bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seven myths on crowding
Authors: Strasburger Hans
Published: November 2018

Crowding research has become a hotbed of vision research and some fundamentals are now widely agreed upon. It is highly likely that you would agree with the following statements. 1) Bouma’s Law can be sensibly stated as saying that ‘critical distance for crowding is about half the target’s eccentricity’. 2) Crowding is a peripheral phenomenon. 3) Crowding increases drastically and steadily with eccentricity (as does the minimal angle of resolution, MAR). 4) Crowding asymmetry: For the nasal-temporal asymmetry of crowding, Bouma’s (1970) paper is the one to cite. 5) The more peripheral flanker is the more important in crowding. 6) Critical crowding distance corresponds to a constant cortical distance in primary visual areas like V1. 7) Except for Bouma (1970), serious crowding research pretty much started in the 2000s. I propose the answer is ‘no!’ to most all of these questions. So should we care? I think we should, before we write the textbooks for the next generation.
Preferences and constraints: The value of economic games for studying human sociality
Authors: Pisor Anne C , Gervais Matthew M , Purzycki Benjamin G , Ross Cody T
Published: November 2018

We argue that classic economic games and their more recent extensions should continue to play a role in fieldworkers’ methodological toolkits. Economic games are not replacements for observational and self-report studies of behavior, but rather complements to them: While observational and self-report data measure individuals’ behavior subject to the constraints of cultural institutions, competing demands on their resources, and even self-presentation bias, economic games can be designed to measure comparatively unconstrained individual preferences, or to selectively introduce constraints, providing insight into how individuals would behave under certain conditions if they had the opportunity. By using a combination of experiments, observation, and self-report, anthropologists, economists, and psychologists can continue to improve their understanding of how preferences translate into “real world” behavior, and how “real world” constraints influence preferences, across diverse human societies.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis induces decelerated bioenergetic metabolism in human macrophages
Authors: Cumming Bridgette M , Addicott Kelvin W , Adamson John H , Steyn Adrie JC
Published: November 2018

How Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) rewires macrophage energy metabolism to facilitate survival is poorly characterized. Here, we used extracellular flux analysis to simultaneously measure the rates of glycolysis and respiration in real time. Mtb infection induced a quiescent energy phenotype in human monocyte-derived macrophages and decelerated flux through glycolysis and the TCA cycle. In contrast, infection with the vaccine strain, M. bovis BCG, or dead Mtb induced glycolytic phenotypes with greater flux. Furthermore, Mtb reduced the mitochondrial dependency on glucose and increased the mitochondrial dependency on fatty acids, shifting this dependency from endogenous fatty acids in uninfected cells to exogenous fatty acids in infected macrophages. We demonstrate how quantifiable bioenergetic parameters of the host can be used to accurately measure and track disease, which will enable rapid quantifiable assessment of drug and vaccine efficacy. Our findings uncover new paradigms for understanding the bioenergetic basis of host metabolic reprogramming by Mtb.
O‐GlcNAc‐induced nuclear translocation of hnRNP‐K is associated with progression and metastasis of cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Phoomak Chatchai , Park Dayoung , Silsirivanit Atit , Sawanyawisuth Kanlayanee , Vaeteewoottacharn Kulthida , Detarya Marutpong , Wongkham Chaisiri , Lebrilla Carlito B. , Wongkham Sopit
Published: November 2018

O‐GlcNAcylation is a key post‐translational modification that modifies the functions of proteins. Associations between O‐GlcNAcylation, shorter survival of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) patients, and increased migration/invasion ofCCAcell lines have been reported. However, the specific O‐GlcNAcylated proteins (OGPs) that participate in promotion ofCCAprogression are poorly understood.OGPs were isolated from humanCCAcell lines,KKU‐213 andKKU‐214, using a click chemistry‐based enzymatic labeling system, identified usingLC‐MS/MS, and searched against anOGPdatabase. From the proteomic analysis, a total of 21OGPs related to cancer progression were identified, of which 12 have not been previously reported. Among these, hnRNP‐K, a multifacetedRNA‐ andDNA‐binding protein known as a pre‐mRNA‐binding protein, was one of the most abundantly expressed, suggesting its involvement inCCAprogression. O‐GlcNAcylation of hnRNP‐K was further verified by anti‐OGP/anti‐hnRNP‐K immunoprecipitations andsWGApull‐down assays. The perpetuation ofCCAby hnRNP‐K was evaluated using siRNA, which revealed modulation of cyclin D1,XIAP,EMTmarkers, andMMP2 andMMP7 expression. In nativeCCAcells, hnRNP‐K was primarily localized in the nucleus; however, when O‐GlcNAcylation was suppressed, hnRNP‐K was retained in the cytoplasm. These data signify an association between nuclear accumulation of hnRNP‐K and the migratory capabilities ofCCAcells. In humanCCAtissues, expression of nuclear hnRNP‐K was positively correlated with high O‐GlcNAcylation levels, metastatic stage, and shorter survival ofCCApatients. This study demonstrates the significance of O‐GlcNAcylation on the nuclear translocation of hnRNP‐K and its impact on the progression of CCA.
Lignification and Advances in Lignin Imaging in Plant Cell Walls
Authors: Simon Clémence , Lion Cedric , Biot Christophe , Gierlinger Notburga , Hawkins Simon
Published: November 2018

