bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐mortem quality changes of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) during chilled storage from two culture systems
Authors: Hao Ruoyi , Pan Jinfeng , Tilami Sarvenaz Khalili , Shah Bakht Ramin , Mráz Jan
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Omega‐3 common carp (OCC) raised by patented culture systems have higher level of n‐3 fatty acids and n‐3/n‐6 ratio than normal common carps (NCCs) from traditional culture system. Whether the patented farming system and modified fatty acid profile will influence OCC storage stability is unclear. This study aimed to expose the differences of post‐mortem quality changes between NCC and OCC.

RESULTS

NCC and OCC have similar rigor mortis patterns, only a higher level of lactic acid was observed in NCC after 96 h. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) related compounds had no major differences, but slightly higher inosine monophosphate in OCC was found at 36 h. The K‐value, Ki‐value and Hx‐index demonstrated high cohesiveness (Pearsons two‐tailed, r = 0.968–0.984, P < 0.05) during storage, with statistically comparable (P > 0.05) temporal progress of change in NCC and OCC. The indices were lower in OCC than in NCC. Attenuation of myosin heavy chain in OCC was not as distinct as in NCC, coincided with its higher salt‐soluble protein level at 144 h. Before 96 h, thiobarbituric acid value (TBA), total viable count (TVC), cooking loss (CL), drip loss (DL), and hardness in NCC and OCC were similar. However, at 144 h, higher TBA, TVC, CL and DL while lower hardness in NCC than in OCC were observed. Principle component analysis showed good separation of NCC and OCC in biplot at 0 and 144 h.

CONCLUSION

Patented culture system has a slightly positive influence on post‐mortem quality of common carp. It can be used for producing OCC without compromising storage stability. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of press and solvent extraction oils from new sunflower seeds with modified phytosterol compositions
Authors: García‐González Aída , Velasco Joaquín , Velasco Leonardo , Ruiz‐Méndez M Victoria
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Phytosterols are plant components with health benefits. Oleaginous seed hybridization can be relevant to increase phytosterols in diet through enriched oils. Sunflower oils obtained by press (PO) and subsequent solvent extraction (SO) from three types of phytosterol‐enriched seeds were characterized. One presented a phytosterol composition of common sunflower seeds, whereas the other two were rich in campesterol and Δ7‐stigmasterol, respectively. Seeds from two different harvests, 2015 and 2017, were studied.

RESULTS

The type of extraction did not have a significant influence on the fatty acid composition. However, considerable differences were found between harvests. The oleic‐to‐linoleic ratio decreased from 0.71 in 2015 to 0.47 in 2017. The phytosterol compositions of the PO were similar to their SO homologues and no substantial differences were found between harvests. However, the SO presented higher total contents of phytosterols (4849–9249 mg kg−1) than the PO (2839–5284 mg kg−1) and the oils of 2017 showed higher levels (4476–9249 mg kg−1) compared to 2015 (2839–5754 mg kg−1). Unlike phytosterols, no significant differences were found in the tocopherol contents between the PO and SO or between harvests. The PO met Codex specifications for edible oils, except for trace metals, with concentrations close or above the limits for Cu, Fe, Pb and As.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in environmental and/or cultivation conditions between harvests may result in substantial differences in the fatty acid composition and phytosterol content in oils from the new sunflower seeds. Rigorous measures and controls to avoid trace metal contamination are required so that the PO can be considered as edible virgin oils. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Chemical composition, ruminal degradation kinetics, and methane production (in vitro) of winter grass species
Authors: Khan Nazir Ahmad , Sulaiman Syed Muhammad , Hashmi Majid S , Rahman Sadeeq Ur , Cone John W
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Information about the nutritive value, dry matter (DM) digestibility, and methane (CH4) emission potential of grass species is required for their optimal utilization in ruminant rations. The present study was designed: (i) to quantify the nutrient profile, mineral composition and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of winter grass species commonly available in northern Pakistan; and (ii) to measure the in vitro gas production (IVGP) and CH4 emission of the grass species during 72 h in vitro ruminal fermentation. Seven grass species, namely, Cenchrus ciliaris, Setaria anceps, Panicum antidotale, P. maximum, Pennisetum purpureum, Pennisetum orientale, and Atriplex lentiformis were assessed.

RESULTS

A high level of variability (P < 0.001) was observed among grass species for the content of all measured nutrients, IVDMD, IVGP, and CH4‐production. Notably, the content (g kg−1 DM) of crude protein varied from 59.8 to 143.3, neutral detergent fiber from 560.3 to 717.9, IVDMD from 375.1 to 576.2, and 72 h cumulative IVGP from 97.6 to 227.4 mL g−1 organic matter (OM) and CH4 from 48 to 67 mL g−1 OM. Among the grasses, P. antidotale had greater content (g kg−1 DM) of crude protein (CP) (143.3), IVDMD (576.2), and 72 h cumulative IVGP (227.4 mL g−1 OM), and produced the smallest amount of total CH4 (48 mL g−1 OM) during 72 h fermentation. In contrast, A. lentiformis had the lowest content (g kg−1 DM) of CP (59.8), IVDMD (375.1), 72 h cumulative IVGP (97.6 mL g−1 OM), and produced a greater amount of total CH4 (67 mL g−1 OM) during 72 h fermentation.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the current study highlight that it is possible to select and further develop grass species with high nutritional value and lower CH4‐production, which can improve livestock productivity, farm profitability, and long‐term environment sustainability. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A Flexible 3D Organic Preamplifier for a Lactate Sensor
Authors: Baek Sanghoon , Kwon Jimin , Mano Taisei , Tokito Shizuo , Jung Sungjune
Published: July 2020

