discovered. Herein, we aim to find out the function and the possible mechanism of SNHG20 in ESCC progression. In our study, we demonstrate that SNHG20 is markedly upregulated in ESCC tissues and cell lines. Besides, the level of SNHG20 is closely associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage, and tumor grade. In addition, SNHG20 level is an independent predictor for clinical outcomes of ESCC patients. Then the gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays reveal that SNHG20 overexpression promotes cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition as well as represses apoptosis, whereas depletion of SNHG20 exhibits opposite effects. Moreover, we uncover that SNHG20 modulates the expression of ataxia telangiectasia–mutated kinase (p‐ATM), p‐JAK1/2, and programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD‐L1) in ESCC cells and ATM upregulation restores the suppressive effect of SNHG20 inhibition on ESCC progression. Therefore, we conclude that SNHG20 serves as a carcinogen in ESCC by promoting growth and metastasis via ATM‐JAK‐PD‐L1 pathway, supplying a possibly effective therapeutic target for ESCC.
Role of physical exercise in the regulation of epigenetic mechanisms in inflammation, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and aging process
Authors: Ferioli Martina , Zauli Giorgio , Maiorano Patrizia , Milani Daniela , Mirandola Prisco , Neri Luca M.
Published: February 2019

The genetic heritage for decades has been considered to respond only to gene promoters or suppressors, with specific roles for oncogenes or tumor‐suppressor genes. Epigenetics is progressively attracting increasing interest because it has demonstrated the capacity of these regulatory processes to regulate the gene expression without modifying gene sequence. Several factors may influence epigenetics, such as lifestyles including food selection. A role for physical exercise is emerging in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. In this review, we resume physiological and pathological implications of epigenetic modification induced by the physical activity (PA). Inflammation and cancer mechanisms, immune system, central nervous system, and the aging process receive benefits due to PA through epigenetic mechanisms. Thus, the modulation of epigenetic processes by physical exercise positively influences prevention, development, and the course of inflammatory and cancer diseases, as well as neurodegenerative illnesses. This growing field of studies gives rise to a new role for PA as an option in prevention strategies and to integrate pharmacological therapeutic treatments.
MFGE8 protects against CCl4‐induced liver injury by reducing apoptosis and promoting proliferation of hepatocytes
Authors: Li Hao , Zhang Tian , Wang Ke , Lu Meng , Guo Yonghong , Zhang Ye , Chen Zhi‐Nan , Bian Huijie
Published: February 2019

Milk fat globule‐EGF factor 8 (MFGE8) has been reported to play various roles in acute injury and inflammation response. However, the role of MFGE8 in liver injury is poorly investigated. The present research was designed to clarify the expression and function of MFGE8 in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced liver injury. Using serum cytokine arrays, we selected a promising cytokine MFGE8 as the candidate in the process of hepatitis‐fibrosis‐hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression, based on the elevated expression in both hepatic fibrosis and HCC models. We validated the increased expression of MFGE8 in liver tissues and serum samples of acute and chronic CCl4‐induced mice. Immunohistochemistry staining of mouse liver tissues indicated that elevated MFGE8 expression was mainly derived from the injured hepatocytes. In addition, MFGE8 expression in the supernatant of primary hepatocytes was accumulated with prolongation of culture time, and CCl4 treatment further increased the expression of MFGE8. Moreover, a strong correlation between serum MFGE8 expression and liver transaminase activities suggested that MFGE8 may be a novel candidate in liver injury. Intriguingly, mice pretreated with MFGE8 were protected from CCl4‐induced liver injury through antiapoptosis role in the early stage and proproliferation role in the late stage. MFGE8 reduced apoptosis by inhibiting the activation of IRE1α/ASK1/JNK pathway and promoted proliferation by phosphorylation of ERK and AKT. Moreover, serum MFGE8 expression was increased in hepatitis patients while decreased in liver cirrhosis patients. All the results suggest MFGE8 as a novel marker and promising therapeutic agent of liver injury.
Core Entrustable Professional Activities in Clinical Pharmacology for Entering Residency: Common Problem Drugs and How to Prescribe Them
Authors: Donnenberg Vera S. , Chaikin Philip , Mandic Maja , Meibohm Bernd , van den Anker John , Rhinehart Erin , Nafziger Anne N. , Burris James F. ,   The American College of Clinical Pharmacology
Published: February 2019

