bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining simulation modeling and stable isotope analyses to reconstruct the last known movements of one of Nature’s giants
Authors: Trueman Clive N. , Jackson Andrew L. , Chadwick Katharyn S. , Coombs Ellen J. , Feyrer Laura J. , Magozzi Sarah , Sabin Richard C. , Cooper Natalie
Published: October 2019

The spatial ecology of rare, migratory oceanic animals is difficult to study directly. Where incremental tissues are available, their chemical composition can provide valuable indirect observations of movement and diet. Interpreting the chemical record in incremental tissues can be highly uncertain, however, as multiple mechanisms interact to produce the observed data. Simulation modeling is one approach for considering alternative hypotheses in ecology and can be used to consider the relative likelihood of obtaining an observed record under different combinations of ecological and environmental processes. Here we show how a simulation modeling approach can help to infer movement behaviour based on stable carbon isotope profiles measured in incremental baleen tissues of a blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus). The life history of this particular specimen, which stranded in 1891 in the UK, was selected as a case study due to its cultural significance as part of a permanent display at the Natural History Museum, London. We specifically tested whether measured variations in stable isotope compositions across the analysed baleen plate were more consistent with residency or latitudinal migrations. The measured isotopic record was most closely reproduced with a period of residency in sub-tropical waters for at least a full year followed by three repeated annual migrations between sub-tropical and high latitude regions. The latitudinal migration cycle was interrupted in the year prior to stranding, potentially implying pregnancy and weaning, but isotopic data alone cannot test this hypothesis. Simulation methods can help reveal movement information coded in the biochemical compositions of incremental tissues such as those archived in historic collections, and provides context and inferences that are useful for retrospective studies of animal movement, especially where other sources of individual movement data are sparse or challenging to validate.
Outcomes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Patients who Discontinue Hydroxychloroquine
Authors: Aouhab Z. , Hong H. , Felicelli C. , Tarplin S. , Ostrowski R. A.
Published: October 2019

Background

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an antimalarial drug that is recommended as a safe, daily prophylactic intervention for individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) based on previous studies that showed an association of HCQ use with reductions in flares compared with placebo. Our study aims to determine whether the discontinuation of HCQ leads to relapse of disease and whether the duration of HCQ use impacts the success of its eventual discontinuation.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed on the medical records of patients diagnosed with SLE between July 1, 2006, and June 30, 2016. The data gathered included demographic factors, diagnostic symptoms, laboratory values, and SLE medications. Additionally, HCQ usage and discontinuation rates were collected as well as the timing and prevalence of flares during and after HCQ usage. Patients who were diagnosed with SLE but never used HCQ were excluded from the study. The occurrence of flares, clinical characteristics, and duration of treatment with HCQ were compared between the group that continued HCQ and the group that discontinued HCQ.

Results

Of the 509 patients who met inclusion criteria, 66.2% (n = 337) continued HCQ throughout the duration of their treatment (median duration of HCQ treatment was 8.0 years), whereas 33.8% (n = 172) did not (median duration of HCQ treatment was 1.9 years). Patients who received HCQ for less than 1 year before discontinuation (median duration of HCQ treatment was 2.5 months) were more likely to experience SLE flares compared with those who continued HCQ for more than 1 year (13.1% vs 5.7%, P = 0.019). Patients who experienced a flare while on HCQ were more likely to have arthritis, oral ulcers, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.

Conclusion

With over 500 patient charts reviewed, this is the largest study comparing outcomes for patients on HCQ with those who discontinued it. Patients who discontinue HCQ after being on it for less than 1 year are at greater risk for flares compared with those who take HCQ for longer than 1 year. These findings should be used to guide treatment, educate patients on the role of continued treatment with HCQ, and ultimately reduce morbidity and mortality.
Illicit opioids at center of deaths well before policy leaders took notice
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: October 2019

Research published this month on opioid‐related fatal overdoses in Massachusetts points to the need for timely information on drug use trends to avoid policy decisions that could end up being targeted in improper directions. The study found an overwhelming presence of illicit heroin and fentanyl in 2013–15, a period in which most of the attention of the state's policymakers had remained focused on a prescription opioid problem that by then had begun giving way to illegal drugs.
Inverse Hall–Petch Behaviour in an AZ91 Alloy and in an AZ91–Al2O3 Composite Consolidated by High‐Pressure Torsion
Authors: Castro Moara M. , Pereira Pedro Henrique R. , Isaac Augusta , Langdon Terence G. , Figueiredo Roberto B.
Published: October 2019

High‐pressure torsion (HPT) is a significant procedure for achieving substantial grain refinement but it may be used also to consolidate metallic particles to form bulk samples or composites where two (or more) different phases are mixed and consolidated. Herein, the consolidation of particles of the magnesium AZ91 alloy and a composite with an AZ91 matrix combined with 1% alumina powder is investigated. The results show that it is possible to fully consolidate this alloy after a large number of turns. As a consequence of the severe plastic deformation, the grain structure is significantly refined, with average grain sizes of ≈116 and ≈98 nm in the unreinforced alloy after 20 or 50 HPT turns and ≈76 nm in the composite after 50 HPT turns, respectively. This grain refinement is associated with a decrease in hardness and an increase in the strain rate sensitivity due to the onset of a grain boundary diffusion–assisted creep mechanism at room temperature. The results are consistent with the theoretical prediction of a breakdown in the Hall–Petch relationship at very small grain sizes.
Wirelessly Heating Stents via Radiofrequency Resonance toward Enabling Endovascular Hyperthermia
Authors: Yi Ying , Chen Jiaxu , Hsiang York , Takahata Kenichi
Published: October 2019

