bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of micro‐fibrillated cellulose upon the dielectric relaxations and DC conductivity in thermoplastic starch bio‐composites
Authors: Drakopoulos Stavros X. , Karger‐Kocsis József , Psarras Georgios C.
Published: July 2020

Thermoplastic starch (TPS) bio‐composites were prepared with natural rubber latex (NR) and/or cellulose microfibers of variable size, as reinforcements. The relaxation processes are investigated via broadband dielectric spectroscopy in a broad temperature and frequency range. By means of the electric modulus formalism, the dynamic glass‐to‐rubber transition process of the starch‐rich regions in TPS (α‐relaxation), and the presence of water molecules at the interfaces between the TPS matrix and the fillers (MWR‐IP), is observed and discussed. The dielectric behavior and energy storage were found to be affected by the presence of the aforementioned water molecules, hindering the polarizability of the samples due to hydrogen bonding with the hydrophilic constituents. Following the temperature dynamics of the α‐relaxation, good adhesion between the TPS matrix and the cellulose microfibers was revealed, although the addition of natural rubber latex microparticles has the opposite effect attributed to their hydrophobic character. Finally, the dc conductivity was estimated from the ac dielectric spectra with a new mathematical formulation that is introduced here, and showed nonlinear temperature dependence for all the samples under study. The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of biodegradable eco‐friendly thermoplastic starch bio‐composites as dielectric materials for capacitor applications. Microfibrillated cellulose and/or natural rubber latex are employed as reinforcements and insight upon their dielectric relaxation behavior is provided by broadband dielectric spectroscopy in a broad temperature and frequency range.
Changes in the microstructure and enzymatic hydrolysis performance of chitin treated by steam explosion, high‐pressure homogenization, and γ radiation
Authors: Zhai Miaomiao , Du Jinghe , Zhang Jun , Miao Jianyin , Luo Jianglong , Cao Yong , Duan Shan
Published: July 2020

This research intends to reduce the crystallinity of chitin with physical methods so as to improve the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency of chitin. Scanning electron microscopy showed that both steam explosion and high‐pressure homogenization significantly enlarged the pores in shrimp shells, which are made up of chitin, but γ radiation did not. X‐ray diffraction showed that the crystallinity index of chitin decreased by 23.2% in the (110) plane and 24.7% in the (020) plane after three rounds of steam explosion and decreased by 12.4% in the (110) plane and 28.7% in the (020) plane after three rounds of high‐pressure homogenization. After γ radiation, however, there was no significant change. The corresponding deacetylation degrees of the chitin treated with steam explosion and high‐pressure homogenization increased by 13.2 and 5.7%, respectively. The natural, steam‐exploded and high‐pressure homogenized chitins respectively produced 0.251, 0.145, and 0.407 mg/ml reducing sugars with the hydrolysis of Streptomyces griseus chitinase. However, when hydrolyzed by Paenibacillus sp. A1 chitinase the steam‐exploded and the high‐pressure homogenized chitin respectively released 40 and 300% more reducing sugars than the natural chitin. The results found that steam explosion and high‐pressure homogenization can reduce the crystallinity of chitin, and make it prone to enzymatic hydrolysis.
Puerarin, an efficient natural stabilizer for both polyethylene and polypropylene
Authors: Xia Huimin , Gao Hui , Sun Qiqi , Wu Fazong , Ge Tengteng , Sui Kun , Wang Zhongwei , Song Liang , Huang Xiaowen , Yu Qing
Published: July 2020

Puerarin, a natural compound, was used as multifunctional protector for polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). Firstly, puerarin and tetrakis(2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol)[1,1‐biphenyl]‐4,4′‐diylbisphosphite (PEPQ) could protect PE and PP against thermos‐oxidative degradation: after modification, the oxidation induction time (OIT) of increased ca. 4,160% (PE‐P1200‐P sample) and 130% (PP‐P1200‐P sample); the carbonyl index (CI) obtained through accelerated aging decreased ca. 58% (PE‐P1200‐P sample). Secondly, it is excited to find that puerarin and PEPQ could pretect PE agianst photooxidative degradation: CI value decreased ca. 35% after modification. Thridly, the coorperation of puerarin and PEPQ was also benefit for the processing stability: the change of melt flow rate (MFR) between first and fifth extrusions decreased ca. 83% (PE‐P1200‐P sample) and 99% (PP‐P1200‐P sample). Forthly, puerarin and PEPQ could still protect PE against degradation after five extrusions: the loss of tensile strength and elongation at break decreased ca. 96% and 95% after modification. Finally, the interaction of puerarin with PEPQ was discussed and the role of puerarin in protecting polyolefins was proposed.
Physiologic Target, Molecular Evolution, and Pathogenic Functions of a Monoclonal Anti–Citrullinated Protein Antibody Obtained From a Patient With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Ozawa Tatsuhiko , Ouhara Kazuhisa , Tsuda Reina , Munenaga Syuichi , Kurihara Hidemi , Kohno Hiroki , Hamana Hiroshi , Kobayashi Eiji , Taki Hirofumi , Tobe Kazuyuki , Sugiyama Eiji , Muraguchi Atsushi , Kishi Hiroyuki
Published: July 2020

Objective

In plasma from a patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), we previously isolated a human monoclonal anti–citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA), CCP‐Ab1, that recognizes various citrullinated antigens. In this study, we aimed to explore the physiologic target of CCP‐Ab1 and the role of molecular evolution, through affinity maturation, of this ACPA in the onset and the exacerbation of RA.