Organic transistors are promising platforms for wearable biosensors. However, the strategies to improve signal amplification have yet to be determined, particularly regarding biosensors that generate very weak signals. In this study, an organic voltage amplifier is presented for a lactate sensor on flexible plastic foil. The preamplifier is based on a 3D complementary inverter, which is achieved by vertically stacking complementary transistors with a shared gate between them. The shared gate is extended and functionalized with a lactate oxidase enzyme to detect lactate. The sensing device successfully detects the lactate concentration in the human sweat range (20–60 mm) with high sensitivity (6.82 mV mm−1) due to high gain of its amplification. The 3D integration process is cost‐effective as it is solution‐processable and doubles the number of transistors per unit area. The device presented in this study would pave the way for the development of high‐gain noninvasive sweat lactate sensors that can be wearable.
Synchronization for stochastic hybrid coupled controlled systems with Lévy noise
Authors: Zhou Hui , Li Yueying , Li Wenxue
Published: July 2020

In this paper, synchronization for stochastic hybrid‐delayed coupled systems with Lévy noise on a network (SHDCLN) is investigated via aperiodically intermittent control. Here time delays, Markovian switching and Lévy noise are considered on a network simultaneously for the first time. After that, by means of Lyapunov method, graph theory, and some techniques of inequality, some sufficient conditions are derived to guarantee the synchronization for SHDCLN. In addition, the designed range of aperiodically intermittent controller parameters is shown. Meanwhile, the coupling strength and the perturbed intensity of noise have a great impact on the intensity of control. Then, we investigate synchronization for stochastic hybrid delayed Chua's circuits with Lévy noise on a network as a practical application of our theoretical results. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Infinitely many solutions for polyharmonic equations of p(x)‐Laplace type
Authors: Bae Jung‐Hyun , Kim Jae‐Myoung
Published: July 2020

We show the existence of infinitely many weak solutions to a class of quasilinear elliptic p(x)‐polyharmonic Kirchhoff equations via the mountain pass principle without the (AR) condition. Furthermore, we obtain infinitely many solutions to this equation based on the genus theory, introduced by Krasnoselskii and the abstract critical point theorem (a variant of Ljusternik‐Schnirelman theory) under Cerami condition.
Numerical approximation of a stochastic age‐structured population model in a polluted environment with Markovian switching
Authors: Li Wenrui , Ye Ming , Zhang Qimin , Li Yan
Published: July 2020

In this paper, a stochastic age‐structured population model with Markovian switching is investigated in a polluted environment. Both the stochastic disturbance of environment and the Markovian switching are incorporated into the model. By Itô formula and several assumptions, the boundedness in the qth moment of exact solutions of model are proved. Furthermore, making use of truncated Euler–Maruyama (EM) method, the strong convergence criterion of numerical approximation in the qth moment is established, and the rate of convergence is estimated. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the theoretical results. Our results indicate that the truncated EM method can be used for stochastic age‐structured population system in a polluted environment.
The importance of enteral nutrition to prevent or treat undernutrition in children undergoing treatment for cancer
Authors: Trehan Amita , Viani Karina , da Cruz Luciane Beitler , Sagastizado Stephany Zelaya , Ladas Elena J.
Published: July 2020

Nutrition therapy is a therapeutic approach to treating medical conditions and symptoms via diet, which can be done by oral, enteral or parenteral routes. It is desirable to include nutritional interventions as a standard of care in pediatric cancer units (PCUs) at all levels of care. The interventions are dependent on available resources and personnel across all clinical settings. Enteral nutrition is easy, inexpensive, uses the gastrointestinal tract, maintains gut mucosal integrity, and allows for individualized nutritional strategies. This narrative review describes enteral nutritional interventions for children undergoing cancer treatment and is aimed at PCUs of all levels of care located in a low‐ and middle‐income country.
Experimental study on the improvement of mechanical properties of GLARE using nanofillers
Authors: Abd El‐baky Marwa A. , Attia Mohamed A.
Published: July 2020

The present study investigates the effect of halloysite clay nanotubes (HCNTS) on the mechanical properties of glass reinforced aluminum laminate (GLARE) as a very popular fiber metal laminate (FML). GLARE (3/2) with quasi‐isotropic lay‐up, [Al/[(0°/90°)/(45°/−45°)]s/Al/[(0°/90°)/(45°/−45°)]s/Al], filled with different wt% ofHCNTs (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 wt%) were fabricated using hand lay‐up followed by compression molding. Tensile, flexural, and impact properties of the fabricated GLAREs were evaluated. The failure of the specimens was examined using field emissionscanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and visual inspection. Test results demonstrated that the incorporation of HCNTs improves the mechanical properties of GLARE. Among the studied wt%, the inclusion of 1 wt% of HCNTs to GLARE leads to maximum improvements of 35.67%, 8.50%, 28.85%, 50.47%, 50.27%, 30.43%, and 51.52% in tensile strength, tensile strain, Young's modulus, modulus of toughness, flexural strength, flexural strain, and impact strength, respectively, was attained by adding 1 wt% of HCNTs to GLARE compared to pristine GLARE. Meanwhile, increasing HCNTS content to 3 wt% reverse the trend. FESEM showed that, HCNTS are well dispersed in epoxy. However, a higher weight fraction of HCNTS in epoxy, that is, 3 wt% leads little agglomerations.
Verborgene Energielandschaften
Authors: Hoffmann Michael , Mikolajick Thomas
Published: July 2020

