bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The R&D Marketing Interface in Biopharma and MedTech
Authors: Jambulingam Thani
Published: September 2019

This article highlights the importance of building a marketing led cross-functional team that integrates the R&D, and commercialization process in an early stage Biopharma and MedTech company. Marketing should play a prominent role in the cross-functional team at the earliest stages of company formation and product development to identify unmet need, design the development plan, shape the product life cycle, position the product in the competitive set, and understand all market drivers and competitive factors that are essential to ensure commercial success. In particular, in this paper, the focus is on the importance of creating an appealing target product profile (TPP) and describe the rational and methodology for creating the TPP. Drug development is a high risk, high cost, high reward undertaking, and the TPP provides a market-guided approach to development of drugs more quickly, inexpensively, and with a higher rate of success.
The investigation of metal-ion coordination to amyloid-beta and potential chelation materials for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Pavuluru Neha , Luo Xuan
Published: September 2019

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that results in the death of neurons and impaired cognitive function. One of the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's is the formation of senile plaques which originate from the aggregation of the Amyloid-β protein. Recent research has found that the overabundance of certain metal-ions in the brain may contribute to this problem, and that chelation therapy may be an effective tool to solve it. In this study, we conducted Density Functional Theory calculations to investigate the interaction of metal ions to the Amyloid-β protein, as well as the adsorption of the copper-ion by potential chelation materials. We conducted binding energy calculations and plotted the charge transfer between the metals and the substrates in order to evaluate bond strength. Binding energy calculations revealed that the binding affinities followed the order of Cu > Al > Zn, proving copper to retain the strongest affinity compared to other metal ions of biological significance. Due to copper's strong affinity, binding energies were also evaluated for its interaction with potential chelators: monolayer boron nitride, monolayer molybdenum disulfide, and monolayer silicene. Silicene produced the highest binding energies to copper, and the evidence of charge transfer between copper and the monolayers proves that there is a strong ionic bond present. Although our three monolayers did not directly present chelation potential, the absolute differences between the binding energies of the silicene binding sites and the Amyloid-β binding sites were minimal proving that further research in silicene chelators will open doors for therapy in Alzheimer's disease.
Call overlapping signals sexual status in Darwin’s frogs
Authors: Serrano Jose M , Guzmán Noé , Penna Mario , Méndez Marco A , Soto-Azat Claudio
Published: September 2019

Background. In animal reproductive contexts, calling behaviour is mostly performed by males but in species in which females call, it is not known how vocal interaction occurs between sexes, particularly when sexual dimorphism in signals is low, as in cases in which call repertoire is identical but acoustic properties differ. In Darwin’s frog (Rhinoderma darwinii), a species in which males brood larvae inside their vocal sacs, females have higher dominant frequency and shorter calls and notes than males. Since in this species males persist calling after getting pregnant with larvae, different vocal interaction patterns are expected to occur among animals having dissimilar reproductive status.

Methodology. To explore the mechanisms underlying vocal recognition among the different sexual status of R. darwinii, we recorded natural duets between non-pregnant males (NPM), pregnant males (PM) and females (F) and evaluated their evoked vocal response to natural playback stimuli of each sexual status from November to February 2015-2016 in Chiloé island, Chile. Call rate, phase angles, sound pressure level (SPL), number of overlapping calls and delay of overlapping calls were measured to determine differential responses between natural duets and in response to stimuli consisting of natural calls of individuals of different sexual status.

Results. Spontaneous duet interactions occurred mainly between males and no clear differences between duets were detected. In playbacks, call ratios in response to calls of different sexual status were similar. Females decreased their SPL in response to F calls, while F and PM had longer call delays and lower call overlaps between each other. Major differences were observed in call overlap, as the occurrence of this phenomenon was larger in playback experiments than during natural duets. The number of calls overlapped during natural duets was fewer (10.9 %) than during playback experiments (36.8 %).

Conclusions. Our results suggest that in R. darwinii, PM and F signalize their sexual status by decreasing their call overlap and that NPM respond indistinctly to the other sexual status. In general, these differences in selective call overlap between Darwin's frogs arise as a novel mechanism for signal recognition between animal vocal interactions.
Evolution of Yin and Yang isoforms of a chromatin remodeling subunit precedes the creation of two genes
Authors: Xu Wen , Long Lijiang , Zhao Yuehui , Stevens Lewis , Felipe Irene , Munoz Javier , Ellis Ronald E , McGrath Patrick T
Published: September 2019

