bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal biofilter depth for the treatment of cow manure from exercise pens - A laboratory study
Authors:   Département des sols et de génie agroalimentaire, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada, Ruiz-González Alexis , Bouchard Alexandre ,   Département des sols et de génie agroalimentaire, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada, Álvarez-Chávez Elizabeth ,   Département des sols et de génie agroalimentaire, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada, Godbout Stéphane ,   Research and Development Institute for the Agri-Environment (IRDA), Quebec City, QC G1P 3W8, Canada, Fournel Sébastien ,   Département des sols et de génie agroalimentaire, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
Published: December 2024

Starting in 2027, Canadian regulations will require regular exercise for tie-stall dairy cows. Producers commonly use pasture-like outdoor pens, but these might not meet environmental regulations as leachate can carry nutrient-loaded runoff. Alternative methods using improved filtering media are needed. This study evaluated the removal capacity of different depths of materials (gravel, woodchips, sphagnum peat moss, and biochar) as a strategy for manure treatment in outdoor exercise pens used to provide movement opportunities to dairy cows. A laboratory experiment was performed using 15 PVC columns (n = 3), with a diameter of 5 cm and a length of 50 cm, filled with different combinations of products for 3 weeks. The increasing depth (10 to 40 cm) of a mix of sphagnum peat moss, wood chips, and biochar in the columns linearly increased the removal efficiency of chemical oxygen demand (50 to 74%), total nitrogen (60 to 97%), phosphates (34 to 59%), and suspended solids (14 to 61%). However, this removal efficiency was time-dependent, as a greater removal rate was observed during the first week (+30% relative to weeks 2 and 3). The filter media with a 300 mm depth of a mix composed of sphagnum peat moss (70%), woodchips (20%) and biochar (10%) was more effective in removing nutrients. However, the treated effluent still surpassed the allowable post-filtration limit. This emphasizes the need for supplementary filtration measures to ensure the safe discharge of effluent into the environment.
Prebiotic Gas Flow Environment Enables Isothermal Nucleic Acid Replication
Authors: Schwintek Philipp , Eren Emre , Mast Christof , Braun Dieter
Published: December 2024

Nucleic acid replication is a central process at the origin of life. On early Earth, replication is challenged by the dilution of molecular building blocks and the difficulty of separating daughter from parent strands, a necessity for exponential replication. While thermal gradient systems have been shown to address these problems, elevated temperatures lead to degradation. Also, compared to constant temperature environments, such systems are rare. The isothermal system studied here models an abundant geological environment of the prebiotic Earth, in which water is continuously evaporated at the point of contact with the gas flows, inducing up-concentration and circular flow patterns at the gas-water interface through momentum transfer. We show experimentally that this setting drives a 30-fold accumulation of nucleic acids and their periodic separation by a 3-fold reduction in salt and product concentration. Fluid dynamic simulations agree with observations from tracking fluorescent beads. In this isothermal system, we were able to drive exponential DNA replication with Taq polymerase. The results provide a model for a ubiquitous non-equilibrium system to host early Darwinian molecular evolution at constant temperature.
As Much as Necessary and as Little as Possible: The Interplay of National and Soviet in a Wedding Performance at the 1960 Folk Art Evening of the Estonian Song Festival
Authors:   Estonian Folklore Archives, Estonian Literary Museum, Tartu, Estonia, Oras Janika
Published: December 2024

This case study explores the political uses of folklore during the Soviet colonial regime through an examination of a traditional wedding performance at the 1960 Folk Art Evening of the Estonian General Song Festival. The aim of the study is to understand the multiple meanings of such folklore performances within the framework of post-Soviet postcolonial studies, drawing on archival material, published memories of the creator of the wedding performance, Laine Mesikäpp, and interviews with her contemporaries.
The wedding performance presented local pre-modern traditions and at the same time contributed to the articulation of Soviet ideology, exploiting the regime’s broader and everyday political themes and agendas. The analysis demonstrates the political anti-colonial significance of the staged tradition for the participants, the possibilities for ambivalent interpretations of the wedding performance, and the hybrid nature of some of its elements. A closer look at the personality of the main creator of the wedding performance, Laine Mesikäpp, a prominent singer of traditional songs of the period, as well as the assessments of her contemporaries, reveals how the positions of colonial subject and active creator were reconciled and what strategies were used to cope with the inevitable compromises with the demands of the authorities.
The Promises and Challenges of Google Nest Hub Integration in Cilegon Hotels using Theory of Acceptance & Use of Technology (UTAUT)
Authors: Austin Priscilla , Setiawan Budi
Published: December 2024

This study explores the potential integration of Google Nest Hub in hotels across Cilegon. By investigating both the promises and challenges, this research aims to evaluate how this technology could streamline hotel operations, improve guest satisfaction, and contribute to the region’s hospitality competitiveness. Using qualitative methods, interviews, surveys and observation with hotel managers, staff, and guests were conducted to gather data. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) served as the framework for this research, providing a structured approach to understand the technology adoption based on four dimensions, Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence and Facilitating Conditions. Key findings highlight that while the device offers seamless integration with room controls and personalized guest interactions, challenges such as sudden updates that cause error, email management and personal preferences to not use Google Nest Hub must be addressed for successful implementation. Limitations include a small sample size, constrained staff perspectives due to departmental focus and voluntary guest participation. This research offers insights into integrating IoT technology like Google Nest Hub in hotels while serving as a reference for other hotels in integrating other smart hubs and paving ways for future studies such as guest satisfactions or comparative studies.
Perigo cor-de-rosa
Authors: Gomes Silva Ruan Henrique , Afonso-Rocha Rick
Published: December 2024