Ferroelektrika besitzen eine spontane Polarisation, die sich durch ein elektrisches Feld umschalten lässt. Die Landau‐Theorie beschreibt dies durch eine Energielandschaft mit zwei Minima und einer Barriere, die der Ursprung einer negativen Kapazität ist. Mit elektrischen Messungen gelang es nun, diese Energielandschaft und die damit einhergehende negative Kapazität in anwendungsrelevanten ferroelektrischen Materialien nachzuweisen. Diese Entdeckung ist vielversprechend für Anwendungen in energieeffizienterer Elektronik und Energiespeicherung.
Potzblitz, wo hat's geblitzt?
Authors: Wilhelm Thomas
Published: July 2020

Mit Hilfe eines Smartphones lässt sich ermitteln, wo es bei einem Gewitter geblitzt hat und ob das Gewitter näherkommt.
Root morphology and exudate availability are shaped by particle size and chemistry in Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Sasse Joelle , Kosina Suzanne M. , de Raad Markus , Jordan Jacob S. , Whiting Katherine , Zhalnina Kateryna , Northen Trent R.
Published: July 2020

Root morphology and exudation define a plants’ sphere of influence in soils. In turn, soil characteristics influence plant growth, morphology, root microbiome, and rhizosphere chemistry. Collectively, all these parameters have significant implications on the major biogeochemical cycles, crop yield, and ecosystem health. However, how plants are shaped by the physiochemistry of soil particles is still not well understood. We explored how particle size and chemistry of growth substrates affect root morphology and exudation of a model grass. We grew Brachypodium distachyon in glass beads with various sizes (0.5, 1, 2, 3 mm), as well as in sand (0.005, 0.25, 4 mm) and in clay (4 mm) particles and in particle‐free hydroponic medium. Plant morphology, root weight, and shoot weight were measured. We found that particle size significantly influenced root fresh weight and root length, whereas root number and shoot weight remained constant. Next, plant exudation profiles were analyzed with mass spectrometry imaging and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Mass spectrometry imaging suggested that both, root length and number shape root exudation. Exudate profiles were comparable for plants growing in glass beads or sand with various particles sizes, but distinct for plants growing in clay for in situ exudate collection. Clay particles were found to sorb 20% of compounds exuded by clay‐grown plants, and 70% of compounds from a defined exudate medium. The sorbed compounds belonged to a range of chemical classes, among them nucleosides, organic acids, sugars, and amino acids. Some of the sorbed compounds could be desorbed by a rhizobacterium (Pseudomonas fluorescens WCS415), supporting its growth. This study demonstrates the effect of different characteristics of particles on root morphology, plant exudation and availability of nutrients to microorganisms. These findings further support the critical importance of the physiochemical properties of soils when investigating plant morphology, plant chemistry, and plant–microbe interactions.
Optical Properties of Plasmon‐Tunable Tip Pyramids for Tip‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Miranda Hudson , Rabelo Cassiano , Vasconcelos Thiago L. , Cançado Luiz Gustavo , Jorio Ado
Published: July 2020

For tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS), the recently developed plasmon‐tunable tip pyramid, composed of a gold micropyramidal body with a nanopyramid end, makes it possible to obtain spectral enhancements in 2D systems up to two orders of magnitude higher than what is found in the literature. Herein, the optical properties of these tips are explored, including the field‐enhancement dependence on nanopyramid edge length (L), its apex diameter (D), tip–sample distance (Z), and the presence of a metallic micropyramid body. The study shown herein rationalizes the optical properties of these tips, important for understanding the related TERS results.
Tuning the Conductivity Type in Monolayer WS2 and MoS2 by Sulfur Vacancies
Authors: Yang Jing , Bussolotti Fabio , Kawai Hiroyo , Goh Kuan Eng Johnson
Published: July 2020

While n‐type behavior appears to be more common in as‐prepared two‐dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), substitutional doping with electron accepting atoms is typically required to tune the conductivity to p‐type in order to facilitate their potential application in different devices. Herein, a systematic study is reported on the equivalent electrical “doping” effect of single sulfur vacancies (V1S) in monolayer WS2 and MoS2 by studying the interface interaction of WS2–Au and MoS2–Au contacts. Based on the first principles calculations, it is found that the V1S can significantly alter the semiconductor behavior of both monolayer WS2 and MoS2 so that they can exhibit the character of electron acceptor (p‐type) as well as electron donor (n‐type) when they are contacted with gold. For relatively low V1S densities (approximately <7% for MoS2 and <3% for WS2), the monolayer TMDC serves as electron acceptor. As the V1S density increases beyond the threshold densities, the MoS2 and WS2 play the role of electron donor. The significant impact V1S can have on monolayer WS2 and MoS2 may be useful for engineering its electrical behavior and offers an alternative way to tune the semiconductor TMDCs to exhibit either n‐type or p‐type behavior.
Effect of Bi3+ Ion Concentration on Physicochemical, Optical and Catalytic Properties of One‐Pot Combustion Synthesized Nanocrystalline Bi‐Doped La2O3
Authors: Gangwar Bhanu P. , Irusta Silvia , Sharma Sudhanshu
Published: July 2020