Genes can encode multiple isoforms, broadening their functions and providing a molecular substrate to evolve phenotypic diversity. Evolution of isoform function is a potential route to adapt to new environments. Here we show that de novo, beneficial alleles in the nurf-1 gene became fixed in two laboratory lineages of C. elegans after isolation from the wild in 1951, before methods of cryopreservation were developed. nurf-1 encodes an ortholog of BPTF, a large (>300 kD) multidomain subunit of the NURF chromatin remodeling complex. Using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing and transgenic rescue, we demonstrate that in C. elegans, nurf-1 has split into two, largely non-overlapping isoforms (NURF-1.D and NURF-1.B, which we call Yin and Yang, respectively) that share only two of 26 exons. Both isoforms are essential for normal gametogenesis but have opposite effects on male/female gamete differentiation. Reproduction in hermaphrodites, which involves production of both sperm and oocytes, requires a balance of these opposing Yin and Yang isoforms. Transgenic rescue and genetic position of the fixed mutations suggest that different isoforms are modified in each laboratory strain. In a related clade of Caenorhabditis nematodes, the shared exons have duplicated, resulting in the split of the Yin and Yang isoforms into separate genes, each containing approximately 200 amino acids of duplicated sequence that has undergone accelerated protein evolution following the duplication. Associated with this duplication event is the loss of two additional nurf-1 transcripts, including the long-form transcript and a newly identified, highly expressed transcript encoded by the duplicated exons. We propose these lost transcripts are non-functional side products necessary to transcribe the Yin and Yang transcripts in the same cells. Our work demonstrates how gene sharing, through the production of multiple isoforms, can precede the creation of new, independent genes.
Amelioration of Monosodium Glutamate-induced Testicular Damage and Infertility in Male Rats by Water Melon and Cantaloupe Seeds Extract and Juices
Authors: El-Masry Shimaa , Elsayed Mai
Published: September 2019

Aims: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is extensively used as food additive and flavor enhancer, there is a growing concern that this may affect the male reproductive system and fertility. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of MSG on fertility and testes of mature male rats and the ameliorative role of water melon and cantaloupe (seeds extract and juices).

Study Design: Thirty-six male Sprague - Dawely rats (150-180 g) were randomly assigned into six groups (n=6). Group (1): orally administered with distilled water. Group (2): orally administered with 60 mg/kg of MSG. Groups (3 and 4): orally administered with 60 mg/kg of MSG + 200 mg/kg of water melon seeds extract and juice respectively. Groups (5 and 6): orally administered with 60 mg/kg of MSG + 200 mg/kg of cantaloupe seeds extract and juice respectively.

Results: Results showed that administration of MSG for 6 weeks caused abnormalities of semen characteristics, increased DNA damage and up-regulation of caspase3 expression in the testes tissue. Also, the levels of plasma sex hormones were decreased and the oxidant-antioxidant status was disturbed, moreover, MSG caused alteration in the histopathological structures of testicular tissue. Administration of seeds extract or juices of water melon and cantaloupe almost corrected the biochemical and histopathological alteration produced by MSG.

Conclusion: This study concluded that water melon and cantaloupe seeds and juice extracts have an ameliorative role against MSG-induced testicular damage and infertility in rats.
Rural Development of Pakistan with IoT
Authors: Shafique Muhammad Usman , Ali Wajid , Salman Muhammad
Published: September 2019

The study acknowledged the Internet of Things (IoT) as it relates to the increasement of agriculture and rural productivity. It’s importance in the area of the irrigation/fertilizer application, weather forecast, internet banking, tracking of farm produce, pests, disease handling, and control were seen. However, Pakistani agriculture has not indicated such realignment and transformation due to some challenges. Rural cities of Pakistan face several identical issues in the domains of agriculture, connectedness, health, transport, water, and education, and many more that can play a necessary part in the development of rural areas, which claims for potentially comparable solutions to be applied towards solving these issues. The purpose of this research is to check out the potential contributions of the IoT technologies towards poverty minimization in these rural areas, in order with the requirements are seen in these societies and with the concern on agriculture. The paper classifies the usage of IoT technology can easily reduce the agricultural needs of these communities or also improve their lifestyle for the domains of crop farming, weather forecasting, rural financing, livestock farming, growth management, market identification, and forest ranging. Accordingly, some recommendations were carried out to oppose these barriers and move Pakistan agriculture to an excellent status of world-class standards.
Enhancing PIGPEN Image Steganography Method by Using Zigzag Scanning
Authors: Abdelmgeid A. A. , Bahgat A. A. , Saad Al-Hussien Seddik , Gomaa Maha Mohamed
Published: September 2019

Steganography is the art and science of writing hidden messages in such a way that no one suspects the existence of the message, a form of security through obscurity. Many different carrier file formats can be used, but digital images are the most popular because of their frequency on the internet. In this paper explains the PIGPEN image steganography technique which modifies the secret message itself not the technique of embedding. This technique represents the secret message characters by two decimal digits only not three decimal digits as ASCII encoding. So, it can save one third of the required space for embedding the message in an image. The PIGPEN technique will be enhanced by using the zigzag scanning to increase the security and achieves higher visual quality as indicated by the high peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) in spite of hiding a large number of secret bits in the image.
Lemna sp. as a Chromium Heavy Metal Phytoremediator on Tannery Wastewater and its Potential Use as Fish Feed
Authors: Pamungkas Inggia P. , Andriani Yuli , . Junianto , . Iskandar
Published: September 2019

Aims: This research aims to determine the ability of Lemna sp. as a phytoremediation agent in absorbing chromium (Cr) in tannery wastewater.

Study Design:  A total of 20 fiber tubs with size 80 x 80 x 40 cm3 and volume of 256 L were prepared and filled with 30 L each of the tannery wastewater and 1.75% bio-slurry added with a volume of wastewater as a source of nutrition for Lemna sp.. The number of Lemna sp. which is used for culture was 180 g for each fiber tube.

