bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parametric Analysis of Multi-Span Cable-Stayed Bridges Under Alternate Loads
Authors: Arellano Hiram , Gomez Roberto , Tolentino Dante
Published: December 2019

The influence of the stiffness of piers, pylons and deck in the behaviour of multi-span cable-stayed bridges under alternate live loads is analysed. The variation of these parameters is discussed considering both a harp cable system and a fan cable system. Different types of connections between pier-pylon and deck are also considered. Based on the behaviour of a three-span cable-stayed bridge, the variation of pier-pylon stiffness and deck stiffness was analysed. A similar state of stress and deflections was obtained for both a three-span and a multi-span cable-stayed bridge. The study shows that the harp type system presents advantages compared to fan type in terms of its behaviour under alternate live loads considering the same values of deck stiffness and pier-pylon stiffness. It is demonstrated that the resistant mechanism of multi-span cable- stayed bridges is provided by the pier-pylon element.
Molecular basis of force-from-lipids gating in the mechanosensitive channel MscS
Authors: Reddy Bharat , Bavi Navid , Lu Allen , Park Yeonwoo , Perozo Eduardo
Published: December 2019

Prokaryotic mechanosensitive (MS) channels open by sensing the physical state of the membrane. As such, lipid-protein interactions represent the defining molecular process underlying mechanotransduction. Here, we describe cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the E. coli small-conductance mechanosensitive channel (MscS) in nanodiscs (ND). They reveal a novel membrane-anchoring fold that plays a significant role in channel activation and establish a new location for the lipid bilayer, shifted ~14 Å from previous consensus placements. Two types of lipid densities are explicitly observed. A phospholipid that ‘hooks’ the top of each TM2-TM3 hairpin and likely plays a role in force sensing, and a bundle of acyl chains occluding the permeation path above the L105 cuff. These observations reshape our understanding of force-from-lipids gating in MscS and highlight the key role of allosteric interactions between TM segments and phospholipids bound to key dynamic components of the channel.
Impressions from the 14th Munin Conference on Scholarly Publishing 2019
Authors: Morthorst Anna Mette
Published: December 2019

The 14th Munin Conference on Scholarly Publishing 2019 took place at UiT The Arctic University of Norway on November 27–28, 2019.  This short article reports some impressions from the conference. The full materials of the conference, including presentation slides and video recordings are available at https://doi.org/10.7557/scs.2019.1.
Determination of Body Fat Percentage by Body State Devices and Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry
Authors: Mostafa Reham A. , Negm Doaa R. , ElSawy Naser A.
Published: December 2019

Background: Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is the most accurate technique in determining fat percentage but it is unpotable, expensive, unavailable for general applicability.

Objective: This study aimed to find the most accurate and easiest technique as alternative to DEXA for quick determination of body fat%. This study examined the accuracy of three models of Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) technique (Fat Loss Monitor- Body Composition -Body Fat Analyzer) in determining the body fat percentage with using DEXA as a reference standard.

Subject and Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out during the period from (28-9-2017) to (5-4-2018) among a random sample of (53) volunteers female student in Umm Al Qura University from Faculty of Applied Medical Science aged between (20-39 years) from different level of education. All subjects were generally healthy, data was collected through a structured questionnaire compose of three section. Demographic data was collected and anthropometric measurements were evaluated as well as body composition (Only body fat%) using DEXA, body composition monitor, fat loss monitor and body fat analyzer.

Results: BMI classification of the total 53 subjects was including 8 healthy females, 17 overfat, 25 obese and 3 underweight. The fat% result from DEXA and body fat analyzer was significant difference at (P < 0.05). Fat percent result from DEXA and Body Composition device was non-significant difference at (P>0.05). The fat% result from DEXA and Fat Loss Monitor device was significant at difference (P<0.05).

Conclusion: The most accurate of BIA technique was the Body Composition device compering to DEXA.
First Record of Genus Goniodes Nitzsch, 1818 (Phthiraptera: Ischnocera: Philopteridae) on Peafowl (Galliformes: Phasianidae) from Pakistan
Authors: Naz Saima , Rizvi Syed Anser
Published: December 2019

Aims: To examine and explore chewing lice (Phthiraptera) species found in Peafowls in Pakistan. To find out more species and compare these species with previously known species of chewing lice found on Peafowls.

Study Design: The genus Goniodes Nitzsch, 1818 is specifically found on gallinaceous hosts all over the world, represented by 100 species. It is very clearly identifiable for its circumfasciate head and somehow angulated temples of the head, antennae always heteromorphic; thorax and abdomen also very peculiar in its morphology, the abdominal segment I always larger and expanded laterally. Parasitological investigation of Peafowls was undertaken to find out the chewing lice infestation in Sindh, Pakistan.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Zoology, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan. Between 2016 and 2017.

Methodology: Peafowl, Pavo cristatus L. 1758 was examined during the present study for chewing lice collection; chewing lice were processed for the permanent mount through the standard method and were studied under high magnification microscope for illustration and identification.

Results: During the examination of chewing lice, the genus Goniodes was recovered from Pavo cristatus for the first time from Sindh province, Pakistan. Out of 18 peafowls, seven were infested, contained 28 specimens of two species, G. dissimilis Denny 1842 and G. meinertzhageni Clay 1940 were isolated from Thatta, Karachi, Jamshoro, Hyderabad and Mirpur Khas districts of Sindh. Both species G. dissimilis and G. meinertzhageni were recorded first time from Pakistan, hence put on new record at country level for Indian Peafowl. A key for the identification of all Goniodes species found on the peafowl has also been presented along with their detailed morphological descriptions and morphometric features.

