bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Mn‐zeolite/Graphite Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode: Fabrication, Characterization and Analytical Applications
Authors: Porada Radosław , Fendrych Katarzyna , Baś Bogusław
Published: January 2020

In this work, low‐cost and environmentally friendly natural zeolite exchanged with Mn2+ cations was used for the first time to modify the glassy carbon electrode with the aim to obtain a fast and simple sensor for voltammetric determination of paracetamol (PAR). The Mn‐zeolite/graphite modified glassy carbon electrode (MnZG−GCE) was prepared by evaporation of solvent from dispersion of the zeolite/graphite mixture with the polymer in acetone. The electrochemical characteristics of MnZG−GCE were conducted by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Compared with graphite modified GCE (G−GCE), MnZG−GCE exhibited better electrochemical parameters, which confirms the superiority of applying zeolite in the proposed sensor. The optimization of the pH‐value of supporting electrolyte and instrumental parameters were carried out. The peak current was proportional to the concentration of PAR in a phosphate buffer saline of pH 6.0 in the range from 0.029 to 0.69 mg L−1 (R=0.9997) with limit of detection of 8.8 μg L−1. Finally, the proposed electrode was successfully applied to determine the paracetamol in pharmaceutical formulation and certified reference materials. The satisfactory recoveries, which ranged from 89.2 to 102.7 %, were obtained for all studied samples. It confirmed the attractiveness of relatively inexpensive, easy to fabricate and non‐toxic MnZG−GCE in determination of PAR in complicated matrixes.
Aggressively delivered mechanism over variable length density using a simulated annealing algorithm in mobile ad hoc network
Authors: Sundar R. , Kathirvel A.
Published: January 2020

In a mobile ad hoc network, a node moves dynamically without any centralized control. Each node has its autonomous behavior to perform route discovery and packet forwarding. Ad hoc on‐demand distance vectors establish the path, and there may be path loss due to rapid node mobility. When all paths become unavailable, route discovery is done once again, but it may lead to routing overhead and delay in transmission. A novel approach of dynamic clustering mechanism with nondeterministic simulated (DCHA) technique is implemented to avoid path loss and to establish a stable link between the source and the destination. Dynamic clusters are organized along the path based on the local minimum and the global minimum of mobile nodes. So, every problem that you are solving needs to have a way to describe goodness of the solution. Local minimum to applying an algorithm like this to solve the problem is to be careful and check whether sufficient neighbor nodes are available; on the other hand, global minimum is based on the way in which the configuration of systems changes every time during exploitation and exploration. In the proposed algorithm be simulated in NS2 with evaluating through the path stability is maintained and further route discovery is eliminated.
Experimental investigation of the impact of liquid carbon dioxide injection on temperature in pulverized coal
Authors: Yu Zhijin , Yang Song , Wen Hu , Deng Jun
Published: January 2020

Using liquid carbon dioxide (LCO2) as a medium for underground coal fires prevention and control, while reducing the emissions of CO2, is a promising option for CO2 utilization worldwide. However, the mechanism of LCO2 flow with phase transition on coal temperature is still not clear. In this work, an experimental system was designed and fabricated to investigate the phase transition behavior and temperature variation during injecting LCO2 into pulverized coal and the impact of mass flow rate, nozzle diameter, and injection pressure on cooling effect. The results indicate that when LCO2 was injected into the pulverized coal, the instantaneous phase change into solid and vapor occurred just after leaving the release port. An intensive heat transfer process occurred because of the throttling effect, flashing effect, and sublimation and thereby formed a cooling area (<−56.6°C), which was the main area of cooling effect and phase transition; as injection time increases, the range of this area increases in the form of logarithmic function. In addition, the cooling area exhibited a strong dependence on the injection conditions, and its correlation with mass flow rate, nozzle diameter, and injection pressure are identified as exponential, logarithmic, and linear relationship by dimensionless analysis, respectively. Meanwhile, an empirical formula was developed for calculating the cooling effect under various injection conditions. In summary, the experiments provided fundamental data and regime for predicting the effect of LCO2 injection on the temperature of pulverized coal, which can be used to guide the utilization of LCO2 for coal fires prevention. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growing Together—Effects of a school‐based intervention promoting positive self‐beliefs and social integration in recently immigrated children
Authors: Hannover Bettina , Kreutzmann Madeleine , Haase Jannika , Zander Lysann
Published: January 2020

We present a school‐based intervention geared to foster the social integration of recently immigrated (RI) primary school children by creating repeated positive contact situations with classmates brought up in the receiving society. Coaches encouraged groups of tandems, consisting of one RI and one child brought up in Germany each, to engage in cooperative activities designed to strengthen positive self‐beliefs and perception of equal status. In a quasi‐experimental control‐group design (N = 318), we compared the 30 children (12 RI) who participated in our intervention between pre‐test and post‐test with a reference group. Self‐beliefs were measured via self‐reports, social integration via sociometric peer‐nominations. The reference group (n = 288 children) included all children who did not participate in the intervention between pre‐test and post‐test: (a) 12 children (7 RI) of a waiting control group and (b) all classmates of both the students of the intervention and the waiting control group. Post‐test self‐beliefs were more positive in children having participated in the intervention. The intervention did not affect social integration: Neither the number of classmates nominating a student nor the number of peers the respective student nominated increased. Possibly, the intervention initiated self‐reinforcing processes which support social integration over longer time periods.
How does perfectionism affect academic achievement? Examining the mediating role of accurate self‐assessment
Authors: Park Yonguk , Heo Cheongra , Kim Joo Shim , Rice Kenneth G. , Kim Young‐Hoon
Published: January 2020

