bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of a Ceremony in Honor of the Body Donors in the Development of Ethical and Humanistic Attitudes among Medical Students
Authors: da Rocha Andrea Oxley , Maués Joao Lins , Chies Gabriel Antônio Flores , da Silva Ana Paula
Published: September 2019

Activities related to body donation programs, such as donor memorial ceremonies, provide the opportunity to complement student training, especially with regard to the ethical and humanistic elements involved in medical training. This study sought to assess the impact of a ceremony in honor of the body donors has on ethical and humanistic attitudes in medical students. Medical students were surveyed about their perceptions of changes in themselves, respect for donors and donor families, and their relationship with patients. The effect of the students' contact with the family of the donor was analyzed in students who had contact with the cadaver in the dissection room and had either participated or not participated in the donor memorial ceremony. A total of 370 questionnaires were answered by first‐, second‐, and third‐year medical students at the Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre in 2017. The students who participated in the ceremony presented more positive responses in relation to commitment to their studies, reflection on death, and positive development of empathy when compared to those who did not attend the ceremony. Most of the students that attended the ceremony suggested the event led to an improvement in the doctor–patient relationship. These results suggest that cadaver dissection with accompanied memorial ceremony involving contact with donor families is an effective means of fostering ethical and humanistic attitudes among medical students from the beginning of the course.
Does N‐Terminal Protein Acetylation Lead to Protein Degradation?
Authors: Eldeeb Mohamed A. , Fahlman Richard P. , Ragheb Mohamed A. , Esmaili Mansoore
Published: September 2019

The N‐end rule denotes the relationship between the identity of the amino‐terminal residue of a protein and its in vivo half‐life. Since its discovery in 1986, the N‐end rule has generally been described by a defined set of rules for determining whether an amino‐terminal residue is stabilizing or not. However, recent studies are revealing that this N‐end rule (or N‐degron concept) is less straightforward than previously appreciated. For instance, it is unveiled that N‐terminal acetylation of N‐terminal residues may create a degradation signal (Ac‐degron) that promotes the degradation of target proteins. A recent high‐throughput dissection of degrons in yeast proteins amino termini intriguingly suggested that the hydrophobicity of amino‐terminal residues—but not the N‐terminal acetylation status—may be the indispensable feature of amino‐terminal degrons. Herein, these recent advances in N‐terminal acetylation and the complexity of N‐terminal degradation signals in the context of the N‐degron pathway are analyzed.
Statistical strategies for the analysis of massive data sets
Authors: Hwang Hon , Ryan Louise
Published: September 2019

The advent of the big data age has changed the landscape for statisticians. Public and private organizations alike these days are interested in capturing and analyzing complex customer data in order to improve their service and drive efficiency gains. However, the large volume of data involved often means that standard statistical methods fail and new ways of thinking are needed. Although great gains can be obtained through the use of more advanced computing environments or through developing sophisticated new statistical algorithms that handle data in a more efficient way, there are also many simpler things that can be done to handle large data sets in an efficient and intuitive manner. These include the use of distributed analysis methodologies, clever subsampling, data coarsening, and clever data reductions that exploit concepts such as sufficiency. These kinds of strategies represent exciting opportunities for statisticians to remain front and center in the data science world.
Sociality deficits in serine racemase knockout mice
Authors: Matveeva Tatyana M. , Pisansky Marc T. , Young Amy , Miller Robert F. , Gewirtz Jonathan C.
Published: September 2019

Background

Studies of schizophrenia have pointed to the role of glutamate in its pathophysiology. Mice lacking D‐serine show impairments in neurotransmission through NMDA receptors and display behaviors consistent with features of schizophrenia. Yet, socio‐communicative deficits, a characteristic of schizophrenia, have not been reported in serine racemase knockout mice.

Methods

We use behavioral testing (the three‐chambered social approach task, the dyadic interaction task, and the novel object recognition task) to examine socio‐communicative behaviors in these mice.

Results

Serine racemase mice show abnormal social investigation and approach behavior, and differ from wild‐type controls in the duration and number of vocalizations they emit in the presence of a conspecific. Serine racemase knockout mice were not impaired in a cognitive test (novel object recognition), although they displayed abnormal behavior in the acquisition phase of the task.

Conclusions

Serine racemase knockout mice demonstrate abnormalities in socio‐communicative behaviors consistent with an impairment in sociality, a negative symptom of schizophrenia.
Severe muscle loss during radical chemoradiotherapy for non‐metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma predicts poor survival
Authors: Huang Xiao , Ma Jie , Li Ling , Zhu Xiao‐dong
Published: September 2019

Background

Skeletal muscle loss is a novel imaging biomarker that is considered to be predictive of survival outcomes and toxicity in a variety of solid tumors. This study explored to investigate whether skeletal muscle loss after chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients can predict survival.

Methods

A total of 394 non‐metastatic NPC patients were enrolled. The cross‐sectional area of the third lumbar skeletal muscle based on computed tomography (CT) scan was measured and the skeletal muscle index (SMI) was calculated. A cut‐off value suitable for the Chinese population was used to define sarcopenia, and relative changes in skeletal muscle after treatment were analyzed for the confirmation of skeletal muscle tissue loss during treatment and its impact on overall survival (OS).