Methods

The target protein of CCP‐Ab1 was identified in the plasma of a patient with RA and purified under native conditions. Germline‐reverted (GL‐rev) CCP‐Ab1 was generated, and its reactivity was compared to that of mature CCP‐Ab1. The functions of CCP‐Ab1 and GL‐rev CCP‐Ab1 in the onset or exacerbation of autoimmune arthritis were analyzed using autoimmune arthritis–prone SKG mice.

Results

CCP‐Ab1 bound citrullinated fibrinogen under native conditions. In cultures with GL‐rev CCP‐Ab1, the binding affinity to citrullinated fibrinogen was drastically reduced (P < 0.05). The elements implicated in GL‐rev CCP‐Ab1 binding to a citrullinated peptide, cfc1‐cyc, were almost identical to those implicated in CCP‐Ab1 binding. In arthritis‐prone SKG mice, CCP‐Ab1, but not GL‐rev CCP‐Ab1, induced significant exacerbation of experimental arthritis (P < 0.05). Increased production of interleukin‐6, both in the joint tissue and in the serum, was observed in SKG mice treated with CCP‐Ab1 compared to those treated with GL‐rev CCP‐Ab1 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the immune complex formed by CCP‐Ab1 and fibrinogen was detected at higher concentrations in the synovial tissue of SKG mice administered CCP‐Ab1 (P < 0.05 versus control treatment groups).

Conclusion

These data show that germline‐encoded CCP‐Ab1, which binds weakly to citrullinated fibrinogen, undergoes hypermutation through the activation of naive B cells by citrullinated peptides/proteins, thereby stimulating high reactivity to citrullinated fibrinogen. These findings deepen our understanding of the role of molecular evolution of ACPAs in the onset and exacerbation of RA.
Forty years of study on the thermostable β‐glycosidase fromS. solfataricus: Production, biochemical characterization and biotechnological applications
Authors: Febbraio Ferdinando , Ionata Elena , Marcolongo Loredana
Published: July 2020

The aim of this paper is to make the point on the fortieth years study on the β‐glycosidase fromSulfolobus solfataricus. This enzyme represents one of the thermophilic biocatalysts, which is more extensively studied as witnessed by the numerous literature reports available since 1980. Comprehensive biochemical studies highlighted its broad substrate specificity for β‐d‐galacto‐, gluco‐, and fuco‐sides and also showed its remarkable exo‐glucosidase and transglycosidase activities. The enzyme demonstrated to be active and stable over a wide range of temperature and pHs, withstanding to several drastic conditions comprising solvents and detergents. Over the years, a great deal of studies were focused on its homotetrameric tridimensional structure, elucidating several structural features involved in the enzyme stability, such as ion pairs and post‐translational modifications. Several β‐glycosidase mutants were produced in the years in order to understand its peculiar behavior in extreme conditions and/or to improve its functional properties. The β‐glycosidase overproduction was also afforded reporting numerous studies dealing with its production in the mesophilic hostEscherichia coli,Saccharomyces cerevisiae,Pichia pastoris, andLactococcus lactis. Relevant applications in food, beverages, bioenergy, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceutical fields of this enzyme, both in free and immobilized forms, highlighted its biotechnological relevance.
Diagnostic accuracy of cognitive screening tools under different neuropsychological definitions for poststroke cognitive impairment
Authors: Chen Xiangliang , Han Yunfei , Zhou Junshan , Ma Minmin , Liu Xinfeng
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The accuracy of cognitive screening tools to detect poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) was investigated using various neuropsychological definitions.

Methods

Hospital‐based stroke patients underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. The rate of PSCI was estimated using thresholds of 1, 1.5, or 2 standard deviations below the normal control and memory impairment defined by a single or multiple tests. Meanwhile, the diagnostic accuracy of cognitive screening through face‐to‐face assessment using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA), and telephone assessment using a 5‐minute NINDS‐Canadian Stroke Network (NINDS‐CSN) scale and a six‐item screener (SIS), was both tested under different definitions, with the optimal cutoff selected based on the highest Youden index.

Results

In stroke patients, the rate of PSCI ranged from 46.3% to 76.3% upon different definitions. The face‐to‐face MoCA was more consistent with the comprehensive cognitive assessment compared to MMSE. The optimal cutoff of PSCI was MMSE ≤ 27 and MoCA ≤ 19. For the telephone tests, the 5‐minute NINDS‐CSN assessment was more reliable, and the optimal cutoff was ≤23, while for SIS ≤ 4.

