bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marketing from home: Planning for remote collaboration
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: May 2020

With little notice, higher education professionals have moved to working remotely during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and other other times, we might need to move operations elsewhere due to a natural disaster, health pandemic, or other safety or public health emergency.
Review your agreements with online course providers to ensure FERPA compliance
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: May 2020

If your institution plans to evaluate its migration of in‐person education to online classes, why not assess whether the method of delivery complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act? Start with the following issues:
Improvement of chicken plasma protein hydrolysate angiotensin I‐converting enzyme inhibitory activity by optimizing plastein reaction
Authors: Gao Dandan , Guo Penghui , Cao Xin , Ge Lili , Ma Hongxin , Cheng Hao , Ke Yiqiang , Chen Shien , Ding Gongtao , Feng Ruofei , Qiao Zilin , Bai Jialin , Nordin Nurul I. , Ma Zhongren
Published: May 2020

Chicken plasma protein hydrolysate (CPPH) was prepared by trypsin with angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity of 53.5% ± 0.14% and the degree of hydrolysis (DH) of 16.22% ± 0.21% at 1 mg·ml−1; then, five proteases, including pepsin, trypsin, papain, alcalase, and neutrase, were employed to improve ACE inhibitory ability by catalyzing plastein reaction. The results indicated that trypsin‐catalyzed plastein reaction showed the highest ACE inhibitory activity. The exogenous amino acids of leucine, histidine, tyrosine, valine, and cysteine were selected to modify the CPPH. The leucine‐modified plastein reaction released the highest ACE inhibitory activity. The effects of four reaction parameters on plastein reaction were studied, and the optimal conditions with the purpose of obtaining the most powerful ACE inhibitory peptides from modified products were obtained by response surface methodology (RSM). The maximum ACE inhibition rate of the modified hydrolysate reached 82.07% ± 0.03% prepared at concentration of hydrolysates of 30%, reaction time of 4.9 hr, pH value of 8.0, temperature of 40°C, and E/S ratio of 5,681.62 U·g−1. The results indicated that trypsin‐catalyzed plastein reaction increased ACE inhibitory activity of chicken plasma protein hydrolysates by 28.57%.
Sustained delivery of alendronate by engineered collagen scaffold for the repair of osteoporotic bone defects and resistance to bone loss
Authors: Zeng Yuyang , Zhou Muran , Mou Shan , Yang Jie , Yuan Quan , Guo Liang , Zhong Aimei , Wang Jiecong , Sun Jiaming , Wang Zhenxing
Published: May 2020

Researches of biomaterials for osteoporotic bone defects focus on the improvement of its anti‐osteoporosis ability, due to osteoporosis is a kind of systemic and long‐range bone metabolism disorder. Nevertheless, how to steadily deliver anti‐osteoporosis drugs in osteoporotic bone defects is rarely studied. Reported evidences have shown that alendronate (Aln) is known to not only restrain osteoclasts from mediating bone resorption but also stimulate osteoblasts to regenerate bone tissue. Here, we developed an engineered implantable scaffold that could sustainably release Aln for osteoporotic bone defects. Briefly, Aln was added into 2% collagen (Col) solution to form a 5 mg/ml mixture. Then the mixture was filled into pre‐designed round models (diameter: 5 mm, height: 2 mm) and crosslinked to obtain engineered Col‐Aln scaffolds. The release kinetics showed that Aln was released at an average rate of 2.99 μg/d in the initial 8 days and could sustainably release for 1 month. To detect the repair effects of the Col‐Aln scaffolds for osteoporotic defects, the Col and Col‐Aln scaffolds were implanted into 5 mm cranial defects in ovariectomized rats. After 3 months, the cranial defects implanted with Col‐Aln scaffolds achieved more bone regeneration in defect area (11.74 ± 3.82%) than Col scaffold (5.12 ± 1.15%) (p < .05). Moreover, ovariectomized rats in Col‐Aln scaffold group possessed more trabecular bone in femur metaphysis than Col scaffold group as analyzed by Micro‐CT. This study demonstrated the engineered Col‐Aln scaffold has the potential to repair osteoporotic bone defects and resist bone loss in osteoporosis.
A homozygous missense mutation of WFS1 gene causes Wolfram's syndrome without hearing loss in an Iranian family (a report of clinical heterogeneity)
Authors: Torkamandi Shahram , Rezaei Somaye , Mirfakhraie Reza , Bayat Sahar , Piltan Samira , Gholami Milad
Published: May 2020

Background

Wolfram's syndrome (WFS) is a hereditary (autosomal recessive) neurodegenerative disorder. The clinical features are related to diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy, and deafness (DIDMOAD) with other variable clinical manifestations. Pathogenic variants in the WFS1 gene, encoding wolframin, are known to be the main cause of Wolfram's syndrome. In this study, we present the clinical and genetic characteristics of two WFS patients from an Iranian family.

Methods

The mutation screening was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by direct Sanger sequencing of all exons from two affected WFS.

Results

The complete Sanger sequencing of the WFS1 gene detected a homozygous missense variant, c.2207G>A (p.Gly736Asp), in the eighth exon of the WFS1 gene. Both cases developed all the major symptoms of the disease, interestingly, except hearing loss.