Perfectionism, a multidimensional disposition encompassing both positive and negative attributes, has been widely examined in a number of different fields, one of which is academics. However, results of research on the precise connection between perfectionism and academic success remain largely inconclusive. The present study, therefore, attempted to identify this underlying mechanism by examining the mediating role of accurate self‐assessment in the relationship between perfectionism and academic achievement of college students. The results revealed that while perfectionistic concerns and strivings did not directly affect academic achievement, their indirect effects were statistically significant. Perfectionistic concerns negatively predicted academic achievement through inaccurate self‐assessment, whereas perfectionistic strivings positively predicted academic achievement through accurate self‐assessment. These findings are expected to promote a practical and balanced understanding of academic perfectionism by explaining the relationship between the sub‐dimensions of perfectionism and academic achievement.
Engineering a collagen matrix for cell‐instructive regenerative angiogenesis
Authors: Minor Alicia J. , Coulombe Kareen L. K.
Published: January 2020

Engineering an angiogenic material for regenerative medicine requires knowledge of native extracellular matrix remodeling by cellular processes in angiogenesis. Vascularization remains a key challenge in the field of tissue engineering, one that can be mitigated by developing platforms conducive to guiding dynamic cell‐matrix interactions required for new vessel formation. In this review, we highlight nuanced processes of angiogenesis and demonstrate how materials engineering is being used to interface with dynamic type I collagen remodeling, Notch and VEGF signaling, cell migration, and tissue morphogenesis. Because α1(I)‐collagen is secreted by endothelial tip cells during sprouting angiogenesis and required for migration, collagen is a very useful natural biomaterial and its angiogenic modifications are described. The balance between collagen types I and IV via secretion and degradation is tightly controlled by proteinases and other cell types that are capable of internalizing collagen to maintain tissue integrity. Thus, we provide examples in skin and cardiac tissue engineering of collagen tailoring in diverse cellular microenvironments for tissue regeneration. As our understanding of how to drive collagen remodeling and cellular phenotype through angiogenic pathways grows, our capabilities to model and manipulate material systems must continue to expand to develop novel applications for wound healing, angiogenic therapy, and regenerative medicine.
Theoretical analysis of the kinetic isotope effect on carboxylation in RubisCO
Authors: Jiang Tianlong , Moriwaki Kenta , Kobayashi Osamu , Ishimura Kazuya , Danielache Sebastian O. , Nanbu Shinkoh
Published: January 2020

Ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO) fixes atmospheric carbon dioxide into bioavailable sugar molecules. It is also well known that a kinetic isotope effect (KIE; CO2 carbon atoms) accompanies the carboxylation process. To describe the reaction and the KIE α, two different types of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations (ab initio MD and classical MD) have been performed with an Own N‐layered Integrated molecular Orbitals and molecular Mechanics (ONIOM)‐hybrid model. A channel structure for CO2 transport has been observed during the MD simulation in RubisCO, and assuming the reaction path from the inlet to the product through the coordinate complex with Mg2+, simulations have been performed on several molecular configuration models fixing several distances between CO2 and ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate along the channel. Free energy analysis and diffusion coefficient analysis have been evaluated for different phases of the process. It is confirmed that the isotopic fractionation effect for CO2 containing either 13C or 12C would appear through the transiting path in the channel structure identified in RubisCO. The estimated isotope fractionation constant was quite close to the experimental value.
Comprehensive analysis of pseudogene HSPB1P1 and its potential roles in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tang Dongyang , Zhao Xin , Zhang Li , Wang Cheng
Published: January 2020

The incidence and mortality rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) nowadays is still at high levels. The regulatory roles of pseudogene in cancers have been gradually recognized in recent years. However, comprehensive investigation of abnormally expressed pseudogene and related mechanisms in HCC remains lacking. GSE124535 dataset was used to identify differentially expressed pseudogenes in HCC tissues compared with normal tissues. Prognostic value of these differentially expressed pseudogenes was analyzed at GEPIA. StarBase used to analyze microRNAs (miRNAs) can bind with pseudogene, while the targets for these miRNAs were analyzed at miRTarBase. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was then established for miRNA targets, after that hub genes were selected. Expression correlation of pseudogene and hub genes was analyzed at StarBase. In total, 16 upregulated and 17 downregulated pseudogenes were identified. Pseudogene HSPB1P1 was identified abnormally expressed in 20 types of human cancers and could be used as an indicator for poorer overall survival of patients with HCC. Functional analyses showed that HSPB1P1 was strongly correlated with signaling pathways related to cancer progression. Further studied revealed that HSPB1P1 could direct regulate the EZH2 expression in HCC. In summary, our study indicated that HSPB1P1 was a predictor for poorer overall survival of patients with HCC and may be potential therapeutic target against HCC.
CDC6 regulates both G2/M transition and metaphase‐to‐anaphase transition during the first meiosis of mouse oocytes
Authors: Yi Zi‐Yun , Meng Tie‐Gang , Ma Xue‐Shan , Li Jian , Zhang Chun‐Hui , Ouyang Ying‐Chun , Schatten Heide , Qiao Jie , Sun Qing‐Yuan , Qian Wei‐Ping
Published: January 2020