Lignin is the second most abundant plant biopolymer after cellulose on the planet. This phenolic polymer is a major constituent of the cell wall in certain specialised plant tissues where it plays a vital role in many aspects of plant growth. Both the amount and the chemical composition of lignin in cell walls have important effects on the characteristics of plant biomass thereby impacting strongly on the quality of a wide range of economically important products derived from plants. A better understanding of how the lignin polymer contributes to the development of the plant interacts with the environment during the carbon cycle and influences the characteristics of lignocellulose biomass depends upon the availability of appropriate analytical tools permitting a complete characterisation of lignin composition. While several chemical and physical techniques are able to provide both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the chemical composition of extracted cell wall material and/or lignin, they are generally unable to provide detailed spatial information at the tissue/cell‐wall level. Recently, the development and application of vibrational spectroscopy and bioorthogonal chemical approaches to lignin imaging are allowing us to obtain a better understanding of the heterogeneity and dynamics of lignin structure
in situ
. In this article, we discuss lignification and the different techniques that are available to the plant biologist interested in characterising lignin structure with a focus on new imaging techniques.
Retinal image analytics detects white matter hyperintensities in healthy adults
Authors: Lau Alexander Y. , Mok Vincent , Lee Jack , Fan Yuhua , Zeng Jinsheng , Lam Bonnie , Wong Adrian , Kwok Chloe , Lai Maria , Zee Benny
Published: November 2018

Objective

We investigated whether an automatic retinal image analysis (ARIA) incorporating machine learning approach can identify asymptomatic older adults harboring high burden of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) using MRI as gold standard.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we evaluated 180 community‐dwelling, stroke‐, and dementia‐free healthy subjects and performed ARIA by acquiring a nonmydriatic retinal fundus image. The primary outcome was the diagnostic performance of ARIA in detecting significant WMH on MRI brain, defined as age‐related white matter changes (ARWMC) grade ≥2. We analyzed both clinical variables and retinal characteristics using logistic regression analysis. We developed a machine learning network model with ARIA to estimate WMH and its classification.

Results

All 180 subjects completed MRI and ARIA. The mean age was 70.3 ± 4.5 years, 70 (39%) were male. Risk factor profiles were: 106 (59%) hypertension, 31 (17%) diabetes, and 47 (26%) hyperlipidemia. Severe WMH (global ARWMC grade ≥2) was found in 56 (31%) subjects. The performance for detecting severe WMH with sensitivity (SN) 0.929 (95% CI from 0.819 to 0.977) and specificity (SP) 0.984 (95% CI from 0.937 to 0.997) was excellent. There was a good correlation between WMH volume (log‐transformed) obtained from MRI versus those estimated from retinal images using ARIA with a correlation coefficient of 0.897 (95% CI from 0.864 to 0.922).

Interpretation

We developed a robust algorithm to automatically evaluate retinal fundus image that can identify subjects with high WMH burden. Further community‐based prospective studies should be performed for early screening of population at risk of cerebral small vessel disease.
Learning a second language by playing a game
Authors: James Kelsey K. , Mayer Richard E.
Published: November 2018

Game‐like educational apps are intended to boost learner motivation leading to better learning outcomes. To test this idea about the value of gamification, college students (n = 64) learned Italian by playing the online language learning game, Duolingo at home for seven sessions, or learned the same material through watching an online slideshow for seven sessions. Although the groups did not differ significantly on achievement posttests, the Duolingo group rated their learning experience as significantly more enjoyable (d = 0.77), more appealing (d = 1.17), and less difficult (d = 0.51), and was significantly more willing to continue with similar learning experiences (d = 1.39). Overall, these results point to the motivational and affective benefits of Duolingo as a promising alternative to more traditional methods for students who may require additional motivation not to disengage from the material.
Biomimetic Surface with Tunable Frictional Anisotropy Enabled by Photothermogenesis‐Induced Supporting Layer Rigidity Variation
Authors: Ji Zhongying , Yan Changyou , Ma Shuanhong , Zhang Xiaoqin , Jia Xin , Wang Xiaolong , Zhou Feng
Published: November 2018

Anisotropic friction of widespread biological surfaces with micro‐ and nanostructures oriented to supporting layer is proved to be crucial for the purpose of locomotion or transporting items in nature, which is therefore attracting extensive attention. Herein, variation of supporting layer rigidity induced dynamic control of anisotropic friction of biomimetic surface with structures oriented to supporting substrate is demonstrated. The biomimetic surface with oriented hook‐like spines microstructures embedded in polymeric substrate is fabricated by three‐dimensional (3D) printing followed by transfer reproduction. Incorporation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with excellent near‐infrared (NIR)/infrared (IR) photothermogenesis in the substrate results in its variable rigidity with light on/off, which achieves the tunable anisotropic friction performance of the biomimetic surface. A proof‐of‐concept device with the function of Velcro type strip is demonstrated to unsnap the fastener by remote NIR/IR light, revealing its promising for designing intelligent control devices. It is believed that this novel anisotropic friction controllable system with photothermogenesis‐induced supporting layer rigidity variation will provide wide and potential applications in various fields including sensors, robots, and other bionic devices.
Foldable and Biodegradable Energy‐Storage Devices on Copy Papers
Authors: Park Myung‐Joo , Lee Jang‐Sik
Published: November 2018