Conclusions

Because of the rarity and clinical heterogeneity of WFS, the molecular genetic assay is essential to confirm the diagnosis and management of the WFS patients.
Electrosynthesis and catalytic activity of PbO2‐fluorinated surfactant composites
Authors: Velichenko Alexander , Luk'yanenko Tatiana , Shmychkova Olesia , Dmitrikova Larisa
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The effect of the potassium salt of nonafluorobutanesulfonic acid (C4F9SO3K) on the kinetic regularities of electrodeposition of lead dioxide (PbO2) from nitrate electrolytes has been investigated. Obtained results concerning synthesis and physicochemical properties can contribute substantially to a fundamental understanding of the relationship between coating structure and catalytic activity, important to all fields of catalysis.

RESULTS

The introduction of C4F9SO3K into the PbO2 deposition electrolyte leads to insignificant inhibition of the Pb2+ electro‐oxidation process, whereas the mechanism of the process does not change. Upon deposition of coatings from electrolytes containing surfactants, a composite coating is formed. Depending on the electrolyte composition and electrolysis conditions, the surfactant content in the composite can vary from 2.00 ± 0.05 to 17.00 ± 0.05 wt%. The inclusion of surfactants in the coating composition with subsequent overgrowth with PbO2 leads to a decrease in the size of PbO2 crystals and prevents the formation of polycrystalline blocks. The composite material is a PbO2 matrix with submicron and nanoscale crystals into which surfactant particles are embedded.

CONCLUSION

It was shown that the electrocatalytic activity of composite PbO2‐surfactant materials depends on the nature and content of the latter in the composite. The use of PbO2 doped with C4F9SO3K as an anode leads to an inhibition of the process of oxygen evolution and an almost three‐fold increase in the rate of electrochemical conversion of 4‐chlorophenol to aliphatic compounds. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Are Risk Attitudes and Time Preferences Crucial Factors for Crop Diversification by Smallholder Farmers?
Authors: Sarwosri Arieska Wening , Mußhoff Oliver
Published: May 2020

This study examines whether the decision of crop diversification for perennial crops is based on risk attitudes and time preferences. We conducted incentivised field experiments with farmers only cultivating rubber and those cultivating rubber and oil palm. We utilised Holt and Laury task and Coller and William task. We found that farmers who cultivate two crops are more risk‐averse, indicating that they see crop diversification as a safer option for their farms. However, the discount rates of the two groups are not significantly different. These results provide relevant information for policymakers who intend to either encourage or discourage oil palm cultivation. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of International Development published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Differential interferon-γ production by naive and memory-like CD8 T cells
Authors: de Araújo-Souza Patrícia S , Hanschke Steffi C H , Nardy Ana Flavia F R , Sécca Cristiane , Oliveira-Vieira Barbara , Silva Karina L , Soares-Lima Sheila C , Viola João P B
Published: May 2020

CD8 T cells play a crucial role in immune responses to virus infections and tumors. Naïve CD8 T lymphocytes after TCR stimulation undergo differentiation into CTLs and memory cells, which are essential sources of IFN-γ. We investigated IFN-γ production by CD8 T cell subsets found in nonimmune mice. A minor fraction of in vitro TCR-stimulated CD8 T cells produce IFN-γ, and it is regulated at the transcriptional level. Antigen inexperienced C57BL/6 mice present the coexistence of 2 populations. The main population exhibits a CD44lowCD122low profile, which is compatible with naïve lymphocytes. The minor expresses a phenotype of immunologic memory, CD44hiCD122hi. Both subsets are able to produce IL-2 in response to TCR activation, but only the memory-like population is responsible for IFN-γ production. Similar to memory CD8 T cells, CD44hiCD8+ T cells also present a higher level of the transcriptional factor Eomes and a lower level of T-bet (Tbx21) mRNA than CD44lowCD8+ T cells. The presence of the CD44hiCD8+ T cell population in nonimmune OT-I transgenic mice reveals that the population is generated independently of antigenic stimulation. CpG methylation is an efficient epigenetic mechanism for gene silencing. DNA methylation at posttranscriptional CpG sites in the Ifng promoter is higher in CD44lowCD8+ T cells than in CD44hiCD8+ T cells. Thus, memory-like CD8 T cells have a distinct epigenetic pattern in the Ifng promoter and can rapidly produce IFN-γ in response to TCR stimulation.
Stress aggravates and prolongs imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like epidermal hyperplasis and IL-1β/IL-23p40 production
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Ping , Zhang Lu , Fu Jing , Di Tingting , Li Ningfei , Meng Yujiao , Guo Jianning , Zhao Jingxia
Published: May 2020

Psoriasis is a common, chronic multifactorial inflammatory skin disease with both genetic and environmental components. A number of studies have suggested that psoriasis episodes are often preceded by stressful life events. Nevertheless, the underline mechanisms of stress in psoriasis remain unexplored. To address this question, we established an emotional stress mouse model induced by empty bottle stimulation, and applied imiquimod (IMQ), a ligand of TLR7/8 and effective potent immune activator, on the dorsal skin to induce psoriasis-like lesions. We found that empty bottles induced emotional stress exaggerated and prolonged psoriasiform dermatitis, which appeared as more prominent epidermal hyperplasia in the emotional stress mice compared with the control mice. Higher mRNA expression of Il-1β, Il-17a, and Il-22, as well as higher secretion of IL-1β, IL-12p40, IL-17, and IL-22 were observed in the skin lesion of emotional stress mice. The emotional stress condition and IMQ treatment synergistically led to higher expression levels of neurotransmitters and their receptors in the skin, especially substance P (SP), we also found that SP could stimulate DCs to secrete more IL-23p40 in vitro. In addition, NK-1R antagonist partially abrogated enhanced epidermal thickness and the level of neurotransmitters in emotional stress mice. Taken together, these results indicate that stress exacerbates and prolongs psoriasiform dermatitis in mice by up-regulating IL-1β and IL-23p40, which were related to local DCs stimulated by abnormal SP.
Frontline Science: Anthrax lethal toxin-induced, NLRP1-mediated IL-1β release is a neutrophil and PAD4-dependent event
Authors: Greaney Allison J , Portley Makayla K , O’Mard Danielle , Crown Devorah , Maier Nolan K , Mendenhall Megan A , Mayer-Barber Katrin D , Leppla Stephen H , Moayeri Mahtab
Published: May 2020