Although the medical profession strives for safe prescribing, most medications are unique challenges even when prescribed by an experienced provider. In this article we discuss the pitfalls associated with drug interactions between commonly used antibiotics and anticoagulants, the complexities associated with the administration of novel reversible anticoagulants, the often‐overlooked severe adverse drug reactions from commonly used classes of medications such as corticosteroids, the nuances of managing an acetaminophen overdose, and uncommon yet serious adverse events associated with the use of contraceptive hormone drugs.
Rapid histologic diagnosis using quick fluorescence staining and tissue confocal microscopy
Authors: Kim Hongrae , Lee Sunhye , Kim Hyunjin , Chang Hee Jin , Choi Yongdoo , Yoon Hong Man , Kook Myeong‐Cherl , Jung So‐Youn , Kwon Youngmi , Kang Juehyung , Yoo Hongki , Song Incheon , Lee Seungrag , Sohn Dae Kyung
Published: February 2019

With the development of advanced and minimally invasive surgical techniques, and in view of the functional and cosmetic aspects, the need for rapid and accurate diagnosis during surgery is increasing. This study was conducted to develop a tissue diagnosis method using confocal microscopy after simple tissue staining that does not require freezing and slicing. At present, fluorescence staining with confocal microscopy is not generalized for real‐time diagnosis during surgery. In this paper, we propose a fluorescence staining method using Hoechst 33342 and Eosin that does not require tissue freezing and slicing. The proposed method can be used as part of a rapid tissue diagnosis method that is suitable for use in the operating room, although further research is required before it can be applied in clinical practice.
Reactivity of 4‐thiothymidine with Fenton reagent investigated by UV‐visible spectroscopy and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Rizzi Vito , Cosma Pinalysa , Abbattista Ramona , Fini Paola , Agostiano Angela , Cataldi Tommaso R.I. , Losito Ilario
Published: February 2019

The reactivity of the sulfur‐containing nucleoside 4‐thio‐(2′‐deoxy)‐thymidine usually abbreviated as 4‐thio‐thymidine, (S4‐TdR) under Fenton conditions, ie, in the presence of H2O2 and catalytic amounts of Fe(II), was investigated by UV‐vis spectroscopy and electrospray ionization single and tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS and MS/MS). S4‐TdR hydroxylated on the S atom was found to be a key reaction intermediate, ultimately leading to (2′‐deoxy)‐thymidine usually abbreviated as thymidine, (TdR) as the main reaction product. This finding was in accordance with the outcome of the reaction between S4‐TdR and H2O2, previously investigated in our laboratory. On the other hand, the additional presence of •OH radicals, induced by the Fe(II)/H2O2 combination, led to the increased generation of another interesting S4‐TdR product, already observed after its reaction with H2O2 alone, ie, the covalent dimer including a SS bridge between two S4‐TdR molecules. More importantly, multihydroxylated derivatives of S4‐TdR and TdR were detected as peculiar products obtained under Fenton conditions. Among them, a product bearing an OH group both on the methyl group linked to the thymine ring and on the C5 atom of the ring was found to prevail. The results obtained during this study, integrated by those found previously in our laboratory, indicate 4‐thiothymidine as a promising molecular probe for the recognition, through a careful characterization of its reaction products, of the prevailing species among reactive oxygen species (ROS) corresponding to singlet‐state oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxylic radical.
Electroquasistatic quasi‐3D finite element simulation of a graded surge arrester
Authors: D'Angelo Laura A. M. , Späck‐Leigsnering Yvonne , De Gersem Herbert
Published: February 2019

Surge arresters of station class are equipped with field grading elements that break the rotational symmetry of the arrester body. To avoid a computationally expensive full three‐dimensional (3D) simulation, a quasi‐3D simulation procedure is presented to study graded arresters. The method employs a hybrid discretization combining a two‐dimensional (2D) axisymmetric finite element (FE) method in axial and radial direction with a spectral element method in terms of trigonometric functions in azimuthal direction. Furthermore, the asymmetric boundary conditions associated with the support rods are taken into account by collocation in a saddle‐point system of equations. The method is validated and compared with a standard 3D FE simulation of a test problem. It is, subsequently, applied to study the electric field distribution of a graded station class surge arrester.
Radiofrequency catheter ablation of premature ventricular contractions from near the His‐bundle
Authors: Tanaka Atsushi , Takemoto Masao , Masumoto Akihiro , Kang Honsa , Mito Takahiro , Kumeda Hiroshi , Aoki Ryota , Kinoshita Satoko , Antoku Yoshibumi , Matsuo Atsutoshi , Hida Satoru , Okazaki Teiji , Tayama Kei‐ichiro , Kosuga Ken‐ichi
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effects of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) and clinical and electrophysiological characteristics in symptomatic patients with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) from near the His‐bundle (His‐PVCs).