Conclusions

Cognitive screening tools including the face‐to‐face MMSE and MoCA, together with the telephone assessment of NINDS‐CSN 5‐minute protocol and SIS, were simple and effective for detecting PSCI in stroke patients. The corresponding threshold values for PSCI were 27 points, 19 points, 23 points, and 4 points.
Organizational roles in a sustainability alliance network
Authors: Peterman Andrew , Kourula Arno , Levitt Raymond
Published: July 2020

Sustainability alliance networks offer a collaborative governance strategy to address both environmental and societal challenges too large for any single organization. While alliance networks, and particularly sustainability alliances, have been studied in a number of contexts, few alliances have been explored under the context of commercial building energy use—a sector with a multitude of policy, organizational, and technical barriers to the deployment of innovative energy‐ and cost‐saving strategies. In this research, we articulate a framework wherein organizations can assume varying roles across an alliance network based on the organizations' objectives, organizational resources, and the relationships or ties formed with other alliance members. Further, we show that particular roles within one alliance network have implications for the types of knowledge gained and the knowledge shared across the network. Our mixed‐method study draws from several data sources, employs analytic induction, and is supplemented by social network analysis in order to examine an energy efficiency‐focused sustainability alliance comprised of a broad coalition of stakeholders, including US government agencies, federally funded research laboratories, private firms, and trade associations. We develop a typology for six types of organizational roles identified in an energy efficiency alliance network—each role possessing varying implications for the organization's access to and sharing of knowledge.
Three‐year outcome with drug‐coated balloon percutaneous coronary intervention in coronary Takayasu arteritis: A case review
Authors: Chiew Kayla L. X. , Lim Pitt O.
Published: July 2020

We describe the first long‐term follow‐up of a young patient with active Takayasu arteritis who presented with an acute coronary syndrome, treated endovascularly with percutaneous coronary intervention without stenting. A drug‐coated balloon was used with high‐resolution coronary imaging guidance in the form of optical coherence tomography on a critical ostial left anterior descending coronary artery lesion. A repeat procedure was undertaken after 4 months confirming a durable coronary angioplasty result and the patient remained symptom‐free beyond 3 years. Coronary stenting in this population is associated with early and aggressive stent failure. Hence, this is an innovative approach. We believe that the stent, regardless of whether it is first, second or subsequent generation, leaves a permanent foreign body within the vasculature that becomes the seed for inflammatory reactions, resulting in recurrent in‐stent restenotic fibrosis irrespective of concurrent immunotherapy or the degree of disease activity.
Improvement of physicochemical properties of baked oatmeal (Avena sativa L.) by imbibition
Authors: Galaz‐Pérez Estefany A. , Velazquez Gonzalo , Mendez‐Montealvo Guadalupe
Published: July 2020

Background and objectives

Oat (Avena sativa L.) consumption has increased mainly due to the health benefits as this cereal is an excellent source of prebiotics and high‐nutritional compounds. In this work, an imbibition treatment was applied to improve the physicochemical properties of baked oat (Avena sativa L.) grains.

Findings

Studied samples included flour from the grains imbibed, dried and baked at 120°C for 30 min (IT120), flour from grains without imbibition and baked at 120°C for 30 min (T120) and flour from raw grains (R). The protein and crude fiber content did not change with the treatments, but the lipids content decreased. The water absorption capacity (WAC) increased 1.14‐ and 2.6‐folds for T120 and IT120, respectively, when compared to R. The rheological analysis demonstrated an important effect of the concentration and the imbibition processes as the viscosity values increased sixfold in IT120 at 30% solids content.

Conclusions

The imbibition and baking treatment of whole oat grains resulted in structural rearrangements changing the physicochemical properties which could be useful when using these flours as an ingredient.

Significance and novelty

The structural modification promoted by the imbibition and baking treatment could increase the potential applications of oat flour.
Nanoparticulate Conjugated Microporous Polymer with Post‐Modified Benzils for Enhanced Pseudocapacitor Performance
Authors: Park So Young , Kang Chang Wan , Lee Sang Moon , Kim Hae Jin , Ko Yoon‐Joo , Choi Jaewon , Son Seung Uk
Published: July 2020

Conjugated microporous polymer (CMP)‐based energy‐storage materials were developed for pseudocapacitors. Nanoparticulate CMP (N‐CMP) with an average diameter of 41±4 nm was prepared through kinetic growth control in the Sonogashira coupling of 1,3,5‐triethynylbenzene with 1,4‐diiodobenzene. The N‐CMP is rich in a diphenylacetylene moiety in its chemical structure. Through the FeCl3‐catalyzed oxidation of diphenylacetylene moieties, N‐CMP with benzil moieties (N‐CMP‐BZ) was prepared and showed enhanced electrochemical performance as an electrode material of pseudocapacitors, compared with CMP, CMP‐BZ, and N‐CMP. In model studies, the benzil was redox active and showed two‐electron reduction behavior. The excellent electrochemical performance of N‐CMP‐BZ is attributable to the enhanced utilization of functional sites by a nanosize effect and the additional redox contribution of benzil moieties.
Supramolecular Self‐Assembly of β3‐Peptides Mediated by Janus‐Type Recognition Units
Authors: Kabatas Glowacki Selda , Koszinowski Konrad , Hübner Dennis , Frauendorf Holm , Vana Philipp , Diederichsen Ulf
Published: July 2020