Este trabalho consiste em uma reflexão sobre a produção do medo aos dissidentes sexuais e de gênero durante o regime ditatorial brasileiro (1964-1988). Objetivamos propor e defender o conceito de “deimopolítica” como paradigma de governamento vinculado às tecnologias de produção da posição de sujeitos amedrontados (amigos) e de sujeitos ameaçadores (inimigos). Tomamos a “deimopolítica” como um funcionamento do registro do poder responsável por selecionar social e historicamente quais corpos devem ser temidos e quais corpos merecem compaixão. Para isso, analisamos as políticas sexuais e de gênero radicalizadas pela ditadura militar como estratégia de controle social e como estratégia de justificação da necessidade social desse regime ditatorial. Ao mobilizar o medo e a esperança, as instâncias intraestatais incitaram a produção de uma posição-sujeito cidadão essencial ao projeto nacionalista totalizante de recorte neoliberal dependente que desenhou e constituiu o quadro sociopolítico (democracia liberal) que se perpetua na sociedade brasileira.
Superman beijando um homem
Authors: De Paiva Mário Jorge
Published: December 2024

O artigo realiza uma análise de caso de representação LGBTQIAPN+ no mundo dos quadrinhos, por meio da edição Superman: son of Kal-El # 5. Nossa pesquisa será qualitativa e a questão principal será ver se tal abordagem da personagem pode ser considerada um acontecimento, nos moldes propostos pelo filósofo esloveno Slavoj Žižek. Nossa investigação contará com amplo aporte teórico sobre a história dos quadrinhos e representações LGBTQIAPN+. Nossa conclusão irá apontar como tal edição pode ou não ser considerada um acontecimento, mas nós não considerados de tal modo, por causa de um substrato conservador, aqueer.
Hazte Oír e o aprendizado político do OIB, um think tank do movimento antigênero brasileiro
Authors: Cunha Gallas Ana Kelma , Perez Olivia Cristina
Published: December 2024

Este estudo foca no aprendizado político resultante da aliança transnacional entre o Observatório Interamericano de Biopolítica (OIB) e a organização espanhola Hazte Oír, que contribuiu para a atual configuração do movimento antigênero no Brasil. A pesquisa adota a hipótese de que a mentoria da Hazte Oír proporcionou ao OIB um aprendizado político significativo, refletindo-se no fortalecimento de suas capacidades de advocacy e na consolidação de sua posição como um think tank influente no debate sobre sexualidade e gênero no contexto de 2013 a 2022. Utilizando o arcabouço da Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF), o estudo analisa as dinâmicas de ação do OIB, focando especialmente na interação entre os atores envolvidos e na evolução de suas táticas. A metodologia qualitativa empregada baseia-se na análise de um corpus diversificado de fontes documentais, incluindo artigos de jornais, documentos oficiais e material de audiências públicas. As conclusões indicam que o aprendizado político adquirido por meio dessa parceria não apenas fortaleceu as capacidades do OIB, mas também o posicionou como um agente central na promoção de uma agenda conservadora no Brasil.
Apologia a um corpo outro
Authors: Santos Caynnã
Published: December 2024

O ensaio aborda a questão de como reinserir a problemática da matéria nos atuais debates feministas sobre os corpos, de maneira a não sucumbir à concepção moderna de materialidade corporal como pura facticidade biológica, inerte e autossuficiente (posição que, tradicionalmente, fundamentou essencialismos antifeministas) e, simultaneamente, não capitular aos impulsos linguísticos totalizantes que marcam muitos dos construtivismos hoje dominantes na área. Por meio de um percurso expositivo-argumentativo fiel à “infidelidade disciplinar” que caracteriza o pensamento feminista desde a sua gênese, pretendemos demonstrar que a teoria quântica de Niels Bohr, e sua posterior apropriação e radicalização por Karen Barad, oferecem inovadores entendimentos sobre a matéria, a partir dos quais podemos edificar uma nova concepção de corpo. Avançamos, nesse sentido, a noção de “corpo-phenomenon”, uma alternativa àquilo que nomeamos de “modelo corporal epidérmico”.
CFIUS-Investitionskontrollverfahren unter FIRRMA 2018 und deutsche M&A-Praxis
Authors: Seibt Christoph H. , Koldehofe Jan-Willem
Published: December 2024

Das CFIUS-Investitionskontrollverfahren wurde durch den Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act of 2018 (- FIRRMA 2018) sowie weitere Änderungen auf Verordnungsebene deutlich ausgeweitet und verschärft, wodurch sich die schon zuvor bestehenden Risiken sowie die Rechtsunsicherheit für die M&A-Praxis weiter erhöht haben. Dies gilt insbesondere bei Investitionen in Schlüsseltechnologien wie etwa Mikroelektronik, künstliche Intelligenz, Biotechnologie, Quantentechnik oder erneuerbare Energien. Fälle wie die gescheiterte Übernahme der deutschen AIXTRON SE (2016) sowie die - von CFIUS freigegebene, aber letztlich auch gescheiterte - Übernahme der Siltronic AG (2021/22) zeigen, dass selbst Transaktionen der CFIUSÜberprüfung unterliegen können, bei denen die Zielgesellschaft ihren Hauptsitz nicht in den USA hat. Angesichts der durch die Reformen weiter zugenommenen Bedeutung der US-Investitionskontrolle für die deutsche Transaktionspraxis soll der vorliegende Beitrag - im Wechselblick zum deutschen Außenwirtschaftsrecht - die Reichweite sowie den Ablauf des CFIUS-Verfahrens unter dem FIRRMA 2018 beleuchten sowie dessen Auswirkungen auf die deutsche M&A-Praxis analysieren. In diesem Rahmen soll auch auf die zukünftige Outbound-Investitionskontrolle der USA für Investitionen in China eingegangen werden, die das CFIUS-Regime künftig ergänzen wird, und ein Ausblick auf weitere Entwicklungen geworfen werden.
Tecnológias Para Rastreabilidade De Produtos Agropecuários Para A Fiscalização
Authors: Loose Dr. Cleberson Eller , Paula Uéverton Fraga De
Published: December 2024