Methods

The patient characteristics, prevalence of complications with any life style related disease (ALSRD) including hypertension, dyslipidemia, or diabetes mellitus, and/or cardiovascular disease (CVD) including coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, renal dysfunction, or cardiomyopathy, clinical status, frequency of PVCs evaluated by 24hour Holter monitoring, echocardiography including the left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) parameters, and electrophysiological findings were evaluated in 14 consecutive symptomatic patients with His‐PVCs.

Results

The prevalence of males, being elderly and/or slightly obese, current and/or history of smoking, ALSRD or CVD related complications, and LVDD probably resulting from ALSRD and/or CVD complications were higher in patients with His‐PVCs. RFCA of His‐PVCs steadily decreased the PVC frequency and improved the systolic function, LV dilation, and clinical status, but not the LVDD. There was a significant relationship between the accordance rate of the QRS polarity between sinus rhythm and His‐PVCs and the distance between the successful ablation site and His‐bundle.

Conclusion

The analysis of the QRS duration and accordance rate of the QRS polarity between sinus rhythm and His‐PVCs before the RFCA may help to determine the distance between the origin of the PVCs and His‐bundle. Further, the appropriate ablation catheter may be selected during the RFCA procedure. Finally, RFCA may be one of the most effective, feasible, and safest therapies for symptomatic patients with His‐PVCs.
Assessment of cattle inter‐individual cluster variability: the potential of continuum data from the farm‐to‐fork for ultimate beef tenderness management
Authors: Gagaoua Mohammed , Picard Brigitte , Monteils Valérie
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

This study implemented a holistic approach based on the farm‐to‐fork data at the four levels of the continuum (farm – slaughterhouse – muscle – meat) to study the inter‐individual cluster variability of beef tenderness. For that, 171 young bulls were selected on a large database of 480 animals according to the industrial expectations based on animal and carcass characteristics. The targeted factors were age at slaughter (14; 20 months), carcass weight (370; 470 kg), EUROP conformation (7; 15) and fatness (2.5; 5) scores of the carcasses. Multivariate analyses and unsupervised learning tools were performed.

RESULTS

Principal component analysis combined to agglomerative hierarchical clustering allowed ten clusters to be identified that differed (P < 0.0001) for the four targeted factors. The clusters were further different for variables belonging to each level of the continuum. The results indicated an inter‐individual cluster variability rising in tenderness in link with the continuum data grouped according to industrial expectations. The associations of the whole variables of the continuum with tenderness were very important, but farm‐to‐fork continuum‐levels dependent. The findings showed that the variables contributing most to the inter‐individual cluster variability of tenderness seemed to be more related to the rearing practices, mainly feeding, and their consequences on carcass properties rather than to the muscle characteristics evaluated by enzyme metabolism and connective tissue.

CONCLUSION

It seems that considering the continuum data would allow possible trade‐off managements of tenderness to identify levers at different levels from the farm‐to‐meat. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Saponin‐enriched extracts from body wall and Cuvierian tubule of Holothuria leucospilota reduce fat accumulation and suppress lipogenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Chumphoochai Kawita , Chalorak Pawanrat , Suphamungmee Worawit , Sobhon Prasert , Meemon Krai
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Saponins have been shown to possess many pharmacological properties, including altered fat metabolism. The black sea cucumber, Holothuria leucospilota, is a marine animal that contains a specialized organ called a Cuvierian tubule that produces and secrete the bioactive saponins into the tubules and body wall. Therefore, the aims of this study are to investigate the anti‐obesity effect of saponins extracted from body wall and Cuvierian tubules of H. leucospilota.

RESULTS

The butanol extracts of H. leucospilota body wall and Cuvierian tubules containing high amounts of saponins significantly reduced fat deposition and triglyceride levels in Caenorhabditis elegans fed with 50 mmol L−1 glucose. Moreover, the saponin‐enriched extracts of H. leucospilota significantly restored the lifespan of 2% glucose‐fed worms (18.71%). Green fluorescence protein‐labeled sbp‐1 gene expression and nuclear translocation of daf‐16 were also significantly decreased in H. leucospilota treatment. The saponin‐enriched extracts downregulated the messenger RNA expressions of genes involved in fat storage and metabolism, including sbp‐1, cebp, and daf‐16 but upregulated the expression of nhr‐49 gene.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that H. leucospilota‐derived saponins may mediate the reduction of glucose‐induced fat accumulation through sbp‐1, cebp, daf‐16 and nhr‐9 pathways. Therefore, the H. leucospilota extracts could be used as nutraceuticals for anti‐obesity prevention. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of chlorogenic acid, polyphenols and antioxidants in green coffee by thin‐layer chromatography, effect‐directed analysis and dot blot – comparison to HPLC and spectrophotometry methods
Authors: Choma Irena Maria , Olszowy Małgorzata , Studziński Marek , Gnat Sebastian
Published: February 2019

