bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ligand Effects on the Electronic Structure of Heteroleptic Antimony‐Centered Radicals
Authors: Helling Christoph , Cutsail George E. , Weinert Hanns , Wölper Christoph , Schulz Stephan
Published: February 2020

We report on the structures of three unprecedented heteroleptic Sb‐centered radicals [L(Cl)Ga](R)Sb. (2‐R, R=B[N(Dip)CH]2 2‐B, 2,6‐Mes2C6H3 2‐C, N(SiMe3)Dip 2‐N) stabilized by one electropositive metal fragment [L(Cl)Ga] (L=HC[C(Me)N(Dip)]2, Dip=2,6‐i‐Pr2C6H3) and one bulky B‐ (2‐B), C‐ (2‐C), or N‐based (2‐N) substituent. Compounds 2‐R are predominantly metal‐centered radicals. Their electronic properties are largely influenced by the electronic nature of the ligands R, and significant delocalization of unpaired‐spin density onto the ligands was observed in 2‐B and 2‐N. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) studies showed that 2‐B undergoes a quasi‐reversible one‐electron reduction, which was confirmed by the synthesis of [K([2.2.2]crypt)][L(Cl)GaSbB[N(Dip)CH]2] ([K([2.2.2]crypt)][2‐B]) containing the stibanyl anion [2‐B]−, which was shown to possess significant Sb−B multiple‐bonding character.
Fabrication and characterization of flexible ruthenium oxide‐loaded polyaniline/poly(vinyl alcohol) nanofibers
Authors: Chamakh Mariem , Ayesh Ahmad I. , Gharaibeh Mohammad F.
Published: February 2020

Polyaniline/poly(vinyl alcohol)/ruthenium oxide (RuO2) composite nanofibers were produced by electrospinning technique. Hydrous ruthenium chloride was used as a precursor at different concentrations, and the samples were annealed at 200°C. The morphology of the nanofibers was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. The average diameter of the produced nanofibers is between 200 and 300 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used for the investigation of the vibration modes and structure of the samples. Differential scanning calorimeter, and thermal gravimetric analysis up to 400°C revealed the crystallinity degree and thermal stability of the samples. Impedance spectroscopy for the samples with capacitor structure was conducted as function of RuO2 concentration and temperature. The tests revealed the decrease of electrical resistivity and activation energy with increasing RuO2 concentration for the as‐prepared samples, while the annealed samples showed lower activation energy values of ~0.1 eV with increasing the concentration of RuO2. The electrical properties of the fabricated composite nanofibers could be controlled that make them suitable to be utilized in devices for energy storage applications.
Microstructural Anomalies Evaluated by Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging Are Related to Deficits in Facial Emotional Recognition via Perceptual‐Binding Difficulties in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Yasuno Fumihiko , Makinodan Manabu , Takahashi Masato , Matsuoka Kiwamu , Yoshikawa Hiroaki , Kitamura Soichiro , Ishida Rio , Kishimoto Naoko , Miyasaka Toshiteru , Kichikawa Kimihiko , Kishimoto Toshifumi
Published: February 2020

The integration of visual features is important for recognizing objects as a coherent whole, a key domain of difficulty in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We tested the hypothesis that ASD patients exhibit difficulties in facial emotional recognition via perceptual binding difficulties due to weak coherence. We assessed 18 ASD and 27 typically developing individuals for their ability to identify emotional expressions from faces in pictures moving behind a narrow vertical and horizontal slit. In this task, only a single local piece of facial information was provided at any one time through the slit. Using a voxel‐based analysis of neurite‐orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), we examined the relationship between NODDI index values at each voxel and the behavioral performance of ASD patients in the slit‐viewing paradigm. ASD patients demonstrated impaired recognition of facial emotional expression only in horizontal slit‐viewing. This deficit was associated with deficits in communication ability. Voxel‐based analysis revealed significant negative correlations between behavioral deficits in horizontal slit‐viewing and NODDI index values in clusters including the ventral occipital complex region, superior temporal/parietal association areas, and forceps major of the corpus callosum. Our results indicated deficits for the first time in perceptual integration of facial expression across hemispheres in ASD patients due to microstructural disturbances in the corpus callosum and areas related to viewing of the human face. This may underscore the difficulties faced by ASD patients in understanding the emotions of other people, contributing to impairments in communication ability in ASD patients. Autism Res 2020, 13: 729–740. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

We assessed ASD and typically developing individuals for their ability to identify emotional expressions from faces in pictures moving behind a narrow vertical and horizontal slit. ASD patients demonstrated impaired recognition of facial emotional expression only in horizontal slit‐viewing. Voxel‐based analysis revealed significant negative correlations between behavioral deficits and NODDI index values in clusters including the corpus callosum. Our results indicated deficits in perceptual integration of facial expression across hemispheres in ASD patients potentially resulting from microstructural disturbances.
Promoting bidirectional extracellular electron transfer of Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 for hexavalent chromium reduction via elevating intracellular cAMP level
Authors: Cheng Zhou‐Hua , Xiong Jia‐Rui , Min Di , Cheng Lei , Liu Dong‐Feng , Li Wen‐Wei , Jin Fan , Yang Min , Yu Han‐Qing
Published: February 2020