Anthrax lethal toxin (LT) is a protease that activates the NLRP1b inflammasome sensor in certain rodent strains. Unlike better-studied sensors, relatively little is known about the priming requirements for NLRP1b. In this study, we investigate the rapid and striking priming-independent LT-induced release of IL-1β in mice within hours of toxin challenge. We find IL-1β release to be a NLRP1b- and caspase-1-dependent, NLRP3 and caspase-11-independent event that requires both neutrophils and peptidyl arginine deiminiase-4 (PAD4) activity. The simultaneous LT-induced IL-18 response is neutrophil-independent. Bone marrow reconstitution experiments in mice show toxin-induced IL-1β originates from hematopoietic cells. LT treatment of neutrophils in vitro did not induce IL-1β, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), or pyroptosis. Although platelets interact closely with neutrophils and are also a potential source of IL-1β, they were unable to bind or endocytose LT and did not secrete IL-1β in response to the toxin. LT-treated mice had higher levels of cell-free DNA and HMGB1 in circulation than PBS-treated controls, and treatment of mice with recombinant DNase reduced the neutrophil- and NLRP1-dependent IL-1β release. DNA sensor AIM2 deficiency, however, did not impact IL-1β release. These data, in combination with the findings on PAD4, suggest a possible role for in vivo NETs or cell-free DNA in cytokine induction in response to LT challenge. Our findings suggest a complex interaction of events and/or mediators in LT-treated mice with the neutrophil as a central player in induction of a profound and rapid inflammatory response to toxin.
Circulating inflammatory mediators as biomarkers of ocular toxoplasmosis in acute and in chronic infection
Authors: Marino Ana P M P , dos Santos Luara I , Henriques Priscilla M , Roffe Ester , Vasconcelos-Santos Daniel V , Sher Alan , Jankovic Dragana , Gomes Matheus S , Amaral Laurence R , Campi-Azevedo Ana C , Teixeira-Carvalho Andréa , Martins-Filho Olindo A , Gazzinelli Ricardo T , Antonelli Lis R
Published: May 2020

Toxoplasmosis is highly endemic worldwide. In Brazil, depending on the geographical region and socioeconomic status, 40–70% of individuals become seropositive at some point in their lives. A significant proportion of Toxoplasma gondii-chronically infected individuals who are otherwise immunocompetent develop recurrent ocular lesions. The inflammatory/immune mechanisms involved in development of ocular lesion are still unknown and, despite previous investigation, there are no reliable immune biomarkers to predict/follow disease outcome. To better understand the impact of the immune response on parasite control and immunopathology of ocular toxoplasmosis, and to provide insights on putative biomarkers for disease monitoring, we assessed the production of a large panel of circulating immune mediators in a longitudinal study of patients with postnatally acquired toxoplasmosis stratified by the presence of ocular involvement, both at the early acute stage and 6 months later during chronic infection, correlating them with presence of ocular involvement. We found that T. gondii-infected patients, especially during the acute stage of the disease, display high levels of chemokines, cytokines, and growth factors involved in the activation, proliferation, and migration of inflammatory cells to injured tissues. In particular, major increases were found in the IFN-induced chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 in T. gondii-infected patients regardless of disease stage or clinical manifestations. Moreover, a specific subgroup of circulating cytokines and chemokines including GM-CSF, CCL25, CCL11, CXCL12, CXCL13, and CCL2 was identified as potential biomarkers that accurately distinguish different stages of infection and predict the occurrence of ocular toxoplasmosis. In addition to serving as predictors of disease development, these host inflammatory molecules may offer promise as candidate targets for therapeutic intervention.
Frontline Science: Activation of metabolic nuclear receptors restores periodontal tissue homeostasis in mice with leukocyte adhesion deficiency-1
Authors: Kajikawa Tetsuhiro , Wang Baomei , Li Xiaofei , Wang Hui , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Moutsopoulos Niki M , Hajishengallis George
Published: May 2020

β2 Integrins mediate neutrophil-endothelial adhesion and recruitment of neutrophils to sites of inflammation. The diminished expression of β2 integrins in patients with mutations in the ITGB2 (CD18) gene (leukocyte adhesion deficiency-Type 1; LAD1) results in few or no neutrophils in peripheral tissues. In the periodontium, neutrophil paucity is associated with up-regulation of IL-23 and IL-17, which drive inflammatory bone loss. Using a relevant mouse model, we investigated whether diminished efferocytosis (owing to neutrophil scarcity) is associated with LAD1 periodontitis pathogenesis and aimed to develop approaches to restore the missing efferocytosis signals. We first showed that CD18−/− mice phenocopied human LAD1 in terms of IL-23/IL-17-driven inflammatory bone loss. Ab-mediated blockade of c-Mer tyrosine kinase (Mer), a major efferocytic receptor, mimicked LAD1-associated up-regulation of gingival IL-23 and IL-17 mRNA expression in wild-type (WT) mice. Consistently, soluble Mer-Fc reversed the inhibitory effect of efferocytosis on IL-23 expression in LPS-activated Mϕs. Adoptive transfer of WT neutrophils to CD18−/− mice down-regulated IL-23 and IL-17 expression to normal levels, but not when CD18−/− mice were treated with blocking anti-Mer Ab. Synthetic agonist-induced activation of liver X receptors (LXR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR), which link efferocytosis to generation of homeostatic signals, inhibited the expression of IL-23 and IL-17 and favorably affected the bone levels of CD18−/− mice. Therefore, our data link diminished efferocytosis-associated signaling due to impaired neutrophil recruitment to dysregulation of the IL-23–IL-17 axis and, moreover, suggest LXR and PPAR as potential therapeutic targets for treating LAD1 periodontitis.
Effects of 1.5°C and 2°C of warming on regional reference evapotranspiration and drying: A case study of the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Jian Dongnan , Ma Zhuguo , Chen Liang , Duan Jianping , Mitchell Daniel , Zheng Ziyan , Lv Meixia , Zhang Haoxin
Published: May 2020

Reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is one of the most important factors influencing hydrologic and climatic quantities, and increases in ETo are often considered as a primary cause for drying under global warming scenarios. Based on bias‐corrected data from the Half a degree Additional Warming, Prognosis and Projected Impacts (HAPPI) experiment, we investigated changes in ETo and drying across the Yellow River Basin (YRB) for 1.5°C and 2°C stabilized warming, relative to the current decade (2006–2015). We used changes in the climatic water deficit (WD: defined as precipitation (P) minus (ETo) to determine drying and wetting trends. Results projected that mean annual ETo would increase significantly over the whole YRB, under 1.5°C and 2°C warming scenarios, with an increase of 4.54% (1.57–7.59% full uncertainty range) and 7.66% (4.49–10.61%), at 1.5°C and 2°C, respectively, averaged over the YRB for the multi‐model mean. It is unclear whether the YRB source region (the NE region of the Tibet Plateau) would be drier or wetter under 1.5°C and 2°C of warming, although it is likely that the N regions of the YRB, and the whole YRB except for the source region will be drier under 1.5°C and 2°C warming scenarios, respectively. With an additional 0.5°C warming, further intensification of drying is projected in the whole YRB, resulting from a more pronounced increase in ETo, and lesser increase/decrease in P. The increased ETo projected under a 0.5°C additional warming was mainly attributed to rising maximum temperatures (tasmax). These results highlight the importance of ETo, in terms of potential future YRB drying, and our study suggests that limiting future warming to 1.5°C would impact regional drying the least.
Examining the precipitation associated with medicanes in the high‐resolution ERA‐5 reanalysis data
Authors: Zhang Wei , Villarini Gabriele , Scoccimarro Enrico , Napolitano Francesco
Published: May 2020

Medicanes, hurricane‐like cyclonic systems in the Mediterranean Sea, are becoming an increasingly severe problem for many Mediterranean countries because climate projections suggest a higher risk under anthropogenic forcing even under an intermediate scenario. Due to the small size of these weather systems, high‐resolution data are required to better resolve their structure and evolution. Here we investigate medicanes from the perspective of precipitation using the high‐resolution (0.25°) ERA‐5 reanalysis data released by European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts. Overall, we identify a total of 59 medicanes from ERA‐5 data during 1979–2017, with marked year‐to‐year variability. These storms tend to occur mostly between September and March. Overall, the intensity of medicanes (i.e., maximum wind) is lower than that of tropical cyclones, and this is also true for precipitation. The composite precipitation of medicanes increases from the centre to ~0.8° and then decreases. During 1979–2017, many regions along the Mediterranean Sea experienced over 20 extreme precipitation events (i.e., days) which were caused by medicanes, accounting for 2–5% of all the extreme precipitation events.
Edible plant Jiaosu: manufacturing, bioactive compounds, potential health benefits, and safety aspects
Authors: Dai Jing , Sha Ruyi , Wang Zhenzhen , Cui Yanli , Fang Sheng , Mao Jianwei
Published: May 2020

Edible plant Jiaosu (EPJ), a type of plant‐based functional food fermented by beneficial bacteria, has gained publicity in recent years for its potential benefits to health. Important progress in relevant manufacturing technology has been made in the past decade with respect to raw materials, fermentation microorganisms and fermentation conditions. Current research has revealed that EPJ contains abundant nutrients and bioactive compounds, such as minerals, amino acids, polyphenols, organic acids and polysaccharides. Thus, many studies have focused on the beneficial effects of EPJ in preventing lifestyle diseases, such as hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, non‐alcoholic fatty liver, obesity, diabetes and some cancers, although limited studies have involved the related active compounds and their protective mechanisms. Furthermore, very few studies have investigated the potential safety risks associated with the consumption of such food. In this review, we present a brief summary of the current research progress pertaining to the manufacturing, bioactive compounds, potential health benefits and safety aspects of EPJ. However, as a result of the complex components in EPJ, further studies on the bioactive compounds with relevant beneficial effects in EPJ and the safety evaluations of EPJ consumption are needed. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Threshold sound conditioning in the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Kwak Eunyee , Kwak Sangyeop
Published: May 2020

Objectives/hypothesis

Sensorineural hearing loss is one of the most common human disorders, with increasing incidence in elderly patients, severely restricting normal activities, and lowering quality of life. The introduction of sound conditioning has the potential to activate auditory pathway plasticity and improve basal frequency hearing. Our objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of threshold sound conditioning (TSC). The null hypothesis in this study was that TSC does not have a significant effect on auditory threshold amelioration.

