bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A zebrafish hox gene acts before gastrulation to specify the hemangioblast
Authors: Zhang Changqing , Featherstone Mark
Published: April 2020

Hox genes encode transcription factors that have been implicated in embryonic, adult and disease processes. The earliest developmental program known to be directed by Hox genes is the timing of ingression of presumptive axial mesoderm during gastrulation. We previously used morpholino (MO)‐based knockdown to implicate the zebrafish hoxd4a gene in the specification of the hemangioblast, an event occurring at pre‐gastrulation stages, well before the earliest known Hox gene function. The precise time at which hoxd4a function is required for this specification is not defined. We therefore fused the hoxd4a coding region to the human estrogen receptor (hERT2). Following co‐injection of anti‐hoxd4a MO with mRNA encoding the Hoxd4a‐ERT2 fusion protein, hemangioblast specification was fully rescued when embryos were exposed to the estrogen analog 4‐hydroxy‐tamoxifen (4‐OHT) at 4 hr post‐fertilization (hpf), but only poorly at 6 hpf and not at all at 8 hpf, thereby defining a pre‐gastrulation role for Hoxd4a, the earliest developmental function of a vertebrate Hox gene so far described. Both DNA binding and interaction with cofactor Pbx were further shown to be required for rescue of the morphant phenotype. Confirmation of the morphant phenotype was sought via the generation of hoxd4a null mutants using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Null mutants of hoxd4a up to the third generation (F3) failed to recapitulate the morphant phenotype, and were largely refractory to the effects of injected anti‐hoxd4a MO suggesting the action of genetic compensation.
Bimetallic Reactivities of Dinuclear Iridium and Rhodium Complexes Generated from Two Types of Alkyne‐Containing Bisphosphine Ligands
Authors: Sasakura Kohei , Okamoto Kazuhiro , Ohe Kouichi
Published: April 2020

We have investigated the reactivities of a series of dinuclear iridium(II,II) and rhodium(II,II) 1,3‐butadiene‐1,4‐diyl complexes derived from two types of alkyne‐containing ligands. Newly developed ligand 2 afforded 2nd generation diiridium complexes that have higher reactivity toward halide substitution and acetylide formation. The significant differences in reactivity, influenced by the 1,3‐butadiene‐1,4‐diyl ligand backbone of these complexes, have been systematically investigated by synthetic studies as well as X‐ray crystallographic and spectroscopic analyses.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Cyclization Reactions of Thiadiazoles with Phosphaalkynes to Prepare 1,3‐Thiaphospholes
Authors: Liang Wenbin , Nakajima Kazunari , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: April 2020

A new rhodium‐catalyzed synthetic method is described for the preparation of 1,3‐thiaphospholes. Cyclization reactions of various 1,2,3‐thiadiazoles with phosphaalkynes in the presence of a rhodium precursor and a dcypp ligand afford the corresponding 1,3‐thiaphospholes via denitrogenation of the 1,2,3‐thiadiazoles.
Segmented enlarged‐diameter borehole destressing mechanism and its influence on anchorage support system
Authors: Yao Jinpeng , Yin Yanchun , Zhao Tongbin , Ren Wentao , Qiu Yue , Guo Weiyao
Published: April 2020

Large‐diameter borehole destressing technology is one of the main technical measures for the prevention and control of coal mine rock burst. In engineering practice, there is generally a contradicting problem due to the presence of excess destressing which damages support system and insufficient destressing which results in high stress hardly transfer. In this paper, the mechanism of large‐diameter borehole destressing technology and its influence on anchorage support were simulated and analyzed. Based on this, a segmented enlarged‐diameter borehole destressing technology was proposed. The destressing effect at deep part and anchorage strength changing at shallow part of the coal rib were studied under different borehole parameters. Numerical simulation results show that the destressing effect increases with the increase of the borehole diameter, while borehole with oversize diameter increases the deformation of the roadway and weakens the strength of the anchorage support. The diameter‐enlarging point in segmented enlarged‐diameter borehole destressing technology is best placed between the anchorage end and the vertical stress peak point. The anchorage strength is inversely correlated with the diameter of the small‐diameter section, and the destressing effect is positively correlated with the diameter of the large‐diameter section. Based on its advantages in destressing, the segmented enlarged‐diameter boreholes and anchorage support are applied together, and a system of destressing‐support cooperative control of rock burst is presented. The roles in rock burst control of "zone of strong anchorage support" and "zone of low stress and energy dissipation" are described.
Combustion behavior characterization of major crops through cone calorimeter
Authors: Cai Wei , Zhao Zhixin , Wang Wei , Guo Wenwen , Wang Xin , Hu Yuan
Published: April 2020

Induced by extremely inflammable characteristic, fire accidents worldwide of crops frequently occur and give rise to loss of life and personal injury. Given this problem, combustion behavior characterization of four major crops was investigated by cone calorimeter. Results confirmed the less quantity of crops needed longer time to be ignited. Meanwhile, the linear relation between the inverse square of time to ignition and heat flux of crops was found. For heat release rate (HRR), it was demonstrated that more quantity of crops prolonged the heat release process. For instance, with heat flux of 50 kW/m2, HRR values of 100 and 50 g soybean at 400 seconds were 212 and 40 kW/m2. Besides, peak values of HRR (PHRR) were close with different mass, especially for corn. Interestingly, compared to less quantity, more quantity crops were harder to be ignited at same heat flux. In addition to soybean, PHRR and total heat release (THR) of crops was gradually increased with the increasing heat flux. Meanwhile, THR values of 100 g crops were lower than double THR of 50 g crops. The investigation of combustion behavior characteristic could guide the safety storage of crops, thus avoiding the occurrence of crops fire hazards.
Assessment of greenhouse technologies on the drying behavior of cocoa beans
Authors: Banboye Frederick D. , Ngwabie Martin N. , Eneighe Silvia A. , Nde Divine B.
Published: April 2020

Cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.) are the principal raw material for chocolate manufacture. Before cocoa beans are ready for the chocolate industry, farm‐based fermentation and drying processes are key determinants of bean quality and hence the price. To improve its value, cocoa beans were dried in a modified greenhouse (MGHD), conventional greenhouse (CGHD), and open sun (OSD) dryers. The drying behavior, kinetics, and quality were evaluated. The MGHD was constructed by modifying a conventional greenhouse with a fleece of black polyester material. Evaluation of air properties of the dryers without and with cocoa beans showed that the MGHD had average temperatures of 2 and 8°C above, and relative humidity of 12.28% and 25.48% below the CGHD and OSD, respectively. The drying data were fitted to four thin layer mathematical models. The Page and Overhult models gave favorable ranges of R2 (.976 to .987), chi‐square (3.7 × 10−4 to 9.9 × 10−4), and root mean square (RMSE; 0.0188 to 0.0307) for the three dryers. The cocoa beans dried in the MGHD took a shorter time to reach the expected 5%–8% moisture content and were of grade one quality.
Transient analysis of functionally graded material fin under the effect of Lorentz force using the integral transform method for improved electronic packaging
Authors: Oguntala George , Sobamowo Gbeminiyi , Ahmed Yinusa
Published: April 2020

In the present work, transient analysis of longitudinal fin of functionally graded material under the influence of Lorentz force is considered. The governing equations of the linear, quadratic, and exponential functions are solved via Bessel, Legendre, and modified Bessel functions, respectively. The study investigates the effects of Lorentz force on the performance of the fin. The study shows that the transient response of the fin is lower in the linear law function compared with the exponential law function. The power law function shows significant energy‐saving capability than the linear class functionally graded material heatsink. Moreover, the thermal characteristic of the fin improves with an increase in the convective, radiative, magnetic field parameter, and nonhomogeneous index. The temperature prediction of the present study using the integral transform method is verified with the fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta method with an excellent agreement established.
Why one e‐business adoption model won't fit all firm sizes: The case of Lebanon's e‐service industry
Authors: El Rassi Mary Ann B.
Published: April 2020

This study aims to determine the influential factors for e‐readiness among enterprises in developing countries based on their size. Given the well‐recognized value of e‐readiness in promoting e‐business in developing economies, and based on the Perceived e‐Readiness Model that was previously suggested in the literature, the study considered the impact of internal and external factors by firm size on the adoption of e‐business. Survey data were collected from 276 Lebanese senior managers operating in the e‐service industry, and a multiple discriminant function analysis was used to determine whether a set of variables is effective in predicting the e‐readiness of enterprises in two size categories, that is, large and small to medium enterprises. The study observed that the factors that influence enterprises' e‐business adoption vary depending on the firm's size and that one adoption model does not fit “e‐service firms” of different sizes. Large enterprises are more influenced by managers' commitment and the e‐readiness of supporting industries than their smaller counterparts. The research findings will be of interest to managers, policymakers, and academics in the e‐services industry.
Avoiding fights on social media: Strategies youth leverage to navigate conflict in a digital era
Authors: Elsaesser Caitlin M. , Patton Desmond U. , Kelley Allyson , Santiago Jacqueline , Clarke Ayesha
Published: April 2020

Aims

Emerging qualitative work documents that social media conflict sometimes results in violence in impoverished urban neighborhoods. Not all experiences of social media conflict lead to violence, however, and youth ostensibly use a variety of techniques to avoid violent outcomes. Little research has explored the daily violence prevention strategies youth use on social media, an important gap given the omnipresence of social media in youth culture. This paper examines youth strategies and factors that avoid violence resulting from social media conflict.

Method

Four focus groups with 41 teenagers of color solicited strategies to prevent violence resulting from social media conflict. Three coders analyzed data in Dedoose, guided by systematic textual coding using a multi‐step thematic analysis.

Results

Four approaches emerged to avoiding violence from social media conflict: avoid, de‐escalate, reach out for help, and bystander intervention.

Conclusion

Our findings position youth as key players in efforts to prevent violence from resulting from social media conflict.
Hv1/VSOP regulates neutrophil directional migration and ERK activity by tuning ROS production
Authors: Okochi Yoshifumi , Umemoto Eiji , Okamura Yasushi
Published: April 2020