Thermal therapy known as hyperthermia has served as an effective method for cancer treatment. This therapeutic approach has also been attracting attention for treatment of in‐stent restenosis, the most common complication of stenting. Mild heating of stents has been shown to be a possible path to addressing this problem. Despite various studies on stent‐based thermotherapy, this area still lacks a clinically viable method and technology. Here, a radiofrequency‐powered “hot” stent prototype is reported in vitro and in vivo. An implantable stent device based on medical‐grade stainless steel acts as an electrical resonator, or an efficient wireless heater operating only when resonated using tuned external electromagnetic fields. The system architecture uses a custom‐developed power transmitter for wireless resonant powering/heating of the stent. An eight‐shaped antenna is shown to be highly effective for near‐field power transfer to the device and potentially to other smart implants, revealing stent heating efficiencies of up to 120 °C W−1, 206% of the level provided by a conventional loop antenna. Testing with swine models, the prototyped system achieves stent heating in blood flow by powering through air and skin tissue in vivo in a fully controlled manner. The results advance stent hyperthermia technology toward possible future clinical application.
Hybrid 3D Printing All‐in‐One Heterogenous Rigidity Assemblies for Soft Electronics
Authors: Lin Rongzan , Li Yuanlong , Mao Xinxin , Zhou Wanting , Liu Ran
Published: October 2019

The trend of incorporating soft electronic systems in current electronics framework is fast becoming a wide phenomenon in healthcare as they provide a more suitable human‐machine interface making it conveniently possible to achieve real‐time, continuous health monitoring and therapy. However, the effective integration of an entire system with the soft and dynamic human skin has proven to be a strenuous task since the combination of existing hard components and soft materials is difficult to realize. Here, reported is a method of heterogenous rigidity in soft hybrid electronics assembled with rigid elements and soft substrates in order to enhance the stretchability at the system level. Using this scheme, the stretchability is risen from below 50% to beyond 270%. Meanwhile, hybrid 3D printing all‐in‐one manufacturing technology facilitates the fabrication of all the parts in a single process, thus simplifying the operation flow. As a unitary device, a wireless charging electrocardiogram (ECG) circuit integrated with a heterogenous rigidity substrate exhibits exceptional reliability and the acquired ECG signals remain stable while the user is sitting or standing.
Organic Transistors Incorporating Lipid Monolayers for Drug Interaction Studies
Authors: Cavassin Priscila , Pappa Anna‐Maria , Pitsalidis Charalampos , F. P. Barbosa Henrique , Colucci Renan , Saez Janire , Tuchman Yaakov , Salleo Alberto , Faria Gregório C. , Owens Róisín M.
Published: October 2019

Cell membranes are fundamental for cellular function as they protect the cell and control passage in and out of the cell. Despite their clear significance, cell membranes are often difficult to study, due to their complexity and the lack of available technologies to interface with them and transduce their functions. Overcoming this complexity by developing simple, reductionist models can facilitate their study. Indeed, lipid layers represent a simplified yet representative model for a cell membrane. Lipid layers are highly insulating, a property that is directly affected by changes in lipid packing or membrane fluidity. Such physical changes in the membrane models can be characterized by coupling them with an electronic transducer. Herein, a lipid monolayer that is stabilized between two immiscible solvents is integrated with an organic electrochemical transistor, which is capable of operating in a biphasic solvent mixture. The platform is used to evaluate how lidocaine, a widely used anesthetic the working mechanism of which is still a matter of debate, interacts with the cell membrane. The present study provides evidence that the anesthetic directly interacts with the lipids in the membrane, affecting their packing and therefore the monolayer permeability. The proposed platform provides an elegant solution for studying compound–membrane interactions.
Catalytic Asymmetric Dearomative [3+2] Cyclisation of 1,4‐Quinone with 2,3‐Disubstituted Indoles
Authors: Zhang Lvye , Hu Jinjin , Xu Ruigang , Pan Shulei , Zeng Xiaofei , Zhong Guofu
Published: October 2019

A chiral phosphoric acid‐catalysed asymmetric dearomative [3+2] cyclisation for accessing enantioenriched benzofuroindolines with two vicinal tetrasubstituted carbon centres from readily available 1,4‐quinone and 2,3‐disubstituted indoles is developed. This protocol distinguishes itself by availability of the starting materials and mild reaction conditions in a stereoselective manner, which provides a complement to the existing methods for the asymmetric construction of pharmaceutically and biologically active benzofuro[2,3‐b]indoline compounds.

magnified image
A Supramolecular Artificial Light‐Harvesting System with Two‐Step Sequential Energy Transfer for Photochemical Catalysis
Authors: Hao Min , Sun Guangping , Zuo Minzan , Xu Zuqiang , Chen Yuan , Hu Xiao‐Yu , Wang Leyong
Published: October 2019

