bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NF‐E2–Related Factor 2 Regulates Interferon Receptor Expression and Alters Macrophage Polarization in Lupus
Authors: Han Shuhong , Zhuang Haoyang , Lee Pui Y. , Li Mingjia , Yang Lijun , Nigrovic Peter A. , Reeves Westley H.
Published: June 2020

Objective

Pristane‐induced lupus is associated with nonresolving inflammation and deficiency of proresolving macrophages. Proresolving nonclassic macrophages (NCMs) are less responsive to type I interferon (IFN) than classic macrophages (CMs; which are proinflammatory), reflecting their relative expression levels of the type I IFN receptor (IFNAR). This study was undertaken to investigate the regulation of IFNAR expression in macrophages.

Methods

We carried out gene expression profiling of purified CMs and NCMs from mice treated with pristane (which develop lupus) or mineral oil (non‐lupus controls). Macrophage differentiation and IFNAR expression were examined in mice treated with NF‐E2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) activators and inhibitors and in Nrf2‐deficient mice. Nrf2 activity was also assessed in blood cells from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Significant differences were determined by Student's t‐test.

Results

RNA sequencing revealed increased expression of genes regulated by the transcription factor Nrf2 in NCMs from mineral oil–treated versus pristane‐treated mice and in NCMs versus CMs. The Nrf2 activator CDDO‐imidazole (CDDO‐Im) decreased CMs (P < 0.0001) and promoted the development of proresolving NCMs (P = 0.06), whereas the Nrf2 inhibitor brusatol increased CMs (P < 0.05) and decreased NCMs (P < 0.001). CDDO‐Im decreased Ifnar1 (P < 0.001) and IFN‐stimulated gene (ISG) expression in macrophages and alleviated oxidative stress (P < 0.05), whereas brusatol had the opposite effect (P < 0.01). Moreover, Ifnar1 and ISG expression levels were higher in Nrf2‐knockout mice than controls (P < 0.05). As seen in mice with lupus, SLE patients showed evidence of low Nrf2 activity.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that Nrf2 activation favors the resolution of chronic inflammation in lupus. Since autoantibody production and lupus nephritis depend on IFNAR signaling, the ability of Nrf2 activators to repolarize macrophages and reduce the INF signature suggests that these agents may warrant consideration for treating lupus.
Untersuchung des Wärmeübergangs von zyklisch beanspruchten Betonzylindern
Authors: Vogel Albert , Benz Alexander , Völker Conrad
Published: June 2020

Wiederkehrende Belastungen, wie sie beispielsweise an Brücken oder Windenergieanlagen auftreten, können innerhalb der Nutzungsdauer solcher Bauwerke bis zu 109 Lastwechsel erreichen. Um das dadurch eintretende Ermüdungsverhalten von Beton zu untersuchen, werden diese zyklischen Beanspruchungen in mechanischen Versuchen mit Prüfzylindern nachgestellt. Damit Versuche mit solch hohen Lastwechselzahlen in akzeptablen Zeitdauern durchgeführt werden können, wird die Belastungsfrequenz erhöht. Als Folge dieser erhöhten Belastungsfrequenz erwärmen sich allerdings die Betonprobekörper, was zu einem früheren, unrealistischen Versagenszeitpunkt führen kann, weshalb die Erwärmung begrenzt werden muss. Um die Wärmefreisetzung in der Probe zu untersuchen, wurden Versuche und Simulationen durchgeführt. Im Beitrag wird die analytische und messtechnische Analyse des Wärmeübergangs an erwärmten Betonzylindern vorgestellt. Resultierend daraus wird eine Möglichkeit zur Reduktion der Erwärmung an zyklisch beanspruchten Betonzylindern vorgestellt.
Tilgerentwurf für Strukturen mit Eigendämpfung bei unscharfer Erregung
Authors: Ruge Peter , Wagner Nils
Published: June 2020

Der klassische Entwurf von Schwingungstilgern für Systeme ohne eigene Dämpfung basiert auf einem einfachen Formelsatz nach Den Hartog. Um diesen anwenden zu können, ist das System mit n Freiheitsgraden vorweg durch Modaltransformation auf n formal entkoppelte Einmassenschwinger abzubilden. Im Ergebnis der Tilgerauslegung für eine zu tilgende Eigenschwingungsform liegen die zwei zugeordneten Resonanzspitzen auf gleicher Höhe. Für Systeme mit eigener Dämpfung existieren keine geschlossenen Formulierungen, wohl aber verschiedene iterative Verfahren zur optimalen Tilgerauslegung. Andererseits ist bekannt, dass die Wirksamkeit eines Tilgers sehr sensibel ist bezüglich geringer Änderungen von Systemdaten; so z. B. dem Verhältnis η zwischen Erreger‐ und Eigenfrequenz. Da dieses Verhältnis häufig in gewissen Schranken schwankt, liegt eine Zufallsverteilung für η auf der Hand. Es wird gezeigt, dass eine klassische Tilgerdimensionierung selbst für Originalsysteme mit Eigendämpfung zu einer ebenso guten Schwingungstilgung führt wie eine Tilgerauslegung mit iterativen Optimierungsverfahren.
A turn‐on fluorescent probe based on quinoline and coumarin for rapid, selective and sensitive detection of hypochlorite in water samples
Authors: Liu Ruxin , Zhao Yuqi , Cui Xiaoqian , Sun Xiaoxiao , Fei Qiang , Feng Guodong , Shan Hongyan , Huan Yanfu
Published: June 2020