The great prevalence of thin‐layer chromatography over high‐performance liquid chromatography is connected with the possibility of analyzing many samples in parallel. Therefore, the method is often used in screening and/or effect directed analysis to compare composition and chemical/biological properties of many samples in one run. It was already proved, that high performance thin‐layer chromatography, in many cases, can replace high‐performance liquid chromatography for quantitative analysis. The main aim of the paper is to show that simple thin‐layer chromatography can also be used as a quantitative or at least as a semi‐quantitative method, even when it concerns effect directed analysis e.g. direct bioautography. Chlorogenic acid content was measured in four methanol extracts of various green coffees and in one extract of black coffee using thin‐layer chromatography with ultraviolet detection and thin‐layer chromatography with effect directed detection. High‐performance liquid chromatography was used as a reference method. Additionally, total contents of polyphenols and antioxidants were estimated using thin‐layer chromatography or dot‐blot on chromatography plates. These results were compared to spectrophotometric methods. It was proved that thin‐layer chromatography can be used as a quantitative (using densitometry) or semi‐quantitative method (using other detection methods including effect directed detection) as well as for estimating total antioxidants or polyphenols content.
PLA/SEBS Bioblends: Influence of SEBS Content and of Thermal Treatment on the Impact Strength and Morphology
Authors: Lima Jéssica C.C. , Araújo Evanisia A.G. , Agrawal Pankaj , Mélo Tomás J.A.
Published: February 2019

The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of SEBS content and of thermal treatment on the properties of poly(lactic acid)/styrene‐ethylene butylene‐styrene (PLA/SEBS) bioblends. X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) results show that the thermal treatment leads to the crystallization of PLA matrix, resulting in the increase of the impact strength. The PLA/SEBS bioblends containing 5 and 10% of SEBS show the highest impact strength before and after the thermal treatment. From the rheological measurements under dynamic‐oscillatory shear flow, it is observed that at low frequencies, PLA and PLA/SEBS bioblends containing 5 and 10% of SEBS exhibit a Newtonian behavior, whereas the bioblends containing 15 and 20% of SEBS present a shear thinning behavior. Cole‐Cole and Han plots show that PLA/SEBS bioblends are immiscible. SEM results show that the PLA/SEBS bioblends are immiscible, and that the bioblends containing 15 and 20% of SEBS present the highest SEBS dispersed phase domains size. The thermal treatment has no effect on the morphology of PLA/SEBS bioblends, but improves the impact strength.
Titanate Nanotubes Modified With Zinc and Its Application in Post‐Consumer PET Depolymerization
Authors: Lima Gabrielle R. , Monteiro Wesley F. , Toledo Bruno O. , Ligabue Rosane A. , Santana Ruth M. C.
Published: February 2019

The development of nanostructures has received notoriety due to the properties that the nanometric scale provides to the material. Among these properties, the increase in the catalytic activity due to the high specific surface area of nanostructures has been the focus of several studies. Among the nanometric catalysts that have been studied, titanate nanotubes present versatility of applications since they can be modified through the functionalization or ion exchange adding the structure metals that increase the catalytic efficiency. For the depolymerization of post‐consumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles by glycolysis, a chemical recycling method that is in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, which aims to obtain the bis(2‐hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) monomer, sodium titanate nanotubes (NaTNT) and zinc titanate nanotubes (ZnTNT) were used as catalysts. The nanostructures were efficient in the PET depolymerization reaction for 2, 3, and 4 h, converting PET into BHET with yield higher than 65% (w/w).
Polymer Additives as Cold Flow Improvers for Palm Oil Methyl Esters
Authors: Muniz Aline S. , Vlnieska Vitor , Ferraz Fernando A. , dos Santos Oliveira Angelo R. , Ramos Luiz Pereira , César‐Oliveira Maria A. F.
Published: February 2019