La2‐2xBi2xO3 (x=0‐0.04) nanocrystalline powders are synthesized by one‐pot single step solution combustion method. 4 atom% Bi doped La2O3 reveals the presence of both Bi3+ and metallic Bi. Temperature programmed reduction (TPR) of La2O3 and La2−2xBi2xO3 (x=0.005‐0.04) indicates that the oxygen storage capacity changes with the dopant (Bi) concentration. La2‐2xBi2xO3 (x=0.04) has less hygroscopic behavior compared to La2O3 and shown enhanced stability in an open atmosphere. The direct band gap of La2O3 and La(OH)3 decreases significantly after Bi doping. Further, PL studies of Bi doped compounds show a blue emission at 458 nm due to 3P1 ‐ 1S0 transition of the Bi3+ ion substituted in La2O3. Emission intensity is maximum with 0.5 atom percent Bi doping, which decreases gradually with increasing Bi3+ ion concentration. Bi doping also modifies the catalytic activity of La2O3, resulting in higher CO oxidation activity than unsubstituted La2O3.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Cross‐Coupling of Arylsilanes with DAST Reagent: Synthesis of Aromatic Sulfinamides
Authors: Liu Zhenwei , Liu Xinya , Luan Nannan , Geng Yang , Liang Apeng , Li Jingya , Zou Dapeng , Wu Yusheng , Wu Yangjie
Published: July 2020

A transition‐metal‐free cross‐coupling of arylsilanes with DAST (diethylaminosulfur trifluoride) reagent has been developed. A number of aromatic sulfinamides were obtained in reasonable yields (15%‐87%). Notable advantages of this method include easy operation, mild reaction conditions and wide substrate scope.
Introduction of Two New Brønsted Acidic Ionic Liquids for the Formamide and Formamidine Derivatization of Amines
Authors: Hosseini Lakeh Elham , Yeganeh Shariyati Armaghan , Safarpoor Nikoo Langarudi Mohaddeseh , Tajik Hassan , Shirini Farhad
Published: July 2020

In this study, two recently reported 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO)‐based ionic liquids were used for the acceleration of the N‐formylation of primary and secondary amines with formic acid under solvent‐free conditions. These reagents have also been used for the efficient synthesis of N, N′‐diaryl formamidines through reaction of triethyl orthoformate with primary aryl amines. These methods offer several advantages such as excellent yields, short reaction times and simple work‐up with the environmentally friendly procedure.
Ultrasound‐Promoted Mild, and Efficient Protocol for Three‐Component Synthesis of 2,4,5‐Trisubstituted Imidazoles Using Urea and PPh3 as the Sources of Nitrogen and Organocatalyst
Authors: Behrouz Somayeh , Navid Soltani Rad Mohammad , Abdollahzadeh Mahla , Amin Piltan Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Substituted imidazoles have wild applications in different area of sciences and industries. In this research, the catalytic activity of PPh3 as a cheap and efficient organocatalyst is reported for synthesis of 2,4,5‐trisubstituted imidazoles. In this method, ultrasonic assisted one‐pot, three‐component reaction of benzil, aldehydes, urea and PPh3 in ethylene glycol as a green solvent at room temperature has been achieved to afford the structurally diverse 2,4,5‐trisubstituted imidazoles in 80–95 %. The effect of different parameters on the reaction progress was also discussed. Utilizing ultrasonic irradiation dramatically improved the reaction in terms of yields and reaction times compared to conventional heating technique. The current protocol offers many advantages such as mild reaction conditions, short reaction time, the use of non‐metallic, harmless, and cheap catalyst, ease of separation and purification, simple work‐up procedure, and the reactivity to all types of aldehydes particularly the aliphatic aldehydes.
Dense MoS2 Micro‐Flowers Planting on Biomass‐Derived Carbon Fiber Network for Multifunctional Sulfur Cathodes
Authors: Razaq Rameez , Zhang Nana , Xin Ying , Li Qian , Wang Jin , Zhang Zhaoliang
Published: July 2020

The significant challenge in lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) arises from low conductivity of sulfur cathode, loss of active sulfur species due to less anchoring sites and sluggish redox kinetics of lithium polysulfides (LPSs). Herein, the dense MoS2 micro‐flowers assembled by cross‐linked 2D MoS2 nanoflakes planting on biomass‐derived carbon fiber (CF) network (MoS2/CFs) are fabricated as multifunctional sulfur cathodes of LSBs. The 2D MoS2 nanoflakes supported on CF provide abundant anchoring sites for strong adsorption, while the 3D flowerlike structure prevents lamellar aggregation of 2D MoS2 nanoflakes. Importantly, the dense MoS2 micro‐flowers planting on the network weaved by biomass‐derived CFs ensures the high electronic conductivity of the MoS2/CFs composite, sufficient electrode/electrolyte interaction, fast electron and Li+ transportation. Moreover, the CF network weaved from cost‐effective tissue paper reduces the cost of LSBs. Thus, the S‐MoS2/CFs cathode exhibits a high rate capability (1149 and 608 mA h g−1 are obtained at 0.2 C and 4 C, respectively), excellent cyclic performance with ∼75% capacity retention and 99% Coulombic efficiency at 2 C after 500 cycles, corresponding to ∼0.05% capacity fading per cycle only, as well as structure integrity during the discharge/charge process.
The role of the entrepreneurial university in building an entrepreneurial ecosystem in a post conflict economy: An exploratory study of Rwanda
Authors: Nkusi Alain C. , Cunningham James A. , Nyuur Richard , Pattinson Steven
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of the entrepreneurial university in supporting the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in a post conflict, transitional economy. We developed a cross case analysis to identify common themes and patterns in the data. Our findings demonstrate that in a post conflict, transitional economy entrepreneurial universities entrepreneurial ecosystem development is constrained by a number of institutional factors including, structures, systems, leadership, strategies, and culture. We further identify that, when an entrepreneurial ecosystem system has been destroyed during conflict, these constraints present significant challenges to the evolution of the entrepreneurial ecosystem post conflict. Second, in a departure from other studies, our findings also outline the role of the entrepreneurial university in the unique evolution of the post conflict entrepreneurial ecosystem in Rwanda. We identify that the entrepreneurial ecosystem evolves through a number of stages including, embryonic, destruction, formation, and capacity building stages.
Testing lepton flavor models at ESSnuSB
Authors: Blennow Mattias , Ghosh Monojit , Ohlsson Tommy , Titov Arsenii
Published: July 2020