Conclusion: Two species of chewing lice of the genus Goniodes were collected and identified and were compared with each other to clarify their morpho-taxonomical characteristics in both species.
Histopathological Impact of Profenofos on Ovary of the Freshwater Fish Notopterus notopterus
Authors: Tazeen Safiya , Kulkarni R. S.
Published: December 2019

The presence of pesticide in the environment, owing to extensive use in agriculture and their low degradation capacity, are the potential toxicological concern for fish. Histological studies have been extensively used as biomarker in the assessment of the health of fish exposed to the pesticides, both in the laboratory as well as in the field studies. In the present study adult freshwater teleost fish Notopterus notopterus of nearly similar weight and length were exposed to sub lethal concentration of 0.7 pp LC50 of profenofos (Curacron 50% EC) during reproductive phase. For histological changes the treated fish groups were compared with the control group. Marked changes such as atretic follicles, degenerative changes in oocyte were observed.
O palanque: Artistas na campanha das Diretas Já
Authors: Ferron Fabio Maleronka
Published: December 2019

Este trabalho pretende analisar a participação de artistas na campanha das Diretas Já (1984). Partindo da hipótese de que esse engajamento da classe artística no movimento Diretas Já se tornou um fator essencial para a condensação de múltiplas demandas sociais democratizantes do período, em um momento final da transição política brasileira, busca-se analisar como a mobilização dos artistas contribuiu para imprimir legitimidade política ao movimento. Para a consecução deste artigo, revisita-se de forma sucinta o tortuoso caminho da história da transição política brasileira, no período de 1980 a 1984, destacando-se a explosão do Riocentro em 1981, momento no qual o regime autoritário demonstrou sinais evidentes de desgaste, bem como o processo de transição pactuada da ditadura. Parte-se, portanto, do período que antecede as Diretas Já, focalizando fundamentalmente a participação da classe artística no movimento. Além da análise da literatura sobre o tema, empreendeu-se a pesquisa de artigos de jornais impressos, como Folha de S.Paulo, O Globo e a revista Veja. Escritas no calor do momento, essas matérias possibilitam reflexões muito significativas sobre como ocorreu o engajamento da classe artística na campanha de 1984.
Adaptive control of pure‐feedback nonlinear systems with full‐state time‐varying constraints and unmodeled dynamics
Authors: Hua Yu , Zhang Tianping
Published: December 2019

This paper focuses on the problem of adaptive control for a class of pure‐feedback nonlinear systems with full‐state time‐varying constraints and unmodeled dynamics. By introducing a one‐to‐one nonlinear mapping, the constrained pure‐feedback nonlinear system with state and input unmodeled dynamics is transformed into unconstrained pure‐feedback system. The controller design based on the transformed novel system is proposed by using a modified dynamic surface control method. Dynamic signal and normalization signal are designed to handle dynamical uncertain terms and input unmodeled dynamics, respectively. By adding nonnegative normalization signal into the whole Lyapunov function and using the introducing compact set in the stability analysis, all signals in the whole system are proved to be semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded, and all states can obey the time‐varying constraint conditions. A numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Observation of Robust Néel Skyrmions in Metallic PtMnGa
Authors: Srivastava Abhay K. , Devi Parul , Sharma Ankit K. , Ma Tianping , Deniz Hakan , Meyerheim Holger L. , Felser Claudia , Parkin Stuart S. P.
Published: December 2019

Over the past decade the family of chiral noncollinear spin textures has continued to expand with the observation in metallic compounds of Bloch‐like skyrmions in several B20 compounds, and antiskyrmions in a tetragonal inverse Heusler. Néel like skyrmions in bulk crystals with broken inversion symmetry have recently been seen in two distinct nonmetallic compounds, GaV4S8 and VOSe2O5 at low temperatures (below ≈13 K) only. Here, the first observation of bulk Néel skyrmions in a metallic compound PtMnGa and, moreover, at high temperatures up to ≈220 K is reported. Lorentz transmission electron microscopy reveals the chiral Néel character of the skyrmions. A strong variation is reported of the size of the skyrmions on the thickness of the lamella in which they are confined, varying by a factor of 7 as the thickness is varied from ≈90 nm to ≈4 µm. Moreover, the skyrmions are highly robust to in‐plane magnetic fields and can be stabilized in a zero magnetic field using suitable field‐cooling protocols over a very broad temperature range to as low as 5 K. These properties, together with the possibility of manipulating skyrmions in metallic PtMnGa via current induced spin–orbit torques, make them extremely exciting for future spintronic applications.
Single‐Crystal Red Phosphors: Enhanced Optical Efficiency and Improved Chemical Stability for wLEDs
Authors: Wang Zhengliang , Yang Zhiyu , Wang Nan , Zhou Qiang , Zhou Jianbang , Ma Li , Wang Xiaojun , Xu Yiqing , Brik Mikhail G. , Dramićanin Miroslav D. , Wu Mingmei
Published: December 2019