Biodiesel is a fuel that can be originated from different raw materials. However, even a good quality biodiesel has its properties strongly dependent upon its fatty acid profile. For instance, samples with a high content of saturated fatty acids may present poor cold flow properties, meaning that they tend to solidify under low temperatures. In this work, we propose to synthesize polymer additives and apply them as cold flow improvers for palm methyl esters (biodiesel) and their blends with petrodiesel. The synthetic additives were evaluated at different concentrations to assess their effect on the pour point (PP) of the resulting neat or blended biofuel. By using 1000 ppm of poly(dodecyl acrylate‐co‐tetradecyl methacrylate), it was possible to decrease the PP of B5 (5 vol.% biodiesel + 95 vol.% diesel) and B20 (20 vol.% biodiesel + 80 vol.% diesel) to −35 °C and −14 °C, respectively, which allowed the use of these blends in regions where their flow properties would eventually be prohibitive. However, the performance of the additive on the neat fuel (B100) was negligible.
PET Recycling by Alcoholysis Using a New Heterogeneous Catalyst: Study and its Use in Polyurethane Adhesives Preparation
Authors: Scremin Duanne M. , Miyazaki Danilo Y. , Lunelli Carlos E. , Silva Simone A. , Zawadzki Sônia F.
Published: February 2019

One of the most used plastics in the world is poly(ethylene terephthalate), PET, which is on the top of the list of recyclable polymers. In this work, it was studied the chemical recycling of PET by the alcoholysis reaction using diethylene glycol (DEG) and sodium metasilicate (NaMs) as catalyst. This catalyst was not used before for this kind of reaction and showed an activity as good as the most used compound (zinc acetate). The PET‐polyol was produced with the reaction conditions that showed the higher weight yield and the final product was used in polyurethane (PU) adhesives compositions. The PUs were obtained using PET‐polyol, tolylene diisocyanate (10, 20 or 30% NCOfree) and DEG as chain extender or glycerin (GLY) as crosslinker. The adhesives were poured into Pinus taeda wood and the speciments were taken into mechanical properties evaluation accordingly to ASTM D 2339‐98. The results indicated that the PU adhesives 10% NCOfree with DEG were able to support the highest shear stress force applied (7.5 Mpa).
Thermoformed Polypropylene Composite Reinforced with Cotton Fabric
Authors: Fares Mirella C. , de Souza Gustavo , Carvalho Antonio J. F.
Published: February 2019

The use of natural fibers as reinforcement in composites has received much attention due mainly to environmental issues and because of their interesting properties. The development of new methods for production of thermoplastic composites with natural fibers is of great interest for several sectors in industry. In this work, composites of polypropylene and raw cotton fabric are fabricated by hot pressing alternating layers of polypropylene films and cotton fabric to produce a long fiber oriented composite material. Five combinations with different number of reinforcement and matrix layers are prepared, leading to composites with more than 50% of fiber in volume. Characterization of the composites showed a great enhancement on mechanical properties (85% on elastic modulus and 90% on tensile strength) with a density decrease of around 15%. The braided nature of the cotton fiber provided good adhesion to the matrix through mechanical anchoring, as is observed by SEM. This enabled increased thermal stability and an increase in the storage modulus determined by DMA in the rubbery plateau. The good mechanical properties were explained by the mechanical anchorage of fiber matrix, since PP resin is forced to flow through the fibers of the raw cotton fabric. The resultant material is more resistant, lighter, and stiffer composed of approximately 50% of materials derived from renewable sources.
Fatigue properties of bolted joints with cut and formed threads
Authors: Kraemer F. , Klein M. , Oechsner M.
Published: February 2019

Die Ermüdungsbeanspruchbarkeit von metrischen Stahl‐Schrauben wird hinsichtlich der Beeinflussung durch die Einschraubtiefe, die Höhe der Mittellast, den Mutternwerkstoff und das Herstellverfahren des Mutterngewindes untersucht. Für die Verschraubung in Aluminiummutterngewinde bei hohen Einschraubtiefen (tE>2 ⋅ d) zeigt sich eine erhöhte Beanspruchbarkeit der Schraube für geformte Mutterngewinde gegenüber geschnittenen Gewinden. Es kann eine Abhängigkeit der Mittellast für kleine Einschraubtiefen (tE < 1 ⋅ d) festgestellt werden, die durch einen Trend zu höheren Bruchlastspielzahlen mit abnehmender Vorspannkraft (Mittellast) gekennzeichnet ist. Der Einfluss der Mittellast wird für überelastisch vorbelastete und anschließend bis in den elastischen Bereich entlastete Proben bei der Anwendung in Stahlmuttern signifikant. Auf Basis numerischer Simulation werden Spannungsverteilungen im Gewindeeingriff berechnet und örtliche Spannungen als Ansatz für werkstoffbasierte Bewertungskonzepte ausgewertet. Eine homogene Lasteinleitung sowie eine gleichmäßige Lastverteilung führen zu einer höheren Ermüdungsbeanspruchbarkeit.
Lymphatic supermicrosurgery for the treatment of recurrent lymphocele and severe lymphorrhea
Authors: Giacalone Guido , Yamamoto Takumi , Hayashi Akitatsu , Belva Florence , Gysen Mieke , Hayashi Nobuko , Yamamoto Nana , Koshima Isao
Published: February 2019

Background

Lymphocele and lymphorrhea are frequent complications after lymph node excision. Recurrent lymphoceles and intractable lymphorrhea are particularly difficult to treat conservatively. We describe the outcomes of four patients with recurrent lymphocele and nine patients with persistent lymphorrhea that were treated by supermicrosurgery.

