bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Distribution and Conservation Status of the White Colour Morph of Faxonius propinquus (Northern Clearwater Crayfish) in Lake Simcoe, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Hamr Premek , Hoel Mark , Eales Kathryn
Published: February 2019

The white morph of Faxonius propinquus was first identified and described by Dunham and Jordan. They subsequently documented the presence and geographic distribution of other species in Lake Simcoe, including two additional colour morphs of F. propinquus (Dunham et al. 1979). Since then, no further research has been conducted on these populations, even though the lake has now been invaded by the introduced rusty crayfish (Faxonius rusticus). The present study documents the decline and most recent distribution of the F. propinquus colour morphs and the other native species, Faxonius virilis, which also appears to display several unusual colour morphs in Lake Simcoe. The decline of the various colour morphs of F. propinquus, as well as the impact of the F. rusticus expansion in the lake, were assessed through surveys from 2015 to 2018. The significance of the results is discussed with respect to the conservation status and the future management of native crayfishes in Lake Simcoe.
Characterizing Influence of Transition to Turbulence on the Propulsive Performance of Underwater Gliders
Authors: Lidtke Artur K. , Turnock Stephen R. , Downes Jon
Published: February 2019

Two models of underwater gliders were tested in a wind tunnel: one corresponding to a legacy shape commonly used in contemporary vehicles and the other a scaled down version of a new design. Performance of the two vehicles was characterized over a range of speeds and angles of attack. Particular attention was paid to the effect of sharp features along the hulls of the two vehicles and how they affect the observed flow regime. It has been shown that the new design, which uses a bow shape designed to encourage natural laminar flow, benefits from a 10% reduction of parasitic drag and 13% increase in lift-to-drag when the hull surface is smooth. The legacy glider, made up of a faired bow and a cylindrical hull, suffers from laminar separation and up to 100% increase in induced drag if the flow over its bow is prevented from transitioning to a turbulent state before encountering adverse pressure gradient at lower Reynolds numbers. This results in lowering of attainable speed at shallow glide path angles, whereas the associated parasitic drag reduction is demonstrated to increase the maximum velocity of the glider when moving at glide slopes greater than approximately 30°.

1. Introduction

Underwater gliders are autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) that rely on using a buoyancy engine to ascend or descend through the water column, and by adjusting their pitch, they can use this vertical motion to develop forward thrust from their hydrofoils. This propulsion method allows them to undertake long-endurance missions, often several months long (Eriksen 2003; Rudnick et al. 2004; Graver 2005).

Hydrodynamic performance of an underwater glider is primarily governed by its lift-to-drag (L/D) ratio, which dictates the minimum glide path angle the vehicle may adopt, and drag coefficient, which affects the maximum forward speed the glider may achieve for a fixed amount of vertical force developed (Graver 2005). It is thus important to minimize the drag of the AUV to allow it to perform longer deployments and gather more science data without increasing the size of the engine. Because of the typical Reynolds numbers on the vehicle hulls being less than 106 and of the order of 104–5 on the appendages, laminar and transitional flow regions may occur. Correctly identifying these is critical to achieve a robust performance prediction.
Quality assured sampling by engaged citizen scientists supports state agency coastal water quality monitoring programs
Authors: Falinski Kim , Callender Tova , Fielding Emily , Newbold Robin , Reed Dana , Strickland James , Yurkanin Alana , Slay Hudson , Honda Myron
Published: February 2019

Pacific island coral reef ecosystems are particularly threatened by anthropogenic stresses we can manage in the context of global threats we cannot control. State agencies are challenged to sample coastal waters at the spatial and temporal resolution needed to make decisions about improving watershed management. The acquisition of environmental data by committed non-profit organizations and trained community members represents a major opportunity to support agency monitoring programs and to complement field campaigns in the study of watershed dynamics. When data collection protocols match state agency protocols and these are supported by sufficient documentation there is an opportunity to create regulatory-quality data that can inform management. We describe the formation of the first volunteer group in Hawaii to establish a quality assured water quality sampling program to match the Hawaii Department of Health’s protocols. Hui O Ka Wai Ola, a partnership between three non-profit organizations on Maui, Hawaii, has trained 40 volunteers to use methods that directly match the state program. The group has taken over 900 discrete samples at 48 sites, providing the most comprehensive picture of water quality in Maui to date, motivating community activism and catalyzing large-scale restoration efforts in the adjoining watersheds. Results highlight coastal areas that have poor water quality, delineate a baseline from which to compare future restoration projects, and emphasize parts of the sampling protocol that might be improved for more reliable data.
Optogenetically induced low-frequency correlations impair perception
Authors: Nandy Anirvan , Nassi Jonathan J , Jadi Monika P , Reynolds John
Published: February 2019