Cell division cycle protein, CDC6, is essential for the initiation of DNA replication. CDC6 was recently shown to inhibit the microtubule‐organizing activity of the centrosome. Here, we show that CDC6 is localized to the spindle from pro‐metaphase I (MI) to MII stages of oocytes, and it plays important roles at two critical steps of oocyte meiotic maturation. CDC6 depletion facilitated the G2/M transition (germinal vesicle breakdown [GVBD]) through regulation of Cdh1 and cyclin B1 expression and CDK1 (CDC2) phosphorylation in a GVBD‐inhibiting culture system containing milrinone. Furthermore, GVBD was significantly decreased after knockdown of cyclin B1 in CDC6‐depleted oocytes, indicating that the effect of CDC6 loss on GVBD stimulation was mediated, at least in part, by raising cyclin B1. Knockdown of CDC6 also caused abnormal localization of γ‐tubulin, resulting in defective spindles, misaligned chromosomes, cyclin B1 accumulation, and spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) activation, leading to significant pro‐MI/MI arrest and PB1 extrusion failure. These phenotypes were also confirmed by time‐lapse live cell imaging analysis. The results indicate that CDC6 is indispensable for maintaining G2 arrest of meiosis and functions in G2/M checkpoint regulation in mouse oocytes. Moreover, CDC6 is also a key player regulating meiotic spindle assembly and metaphase‐to‐anaphase transition in meiotic oocytes.
Sphingosine kinase 1 promotes cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion injury through inducing ER stress and activating the NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Mingming , Zhou Dingzhou , Ouyang Zhu , Yu Mengqiang , Jiang Yugang
Published: January 2020

Endoplasm reticulum stress and inflammation response have been found to be linked to cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion (IR) injury. Sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) has been reported to be a novel endoplasm reticulum regulator. The aim of our study is to figure out the role of SPHK1 in cerebral IR injury and verify whether it has an ability to regulate inflammation and endoplasm reticulum stress. Hydrogen peroxide was used to induce cerebral IR injury. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blots, and immunofluorescence were used to measure the alterations of cell viability, inflammation response, and endoplasm reticulum stress. The results demonstrated that after exposure to hydrogen peroxide, cell viability was reduced whereas SPHK1 expression was significantly elevated. Knockdown of SPHK1 attenuated hydrogen peroxide‐mediated cell death and reversed cell viability. Our data also demonstrated that SPHK1 deletion reduced endoplasm reticulum stress and alleviated inflammation response in hydrogen peroxide‐treated cells. In addition, we also found that SHPK1 modulated endoplasm reticulum stress and inflammation response to through the NF‐κB signaling pathway. Inhibition of NF‐κB signaling pathway has similar results when compared with the cells with SPHK1 deletion. Altogether, our results demonstrated that SPHK1 upregulation, induced by hydrogen peroxide, is responsible for cerebral IR injury through inducing endoplasm reticulum stress and inflammation response in a manner working through the NF‐κB signaling pathway. This finding provides new insight into the molecular mechanism to explain the neuron death induced by cerebral IR injury.
Circular RNA; a new biomarker for breast cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Jahani Shima , Nazeri Elahe , Majidzadeh‐A Keivan , Jahani Mona , Esmaeili Rezvan
Published: January 2020

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) were recently discovered as a looped subset of competing endogenous RNAs, with an ability to regulate gene expression by microRNA sponging. There are several studies on their potential roles in cancer development, such as colorectal cancer and basal cell carcinoma. However, there is still a significant gap in the knowledge about circRNA functions in breast cancer (BC) progression. The current study systematically reviewed circRNA biogenesis and their potential roles as a novel biomarker in BC on published studies of the MEDLINE®/PubMed, Cochrane®, and Scopus® databases. The obtained results showed a general dysregulation of circRNAs expression in BC cells with a cell‐type and stage‐specific manner. The potential connection between circRNAs and BC cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and chemotherapy sensitivity and resistance were discussed.
Ferroptotic agent‐induced endoplasmic reticulum stress response plays a pivotal role in the autophagic process outcome
Authors: Lee Young‐Sun , Kalimuthu Kalishwaralal , Seok Park Yong , Makala Hima , Watkins Simon C. , Choudry M. Haroon A. , Bartlett David L. , Tae Kwon Yong , Lee Yong J.
Published: January 2020