High-level reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in neutrophils is tightly regulated, as it can damage host cells. Neutrophils also undergo low-level ROS production when stimulated by cytokines or chemoattractants, but its biologic significance remains largely unknown. Voltage-gated proton channels (Hv1/VSOP) activity reportedly supports ROS production in neutrophils; however, we show here that Hv1/VSOP balances ROS production to suppress neutrophil directional migration in the presence of low concentrations of N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLF). Neutrophils derived from Hvcn1 gene knockout mice produced more ROS than neutrophils from wild-type mice in the stimulation with fMLF at concentration of 1 µM and nonstimulus condition. They also exhibited stronger chemotactic responses to low concentrations of fMLF than did wild-type neutrophils. Receptor sensitivity to fMLF and evoked Ca2+ responses did not differ between Hv1/VSOP-deficient and wild-type neutrophils. Activation of ERK, but not p38, was enhanced and prolonged during the increased ROS production seen after fMLF stimulation in Hv1/VSOP-deficient neutrophils. Inhibiting ROS production suppressed the enhanced ERK activation in Hv1/VSOP-deficient neutrophils and their directional migration. These results indicate that Hv1/VSOP balances ROS production to reduce ERK signaling and suppress excessive neutrophil migration in response to fMLF. Our findings thus reveal a novel role for ROS in the directional migration of neutrophils.
Frontline Science: Two flavonoid compounds attenuate allergic asthma by regulating epithelial barrier via G protein-coupled estrogen receptor: Probing a possible target for allergic inflammation
Authors: Yuan Wei-Yuan , Li Lian-Qu , Chen Yan-Yan , Zhou Yi-Jing , Bao Kai-Fan , Zheng Jie , Hua Yong-Qing , Jiang Guo-Rong , Hong Min
Published: April 2020

Allergic asthma is a common chronic lung inflammatory disease and seriously influences public health. We aim to investigate the effects of formononetin (FMN) and calycosin (CAL), 2 flavonoids in Radix Astragali, on allergic asthma and elucidate possible therapeutic targets. A house dust mite (HDM)-induced allergic asthma mouse model and TNF-α and Poly(I:C) co-stimulated human bronchial epithelial cell line (16HBE) were performed respectively in vivo and in vitro. The role of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) was explored by its agonist, antagonist, or GPER small interfering RNA (siGPER). E-cadherin, occludin, and GPER were detected by western blotting, immunohistochemistry, or immunofluorescence. The epithelial barrier integrity was assessed by trans-epithelial electric resistance (TEER). Cytokines were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that flavonoids attenuated pulmonary inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in asthmatic mice. These flavonoids significantly inhibited thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), increased occludin and restored E-cadherin in vivo and in vitro. The effects of flavonoids on occludin and TSLP were not interfered by ICI182780 (estrogen receptor antagonist), while blocked by G15 (GPER antagonist). Furthermore, compared with PPT (ERα agonist) and DPN (ERβ agonist), G1 (GPER agonist) significantly inhibited TSLP, up-regulated occludin, and restored E-cadherin. siGPER and TEER assays suggested that GPER was pivotal for the flavonoids on the epithelial barrier integrity. Finally, G1 attenuated allergic lung inflammation, which could be abolished by G15. Our data demonstrated that 2 flavonoids in Radix Astragali could alleviate allergic asthma by protecting epithelial integrity via regulating GPER, and activating GPER might be a possible therapeutic strategy against allergic inflammation.
The effect of orthoses on the kinematics of the trapeziometacarpal, scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal, and radioscaphoid joints
Authors: Vanneste Maarten , Stockmans Filip , Vereecke Evie E.
Published: April 2020

The in vivo effect of four different types of thumb and thumb‐wrist orthoses on the three‐dimensional kinematics of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC), scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal (STT) and radioscaphoid joints was quantified using computed tomography (CT). Eighteen healthy female volunteers were recruited. The dominant hand of each subject was scanned in four thumb and wrist positions, each in three conditions: without orthosis, with a thumb orthosis (Push Ortho and immediate fitting, IMF) and with a thumb‐wrist orthosis (Ligaflex Manu and IMF). CT images were analyzed and rotations relative to the more proximal bone were expressed in a joint‐specific coordinate system. Without orthosis, the largest STT rotations were observed during radioulnar deviation of the wrist and the STT range of motion (ROM) was significantly lower during wrist flexion‐extension. All tested orthoses caused a significant reduction of the ROM at each joint compared to free motion. Significant differences in movement reduction were observed between prefabricated and IMF orthoses.The IMF thumb‐wrist outperformed the Ligaflex Manu in terms of immobilization of the radioscaphoid joint. In addition, the IMF thumb orthosis immobilized the TMC joint significantly better during thumb abduction and adduction than the Push Ortho. We found that different types of thumb and thumb‐wrist orthotics are effective in reducing joint mobility. While this reduction tends to be higher using IMF compared to prefabricated orthoses, this effect is only significant for the radioscaphoid and TMC joint. The finding that thumb movements do not induce large STT rotations suggests that the thumb does not need to be immobilized in case of isolated STT osteoarthritis.
PREPARING FOR A FUTURE WHERE YOUR BARRIERS TO ENTRY ARE NO LONGER SUSTAINABLE
Authors: Tarki Atta
Published: April 2020

Leaders are shifting away from the mind‐set of setting up barriers of entry that will protect them against change, and instead, focusing on attracting talent that will allow their organizations to drive the change in their fields. Even traditionally well‐fortified barriers to market entry, such as monopolistic power, have been challenged in recent years. The author writes about the importance of talent. The real cost of hiring mistakes comes from missing out on more productive workers, which is highly counterintuitive to most hiring managers. These hiring managers often point to the fact that most of the work in their team has been performed by their average performers, not their stars. That might be true. A star performer is unlikely to perform a disproportionate volume of work, for example, write 10 times more code than an average computer engineer. However, the quality of the code they write can lead to a disproportionate amount of value, for example, billions of people every day using Google instead of Alta Vista and other search engines. The article concludes with such questions as: Is your hiring strategy reflected in your actions? Are you spending your time and energy in line with your stated strategy?
The role of transforming growth factor‐beta in immune suppression and chronic inflammation of squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Strait Alexander A. , Wang Xiao‐Jing
Published: April 2020