The bioreduction capacity of Cr(VI) by Shewanella is mainly governed by its bidirectional extracellular electron transfer (EET). However, the low bidirectional EET efficiency restricts its wider applications in remediation of the environments contaminated by Cr(VI). Cyclic adenosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate (cAMP) commonly exists in Shewanella strains and cAMP–cyclic adenosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate receptor protein (CRP) system regulates multiple bidirectional EET‐related pathways. This inspires us to strengthen the bidirectional EET through elevating the intracellular cAMP level in Shewanella strains. In this study, an exogenous gene encoding adenylate cyclase from the soil bacterium Beggiatoa sp. PS is functionally expressed in Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 (the strain MR‐1/pbPAC) and a MR‐1 mutant lacking all endogenous adenylate cyclase encoding genes (the strain Δca/pbPAC). The engineered strains exhibit the enhanced bidirectional EET capacities in microbial electrochemical systems compared with their counterparts. Meanwhile, a three times more rapid reduction rate of Cr(VI) is achieved by the strain MR‐1/pbPAC than the control in batch experiments. Furthermore, a higher Cr(VI) reduction efficiency is also achieved by the strain MR‐1/pbPAC in the Cr(VI)‐reducing biocathode experiments. Such a bidirectional enhancement is attributed to the improved production of cAMP–CRP complex, which upregulates the expression levels of the genes encoding the c‐type cytochromes and flavins synthetic pathways. Specially, this strategy could be used as a broad‐spectrum approach for the other Shewanella strains. Our results demonstrate that elevating the intracellular cAMP levels could be an efficient strategy to enhance the bidirectional EET of Shewanella strains and improve their pollutant transformation capacity.
The prognostic value of standardized phase angle in adults with acute leukemia: A prospective study
Authors: Yates Samuel J. , Lyerly Susan , Manuel Megan , Tooze Janet A. , Klepin Heidi D. , Powell Bayard L. , Dralle Sarah , Uprety Alok , Pardee Timothy S.
Published: February 2020

Standardized phase angle (SPhA) is a tool used to estimate body composition and cell membrane integrity. Standardized phase angle has been shown to predict survival in solid malignancies and hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients. We investigated the predictive value of SPhA on 60‐day mortality, overall survival (OS), and length of hospital stay (LHS) for adults with acute myelogenous and lymphoblastic leukemia (AML and ALL). Consecutive patients ≥18 years with newly diagnosed acute leukemia receiving intensive chemotherapy were enrolled. Phase angle measurements were taken on day 1 of therapy for all patients and on the day of nadir marrow for AML patients. Measurements were standardized by BMI, gender, and age to calculate the SPhA. The difference between SPhA at nadir bone marrow compared to day 1 of induction was used to calculate change in SPhA. A cutoff of 25th percentile was used to dichotomize baseline SPhA. Among 100 patients, 88% were AML, 56% were female, and mean age was 59 years. Though not statistically significant, OS by Kaplan‐Meier analysis was shorter for those below the 25th percentile SPhA compared to those above (median OS: 11.0 months vs 19.5 months; P = .09). Lower baseline SPhA was associated with increased incidence of 60‐day mortality in univariable (odds ratio [OR] = 5.25; 1.35, 20.44; P = .02) but not multivariable analysis (OR = 3.12; 0.67, 14.48; P = .15) adjusted for age, creatinine, and cytogenetics. Increased change in SPhA was associated with worse OS (hazard ratio = 1.15; 1.00,1.33; P = .05) in multivariable analysis. Standardized phase angle is a rapid, noninvasive, and objective measure that may be used to inform risk stratification.
Extended half‐life rFIX in major surgery—How to improve clinical practice: An intraindividual comparison
Authors: Valeri Federica , Agnelli Giacchello Jacopo , Dainese Cristina , Valpreda Alessandra , Montaruli Barbara , Dosio Enrico , Boccadoro Mario , Borchiellini Alessandra
Published: February 2020

Practical, safe, and effective hemostatic approach to orthopedic surgery using Extended Half‐Life factor IX in hemophilia B. By intraindividual comparison, we found a lower FIX consumption, number of infusions, and cost compared to plasma‐derived FIX.
Conjugated Random Terpolymer Donors towards High‐Efficiency Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Gao Xuyu , Wu Yijing , Tao Youtian , Huang Wei
Published: February 2020