Ferroptosis has been reported as a unique form of cell death. However, in recent years, researchers have increasingly challenged the uniqueness of ferroptosis compared to other types of cell death. In this study, we examined whether ferroptosis shares cell death pathways with other types of cell death, especially autophagy, via the autophagic process. Here, we observed that ferroptosis inducers (artesunate [ART] and erastin [ERA]) and autophagy inducers (bortezomib [BOR] and XIE62‐1004) led to autophagosome formation via the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. Unlike XIE62‐1004, ART, ERA, and BOR, which affect glutathione production or utilization, induced oxidative stress responses—an increase in the levels of heme oxygenase‐1 and lipid peroxidation. Oxidative stress responses were attenuated by deletion of autophagy‐related gene‐5 or treatment with autophagy inhibitors (bafilomycin and chloroquine). Our studies provide an overview of common death pathways—the ER stress response‐associated autophagic process in ferroptosis and autophagy. We also highlight the role played by glutathione redox system in the outcome of the autophagic process.
(Curcumin+sildenafil) enhances the efficacy of 5FU and anti‐PD1 therapies in vivo
Authors: Dent Paul , Booth Laurence , Roberts Jane L. , Poklepovic Andrew , Hancock John F.
Published: January 2020

We have extended our analyses of (curcumin+sildenafil) biology. The drug combination caused vascularization and degradation of mutant K‐RAS that correlated with reduced phosphorylation of ERK1/2, AKT T308, mTORC1, mTORC2, ULK1 S757, STAT3, STAT5, and NFκB and increased phosphorylation of eIF2α, ATM, AMPKα, ULK1 S317; all concomitant with elevated ATG13 S318 phosphorylation and autophagosome formation. Prior studies with drug combinations utilizing sildenafil have delineated an ATM‐AMPK‐ULK1 S317 pathway and an AKT‐mTOR‐ULK1 S757 pathway as modules which control ATG S318 phosphorylation and autophagosome formation. The knockdown of PKG reduced cell killing as well as reducing drug‐enhanced phosphorylation of ATM, AMPKα, and ATG13. In the absence of PKG, no significant increase in ULK1 S317 phosphorylation was observed. In a Beclin1‐dependent fashion, the drug combination reduced the expression of multiple histone deacetylase (HDAC) proteins, including HDAC2 and HDAC3. Molecular knockdown of HDAC2, HDAC3, and especially (HDAC2+HDAC3) significantly reduced the expression of PD‐L1 and elevated expression of Class I human major histocompatibility complex. In vivo, (curcumin+sildenafil) enhanced the efficacy of 5‐flurouracil against CT26 colorectal tumors. Prior exposure of established CT26 tumors to (curcumin+sildenafil) significantly enhanced the efficacy of a subsequently administered anti‐PD‐1 antibody. Collectively our data argue that (curcumin+sildenafil) has the potential in several settings to be an efficacious neoadjuvant therapy for colon cancer.
Ribonuclease A modification with poly[N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide] copolymers: new route of synthesis and purification
Authors: Sánchez‐Trasviña Calef , Mayolo‐Deloisa Karla , Rito‐Palomares Marco
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

N‐(2‐Hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide (HPMA), a synthetic polymer, has biocompatible features that allow it to be used as a drug carrier and used in drug delivery systems; however, its potential as a protein drug carrier has not been completely exploited. This study provides a new conjugation pathway to obtain HPMA–protein conjugates and, the use of hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) to separate polymer–protein conjugates exploiting the hydrophobicity change on the protein surface due to the conjugation. In this work, Ribonuclease A (RNase A, EC 3.1.27.5), with recognized therapeutic properties, was used as a model protein.

RESULTS

HPMA was copolymerized with N‐(3‐aminopropyl)methacrylamide (APMA) and then activated with glutaraldehyde. The activation process raises copolymer hydrophobicity. Additionally, the HPMA–RNase A conjugation reaction was carried out at pH 5.1 through reductive amination. At higher copolymer molecular weight (> 50 kDa), the conjugation does not occur whereas molecular weights between 30 and 50 kDa promote the conjugation reaction. The native protein was separated from modified protein using HIC and conjugates with a narrow molecular weight were obtained.

CONCLUSIONS

RNase A can be conjugated with HPMA–APMA copolymer, activated with glutaraldehyde, through reductive amination. This represents an alternative to previous conjugation reactions. Moreover, the molecular size of the copolymer impacts strongly in the conjugation reaction. The HPMA–RNase A conjugates can be separated employing HIC and, it is possible to obtain conjugates with a narrow molecular weight dispersion. This work proposes a new conjugation pathway and purification process in route to developing chromatographic alternatives to efficiently separate HPMA–protein conjugates. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Retracted: Design and synthesis of a bismethylsulfanyl‐steroid‐azetyl butanol derivative from 2‐nitroestradiol
Authors: Lauro Figueroa‐Valverde , Francisco Diaz C. , Maria Lopez‐Ramos , Rolando Garcia‐Martinez , Marcela Rosas‐Nexticapa , Virginia Mateu‐Armand , Alejandra Garcimarero‐Espino E. , Yaritza Borges‐Ballote , Yazmin Ortiz‐Ake
Published: January 2020

Several studies for the synthesis of polycyclic derivatives have been reported; however, there is little information on the preparation of steroid‐polycyclic derivatives. In this way, the aim of this study was to synthesize a bismethylsulfanyl‐steroid‐azetyl butanol derivative (compound 10) from 2‐nitroestrone. The chemical structure was evaluated through both 1H NMR and 13C NMR or spectroscopic analysis. The results showed a good yielding from 10. It is noteworthy that the reagents used in this investigation are not expensive and do not require special conditions for handling.
RIP1 kinase activity is critical for skin inflammation but not for viral propagation
Authors: Webster Joshua D. , Kwon Youngsu C. , Park Summer , Zhang Hua , Corr Nick , Ljumanovic Nina , Adedeji Adeyemi O. , Varfolomeev Eugene , Goncharov Tatiana , Preston Jessica , Santagostino Sara F. , Patel Snahel , Xu Min , Maher Jonathan , McKenzie Brent S. , Vucic Domagoj
Published: January 2020