A fluorescent probe L‐Cu2+ based on quinoline, coumarin and Cu2+ has been synthesized and characterized for hypochlorite determination. After copper ion was added to the solution of ligand L, the fluorescence quenching at 490 nm might result from a ligand–metal charge transfer (LMCT) process and its strong coordination ability for Cu2+. In the presence of hypochlorite, the structure of ligand L was destroyed to form 7‐(diethylamino)‐coumarin‐3‐carboxylic acid, and the fluorescence was restored at 460 nm. In this case, L‐Cu2+ complex could be used as a fluorescent probe to detect hypochlorite, with the advantages of rapid, selective, wide linear range and low detection limit.
A mechanobiological mathematical model of liver metabolism
Authors: Nikmaneshi Mohammad R. , Firoozabadi Bahar , Munn Lance L.
Published: June 2020

The liver plays a complex role in metabolism and detoxification, and better tools are needed to understand its function and to develop liver‐targeted therapies. In this study, we establish a mechanobiological model of liver transport and hepatocyte biology to elucidate the metabolism of urea and albumin, the production/detoxification of ammonia, and consumption of oxygen and nutrients. Since hepatocellular shear stress (SS) can influence the enzymatic activities of liver, the effect of SS on the urea and albumin synthesis are empirically modeled through the mechanotransduction mechanisms. The results demonstrate that the rheology and dynamics of the sinusoid flow can significantly affect liver metabolism. We show that perfusate rheology and blood hematocrit can affect urea and albumin production by changing hepatocyte mechanosensitive metabolism. The model can also simulate enzymatic diseases of the liver such as hyperammonemia I, hyperammonemia II, hyperarginemia, citrollinemia, and argininosuccinicaciduria, which disrupt the urea metabolism and ammonia detoxification. The model is also able to predict how aggregate cultures of hepatocytes differ from single cell cultures. We conclude that in vitro perfusable devices for the study of liver metabolism or personalized medicine should be designed with similar morphology and fluid dynamics as patient liver tissue. This robust model can be adapted to any type of hepatocyte culture to determine how hepatocyte viability, functionality, and metabolism are influenced by liver pathologies and environmental conditions.
Focus on transparency, strategic planning to effectively manage challenges resulting from pandemic
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2020

Transparency and strategic planning will play critical roles in leading athletics departments through the uncertain and unusual times surrounding the COVID‐19 crisis. That's according to Jacque Bruns, M.B.A., Senior Associate Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer at Oregon State University; and Jonathan Butros, M.B.A., Senior Associate AD and Chief Financial Officer at Texas Tech University, who shared their views during a virtual forum hosted by Tom McMillen, President and Chief Executive Officer of the LEAD1 Association.
Electrophilic Organobismuth Dication Catalyzes Carbonyl Hydrosilylation
Authors: Kannan Ramkumar , Balasubramaniam Selvakumar , Kumar Sandeep , Chambenahalli Raju , Jemmis Eluvathingal D. , Venugopal Ajay
Published: June 2020

Bismuth compounds are gaining importance as potential alternatives to transition‐metal complexes and electron deficient lighter p‐block compounds in homogeneous catalysis. Computational analysis on the two‐coordinate [(Me2NC6H4)Bi]2+ possessing three electrophilic sites is experimentally evidenced by the isolation of [{Me2NC6H4}Bi{OP(NMe2)3}3][B(3,5‐C6H3Cl2)4]2. These observations led us to generate dicationic organobismuth catalyst, [(Me2NC6H4)Bi(L)3]2+ (L=aldehyde/ketone), evidenced by NMR spectroscopy in solution and by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction in the solid state. It efficiently catalyzes hydrosilylation of aldehydes and ketones resulting in silyl ethers as the only products in high yields. Our investigations support a carbonyl activation mechanism at the bismuth center followed by Si−H addition.
Directed Gas Phase Formation of Silene (H2SiCH2)
Authors: Yang Zhenghai , Doddipatla Srinivas , He Chao , Krasnoukhov Vladislav S. , Azyazov Valeriy N. , Mebel Alexander M. , Kaiser Ralf I.
Published: June 2020

The silene molecule (H2SiCH2; X1A1) has been synthesized under single collision conditions via the bimolecular gas phase reaction of ground state methylidyne radicals (CH) with silane (SiH4). Exploiting crossed molecular beams experiments augmented by high‐level electronic structure calculations, the elementary reaction commenced on the doublet surface through a barrierless insertion of the methylidyne radical into a silicon‐hydrogen bond forming the silylmethyl (CH2SiH3; X2A′) complex followed by hydrogen migration to the methylsilyl radical (SiH2CH3; X2A′). Both silylmethyl and methylsilyl intermediates undergo unimolecular hydrogen loss to silene (H2SiCH2; X1A1). The exploration of the elementary reaction of methylidyne with silane delivers a unique view at the widely uncharted reaction dynamics and isomerization processes of the carbon–silicon system in the gas phase, which are noticeably different from those of the isovalent carbon system thus contributing to our knowledge on carbon silicon bond couplings at the molecular level.
Enantioselective Total Syntheses of (−)‐20‐epi‐Vincamine and (−)‐20‐epi‐Eburnamonine by Ir‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Imine Hydrogenation/Lactamization Cascade
Authors: Zhang Wen , Chen Xiangtao , An Yi , Wang Jiaqi , Zhuang Chunlin , Tang Pei , Chen Fener
Published: June 2020