Deployment of covert attention to a spatial location can cause large decreases in low-frequency correlated variability among neurons in macaque area V4 whose receptive-fields lie at the attended location. It has been estimated that this reduction accounts for a substantial fraction of the attention-mediated improvement in sensory processing. These estimates depend on assumptions about how population signals are decoded and the conclusion that correlated variability impairs perception, is purely hypothetical. Here we test this proposal directly by optogenetically inducing low-frequency fluctuations, to see if this interferes with performance in an attention-demanding task. We find that low-frequency optical stimulation of neurons in V4 elevates correlations among pairs of neurons and impairs the animal’s ability to make fine sensory discriminations. Stimulation at higher frequencies does not impair performance, despite comparable modulation of neuronal responses. These results support the hypothesis that attention-dependent reductions in correlated variability contribute to improved perception of attended stimuli.
Experimental investigation on the effects of website aesthetics on user performance in different virtual tasks
Authors: Thielsch Meinald T. , Haines Russell , Flacke Leonie
Published: February 2019

In Human-Computer Interaction research, the positive effect of aesthetics on users’ subjective impressions and reactions is well-accepted. However, results regarding the influence of interface aesthetics on a user’s individual performance as an objective outcome are very mixed, yet of urgent interest due to the proceeding of digitalization. In this web-based experiment (N = 331), the effect of interface aesthetics on individual performance considering three different types of tasks (search, creative, and transfer tasks) is investigated. The tasks were presented on an either aesthetic or unaesthetic website, which differed significantly in subjective aesthetics. Goal orientation (learning versus performance goals) was included as a possible moderator variable, which was manipulated by using different task instructions. Both aesthetics and goal orientation were a between-subject factor, leading to a 2 × 2 between subject design. Manipulation checks were highly significant. Yet the results show neither significant main effects of aesthetics and goal orientation on performance regarding both accuracy and response times in each of the three tasks, nor significant interaction effects. Nevertheless, from a practical perspective aesthetics still should be considered due to its positive effects on subjective perceptions of users, even as no substantial effects on user performance occurred in the present experiment.
Comments and reply
Authors: Brito-Castillo L , Alcántara-Razo E , Salinas-Zavala CA
Published: February 2019

n/a
The oil spill produced by the tanker Prestige (13/11/2002): Impact assessment of the northwest coast of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Del-Valls A
Published: February 2019

n/a
Contribution of microtopography and hydroperiod to the natural regeneration of Avicennia germinans in a restored mangrove forest
Authors: Pérez-Ceballos Rosela , Echeverría-Ávila Stephanie , Zaldívar-Jiménez Arturo , Zaldívar-Jiménez Tomás , Herrera-Silveira Jorge
Published: February 2019

We evaluated the success of the ecological restoration of a degraded mangrove forest by monitoring the natural regeneration of Avicennia germinans (black mangrove). The restoration actions focused on hydrological rehabilitation by desilting tidal channels and modifying the microtopography to enhance or restore water flow. As a result of these efforts, a population of black mangrove established naturally. Six sampling sites including restored and reference areas were established. We measured seedling survival; tree density, height, and growth rate; and the physical and chemical characteristics of soil and water. According to a redundancy analysis, microtopography and hydroperiod contributed the most to the establishment and development of the black mangrove. Microtopography ranged from 0.08 to 0.14 m above sea level. In the case of the hydroperiod, water level ranged from 0.11 to 0.14 m, flooding duration ranged from 439 to 529 h per month, and frequency was 7 to 8 floods per month. Our results highlight the contribution of microtopography and hydroperiod to the natural establishment of black mangrove. It is important to consider these 2 variables in mangrove ecological restoration.
Benthic nitrogen fixation in Zostera marina meadows in an upwelling-influenced coastal lagoon
Authors: Hernández-López Julieta , Camacho-Ibar Víctor F , Macías-Tapia Alfonso , McGlathery Karen J , Daesslé Luis W , Sandoval-Gil Jose M
Published: February 2019

Dinitrogen (N2) fixation rates were determined in the phyllosphere and in sediments with and without the presence of eelgrass (Zostera marina) in San Quintín Bay, an upwelling-influenced coastal lagoon in the NE Pacific. Samples were collected during winter 2015 at 4 sites with a gradient of oceanic influence and contrasting impact from oyster aquaculture. N2 fixation rates were determined with the acetylene reduction assay. Treatments under light and in the dark, and with and without sodium molybdate resulted in similar fixation rates, suggesting that heterotrophic nonsulfate-reducing bacteria made the largest contribution to N2 fixation, while sulfate-reducing bacteria had low fixation activity at most stations. N2-fixation rates in sediments ranged from 7 to 12 micrometers mol m–2 h–1 and were similar to those in other temperate seagrass-dominated estuaries. Winter conditions were likely responsible for small spatial differences in N2 fixation rates throughout the lagoon, even between vegetated and unvegetated sites and among depth sections of sediment cores. During winter, Z. marina growth rates and biomass are low, resulting in low and less variable release of labile organic carbon, which acts as substrate for diazotrophs. The lowest N2 fixation rates were measured at a site where high denitrification rates have been observed, probably reflecting a competition between diazotrophs and denitrifiers. The highest fixation rates were measured at the innermost station where oceanic nitrate is scarce. Epiphytic bacteria contributed ~7% of the total N2 fixation, with rates of <0.5 micrometers mol m–2 h–1. N2 fixation potentially supplied 5–10% of Z. marina N requirements and could supply ~30% of the N loss via denitrification in winter.
Brown Pelicans, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus (Aves: Pelecanidae): Five decades with ENSO, dynamic nesting, and contemporary breeding status in the Gulf of California
Authors: Anderson Daniel W , Godínez-Reyes Carlos R , Velarde Enriqueta , Avalos-Tellez Rosalía , Ramírez-Delgado David , Moreno-Prado Hugo , Bowen Thomas , Gress Franklin , Trejo-Ventura Jesus , Adrean Lindsay , Meltzer Lorayne
Published: February 2019