To gain mechanistic insights, natural systems with biochemical relevance are inspiring for the creation of new biomimetics with unique properties and functions. Despite progress in rational design and protein engineering, folding and intramolecular organization of individual components into supramolecular structures remains challenging and requires controlled methods. Foldamers, such as β‐peptides, are structurally well defined with rigid conformations and suitable for the specific arrangement of recognition units. Herein, we show the molecular arrangement and aggregation of β3‐peptides into a hexameric helix bundle. For this purpose, β‐amino acid side chains were modified with cyanuric acid and triamino‐s‐triazine as complementary recognition units. The pre‐organization of the β3‐peptides leads these Janus molecule pairs into a hexameric arrangement and a defined rosette nanotube by stacking. The helical conformation of the subunits was indicated by circular dichroism spectroscopy, while the supramolecular arrangement was detected by dynamic light scattering and confirmed by high‐resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐HRMS).
Efferent projections of Vglut2, Foxp2, and Pdyn parabrachial neurons in mice
Authors: Huang Dake , Grady Fillan S. , Peltekian Lila , Geerling Joel C.
Published: July 2020

The parabrachial nucleus (PB) is a complex structure located at the junction of the midbrain and hindbrain. Its neurons have diverse genetic profiles and influence a variety of homeostatic functions. While its cytoarchitecture and overall efferent projections are known, we lack comprehensive information on the projection patterns of specific neuronal subtypes in the PB. In this study, we compared the projection patterns of glutamatergic neurons here with a subpopulation expressing the transcription factor Foxp2 and a further subpopulation expressing the neuropeptide Pdyn. To do this, we injected an AAV into the PB region to deliver a Cre‐dependent anterograde tracer (synaptophysin‐mCherry) in three different strains of Cre‐driver mice. We then analyzed 147 neuroanatomical regions for labeled boutons in every brain (n = 11). Overall, glutamatergic neurons in the PB region project to a wide variety of sites in the cerebral cortex, basal forebrain, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, amygdala, diencephalon, and brainstem. Foxp2 and Pdyn subpopulations project heavily to the hypothalamus, but not to the cortex, basal forebrain, or amygdala. Among the few differences between Foxp2 and Pdyn cases was a notable lack of Pdyn projections to the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus. Our results indicate that genetic identity determines connectivity (and therefore, function), providing a framework for mapping all PB output projections based on the genetic identity of its neurons. Using genetic markers to systematically classify PB neurons and their efferent projections will enhance the translation of research findings from experimental animals to humans.
High precision invasive FFR, low‐cost invasive iFR, or non‐invasive CFR?: optimum assessment of coronary artery stenosis based on the patient‐specific computational models
Authors: Tajeddini Farshad , Nikmaneshi Mohammad Reza , Firoozabadi Bahar , Pakravan Hossein Ali , Ahmadi Tafti Seyed Hossein , Afshin Hossein
Published: July 2020

The objective of this paper is to apply computational fluid dynamic (CFD) as a complementary tool for clinical tests to not only predict the present and future status of left coronary artery stenosis but also to evaluate some clinical hypotheses. In order to assess the present status of the coronary artery stenosis severity, and thereby selecting the most appropriate type of treatment for each patient, fractional flow reserve (FFR), instantaneous wave free‐ratio (iFR), and coronary flow reserve (CFR) are calculated. To examine FFR, iFR, and CFR results, the effect of geometric features of stenoses, including diameter reduction (%), lesion length (LL), and minimum lumen diameter (MLD), is studied on them. It is observed that FFR is a more conservative index than iFR and CFR to assess the severity of coronary stenosis. In addition, it is seen that FFR, iFR, and CFR decrease by increasing LL and decreasing MLD. Therefore, the morphological indices, LL/MLD and LL/MLD̂4, with the calculated conservative cut‐off values equal to 5.5 and 3.6, are considered. Next, some controversial clinical hypotheses about the assessment of the severity of coronary stenosis are evaluated numerically. These include the examination of FFR, iFR, and CFR accuracies, investigating the effect of coronary hyperemia on iFR, as well as the reliability of the hybrid iFR‐FFR decision‐making strategy. The presented numerical model can also be used as a predictive tool to identify the atherosuseptible sites of arteries by calculating the time‐averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI), and relative residence time (RRT).
Modeling and imaging of intestinal electrical impedance based on conjugate gradient method
Authors: Ran Peng , Liu Zhichao , Zeng Chen , Li Zhangyong , Deng Jiewen , Wang Jingwen
Published: July 2020

Colorectal disease is a digestive tract disease of high incidence worldwide. Its preliminary diagnosis methods such as anal digital diagnosis and enteroscopy are somewhat subjective. Moreover, it is difficult to locate precisely the lesions and their infiltration boundaries for an accurate diagnosis of disease. This study combines endoscope with electrodes placed on the inner wall of the intestine to obtain both the traditional image of the intestine lumen and its electrical impedance tomography (EIT). The spatial impedance distribution image is reconstructed from the data collected by different combination of excitation and detection electrodes. The multidimensional and multiparameter intestinal physiological and pathological changes can thus be analyzed by EIT. This study mainly consists of the following three contributions: (a) construct certain physical models that reflect corresponding characteristics of intestinal tissue and its pathological changes; (b) optimize targeted signal acquisition methods suitable for data processing and analysis of intestinal cavity; and (c) establish a method of image reconstruction that conforms to the morphological characteristics of the intestinal cavity, so that comparative analysis can be applied by using different algorithms for image reconstruction. Through the extraction and analysis of impedance information for intestinal characteristics, we aim to make this tool a supplementary diagnosis method of high sensitivity and specificity for related diseases. This may lay a foundation for more accurate clinical screening of high‐risk population, more precise diagnosis and localization of lesion characteristics, and thus better treatment guidance.
Dynamic workload prediction and distribution in numerical modeling of solidification on multi‐/manycore architectures
Authors: Halbiniak Kamil , Olas Tomasz , Szustak Lukasz , Kulawik Adam , Lapegna Marco
Published: July 2020