An artificial light‐harvesting system with sequential energy‐transfer process was fabricated based on a supramolecular strategy. Self‐assembled from the host–guest complex formed by water‐soluble pillar[5]arene (WP5), a bola‐type tetraphenylethylene‐functionalized dialkyl ammonium derivative (TPEDA), and two fluorescent dyes, Eosin Y (ESY) and Nile Red (NiR), the supramolecular vesicles achieve efficient energy transfer from the AIE guest TPEDA to ESY. ESY can function as a relay to further transfer the energy to the second acceptor NiR and realize a two‐step sequential energy‐transfer process with good efficiency. By tuning the donor/acceptor ratio, bright white light emission can be successfully achieved with a CIE coordinate of (0.33, 0.33). To better mimic natural photosynthesis and make full use of the harvested energy, the WP5⊃TPEDA‐ESY‐NiR system can be utilized as a nanoreactor: photocatalyzed dehalogenation of α‐bromoacetophenone was realized with 96 % yield in aqueous medium.
Genes acting in longevity‐related pathways in the endoparasitoid, Pteromalus puparum
Authors: Xiong Shijiao , Yu Kaili , Ye Xinhai , Fang Qi , Deng Yi , Xiao Shan , Yang Lei , Wang Beibei , Wang Fei , Yan Zhichao , Wang Fang , Song Qisheng , Stanley David W. , Ye Gongyin
Published: October 2019

Among insects, lifespans vary over a broad range, from the short‐lived mayflies to the 17‐year periodical cicadas. Generally, lifespans are determined by a phase in life, the reproductive lifespan, which varies among species. Numerous pathways, such as the insulin/insulin‐like growth factor signaling pathway, the target of rapamycin pathway and the mitogen‐activated protein kinase/extracellular signal‐regulated kinases pathways, influence aging and lifespan. Components of these pathways were identified as lifespan‐related genes, including genes mediating growth, metabolism, development, resistance, and other processes. Many age‐related genes have been discovered in fruit flies, honeybees, and ants among other insect species. Studies of insect aging and longevity can help understand insect biology and develop new pest management technologies. In this paper, we interrogated the new Pteromalus puparum genome, from which we predicted 133 putative lifespan‐related genes based on their homology with known lifespan‐related genes of Drosophila melanogaster. These genes function in five signaling pathways and three physiological processes. The conserved domain structures of these genes were predicted and their expression patterns were analyzed. Amino acid sequence alignments and domain structure analysis indicate that most components remain conserved across at least six insect orders. The data in this paper will facilitate future work on parasitoid lifespans, which may have economic value in biocontrol programs.
Prevalence of Motor Difficulties in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Analysis of a Population‐Based Cohort
Authors: Licari Melissa K. , Alvares Gail A. , Varcin Kandice , Evans Kiah L. , Cleary Dominique , Reid Siobhan L. , Glasson Emma J. , Bebbington Keely , Reynolds Jess E. , Wray John , Whitehouse Andrew J. O.
Published: October 2019

Motor impairment is not currently included in the diagnostic criteria or evaluation of autism. This reflects the lack of large‐scale studies demonstrating its prominence to advocate for change. We examined the prevalence of motor difficulties at the time of diagnosis in a large sample of children with autism utilizing standardized assessment, and the relationship between motor difficulties, core autism symptomology, and other prominent clinical features. Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales were administered to children from the Western Australian Register for Autism Spectrum Disorders aged ≤6 years (N = 2,084; 81.2% males, 18.8% females). Prevalence of motor difficulties was quantified based on scores from the motor domain of the Vineland and then compared to other domains of functioning within the Vineland (communication, daily living, and socialization), the DSM criteria, intellectual level, age, and gender. Scores on the Vineland indicated that 35.4% of the sample met criteria for motor difficulties (standard score <70), a rate almost as common as intellectual impairment (37.7%). Motor difficulties were reported by diagnosing clinicians in only 1.34% of cases. Motor difficulties were common in those cases meeting diagnostic criteria for impairments in nonverbal behavior and the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors. The prevalence of motor difficulties also increased with increasing age of diagnosis (P < 0.001). Findings from the present study highlight the need for further consideration of motor difficulties as a distinct specifier within the diagnostic criteria for ASD. Autism Res 2020, 13: 298–306. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

In this population‐based cohort that included 2,084 children with autism aged ≤6 years, over one‐third met the criteria for motor difficulties, a rate almost as common as intellectual disability. This study demonstrates that motor difficulties are a prominent feature of the autism phenotype requiring further consideration in both the diagnostic criteria and evaluation of autism.
Circle of Willis anomalies in Turner syndrome: Absent A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery
Authors: Kruszka Paul , Buscetta Ashley , Acosta Maria T. , Banks Nicole , Addissie Yonit A. , Toro Camilo , Luby Marie , Latour Lawrence , Vezina Gilbert , Page David C. , Muenke Maximilian
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Turner syndrome (TS) is the most common sex chromosome disorder in women and is associated with a higher than expected death rate secondary to cerebrovascular disease, including stroke. This study evaluates the cerebral vascular anatomy of individuals with TS.