Receptor interacting protein kinase 1 (RIP1) is a critical effector of inflammatory responses and cell death activation. Cell death pathways regulated by RIP1 include caspase-dependent apoptosis and caspase-independent necroptosis. The kinase activity of RIP1 has been associated with a number of inflammatory, neurodegenerative, and oncogenic diseases. In this study, we use the RIP1 kinase inhibitor GNE684 to demonstrate that RIP1 inhibition can effectively block skin inflammation and immune cell infiltrates in livers of Sharpin mutant (Cpdm; chronic proliferative dermatitis) mice in an interventional setting, after disease onset. On the other hand, genetic inactivation of RIP1 (RIP1 KD) or ablation of RIP3 (RIP3 KO) or MLKL (MLKL KO) did not affect testicular pathology of aging male mice. Likewise, infection with vaccinia virus or with mouse gammaherpesvirus MHV68 resulted in similar viral clearance in wild-type, RIP1 KD, and RIP3 KO mice. In summary, this study highlights the benefits of inhibiting RIP1 in skin inflammation, as opposed to its lack of relevance for testicular longevity and the response to certain viral infections.
The embryo of the silky shrew opossum, Caenolestes fuliginosus (Tomes, 1863): First description of the embryo of Paucituberculata
Authors: González Baltazar , Soria‐Escobar Ana M. , Rojas‐Díaz Vladimir , Pustovrh María Carolina , Salazar Monsalve Liliana , Rougier Guillermo W.
Published: January 2020

The development of caenolestid marsupials (order Paucituberculata) is virtually unknown. We provide here the first description of Caenolestes fuliginosus embryos collected in the Colombian Central Andes. Our sample of four embryos comes from a single female caught during a fieldtrip at Río Blanco (Manizales, Caldas), in 2014. The sample was processed for macroscopic description using a Standard Event System and for histological descriptions (sectioning and staining). The grade of development of the lumbar flexure and coelomic closure differed between embryos, two of them being more advanced than the others (similar to McCrady's stages 30 and 29, respectively). The pericardial and peritoneal cavities were present, the hepatic anlage was organized in hepatic cords, the heart was in its final position, and the mesonephros was functional. Compared to other Neotropical marsupials, an early appearance of the frontonasal‐maxillary fusion and the cervical growth (thickness) was observed; however, absorption of the pharyngeal arches into the body and lung development was delayed. Besides these differences, embryos were similar to equivalent stages in Didelphis virginiana and Monodelphis domestica. Previous proposals of litter size of four for C. fuliginosus are supported.
Variation in the formation of crista sellaris and basisphenoid in the skull of the grass snake Natrix natrix embryos (Serpentes, Colubridae)
Authors: Sheverdyukova Hanna V. , Kovtun Michail F.
Published: January 2020

The crista sellaris is one of the basic structures of the snake chondrocranium. In embryogenesis it ossifies, forming the basisphenoid. This article describes variations of the crista sellaris, which, in turn, leads to variation in the formation of the basisphenoid in the skull of grass snake Natrix natrix (Serpentes, Colubridae) embryos. Several embryos at different developmental stages are investigated. Embryos from one developmental stage are taken simultaneously from one clutch. Thus, variation of the crista sellaris and basisphenoid in the skull of embryos is discovered, including those from one clutch. In several embryos, the crista sellaris is absent or partially formed. The absence of the crista sellaris does not preclude the formation of the basisphenoid. Based on the observed variations of the crista sellaris, the basisphenoid may have a different origin. In embryos with formed crista sellaris, the basisphenoid develops as a complex endochondral bone from three ossification centers (paired—in the polar cartilages and unpaired in the crista sellaris). In embryos without fully formed crista sellaris the basisphenoid develops as a paired bone of mixed origin: endochondral ossification appears in the polar cartilages, but where the crista sellaris is absent, it is formed by dermal ossification. In general, we observed the absence of the crista sellaris in 15% of studied embryos. We assume that it may be due to a reduction of the orbital‐temporal region of the chondrocranium in N. natrix embryos.