The California Brown Pelican subspecies (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) was removed from the US endangered species list in 2009, along with the entire species of Brown Pelican throughout North America. The Gulf of California subpopulation within the entire metapopulation (= subspecies) comprises the majority of nesting (~76% of P. o. californicus). The US classifications were based on pollution effects in the Southern California Bight (SCB) during the early 1970s; official listing-recognition in Mexico (NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010) occurred in 2010 and it continues. Unfortunately, Brown Pelican conservation across the US/Mexico border has been largely uncoordinated. Recent declines in the SCB subpopulation are not well-documented, whereas representative subpopulations in the Gulf of California have received continual study since the US listing. Until the early 2000s, Gulf pelican breeding populations changed little. El Niño/Southern Oscillation continues to be a major factor driving annual pelican breeding intensity and success, with a slightly weaker effect to the north. Nest attempts (NA) in the southern Midriff zone and to the south of our monitoring zone have declined in the last decade, in especially extreme and unprecedented ways in a period of unusual warming in the last 3 years (2014–2016), termed by some as the “Blob”. Other factors (such as human disturbance and commercial fishing) have likely exacerbated recent warming effects in some areas. Recent data also suggest the pelican is in a process of minor range-shifting toward the northern Gulf, and there are no definitive indications of a recent NA decline in that zone. Monitoring over the entire range, past 2016, will be important to determine whether populations have begun a long-term decline or will recover to normal baseline levels. The health of pelican populations is an important indicator of overall ecological health in the Pacific region and not an isolated phenomenon.
Quality Properties of Husk Tomato Juice and Its Impact in Stirred Probiotic Yogurt
Authors: Hegazy Eman M. , Ali Afaf O. , El-Sayed Hoda Samir , Kassem Jihan M.
Published: February 2019

Background: Thinking about something new that is important for consumer health is a great concern to all those interested in the dairy industry and its products. Husk Tomato is a promising nutritious fruit rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidant compounds.

Aim: The objective of this study is to evaluate Husk Tomato Juice (HTJ) constituents, its antimicrobial activity and antioxidant properties. Then utilize it for producing stirred probiotic yogurt (SPY) as a novel fermented product.

Methodology: The main components and sugars of fresh HTJ were analyzed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Antioxidant activity by DDPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1picrylhydrazil) test as well as total phenolic compounds were also determined. Four treatments of SPY fortified with 20, 30, 40 and 50% (v/v) HTJ & Lb. casei FEGY9973 (as probiotic bacteria) were prepared and served as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively were compared against control without juice.

Results: Data revealed that the main compounds of HTJ were Sinapic (8.170 µg/ml), Protocatechuic (6.344 µg/ml) and Cinnamic (4.660 µg/ml). Contents of Fe, Mg, Na and Ca were 1.766, 1.627, 7.436 and 12.14 mg/100 g. Antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds of fresh HTJ were 68.88% and 319.15 ppm respectively. It was found that HTJ had powerful antimicrobial activity against both of Y. enterocolitica and Ent. faecalies. On the other hand, data revealed that the antioxidant activity of fresh SPY samples were significantly (p<0.05) higher 67.66, 76.93, 69.34 and 69.59% for T1, T2, T3 and T4 in order, compared to control sample (66.57%). While, appearance scores had no significant (p>0.05) for all samples in fresh, 5 and 10 days of storage. All treatment samples possessed acceptable sensory properties.

Conclusion: It could be conducted that SPY fortified with 20 and 30% HTJ had been successfully produced as a healthy dairy product.
Success Rates of Vaginal Sonography and Hysteroscopy for Diagnosis of Intrauterine Pathologies in Female Infertility
Authors: Yavangi Mahnaz , Farimani Marzieh , Zonoori Firozeh , Mohammadpour Nooshin , Dayani Mohamad Ali
Published: February 2019

Background and Aim: Uterine anatomical pathologies play important roles in causing female infertility. This study was conducted to survey the efficiency of hysteroscopy and vaginal sonography in detecting the intrauterine pathologies in infertile women.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on all the infertile women referring to the Endometriosis Research Center between December 22, 2013 and August 22, 2015. Forty five women were recruited and the data on the examinations of uterine lesions were analyzed by transvaginal sonography (TVS), hysteroscopy, and pathology as the standard test. Data analysis was conducted by SPSSv16 using t-test and Mann-Whitney test, and the sensitivity and specificity were measured with reference to the standard test.

Findings: For diagnosing polyp, endometrial hyperplasia, and myoma, TVS showed the 75%, 25%, and 85.71% sensitivity, respectively, and specificity of 92.30%, 92.30%, and 56.97% respectively. For them, hysteroscopy showed the 60%, 75%, and 75.71% sensitivity respectively, and specificity of 71.65%, 30.92%, and 56.97% respectively.

Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, the sensitivity of TVS and hysteroscopic findings in diagnosing uterine pathologies is relatively high, but the sensitivity of TVS was low to diagnosis of endometrial hyperplasia.
Okamoto syndrome has features overlapping with Au–Kline syndrome and is caused by HNRNPK mutation
Authors: Okamoto Nobuhiko
Published: February 2019

Okamoto syndrome is characterized by severe intellectual disability, generalized hypotonia, stenosis of the ureteropelvic junction with hydronephrosis, cardiac anomalies, and characteristic facial gestalt. Several patients have been reported. The basic mechanism of Okamoto syndrome has not been clarified. Au–Kline syndrome is a new syndrome due to loss‐of‐function variants in the HNRNPK (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K) gene. A new patient with Okamoto syndrome visited our hospital. We noticed that the patient had features overlapping with Au–Kline syndrome. We studied the HNRNPK gene by Sanger sequencing, and identified a novel splicing variant. We suggest that Okamoto syndrome is identical to Au–Kline syndrome.
The Society for Craniofacial Genetics and Developmental Biology 41st Annual Meeting
Authors: Taneyhill Lisa A. , Moody Sally A. , Cox Timothy , Klein Ophir D. , Marcucio Ralph , Schneider Richard A. , Trainor Paul A.
Published: February 2019

The mission of the Society for Craniofacial Genetics and Developmental Biology (SCGDB) is to promote education, research, and communication about normal and abnormal development of the tissues and organs of the head. The SCGDB welcomes as members undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, medical and dental practitioners, scientists, and academicians who possess an interest in craniofacial biology. Each year our members come together to share their novel findings, build upon, and challenge current knowledge of craniofacial biology.
Matrix Extension Validation of AOCS Ce 2c‐11 for Omega‐3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Conventional Foods and Dietary Supplements Containing Added Marine Oil
Authors: Li Ziyi , Kotoski Shaun P. , Srigley Cynthia T.
Published: February 2019

Marine oils are commonly added to conventional foods and dietary supplements to enhance their contents of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n‐3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n‐3), which have been associated with numerous potential health benefits. This study compared American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS) Official Methods Ce 2b‐11 and Ce 2c‐11 for determining EPA and DHA in foods and dietary supplements and found that AOCS Ce 2c‐11 produces significantly higher analyzed values, which could be attributed to a more comprehensive breakdown of the sample matrix and derivatization of fatty acids. Our subsequent food matrix extension validation of AOCS Ce 2c‐11 demonstrated that the method produces true, accurate, sensitive, and precise determinations of EPA, DHA, and total omega‐3 PUFA in foods and dietary supplements containing added marine oil, including those formulated with emulsified and microencapsulated oils. The method detection limits for EPA and DHA were 0.012 ± 0.002 and 0.011 ± 0.003 mg g−1, respectively (means ± SD). The analyzed contents of EPA (1.26–386 mg serving−1), DHA (1.37–563 mg serving−1), and total omega‐3 PUFA (2.69–1270 mg serving−1) were reported for 27 conventional food and dietary supplement products. Eighteen products declared contents of DHA, EPA + DHA, or total omega‐3 PUFA on product labels, and the analyzed contents of those fatty acids varied from 95 to 162% of label declarations for all but two of the products.
Multiscale simulation of the interlaminar failure of graphene nanoplatelets reinforced fibers laminate composite materials
Authors: Basso Matteo , Azoti Wiyao , Elmarakbi Hana , Elmarakbi Ahmed
Published: February 2019

This article presents a multiscale approach to derive the interlaminar properties of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs)‐based polymeric composites reinforced by short glass fibers (SGFs) and unidirectional carbon fibers (UCFs). The approach accounts for the debonding at the interface of a 2‐phases GNPs/polymer matrix using a cohesive model. The resulting composite is used within a 3‐phases nanocomposite consisting either of a GNPs/polyamide/SGFs or a GNPs/epoxy/UCFs nanocomposite. Experiments are performed for determining the interlaminar fracture toughness in mode I for the GNPs/epoxy/UCFs. Results show that the aspect ratio (AR) of GNPs influences the effective Young modulus which increases until a threshold. Also, the addition of the GNPs increases up to 10% the transverse Young modulus and up to 11% the shear modulus as well as up to 16% the transverse tensile strength useful in crashworthiness performance. However, the nanocomposite behavior remains fiber dominant in the longitudinal direction. This leads to a weak variation of the mechanical properties in that direction. Due to the well‐known uniform dispersion issues of GNPs, the interlaminar fracture toughness GIC has decreased up to 8.5% for simulation and up to 2.4% for experiments while no significant variation of the interlaminar stress distribution is obtained compared to a nanocomposite without GNPs. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47664.
Stress‐related hormones affect carbohydrate metabolism in Drosophila females
Authors: Karpova Evgenia K. , Eremina Margarita A. , Pirozhkova Darya S. , Gruntenko Nataly E.
Published: February 2019