Over the past decades, polymer solar cells (PSCs) which contain conjugated polymers as electron donor and/or acceptor materials in active layers have achieved the power conversion efficiency (PCE) over 17%. Among them, tremendous alternative donor‐acceptor (D‐A) type conjugated copolymers have been reported as donor materials. Nevertheless, plenty of rooms still exist to further improve the photovoltaic performance for practical applications. Besides the exploration of the increasingly challenging novel D and/or A monomers to construct new D‐A copolymer donors, conjugated random terpolymer donors which involve a third existing monomer (D or A) provide an extra simple promising strategy to promote the photovoltaic performance to a higher level. Herein, recent progress on random terpolymer donors for efficient PSCs was reviewed. Firstly, random terpolymer donors were classified by several typical molecular building blocks. Then, the influences of the third monomer on various random terpolymers were highlighted according to the enhancement of light‐harvesting ability, modification of energy levels and optimization of the bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) morphology. Finally, several issues which might be concerned in future research on random terpolymer donors were proposed. This review may be helpful for providing guidelines to design efficient random terpolymer donors as well as better‐understanding of the structure‐property‐performance correlations towards high performance PSCs via random terpolymer approach.
Tumor Cell Membrane‐Coated Liquid Metal Nanovaccine for Tumor Preventionǂ
Authors: Zhang Yu , Liu Miao‐Deng , Li Chu‐Xin , Li Bin , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: February 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Herein, we report on a tumor nanovaccine LMNP@CM that enhances the process of antigen‐presenting by stimulating the immune system to uptake tumor antigens actively. The nanovaccine is comprised of polyethylene glycol modified liquid metal nanoparticles (LMNP) and tumor cell membranes (CM) as antigens. Under 808 nm irradiation, the photothermal conversion effect of injected LMNP can cause mild local inflammation, and subsequently induces antigen‐presenting cells active recruitment and facilitates cellular uptake of tumor antigens. Meanwhile, because of the immune adjuvant effect of metal materials, the nanovaccine LMNP@CM promotes the maturation and activation of antigen‐presenting cells and induces anti‐tumor immune response effectively. By priming the host immune recognition of tumor antigens, this nanovaccine displays prophylactic effects and significantly suppresses tumor growth in a mouse breast tumor model. The nanovaccine LMNP@CM represents a novel strategy of utilizing light‐controlled means to actively induce anti‐tumor immune processes, showing advanced therapeutic potentials and robust adaptability for treating multiple tumors by changing the loaded antigens.
Vortex Fluidic Mediated Synthesis of TiO2 Nanoparticle/MXene Composites
Authors: Al‐antaki Ahmed Hussein Mohammed , Alharbi Thaar M. D. , Kellici Suela , Power Nicholas P. , Lawrance Warren , Raston Colin L.
Published: February 2020

Oxidation of MXene in a vortex fluidic device (VFD) operating under continuous flow results in exfoliation and fragmentation into nanoparticles of surface oxidised 2D material with further oxidation of the nanoparticles into anatase (TiO2). These MXene and anatase nanoparticles co‐assemble into stable micron sized spheres which are topologically smooth, decorating the surface of exfoliated MXene. The formation of this composite material in the dynamic thin film in the VFD was optimised by systematically exploring the operating parameters of the microfluidic platform, determined at 45° tilt angle for the 20 mm diameter glass tube spinning at 5k rpm, with a flow rate of a colloidal dispersion of MXene in aqueous H2O2 (30%) at 0.75 mL/min at a concentration of MXene of 0.5 mg/mL.
Insights into brain metastasis: Recent advances in circulating tumor cell research
Authors: Klotz Remi , Yu Min
Published: February 2020

Background

How tumor cells disseminate to brain and establish brain metastasis remains partly an unsolved problem. This devastating complication of many cancers is initiated by a rare subset of the circulating tumor cells (CTCs) shed into the blood stream. Thus, the profiling of the molecular properties in these brain metastasis‐initiating CTCs is essential to uncover the mechanisms underlying brain metastasis.

Recent Findings

Important efforts to improve the enrichment and detection of CTCs enabled the detailed molecular and functional analysis of CTCs that drive brain metastasis. In this review, we highlight key findings on existing preclinical studies that provide insights toward a comprehensive picture of brain metastasis‐precursors in CTCs and the potential clinical implications.

Conclusion

A deeper understanding of the brain metastasis precursors should help to stratify high‐risk patients and improve preventive therapeutic strategies. Although all these preclinical evidences have yet to be translated into patients, they provide considerable hope to benefit patients with brain metastases in the future.
Metal Catalyst‐Free Oxidative C−C Bond Cleavage of a Lignin Model Compound by H2O2 in Formic acid
Authors: Li Xiukai , Zhang Yugen
Published: February 2020

Selective cleavage of the β‐O‐4 ether bond of lignin to produce aromatics is one of the most important topics for the sustainable production of chemicals from biomass. A simple system has been developed for Cα−Cβ bond cleavage of a β‐O‐4 ketone‐structured lignin model compound (LMC) by H2O2 in formic acid under metal catalyst‐free conditions. By using this simple system, with H2O2, formic acid, and mineral acid catalyst, over 90 % product yield is achieved in 6 h at room temperature. The reaction proceeds through the classic Baeyer–Villiger oxidation and in situ‐generated performic acid serves as the key oxidant. The cleavage of alcoholic LMCs by using the presented method in a two‐step process is also demonstrated.
Single‐Molecule Dye Organics with Multielectron Redox Processes as Cathode Materials for Lithium Secondary Batteries
Authors: Men Fang , Liu Ning , Lan Qing , Zhao Yali , Qin Jian , Song Zhiping , Zhan Hui
Published: February 2020