Results

The median follow‐up was 22.7 (range, 2.5‐46.4) months. One hundred and thirty patients (33.0%) were defined sarcopenia at baseline. Two hundred and forty one patients (61.2%) had posttreatment sarcopenia. The mean SMI before and after treatment was 42.8 and 38.1 cm2/m2 (P < .001), and the average SMA loss was 13.1 cm2. While sarcopenia before or after treatment was not associated with OS, severe muscle loss after CRT was an independent predictor of survival prognosis for NPC (hazard ratio 2.79, 95% confidence interval 1.47‐5.28, P = .002) when adjusted for gender and cancer stage.

Conclusions

During CRT, patients with NPC often experience different levels of muscle loss, and severe skeletal muscle loss may shorten OS.
Structures in Tetrahydrofolate Methylation in Desulfitobacterial Glycine Betaine Metabolism at Atomic Resolution
Authors: Badmann Thomas , Groll Michael
Published: September 2019

Enzymes orchestrating methylation between tetrahydrofolate (THF) and cobalamin (Cbl) are abundant among all domains of life. During energy production in Desulfitobacterium hafniense, MtgA catalyzes the methyl transfer from methylcobalamin (Cbl‐CH3) to THF in the catabolism of glycine betaine (GB). Despite its lack of sequence identity with known structures, we could show that MtgA forms a homodimeric complex of two TIM barrels. Atomic crystallographic insights into the interplay of MtgA with THF as well as analysis of a trapped reaction intermediate (THF‐CH3)+ reveal conformational rearrangements during the transfer reaction. Whereas residues for THF methylation are conserved, the binding mode for the THF glutamyl‐p‐aminobenzoate moiety (THF tail) is unique. Apart from snapshots of individual reaction steps of MtgA, structure‐based mutagenesis combined with enzymatic activity assays allowed a mechanistic description of the methyl transfer between Cbl‐CH3 and THF. Altogether, the THF‐tail‐binding motion observed in MtgA is unique compared to other THF methyltransferases and therefore contributes to the general understanding of THF‐mediated methyl transfer.
Development of Fluorogenic Probes for Rapid High‐Contrast Imaging of Transient Nuclear Localization of Sirtuin 3
Authors: Gao Jingchi , Hori Yuichiro , Shimomura Takashi , Bordy Mathieu , Hasserodt Jens , Kikuchi Kazuya
Published: September 2019

Protein labeling using fluorogenic probes enables the facile visualization of proteins of interest. Herein, we report new fluorogenic probes consisting of a rationally designed coumarin ligand for the live‐cell fluorogenic labeling of the photoactive yellow protein (PYP)‐tag. On the basis of the photochemical mechanisms of coumarin and the probe–tag interactions, we introduced a hydroxy group into an environment‐sensitive coumarin ligand to modulate its spectroscopic properties and increase the labeling reaction rate. The resulting probe had a higher labeling reaction rate constant and a greater fluorescence OFF–ON ratio than any previously developed PYP‐tag labeling probe. The probe enabled the fluorogenic labeling of intracellular proteins within minutes. Furthermore, we used our probe to investigate the localization of sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), a mitochondrial deacetylase. Although the nuclear localization of SIRT3 has been controversial, this transient nuclear localization was clearly captured by the rapid, high‐contrast imaging enabled by our probe.
Versatile Host Materials for Highly‐Efficient Green, Red Phosphorescent and White Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zheng Xu‐Hui , Zhao Jue‐Wen , Huang Ting‐Ting , Chen Xiang , Cao Chen , Yang Guo‐Xi , Lin Zhi‐Hong , Tong Qing‐Xiao , Tao Si‐Lu , Liu Di
Published: September 2019

To build up efficient host materials, two novel organic small molecules ICz‐PPI and 2ICz‐PPI were designed and synthesized, in which phenanthro[9,10‐d]imidazole (PI) is proposed as a potential luminophore with high stability, while the indolo[3,2,1‐jk]carbazole (ICz) has a high triplet energy and excellent thermal stability. Both exhibited weak intramolecular charge transfer, high decomposition temperature (Td) and high quantum yield. ICz‐PPI and 2ICz‐PPI can act as the emitting layer in non‐doped organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), which achieved an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 2.47 and 1.94 % with CIE coordinates of (0.153, 0.121) and (0.161, 0.102), respectively. In addition, the high triplet energy allows them to be used as hosts for phosphorescent OLEDs (PhOLEDs). Accordingly, high performance for green (62.5 cd A−1, 70.9 lm W−1, 17.8 %) and red (25.7 cd A−1, 26.9 lm W−1, 19.4 %) had been achieved from the ICz‐PPI‐based PhOLED. Particularly, the ICz‐PPI‐based red PhOLED showed surprisingly low roll‐off and maintained an EQE of 14.9 % at 10 000 cd m−2. Furthermore, an ICz‐PPI‐based white OLED (WOLED) exhibited warm white light (CIEx,y=(0.427, 0.468)) and high efficiencies with a CEmax of 31.8cd A−1, PEmax of 37.0lm W−1 and EQEmax of 14.4 %.
Distorted Phthalocyanines by Click Chemistry: Photoacoustic, Photothermal, and Surface‐Enhanced Resonance Raman Studies
Authors: Rizvi Waqar , Berisha Naxhije , Farley Christopher , Bhupathiraju N. V. S. Dinesh K. , Andreou Chrysafis , Khwaja Emaad , Fuentes German V. , Kircher Moritz F. , Gao Ruomei , Drain Charles Michael
Published: September 2019