A highly conservative insulin signaling pathway, stable work of which is indicated by carbohydrates metabolism, is also known to play an important role in the control of stress resistance. Here we demonstrate that exposure to heat stress leads to a rise in the levels of trehalose and glucose in females of Drosophila melanogaster, but does not affect the expression level of the trehalase (Treh) gene. We have shown that the rise in juvenile hormone (JH) and dopamine decreases levels of both carbohydrates under the normal conditions but brings them to values close to normal following the stress exposure. The data obtained suggest that (a) dopamine and JH involved in the neuroendocrine stress reaction in D. melanogaster also take part in the regulation of carbohydrates metabolism, tending to normalize it after stress; (b) the regulation of trehalose content under stress does not occur at the level of transcription of the degrading enzyme.
“Connections above and beyond”: Information, translation, and community boundaries in LibraryThing and Goodreads
Authors: Worrall Adam
Published: February 2019

The connections and contexts surrounding information shared in social settings must be accounted for, and this is particularly true for online communities that are information‐centric. This article presents a mixed‐methods study of LibraryThing and Goodreads, which have characteristics of information‐centric online communities and social digital libraries, with attention to their roles as boundary objects, users' information values, and information behavior, and other boundaries and boundary objects at play. Content analysis of messages, a survey of users, and qualitative interviews show LibraryThing and Goodreads help establish community and organizational structure; support sharing of information values; and facilitate the building and maintenance of social ties. Translation of meanings and understandings within and between communities is a key activity in these roles. Online communities and social digital libraries should highlight translation processes and resources; provide user profiles and off‐topic spaces and encourage their use; take a sociotechnical approach to tailor technology and community features to the right audiences; and facilitate the establishment of shared structure, values, and ties and the work of boundary spanners. Further implications exist for research on and theorizing of information‐centric online communities, boundaries, and boundary objects as part of the sociotechnical infrastructure surrounding online information sharing.
Let's Google: Uncertainty and bilingual search
Authors: Luo Margaret Meiling , Nahl Diane
Published: February 2019

This study applies Kuhlthau's Information Search Process stage (ISP) model to understand bilingual users' Internet search experience. We conduct a quasi‐field experiment with 30 bilingual searchers and the results suggested that the ISP model was applicable in studying searchers' information retrieval behavior in search tasks. The ISP model was applicable in studying searchers' information retrieval behavior in simple tasks. However, searchers' emotional responses differed from those of the ISP model for a complex task. By testing searchers using different search strategies, the results suggested that search engines with multilanguage search functions provide an advantage for bilingual searchers in the Internet's multilingual environment. The findings showed that when searchers used a search engine as a tool for problem solving, they might experience different feelings in each ISP stage than in searching for information for a term paper using a library. The results echo other research findings that indicate that information seeking is a multifaceted phenomenon.
5,20‐Bis(ethoxycarbonyl)‐Substituted Antiaromatic [28]Hexaphyrin and Its Bis‐NiII and Bis‐CuII Complexes
Authors: Nakai Akito , Kim Jinseok , Kim Dongho , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: February 2019

5,20‐Bis(ethoxycarbonyl)‐[28]hexaphyrin was synthesized by acid catalyzed cross‐condensation of meso‐diaryl‐substituted tripyrrane and ethyl 2‐oxoacetate followed by subsequent oxidation. This hexaphyrin was found to be a stable 28π‐antiaromatic compound with a dumbbell‐like conformation. Upon oxidization with PbO2, this [28]hexaphyrin was converted into an aromatic [26]hexaphyrin with a rectangular shape bearing two ester groups at the edge side. The [28]hexaphyrin can incorporate two NiII or CuII metals by using the ester carbonyl groups and three pyrrolic nitrogen atoms to give bis‐NiII and bis‐CuII complexes with essentially the same dumbbell‐like structure. The antiaromatic properties of the [28]hexaphyrin and its metal complexes have been well characterized.
Dynamic alterations of plasma cell free DNA in response to chemotherapy in children with neuroblastoma
Authors: Su Yan , Wang Lijun , Wang Xisi , Yue Zhixia , Xing Tianyu , Zhao Wen , Zhao Qian , Duan Chao , Huang Cheng , Han Yi , Qiu Lihua , Cheng Xianfeng , Liu Yi , Ma Xiaoli
Published: February 2019

Background

To improve cure rates for neuroblastoma (NB), it is important and necessary to evaluate therapy response. Our investigation focuses on using plasma cell free DNA (cfDNA) as a biomarker to determine tumor burden and minimal residual disease (MRD) of NB patients during chemotherapy.

Methods

Total 58 NB patients were recruited from July 2016 to December 2017. Therapy regime and risk classification were based on COG standard and BCH‐NB‐2007 protocol. RECIST study was used to judge response to therapy at the end of fourth cycle of chemotherapy (CC4) and maintenance stage (MS) respectively. Serial quantifications of cfDNA, NSE, and LDH were examined at four stages, including newly diagnosed, second and CC4, and maintenance.

Results

During early chemotherapy, 65.5% of NB kids responded well. Consistently, cfDNA, NSE, and LDH levels were down‐regulated in NB patients with partial remission (PR) compared to those with stable disease (SD). In both training and predicting sets, the levels of cfDNA were significantly comparable between PR and SD only at CC4 stage. To predict the insufficient response to early chemotherapy, the optimal AUC value of cfDNA was 0.732 and 0.747 in training and predicting sets respectively, with a sensitivity of 63.2% and 80% specificity at 11.59 ng/ml and a sensitivity of 68.4% and 90% specificity at 10.35 ng/ml. At MS, responded NB patients were slightly increased up to 70%. This evaluation was confirmed by further decrease in cfDNA and NSE levels during intermediate chemotherapy in comparison with early stage.