Com a expansão da produção agropecuária e a incorporação de tecnologias digitais, ferramentas como
blockchain, Big Data e Internet das Coisas emergem como soluções estratégicas para aprimorar a
rastreabilidade e a fiscalização agropecuária, promovendo maior segurança alimentar. Este estudo investiga
como essas inovações podem ser implementadas de forma sustentável em Rondônia, considerando seus impactos
ambientais, sociais e econômicos. O objetivo central é analisar os efeitos da inovação na fiscalização
agropecuária e sua contribuição para uma produção sustentável, além de identificar tecnologias aplicadas ao
setor e avaliar seus custos e benefícios. Com base na revisão de literatura, foram utilizadas as bases Capes e
Google Acadêmico, adotando-se a análise de conteúdo como metodologia. Os resultados mostram que
tecnologias digitais possibilitam maior eficiência na fiscalização, facilitando o monitoramento, controle e
distribuição de produtos agropecuários sustentáveis. O uso de ferramentas como blockchain garante
transparência nos processos, enquanto a análise de dados via Big Data permite tomadas de decisão mais
assertivas. Já a Internet das Coisas potencializa o rastreamento em tempo real, ampliando a confiabilidade das
cadeias produtivas. Além disso, foi apresentada a análise SWOT, destacando os ambientes interno e externo da
fiscalização. O estudo conclui que essas tecnologias são indispensáveis para modernizar a administração pública
e assegurar práticas agropecuárias alinhadas aos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS),
promovendo benefícios econômicos, sociais e ambientais. A inovação tecnológica, assim, se revela como um pilar fundamental para a sustentabilidade no setor agropecuário
Ana Mani Fiyach’s Poem: An In-Depth Study Of A Moroccan Malhun Masterpiece
Authors: Soumia Eddib , Kebir Sandy
Published: December 2024

Morocco is a country with a vibrant musical heritage, where many traditional genres, such as Rai, Berber,
Gnawa, and Sufi, continue to be performed today. One particularly distinctive and unconventional style of music
is Malhun. Included in the representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO, Malḥun poetry is a
key part of Moroccan oral tradition, serving as a popular form of memory that is expressed in melodic dialectal
Arabic. Among the known poems in the Moroccan register, we find the well-known “Fiyachiya”. Originating in
the 17th century, Ana Mani Fiyach a Qsida/ poem by Sidi Bahloul Cherki stands as a pillar of the Malhun poetic
tradition, continuing to resonate deeply with audiences across Morocco. Known for its profound emotional and
spiritual themes, the poem is often performed at religious and social gatherings, capturing feelings of love,
longing, and existential reflection. Over the centuries, Ana Mani Fiyach has evolved into much more than a poetic
work—it has become a defining element of Moroccan cultural identity, through shaping the nation’s artistic and
spiritual heritage.
This article examines the religious, cultural, and symbolic dimensions of Ana Mani Fiyach, focusing on the
famous line "Ana Mani Fiyach" ("I haven’t got the force"), which encapsulates themes of longing, spiritual
devotion, and existential questioning of the human soul. Through a close analysis of the poem’s structure and
language and translating it into English, the article reveals how Ana Mani Fiyach intertwines personal desire
with spiritual devotion. By situating the poem within its historical and cultural context. This study aims to uncover the layers of meaning in Ana Mani Fiyach, shedding light on its role as both a spiritual and cultural touchstone in Moroccan society
Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Experience From A Tertiary Care Institute In Kannur
Authors: V.P.K Dr.Nadeera , Sreekumar Dr. S. , V.L Dr.Ajith
Published: December 2024

Aims & Objectives
The incidence of breast cancer in Kerala is on the rise, and it is now the commonest cancer affecting women in
the state. The present study was designed to investigate the prevalence of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)
in our population and also to compare the various clinicopathological characteristics of TNBC with non-TNBC
in these patients.
Methods
A cross sectional study was conducted among 221cases of female breast cancer who reported to the Department
of General surgery, Government Medical College, Kannur from 1st October 2020 to 31st September 2022
Results
The mean age at presentation was 52 years (range 26-82 years). The prevalence of triple negative breast cancer
was 19.9% . Most of the subjects were belongs to the age group 40-60 years. Majority were with grade 2 and 3
disease. 50.7% were ER positive and 43% were PR positive. 43% were Her2-neu positive.
Conclusion
Triple negative breast cancer represented 19.9%, which is in concordance with the literature. TNBC are associated with large tumor size, high-grade tumors, and a higher rate of axillary lymph node metastasis
Quality Of Life In Post Septorhinoplasty Our Experience
Authors: Sidharth Dr Swathi , Hameed Dr Shaul
Published: December 2024