Despite a decline in the incidence of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) over the past 20 years, their survival rate has remained nearly the same, indicating that treatment options have not improved relative to other cancer types. Immunotherapies have a high potential for a sustained effect in SCC patients, but their response rate is low. Here, we review the suppressive role of transforming growth factor‐beta (TGFβ) on the antitumor immune response in SCC and present its potential as a therapeutic target in combination with the current range of immunotherapies available for SCC patients. We conclude that SCCs are an optimal cancer type to study the effectiveness of TGFβ inhibition due to the prevalence of dysregulated TGFβ signaling in them.
For nonprofits, survival means being proactive, creative in pandemic wake
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2020

Mental health organizations who may be thinking about social distancing and other threats to their nonprofit organizations, and the possible need to shutter services, should think again, according to the CEO of the Mental Health Association Oklahoma (MHA Oklahoma). The new reality presented by COVID‐19 could offer nonprofits opportunities to become stronger now, along with the creation of new nonprofit business models.
NAMI New Hampshire maintaining community connectedness
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2020

The National Alliance on Mental Illness New Hampshire (NAMI‐NH) is working to maintain community connectedness in the midst of this pandemic via its education and advocacy programs, now conducted remotely, and its virtual support groups.
Free‐breathing fat and R2* quantification in the liver using a stack‐of‐stars multi‐echo acquisition with respiratory‐resolved model‐based reconstruction
Authors: Schneider Manuel , Benkert Thomas , Solomon Eddy , Nickel Dominik , Fenchel Matthias , Kiefer Berthold , Maier Andreas , Chandarana Hersh , Block Kai Tobias
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To develop a free‐breathing hepatic fat and
quantification method by extending a previously described stack‐of‐stars model‐based fat‐water separation technique with additional modeling of the transverse relaxation rate
.

Methods

The proposed technique combines motion‐robust radial sampling using a stack‐of‐stars bipolar multi‐echo 3D GRE acquisition with iterative model‐based fat‐water separation. Parallel‐Imaging and Compressed‐Sensing principles are incorporated through modeling of the coil‐sensitivity profiles and enforcement of total‐variation (TV) sparsity on estimated water, fat, and
parameter maps. Water and fat signals are used to estimate the confounder‐corrected proton‐density fat fraction (PDFF). Two strategies for handling respiratory motion are described: motion‐averaged and motion‐resolved reconstruction. Both techniques were evaluated in patients (n = 14) undergoing a hepatobiliary research protocol at 3T. PDFF and
parameter maps were compared to a breath‐holding Cartesian reference approach.

Results

Linear regression analyses demonstrated strong (r > 0.96) and significant (P ≪ .01) correlations between radial and Cartesian PDFF measurements for both the motion‐averaged reconstruction (slope: 0.90; intercept: 0.07%) and the motion‐resolved reconstruction (slope: 0.90; intercept: 0.11%). The motion‐averaged technique overestimated hepatic
values (slope: 0.35; intercept: 30.2 1/s) compared to the Cartesian reference. However, performing a respiratory‐resolved reconstruction led to better
value consistency (slope: 0.77; intercept: 7.5 1/s).

Conclusions

The proposed techniques are promising alternatives to conventional Cartesian imaging for fat and
quantification in patients with limited breath‐holding capabilities. For accurate
estimation, respiratory‐resolved reconstruction should be used.
Three‐dimensional motion‐corrected T1 relaxometry with MPnRAGE
Authors: Kecskemeti Steven , Alexander Andrew L.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To test the performance of the MPnRAGE motion‐correction algorithm on quantitative relaxometry estimates.

Methods

Twelve children (9.4 ± 2.6 years, min = 6.5 years, max = 13.8 years) were imaged 3 times in a session without sedation. Stabilization padding was not used for the second and third scans. Quantitative T1 values were estimated in each voxel on images reconstructed with and without motion correction. Mean T1 values were assessed in various regions determined from automated segmentation algorithms. Statistical tests were performed on mean values and the coefficient of variation across the measurements. Accuracy of T1 estimates were determined by scanning the High Precision Devices (Boulder, CO) MRI system phantom with the same protocol.

Results

The T1 values obtained with MPnRAGE agreed within 4% of the reference values of the High Precision Devices phantom. The best fit line was T1(MPnRAGE) = 1.02 T1(reference)—0.9 ms, R2 = 0.9999. For in vivo studies, motion correction reduced the coefficients of variation of mean T1 values in whole‐brain tissue regions determined by FSL FAST by 74% ± 7%, and subcortical regions determined by FIRST and FreeSurfer by 32% ± 21% and 33% ± 26%, respectively. Across all participants, the mean coefficients of variation ranged from 0.8% to 2.0% for subcortical regions and 0.6% ± 0.5% for cortical regions when motion correction was applied.