Flexible and foldable electronic devices require flexible energy‐storage components. Electrochemical capacitors (ECs) could store charges without chemical reaction, have fast charging/discharging speed, and high power density. Carbon‐based materials such as activated carbon, single‐wall carbon nanotubes, and graphene have large ion‐reachable surface area and effective electronic transport passages, which enable capacitive behavior with high power density and energy density. An electric double‐layer capacitor made using pencil‐drawn electrodes on commercial copy papers is reported here. Pencil for electrodes is made with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with well‐connected structure. These AgNPs/rGO hybrid structures give high conductivity and reliable charging/discharging properties. The ECs are based on pencil‐drawn electrodes on copy papers and biopolymer electrolytes, so these can realize ultra‐low cost, foldable, and biodegradable energy sources for flexible and foldable electronic devices in the future.
Intermolecular Singlet Fission in Unsymmetrical Derivatives of Pentacene in Solution
Authors: Casillas Rubén , Adam Matthias , Coto Pedro B. , Waterloo Andreas R. , Zirzlmeier Johannes , Reddy Seelam Rajagopala , Hampel Frank , McDonald Robert , Tykwinski Rik R. , Thoss Michael , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: November 2018

Intermolecular singlet fission (SF) is an electronically coupled process between two chromophores, where distance dependences are decisive in terms of rates and yields. In the current work, a family of pentacene derivatives featuring different functional groups have been designed, synthesized, and probed with respect to intermolecular SF in the low, medium, and high concentration regimes rather than in the solid state. By means of advanced photophysical techniques, global analysis modeling, and ab initio calculations, a model for intermolecular SF is postulated. The model is based on an early key intermediate, which involves the diffusional encounter between one pentacene in its singlet excited‐state with another one in its ground state and which features excimer characteristics. This is followed by a transformation into a coupled triplet excited‐state. The role of the functional group appended to pentacene is analyzed with respect to steric shielding of the pentacene core as a means to prevent photophysical degradation, as well as control diffusional encounter and, subsequently, SF. The findings demonstrate the potential of new molecular materials for SF, especially in solution studies, as well as the challenges of implementing them in energy conversion schemes due to the appearance of photodegradation processes that compete with SF.
Elevated EGFL6 modulates cell metastasis and growth via AKT pathway in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Ziyu , Ni Haosheng , You Bo , Shi Si , Shan Ying , Bao Lili , Duan Bingyue , You Yiwen
Published: November 2018

Epidermal growth factor‐like domain multiple 6 (EGFL6) is a secreted protein, regulates maintenance and metastasis of cancer cells. Nevertheless, how EGFL6 participates in the progression and tumorigenesis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains unclear. In our study, EGFL6 was detected highly expressed in 20 NPC tissues compared with normal tissues by IHC assay. Then, the level of EGFL6 in NPC serum and NPC cells was explored through enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and western blot, the results consistent with IHC. More interestingly, EGFL6 accelerated the migration and growth of NPC in vitro assays. Considering the mechanism of migration, NPC cells were cultured with AKT activator, revealing EGFL6 facilitated the progression of NPC via AKT. Moreover, the same effect of EGFL6 in promoting NPC growth was proved in nude mice. Furthermore, heat‐shock zebrafish model was established with EGFL6 overexpression. Then, CNE2 cells were injected into the model and cells mass was observed, showing that EGFL6 enhanced the migration and metastasis of NPC. Currently, as the prognosis of NPC is severely affected by distant metastasis, it might be a new therapeutic target toward EGFL6. Taken together, our results suggested that EGFL6 acts as a potential positive regulator in the migration and proliferation of NPC.
Bio‐Acrylates Production: Recent Catalytic Advances and Perspectives of the Use of Lactic Acid and Their Derivates
Authors: Makshina Ekaterina V. , Canadell Judit , van Krieken Jan , Peeters Elise , Dusselier Michiel , Sels Bert F.
Published: November 2018

The production of drop‐in chemicals from bio‐based renewable sources is gaining a lot of momentum due to proven negative impact of fossil‐based economy on environment and society. In this Review, various bio‐derived platform molecules are assessed as renewable alternatives to fossil resources for the catalytic production of acrylates. Acrylic acid and its esters are key building blocks of a large number of high‐value oligomers and polymers in the current industry. In spite of the encouraging successes reported on gram or lab‐scale, real implementation of bio‐based examples remain scarce mainly due to the current high cost and limited availability of the bio‐based substrates. As lactic acid and their derivatives are one of the most promising feedstocks for bio‐acrylate production, they are the main focus of this Review.
Current situation of carbon dioxide capture, storage, and enhanced oil recovery in the oil and gas industry
Authors: Adu Emmanuel , Zhang Yindi , Liu Dehua
Published: November 2018