Abstract

We review and investigate lepton flavor models, stemming from discrete non- Abelian flavor symmetries, described by one or two free model parameters. First, we confront eleven one- and seven two-parameter models with current results on leptonic mixing angles from global fits to neutrino oscillation data. We find that five of the one- and five of the two-parameter models survive the confrontation test at 3σ. Second, we investigate how these ten one- and two-parameter lepton flavor models may be discriminated at the proposed ESSnuSB experiment in Sweden. We show that the three one-parameter models that predict sinδCP= 0 can be distinguished from those two that predict|sinδCP|= 1 by at least 7σ. Finally, we find that three of the five one-parameter models can be excluded by at least 5σand two of the one-parameter as well as at most two of the five two-parameter models can be excluded by at least 3σwith ESSnuSB if the true values of the leptonic mixing parameters remain close to the present best-fit values.
Upconversion nanoparticles as intracellular pH messengers
Authors: Tsai Evaline S. , Joud Fadwa , Wiesholler Lisa M. , Hirsch Thomas , Hall Elizabeth A. H.
Published: July 2020

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) should be particularly well suited for measurement inside cells because they can be imaged down to submicrometer dimensions in near real time using fluorescence microscopy, and they overcome problems, such as photobleaching, autofluorescence, and deep tissue penetration, that are commonly encountered in cellular imaging applications. In this study, the performance of an UCNP modified with a pH-sensitive dye (pHAb) is studied. The dye (emission wavelength 580 nm) was attached in a polyethylene imine (PEI) coating on the UCNP and excited via the 540-nm UCNP emission under 980-nm excitation. The UC resonance energy transfer efficiencies at different pHs ranged from 25 to 30% and a Förster distance of 2.56 nm was predicted from these results. Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, equilibrated with nigericin H+/K+ ionophore to equalize the intra- and extracellular pH‚ showed uptake of the UCNP-pHAb conjugate particles and, taking the ratio of the intensity collected from the pHAb emission channel (565–630 nm) to that from the UCNP red emission channel (640–680 nm), produced a sigmoidal pH response curve with an apparent pKa for the UCNP-pHAb of ~ 5.1. The UCNP-pHAb were shown to colocalize with LysoBrite dye, a lysosome marker. Drug inhibitors such as chlorpromazine (CPZ) and nystatin (NYS) that interfere with clathrin-mediated endocytosis and caveolae-mediated endocytosis, respectively, were investigated to elucidate the mechanism of nanoparticle uptake into the cell. This preliminary study suggests that pH indicator–modified UCNPs such as UCNP-pHAb can report pH in SH-SY5Y cells and that the incorporation of the nanoparticles into the cell occurs via clathrin-mediated endocytosis.
Regular participation in leisure time activities and high cardiovascular fitness improve motor sequence learning in older adults
Authors: Zwingmann K. , Hübner L. , Verwey W. B. , Barnhoorn J. S. , Godde B. , Voelcker-Rehage C.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Older adults show higher interindividual performance variability during the learning of new motor sequences than younger adults. It is largely unknown what factors contribute to this variability. This study aimed to, first, characterize age differences in motor sequence learning and, second, examine influencing factors for interindividual performance differences.

Method

30 young adults (age M = 21.89, SD = 2.08, 20 female) and 29 older adults (age M = 69.55, SD = 3.03, 18 female) participated in the study. Motor sequence learning was assessed with a discrete sequence production (DSP) task, requiring key presses to a sequence of visual stimuli. Three DSP practice phases (á 8 blocks × 16 sequences, two six-element sequences) and two transfer blocks (new untrained sequences) were performed. Older participants conducted the Mini-Mental Status Examination and a visuospatial working-memory task. All participants finished a questionnaire on everyday leisure activities and a cardiovascular fitness test.

