bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wetland dependency drives temporal turnover of bird species between high‐ and low‐water years in floodplain wetlands of the Paraná River
Authors: Lorenzón Rodrigo E. , Ronchi‐Virgolini Ana L. , Blake John G.
Published: November 2019

Temporal turnover of species between predominantly aquatic and terrestrial phases of floodplains, a process that helps maintain the high bird diversity of river–floodplain systems, could be driven by dependency of species on wetlands. To assess this, we compared the bird assemblages of river–floodplain systems at 60 sites along the Paraná River during the nonbreeding seasons of 2011, when water levels were predominantly high (high‐water year), and 2012, when levels were predominantly much lower (low‐water year). Birds were sampled by point counts repeated four times during each year at each site. We tested whether temporal patterns differed between wetland‐dependent and nonwetland‐dependent birds because these groups show positive and negative relationships, respectively, with water‐level increases. Species composition varied between years. Ten of the 14 species associated with high water levels in 2011 were waterbirds, and 11 of the 14 species associated with lower water levels (2012) were nonwetland species. Species richness and abundance per site of waterbirds and abundance of wetland species were higher during the high‐water year than in the low‐water year. Species richness, abundance, and diversity per site of nonwetland birds were, on the other hand, higher during the low‐water year than in the high‐water year. Species turnover between predominantly high‐ and low‐water periods did not respond to shorter term water‐level fluctuations within each year. In conclusion, our results show that degree of wetland dependence drives bird species turnover as a function of water‐level fluctuations, showing the importance of hydrological variability for bird conservation in river–floodplain systems.
Plant species richness across the Himalaya driven by evolutionary history and current climate
Authors: Rana Suresh K. , Price Trevor D. , Qian Hong
Published: November 2019

The Himalaya, the world's largest mountain chain, spans a wide variety of climates. Further, different locations have historically experienced climatic perturbations to different degrees. This makes it the ideal region to assess roles of contemporary climate, diversification (speciation minus extinction), and dispersal barriers in affecting local species richness. Based on a review of all available Himalayan floras, we determined that 8765 native angiosperm species are presently documented and recorded their location and elevational distributions. We compared species richness and measures of phylogenetic structure in 100‐m elevational bands for all species combined and for three major life‐forms separately (trees, shrubs, and herbs) across the Himalaya. Species richness declines threefold from the east to the northwest of the Himalaya. Along elevational gradients, tree richness monotonically declines in the northwest, but peaks at ~1000 m in the east. Shrubs and herbs peak in richness at mid‐elevations (~2000 m). Mean temperature and annual precipitation together explain ~60% of the variation in species richness. The general phylogenetic pattern observed in this study is that phylogenetic clustering (i.e., more closely related species on fewer long branches) increases from low to high elevations, but with a dip at mid‐elevations (2000–3000 m), which may result from a mixing of distinct floras, but is not associated with exceptionally high richness. High clustering at higher elevations (3000–4500 m) and in the drier northwest suggests ongoing diversification dynamics limit richness in these harsher environments. The effects of diversification dynamics appear to be smaller than those of contemporary climate in limiting buildup of species numbers.
Hypertonic saccharide solution delays pyroptosis in murine macrophages regardless of the membrane binding of gasdermin D N‐terminal
Authors: Zheng Jiashuo , Wang Dingyu , Chen Qianyue , Liu Qiyao , Lin Zhaoyu , Hu Qiongyuan , Wu Xiuwen , Gao Xiang , Li Qiurong , Ren Jianan
Published: November 2019

Pyroptosis is a type of programmed lytic cell death that could be activated by either the canonical or noncanonical inflammasome pathway. In this study, we aimed to examine the effect of hypertonic solution on noncanonical pyroptosis in macrophage. We found that although hypertonic solution had a general inhibitory effect on noncanonical pyroptosis, the underlying mechanism varied by the solute causing hypertonicity. Specifically, hypertonic NaCl or KCl solution inhibited the cleavage of gasdermin D, the pore‐forming protein in pyroptosis, whereas hypertonic saccharide solution did not affect the cleavage or membrane binding of gasdermin D. In this case, nevertheless, pyroptosis was still inhibited as evidenced by the preserved mitochondria activity and cell membrane permeability.
CD28 and CD57 define four populations with distinct phenotypic properties within human CD8+ T cells
Authors: Pangrazzi Luca , Reidla Jürgen , Carmona Arana José Antonio , Naismith Erin , Miggitsch Carina , Meryk Andreas , Keller Michael , Krause Adelheid Alma Nora , Melzer Franz Leonard , Trieb Klemens , Schirmer Michael , Grubeck‐Loebenstein Beatrix , Weinberger Birgit
Published: November 2019

After repeated antigen exposure, both memory and terminally differentiated cells can be generated within CD8+ T cells. Although, during their differentiation, activated CD8+ T cells may first lose CD28, and CD28− cells may eventually express CD57 as a subsequent step, a population of CD28+CD57+(DP) CD8+ T cells can be identified in the peripheral blood. How this population is distinct from CD28−CD57−(DN) CD8+ T cells, and from the better characterized non‐activated/early‐activated CD28+CD57− and senescent‐like CD28−CD57+ CD8+ T cell subsets is currently unknown. Here, RNA expression of the four CD8+ T cell subsets isolated from human PBMCs was analyzed using microarrays. DN cells were more similar to “early” highly differentiated cells, with decreased TNF and IFN‐γ production, impaired DNA damage response and apoptosis. Conversely, increased apoptosis and expression of cytokines, co‐inhibitory, and chemokine receptors were found in DP cells. Higher levels of DP CD8+ T cells were observed 7 days after Hepatitis B vaccination, and decreased levels of DP cells were found in rheumatoid arthritis patients. More DP and DN CD8+ T cells were present in the bone marrow, in comparison with PBMCs. In summary, our results indicate that DP and DN cells are distinct CD8+ T cell subsets displaying defined properties.
Offer students income‐share agreements to alleviate financial stress
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: November 2019