The Eburnamine‐Vincamine alkaloids have been studied intensively over the past six decades for their outstandingly potent vasorelaxation activity. Stereocontrolled assembly of the C20/C21 adjacent chiral centers has been a formidable challenge in the synthesis of this family. Herein, we report a concise stereoselective total synthesis of two trans‐ring‐fused non‐natural analogues, (−)‐20‐epi‐Vincamine and (−)‐20‐epi‐Eburnamonine, that features the following key steps: a) a continuous‐flow oxidation/lactam alcoholysis cascade producing the symmetrical dihydro‐β‐carboline diester precursors, and b) a highly stereoselective Ir/f‐Binaphane‐catalyzed hydrogenation/lactamization cascade leading to the privileged trans‐(20R, 21S) lactam ester scaffold with high‐level enantio‐ and diastereocontrol.
On Heavy‐Tail Phenomena in Some Large‐Deviations Problems
Authors: Augeri Fanny
Published: June 2020

We revisit the proof of the large‐deviations principle of Wiener chaoses partially given by Borell and then by Ledoux in its full form. We show that some heavy‐tail phenomena observed in large deviations can be explained by the same mechanism as for the Wiener chaoses, meaning that the deviations are created, in a sense, by translations. More precisely, we prove a general large‐deviations principle for a certain class of functionals , where is some metric space, under the n‐fold probability measure , where α ∈ (0, 2], for which the large deviations are due to translations. We retrieve, as an application, the large‐deviations principles known for the Wigner matrices without Gaussian tails, in works by Bordenave and Caputo on one hand, and the author on the other hand, of the empirical spectral measure, the largest eigenvalue, and traces of polynomials. We also apply our large‐deviations result to the last‐passage time, which yields a large‐deviations principle when the weights follow the law , with α ∈ (0, 1). © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Negative Refraction in the Visible and Strong Plasmonic Resonances in Photonic Structures of the Electride Material Mg2N
Authors: Kim Kwang‐Hyon , Wi Ju‐Hyok , Choe Myong‐Il
Published: June 2020

Natural hyperbolic materials have recently attracted great attention due to their capability of supporting spatial mode frequency much higher than artificial metamaterials and the advantage that they do not require nanofabrication processes. For practical applications, however, hyperbolic bulk materials with lower optical losses in shorter wavelength range should be developed. This work presents the electronic structure and dielectric response of an electride Mg2N, revealing that this material exhibits hyperbolic responses with low optical loss in the visible and plasmonic responses with high‐quality in the near‐infrared range. Negative refraction in the red spectral range has been analytically and numerically demonstrated. In particular, nanoantenna structures of Mg2N generate strong plasmonic resonances in the near‐infrared and the intensity enhancement in the gap region is one order of magnitude higher compared with silver nanoantenna due to its much higher quality factor, which can find potential applications for nanoplasmonic purposes such as single molecule detections by surface‐enhanced hyper‐Raman spectroscopy and nonlinear wavelength generations at the nanoscale.
Rhizoma peanut herbage and root–rhizome responses to extended regrowth periods
Authors: Cooley Katie D. , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Kohmann Marta M. , Blount Ann S. , Dubeux Jose C.B. , Silveira Maria L. , da Silva Liliane S. , Aryal Parmeshwor
Published: June 2020

Rhizoma peanut (RP; Arachis glabrata Benth.) is an important species for hay production in the U.S. Gulf Coast region; however, frequent summer rains and high humidity often preclude optimal harvest intervals. Extended regrowth periods are common on‐farm but data are limited assessing their impact on plant responses. The objective was to compare above‐ and belowground responses of 14 RP entries to defoliation frequency during 3 yr. Frequencies were one (1×) and two (2×) harvests per year, reflecting common producer practice. Annual herbage accumulation (HA) was approximately twice as great for 2× than 1× (10.5 vs. 5.4 Mg ha−1 yr−1, respectively). An exception was experimental line Beta for which HA did not differ between frequencies, perhaps because of Beta's greater disease tolerance that minimized leaf shedding. The 2× frequency also had greater herbage crude protein concentration than 1× (150 and 125 g kg−1, respectively). Reductions in HA and nutritive value for 1× vs. 2× were generally greatest for upright‐growing entries. Plots cut once per year had 54% more root–rhizome mass than those cut twice (8.5 vs 5.5 Mg ha−1, respectively) but defoliation frequency did not affect root–rhizome total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC) concentration. Results indicated RP hay producers should harvest both summer and fall (2×) at minimum. If rhizomes are to be dug for subsequent vegetative propagation, defoliation should be limited to once annually to avoid reduction in root–rhizome mass.
Delivering a timely and Just Energy Transition: Which policy research priorities?
Authors: Pellegrini‐Masini Giuseppe , Pirni Alberto , Maran Stefano , Klöckner Christian A.
Published: June 2020

