bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fashion fades, Chanel No. 5 remains: Epistemology between Style and Technology
Authors: Barwich Ann‐Sophie , Rodriguez Matthew
Published: September 2020

Perfumes embody a chemical record of style and technology. Blurring the boundary between what counts as natural and artificial in both a material and a perceptual sense, perfumery presents us with a domain of multiple disciplinary identities relevant to social studies: art, craft, and techno‐science. Despite its profound impact as a cultural practice, perfume has seldom featured in historical scholarship. The reason for this neglect is its inherently qualitative dimension: perfume cannot be understood via codified representation but requires direct acquaintance with its sensory and material basis. The historical study of perfumery thus necessitates an experimental approach that comes not without challenge. This article looks at contemporary recreations of old perfumes to identify the difficulties involved in the experimental recreation of fragrances as sensory and performative artifacts. We highlight the need for a reconceptualization of methodology for inconcrete objects of study as part of the broader interest in experimental approaches to the humanities.
The effects of dietary edible bird nest supplementation on learning and memory functions of multigenerational mice
Authors: Mahaq Obaidullah , P. Rameli Mohd Adha , Jaoi Edward Marilyn , Mohd Hanafi Nursyuhaida , Abdul Aziz Saleha , Abu Hassim Hasliza , Mohd Noor Mohd Hezmee , Ahmad Hafandi
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Edible bird nest (EBN) is a natural food product produced from edible nest swiftlet's saliva which consists of glycoproteins as one of its main components; these glycoproteins contain an abundant of sialic acid. The dietary EBN supplementation has been reported to enhance brain functions in mammals and that the bioactivities and nutritional value of EBN are important during periods of rapid brain growth particularly for preterm infant. However, the effects of EBN in maternal on multigeneration learning and memory function still remain unclear. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the effects of maternal EBN supplementation on learning and memory function of their first (F1)‐ and second (F2)‐generation mice.

Methods

CJ57BL/6 breeder F0 mice were fed with EBN (10 mg/kg) from different sources. After 6 weeks of diet supplementations, the F0 animals were bred to produce F1 and F2 animals. At 6 weeks of age, the F1 and F2 animals were tested for spatial recognition memory using a Y‐maze test. The sialic acid content from EBN and brain gene expression were analyzed using HPLC and PCR, respectively.

Results

All EBN samples contained glycoprotein with high level of sialic acid. Dietary EBN supplementation also showed an upregulation of GNE, ST8SiaIV, SLC17A5, and BDNF mRNA associated with an improvement in Y‐maze cognitive performance in both generations of animal. Qualitatively, the densities of synaptic vesicles in the presynaptic terminal were higher in the F1 and F2 animals which might derive from maternal EBN supplementation.

Conclusion

This study provided a solid foundation toward the growing research on nutritional intervention from dietary EBN supplementation on cognitive and neurological development in the generation of mammals.
Exploring the effect of buyer engagement on green product innovation: Empirical evidence from manufacturers
Authors: Awan Usama , Nauman Shazia , Sroufe Robert
Published: September 2020

In this study, we are interested in how export firms organize knowledge management and increase product innovation performance. Prior studies have concluded that knowledge transfer from external actors leads to operational performance outcomes; others have questioned the positive influence of buyer‐driven knowledge transfer activities on innovation performance. Drawing on absorptive capacity, we aim to offer a better understanding, how export firms as recipients of knowledge resources, organize their internal capabilities in order to realize firm‐level product innovation. This empirical study examines the interplay of buyer‐driven knowledge activities, resource acquisition and combining, and product innovation outcomes in the context of Pakistani export firms. Drawing on survey data from 239 export‐manufacturing firms, we test hypotheses using structural equation modeling. Our findings show that buyer‐driven knowledge transfer activities play a crucial role in enhancing export firms in absorbing and combining resources that lead to product innovation. The pragmatic suggestion of the research suggests that managers look closely at developing a culture of involvement with their buyers that promotes the development of knowledge resources. The results of this study have research, policy, and managerial implications.
Dynamic reconfiguration in FPAA for technical and nontechnical education in a global environment
Authors: Macho Alejandro , Teruel Manuel G. , García‐Loro Felix , Baizan Pablo , Blazquez Manuel , Sancristobal Elio , Díaz Gabriel , Gil Rosario , Castro Manuel
Published: September 2020

Some engineering concepts have been proven to be very important not only in engineering degrees but in several areas. This knowledge is difficult to grasp under certain circumstances, and sometimes prior training is needed. This is a special challenge in full or part remote education. Simulations may help in this area, but truly experimental lab practices are crucial to grasp all the required knowledge and not only for fundamental information but for complex or indirect knowledge, where students can apply what they have learnt in classes. In this paper, we have worked on a concept to help professors and students to get new concepts in a more time‐efficient and safe manner, using dynamic reconfiguration in Field‐Programmable Analog Array. This solution can be easily applied to traditional or remote labs in less time than usual practices, so students can learn more in the same amount of time, especially when time is a constraint.
Online coding event as a formative assessment tool in introductory programming and algorithmic courses—An exploration study
Authors: Anitha Dhakshina Moorthy , Kavitha Dhakshina Moorthy
Published: September 2020