Background: The demand for Septorhinoplasty has significantly increased over past two decades due to
increased personal interest, media awareness and advances in surgical techniques. This trend is most common
in younger age group for both men and women. The quality of surgery, surgeon’s level of expertise and most
importantly the patient’s level of expectation are important factors in patient satisfaction with Septorhinoplasty.
Materials and Methods: After approval from ethics committee, a prospective observational study was taken at
our tertiary care Centre for a period of 18 months in 32 patients of age group between 18 years to 50 years both
males and females both literates and illiterates. NOSE (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation) questionnaire,
which scores nasal function and ROE (Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation) questionnaire, which scores cosmetic
status is used to measure the outcome evaluation questionnaire undertaken 1 day prior to surgery, 3 months and
6 months post-surgery and outcome noted
Results: The mean pre and post operative nose score were 72.50± (15.34) and 19.06 ±(11.03) respectively. Post
op NOSE score was significantly lower than pre op score (p<0.0001). Post op ROE score 75.10± (10.66) were
significantly higher than pre op score 28.10± (8.2) (p<0.0001).
Conclusion: The present study showed that in our patient population both form and function are overwhelming improved with septorhinoplasty
.
Authors: . .
Published: December 2024

.
Racismo Ambiental: Desigualdades Ecológicas E Suas Implicações Sociais
Authors: Junior João Mouzart De Oliveira , Sanches Keila Lima , Oliveira Luiz Fernando De , Rodrigues Letícia Fernanda De Souza , Rosa Mariza Cristina Camargo Da
Published: December 2024

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi compreender as interseções entre desigualdades ecológicas e suas implicações
sociais, enfocando como comunidades marginalizadas, frequentemente compostas por minorias raciais e
minorias, são desproporcionalmente impactadas por problemas ambientais e políticas de desenvolvimento.
Utilizando uma metodologia de revisão bibliográfica, a pesquisa analisou publicações acadêmicas presentes nas
bases Scielo e Google Acadêmico. O levantamento englobou a utilização de palavras-chave em associação com
descritores booleanos AND e OR. Os resultados destacam que o racismo ambiental perpetua ao alocar
comunidades vulneráveis em áreas degradadas e ao negligenciar suas vozes nas decisões de uso do solo,
Nusinersen in type 1 spinal muscular atrophy: Twelve‐month real‐world data
Authors: Pane Marika , Coratti Giorgia , Sansone Valeria A. , Messina Sonia , Bruno Claudio , Catteruccia Michela , Sframeli Maria , Albamonte Emilio , Pedemonte Marina , D'Amico Adele , Bravetti Chiara , Berti Beatrice , Brigati Giorgia , Tacchetti Paola , Salmin Francesca , de Sanctis Roberto , Lucibello Simona , Piastra Marco , Genovese Orazio , Bertini Enrico , Vita Giuseppe , Tiziano Francesco Danilo , Mercuri Eugenio ,   on behalf of the Italian Expanded Access Program Working Group
Published: June 2019

Objective

The aim of the study was to report 12‐month changes after treatment with nusinersen in a cohort of 85 type I spinal muscular atrophy patients of ages ranging from 2 months to 15 years and 11 months.

Methods

All patients were assessed using the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP INTEND) and the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination‐Section 2 (HINE‐2).

Results

Two of the 85 patients had 1 SMN2 copy, 61 had 2 copies, and 18 had 3 copies. In 4 patients the SMN2 copy number was not available. At baseline, the mean CHOP INTEND scores ranged between 0 and 52 (mean = 15.66, standard deviation [SD] = ±13.48), and the mean HINE‐2 score was between 0 and 5 (mean = 0.69, SD = ±1.23). There was a difference between baseline and the 12‐month scores on both the CHOP INTEND and the HINE‐2 for the whole group (p < 0.001), the subgroups with 2 SMN2 copies (p < 0.001), and those with 3 SMN2 copies (p < 0.001). The difference was found not only in patients younger than 210 days at baseline (p < 0.001) but also in those younger than 5 years on the CHOP INTEND and younger than 2 years on the HINE‐2.

Interpretation

Our results, expanding the age range and the severity of type I patients treated with nusinersen over 1 year, provide additional data on the range of efficacy of the drug that will be helpful in making an informed decision on whether to start treatment in patients of different ages and severity. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:443–451
AgNP/crystalline PANI/EBP‐composite‐based supercapacitor electrode with internal chemical interactions
Authors: Kim Hyungjoo , Ramalingam Manivannan , Balakumar Vellaichamy , Zhang Xiangwu , Gao Wei , Son Young‐A , Bradford Philip D.
Published: June 2019

In this article, polyaniline (PANI) was conformally coated on epoxide‐functionalized buckypaper (EBP). Because of the presence of epoxide functional groups, chemical interactions occurred between oxygen in the epoxide groups and NH in the PANI. These chemical interactions were identified by peak shifts and intensity changes in Raman spectra. Additionally, crystalline peaks were clearly observed through X‐ray diffraction. However, Raman peak changes or crystalline peaks were not observed in nonfunctionalized buckypaper (purified pristine buckypaper [PPBP])‐based composites. Both hydrogen bonding and crystalline nature of EBP‐PANI enhanced its electrical conductivity, producing a specific capacitance better than that of PPBP‐PANI. Finally, Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) were applied to EBP‐PANI to further enhance its electrical conductivity. Owing to the presence of AgNPs and their interactions with the N in PANI, the specific capacitance of EBP‐PANI‐AgNP reached 915.62 F/g. These results emphasize the positive effect of chemical interactions and crystalline nature of EBP‐based composites on their electrochemical performance. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48164.
Nitrogen‐doping microporous adsorbents prepared from palm kernel with excellent CO2 capture property
Authors: Ma Rong , Hao Jian , Chang Guozhang , Wang Yanxia , Guo Qingjie
Published: June 2019