In recent years, the concept of “energy justice” has attracted much attention and research effort. Although all policy issues related to energy justice are worthy of further study, the time constraints posed by the looming threat of climate change suggests the need for coordinated policy research efforts. At the current stage of development of European societies, we consider that four policy research strands might be most important in the light of specific evolving trends of European energy systems. Therefore, we propose these priorities as a shared research agenda for academic and policy researchers. In this article, we develop and discuss the following four research priority strands: (a) intergenerational justice and energy justice, (b) justice and energy vulnerability, (c) transformation of the social imaginary and energy infrastructure, and (d) damage, compensation, and energy infrastructure. For each topic, we highlight their critical issues and research opportunities. We conclude that these priorities are necessary not only to accelerate the energy transition but also to avoid negative impacts that climate change and the transition phase could produce on already established patterns of inequality.
Unusually Large Singlet Oxygen (1O2) Production by Very Weakly Emissive Pyrene‐Functionalized Iridium(III) Complex: Interplay between Excited 3ILCT/3IL and 3MLCT States
Authors: Seth Sourav Kanti , Purkayastha Pradipta
Published: June 2020

The photophysical properties of a few Ir(III) and Rh(III) complexes have been attempted to be correlated (1–4) with their 1O2 generation efficiencies. A very weakly emissive pyrene‐functionalized Ir(III) complex (1) produces 1O2 more efficiently than the other more emissive Ir(III) complexes. All of them have excited triplet state lifetimes (τT) in the microsecond regime. However, the pyrene‐functionalized Ir(III) complex possesses the largest τT and has reasonable HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital) energy (< –5.51 eV) which is desired for efficient 1O2 production. 1–4 emit mostly from the 3MLCT state. The lowest triplet emissive state of 3 and 4 is the 3MLCT state while it is the 3ILCT/3IL state for 1 which is mostly non‐emissive. However, the large excited state lifetime and the small energy gap between the 3ILCT/3IL states and the ground electronic state for complex 1 facilitates efficient energy transfer to molecular 3O2 producing 1O2.
Lipidomic Profiling Reveals the Effect of Egg Components on Nonalcoholic Steatosis in HepG2 Cells and Its Involved Mechanisms
Authors: Yu Zhihui , Wang Shiyao , Hou Huaming , Ma Ling , Zhu Yingchun
Published: June 2020

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of cardiovascular disease. The relationship between egg consumption and NAFLD is still controversial for its high cholesterol content. In this study, the effects of different egg components (egg white (EW), egg yolk (EY), and whole egg (WE)) on NAFLD are examined using oleic acid (OA)‐induced HepG2 cells with UPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS approach. The results show EY could affect the lipid profile effectively by increasing phosphocholine (PC), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and carnitine (CAR). Orthogonal projections to latent structures−discriminate analysis (OPLS‐DA) combine with S‐plot analysis select 10, 82, and 20 potential biomarkers in EW, EY, and WE group, respectively. Up‐regulated TG, DG, and down‐regulated lysophosphatidylcholines (lysoPC), lysophosphatidylethanolamine (lysoPE) biomarkers are found in EY group, while down‐regulated TG and FFA are found in EW and WE group. Glycerolipid and choline metabolism are the most involved pathways affected by EY and WE. In addition, the mechanism is associated with the expression of Pla2g15, Pnpla6‐1, Gad1, and involved lipogenic genes ABC1 and PPARα. This study suggests that WE treatment can ameliorate OA‐induced hepatic steatosis by inhibiting TG accumulation, while EY seems slightly accelerate hepatic steatosis. Furthermore, the effects are closely associated with its effects on glycerolipid metabolism.

Practical applications: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a worldwide disease, while the associations between egg consumption and NAFLD are still poorly understood. This study investigates the effects of egg components on NAFLD in oleic acid (OA)‐induced HepG2 cells based on a targeted lipidomics approach. The results indicate that WE (whole egg) treatment could ameliorate OA‐induced hepatic steatosis by inhibiting TG and FFA accumulation, which is closely associated with glycerolipid metabolism. The results provide knowledge and understanding of the effects of egg on NAFLD and involved mechanism, and further provided nutritional guidelines for egg consumption.
Effects of neurofeedback in the management of chronic pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Patel Kajal , Sutherland Heather , Henshaw James , Taylor Jason R. , Brown Christopher A. , Casson Alexander J. , Trujillo‐Barreton Nelson J. , Jones Anthony K. P. , Sivan Manoj
Published: June 2020

Background and Objective

Neurofeedback (NFB) provides real‐time feedback about neurophysiological signals to patients, thereby encouraging modulation of pain‐associated brain activity. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of NFB in alleviating pain and pain‐associated symptoms in chronic pain patients.