Information technology is an integral part of current education, even in noncomputer disciplines. As the role of Information technology‐based education tools is recognized as significant in the education of millennial learners, there is a development of different types of tools and techniques in education. Usage of such tools in content delivery and assessment has been found to improve student engagement and active learning. When looking for unique tools to practice and assess computer programming and algorithmic courses, online coding events launched by popular forums have been identified as a tool for practice and assessment. These forums have been introducing new computing problems specified in a professional language, so that students get trained in programming these complex problems rather than the conventional problems. This article explores the possibility and success measure of integrating online coding events as a part of formative assessment. A study has been performed with two consecutive offerings of a course. The results obtained from the various forms of assessment are analyzed and presented in terms of correlation with summative and formative assessment scores and improved student performance. The results of the experimental study are found encouraging, thereby appreciating the usage of online coding platforms for introductory programming and algorithmic courses.
Discovery of the 2,4′‐Dihydroxy‐3′‐methoxypropiophenone Biosynthesis Genes in Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Kan Eiichiro , Tomita Hiroya , Katsuyama Yohei , Maruyama Jun‐ichi , Koyama Yasuji , Ohnishi Yasuo
Published: September 2020

The filamentous fungus Aspergillus oryzae has 27 putative iterative type I polyketide synthase (PKS) gene clusters, but the secondary metabolites produced by them are mostly unknown. Here, we focused on eight clusters that were reported to be expressed at relatively high levels in a transcriptome analysis. By comparing metabolites between an octuple‐deletion mutant of these eight PKS gene clusters and its parent strain, we found that A. oryzae produced 2,4′‐dihydroxy‐3′‐methoxypropiophenone (1) and its precursor, 4′‐hydroxy‐3′‐methoxypropiophenone (3) in a specific liquid medium. Furthermore, an iterative type I PKS (PpsB) encoded by AO090102000166 and an acetyl‐CoA ligase (PpsA) encoded downstream from ppsB were shown to be essential for their biosynthesis. PpsC, encoded upstream from ppsB, was shown to have 3‐binding activity (Kd=26.0±6.2 μM) and is suggested to be involved in the conversion of 3 to 1. This study deepens our understanding of cryptic secondary metabolism in A. oryzae.
Comparison of the Sapien 3 versus the ACURATE neo valve system: A propensity score analysis
Authors: Kooistra Nynke H. , Intan‐Goey Valent M. P. , Ziviello Francesca , Leenders Geert E. , Kraaijeveld Adriaan O. , Doevendans Pieter A. , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Voskuil Michiel , Stella Pieter R.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To compare the outcomes of transfemoral ACURATE neo (NEO) and Sapien 3 (S3) patients in terms of device success and clinical safety outcomes using a propensity score analysis.

Background

Differences in clinical outcomes between the latest‐generation balloon‐expandable S3 and self‐expanding NEO in a “real‐world transfemoral TAVI population” are still unclear.

Methods

We compared up to 6 months clinical outcomes using a propensity score analysis (inverse probability of treatment weighting [IPTW]) to account for differences in baseline characteristics.

Results

A total of 345 patients underwent transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with either NEO or S3 at two centers in the Netherlands. Composite device success and early safety endpoints were comparable between NEO and S3 (Device success: IPTW‐adjusted OR: 0.35 [95% CI: 0.12–1.18], and early safety: IPTW‐adjusted OR: 0.51 [95% CI: 0.19–1.38]). Six‐months mortality was 5.3 versus 3.6%, stroke was 2.8 versus 3.3%, and pacemaker rate was 6.1 versus 8.6%, respectively with p = NS. Mean aortic gradient was lower in the NEO group (5.72 ± 2.47 vs. 9.05 ± 3.48; p = <.001), with a comparable rate of moderate or severe paravalvular leak (0 versus 2.1%; p = NS).

Conclusions

Device success and clinical safety outcomes were comparable for both valves. Up to 6‐months follow‐up clinical outcomes and mortality rate remained excellent. Mean aortic gradient was lower after ACURATE neo implantation.
The platelet to high density lipoprotein ‐cholesterol ratio is a valid biomarker of nascent metabolic syndrome
Authors: Jialal Ishwarlal , Jialal Ganesh , Adams‐Huet Beverley
Published: September 2020

Aims

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major global problem, and inflammation and insulin resistance appear to be key underpinnings in this cardio‐metabolic cluster. MetS predisposes to an increased risk of diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). It has a procoagulant diathesis which included increased platelet activity and impaired fibrinolysis. High density lipoprotein (HDL) appears to be anti‐thrombotic. Accordingly, we examined the ratios between platelets to HDL‐cholesterol(C) and adiponectin (Adipo) in patients with nascent MetS without the confounding of diabetes, ASCVD and smoking to determine their validity as biomarkers of MetS.

Methods

Patients with nascent MetS (n = 58) and matched controls (n = 44) were recruited. Fasting blood samples were obtained for complete blood counts, basic metabolic panel, lipids, insulin, and Adipo. Ratios of platelets to HDL‐C and Adipo were calculated.