In post‐combustion CO2 capture, waste biomass is a favourable precursor to prepare porous carbons due to its low cost, renewability, and unique microstructures. This study presents a facile method for preparing N‐doping porous carbons. Palm kernel shell was selected as carbon precursor, and its inherent silica species acted as a natural template to form hierarchical pores. The obtained samples exhibit predominant characteristics with highly developed micropores and a high N content providing an important contribution to CO2 adsorption capacity, which can reach up to 5.29 and 2.30 mmol/g under 100 kPa at 25 and 60 °C, respectively. Moreover, the resultant porous carbons also exhibit excellent cycling stability after 20 cycles. Furthermore, the activation mechanism was investigated by the quantitative thermogravimetry‐mass spectrometry (TG‐MS) method.
New perspective on the benefits of the gene–environment independence in case–control studies
Authors: Luo Hao , Cohen Freue Gabriela V. , Zhao Xin , Bouchard‐Côté Alexandre , Burstyn Igor , Gustafson Paul
Published: June 2019

We study the benefit of exploiting the gene–environment independence (GEI) assumption for inferring the joint effect of genotype and environmental exposure on disease risk in a case–control study. By transforming the problem into a constrained maximum likelihood estimation problem we derive the asymptotic distribution of the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) under the GEI assumption (MLE‐GEI) in a closed form. Our approach uncovers a transparent explanation of the efficiency gained by exploiting the GEI assumption in more general settings, thus bridging an important gap in the existing literature. Moreover, we propose an easy‐to‐implement numerical algorithm for estimating the model parameters in practice. Finally, we conduct simulation studies to compare the proposed method with the traditional prospective logistic regression method and the case‐only estimator. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 47: 473–486; 2019 © 2019 Statistical Society of Canada
Independent association between the visceral adiposity index and microalbuminuria in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wen Jia , Yuan Hong
Published: June 2019

Aims

Visceral adiposity and albuminuria are commonly observed in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Recently, the visceral adipose index (VAI) was found to be an indicator of visceral fat accumulation. However, the relationship between the VAI and urinary albumin has not been investigated in T2DM patients, and whether the predictive value of the VAI is superior to that of the triglyceride/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL‐c) ratio remains unknown.

Materials and methods

Three hundred and forty one newly diagnosed T2DM patients were enrolled. The anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, glucose, lipid profiles, urinary albumin, and other biochemical indices were examined. Linear and logistic regression models were developed to assess the association between the VAI and urinary albumin.

Results

The prevalence of microalbuminuria was 41.3% (n = 141) and increased with increasing levels of VAI. An age‐adjusted partial correlation analysis showed that the VAI and TG/HDL‐c ratio were significantly associated with the waist‐to‐hip ratio, heart rate, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and uric acid. In the stepwise linear regression analysis, the VAI (β = .21, .009) and TG/HDL‐c (β = .25, .002) were significant determinants of urinary albumin. Moreover, in the multiple logistic regression model, the odds ratio (OR) of microalbuminuria per one SD increase in the VAI was 1.94 (95% CI, 1.11‐3.38), and a similar result was observed with a higher TG/HDL‐c ratio (OR = 2.03, 95% CI, 1.13‐3.65).

Conclusion

We are the first to show a clear association between the VAI and urinary albumin in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients. Additionally, the VAI and TG/HDL‐c ratio had similar predictive power regarding albuminuria risk. The VAI could be a rapid and reliable tool for assessing early‐stage renal damage in newly diagnosed T2DM patients.
Thyroid hormone coordinates developmental trajectories but does not underlie developmental truncation in danionins
Authors: Hu Yinan , Mauri Angela , Donahue Joan , Singh Rajendra , Acosta Benjamin , McMenamin Sarah
Published: June 2019

Background

Differences in postembryonic developmental trajectories can profoundly alter adult phenotypes and life histories. Thyroid hormone (TH) regulates metamorphosis in many vertebrate taxa with multiphasic ecologies, and alterations to TH metabolism underlie notable cases of paedomorphosis in amphibians. We tested the requirement for TH in multiple postembryonic developmental processes in zebrafish, which has a monophasic ecology, and asked if TH production was compromised in paedomorphic Danionella.

Results

We showed that TH regulates allometric growth in juvenile zebrafish, and inhibits relative head growth. The lateral line system showed differential requirements for TH: the hormone promotes canal neuromast formation and inhibits neuromast proliferation in the head, but causes expansion of the neuromast population in the trunk. While Danionella morphology resembled that of larval zebrafish, the two Danionella species analyzed were not similar to hypothyroid zebrafish in their shape or neuromast distribution, and both possessed functional thyroid follicles.

Conclusions

Although zebrafish do not undergo a discrete ecological transformation, we found that multiple tissues undergo transitions in developmental trajectories that are dependent on TH, suggesting the TH axis and its downstream pathways as likely targets for adaptation. Nonetheless, we found no evidence that evolutionary paedomorphosis in Danionella is the result of compromised TH production.
Late effects of chemo and radiation treatment on dental structures of childhood cancer survivors. A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Seremidi Kyriaki , Kloukos Dimitrios , Polychronopoulou Argy , Kattamis Antonis , Kavvadia Katerina
Published: June 2019

Background

This systematic review summarizes the prevalence of dental defects after chemo and radiation therapy and correlates the findings with specific characteristics of each treatment modality.

