bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desloratadine inhibits heterotopic ossification by suppression of BMP2‐Smad1/5/8 signaling
Authors: Kusano Taiki , Nakatani Masashi , Ishiguro Naoki , Ohno Kinji , Yamamoto Naoki , Morita Mitsuhiro , Yamada Harumoto , Uezumi Akiyoshi , Tsuchida Kunihiro
Published: February 2020

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a pathological condition in which ectopic bone forms within soft tissues such as skeletal muscle. Human platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α positive (PDGFRα+) cells, which were proved to be the original cells of HO were incubated in osteogenic differentiation medium with Food and Drug Administration‐approved compounds. Alkaline phosphatase activity was measured as a screening to inhibit osteogenic differentiation. For the compounds which inhibited osteogenic differentiation of PDGFRα+ cells, we examined dose dependency of its effect using alizarin red S staining and its cell toxicity using WST‐8. In addition, regulation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP)‐Smad signaling which is the major signal of osteogenic differentiation was investigated by Western blotting to elucidate the mechanism of osteogenesis inhibitory effect by the compound. In vivo experiment, complete transverse incision of Achilles tendons in mice was made and mice were fed the compound by mixing with drinking water after operation. Ten weeks after operation, we assessed and quantified HO by micro‐computed tomography scan. Intriguingly, we discovered desloratadine inhibited osteogenic differentiation of PDGFRα+ cells using the drug repositioning method. Desloratadine inhibited osteogenic differentiation of the cells dose dependently without cell toxicity. Desloratadine suppressed phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8 induced by BMP2 in PDGFRα+ cells. In Achilles tenotomy mice model, desloratadine treatment significantly inhibited ectopic bone formation compared with control. In conclusion, we discovered desloratadine inhibited osteogenic differentiation using human PDGFRα+ cells and proved its efficacy using Achilles tenotomy ectopic bone formation model in vivo. Our study paved the way to inhibit HO in early clinical use because of its guaranteed safety.
Trends in sensitive detection and rapid removal of sulfonamides: A review
Authors: Xie Xintong , Huang Shuyao , Zheng Juan , Ouyang Gangfeng
Published: February 2020

Sulfonamides in environmental water, food, and feed are a major concern for both aquatic ecosystems and public health, because they may lead to the health risk of drug resistance. Thus, numerous sensitive detection and rapid removal methodologies have been established. This review summarizes the sample preparation techniques and instrumental methods used for sensitive detection of sulfonamides. Additionally, adsorption and photocatalysis for the rapid removal of sulfonamides are also discussed. This review provides a comprehensive perspective on future sulfonamide analyses that have good performance, and on the basic methods for the rapid removal of sulfonamides.
Changes in the community structure of the symbiotic microbes of wild amphibians from the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Xu Liang Liang , Chen Hua , Zhang Mengjie , Zhu Wei , Chang Qing , Lu Guoqing , Chen Youhua , Jiang Jianping , Zhu Lifeng
Published: February 2020

Environment has a potential effect on the animal symbiotic microbiome. Here, to study the potential relationship of the symbiotic microbiomes of wild amphibians with altitude, we collected the gut and skin samples from frogs (nine species) and the environmental samples (water and soil samples) from the Leshan Mountains (altitude: 360–410 m) and Gongga Mountains (altitude: 3340–3989 m) on the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. Bufo gargarizans (Bg) samples were collected from both the Leshan and Gongga mountain regions (Bg was the only species sampled on both mountains). The DNA extracted from each sample was performed high‐throughput sequencing (MiSeq) of bacterial 16S rRNA gene amplicons. High relative abundance of Caulobacteraceae and Sphingomonadaceae was found in skin samples from both Bg and the other high‐altitude amphibians (nine species combined). High relative abundance of Coxiellaceae and Mycoplasmataceae was found in gut samples from both Bg and the other high‐altitude amphibians. Furthermore, the alpha and beta diversities of skin and gut samples from Bg and the other amphibian species (nine species combined) were similar. In terms of the symbiotic microbial community, the low‐altitude samples were less diverse and more similar to each other than the high‐altitude samples were. We speculated that extreme high‐altitude environments and host phylogeny may affect the amphibian microbiome. Despite the distinct microbial community differences between the skin and gut microbiomes, some functions were similar in the Bg and combined high‐altitude samples. The Bg and high‐altitude skin samples had higher oxidative stress tolerance and biofilm formation than the low‐altitude skin samples. However, the opposite results were observed for the Bg and high‐altitude gut samples. Further study is required to determine whether these characteristics favor high‐altitude amphibian adaptation to extreme environments.
The clinical trial landscape in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—Past, present, and future
Authors: Wobst Heike J. , Mack Korrie L. , Brown Dean G. , Brandon Nicholas J. , Shorter James
Published: February 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease marked by progressive loss of muscle function. It is the most common adult‐onset form of motor neuron disease, affecting about 16 000 people in the United States alone. The average survival is about 3 years. Only two interventional drugs, the antiglutamatergic small‐molecule riluzole and the more recent antioxidant edaravone, have been approved for the treatment of ALS to date. Therapeutic strategies under investigation in clinical trials cover a range of different modalities and targets, and more than 70 different drugs have been tested in the clinic to date. Here, we summarize and classify interventional therapeutic strategies based on their molecular targets and phenotypic effects. We also discuss possible reasons for the failure of clinical trials in ALS and highlight emerging preclinical strategies that could provide a breakthrough in the battle against this relentless disease.
An X‐band high‐efficiency GaN load modulated balanced amplifier MMIC
Authors: Wang Guangnian , Tao Hong‐Qi
Published: February 2020