Methods

MEDLINE, PUBMED, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases were searched using the strategy: (“Neurofeedback” OR “EEG Biofeedback” OR “fMRI Biofeedback”) AND (“Pain” or “Chronic Pain”). Clinical trials reporting changes in pain following electroencephalogram (EEG) or functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) NFB in chronic pain patients were included. Only Randomized‐controlled trials (RCT), non‐randomized controlled trials (NRCT) and case series were included. Effect size was pooled for all RCTs in a meta‐analysis.

Results

Twenty‐one studies were included. Reduction in pain following NFB was reported by one high‐quality RCT, five of six low‐quality RCT or NRCT and 13 of 14 case‐series. Pain reduction reported by studies ranged from 6% to 82%, with 10 studies reporting a clinically significant reduction in pain of >30%. The overall effect size was medium (cohen's d −0.76, 95% confidence interval −1.31 to −0.20). Studies were highly heterogeneous (Q [df = 5] = 18.46, p = .002, I2 = 73%). Improvements in depression, anxiety, fatigue and sleep were also seen in some studies. Common side‐effects included headache, nausea and drowsiness. These generally did not lead to withdrawal of therapy except in one study.

Conclusions

Neurofeedback is a safe and effective therapy with promising but largely low‐quality evidence supporting its use in chronic pain. Further high‐quality trials comparing different protocols is warranted to determine the most efficacious way to deliver NFB.

Significance

Neurofeedback is a novel neuromodulatory approach which can be used to reduce the severity of pain and pain‐associated symptoms such as sleep disturbances, mood disturbances, fatigue and anxiety in a number of chronic pain conditions. It has a potential to provide integrative non‐pharmacological management for chronic pain patients with pain refractory to pharmacological agents with high side‐effect profiles. Further high‐quality double‐blinded randomized sham‐controlled trials are needed in order to fully explore the potential of this therapy.
Design and Realization of a Stacked Interleaved DC–DC Step‐Down Converter for PEM Water Electrolysis with Improved Current Control
Authors: Guida V. , Guilbert D. , Vitale G. , Douine B.
Published: June 2020

In order to face the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources (RES), hydrogen production and storage are considered an attractive solution. Nowadays, RES (e.g., wind, photovoltaic), and fossil fuels (e.g., coal, natural gas) are the various resources available on the planet Earth to produce hydrogen. Water electrolysis is one of the most interesting ways of producing hydrogen from RES; this electrochemical reaction is realized through an electrolyzer. Usually, DC–DC step‐down converters are used in the hydrogen production systems since electrolyzers must be supplied with a very low DC voltage to generate hydrogen from deionized water. Although these converters are widely used, they have several drawbacks from output current ripples and energy efficiency point of view. In order to meet the requirements for electrolyzer applications, a stacked interleaved DC–DC step‐down converter has been used to carry out this work. The objective of this paper is to develop a control law of the studied converter based on the current flowing through in one of the phases. This control allows reducing phase current overshoot and oscillations, and consequently conduction losses. Finally, by an experimental investigation, the performance of the current controller from overshoot, stability and oscillation point of view has been assessed.
Germline SDHB‐inactivating mutation in gastric spindle cell sarcoma
Authors: Heilig Christoph E. , Horak Peter , Lipka Daniel B. , Mock Andreas , Uhrig Sebastian , Kreutzfeldt Simon , Richter Susan , Gieldon Laura , Fröhlich Martina , Hutter Barbara , Hübschmann Daniel , Teleanu Veronica , Schmier Johann‐Wilhelm , Philipzen Johannes , Beuthien‐Baumann Bettina , Schröck Evelin , von Deimling Andreas , Bauer Sebastian , Heining Christoph , Mechtersheimer Gunhild , Stenzinger Albrecht , Brors Benedikt , Wardelmann Eva , Glimm Hanno , Hartmann Wolfgang , Fröhling Stefan
Published: June 2020

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most frequent mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. Inactivating mutations or epigenetic deregulation of succinate dehydrogenase complex (SDH) genes are considered defining features of a subset of GIST occurring in the stomach. Based on comprehensive molecular profiling and biochemical analysis within a precision oncology program, we identified hallmarks of SDH deficiency (germline SDHB‐inactivating mutation accompanied by somatic loss of heterozygosity, lack of SDHB expression, global DNA hypermethylation, and elevated succinate/fumarate ratio) in a 40‐year‐old woman with undifferentiated gastric spindle cell sarcoma that did not meet the diagnostic criteria for other mesenchymal tumors of the stomach, including GIST. These data reveal that the loss of SDH function can be involved in the pathogenesis of non‐GIST sarcoma of the gastrointestinal tract.
Modelling demand flexibility and energy storage to support increased penetration of renewable energy resources on Porto Santo
Authors: Torabi Roham , Gomes Alvaro , Lobo Diogo , Morgado‐Dias Fernando
Published: June 2020