Conclusion

The dynamic change of cfDNA was considered as a surrogate biomarker to evaluate tumor burden and MRD of NB during early and intermediate therapy periods.
Phenotypic Characteristics and Fatty Acid Composition of Seeds from Different Herbaceous Peony Species Native to China
Authors: Yan Zhen‐Guo , Xie Li‐Hang , Wang Ning , Sun Dao‐Yang , Bai Zhang‐Zhen , Niu Li‐Xin , Zhang Yan‐Long , Ji Xiao‐Tong
Published: February 2019

Herbaceous peony has been widely cultivated in China due to its substantial ornamental and medicinal value. In the present study, the phenotypic characteristics, total fatty acid (FA) content, and nine FA compositions of herbaceous peony seeds from 14 populations belonging to six species and one subspecies were determined by normal test and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The results showed that the phenotypic characteristics of seeds varied dramatically among species. The concentrations of five major FAs in seed oils were as follows: linoleic acid (173.95–236.51 μg/mg), linolenic acid (227.82–302.71 μg/mg), oleic acid (135.32–208.81 μg/mg), stearic acid (6.52–11.7 μg/mg), and palmitic acid (30.67–47.64 μg/mg). Correlation analysis demonstrated that oleic acid had the highest partial correlation coefficient with total FAs and might be applied to develop a model of phenotypic characteristics. FAs were significantly influenced by the following environmental factors: latitude, elevation, and annual average temperature. Based on the FA levels in the seed oils, clustering analysis divided 14 populations into two clusters. It was found that the average contents of oleic acid, linoleic acid, and total FAs in cluster I (147.16 μg/mg, 200.31 μg/mg, and 671.24 μg/mg, respectively) were significantly lower than those in cluster II (196.65 μg/mg, 220.16 μg/mg, and 741.78 μg/mg, respectively). Cluster I was perfectly consistent with subsect. Foliolatae, while cluster II was in good agreement with subsect. Dissectifoliae. Therefore, the FA composition of wild herbaceous peony seed oil might be used as a chemotaxonomic marker.
A Retro‐biosynthesis‐Based Route to Generate Pinene‐Derived Polyesters
Authors: Stamm Arne , Biundo Antonino , Schmidt Björn , Brücher Jörg , Lundmark Stefan , Olsén Peter , Fogelström Linda , Malmström Eva , Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Syrén Per‐Olof
Published: February 2019

Significantly increased production of biobased polymers is a prerequisite to replace petroleum‐based materials towards reaching a circular bioeconomy. However, many renewable building blocks from wood and other plant material are not directly amenable for polymerization, due to their inert backbones and/or lack of functional group compatibility with the desired polymerization type. Based on a retro‐biosynthetic analysis of polyesters, a chemoenzymatic route from (−)‐α‐pinene towards a verbanone‐based lactone, which is further used in ring‐opening polymerization, is presented. Generated pinene‐derived polyesters showed elevated degradation and glass transition temperatures, compared with poly(ϵ‐decalactone), which lacks a ring structure in its backbone. Semirational enzyme engineering of the cyclohexanone monooxygenase from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus enabled the biosynthesis of the key lactone intermediate for the targeted polyester. As a proof of principle, one enzyme variant identified from screening in a microtiter plate was used in biocatalytic upscaling, which afforded the bicyclic lactone in 39 % conversion in shake flask scale reactions.
Geographic origin identification and rapid determination of four constituents of Gentiana rigescens by FTIR combined with chemometrics
Authors: Zhao Yanli , Yuan Tianjun , Zhang Ji , Wang Yuanzhong
Published: February 2019

Gentiana rigescens is one of the most important traditional Chinese medicines because of its therapeutic effects in protecting the liver and promoting bile discharge, anti‐hypertension, and spasm and pain relief. To enhance quality control, a comprehensive assessment of G. rigescens from different geographic origins by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) in combination with chemometrics was conducted. Through pretreatment by the second derivative, spectrum standard deviation and Monte Carlo uninformative variable elimination (MC‐UVE), the characteristic FTIR spectra were selected and an identification model of the different geographic origins of G. rigescens was built by partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA). The validation results showed that the accuracy rates of the model were 100%, 97.22%, and 100% for samples from Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan, respectively. On the basis of the correlation between characteristic spectral points and the contents of swertiamarin, gentiopicroside, sweroside, and loganic acid, quantitative models were established by partial least squares regression (PLSR). The measured and predicted values were not significantly different as assessed through the paired t test (p > 0.05). Additionally, the characteristic spectra were interpreted, and 93 common peaks were selected. FTIR analysis combined with chemometric methods could accurately identify the different geographic origins of G. rigescens and rapidly predict the content of swertiamarin, gentiopicroside, sweroside, and loganic acid, thus providing a comprehensive method of evaluating traditional Chinese medicines.
Enhanced low‐temperature Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) of NOx by CuO‐CeO2‐MnOx/γ‐Al2O3 mixed oxide catalysts
Authors: Sun Jiaxing , Chen Heng , Wu Hao , Zhou Changsong , Yang Hongmin
Published: February 2019