Place and Duration of Study: Culturing Lemna sp. in tannery wastewater were carried out in Ciparanje Land Fisheries Area of ​​the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences Universitas Padjadjaran and for chromium analysis were carried out in Center for Natural Resources and Environment Research of Universitas Padjadjaran, between February and March 2019.

Methodology: This research was carried out by culturing Lemna sp. in tannery wastewater for five days with 20 replications and comparing Cr concentrations in tannery wastewater and Lemna sp. at the end and beginning of the research. Chromium analysis results on the tannery wastewater and Lemna sp. the beginning and end of the research on each sample was tested by paired t-test.

Results: by culturing Lemna sp. in the tannery wastewater as phytoremediation agent for five days the results obtained Cr concentration at the beginning of research each for tannery wastewater and Lemna sp. ranged from 0.180 to 0.194 mg/L with an average of 0.187±0.0034 mg/L and 0 mg/kg. While at the end of the research the concentration of Cr in tannery wastewater and Lemna sp. respectively ranged from 0.057-0.075 mg/L with an average of 0.068±0.0044 mg/L and 2.292-2.333 mg/kg with an average of 2.314±0.0101 mg/kg. There was a decrease in Cr concentration by an average of 64.01±1.96% in tannery wastewater and an increase in Lemna sp.. Paired t-test results showed that Lemna sp. which was cultured in tannery wastewater had a significant influence on Cr concentrations in both tannery wastewater and Lemna sp so that there were significant differences in Cr concentrations at the beginning (day 0) and at the end of the research (day 5).

Conclusion: Average ability of Lemna sp. in absorbing and accumulating chromium in the tannery wastewater in the tissue was 2.314±0.0101 mg/kg and the average reduction in Cr concentration in liquid waste was 64.01±1.96%. Utilization of Lemna sp. containing chromium is possible to be used as a food supplement for fish to increase growth due to reduced Cr toxicity by Lemna sp.
Impacts of Problem-Based-Learning on Academic Learning Process of Pre-clinical Medical Students in Nile University of Nigeria
Authors: Oyeniran O. I. , Chia T. , Ajagbe A. O.
Published: September 2019

Aim: This study aims to assess the impact of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) on the academic learning process of 2nd and 3rd-year medical students in their pre-clinical years.

Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, between May 2018 and July 2018.

Methodology: Using a standardized semi-structured questionnaire, both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to obtain data from 53 undergraduate medical students (8 males, 45 females; age range 17-25 years), which were collated and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 statistical package.

Results: The mean age of respondents was 15±2 SD. There are more females n=45 (84.9%) than males n=8 (15.1%). Out of the respondents, 50.9% agreed that PBL has helped them in learning and understanding basic medical science courses, 17.1% disagreed, while 28.6% were uncertain. When asked if PBL helped them in preparing for pre-clinical examinations, 38.2% disagree, while 32.4% said it helped them. Evidence from the in-depth interview (IDI) shows that some of the stated usefulness includes; making studying for examinations easier, boosting confidence level, a better understanding of lectures and clinical cases, among others. However, a few of them responded that it was not helpful.

Conclusion: Findings showed that the use of PBL has a significant and positive impact on the academic learning processes of pre-clinical medical students of Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja.
Effect of Cassava Peel Based Diets on Performance and Meat Quality of Snail (Archachatina marginata Swainson)
Authors: Solomon Kehinde, Abiodun , Oluwasola Babatunde, Taiye , Johnson Kehinde, Olujide
Published: September 2019

The effect of cassava peel (CPL) incorporation (0,5, 10 and 15%) in the diets of growing snails  (average initial weight  66.0 ± 0.15 g) on the growth performance, shell morphological changes, digestibility of nutrients, carcass yield and mineral element composition of the meat was investigated. The nutritional trial adopted four T1 (0%), T2 (5%), T3 (10%) and T4 (15%) almost isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets. Two hundred and forty growing snails were randomly allotted at 60 snails/treatment, while each treatment was replicated three times. The digestibility of nutrients was evaluated at the 12th of the fourteen-week trial. Data collected were analyzed in a complete randomized design using (ANOVA), a significant difference among the means was separated using Duncan's multiple range test. Cassava peel is rich in NFE (70.0%), low in crude protein (3.94%), while the four diets held almost equal proximate composition. Feed intake increased (P<0.05) from T1 to T4 and T1 (control) had the best (P<0.05) carcass yield. Survivability of snails at all levels was 100%. Highest dry matter digestibility (70.01%) was obtained in T1; the digestibility of other nutrients also reduced (P< 0.05) with CPL incorporation. Meat mineral composition was not compromised by the treatments. Cassava peel based diet was favourably utilized at 15% CPL incorporation without any adverse effect on feed intake, growth, meat quality and carcass yield, farmers should adopt it.
Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction on Budget Airlines: Kano Model Approach
Authors: Wong Anthony Tik-Tsuen , Ho Mandy Wai-Man
Published: September 2019