This paper assesses the contribution of a controllable load (a reverse osmosis [RO] seawater desalination plant), together with an energy storage system in Porto Santo's small islanded electric power system. The controllable load and storage system are used to (i) smooth the net‐demand fluctuations and adapt it to the availability of renewable energy sources (RES), thus avoiding possible curtailments and contributing to a higher dissemination of RES, (ii) minimize the overall operational cost associated with the production of electricity and potable‐water, and (iii) reduce the environmental pollutants associated with the electric power systems on the island. The nonlinear nature of the problem makes it difficult to quickly obtain a robust solution through conventional mathematical tools. Therefore, an evolutionary algorithm is developed to find feasible solutions for dispatching the resources for a one‐week simulation period. The proposed algorithm determined the power output of the conventional thermal power plant, the RO desalination plant operating periods, and the storage charging and discharging periods and powers. In the proposed scenario, through a seven‐day simulation, 50% of the demand is supplied by renewable sources. The numerical results illustrate a reduction in the average total electricity‐peak demand of the island. The obtained diagrams are compared with the data gathered on Porto Santo's energy system. They display that the proposed solution is economically beneficial for the management of the electric power grid of the island of Porto Santo, while reducing the global warming potential (GWP) of the electric power system. Furthermore, it reveals that in a scenario with 50% penetration of renewable sources, through the proposed solution, a more efficient and predictable operation of the conventional electricity generators and the RO desalination plants can be achieved. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intratumoral γδ T‐Cell Infiltrates, Chemokine (C‐C Motif) Ligand 4/Chemokine (C‐C Motif) Ligand 5 Protein Expression and Survival in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Na , Dang Hien , Ma Lichun , Martin Sean P. , Forgues Marshonna , Ylaya Kris , Hewitt Stephen M. , Wang Xin Wei
Published: June 2020

Background and Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy which is often associated with a complex tumor microenvironment attributable to etiology‐induced cellular inflammation. γδ T cells are known to detect and react to chronic inflammation, which is linked to cancer development, progression, and metastasis. Our recent genomic study revealed an increased infiltration of several immune cell types, including γδ T cells, in tumor microenvironments of a Thai HCC subtype associated with a good prognosis.

Approach and Results

Here, we quantified the amount of γδ T cells using a γδ T‐cell‐specific gene signature in 247 Chinese HCC patients. We also validated the γδ T‐cell signature in American HCC patients. Additionally, such an association was only found in tumor transcriptomic data, but not in adjacent nontumor transcriptomic data, suggesting a selective enrichment of γδ T cells in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, the γδ T‐cell signature was positively correlated with the expression of natural killer cell receptor genes, such as NKG2D and cytolytic T‐cell genes granzymes and perforin, suggesting a stronger T‐cell‐mediated cytotoxic activity. Furthermore, we found that the γδ T‐cell‐specific gene expression is positively correlated with the expression of chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 4 (CCL4)/chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5) and C‐C chemokine receptor type 1 (CCR1)/C‐C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5), the receptors for γδ T cells. We validated these results using immunohistochemical analysis of formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tumor biopsies from 182 HCC patients. Moreover, we found evidence of CCL4/CCL5‐mediated recruitment of γδ T cells both in vitro and in a murine orthotopic Hepa1‐6 HCC model.

Conclusions

We propose that CCL4/CCL5 may interact with their receptor, CCR1/CCR5, which may facilitate the recruitment of γδ T cells from peripheral blood or peritumor regions to the tumor regions. Consequently, an increasing infiltration of γδ T cells in tumors may enhance antitumor immunity and improve patients’ prognosis.
Inter‐annual variability in snow cover depletion patterns and atmospheric circulation indices in the Upper Irtysh basin, Central Asia
Authors: Fugazza Davide , Shaw Thomas E. , Mashtayeva Shamshagul , Brock Benjamin
Published: June 2020

The Irtysh River is the main water resource of Eastern Kazakhstan and its upper basin is severely affected by spring floods each year, primarily as a result of snowmelt. Knowledge of the large‐scale processes that influence the timing of these snow‐induced floods is currently lacking, but critical for the management of water resources in the area. In this study, we evaluated the variability in winter–spring snow cover in five major sub‐basins of the Upper Irtysh basin between 2000 and 2017 as a possible explanatory factor of spring flood events, assessing the time of peak snow cover depletion rate and snow cover disappearance from the moderate‐resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) MOD10A2 data set. We found that on average, peak snow cover retreat occurs between 22 March and 14 April depending on the basin, with large interannual variations but no clear trend over the MODIS period, while our comparative analysis of longer‐term snow cover extent from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Climate Data Record data set suggests a shift to earlier snow cover disappearance since the 1970s. In contrast, the annual peak snow cover depletion rate displays a weak increasing trend over the study period and exceeded 5,900 km2/day in 2017. The timing of snow disappearance in spring shows significant correlations of up to 0.82 for the largest basin with winter indices of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) over the region. The primary driver is the impact of the large‐scale pressure anomalies upon the mean spring (MAM) air temperatures and resultant timing of snow cover disappearance, particularly at elevations 500–2,000 m above sea level. This suggests a lagged effect of this atmospheric circulation pattern in spring snow cover retreat. The winter AO index could therefore be incorporated into long‐term runoff forecasts for the Irtysh. Our approach is easily transferable to other similar catchments and could support flood management strategies in Kazakhstan and other countries.
Use of a paired‐stimulus demand analysis to evaluate demands for inclusion in functional analyses
Authors: Zangrillo Amanda N. , Simmons Christina A. , Fisher Wayne W. , Owen Todd M.
Published: June 2020