Distortion of nominally planar phthalocyanine macrocycles affects the excited state dynamics in that most of the excited‐state energy decays through internal conversion. A click‐type annulation reaction on a perfluorophthalocyanine platform appending a seven‐membered ring to the β‐positions on one or more of the isoindoles distorts the macrocycle and modulates solubility. The distorted derivative enables photoacoustic imaging, photothermal effects, and strong surface‐enhanced resonance Raman signals.
Unusual η1‐Coordinated Alkyne and Alkene Complexes
Authors: Li Longfei , Dong Mengxian , Zhu Hua‐Jie , Peng Bin , Xie Yaoming , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: September 2019

This mechanistic study demonstrates that an unusual η1‐coordinated alkyne complex is critical for the 1‐pentyne 1,1‐diboration reaction. The comparative studies suggest the “pull–push” antagonistic effect arising from Lewis acidity and steric congestion as the reason for the existence of η1‐coordinated alkyne complexes. Analogous η1‐coordinated alkene complexes are also predicted and seem to be promising for their application to the important olefin polymerization reaction.
CFD study on partial oxidation of methane in fixed‐bed reactor
Authors: Li Yonghui , Lu Chao , Cao Xingxing , Geng Zhongfeng , Zhang Minhua
Published: September 2019

Partial oxidation of methane (POM) is a preferred method for synthesis gas, which usually occurs in fixed bed reactors. In this paper, the discrete element method (DEM) is used to reconstruct the structure of a reactor bed via simulating the process of filling the reactor with catalyst. The particle resolved CFD physical model with the detailed micro‐kinetcis of the POM reaction was established to study the interaction among reactant flow, heat and mass transfer, and reaction in the fixed bed. The gas composition and temperature distribution in the reactor were obtained based on the simulation results. The effects of the space velocity and the reaction temperature on the CH4 conversion, catalyst selectivity, and catalyst surface coke formation were analyzed. The simulation results show that the temperature hot spots of the catalyst in the bed occur at the inlet and the temperature increases further near the wall. With the increase in space velocity, the conversion rate of CH4 decreases gradually, and the selectivity does not change significantly. As the temperature increases, the conversion rate of CH4 gradually increases and the selectivity decreases. The risk of coke formation on the catalyst surface rises axially and the C species concentration is relatively higher near the outlet. Appropriately increasing the gas velocity and increasing the temperature helps to reduce the surface coke accumulation of the catalyst.
α‐Synuclein Spontaneously Adopts Stable and Reversible α‐Helical Structure in Water‐Less Environment
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Anasua , Mehra Surabhi , Kumar Raj , Maji Samir K. , Krishnamoorthy G. , Sharma Kamendra P.
Published: September 2019

A highly stable, spontaneous, and reversible α‐helical‐structure formation in recombinant and chemically modified α‐synuclein protein is demonstrated for the first time in a water‐less (1.5 % w/w H2O) polymer surfactant environment. Using a combination of circular dichroism and ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy, we show that whilst native α‐synuclein in aqueous solution shows a predominant unordered conformation (≈64 %), mixing with polyethylene glycol based anionic polymer surfactant (PS) and removing water reveals a 25 % unordered, 25 % α‐helical, and 27 % β‐sheet structure. Interestingly, bioconjugation of native α‐synuclein with a diamine molecule, to increase the positive charge on the protein chain, and subsequent electrostatic coupling with the PS forms a conjugate with a retained unordered structure. Removal of water from this system provides a highly stable α‐helical (≈74 %) water‐less liquid system. Surprisingly, the α‐helical‐to‐unordered state transition is completely reversible and is achieved at ≈25–30 w/w% of water in the system. Moreover, the α‐helix shows an extraordinary temporal stability (>6 months) in a waterless environment.
CRISPR‐Cas9‐Guided Genome Engineering in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Min , Colaiácovo Monica P.
Published: September 2019

The CRISPR‐Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats–CRISPR‐associated protein) system is being used successfully for efficient and targeted genome editing in various organisms, including the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Recent studies have developed a variety of CRISPR‐Cas9 approaches to enhance genome engineering via two major DNA double‐strand break repair pathways: nonhomologous end joining and homologous recombination. Here, we describe a protocol for Cas9‐mediated C. elegans genome editing together with single guide RNA (sgRNA) and repair template cloning (canonical marker‐free and cassette selection methods), as well as injection methods required for delivering Cas9, sgRNAs, and repair template DNA into the germline. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Guide RNA preparation

Alternate Protocol 1: sgRNA cloning using fusion PCR

Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of a repair template for homologous recombination

Alternate Protocol 2: Preparation of repair template donors for the cassette selection method

Basic Protocol 3: Injecting animals

Basic Protocol 4: Screening transgenic worms with marker‐free method

Alternate Protocol 3: Screening transgenic worms with cassette selection method
Prospective CYP2C19‐Guided Voriconazole Prophylaxis in Patients With Neutropenic Acute Myeloid Leukemia Reduces the Incidence of Subtherapeutic Antifungal Plasma Concentrations
Authors: Hicks J. Kevin , Quilitz Rod E. , Komrokji Rami S. , Kubal Timothy E. , Lancet Jeffrey E. , Pasikhova Yanina , Qin Dahui , So Wonhee , Caceres Gisela , Kelly Kerry , Salchert Yasmina S. , Shahbazian Kevin , Abbas‐Aghababazadeh Farnoosh , Fridley Brooke L. , Velez Ana P. , McLeod Howard L. , Greene John N.
Published: September 2019