This work is a part of the global tendency to use modern computing systems for modeling the phase‐field phenomena. The main goal of this article is to improve the performance of a parallel application for the solidification modeling, assuming the dynamic intensity of computations in successive time steps when calculations are performed using a carefully selected group of nodes in the grid. A two‐step method is proposed to optimize the application for multi‐/manycore architectures. In the first step, the loop fusion is used to execute all kernels in a single nested loop and reduce the number of conditional operators. These modifications are vital to implementing the second step, which includes an algorithm for the dynamic workload prediction and load balancing across cores of a computing platform. Two versions of the algorithm are proposed—with the 1D and 2D maps used for predicting the computational domain within the grid. The proposed optimizations allow increasing the application performance significantly for all tested configurations of computing resources. The highest performance gain is achieved for two Intel Xeon Platinum 8180 CPUs, where the new code based on the 2D map yields the speedup of up to 2.74 times, while the usage of the proposed method with the 2D map for a single KNL accelerator permits reducing the execution time up to 1.91 times.
High‐Throughput Algorithm for Discovering New Drug Indications by Utilizing Large‐Scale Electronic Medical Record Data
Authors: Kim Do‐Hoon , Lee Jung‐Eun , Kim Yong‐Gil , Lee Yura , Seo Dong‐Woo , Lee Kye Hwa , Lee Jae‐Ho , Kim Woo Sung , Kim Young‐Hak , Oh Ji Seon
Published: July 2020

Drug repositioning is an effective way to mitigate the production problem in the pharmaceutical industry. Electronic medical record (EMR) databases harbor a large amount of data on drug prescriptions and laboratory test results and may thus be useful for finding new indications for existing drugs. Here, we present a novel high‐throughput data‐driven algorithm that identifies and prioritizes drug candidates that show significant effects on specific clinical indicators by utilizing large‐scale EMR data. We chose four laboratory tests as clinical indicators: hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. From a 5‐year EMR database, we generated datasets consisting of paired data with averaged measurement values during on and off each drug in each patient, adjusted for co‐administered drug effects at each timepoint, and applied one sample t‐test with the Bonferroni correction for statistical analysis. Among 1,774 drugs, 45 were associated with increases in HDL cholesterol, and 41, 146, and 65 were associated with reductions in HbA1c, LDL cholesterol, and TGs, respectively. We compared the list of candidate drugs with that of drugs indicated for relevant clinical conditions and found that the algorithm had high values for both sensitivity (range 0.95–1.00) and negative predictive value (range 0.95–1.00). Our algorithm was able to rediscover well‐known drugs that are used for diabetes and dyslipidemia while revealing potential candidates without current indications but have shown promising results in the literature. Our algorithm may facilitate the repositioning of drugs with proven safety profiles.
Polymerizable Oxime Esters: An Efficient Photoinitiator with Low Migration Ability for 3D Printing to Fabricate Luminescent Devices
Authors: Qiu Wanwan , Zhu Junzhe , Dietliker Kurt , Li Zhiquan
Published: July 2020

The development of novel visible light photoinitiators (PIs) with low mobility for 3D printing will open up new applications for photopolymerization. In this work, a polymerizable visible light PI DCCA containing an oxime acryloyl ester structure was designed and synthesized. Its linear absorption has a maximum in the visible region (400–480 nm), overlapping well with the emission spectra of conventional blue light sources, and it can effectively induce acrylate polymerization under irradiation with a 450 nm LED lamp. In addition, migration of DCCA in the 3D printed samples is very low compared with DCCB, which has a similar structure but a phenyl moiety instead of the copolymerizable acrylate as the oxime ester group. The utility of DCCA in 3D printing was demonstrated by printing a 3D object with challenging geometric features with high resolution and accuracy.
Design of an 8‐bit time‐mode cyclic ADC based on macro modeling
Authors: Hoseini Zaniar , Lee Kye‐Shin , Kwon Chun Ki
Published: July 2020

This work presents a macro modeling approach for the time‐mode cyclic ADC. The proposed ADC macro model is realized using the time‐to‐voltage converter (TVC) and the voltage‐to‐time converter (VTC) that are the key building blocks of time‐mode ADCs. In addition, the effect of circuit nonidealities and error sources of the time‐mode ADC including parasitic capacitance, current source output resistance, switch on‐resistance, capacitor mismatch, and comparator offset are incorporated in the macro model. The simulation time of the proposed ADC macro model showed 87.1% reduction compared to the all transistor level ADC circuit. As a result, the proposed ADC macro model can facilitate the ADC design and leverage the ADC nonideality analysis. Furthermore, the proposed macro model can be used for ADC calibration scheme development. As a practical design example, the macro model for an 8‐bit time‐mode cyclic ADC has been realized, where the nonideality analysis, design optimization, and calibration scheme development based on the proposed macro model have been demonstrated.
A new screening strategy and whole‐exome sequencing for the early diagnosis of maturity‐onset diabetes of the young
Authors: Liu Yue , Xie Zhiguo , Sun Xiaoxiao , Wang Yanfei , Xiao Yang , Luo Shuoming , Huang Gan , Li Xia , Xia Ying , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: July 2020

Aims

This study aimed to establish a systematic screening strategy to select candidates for genetic testing among patients with maturity‐onset diabetes of the young (MODY) and to accomplish early diagnosis of MODY.