Clinicians regularly use both indirect and direct assessments to identify preferred stimuli to include in control conditions and positive reinforcement test conditions in a functional analysis (FA). However, clinicians often rely on indirect assessment alone (e.g., caregiver report) to identify aversive stimuli to include in negative reinforcement test conditions. In this study, we evaluate a paired‐stimulus demand analysis and validate assessment results via FA. Results indicate that, for all 4 participants, the demands selected least often evoked higher rates of destructive behavior than more frequently selected demands. We identified an escape function for all 4 participants in the escape–least selected (LS) condition (true positive finding) and for only 1 participant in the escape–most selected (MS) condition (false negative finding for 3 of 4 participants). These results support the utility of empirically deriving stimuli for inclusion in the negative reinforcement test condition of an FA to decrease the likelihood of false negative findings.
Establishing arbitrary comparative relations and referential transformations of stimulus function in individuals with autism
Authors: Belisle Jordan , Stanley Caleb R. , Schmick Ayla , Dixon Mark R. , Alholail Amani , Galliford Megan E. , Ellenberger Lindsey
Published: June 2020

Relational Frame Theory posits that complex language develops through arbitrarily applicable relational networks, with potential implications for individuals with autism. Responding relationally based on comparison occurs when participants respond to any number of comparative properties, such as “bigger” or “faster.” Experiment 1 established two 3‐member comparative networks, in which a stimulus A was conditioned as “bigger” or “faster” than a stimulus B, and the stimulus B was conditioned as “bigger” or “faster” than a stimulus C in 2 children with autism. Both participants met the mastery criterion for the trained relations and demonstrated the emergence of the untrained combinatorially entailed A–C and C–A relations. The participants could also match the arbitrary A stimuli with larger or faster objects and the C stimuli with smaller or slower objects. The results were replicated in Experiment 2 with the same participants, where a 5‐member relational network was established for the bigger/smaller relation.
Using multiple‐tact training to produce emergent visual categorization in children with autism
Authors: Ribeiro Daniela M. , Miguel Caio F.
Published: June 2020

Previous research has shown that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can categorize visual stimuli without direct training when they can also tact these stimuli using a common name and behave as listeners in relation to this name. However, children usually learn to assign objects specific names prior to learning the category to which they belong. The current study replicated previous research and evaluated whether multiple‐tact training would establish visual categorization (measured by a picture sorting test) and listener behavior. We used a nonconcurrent multiple baseline design across 2 children with autism spectrum disorder. After multiple‐tact training, we assessed whether participants would visually categorize stimuli based on their common category name. Both participants categorized and engaged in the corresponding listener behavior.
A comparison of methods for assessing preference for social interactions
Authors: Morris Samuel L. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: June 2020

Researchers have evaluated a variety of methods for assessing preference for social interactions, and generally have found that such assessments accurately identify differentially reinforcing, preferred interactions. However, few researchers have compared methods for assessing preference for social interactions, and none have done so with participants across different skill levels. The current study compared the stability and validity of hierarchies produced by social interaction preference assessments (SIPA) and picture‐based multiple stimulus without replacement preference assessments (MSWO) with 8 individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The MSWO most often produced valid hierarchies for participants who could match, identify, and tact pictures of social interactions and that the SIPA most often produced valid hierarchies for participants who could not identify or tact pictures of social interactions. A vocal paired‐stimulus preference assessment (PSPA) was also conducted with a subset of participants who communicated vocally, and it produced valid hierarchies. Considerations and recommendations for selecting a method of assessing preference for social interactions are discussed.
Increasing accuracy of rock‐climbing techniques in novice athletes using expert modeling and video feedback
Authors: Walker Seth G. , Mattson Stephanie L. , Sellers Tyra P.
Published: June 2020

Several studies have examined the efficacy of behavior analytic coaching strategies in sports to increase performance fluency. Rock climbing is a multifaceted sport requiring mastery of several complex behavior chains in order to successfully navigate climbing surfaces. To date, most investigations have focused on the physiological aspects of rock climbing, as opposed to training specific rock‐climbing movements. In this replication and extension, researchers used a multiple baseline design across skills to examine an expert video modeling plus video and verbal feedback training package on foundational rock‐climbing skills of novice adult climbers. Results demonstrated that all participants showed an increase in accurate performance for all three skills that were targeted in the intervention.
A primer for using multilevel models to meta‐analyze single case design data with AB phases
Authors: Becraft Jessica L. , Borrero John C. , Sun Shuyan , McKenzie Anlara A.
Published: June 2020

Meta‐analytic methods provide a way to synthesize data across treatment evaluation studies. However, these well‐accepted methods are infrequent with behavior analytic studies. Multilevel models may be a promising method to meta‐analyze single‐case data. This technical article provides a primer for how to conduct a multilevel model with single‐case designs with AB phases using data from the differential‐reinforcement‐of‐low‐rate behavior literature. We provide details, recommendations, and considerations for searching for appropriate studies, organizing the data, and conducting the analyses. All data sets are available to allow the reader to follow along with this primer. The purpose of this technical article is to minimally equip behavior analysts to complete a meta‐analysis that will summarize a current state of affairs as it relates to the science of behavior analysis and its practice. Moreover, we aim to demonstrate the value of analyses of this sort for behavior analysis.
DRA contingencies promote improved tolerance to delayed reinforcement during FCT compared to DRO and fixed‐time schedules
Authors: Drifke Melissa A. , Tiger Jeffrey H. , Lillie Madelynn A.
Published: June 2020