Methods

Database search was performed for studies reporting dental late effects of chemo and radiation therapy. After data extraction and risk of bias assessment, prevalence of crown and root defects was assessed. Correlations between each defect and the characteristics of the antineoplastic treatment were performed.

Results

Sixteen nonrandomized studies were included, yielding a total of 1300 patients with a mean age at diagnosis of 4.5 years. Results reported that root defects were more common than crown defects. The most common root defect was impaired root growth and microdontia the most common crown defect. Age, radiation dose and field were statistically associated with higher prevalence of dental defects.

Conclusion

Defects were associated with combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as used in current therapeutic antineoplastic modalities.
Successful laparoscopic resection of a paraganglioma immediately behind the inferior vena cava and bilateral renal veins
Authors: Hakariya Tomoaki , Shida Yohei , Ito Hidenori , Ueda Yasufumi , Kurata Hiroki , Ohtsubo Asato , Miyata Yasuyoshi , Sakai Hideki , Furusato Bungo
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Paragangliomas have a rich blood flow and are located around large vessels; thus, resection is often difficult. We herein report a case of a paraganglioma that was located immediately behind the inferior vena cava and bilateral renal veins and successfully resected by laparoscopic surgery.

Case presentation

A 72‐year‐old man was incidentally diagnosed with a 7‐cm retroperitoneal mass immediately behind the inferior vena cava and bilateral renal veins by computed tomography. The mass was diagnosed as a retroperitoneal paraganglioma. The patient underwent laparoscopic surgery in the left lateral decubitus position. The tumor was dissected completely with no complications.

Conclusion

Resection of retroperitoneal paragangliomas is often a surgical challenge. The feasibility of the laparoscopic approach to such paragangliomas was demonstrated in the present case.
Mouse skeletal muscle creatine chemical exchange saturation transfer (CrCEST) imaging at 11.7T MRI
Authors: Takahashi Yusuke , Saito Shigeyoshi , Kioka Hidetaka , Araki Rikita , Asano Yoshihiro , Takashima Seiji , Sakata Yasushi , Yoshioka Yoshichika
Published: June 2019

Background

Creatine chemical exchange saturation transfer (CrCEST) imaging is expected to be a novel evaluation method of muscular energy metabolism.

Purpose

To develop CrCEST imaging of mouse skeletal muscle and to validate this technique by measuring changes in Cr concentration of ischemic hindlimbs.

Study Type

Prospective.

Animal Model

C57BL/6 mice (n = 6), mild hindlimb ischemic mice (n = 6), and severe hindlimb ischemic mice (n = 6).

Field Strength/Sequence

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), CrCEST imaging, and phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P MRS) obtained at 11.7T.

Assessment

MRA and 31P MRS were performed to confirm the presence of ischemia following the compression by rubber tourniquet. CrCEST imaging was performed and magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTRasym), which reflects Cr concentration, and was calculated in severe ischemia models, mild ischemia models, and control mice. Follow‐up CrCEST imaging was performed after the release of ischemia in the mild ischemia models.

Statistical Tests

Mean ± SD, one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey's HSD test, unpaired or paired t‐test.

Results

MRA revealed the loss of blood flow of the femoral artery in the ischemic hindlimb. 31P MRS revealed different degrees of PCr decrease in severe and mild ischemic hindlimb (n = 3 per group, normal hindlimb: 1.0 ± 0, mild ischemic hindlimb: 0.77 ± 0.13, severe ischemic hindlimb: 0 ± 0). CrCEST imaging inversely revealed a significant stepwise increase in the MTRasym ratio of ischemic hindlimbs compared with controls (control, mild ischemia, and severe ischemia; 0.99 ± 0.04, 1.36 ± 0.08, and 1.59 ± 0.23, respectively, P < 0.0001). In addition, follow‐up CrCEST imaging after the release of ischemia revealed normalization of the MTRasym ratios (recovered hindlimb: 1.01 ± 0.05).

Data Conclusion

We demonstrated an increase in the MTRasym of ischemic hindlimbs, along with a decrease of PCr. We demonstrated the normalization of MTRasym after the release of ischemia and developed CrCEST imaging of mouse skeletal muscle.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:563–570.
Mesostructured cellular foam solid‐phase microextraction coating for the highly sensitive recognition of polychlorinated biphenyls in water samples
Authors: Wang Xuemei , Kou Haixia , Wang Juan , Du Tongtong , Teng Ruiju , Du Xinzhen , Lu Xiaoquan
Published: June 2019

We herein presented a mesoporous cellular foam solid‐phase microextraction coating that showed highly sensitive recognition for weakly polarity polychlorinated biphenyls in water samples. The mesoporous cellular foam coater fiber was for the first time prepared by a simple sol‐gel method. The main experimental parameters including extraction temperature, extraction time, desorption time, stirring rate, and ionic strength were investigated by high‐efficiency orthogonal array design, a L16 (44) matrix was applied for the identification of optimized extraction parameters, and the optimized method was successfully applied to the analysis of environmental water sample. The novel mesoporous cellular foam coated fibers exhibited sensitive limits of detection (0.07–0.28 µg/L), wide linearity (5–3000 µg/L), and good reproducibility (3.5–8.3% for single fiber, and 4.9–8.7% for fiber‐to‐fiber) for polychlorinated biphenyls. The home‐made coating was successfully used in the analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls in real environmental water samples. These results indicate that the synthesized mesoporous cellular foams are promising materials for adsorption and separation applications in sample pretreatment.
Analysis of MIR155HG variants and colorectal cancer susceptibility in Han Chinese population
Authors: Wu Huangfu , He Guisheng , Han Hua , Xiong Wei , Song Tao , Chen Huamin , Chen Xiuxiu , Wu Xiaoming , Huang Guangyue , Zhang Yazhen , Sun Chuanwei , Zhao Chaoyang , Chen Yunjing
Published: June 2019

Background

MIR155HG plays an important role in malignant tumors, but it is rarely reported in the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study investigated the effects of MIR155HG polymorphisms on CRC susceptibility from the perspective of molecular genetics.