Crystal phosphors have many unique advantages compared with powdery ones. Herein, room‐temperature‐grown millimeter‐sized single‐crystal phosphors of Cs2XF6:Mn4+ (X = Ge, Si, and Ti) with remarkably higher external quantum efficiency than the corresponding powdery samples are reported. In addition, as compared with the powdery ones, the crystal samples exhibit much better stability toward water under different pH conditions. The red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on Cs2XF6:Mn4+ crystals show significantly improved luminous efficiency than those based on their corresponding powders. An assembled white LED device composed of the two layers of phosphors, i.e., the crystal (such as Cs2GeF6:Mn4+) and commercial Y3Al5O12:Ce3+, on a blue chip exhibits intense warm white light with high luminous efficiency (up to 193 lm W−1), high color rendering indexes (88), and low correlated color temperatures (3107 K). Hence, these crystals with greatly improved efficiency and stability can be potentially applied in high‐quality LED backlighting display and white LED lighting, especially inside the micro‐LED devices.
Sound Localization and Separation in 3D Space Using a Single Microphone with a Metamaterial Enclosure
Authors: Sun Xuecong , Jia Han , Zhang Zhe , Yang Yuzhen , Sun Zhaoyong , Yang Jun
Published: December 2019

Conventional approaches to sound localization and separation are based on microphone arrays in artificial systems. Inspired by the selective perception of the human auditory system, a multisource listening system which can separate simultaneous overlapping sounds and localize the sound sources in 3D space, using only a single microphone with a metamaterial enclosure is designed. The enclosure modifies the frequency response of the microphone in a direction‐dependent manner by giving each direction a characteristic signature. Thus, the information about the location and the audio content of sound sources can be experimentally reconstructed from the modulated mixed signals using a compressive sensing algorithm. Due to the low computational complexity of the proposed reconstruction algorithm, the designed system can also be applied in source identification and tracking. The effectiveness of the system in multiple real‐life scenarios is evaluated through multiple random listening tests. The proposed metamaterial‐based single‐sensor listening system opens a new way of sound localization and separation, which can be applied to intelligent scene monitoring and robot audition.
Parkinsonism caused by Intracranial ependymoma: A rare case report and literature review
Authors: Lou Yue , Wang Yanwen , Zhuang Liying , Cai Miao , Liu Xiaoli
Published: December 2019

Background

Ependymomas, especially intracranial ependymomas, are rare neoplasms of the CNS. The clinical courses of patients with intracranial ependymomas can be quite variable. At present, data on parkinsonism caused by ependymomas are scarce.

Case presentation

A 13‐year‐old girl presented with parkinsonism symptoms of clumsiness in her left leg and hand. Her mother was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at age 30, nine years previously. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a lesion in the temporal lobe with long‐T1 signal, mixed‐T2 signal. The patient was taken in for a right tumorectomy and was diagnosed as having an ependymoma postoperatively. The patient's symptoms fully resolved in the postoperative phase.

Conclusion

The case describes the mechanism of intracranial ependymoma involving parkinsonism symptoms. Our findings suggest that in some patients presenting with atypical PD symptoms the underlying cause should not be overlooked; MRI examination is necessary.
Effect of particle shape on methanol partial oxidation in a fixed bed using CFD reactor modeling
Authors: Partopour Behnam , Dixon Anthony G.
Published: December 2019

Particle shape is one of the most important parameters in the design and optimization of fixed‐bed processes. To address the impact of particle shape on methanol partial oxidation to formaldehyde over molybdate catalyst, packings of spheres, cylinders, rings, and trilobes are numerically generated. The generated packings are used to carry out resolved particle Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations under industrial conditions. Pressure drop, voidage and velocity profiles, radial heat transfer, and local and overall conversion and selectivity results are presented. Despite their lower particle surface area, lower particle effectiveness and more uneven flow distribution than trilobes, and lower overall heat transfer coefficient than cylinders, rings had the best conversion and selectivity due to their balance between the factors. Three longer tubes of rings, rings and cylinders, and rings and trilobes are simulated and show a small gain in selectivity for the rings and trilobes.
A new case of SMABF2 diagnosed in stillbirth expands the prenatal presentation and mutational spectrum of ASCC1
Authors: Giuffrida Maria G. , Mastromoro Gioia , Guida Valentina , Truglio Mauro , Fabbretti Maria , Torres Barbara , Mazza Tommaso , De Luca Alessandro , Roggini Mario , Bernardini Laura , Pizzuti Antonio
Published: December 2019

Spinal muscular atrophy with congenital bone fractures 2 (SMABF2) is a rare autosomal recessive neuromuscular disorder characterized by arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and prenatal fractures of the long bones, with poor prognosis. The most affected patients present with biallelic loss‐of‐function nucleotide variants in ASCC1 gene, coding a subunit of the transcriptional coactivator ASC‐1 complex, although the exact pathogenesis is yet unknown. This work describes the first case of SMABF2 in a stillbirth with documented evolution of the disease in the prenatal period. A microdeletion copy number variant (CNV) of about 64 Kb, involving four exons of ASCC1, was firstly detected by microarray analysis, requested for arthrogryposis and hydrops. Subsequent exome analysis disclosed a nucleotide variant of the same gene [c.1027C>T; (p. Arg343*)], resulting in the introduction of a premature termination codon. This stillbirth represents the first case of ASCC1 compound heterozygosity, due to an exonic microdeletion and a nucleotide variant, expanding the mutational spectrum of this gene. It also provides further evidence that exonic CNVs are an underestimated cause of disease‐alleles and that the integrated use of the last generation genetic analysis tools, together with careful clinical evaluations, are fundamental for the characterization of rare diseases even in the prenatal setting.
A novel truncating variant in ring finger protein 113A (RNF113A) confirms the association of this gene with X‐linked trichothiodystrophy
Authors: Mendelsohn Bryce A. , Beleford Daniah T. , Abu‐El‐Haija Aya , Alsaleh Norah S. , Rahbeeni Zuhair , Martin Pierre‐Marie , Rego Shannon , Huang Alyssa , Capodanno Gina , Shieh Joseph T. , Van Ziffle Jessica , Risch Neil , Alkuraya Fowzan S. , Slavotinek Anne M.
Published: December 2019