Results

Following adjustment for adiposity, only the platelet: HDL ratio was significantly increased in MetS and increased with severity of MetS. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the platelet: HDL‐C area under the curve (AUC) significantly added to both platelets and platelet lymphocyte ratio AUCs. Also the platelet: HDL‐C ratio correlated with all cardio‐metabolic features of MetS, high sensitivity C‐reactive protein, insulin resistance chemerin, and leptin.

Conclusions

The ratio of platelets: HDL‐C is significantly increased in patients with nascent MetS and appear to be a valid biomarker of MetS. It could also emerge as a biomarker for athero‐thrombotic risk. However, these preliminary findings need confirmation in large prospective studies.
Characterizing the regenerative capacity and growth patterns of the Texas blind salamander (Eurycea rathbuni)
Authors: Vieira Warren A. , Anderson Kelsey , Glass Campbell Lindsay , McCusker Catherine D.
Published: September 2020

Background

Regeneration of complex patterned structures is well described among, although limited to a small sampling of, amphibians. This limitation impedes our understanding of the full range of regenerative competencies within this class of vertebrates, according to phylogeny, developmental life stage, and age. To broaden the phylogenetic breath of this research, we characterized the regenerative capacity of the Texas blind salamander (Eurycea rathbuni), a protected salamander native to the Edwards Aquifer of San Marcos, Texas and colonized by the San Marcos Aquatic Resource Center. As field observations suggested regenerative abilities in this population, the forelimb stump of a live captured female was amputated in the hopes of restoring the structure, and thus locomotion in the animal. Tails were clipped from two males to additionally document tail regeneration.

Results

We show that the Texas blind salamander exhibits robust limb and tail regeneration, like all other studied Plethodontidae. Regeneration in this species is associated with wound epithelium formation, blastema formation, and subsequent patterning and differentiation of the regenerate.

Conclusions

The study has shown that the Texas blind salamander is a valuable model to study regenerative processes, and that therapeutic surgeries offer a valuable means to help maintain and conserve this vulnerable species.
Applications of Atomically Dispersed Oxygen Reduction Catalysts in Fuel Cells and Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Zhang Qiaoqiao , Guan Jingqi
Published: September 2020

Due to severe energy crisis and environmental problems, green and renewable electrochemical energy devices such as fuel cells and metal–air batteries have attracted great attention, where oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) plays a vital role. The rational design of efficient and robust single‐atom catalysts (SACs) is vital but challenging toward ORR. Here, recent developments of single‐atom ORR catalysts in fuel cells and Zn–air batteries are systematically summarized, focusing on transition‐metal‐based electrocatalysts including single or dual Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pd, Ag, and Pt sites. At the atomic level, different synthesis methods and characterization techniques are introduced. Theoretical studies of ORR mechanisms are documented. The active sites and structure–property relationships of SACs for ORR are highlighted, and the performances of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs), and Zn–air batteries are discussed. The great challenges and future directions of SACs in fuel cells and Zn–air batteries are presented.
Reduced‐scale test to assess the effect of fire barriers on the flaming combustion of cored composites: An upholstery‐material case study
Authors: Zammarano Mauro , Shields John R. , Leventon Isaac , Kim Ickchan , Nazare Shonali , Thompson Andre , Davis Rick D. , Chernovsky Artur , Bundy Matthew
Published: September 2020

Herein, we describe a reduced‐scale test (“Cube” test), measuring the fire performance of specimens including a fire barrier (FB) and a flammable core material, which acts as the main fuel load. The specimen is intended to reproduce a cross‐section of a composite product where heat/mass transfer occurs primarily in a direction perpendicular to the FB. The Cube test procedure and benefits are discussed in this work by adopting residential upholstery furniture as an exemplary study. One flexible polyurethane foam, one polypropylene cover fabric, and 10 commercially available FBs were selected. They were used to compare the fire performance of FBs, measured in terms of peak of heat release rate, in the ASTM E1474‐14 standard test and the newly developed Cube test. Edge effects severely affected the performance of FBs in the ASTM E1474‐14 standard test but not in the Cube test. Furthermore, appropriate test conditions were determined in the Cube test to measure the so‐called “wetting point,” that is, the time and value of heat release rate measured when flammable liquid products were first observed on the bottom of the specimen. The relevance of the “wetting point” in terms of full‐scale fire performance and failure mechanism of FBs is discussed.
Early childhood education and life‐cycle health
Authors: García Jorge Luis , Heckman James J.
Published: September 2020

This study forecasts the life‐cycle treatment effects on health of a high‐quality early childhood program. Our predictions combine microsimulation using nonexperimental data with experimental data from a midlife long‐term follow‐up. The follow‐up incorporated a full epidemiological exam. The program mainly benefits males and significantly reduces the prevalence of heart disease, stroke, cancer, and mortality across the life‐cycle. For men, we estimate an average reduction of 3.8 disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs). The reduction in DALYs is relatively small for women. The gain in quality‐adjusted life years is almost enough to offset all of the costs associated with program implementation for males and half of program costs for women.
Heat‐in‐leak and longitudinal wall heat conduction influence on three‐fluid cross‐flow heat exchanger performance
Authors: K. H. Jyothiprakash , K. N. Seetharamu
Published: September 2020