Methods

Pure tone audiometry (PTA) was performed and hearing thresholds were measured once at baseline, and a second time following TSC intervention. Data were analyzed using an intention‐to treat design.

Results

The TSC group (78%) significantly differed from the control group (44%) on auditory threshold amelioration; P = .008091 in DV1, P = .000546 in DV2 by Scheffe's post hoc test. Female subjects (77%) showed a significant difference in DV1 from male subjects (47%); P = .025468 in DV1 by Scheffe's post hoc test. Older subjects (75%) showed no significant difference from younger subjects (53%); P = .139149 in DV1, P = .082920 in DV2 by Scheffe's post hoc test.

Conclusions

We observed a significant improvement in a narrow band frequency threshold in this randomized controlled prospective clinical study in a broad range of subjects. These data have important clinical implications since there is no current long‐term therapy for this widespread and growing disability. Additional physiologic, mechanistic, and molecular studies are necessary to fully elucidate the pathophysiology and mechanism of action of TSC.

Level of Evidence

1a.
Generating pairs of projective special linear groups that fail to lift
Authors: Boschheidgen Jan , Klopsch Benjamin , Thillaisundaram Anitha
Published: May 2020

The following problem was originally posed by B. H. Neumann and H. Neumann. Suppose that a group G can be generated by n elements and that H is a homomorphic image of G. Does there exist, for every generating n‐tuple of H, a homomorphism and a generating n‐tuple of G such that ?

M. J. Dunwoody gave a negative answer to this question, by means of a carefully engineered construction of an explicit pair of soluble groups. Via a new approach we produce, for , infinitely many pairs of groups that are negative examples to Neumanns' problem. These new examples are easily described: G is a free product of two suitable finite cyclic groups, such as , and H is a suitable finite projective special linear group, such as for a prime . A small modification yields the first negative examples with H infinite.
The effect of fractional calculus on the formation of quantum‐mechanical operators
Authors: Chung Won Sang , Zare Soroush , Hassanabadi Hassan , Maghsoodi Elham
Published: May 2020

In this paper, the deformation of the ordinary quantum mechanics is formulated based on the idea of conformable fractional calculus. Some properties of fractional calculus and fractional elementary functions are investigated. The fractional wave equation in 1 + 1 dimension and fractional version of the Lorentz transformation are discussed. Finally, the fractional quantum mechanics is formulated; infinite potential well problem, density of states for the ideal gas, and quantum harmonic oscillator problem are discussed.
Modeling Strategies for the Propagation of Terminal Double Bonds During the Polymerization of N‐Vinylpyrrolidone and Experimental Validation
Authors: Zander Christian , Hungenberg Klaus‐Dieter , Schall Thomas , Schwede Christian , Nieken Ulrich
Published: May 2020

Based on a recently suggested reaction mechanism, which involves the production and propagation of terminal double bonds (TDBs), kinetic models for the polymerization of N‐vinylpyrrolidone in aqueous solution are developed. Two modeling strategies, the classes and the pseudodistribution approach, are applied to handle the multidimensional property distributions that result from this reaction mechanism and to get detailed structural property information, e.g., on the chain length distribution and the distribution of TDBs. The structural property information is then used to develop reduced models with significantly lower computational effort, which can be used for process design, on‐line applications or coupled to computational fluid dynamic simulations. To validate the derivations, the models are first compared against each other and finally to experimental results from a continuous stirred tank reactor. The evolution of monomer conversion and molecular weight average data as well as molecular weight distributions can be represented very well by the models that are derived in this article. These results support the correctness of the reaction mechanism predicted by quantum mechanical simulations.
Quantitative Proteome Analysis of Jatropha curcas L. Genotypes with Contrasting Levels of Phorbol Esters
Authors: Farias Andreza Raquel Barbosa de , Almeida Natália P. , Domont Gilberto B. , Nogueira Fábio C. S. , Campos Francisco A. P.
Published: May 2020

The phorbol esters in the seeds of Jatropha curcas are a major hindrance to the full exploitation of the potential of this oil crop as a source of raw material for the production of biodiesel. Here, various quantitative proteomic strategies are used to establish the proteomes of roots, leaves, and endosperm of two genotypes of J. curcas with contrasting levels of phorbol esters in the seeds. In total 4532, 1775, and 503 proteins are identified respectively in roots, leaves, and endosperm, comprising 5068 unique proteins; of this total, 185 are differentially abundant in roots, 72 in leaves, and 20 in the endosperm. The biosynthetic pathways for flavonoids and terpenoids are well represented in roots, including the complete set of proteins for the mevalonate and non‐mevalonate/Deoxyxylulose 5‐Phosphate pathways, and proteins involved in the branches which lead to the synthesis tricyclic diterpenoids and gibberellins. Also, casbene synthase which catalyzes the first committed step in the biosynthesis of tigliane‐type diterpenes is identified in roots of both genotypes, but not in leaves and endosperm. This dataset will be a valuable resource to explore the biochemical basis of the low toxicity of Jatropha genotypes with low concentration of phorbol esters in the seeds.
Profiles of perceived social functioning in adolescent and young adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Willard Victoria W. , Tillery Rachel , Gordon Mallorie L. , Long Alanna , Phipps Sean
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Social interaction and peer relationships are critical for development, especially for adolescents and young adults (AYA). Cancer treatment may disrupt social functioning and impact quality of life. Prior research into AYA social functioning has primarily been qualitative in nature or assessed via broad measures of functioning. Given the multi‐dimensional nature of social functioning, and its importance for AYA, a person‐centered approach to analyses is needed.