“How am I going to pay for this?” It's the crucial question that many of your students ask themselves as they debate how they will cover tuition costs each semester. But what if you could offer a financial tool many of them could benefit from?
Response of A Gravel ‐ Bed River To Dam Closure: Insights From Sediment Transport Processes And Channel Morphodynamics
Authors: Brenna A. , Surian N. , Mao L.
Published: November 2019

This work deals with the impacts of dams on large gravel ‐bed rivers in terms of altering coarse transport regimes and the relationship with river morphodynamics. Using data collected by a tracer ‐based monitoring programme carried out in a 4 ‐km ‐long study sector of the Parma River (Italy), located downstream from a relatively recently established dam, we applied a virtual velocity approach to estimate the coarse bed material load at four river cross ‐sections. Monitoring and calculation results provided new insights into the impacts of the dam on streambed material mobility and the sediment regime over the 17 ‐month calculation period. A longitudinal gradient of effects was observed along the study sector. Sections located closer to the dam are characterized by more evident impacts due to deficits in coarse sediment input from upstream. Sediment mobility here is strongly altered, especially in the highly armoured main channel, and the overall bed material load is extremely low. A partial recovery of sediment dynamics was observed at the sections located further from the dam, where estimates indicate higher sediment yield. The observed longitudinal trend in the coarse sediment transport regime matches the morphology, as the river shifts downstream from a sinuous configuration with alternate bars to a wandering one. The novel insights into alteration of coarse sediment dynamics and the relationship with river morphodynamics are potentially applicable to many other fluvial contexts affected by similar impoundments. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of different charging and discharging modes on thermal behavior of lithium ion batteries
Authors: Yang Yun , Wang Zhirong , Jiang Juncheng , Bian Huan , Mao Ning , Guo Linsheng
Published: November 2019

The heat release law of lithium ion battery during different cycles of charging‐discharging rate was studied by the LAND testing device. Studies have shown that: When charging at 0.5C and discharge cycles at 0.5C, 1C, 2C, and 3C, respectively, the battery cycle heat dissipation increases with the increase of the discharge rate, and the temperature rise ratio of the battery after the 3C cycle is 0.5C, 1C, 2C is higher by 30.8 °C, 21.4 °C, and 9 °C; 0.5C, 1C, 2C, 3C rechargeable battery temperature rise after 1C discharge and 0.5C, 1C, 2C, 3C charge cycles, respectively. The heights are 13.8 °C, 18.1 °C, 37.6 °C, and 44.3 °C, respectively; when the battery is cycled at a 3C charging‐discharging rate, the battery voltage suddenly changes to 0 V after the 2nd cycle; when the charge current and discharge current are relatively small, the heat generated during low‐rate charging high‐rate discharge cycles is larger, and when the charge current and the discharge current are relatively large, the heat generated at the low‐rate charging high rate discharge cycle is smaller than the high‐rate charging low‐rate discharge cycle. The research obtained the heat dissipation data of lithium‐ion batteries under different charging‐discharging rates, which provided an important basis for the safe operation of lithium‐ion batteries.
Cervical‐transoral robotic nasopharyngectomy: A preclinical study
Authors: Gorphe Philippe , Stein Hubert , Moya‐Plana Antoine
Published: November 2019

Background

We performed a preclinical study to assess the feasibility of the cervical‐transoral robotic pharyngectomy procedure in surgery for nasopharyngeal cancer, where deep margins and vascular safety are key issues.

Materials and methods

Four cadaveric dissections were performed with the da Vinci Xi system. The first step was a robotic parapharyngeal dissection along the internal carotid artery (ICA). The second step was a type 3 transoral robotic nasopharyngectomy.

Results

In each procedure, a comprehensive dissection of the parapharyngeal space was performed along the ICA up to the foramen lacerum. A type 3 nasopharyngectomy was performed transorally with an “en‐bloc” removal of the parapharyngeal space, and with complete removal of the eustachian tube up to its bony part.

Conclusion

A comprehensive cervical‐transoral robotic type 3 nasopharyngectomy with “en‐bloc” removal of the parapharyngeal space and the eustachian tube proved to be technically feasible in a preclinical study.
Estimating groundwater recharge for a freshwater lens in an arid region: Formative and stability assessment
Authors: Alrashidi Mosaed S. , Bailey Ryan T.
Published: November 2019