The combined effect of the longitudinal wall heat conduction in the partitioning wall and ambient heat‐in‐leak (HL) from the surrounding to the heat exchanger is a serious factor affecting the performance of a multifluid heat exchanger. The performance of a three‐fluid cross‐cocurrent flow heat exchanger under such circumstances is investigated in this paper. The governing equations for three‐fluids and two separating walls are formulated on the basis of energy balance equations and solved using the finite element method (FEM). Nondimensional parameters (C1,2, C3,2, R1, R3, Ht, Hb, , , , and the number of transfer units [NTU]) are generated and used for the investigation. Effectiveness‐number of transfer plots method is used to analyze the combined effect of wall heat conduction and HL from the surrounding. The combined effect reduces the hot fluid effectiveness significantly for all the parameters considered. The effect of HL alone is predominant as compared with longitudinal wall conduction alone. However, the negligence of the above two parameters in the thermal design of the heat exchanger contributes to a significant loss in hot fluid effectiveness. For a balanced mass flow rate of hot and cold fluid, the drop in the hot fluid effectiveness is found to be 37% approximately (with C3,2 = 0.5, R1 = R3 = 1, Ht = Hb = 0.05, and  =  = 0.025 at NTU = 10). The results present insight and important considerations involved in the design of such heat exchangers. Also with the application of the FEM, for any number of elements, the stiffness matrix can be generated by writing a program and the exit temperatures are calculated very easily.
Dynamic network topology and market performance: A case of the Chinese stock market
Authors: Huang Chuangxia , Zhao Xian , Su Renli , Yang Xiaoguang , Yang Xin
Published: September 2020

After the subprime mortgage crisis, plenty of abnormal market performance indicates that financial markets can be regarded as complex systems and it's time to break through some classical models. To tackle the issue, we propose novel complex networks methods to identify financial crises and explain some performance of the Chinese stock market. Firstly, we use the daily closing prices to construct the dynamical complex networks and their minimum spanning tree (MST) maps. Secondly, we characterize topological evolution of dynamical MSTs by employing normalized tree length, node degree distribution, centrality measures, node strength distribution and edge survival ratios. Furthermore, empirical analyses show that: (i) the normalized tree length can be used to identify financial crises, it declines sharply in the run‐up to, and during the financial crisis, and increases rapidly afterwards; (ii) the normalized tree length is positively correlated with market return and negatively correlated with market tail risk and volatility; (iii) the closeness centrality of most stocks is significantly negatively correlated with individual returns and positively correlated with individual volatility; (iv) the node degree and node strength in most of MSTs follow the power‐law distribution; (v) the edge survival ratio analysis indicates that the dependence structure of the Chinese stock market is relatively stable.
Yield curve data choice and potential moral hazard: An empirical exercise on pricing callable bonds
Authors: Díaz Antonio , Jareño Francisco , Navarro Eliseo
Published: September 2020

There are alternative providers of zero‐coupon yield curve datasets. This essential input for most financial purposes can also be estimated from cross‐sectional market price information. Although all these datasets are representations of the same reality, each dataset provides estimations from different baskets of assets and different fitting techniques. As the properties of the yield curves and their time series dynamics are different, the results of pricing interest rate derivatives may be sensitive to the choice among these datasets. We compare our own spot rates estimation from GovPX bond data and three popular available interest rate datasets. From an empirical exercise on pricing callable bonds, we observe relevant differences in economic terms when volatilities from different inputs are used. Therefore, financial institutions may have an incentive for choosing unduly one or another yield curve dataset in their self‐interest, raising a moral hazard problem.
Nonrigid water octamer: Computations with the 8‐cube
Authors: Balasubramanian Krishnan
Published: September 2020

A 8‐cube model of the fully nonrigid water octamer is considered within the 8‐dimensional hyperoctahedral wreath product group with 10,321,920 operations and 185 irreducible representations by employing computational and mathematical techniques. For the two lowest‐lying isomers of (H2O)8 with D2d and S4 symmetries of a rigid (H2O)8, correlation tables and nuclear spin statistics are constructed for the tunneling splittings of the rotational levels are computed by a computational matrix polynomial generating function technique combined with Möbius inversion, and the relationship to the 8‐cube multinomials are pointed out. Multinomial generating functions combined with the induced representation techniques are employed to compute and construct the nuclear spin species, nuclear spin statistical weights and tunneling splittings of rovibronic levels. We have also computed the spin statistical weights and tunneling splittings of the rotational levels for a semirigid water octamer within the wreath product Oh[S2] consisting of 12,288 operations.
Effects of triheptanoin (UX007) in patients with long‐chain fatty acid oxidation disorders: Results from an open‐label, long‐term extension study
Authors: Vockley Jerry , Burton Barbara , Berry Gerard , Longo Nicola , Phillips John , Sanchez‐Valle Amarilis , Chapman Kimberly , Tanpaiboon Pranoot , Grunewald Stephanie , Murphy Elaine , Lu Xiaoxiao , Cataldo Jason
Published: September 2020