Dissolution loss is the biggest issue for an organic electrode material, and nowadays the most popular strategy to avoid it is to synthesize a polymer or add a large amount of conductive carbon. In this study, the issue is addressed by using monomolecular organics with a relatively long chain and large size. A dye composed of quinones and a carbazole is proposed as the cathode material for a Li secondary battery. The unique structure of more than three quinones joined by a carbazole bridge improves the cycling stability significantly. In addition to the widely known enolization reaction of the quinone moiety, extra anion‐doping capacity is supplied by the carbazole moiety. As a result of the multiple active sites, multielectron redox transfer and remarkable capacity enhancement are realized by using Vet Yellow 3RT dye material. It shows a stable capacity up to 340 mAh g−1 within 300 cycles. XRD, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electrochemical measurements were used to confirm the reactivity of the carbonyl group and the N‐heterocycle toward Li+ and PF6−, respectively. In this work, a new application of this dye material is revealed, providing a new avenue to address the dissolution loss and capacity breakthrough of organic batteries.
Effusion cytology of malignant mesothelioma enables earlier diagnosis and recognizes patients with better prognosis
Authors: Abd Own Sulaf , Höijer Jonas , Hillerdahl Gunnar , Dobra Katalin , Hjerpe Anders
Published: February 2020

A conclusive diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma (MM) can be based on effusion cytology using the guidelines for the cytopathologic diagnosis of epithelioid and mixed‐type MM. Briefly, the diagnosis is obtained when the mesothelial phenotype of malignant cells is established by ancillary techniques. This study is based on the comparison of the overall survival rates of patients with MM when diagnosed by effusion cytology, histopathology, or a combination of both. A total of 144 patients were diagnosed with epithelioid and mixed‐type pleural MM at Karolinska University Hospital between 2004 and 2013. The diagnosis was obtained by histopathology in 74 cases and by cytological examination of pleural effusion in 70 cases. In 29 of the latter cases, a diagnostic biopsy was obtained simultaneously. A total of 104 patients received chemotherapy. All diagnoses were supported by clinical findings, including computer tomography scans. The median time between first symptoms and diagnosis was similar for cytology and histopathology. However, a delay of more than 6 months after first symptoms was seen in many patients in the histopathology group, resulting in late onset of treatment. The overall survival and proportion of long‐term survival were significantly better for cases diagnosed by cytology. Similarly, a better survival, following a cytological diagnosis, was also seen in patients who were only provided the best supportive care. Accurate cytological diagnosis enables conclusive diagnosis of MM. Our finding enables the initiation of treatment as soon as the cytological diagnosis is established, avoiding further delay and deterioration of patient survival and possibilities for treatment.
Targeting neutrophils using novel drug delivery systems in chronic respiratory diseases
Authors: Chellappan Dinesh K. , Yee Lim W. , Xuan Kong Y. , Kunalan Kishen , Rou Lim C. , Jean Leong S. , Ying Lee Y. , Wie Lee X. , Chellian Jestin , Mehta Meenu , Satija Saurabh , Singh Sachin K. , Gulati Monica , Dureja Harish , Da Silva Mateus Webba , Tambuwala Murtaza M. , Gupta Gaurav , Paudel Keshav R. , Wadhwa Ridhima , Hansbro Philip M. , Dua Kamal
Published: February 2020

Neutrophils are essential effector cells of immune system for clearing the extracellular pathogens during inflammation and immune reactions. Neutrophils play a major role in chronic respiratory diseases. In respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer and others, there occurs extreme infiltration and activation of neutrophils followed by a cascade of events like oxidative stress and dysregulated cellular proteins that eventually result in apoptosis and tissue damage. Dysregulation of neutrophil effector functions including delayed neutropil apoptosis, increased neutrophil extracellular traps in the pathogenesis of asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease enable neutrophils as a potential therapeutic target. Accounting to their role in pathogenesis, neutrophils present as an excellent therapeutic target for the treatment of chronic respiratory diseases. This review highlights the current status and the emerging trends in novel drug delivery systems such as nanoparticles, liposomes, microspheres, and other newer nanosystems that can target neutrophils and their molecular pathways, in the airways against infections, inflammation, and cancer. These drug delivery systems are promising in providing sustained drug delivery, reduced therapeutic dose, improved patient compliance, and reduced drug toxicity. In addition, the review also discusses emerging strategies and the future perspectives in neutrophil‐based therapy.
Considerations at the intersection of race, ethnicity, and disability
Authors: Eidtson William , Brandon Alicia J.
Published: February 2020

Underrepresented racial and ethnic students in the health sciences may face unique barriers to accessing disability services due to compounding, socially stigmatizing factors. Disability resource providers must be aware of these potential barriers and be prepared to address them.
Be proactive in addressing physical access to make campus more inclusive with fewer accommodations
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: February 2020

BOSTON — Taking a proactive approach to access can mean students need fewer accommodations, and they feel welcomed on campus. Gabriel Merrell, Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator at Oregon State University, explained what his institution has done to increase access at a session at the Association for Higher Education And Disability annual conference.
Quantifying rapidly declining abundance of insects in Europe using a paired experimental design
Authors: Møller Anders Pape
Published: February 2020