Research highlights

The variation of the crista sellaris and basisphenoid formation in grass snake embryos is revealed. Depending on the presence or absence of the crista sellaris, basisphenoid is formed as a complex chondral bone or as a paired bone of mixed origin.
Spatio‐temporal variability of the annual and monthly extreme temperature indices in Nepal
Authors: Poudel Arati , Cuo Lan , Ding Jin , Gyawali Ayush Raj
Published: January 2020

Investigating the changes in the extreme temperature indices is crucial for the assessment of climate change and to recommend practical adaptation strategies particularly in countries like Nepal, which is highly prone to the impacts of extreme climatic events. This study analyses the mean temperatures and the changes of extreme temperature indices at 25 stations located in different physiographic regions in Nepal at monthly and annual time scales for 1986–2015. Ten extreme temperature indices recommended by ETCCDI are selected and examined. Quality control is first conducted for original daily maximum and minimum temperature data. In Nepal, it is warming in general with maximum temperature (0.04°C year−1) increasing faster than minimum temperature (0.02°C year−1) on countrywide average which is contrary to the changes in the Tibetan Plateau and its surroundings and the global average. The changes in extreme temperatures are spatiotemporally heterogeneous and unique. Annually, cold extremes increase but the percentage of days below 10th percentile becomes less frequent. Terai and Siwalik plain regions show negative annual trends in cold indices (TNn and TXn), but mixed changes in other extreme indices. There are strong correlations between the trends of maximum temperature‐related variables and elevation. This analysis also adds the evidence of pronounced warming in higher elevation only for day‐time extreme temperatures but not for temperature minima in Nepal which differs from the other studies around the world. This study also reveals that December and January tend to have colder days in the Terai. However, summer months are getting hotter in each region across the country. Kathmandu, the most urbanized city in Nepal shows a significant increase in minimum temperature (Tmin) and minimum Tmin (TNn) indicating the influence of urbanization in temperature change ‐ an urban heat island effect.
Use of Catheter Lock Solutions in Patients Receiving Home Parenteral Nutrition: A Systematic Review and Individual‐Patient Data Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wouters Yannick , Causevic Erna , Klek Stanislaw , Groenewoud Hans , Wanten Geert J. A.
Published: January 2020

Background

Use of catheter lock solutions (CLSs) as a strategy to prevent catheter‐related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) has been evaluated in recent clinical trials. Our aim was to identify the most effective CLS formulation in patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and individual‐patient data meta‐analysis (IPDMA). Prospective randomized clinical trials in adult HPN patients using CLS were identified from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Primary outcome was the number of CRBSIs per 1000 catheter days for each CLS. Other outcomes included time to CRBSI and identification of patients with a higher risk for CRBSIs.

Results

In total, 1107 studies were screened for eligibility, of which three studies comprising 162 HPN patients and 45,695 catheter days were included in the IPDMA. CRBSI rates were significantly decreased in patients using taurolidine (rate 0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.05–0.32) when compared with saline (rate 0.74; 95% CI, 0.31–1.74; P = .002) or heparin (rate 2.01; 95% CI, 1.03–3.91; P < .001). The cumulative proportion of CRBSI‐free patients using taurolidine, saline, and heparin after 1 year was 88%, 56%, and 14%, respectively. Three risk factors for CRBSIs were identified: type of CLS, intestinal dysmotility as underlying condition, and use of central venous catheters.

Conclusions

Taurolidine was the most effective CLS formulation in HPN patients for the prevention of CRBSIs. We suggest discussing with patients the benefits and risks when starting taurolidine, especially in patients who are considered to have a higher risk for CRBSIs.
Zinc–nitrogen interaction effect on wheat biofortification and nutrient use efficiency
Authors: Montoya Mónica , Vallejo Antonio , Recio Jaime , Guardia Guillermo , Alvarez Jose Manuel
Published: January 2020

Background: The enhancement of zinc (Zn) concentration in cereal crops without compromising yield is a global challenge with crucial health and food security implications.

Aims: To achieve Zn biofortification in wheat through the appropriate management of fertilization with both Zn and nitrogen (N), due to the synergistic effect between them, using natural organic sources of Zn.

Methods: We carried out a field experiment using a rainfed winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop fertilized with four Zn sources (Zn‐sulphate, Zn‐lignosulphonate, Zn‐amino acids and Zn‐gluconate) and three N application rates under semi‐arid conditions.

Results: The strategy of increasing the N rate by 50% with respect to the recommended N rate (i.e., 120 kg N ha−1) did not improve either wheat yield or grain Zn‐N concentration. The combined effect of applying natural organic Zn complexes and the recommended N rate tended to increase grain Zn concentrations (by an average of 14%), although this increase was significantly higher when Zn‐sulphate was applied (63%) due to its higher recommended Zn application rate. Natural organic Zn fertilizers achieved the highest grain yields, probably due to the enhancement of N uptake. The natural organic Zn fertilizers resulted in higher Zn utilization efficiency compared with the Zn‐sulphate fertilizer.

Conclusions: In calcareous Zn‐deficient soils, our results suggest that Zn–N co‐fertilization involving Zn‐sulphate combined with the recommended N application rate would be advisable for obtaining grain Zn biofortification, while the highest yields can be obtained with the application of natural organic Zn fertilizers.
Investigation of suitable seed sizes, segregation of ripe seeds, and improved germination rate for the commercial production of hemp sprouts (Cannabis sativa L.)
Authors: Moon Youn‐Ho , Cha Young‐Lok , Lee Ji‐Eun , Kim Kwang‐Soo , Kwon Da‐Eun , Kang Yong‐Ku
Published: January 2020

Background

With a growing market for functional foods, the nutraceutical properties of hemp sprouts have been investigated in recent studies. However, commercial mass production methods have yet to be developed. This study aimed to identify seed sizes suitable for segregating ripe seeds, which would improve the low germination rate in the high seed densities used in commercial hemp sprout production.