Long‐chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (LC‐FAOD) are autosomal recessive conditions that impair conversion of long‐chain fatty acids into energy, leading to significant clinical symptoms. Triheptanoin is a highly purified, 7‐carbon chain triglyceride approved in the United States as a source of calories and fatty acids for treatment of pediatric and adult patients with molecularly confirmed LC‐FAOD. CL202 is an open‐label, long‐term extension study evaluating triheptanoin (Dojolvi) safety and efficacy in patients with LC‐FAOD. Patients rolled over from the CL201 triheptanoin clinical trial (rollover); were triheptanoin‐naïve (naïve); or had participated in investigator‐sponsored trials/expanded access programs (IST/other). Results focus on rollover and naïve groups, as pretreatment data allow comparison. Primary outcomes were annual rate and duration of major clinical events (MCEs; rhabdomyolysis, hypoglycemia, and cardiomyopathy events). Seventy‐five patients were enrolled (24 rollover, 20 naïve, 31 IST/other). Mean study duration was 23.0 months for rollover, 15.7 months for naïve, and 34.7 months for IST/other. In the rollover group, mean annualized MCE rate decreased from 1.76 events/year pre‐triheptanoin to 0.96 events/year with triheptanoin (P = .0319). Median MCE duration was reduced by 66%. In the naïve group, median annualized MCE rate decreased from 2.33 events/year pre‐triheptanoin to 0.71 events/year with triheptanoin (P = .1072). Median MCE duration was reduced by 80%. The most common related adverse events (AEs) were diarrhea, abdominal pain/discomfort, and vomiting, most mild to moderate. Three patients had serious AEs (diverticulitis, ileus, rhabdomyolysis) possibly related to drug; all resolved. Two patients had AEs leading to death; neither drug related. Triheptanoin reduced rate and duration of MCEs. Safety was consistent with previous observations.
Synovial mesenchymal stem cells promote the meniscus repair in a novel pig meniscus injury model
Authors: Ozeki Nobutake , Kohno Yuji , Kushida Yoshihisa , Watanabe Naoto , Mizuno Mitsuru , Katano Hisako , Masumoto Jun , Koga Hideyuki , Sekiya Ichiro
Published: September 2020

Stem cell therapy has potential for the treatment of degenerative meniscus injuries; however, an optimal animal model has not been established. Basic and clinical research show that synovial mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) promote meniscus repair. The purposes of this study were to create a novel meniscus injury model in microminipigs and to investigate the effectiveness of synovial MSCs on meniscus healing in this model. The posterior portion of the medial meniscus in microminipigs was punctuated 200 times with a 23G needle. Allogenic synovial MSC suspension was placed on the injury site for 10 min for transplantation. The meniscus was evaluated histologically and via sagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radial MRI reconstructed in three dimensional, and T2 mapping at 1 and 8 weeks. Proteoglycan content stained with safranin‐o disappeared 1 week after treatment in both the MSC and control groups but increased at 8 weeks only in the MSC group. Histological scores at 8 weeks were significantly higher in the MSC group than in the control group (n = 6). At 8 weeks, the T2 values of the MSC group were significantly closer to those of a normal meniscus than were those of the control group. High signal intensity areas of the MRIs and positive areas stained with picrosirius red coincided with meniscal lesions. In conclusion, we created a novel meniscus injury model in microminipigs. Evaluation via histology, MRIs, and polarized microscopy showed that transplantation of synovial MSCs improved meniscus healing.
Lateral to medial fibro‐adipogenic degeneration are greater in infraspinatus than supraspinatus following nerve and tendon injury of murine rotator cuff
Authors: Wu Genbin , Hu Vivian J. , McClintick Daniel J. , Gatto Jonathan D. , Aderibigbe Temidayo , Lu Liangyu , Jensen Andrew R. , Dar Ayelet , Petrigliano Frank A.
Published: September 2020

Small animal models of massive tears of the rotator cuff (RC) were introduced a decade ago and have been extensively used to study the pathophysiology of chronically injured RC. Transection of rodent suprascapular nerve and RC tendon results in progressive muscle atrophy, fibrosis and fat accumulation and affect the infraspinatus and supraspinatus muscles similarly to that seen in the setting of massive RC tears in humans. The purpose of this study was to perform a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the kinetics of fibrotic scar and adipose tissue development comparing phenotypic differences between chronically injured infraspinatus and supraspinatus. Automatic mosaic imaging was used to create large image of whole infraspinatus or supraspinatus sectioned area for quantification of spatial heterogeneity of muscle damage. Pathologic changes advanced from the lateral site of transection to the medial region far from the transection site. A prominent, accelerated muscle fibrosis and fat accumulation was measured in injured infraspinatus compared to supraspinatus. Furthermore, adipose tissue occupied significantly larger area than that of fibrotic tissue in both muscles but was greater in infraspinatus within 6 weeks post induction of injury. Our findings confirm that infraspinatus is more susceptible to accelerated chronic degeneration and can be used to identify the physiological functions that distinguish between the response of infraspinatus and supraspinatus in the setting of massive tears. Whether these pathologic differences observed in mice are reflected in humans is one key aspect that awaits clarification.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Clusters in Service Members Predict New‐Onset Depression Among Military Spouses
Authors: Walter Kristen H. , LeardMann Cynthia A. , Carballo Carlos E. , McMaster Hope Seib , Donoho Carrie J. , Stander Valerie A.
Published: September 2020