Methods

Twenty‐one women with TS had brain magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). These MRAs were evaluated in a blinded manner with a control group of 25 men and 25 women who had MRA imaging for multiple indications including migraine headaches, psychiatric disorders, and seizures.

Results

Twenty‐nine percent of women with TS were missing an A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) compared to 0% in the control group (p < .001). There were no other significant differences in the circle of Willis (COW) in women with TS compared with the control group. A complete COW was found in 3 of 21 (14%) of women with TS and 12 of 47 (26%) controls (p = .36).

Conclusion

Women with TS have a significantly different intracranial vascular anatomy, specifically the absence of the A1 segment of the ACA when compared to male and female controls. More research in brain imaging in women with TS and stroke and other cerebrovascular diseases is needed to determine the clinical significance of this anomaly.
Comparison of the therapeutic effect of amniotic fluid stem cells and their exosomes on monoiodoacetate‐induced animal model of osteoarthritis
Authors: Zavatti Manuela , Beretti Francesca , Casciaro Francesca , Bertucci Emma , Maraldi Tullia
Published: October 2019

The cartilage tissue engineering associated with stem cell‐related therapies is becoming very interesting since adult articular cartilage has limited intrinsic capacity for regeneration upon injury. Amniotic fluid stem cells (AFSC) have been shown to produce exosomes with growth factors and immunomodulating molecules that could stop tissue degradation and induce cartilage repair. Based on this state of the art, the main aim of this study was to explore the efficacy of the secreted exosomes, compared to their AFSC source, in MIA‐induced animal model of osteoarthritis mimicking a chronic and degenerative process, where inflammation is also involved and lead to irreversible joint damage. Exosomes, obtained by the use of a commercial kit, prior to the injection in animal knee joints, were characterized for the presence of typical markers and HGF, TGFβ, and IDO. Then, analyses were performed by histology, immunohistochemistry, and behavioral scoring up to 3 weeks after the treatment. Exosome‐treated defects showed enhanced pain tolerance level and improved histological scores than the AFSC‐treated defects. Indeed by 3 weeks, TGFβ‐rich exosome samples induced an almost complete restoration of cartilage with good surface regularity and with the characteristic of hyaline cartilage. Moreover, cells positive for resolving macrophage marker were more easily detectable into exosome‐treated joints. Therefore, a modulating role for exosomes on macrophage polarization is conceivable, as demonstrated also by experiments performed on THP1 macrophages. In conclusion, this study demonstrates for the first time the efficacy of human AFSC exosomes in counteract cartilage damage, showing a positive correlation with their TGFβ content.
Study of abdominal wall muscle innervation applied to large‐defect closure in congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Solé Cruz Eva , Rabattu Pierre‐Yves , Todesco Alban , Bellier Alexandre , Chaffanjon Philippe C. , Faguet Romain , Piolat Christian , Robert Yohann
Published: October 2019

In large congenital diaphragmatic hernias (CDHs), direct suture of the diaphragm is impossible. Surgeons can use a triangular internal oblique muscle (IOM) plus transverse abdominis muscle (TAM) flap. Its caudal limit faces the medial extremity of the 11th rib. Clinical studies show that the flap is not hypotonic but that the procedure could expose patients already presenting a hypoplastic lung to external oblique muscle (EOM) hypotonia. The aims of this study were to study EOM innervation by the 10th intercostal nerve (ICN) and ICN innervation to the IOM and TAM. Forty cadaveric abdominal hemi‐walls were dissected. The number of branches and the trajectory of each specimen's 10th ICN were studied medially to the medial extremity of the 11th rib (MEK11) using surgical goggles and a microscope (Carl Zeiss®). The 10th ICN was consistently found between the IOM and TAM. There was a median of nine branches from the 10th ICN to the EOM, 77% of them medial to the MEK11. Median values of nine and 12 branches for the IOM and TAM were found, 60% and 51%, respectively, medial to the MEK11. These results argue in favor of good innervation to the IOM plus TAM flap but also indicate postoperative abdominal weakness exposing patients to herniation risks, as more than 75% of the branches from the 10th ICN to the EOM were sectioned or pulled away during flap detachment. Clin. Anat., 33:759–766, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Consider implications of court ruling for food‐allergy accommodations
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: October 2019

Food allergies present a host of issues for institutions that offer meal plans. Although the 2012 Lesley University settlement agreement with the Department of Justice and the similar 2019 settlement agreement with Rider University provide a roadmap for resolving most accommodation requests, both leave open the question of when an exemption from a mandatory meal plan rather than an allergen‐free meals accommodation may be necessary.
Did court dismiss FMLA, ADA claims against university?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: October 2019

In spite of short‐term memory problems and post‐traumatic stress disorder, the plaintiff became a supervisor of cashiers at Fayetteville State University in 2009.
ADs share insights, strategies for supporting career advancement
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: October 2019