A risk mitigation strategy was implemented to determine if a higher prophylactic voriconazole dosage in patients with CYP2C19 rapid metabolizer neutropenic acute myeloid leukemia (AML) reduces the incidence of subtherapeutic trough concentrations. Patients with AML (n = 263) were preemptively genotyped for CYP2C19*2, *3, and *17 alleles as part of a single‐center prospective, interventional, quality improvement study. CYP2C19 rapid metabolizers (CYP2C19*1/*17) were recommended to receive interventional voriconazole 300 mg twice daily, ultrarapid metabolizers (CYP2C19*17/*17) were recommended to avoid voriconazole, and all others received the standard prophylactic dosage of 200 mg twice daily. In this real‐world setting, 202 patients (76.8%) were prescribed prophylactic voriconazole, and of these patients 176 (87.1%) received CYP2C19‐guided prophylactic dosing. Voriconazole trough concentrations were obtained for 41 of the 58 (70.7%) CYP2C19 rapid metabolizers prescribed prophylactic voriconazole. Interventional voriconazole resulted in higher plasma trough concentrations (median 2.7 μg/mL) compared with the standard prophylactic dosage (median 0.6 μg/mL; P = 0.001). Subtherapeutic concentrations were avoided in 83.8% of CYP2C19 rapid metabolizers receiving interventional dosage compared to 46.2% receiving standard dosage (P = 0.02). CYP2C19 genotyping to preemptively guide prophylactic voriconazole dosing is feasible and may be a potential strategy for reducing the risk of subtherapeutic trough concentrations that potentiate breakthrough fungal infections.
Influence of customized therapy for molar incisor hypomineralization on children's oral hygiene and quality of life
Authors: Fütterer Jana , Ebel Markus , Bekes Katrin , Klode Christian , Hirsch Christian
Published: September 2019

Objective

The aim of this clinical follow‐up study was to demonstrate the effects of different therapeutic strategies for hypomineralized teeth on patients' oral health. The treatment results were characterized by changes in the extent of hypersensitivity and plaque accumulation, as well as reductions in nutritional restrictions.

Material and Methods

The impacts of therapy, including the use of fluoride varnish, fissure sealants, fillings, and stainless steel crowns, were evaluated in 78 children (mean age 8.5 years). We followed recommendations according to the Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation Treatment Need Index for customized treatment. The Quigley Hein Index, the Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale, Wong–Baker Faces Scale, and dietary‐limiting parameters were assessed before and after therapy for comparison.

Results

Plaque accumulation and hypersensitivity decreased after completion of therapy. The improvements were greater for individual teeth (Quigley Hein Index for teeth treated with stainless steel crowns from 4.19 to 2.54) than for those of the whole dentition (high‐severity category from 2.67 to 2.20). Problems with food intake were minimized via therapy, with the greatest influence observed for patients who were also in the high‐severity category.

Conclusions

Therapy for affected teeth in children has positive effects on oral health and quality of life.
Human γδ T‐cell receptor repertoire is shaped by influenza viruses, age and tissue compartmentalisation
Authors: Sant Sneha , Jenkins Misty R , Dash Pradyot , Watson Katherine A , Wang Zhongfang , Pizzolla Angela , Koutsakos Marios , Nguyen Thi HO , Lappas Martha , Crowe Jane , Loudovaris Tom , Mannering Stuart I , Westall Glen P , Kotsimbos Tom C , Cheng Allen C , Wakim Linda , Doherty Peter C , Thomas Paul G , Loh Liyen , Kedzierska Katherine
Published: September 2019

Background

Although γδ T cells comprise up to 10% of human peripheral blood T cells, questions remain regarding their role in disease states and T‐cell receptor (TCR) clonal expansions. We dissected anti‐viral functions of human γδ T cells towards influenza viruses and defined influenza‐reactive γδ TCRs in the context of γδ‐TCRs across the human lifespan.

Methods

We performed 51Cr‐killing assay and single‐cell time‐lapse live video microscopy to define mechanisms underlying γδ T‐cell‐mediated killing of influenza‐infected targets. We assessed cytotoxic profiles of γδ T cells in influenza‐infected patients and IFN‐γ production towards influenza‐infected lung epithelial cells. Using single‐cell RT‐PCR, we characterised paired TCRγδ clonotypes for influenza‐reactive γδ T cells in comparison with TCRs from healthy neonates, adults, elderly donors and tissues.

Results

We provide the first visual evidence of γδ T‐cell‐mediated killing of influenza‐infected targets and show distinct features to those reported for CD8+ T cells. γδ T cells displayed poly‐cytotoxic profiles in influenza‐infected patients and produced IFN‐γ towards influenza‐infected cells. These IFN‐γ‐producing γδ T cells were skewed towards the γ9δ2 TCRs, particularly expressing the public GV9‐TCRγ, capable of pairing with numerous TCR‐δ chains, suggesting their significant role in γδ T‐cell immunity. Neonatal γδ T cells displayed extensive non‐overlapping TCRγδ repertoires, while adults had enriched γ9δ2‐pairings with diverse CDR3γδ regions. Conversely, the elderly showed distinct γδ‐pairings characterised by large clonal expansions, a profile also prominent in adult tissues.

