bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inaccurate pretreatment staging can impact survival in early stage esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Scholer Anthony J. , Uppal Abhineet , Chang Shu‐Ching , Ghosh Debopriya , Garland‐ Kledzik Mary , Santamaria‐Barria Juan , Khader Adam , Dehal Ahmed , Fischer Trevan , Goldfarb Melanie
Published: July 2020

Background

Given the survival advantage of neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced esophageal cancer, accurate clinical staging is necessary. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical (c) and pathologic (p) staging concordance rates for presumably early stage esophageal adenocarcinoma patients that had upfront esophagectomy (UFE) and evaluate if survival (OS) was negatively affected by inaccurate preoperative staging and subsequent treatment selection.

Methods

An NCDB retrospective review of nonmetastatic esophageal adenocarcinoma patients that had UFE. The rates of concordance between c and p staging system and OS were calculated.

Results

Of 2775 patients, most patients presented with cN0 (82.8%) and cT1 tumors (53.6%). The overall concordance between c and p staging was 78.8% for T‐classification (moderate agreement; weighted κ = 0.729; P < .001) and 78.8% for N‐classification (weak agreement; weighted κ = 0.448; P < .001). Patients that were upstaged due to a lack of concordance between T‐classification had decreased 5‐ and 10‐year OS (30% and 16%, P < .001) and those upstaged due to discordant N‐classification had decreased 5‐ and 10‐year OS (28% and 23%, P < .001).”

Conclusions

Preoperative staging of esophageal adenocarcinoma has moderate reliability and accuracy for predicting pT and pN classification. Up to 25% of patients have discordant clinical and pathological staging, which impacts OS.
Axillary management for patients with breast cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy: Results of a survey among Brazilian breast surgeons
Authors: Frasson Antônio L. , Resende Heloísa M. , Lichtenfels Martina , Barbosa Fernanda , de Souza Alessadra B. A. , Miranda Isabela , Falcone Ana B.
Published: July 2020

Background

Currently, there are broadly differing patterns in the management of the axilla after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and no consensus with clinically strong evidence on the subject. A survey was performed to assess the current axillary management after NAC among Brazilian breast cancer surgeons.

Methods

The Brazilian Society of Mastology members were invited by email to complete an anonymous online survey and a total of 426 responses were collected.

Results

The majority of responders (67%) indicated performing routine axillary staging by physical exam, ultrasound, and fine needle biopsy in case of a suspicious node before NAC. Among breast surgeons working in the Brazilian Public Unified Health System, 11.3% answered that sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is not reasonable after NAC in their services. Seventy‐seven responders (18.2%) reported performing SLNB instead of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) only in patients who are clinically node‐negative before NAC. Axillary complete pathologic response is necessary to omit ALND for 42.8% of responders. The molecular profile of a breast tumor is not considered when choosing axillary management after NAC for 73.7% of responders.

Conclusions

Our survey highlighted the trend towards de‐escalation of axillary surgery and observed high heterogeneity in axillary management after chemotherapy in a group of brazilian breast surgeons.
Should Oral Corticosteroids be Used in Medical Therapy for Chronic Rhinosinusitis? A Risk Analysis
Authors: Leung Randy M. , Smith Timothy L. , Kern Robert C. , Chandra Rakesh K. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Harvey Richard J. , Conley David B. , Lee John M.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Oral corticosteroid (OCS) as a part of appropriate medical therapy (AMT) (formerly maximal medical therapy) in chronic rhinosinusitis remains controversial. While the risks of OCS are well known, the benefit remains unclear due the absence of a standardized prescribing regimen. Consequently, it is difficult to characterize whether the risks of OCS and its ability to avert endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) are helpful in AMT. When OCS is highly effective at averting surgery, the lesser risks of OCS would be justified because it can avoid the greater risks of ESS. When OCS is poorly effective at averting ESS, the risks of OCS would not be justified because many patients will be exposed to both risks. This study seeks to identify the threshold effectiveness of OCS at averting ESS that would minimize risk exposure to patients.

Methods

A probabilistic risks‐based decision analysis was constructed from literature reported incidences and impacts of adverse events of OCS and ESS. Monte Carlo analysis was performed to identify the minimum effectiveness required to avoid further intervention (MERAFI) for chronic sinusitis without nasal polyp (CRSsNP) and chronic sinusitis with nasal polyp (CRSwNP).

Results

The analysis showed MERAFI results of 20.8% (95% CI 20.7–20.9%) for CRSsNP and 16.8% (95% CI 16.7–16.9%) for CRSwNP.

Conclusions

Given reported OCS effectiveness in the range of 34–71% in CRSsNP and 46–63% in CRSwNP, this analysis suggests that the inclusion of OCS in AMT may be the lower risk strategy.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 131:473–481, 2021
Hydrogen‐Bonded Films for Zero‐Order Release of Leuprolide
Authors: Fu Mian , Zhuang Xiaomei , Zhang Tianhong , Guan Ying , Meng Qingbin , Zhang Yongjun
Published: July 2020