Results

Seeds ranging in size from 2.80 to 3.3 mm, collected by sieving, were the most suitable for sprouting, based on the distribution rate (74.9%) and germination rate (70.0%) at a low seed density (0.016 grains mm−2). Seed segregation by sinking the seeds in 70% ethanol after 2 h or more of water infiltration generated high germination rates of 86.3% to 94.3% at low seed density, compared to a 64.0% germination rate in non‐segregated seeds. The hemp seed germination rate decreased geometrically with increasing sowing density. The germination rate with a high seed density (0.29 grains mm−2) was increased from 19.9% when seeds were not mixed with sand to 58.7% when mixed with sand in a 3:1 ratio. The sprouting yield significantly increased from 1.64 kg kg−1 when seeds were not mixed with sand to 9.55 kg kg−1 in seeds germinating when mixed with sand. Delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol was not detected in hemp sprout.

Conclusion

The production of hemp sprouts may be improved by identifying suitable seed sizes, segregating ripe seeds, and germinating seeds mixed with sand. This can be used in the commercial production of hemp sprouts. The sprouts were also found to be safe and without hallucinogenic effects. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound‐Guided Percutaneous Biopsy of the Peritoneum
Authors: Panarisi Nicol Antonina Rita , Cascella Tommaso , Morosi Carlo , Greco Francesca Gabriella , Marchianò Alfonso , Lanocita Rodolfo
Published: January 2020

In the presence of peritoneal disease, patients often should undergo biopsy of the peritoneum for acquiring a specific pathologic diagnosis. Ultrasound is ideal for guiding peritoneal biopsy, although in some situations, it can be technically challenging. The addition of a contrast agent can improve the visualization of lesions and adjacent organs, providing radiologists increased confidence. A contrast agent can identify perfused areas within the target lesion, improving diagnostic accuracy. We present 3 cases of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound–guided peritoneal biopsy. In all cases, we gained a specific diagnosis. No immediate or delayed complications occurred. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound–guided biopsy proved to be a simple, safe, and accurate diagnostic method.
Effect of Timing of Intravenous Fentanyl Administration on the Incidence of Posttonsillectomy Nausea and Vomiting
Authors: Kim Hye Jin , Kim Min‐Soo , Kim Ha Yan , Park Wyun Kon , Kim Won Shik , Kim Sungmi , Kim Hyun Joo
Published: January 2020

Objective/Hypothesis

Fentanyl is commonly administered toward the end of tonsillectomy to prevent emergence delirium and reduce postoperative pain. However, it can delay emergence from anesthesia and increase the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). The goal of our study was to compare the risk of PONV based on the timing of fentanyl administration at the end of tonsillectomy in children.

Study Design: Prospective, double‐blind, randomized controlled trial.

Methods

One hundred forty patients aged 3 to 7 years undergoing tonsillectomy were divided into two groups. Fentanyl (1 μg/kg) was administered at the end of surgery in group 1 (n = 70) and at 10 to 15 minutes before the end of surgery in group 2 (n = 70). Time to regular breathing and time to emergence from anesthesia were measured from the end of surgery. PONV and pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium scale scores were assessed every 10 minutes after admission to the postanesthesia care unit.

Results

Incidences of PONV (2.9% vs. 2.9%, P > .99) and emergence delirium (11.4% vs. 5.7%, P = .23) were not significantly different between the two groups. Time to regular breathing (mean difference = 2.3 minutes; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.9 to 3.7 minutes) and time to emergence (median difference = 6.5 minutes; 95% CI, 2.5 to 10.5 minutes) were significantly longer in group 1 than in group 2.

Conclusions

Although there was no beneficial effect on PONV, recovery of regular breathing and consciousness was quicker with earlier fentanyl administration. Emergence delirium was well‐controlled, similar to that with fentanyl administration at the end of surgery.

Level of Evidence

1b Laryngoscope, 2020
Prognostic factors in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bradford Carol R. , Ferlito Alfio , Devaney Kenneth O. , Mäkitie Antti A. , Rinaldo Alessandra
Published: January 2020

Background

The current treatment results of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma still remain modest. Various prognostic factors have been investigated and need to be included in the management decision making.

Methods

We reviewed the pertinent literature regarding host, tumor, and treatment factors as prognostic indicators that influence outcome in patients diagnosed with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Results

Host, tumor, and treatment factors all have an important impact upon an individual patient's prognosis with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, whereas staging systems only take into account tumor factors. There is much work yet to be done to establish reliable, independent biomarkers that predict survival and response to treatment.