If you have aspirations to advance in your career, perhaps with your eye on the role of athletics director, then you'll need some insight from those who have successfully traveled that path. You can start by reviewing the advice offered by Jermaine Truax, M.S., A.B.D., Director of Athletics and Recreation at Bucknell University; Jill Bodensteiner, M.B.A., J.D., AD at Saint Joseph's University; and Daniel Feig, J.D., AD and Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of South Carolina Upstate. They spoke as part of a panel at the annual convention for the National Association for Athletics Compliance.
Did university violate student‐athlete's Title IX rights?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: October 2019

Brown University varsity student‐athlete John Doe was charged in 2013 by the school with underage drinking and “nonconsensual sexual contact” with a female student.
Ultrastable CoxSiyOz Nanowires by Glancing Angle Deposition with Magnetron Sputtering as Novel Electrocatalyst for Water Oxidation
Authors: Cano Manuel , Garcia‐Garcia Francisco J. , Rodríguez‐Padrón Daily , González‐Elipe Agustín R. , Giner‐Casares Juan J. , Luque Rafael
Published: October 2019

Cobalt is one of the most promising non‐noble metal as electrocatalyst for water oxidation. Herein, a highly stable silicon‐cobalt mixed oxide thin film with a porous columnar nanostructure is proposed as electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). CoOx and CoxSiyOz layers with similar thickness were fabricated at room temperature by magnetron sputtering in a glancing angle configuration (MS‐GLAD) on tin‐doped indium oxide (ITO) substrates. After characterization, a comparative study of the electrocatalytic performance for OER of both layers was carried out. The excellent long‐term stability as electrocatalyst for OER of the porous CoxSiyOz thin film demonstrates that the presence of silicon on the mixed oxide network increases the mechanical stability of the Si/Co layer, whilst maintaining a considerable electrocatalytic response.
Continuous Flow Synthesis of ACE Inhibitors From N‐Substituted l‐Alanine Derivatives
Authors: Breen Christopher P. , Jamison Timothy F.
Published: October 2019

A strategy for the continuous flow synthesis of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors is described. An optimization effort guided by in situ IR analysis resulted in a general amide coupling approach facilitated by N‐carboxyanhydride (NCA) activation that was further characterized by reaction kinetics analysis in batch. The three‐step continuous process was demonstrated by synthesizing 8 different ACE inhibitors in up to 88 % yield with throughputs in the range of ≈0.5 g h−1, all while avoiding both isolation of reactive intermediates and process intensive reaction conditions. The process was further developed by preparing enalapril, a World Health Organization (WHO) essential medicine, in an industrially relevant flow platform that scaled throughput to ≈1 g h−1.
Catalyst Control in Switching the Site Selectivity of C−H Olefinations of 1,2‐Dihydroquinolines: An Approach to Positional‐Selective Functionalization of Quinolines
Authors: Das Riki , Khot Nandkishor Prakash , Deshpande Akanksha Santosh , Kapur Manmohan
Published: October 2019

A unique approach to achieve site‐selective C−H olefinations exclusively at the C‐3‐ or C‐8‐positions in the quinoline framework has been developed by catalyst control. Distal C(3)−H functionalization is achieved by using palladium catalysis, whereas proximal C(8)−H functionalization is obtained by employing ruthenium catalysis. Switching the site selectivity within a single substrate directly indicates two diverse pathways, which are operating under the palladium‐ and ruthenium‐catalyzed reaction conditions.
Mischtrockner und Reaktor
Authors: Boening Matthias
Published: October 2019

Zum Herstellen steriler Güter eignen sich Amixon‐Vertikalmischer der Bauart VMT. Ideale Mischgüten sind bei Füllgraden von 20 ‐ 100 % erzielbar.
Filter für industrielle Nass‐ und Trockensauger
Authors:   Hengst
Published: October 2019

Auf der Filtech präsentiert Hengst Filtration seinen Unternehmensbereich „Filtration für Industrie & Umwelt“ mit Filterlösungen für Industriestaubsauger bis zu Filterpatronen für Gasturbinen.
Metagenomic Analysis of Bacterial Communities from a Nitrification–Denitrification Treatment of Landfill Leachates
Authors: Díaz Ana Isabel , Oulego Paula , Laca Adriana , González José Manuel , Díaz Mario
Published: October 2019

The efficiency of the biological removal of carbon and nitrogen from leachates is determined by the activity of microbial populations present in biological reactors. In this work, a complete characterization of bacterial communities revealed by personal genome machine sequencing (PGM) has been carried out from different points of a nitrification–denitrification process operated in an urban landfill. The leachate fed to the treatment is a mixture of young leachate, old leachate, and effluent from an anaerobic digestion process, in a volume ratio of 1:0.9:0.12, respectively. The anoxic and oxic reactors are followed by an ultrafiltration step. Samples are taken from different points of the process. Results reveal the microbial diversity of the samples, which include detection of minority populations that are difficult to explore by other methods. Bacteria belonging to Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria are dominant in all the samples analyzed. Proteobacteria represents more than 50% of the total population in all cases. Samples taken after the biological treatment show a significant reduction in the relative abundance of Firmicutes, Tenericutes, and Lentisphaerae phyla in comparation with the initial leachate. The relative abundance of the classes is also studied and the most abundant in the samples are β‐Proteobacteria and Flavobacteria.
Phase 1 dose‐finding study of metformin in combination with concurrent cisplatin and radiotherapy in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell cancer
Authors: Gulati Shuchi , Desai Janki , Palackdharry Sarah M. , Morris John C. , Zhu Zheng , Jandarov Roman , Riaz Muhammad K. , Takiar Vinita , Mierzwa Michelle , Gutkind J. Silvio , Molinolo Alfredo , Desai Pankaj B. , Sadraei Nooshin Hashemi , Wise‐Draper Trisha M.
Published: October 2019

Background

The 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate remains at 50% for patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LAHNSCC), thereby underscoring the need for improved treatments. An antidiabetic agent, metformin, was found in retrospective studies to improve survival in patients with HNSCC. Therefore, the authors conducted a phase 1 dose escalation study combining metformin with chemoradiotherapy in patients with LAHNSCC.