An X‐band high‐efficiency GaN load modulated balanced amplifier monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) composed of 90° Lange Couplers at radio frequency (RF) input and output, a pair of balanced power amplifier (BPA) and a control signal (CS) PA is presented in this article. The impedance of the BPA is modulated by varying the amplitude and phase of the injected CS at same frequency. The prototype has a peak continuous wave output power of 42.5 dBm, with efficiency of 45% to 55% at peak power and 40% to 45% at 6 dB output back‐off over 8 to 11 GHz. The average efficiency for the 37.2 dBm output power is 40%, with adjacent channel leakage ratio of −32 dBc without digital predistortion at 10 GHz center frequency.
Performance evaluation of Er3+/Yb3+ codoped fiber amplifier
Authors: Mukhtar Sani , Aliyu Kabiru N. , Qureshi Khurram K.
Published: February 2020

In this work, we report the performance evaluation of Erbium/Ytterbium (Er3+/Yb3+) codoped fiber amplifier based on theoretical simulations. The proposed design achieved a broadband small signal gain of around 43.5 dB while incorporating a short length of 10 m codoped fiber at an optimized pump power of 100 mW. A minimum noise figure of 4.9 dB was observed at 1560 nm.
Effect of Beaver on Brook Trout Habitat in North Shore, Lake Superior, Streams
Authors: Renik Kathryn M. , Hafs Andrew W.
Published: February 2020

The Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis is a native salmonid that provides a valued and productive sport fishery in northeastern Minnesota. Revival of North American beaver Castor canadensis (hereafter, “beaver”) populations since their near extermination and concern over their impacts on Brook Trout habitat prompted a reexamination of the complex ecological relationship where the two taxa interact. Suitable Brook Trout habitat is characterized by cold, spring-fed water with silt-free rocky substrate and abundant cover, all of which beaver may directly or indirectly affect. Data collection occurred on 79 stream sections (200 m each) and 21 beaver ponds spanning the North Shore of Lake Superior during the summer in 2017 and 2018. Habitat suitability index (HSI) models determined the average HSI and quantity of suitable Brook Trout habitat (m2/100 m2) at stream and beaver pond sites, and a bioenergetics model calculated Brook Trout growth availability (m2/100 m2) and mean growth (g/d) at stream sites. Classification regression trees identified significant thresholds at which beaver activity (e.g., number of dams upstream of sampled sites and beaver pond age) influenced the quantity or quality of Brook Trout habitat and growth. No significant variables were identified as affecting Brook Trout habitat or growth rates in stream sites. Alternatively, the quantity and quality of Brook Trout habitat in this region appeared to be influenced by microhabitat variables (depth, velocity, and temperature) that are eminent at individual stream sites. Brook Trout growth was strongly influenced by velocity (m/s) and mean prey concentration (mg dry mass/m3). Results indicated that 12 of the 21 sampled beaver ponds contained suitable Brook Trout habitat, with dissolved oxygen (mg/L) identified as a threshold. This study recommends focusing on individual stream characteristics and beaver pond dissolved oxygen concentrations to achieve desired Brook Trout habitat and aid in the development of management strategies pertaining to these two taxa in Lake Superior's North Shore streams.
Research on scheduling method based on traffic matrix for IoT security
Authors: Cao Shaohua , Zhu Dongjie , Li Guofu , Zhang Yanwu , Fan Xiani , Geng Shanshan , Du Haiwen , Cao Ning
Published: February 2020

With the increasing number of sensors in the Internet of Things (IoT), network nodes are prone to load imbalance, which seriously affects the reliability and scalability of the IoT. In this paper, a method of load balancing is proposed to reduce the pressure of switches in IoT and improve the efficiency of switch. The method is based on software defined network (SDN) technology using dynamic traffic scheduling of server cluster (DTSSC) model. It obtains the traffic and load matrices for each server and achieves load balancing on each of them. This method has high efficiency and low overhead and is easy to deploy. The validity of this method is verified through experiments; ie, the load ratio of each server is balanced.
An optimized fuzzy continuous sliding mode controller combined with an adaptive proportional‐integral‐derivative control for uncertain systems
Authors: Elawady Wael M. , Lebda Samar M. , Sarhan Amany M.
Published: February 2020

This article discusses the design of a hybrid fuzzy variable structure control algorithm combined with genetic algorithm (GA) optimization technique to improve the adaptive proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) continuous second‐order sliding mode control approach (APID2SMC), recently published in our previous article in the literature. In this article, first, as an improved extension to APID2SMC published recently in the literature, an adaptive proportional‐integral‐derivative fuzzy sliding mode scheme (APIDFSMC) is presented in which a fuzzy logic controller is added. Second, a GA‐based adaptive PID fuzzy sliding mode control approach (APIDFSMC‐GA) is introduced to obtain the optimal control parameters of the fuzzy controller in APIDFSMC. The proposed control algorithms are derived based on Lyapunov stability criterion. Simulations results show that the proposed approaches provide robustness for trajectory tracking performance under the occurrence of uncertainties. These simulation results, compared with the results of conventional sliding mode controller, APID2SMC, and standalone classical PID controller, indicate that the proposed control methods yield superior and favorable tracking control performance over the other conventional controllers.
Magnetic soft silicone elastomers with tunable mechanical properties for magnetically actuated devices
Authors: Lussier Renaud , Giroux Yann , Thibault Simon , Rodrigue Denis , Ritcey Anna M.
Published: February 2020