Leuprolide has been widely used in androgen deprivation therapy for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, but its use is still limited due to its short half‐life. Herein, hydrogen‐bonded layer‐by‐layer films are fabricated from PEGylated leuprolide (PEG‐LEU) and tannic acid (TA). Because of its dynamic nature, the film disintegrates gradually in water and releases PEG‐LEU and TA. The in vitro release profile indicated perfect zero‐order kinetics, which is explained by the unique release mechanism. When implanted subcutaneously in male rats, the films maintain a constant serum drug level. For a 60‐bilayer film, the serum drug level is maintained constant for ≈24 days. No initial burst release is observed, suggesting that the in vivo release also follows zero‐order kinetics. Initially, an increase in the level of serum testosterone is induced by the released drug, followed by testosterone suppression to a constant level below the castrate level, which could be maintained as long as a constant serum drug level is maintained. Since the new drug carriers avoid an initial burst release of the drug and maintain a constant serum drug level and hence a constant serum testosterone level below the castrate level, these carriers are highly promising for androgen deprivation therapy.
Depth and extremal Betti number of binomial edge ideals
Authors: Kumar Arvind , Sarkar Rajib
Published: July 2020

Let G be a simple graph on the vertex set [n] and let be the corresponding binomial edge ideal. Let be the cone of v on H. In this article, we compute all the Betti numbers of in terms of the Betti numbers of and as a consequence, we get the Betti diagram of wheel graph. Also, we study Cohen–Macaulay defect of in terms of Cohen–Macaulay defect of and using this we construct a graph with Cohen–Macaulay defect q for any . We obtain the depth of binomial edge ideal of join of graphs. Also, we prove that for any pair of positive integers with , there exists a connected graph G such that and the number of extremal Betti numbers of is b.
Small noncoding RNA sRNA0426 is involved in regulating biofilm formation in Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Yin Luoping , Zhu Wenhui , Chen Dongru , Zhou Yan , Lin Huancai
Published: July 2020

Evidence suggests that small noncoding RNAs (sRNAs) are involved in the complex regulatory networks governing biofilm formation. Few studies have investigated the role of sRNAs in Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). In the present study, the association between sRNA and biofilm formation in S. mutans was explored. sRNAs that are differentially expressed in the biofilm and planktonic states of this bacterium were identified by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to investigate the characteristics of biofilm formation in a standard strain of S. mutans (UA159, ATCC 700610) and ten clinical strains. Bioinformatics analyses were employed to predict and examine potential sRNA regulatory pathways. The results showed that sRNA0426 has a strong positive relationship with dynamic biofilm formation. Moreover, sRNA0426 expression was positively correlated with exopolysaccharide (EPS) production. Bioinformatics analyses showed that sRNA0426 is involved in biofilm formation such as metabolic pathways, especially carbon metabolism. Five target mRNAs (GtfB, GtfC, GtfD, ComE, and CcpA) involved in the synthesis of EPS were selected for further evaluation; the expression levels of three of these mRNAs (GtfB, GtfC, and CcpA) were positively correlated with sRNA0426 expression levels, and the expression level of one (ComE) was negatively correlated. In conclusion, the results suggested that sRNA0426 may play an important and positive role in the biofilm formation of S. mutans and provide novel insight into the S. mutans biofilm regulatory network.
Regularity criteria for the 3D magnetohydrodynamics system involving only two velocity components
Authors: Zhang Shunhang , Guo Zhengguang
Published: July 2020

This paper is dedicated to the regularity criteria of weak solutions to the three‐dimensional incompressible magnetohydrodynamics system in terms of only two velocity components. It is proved that the weak solution (u,b) is smooth on (0,T], provided that

or
Scattering theory of Dirac operator with the impulsive condition on whole axis
Authors: Bairamov Elgiz , Solmaz Şeyda
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we study the Jost solutions of the impulsive Dirac systems (IDS) on entire axis and examine analytic and asymptotic properties of these solutions. Furthermore, we obtain a general form of the scattering matrix of the IDS and its characteristic properties. Finally, we also compare the similar properties for the IDS with the mass on entire axis with an example.
A gradient optimization toolbox for general purpose time‐optimal MRI gradient waveform design
Authors: Loecher Michael , Middione Matthew J. , Ennis Daniel B.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To introduce and demonstrate a software library for time‐optimal gradient waveform optimization with a wide range of applications. The software enables direct on‐the‐fly gradient waveform design on the scanner hardware for multiple vendors.

Methods

The open‐source gradient optimization (GrOpt) toolbox was implemented in C with both Matlab and Python wrappers. The toolbox enables gradient waveforms to be generated based on a set of constraints that define the features and encodings for a given acquisition. The GrOpt optimization routine is based on the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM). Additional constraints enable error corrections to be added, or patient comfort and safety to be adressed. A range of applications and compute speed metrics are analyzed. Finally, the method is implemented and tested on scanners from different vendors.

Results

Time‐optimal gradient waveforms for different pulse sequences and the constraints that define them are shown. Additionally, the ability to add, arbitrary motion (gradient moment) compensation or limit peripheral nerve stimulation is demonstrated. There exists a trade‐off between computation time and gradient raster time, but it was observed that acceptable gradient waveforms could be generated in 1‐40 ms. Gradient waveforms generated and run on the different scanners were functionally equivalent, and the images were comparable.