Methods

Nondiabetic patients with LAHNSCC were enrolled in the current study to receive escalating doses of metformin and CRT based on the modified toxicity probability interval design. Metformin cohort doses included 2000 mg, 2550 mg, and 3000 mg daily in divided doses in addition to cisplatin (at a dose of 100 mg/m2 on days 1, 22, and 43) and standard radiotherapy (70 grays). Adverse events were categorized as per the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.03).

Results

Twenty patients were enrolled, 2 of whom withdrew consent. The median age of the patients was 56 years and the majority were male (83%), were white (88%), had p16‐positive disease (72%), and were tobacco users (61%). The median length of metformin exposure was 28.5 days. The most common grade ≥3 toxicities were nausea (11%), vomiting (11%), mucositis (6%), acute kidney injury (17%), anemia (6%), and leukopenia (11%). Dose‐limiting toxicities included diarrhea and acute kidney injury. After a median follow‐up of 19 months, the 2‐year overall survival and progression‐free survival rates were 90% and 84%, respectively. No hypoglycemia events or lactic acidosis were observed. Cisplatin administration did not appear to affect metformin pharmacokinetics. The maximum tolerated dose for metformin could not be determined given the limited number of patients who tolerated metformin during chemoradiotherapy.

Conclusions

To the authors’ knowledge, the current study is the first phase 1 trial combining metformin with chemoradiotherapy. Rates of overall survival and progression‐free survival were encouraging in this limited patient population, and warrant further investigation in a phase 2 trial.
Creating a bridge for transition: From pediatric cancer survival to life‐long, risk‐based health care of the adult cancer survivor
Authors: Schwartz Cindy L.
Published: October 2019

Long‐term, risk‐based health care focused on education and screening can prevent or mitigate late complications of childhood cancer treatment, but less than one‐third of patients access this care. To enhance awareness of risk and the need for ongoing care, it will be necessary to close the 5‐year gap from diagnosis to risk‐based health care (survivorship), provide timely education and cancer treatment summaries, and offer robust models of care that allow a transition to an adult medical care system that maintains access to expertise in the consequences of surviving pediatric cancer.
Electrolyte Effects on the Electrocatalytic Performance of Iridium‐Based Nanoparticles for Oxygen Evolution in Rotating Disc Electrodes
Authors: Arminio‐Ravelo José Alejandro , Jensen Anders W. , Jensen Kim D. , Quinson Jonathan , Escudero‐Escribano María
Published: October 2019

Proton exchange membrane water electrolysers are very promising renewable energy conversion devices that produce hydrogen from sustainable feedstocks. These devices are mainly limited by the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Ir‐based nanoparticles are both reasonably active and stable for the OER in acidic media. The electrolyte composition and the pH may play a crucial role in electrocatalysis, yet they have been widely overlooked for the OER. Herein, we present a study on the effects of the composition and concentration of the electrolyte on commercial Ir black nanoparticles using concentrations of 0.05 M, 0.1 M and 0.5 M of both sulphuric and perchloric acid. The results show an important effect of the electrolyte composition on the catalytic performance of the Ir nanoparticles. The concentration of H2SO4interferes on the oxidation of Ir and decreases the catalytic performance of the catalyst. HClO4does not show strong interferences in the electrochemistry of Ir. Higher catalytic performances are observed in HClO4electrolytes in comparison to H2SO4with little effect of the concentration of HClO4.
PFARS: Enhancing throughput and lifetime of heterogeneous WSNs through power‐aware fusion, aggregation, and routing scheme
Authors: Khan Rahim , Zakarya Muhammad , Tan Zhiyuan , Usman Muhammad , Jan Mian Ahmad , Khan Mukhtaj
Published: October 2019