A series of CuO‐MnOx‐CeO2/γ‐Al2O3 catalysts in different ratios were synthesized by a sol‐gel method with the purpose of improving the low‐temperature denitration performance (loading a transition mental oxide (MnOx, CeO2) on a CuO/γ‐Al2O3 copper‐based catalyst). The denitration performance of a low‐temperature SCR under the condition of simulated flue gas was measured using the programmed heating method in the catalytic reaction efficiency evaluation system. The denitration efficiency of the 6 % CuO‐5 % MnOx‐10 % CeO2/γ‐Al2O3 catalytic particles was maintained at over 80 % within a temperature range of 100–200 °C. The catalysts were characterized by surface area analysis (BET), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The best surface structure characteristics include the 5 % MnOx + 10 % CeO2 loading capacity of the catalyst, which was indicated by a BET analysis. The catalyst surface structure characteristics were effectively promoted by the amount of CeO2 and MnO2 loading proved by the SEM analysis. The possible mechanisms involved in SCR denitration at a low temperature were also discussed. The experimental results revealed that the catalyst granule with perfect surface characteristics and pore features was successfully synthesized by the sol‐gel method. The denitration performances were restrained by 10 % of H2O and 800 mg · m−3 of SO2, indicating that SO2 and H2O have an inhibiting effect on NOx conversion.
Facile Synthesis of Stable MO2N Nanobelts with High Catalytic Activity for Ammonia Decomposition
Authors: Xu Jun , Yan Han , Jin Zhao , Jia Chun‐Jiang
Published: February 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

In the present work, high quality γ‐Mo2N catalysts for ammonia decomposition were successfully synthesized via temperature programmed nitridation of α‐MoO3 nanobelts. The optimal conditions for the synthesis of MoO3 precursors were obtained by using the orthogonal experimental method. The MoO3 precursors and the corresponding fresh and used Mo2N catalysts were characterized by various characterization techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and N2 adsorption‐desorption. Furthermore, temperature‐ programmed desorption by N2 or NH3 and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis were performed to better understand the chemical properties of Mo2N catalysts. The results revealed that Mo2N catalyst has good NH3 adsorption ability and facilitates the dissociation adsorption of N2. Moreover, the morphology and structure of Mo2N catalysts well maintained after the reaction. Therefore, among the three transition metal nitrides (Mo2N, W2N and VN) and some Mo‐based catalysts previously reported, Mo2N catalysts showed very high activity and stability. Nearly 94% conversion of NH3 could be reached at 550°C with the gas hourly space velocity of 22000 cm3∙gcat–1∙h–1 and no obvious deactivation was observed during a 72 h test.
Psychiatric disorders in adolescent cancer survivors: A systematic review of prevalence and predictors
Authors: Kosir Urska , Wiedemann Milan , Wild Jennifer , Bowes Lucy
Published: February 2019

Background

Adolescent cancer survivors are a particularly vulnerable group of young patients. Compared with healthy peers, adolescent survivors face more psychosocial difficulties and are at increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders.

Aims

We aimed to establish prevalence rates and predictors of psychiatric disorders in young cancer survivors and discuss areas for targeted interventions.

Method

We systematically reviewed four major online databases: Embase, PsychINFO, Scopus, and Medline for quantitative studies evaluating mental health in adolescent cancer survivors. We used a narrative synthesis approach.

Results

Nineteen studies met our inclusion criteria. Across the sample, up to 34% met criteria for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 13% for clinical depression, and 8% for anxiety. Maladaptive coping, illness relapse, higher number of late effects, brain tumor diagnosis, and poor family functioning and parental distress were associated with higher psychological distress.

Conclusions

A significant subset of adolescent survivors reports PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms. Individuals who present with more vulnerabilities and higher risk indices should be routinely assessed in order to reduce the psychological, social, and economic burden associated with poor mental health in this population. Early prevention strategies should target maladaptive coping mechanisms and promote healthy peer relationships and family functioning.
Electronic and Photophysical Properties of 9,10‐Anthrylene‐Bridged B‐π‐N Donor‐Acceptor Molecules with Solid‐State Emission in the Yellow to Red Region
Authors: Uebe Masashi , Sakamaki Daisuke , Ito Akihiro
Published: February 2019

9,10‐Anthrylene‐bridged triarylborane‐triarylamine donor–acceptor compounds were prepared to examine the influence of the bulky π‐bridge on the electronic and photophysical properties of the compounds, with the aim of realizing their solid‐state emission. The intramolecular charge‐transfer (ICT) absorption and emission between the vacant p orbital on the boron center, p(B), and occupied p orbital on the nitrogen center, p(N), through the π orbital of the anthrylene, π(anthrylene), were observed, and it was demonstrated that the HOMO‐LUMO gap decreased with increasing number of introduced anthrylene units because of the effective lowering of LUMO originating from the p(B)‐π(anthrylene) orbital interaction. The compounds exhibited solid‐state emission with emission maxima at 560 nm and 643 nm, respectively, in the yellow to red region, with the corresponding absolute solid‐state quantum yield of 18 % and 31 %, as a result of the combination of the highly congested structure originating from the anthrylene π‐bridge and the introduction of bulky tert‐butyl protecting groups.
Diastereoselective Photocycloaddition Reaction of Vinyl Ether Tethered to 1,4‐Naphthoquinone
Authors: Ishikawa Hiroki , Chung Tim S. , Fukuhara Gaku , Shigemitsu Hajime , Kida Toshiyuki , Bach Thorsten , Mori Tadashi
Published: February 2019