Methods

AYA survivors of childhood cancer, ages 13 to 23 (n = 192, 51% male) and at least 1 year post‐treatment (M = 7.35 ± 4.18 years post), completed measures to assess perceived social functioning, social support, and positive and negative affect. Caregivers also completed a measure of social functioning. Latent profile analysis was used to empirically derive profiles of perceived social functioning using the self‐perception profile for adolescents (SPPA).

Results

A 3‐class solution provided the best fit to the data: 58.9% average, 33.7% high, and 7.5% low functioning. The average group reported mean scores that were similar to normative values available in the SPPA manual. Demographic and medical factors were unrelated to class membership. Social support and positive/negative affect differed significantly by class; caregiver‐report of social functioning did not.

Conclusions

Overall, the majority of AYA survivors of childhood cancer are doing well socially, with perceived adequate social functioning associated with both high levels of social support as well as greater perceptions of positive affect. Future work is needed to elucidate longitudinal trajectories of social functioning, as well as to identify and intervene with those survivors who are struggling.
High‐pressure leakage of pleural fluid through the healed entry site of the indwelling pleural catheter from undrained locules
Authors: Chan Ka Pang , Ng Ka Ching Joyce , Li Chi To Kevin
Published: May 2020

The indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) is an established treatment for recurrent pleural effusion. Fluid leakage through the IPC insertion tract has been reported, but its occurrence is only limited to a short period after the procedure. Besides, the drainage efficacy of IPC may be limited by the presence of loculation in the pleural space, especially when intrapleural fibrinolytic is contraindicated. We report a case of fluid leakage through the healed entry site of IPC due to high pressure built from undrained pleural fluid locules, which was successfully treated with an additional drain targeting the largest undrained locule.
Three months of COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rafiq Danish , Batool Asiya , Bazaz M. A.
Published: May 2020

The pandemic of 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2019), reminiscent of the 2002‐SARS‐CoV outbreak, has completely isolated countries, disrupted health systems and partially paralyzed international trade and travel. In order to be better equipped to anticipate transmission of this virus to new regions, it is imperative to track the progress of the virus over time. This review analyses information on progression of the pandemic in the past 3 months and systematically discusses the characteristics of SARS‐CoV‐2019 virus including its epidemiologic, pathophysiologic, and clinical manifestations. Furthermore, the review also encompasses some recently proposed conceptual models that estimate the spread of this disease based on the basic reproductive number for better prevention and control procedures. Finally, we shed light on how the virus has endangered the global economy, impacting it both from the supply and demand side.
Transition Metal/Lewis Acid Co‐Catalyzed Ring‐Opening Reactions of Oxa/Azabenzonorbornadienes
Authors: Zhang Danni , Khan Ruhima , Fan Baomin
Published: May 2020

The transition metal catalyzed ring‐opening reactions of oxa/azabenzonorbornadienes have emerged as one of the important methods for the synthesis of structural framework of biological importance bearing multiple functional groups. The reactions are catalyzed by transition metals such as Pd, Ir, Rh, Cu, Co, Pt, Ru, etc. Pioneered by Lautens et. al, it was realized that Lewis acids (LA) can play an important role in the ring‐opening reaction and hence enhance both the reaction yield and stereo/regioselectivity of the products. They act as an activator/co‐catalyst in the ring‐opening reaction. In this review, we present an overview of the transition metal/Lewis acid co‐catalyzed ring‐opening reactions of oxa/azabenzonorbornadienes with different nucleophiles leading to the formation of different ring‐opening products.
Dual Passivation of CsPbI3 Perovskite Nanocrystals with Amino Acid Ligands for Efficient Quantum Dot Solar Cells
Authors: Jia Donglin , Chen Jingxuan , Yu Mei , Liu Jianhua , Johansson Erik M. J. , Hagfeldt Anders , Zhang Xiaoliang
Published: May 2020

Inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite quantum dot (PQD) receives increasing attention for the application in the new generation solar cells, but the defects on the surface of PQDs significantly affect the photovoltaic performance and stability of solar cells. Herein, the amino acids are used as dual‐passivation ligands to passivate the surface defects of CsPbI3 PQDs using a facile single‐step ligand exchange strategy. The PQD surface properties are investigated in depth by combining experimental studies and theoretical calculation approaches. The PQD solid films with amino acids as dual‐passivation ligands on the PQD surface are thoroughly characterized using extensive techniques, which reveal that the glycine ligand can significantly improve defect passivation of PQDs and therefore diminish charge carrier recombination in the PQD solid. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the glycine‐based PQD solar cell (PQDSC) is improved by 16.9% compared with that of the traditional PQDSC fabricated with Pb(NO3)2 treating the PQD surface, owning to improved charge carrier extraction. Theoretical calculations are carried out to comprehensively understand the thermodynamic feasibility and favorable charge density distribution on the PQD surface with a dual‐passivation ligand.
International Combination Service for Time-Variable Gravity Fields (COST-G)
Authors: Jäggi Adrian , Meyer Ulrich , Lasser Martin , Jenny Barbara , Lopez Teodolina , Flechtner Frank , Dahle Christoph , Förste Christoph , Mayer-Gürr Torsten , Kvas Andreas , Lemoine Jean-Michel , Bourgogne Stéphane , Weigelt Matthias , Groh Andreas
Published: May 2020