The formation of subsurface freshwater lenses on top of brackish groundwater is a fascinating hydrologic phenomenon that creates groundwater supplies of great potential value in arid regions. Information on the recharge quantity and mechanism of these lenses is both scarce and uncertain. This study examines the formation and macroscale stability of the Rawdatain freshwater lens in Kuwait, for which significant pre‐development data are available. The Rawdatain is a large (150 million m3) subsurface freshwater lens overlying brackish groundwater compared to the other freshwater lenses in the Arabian Peninsula. In this study, a three‐dimensional (3D) density‐dependent groundwater flow model is tested against the following data targets to estimate long‐term diffuse and focused groundwater recharge: (i) groundwater head, (ii) total dissolved solids (TDS) groundwater concentration, (iii) volume and vertical thickness of stored groundwater of three different water quality TDS ranges (0–700, 700–1000 and 1000–2000 mg/L) and (iv) geometrical shape features of the lens along cross‐sections. To better represent the spatial variation in TDS, six different recharge zones were assigned to allocate diffuse and focused recharge conditions. Twelve recharge rate scenarios, encompassing a wide range of feasible long‐term average annual recharge values (200,000–5,000,000 m3/year), were tested against the multiple targets and compared with the groundwater age of the Rawdatain lens. Based on comparison with data targets, the long‐term average annual recharge is estimated to be 500,000 m3/year. Scenarios of reduced recharge, which may occur due to changes in land‐use or climate, demonstrate the extremely slow response of the lens, which is in agreement with the slow development and formation of the lens (>2,000 years). Within a 100‐year time frame, a 50% reduction in annual recharge reduces the lens volumes by 21, 17 and 9% for the three water quality categories, respectively. This study demonstrates the stability of freshwater lenses in arid regions and also provides methodology for similar focused rainfall recharge freshwater lenses.
Biomarker profile for prediction of response to SMAC mimetic monotherapy in pediatric precursor B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Zinngrebe Julia , Schlichtig Ferdinand , Kraus Johann M. , Meyer Malcolm , Boldrin Elena , Kestler Hans A. , Meyer Lüder‐Hinrich , Fischer‐Posovszky Pamela , Debatin Klaus‐Michael
Published: November 2019

Second mitochondria‐derived activator of caspase (SMAC) mimetics (SMs) targeting inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) activate cell death pathways, and are currently being evaluated in clinical trials. Their successful therapeutic implementation requires upfront identification of patients who could benefit from a SM‐based treatment but biomarkers for SM sensitivity have not yet been described. Here, we analyzed the intrinsic activity of two monovalent (AT406 and LCL161) and two bivalent (Birinapant and BV6) SMs on unselected patient‐derived pediatric precursor B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL) identifying a subset of patient samples to be particularly sensitive to SM‐induced cell death. This subset was defined by a characteristic gene expression signature with 127 differentially regulated genes, amongst them TNFRSF1A encoding TNFR1, and a critical role of TNFR1 in SM‐induced cell death in sensitive BCP‐ALL was confirmed on the functional level. Interestingly, samples with intermediate or low sensitivity to SMs were sensitized to SM‐induced cell death by inhibition of caspases using zVAD.fmk or Emricasan, a pan‐caspase inhibitor in clinical trials. When we compared our expression data to published data sets, we identified an overlap of four genes to be commonly differentially regulated in SM‐sensitive BCP‐ALL, that is, TSPAN7, DIPK1C, MTX2 and, again, TNFRSF1A. Functional testing revealed that this set of genes identified samples with high sensitivity to SM treatment. In summary, our data suggest using this gene signature as biomarker predicting response to SM treatment and point to the development of new combinatorial treatments consisting of SMs and pan‐caspase inhibitors for a successful clinical implementation of SMs in treatment of BCP‐ALL.
Click functionalized, tissue‐specific hydrogels for osteochondral tissue engineering
Authors: Guo Jason L. , Li Ang , Kim Yu Seon , Xie Virginia Y. , Smith Brandon T. , Watson Emma , Bao Gang , Mikos Antonios G.
Published: November 2019

Osteochondral repair requires the induction of both articular cartilage and subchondral bone development, necessitating the presentation of multiple tissue‐specific cues for these highly distinct tissues. To provide a singular hydrogel system for the repair of either tissue type, we have developed biofunctionalized, mesenchymal stem cell‐laden hydrogels that can present in situ biochemical cues for either chondrogenesis or osteogenesis by simple click modification of a crosslinker, poly(glycolic acid)‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(glycolic acid)‐di(but‐2‐yne‐1,4‐dithiol) (PdBT). After modifying PdBT with either cartilage‐specific biomolecules (N‐cadherin peptide, chondroitin sulfate) or bone‐specific biomolecules (bone marrow homing peptide 1, glycine‐histidine‐lysine peptide), the biofunctionalized, PdBT‐crosslinked hydrogels can selectively promote the desired bone‐ or cartilage‐like matrix synthesis and tissue‐specific gene expression, with effects dependent on both biomolecule selection and concentration. Our findings establish the versatility of this click functionalized hydrogel system as well as its ability to promote in vitro development of osteochondral tissue phenotypes.
Blockchain consortium networks: Adding security and trust in financial services
Authors: Nathan Julia , Jacobs Bob
Published: November 2019

This article explores blockchain consortium networks as an emerging technology for financial institutions. Blockchain is quickly becoming recognized for its value as an immutable ledger within the financial services industry. While Blockchain provides direct benefits in fraud prevention and transaction efficiency, consortium networks specifically address a need for increased trust and security in shared business processes. Also discussed are strategic decisions needed for implementing blockchain consortium networks at the enterprise level with topics ranging from membership choices to use of cloud services.
Membrane lipids are both the substrates and a mechanistically responsive environment of TMEM16 scramblase proteins
Authors: Khelashvili George , Cheng Xiaolu , Falzone Maria E. , Doktorova Milka , Accardi Alessio , Weinstein Harel
Published: November 2019