Although low-cost carrier (LCC) airlines do not provide significant service to customer, the demand and market share of LCC is constantly increasing. Services provided by LCC and the quality of their services become a competitive advantage of LCC airlines. The purpose of this research is to identify the factors that are ‘must-be’ dimension after being categorized into five attributes by using Kano Model. 260 responses were collected. The questionnaires include questions about the services factors in the SERVQUAL service model, basic demographic variables and respondents who have taken or not taken the Hong Kong Express before as Hong Kong Express is classified as one significant player of LCC airlines in Hong Kong. The result can give insights to Hong Kong Express to identify their service areas that needed to be improved and paid attention to increase customers’ satisfaction in future.
Randomised Controlled Trial of Salt Solution (Sodium Chloride) Mouth Wash vs Thymol Glycerine Usage in Sore Throat with Non Bacterial Pharyngitis
Authors: Sallih Mohd Azreen Ezairy Bin Mohmad , Abu Bakar Mohd Zukiflee Bin
Published: September 2019

Backgrounds: Sore throat is one of the most common reasons for visits to the hospital. While most patients with sore throat have an infectious cause (pharyngitis), either bacterial or viral infection, fewer than 20 per cent have a clear indication for antibiotic therapy.

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the patient’s clinical outcome after using a salt solution (sodium chloride) and thymol glycerine mouth wash in the evaluation of sore throat patient with non bacterial pharyngitis.

Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial, in which 100 patients who had non-bacterial pharyngitis were divided into two groups: those who gargled a salt solution (sodium chloride 3%) and those who gargled a thymol solution. A sore throat questionnaire was filled out 1 week later.

Results: Demographically, the results showed that there were significant differences between the two groups with regard to gender. However, there was no significant difference in age of the patients. A significant difference was observed between the two groups in term of sore throat pain scale, difficulty swallowing scale and swollen throat scale. All p-value are <0.001.

Conclusion: Gargling a salt solution, a natural, and harmless substance, can reduce the pain and other symptom of sore throat in patients with non-bacterial pharyngitis.
Designing a New Ergonomic Student Backpack
Authors: Mansoorian Mahsa , Ghasemi Mohammad Sadegh , Dehghan Naser
Published: September 2019

Introduction: A Backpack is an essential tool for anyone, such as students who have to carry their daily necessities and supplies for long hours.

Aims: Studies have shown that inappropriate backpack types not only cause injuries to the musculoskeletal system but also cause the poor distribution of force and excessive pressure on the feet and thus discomfort for people.

Methods: In order to improve the comfort of backpack users and reduce the pressure on the foot, 18- to 25-year-old female students with normal body mass were selected for the study. The backpack was designed and made according to the Schoone-Harmsen method and ergonomic criteria. The sample was compared with current and existing backpacks in the market in terms of design and ergonomic features.

Results: The results showed that the new backpack using a medical belt based on ergonomic features with appropriate features provides a greater sense of comfort for users and it is improved compared to existing backpacks which are available in the Iranian market and designs based on previous studies.

Conclusion: For designing a backpack for people with different anthropometric sizes, a  more accurate assessment of the larger sample, particularly measurements on the lumbar region and back, is required. It is recommended to evaluate the results in a larger sample and its effect on the dimples of Venus. However, the results had a positive evaluation at this stage.
Key Locational Characteristics that Influence on Attracting Tourists to Sri Lanka
Authors: Silva O. K. R. De , Perera M. P. S. R. , Karunarathne G. D. D. T.
Published: September 2019

This research was conducted to assess the existing locational characteristics of Sri Lanka which could influence on attracting tourists to the country. The major problem of the study is identifying the critical locational characteristics that cause to attract more tourists to Sri Lanka. It has been observed that there are three major locational characteristics such as Natural attractiveness, Cultural attractiveness and Climate which have discussed by the scholars and applicable to the Sri Lankan context. The main objective of the study is to identify the most important characteristics which help to attract tourists to Sri Lanka. The secondary objectives are determining the impact of the influence of the characteristics on tourist attraction & exploring the influence of the characteristics for future tourist attraction. The research coverage areas are Colombo District and Hikkaduwa Narigama area. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The findings are based on the primary data collection and, they have been analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 16.0 and the SmartPLS (Partial Least Square) 3.0. There were 62 sample size and whole sample responded for the questionnaire. Findings of the study exposed all three characteristics are important for tourist attraction. According to the result of Path Coefficient, all the three variables are statistically significant and natural attractiveness (0.454), cultural attractiveness (0.247) and climate (0.213) are a significant moderately strong relationship with tourist attraction. Therefore, all three variables positively impact to the tourist attraction and natural attractiveness is the major among them. It is also found that there are specific things to be taken into account for the accomplishment of attracting the expected group of tourists to the country.
Facilitation and competition interact with seed dormancy to affect population dynamics in annual plants
Authors: Leverett Lindsay D. , Shaw Allison K.
Published: September 2019