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an important low‐carbon management technology used to reduce CO2 emissions with the captured anthropogenic CO2 for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). This paper provides an overview and analysis of current issues related to CCS projects and CCS technologies. The paper also assesses risks and costs as well as policy, legal, and regulatory frameworks relevant for CCS and the major countries with CCS deployment. Currently, the few CCS projects in operation are mostly for EOR purposes. However, miscible CO2‐EOR in depleted oil and gas reservoirs appears to be the industry's first choice for CO2 sequestration and increasing oil production. Potential CO2 leakage is a major risk for pipelines and geological storage and a comprehensive monitoring program needs to be developed to ascertain its impact on pipeline material integrity, humans, and the environment. The cost of the CCS chain largely depends on the compression solvent for the synthesis gas or flue gas treatment for separation, heat rate, energy required for capture, capital costs of capture equipment, pipeline diameter, and flow capacity, and the homogeneity and permeability of the geological formations. An effective carbon pricing and cap‐and‐trade system as a part of national carbon policy is needed to achieve the goal of CCS. This paper finally discusses China's carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) systems and proposes a new CCUS‐LNG transportation process system for the coastal areas of China. Special attention was focused on CO2 transportation, CCUS‐EOR, and a new CCUS‐LNG process system for China.
Quantifying multiple ecosystem services for adaptive management of green infrastructure
Authors: Wong Christina P. , Jiang Bo , Kinzig Ann P. , Ouyang Zhiyun
Published: November 2018

Demands for ecosystem service assessments are growing around the world. However, management applications remain limited in part because we lack measurements linking ecosystem characteristics (ecosystem structure and processes) to final ecosystem services. Policymakers need marginal values, changes in final ecosystem services (direct link to human welfare) relative to additional units of ecosystem characteristics (∆final ecosystem services/∆ecosystem characteristics) to assess tradeoffs. Progress, however, has been slow due to confusion on ecological production functions (EPFs) in ecology. Here, we apply a new interdisciplinary approach to craft EPFs to evaluate four ecosystem services using the Yongding River Green Ecological Corridor as our case study. The Yongding Corridor is Beijing's largest, most expensive green infrastructure project (~ $2.5 billion USD), constructed as a network of seven artificial lakes and wetlands. The Beijing Government wants the Yongding Corridor to improve four ecosystem services: (1) water storage, (2) local climate regulation, (3) water purification, and (4) aesthetics. We first worked with stakeholders to determine final ecosystem service levels and then used the Variable Infiltration Capacity model to estimate key ecosystem processes from the designed lakes and wetlands. We coupled the modeling with ecological field data and social surveys to create EPFs. We evaluated the ecosystem services by calculating shortfalls and then determined synergies and tradeoffs to identify actions for reducing shortfalls. We found the Yongding Corridor is meeting desired levels for aesthetics, but incurred shortfalls on the remaining services. To obtain the desired services, we recommend managers: (1) maintain inflow rates and/or make the lakes deeper to reduce water loss rates; (2) improve water quality—wetlands have high nutrient retention, but nutrient loads must be reduced; and (3) plant shade trees since evaporative cooling from the lakes and wetlands is having no measurable impact on human comfort. Results indicate the absence of ecosystem functions in landscape design led to shortfalls, but solutions require coupling green and built infrastructure to obtain multi‐functionality. Managers found marginal values useful for clarifying connections, which led to adaptive policy changes for improving green infrastructure.
Pore Characterization and FTIR Spectras of Yellow Squash Particles and Adaptive Neuro‐Fuzzy Inference System Modelling of the Breakthrough Curves of Reactive Blue 21 Dyestuff in a Fixed‐Bed Column
Authors: Oguz Ensar , Utku Meral
Published: November 2018

The breakthrough curves of Reactive Blue 21 were investigated in a fixed‐bed column using shells of Yellow Squash. The effects of experimental conditions on the shape of the Reactive Blue 21 breakthrough curves were investigated. Besides, the mechanism of Reactive Blue 21 uptake was explained based on the results of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The electrophoretic mobilities of the particles were measured to obtain information about the biosorption mechanism. Surface area and total pore volume of the particles were obtained as 1.06 m2/g and 0.0014 cm3/g, respectively. The adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system model has been applied for the prediction of Reactive Blue 21 breakthrough curves. The highest observed and predicted bed capacities were obtained as 17.565 and 17.606 mg/g. The coefficient of determination and mean squared error for the data set of the model were determined as 0.999 and 0.000085, respectively. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: S110–S117, 2019
Clinically indicated electrical stimulation strategies to treat patients with medically refractory epilepsy
Authors: Izadi Ali , Ondek Katelynn , Schedlbauer Amber , Keselman Inna , Shahlaie Kiarash , Gurkoff Gene
Published: November 2018