Materials and methods

We enrolled 1478 sporadic patients from the outpatient department of endocrinology. Out of the1478 patients, 1279 participants were successfully screened according to the “AACM” strategy, which includes the age of onset, autoantibody to islet antigen, C‐peptide and metabolic syndrome. Another six probands and their families who fulfilled the common clinical criteria for MODY were also examined for causative gene mutations. Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed to examine the mutations.

Results

A total of 24 out of 1279 sporadic patients with newly diagnosed diabetes were eligible for genetic testing. Mutations were found in 4/24 participants in the cohort, as well as in 2/6 pedigrees. A likely pathogenic alteration, a likely benign alteration and three alterations with uncertain significance were identified with WES. Most of the mutant genes recognised in our trial were not the most common causative genes of MODY, and all of the mutations were specifically reported in Asian patients only, suggesting a unique genetic background of MODY in different ethnicities.

Conclusions

In this systematic study of MODY in a new‐onset diabetes cohort, MODY cases were incorrectly diagnosed as type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), suggesting that an observant clinician is necessary for early and correct MODY diagnosis. This systematic approach to screening is practical and specific enough to identify patients who are most appropriate for genetic testing.
Evidence‐based treatments remain the best intervention for good long‐term outcome of severe and enduring anorexia nervosa
Authors: McIntosh Virginia Violet Williams
Published: July 2020

More research is needed about response to specialist treatments for severe and enduring anorexia nervosa. Current evidence suggests those with severe and enduring anorexia nervosa respond to evidence‐based treatments and continue to recover over decades. In the absence of clear guidelines to the contrary and given our understanding of the superior efficacy of specialist treatments over more eclectic treatment choices, it is our responsibility to continue to train and supervise clinicians to deliver evidence‐based treatments, irrespective of the variant of anorexia nervosa.
Longitudinal and temporal assemblage patterns of benthic macroinvertebrates in snow melt stream waters of the Jhelum River Basin of Kashmir Himalaya (India)
Authors: Sabha Inam , Khanday Shabir A. , Islam Sheikh Tajamul , Bhat Sami Ullah
Published: July 2020

This article tries to understand the dynamics involving benthic macroinvertebrate studies over 18 watersheds for a period of 2 years in the Jhelum River Basin (JRB) of Kashmir Himalaya, India. We aimed to understand this by recognizing spatio‐temporal patterns of macroinvertebrates and their relation to some environmental factors across the whole JRB. A total of 93 taxa pertaining to 3 phyla, 7 classes and 55 families were observed. Our observations revealed that taxa richness, Shannon diversity, total density and percentage of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) metrics considerably declined towards downstream regions. Summer and spring seasons have higher influence on richness, diversity and abundance of most percentage indices. Macrobenthic assemblage structure reflected significant variability with space and time having clear segregation of the downstream sites from upper and midstream reaches in canonical ordination plots. Variation partitioning models [distance‐based redundancy analysis (dbRDA)] showed water discharge and temperature as the main drivers of variation in community structure during summer, whereas fine substrate composition (% sand) and pH were revealed to define the variability in the biology of streams during other seasonal times. Pertinently, much of the variability in benthic faunal assemblages could not be deciphered by environmental drivers and therefore may be linked to other hydrochemical variables (like alkalinity, hardness, chloride and dissolved organic matter) and nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus). Given the apprehension of future climatic changes, understanding spatial and seasonal influences on the macroinvertebrate assemblage structure remains highlighted here, which is crucial for baseline information as well as management of lotic Himalayan systems spanning longitudinal gradients and climatic variability.
Nanoporous Versus Nanoparticulate Carbon‐Based Materials for Capacitive Charge Storage
Authors: Chen Yao , Hao Xiaoyue , Chen George Zheng
Published: July 2020

This article reviews recent progresses in the preparation and supercapacitor applications of selected nanoporous and nanoparticulate carbon‐based materials, namely activated carbons, graphenes and carbon nanotubes and their composites with redox materials. Simplified processing steps and graphitization are crucial for making activated carbons. Progressive liquid processing and furnace technology are mainly used in graphene preparation, including curlization, electrolyte incorporation, self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis, molten salt technology, and flash Joule heating. Redox deposition and new dispersion methods open better routes to making carbon nanotube composites of high charge capacity. Charge storage mechanisms are compared with attention to the facts that activated carbons store ionic charges largely in desirable nanopores, while the ion‐accessible external surfaces of nanoparticulates affect the storage performance of graphenes and composites of carbon nanotubes. Especially, it is explained that pseudocapacitance can result from partial (or zone) delocalization of electrons in graphenes caused by hetero atoms, oxygen in particular. A highlight of this review is on novel molten salt densified holey graphene that has enabled a high specific energy of 618 Wh kg−1 in supercapattery.
Near‐Infrared Electrochromism of Multilayer Films of an N C N‐Pincer Tri‐Ruthenium(II) Complex
Authors: Li Zhi‐Juan , Tang Jian‐Hong , Shao Jiang‐Yang , Zhong Yu‐Wu
Published: July 2020