Seed dormancy increases population size via bet‐hedging and by limiting negative interactions (e.g., competition) among individuals. On the other hand, individuals also interact positively (e.g., facilitation), and in some systems, facilitation among juveniles precedes competition among adults in the same generation. Nevertheless, studies of the benefits of seed dormancy typically ignore facilitation. Using a population growth model, we ask how the facilitation–competition balance interacts with seed dormancy rate to affect population dynamics in constant and variable environments. Facilitation increases the growth rate and equilibrium size (in both constant and variable environments) and reduces the extinction rate of populations (in a variable environment), and a higher rate of seed dormancy allows populations with facilitation to reach larger sizes. However, the combined benefits of facilitation and a high dormancy rate only occur in large populations. In small populations, weak facilitation does not affect the growth rate, but does induce a weak demographic Allee effect (where population growth decreases with decreasing population size). Our results suggest that facilitation within populations can interact with bet‐hedging traits (such as dormancy) or other traits that mediate density to affect population dynamics. Further, by ensuring survival but limiting reproduction, ontogenetic switches from facilitation to competition may enable populations to persist but limit their maximum size in variable environments. Such intrinsic regulation of populations could then contribute to the maintenance of similar species within communities.
An All‐Inorganic Perovskite‐Phase Rubidium Lead Bromide Nanolaser
Authors: Tang Bing , Hu Yingjie , Dong Hongxing , Sun Liaoxin , Zhao Binbin , Jiang Xiongwei , Zhang Long
Published: September 2019

Rubidium lead halides (RbPbX3), an important class of all‐inorganic metal halide perovskites, are attracting increasing attention for photovoltaic applications. However, limited by its lower Goldschmidt tolerance factor t≈0.78, all‐inorganic RbPbBr3 has not been reported. Now, the crystal structure, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, and band structure of perovskite‐phase RbPbBr3 has now been investigated. Perovskite‐phase RbPbBr3 is unstable at room temperature and transforms to photoluminescence (PL)‐inactive non‐perovskite. The structural evolution and mechanism of the perovskite–non‐perovskite phase transition were clarified in RbPbBr3. Experimentally, perovskite‐phase RbPbBr3 was realized through a dual‐source chemical vapor deposition and annealing process. These perovskite‐phase microspheres showed strong PL emission at about 464 nm. This new perovskite can serve as a gain medium and microcavity to achieve broadband (475–540 nm) single‐mode lasing with a high Q of about 2100.
High Efficiency Electrochemical Nitrogen Fixation Achieved with a Lower Pressure Reaction System by Changing the Chemical Equilibrium
Authors: Cheng Hui , Cui Peixin , Wang Fangrui , Ding Liang‐Xin , Wang Haihui
Published: September 2019

We demonstrate a simple and effective chemical equilibrium regulation strategy to improve the efficiency of electrochemical ammonia synthesis by constructing electrochemical reaction system that works at significantly lower pressure than the Haber–Bosch process. Transferring the nitrogen reduction reaction from ambient conditions to a lightly pressurized environment not only accelerates the activation of the N≡N triple bond but also inhibits the competing reaction of hydrogen evolution while promoting the dissolution and diffusion of nitrogen. The verification experiment of using well‐designed Fe3Mo3C/C composite nanosheets as the nitrogen reduction catalyst shows that the lower pressure reaction system can improve the Faradaic current efficiency by one order of magnitude. Moreover, the comparatively low‐pressure reaction system can greatly reduce the cell voltage of the ammonia synthesis reaction (up to 33 %) even at the relatively low pressure of 0.7 MPa, which is of significance for decreasing the energy consumption of electrochemical ammonia synthesis under mild conditions.
A Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework (HOF) with Type IV NH3Adsorption Behavior
Authors: Kang Dong Won , Kang Minjung , Kim Hyojin , Choe Jong Hyeak , Kim Dae Won , Park Jeoung Ryul , Lee Woo Ram , Moon Dohyun , Hong Chang Seop
Published: September 2019

An S‐shaped gas isotherm pattern displays high working capacity in pressure‐swing adsorption cycle, as established for CO2, CH4, acetylene, and CO. However, to our knowledge, this type of adsorption behavior has not been revealed for NH3gas. Herein, we design and characterize a hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) that can adsorb NH3uniquely in an S‐shape (type IV) fashion. While conventional porous materials, mostly with type I NH3adsorption behavior, require relatively high regeneration temperature, this platform which has significant working capacity is easily regenerated and recyclable at room temperature.
Preparation of ferric nitrate–graphene nanocomposite and its adsorption of arsenic(V) from simulated arsenic‐containing wastewater
Authors: Qu Guangfei , Li Rui , Zhou Yanan , Wu Bin , Cai Yingying , Ning Ping
Published: September 2019