Focal epilepsies represent approximately half of all diagnoses, and more than one‐third of these patients are refractory to pharmacologic treatment. Although resection can result in seizure freedom, many patients do not meet surgical criteria, as seizures may be multifocal in origin or have a focus in an eloquent region of the brain. For these individuals, several U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved electrical stimulation paradigms serve as alternative options, including vagus nerve stimulation, responsive neurostimulation, and stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus. All of these are safe, flexible, and lead to progressive seizure control over time when used as an adjunctive therapy to antiepileptic drugs. Focal epilepsies frequently involve significant comorbidities such as cognitive decline. Similar to antiepilepsy medications and surgical resection, current stimulation targets and parameters have yet to address cognitive impairments directly, with patients reporting persistent comorbidities associated with focal epilepsy despite a significant reduction in the number of their seizures. Although low‐frequency theta oscillations of the septohippocampal network are critical for modulating cellular activity and, in turn, cognitive processing, the coordination of neural excitability is also imperative for preventing seizures. In this review, we summarize current FDA‐approved electrical stimulation paradigms and propose that theta oscillations of the medial septal nucleus represent a novel neuromodulation target for concurrent seizure reduction and cognitive improvement in epilepsy. Ultimately, further advancements in clinical neurostimulation strategies will allow for the efficient treatment of both seizures and comorbidities, thereby improving overall quality of life for patients with epilepsy.
Landscape permeability and individual variation in a dispersal-linked gene jointly determine genetic structure in the Glanville fritillary butterfly
Authors: DiLeo Michelle F. , Husby Arild , Saastamoinen Marjo
Published: November 2018

There is now clear evidence that species across a broad range of taxa harbor extensive heritable variation in dispersal. While studies suggest that this variation can facilitate demographic outcomes such as range expansion and invasions, few have considered the consequences of intraspecific variation in dispersal for the maintenance and distribution of genetic variation across fragmented landscapes. Here, we examine how landscape characteristics and individual variation in dispersal combine to predict genetic structure using genomic and spatial data from the Glanville fritillary butterfly. We used linear and latent factor mixed models to identify the landscape features that best predict spatial sorting of alleles in the dispersal-related gene phosphoglucose isomerase (Pgi). We next used structural equation modeling to test if variation in Pgi mediated gene flow as measured by Fst at putatively neutral loci. In a year when the population was recovering following a large decline, individuals with a genotype associated with greater dispersal ability were found at significantly higher frequencies in populations isolated by water and forest, and these populations showed lower levels of genetic differentiation at neutral loci. These relationships disappeared in the next year when metapopulation density was high, suggesting that the effects of individual variation are context dependent. Together our results highlight that (1) more complex aspects of landscape structure beyond just the configuration of habitat can be important for maintaining spatial variation in dispersal traits and (2) that individual variation in dispersal plays a key role in maintaining genetic variation across fragmented landscapes.
Morphology and topography of internal reproductive organs in the female cat during prenatal and postnatal development: Scanning electron microscope and three‐dimensional reconstruction study
Authors: Prozorowska Ewelina , Jackowiak Hanna , Skieresz‐Szewczyk Kinga
Published: November 2018

The study describes the morphology and topography of internal reproductive organs in the domestic cat from the early prenatal period to maturity, using macroscopic and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations with three‐dimensional (3D) reconstructions. Fifty‐seven female cat fetuses aged between the 27th and 63rd day postconception (p.c.), two newborn cats, three juveniles (3‐month‐old) cats, and three mature (12‐month‐old) cats were used in the study. The age of fetuses was determined on the basis of the growth curve for the domestic cat. The rudiments of cat ovaries develop on the ventral surface of the mesonephroi and within 30 days p.c. move to the sides of the abdominal cavity, which is similar to the position of the ovaries in the adult cat. The mesonephroi regress at about the 50th day p.c., when the residual mesonephric ducts are still found in the lower part of the body of the uterus. The paramesonephric ducts develop on the lateral surface of the mesonephroi and by the 45th day p.c., differentiate into the uterine tubes and the uterus. The arrangement of the paramesonephric ducts in the abdominal cavity changes from the U‐ to the V‐shaped system. The final topography of the uterine tubes is established between the 54th and 60th day p.c., as the uterine tubes become convoluted. Before the 54th day p.c., the uterine horns undergo rapid elongation and convolution, forming the W‐shaped system. By the third month of postnatal life, the uterine horns become straight, as in the adult cat.
Applications of solid‐phase micro‐extraction with mass spectrometry in pesticide analysis
Authors: Liang Dapeng , Liu Wenjie , Raza Rabia , Bai Yu , Liu Huwei
Published: November 2018

Pesticides, widely applied in agriculture, can produce a variety of transformation products and their continuous use causes deleterious effects to ecosystem. Efficient and sensitive analytical techniques for enrichment and analysis of pesticides samples are highly required. Compared with other extraction methods, solid‐phase micro extraction is a solvent free, cost effective, robust, versatile, and high throughput sample preparation technique, especially for the analysis of pesticides from complicated matrices. Coupling of solid‐phase micro extraction with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry has been extensively applied in pesticide analysis. On the other hand, in recent years, combination of fast separation using solid‐phase micro extraction and rapid detection using ambient mass spectrometry is providing highly efficient pesticide screening. This article summarizes the applications of solid‐phase micro extraction coupled to mass spectrometry for pesticides analysis.
Are chronic cough and laryngopharyngeal reflux more common in obstructive sleep apnea patients?
Authors: Gouveia Christopher J. , Yalamanchili Amulya , Ghadersohi Saied , Price Caroline P. E. , Bove Michiel , Attarian Hrayr P. , Tan Bruce K.
Published: November 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess if there is a significant difference in the prevalence and severity of chronic cough symptoms in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients versus non‐OSA patients and examine this relationship in regard to laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) symptoms.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients referred to Northwestern Medicine Sleep Lab for home sleep testing were enrolled. Patients filled out the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) before completing sleep testing. Home sleep testing results were reviewed, and patients were separated into non‐OSA and OSA groups by standard Apnea‐Hypopnea Index (AHI) criteria. Demographic characteristics and questionnaire scores of the two groups were compared. The relationship between OSA severity, as determined by AHI, and LCQ and RSI scores was assessed.