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/iron oxide magnetic nanoparticle (NP) composites with tailored mechanical properties are prepared for use in magnetically actuated soft devices based on their controlled deformation by the application of an external magnetic field. This investigation reports the synthesis and functionalization of iron oxide NPs, the preparation of the PDMS/NP composites, the evaluation of NP dispersion using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy, and the mechanical characterization of the composite films. Characterization includes rheological measurements as well as stress‐strain curves to obtain the Young modulus and elongation at break. SEM is used to probe individual NP dispersion, whereas optical microscopy provides rapid access to quantitative information about the size and distribution of particle aggregates. Results for nonfunctionalized (nf), oleic acid (OA)‐coated, and stearic acid (SA)‐coated iron oxide NPs and their blends are presented. PDMS elastomers containing both OA‐ and SA‐coated iron oxide NPs are found to have very low Young moduli with substantially higher resistance to failure than neat PDMS. For example, a formulation containing 2.5 wt% OA‐coated NPs and 2.5 wt% SA‐coated iron oxide NPs has a modulus of 0.15 MPa (compared with 0.24 MPa for neat PDMS), while it can withstand an elongation of about 1.5 times its initial length compared with only 0.3 times for neat PDMS. As a comparison, the modulus of the most commonly used commercial PDMS elastomer (Sylgard 184) is an order of magnitude higher than that of the composites prepared here, whereas maximum elongation is similar for the two. The formulations developed in this work could be used in applications where high deformability is required with limited magnetic field strength and/or NP loading.
Characteristics of finasteride users in comparison with nonusers: A Nordic nationwide study based on individual‐level data from Denmark, Finland, and Sweden
Authors: Kjærulff Thora Majlund , Ersbøll Annette Kjær , Pukkala Eero , Bolin Kristian , Green Anders , Emneus Martha , Brasso Klaus , Iversen Peter , Thygesen Lau Caspar
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Published epidemiological studies on the association between finasteride use and the risk of male breast cancer have been inconclusive due to methodological limitations including a few male breast cancer cases included. Determinants of male breast cancer have been studied, but it remains unexplored whether these are also related to finasteride use and thereby constitute potential confounders. This study aimed to assess whether there are differences between finasteride users and nonusers with regard to numerous potential confounders.

Methods

In total, 246 508 finasteride users (≥35 years) were identified in the prescription registries of Denmark (1995‐2014), Finland (1997‐2013), and Sweden (2005‐2014). An equal number of nonusers were sampled. The directed acyclic graph (DAG) methodology was used to identify potential confounders for the association between finasteride and male breast cancer. A logistic regression model compared finasteride users and nonusers with regard to potential confounders that were measurable in registries and population surveys.

Results

Finasteride users had higher odds of testicular abnormalities (odds ratio [OR] 1.40; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36‐1.44), obesity (1.31; 1.23‐1.39), exogenous testosterone (1.61; 1.48‐1.74), radiation exposure (1.22; 1.18‐1.27), and diabetes (1.07; 1.04‐1.10) and lower odds of occupational exposure in perfume industry or in high temperature environments (0.93; 0.87‐0.99), living alone (0.89; 0.88‐0.91), living in urban/suburban areas (0.97; 0.95‐0.99), and physical inactivity (0.70; 0.50‐0.99) compared to nonusers.

Conclusions

Systematic differences between finasteride users and nonusers were found emphasizing the importance of confounder adjustment of associations between finasteride and male breast cancer.
Selective Targeting of Lymphoma Cells by Monoclonal Antibody Grafted onto Zwitterionic‐Functionalized Nanoparticles
Authors: de Oliveira Jessica Fernanda Affonso , da Silva Raquel Frenedoso , Ribeiro Iris Renata Sousa , Saito Ângela , Melo‐Hanchuk Talita Diniz , Dias Marília Meira , Kobarg Jörg , Cardoso Mateus Borba
Published: February 2020

Nanomedicine is considered a promising alternative to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment. Particularly, the use of nanoparticles (NPs) has enabled the encapsulation of highly toxic anticancer drugs, facilitated ultimate targeting, and allowed tailoring of drug delivery. However, when in biological fluids, these NPs are coated by proteins which hide the targeting moieties and suppress the engineered biological outcome. Herein, how the Ki‐1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) can preserve its targetability through grafting on the surface of zwitterionic‐functionalized nanoparticles, is unveiled. Zwitterions, known for their stealth ability, are used to minimize unspecific NPs protein adsorption and consequently maintain mAb functionality. In this work, Ki‐1 mAb is used as it recognizes TNFRSF8 (CD30+) transmembrane protein overexpressed on CD30+ lymphoma cells such as L540 cells. While nonfunctionalized NPs show negligible toxic effects toward L540 cells, the Ki‐1‐functionalized structure demonstrates cytotoxicity, since they undergo cellular uptake, suggesting a receptor‐mediated internalization. This dual‐functionalization strategy provides a promising multifunctional nanoplatform toward future personalized medicine applications, minimizing unspecific protein adsorption on NPs and ensuring selective cancer cell targeting.
Bournemouth questionnaire Arabic version: Cross‐cultural adaptation, validity, and reliability for patients with low back pain
Authors: Elerian Ahmed Ebrahim , Abdel‐Aal Nabil Mahmoud , Abdelhay Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: February 2020

Objective

To translate, culturally adapt, validate, and investigate the reliability of Arabic version of Bournemouth questionnaire (BQ) for patients with low back pain.