Ferric nitrate–graphene (FG) nanocomposites synthesized via the equivalent‐volume impregnation method were used for the removal of As(V) species from simulated arsenic‐containing wastewater. Effects of various factors were assessed, such as the reaction temperature, solution pH, adsorbent dosage, and reaction time. The results indicated that the As(V) removal efficiency was as high as 99%, and the concentration of arsenic‐containing wastewater after FG treatment was as low as 9.4 μg L–1 as a result of the optimal absorption capacity and maximum specific surface area (171.766 m2/g) of this material. The equilibrium adsorption capacity of FG for As(V) was achieved in approximately 20 min, and the maximum adsorption capacity was calculated to be 112.4 mg g–1 by Langmuir adsorption isotherm, which was higher than that of other adsorbents such as manganese‐incorporated iron(III) oxide–graphene (14.42 mg g–1). Moreover, the removal efficiency of As(V) can be maintained above 95% under acidic and alkaline conditions. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis showed that the modified FG pore structure was regular. Based on the characterizations by X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared, the products on the surface of the used FG were Fe(OH)3, FeAsO4, and other compounds, and As(V) was mainly removed by the formation of insoluble compounds and coprecipitation.
High‐Resolution Computed Tomography Imaging of the Cranial Arterial System and Rete Mirabile of the Cat (Felis catus)
Authors: Kier E. Leon , Conlogue Gerald J. , Zhuang Zhenwu
Published: September 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of obtaining high‐resolution multiplanar computed tomography (CT) imaging of the cranial arterial circulation of the cat (Felis catus), the rete mirabile, and components of the skull, utilizing preserved cat specimens with an arterial system that was injected with a radiopaque contrast compound in the early 1970s. Review of the literature shows no high‐resolution CT studies of the cat's cranial circulation, with only few plain radiographic studies, all with limited cranial vascular visualization. In view of the inability of the radiographic techniques available from 1970s to mid‐2000s to provide high‐resolution imaging of the arterial circulation within the intact skull and brain of the cat, without dissection and histologic sectioning and disruption of tissues, no further imaging was performed for many years. In 2010, a high‐resolution micro CT scanner became available, large enough to scan the entire nondissected head of the arterially injected cats. All the obtained CT images were processed with a software program that provided 3D volume rendering and multiplanar reconstruction with the ability to change the plane angulation and slab thickness. These technical features permitted more precise identification of specific arterial and bony anatomy. The obtained images demonstrated, with a nondestructive method, high‐resolution vascular anatomy of the cerebral, orbital, facial arterial system, the rete mirabile, and skull bone components of the cat, with details not previously described in the literature. Anat Rec, 302:1958–1967, 2019. © 2019 The Authors. The Anatomical Record published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Anatomists.
USP7 Deubiquitinates and Stabilizes SIRT1
Authors: Song Nan , Cao Cheng , Tian Shanshan , Long Meijing , Liu Ling
Published: September 2019

The NAD+‐dependent protein deacetylase silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) targets multiple proteins for deacetylation, and it has been implicated in a variety of cellular pathways and human diseases. However, it remains unclear how the abundance of SIRT1 is regulated. Here, by mass spectrometry analysis of SIRT1‐containing protein complexes, we revealed that SIRT1 is physically associated with the ubiquitin‐specific protease USP7. Importantly, we found that USP7 cleaves K48‐linked polyubiquitin chains of SIRT1 and promotes SIRT1 stabilization. Accordingly, we demonstrated that treatment of cells with an enzymatic inhibitor of USP7 led to a decreased level of SIRT1 expression and accumulation of SIRT1 polyubiquitination. Collectively, our findings indicate that USP7 is a critical regulator of SIRT1 and provide a new pathway for the maintenance of SIRT1 abundance in cells. Anat Rec, 303:1337–1345, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Increased Expression of miR‐155p5 in Amygdala of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Almehmadi Khulood Abdullah , Tsilioni Irene , Theoharides Theoharis C.
Published: September 2019

MiR‐155p5 is a pro‐inflammatory microRNA reported to be involved in several neurol‐inflammatory diseases. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired social interactions and communication, as well as stereotypic movements. Inflammation of the brain due to activation of microglia has been reported in ASD. We investigated miR‐155p5 gene expression in postmortem human brain tissues [amygdala and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex regions (DLPFC)]. There was significant increase of miR‐155p5 in amygdala (P ≤ 0.0001), but not in DLFC, in ASD children (n = 8) compared to non‐ASD (n = 7) controls. The increased gene expression of miR‐155p5 in amygdala of children of ASD support the presence of localized inflammation in the brain and indicates miR‐155p5 may be targeted for therapy of ASD. Autism Res 2020, 13: 18–23. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

The pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is still unknown. Our data of increased gene expression of miR‐155p5 in brains of children with ASD support the presence of localized inflammation in the amygdala and indicates that miR‐155p5 may be targeted for therapy of ASD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Bericht des Arbeitskreises Baugruben: Ausblick 6. Auflage EAB
Authors: Hettler Achim , Becker Patrick , Borchert Kurt‐Michael , Kinzler Steffen
Published: September 2019