Conclusion

The MPnRAGE technique demonstrated highly accurate values in phantom measurements. When combined with retrospective motion correction, MPnRAGE demonstrated highly reproducible T1 values, even in participants who moved during the acquisition.
The relationship among flow index, uroflowmetry curve shape, and EMG lag time in children
Authors: Ha Jee S. , Lee Yong S. , Han Sang W. , Kim Sang W.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To determine the relationship among flow index (FI), uroflowmetry curve shape, and electromyography (EMG) lag time in children.

Materials and Methods

A total of 294 children with lower urinary tract symptoms were included. The overall relationship between lag time and FI was investigated with curve estimation regression. Normal and primary bladder neck dysfunction was defined according to the previous classification, while patients with a lag time less than 2 seconds were grouped based on 2‐second intervals. We also categorized cases into four groups (tower shaped, bell shaped, plateau shaped, and fractionated void) by FI and compared lag time.

Results

The overall distribution chart demonstrated that FI was the highest at lag time 0 second and decreased with the change in lag time both ways. The best fitting model for maximum FI and lag time was a cubic model (R2 = .282; P < .001). Children with lag times from 0 to less than 2 seconds showed the highest mean FI, while those with prolonged (>6 seconds) or delayed lag time (<−4 seconds) demonstrated lower mean FI values. EMG lag time of the tower‐shaped curve was significantly close to 0 second, and plateau shaped and fractionated void had either prolonged or delayed.

Conclusions

A lag time close to 0 second was associated with higher FI, representing hyperefficient voiding with a tower‐shaped flow pattern. However, children with prolonged or delayed lag time showed a lower FI, implicating hypoefficient voiding and a plateau‐shaped flow pattern. The relationship between FI and EMG lag time could be a cornerstone for a comprehensive understanding of voiding status.
Influence of uniaxial orientation of fluorinated polymer/phosphonate‐modified needle‐like nanofiller composite by drawing
Authors: Hirayama Shuhei , Hayasaki Takuto , Almarasy Ahmed A. , Yabu Hiroshi , Tokita Masatoshi , Fujimori Atsuhiro
Published: April 2020

The orientation effect of sepiolite natural clay, a needle‐shaped nanoparticle, in a polymer matrix was investigated. Uniaxial drawing was performed on polymer‐based nanocomposites containing organo‐modified sepiolite, achieving uniform dispersion in the crystalline polymer by modifying the surface with organic molecular chains. Fluorinated polymer was used as the matrix, and sepiolite was modified using fluorinated chains. High‐temperature drawing was conducted to increase the density of amorphous chains in the fluoropolymer. Observations confirmed the orientation of the nanofiller in the drawing direction. When the filler content was intentionally increased, it was as if it were a nanosized mille‐feuille. As a result of 5× drawing, a 20% improvement in crystallinity was calculated. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) analysis showed a 32 Å increase in long‐period values. When high‐drawing was conducted, some amorphous parts transformed into crystals, and the difference in electron densities between the two regions widened, increasing the long‐period value while decreasing the SAXS intensity. The crystallization temperature increased by 1.8°C, and the Young's modulus calculated from the strain‐stress curve showed a nearly 4× increase. The mechanical strength doubled when the neat fluoropolymer was drawn five times. This provides a clear understanding of the enhancement behavior of the structural and physical properties of a uniform dispersible polymer/needle nanoparticle nanocomposite using uniaxially oriented nanofillers.
A Green Wave for Electric Cars
Authors: Bisch Stefanie , Zaske Sebastian
Published: April 2020

Automakers and suppliers are searching for standards for electric car production. Experience has shown that green laser light is the perfect welding tool for electric components made of copper.
Synthesis of hybrid magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers for the selective adsorption of volatile fatty acids from anaerobic effluents
Authors: Tonucci Marina C , Adarme Oscar F H , Aquino Sérgio F de , Baeta Bruno Eduardo L , Tarley César Ricardo T
Published: April 2020

A novel magnetic, structured (with ordered pores) and hybrid imprinted polymer (HMMIP) was synthesized to selectively adsorb volatile fatty acids (VFAs) from aqueous matrices. Usual characterization techniques showed that a mesoporous adsorbent was obtained with relatively low specific areas but that could selectively (imprinting factor of 1.64) remove isovaleric acid (used as template) from aqueous solutions and effluents containing VFAs with a good capacity (Qe ~ 50 mg g−1). From kinetic studies a pseudo‐nth‐order model showed the best fit to the experimental data and resulted in k
n = 3 equal to 8 × 10−4 g mg−1 min−1 whereas thermodynamic studies indicated that the adsorption of isovaleric acid onto HMMIP was endothermic and entropically driven. Reuse studies indicated that HMMIP loaded with VFA could be efficiently regenerated with acetone–water solution which led to an adsorption loss of ca 10% after three regeneration/reuse cycles and that the magnetic and specific adsorbent could be removed from complex matrices with an efficiency of ca 77%. Biochemical methane production assays showed that the addition of HMMIP to anaerobic batch reactors increased by four times the methane production due to the selective adsorption of VFAs. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Paraeducator supervision in pre‐service teacher preparation programs: Results of a national survey
Authors: Sobeck Emily E. , Douglas Sarah N. , Chopra Ritu , Morano Stephanie
Published: April 2020