Military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan have brought increased attention to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among service members and, more recently, its impact on spouses. Existing research has demonstrated that PTSD among service members is associated with depression among military spouses. In the current study, we extended these findings by using data from service member–spouse dyads enrolled in the Millennium Cohort Family Study for which the service member had evidence of PTSD (n = 563). Prospective analyses identified the association between PTSD symptom clusters reported by the service member and new‐onset depression among military spouses. Over the 3‐year study period, 14.4% of these military spouses met the criteria for new‐onset depression. In adjusted models, service member ratings of symptoms in the effortful avoidance cluster, odds ratio (OR) = 1.61, 95% CI [1.03, 2.50], predicted an increased risk of new‐onset depression among military spouses, whereas reexperiencing symptoms, adjusted OR = 0.57; 95% CI [0.32, 1.01], were marginally protective. These findings suggest that PTSD symptom clusters in service members differentially predict new‐onset depression in military spouses, which has implications for treatment provision.
Variation in Survival and Harvest Rates in Florida Mottled Duck
Authors: Bielefeld Ronald R. , Garrettson Pamela R. , Dooley Joshua L.
Published: September 2020

The Florida mottled duck (Anas fulvigula fulvigula) inhabits a relatively small range of approximately 90,000 km2 within peninsular Florida, USA, and is threatened by habitat loss and genetic introgression with feral mallards (Anas platyrhynchos). Moreover, the Florida mottled duck population status has not been assessed for more than a decade. We used band‐recovery and recapture data from 2000–2013 to examine geographic and demographic factors that influence the survival of Florida mottled ducks and to determine whether survival and harvest probabilities have changed over time. Mean survival probabilities were higher for birds banded in the southern portion of their Florida range than for those banded in the northern portion and higher for adult males than for adult females in both areas. Harvest probabilities increased in the northern extent of its range in Florida for adults and juveniles and remained relatively constant in the southern portion of its range during the study period. Mean harvest probabilities for adult males in both areas were higher than for adult females. Mean harvest probability for juvenile females was higher than that for juvenile males in the north but was similar between the sexes in the south. Our results suggest that mortality rates are generally greater in the northern portion of the Florida mottled duck range because of regional differences in habitat distribution and permanence and in how mottled ducks and humans use wetlands in these areas. We suggest increasing conservation efforts in the north portion of the Florida mottled duck range and improving inferences from leg banding by incorporating live recapture data. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Quality attributes of formulated snacks from blends of cassava starch and soy protein isolate deep fried in palmolein oil
Authors: Omidiran Adebukola T. , Sobukola Olajide P. , Sanni Silifat A. , Sanni Lateef O. , Adebowale Abdul‐rasaq A. , Azeez Rukayat , Iluebbey Peter
Published: September 2020

Cassava starches from three varieties (TMS‐30572, TMS‐950289 and TME‐419) and soy protein isolate (SPI) were used to prepare dough at different proportions of 85:15 and 95:5 ratio of cassava starch to soy protein isolate. Dough were sheeted, cut and fried in palmolein oil at deep frying conditions of 170°C and 180°C for 5 and 15 min for temperature and time, respectively. Texture, chemical and colour properties were evaluated using a 2‐level full factorial experimental design (23) for three factors. The data obtained were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and numerical optimization in design expert 6.0.8. There were significant (p < .05) effects on expansion, colour and appearance. The optimized SPI level, frying temperature and frying time of 15%, 170°C and 2 min were obtained for TMS‐950289; 15%, 180°C and 4 min for TME‐419; and 15%, 170°C and 4 min for TMS‐30572, respectively.
First report of a Mexican family with mutation in the CDH1 gene
Authors: Martínez Valenzuela Carmen , Castelán‐Maldonado Edmundo Erbey , Carvajal‐Zarrabal Octavio , Calderón‐Garcidueñas Ana Laura
Published: September 2020

Background

Germline mutations in E‐cadherin (CDH1) gene are associated with autosomal‐dominantly inherited cancer syndrome characterized by diffuse gastric cancer, lobular breast cancer, and in some families, cleft lip/palate. However, there may be generations in which these neoplasms do not occur at all in a family and later on, one or another carcinoma arises, which makes it difficult for physicians to think about hereditary origin.

Methods

We report the first Mexican family with CDH1 mutation (variant c.377del).

Results

An asymptomatic young woman underwent a search for mutations in susceptibility genes for breast cancer due to the history of this neoplasm in her mother and maternal aunt. A CDH1 mutation was detected. After an endoscopy, a diffuse gastric carcinoma was found. Later on, three generations of this family were studied. The findings are presented.

Conclusion

Medical communities should be aware of the contribution of this gene in the development of hereditary diffuse gastric carcinoma (HDGC) and breast cancer.
Prenatal diagnosis of a rare β‐thalassemia gene －90 (C>T) (HBB: c.‐140 C>T) mutation associated with deletional Hb H disease (‐‐SEA/‐α4.2)
Authors: Qian Hou , Huang Jianlin , Xu Ji , Zhao Weihua , Ye Xiufeng , Liu Wenlan
Published: September 2020

Background

Hemoglobin H (Hb H) disease can be caused by compound heterozygosity for two different mutations or from homozygotes for mutations, and conventional genetic methods may lead to misdiagnosis when Hb H disease is combined with a rare β‐thalassemia.