We describe an 11‐year old boy with severe global developmental delays, failure to thrive and growth retardation, refractory seizures with recurrent status epilepticus, hypogammaglobulinemia, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, and duodenal strictures. He had facial and skin findings compatible with trichothiodystrophy, including sparse and brittle hair, thin eyebrows, and dry skin. Exome sequencing showed a hemizygous, truncating variant in RNF113A, c.903_910delGCAGACCA, predicting p.(Gln302fs*12), that was inherited from his mother. Although his clinical features overlap closely with features described in the two previously reported male first cousins with RNF113A loss of function mutations, the duodenal strictures seen in this patient have not been reported. Interestingly, the patient's mother had short stature and 100% skewed X‐inactivation as seen in other obligate female carriers. A second male with developmental delays, microcephaly, seizures, ambiguous genitalia, and facial anomalies that included sparse and brittle hair, thin eyebrows and dry skin was recently reported to have c.897_898delTG, predicting p.(Cys299*) in RNF113A and we provide additional clinical details for this patient. This report further supports deleterious variants in RNF113A as a cause of a novel trichothiodystrophy syndrome.
Retrospective analysis of fetal vertebral defects: Associated anomalies, etiologies, and outcome
Authors: Lemire Gabrielle T. , Beauregard‐Lacroix Éliane , Campeau Philippe M. , Parent Stefan , Roy‐Beaudry Marjolaine , Soglio Dorothée Dal , Grignon Andrée , Rypens Françoise , Wavrant Sandrine , Laberge Anne‐Marie , Delrue Marie‐Ange
Published: December 2019

Our objectives were to describe fetal cases of vertebral defects (VD), assess the diagnostic yield of fetal chromosomal analysis for VD and determine which investigations should be performed when evaluating fetal VD. We performed a retrospective chart review for fetuses with VD seen between 2006 and 2015. Cases were identified from CHU Sainte‐Justine's prenatal clinic visits, postmortem fetal skeletal surveys, and medical records. Cases with neural tube defects were excluded. Sixty‐six fetuses with VD were identified at a mean gestational age of 20 weeks. Forty‐seven (71.2%) had associated antenatal anomalies, most commonly genitourinary, skeletal/limb, and cardiac anomalies. Thirteen mothers (19.7%) had pregestational diabetes (95% CI [10.1%–29.3%]). Fifty‐three cases had chromosomal analysis. Three had abnormal results (5.6%): trisomy 13, trisomy 22, and 9q33.1q34.11 deletion. Thirty‐four (51.5%) pregnancies were terminated, one led to intrauterine fetal demise and 31 (46.9%) continued to term. Of 27 children who survived the neonatal period, 21 had congenital scoliosis and 3 had spondylocostal dysostosis. Seven had developmental delay. In conclusion, prenatal evaluation of fetuses with VD should include detailed morphological assessment (including fetal echocardiogram), maternal diabetes screening, and chromosomal microarray if non‐isolated. Our findings provide guidance about management and counseling after a diagnosis of fetal VD.
Biallelic c.1263dupC in DOK7 results in fetal akinesia deformation sequence
Authors: Radhakrishnan Periyasamy , Shukla Anju , Girisha Katta M. , Nayak Shalini S.
Published: December 2019

Fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous condition. Pathogenic variants in DOK7 are known to cause myasthenic syndrome, congenital, 10 (MIM#254300) and, rarely (reported in a single family) lethal FADS. Herein, we describe a biallelic variant c.1263dupC in DOK7, known to cause congenital myasthenic syndrome 10, causing lethal FADS in a consanguineous family. The present report illustrates wide phenotypic variability caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in DOK7. We also describe the second family with FADS due to pathogenic variants in DOK7.
Chiral Bifunctional Selenide Catalysts for Asymmetric Bromolactonization
Authors: Nishiyori Ryuichi , Maynard John R. J. , Shirakawa Seiji
Published: December 2019

The development of chiral selenium catalysts for asymmetric transformations has become a pre‐eminent topic in the field of organocatalytic chemistry. Herein, we report the development of chiral bifunctional selenide catalysts bearing a hydroxy group and discuss their application to asymmetric bromolactonization reactions. The importance of the bifunctional design of chiral selenide catalysts for enantioselective bromolactonizations was clearly demonstrated in the present work.
Fast Cyclization of a Proline‐Derived Self‐Immolative Spacer Improves the Efficacy of Carbamate Prodrugs
Authors: Dal Corso Alberto , Borlandelli Valentina , Corno Cristina , Perego Paola , Belvisi Laura , Pignataro Luca , Gennari Cesare
Published: December 2019