Results

Performance speed increased with practice in both groups, but young improved more than older adults (significant Group × Time effect for response time, F(1,5) = 4.353, p = 0.004, $$\eta_{p}^{2}$$

η

p

2

 = 0.071). Accuracy did not change in any age group (non-significant Group × Time effect for error rates, F(1,5) = 2.130, p = 0.091, $$\eta_{p}^{2}$$

η

p

2

 = 0.036). Older adults revealed lower transfer costs for performance speed (significant Time × Group effect, e.g., simple sequence, F(1,2) = 10.511, p = 0.002, $$\eta_{p}^{2}$$

η

p

2

 = 0.156). High participation in leisure time activities (β = − 0.58, p = 0.010, R2 = 0.45) and high cardiovascular fitness (β = − 0.49, p = 0.011, R2 = 0.45) predicted successful motor sequence learning in older adults.

Discussion

Results confirmed impaired motor learning in older adults. Younger adults seem to show a better implicit knowledge of the practiced sequences compared to older adults. Regular participation in leisure time activities and cardiovascular fitness seem to prevent age-related decline and to facilitate motor sequence performance and motor sequence learning in older adults.
A novel method of clinical first tarsometatarsal joint hypermobility testing and radiologic verification
Authors: Ornig Martin , Tschauner Sebastian , Holweg Patrick Lukas , Hohenberger Gloria Maria , Bratschitsch Gerhard , Leithner Andreas , Leitner Lukas
Published: July 2020

Background

First tarsometatarsal joint (TMT-1) hypermobility might cause hallux valgus deformity (HV), and recurrence following surgical correction. Anatomic findings, indicating tibialis anterior tendon (TAT) involvement in TMT‑1 stabilization, led to the development of cross-glide test allowing clinical TMT‑1 stability testing. Cross-glide test function was evaluated in anatomical specimens and in the clinical setting, compared to simulated weight-bearing computer tomography (CT) analysis.

Methods

Cross-glide test was evaluated in 6 healthy lower leg specimens before and after TAT transection. Clinical testing was performed prospectively in 36 feet (6 controls, 21 HV, 9 recurrent HV); consecutive weight-bearing CT analysis was performed. Results from clinical testing were compared to CT analysis.

Results

TMT‑1 instability significantly increased in anatomic specimens following TAT transection (p = 0.009). In the clinical setting, all healthy feet were cross-glide test negative, 62% of HV cases and all recurrent HV feet were positive. In the CT analysis- Compared to controls the HV cases revealed significantly increased MT‑1 internal rotation (p = 0.003) and decreased dorsal angle (p = 0.002), considered as collapsing forefoot signs; HV recurrent cases revealed similar results. Positive cross-glide tested cases revealed increased MT‑1 internal rotation values (p < 0.001) and dorsal angle values (p < 0.001) in CT analysis. Strikingly, cross-glide test positive HV cases revealed significantly increased internal TMT‑1 rotation (p = 0.043) in CT analysis, and HV and IMT (intermetatarsal) angle were significantly higher (p = 0.005, p = 0.006). 15 HV recurrence cases, treated with TMT‑1 arthrodesis, revealed no recurrence during follow-up.

Conclusion

Cross-glide test allows reliable clinical TMT‑1 instability testing, via TAT tension, and is less laborious than CT analysis. We recommend TMT‑1 arthrodesis in cases with instability in clinical testing, to avoid HV recurrence.
Strukturiertes fallorientiertes Lernen
Authors: Ertl Sebastian , Stastka Laurenz , Löffler-Stastka Henriette
Published: July 2020

Ein modernes „case-based“ E‑Learning ist ein exzellentes Hilfsmittel, um Skills und Kommunikation zu trainieren, da „diagnostic reasoning“ als schematisches Problemlösen gesehen wird. Wir präsentieren einen Patientenfall zum Thema Gerinnungsstörung bei chronischem Substanzmissbrauch, bei dem nur durch interdisziplinäres Vorgehen ein adäquater Erfolg erzielt werden kann. Diesbezüglich ist zu erwähnen, dass zu diesem Thema noch wenig Evidenz vorhanden ist und es noch weiterer Forschung bedarf.
Preference for supernormal stimuli tends to override initially learned associations for conspicuous prey traits: implications from a laboratory study
Authors: Outomuro David , Urhan A. Utku , Brodin Anders , Johansson Frank
Published: July 2020

How predators select on conspicuous prey traits is not well understood. We used a laboratory setup to investigate the role of learning in predator choice of conspicuous visual traits. We used a generalist predator, the great tit, and coloured wings of males of two species of damselflies as prey. Wing pigmentation differs between the species in colour (green vs. blue) and size (large vs. small). Wing pigmentation is a sexually selected trait that experiences negative selection by avian predators. Inexperienced great tits showed no preference for the colour or the size of wing pigmentation. Great tits were then repeatedly exposed to rewarded wings with either large or small wing patch size. When these experienced birds were exposed to both wing patch sizes for the first time, they tended to prefer the wings with the large patch, irrespective of their previous experience. Our results suggest that the choice of the predator was based on an initial association of the trait to a reward followed by a preference for a supernormal stimulus, probably due to a larger sensory stimulation. We discuss the implications of our laboratory results in the light of previous estimates of damselfly predation risk under field conditions.
Inkjet printing of paraffin on paper allows
low-cost point-of-care diagnostics for pathogenic fungi
Authors: Prabhu Anusha , Giri Nandagopal M. S. , Peralam Yegneswaran Prakash , Singhal Hardik Ramesh , Mani Naresh Kumar
Published: July 2020

We present a high resolution, ultra-frugal printing of paper microfluidic
devices using in-house paraffin formulation on a simple filter paper. The patterns
printed using an office inkjet printer formed a selective hydrophobic barrier of
4 ± 1 µm thickness with a hydrophilic channel width of 275 µm. These printed patterns
effectively confine common aqueous solutions and solvents, which was verified by solvent
compatibility studies. SEM analysis reveals that the solvent confinement is due to pore
blockage in the filter paper. The fabricated paper-based device was validated for
qualitative assessment of Candida albicans
(pathogenic fungi) by using a combination of L-proline β-naphthylamide as the substrate
and cinnamaldehyde as an indicator. Our studies reveal that the pathogenic fungi can be
detected within 10 min with the limit of detection (LOD) of
0.86 × 106 cfu/mL. Owing to its simplicity, this facile
method shows high potential and can be scaled up for developing robust paper-based
devices for biomarker detection in resource-limited settings.