The abundance of insects has decreased for the last decades in many parts of the world although so far few studies have quantified this reduction because there have only been few baseline studies dating back decades that have allowed comparison of ancient and recent population estimates. Such a paired design is particularly powerful because it reduces or eliminates bias caused by differences in identity and experience of observers, identity of study sites, years, time of season, and time of day, and it ensures identity of sampling procedures. Here, I compiled information on the reduction in abundance of insects in Europe and Algeria by the same persons compiling the abundance of insects from the same 21 study sites during 1951–1997 and again a second time in 1998–2018. There was a reduction by 47% in the abundance of insects. The difference in abundance in old compared to new samples declined with latitude, with a significant variance among taxa. This reduction in abundance of insects was of such a magnitude that it must have consequences for insectivores and the role that insects play in ecosystems.
Reinforcement in the banded darter Etheostoma zonale: The effect of sex and sympatry on preferences
Authors: Roberts Natalie S. , Mendelson Tamra C.
Published: February 2020

Reinforcement occurs when selection against hybrid offspring strengthens behavioral isolation between parental species and may be an important factor in speciation. Theoretical models and experimental evidence indicate that both female and male preferences can be strengthened upon secondary contact via reinforcement. However, the question remains whether this process is more likely to affect the preferences of one sex or the other. Males of polygynous species are often predicted to exhibit weaker preferences than females, potentially limiting the ability for reinforcement to shape male preferences. Yet, in darters (Percidae: Etheostoma), male preference for conspecific mates appears to arise before female preferences during the early stages of allopatric speciation, and research suggests that male, but not female, preferences become reinforced upon secondary contact. In the current study, we aimed to determine whether the geographically widespread darter species Etheostoma zonale exhibits a signature of reinforcement, by comparing the strength of preference for conspecific mates between populations that are sympatric and allopatric with respect to a close congener, E. barrenense. We examined the strength of preference for conspecifics for males and females separately to determine whether the preferences of one or both sexes have been strengthened by reinforcement. Our results show that both sexes of E. zonale from sympatric populations exhibit stronger conspecific preferences than E. zonale from allopatric populations, but that female preferences appear to be more strongly reinforced than male preferences. Results therefore suggest that reinforcement of female preferences may promote behavioral isolation upon secondary contact, even in a genus that is characterized by pervasive male mate choice.
Azorella compacta: survival champions in extreme, high‐elevation environments
Authors: Pugnaire Francisco I. , Morillo José A. , Armas Cristina , Rodríguez‐Echeverría Susana , Gaxiola Aurora
Published: February 2020

Cushion plants are life forms with a hemispherical or mat‐like, prostrate canopy well adapted to the extreme conditions of cold regions that have appealed to scientists for their ability to cope with extreme environments in most mountains, arctic, and subantarctic regions of the world. They can buffer the effects of low temperature and drought and improve soil conditions, which makes them notable facilitator species. Living at the edge in the Atacama Desert is one such species, Azorella compacta (yareta or llareta), in the Apiaceae family that can reach much over 6 m (~20 ft) in diameter with a mat‐like shape that tends to hemispherical growth form. Azorella compacta can be found in the dry Puna system, which spreads from northern Chile and Argentina to southern Peru and western Bolivia, between 3800 and 5200 m elevation, making it one of the woody plant species occurring at highest elevations in the world. In this deserted edge of the Atacama, nutrient limitation adds to other stressors such as water scarcity and high UV radiation. A compact canopy and the fact that they are embedded in resin prevent beneficiary species from growing within the cushion and condition how senesced leaves decompose inside the canopy. They can reach 3000 yr old and have to deal with episodic disturbance and herbivory events. Plants in such environments may potentially act as microbial refuges, and it could be expected that bacterial endophytes and mycorrhizal fungi have a main role in the functioning of these survival champions.
Selective Formation of Epoxylimonene Catalyzed by Phosphonyl/Arsoníyl Derivatives of Trivacant Polyoxotungstates at Low Temperature
Authors: Makrygenni Ourania , Vanmairis Louise , Taourit Sabrina , Launay Franck , Shum Cheong Sing Alain , Proust Anna , Gérard Hélène , Villanneau Richard
Published: February 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue are Richard Villanneau, Sorbonne Université, Paris, Alain ShumàCheongàSing, Université de la Réunion, Saint‐Denis, France, and co‐workers. The cover image shows the oxidation of limonene to epoxylimonene against a background of orange trees typical of Réunion Island.
Efficient numerical solutions of Neumann problems in inhomogeneous media from their probabilistic representations and applications
Authors: Raghavan Raghu , Brady Martin L.
Published: February 2020

The Neumann problem, particularly for problems exterior to a bounding surface, is very useful in a number of situations. Those that are described by elliptic and parabolic partial differential equations are immediately amenable to probabilistic representations for the solutions, the numerical implementation of which has several advantages including parallelism and for obtaining solutions at specific desired points or subregions. Although these representations have been known for a long time to mathematicians, the numerical implementation of these seems to have been little used. The purpose of this note is to point out that a suitable characterization of the mathematical representation results in an efficient scheme and to give some numerical examples, including from our own work involving detailed modeling of drug transport in tissue.
Three‐dimensional Lattice Boltzmann simulation of gas‐water transport in tight sandstone porous media: Influence of microscopic surface forces
Authors: Hu Chaoyang , Wang Fengjiao , Liu Yikun , Zhi Jiqiang
Published: February 2020