Paraeducators need appropriate supervision and supports from teachers to be effective in their roles contributing to the inclusion and instruction of students with disabilities. However, previous research has demonstrated that teachers are unprepared for their supervisory role and report a lack of meaningful coursework and other learning experiences related to paraeducator supervision in teacher preparation programs they attended. Therefore, to gain insight into current practices in institutions of higher education (IHEs) as they relate to preparing pre‐service special education teachers to work effectively with paraeducators, the authors conducted a national online mixed‐methods survey of teacher educators. The majority of respondents found pre‐service teacher training on paraeducators to be important, but over a third reported that no coursework is allocated for this topic, and the majority shared that pre‐service teachers do not complete any project or assignment related to supervising paraeducators during their preparation program. Several barriers to effectively training pre‐service teachers to support and supervise paraeducators were identified (e.g., time, priority, clarity in the standards, and resources), as well as suggestions for improving preparation programs (e.g., improved coursework, more opportunities within practicum experiences working with paraeducators, and specifying specific content to cover through the standards) are shared. The importance of exposing pre‐service teachers to content specific to managing paraeducators and the need for further clarification of competencies pre‐service teachers need relative to paraeducators is discussed, as well as directions for future research are also offered.
On the Factors behind the Photocatalytic Activity of Graphene Quantum Dots for Organic Dye Degradation
Authors: Ibarbia Antton , Grande Hans J. , Ruiz Virginia
Published: April 2020

Graphene quantum dots (GQD) are promising visible‐light photocatalysts for organic dye degradation. Besides having improved visible‐light activity compared with commercial TiO2, GQD are versatile photocatalysts as their chemical composition and, consequently, optical properties can be tuned synthetically, with a direct impact on photoactivity. However, there is a lack of systematic comparative studies to benchmark GQD photocatalytic performance and relate it to their intrinsic properties. This is undertaken in this work for three types of GQD, which are prepared using well‐established synthetic methods representative of top‐down and bottom‐up approaches using different precursors. Resulting GQD are similar in size but differ in chemical composition, crystallinity, bandgap (ranging from 2.63 to 3.63 eV) and visible‐light absorptivity. Photoactivity measurements under comparable experimental conditions (visible‐light illumination) reveal enormous activity differences for rhodamine B (RhB) degradation, with up to tenfold higher degradation yields at the same time for certain GQD types. The enormous influence of intrinsic and tunable GQD factors, like visible‐light absorptivity and surface charge, on their photoactivity for the degradation of organic dyes is demonstrated, highlighting the importance of tailoring such parameters for enhanced photocatalytic performance. A plausible mechanism for GQD‐catalyzed photodegradation of RhB is also proposed.
Shock Initiation of Covered Flake JH‐2 High Explosive by Simultaneous Impact of Multiple Fragments
Authors: Li Yi‐Ming , Li Wen‐Bin , Zhang Qing , Wang Xiao‐Ming , Liu Jun‐Hao , Song Ping
Published: April 2020

Advances are continually being made on shock initiation of heterogeneous explosives by single fragment impact. However, most research on shock initiation of heterogeneous explosives by multiple fragment impact is still in simulation stage owing to the limitations of testing conditions and methods, and experiments on it are rare. In this study, an experiment was conducted on shock initiation of the covered flake JH‐2 high explosive (HE) by simultaneous multiple fragment impact. The response level of the explosive under impact is determined by the damage degree of the cover plate and classified into detonation, explosion, deflagration and burn or no reaction. The u2d Held criterion was used to calculate the critical threshold Icr of each JH‐2 failure mode under the plate‐sandwich charging structure. Results indicated the JH‐2 HE deflagration occurs as Icr reaches 3570.91 m3/s2 by a single fragment impact, explosion occurs as Icr reaches 6267.69 m3/s2, and detonation Icr reaches 7232.41 m3/s2. Increasing the number of fragments reduces the Icr of JH‐2 HE each response level. The response level of multiple fragments impact is a multiple of single‐fragment.
Active and sedentary bouts in people after stroke and healthy controls: An observational study
Authors: Hassett Leanne , Ada Louise , Hellweg Stephanie , Paul Serene , Alzahrani Matar , Dean Catherine
Published: April 2020

Background and Purpose

Understanding how both active and sedentary time is accumulated in people after stroke may help to better target interventions to reduce stroke recurrence. This study aimed to determine the difference between stroke and healthy controls in (a) time spent in sedentary and active behaviour, (b) frequency of short and long active and sedentary bouts and (c) time spent in short and long active and sedentary bouts.

Methods

Analysis of secondary outcomes from a cross‐sectional study. Participants were 42 community‐dwelling people after stroke and 21 age‐matched healthy controls. An activity monitor was used to collect free‐living active and sedentary behaviour. Total active (standing and walking) and sedentary (lying, reclining and sitting) time was calculated in minutes per day. Bouts were categorized as short (<5 min, 5–15 min, 15–30 min) or long (>30 min). The frequency of and time spent in each bout were calculated.

Results

Relative to wear time, the stroke group spent 10% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3 to 17) more time in sedentary behaviour and had fewer long active bouts than the healthy controls. The stroke group spent 7% (95% CI 1–13) less time in long active bouts and 11% (95% CI 2–20) more time in long sedentary bouts than the healthy controls.