Methods

Four patients with recurrent lymphoceles with a size between 7 and 21 cm and located in the groin (n = 1) or upper leg (n = 3), were referred for surgical treatment between 2013 and 2017 after unsuccessful conservative therapy. Nine patients with lymphorrhea from the groin (n = 7), scrotum (n = 1), or axilla (n = 1) after lymph node or lipoma excision were referred for surgical treatment. Of these, five patients presented with a drainage system and two had a lymphocutaneous fistula. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography was used to visualize the lymphatic flow toward the lymphocele, to detect ruptured lymph vessels causing lymphorrhea and for preoperative lymphatic mapping.

Results

All 13 patients were successfully treated by one or more (mean: 3, range 1–4) lymphaticovenous anastomoses without perioperative complications. The lymphoceles resolved in all four patients, and no recurrence was recorded during follow‐up. The lymphorrhea was cured in all patients by means of lymphaticovenous anastomosis performed distal to the site of leakage. No recurrence was observed during follow‐up. The patency of the lymphaticovenous anastomosis was confirmed intraoperatively by means of ICG lymphography in all cases.

Conclusion

Lymphaticovenous anastomosis is a minimally invasive and effective procedure for the treatment of recurrent lymphocele and persistent lymphorrhea.
Post‐traumatic lymphedema treatment with superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator lymphatic free flap: A case report
Authors: Pereira Nicolás , Cámbara Álvaro , Kufeke Matías , Roa Ricardo
Published: February 2019

Post‐traumatic lymphedema is poorly understood. It is rarely considered in limb reconstruction decision‐making approach. We report a case of a 41‐year‐old female who presented with right upper extremity lymphedema after degloving injury and split thickness skin graft, successfully treated with a superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) free flap restoring the lymphatic drainage. Right upper extremity had an excess of 258.7 mL or an excess volume of 27.86% compared to the healthy contralateral limb. A SCIP free flap including lymphatic vessels (SCIP‐L) was performed to replace the skin graft in order to restore the lymphatic flow. Flap size was 19 × 8 cm and pedicle length was 4 cm. No lymph nodes were included and no lymphatic or lymphovenous anastomoses were performed. The surgery was uneventful, and there were no postoperative complications. Fourteen days after free tissue transfer, lymphedema showed clear improvement. At a 4‐month follow‐up, 55.6% reduction of excess volume was obtained. Indocyanine green lymphography performed at that time showed a restitution of lymph flow through the flap. Lymphedema improvements persisted at a 6‐month follow‐up. A successful treatment of post‐traumatic lymphedema can be performed by using the SCIP‐L free flap for soft tissue reconstruction of critical lymphatic drainage areas.
DHA Esterified to Phosphatidylserine or Phosphatidylcholine is More Efficient at Targeting the Brain than DHA Esterified to Triacylglycerol
Authors: Chouinard‐Watkins Raphaël , Lacombe R. J. Scott , Metherel Adam H. , Masoodi Mojgan , Bazinet Richard P.
Published: February 2019

Scope

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n‐3) is crucial for optimal neuronal development and function, but the brain has a poor capacity to synthesize this fatty acid. When consumed acutely esterified to phosphatidylcholine, DHA is more efficient at targeting the brain than when consumed esterified to triacylglycerol. However, the brain DHA bioavailability of other forms of DHA‐containing phospholipids, after oral ingestion, is unknown. The objective of this study is to compare brain uptake of DHA after acute gavage with different DHA carriers.

Methods and results

Ten‐week‐old rats were gavaged with 3H‐labeled DHA esterified to phosphatidylcholine (DHA‐PtdCho), phosphatidylethanolamine (DHA‐PtdEtn), phosphatidylserine (DHA‐PtdSer) or triacylglycerol (DHA‐TG). Six hours post‐gavage, the animals were euthanized and radioactivity was quantified in the cortex and serum lipid classes. Radioactivity recovered in cortex total phospholipids was similar between the DHA‐PtdCho and DHA‐PtdSer groups and were 5.8 and 6.7 times higher than in the DHA‐TG group, respectively. Serum total lipid radioactivity was higher in the DHA‐PtdSer group than in the DHA‐PtdCho and DHA‐PtdEtn groups, but not compared to the DHA‐TG group.