Method

Thirty experts (three panels) and 70 low back pain patients (37.5 ± 13.9 years) were involved in this study. Test–retest as well as internal consistency analyses were used to assess reliability. Intraclass correlation coefficient (95% confidence interval) was used to assess test–retest analysis, whereas Cronbach alpha value was calculated to assess the internal consistency. BQ Arabic version validity was evaluated in forms of face, content, internal, and external construct validity. Internal construct validity was evaluated with factor analysis, and external construct validity was tested by the correlation between the Arabic version of BQ and short‐form (36) health survey (SF‐36) questionnaire.

Results

Factor analysis revealed that BQ had a single factor. BQ has a very good correlation with SF‐36 questionnaire (r = .74). Arabic version of BQ has a high internal consistency reliability where Cronbach alpha value was 0.889 at baseline and 0.911 after 1 week. The test–retest analysis was between 0.87 and 0.96 and for the BQ total score was 0.95 (p < .0001) indicating that test–retest results are highly correlated.

Conclusion

The Arabic version of BQ is a valid, reliable, and feasible scale for assessment of low back patients. It is short, easy‐to‐apply, need short time to complete and comprehensive scale. So it may be considered as a preferable scale for clinical assessment of Arabic speaking patients with low back pain.
Thin‐Film Morphology Improvement and Density Functional Theory‐Driven Findings for the Photovoltaic Perovskite MAPI/MAPSI
Authors: Clavijo Josué I. , Correa John M. , Gordillo Gerardo
Published: February 2020

Herein, mixed CH3NH3PbI3/(CH3NH3)2PbI2(SCN)2 (MAPI/MAPSI) thin films are synthesized. Arising from X‐ray diffraction measurements, the composite material is found to be consisting of two crystalline domains, one for each MAPI and MAPSI constitutent materials. Optical analysis from diffuse reflectance spectroscopy shows optical onsets for both the MAPI and MAPSI domains, making the fabricated material an interesting one for multi‐bandgap absorber composite for solar cell devices. Scanning electron microscopy studies yield a noticeable morphology enhancement for the MAPI/MAPSI films when treated with a toluene dripping technique, and then show films with uniform, compact grains in contrast to an initial porous, dendritic growth morphology for the untreated films. A question about the actual geometry for the thiocyanate anions in MAPSI is answered as being of axial configuration around the Pb cation, enlightened by the results of state‐of‐the‐art density functional theory computational modelling within the framework of the Quantum Espresso software package suite, also in‐depth studying of the MAPSI structure through bond indicators such as crystal orbital Hamilton population, non‐covalent interactions analysis, and electron localization function.
From formulation to in vivo model: A comprehensive study of a synergistic relationship between vancomycin, carvacrol, and cuminaldehyde against Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Owen Lucy , Webb Joseph P. , Green Jeffrey , Smith Laura J. , Laird Katie
Published: February 2020

Vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) has become endemic in healthcare settings, reducing treatment options for enterococcal infections. New antimicrobials for VRE infections are a high priority, but the development of novel antibiotics is time‐consuming and expensive. Essential oils (EOs) synergistically enhance the activity of some existing antibiotics, suggesting that EO–antibiotic combinations could resensitise resistant bacteria and maintain the antibiotic repertoire. The mechanism of resensitisation of bacteria to antibiotics by EOs is relatively understudied. Here, the synergistic interactions between carvacrol (1.98 mM) and cuminaldehyde (4.20 mM) were shown to reestablish susceptibility to vancomycin (0.031 mg/L) in VRE, resulting in bactericidal activity (4.73 log10 CFU/ml reduction). Gene expression profiling, coupled with β‐galactosidase leakage and salt tolerance assays, suggested that cell envelope damage contributes to the synergistic bactericidal effect against VRE. The EO–vancomycin combination was also shown to kill clinical isolates of VRE (2.33–5.25 log10 CFU/ml reduction), and stable resistance did not appear to develop even after multiple passages. The in vivo efficacy of the EO–vancomycin combination was tested in a Galleria mellonella larvae assay; however, no antimicrobial action was observed, indicating that further drug development is required for the EO–vancomycin combination to be clinically useful for treatment of VRE infections.
The effect of saffron supplement on clinical outcomes and metabolic profiles in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Hamidi Zahra , Aryaeian Naheed , Abolghasemi Jamileh , Shirani Fatemeh , Hadidi Mahsa , Fallah Soudabeh , Moradi Nariman
Published: February 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune and inflammatory disease. Our study aimed to determine the effect of saffron supplement on clinical outcomes and metabolic profiles in patients with active RA. In this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, 66 women older than 18 years old received 100 mg/day either saffron supplement in the intervention group (n = 33) or matched placebo in the placebo group (n = 33) for a period of 12 weeks. Sixty‐one patients (30 in the control and 31 in the saffron group) remained for the final analysis. No adverse effects were reported by the patients. Saffron supplementation significantly decreased the number of tender (−1.38 ± 1.66 vs. 0.10 ± 0.40, p < .001) and swollen (−2.12 ± 2.34 vs. 0.63 ± 2.79, p < .001) joints, pain intensity based on visual analogue scale (−18.36 ± 15.07 vs. −2.33 ± 5.04), p < .001), and disease activity score (DAS28) (−0.75 ± 0.67 vs. 0.26 ± 0.77, p < .001) at the end of intervention between the two groups and in saffron group compared with baseline values. Physician Global Assessment (p = .002) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were significantly improved after intervention (24.06 ± 12.66 vs. 32.00 ± 14.75, p = 0.028). High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein reduced at the end of the intervention in the saffron group compared with baseline values (12.00 ± 7.40 vs. 8.82 ± 7.930, p = .004). Tumor necrosis factor alpha, interferon gamma, and malondialdehyde were decreased, and total antioxidant capacity were increased, but their differences between the two groups were not significant (p > .05). According to the results, saffron supplements could positively and significantly improve clinical outcomes in RA patients.
Simplified HPLC method for simultaneous determination of erythromycin and tretinoin in topical gel form
Authors: Mahmoudi Abdelghani , Boukhechem Mohamed Salah
Published: February 2020