Self‐immolative (SI) spacers are sophisticated chemical constructs designed for molecular delivery or material degradation. We describe herein a (S)‐2‐(aminomethyl)pyrrolidine SI spacer that is able to release different types of anticancer drugs (possessing either a phenolic or secondary and tertiary hydroxyl groups) through a fast cyclization mechanism involving carbamate cleavage. The high efficiency of drug release obtained with this spacer was found to be beneficial for the in vitro cytotoxic activity of protease‐sensitive prodrugs, compared with a commonly used spacer of the same class. These findings expand the repertoire of degradation machineries and are instrumental for the future development of highly efficient delivery platforms.
Biosynthesis of Pseudomonas‐Derived Butenolides
Authors: Klapper Martin , Schlabach Kevin , Paschold André , Zhang Shuaibing , Chowdhury Somak , Menzel Klaus‐Dieter , Rosenbaum Miriam A. , Stallforth Pierre
Published: December 2019

Butenolides are well‐known signaling molecules in Gram‐positive bacteria. Here, we describe a novel class of butenolides isolated from a Gram‐negative Pseudomonas strain, the styrolides. Structure elucidation was aided by the total synthesis of styrolide A. Transposon mutagenesis enabled us to identify the styrolide biosynthetic gene cluster, and by using a homology search, we discovered the related and previously unknown acaterin biosynthetic gene cluster in another Pseudomonas species. Mutagenesis, heterologous expression, and identification of key shunt and intermediate products were crucial to propose a biosynthetic pathway for both Pseudomonas‐derived butenolides. Comparative transcriptomics suggests a link between styrolide formation and the regulatory networks of the bacterium.
Self‐expandable hydrogel biliary stent design utilizing the swelling property of poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel
Authors: Nagakawa Yoshiyasu , Fujita Satoshi , Yunoki Shunji , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Suye Shin‐ichiro , Itoi Takao
Published: December 2019

We have developed a novel self‐expandable biliary stent comprising poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). The swelling ratio of the dried PVA hydrogels decreased from 6.7 to 2.6 as the saponification degree increased from 95 to 99.9, whereas the storage modulus and tear strength increased from 17 to 400 kPa and from 0.5 to 10 N mm−1, respectively. The dimensional ratios of the inner‐ and outer‐diameter and the length of the dried tube‐shaped hydrogels (saponification degree of 98.5) prepared by simple air drying isotropically increased 1.4–1.5 times in physiological saline. Meanwhile, the dimensional ratios of the dried hydrogels prepared by drying under extension increased by twice, whereas the length decreased slightly, indicating anisotropic swelling. The radial force of the reswollen tube‐shaped hydrogels (6.6 ± 0.6 mN mm−2) was significantly higher than that of a conventional metallic stent (4.4 ± 0.3 mN mm−2), suggesting that PVA hydrogels were applicable as self‐expandable stents. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48851.
Effect of the wine lees wastes as cost‐advantage and natural fillers on the thermal and mechanical properties of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBH) and poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)
Authors: Nanni A. , Messori M.
Published: December 2019

Solid wine wastes named wine lees (WL) have been tested as cost‐advantage filler within biopolymers such as poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyhexanoate) and poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate). WL have been first characterized and subsequently mixed within the polymers through a twin‐screw extruder in different concentrations (10, 20, and 40 phr). Moreover, the role of 3‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane tested as coupling agent has been investigated within the 20 phr formulation. The obtained materials have been characterized from a thermal, mechanical, rheological, and morphological point of view through: differential scanning calorimetry, melt flow rate, tensile and creep tests, dynamic mechanical analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. Results have shown how WL can improve the biopolymers overall properties without compromising their bio‐based origin. Several micromechanical models have been exploited to extend the mechanical behavior and correlations between biocomposites properties and WL contents have been carried out. Finally, the economic analysis has shown how these biocomposites could be suitable also for large‐scale applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48869.
Relationships between breeding waterbird abundance, diversity, and clear water status after the restoration of two shallow nutrient‐rich Danish lakes
Authors: Fox Anthony D. , Jørgensen Hans E. , Jeppesen Erik , Lauridsen Torben L. , Søndergaard Martin , Fugl Karsten , Myssen Palle , Balsby Thorsten J.S. , Clausen Preben
Published: December 2019

Breeding waterbird communities have suffered globally from the effects of anthropogenic changes in water quality (especially nutrient enrichment) in recent decades, but few studies have demonstrated the positive effects of restorative actions.

Annual breeding waterbird surveys in the period 1977–2005 at two restored southern Danish lake basins (combining nutrient load reduction and biomanipulation) showed an up to five‐fold increase in abundance, and considerable changes in species richness and diversity, following restoration to clear water status in both lakes.

Parallel surveys at a third lake, which retained clear water quality throughout, offering a form of natural ‘control', showed no such changes over the same time period.

Consistent relationships between breeding waterbird abundance, species richness, and diversity with measures of water clarity (Secchi disc depth, chlorophyll a, and suspended matter) suggest that water clarity mainly drives the relationship; inverse relationships between these measures and total nitrogen and phosphorus were less consistent than for water clarity.