Recent discoveries about functional mechanisms of proteins in the TMEM16 family of phospholipid scramblases have illuminated the dual role of the membrane as both the substrate and a mechanistically responsive environment in the wide range of physiological processes and genetic disorders in which they are implicated. This is highlighted in the review of recent findings from our collaborative investigations of molecular mechanisms of TMEM16 scramblases that emerged from iterative functional, structural, and computational experimentation. In the context of this review, we present new MD simulations and trajectory analyses motivated by the fact that new structural information about the TMEM16 scramblases is emerging from cryo‐EM determinations in lipid nanodiscs. Because the functional environment of these proteins in in vivo and in in vitro is closer to flat membranes, we studied comparatively the responses of the membrane to the TMEM16 proteins in flat membranes and nanodiscs. We find that bilayer shapes in the nanodiscs are very different from those observed in the flat membrane systems, but the function‐related slanting of the membrane observed at the nhTMEM16 boundary with the protein is similar in the nanodiscs and in the flat bilayers. This changes, however, in the bilayer composed of longer‐tail lipids, which is thicker near the phospholipid translocation pathway, which may reflect an enhanced tendency of the long tails to penetrate the pathway and create, as shown previously, a nonconductive environment. These findings support the correspondence between the mechanistic involvement of the lipid environment in the flat membranes, and the nanodiscs. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Qualitative and Quantitative Reporting of a Unique Biparametric MRI: Towards Biparametric MRI‐Based Nomograms for Prediction of Prostate Biopsy Outcome in Men With a Clinical Suspicion of Prostate Cancer (IMPROD and MULTI‐IMPROD Trials)
Authors: Perez Ileana Montoya , Jambor Ivan , Kauko Tommi , Verho Janne , Ettala Otto , Falagario Ugo , Merisaari Harri , Kiviniemi Aida , Taimen Pekka , Syvänen Kari T. , Knaapila Juha , Seppänen Marjo , Rannikko Antti , Riikonen Jarno , Kallajoki Markku , Mirtti Tuomas , Lamminen Tarja , Saunavaara Jani , Pahikkala Tapio , Boström Peter J. , Aronen Hannu J.
Published: November 2019

Background

Multiparametric MRI of the prostate has been shown to improve the risk stratification of men with an elevated prostate‐specific antigen (PSA). However, long acquisition time, high cost, and inter‐center/reader variability of a routine prostate multiparametric MRI limit its wider adoption.

Purpose

To develop and validate nomograms based on unique rapid biparametric MRI (bpMRI) qualitative and quantitative derived variables for prediction of clinically significant cancer (SPCa).

Study Type

Retrospective analyses of single (IMPROD, NCT01864135) and multiinstitution trials (MULTI‐IMPROD, NCT02241122).

Population

161 and 338 prospectively enrolled men who completed the IMPROD and MULTI‐IMPROD trials, respectively.

Field Strength/Sequence

IMPROD bpMRI: 3T/1.5T, T2‐weighted imaging, three separate diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) acquisitions: 1) b‐values 0, 100, 200, 300, 500 s/mm2; 2) b values 0, 1500 s/mm2; 3) values 0, 2000 s/mm2.

Assessment

The primary endpoint of the combined trial analysis was the diagnostic accuracy of the combination of IMPROD bpMRI and clinical variables for detection of SPCa.

Statistical Tests

Logistic regression models were developed using IMPROD trial data and validated using MULTI‐IMPROD trial data. The model's performance was expressed as the area under the curve (AUC) values for the detection of SPCa, defined as ISUP Gleason Grade Group ≥2.

Results

A model incorporating clinical variables had an AUC (95% confidence interval) of 0.83 (0.77–0.89) and 0.80 (0.75–0.85) in the development and validation cohorts, respectively. The corresponding values for a model using IMPROD bpMRI findings were 0.93 (0.89–0.97), and 0.88 (0.84–0.92), respectively. Further addition of the quantitative DWI‐based score did not improve AUC values (P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

A prediction model using qualitative IMPROD bpMRI findings demonstrated high accuracy for predicting SPCa in men with an elevated PSA. Online risk calculator: http://petiv.utu.fi/multiimprod/

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1556–1567.
Influence of the treatment of periodontal disease in serum concentration of sirtuin 1 and mannose‐binding lectin
Authors: Caribé Pérola Michelle Vasconcelos , Villar Cristina Cunha , Romito Giuseppe Alexandre , Pacanaro Ana Paula , Strunz Célia Maria Cassaro , Takada Júlio Yoshio , Cesar Luiz Antônio Machado , Mansur Antonio de Padua
Published: November 2019

Background

Increased levels of periodontal pathogens disrupt the homeostasis between the host and its microbiota and increase susceptibility to periodontal diseases. Periodontitis increases the serum concentration of mannose‐binding lectin (MBL), which exacerbates local inflammatory processes. In animal studies, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) was associated with protection against inflammation. This study analyzed the influence of non‐surgical periodontal treatment on serum levels of MBL and SIRT1.

Methods

Forty patients with periodontitis and 38 periodontally healthy individuals (aged 45 to 79 years) were included. Periodontitis patients received scaling and root planing using machine driven and hand instruments. Clinical parameters, inflammatory biomarkers, MBL, and SIRT1 levels were measured at baseline and at post‐treatment.