A three‐dimensional two‐phase Lattice Boltzmann model was developed and validated for the fundamental phenomena of gas‐water transport in tight porous media considering microscopic forces, namely, the electrostatic and solid‐liquid intermolecular forces. The thickness of the water film adhering to the porous media surface was calculated based on the principle of thermodynamic equilibrium and the gas‐water electrostatic potential energy. The Lattice Boltzmann model simulations focused on the effects of the microscopic forces and water film thickness on the gas‐water transport in tight porous media. The fluid flow in the porous media was simulated under different conditions for the characteristic length, interfacial tension, and displacement pressure gradient. The results confirmed that the gas‐water transport is strongly affected by the microscopic forces in tight porous media and that the transport process is accompanied by a high seepage resistance. The seepage resistance is more pronounced in the case of smaller pores because the adhering water film is thicker and more stable. During the transport process, the water film may disintegrate under certain conditions, which would enhance the gas flow in the porous media. However, it is difficult to effectively improve the gas flow by increasing the displacement pressure gradient under microscopic forces; this can be attributed to the accumulation of water or increased seepage resistance dictated by the interfacial tension, which occurs more frequently with smaller pores. This paper provides a promising new perspective for efficiently improving the Lattice Boltzmann model for transport trends considering microscopic forces.
Dried Blood Spot Sampling of Landlocked Arctic Char (Salvelinus alpinus) for Estimating Mercury Exposure and Stable Carbon Isotope Fingerprinting of Essential Amino Acids
Authors: Barst Benjamin D. , Wooller Matthew J. , O'Brien Diane M. , Santa-Rios Andrea , Basu Niladri , Köck Günter , Johnson Jessica J. , Muir Derek C.G.
Published: February 2020

Dried blood spots (DBS), created by applying and drying a whole blood sample onto filter paper, provide a simple and minimally invasive procedure for collecting, transporting, and storing blood. Because DBS are ideal for use in field and resource-limited settings, we aimed to develop a simple and accurate DBS-based approach for assessing mercury (Hg) exposure and dietary carbon sources for landlocked Arctic char, a sentinel fish species in the Arctic. We collected liquid whole blood (from the caudal vein), muscle, liver, and brains of Arctic char (n = 36) from 8 lakes spanning a Hg gradient in the Canadian High Arctic. We measured total Hg concentrations ([THg]) of field-prepared DBS and Arctic char tissues. Across a considerable range, [THg] of DBS (0.04–3.38 μg/g wet wt) were highly correlated with [THg] of all tissues (r2 range = 0.928–0.996). We also analyzed the compound-specific carbon isotope ratios (expressed as δ13C values) of essential amino acids (EAAs) isolated from DBS, liquid whole blood, and muscle. The δ13C values of 5 EAAs (δ13CEAAs; isoleucine [Ile], leucine [Leu], phenylalanine [Phe], valine [Val], and threonine [Thr]) from DBS were highly correlated with δ13CEAAs of liquid whole blood (r2 range = 0.693–0.895) and muscle (r2 range = 0.642–0.881). The patterns of δ13CEAAs of landlocked Arctic char were remarkably consistent across sample types and indicate that EAAs are most likely of algal origin. Because a small volume of blood (~50 µL) dried on filter paper can be used to determine Hg exposure levels of various tissues and to fingerprint carbon sources, DBS sampling may decrease the burdens of research and may be developed as a nonlethal sampling technique. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:893–903. © 2020 SETAC
Effects of chitosan combined with ε‐polylysine coating on flavor and texture quality of Chinese shrimp during refrigerated storage
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Huang Yunpo , Guo Xuesong , Meng Xin , Wu Handong , Guo Fang , Zhang Shu‐ai , Li Dandan
Published: February 2020

We investigated the effects of chitosan (CH) combined with ε‐polylysine (ε‐PL) on the flavor and texture quality of Chinese shrimp refrigerated for 12 days. Shrimp samples were subjected to three preservation treatments (ε‐PL, CH, and CH + ε‐PL) and a control treatment. Sensory characteristics, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N), adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐related compounds, K‐values, volatile components, and texture were regularly assessed. The results showed that the sensory characteristics were effectively maintained, the increases in TVB‐N, hypoxanthine, and K‐value were delayed, and the putrid compounds were reduced by coating, especially with the chitosan combined with ε‐polylysine. Treatment with chitosan combined with ε‐polylysine was also shown to be a more effective preservation method for maintaining the texture quality of Chinese shrimp compared to treatment with ε‐PL or CH alone. Therefore, this technique was demonstrated to be a promising method for maintaining the flavor and texture quality of Chinese shrimp during refrigerated storage.
A novel double‐doped polymer‐modified cement‐based sealant to enhance borehole seals and reduce methane emissions
Authors: Zhou Aitao , Wang Jiawen , Wang Kai , Elsworth Derek , Zhang Meng
Published: February 2020