A star‐shaped N C N‐pincer tri‐RuII complex 3 with a triarylamine core, capped with three 2,2':6',2''‐terpyridine‐4,4',4''‐tricarboxylic acid terminal ligands, has been synthesized. The single‐crystal X‐ray structure of a precursor ester complex 7 is presented. By using the Zr‐mediated layer‐by‐layer assembly, multilayer films FTO/SnO2:Sb/(3)n(Zr)n‐1 (n = 1–4) have been prepared on Sb‐doped SnO2 nanocrystalline substrates. These films have been characterized by XPS and SEM analysis. The electrochromism of these films in the near‐infrared region were examined by oxidative spectroelectrochemical measurements and douple‐potential‐step chronoamperometry. The two‐layered film displays the best overall performance with a contrast ratio (ΔT%) of 36 % at 1550 nm and response time of shorter than 2 s. After 1000 switching cycles, around 11 % loss of the contrast ratio is observed, suggesting good cyclic stability of these films. In addition, a comparison of the electrochromic performance of these multilayer films with respect to the previously reported electropolymerized films of a related tri‐RuII complex and monolayer films of two mono‐RuII complexes on SnO2:Sb is presented.
Rh(III)‐Catalyzed Redox‐Neutral Cascade Annulation of Benzamides withp‐Quinone Methides
Authors: Kanchupalli Vinaykumar , Shukla Rahul K. , Singh Anurag , Volla Chandra M. R.
Published: July 2020

Herein, we demonstrate a [RhCp*Cl2]2catalyzed synthesis of isoindolo[2,1‐b]isoquinolin‐5(7H)‐one derivatives fromN‐(pivaloyloxy)benzamides andp‐quinone methides under redox neutral conditions.p‐Quinone methide derivatives were engaged for the first time as precursors in C–H activation reactions and the cascade sequence consists of Rh(III)‐catalyzed C–H activation, alkyne insertion followed by an intramolecular 1,6‐conjugate addition. This novel tandem reaction strategy offers a rapid and straightforward access to complex fused isoquinolinone derivatives in an efficient manner.
The influence of channel morphology on bedload path lengths: Insights from a survival process model
Authors: McDowell Conor , Hassan Marwan A.
Published: July 2020

Tracer studies are a commonly used tool to develop and test Einstein‐type stochastic bedload transport models. The movements of these tracers are controlled by many factors including grain characteristics, hydrologic forcing, and channel morphology. Although the influence of these sediment storage zones related to morphological features (e.g., bars, pools, riffles) have long been observed to “trap” bedload particles in transport, this influence has not been adequately quantified. In this paper we explore the influence of channel morphology on particle travel distances through the development of a Bayesian survival process model. This model simulates particle path length distributions using a location‐specific “trapping probability” parameter (pi), which is estimated using the starting and ending locations of bedload tracers. We test this model using a field tracer study from Halfmoon Creek, Colorado. We find that (1) the model is able to adequately recreate the observed multi‐modal path length distributions, (2) particles tend to accumulate in trapping zones, especially during large floods, and (3) particles entrained near a trapping zone will travel a shorter distance than one that is further away. Particle starting positions can affect path lengths by as much as a factor of two, which we confirm by modelling “starting‐location‐specific” path length probability distributions. This study highlights the importance of considering both tracer locations and channel topography in examinations of field tracer studies. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Data sharing and privacy issues in neuroimaging research: Opportunities, obstacles, challenges, and monsters under the bed
Authors: White Tonya , Blok Elisabet , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: July 2020

Collaborative networks and data sharing initiatives are broadening the opportunities for the advancement of science. These initiatives offer greater transparency in science, with the opportunity for external research groups to reproduce, replicate, and extend research findings. Further, larger datasets offer the opportunity to identify homogeneous patterns within subgroups of individuals, where these patterns may be obscured by the heterogeneity of the neurobiological measure in smaller samples. However, data sharing and data pooling initiatives are not without their challenges, especially with new laws that may at first glance appear quite restrictive for open science initiatives. Interestingly, what is key to some of these new laws (i.e, the European Union's general data protection regulation) is that they provide greater control of data to those who “give” their data for research purposes. Thus, the most important element in data sharing is allowing the participants to make informed decisions about how they want their data to be used, and, within the law of the specific country, to follow the participants' wishes. This framework encompasses obtaining thorough informed consent and allowing the participant to determine the extent that they want their data shared, many of the ethical and legal obstacles are reduced to just monsters under the bed. In this manuscript we discuss the many options and obstacles for data sharing, from fully open, to federated learning, to fully closed. Importantly, we highlight the intersection of data sharing, privacy, and data ownership and highlight specific examples that we believe are informative to the neuroimaging community.
Respiratory droplet generation and dispersal during nasoendoscopy and upper respiratory swab testing
Authors: Tan Vanessa Y. J. , Zhang Edward Z. Y. , Daniel Dan , Sadovoy Anton , Teo Neville W. Y. , Kiong Kimberley L. , Toh S. T. , Yuen Heng‐Wai
Published: July 2020