Conclusions

GrOpt is an open source toolbox that enables on‐the‐fly optimization of gradient waveform design, subject to a set of defined constraints. GrOpt was presented for a range of imaging applications, analyzed in terms of computational complexity, and implemented to run on the scanner for a multi‐vendor demonstration.
Nanostructured electrocatalysts for electrochemical carboxylation with CO2
Authors: Lu Yuxuan , Zou Yuqin , Zhao Weixing , Wang Minxue , Li Chongyang , Liu Siming , Wang Shuangyin
Published: July 2020

Electrocarboxylation of organic compounds with CO2, using electrons as clean reductants under ambient conditions, is a readily available and efficient method to transform organic molecules to high‐value carboxylates with nearly 100% atom efficiency. However, the selectivity of the electrochemical reactions is still limited, the real reactive sites for electrocarboxylation; the relationship between the geometrical/electronic structure and the catalytic performance is unclear. Meanwhile, the development of nanomaterials brings new prospects and orientation for the electrocarboxylation due to the desired high surface area and abundant active sites. In this review, we focus on the summary of recent work on the design of nanostructured electrocatalysts and the reaction mechanisms of electrocarboxylation. Mainly, we highlight the influence of different electrocatalyst structures on a variety of organic molecule adsorption. Finally, some challenges were proposed to explore advanced electrocatalysts and the deeper reactive mechanism for electrocarboxylation.
Compact block boundary value methods for semi‐linear delay‐reaction–diffusion equations with algebraic constraints
Authors: Yan Xiaoqiang , Zhang Chengjian
Published: July 2020

In the present paper, we study a class of linear approximation methods for solving semi‐linear delay‐reaction–diffusion equations with algebraic constraint (SDEACs). By combining a fourth‐order compact difference scheme with block boundary value methods (BBVMs), a class of compact block boundary value methods (CBBVMs) for SDEACs are suggested. It is proved under some suitable conditions that the CBBVMs are convergent of order 4 in space and order p in time, where p is the local order of the used BBVMs, and are globally stable. With several numerical experiments for Fisher equation with delay and algebraic constraint, the computational effectiveness and theoretical results of CBBVMs are further illustrated.
Adaptive fuzzy finite‐time optimal control for switched nonlinear systems
Authors: Fan Yanli , Li Yongming
Published: July 2020

This article addresses the adaptive fuzzy finite‐time control problem for a class of switched nonlinear systems whose powers are positive odd rational numbers and vary with the switching signal. The fuzzy logic systems (FLSs) are used to approximate the unknown nonlinearities of the controlled systems, and then by combining backstepping control algorithm with adding a power integrator technique, an adaptive finite‐time controller is designed. By modifying and optimizing the relevant design parameters of the proposed adaptive finite‐time controller, a novel adaptive finite‐time optimal control approach is developed. The proposed two adaptive finite‐time optimal control schemes can guarantee semi‐globally practically finite‐time stability of the closed‐loop system. Moreover, the adaptive finite‐time optimal controller can also achieve optimized performance in relation to the cost functional. Finally, a simulation example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed two adaptive finite‐time control strategies.
Flame retardancy, thermal properties, and combustion behaviors of intumescent flame‐retardant polypropylene containing (poly) piperazine pyrophosphate and melamine polyphosphate
Authors: Hu Zhi , Zhong Zhi‐Qiang , Gong Xiao‐Di
Published: July 2020

A (poly) piperazine pyrophosphate (PIPP) was synthesized and its chemical structure was confirmed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance. PIPP was used together with melamine polyphosphate (MPP) as an ammonium polyphosphate (APP)‐free intumescent flame retardant (IFR) to prepare several flame‐retardant polypropylene (FRPP) composites. The flame retardancy and burning behaviors of the composites were investigated via limiting oxygen index (LOI) determination, vertical burning tests (UL‐94), and cone calorimeter tests. The thermal properties were investigated by means of thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen and air atmosphere. Use of PIPP and MPP together yielded an increase in the LOI value, a UL‐94 V‐0 rating, and a decrease in both the values of PHRR and THR in cone calorimetric analysis. Visual observations and scanning electronic microscopy confirmed the occurrence of char formation, which acted as a heat and fire barrier in the condense phase.
Kaposiform lymphangiomatosis treated with multimodal therapy improves coagulopathy and reduces blood angiopoietin‐2 levels
Authors: Crane Janet , Manfredo Jackie , Boscolo Elisa , Coyan Mara , Takemoto Clifford , Itkin Maxim , Adams Denise M. , Le Cras Timothy D.
Published: July 2020

Kaposiform lymphangiomatosis (KLA) is a rare, life‐threatening congenital lymphatic malformation. Diagnosis is often delayed due to complex indistinct symptoms. Blood angiopoietin‐2 (ANG2) levels are elevated in KLA and may be useful as a biomarker to monitor disease status. We report a 7‐year‐old male child with easy bruising, inguinal swelling, and consumptive coagulopathy, diagnosed with KLA. A multimodal treatment regimen of prednisone, sirolimus, vincristine, and adjunctive zoledronate was used. Plasma ANG2 levels were highly elevated at diagnosis but decreased during treatment. The patient showed significant clinical improvement over a 38‐month period and normalization of ANG2 levels correlated with resolution of the coagulopathy.
Sex differences in the acceptability and short‐term outcomes of a web‐based personalized feedback alcohol intervention for high school seniors
Authors: Doumas Diana M. , Esp Susan , Turrisi Rob , Bond Laura , Porchia Sherise , Flay Brian
Published: July 2020