Conclusion

Human TCRγδ repertoire is shaped by age, tissue compartmentalisation and the individual's history of infection, suggesting that these somewhat enigmatic γδ T cells indeed respond to antigen challenge.
Forest recovery following extreme drought in California,USA: natural patterns and effects of pre‐drought management
Authors: Young Derek J. N. , Meyer Marc , Estes Becky , Gross Shana , Wuenschel Amarina , Restaino Christina , Safford Hugh D.
Published: September 2019

Rising temperatures and more frequent and severe droughts are driving increases in tree mortality in forests around the globe. However, in many cases, the likely trajectories of forest recovery following drought‐related mortality are poorly understood. In many fire‐suppressed western U.S. forests, management is applied to reverse densification and restore natural forest structure and species composition, but it is unclear how such management affects post‐mortality recovery. We addressed these uncertainties by examining forest stands that experienced mortality during the severe drought of 2012–2016 in California,USA. We surveyed post‐drought vegetation along a gradient of overstory mortality severity in paired treated (mechanically thinned or prescribed‐burned) and untreated areas in the Sierra Nevada. Treatment substantially reduced tree density, particularly in smaller tree size classes, and these effects persisted through severe drought‐related overstory mortality. However, even in treated areas with severe mortality (>67% basal area mortality), the combined density of residual (surviving) trees (mean 44 trees/ha) and saplings (mean 189 saplings/ha) frequently (86% of plots) fell within or exceeded the natural range of variation (NRV) of tree density, suggesting little need for reforestation intervention to increase density. Residual tree densities in untreated high‐mortality plots were significantly higher (mean 192 trees/ha and 506 saplings/ha), and 96% of these plots met or exceeded theNRV. Treatment disproportionately removed shade‐tolerant conifer species, while mortality in the drought event was concentrated in pines (Pinus ponderosaandP. lambertiana); as a consequence, the residual trees, saplings, and seedlings in treated areas, particularly those that had experienced moderate or high drought‐related mortality, were more heavily dominated by broadleaf (“hardwood”) trees (particularlyQuercus kelloggiiandQ. chrysolepis). In contrast, residual trees and regeneration in untreated stands were heavily dominated by shade‐tolerant conifer species (Abies concolorandCalocedrus decurrens), suggesting a need for future treatment. Because increased dominance of hardwoods brings benefits for plant and animal diversity and stand resilience, the ecological advantages of mechanical thinning and prescribed fire treatments may, depending on the management perspective, extend even to stands that ultimately experience high drought‐related mortality following treatment.
Operation of a transformerless three‐phase PV inverter using multiple bidirectional choppers
Authors: Yamada Ryo , Hagiwara Makoto
Published: September 2019

A 50‐kW class three‐phase photovoltaic (PV) inverter typically applies a transformerless circuit configuration due to its high efficiency and small volume/size. On the other hand, the conventional PV inverter may suffer from the deterioration of solar panels due to a dc leakage current flowing through the stray capacitance of the solar panels. To solve this problem, this paper presents a transformerless three‐phase PV inverter consisting of multiple bidirectional choppers, which prevents the dc leakage current by maintaining a negative PV array voltage with respect to the ground potential to a dc voltage that is zero or higher. In addition, the size/volume of an ac filter can be reduced by applying the so‐called phase‐shifted PWM to the inverter. In this paper, the operating principles and control method of the inverter are discussed and the validity of the control method is verified by performing computer simulation using the “PSCAD/EMTDC” software package and conducting experiments using a 150‐V downscaled model.
Chiral Bifunctional Thiosquaramides as Organocatalysts in the Synthesis of Enantioenriched 3,3‐Disubstituted Oxindoles
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ferrer Patricia , Naharro Daniel , Maestro Alicia , Andrés José M. , Pedrosa Rafael
Published: September 2019

Four novel chiral bifunctional thiosquaramides have been prepared from cyclopentyl dithiosquarates and diamines derived from natural l‐Valine and l‐tert‐Leucine. The novel thiosquaramides have been tested as organocatalyst in the nitro‐Michael addition of 3‐substituted oxindoles to different β‐aryl‐substituted nitroalkenes. The reaction occurred easily in high yields and excellent stereoselectivities, showing that the novel organocatalysts are much more effective than their thioureas and squaramides homologs.
Impact of Low Frequency Narrow Pulse Current on the Degradation of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Zhou Y. F. , Huang L. J. , Sun X. X. , Shao F. X.
Published: September 2019

Multi‐phase DC/DC converter is widely used in fuel cell vehicles to adjust the voltage. Single phase mode of converter is adopted to increase efficiency when current ripple meets requirement. Therefore, it is necessary to commutate between different phases at low frequency, due to the temperature rising of each phase‐leg. However, narrow pulse current occurs during the phase commutation. Pulse current can cause variations in water and gas content inside the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), which is the driving force for degradation. To analyze the effect of low frequency narrow pulse current on fuel cell, an isothermal 1D‐PEM fuel cell model is presented to characterize the transient changes of these parameters: gas stoichiometry, relative humidity, water content and pressure difference. After comparing the influence on fuel cell of four types of pulse current, the results reveal that the 4 ms narrow pulse current cannot affect fuel cell lifetime, since no gas shortage occurred, the change of relative humidity and membrane water content are less than 1‰ and the pressure difference varies within specified range. Besides, the membrane lifetime reduces to 4,166 h as the width of narrow pulse current increased from 4 ms to 0.8 s.
Predictive abilities of speculators in energy markets
Authors: Merkoulova Yulia
Published: September 2019