A simple, rapid and validated high‐performance liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of tretinoin and erythromycin in bulk and topical gel form. The analysis was achieved under isocratic mode with a specific reversed stationary phase and, using an eluent composed of acetonitrile/2‐methyl‐2‐propanol/hydrogen phosphate buffer of pH 7.0, delivered at a flow‐rate of 1.0 mL min−1, with UV detection at 215 nm. The procedure was validated for specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy and robustness. The calibration plots were linear over the concentration ranges of: 0.002–4.8 and 0.025–30 μg mL−1, with lower detection limits of 0.007 and 0.0008 μg mL−1 for erythromycin and tretinoin, respectively. The developed method was applied for the simultaneous quantitative determination of both drugs in their marketed alcoholic gel formulation. Results of the mean percentage recoveries were in the range of 99.5‐100.8%.
An experimental study on the effects of winglets on the tip vortex interaction in the near wake of a model wind turbine
Authors: Mühle Franz , Bartl Jan , Hansen Thomas , Adaramola Muyiwa Samuel , Sætran Lars
Published: February 2020

An experimental study of the near wake up to four rotor diameters behind a model wind turbine rotor with two different wing tip configurations is performed. A straight‐cut wing tip and a downstream‐facing winglet shape are compared on the same two‐bladed rotor operated at its design tip speed ratio. Phase‐averaged measurements of the velocity vector are synchronized with the rotor position, visualizing the downstream location of tip vortex interaction for the two blade tip configurations. The mean streamwise velocity is found not to be strongly affected by the presence of winglet tip extensions, suggesting an insignificant effect of winglets on the time‐averaged inflow conditions of a possible downstream wind turbine. An analysis of the phase‐averaged vorticity, however, reveals a significantly earlier tip vortex interaction and breakup for the wingletted rotor. In contradistinction, the tip vortices formed behind the reference configuration are assessed to be more stable and start merging into larger turbulent structures significantly further downstream. These results indicate that an optimized winglet design can not only contribute to a higher energy extraction in a rotor's tip region but also can positively affect the wake's mean kinetic energy recovery by stimulating a faster tip vortex interaction.
C–F Bond Cleavage Reactions with Beryllium, Magnesium, Gallium, Hafnium, and Thorium Halides
Authors: Dankert Fabian , Deubner H. Lars , Müller Matthias , Buchner Magnus R. , Kraus Florian , von Hänisch Carsten
Published: February 2020

The work describes unexpected stoichiometric C–F bond cleavage reactions of beryllium, magnesium, gallium, hafnium and thorium halides with α,α,α‐trifluorotoluene. The reaction of BeBr2 / GaBr3 or MgBr2 / GaBr3 mixtures as well as neat GaI3 with α,α,α‐trifluorotoluene in the presence of (OSi2Me4)2 (I) yields the carbenium ion containing compounds [Ph‐C(O2Si2Me4)][GaX4] (X = Br: 1, X = I/F: 2). Both compounds were successfully characterized and a defluorination type reaction under incorporation of a siloxy unit was observed. Compound 1 was also characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The conversion of α,α,α‐trifluorotoluene with BeI2, HfI4 or ThI4 turned out to be a halodefluorination‐type reaction with formation of α,α,α‐triiodotoluene (3). An adequate NMR spectroscopic and the X‐ray crystallographic characterization of 3 were performed for the first time.
Synthesis, Structure, and DFT Analysis of the THF Solvate of 2‐Picolyllithium: A 2‐Picolyllithium Solvate with Significant Carbanionic Character
Authors: Brouillet Etienne V. , Kennedy Alan R. , Krämer Tobias , Mulvey Robert E. , Robertson Stuart D. , Stewart Alexander , Towie Stephen
Published: February 2020