Results

For all patients, an inverse correlation was observed between serum concentrations of MBL and SIRT1 (r = ‐0.30; P = 0.006). Periodontal treatment reduced serum concentrations of MBL (1,099.35 ± 916.59 to 861.42 ± 724.82 ng/mL; P < 0.001) and C‐reactive protein (6.05 ± 8.99 to 2.49 ± 2.89 mg/L; P = 0.009). By contrast, SIRT1 serum levels increased (1.06 ± 1.03 to 1.66 ± 1.64 ng/mL; P < 0.001) following periodontal treatment.

Conclusions

Periodontal treatment was associated with decreased serum concentrations of MBL and CRP and increased serum levels of SIRT1. Prospective studies are needed to assess the impact of these biomarkers on pathophysiology of periodontitis.
Vascular reconstruction using autologous vs synthetic graft for patients with extremity soft‐tissue sarcoma involving the major vessels
Authors: Mlees Mohamed A. , Elbarbary Ahmed H. , Sallam Emad M.
Published: November 2019

Objective

Arterial reconstruction after radical limb‐sparing resection of extremity soft‐tissue sarcoma (STS) involving great vessels is necessary. However, there is no agreement upon the optimal vascular substitute. This study prospectively evaluated the major vascular reconstructions in extremity STS surgery with vascular involvement.

Patients and Methods

Between June 2017 and August 2019, 29 patients having extremity STS with major vascular reconstruction were enrolled. Recurrent, metastatic STSs or STSs of vascular origin were excluded. Patients were non‐randomly divided into two groups according to the type of arterial substitute: group I, autologous graft (16 patients) and group II, synthetic graft (13 patients). Graft patency, postoperative morbidity, and patient and limb survival were analyzed.

Results

The mean follow‐up was 12 months (range, 6‐26). Early postoperative complications and overall survival were nonsignificantly different between groups. The 1‐year primary patency was 92.85% vs 90% in groups I vs II, respectively, P = .704. Graft occlusion was nonsignificantly greater in the synthetic group, P = .107. Limb salvage was 93.75% in group I compared with 92.3% in group II, P = .87.

Conclusions

Graft choice should be based on autologous vein suitability regarding its length and caliber. If such requirements are not available, synthetic substitutes can be used with close surveillance of patency.
Professional programming offers pathways to two degrees in five years
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2019

Serving adult learners who might be returning to higher education — or stepping onto a campus for the first time — might involve unusual pathways to completion for your institution. For Columbus State Community College, it meant partnering with Huntington Bank and Franklin University to offer the Exact Track business degree program for Huntington employees.
Follow best practices for managing grad student ambassador programs
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: November 2019

TORONTO — If you want to expand the reach of your graduate recruitment efforts, a student ambassador program could give you the boost you need. Kelly Egorova, Assistant Director of Admissions at the Graduate School of Engineering at Northeastern University; Christine Morales, Assistant Director of Admissions and Recruitment at the School of Social Work at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey; and Lynn Villafuerte, Assistant Director of Graduate Academic Services at the School of Engineering at the University of Kansas, explained how they developed and maintain their student ambassador programs at a session at the NAGAP: The Leader in Graduate Enrollment Management annual conference.
A posteriori error estimate for discontinuous Galerkin finite element method on polytopal mesh
Authors: Cui Jintao , Gao Fuzheng , Sun Zhengjia , Zhu Peng
Published: November 2019

In this work, we derive a posteriori error estimates for discontinuous Galerkin finite element method on polytopal mesh. We construct a reliable and efficient a posteriori error estimator on general polygonal or polyhedral meshes. An adaptive algorithm based on the error estimator and DG method is proposed to solve a variety of test problems. Numerical experiments are performed to illustrate the effectiveness of the algorithm.
An algorithm to identify pregnancies in BIFAP Primary Care database in Spain: Results from a cohort of 155 419 pregnancies
Authors: Sanchez Ortiz Sara , Llorente García Ana , Astasio Paloma , Huerta Consuelo , Cea Soriano Lucía
Published: November 2019

Purpose

There has been a notable progress on the development of methods for identification of pregnancies using primary care databases. We aimed to evaluate the prescription of medications during pregnancy applying a novel algorithm.

Methods

We identified pregnancies in women aged 15 to 49 years registered in the Database for Pharmacoepidemiological Research in Primary Care (BIFAP) between 2002 and 2015. The algorithm applied sequential cycles that searched in hierarchical order for indicators of conception, delivery or pregnancy loss, and other codes suggestive of pregnancy. Length of pregnancy was assessed by searching for last menstrual period (LMP) date, gestational age, and outcomes of pregnancy. Prescription of specific drugs during the pre‐pregnancy period and first trimester and time trends during pregnancy were evaluated.

Results

We identified a total of 155 419 pregnancies during the study period (77.5% completed pregnancies, 21.5% pregnancies losses, 0.8% ectopic pregnancies, and 0.2% stillbirths). Excluding vitamins and supplements, 43.8% of women received at least one prescription during the pre‐pregnancy period and 68.4% during the first trimester. During the first trimester, the most commonly drugs prescribed were analgesics (16.3%) followed by antibiotics (11.8%). From 2002/2003 to 2014/2015, there was an increase of prescriptions for thyroid hormones (1.0% vs 4.7%), H2 blockers (1.0% vs 2.2%), and PPIs (1.4% vs 2.2%). While antidepressants (2.0% vs 1.5%) and benzodiazepines (3.1% vs 2.4%) decreased in the last period.