Methods

Hematology parameters and hemoglobin electrophoresis analysis, gap‐polymerase chain reaction (gap‐PCR) and reverse dot‐blot hybridization (RDB‐PCR) were employed to identify common α‐thalassemia and Hb H disease. Rare β‐thalassemia mutations were detected by DNA sequencing.

Results

Hematological analysis and hemoglobin electrophoresis revealed a mild anemia α0‐thalassemia trait (Hb 90 g/L, MCV 71 fL, and MCH 22.7 pg) compound with β+‐thalassemia trait (MCV 71 fL, MCH 22.7 pg, and HbA2 5.51%) for the pregnant woman. DNA sequencing for the β‐globin gene revealed rare a －90 (C>T) (HBB: c.‐140 C>T) mutation for the woman. DNA analysis identified that the fetus inherited the α0‐thalassemia mutation [‐‐SEA (Southeast Asian)] and a rare β+‐thalassemia mutation －90 (C>T) (HBB: c.‐140 C>T) from the mother, and the α+‐thalassemia mutation [‐α4.2 (leftward)] from the father.

Conclusion

We reported a rare －90 (C>T) (HBB: c.‐140 C>T) mutation combined with the ‐‐SEA/‐α4.2 in a family. This finding enriched the mutation spectrum of thalassemia molecular characteristics in China and emphasized the significance in DNA sequencing in mutation screening for the families with thalassemia.
Digital twins that learn and correct themselves
Authors: Moya Beatriz , Badías Alberto , Alfaro Icíar , Chinesta Francisco , Cueto Elías
Published: September 2020

Digital twins can be defined as digital representations of physical entities that employ real‐time data to enable understanding of the operating conditions of these entities. Here we present a particular type of digital twin that involves a combination of computer vision, scientific machine learning, and augmented reality. This novel digital twin is able, therefore, to see, to interpret what it sees—and, if necessary, to correct the model it is equipped with—and presents the resulting information in the form of augmented reality. The computer vision capabilities allow the twin to receive data continuously. As any other digital twin, it is equipped with one or more models so as to assimilate data. However, if persistent deviations from the predicted values are found, the proposed methodology is able to correct on the fly the existing models, so as to accommodate them to the measured reality. Finally, the suggested methodology is completed with augmented reality capabilities so as to render a completely new type of digital twin. These concepts are tested against a proof‐of‐concept model consisting on a nonlinear, hyperelastic beam subjected to moving loads whose exact position is to be determined.
Landscape of phase 1 clinical trials for minors with cancer in the United States
Authors: Nader Jaclynne H. , Neel Dylan V. , Shulman David S. , Ma Clement , Bourgeois Florence , DuBois Steven G.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Understanding trends in characteristics of early phase trials that allow minors with cancer to participate may inform additional efforts to improve cancer drug development for young people.

Methods

We accessed data for oncology phase 1 or phase 1/2 trials in the United States from ClinicalTrials.gov with lower age bound for eligibility <18 years. Descriptive statistics were calculated and trends over time evaluated using logistic and multinomial logistic regression.

Results

Six hundred twelve trials met inclusion criteria. Sixty‐five percent of trials were for older adults that also allowed minors, while 9% were exclusively for patients ≤18 years of age. Eighty‐three percent of trials included at least one novel agent, while 17% studied only conventional therapies. Fifty‐eight percent of trials studied treatments not yet Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved (48% if exclusively for patients ≤18 years). Fifteen percent of trials for which dose‐escalation method could be determined, utilized a model‐based design. Eighteen percent of all trials were industry sponsored (48% if exclusively for patients ≤18 years). Forty‐nine percent of all trials were multicenter (69% if exclusively for patients ≤18 years). There was an increase in trials exclusively focused on patients with central nervous system (CNS) tumors over the study period (P ≤ .02). No other temporal trends were seen. The median times from first‐in‐adult to first‐in‐pediatric for monotherapy and combination trials were 5.7 and 3.3 years, respectively.

Conclusion

The paucity of clear temporal trends highlights the need for innovation in early drug development for young people. Our analysis serves as a benchmark against which to evaluate initiatives to improve pediatric cancer drug development.
A review on degradation mechanisms of polylactic acid: Hydrolytic, photodegradative, microbial, and enzymatic degradation
Authors: Zaaba Nor Fasihah , Jaafar Mariatti
Published: September 2020

Recently, thoughtful disagreements between scientists concerning environmental issues including the use of renewable materials have enhanced universal awareness of the use of biodegradable materials. Polylactic acid (PLA) is one of the most promising biodegradable materials for commercially replacing nondegradable materials such as polyethylene terephthalate and polystyrene. The main advantages of PLA production over the conventional plastic materials is PLA can be produced from renewable resources such as corn or other carbohydrate sources. Besides, PLA provides adequate energy saving by consuming CO2during production. Thus, we aim to highlight recent research involving the investigation of properties of PLA, its applications and the four types of potential PLA degradation mechanisms. In the first part of the article, a brief discussion of the problems surrounding use of conventional plastic is provided and examples of biodegradable polymers currently used are provided. Next, properties of PLA, and (Poly[L‐lactide]), (Poly[D‐lactide]) (PDLA) and (Poly[DL‐lactide]) and application of PLA in various industries such as in packaging, transportation, agriculture and the biomedical, textile and electronic industry are described. Behaviors of PLA subjected to hydrolytic, photodegradative, microbial and enzymatic degradation mechanisms are discussed in detail in the latter portion of the article.
Negative affect and the utilization of tobacco treatment among adult smokers with cancer
Authors: Lee Juhan , Cheong JeeWon , Markham Merry Jennifer , Lam Jillian , Warren Graham W. , Salloum Ramzi G.
Published: September 2020