Der Arbeitskreis „Baugruben“ der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Geotechnik befasst sich im Rahmen der Vorbereitung der 6. Auflage der Empfehlungen des Arbeitskreises „Baugruben“ (EAB) mit der Überarbeitung und Ergänzung der vorliegenden 5. Auflage. In diesem Zuge wurden neue Empfehlungen für die Planung und Ausführung von Unterfangungen, eine vollständige redaktionelle Überarbeitung des Kapitels „Baugruben in weichen Böden“ sowie eine ergänzende Empfehlung für die Ermittlung von Kopfverformungen nicht gestützter Wände erarbeitet. Damit wurde aus Sicht des Arbeitskreises den Anforderungen aus der Praxis, der Anwendungsfreundlichkeit der Empfehlungen sowie dem Auftreten von Schadensfällen in der Bauausführung Rechnung getragen. Gegenstand des vorliegenden Aufsatzes ist der Abdruck der wesentlichen Textpassagen und überarbeiteten Empfehlungen mit der Bitte um Stellungnahme durch die Fachwelt.
Metabolic engineering of a robust Escherichia coli strain with a dual protection system
Authors: Ou Xiao‐Yang , Wu Xiao‐Ling , Peng Fei , Zeng Ying‐Jie , Li Hui‐Xian , Xu Pei , Chen Gu , Guo Ze‐Wang , Yang Ji‐Guo , Zong Min‐Hua , Lou Wen‐Yong
Published: September 2019

Considerable attention has been given to the development of robust fermentation processes, but microbial contamination and phage infection remain deadly threats that need to be addressed. In this study, a robust Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) strain was successfully constructed by simultaneously introducing a nitrogen and phosphorus (N&P) system in combination with a CRISPR/Cas9 system. The N&P metabolic pathways were able to express formamidase and phosphite dehydrogenase in the host cell, thus enabled cell growth in auxotrophic 3‐(N‐morpholino)propanesulfonic acid medium with formamide and phosphite as nitrogen and phosphorus sources, respectively. N&P metabolic pathways also allowed efficient expression of heterologous proteins, such as green fluorescent protein (GFP) and chitinase, while contaminating bacteria or yeast species could hardly survive in this medium. The host strain was further engineered by exploiting the CRISPR/Cas9 system to enhance the resistance against phage attack. The resultant strain was able to grow in the presence of T7 phage at a concentration of up to 2 × 107 plaque‐forming units/ml and produce GFP with a yield of up to 30 μg/109 colony‐forming units, exhibiting significant advantages over conventional engineered E. coli. This newly engineered, robust E. coli BL21(DE3) strain therefore shows great potential for future applications in industrial fermentation.
Calculating Hermitian Forms: The Importance of Considering Singular Points
Authors: Bhowmick Somnath , Hagebaum‐Reignier Denis , Jeung Gwang‐Hi
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we point out the importance of boundary conditions in the evaluation of expectation values of quantum mechanical operators involved in upper bound (i.e., variational principle) or lower bound (e.g., methods using ) calculations. The existence of singular points (or discontinuities) either in the trial function or in the operator itself needs to be carefully handled when calculating integrals, otherwise leads to non‐physical (e.g., imaginary) expectation values or to false values. In this case, the use of generalized functions (e.g., Heaviside or Dirac functions) is necessary to cure the singularity problems. As examples to put a stress on this mathematical subtleties, we discuss the wrong and true solutions obtained for the calculation of the mean values of the and (and ) operators using two standard simple models: the one‐dimensional harmonic oscillator and the three‐dimensional hydrogen atom, along with Slater‐type and Gaussian trial functions.
Defining fallopian tube‐derived miRNA cancer signatures
Authors: Dejene Selam B. , Ohman Anders W. , Du Wei , Randhawa Deepinder , Bradley Anand , Yadav Niraj , Elias Kevin M. , Dinulescu Daniela M. , Setlur Sunita R.
Published: September 2019

Background

MicroRNAs have recently emerged as promising circulating biomarkers in diverse cancer types, including ovarian cancer. We utilized conditional, doxycycline‐induced fallopian tube (FT)‐derived cancer models to identify changes in miRNA expression in tumors and plasma, and further validated the murine findings in high‐grade ovarian cancer patient samples.

Methods

We analyzed 566 biologically informative miRNAs in doxycycline‐induced FT and metastatic tumors as well as plasma samples derived from murine models bearing inactivation of Brca, Tp53, and Pten genes. We identified miRNAs that showed a consistent pattern of dysregulated expression and validated our results in human patient serum samples.

Results

We identified six miRNAs that were significantly dysregulated in doxycycline‐induced FTs (P < .05) and 130 miRNAs differentially regulated in metastases compared to normal fallopian tissues (P < .05). Furthermore, we validated miR‐21a‐5p, miR‐146a‐5p, and miR‐126a‐3p as dysregulated in both murine doxycycline‐induced FT and metastatic tumors, as well as in murine plasma and patient serum samples.

Conclusions

In summary, we identified changes in miRNA expression that potentially accompany tumor development in murine models driven by commonly found genetic alterations in cancer patients. Further studies are required to test both the function of these miRNAs in driving the disease and their utility as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and/or disease progression.
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in adults: A southern China multicenter experience
Authors: Lv Weiran , Qu Hong , Wu Meiqing , Fan Zhiping , Huang Fen , Xu Na , Xuan Li , Lin Ren , Zhao Ke , Sun Jing , Lai Yongrong , Xu Yajing , Liu Qifa
Published: September 2019