Despite the escalation of alcohol use through high school, the majority of research on school‐based alcohol interventions has been conducted with junior high students or first and second‐year high school students. Preliminary research indicates a brief, web‐based personalized feedback intervention developed for college students (eCHECKUP TO GO) may be a promising program for high school seniors. Although these studies demonstrate positive intervention effects, there is some evidence for greater program efficacy for females in this age group. The current study investigates sex differences in program acceptability of the eCHECKUP TO GO and its relationship to short‐term alcohol outcomes among high school seniors (N = 135). Overall, the majority of students reported they found the program to be acceptable (i.e., user‐friendly and useful). However, contrary to our hypothesis, results indicated that male students reported significantly higher perceptions of program acceptability than females. Although we did not find sex differences in alcohol outcomes, program user‐friendliness was related to reductions in alcohol use for males. The results of this study add to the literature supporting the eCHECKUP TO GO for high school seniors and highlight the importance of program user‐friendliness for males. Implications for implementing the program as a school‐based intervention are discussed.
The mechanism of teaching–research conflict influencing job burnout among university teachers: The roles of perceived supervisor support and psychological capital
Authors: Heng Shupeng , Yang Ming , Zou Bing , Li Yongzhan , Castaño Gloria
Published: July 2020

This study examined the relationship between teaching–research conflict and job burnout among university teachers and the moderating role of perceived supervisor support (PSS) and psychological capital (PsyCap) in this relationship. Using a cross‐sectional design, data were collected from a convenience sample of 488 university teachers in China. Hierarchical regression analysis was performed to examine the moderating role of PSS and PsyCap in the relationship between teaching–research conflict and job burnout. The results showed that (a) teaching–research conflict was positively linked to emotional exhaustion and depersonalization but negatively linked to personal accomplishment, (b) PSS moderated the effects of teaching–research conflict on both emotional exhaustion and depersonalization but did not act as a moderator in the relationship between teaching–research conflict and personal accomplishment, and (c) PsyCap moderated the effect of teaching–research conflict on all three dimensions of job burnout.
Use of saliva sample to detect C‐reactive protein in children with pneumonia
Authors: Tsai Chih‐Min , Tang Kuo‐Shu , Cheng Ming‐Chou , Liu Ta‐Yu , Huang Ying‐Hsien , Chen Chih‐Cheng , Yu Hong‐Ren
Published: July 2020

Background

Serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a sensitive biomarker for inflammation and is broadly used to clinically diagnose infectious diseases, including pneumonia. However, blood sampling is fraught with technical difficulties in children. The salivary analysis may be a potential diagnostic tool, as it is noninvasive, patient‐friendly, and easy to perform in children. This study aimed to evaluate the use of salivary CRP as a biomarker for children with pneumonia.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in patients aged 2 to 17 years, admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. Saliva and serum samples for CRP and chemokine determination were collected at the initial admission and during a follow‐up from pediatric patients with pneumonia. Salivary samples were also collected from healthy subjects used as controls.

Results

A total of 60 healthy children and 106 pediatric patients with pneumonia were enrolled in this study. The salivary CRP level was much higher in pediatric patients with pneumonia than in healthy children (48.77 ± 5.52 ng/mL vs 14.78 ± 3.92 ng/mL; P < .001). Salivary CRP level was highly correlated with serum CRP level in pediatric patients with pneumonia (r = .679; P < .001). Salivary CRP level (≥40.307 ng/mL) can be used to predict high serum CRP levels (≥80 mg/L) with an area under the curve of 0.810 (95% confidence interval, 0.740–0.881). As pneumonia improved, both salivary and serum CRP levels decreased during follow‐up.

Conclusions

Salivary CRP could be an alternative biomarker for serum CRP in pediatric patients with pneumonia. This is especially beneficial for pediatric patients, as saliva collection is simple, noninvasive, and patient‐friendly.
PTEN and ERG expression in MRI‐ultrasound guided fusion biopsy correlated with radical prostatectomy findings in men with prostate cancer
Authors: Erickson Andrew M. , Lokman Utku , Lahdensuo Kanerva , Tornberg Sara , Visapaa Harri , Bergroth Robin , Santti Henrikki , Petas Anssi , Rannikko Antti S. , Mirtti Tuomas
Published: July 2020

Background

Conventional systematic prostate biopsies (SBx) have multiple limitations, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐ultrasound fusion targeting is increasingly applied (fusion biopsies [FBx]). In our previous studies, we have shown that loss of the tumor suppressor gene phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) in radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens predicts poor disease‐specific survival, and in active surveillance (AS), PTEN loss in SBx predicts an adverse AS outcome, although SBx PTEN status does not correlate well with the corresponding RP status. Here, we have hypothesized that PTEN and erythroblast transformation‐specific related gene (ERG) status in FBx correlate better with RP than they would in SBx.

Methods

A total of 106 men, who had undergone FBx and subsequent RP in a single center between June 2015 and May 2017 were included. Fifty‐three of the men had concomitant or previous SBx's. All biopsy and RP specimens were collected, and tissue microarrays (TMA) were constructed from RP specimens. Immunohistochemical stainings for PTEN and ERG expression were conducted on biopsies and RP TMAs and results were compared by using Fisher's exact test.

Results

The immunohistochemical predictive power of FBx, determined by the concordance of biopsy PTEN and ERG status with RP, is superior to SBx (77.6% vs 66.7% in PTEN, 92.4% vs 66.6% in ERG). FBx was superior to SBx in correlation with RP Gleason Grade Groups and MRI prostate imaging reporting and data system scores.