Heterogeneous wireless sensor networks (WSNs) consist of resource‐starving nodes that face a challenging task of handling various issues such as data redundancy, data fusion, congestion control, and energy efficiency. In these networks, data fusion algorithms process the raw data generated by a sensor node in an energy‐efficient manner to reduce redundancy, improve accuracy, and enhance the network lifetime. In literature, these issues are addressed individually, and most of the proposed solutions are either application‐specific or too complex that make their implementation unrealistic, specifically, in a resource‐constrained environment. In this paper, we propose a novel node‐level data fusion algorithm for heterogeneous WSNs to detect noisy data and replace them with highly refined data. To minimize the amount of transmitted data, a hybrid data aggregation algorithm is proposed that performs in‐network processing while preserving the reliability of gathered data. This combination of data fusion and data aggregation algorithms effectively handle the aforementioned issues by ensuring an efficient utilization of the available resources. Apart from fusion and aggregation, a biased traffic distribution algorithm is introduced that considerably increases the overall lifetime of heterogeneous WSNs. The proposed algorithm performs the tedious task of traffic distribution according to the network's statistics, ie, the residual energy of neighboring nodes and their importance from a network's connectivity perspective. All our proposed algorithms were tested on a real‐time dataset obtained through our deployed heterogeneous WSN in an orange orchard and also on publicly available benchmark datasets. Experimental results verify that our proposed algorithms outperform the existing approaches in terms of various performance metrics such as throughput, lifetime, data accuracy, computational time, and delay.
Comparing eDNA metabarcoding and species collection for documenting Arctic metazoan biodiversity
Authors: Leduc Noémie , Lacoursière‐Roussel Anaïs , Howland Kimberly L. , Archambault Philippe , Sevellec Maelle , Normandeau Eric , Dispas Antoine , Winkler Gesche , McKindsey Christopher W. , Simard Nathalie , Bernatchez Louis
Published: October 2019

Background

Arctic biodiversity has long been poorly documented and is now facing rapid transformations due to ongoing climate change and other impacts, including shipping activities. These changes are placing marine coastal invertebrate communities at greater risk, especially in sensitive areas such as commercial ports. Preserving biodiversity is a significant challenge, going far beyond the protection of charismatic species and involving suitable knowledge of the spatiotemporal organization of species. Therefore, knowledge of alpha, beta, and gamma biodiversity is of great importance to achieve this objective, particularly when partnered with new cost‐effective approaches to monitor biodiversity.

Method and results

This study compares metabarcoding of COI mitochondrial and 18S rRNA genes from environmental DNA (eDNA) water samples with standard invertebrate species collection methods to document community patterns at multiple spatial scales. Water samples (250 ml) were collected at three different depths within three Canadian Arctic ports: Churchill, MB; Iqaluit, NU; and Deception Bay, QC. From these samples, 202 genera distributed across more than 15 phyla were detected using eDNA metabarcoding, of which only 9%–15% were also identified through species collection at the same sites. Significant differences in taxonomic richness and community composition were observed between eDNA and species collections at both local and regional scales. This study shows that eDNA dispersion in the Arctic Ocean reduces beta diversity in comparison with species collections while emphasizing the importance of pelagic life stages for eDNA detection.

Conclusion

The study also highlights the potential of eDNA metabarcoding to assess large‐scale Arctic marine invertebrate diversity while emphasizing that eDNA and species collection should be considered as complementary tools to provide a more holistic picture of coastal marine invertebrate communities.
Imidazolium Salts of Ruthenium Anionic Cyclopentadienone Complexes: Ion Pair for Bifunctional Catalysis in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Cesari Cristiana , Cingolani Andrea , Teti Martina , Messori Alessandro , Zacchini Stefano , Zanotti Valerio , Mazzoni Rita
Published: October 2019

The reactivity of the dinuclear complex dicarbonyl[η4‐3,4‐bis(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐2,5‐diphenylcyclopenta‐2,4‐dienone] (2) with imidazolium salts has been studied using a library of variously functionalized imidazolium salts, and leading to a class of ruthenium anionic complexes of the type [dicarbonyl{η4‐3,4‐bis(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐2,5‐diphenylcyclopenta‐2,4‐dienone} (halide)Ru][1,3‐disubsittuted‐imidazolium] (4) in the form of ion pair with imidazolium. The reaction is clean, general and quantitative and the complexes formed are stable to air and moisture both in the solid state and in solution. The ionic complexes 4 show affinity for ionic liquids and represent stable precursors of a catalytic active species, likely similar to those generated from Shvo catalyst, a well‐established homogeneous bifunctional catalyst for hydrogen transfer. Our approach allows the use of green ionic liquids (IL) as solvents, providing better control of catalytic reactions involving 4, and easier catalyst recycle. IL‐supported ionic pair catalysts exhibit interesting catalytic activity (up to > 99 % of conversion) in the transfer hydrogenation of a model compound such as 4‐fluoroacetophenone. The IL‐supported redox catalysts can be also recycled exploiting the biphasic nature of the system. The synthetic method here discussed represents a novelty within the field of IL‐supportation and is potentially useful for the heterogenization of the catalysts.
Arylene‐Ethynylene Oligomers Based on the Proton Sponge
Authors: Filatova Ekaterina A. , Pozharskii Alexander F. , Gulevskaya Anna V. , Ozeryanskii Valery A. , Tsybulin Semyon V. , Filarowski Aleksander
Published: October 2019

A new family of arylene‐ethynylene oligomers consisting of two, three and four “proton sponge” fragments (1,8‐bis(dimethylamino)naphthalene or DMAN) alternating with C≡C bonds were synthesized using various 2‐ and 4‐ethynyl and 2‐ and 4‐iodo derivatives of DMAN as synthetic building blocks in the Sonogashira coupling. X‐ray structural, photophysical, chemical and electrochemical properties showed that the oligomers are promising candidates to construct materials with varied rigidity (tuned by protonation), electron conductivity (tuned by mode of linkage), and proton conductivity (equilibration of protonated and free DMAN subunits).
Parametric optimization of a direct injection ‐ compression ignition engine fuelled with butanol/diesel blend using response surface methodology
Authors: Kattela Siva Prasad , Surapaneni Srinivasa Rao , V. R. K. Raju
Published: October 2019