To investigate the incidence and risk factors as well as prognosis of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT), a total of 1377 adult hematological malignancies at three institutions were enrolled in this study. The 3‐year cumulative incidence of AIHA was 2.2 ± 0.4%. Multivariate analysis showed that haploidentical donors (HRDs) and chronic graft vs host disease (cGVHD) were the independent risk factors for AIHA. Patients with AIHA treated initially with corticosteroids combined with cyclosporine A (CsA) had a higher complete response rate than those with corticosteroids monotherapy (66.7% vs 11.1%; P = .013). The 3‐year cumulative incidence of malignant diseases relapse was 4.4 ± 4.3% and 28.0 ± 1.3% (P = .013), treatment‐related mortality (TRM) was 8.9 ± 6.3% and 17.4 ± 1.2% (P = .431), disease‐free survival (DFS) was 56.1 ± 1.5% and 86.7 ± 7.2% (P = .011), and overall survival (OS) was 86.3 ± 7.4% and 64.1 ± 1.5% (P = .054), respectively, in the patients with AIHA and those without AIHA. Our results indicate that HRDs and cGVHD are risk factors for AIHA and corticosteroids combined with CsA are superior to corticosteroids as initial treatment for AIHA. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia does not contribute to increase TRM and could reduce the malignant diseases relapse and increase DFS.
Understand legal implications of privatizing, outsourcing athletics operations
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: September 2019

Florida State University's recent decision to privatize athletics department operations and create a separate Florida State University Athletics Association generated significant attention and contributed to the age‐old national dialogue on the future of collegiate athletics. Under the change, the athletics department and its separate fundraising organization will operate as a private entity known as a direct‐support organization. From the school's perspective, this move allowed for a managerial and structural reorganization in which its previously separate fundraising entity was incorporated into athletics and would now report to the athletics director. From a more global perspective, the approach is reflective of the continuing evolution in the operation of collegiate sports programs.
Promote success, limit liability by addressing student‐athlete mental health
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2019

ORLANDO, FLA. — One in five male student‐athletes and one in four female student‐athletes report that in the past year they felt so depressed it was difficult to function, one in three male student‐athletes and slightly more than half of female student‐athletes experienced “overwhelming anxiety” in the past year, and 30% of student‐athletes felt intractably overwhelmed during the past month, research shows. Suicide is the third‐leading cause of sudden death in student‐athletes.
Educate student‐athletes’ family, friends on compliance
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2019

ORLANDO, FLA. — Overlooking the importance of extending compliance education to the family and friends of student‐athletes could leave your athletics department at significant risk of compliance violations. Consistent, ongoing interaction with student‐athletes’ family and friends can help, according to Justin Kume, Associate Athletic Director for Compliance at The Ohio State University. “You're going to have to put the time in. Relationships don't just happen in the click of a button or sending an email,” he explained at the annual convention for the National Association for Athletics Compliance along with Jayson Santos, Assistant Athletics Director for Compliance at Baylor University.
Partner with faculty to enhance student‐athlete experience
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2019

As Hamline University's Athletics Director, Jason Verdugo wants his student‐athletes to have a well‐rounded experience with a focus on academics and community service.
Cobimetinib‐induced “dropped head syndrome” and subsequent disease management in an Erdheim‐Chester patient
Authors: King Amber C. , Diamond Eli L. , Orozco Jennifer S. , Morse Hannah R. , Ouyang Linda L. , Schöder Heiko , Rampal Raajit K.
Published: September 2019

Our rechallenge of cobimetinib in an Erdheim‐Chester Disease (ECD) patient for the rare adverse effect, “dropped head syndrome,” with a previously unexplored cobimetinib regimen was successful. Similar to other experiences with targeted agents in ECD, dosing of cobimetinib may vary to mitigate toxicity without impairing efficacy.
Research on the Preparation of Graphdiyne and Its Derivatives
Authors: Xie Chipeng , Wang Ning , Li Xiaofang , Xu Guorong , Huang Changshui
Published: September 2019

As a new 2D carbon material allotrope composed of sp and sp2 carbon atoms, graphdiyne (GDY) possesses a highly conjugated porous structure, easily tunable intrinsic bandgap, and various excellent properties. Such properties allowed researchers to develop methods to prepare GDY, so that it can be applied for energy storage and conversion, environmental protection, various electronic devices and so on. In this review, the authors systematically discuss the methods and strategies developed for preparing GDY and its derivatives, including the synthesis of GDY by using liquid‐, solid‐, and gas‐phase methods, the synthesis of heteroatom‐doped GDY, the preparation of GDY‐based composites, and the synthesis of GDY analogues. All these preparation methods can provide the way to obtain GDY for specific studies and applications.
Towards the Development of Advanced Packing Design for Distillation in Rotating Packed Beds
Authors: Qammar Hina , Gładyszewski Konrad , Górak Andrzej , Skiborowski Mirko
Published: September 2019

The growing demand for flexible and compact separation technologies has promoted the application of high‐gravity technology, like rotating packed beds (RPBs). Mass transfer characterization and packing design play an important role in the development of this technology. This article provides a systematic approach towards the evaluation of packing and the development of advanced packing design for distillation in RPBs. For the latter, an additive manufacturing approach is used to develop a new Zickzack packing for RPBs. The new packing provides better mass transfer at reduced pressure drop compared to available conventional packings, while being competitive in terms of mass transfer with the industrially applied rotating zigzag bed at significantly reduced pressure drop.