Conclusion

FBx grading correlates with RP histology and MRI findings and predicts the biomarker status in the RP specimens more accurately than SBx. A longer follow‐up is needed to evaluate if this translates to better prediction of disease outcomes, especially in AS and radiation therapy where prostatectomy specimens are not available for prognostication.
Current outlook and future research needs for harvest weed seed control in North American cropping systems
Authors: Shergill Lovreet S , Schwartz‐Lazaro Lauren M , Leon Ramon , Ackroyd Victoria J , Flessner Michael L , Bagavathiannan Muthukumar , Everman Wesley , Norsworthy Jason K , VanGessel Mark J , Mirsky Steven B
Published: July 2020

Harvest weed seed control (HWSC) comprises a set of tools and tactics that prevents the addition of weed seed to the soil seed bank, attenuating weed infestations and providing a method to combat the development and spread of herbicide‐resistant weed populations. Initial HWSC research efforts in North America are summarized and, combined with the vast area of crops suitable for HWSC, clearly indicate strong potential for this technology. However, potential limitations exist that are not present in Australian cropping systems where HWSC was developed. These include rotations with crops that are not currently amenable to HWSC (e.g. corn), high moisture content at harvest, untimely harvest, and others. Concerns about weeds becoming resistant to HWSC (i.e. adapting) exist, as do shifts in weed species composition, particularly with the diversity of weeds in North America. Currently the potential of HWSC vastly outweighs any drawbacks, necessitating further research. Such expanded efforts should foremost include chaff lining and impact mill commercial scale evaluation, as this will address potential limitations as well as economics. Growers must be integrated into large‐scale, on‐farm research and development activities aimed at alleviating the problems of using HWSC systems in North America and drive greater adoption subsequently. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Baiting location affects anticoagulant rodenticide exposure of non‐target small mammals on farms
Authors: Walther Bernd , Geduhn Anke , Schenke Detlef , Schlötelburg Annika , Jacob Jens
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Commensal rodents such as Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus Berk.), black rats (R. rattus L.) and house mice (Mus musculus L.) damage stored produce and infrastructure, cause hygienic problems and transmit zoonotic pathogens to humans. The management of commensal rodents relies mainly on the use of anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs). ARs are persistent and bio‐accumulative, which can cause exposure of non‐target species. We compared the baiting strategies to use brodifacoum (BR) in bait boxes indoors only versus in and around buildings in replicated field trials at livestock farms to assess resulting BR residues in non‐target small mammals.

RESULTS

When bait was used indoors only, the percentage of trapped non‐target small mammals with BR residues as well as BR concentration in liver tissue was about 50% lower in comparison to bait application in and around buildings. These effects occurred in murid rodents and shrews but not in voles that were generally only mildly exposed. During the baiting period, BR concentration in murids was stable but decreased by about 50% in shrews.

CONCLUSION

Restricting the application of BR bait to indoors only can reduce exposure of non‐target species. The positive effect of this baiting strategy on non‐target species needs to be balanced with the need for an effective pest rodent management within a reasonable time. More research is needed to clarify which management approaches strike this balance best.
The role of population and quantitative genetics and modern sequencing technologies to understand evolved herbicide resistance and weed fitness
Authors: Leon Ramon G , Dunne Jeffrey C , Gould Fred
Published: July 2020

Evolution of resistance to multiple herbicides with different sites of action and of nontarget site resistance (NTSR) often involves multiple genes. Thus, single‐gene analyses, typical in studies of target site resistance, are not sufficient for understanding the genetic architecture and dynamics of NTSR and multiple resistance. The genetics of weed adaptation to varied agricultural environments is also generally expected to be polygenic. Recent advances in whole‐genome sequencing as well as bioinformatic and statistical tools have made it possible to use population and quantitative genetics methods to expand our understanding of how resistance and other traits important for weed adaptation are genetically controlled at the individual and population levels, and to predict responses to selection pressure by herbicides and other environmental factors. The use of tools such as quantitative trait loci mapping, genome‐wide association studies, and genomic prediction will allow pest management scientists to better explain how pests adapt to control tools and how specific genotypes thrive and spread across agroecosystems and other human‐disturbed systems. The challenge will be to use this knowledge in developing integrated weed management systems that inhibit broad resistance to current and future weed‐control methods. © 2020 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparison of different protein precipitation and solid‐phase extraction protocols for the study of the catabolism of peptide drugs by LC‐HRMS
Authors: Esposito Simone , Vanni Domitilla , Menta Sergio , Orsatti Laura , Monteagudo Edith
Published: July 2020