Objective

We investigated the patterns of tobacco treatment utilization among US adult smokers with cancer and the role of negative affect as potential individual‐level psychosocial barriers and facilitators influencing quit attempts and tobacco treatment utilization.

Methods

We analyzed data from the adult sample in Wave 1 (2013–2014) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study. Using structural equation modeling, we examined (1) the association between cancer diagnosis and negative affect (e.g., depressive mood, anxiety, and distress) and (2) the associations between negative affect and smoking cessation behaviors (i.e., quit attempts and tobacco treatment utilization).

Results

Compared to adults without cancer, cancer survivors were more likely to have attempted to quit tobacco use in the past 12 months (p< 0.05) and experienced increased negative affect (p< 0.01). However, negative affect appeared to be a psychological barrier to quit attempts, as it was associated with lower likelihood of attempting to quit (p< 0.05). On the other hand, among past‐12‐month quit attempters, negative affect was related to higher likelihood of using any type of tobacco treatment (p< 0.001).

Conclusions

Negative affect may be a potential underlying mechanism in the relationship between cancer diagnosis status and quit attempts and tobacco treatment utilization, influencing the utilization of tobacco treatment among smokers with cancer. Research is needed to investigate whether integrating emotional management in the oncology setting may effectively aid smoking cessation among patients with cancer.
Development and Validation of HPLC Method for DAAF and its Applications in Quality Control and Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Chen Jian‐Bo , Ding Huan , Li Jianjun , Chen Ya , Liu Yu , Zhao Xueyan
Published: September 2020

3,3‐Diamino‐4,4‐azoxyfurazan (DAAF) as a promising energetic material, has many potential applications in both civil and military areas. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is an important analytical method for quality control and environmental monitoring of DAAF. In this study, chromatographic conditions of DAAF were optimized to develop an analytical method based on HPLC‐DAD. DAAF and its byproducts were separated within 13 min with DAAF's retention time of 8.690 min and the resolution of all peaks were above 1.5 with high number of theoretical plates (N>54259) under optimum condition of HPLC. Meanwhile, the method was validated and showed good performance for quantitative analysis of DAAF with LOD of 0.19 ng and linearity range from 0.84 to 211.16 μg mL−1. Furthermore, the method was applied to the analysis of the purity of DAAF for quality control of different preparation stages and trace DAAF in wastewater for environmental monitoring around explosive manufacturing.
Structure and evolution of intense austral cut‐off lows
Authors: Pinheiro Henri , Gan Manoel , Hodges Kevin
Published: September 2020

This study examines the three‐dimensional structure and evolution of the 200 most intense Cut‐off Lows (COLs) in the Southern Hemisphere (SH). This is done using feature tracking and cyclone‐centred compositing based on the ERA‐Interim reanalysis. Composites confirm the existence of a well‐defined tropospheric moist cold core co‐located with warm dry air in the lower stratosphere. Such cores are surrounded by regions of strong temperature gradients (frontal zones) which move downstream throughout the life cycle. The stratospheric air intrusion into the troposphere is identified in vertical cross‐sections of potential vorticity and ozone, a process referred to as tropopause folding. Precipitation occurs ahead of the COLs because of the low (high)‐level convergence (divergence) and strong upward motion. The maximum precipitation is observed during decay, indicating a possible link between COLs and surface cyclones. Composites conditioned on relative vorticity and precipitable water suggest these variables may be related to precipitation. The COLs exhibit a westward tilt during their early stages but they change to a barotropic state in the mature stage. Finally, the main characteristics of the COLs are summarised by categories which discriminate different intensities, indicating there are differences in the structure of COLs with consequences for precipitation. These efforts aim to provide new insights into the development of COLs in the SH which could aid in identifying and forecasting their various types and associated precipitation patterns.
Global practical tracking for nonlinear systems with unknown input powers using dual high‐gain‐based adaptive feedback
Authors: Man Yongchao , Liu Yungang
Published: September 2020

This article is devoted to the global practical tracking for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems. Notably, the input powers of the system are unknown and not required to be upper bounded by known constants. This means the presence of new type of serious uncertainties, which makes the problem under investigation largely challenging and urges us to develop a new powerful adaptive control scheme, particularly the compensation strategy to overcome the negative influence caused by the uncertainties. For this, a dual high‐gain‐based adaptive control design scheme is proposed, in which a dynamic high gain and a high gain function are jointly introduced to compensate the serious system uncertainties. Under the designed controller, all the signals of the resulting closed‐loop system are bounded and furthermore the tracking error remains any prescribed small after a finite time.