Previous studies of different solvates of 2‐methylpyridyllithium (2‐picolyllithium) have uncovered electronic structures corresponding to aza‐allyl and enamido resonance forms of the metallated pyridine‐based compounds. Here, we report the synthesis and characterization of [2‐CH2Li(THF)2C5H4N], a new THF solvate. X‐ray crystallographic studies reveal a dimeric arrangement featuring a non‐planar eight‐membered [NCCLi]2ring, in which the primary cation‐anion interaction is between the central Li atom and the C atom of the deprotonated methyl group [length, 2.285(2) Å], suggesting a new carbanionic resonance structure for this 2‐picolyllithium series. The significant carbanionic character of [2‐CH2Li(THF)2C5H4N] was confirmed by gas‐phase DFT calculations [B3LYP/6‐311+G(d)] with the calculated electron density interrogated by means of quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) and natural bond orbital (NBO) analyses. For comparison these computational analyses were also performed on the literature structures of [2‐CH2Li(2‐Picoline)C5H4N] and [2‐CH2Li(PMDETA)C5H4N]. In a reactivity study, [2‐CH2Li(THF)2C5H4N] was found to undergo nucleophilic addition to pyridine to generate dipyridylmethane in a good yield.
A Subnormal Completion Problem for Weighted Shifts on Directed Trees, II
Authors: Exner George R. , Jung Il Bong , Stochel Jan , Yun Hye Yeong
Published: February 2020

The subnormal completion problem on a directed tree is to determine, given a collection of weights on a subtree, whether the weights may be completed to the weights of a subnormal weighted shift on the directed tree. We study this problem on a directed tree with a single branching point, $$\eta $$η branches and the trunk of length 1 and its subtree which is the “truncation” of the full tree to vertices of generation not exceeding 2. We provide necessary and sufficient conditions written in terms of two parameter sequences for the existence of a subnormal completion in which the resulting measures are 2-atomic. As a consequence, we obtain a solution of the subnormal completion problem for this pair of directed trees when $$\eta < \infty $$η<∞. If $$\eta =2$$η=2, we present a solution written explicitly in terms of initial data.
Der Tanz der kleinen Spirochäten
Authors: Kosenko O. , Polianski I. J.
Published: February 2020

Der vorliegende Beitrag untersucht antivenerische Theateraufführungen als Mittel zur Bekämpfung von Geschlechtskrankheiten in der frühen Sowjetunion. Er fragt danach, in welchen Bildern, Figuren und Handlungen das venerologische Wissen auf der Theaterbühne zur Darstellung kam, welche Genretraditionen und kommunikative Mittel benutzt wurden sowie wie das Publikum und die Theaterkritik das Bühnengeschehen aufnahm. Zu diesem Zweck werden Archivquellen, ausgewählte Texte antivenerischer Gerichtsspiele und Dramen sowie Berichte und Rezensionen in der Tagespresse ausgewertet.
A spatio-temporal deformation model for laser scanning point clouds
Authors: Harmening Corinna , Neuner Hans
Published: February 2020

The establishment of the terrestrial laser scanner changed the analysis strategies in engineering geodesy from point-wise approaches to areal ones. During recent years, a multitude of developments regarding a laser scanner-based geometric state description were made. However, the areal deformation analysis still represents a challenge. In this paper, a spatio-temporal deformation model is developed, combining the estimation of B-spline surfaces with the stochastic modelling of deformations. The approach’s main idea is to model the acquired measuring object by means of three parts, similar to a least squares collocation: a deterministic trend, representing the undistorted object, a stochastic signal, describing a locally homogeneous deformation process, and the measuring noise, accounting for uncertainties caused by the measuring process. Due to the stochastic modelling of the deformations in the form of distance-depending variograms, the challenge of defining identical points within two measuring epochs is overcome. Based on the geodetic datum defined by the initial trend surface, a point-to-surface- and a point-to-point-comparison of the acquired data sets is possible, resulting in interpretable and meaningful deformation metrics. Furthermore, following the basic ideas of a least squares collocation, the deformation model allows a time-related space-continuous description as well as a space- and time-continuous prediction of the deformation. The developed approach is validated using simulated data sets, and the respective results are analysed and compared with respect to nominal surfaces.
A new Rhodococcus aetherivorans strain isolated from lubricant-contaminated soil as a prospective phenol-biodegrading agent
Authors: Nogina Taisiya , Fomina Marina , Dumanskaya Tatiana , Zelena Liubov , Khomenko Lyudmila , Mikhalovsky Sergey , Podgorskyi Valentin , Gadd Geoffrey Michael
Published: February 2020