Following Functional Communication Training (FCT), clinicians often gradually expose newly taught communicative responses to delayed reinforcement contingencies to prepare clients for the normative environment in which requests are frequently reinforced after a delay. The introduction of delays may result in the resurgence and maintenance of problem behavior and the weakening of the newly trained communicative response. The current study compared delay tolerance with three individuals diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities when reinforcement for the functional communication response (FCR) was delivered following (a) the passage of time, (b) the omission of problem behavior, or (c) the occurrence of an alternative behavior. We measured delay tolerance in terms of minimizing problem behavior and maintaining efficient FCRs. Outcomes support requiring alternative responding during delays to attain optimal treatment results.
Behavioral skills training to increase interview skills of adolescent males in a juvenile residential treatment facility
Authors: Edgemon Anna Kate , Rapp John T. , Brogan Kristen M. , Richling Sarah M. , Hamrick Sally A. , Peters Rachel J. , O'Rourke Soracha A.
Published: June 2020

Some studies suggest that acquiring employment following release from prison may reduce recidivism; however, few studies have evaluated procedures for teaching job‐related skills to adolescents in residential detention facilities. Stocco et al. (2017) used behavioral skills training (BST) to improve interview skills of college students. The current study used a nonconcurrent multiple baseline design across participants to evaluate the extent to which BST improved interview skills for 7 adolescents who had been adjudicated for sexual offenses. Results show that BST increased appropriate responses to interview questions for 4 students and BST plus modifications (i.e., stimulus and response prompts) increased correct responding to questions for the other 3. In addition, BST increased appropriate questions, correct posture, and smiling, and decreased fidgeting for all 7 students. We briefly discuss the social implications of teaching interview skills to adjudicated adolescents, as well as the limitations of the findings.
Teaching students with autism spectrum disorder to tolerate haircutting
Authors: Buckley Jessica , Luiselli James K. , Harper Jill M. , Shlesinger Andrew
Published: June 2020

We describe intervention with 2 adolescent male students who had autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and resisted haircutting performed by care providers at a residential school. The students were exposed to a graduated hierarchy of steps including the presence of hair clippers, and increased duration of hair clippers against their scalp and hair. Edible reinforcement was presented contingent on completion of a step without interfering behavior. Both students learned to tolerate all of the steps in the graduated hierarchy and a full haircut with maintenance at 2‐, 4‐, and 6‐month follow‐up. The study supports previous tolerance‐training research with children and youth who have intellectual and developmental disabilities and resist personal care and hygiene routines.
Teaching children with autism to mand for social information
Authors: Landa Robin K. , Frampton Sarah E. , Shillingsburg M. Alice
Published: June 2020

We replicated Shillingsburg et al. (2018) by teaching children with autism to mand for social information while analyzing the variables influencing the emission of mands. We presented questions about a social partner that were known and observable (e.g., “What is Robin doing?”), known but unobservable (i.e., questions for which an intraverbal response had previously been taught, such as, “Where does Robin work?”), or unknown (e.g., “What is Robin's favorite food?”). Correct answers were reinforced across all conditions. During treatment, we prompted children to mand for information from the social partner following only unknown questions. All children acquired mands for social information and answered previously unknown questions correctly after manding for social information and 3 of 4 participants emitted mands to novel social partners, including a peer with autism.
The role of startups for local labor markets
Authors: Carlino Gerald , Drautzburg Thorsten
Published: June 2020

There are substantial differences in startup activity across US local labor markets. We study the causes and consequences of these differences. Startup productivity shocks are found to drive much of these cross‐city differences in startup activity. Examples of such shocks include breakthroughs in biotech that spurred startup formation in San Diego and Philadelphia. Overall, these shocks explain half of the forecast error variance of startup job creation, accounting for 40% of population growth and long‐run changes in employment. Shocks to barriers to firm entry have economy‐wide effects similar to those of startup productivity shocks but operate largely through the number of startups, rather than their size. We use a novel spatial panel vector autoregression, identifying shocks using shift–share external instruments.
“We break the cycle…”: Motivations for prosocial advocacy among former gang members to end gang involvement
Authors: Whitney‐Snel Kendall , Valdez Christine E. , Totaan Jessica
Published: June 2020

Gangs pose an extreme threat to at‐risk individuals and disenfranchised communities. A unique insight into the gang life and a changing life narrative among former gang members may be assets in educating communities about systemic factors perpetuating gang activity. This grounded theory analysis examines motivations for joining and leaving gangs among 28 former gang members (age,M = 44; 87.5% male; 56.3% Hispanic or Latino) and explores motivations to improve societal outcomes via prosocial advocacy to end gang involvement. Narratives suggest a social–ecological system marked by adversity can inform motivations for joining and leaving gangs, and the potential of repurposing one's life into a social change agent. Findings indicate the changing perspective of former gang members can aid in deterring gang involvement if provided a platform to share their negative experiences of gang life and regrets for their actions in their communities to instigate societal change.