This paper presents results of a simulation study on the performance and emission characteristics of a direct injection compression ignition engine, fuelled with butanol/diesel blend (20% of butanol‐by volume, called as Bu20). The aim of this study is identify optimum values of the engine operating parameters for this Bu20 fuel, which give the best performance with minimum emissions. CONVERGE CFD software was used to carry‐out the simulation studies. Simulation studies were carried out by varying four operating parameters of the engine, viz., compression ratio (CR) (16.5, 17.5, and 18.5), fuel injection pressure (FIP) (200, 220, and 240 bar), start of injection (SOI) (21, 23, and 25° CA bTDC) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) (0, 10, and 20%). The engine performance was evaluated in terms of indicated specific fuel consumption (ISFC), soot and oxides of nitrogen (NOx). Response surface methodology was employed for developing response models for the three output parameters considered, that is, ISFC, NOx, and soot. From the analysis of variance, it was observed that all the developed response models were statistically significant. Desirability approach was used to find the optimum combination of the input parameters with an objective of minimizing the three output responses that is, ISFC, NOx, and soot. The analysis showed that engine operation with optimum values of the operating parameters, that is, CR of 17.5, FIP of 240 bar, SOI of 25° CA bTDC and EGR rate of 10% would give better performance with minimum emissions for Bu20 fuel, compared to the engine performance with baseline configuration.
Developing a smart fuel using artificial neural network for compression ignition engine fueled with Calophyllum inophyllum diesel blend at various compression ratio
Authors: Venugopal Paramaguru , Kasimani Ramesh , Chinnasamy Suresh
Published: October 2019

In machinery, it is evident that the computing system for self‐automated machinery derives nonlinear and complex equations by comparing the machinery's different input parameters with their corresponding performance output parameters. In order to operate the machinery with good performance and better efficiency, the computing system needs a machine‐learning algorithm. Most recent researchers have concentrated more on self‐driving vehicle, which seems to be lack of developing a strong algorithm for compression ignition (CI) engines to predict the performance and emission output parameter. Thus, this article deals with the prediction of performance and emission characteristics of CI engine fueled with 25% Calophyllum inophyllum and 75% diesel blend (CIB25) at various compression ratios using artificial neural network (ANN). Performance and emission tests were conducted in a single‐cylinder four‐stroke variable‐compression‐ratio CI engine fueled with CIB25 with varying loads and at a constant speed of operation. Experimental investigation indicates that 18:1 compression ratio gives better performance results when CIB25 is used as the fuel. Emission test results show better emission characteristics at 17:1 compression ratio. These results show that some input factors affect the output factors under some set of operating conditions, while some input factors improve them. ANN developed for the CI engine learns how the input factors affect and improve the output factors. Also, developed neural network is found to be satisfactory, and it predicts the output at a regression value of 0.998 with an average error of 1.77% in the case of CIB25.
Binary adsorption of Cu(II) and Ni(II) on Lai'yang bentonite: Kinetics, equilibrium, competition quantitative and mechanisms investigation
Authors: Xiao Fei , Cao Xiao‐qiang , Lyu Xian‐jun , Li Lin , Qiu Jun , Zhang Yan , Wang Peng , Zhang Qing‐jian , Wang Qing‐biao
Published: October 2019

In this study, the competitive adsorption of Cu(II) and Ni(II) adsorption onto bentonite were investigated. The effects of initial adsorbate concentration, pH, contact time, temperature on adsorption and the kinetics, thermodynamic, quantification of adsorption competition and competitive mechanisms have been studied. The results indicated that Cu(II) has a higher affinity than Ni(II) for adsorption on bentonite. But the inhibition effect was not noticeable under alkaline conditions. The Langmuir and pseudo‐second‐order kinetics models can be applied to simulate the isothermal adsorption and adsorption dynamic, respectively. Under a single system/binary system, the maximum adsorption capacity of bentonite for Cu(II) and Ni(II) is 12.76/10.57 and 11.12/9.11 mg/g, respectively. The equilibrium adsorption capacity reduction rate is suitable for quantitative characterization of adsorption competition under any concentration conditions; adsorption competition coefficient is more suitable for low concentration adsorption; although the distribution coefficient is not suitable for quantitative adsorption competition at high concentrations, it can be used to characterize the variation of adsorption competitiveness of Cu(II) at different concentrations. The higher electronegativity, lower first hydrolysis constant and Misono softness, and a better “guest‐host” consistency between Cu(II)O6 and the vacancies in the montmorillonite octahedral sheet make the higher affinity of Cu(II) to bentonite and result in the possible ion exchange between Cu(II) in solution and adsorbed Ni(II). In addition, at high concentrations, Cu(II) and Ni(II) precipitates formed on the surface of montmorillonite may cause remained Cu(II) ions in the solution unable to enter the internal space of the montmorillonite octahedron.