This study was conducted to develop a new type of sealing material: double‐doped polymer‐modified cement‐based sealant (DPCS) and to verify its sealing performance. The aim is to improve the sealing effect of borehole, improve the gas extraction efficiency, and reduce methane emissions. Two kinds of polymers are doped in DPCS, namely the water‐soluble polymer emulsion (A1) and the cationic polymer (A2). The fluidity, expansion, compactness, and mechanical properties of DPCS and the single‐doped polymer‐modified sealant were tested and compared. Additionally, the effects of the polymer–cement ratio and the dispersant dosage on the sealing performance of DPCS were analyzed. To evaluate these competing effects of multiple factors on sealing performance of DPCS comprehensively, an orthogonal test was designed with range and variance analyses. The results show that with a polymer–cement ratio of 6%, 0.10% expansion agent dosage, and 1.2% dispersant dosage, the DPCS performs best on mechanical and expansion properties. A field site test at the working face 15201 of the Baiyangling coal mine was conducted to verify DPCS's sealing performance. The test results indicate that the novel DPCS can improve the concentration of extracted gas, and is also a better choice than the common sealing materials used in the mine economically. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temporal cues trick the visual and auditory cortices mimicking spatial cues in blind individuals
Authors: Gori Monica , Amadeo Maria Bianca , Campus Claudio
Published: February 2020

In the absence of vision, spatial representation may be altered. When asked to compare the relative distances between three sounds (i.e., auditory spatial bisection task), blind individuals demonstrate significant deficits and do not show an event‐related potential response mimicking the visual C1 reported in sighted people. However, we have recently demonstrated that the spatial deficit disappears if coherent time and space cues are presented to blind people, suggesting that they may use time information to infer spatial maps. In this study, we examined whether the modification of temporal cues during space evaluation altered the recruitment of the visual and auditory cortices in blind individuals. We demonstrated that the early (50–90 ms) occipital response, mimicking the visual C1, is not elicited by the physical position of the sound, but by its virtual position suggested by its temporal delay. Even more impressively, in the same time window, the auditory cortex also showed this pattern and responded to temporal instead of spatial coordinates.
Do payor‐based outreach programs reduce medical cost and utilization?
Authors: Ukert Benjamin , David Guy , Smith‐McLallen Aaron , Chawla Ravi
Published: February 2020

There is growing interest in using predictive analytics to drive interventions that reduce avoidable healthcare utilization. This study evaluates the impact of such an intervention utilizing claims from 2013 to 2017 for high‐risk Medicare Advantage patients with congestive heart failure. A predictive algorithm using clinical and nonclinical information produced a risk score ranking for health plan members in 10 separate waves between July 2013 and May 2015. Each wave was followed by an outreach intervention. The varying capacity for outreach across waves created a set of arbitrary intervention treatment cutoff points, separating treated and untreated members with very similar predicted risk scores. We estimate a difference‐in‐differences model to identify the effects of the intervention program among patients with a high score on care utilization. We find that enrollment in the intervention decreased the probability and number of hospitalizations (by 43% and 50%, respectively) and emergency room visits (10% and 14%, respectively), reduced the time until a primary care visit (8.2 days), and reduced total medical cost by $716 per month in the first 6 months following outreach.
Outcomes after eye‐sparing surgery vs orbital exenteration in patients with lacrimal gland carcinoma
Authors: Bonavolontà Paola , Esmaeli Bita , Donna Piero , Tranfa Fausto , Iuliano Adriana , Abbate Vincenzo , Fossataro Federica , Attanasi Federica , Bonavolontà Giulio
Published: February 2020

Background

This study examined whether eye‐sparing surgery is associated with better or worse outcomes than exenteration for the treatment of lacrimal gland carcinomas.

Methods

Forty‐six patients treated for lacrimal gland carcinoma were retrospectively reviewed and compared. A statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan‐Meier plots.

Results

The overall survival rates for eye‐sparing surgery were 52% and 37% at 5 and 10 years, and those for exenteration were 37% and 25% at 5 and 10 years, respectively (P = .73). The proportion of patients with local regional control at both 5 and 10 years after eye‐sparing surgery was 0.75, and that for exenteration was 0.47 (P = .30). For eye‐sparing surgery, the proportions of distant metastasis‐free survival at 5 and 10 years were 0.51 and 0.39 for eye‐sparing surgery and 0.29 and 0.14 for exenteration (P = .50).

Conclusion

Because the outcomes were not significantly different, the authors suggest that eye‐sparing surgery can be proposed as a reasonable approach for lacrimal gland carcinomas in appropriately selected patients.
Prevalence of carotid stenosis following radiotherapy for head and neck cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Texakalidis Pavlos , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Tsouknidas Ioannis , Song Shiyu , Rivet Dennis J. , Reiter Evan R. , Reavey‐Cantwell John
Published: February 2020

Background

Radiation to the head and neck is a well‐established risk factor for the development of carotid artery stenosis. Our objective was to identify the prevalence, incidence, and degree of carotid stenosis in patients with a history of head and neck irradiation.

Methods

This study was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. A random effects model meta‐analysis was conducted.

Results

Nineteen studies comprising 1479 patients were included. The prevalence of carotid stenosis >50%, >70%, and carotid occlusion was 25% (95% CI: 19%‐32%), 12% (95% CI: 7%‐17%), and 4% (95% CI: 2%‐8%), respectively. The cumulative 12‐month incidence of carotid stenosis >50% was 4% (95% CI: 2%‐5%), the 24‐month was 12% (95% CI: 9%‐15%), and the 36‐month was 21% (95% CI: 9%‐36%).