The International Combination Service for Time-variable Gravity Fields (COST-G) is a new Product Center of IAG’s International Gravity Field Service (IGFS). COST-G provides consolidated monthly global gravity fields in terms of spherical harmonic coefficients and thereof derived grids of surface mass changes by combining existing solutions or normal equations from COST-G analysis centers (ACs) and partner analysis centers (PCs). The COST-G ACs adopt different analysis methods but apply agreed-upon consistent processing standards to deliver time-variable gravity field models, e.g. from GRACE/GRACE-FO low-low satellite-to-satellite tracking (ll-SST), GPS high-low satellite-to-satellite tracking (hl-SST) and Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR). The organizational structure of COST-G and results from the first release of combined monthly GRACE solutions covering the entire GRACE time period are discussed in this article. It is shown that by combining solutions and normal equations from different sources COST-G is taking advantage of the statistical properties of the various solutions, which results in a reduced noise level compared to the individual input solutions.
Zusammenarbeit von Pädiatrie und Sozialpädiatrie – Schaffung einer biopsychosozialen Medizin für komplex chronisch kranke Kinder und Jugendliche
Authors: Heinen Florian
Published: May 2020

Die Pädiatrie in Deutschland erlebt eine Krise, in der die Versorgung der vulnerablen Gruppe komplex chronisch kranker Kinder und Jugendlicher gefährdet ist: Spezialambulanzen sind unterfinanziert und werden geschlossen, Betten für die spezialisierte stationäre Versorgung können auch dort, wo sie ausgewiesen sind, durch Fachkräftemangel in der Pflege nicht belegt werden. Eine Vielzahl sich negativ auswirkender Faktoren kommt zusammen und spitzt die Lage zu. Diese Probleme können nur grundlegend angegangen werden und bedürfen eines dezidierten Gestaltungswillens der Politik.

Pädiatrie und Sozialpädiatrie können aber auch eigenständig, aus sich selbst heraus, einen substanziellen Beitrag zu notwendigen Änderungsprozessen leisten: In intelligent orchestrierten Verbundlösungen von Pädiatrie und Sozialpädiatrie, auf inhaltlicher ebenso wie auf struktureller Ebene, können sie gemeinsam, bedarfsentsprechend, realistisch wie realitätserprobt, die biopsychosoziale Medizin in der Pädiatrie weiterentwickeln. Sie können selbst das Heft in die Hand nehmen und damit die allgemeine und richtige Forderung nach hochwertigen, ambulanten und vernetzten Gesundheitszentren selbst aufnehmen. Sie haben die Chance, Vorbildfunktion für inhaltliche und strukturelle Weiterentwicklung im deutschen Gesundheitssystem zu sein. Gemeinsam können sie in einer innovativen Zusammenarbeit als Tandemstruktur die Versorgung derer sichern und verbessern, die ihrer besonders bedürfen, die komplex chronisch kranken Kinder und Jugendlichen.
Significance of nutritional status in the development of periprosthetic infections
Authors: Zajonz Dirk , Daikos Alexandros , Prager Florian , Edel Melanie , Möbius Robert , Fakler Johannes K. M. , Roth Andreas , Ghanem Mohamed
Published: May 2020

Background

Malnutrition caused by protein and vitamin deficiencies is a significant negative prognostic factor in surgical wound healing disorders and infections. Particularly in elective surgery, preoperative compensation of deficiencies is advisable to avoid negative postoperative consequences. This study examined the nutritional and protein balance of patients with periprosthetic hip and knee joint infections.

Material and methods

Patients with periprosthetic hip or knee joint infections constituted the study group (SG). Control group I (CG I) included patients with primary implants and CG II included patients who required revision surgery because of aseptic loosening. Relevant nutritional and protein parameters were determined via analysis of peripheral venous blood samples. In addition, a questionnaire was used to evaluate the nutritional and eating patterns of all patients. The nutritional risk screening (NRS) 2002 score and body mass index (BMI) were also calculated for all participants.

Results

Differences were found in the albumin level (SG: 36.23 ± 7.34, CG I: 44.37 ± 3.32,p < 0.001, CG II: 44.06 ± 4.24,p < 0.001) and total protein in serum (SG: 65.42 ± 8.66, CG I: 70.80 ± 5.33,p = 0.004, CG II: 71.22 ± 5.21,p = 0.004). The number of patients with lowered albumin levels (SG 19/61, CG I 1/78, CG II 2/55) and total protein in serum (SG: 12/61, CG I 5/78, CG II 2/55) also showed considerable variation. The number of patients with a NRS 2002 score ≥3 differed significantly between SG and both CGs (SG: 5/61, CG I 1/78, CG II 0/55); however, these differences could not be confirmed using BMI.

Conclusion

As expected, lowered albumin and total protein levels were observed in PJI due to the acute phase reaction. The NRS can be performed to exclude nutritional deficiency, which cannot be excluded based on BMI. In cases of periprosthetic joint infection it is reasonable to compensate the nutritional deficiency with dietary supplements.
Importance of catalyst–photoabsorber interface design configuration on the performance of Mo-doped BiVO4 water splitting photoanodes
Authors: Krysiak Olga A. , Junqueira João R.C. , Conzuelo Felipe , Bobrowski Tim , Masa Justus , Wysmolek Andrzej , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: May 2020