Conclusion

These results suggest that different mechanisms must be present to explain the serum and brain bioavailability differences between DHA‐PtdCho and DHA‐PtdSer, but these require further investigation.
Radiation Therapy Quality Assurance Tasks and Tools: The Many Roles of Machine Learning
Authors: Kalet Alan M. , Luk Samuel M. H. , Phillips Mark H.
Published: February 2019

The recent explosion in machine learning efforts in the quality assurance (QA) space has produced a variety of proofs‐of‐concept many with promising results. Expected outcomes of model implementation include improvements in planning time, plan quality, advanced dosimetric QA, predictive machine maintenance, increased safety checks, and developments key for new QA paradigms driven by adaptive planning. In this article, we outline several areas of research and discuss some of the unique challenges each area presents.
Genomics of posttraumatic stress disorder in veterans: Methods and rationale for Veterans Affairs Cooperative Study #575B
Authors: Radhakrishnan Krishnan , Aslan Mihaela , Harrington Kelly M. , Pietrzak Robert H. , Huang Grant , Muralidhar Sumitra , Cho Kelly , Quaden Rachel , Gagnon David , Pyarajan Saiju , Sun Ning , Zhao Hongyu , Gaziano Michael , Concato John , Stein Murray B. , Gelernter Joel
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Heritability in the risk for developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been established, but most genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) of PTSD involve relatively small sample sizes and limited identification of associated genetic loci. This report describes the methodology of a Veterans Affairs (VA) Cooperative Studies Program GWAS of PTSD among combat‐exposed U.S. veterans.

Methods

Probable cases (with PTSD) and probable controls (without PTSD) were identified from among veterans enrolled in the VA Million Veteran Program (MVP) with an algorithm developed using questionnaire responses and electronic health record information. This algorithm, based on a statistical model, relied on medical chart reviews as a reference standard and was refined using telephone interviews. Subsequently, to evaluate the impact of probabilistic phenotyping on statistical power, the threshold probability for case–control selection was varied in simulations.

Results

As of September 2018, >695,000 veterans have enrolled in MVP. For current analyses, genotyping data were available for >353,000 participants, including >83,000 combat‐exposed veterans. A threshold probability of 0.7 for case and control designation yielded an interim >16,000 cases and >33,000 controls.

Conclusions

A formal methodological approach was used to identify cases and controls for subsequent GWAS analyses to identify genetic risk loci for PTSD.
Ensuring high standards for the delivery of NIPT world‐wide: Development of an international external quality assessment scheme
Authors: Deans Zandra C. , Allen Stephanie , Jenkins Lucy , Khawaja Farrah , Gutowska‐Ding Weronika , Patton Simon J. , Chitty Lyn S. , Hastings Ros J.
Published: February 2019

Objective

To ensure accurate and appropriate reporting of non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) results, the standard of testing should be measured and monitored by participation in external quality assessment (EQA) schemes. The findings from international pilot EQAs for NIPT for the common trisomies are presented.

Methods

In the first pilot, three EQA providers used artificially manufactured reference materials to deliver an EQA for NIPT. The second pilot used clinically collected maternal plasma samples. The testing and reporting for aneuploidy status was performed by participating laboratories using routine procedures. Reports were assessed against peer ratified criteria and EQA scores were returned to participants.

Results

Forty laboratories participated in the first. Genotyping accuracy was high; four laboratories reported a critical genotyping error (10%) and two reported partial results. Eighty seven laboratories participated in the second pilot using maternal plasma, two reporting a critical genotyping error (2.3%). For both rounds, report content was variable with key information frequently omitted or difficult to identify within the report.