The results suggest that an improvement in water clarity plays a key role in restoring breeding waterbird communities and suggest that breeding waterbirds can be indicators of the success of lake restoration projects, but more studies are needed to confirm their wider utility under a variety of conditions.
Low-fat/high-fibre diet prehabilitation improves anastomotic healing via the microbiome: an experimental model
Authors: Hyoju S K , Adriaansens C , Wienholts K , Sharma A , Keskey R , Arnold W , van Dalen D , Gottel N , Hyman N , Zaborin A , Gilbert J , van Goor H , Zaborina O , Alverdy J C
Published: December 2019

Background

Both obesity and the presence of collagenolytic bacterial strains (Enterococcus faecalis) can increase the risk of anastomotic leak. The aim of this study was to determine whether mice chronically fed a high-fat Western-type diet (WD) develop anastomotic leak in association with altered microbiota, and whether this can be mitigated by a short course of standard chow diet (SD; low fat/high fibre) before surgery.

Methods

Male C57BL/6 mice were assigned to either SD or an obesogenic WD for 6 weeks followed by preoperative antibiotics and colonic anastomosis. Microbiota were analysed longitudinally after operation and correlated with healing using an established anastomotic healing score. In reiterative experiments, mice fed a WD for 6 weeks were exposed to a SD for 2, 4 and 6 days before colonic surgery, and anastomotic healing and colonic microbiota analysed.

Results

Compared with SD-fed mice, WD-fed mice demonstrated an increased risk of anastomotic leak, with a bloom in the abundance of Enterococcus in lumen and expelled stool (65–90 per cent for WD versus 4–15 per cent for SD; P = 0·010 for lumen, P = 0·013 for stool). Microbiota of SD-fed mice, but not those fed WD, were restored to their preoperative composition after surgery. Anastomotic healing was significantly improved when WD-fed mice were exposed to a SD diet for 2 days before antibiotics and surgery (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

The adverse effects of chronic feeding of a WD on the microbiota and anastomotic healing can be prevented by a short course of SD in mice. Surgical relevanceWorldwide, enhanced recovery programmes have developed into standards of care that reduce major complications after surgery, such as surgical-site infections and anastomotic leak. A complementary effort termed prehabilitation includes preoperative approaches such as smoking cessation, exercise and dietary modification.This study investigated whether a short course of dietary prehabilitation in the form of a low-fat/high-fibre composition can reverse the adverse effect of a high-fat Western-type diet on anastomotic healing in mice.Intake of a Western-type diet had a major adverse effect on both the intestinal microbiome and anastomotic healing following colonic anastomosis in mice. This could be reversed when mice received a low-fat/high-fibre diet before operation.Taken together, these data suggest that dietary modifications before major surgery can improve surgical outcomes via their effects on the intestinal microbiome.
Frequency of anatomical variation of the sacroiliac joint in asymptomatic young adults and its relationship with sacroiliac joint degeneration
Authors: Tok Umay Sermin , Korkmaz Mehmet
Published: December 2019

Introduction

To evaluate the variations of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) in asymptomatic young adults and their relationship to SIJ degeneration.

Materials and Methods

A total of 860 SIJs were retrospectively evaluated in 430 abdominal computed tomographies (CT) of abdominal pain cases. The study population consisted of 430 patients (176 female, 254 male) aged 20–45 years with abdominal pain. The anatomical variations of the SIJ were classified as (1) accessory sacroiliac joint, (2) iliosacral complex, (3) bipartite iliac bony plate, (4) semicircular defects, (5) crescent‐like iliac bony plate, and (6) ossification center. The CT findings of SIJ degeneration included joint space narrowing, sclerosis, subcortical cysts, vacuum phenomenon, and osteophytes. Chi‐square and cross tabulation tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

The iliosacral complex was the most common (bilateral) anatomical variation (7.7%, n = 66). A total of 71 SIJ degenerations were detected in cases with anatomical variations. They were determined in 22 (2.6%) iliosacral complex, 19 (2.2%) bipartite iliac bony plate, 15 (1.7%) accessory sacroiliac joint, 6 (0.7%) semicircular defect, 5 (0.6%) crescent‐like iliac bony plate, and 4 (0.5%) ossification center cases.

Conclusion

We found that iliosacral complex was the most common SIJ variation in asymptomatic young adults and also that there was significantly more SIJ degeneration among subjects with anatomical variations of the SIJ than those without. SIJ degeneration was most common in subjects with the iliosacral complex variation.
Predictive factors for progression‐free survival in non‐small cell lung cancer patients receiving nivolumab based on performance status
Authors: Adachi Yuichi , Tamiya Akihiro , Taniguchi Yoshihiko , Enomoto Takatoshi , Azuma Kouji , Kouno Shunichi , Inagaki Yuji , Saijo Nobuhiko , Okishio Kyoichi , Atagi Shinji
Published: December 2019

Background

Nivolumab has promising efficacy for the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Various predictive factors for nivolumab response in those with NSCLC have been reported, including performance status (PS). The objective of this retrospective study was to determine the predictive factors for nivolumab response in those with NSCLC with good PS and those with poor PS.

Methods

We retrospectively collected pretreatment clinical data of 296 consecutive patients with NSCLC treated with nivolumab. We investigated the relationship between progression‐free survival (PFS) and patient characteristics and analyzed predictive factors associated with good PS (PS 0‐1) or poor PS (PS 2‐4).