Using nonparametric methodology, I find that speculators are successful in taking profitable positions in energy futures markets, although the magnitude of this effect is lower than that found previously for agricultural markets. A plausible explanation for this difference is that price forecasting is more difficult for energy commodities. Moreover, I find that the energy speculators’ returns are due to the existence of the risk premiums rather than to speculators’ forecasting abilities. Futures risk premium is highly time‐variant; notably, energy investors’ profits have been very limited in the GFC and post‐GFC period, which coincided with the financialization of commodity markets.
Cryptic recurrent ACIN1‐NUTM1 fusions in non‐KMT2A‐rearranged infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Pincez Thomas , Landry Josette‐Renée , Roussy Mathieu , Jouan Loubna , Bilodeau Mélanie , Laramée Louise , Couture Françoise , Sinnett Daniel , Gendron Patrick , Hébert Josée , Oligny Luc , Rouette Alexandre , Tran Thai H. , Wilhelm Brian T. , Bittencourt Henrique , Cellot Sonia
Published: September 2019

Infant acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALL) are rare hematological malignancies occurring in children younger than 1 year of age, most frequently associated with KMT2A rearrangements (KMT2A‐r). The smaller subset without KMT2A‐r, which represents 20% of infant ALL cases, is poorly characterized. Here we report two cases of chemotherapy‐sensitive non‐KMT2A‐r infant ALL. Transcriptome analyses revealed identical ACIN1‐NUTM1 gene fusions in both cases, derived from cryptic chromosomal rearrangements undetected by standard cytogenetic approaches. Two isoforms of the gene fusion, joining exons 3 or 4 of ACIN1 to exon 3 of NUTM1, were identified. Both fusion transcripts contained the functional DNA‐binding SAP (SAF‐A/B, Acinus, and PIAS) domain of ACIN1 and most of NUTM1. The detection of the ACIN1‐NUTM1 fusion by RT‐PCR allowed the molecular monitoring of minimal residual disease in a clinical setting. Based on publicly available genomic datasets and literature review, we predict that NUTM1 gene fusions are recurrent events in infant ALL. As such, we propose two clinically relevant assays to screen for NUTM1 rearrangements in bone marrow cells, independent of the fusion partner: NUMT1 immunohistochemistry and NUTM1 RNA expression. In sum, our study identifies ACIN1‐NUTM1 as a recurrent and possibly cryptic fusion in non‐KMT2A‐r infant ALL, provides clinical tools to screen for NUTM1‐rearranged leukemia and contributes to the refinement of this new subgroup.
NG2 glia are required for maintaining microglia homeostatic state
Authors: Liu Yingjun , Aguzzi Adriano
Published: September 2019

Microglia play vital roles in the health and diseases of the central nervous system. Loss of microglia homeostatic state is a key feature of brain aging and neurodegeneration. However, the mechanisms underlying the maintenance of distinct microglia cellular states are largely unclear. Here, we show that NG2 glia, also known as oligodendrocyte precursor cells, are essential for maintaining the homeostatic microglia state. We developed a highly efficient and selective NG2 glia depletion method using small‐molecule inhibitors of platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling in cultured brain slices. We found that loss of NG2 glia abolished the homeostatic microglia signature without affecting the disease‐associated microglia profiles. Similar findings were also observed in vivo by genetically depleting NG2 glia or conditionally inhibiting NG2 glia PDGF signaling in the adult mouse brain. These data suggest that NG2 glia exert a crucial influence onto microglia cellular states that are relevant to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, our results provide a powerful, convenient, and selective tool for the investigation of NG2 glia function.
Event‐based deep drainage and percolation dynamics in Vertosols and Chromosols
Authors: Arnold Sven , Bulovic Nevenka , McIntyre Neil , Finch Warren K. , Larsen Joshua R. , Reading Lucy P. , Baumgartl Thomas
Published: September 2019

The quantification of percolation processes and deep drainage rates in cracking clays is challenging due to the existence of multiple flow pathways, including desiccation crack networks, and the effect of variability in antecedent soil moisture and rain event properties. While most previous research on this topic focuses on long‐term average rates, this study focusses on inter‐event dynamics. The study uses data from soil moisture sensors distributed vertically down 4 m profiles of Vertosol and Chromosol soils across 13 sites over an area of approximately 20 km2. The objectives were to estimate the temporal and spatial variability of deep drainage rates and to investigate the effect of antecedent soil moisture conditions and rain event properties on deep drainage rates and percolation dynamics. 35 deep drainage events over a 40‐month period contributed 78 % of the total deep drainage of 254 mm at 4 m depth. Average deep drainage estimates were about 15 % (ranging from 0 – 80 % between sites) of total rainfall and irrigation in the Vertosol and 8% (0 – 24 %) in the Chromosol. The event water travel times at 4 m depth were 0.25 – 38 hr and 14 – 39 hr in the Vertosol and Chromosol respectively. The event deep drainage rates averaged across sites were associated with event rainfall volumes (linear regression R2 = 0.40), with the effect of antecedent conditions evident only when looking at inter‐site differences. The percolation response time was strongly associated with higher rainfall intensities (R2 = 0.33) with no evidence from the linear regression of an antecedent moisture effect.
Fabrication of amine‐decorated nonspherical microparticles with calcium peroxide cargo for controlled release of oxygen
Authors: Khorshidi Sajedeh , Karkhaneh Akbar , Bonakdar Shahin
Published: September 2019