Methods

Eight SNPs in MIR155HG were selected and genotyped among 514 CRC cases and 510 healthy controls using the Agena MassARRAY platform. The associations between these SNPs and the CRC risk were evaluated under genetic models using conditional logistic regression analysis. The HaploReg v4.1 database was used for SNPs functional prediction.

Results

The allele “C” of rs12482371 (p = 0.047), allele “C” of rs1893650 (p = 0.025), and the allele “A” of rs928883 (p = 0.037) in MIR155HG were significantly associated with CRC risk. Genetic model analysis revealed that rs12482371 and rs1893650 increased CRC risk; whereas rs928883 was associated with reduced CRC risk. Stratification analysis showed that rs9383938 was a protective factor in CRC patients under 60 years old. Rs12482371 and rs1893650 were associated with the CRC risk in females. Rs11911469 and rs34904192 may affect the clinical stage and lymph node metastasis. Moreover, the haplotypes CTT and GTC of LD block rs4143370|rs77218221|rs12482371, and the haplotypes CATGA and CACGG of LD block rs77699734|rs11911469|rs1893650|rs34904192|rs928883 were significantly associated with CRC risk.

Conclusion

This study revealed that MIR155HG SNPs were associated with CRC susceptibility and could be predictive biomarkers for CRC risk.
Fundamental solutions and asymptotic numerical methods for bifurcation analysis of nonlinear bi‐harmonic problems
Authors: Tri Abdeljalil , Askour Omar , Braikat Bouazza , Zahrouni Hamid , Potier‐Ferry Michel
Published: June 2019

New algorithms, combining asymptotic numerical method (ANM) and method of fundamental solutions, are proposed to compute bifurcation points on branch solutions of a nonlinear bi‐harmonic problem. Three methods, mainly based on asymptotic developments framework, are then proposed. The first one consists in exploiting the ANM step accumulation close to the bifurcation points on a solution branch, the second method allows the introduction of an indicator that vanishes at the bifurcation points, and finally the first real root of the Padé approximant denominator represents the third bifurcation indicator. Two numerical examples are considered to analyze the robustness of these algorithms.
Switchable cholesterol recognition system with Diels–Alder reaction using molecular imprinting technique on self‐assembled monolayer
Authors: Shin Min Jae , Kim Minhee , Shin Jae Sup
Published: June 2019

Molecular imprinting was conducted using a method to form a polymeric coating on a self‐assembled monolayer (SAM). This molecular imprinting system was able to obtain an on–off function using the Diels–Alder reaction. Cholesterol was used as a target compound and the SAM was formed using thiol compound on a gold plate. Epoxy resin was used to form the polymeric coating. Covalent bonding method was used in molecular imprinting. The formed molecular imprinting system recognized cholesterol better than analogs of cholesterol. Epoxy resin curing agent with furan group was synthesized to form the molecular imprinting system. Using the Diels–Alder reaction between the furan group and phenylmaleimide, this molecular imprinting system offers a switchable function. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Genetic dissection of cell wall defects and the strigolactone pathway in Arabidopsis
Authors: Ramírez Vicente , Pauly Markus
Published: June 2019

Defects in the biosynthesis and/or deposition of secondary plant cell wall polymers result in the collapse of xylem vessels causing a dwarfed plant stature and an altered plant architecture termed irregular xylem (irx) syndrome. For example, reduced xylan O‐acetylation causes strong developmental defects and increased freezing tolerance. Recently, we demonstrated that the irx syndrome in the trichome birefringence‐like 29/eskimo1 (tbl29/esk1) mutant is dependent on MORE AXILLARY GROWTH 4 (MAX4), a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of the phytohormone strigolactone (SL). In this report, we show that other xylan‐ and cellulose‐deficient secondary wall mutants exhibit increased freezing tolerance correlated with the irx syndrome. In addition, these phenotypes are also dependent on MAX4, suggesting a more general interaction between secondary wall defects and SL biosynthesis. In contrast, MAX4 does not play a role in developmental defects triggered by primary wall deficiencies, suggesting that the interaction is restricted to vascular tissue. Through a reverse genetics approach, the requirement of different components of the SL pathway impacting the irx syndrome in tbl29 was evaluated. Our results show that the tbl29‐associated irx phenotypes are dependent on the MAX3 and MAX4 enzymes, involved in the early steps of SL biosynthesis. In contrast, this signaling is independent on downstream enzymes in the biosynthesis and perception of SL such as MAX1 and MAX2.
Full control of polymer properties during the two‐stage on‐demand free‐radical photopolymerization of fiber‐reinforced polymers
Authors: Pierrel Johann , Ibrahim Ahmad , Croutxé‐Barghorn Céline , L'Hostis Gildas , Allonas Xavier
Published: June 2019

