bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CT‐based sex estimation on human femora using statistical shape modeling
Authors: Fliss Barbara , Luethi Marcel , Fuernstahl Philipp , Christensen Angi M. , Sibold Ken , Thali Michael , Ebert Lars C.
Published: March 2019

Objectives

Estimating the sex of decomposed corpses and skeletal remains of unknown individuals is one of the first steps in the identification process in forensic contexts. Although various studies have considered the femur for sex estimation, the focus has primarily been on a specific single or a handful of measurements rather than the entire shape of the bone. In this article, we use statistical shape modeling (SSM) for sex estimation. We hypothesize that the accuracy of sex estimation will be improved by using the entire shape.

Materials and Methods

For this study, we acquired a total of 61 femora from routine postmortem CT scans at the Institute for Forensic Medicine of the University of Zurich. The femora were extracted using segmentation technique. After building a SSM, we used the linear regression and nonlinear support vector machine technique for classification.

Results

Using linear logistic regression and only the first principal component of the SSM, 76% of the femora were correctly classified by sex. Using the first five principal components, this value could be increased to 80%. Using nonlinear support vector machines and the first 20 principal components increased the rate of correctly classified femora to 87%.

Discussion

Despite some limitations, the results obtained by using SSM for sex estimation in femur were promising and confirm the findings of other studies. Sex estimation accuracy, however, is not significantly improved over single or multiple linear measurements. Further research might improve the sex determination process in forensic anthropology by using SSM.
Adhesion properties of polyacrylic block copolymer pressure‐sensitive adhesives and analysis by pulse NMR and AFM force curve
Authors: Okada Shun , Kashihara Yusuke , Hirai Tomoyasu , Fujii Syuji , Nakamura Yoshinobu , Urahama Yoshiaki , Ito Makiko , Liang Xiaobin , Nakajima Ken
Published: March 2019

The adhesion strength of a pressure‐sensitive adhesive (PSA) is influenced by two factors, the interfacial adhesion and the cohesive strength. A suitable method for the estimation of these two factors was investigated. Blends of triblock and diblock copolymers consisting of poly(methyl methacrylate) (hard) and poly(n‐butyl acrylate) (soft) blocks (A) and blends of triblock copolymer and poly(n‐butyl acrylate) oligomer (B), both with different blend ratios, were prepared as model PSAs. The peel strength decreased with an increase in the hard block content for B, whereas it was independent for A. The tack increased with a decrease in the hard block content for A, whereas it was independent for B. The influence of the hard block content on the peel strength and tack was thus different. The 1H pulse nuclear magnetic resonance analysis and force curve analysis showed that the molecular mobility was higher for B than for A. The Young's modulus and adhesive energy calculated by the Johnson–Kendall–Roberts two‐point method using the atomic force microscopy (AFM) force curve qualitatively reflected the cohesive strength and the interfacial adhesion, respectively. The Young's modulus and adhesive energy are found to be useful parameters to investigate the adhesion mechanism. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47791.
Mechanical and nonisothermal crystallization properties of coal gasification fine slag glass bead‐filled polypropylene composites
Authors: Ai Weidong , Liu Shuo , Zhang Jiupeng , Miao Shiding , Wei Cundi
Published: March 2019

Coal gasification fine slag (CGFS) was subjected to calcination at 600 °C for 7 h, forming CGFS glass beads (CGFSGB). CGFSGB was successfully incorporated into polypropylene (PP) by melt compounding. The results indicated that CGFSGB has the potential to replace calcium carbonate in the plastics market. Thermogravimetric analysis showed obvious reinforcement in thermal stability by incorporation of CGFSGB, but crystallization ability decreased. The CGFSGB was modified with 3‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxy silane (KH570) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) to improve the compatibility between the CGFSGB and PP, resulting in CGFSGB‐S and CGFSGB‐A, respectively. The tensile strength, thermal stability, and crystallization ability of PP composites and dispersity of the CGFSGB were increased after modification by KH570 and HCl, and the PP/CGFSGB‐A composites showed better performance than PP/CGFSGB‐S. Surface area and pore structure analysis and transmission electron microscopy revealed that good mechanical performance of PP/CGFSGB‐A may be attributed to existence of mesopores in CGFSGB‐A. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47803.
Systems Metabolic Engineering Meets Machine Learning: A New Era for Data‐Driven Metabolic Engineering
Authors: Presnell Kristin V. , Alper Hal S.
Published: March 2019