Oxygen is an important signaling molecule which affects many behaviors of bone progenitor cells. Oxygen releasing biomaterials depend on their material and design are able to provide and modulate the desired oxygen for cells. To date, many oxygen releasing vehicles have been developed by incorporating microsized calcium peroxide (CPO) into polymeric matrixes. However, an oxygen releasing system based on nano CPO is still lacking. Not only can nanosized CPO provide more controllable oxygen release, but also can be loaded in vehicles of different shapes and sizes. Current research was conducted to take the advantages of nanomaterials as oxygen releasing components. To this end, CPO nanoparticles were synthesized using a hydrolysis–precipitation procedure and then loaded into the poly (lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) matrix via an electrospray process. The surface of PLGA/CaO2 particles was decorated with amine functionalities to render them more bioactive through a controlled aminolysis reaction. The studies on PLGA/CaO2 microparticles revealed that biconcave disk‐like morphology with a mean diameter of 5.3 μm was formed. The particles persistently provide oxygen content of 35–67.5 mmHg up to 14 days which lies within the acceptable range for bone tissue engineering applications. PLGA/CaO2 microparticles induced 208 and 76% increase in number of viable mesenchymal cells on 6th and 14th days of cell seeding comparing PLGA counterparts. Furthermore, the expression of two bone biomarkers, that is, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin, at protein level as well as the extent of calcium deposition was increased in the presence of PLGA/CaO2 microparticles compared to PLGA ones.
Exploring Nature and Predicting Strength of Hydrogen Bonds: A Correlation Analysis Between Atoms‐in‐Molecules Descriptors, Binding Energies, and Energy Components of Symmetry‐Adapted Perturbation Theory
Authors: Emamian Saeedreza , Lu Tian , Kruse Holger , Emamian Hamidreza
Published: September 2019

This work studies the underlying nature of H‐bonds (HBs) of different types and strengths and tries to predict binding energies (BEs) based on the properties derived from wave function analysis. A total of 42 HB complexes constructed from 28 neutral and 14 charged monomers were considered. This set was designed to sample a wide range of HB strengths to obtain a complete view about HBs. BEs were derived with the accurate coupled cluster singles and doubles with perturbative triples correction (CCSD(T))(T) method and the physical components of the BE were investigated by symmetry‐adapted perturbation theory (SAPT). Quantum theory of atoms‐in‐molecules (QTAIM) descriptors and other HB indices were calculated based on high‐quality density functional theory wave functions. We propose a new and rigorous classification of H‐bonds (HBs) based on the SAPT decomposition. Neutral complexes are either classified as “very weak” HBs with a BE ≥ −2.5 kcal/mol that are mainly dominated by both dispersion and electrostatic interactions or as “weak‐to‐medium” HBs with a BE varying between −2.5 and −14.0 kcal/mol that are only dominated by electrostatic interactions. On the other hand, charged complexes are divided into “medium” HBs with a BE in the range of −11.0 to −15.0 kcal/mol, which are mainly dominated by electrostatic interactions, or into “strong” HBs whose BE is more negative than −15.0 kcal/mol, which are mainly dominated by electrostatic together with induction interactions. Among various explored correlations between BEs and wave function‐based HB descriptors, a fairly satisfactory correlation was found for the electron density at the bond critical point (BCP;ρBCP) of HBs. The fitted equation for neutral complexes is BE/kcal/mol =  − 223.08 × ρBCP/a. u. + 0.7423with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 14.7%, while that for charged complexes is BE/kcal/mol =  − 332.34 × ρBCP/a. u. − 1.0661with a MAPE of 10.0%. In practice, these equations may be used for a quick estimation of HB BEs, for example, for intramolecular HBs or large HB networks in biomolecules. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coping with discrimination: The insidious effects of gender minority stigma on depression and anxiety in transgender individuals
Authors: Puckett Jae A. , Maroney Meredith R. , Wadsworth Lauren P. , Mustanski Brian , Newcomb Michael E.
Published: September 2019

Objectives

We examined types of discrimination encountered by transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals and the associations with symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as the mediating and moderating effects of coping responses.

Method

This online study included 695 TGD individuals ages 16 years and over (M = 25.52; standard deviation = 9.68).

Results

Most participants (76.1%) reported discrimination over the past year. Greater exposure to discrimination was associated with more symptoms of depression and anxiety. These associations were mediated by coping via detachment and via internalization, although a direct effect remained.