Microbe-based decontamination of phenol-polluted environments has significant advantages over physical and chemical approaches by being relatively cheaper and ensuring complete phenol degradation. There is a need to search for commercially prospective bacterial strains that are resistant to phenol and other co-pollutants, e.g. oil hydrocarbons, in contaminated environments, and able to carry out efficient phenol biodegradation at a variable range of concentrations. This research characterizes the phenol-biodegrading ability of a new actinobacteria strain isolated from a lubricant-contaminated soil environment. Phenotypic and phylogenetic analyses showed that the novel strain UCM Ac-603 belonged to the speciesRhodococcus aetherivorans, and phenol degrading ability was quantitatively characterized for the first time.R.aetherivoransUCM Ac-603 tolerated and assimilated phenol (100% of supplied concentration) and various hydrocarbons (56.2–94.4%) as sole carbon sources. Additional nutrient supplementation was not required for degradation and this organism could grow at a phenol concentration of 500 mg L−1without inhibition. Complete phenol assimilation occurred after 4 days at an initial concentration of 1750 mg L−1for freely-suspended cells and at 2000 mg L−1for vermiculite-immobilized cells: 99.9% assimilation of phenol was possible from a total concentration of 3000 mg L−1supplied at daily fractional phenol additions of 750 mg L−1over 4 days. In terms of phenol degradation rates,R.aetherivoransUCM Ac-602 showed efficient phenol degradation over a wide range of initial concentrations with the rates (e.g. 35.7 mg L−1 h−1at 500 mg L−1phenol, and 18.2 mg L−1 h−1at 1750 mg L−1phenol) significantly exceeding (1.2–5 times) reported data for almost all other phenol-assimilating bacteria. Such efficient phenol degradation ability compared to currently known strains and other beneficial characteristics ofR.aetherivoransUCM Ac-602 suggest it is a promising candidate for bioremediation of phenol-contaminated environments.
Surgical nodal management in hypopharyngeal and laryngeal cancer
Authors: Ketterer M. C. , Lemus Moraga L. A. , Beitinger U. , Pfeiffer J. , Knopf A. , Becker C.
Published: February 2020

Objective

The aim of this study is to compare pre-therapeutic staging of the loco-regional lymphatic basin and subsequent surgical management in cN0 versus cN+ hypopharyngeal and laryngeal cancer patients.

Methods

We analyzed all hypopharyngeal and laryngeal carcinoma patients treated surgically at a single quaternary medical care and cancer center between 2004 and 2014. We established two groups for patients who underwent neck dissection comparing patients with a low LNR (lymph node ratio) to one with a high LNR. Regarding the cN0 cohort, elective neck dissection was evaluated as a secondary predictor variable. Comorbidities, such as anemia and renal insufficiency, were analyzed as potentially influencing disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 310 patients (185 glottic and 125 supraglottic/hypopharyngeal carcinoma) were included. Pre-therapeutic neck MRI-/CT-scan and concomitant neck ultrasound revealed cN+ status in 144 patients resulting in a significant over-staging in 63 patients (44%) who were rated as being pN0 after histological examination. 166 patients were staged cN0 and 21 underwent elective neck dissection (11 local advanced glottic and 10 supraglottic/hypopharyngeal carcinoma). Two cN0 patients showed occult cervical lymph node metastases (10%). Furthermore, we could detect a significant negative impact of the LNR divided by the number of dissected lymph nodes and OS.

Conclusion

The pre-therapeutic clinical evaluation of lymphatic outgrowth is over-staged. OS decreases with increasing LNR divided by the number of dissected lymph nodes. Renal insufficiency and anemia are significant negative factors, decreasing both OS and DFS.
Distinctive structural properties of THB11, a pentacoordinate Chlamydomonas reinhardtii truncated hemoglobin with N- and C-terminal extensions
Authors: Huwald Dennis , Duda Sabrina , Gasper Raphael , Olieric Vincent , Hofmann Eckhard , Hemschemeier Anja
Published: February 2020

Hemoglobins (Hbs) utilize heme b as a cofactor and are found in all kingdoms of life. The current knowledge reveals an enormous variability of Hb primary sequences, resulting in topological, biochemical and physiological individuality. As Hbs appear to modulate their reactivities through specific combinations of structural features, predicting the characteristics of a given Hb is still hardly possible. The unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii contains 12 genes encoding diverse Hbs of the truncated lineage, several of which possess extended N- or C-termini of unknown function. Studies on some of the Chlamydomonas Hbs revealed yet unpredictable structural and biochemical variations, which, along with a different expression of their genes, suggest diverse physiological roles. Chlamydomonas thus represents a promising system to analyze the diversification of Hb structure, biochemistry and physiology. Here, we report the crystal structure, resolved to 1.75 Å, of the heme-binding domain of cyanomet THB11 (Cre16.g662750), one of the pentacoordinate algal Hbs, which offer a free Fe-coordination site in the reduced state. The overall fold of THB11 is conserved, but individual features such as a kink in helix E, a tilted heme plane and a clustering of methionine residues at a putative tunnel exit appear to be unique. Both N- and C-termini promote the formation of oligomer mixtures, and the absence of the C terminus results in reduced nitrite reduction rates. This work widens the structural and biochemical knowledge on the 2/2Hb family and suggests that the N- and C-terminal extensions of the Chlamydomonas 2/2Hbs modulate their reactivity by intermolecular interactions.
T2 mapping of the distal sciatic nerve in healthy subjects and patients suffering from lumbar disc herniation with nerve compression
Authors: Sollmann Nico , Weidlich Dominik , Klupp Elisabeth , Cervantes Barbara , Ganter Carl , Zimmer Claus , Rummeny Ernst J. , Baum Thomas , Kirschke Jan S. , Karampinos Dimitrios C.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To measure T2 values for magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) of the healthy distal sciatic nerve and compare those to T2 changes in patients with nerve compression.

Materials and methods

Twenty-one healthy subjects and five patients with sciatica due to disc herniation underwent MRN using a T2-prepared turbo spin echo (TSE) sequence of the distal sciatic nerve bilaterally. Six and one of those healthy subjects further underwent a commonly used multi-echo spin-echo (MESE) sequence and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), respectively.