Results

Of the 52 patients enrolled, 33 patients met criteria for OSA and 19 patients did not. Comparing patients without OSA versus those with OSA, there was a significant difference in mean LCQ score (129.9 vs. 120.0, respectively; P = .02), implying worse cough symptoms among OSA patients, and mean RSI score (3.2 vs. 11.2, respectively; P = .0013), implying worse upper‐airway reflux symptoms among OSA patients. There was a significant correlation between LCQ score and AHI (r = –0.39, P = .0061) and between RSI score and AHI (r = 0.37, P = .0078).

Conclusions

OSA patients demonstrate worse chronic cough and LPR‐related quality of life versus non‐OSA patients. Furthermore, the severity of these quality‐of‐life measures was correlated with the severity of the AHI. Chronic cough and particularly the pharyngeal LPR symptoms may be associated with the presence and severity of OSA.

Level of Evidence

2 . Laryngoscope, 129:1244–1249, 2019
Weighted estimates for the multilinear maximal function on the upper half‐spaces
Authors: Chen Wei , Zhu Chunxiang
Published: November 2018

For a general dyadic grid, we give a Calderón–Zygmund type decomposition, which is the principle fact about the multilinear maximal function on the upper half‐spaces. Using the decomposition, we study the boundedness of . We obtain a natural extension to the multilinear setting of Muckenhoupt's weak‐type characterization. We also partially obtain characterizations of Muckenhoupt's strong‐type inequalities with one weight. Assuming the reverse Hölder's condition, we get a multilinear analogue of Sawyer's two weight theorem. Moreover, we also get Hytönen–Pérez type weighted estimates.
Know the Risk in Firing a Union Supporter
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: November 2018

An employer's decision to terminate a known union supporter during an organizing campaign will almost inevitably cause the union to file an unfair labor practice (ULP) charge with the National Labor Relations Board. The union will, naturally, claim that the dismissal was in retaliation for the individual's union support. To defeat this charge, the employer must present evidence that it cashiered the problem worker for activities unconnected with his/her position on unions. Two recent cases illustrate the Board's thinking in this area.
Autochthonous Bacillus licheniformis: Probiotic potential and survival ability in low‐fishmeal extruded pellet aquafeed
Authors: Niu Kai‐Min , Kothari Damini , Lee Woo‐Do , Lim Jeong‐Min , Khosravi Sanaz , Lee Sang‐Min , Lee Bong‐Joo , Kim Kang‐Woong , Han Hyon‐Sob , Kim Soo‐Ki
Published: November 2018

In recent years, Bacillus spp. have garnered attention as probiotic supplements in aquafeed owing to the production of heat stable and low pH resistant spores. Herein, we isolated and characterized an autochthonous Bacillus licheniformis KCCM 43270 from the intestine of olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) for supplementation in low‐fishmeal extruded aquafeeds. The KCCM 43270 was screened based on amylase, protease, cellulase, and lipase as well as non‐hemolytic activities. The isolate was able to grow in carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), xylan, and soybean meal (SBM) when used as a single carbon source in the minimal nutrient M9 medium. The KCCM 43270 spores displayed complete survival in acid (pH 2.5) and bile (0.3%, w/v) for 3 hr, strong biofilm formation, and nearly 50% adhesion with intestinal mucus. The spores of the isolate also showed significant survival ability at 80, 90, 100°C for 60, 30, and 1 min, respectively. In addition, the spores in a blend of SBM complex carrier showed significant heat stability at 120°C for 5 min and under different drying conditions. Furthermore, the spores also survived the extrusion process during low‐fishmeal aquafeed manufacturing, implying the potential application of B. licheniformis KCCM 43270 in aquafeed industry.
Polyphenols and Tryptophan Metabolites Activate the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in an in vitro Model of Colonic Fermentation
Authors: Koper Jonna E. B. , Loonen Linda M. P. , Wells Jerry M. , Troise Antonio Dario , Capuano Edoardo , Fogliano Vincenzo
Published: November 2018

Scope

Many dietary phytochemicals have been reported to promote gut health. Specific dietary phytochemicals, such as luteolin, as well as specific microbial metabolites of tryptophan are ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which plays a role in immunity and homeostasis of the gut barrier. Here, the fate of luteolin during colonic fermentation and the contribution of tryptophan metabolites to AhR activity in different parts of the colon are investigated.

Methods and results

Several polyphenols are screened for AhR activation and oregano, containing the ligand luteolin, is added to batch cultures of human microbiota from the distal colon. Luteolin is rapidly metabolized, with no measurable increase in AhR activity. In the second experiment, using the Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME), not all luteolin is metabolized in the ascending colon, but disappear rapidly in the transverse colon. The greatest AhR activity is due to microbiota‐derived metabolites of tryptophan, particularly in the descending colon.