The intramolecular asymmetric photocycloaddition between 1,4‐naphthoquinone and vinyl ether with a small (R)‐point‐chiral group on the tether was studied. Under photoirradiation, [2+2] cyclobutane products were exclusively obtained for this intramolecular system. The effect of solvent polarity on the stereoselectivity was significant, with predominant formation of the (2R,S3) over the (2R,R3) isomer in non‐polar solvents being reversed in slightly polar dichloromethane. The detailed temperature‐dependent study revealed the dominant diastereo‐differentiating processes, which were switched between the ground‐state equilibrium, the relative rate of bond formation in the triplet manifold, as well as deactivation processes between the pro‐(S3) and pro‐(R3) precursors, depending on the temperature domain examined. The enthalpic contribution (ΔΔH≠) was always compensated by the entropic factor (ΔΔS≠), implying the importance of solvation on the diastereo‐differentiation steps. The mechanism of photocycloaddition, especially for the face‐selective processes, is thoroughly discussed, which is supported by quantum chemical calculations on the ground‐state circular dichroism (CD) spectral behavior as well as on the diastereomeric transition states in the triplet excited state.
A new switched‐capacitor/switched‐inductor–based converter with high voltage gain and low voltage stress on switches
Authors: Chavoshipour Heris Pedram , Saadatizadeh Zahra , Sabahi Mehran , Babaei Ebrahim
Published: February 2019

In this paper, a nonisolated transformerless switched‐capacitor/switched‐inductor–based dc‐dc converter with high voltage gain is proposed. The proposed converter has low voltage stress on switches and diodes which leads to decrease the switching losses. The voltage gain of the proposed converter can be increased by adding more diode‐capacitor modules at output side; therefore, the proposed converter has expandable structure. The proposed converter has higher voltage gain and lower voltage stress on switches comparing with the other similar switched‐capacitor–based converters. The proposed converter uses two switches with the same switching pattern. Therefore, its switching pattern is not complicated. In this paper, the proposed converter is analyzed during a switching period which has two operating modes. Moreover, the average current through the switches, diodes, and inductors; voltage stress on switches and diodes; voltage gain; maximum and minimum current of switches and diodes; and the efficiency curve are calculated. Finally, in order to verify the accuracy performance of the proposed converter, a 530‐W 40 to 920‐V prototype is implemented practically.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of metastatic spindle cell follicular thyroid carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Chen Yu‐Hsin , Perrino Carmen M. , Cheng Liang , Wu Howard H.
Published: February 2019

Follicular thyroid carcinoma, spindle cell variant is extremely rare. The tumor is predominantly composed of spindle cells with a fusiform appearance that are arranged in intersecting fascicles. Fine‐needle aspiration biopsy of this entity has not been previously described. We report a case of a 58‐year‐old woman who presented with metastasis to a left neck lymph node 15 years after the original diagnosis. Fine‐needle aspiration cytology showed numerous bland, spindled to epithelioid cells with thin, elongated, and plump nuclei with finely granular chromatin and inconspicuous nucleoli. The tumor cells had a moderate amount of cytoplasm with occasional elongated cytoplasmic tails. The cells were arranged in irregular aggregates with a fascicular pattern or singly dispersed. The tumor cells demonstrated positive staining for pan‐keratin, PAX8, thyroid transcription factor‐1, and thyroglobulin, which confirmed thyroid primary origin.
Applying the disgust conditioning model of food avoidance: A case study of acceptance‐based interoceptive exposure
Authors: Plasencia Maribel , Sysko Robyn , Fink Keren , Hildebrandt Tom
Published: February 2019

Objective

The current case report details the treatment of a 16‐year‐old adolescent with anorexia nervosa utilizing a novel adjunct, acceptance‐based interoceptive exposure, prior to family‐based treatment (FBT) for eating disorders.

Method

The exposure‐based module focused particularly on the tolerance of disgust. For six sessions, the clinician taught the client skills that could be used to tolerate distress to visceral sensations associated with disgust. These skills were to be used during in‐ and between‐session exposures. Each session included exposure to physical sensations that occurred while drinking a milkshake.

Results

Across six sessions, the client reported improvement in symptoms in addition to gaining weight. Additionally, she consumed more calories of a test meal following the intervention. Within broader FBT, the client reached an established weight goal, was able to return to physical activity, and reported an increased ability to manage distress.

Discussion

Given the client's improvement on the Eating Disorders Examination‐Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) within six sessions, we believe IE may be a useful adjunct to FBT. Interoceptive exposure may augment the efficacy of FBT for anorexia nervosa as it provides clients with skills to utilize during the refeeding phase of treatment.