Conclusions

The yearly incidence of carotid stenosis >50% increased every year during the first 3 years following radiotherapy. We propose routine yearly Doppler ultrasound screening beginning 1 year after head and neck radiotherapy.
Deletion of Protein Kinase D3 Promotes Liver Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Zhang Shuya , Liu Huan , Yin Meimei , Pei Xiuying , Hausser Angelika , Ishikawa Eri , Yamasaki Sho , Jin Zheng Gen
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

Liver fibrosis (LF) is a central pathological process that occurs in most types of chronic liver diseases. Advanced LF causes cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver failure. However, the exact molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of LF remain largely unknown.

Approach and Results

This study was designed to investigate the role of protein kinase D3 (PKD3; gene name Prkd3) in the regulation of liver homeostasis. We generated global Prkd3 knockout (Prkd3−/−
) mice and myeloid‐cell–specific Prkd3 knockout (Prkd3
∆LysM) mice, and we found that both Prkd3−/−
mice and Prkd3∆LysM
mice displayed spontaneous LF. PKD3 deficiency also aggravated CCl4‐induced LF. PKD3 is highly expressed in hepatic macrophages (HMs), and PKD3 deficiency skewed macrophage polarization toward a profibrotic phenotype. Activated profibrotic macrophages produced transforming growth factor beta that, in turn, activates hepatic stellate cells to become matrix‐producing myofibroblasts. Moreover, PKD3 deficiency decreased the phosphatase activity of SH2‐containing protein tyrosine phosphatase‐1 (a bona‐fide PKD3 substrate), resulting in sustained signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 activation in macrophages. In addition, we observed that PKD3 expression in HMs was down‐regulated in cirrhotic human liver tissues.

Conclusions

PKD3 deletion in mice drives LF through the profibrotic macrophage activation.
How are Victorian Local Governments' responding to climate change and food insecurity?
Authors: Beaudry Emily , McKay Fiona H. , Haines Bronte C.
Published: February 2020

Issue addressed

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges to public health and well‐being. Steps taken by governments now will have a significant effect on public health outcomes, including the food system and food security.

Method

This study reviewed municipal public health and well‐being plans from 79 local government areas (LGAs) in Victoria, Australia. Documents were included if they explicitly mentioned climate change and food insecurity. Of the 79 LGAs, 13 met the selection criteria and a content and framing analysis was conducted to identify the level of recognition of climate change on food security and proposed mitigation actions and strategies.

Results

Of the 13 LGAs, the documents of six were identified as having a high level of responsiveness to climate change and food insecurity, five were assessed as medium and two low. Framing analysis identified council acknowledgment of how climate change effects food access through availability and price, and growing food locally and sustainably is seen as a common action to improve food security.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that planning for climate change and food insecurity is not a high priority for Victorian LGAs. Given the current political climate in Australia, where many in federal government continue to deny the existence of climate change or are reluctant to implement mitigation strategies, it is now and will be increasingly important into the future that local governments plan for the impact of climate change on food insecurity.

So what?

Climate change will impact how people access food and what foods are available to them. Unless all levels of government start to address and plan for climate change, the impact on communities will continue to intensify and grow more costly and damaging.
The effects of offering flexible work practices to employees with unpaid caregiving responsibilities for elderly or disabled family members
Authors: Bainbridge Hugh T. J. , Townsend Keith
Published: February 2020

Approximately one in 10 employees in Australia, the United States, and Europe have unpaid caregiving responsibilities for elderly or disabled family members. This combination of employment and caregiving roles is problematic when there is conflict between their simultaneous demands. Flexible work practices can be an important mechanism for assisting these employees. However, limited attention has been given to determining the benefits of flexible work practices for these employees, or the process by which these effects arise. We address these gaps via a survey of employees with unpaid caregiving responsibilities for family who are elderly or disabled. Results indicate that greater availability of flexible work practices improves perceptions of workplace support for combining caregiving and employment. This effect was partially and sequentially mediated by disclosure, practice utilization, and practice helpfulness. Additionally, practice availability had a direct positive effect on practice utilization, while disclosure had a direct positive effect on perceived support. Overall, the findings demonstrate the benefits of flexible work practices for employees with caregiving responsibilities. The study also points the way to interventions that can improve the effectiveness of flexible work practices by demonstrating how the potential benefits of these practices are translated into actual improvements in perceived support.
Ecological Risks of Metal and Metalloid Contamination in the Rio Doce Estuary
Authors: Gabriel Fabrício A , Silva André G , Queiroz Hermano M , Ferreira Tiago O , Hauser-Davis Rachel A , Bernardino Angelo F
Published: February 2020

The rupture of a mining dam in southeastern Brazil in 2015 was the country's greatest environmental tragedy. In order to evaluate the ecological risks of the mine tailings on the Rio Doce estuary, this study assessed trace metal contamination and sediment quality indices up to 2.9 y after the dam rupture. Surface sediments were collected from 17 stations on the Rio Doce estuary and Cd, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cu, and As concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Four ecological risk indices (modified contamination degree [mCd], pollution load index [PLI], risk index [RI], and sediment quality guideline quotient [SQG-Q]) suggest a high risk by metal contamination with possible adverse biological effects, with moderate seasonal variability. Based on a precautionary approach, our results support fisheries closures and the need for public health monitoring in the affected areas, and support other studies that suggest chronic metal contamination of the Rio Doce estuary. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:655–660. © 2020 SETAC