Results

The median age of patients was 70 years; 206 patients were male, and 224 were classified as having good PS (PS 0‐1). The median PFS was 3.0 months, 3.7 months, and 1.2 months for all patients, patients with good PS, and patients with poor PS respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that never smoking (hazard ratio [HR], 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15‐2.75), high C‐reactive protein (CRP) (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.00‐1.93), liver metastasis (HR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.24‐3.07), pleural effusion (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.06‐2.00), and steroid use (HR, 2.85; 95% CI, 1.65‐4.94) were associated with significantly shorter PFS in patients with good PS. A high advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI) was significantly associated with longer PFS in patients with poor PS (HR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.08‐0.79).

Conclusions

In patients with NSCLC treated with nivolumab, the factors found to be predictive of shorter PFS in patients with good PS were never smoking, high CRP, liver metastasis, pleural effusion, and steroid administration, whereas high ALI was predictive of longer PFS in patients with poor PS.
Analysis of tumor markers in pleural effusion and serum to verify the correlations between serum tumor markers and tumor size, TNM stage of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Zhongqing , Wang Ying , Fang Min
Published: December 2019

Background

The study of tumor markers (TM) in pleural effusion (PE) was not extensive.

Methods

TM in PE and serum were analyzed to determine whether TM was expressed in intrathoracic and extrathoracic tissues. To further verify the correlations between serum TM and tumor size, TNM stage of lung adenocarcinoma.

Results

Serum AFP was not correlated with tumor size, T stage, N stage, and M stage (P > .05). Serum CEA, serum CA125, serum CA15‐3 were positively correlated with tumor size, T stage, N stage, M stage (P < .05). Serum CA19‐9 was not significantly correlated with tumor size and T stage (P > .05), but was positively correlated with N stage and M stage (P < .05). The levels of PE CEA, PE CA125, PE CA15‐3 were higher than those of serum CEA, serum CA125, serum CA15‐3 (all P < .05). The level of PE AFP was lower than that of serum AFP (P < .05). The level of PE CA19‐9 was not significantly different from that of serum CA19‐9 (P > .05). The positive rates of PE CEA and PE CA125 were higher than those of serum CEA and serum CA125 (P < .05). The positive rates of PE AFP, PE CA15‐3, PE CA19‐9 were not significantly different from those of serum AFP, serum CA15‐3, serum CA19‐9 (P > .05).PE CEA, PE CA125, PE CA15‐3 were moderately positively correlated with serum CEA, serum CA125, serum CA15‐3, respectively (r = 0.597; r = 0.46; r = 0.583, all P < .05). However, PE AFP and PE CA19‐9 were very strongly positively correlated with serum AFP and serum CA19‐9, respectively (r = 0.888; r = 0.874, all P < .05).

Conclusion

The expression characteristics of TM in PE and serum supported the correlations between serum TM and tumor size, TNM stage of lung adenocarcinoma.
SCAI expert consensus statement update on best practices for transradial angiography and intervention
Authors: Shroff Adhir R. , Gulati Rajiv , Drachman Douglas E. , Feldman Dmitriy N. , Gilchrist Ian C. , Kaul Prashant , Lata Kusum , Pancholy Samir B. , Panetta Carmelo J. , Seto Arnold H. , Speiser Bernadette , Steinberg Daniel H. , Vidovich Mladen I. , Woody Walter W. , Rao Sunil V.
Published: December 2019

Transradial angiography and intervention continues to become increasingly common as an access site for coronary procedures. Since the first “Best Practices” paper in 2013, ongoing trials have shed further light onto the safest and most efficient methods to perform these procedures. Specifically, this document comments on the use of ultrasound to facilitate radial access, the role of ulnar artery access, the utility of non‐invasive testing of collateral flow, strategies to prevent radial artery occlusion, radial access for primary PCI and topics that require further study.
Effect of postdilatation following balloon expandable transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Kawaguchi Tomohiro , Yamaji Kyohei , Ishizu Kenichi , Morinaga Takashi , Hayashi Masaomi , Isotani Akihiro , Kakumoto Shinichi , Arai Yoshio , Sakaguchi Genichi , Shirai Shinichi , Ando Kenji
Published: December 2019

Background

Postdilatation after transcatheter heart valve (THV) implantation was associated with larger aortic valve areas in large‐scale registries; however, the specific effects of postdilatation are poorly understood.

Methods and Results

Among a total of 224 consecutive patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement using SAPIEN 3, 121 patients (54.0%) underwent postdilatation (same contrast volume: N = 101, +1 ml: N = 17, +2 ml: N = 3). THV diameter was assessed (a) during, (b) after implantation, (c) during postdilatation, and (d) after postdilatation by quantitative fluoroscopy. In the overall patients (N = 224), acute recoil was observed from during implantation (23.0 ± 2.0 mm) to after implantation (22.5 ± 2.0 mm, p < .001) with an absolute recoil of 0.52 ± 0.25 mm. After postdilatation (N = 121), THV diameter significantly increased from 22.5 ± 2.0 mm to 22.9 ± 2.1 mm (p < .001), with smaller absolute recoil (0.39 ± 0.21 mm, p < .001). Compared with those who did not undergo postdilatation, patients who underwent postdilatation had larger postprocedural THV area assessed by multi‐slice computed tomography (471.4 ± 78.1 mm2 vs. 447.5 ± 76.3 mm2, p = .02) and larger effective orifice area (EOA) assessed by echocardiography throughout 1 year (at 30 day, 1.66 ± 0.33 cm2 vs. 1.45 ± 0.27 cm2, p < .001; at 6 month, 1.66 ± 0.33 cm2 vs. 1.44 ± 0.29 cm2, p < .001; at 1 year, 1.69 ± 0.38 cm2 vs. 1.47 ± 0.30 cm2, p < .001).