Conclusions

Community‐dwelling people after stroke spent less time in active behaviour and accumulated more sedentary time in bouts longer than 30 min compared with healthy controls. Increasing active time and breaking up long sedentary time warrants investigation in people after stroke.
Categorization of adverse drug reactions in electronic health records
Authors: Foreman Caroline , Smith William B. , Caughey Gillian E. , Shakib Sepehr
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of adverse drug reaction (ADR) documentation in a state‐wide electronic health record (EHR), and to assess the impact of the interface design on documentation accuracy and ability to provide decision support. Data were extracted from 43 011 unique records in a state‐wide electronic health record in South Australia, Australia. Information obtained included ADR coding as allergy or intolerance, allergen name, reaction, and occupation of those entering data. Categorization into drug allergy or intolerance was assessed for accuracy. Reactions were entered predominantly by nurses (60.1%), also by doctors (31.0%) and pharmacists (6.1%). Of 27 314 reactions, 86.5% were coded as allergy and 13.5% as intolerance. The majority (78.2%) described reactions to drugs (as opposed to food, environmental or contact allergens), predominantly chosen from the drug database (96.4%). Many entries used free text for the reaction description (27.4%). Terms found in the predefined list under the allergy heading were more likely to be categorized as allergy, even when the mechanism was pharmacological intolerance. Only 45.1% (n = 1671/3705) of reactions consistent with intolerance (eg, “nausea,” “diarrhea”) were correctly categorized as such, although categorization by pharmacists was more accurate (P < .0001). These data suggest that ADR categorization as allergy or intolerance is influenced by the EHR design. The obligatory classification of ADRs into allergy or intolerance was not well understood and does not appear to have practical benefit.
Relative bioavailability of a pediatric dispersible tablet and adult film‐coated tablet of macitentan in healthy volunteers
Authors: Sidharta Patricia N. , Štěpánová Radka , Globig Susanne , Ulč Ivan , Csonka Dénes
Published: April 2020

To compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties of the pediatric dispersible tablet formulation of macitentan and the adult film‐coated tablet formulation of macitentan in healthy subjects. A randomized, open‐label, single‐dose, two‐sequence, two‐period, crossover, Phase 1 study was conducted in 12 healthy adults. Subjects were randomized to one of the two possible treatment sequences A/B or B/A on Day 1 under fasted conditions. Treatment A was a single 10 mg dose of macitentan (film‐coated adult formulation) and Treatment B was a single 10 mg dose of macitentan, consisting of two 5 mg dispersible tablets (pediatric formulation). PK sampling over 216 hours was conducted, and PK parameters were derived using non‐compartmental methods. For macitentan, geometric means ratio of peak plasma concentrations (Cmax), plasma concentration‐time curve from zero to the time of the last quantifiable concentration (AUC0‐t), and plasma concentration‐time curve from zero to infinity (AUC0‐∞) were 1.140, 0.974, and 0.974, respectively. The corresponding 90% confidence intervals fell entirely within the referenced range of 0.8000 to 1.2500, which is used for evaluation of bioequivalence. These results indicate no significant differences between the pediatric dispersible tablet and the adult film‐coated tablet. Both formulations were well tolerated. The pediatric dispersible tablet is biocomparable to the adult film‐coated tablet formulation.
Intranasal epinephrine in dogs: Pharmacokinetic and heart rate effects
Authors: Dretchen Kenneth L. , Mesa Zack , Robben Matthew , Slade Desmond , Hill Scott , Croutch Claire , Kappeler Kyle , Mesa Michael
Published: April 2020

Epinephrine is the standard of care for the treatment of severe allergy and anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is most often administered through the intramuscular (IM) route via autoinjector. The current study aimed to evaluate an alternative method of epinephrine treatment through intranasal (IN) delivery in dogs. The pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), time to reach maximum plasma concentration (Tmax), and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from 0 to 90 minutes (AUC0–90) were observed after IN epinephrine (2, 3, 4, 5, 10, and 20 mg) and IM epinephrine via autoinjector (0.15 and 0.3 mg) for 90 minutes. Heart rate effects were measured after IN (2 and 5 mg) and IM (0.15 and 0.3 mg) epinephrine administration. IN epinephrine (5 mg) demonstrated significantly greater plasma epinephrine concentration at 1 minute as compared with IM epinephrine (0.3 mg) (1.68 ± 0.65 ng/mL vs 0.21 ± 0.08 ng/mL, P = .03). There were no significant differences in Cmax, Tmax, and AUC0–90 between 2‐mg IN and 0.15‐mg IM epinephrine or between 5‐mg IN and 0.3‐mg IM epinephrine. IN epinephrine reduced heart rate increases, as compared to IM epinephrine. IN and IM epinephrine were both well‐tolerated. Overall, IN epinephrine demonstrated advantages over IM epinephrine, including the rapid increase in plasma epinephrine and lack of increased heart rate over time.
Influence of curcumin on glycemic profile, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress in HIV‐infected individuals: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: da Silva Tatiane A. L. , de Medeiros Danielle C. , da Silva Cunha de Medeiros Rafaela Catherine , Medeiros Radamés M. V. , de Souza Luanda B. F. C. , de Medeiros Jason A. , dos Santos Ronaldo V. T. , de Alcântara Varela Phelipe W. , Leite‐Lais Lucia , Dantas Paulo M. S.
Published: April 2020