LC‐HRMS‐based identification of the products of peptide catabolism is the key to drive the design of more stable compounds. Because the catabolite of a given peptide can be very different from the parent compound and from other catabolites in terms of physicochemical properties, it can be challenging to develop an analytical method that allows recovery and detection of the parent and all parent‐related catabolites. The aim of this study was to investigate how the recovery and the matrix effect of peptidic drugs and their catabolites are affected by different protein precipitation (PP) and solid‐phase extraction (SPE) protocols. To this purpose, four model peptides representative of different classes (somatostatin, GLP‐2, human insulin and liraglutide) were digested with trypsin and chymotrypsin to simulate proteolytic catabolism. The resulting mixtures of the parent peptides and their proteolytic products covering a wide range of relative hydrophobicity (HR) and isoelectric points (pI) were spiked in human plasma and underwent different PP and SPE protocols. Recovery and matrix effect were measured for each peptide and its catabolites. PP with three volumes of ACN or EtOH yielded the highest overall recoveries (more than 50% for the four parent peptides and all their catabolites) among all the tested PP and SPE protocols. Mixed‐mode anion exchange (MAX) was the only SPE sorbent among the five tested that allowed to extract all the peptides with recoveries more than 20%. Matrix effect was generally lower with SPE. Overall, it was observed that peptides with either high hydrophilicity (e.g., somatostatin catabolites) or hydrophobicity (GLP‐2 and lipidated liraglutide catabolites) had a much narrower choice of PP solvent or SPE protocol. Simulation of catabolism using recombinant enzymes together with in silico calculation of the HR and the pI of potential proteolysis products is recommended to select the optimal extraction conditions for the study of peptide catabolism.
Stratospheric influence on ECMWF sub‐seasonal forecast skill for energy‐industry‐relevant surface weather in European countries
Authors: Büeler Dominik , Beerli Remo , Wernli Heini , Grams Christian M.
Published: July 2020

Meteorologists in the energy industry increasingly draw upon the potential for enhanced sub‐seasonal predictability of European surface weather following anomalous states of the winter stratospheric polar vortex (SPV). How the link between the SPV and the large‐scale tropospheric flow translates into forecast skill for surface weather in individual countries – a spatial scale that is particularly relevant for the energy industry – remains an open question. Here we quantify the effect of anomalously strong and weak SPV states at forecast initial time on the probabilistic extended‐range reforecast skill of the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in predicting country‐ and month‐ahead‐averaged anomalies of 2 m temperature, 10 m wind speed, and precipitation. After anomalous SPV states, specific surface weather anomalies emerge, which resemble the opposing phases of the North Atlantic Oscillation. We find that forecast skill is, to first order, only enhanced for countries that are entirely affected by these anomalies. However, the model has a flow‐dependent bias for 2 m temperature (T2M): it predicts the warm conditions in Western, Central and Southern Europe following strong SPV states well, but is overconfident with respect to the warm anomaly in Scandinavia. Vice versa, it predicts the cold anomaly in Scandinavia following weak SPV states well, but struggles to capture the strongly varying extent of the cold air masses into Central and Southern Europe. This tends to reduce skill (in some cases significantly) for Scandinavian countries following strong SPV states, and most pronounced, for many Central, Southern European, and Balkan countries following weak SPV states. As most of the weak SPV states are associated with sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs), our study thus advices particular caution when interpreting sub‐seasonal regional T2M forecasts following SSWs. In contrast, it suggests that the model benefits from enhanced predictability for a considerable part of Europe following strong SPV states.
Efficient Qubit Routing for a Globally Connected Trapped Ion Quantum Computer
Authors: Webber Mark , Herbert Steven , Weidt Sebastian , Hensinger Winfried K.
Published: July 2020

The cost of enabling connectivity in noisy intermediate‐scale quantum (NISQ) devices is an important factor in determining computational power. A qubit routing algorithm is created, which enables efficient global connectivity in a previously proposed trapped ion quantum computing architecture. The routing algorithm is characterized by comparison against both a strict lower bound, and a positional swap based routing algorithm. An error model is proposed, which can be used to estimate the achievable circuit depth and quantum volume of the device as a function of experimental parameters. A new metric based on quantum volume, but with native two‐qubit gates, is used to assess the cost of connectivity relative to the upper bound of free, all to all connectivity. The metric is also used to assess a square‐grid superconducting device. These two architectures are compared and it is found that for the shuttling parameters used, the trapped ion design has a substantially lower cost associated with connectivity.
Controllability and stabilization of Boolean control networks by the auxiliary function of flipping
Authors: Chen Bingquan , Yang Xingyue , Liu Yang , Qiu Jianlong
Published: July 2020

In this article, a hybrid method combining flip matrix approach and an open (or closed) loop control is proposed to study global controllability and stabilization of Boolean control networks (BCNs). First, the necessary and sufficient condition for global controllability of BCNs, by flipping some members of a perturbation set and under free control sequences, is proposed. After that, using a search algorithm, the minimal perturbation sets for global controllability (MS‐GCs) of the BCN are obtained. Next, we propose a necessary and sufficient criterion for global stabilization of BCNs by flipping some members of a perturbation set and under a state feedback control. Similarly, an algorithm is given to search for the minimal perturbation sets for global stabilization (MS‐GSs) of the BCN. Moreover, the time‐optimal MS‐GSs of the BCN are also obtained by an algorithm. Some examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the results.
H∞ control for uncertain one‐sided Lipschitz nonlinear systems in finite frequency domain
Authors: Saad Wajdi , Sellami Anis , Garcia Germain
Published: July 2020

The current article discusses the H∞ disturbance attenuation control design problem for one‐sided Lipschitz systems in finite frequency domain. Models containing norm‐bounded parameter uncertainties, disturbances, and input nonlinearities are considered. By contrast to existing full frequency methods, the H∞ controller is computed depending on the frequency ranges of disturbances. The finite frequency disturbance attenuation index is initially defined. Thanks to Finsler's lemma, sufficient and less conservative analysis conditions are also derived for the closed‐loop system. Then, synthesis conditions in the low, middle, and high frequency ranges as well as the whole frequency range, are formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities. At last, to prove the effectiveness and the superiority of the proposed approach, a physical example is used and a comparative study is done.
Simulation‐based estimation of the early spread of COVID‐19 in Iran: actual versus confirmed cases
Authors: Ghaffarzadegan Navid , Rahmandad Hazhir
Published: July 2020