The effect of a two‐step free‐radical photopolymerization of an acrylate resin on the polymer properties in the presence of glass fibers is studied. It is found that a first irradiation leading to a partial conversion is effective for the fabrication of a preimpregnated glass‐fiber composite, which can be further processed and fully polymerized through a second irradiation. DMA analysis evidences the formation of a first relatively soft polymer embedding unreacted double bonds during the preirradiation. Further process allows the completion of the photopolymerization together with a reinforcement of the polymer network. This obviously affects the final mechanical properties of the photocomposite. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1440–1447
Benchmark calculations of intramolecular hydrogen bond energy based on molecular tailoring and function‐based approaches: Developing hybrid approach
Authors: Afonin Andrei V. , Vashchenko Alexander V.
Published: June 2019

The energy of the intramolecular hydrogen bond has been recognized and may be estimated by the molecular fragmentation method and the method based on the functional dependence on the hydrogen bond descriptor. Both basic methods for estimating the energy of intramolecular hydrogen bonds are compared using a series of the hydroxycarbonyl aliphatic compounds as the benchmark. The functional dependencies are established that provide the best fit with the molecular fragmentation method. As both methods for estimating the energy of an intramolecular hydrogen bond have disadvantages, a new hybrid approach is proposed. In this approach, the average value of the intramolecular hydrogen bond energy calculated by the molecular fragmentation method and functional dependence method is used as the estimated parameter. The hybrid approach provides a compensation of the error in the evaluation of the interaction strength compared to the molecular fragmentation method or the functional dependencies method. Hence, it allows one to more reliably rank the strength of the intramolecular hydrogen bond in homogeneous series of molecules. Based on this approach, the strength of the О−Н···О=C intramolecular hydrogen bond in the studied compounds are classified in the energy scale in terms of weak, moderate, and strong interactions.
Bifunctional Dye Molecule in All‐Inorganic CsPbIBr2 Perovskite Solar Cells with Efficiency Exceeding 10%
Authors: Yang Shuzhang , Guo Zhanglin , Gao Liguo , Yu Fengyang , Zhang Chu , Fan Meiqiang , Wei Guoying , Ma Tingli
Published: June 2019

Inorganic lead halide perovskites are attracting increasing attention due to their much better thermal stability than the organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite materials. Thus, the low power conversion efficiency (PCE) is a key issue for the inorganic lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This is mainly due to their wider bandgap and larger energy loss (Eloss) in the devices. Herein, for solving this issue, a dye molecule‐assisted engineering using the dye of 5,15‐bis(2,6‐dioctoxyphenyl)‐10‐(bis(4‐hexylphenyl)‐amino‐20‐4‐carboxyphenylethynyl)porphyrinato]zinc(II) (YD2‐o‐C8) is demonstrated. Results indicate that this molecule has a bifunctional effect, not only as a co‐sensitization layer for CsPbIBr2 with broader absorption spectrum but also reduces the Eloss by interface passivation. Specifically, the light absorption range of the photoactive layer is broadened from 600 to nearly 680 nm. At the same time, the interfacial charge recombination is highly reduced. After optimizing, the champion PCE is enhanced from 7.02% to 10.13%, and record‐high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.37 V and short‐circuit currents (JSC) of 12.05 mA cm−2 are achieved. This study opens a simple and efficient way to improve the efficiency of inorganic PSCs.
Efficient production of levan using a recombinant yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae hypersecreting a bacterial levansucrase
Authors: Ko Hyunjun , Bae Jung-Hoon , Sung Bong Hyun , Kim Mi-Jin , Kim Chul-Ho , Oh Baek-Rock , Sohn Jung-Hoon
Published: June 2019

Levan is a fructose polymer with diverse applications in the food and medical industries. In this study, levansucrase from Rahnella aquatilis (RaLsrA) was hyper-secreted using a Saccharomyces cerevisiae protein secretion system. An optimal secretion signal, a translation fusion partner (TFP) containing an N-terminal 98 amino acid domain from a mitochondrial inner membrane protein, UTH1, was employed to secrete approximately 50 U/mL of bioactive RaLsrA into culture media with 63% secretion efficiency by fed-batch fermentation. Although the purified RaLsrA was useful for enzymatic conversion of high-molecular-weight levan of approximately 3.75 × 106 Da, recombinant yeast secreting RaLsrA could produce levan more efficiently by microbial fermentation. In a 50-L scale fermenter, 76-g/L levan was directly converted from 191-g/L sucrose by recombinant yeast cells, attaining an 80% conversion yield and 3.17-g/L/h productivity. Thus, we developed a cost-effective and industrially applicable production system for food-grade levan.
Deriving Thermospheric Temperature From Observations by the Global Ultraviolet Imager on the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics Satellite
Authors: Zhang Yongliang , Paxton Larry J. , Schaefer Robert K.
Published: June 2019

This paper reports a preliminary result for estimating thermospheric temperature around 155 km from the N2 Lyman‐Birge‐Hopfield bands observed by TIMED/Global Ultraviolet Imager (GUVI). Atmospheric Ultraviolet Radiance Integrated Code model (Strickland et al., 1999, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022‐4073(98)00098‐3) calculations indicate that the intensity ratio in the N2 Lyman‐Birge‐Hopfield (0,0) and (1,0) bands at 144.5‐ to 145.5‐ and 141.0‐ to 142.0‐nm quasi‐linearly depend on N2 rotational temperature. The observed ratios and the Atmospheric Ultraviolet Radiance Integrated Code results are used together to specify the thermospheric temperature around 155 km under sunlit conditions. The estimated temperature agrees fairly well with the neutral temperature at 155 km from WACCM‐X model. The estimated temperature is also higher over the auroral oval and O/N2 depleted regions. Furthermore, meridional wave‐like structures were clearly seen in the derived temperature and were likely caused by traveling atmospheric disturbances.