Photoelectrochemical water splitting is mostly impeded by the slow kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction. The construction of photoanodes that appreciably enhance the efficiency of this process is of vital technological importance towards solar fuel synthesis. In this work, Mo-modified BiVO4 (Mo:BiVO4), a promising water splitting photoanode, was modified with various oxygen evolution catalysts in two distinct configurations, with the catalysts either deposited on the surface of Mo:BiVO4 or embedded inside a Mo:BiVO4 film. The investigated catalysts included monometallic, bimetallic, and trimetallic oxides with spinel and layered structures, and nickel boride (NixB). In order to follow the influence of the incorporated catalysts and their respective properties, as well as the photoanode architecture on photoelectrochemical water oxidation, the fabricated photoanodes were characterised for their optical, morphological, and structural properties, photoelectrocatalytic activity with respect to evolved oxygen, and recombination rates of the photogenerated charge carriers. The architecture of the catalyst-modified Mo:BiVO4 photoanode was found to play a more decisive role than the nature of the catalyst on the performance of the photoanode in photoelectrocatalytic water oxidation. Differences in the photoelectrocatalytic activity of the various catalyst-modified Mo:BiVO4 photoanodes are attributed to the electronic structure of the materials revealed through differences in the Fermi energy levels. This work thus expands on the current knowledge towards the design of future practical photoanodes for photoelectrocatalytic water oxidation.
Förderung bildungssprachlicher Lexik im Jahrgang 5 – Empirische Evaluation eines integrativen Förderkonzepts
Authors: Ehrig Britta-Katharina , Marx Nicole , Neumann Lena
Published: May 2020

Auch wenn das Beherrschen altersangemessener bildungssprachlicher Lexik einen wesentlichen Faktor schulischen Erfolgs darstellt, werden entsprechende Kompetenzen in deutschen Schulen bislang kaum ausreichend vermittelt. Entsprechend wurde im Rahmen der hier vorgestellten Studie basierend auf der Robust Vocabulary Instruction (RVI, Beck et al. 2002) eine achtwöchige Intervention zur integrierten Förderung bildungssprachlicher Lexik für den fünften Jahrgang eines Gymnasiums entwickelt.

Die quasi-experimentelle Pilotstudie zeigte bei einem Prä-Posttest eine signifikante Verbesserung der Interventionsgruppe im Vergleich zur Kontrollgruppe. Darüber hinaus zeigten ANOVAs mit Messwiederholung, dass sich zwar beide Gruppen über den relativ kurzen Zeitraum verbesserten, die Interventionsgruppe sich jedoch signifikant stärker verbesserte. Zudem zeigte sich, dass eine Verbesserung nur in Bezug auf explizit trainierte oder zumindest von der Lehrkraft angesprochene Lexeme nachweisbar war. Ein rein implizites Wortschatzlernen nach nur rezeptiver Begegnung erwies sich nicht als erfolgreich.
The Impact of Interviewer Working Hours on Police Interviews with Children
Authors: Kyriakidou Marilena , Blades Mark , Cherryman Julie , Christophorou Stephanie , Kamberis Andreas
Published: May 2020

Fatigue resulting from unpredictable or extended working conditions is a factor that negatively impacts the performance of police officers. In this study, we considered how investigative interviewing of children is influenced by interviewer working conditions. We examined two working conditions concerning when interviews were conducted: (a) during early duty shift and (b) an hour before the end of an interviewer’s duty shift and after the end of a shift. We analysed 102 police interviews with children and identified clues that interviews which commenced during early duty shift had more appropriate approaches than interviews in the other condition. Inappropriate approaches were not significantly affected by interviewer working conditions. These outcomes suggest considering new knowledge specific to the behaviour of interviewers according to working conditions and provide promising foundations for further research.
Preparation of modified ZnO nanoparticles for photocatalytic degradation of chlorobenzene
Authors: Nagaraju Pallavi , Puttaiah Shivaraju Harikaranahalli , Wantala Kitirote , Shahmoradi Behzad
Published: May 2020

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are one of the major pollutants present in the petrochemical industrial effluents. These VOCs have high vapor pressure, which makes it to be dispersed into the atmosphere easily. Chlorobenzene is one such VOC, which has an ability to cause adverse impacts on human health by damaging the central nervous systems. The available treatment methods are unable to effectively treat such VOCs in environment. Photocatalytic degradation is the effective and economical methods, which are being used for the treatment of such pollutants. ZnO is one of the widely accepted photocatalyst, but it has a limitation of wide band-gap energy utilization. This paper mainly investigates the preparation of metal-doped ZnO nanoparticles using solgel technique and its application for the degradation of chlorobenzene in an aqueous media under different light sources. Among the modified ZnO nanoparticles prepared (Ag/ZnO, Cd/ZnO and Pb/ZnO), Pb/ZnO was found to be very effective in the degradation of chlorobenzene and achieved up to 100% within a short duration (< 120 min). The Pb/ZnO was also used as a photocatalyst in a vertical continuous photoreactor for the photodegradation of chlorobenzene using LED light.
An approach to demarcate groundwater recharge potential zone using geospatial technology
Authors: Bhunia Gouri Sankar
Published: May 2020

With the increasing demands for water due to growing population, urban expansion, agricultural development and groundwater resources are gaining much attention, particularly in Gopiballavpur block, Paschim Medinipur district (West Bengal, India). Present study used cohesive approach of remote sensing and geographic information system to deliver an appropriate platform for convergent study of multi-disciplinary data and decision building for artificial groundwater recharge. Thematic maps were generated from Landsat8-Operational land Imager (OLI) and Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM), and aquifer parameter thematic layers were organized from conventional field data. The weighted linear combination method was used to determine the weights of various themes and their classes, namely ‘very good’, ‘good’, ‘poor’ and ‘very poor’ for identifying recharge potential zone. It has been concluded that 14.58% area has very good groundwater recharge potentiality of the study area. The area having ‘good’, ‘moderate’ and ‘low’ recharge potential is about 32.77%, 39.67% and 12.98%, respectively.