Respiratory particle generation and dispersal during nasoendoscopy and swab testing is studied with high‐speed video and laser light illumination. Video analysis reveals droplet formation in three manoeuvres during nasoendoscopy ‐ sneezing, vocalization, and nasal decongestion spray. A capillary bridge of mucus can be seen when a nasoendoscope exits wet nares. No droplet formation is seen during oral and nasopharyngeal swab testing. We outline the following recommendations: pull the face mask down partially and keep the mouth covered, only allowing nasal access during nasoendoscopy; avoid nasal sprays if possible; if nasal sprays are used, procedurists should be in full personal protective equipment prior to using the spray; withdrawal of swabs and scopes should be performed in a slow and controlled fashion to reduce potential dispersion of droplets when the capillary bridge of mucus breaks up.
The role of long non‐coding RNAs and downstream signaling pathways in leukemia progression
Authors: Liu Yadong , Sun Penghao , Zhao Yuhao , Liu Bin
Published: July 2020

The study of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNA) is a newly established field and our knowledge about them is rapidly growing. These kinds of RNAs are unchanged parts of the genome throughout evolution, that modulate cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis during diverse physiological and pathological processes including leukemia development. They have the capability to be useful biomarkers for the diagnosis, clinical typing, prognosis, as well as potential therapeutic targets. In this study, we summarized the role of lncRNAs in the expression and function of white blood cells and oncogenic transformation into four main types of leukemia.
miR‐181a overexpression predicts the poor treatment response and early‐progression of serous ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Panoutsopoulou Konstantina , Avgeris Margaritis , Magkou Paraskevi , Mavridis Konstantinos , Dreyer Tobias , Dorn Julia , Obermayr Eva , Reinthaller Alexander , Michaelidou Kleita , Mahner Sven , Vergote Ignace , Loverix Liselore , Braicu Ioana , Sehouli Jalid , Zeillinger Robert , Magdolen Viktor , Scorilas Andreas
Published: July 2020

Ovarian cancer (OC) remains a leading cause of gynecological cancer‐related death worldwide, characterized by poor 5‐year survival. Molecular markers could serve as crucial tools of personalized prognosis and therapy. Herein, we present miR‐181a as novel predictor of OC prognosis, using five independent OC cohorts. In particular, a screening (n = 81) and an institutionally independent validation (n = 100, OVCAD multicenter study) serous OC (SOC) cohorts were analyzed. Bagnoli et al (2016) OC179 (n = 124) to OC133 (n = 100) and TCGA (n = 489) served as external validation cohorts. Patients’ survival and disease progression were assessed as clinical endpoint events. Bootstrap analysis was performed for internal validation and decision curve analysis was utilized to evaluate clinical benefit. miR‐181a overexpression was unveiled as powerful and independent molecular predictor of patients’ poor survival and higher risk for disease progression after debulking surgery and platinum‐based chemotherapy. Analysis of the OVCAD institutionally independent cohort, as well as of Bagnoli et al. and TCGA external cohorts further confirmed the unfavorable prognostic nature of miR‐181a overexpression in SOC. Strikingly, multivariate prognostic models incorporating miR‐181a with established disease markers clearly improved patients’ risk‐stratification and offered superior clinical benefit in OC prognostication. Conclusively, miR‐181a evaluation could augment prognostic accuracy and support precision medicine decisions in OC.
A meta‐analysis of anal cancer incidence by risk group: Toward a unified anal cancer risk scale
Authors: Clifford Gary M. , Georges Damien , Shiels Meredith S. , Engels Eric A. , Albuquerque Andreia , Poynten Isobel Mary , de Pokomandy Alexandra , Easson Alexandra M. , Stier Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2020

Certain population groups are known to have higher than average anal cancer risk, namely persons living with HIV (PLHIV), men who have sex with men (MSM), women diagnosed with human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related gynecological precancerous lesions or cancer, solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) and patients with autoimmune diseases. Our aim was to provide robust and comparable estimates of anal cancer burden across these groups. Summary incidence rates (IRs), as cases per 100 000 person‐years (py), were calculated by fixed‐effects meta‐analysis. IRs were 85 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 82‐89) for HIV‐positive MSM (n = 7 studies; 2 229 234 py), 32 (95% CI = 30‐35) for non‐MSM male PLHIV (n = 5; 1626 448 py) and 22 (95% CI = 19‐24) for female PLHIV (n = 6; 1 472 123 py), with strong variation by age (eg, from 16.8 < 30 years to 107.5 ≥ 60 years for HIV‐positive MSM). IR was 19 (95% CI = 10‐36) in HIV‐negative MSM (n = 2; 48 135 py). Anal cancer IRs were much higher after diagnosis of vulvar (IR = 48 [95% CI = 38‐61]; n = 4; 145 147 py) than cervical (9 [95% CI = 8‐12]; n = 4; 779 098 py) or vaginal (IR = 10 [95% CI = 3‐30]; n = 4; 32 671) cancer, with equivalent disparity after respective precancerous lesions. IR was 13 (95% CI = 12‐15) in SOTRs (n = 5; 1 946 206 py), reaching 24.5 and 49.6 for males and females >10 years after transplant. Anal cancer IRs were 10 (95% CI = 5‐19), 6 (95% CI = 3‐11) and 3 (95% CI = 2‐4) for systemic lupus erythematosus, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, respectively. In conclusion, a unifying anal cancer risk scale, based upon comprehensive meta‐analysis, can improve prioritization and standardization in anal cancer prevention/research initiatives, which are in their public health infancy.