Conclusions

Postdilatation after implantation of the SAPIEN 3 valve produced a larger THV diameter with less acute recoil, followed by larger EOA throughout 1 year. Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact of postdilatation on long‐term clinical outcomes.
Management of thymoma‐associated pure red cell aplasia: A novel use of blood substitute HBOC‐201 in a Jehovah’s Witness
Authors: Rubinstein Maria M. , Goss Cheryl , Avecilla Scott T. , Dubé Gregory P. , Riely Gregory J. , Mones Jodi V.
Published: December 2019

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome occasionally associated with thymomas. Here, we report on the first ever use of a bovine hemoglobin‐based oxygen carrier, HBOC‐201 (HbO2 Therapeutics LLC; Hemopure®, Waltham, MA) for the supportive management of pure red cell aplasia in a Jehovah Witness patient.
Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) for Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Guan Qun , Zhou Le‐Le , Li Wen‐Yan , Li Yan‐An , Dong Yu‐Bin
Published: December 2019

As newly emerged crystalline porous materials, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) possess fascinating structures and some specific features such as modularity, crystallinity, porosity, stability, versatility, and biocompatibility. Besides adsorption/separation, sensing, catalysis, and energy applications, COFs have recently shown a promise in biomedical applications. This contribution provides an overview of the recent developments of COF‐based medicines in cancer therapeutics, including drug delivery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and combined therapy. Furthermore, the major challenges and developing trends in this field are also discussed. These recent developments are summarized and discussed to help encourage further contributions in this emerging and promising field.
Mechanisms of Chaperones as Active Assistant/Protector for Proteins: Insights from NMR Studies
Authors: Hu Yunfei , Li Conggang , He Lichun , Jin Changwen , Liu Maili
Published: December 2019

Molecular chaperones are diverse families of proteins that play key roles in protein homeostasis. They assist the folding of client proteins or prevent them from irreversible aggregation under stress conditions. Diverse chaperone families contribute to different aspects of protein homeostasis by interacting with a wide range of client proteins. Despite the vital roles of chaperones in cell survival, the molecular mechanisms underlying chaperone functions remain elusive, due to the non‐specificity of chaperone‐client interactions and the intrinsic flexibility of the clients. Our understanding of the chaperone functional mechanisms, especially regarding chaperone‐client interactions, has greatly expanded in recent years, thanks to the significant contribution from various NMR studies. Solution NMR methods have unique advantages in characterizing disordered protein structures, detecting weak and non‐specific interactions, and probing conformational dynamics of proteins and protein complexes, etc., and therefore are especially powerful in the studies of chaperone structure‐function relationships. In this review, we summarize some of the current knowledge of molecular chaperones, with emphasis on common features of chaperone‐client interactions and examples on a number of specific systems in which solution NMR methods were used to provide essential insights into their functional mechanisms.
Synthesis of Chiral β‐Lactams by Pd‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Amidation of Methylene C(sp3)–H Bonds
Authors: Zhou Tao , Jiang Meng‐Xue , Yang Xu , Yue Qiang , Han Ye‐Qiang , Ding Yi , Shi Bing‐Feng
Published: December 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

A Pd(II)‐catalyzed enantioselective intramolecular amidation of both benzylic and unbiased methylene C(sp3)−H bonds for the straightforward synthesis of chiral β‐lactams from aliphatic carboxamides is reported. The combination of 2‐pyridinylisopropyl (PIP) auxiliary with 3,3’‐substituted BINOL ligands is crucial for the enhancement of both reactivity and enantiocontrol of differentiating unbiased methylene C(sp3)−H bonds. The desired chemoselective C—N reductive elimination was achieved by employing 2‐fluoro‐1‐iodo‐4‐nitrobenzene as oxidant.
Are measures of marital satisfaction valid for women with depressive symptoms? The examination of factor structure and measurement invariance of the Couple Satisfaction Index‐4 across depression levels in Portuguese women
Authors: Lamela Diogo , Figueiredo Bárbara , Morais Ana , Matos Paula , Jongenelen Inês
Published: December 2019

Marital satisfaction (MS) is a key indicator of mental and physical health. Factor structure of MS measures in individuals with clinical levels of depression as well as their measurement invariance across groups with different levels of depressive symptoms were not yet explored. The lack of evidence of measurement invariance might compromise valid comparisons between individuals with elevated and minimal depressive symptoms in MS. This study examined the factor structure of the Couple Satisfaction Index‐4 (CSI‐4) among women with clinical levels of depression, tested the CSI‐4 measurement invariance across depression levels groups, and investigated CSI‐4 convergent and divergent validity. Participants were 891 heterosexual married/cohabiting women who were assigned into one of two groups based on assessment of their levels of depressive symptoms. Participants completed the CSI‐4 and self‐reported measures used to examine convergent and divergent validity. Support was found for the factor structure of the CSI‐4 for the total sample and both elevated depressive symptoms and minimal depressive symptoms groups. Subsequent multigroup confirmatory factor analyses supported the measurement invariance of the CSI‐4 across depression levels groups. The CSI‐4 revealed excellent values of internal consistency and convergent and divergent validity. Our findings suggest that CSI‐4 produces comparable response patterns across depression groups and thus meaningful comparisons between groups can be performed.