Conclusions

We have successfully delivered an international pilot EQA for NIPT. When compared with currently available manufactured materials, EQA for NIPT was best performed using clinically collected maternal plasma. Work is required to define and improve the standard of reporting.
Optical and electrochemical properties and sensing application for iron(II) and mercury(II) ions of polyfluorenes with imidazole in the main chain
Authors: Spiliopoulos Ioakim K
Published: February 2019

Polyfluorenes bearing imidazole and triphenylamine moieties in the main chain were synthesized. The imidazole/triphenylamine molar ratios in the polymer backbone were 100/0 (PFIM100), 50/50 (PFIM50) and 25/75 (PFIM25). Cyclic voltammetry revealed reversible oxidation only for polymers containing triphenylamine moieties (PFIM50 and PFIM25) and irreversible reduction for all polymers. Optical properties of the polymers were investigated using UV‐visible and photoluminescence spectroscopies in solution. The sensing properties of PFIM100 were investigated. The polymer showed recognition towards two analytes, Fe2+ and Hg2+. PFIM100 exhibited selective fluorescence ‘turn‐off’ response to Fe2+ cations. Interaction of PFIM100 with I− anions produced a non‐emissive complex. The PFIM100/I− complex exhibited excellent ‘turn‐on’ sensing properties for detection of Hg2+. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Rotational barriers of carbamate‐protected amine crosslinkers for hydrogels: A combined experimental and computational study
Authors: Schädel Nicole , Gebhardt Julia , Löffler Max , Garnier Delphine , Hansen Niels , Laschat Sabine
Published: February 2019

Diethylenetriamines and diethanolamines carrying a carbamate‐protected amine and peripheral reactive units are valuable synthetic building blocks for hydrogel crosslinkers or biohybrid materials because they enable orthogonal functionalization. However, the carbamate unit leads to restricted rotational mobility, affecting both physical and chemical properties of the amines. To gain insight into the rotational behavior of such systems, a series of carbamate‐protected amines with different peripheral units was synthesized and their rotational barriers were studied by dynamic NMR measurements and electronic structure calculations. Experimentally observed barriers were in the range of 61 to 66 kJ/mol and were mostly dependent on the size of the peripheral groups rather than their hydrogen bonding ability. Density functional theory (DFT) and MP2 calculations yielded barriers of similar order of magnitude, albeit differing in the overall trends. The data suggest that for improved theoretical estimates of free energy barriers ab initio molecular dynamics simulations in explicit solvent would be required.
Electron‐Stimulated Aluminum Nitride Crystalline Phase Formation on the Sapphire Surface
Authors: Milakhin Denis , Malin Timur , Mansurov Vladimir , Galitsyn Yury , Zhuravlev Konstantin
Published: February 2019

The effect of a high‐energy electron beam (11 keV) on the (0001) sapphire nitridation process is investigated. The high‐energy electrons accelerate more than an order of magnitude the sapphire nitridation process. The effect is due to an increase of the Al and N atom concentrations on the sapphire surface caused by the electron‐stimulated desorption of oxygen atoms and electron‐stimulated decomposition of ammonia molecules.
Feasibility study of intraoperative cone‐beam CT navigation for benign bone tumour surgery
Authors: van Steenbergen Thomas R.F. , van der Geest Ingrid C.M. , Janssen Dennis , Rovers Maroeska M. , Fütterer Jurgen J.
Published: February 2019

Background

Intraoperative cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers the advantage of navigation on the current anatomical situation and the possibility to take a control scan. We assessed the feasibility of using intraoperative CBCT for navigated intralesional curettage.

Methods

Nine benign bone tumour patients were studied. Feasibility was assessed by describing the workflow and indications for navigation, scoring CBCT image quality and registration accuracy, and measuring scan and navigation set‐up times. Short‐term follow‐up was described.

Results

CBCT navigation was successful in all patients. Median tumour visibility, tumour delineation, and vital structure visibility scores were good. Median registration accuracy score was very good. Median scan and verification times were 5 and 3 minutes, respectively. One patient had a tumour recurrence after 6 months.

Conclusions

Intraoperative CBCT navigation is feasible and safe. Indications for use of navigation in clinical practice are closeness to vital structures, complexly shaped tumours or bone, minimally invasive surgery, and repeated surgery.
Distributed control of uncertain multiagent systems for tracking a leader with unknown fractional‐order dynamics
Authors: Shi Mengji , Qin Kaiyu , Liang Jie , Liu Jun
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes distributed adaptive cooperative control algorithms for second‐order agents to track a leader with unknown dynamics. The models of the followers and the leader are composed of uncertain nonlinear components. The order of the leader's dynamics is unknown and can be fractional. Only the single output information is shared among neighbored agents. To simplify the control design, linearly parameterized neural networks are used to approximate the unknown functions. We first present an adaptive control for leaderless consensus and then extend the method to the tracking problem. Thorough theoretical proofs as well as numerical simulation are included to verify the results. Compared with relevant literature, the new approach applies to a larger variety of systems because (i) knowledge about the structure of leader's model is unnecessary; (ii) the unknown functions in different agents' dynamics can be diverse and arbitrary, in other words, the algorithms apply to heterogeneous agents; (iii) the results can be simply used without parameter calculations.