Graphic abstract
Advillin is a tuft cell marker in the mouse alimentary tract
Authors: Ruppert Anna-Lena , Keshavarz Maryam , Winterberg Sarah , Oberwinkler Johannes , Kummer Wolfgang , Schütz Burkhard
Published: July 2020

Tuft cells are a rare population of chemosensory cells at the mucosal surface epithelia of hollow organs. Their name-giving morphological feature is an apical tuft of stiff microvilli. Accordingly, the actin-binding protein, villin, was identified as one of the first tuft cell markers in immunohistochemical analysis. Unfortunately, villin expression is not restricted to tuft cells, but is also prominent e.g. in enterocytes, which limits the use of this gene as a marker and as an experimental tool to genetically target tuft cells. Here, we report that the villin-related protein, advillin, is a specific tuft cell marker in the gastro-intestinal and biliary tract epithelia. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry revealed that advillin expression, unlike villin, was restricted to solitary cholinergic tuft cells in the mucosal linings of the small and large intestine, and in the gall bladder. In the glandular stomach, villin and advillin mRNA were present in all epithelial cells, while detectable protein levels were confined to solitary tuft cells. Advillin expression was no longer detectable in the mucosa of the intestinal and biliary tract from Pou2f3 deficient mice that lack tuft cells. Finally, crossing Avil-Cre transgenic mice with a double-fluorescent reporter mouse line resulted in specific targeting of gastro-intestinal and biliary tuft cells. Our analysis introduces advillin as a selective marker and tool in histological and functional analysis of the alimentary tract tuft cell system.
Survival of the Halophilic Archaeon Halovarius luteus after Desiccation, Simulated Martian UV Radiation and Vacuum in Comparison to Bacillus atrophaeus
Authors: Feshangsaz Niloofar , Semsarha Farid , Tackallou Saeed Hesami , Nazmi Kamran , Monaghan Euan P. , Riedo Andreas , van Loon Jack J. W. A.
Published: July 2020

Extraterrestrial environments influence the biochemistry of organisms through a variety of factors, including high levels of radiation and vacuum, temperature extremes and a lack of water and nutrients. A wide variety of terrestrial microorganisms, including those counted amongst the most ancient inhabitants of Earth, can cope with high levels of salinity, extreme temperatures, desiccation and high levels of radiation. Key among these are the haloarchaea, considered particularly relevant for astrobiological studies due to their ability to thrive in hypersaline environments. In this study, a novel haloarchaea isolated from Urmia Salt Lake, Iran, Halovarius luteus strain DA50T, was exposed to varying levels of simulated extraterrestrial conditions and compared to that of the bacteria Bacillus atrophaeus. Bacillus atrophaeus was selected for comparison due to its well-described resistance to extreme conditions and its ability to produce strong spore structures. Thin films were produced to investigate viability without the protective influence of cell multi-layers. Late exponential phase cultures of Hvr. luteus and B. atrophaeus were placed in brine and phosphate buffered saline media, respectively. The solutions were allowed to evaporate and cells were encapsulated and exposed to radiation, desiccation and vacuum conditions, and their post-exposure viability was studied by the Most Probable Number method. The protein profile using High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization bench top reflector time-of-flight are explored after vacuum and UV-radiation exposure. Results showed that the change in viability of the spore-forming bacteria B. atrophaeus was only minor whereas Hvr. luteus demonstrated a range of viability under different conditions. At the peak radiation flux of 105 J/m2 under nitrogen flow and after two weeks of desiccation, Hvr. luteus demonstrated the greatest decrease in viability. This study further expands our understanding of the boundary conditions of astrobiologically relevant organisms in the harsh space environment.
Sensitivity to meaningful regularities acquired through experience
Authors: Ulicheva Anastasia , Marelli Marco , Rastle Kathleen
Published: July 2020

English spelling provides multiple cues to word meaning, and these cues are readily exploited by skilled readers. In two crowdsourcing studies, we tested skilled readers’ sensitivity to a large number of morphological as well as nonmorphological orthographic cues by asking them to classify nonwords as adjectives or nouns. We observed a substantial variability across individuals and orthographic cues. In this paper, we discuss some sources of this variation. Specifically, we found consistent correlations between readers’ sensitivity to cues and their performance on language tasks (reading, spelling, and author recognition tests) suggesting that reading experience is critical for assimilating spelling-to-meaning regularity from written language. Further, we identified characteristics that may be important for the learning and exploitation of orthographic cues that are related to the nature of their function and use in context.
The political economy of multilateral lending to European regions
Authors: Asatryan Zareh , Havlik Annika
Published: July 2020