Conclusion

Having in mind the challenges of identifying pregnancies in health care databases, this study demonstrates the usefulness of BIFAP database for studies on drug utilization during pregnancy.
Molecular Insights Into Chain Length Effects of Hindered Phenol on the Molecular Interactions and Damping Properties of Polymer‐Based Hybrid Materials
Authors: Xu Kangming , Zhou Hongdi , Hu Qiaoman , Wang Junhui , Huang Yue , Chen Jinlei
Published: November 2019

For hindered phenol (HP)/polymer‐based hybrid damping materials, the unclear relationship between the structure of HP and the damping properties limits the application of such promising materials. Herein, three kinds of HPs with different chain lengths were synthesized to explore the mechanism. The structures of the HPs were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum, the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and X‐ray Diffraction (XRD). For further prepared HP/polyurethane hybrids, FT‐IR and XRD were adopted to confirm the hydrogen bonding interactions and micromorphologies. Moreover, molecular dynamics simulation was used to characterize the effects of chain length variation on the inter‐ and intramolecular hydrogen bonds (HBs) and the chain packing of the hybrids in a quantitative manner. Subsequently, combined with the dynamic mechanical analysis, the relationship between the chain length variation and the damping properties was established. The results showed that with the increasing of chain length, the intramolecular HBs between HPs can be prevented, and the loose HP chain within tight polymer matrix can be achieved, which results in a maximum increase of loss factor. While the homogeneity of the chain packing increases with the chain length increasing, which results in a decrease of the temperature range of loss factor ≥ 0.3. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:446–454, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Disruption of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α6 mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 confers resistance to spinosyns in Plutella xylostella
Authors: Wang Xingliang , Ma Yiming , Wang Falong , Yang Yihua , Wu Shuwen , Wu Yidong
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 system provides some advantages over other reverse genetic techniques to investigate the causal relationship between insecticide resistance phenotype and candidate gene. Several studies published to date point to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) α6 subunit strongly associated with spinosyns resistance in insects, including Plutella xylostella. However, reverse genetic verification of the P. xylostella nAChRα6 has not yet been achieved via an in vivo approach.

RESULTS

Here, we successfully constructed a homozygous strain (Pxα6‐KO) with a 2‐nt deletion mutation of nAChRα6 by CRISPR/Cas9 coupled with non‐homologous end joining approach in P. xylostella. The manipulated mutation results in a frame shift in the open reading frame of transcripts, which produces a predicted protein truncated in the TM3–TM4 loop region. When compared to the background strain IPP‐S, the knockout strain Pxα6‐KO exhibited 229‐ and 1462‐fold resistance to spinosad and spinetoram, respectively, but no or limited (resistance ratios <3‐fold) effects on the toxicities of imidacloprid, abamectin, β‐cypermethrin, indoxacarb, metaflumizone and chlorantraniliprole. Furthermore, the mode of inheritance of the acquired spinetoram resistance was autosomal recessive and significantly linked with the 2‐nt deletion mutation of nAChRα6 in the Pxα6‐KO strain.

CONCLUSION

In vivo functional investigation demonstrates the causality of the Pxα6 truncating mutation with high levels of resistance to spinosyns in P. xylostella. Our results suggest the Pxα6‐KO strain underlies an autosomal, recessive mode of inheritance for spinetoram resistance, and reinforces the association of this gene to the mode of action of spinosyns. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
SPR and NMR characterization of the molecular interaction between A9 peptide and a model system of HER2 receptor: A fragment approach for selecting peptide structures specific for their target
Authors: De Luca Stefania , Verdoliva Valentina , Saviano Michele , Fattorusso Roberto , Diana Donatella
Published: November 2019

The binding process of A9 peptide toward HER2‐DIVMP, a synthetic model of the receptor domain IV, was studied by using the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique, with the aim of validating it as a fast and reliable screening method for selecting peptide ligands specifically targeting a domain of their target. To investigate the structural basis of A9 binding to the model of HER2‐DIVMP, multiple ligand‐based nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods were applied. The use of saturation transfer difference (STD) and WaterLOGSY NMR experiments identified key residues in the peptide for the receptor binding. Moreover, the bound conformation of the A9 peptide was obtained using transferred nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (trNOESY) experiments. The NMR data revealed an extended binding surface that confirms an in silico model previously reported. These structural findings could provide good starting points for future lead structures optimization specific for the receptor target.
Spectroscopic Properties of Eu3+ Ions in Sol–Gel Materials Containing Calcium Fluoride Nanocrystals
Authors: Pawlik Natalia , Szpikowska-Sroka Barbara , Goryczka Tomasz , Pisarski Wojciech A.
Published: November 2019

In this study, a series of Eu3+‐doped silicate xerogels with modified initial compositions is prepared and heat treated at 350 °C to fabricate glass‐ceramic materials containing CaF2 nanocrystals. The impact of an N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) additive and a catalyst agent (CH3COOH, HNO3) on the sol–gel transformation from liquid sols through silicate gels and xerogels into glass‐ceramics is investigated using infrared spectroscopy. To verify the formation of CaF2 nanocrystals, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) measurements are performed. The optical behavior of Eu3+ ions in the prepared sol–gel materials is evaluated based on photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and photoluminescence emission (PL) spectra as well as luminescence decay analysis. The distribution of Eu3+ ions between the amorphous silicate hosts and CaF2 nanocrystals in the prepared glass‐ceramic samples is found due to the biexponential character of registered decay curves. In addition, R/O‐ratio (R/O is defined as ratio I(‐)/I(‐) analysis is conducted to characterize the efficiency of Eu3+ ion migration into precipitated CaF2 nanocrystals. The lack of DMF as well as HNO3 as a catalyst in the initial composition significantly promotes the incorporation of Eu3+ ions into CaF2 nanocrystals, resulting in long‐lived luminescence with an estimated lifetime τ() = 12.84 ms.
Nanoscale Thermal Behavior of 2D SnSe Nanosheets
Authors: Li Chunbo , Liu Zhibin , Zeng Huarong , Liu Zhifu , Li Yongxiang
Published: November 2019