Conclusions

Many TGD people will encounter discrimination and this is associated with greater psychological distress. Engagement in the internalization of blame or detachment partially explains the association between discrimination and mental health issues. These findings elucidate possible avenues for interventions to bolster adaptive coping responses for TGD people and highlight that actions to decrease discrimination are urgently needed.
Cloud ability to produce precipitation over arid and semiarid regions of Central and East Asia
Authors: Liu Yuzhi , Luo Run , Zhu QingZhe , Hua Shan , Wang Bing
Published: September 2019

Distributed across Central and East Asia (CEA) is the largest arid and semiarid (ASA) region where the air water resources are highly significant. In this study, the cloud water resources and ability of clouds to produce precipitation over the ASA region in CEA are analysed in detail. The findings of this study indicate that both the regional liquid water path (LWP) and ice water path (IWP) tend to increase over the ASA region in CEA from 1982 to 2015, where the IWP increases more significantly at a rate of 8.61 g⋅m−2⋅decade−1. Especially, the increases in LWP and IWP indicate much more significant over the semiarid area in CEA. Simultaneously, the precipitation increases slightly, except for a weak decreasing trend over the semiarid region in East Asia from 1982 to 2015. Consequently, the clouds show a decreased precipitation efficiency over most areas of the CEA region. Over the semiarid region, especially in East Asia, the precipitation amount tends to slightly decrease from 1982 to 2015, and a decreased precipitation efficiency is found over there. Overall, the precipitation efficiency of cloud indicates maximum decrease over the semiarid area, and a minimum decrease is found over the arid area of CEA during 1982–2015. A possible mechanism relating to the consequence of aerosols suppressing precipitation may exist. In future studies, more focus should be placed on the cloud precipitation mechanism over the ASA region in CEA.
Supraspinatus Muscle and Tendon Stiffness Changes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Shear Wave Elastography Assessment
Authors: Itoigawa Yoshiaki , Wada Tomoki , Kawasaki Takayuki , Morikawa Daichi , Maruyama Yuichiro , Kaneko Kazuo
Published: September 2019

Re‐tearing after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) frequently occurs, and high stiffness of the rotator cuff may be one of the factors. We investigated changes in stiffness of the supraspinatus muscle and tendon after ARCR as measured by shear wave elastography (SWE) with B‐mode ultrasound, and compared the supraspinatus muscle stiffness of patients with recurrent tears and patients with healed rotator cuffs. Sixty patients with supraspinatus tears requiring ARCR underwent serial SWE of their supraspinatus muscles and repaired tendons. SWE was performed before surgery (Pre‐Op) and at 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, and 6 months after surgery. Additionally, the repaired rotator cuffs were evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging at 6 months after surgery to classify patients into a healed rotator cuff group and a recurrent tear group. Differences in SWE values between the groups were assessed at each time point. The SWE value of the repaired tendon at 1 week after ARCR was significantly greater than at 3 and 6 months. The SWE value for the supraspinatus muscle at 1 month after ARCR surgery in the healed group was lower than at Pre‐Op and 4, 5, and 6 months after surgery, and it was also lower than that at 1 month after surgery in the re‐tear group. There were no significant differences between time points in the SWE values of the supraspinatus muscle in the re‐tear group. The SWE value of the muscle in the re‐tear group was greater than in the healed group at 1 month after surgery (p < 0.05). Increased SWE values at 1 month after ARCR may predict recurrent rotator cuff tears after surgery rather than evaluating the tendon. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:219–227, 2020
New advances and future directions in plant polyspermy
Authors: Tekleyohans Dawit G. , Groß‐Hardt Rita
Published: September 2019

Plants have evolved a battery of mechanisms that potentially act as polyspermy barriers. Supernumerary sperm fusion to one egg cell has consequently long remained a hypothetical concept. The recent discovery that polyspermy in flowering plants is not lethal but generates viable triploid plants is a game changer affecting the field of developmental biology, evolution, and plant breeding. The establishment of protocols to artificially induce polyspermy together with the development of a high‐throughput assay to identify and trace polyspermic events in planta now provide powerful tools to unravel mechanisms of polyspermy regulation. These achievements are likely to open new avenues for animal polyspermy research as well, where forward genetic approaches are hampered by the fatal outcome of supernumerary sperm fusion.
Immune regulatory molecules as modifiers of semen and fertility: A review
Authors: Archana S. Siddalingappa , Selvaraju Sellappan , Binsila B. Krishnan , Arangasamy Arunachalam , Krawetz Stephen A.
Published: September 2019

Declining fertility rates in both human and animals is a cause for concern. While many of the infertility cases are due to known causes, idiopathic infertility is reported in 30% of the infertile couples. In such cases, 18% of the infertile males carry antisperm antibodies (ASAs). Such data are lacking in livestock, wherein 20–30% of the animals are being culled due to low fertility. In males, the blood–testis barrier (BTB) and biomolecules in the semen provide an immuno‐tolerant microenvironment for spermatozoa as they traverse the immunologic milieu of both the male and female reproductive tracts. For example, insults from environmental contaminants, infections and inflammatory conditions are likely to impact the immune privilege state of the testis and fertility. The female mucosal immune system can recognize allogenic spermatozoa‐specific proteins affecting sperm kinematics and sperm‐zona binding leading to immune infertility. Elucidating the functions and pathways of the immune regulatory molecules associated with fertilization are prerequisites for understanding their impact on fertility. An insight into biomolecules associated with spermatozoal immune tolerance may generate inputs to develop diagnostic tools and modulate fertility. High‐throughput sequencing technologies coupled with bioinformatics analyses provides a path forward to define the array of molecules influencing pregnancy outcome. This review discusses the seminal immune regulatory molecules from their origin in the testis until they traverse the uterine environment enabling fertilization and embryonic development. Well‐designed experiments and the identification of biomarkers may provide a pathway to understand the finer details of reproductive immunology that will afford personalized therapies.