To evaluate the influence of curcumin supplementation on the glycemic profile, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress in HIV‐infected individuals under antiretroviral therapy. This double‐blind, crossover, randomized clinical trial was composed of 20 subjects arranged initially into experimental group (n = 10) and placebo group (n = 10) groups, receiving 1,000 mg curcumin/day or microcrystalline cellulose/day, respectively, during a 30‐day period and 12‐day washout. Subsequently, the groups were switched to follow the crossover design. Fasting glucose and insulin, IL‐10, tumor necrosis factor alpha, malonialdehyde, and reduced glutathione were measured. Food consumption was evaluated as a control variable. Descriptive statistics are presented as mean and standard deviation, and inferential analyses were performed from two‐way analysis of variance and the magnitude of the effect. No significant improvements were observed in the glycemic, inflammatory, or oxidative stress profiles. Although the mean serum fasting glucose levels and the homeostatic model assessment index presented qualitative improvement in the CG, this result should be interpreted with caution since the observed variation may represent acceptable fluctuation, in addition to the small difference between the means, added to the large variation observed in the standard deviation. Supplementation with curcumin in HIV‐infected individuals undergoing antiretroviral therapy and training did not improve the glycemic, inflammatory, or oxidative stress profiles.
Mechanism, kinetics, and environmental assessment of OH‐initiated transformation of CTDE in the atmosphere
Authors: Yang Yu‐Qi , Zhang Wei , Deng Ming‐Shuai , Pan Xiu‐Mei , Bai Feng‐Yang , Tan Lei
Published: April 2020

The transformation mechanism and kinetics of 2‐chloro‐1,1,2‐trifluoroethyl‐difluoromethyl‐ether (CTDE, CHF2OCF2CHFCl) triggered by OH radicals are studied by density‐functional theory methods and canonical variational transition state theory. The computational rate constant including small‐curvature tunneling correction is found to be in commendable agreement with the experimental data. Two hydrogen abstraction channels to form the alkyl radicals of C·F2OCF2CHFCl and CHF2OCF2C·FCl are observed, and the formation of CHF2OCF2C·FCl is found to be more favorable than C·F2OCF2CHFCl kinetically and thermodynamically. Subsequent evolution of CHF2OCF2C·FCl in the presence of NO and O2 indicates that the organic nitrate (CHF2OCF2CONO2FCl) is the stable product. The dechlorinate of alkoxy radical (CHF2OCF2C(O·)FCl) is the most favorable degradation channel, and the estimated ozone depletion potential for CTDE relative to chlorofluorocarbon‐11 is 0.0204, which could lead to ozone depletion as a consequence. The computed atmospheric lifetime for CTDE is found to be 3.69 years by considering the combined contributions from OH radicals and Cl atoms. The total radiative forcing and global warming potential of CTDE are, respectively, 0.547 W m−2 ppbv and 628.58 (100 years) at 298 K, suggesting that the contribution of CTDE to the greenhouse effect is moderate.
Longitudinal lung involvement of systemic lupus erythematosus‐related vasculitis and alveolar proteinosis‐like reaction
Authors: Suzuki Takahito , Enomoto Noriyuki , Horiike Yasuoki , Asada Kazuhiro , Shirai Toshihiro , Suda Takafumi
Published: April 2020

A 44‐year‐old woman with no symptoms was referred to our hospital for thorough examination of consolidation opacity on her left lung, which was growing for four years. She was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) at the age of 35 years and had been treated with prednisolone 10 mg/day. Physical examination and bronchoscopy revealed no abnormality including microbiological tests. She underwent surgical resection of the lung lesion. Lung biopsy specimens showed aggregation of lymphocytes with germinal centres and collagen deposition. Vasculitis and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP)‐like reaction were also found. We diagnosed this lung opacity as an SLE‐related lung lesion with vasculitis and PAP‐like reaction. Lung involvement of SLE is scarce and long‐term lung vasculitis and PAP‐like reaction are extremely rare in patients with SLE. Clinicians should be aware of such SLE‐related lung consolidation opacity that comprises lung vasculitis and PAP‐like reaction.
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Authors: Perrusquía Adolfo , Yu Wen
Published: April 2020

The cover image is based on the Research Article Robust control under worst‐case uncertainty for unknown nonlinear systems using modified reinforcement learning by Adolfo Perrusquía and Wen Yu, https://doi.org/10.1002/rnc.4911.

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A Meta‐Analysis on the Effects of Text Structure Instruction on Reading Comprehension in the Upper Elementary Grades
Authors: Bogaerds-Hazenberg Suzanne T.M. , Evers-Vermeul Jacqueline , van den Bergh Huub
Published: April 2020

In this meta‐analysis, the authors synthesize results from 44 (quasi‐)experimental studies on informational and narrative text structure interventions involving students in grades 4–6 in regular school settings. Findings show that text structure instruction had positive immediate effects on students’ reading comprehension but that effect sizes varied largely across outcome measures: questions (Hedges’g = 0.25), summarization (g = 0.57), recall (g = 0.37), and knowledge about text structure (g = 0.38). However, students who received text structure instruction no longer outperformed control groups at delayed posttests. Content‐related features, such as a focus on paragraph‐level structure, active construction of graphic organizers, and teaching rule‐based summarization techniques, moderated the effectiveness of text structure instruction, but these effects also varied across outcome measures. Instructional features moderated delayed effects: Interventions with opportunities for individual student practice resulted in higher delayed effects for comprehension questions. The authors argue that text structure instruction deserves a place in the primary school curriculum so the positive effects on reading will be maintained.