Conclusions

Optimal outcomes for an individual patient can be achieved when taking into account tumor, host, and treatment factors.
Effect of process parameters and niobium carbide addition on microstructure and wear resistance of laser cladding nickel‐based alloy coatings
Authors: Yufan S. , Hanguang F. , Xuelong P. , Shuting S. , Jian L. , Yongping L.
Published: January 2020

Based on the background of the engineering application of automobile mold repair and surface strengthening, the effects of process parameters on the formation and microstructure of laser cladding nickel(Ni)‐based alloy coating were studied. The optimal parameters were: laser power 2000 W, powder feeding rate 15 g/min, scanning speed 4 mm/s. Under this process, the cladding layer and the substrate can exhibit good metallurgical bonding, and the cladding layer has fine crystal grains and a low dilution ratio. On this basis, different mass fractions of niobium carbide (NbC) powder were added to the nickel‐based powder and laser cladding was carried out on the surface of die steel. The phase composition, microstructure, hardness and wear resistance of the coating were studied. The results show that with the increasing of niobium carbide addition, the hardness of the cladding layer decreases, and the wear loss of the cladding layer decreases first and then increases. When the niobium carbide addition reaches 6 wt.%, the wear loss of the cladding layer is the least, and the wear resistance is the best.
Genome sequencing in cytogenetics: Comparison of short‐read and linked‐read approaches for germline structural variant detection and characterization
Authors: Uguen Kévin , Jubin Claire , Duffourd Yannis , Bardel Claire , Malan Valérie , Dupont Jean‐Michel , El Khattabi Laila , Chatron Nicolas , Vitobello Antonio , Rollat‐Farnier Pierre‐Antoine , Baulard Céline , Lelorch Marc , Leduc Aurélie , Tisserant Emilie , Tran Mau‐Them Frédéric , Danjean Vincent , Delepine Marc , Till Marianne , Meyer Vincent , Lyonnet Stanislas , Mosca‐Boidron Anne‐laure , Thevenon Julien , Faivre Laurence , Thauvin‐Robinet Christel , Schluth‐Bolard Caroline , Boland Anne , Olaso Robert , Callier Patrick , Romana Serge , Deleuze Jean‐François , Sanlaville Damien
Published: January 2020

Background

Structural variants (SVs) include copy number variants (CNVs) and apparently balanced chromosomal rearrangements (ABCRs). Genome sequencing (GS) enables SV detection at base‐pair resolution, but the use of short‐read sequencing is limited by repetitive sequences, and long‐read approaches are not yet validated for diagnosis. Recently, 10X Genomics proposed Chromium, a technology providing linked‐reads to reconstruct long DNA fragments and which could represent a good alternative. No study has compared short‐read to linked‐read technologies to detect SVs in a constitutional diagnostic setting yet. The aim of this work was to determine whether the 10X Genomics technology enables better detection and comprehension of SVs than short‐read WGS.

Methods

We included 13 patients carrying various SVs. Whole genome analyses were performed using paired‐end HiSeq X sequencing with (linked‐read strategy) or without (short‐read strategy) Chromium library preparation. Two different bioinformatic pipelines were used: Variants are called using BreakDancer for short‐read strategy and LongRanger for long‐read strategy. Variant interpretations were first blinded.

Results

The short‐read strategy allowed diagnosis of known SV in 10/13 patients. After unblinding, the linked‐read strategy identified 10/13 SVs, including one (patient 7) missed by the short‐read strategy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regarding the results of this study, 10X Genomics solution did not improve the detection and characterization of SV.
Ground state solutions for a modified fractional Schrödinger equation with critical exponent
Authors: Wu Xian , Zhang Wei , Zhou Xingwei
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we study the existence of ground state solutions for the modified fractional Schrödinger equations

where
,
,
,
and
are positive parameters,
,
denotes the fractional Laplacian of order
. For the case
and the case
, the existence results of ground state solutions are given, respectively.
Production of nitric oxide by a fragmenting bolide: An exploratory numerical study
Authors: Niculescu Mihai L. , Silber Elizabeth A. , Silber Reynold E.
Published: January 2020

A meteoroid's hypersonic passage through the Earth's atmosphere results in ablational and fragmentational mass loss. Potential shock waves associated with a parent object as well as its fragments can modify the surrounding atmosphere and produce a range of physico‐chemical effects. Some of the thermally driven chemical and physical processes induced by meteoroid‐fragment‐generated shock waves, such as nitric oxide (NO) production, are less understood. Any estimates of meteoric NO production depend not only on a quantifiable meteoroid population and a rate of fragmentation, with a size capable of producing high temperature flows, but also on understanding the physical properties of the meteor flows along with their thermal history. We performed an exploratory pilot numerical study using ANSYS Fluent, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, to investigate the production of NO in the upper atmosphere by small meteoroids (or fragments of meteoroids after they undergo a disruption episode) in the size range from 10−2 to 1 m. Our model uses the simulation of a spherical body in the continuum flow at 70‐ and 80‐km altitude to approximate the behaviour of a small meteoroid capable of producing NO. The results presented in this exploratory study are in good agreement with previous studies.
An experimental and computational NMR study of organometallic nine‐membered rings: Trinuclear silver(I) complexes of pyrazolate ligands
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , Dias H.V. Rasika , Parasar Devaborniny , Martín‐Pastor Manuel
Published: January 2020

This work reports the calculation of the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shifts of eight trinuclear Ag(I) complexes of pyrazolate ligands using the relativistic program ZORA. The data from the literature concern exclusively 1H, 13C, and 19F nuclei. For this reason, one of the complexes that is derived from 3,5‐bis‐trifluoromethyl‐1H‐pyrazole has been studied anew, and the 15N and 109Ag chemical shifts determined for the first time in solution. Solid‐state NMR data of this compound have been obtained for some nuclei (1H, 13C, and 19F) but not for others (14N, 15N, and 109Ag).