Conclusions

Luteolin in food is rapidly metabolized in the transverse colon. Tryptophan metabolism by the microbiota in the colon contributes substantially to the pool of lumen metabolites that can activate the AhR.
Subtractive non‐contrast‐enhanced MRI of lower limb veins using multiple flow‐dependent preparation strategies
Authors: Li Hao , Priest Andrew N. , Patterson Ilse , Graves Martin J , Lomas David J
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To evaluate the performance of acceleration‐dependent vascular anatomy for non‐contrast‐enhanced MR venography (ADVANCE‐MRV) in femoral veins and to investigate whether venous signal uniformity can be improved by applying multiple acquisitions with different flow suppressions or multiple flow suppressions in 1 acquisition.

Methods

The ADVANCE‐MRV method uses flow‐sensitized modules to acquire a dark‐artery image set and a dark‐artery vein set, which are subsequently subtracted. Ten healthy volunteers were imaged using the ADVANCE‐MRV sequence with improved venous suppression uniformity in the dark‐artery vein images achieved by applying multiple flow suppressions in the same acquisition or by combining multiple images acquired with different flow suppressions. The performance of the improved technique was also evaluated in 13 patients with lower‐limb deep venous thrombosis.

Results

Multiple‐preparation and multiple‐acquisition approaches all improved venous signal uniformity and reduced the signal void artifacts observed in the original ADVANCE‐MRV images. The multiple‐acquisition approaches achieved excellent blood signal uniformity and intensity, albeit at the cost of an increase in the total acquisition time. The double‐preparation approach demonstrated good performance in all measurements, providing a good compromise between signal uniformity and acquisition time. The blood signal spatial variation and its variation using different gradient amplitudes were reduced by 20% and 29%. All patient images showed uniform and bright venous signal in nonoccluded sections of vein.

Conclusion

The enhanced ADVANCE‐MRV methods substantially improved signal uniformity in healthy volunteers and patients with known deep venous thrombosis. The double‐preparation approach gave good‐quality femoral vein images, providing improved venous signal uniformity without increasing acquisition time in comparison to the original sequence.
Facile fabrication of foamed natural Eucommia ulmoides gum composites with heat‐triggered shape memory behavior
Authors: Xia Lin , Gao Han , Geng Jieting
Published: November 2018

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a type of smart material with potential application in aerospace engineering, biomedical devices, and sensors. In this article, we propose a new technique for the preparation of foamed Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) composites, which have excellent one‐way and two‐way shape memory performances. The advantages of these foamed composites are not only light weight but also good shape memory performance. For their remarkably light weight, large deformation, and efficient cost, these composites are expected to be a kind of popular smart materials in the future. We studied the properties of foamed composites via mechanical measurements, swelling experiments, thermal analysis and shape memory analysis, hoping to establish the relationship between the microstructure and macroscopic properties of composites. The results showed that the composites with 0.4 phr sulfur had superior one‐way shape memory properties and moderate mechanical properties. In the two‐way shape memory tests, the composites performed excellent two‐way shape memory properties with the applied stress ranging from 200 to 350 KPa. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3075–3083, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
From telling to sharing to silence: A longitudinal ethnography of professional‐patient communication about oral chemotherapy for colorectal cancer
Authors: Mitchell Gary , Porter Sam , Manias Elizabeth
Published: November 2018

Background

Healthcare professionals are encouraged to promote concordance, a shared agreement about prescription and administration of medications, in their communication with patients. However, there is a paucity of research regarding the impact of communication about self‐administered oral chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to examine the changing dynamics of communication through the patient journey from diagnosis of colorectal cancer to posttreatment of chemotherapy.

Methods

Over 60 hours of observational data were digitally recorded from interactions between 15 healthcare professionals, eight patients with colorectal cancer prescribed capecitabine, and 11 family members over a 6‐month period in outpatient departments within one hospital in the United Kingdom. Sixteen semi‐structured interviews were conducted with patients during and after their treatment. Three focus groups were carried out with healthcare professionals. These data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

The patient journey followed a path of four distinct phases: autocracy, physiological concordance, holistic concordance, and silence. Initially, communication was medicalised with patients occupying a passive role. As patients continued their journey, they took a more active role in their treatment discussion by leading consultations and sharing their priorities of care. At the end of treatment, patients felt isolated and unsupported when they were discharged from their oncology team.

Conclusions

Communication about oral chemotherapy is not a static process; it evolves to take account of changing clinical requirements and growing patient confidence in dealing with their cancer. Different stages in the treatment journey indicate the need for different approaches to communication.
Nonclinical safety assessment of a human interleukin‐22FC IG fusion protein demonstrates in vitro to in vivo and cross‐species translatability
Authors: Lee Donna W. , Zhong Shelly , Pai Rama , Rae Julie , Sukumaran Siddharth , Stefanich Eric G. , Lutman Jeff , Doudement Estelle , Wang Xiaoting , Harder Brandon , Lekkerkerker Annemarie , Herman Ann , Ouyang Wenjun , Danilenko Dimitry M.
Published: November 2018

Although Interleukin‐22 (IL‐22) is produced by various leukocytes, it preferentially targets cells with epithelial origins. IL‐22 exerts essential roles in modulating various tissue epithelial functions, such as innate host defense against extracellular pathogens, barrier integrity, regeneration, and wound healing. Therefore, IL‐22 is thought to have therapeutic potential in treating diseases associated with infection, tissue injury or chronic tissue damage. A number of in vitro and in vivo nonclinical studies were conducted to characterize the pharmacological activity and safety parameters of UTTR1147A, an IL‐22 recombinant fusion protein that links the human cytokine IL‐22 with the Fc portion of a human immunoglobulin. To assess the pharmacological activity of UTTR1147A, STAT3 activation was evaluated in primary hepatocytes isolated from human, cynomolgus monkey, minipig, rat, and mouse after incubation with UTTR1147A. UTTR1147A activated STAT3 in all species evaluated, demonstrating that all were appropriate nonclinical species for toxicology studies.