Understanding the state of the COVID‐19 pandemic relies on infection and mortality data. Yet official data may underestimate the actual cases due to limited symptoms and testing capacity. We offer a simulation‐based approach which combines various sources of data to estimate the magnitude of outbreak. Early in the epidemic we applied the method to Iran's case, an epicenter of the pandemic in winter 2020. Estimates using data up to March 20th, 2020, point to 916,000 (90% UI: 508 K, 1.5 M) cumulative cases and 15,485 (90% UI: 8.4 K, 25.8 K) total deaths, numbers an order of magnitude higher than official statistics. Our projections suggest that absent strong sustaining of contact reductions the epidemic may resurface. We also use data and studies from the succeeding months to reflect on the quality of original estimates. Our proposed approach can be used for similar cases elsewhere to provide a more accurate, early, estimate of outbreak state.

© 2020 System Dynamics Society
Mechano‐Informed Biomimetic Polymer Scaffolds by Incorporating Self‐Powered Zinc Oxide Nanogenerators Enhance Motor Recovery and Neural Function
Authors: Qian Yun , Cheng Yuan , Song Jialin , Xu Yang , Yuan Wei‐En , Fan Cunyi , Zheng Xianyou
Published: July 2020

Piezoelectric materials can produce electrical power from the mechanical stimulation and thus, they may accelerate electroactive tissue healing as a promising treatment for traumatic peripheral nerve injuries. In this study, a piezoelectric zinc oxide nanogenerator scaffold is manufactured by 3D injectable multilayer biofabrication. The piezoelectric polymeric scaffold displays desirable mechanical and physical characteristics, such as aligned porosity, high elasticity, scaffold stiffness, surface energy, and excellent shear behavior. In addition, its biocompatibility supplies Schwann cells with an adhesive, proliferative, and angiogenic interface, as is reflected by higher expression of functional proteins including nerve growth factor (NGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In vivo mechanical stimuli by treadmill practice contribute to the comprehensive reparative therapy. The piezoelectric conduit accelerates nerve conducting velocity, promotes axonal remyelination, and restores motor function by recovering endplate muscles. Moreover, the piezoelectric nanogenerator scaffold creates biomimetic electrically conductive microenvironment without causing noticeable toxicity to functioning organs and improves peripheral nerve restoration by the multifunctional characteristics. Therefore, the mechano‐informed biomimetic piezoelectric scaffold may have enormous potential in the neuroengineering for regenerative medicine.
Small Chains of Main Group Elements by BH3 Adduct Formation of tBu2E‐N(H)‐EtBu2 (E = P, As)
Authors: Fritz Maximilian , Maser Leon , Ringler Benjamin , von Hänisch Carsten , Langer Robert
Published: July 2020

Borane adducts of bis(di‐tert‐butylphosphanyl)amine (1a) and bis(di‐tert‐butylarsino)amine (1b) are reported. Based on quantum‐chemical investigations in combination with experimental results, it is demonstrated that the tautomerism known for tBu2P‐N(H)‐PtBu2 (1a), can be observed for the mono adduct tBu2P‐N(H)‐P(BH3)tBu2 (2a) as well, whereas for the corresponding arsenic compound 2b only one stable isomer is found. The bis‐borane adduct tBu2(BH3)As‐N(H)‐As(BH3)tBu2 (3b) is a rare example of a structurally characterized, tertiary arsine borane adduct, which can be directly compared with the corresponding phosphorus compound tBu2(BH3)P‐N(H)‐P(BH3)tBu2 (3a). Deprotonation of mixtures containing 2a by nBuLi leads to the lithium‐containing coordination polymer 4a, in which the actual chain consists only of non‐carbon atoms.
Circulating nutrients and hematological parameters in managed African elephants (Loxodonta Africana) over a 1‐year period
Authors: Wood Jordan , Koutsos Elizabeth , Kendall Corinne J. , Minter Larry J. , Tollefson Troy , Ivory Erin , Ange‐van Heugten Kimberly
Published: July 2020

African elephants (Loxodonta Africana) are currently considered a vulnerable species. One key to improving methods of species management is to better monitor and understand elephant nutrition. Analyzing circulating nutrients is one of the best and least invasive methods of monitoring managed elephant nutrition, but limited reference values are available. This study examined the circulating basic hematology concentrations, minerals, vitamins A, D, and E, and fatty acids of six African elephants (two males and four females) at the North Carolina Zoo collected monthly from March 2016 to April 2017 and compared levels among seasons. Creatinine (CRE) and albumin had seasonal differences (p ≤ .05). Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, cobalt, manganese, and molybdenum displayed seasonal differences (p ≤ .05). Retinol and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D2 had seasonal differences (p ≤ .05). Linoleic acid, α‐linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, total omega‐3 fatty acids, total omega‐6 fatty acids, and the omega‐6 to omega‐3 ratio showed seasonal differences (p ≤ .05). Findings suggest that exogenous vitamin E supplements may not be necessary with a mixed feedstuff diet (hay, fortified concentrate pellet, browse, and produce) based on circulating values. This data offer updated information on circulating reference values and novel circulating concentrations of nutrients for Southeastern US managed African elephants that can be used to inform nutritional and health management in all similar habitats.
Holographic entanglement entropy in anisotropic background with confinement-deconfinement phase transition
Authors: Aref’eva Irina Ya. , Patrushev Alexander , Slepov Pavel
Published: July 2020