We study the political economy of allocation decisions within a major state investment bank. Our focus is the European Investment Bank (EIB) – “The Bank of the EU” – which is the largest multilateral lending (and borrowing) institution in the world. We study the behavior of about 500 national representatives at the EIB’s Board of Directors – the bank’s decisive body for loan approvals – and show that a representative’s appointment increases the probability that the sub-national region where she works receives a loan by about 17 percentage points. This “home-bias” effect is driven by large loans financing infrastructure projects. We discuss several pieces of evidence, which are consistent with the hypothesis that this home-bias lending may be due to favoritism, however, we cannot conclusively demonstrate this case of resource misallocation.
Stapling Through a Bougie During Sleeve Gastrectomy in a Superobese Patient—a Video Vignette
Authors: Bichler Christoph , Jedamzik Julia , Felsenreich Daniel M. , Langer Felix B. , Eilenberg Magdalena , Vock Natalie , Steinlechner Katharina , Eichelter Jakob , Gensthaler Lisa , Prager Gerhard
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Bariatric-metabolic surgery in superobese patients (BMI > 50 kg/m2) is very challenging indeed with little room for error. In many cases, a two-step procedure is required, since more complex primary bariatric procedures can be technically demanding and bearing a relevant risk for the patient. At our institution, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the preferred primary procedure, followed by a conversion to either SADI-S or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) after initial weight loss is achieved [1, 2]. This video aims at demonstrating the conversion from primary SG to RYGB due to an adverse event in a 45-year-old superobese female patient (weight, 170 kg; BMI, 73 kg/m2).

Methods

An intraoperative laparoscopic video has been anonymized and edited to demonstrate the course of the operation on the patient mentioned above.

Results

The start of the procedure was uneventful. After a successful mobilization of the greater curvature, the stomach was resected with an electronic stapling device guided by a firm 36-french bougie (Rüsch, Germany) towards the angle of His. Due to a limited view, a stapler was placed over the bougie, which resulted in the stomach being subtotally transected, the staples attaching the bougie to the sleeve about 5 cm from the gastroesophageal junction. Salvage surgery after removing the remnants of the bougie was a conversion to RYGB.

Conclusion

When performing a bariatric-metabolic surgery in superobese patients, an extended skill level is required to provide a solution, should anything go wrong. Therefore, we suggest bariatric-metabolic surgery in superobese patients to be performed solely and specifically at high-volume centres.
The recolonisation of volcanically disturbed Eocene habitats of Central Europe: the maar lakes of Messel and Offenthal (SW Germany) compared
Authors: Moshayedi Maryam , Lenz Olaf K. , Wilde Volker , Hinderer Matthias
Published: July 2020

To reconstruct the palaeoenvironment and changes within the vegetation, 68 core samples were analysed palynologically from the lacustrine filling of the Eocene maar lake of Offenthal (Hesse, SW Germany). The lacustrine succession includes 16 m of clastic sediments overlain by 13 m of finely laminated bituminous shale. Based on a revised 40Ar/39Ar age of ~ 47.8 ± 0.3 Ma, the lacustrine filling at Offenthal can be dated as uppermost lower Eocene to lowermost middle Eocene which is almost coeval to part of the nearby lacustrine succession at Messel. Cluster and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analyses of well-preserved palynomorph assemblages reveal successional stages during the recolonisation of the maar lake and its surroundings which are related to lithological changes. Furthermore, the palynomorph assemblages from Offenthal are compared with assemblages from Messel by NMDS analysis to find similarities and differences during the recolonisation of volcanically disturbed habitats in Central Europe during Paleogene greenhouse conditions. Based on the similar succession in the vegetation at both lakes, four different phases can be distinguished during recolonisation and reestablishment of the vegetation at these sites: (1) an initial phase, (2) a recolonisation phase, (3) a recovery phase, (4) a climax phase.
Optimal subset selection for causal inference using machine learning ensembles and particle swarm optimization
Authors: Sharma Dhruv , Willy Christopher , Bischoff John
Published: July 2020

We suggest and evaluate a method for optimal construction of synthetic treatment and control samples for the purpose of drawing causal inference. The balance optimization subset selection problem, which formulates minimization of aggregate imbalance in covariate distributions to reduce bias in data, is a new area of study in operations research. We investigate a novel metric, cross-validated area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) as a measure of balance between treatment and control groups. The proposed approach provides direct and automatic balancing of covariate distributions. In addition, the AUC-based approach is able to detect subtler distributional differences than existing measures, such as simple empirical mean/variance and count-based metrics. Thus, optimizing AUCs achieves a greater balance than the existing methods. Using 5 widely used real data sets and 7 synthetic data sets, we show that optimization of samples using existing methods (Chi-square, mean variance differences, Kolmogorov–Smirnov, and Mahalanobis) results in samples containing imbalance that is detectable using machine learning ensembles. We minimize covariate imbalance by minimizing the absolute value of the distance of the maximum cross-validated AUC on$$ M $$Mfolds from 0.50, using evolutionary optimization. We demonstrate that particle swarm optimization (PSO) outperforms modified cuckoo swarm (MCS) for a gradient-free, non-linear noisy cost function. To compute AUCs, we use supervised binary classification approaches from the machine learning and credit scoring literature. Using superscore ensembles adds to the classifier-based two-sample testing literature. If the mean cross-validated AUC based on machine learning is 0.50, the two groups are indistinguishable and suitable for causal inference.