The thickness‐dependent nanoscale thermal behaviors of 2D SnSe nanosheets are studied via 3ω thermal mode atomic force microscopy and local Raman spectra. It is found that the 2D SnSe nanosheets demonstrate a decreasing thermal behavior with the reduction of thickness in the range of 6–40 nm. The unique thermal behavior is ascribed to the nonharmonic interlayer coupling along the armchair direction of SnSe crystal structure, in which the redshift of in‐plane vibration (, ) gives rise to phonon softening and finally the thickness‐dependent thermal behavior of SnSe nanosheets. Such nanoscale thermal behavior provides a new insight to understand the local thermal transport of 2D materials and their applications in energy consumption.
A current affair: entanglement of humpback whales in coastal shark‐control nets
Authors: Bolin Jessica A. , Schoeman David S. , Pizà‐Roca Carme , Scales Kylie L.
Published: November 2019

Shark‐control nets pose an entanglement risk to East Australian humpback whales during their annual northward and southward migrations between the Southern Ocean and the Coral Sea. Rates of whale entanglement exhibit seasonal and interannual variation, suggesting that an understanding of the influence of variability in the broad‐scale physical environment along the migratory route would be useful in assessing risk of entanglement. This study provides a quantitative spatio‐temporal analysis of the probability of whale entanglement in shark‐control nets relative to the position and characteristics of the East Australian Current (EAC), the dominant oceanographic feature of the region. We use satellite‐derived sea‐surface temperature, and outputs from a data‐assimilating ocean model, to develop multivariate, data‐driven algorithms for detecting the edge of the EAC using Principal Components Analysis. We use outputs from these algorithms to model the likelihood of humpback entanglements in South‐east Queensland. We find that the likelihood of entanglement increases when the EAC edge is locally less structured and closer to shore in the vicinity of the corresponding net, or when the EAC is well resolved over the entire study domain. Our results suggest that migrating humpbacks use the gradient in physical characteristics that marks the EAC inner edge as a navigational aid. Thus, when the EAC inner edge encroaches on the coast, the whales’ migration range is compressed into nearshore waters, increasing the risk of entanglement. Our findings can help predict periods of elevated entanglement risk, which could underpin a more data‐driven approach to the management of shark‐control programs, and other activities that involve static fishing gear.
Space‐efficient estimation of empirical tail dependence coefficients for bivariate data streams
Authors: Gregory Alastair , Jana Kaushik
Published: November 2019

This article proposes a space‐efficient approximation to empirical tail dependence coefficients of an indefinite bivariate stream of data. The approximation, which has stream‐length invariant error bounds, utilizes recent work on the development of a summary for bivariate empirical copula functions. The work in this paper accurately approximates a bivariate empirical copula in the tails of each marginal distribution, therefore modeling the tail dependence between the two variables observed in the data stream. Copulas evaluated at these marginal tails can be used to estimate the tail dependence coefficients. Modifications to the space‐efficient bivariate copula approximation, presented in this paper, allow the error of approximations to the tail dependence coefficients to remain stream‐length invariant. Theoretical and numerical evidence of this, including a case‐study using the Los Alamos National Laboratory netflow data‐set, is provided within this article.
Was coach wrongly suspended for mishandling student‐athletes’ drug use?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: November 2019

In early 2016, the University of Minnesota's head wrestling coach for 30 years heard rumors about his student‐athletes using and selling drugs. He asked the wrestling team trainer to conduct drug testing on the entire team.
Preparation, connection go a long way toward managing unexpected challenges
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2019

Looking back on his 28‐year career in higher education, James Davidson “Dusty” Porter, Ph.D., recalls the unexpected challenges he encountered while working at a private, tuition‐dependent college during the 2008 recession. “I remember very clearly the challenge of trying to determine, with the president's Cabinet, how we were going to stay afloat without eliminating jobs,” he said. “I have a memory of thinking ‘No one ever shared in my graduate preparation program how much time I would be spending on budgets and understanding fiscal operations.’”
Monte Carlo simulations of noble gas ion beam sputtering yield of MgO, CaO, SrO, and BaO with various thin coatings in AC‐PDP cells
Authors: Elhaitamy Ouafae , El Marsi Meriem , Lahlou Latifa , El Ghazaouy Kamal , Salama Latifa , Rochd Sanaa , Moultif Rachida , Dezairi Aouatif
Published: November 2019