Abstract

We discuss a general five-dimensional completely anisotropic holographic model with three different spatial scale factors, characterized by a Van der Waals-like phase transition between small and large black holes. A peculiar feature of the model is the relation between anisotropy of the background and anisotropy of the colliding heavy ions geometry. We calculate the holographic entanglement entropy (HEE) of the slab-shaped region, the orientation of which relatively to the beams line and the impact parameter is characterized by the Euler angles. We study the dependences of the HEE and its density on the thermodynamic (temperature, chemical potential) and geometric (parameters of anisotropy, thickness, and orientation of entangled regions) parameters. As a particular case the model with two equal transversal scaling factors is considered. This model is supported by the dilaton and two Maxwell fields. In this case we discuss the HEE and its density in detail: interesting features of this model are jumps of the entanglement entropy and its density near the line of the small/large black hole phase transition. These jumps depend on the anisotropy parameter, chemical potential, and orientation. We also discuss different definitions and behavior of c-functions in this model. The c-function calculated in the Einstein frame decreases while ℓ is increasing for all ℓ in the isotropic case (in regions of (μ, T)-plane far away from the line of the phase transition). We find the non-monotonicity of the c-functions for several anisotropic configurations, which however does not contradict with any of the existing c-theorems since they all are based on Lorentz invariance.
Sucrose Octasulfat – Evidenz in der Behandlung chronischer Wunden
Authors: Dissemond Joachim , Augustin Matthias , Dietlein Michael , Keuthage Winfried , Läuchli Severin , Lobmann Ralf , Münter Karl-Christian , Stücker Markus , Traber Jürg , Vanscheidt Wolfgang , Strohal Robert
Published: July 2020

Bei Patienten mit chronischen Wunden sollte neben einer ursächlichen Therapie auch immer eine Wundbehandlung erfolgen. Wiederholt wurde in diesem Kontext über die unzureichende Evidenz von Wundheilungsprodukten diskutiert. An dem Beispiel von TLC(„technology lipido-colloid“)-Sucrose Octasulfat wird in der vorliegenden Übersichtsarbeit gezeigt, dass auch in diesem Bereich eine aussagekräftige Datenlage mit guter Evidenz und Vergleichbarkeit vorliegt. Ein therapeutischer Ansatzpunkt, die Wundheilung zu fördern, ist die Hemmung von Matrixmetalloproteinasen beispielsweise durch Sucrose Octasulfat. Für Wundprodukte mit TLC-Sucrose Octasulfat wurden in den letzten Jahren mehrere, aufeinander aufbauende klinische Studien durchgeführt. Die WHAT-Studie war eine offene RCT (randomisierte kontrollierte Studie) mit 117 Patienten mit Ulcus cruris venosum. Bei der CHALLENGE-Studie handelte es ich um eine doppelblind durchgeführte RCT mit 187 Patienten mit Ulcus cruris venosum. Die SPID-Studie war eine Pilotstudie mit 33 Patienten mit diabetischem Fußulkus (DFU). In 2 prospektiven, multizentrischen klinischen Pilotstudien NEREIDES und CASSIOPEE wurden insgesamt 88 Patienten mit Ulcera crurum in verschiedenen Heilungsphasen untersucht. In der REALITY-Studie erfolgte eine gepoolte Datenanalyse über 8 Anwenderbeobachtungen mit 10.220 Patienten mit chronischen Wunden unterschiedlicher Genese. In der doppelblinden, zweiarmigen EXPLORER-RCT wurden 240 Patienten mit neuroischämischem DFU erstmalig bis zur vollständigen Abheilung untersucht. In allen Studien konnte eine signifikante Förderung der Wundheilung durch den Einsatz von Wundheilungsprodukten mit TLC-Sucrose Octasulfat gezeigt werden.
Creep in oak material from the Vasa ship: verification of linear viscoelasticity and identification of stress thresholds
Authors: Afshar R. , Cheylan M. , Almkvist G. , Ahlgren A. , Gamstedt E. K.
Published: July 2020

Creep deformation is a general problem for large wooden structures, and in particular for shipwrecks in museums. In this study, experimental creep data on the wooden cubic samples from the Vasa ship have been analysed to confirm the linearity of the viscoelastic response in the directions where creep was detectable (T and R directions). Isochronous stress–strain curves were derived for relevant uniaxial compressive stresses within reasonable time spans. These curves and the associated creep compliance values justify that it is reasonable to assume a linear viscoelastic behaviour within the tested ranges, given the high degree of general variability. Furthermore, the creep curves were fitted with a one-dimensional standard linear solid model, and although the rheological parameters show a fair amount of scatter, they are candidates as input parameters in a numerical model to predict creep deformations. The isochronous stress–strain relationships were used to define a creep threshold stress below which only negligible creep is expected. These thresholds ranges were 0.3–0.5 MPa in the R direction and 0.05–0.2 MPa in the T direction.