Results

T2 values derived from the T2-prepared TSE sequence were 44.6 ± 3.0 ms (left) and 44.5 ± 2.6 ms (right) in healthy subjects and showed good inter-reader reliability. In patients, T2 values of 61.5 ± 6.2 ms (affected side) versus 43.3 ± 2.4 ms (unaffected side) were obtained. T2 values of MRS were in good agreement with measurements from the T2-prepared TSE, but not with those of the MESE sequence.

Discussion

A T2-prepared TSE sequence enables precise determination of T2 values of the distal sciatic nerve in agreement with MRS. A MESE sequence tends to overestimate nerve T2 compared to T2 from MRS due to the influence of residual fat on T2 quantification. Our approach may enable to quantitatively assess direct nerve affection related to nerve compression.
Older adults’ perceptions of contexts surrounding their social participation in a digitalized society—an exploration in rural communities in Northern Sweden
Authors: Fischl Caroline , Lindelöf Nina , Lindgren Helena , Nilsson Ingeborg
Published: February 2020

Social participation and digital engagement can contribute to health and well-being among older adults. Because of older adults’ decline in abilities, coupled with complex technology and its perceived insufficient relevance to daily life, there is a need to create and tailor social opportunities and services that are supported by digital technologies for older adults to continue participating in society. Thus, it becomes relevant to explore older adults’ perceptions about contexts surrounding their social participation in a digital society. This exploration used a qualitative research design with focus group interviews and qualitative content analysis. Eighteen older adults, aged 66–81 years, from rural communities in Northern Sweden, participated in this study. The analysis resulted in three categories: experiencing conditions for social participation in a state of flux, perceiving drawbacks of urbanization on social participation, and welcoming digital technology that facilitates daily and community living. These categories were encapsulated in the theme—the juxtaposition of narrowing offline social networks and expanding digital opportunities for social participation. The findings suggested that co-creating usable digitalized services and facilitating satisfactory use of digital technologies could support older adults’ social participation through activities that they find relevant in their lives, and subsequently, might enable them to live longer at home.
The Acute and Early Effects of Whole-Brain Irradiation on Glial Activation, Brain Metabolism, and Behavior: a Positron Emission Tomography Study
Authors: Parente Andrea , de Vries Erik F. J. , van Waarde Aren , Ioannou Magdalini , van Luijk Peter , Langendijk Johannes A. , Dierckx Rudi A. J. O. , Doorduin Janine
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Radiotherapy is a frequently applied treatment modality for brain tumors. Concomitant irradiation of normal brain tissue can induce various physiological responses. The aim of this study was to investigate whether acute and early-delayed effects of brain irradiation on glial activation and brain metabolism can be detected with positron emission tomography (PET) and whether these effects are correlated with behavioral changes.

Procedures

Rats underwent 0-, 10-, or 25-Gy whole-brain irradiation. At 3 and 31 days post irradiation, 1-(2-chlorophenyl)-N-[11C]methyl-(1-methylpropyl)-3-isoquinoline carboxamide ([11C]PK11195) and 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-d-glucose ([18F]FDG) PET scans were acquired to detect changes in glial activation (neuroinflammation) and glucose metabolism, respectively. The open-field test (OFT) was performed on days 6 and 27 to assess behavioral changes.

Results

Twenty-five-gray-irradiated rats showed higher [11C]PK11195 uptake in most brain regions than controls on day 3 (striatum, hypothalamus, accumbens, septum p < 0.05), although some brain regions had lower uptake (cerebellum, parietal association/retrosplenial visual cortex, frontal association/motor cortex, somatosensory cortex, p < 0.05). On day 31, several brain regions in 25-Gy-irradiated rats still showed significantly higher [11C]PK11195 uptake than controls and 10-Gy-irradiated group (p < 0.05). Within-group analysis showed that [11C]PK11195 uptake in individual brain regions of 25-Gy treated rats remained stable or slightly increased between days 3 and 31. In contrast, a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in tracer uptake between days 3 and 31 was found in all brain areas of controls and 10-Gy-irradiated animals. Moreover, 10-Gy treatment led to a significantly higher [18F]FDG uptake on day 3 (p < 0.05). [18F]FDG uptake decreased between days 3 and 31 in all groups; no significant differences between groups were observed anymore on day 31, except for increased uptake in the hypothalamus in the 10-Gy group. The OFT did not show any significant differences between groups.

Conclusions

Non-invasive PET imaging indicated that brain irradiation induces neuroinflammation and a metabolic flare, without causing acute or early-delayed behavioral changes.
Spectroscopic and crystallographic characterization of a new cathinone derivative: 1-phenyl-2-(butylamino)hexan-1-one hydrochloride (N-butylhexedrone)
Authors: Rojkiewicz Marcin , Kuś Piotr , Kusz Joachim , Książek Maria , Sochanik Aleksander
Published: February 2020

Purpose

In this study, a new cathinone derivative, N-butylhexedrone, emerged on new psychoactive substances (NPS) market in Poland was described and characterized.

Methods

The compound was analyzed by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography and infrared, Raman, ultraviolet-visible and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic approaches.

Results

We confirmed the presence of the compound in the seized material and obtained detailed and comprehensive physicochemical characterization of N-butylhexedrone—new cathinone derivative available on the NPS market.

Conclusions

In this study, we presented chromatographic, spectroscopic and crystallographic characterization of a new cathinone derivative that emerged on the NPS market in 2019. The obtained analytical data should be useful for forensic and toxicological purposes in quick and reliable compound identification.