The nonclinical safety profile of UTTR1147A was evaluated in rats, minipigs, and cynomolgus monkeys to establish a safe clinical starting dose for humans in Phase I trials and to support clinical intravenous, subcutaneous and/or topical administration treatment regimen. Results demonstrate the cross‐species translatability of the biological response in activating the IL‐22 pathway as well as the translatability of findings from in vitro to in vivo systems. UTTR1147A was well tolerated in all species tested and induced the expected pharmacologic effects of epidermal hyperplasia and a transient increase in on‐target acute phase proteins. These effects were all considered to be clinically predictable, manageable, monitorable, and reversible.
Formation of High‐Pressure Phase of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2‐II) Thin Films by Vapor‐Liquid‐Solid Growth Process on GaAs Substrate
Authors: Das Anindita , Nag Chowdhury Basudev , Saha Rajib , Sikdar Subhrajit , Sultana Jenifar , Kumar Dalapati Goutam , Chattopadhyay Sanatan
Published: November 2018

In this work, the high pressure phase of titanium dioxide (TiO2‐II) film is grown with vapor‐liquid‐solid (VLS) method on <100>‐GaAs substrate by utilizing the natural process‐induced‐strain, originating from the thermo‐elastic mismatch between TiO2 and GaAs in VLS process. The mismatches in thermal expansion coefficient and elastic constant of TiO2 and GaAs are and which incorporate a substantial amount of stress (≈GPa) during cooling from the growth temperature (500 °C). SEM imaging suggests the formation of a continuous film and cross‐sectional TEM image confirmed its high crystalline quality. XRD peaks at 2θ = 31.300 and 58.670 confirm the formation of [111] and [212]‐planes of TiO2‐II phase and its chemical states are analyzed from X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements. The bandgap of TiO2‐II phase is estimated to be 2.88 eV from cathodoluminescence study for the first time which agrees satisfactorily with the theoretical predictions reported.
HPA@Methenamine‐HNTs: A Novel Catalyst for Promoting One‐Pot and Three‐Component Synthesis of Chromenopyrimidine‐2,5‐Diones and Thioxochromenopyrimidin‐5‐ones in Aqueous Media
Authors: Sadjadi Samahe , M. Heravi Majid , Zadsirjan Vahideh , Beheshtiha Seyed Yahya Shirazi , Kelishadi Razieh Rezai
Published: November 2018

A novel catalyst has been prepared through functionalization of halloysite nanoclay (HNTs) with methenamine and subsequent incorporation of Keggin type heteropolyacid (HPA). The catalyst was applied for promoting synthesis of chromenopyrimidine‐2,5‐diones and thioxochromenopyrimidin‐5‐ones through one‐pot reaction of urea/thiourea, aldehydes and 4‐hydroxycoumarin under mild reaction condition. The results confirmed that the catalyst could efficiently catalyze the reaction to furnish the corresponding products in high yields and short reaction times. Moreover, the catalyst was reusable up to three reaction runs with slight HPA leaching. The comparison of the catalytic activity of the catalyst with that of HPA, HNTs, HPA supported on HNTs and methenamine confirmed the superior catalytic activity of the catalyst, indicating the efficiency of Methenamine‐HNTs as a catalyst support. Finally, the comparison of the efficiency of the present protocol with some of the previous reports, confirmed the merit of use of this novel catalyst in terms of reaction yield and heterogeneity of the catalyst.
Fluctuations in the Emission Polarization and Spectrum in Single Chains of a Common Conjugated Polymer for Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Hedley Gordon J. , Steiner Florian , Vogelsang Jan , Lupton John M.
Published: November 2018

Measuring the nanoscale organization of conjugated polymer chains used in organic photovoltaic (OPV) blends is vital if one wants to understand the materials. This is made very difficult with high efficiency OPV polymers such as PTB7 that form aggregates, as a lack of periodicity and a high degree of disorder make understanding of the nanoscale organization challenging. Here, single molecule spectroscopy is used to observe single chains and aggregates of PTB7. Using four detectors the photoluminescence intensity, wavelength, polarization, and lifetime are simultaneously monitored. Fast (milliseconds) and slow (seconds) fluctuations are observed over a time window of 30 s in all of these observables from single aggregates and chains as individual chromophores activate and deactivate, leading to dynamical changes in the emission spectrum and dipole orientation. This information can be used to help reconstruct the spatial and spectral organization of disordered aggregates of PTB7, thereby adding valuable new information on how the chains are arranged in space.