MgO is one of the popular materials to be used as protection of the phosphor layer from plasma damage and reduction of the discharge voltages in the alternating current–type plasma display panel (AC‐PDP) cells. However, one limitation on the AC‐PDP lifetime is plasma erosion of MgO barrier coating. In order to maintain or extend the lifetime of the AC‐PDP, we have applied potential materials such as alumina (α‐Al2O3), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and aluminum titanate (Al2TiO5) as a thin coating on the alkaline earth metal oxides. This review focuses on the effect of α‐Al2O3, TiO2, and Al2TiO5 on sputtering yields of MgO, CaO, SrO, and BaO bombarded by Ne+ and Xe+ ions in the energy range 100 to 300 eV. The SRIM‐2013 simulations have been compared with the available experimental data to test the validity of the model potential and to extract the surface binding energies. These energies are employed to obtain more realistic sputtering yields of MgO, CaO, SrO, and BaO coated with three different ceramic coatings. Our results have shown that the coated surfaces exhibit better erosion resistance than the uncoated surfaces. It is found that the Al2TiO5 coating provided superior protection against physical sputtering of the substrate; it will demonstrate better performance in comparison with α‐Al2O3 or TiO2 coating.
Design Multifunctional Catalytic Interface: Toward Regulation of Polysulfide and Li2S Redox Conversion in Li–S Batteries
Authors: Fan Shuang , Huang Shaozhuan , Pam Mei Er , Chen Song , Wu Qingyun , Hu Junping , Wang Ye , Ang Lay Kee , Yan Congcong , Shi Yumeng , Yang Hui Ying
Published: November 2019

The polysulfide shuttle effect and sluggish reaction kinetics hamper the practical applications of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. Incorporating a functional interlayer to trapping and binding polysulfides has been found effective to block polysulfide migration. Furthermore, surface chemistry at soluble polysulfides/electrolyte interface is a crucial step for Li–S battery in which stable cycling depends on adsorption and reutilization of blocked polysulfides in the electrolyte. A multifunctional catalytic interface composed of niobium nitride/N‐doped graphene (NbN/NG) along the soluble polysulfides/electrolyte is designed and constructed to regulate corresponding interface chemical reaction, which can afford long‐range electron transfer surfaces, numerous strong chemisorption, and catalytic sites in a working lithium–sulfur battery. Both experimental and theoretical calculation results suggest that a new catalytic interface enabled by metal‐like NbN with superb electrocatalysis anchored on NG is highly effective in regulating the blocked polysulfide redox reaction and tailoring the Li2S nucleation–growth–decomposition process. Therefore, the Li–S batteries with multifunctional NbN/NG barrier exhibit excellent rate performance (621.2 mAh g−1 at 3 C) and high stable cycling life (81.5% capacity retention after 400 cycles). This work provides new insights to promote Li–S batteries via multifunctional catalytic interface engineering.
A Paleocene (Danian) marine osteoglossid (Teleostei, Osteoglossomorpha) from the Nuussuaq Basin of Greenland, with a brief review of Palaeogene marine bonytongue fishes
Authors: Capobianco Alessio , Foreman Ethan , Friedman Matt
Published: November 2019

The early Palaeogene represents a key interval in the evolution of modern marine fish faunas. Together with the first appearances of many familiar fish lineages characteristic of contemporary marine environments, early Palaeogene marine deposits worldwide feature the occurrence of osteoglossid bonytongues. Their presence in marine rocks is surprising, given that these fishes are strictly associated with freshwater environments in modern settings and in other parts of the fossil record. Despite its possible relevance to faunal recovery after the Cretaceous–Palaeogene (K–Pg) extinction, this marine osteoglossid radiation is relatively understudied. Here we describe an osteoglossid specimen from marine Danian deposits of western Greenland (Eqalulik Formation, northern Nuussuaq Peninsula). It consists of disarticulated cranial, pectoral and vertebral material belonging to a relatively large‐bodied predator, similar to the widespread †Brychaetusbut with some distinctive features. This specimen expands the geographical range of extinct osteoglossids to the Arctic and represents one of the earliest records of this group in marine deposits. We review other fossil occurrences of marine osteoglossids, highlighting temporal and biogeographical patterns that characterize their rise, diversification and sudden disappearance in the middle Eocene. It is likely that the transition from freshwater to marine environments occurred around the K–Pg boundary, possibly related to ecological replacement of predatory fish lineages that went extinct at the end of the Cretaceous. Further study of the Eqalulik Formation fauna could yield additional insight into the consequences of the end‐Cretaceous extinction with regard to marine fish evolution and the assembly of modern marine faunas.
Microstructures, Heat Treatment, and Properties of Boron‐Alloyed Tool Steels
Authors: Lentz Jonathan , Röttger Arne , Theisen Werner
Published: November 2019

To enable the development of novel Fe–C–B–Cr and Fe–C–B–Cr–Mo cold work tool steels, the microstructures and hardness‐tempering behaviors of hypoeutectic laboratory melts are investigated. The results show that increasing Cr content enhances the thermodynamic stability of the ultrahard M2B borides. The formation of carboborides is suppressed by adjusting the B/(C + B) ratio, Cr content, and austenitization temperature. A secondary hardenability at 500 °C is achieved by Mo addition. In addition, Mo stabilizes the M23(C,B)6phase and at higher contents the M3B2boride. Based on these investigations, Fe0.4C1B–Cr alloys are designed which, inspired by the microstructure of the steel X153CrMoV12‐1, feature a α′‐Fe hardenable matrix but 15 vol% of eutectic M2B borides instead of M7C3for wear protection. The Fe0.4C1B–Cr steels are produced by casting and hot rolling as well as powder metallurgy and hot isostatic pressing. The (tribo‐) mechanical properties are investigated and compared with X153CrMoV12‐1. Fracture toughness, bending strength, wear resistance, and hardness of the novel Fe0.4C1B–Cr alloys are found to be similar or superior to the steel X153CrMoV12‐1, at decreased material cost.