The recent increase in high‐throughput capacity of ‘omics datasets combined with advances and interest in machine learning (ML) have created great opportunities for systems metabolic engineering. In this regard, data‐driven modeling methods have become increasingly valuable to metabolic strain design. In this review, the nature of ‘omics is discussed and a broad introduction to the ML algorithms combining these datasets into predictive models of metabolism and metabolic rewiring is provided. Next, this review highlights recent work in the literature that utilizes such data‐driven methods to inform various metabolic engineering efforts for different classes of application including product maximization, understanding and profiling phenotypes, de novo metabolic pathway design, and creation of robust system‐scale models for biotechnology. Overall, this review aims to highlight the potential and promise of using ML algorithms with metabolic engineering and systems biology related datasets.
Production of 3‐Fucosyllactose in Engineered Escherichia coli with α‐1,3‐Fucosyltransferase from Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Jung Sang‐Min , Park Yong‐Cheol , Seo Jin‐Ho
Published: March 2019

3‐Fucosyllactose (3‐FL), one of the major oligosaccharides in human breast milk, is produced in engineered Escherichia coli. In order to search for a good α‐1,3‐fucosyltransferase, three bacterial α‐1,3‐fucosyltransferases are expressed in engineered E. coli deficient in β‐galactosidase activity and expressing the essential enzymes for the production of guanosine 5′‐diphosphate‐l‐fucose, the donor of fucose for 3‐FL biosynthesis. Among the three enzymes tested, the fucT gene from Helicobacter pylori National Collection of Type Cultures 11637 gives the best 3‐FL production in a simple batch fermentation process using glycerol as a carbon source and lactose as an acceptor. In order to use glucose as a carbon source, the chromosomal ptsG gene, considered the main regulator of the glucose repression mechanism, is disrupted. The resulting E. coli strain of ∆LP‐YA+FT shows a much lower performance of 3‐FL production (4.50 g L−1) than the ∆L‐YA+FT strain grown in a glycerol medium (10.7 g L−1), suggesting that glycerol is a better carbon source than glucose. Finally, the engineered E. coli ∆LW‐YA+FT expressing the essential genes for 3‐FL production and blocking the colanic acid biosynthetic pathway (∆wcaJ) exhibits the highest concentration (11.5 g L−1), yield (0.39 mol mol−1), and productivity (0.22 g L−1 h) of 3‐FL in glycerol‐limited fed‐batch fermentation.
Screening of Commercial Enzymes for Transfructosylation of Tyrosol: Effect of Process Conditions and Reaction Network
Authors: Hollá Veronika , Antošová Monika , Karkeszová Klaudia , Mastihuba Vladimír , Polakovič Milan
Published: March 2019

Enzymatic fructosylation of organic acceptors other than saccharides brings new possibilities to synthesize molecules that do not exist in nature. The introduction of fructosyl moiety may lead to glycosides possessing enhanced physicochemical and bioactive properties which could be useful in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. In this work, the regioselective synthesis of tyrosol β‐d‐fructofuranoside (TF) catalyzed by β‐fructofuranosidase is investigated. In the first step, 32 commercial enzyme preparations are screened for fructoside‐hydrolyzing activity. The most active preparations are subsequently examined for fructofuranosyl transfer from sucrose to tyrosol. The best candidate, Novozym 188, is chosen to study the effect of reaction conditions on the product formation in a batch reactor. The effects of substrate concentration, temperature, pH, time, and enzyme dosage on the concentration of TF produced are studied using the design of experiments methodology. The maximal product concentration of 3.8 g L−1 is achieved for the sucrose concentration of 1.5 m, tyrosol concentration of 29 g L−1, temperature of 41 °C, and pH 5.1. Besides the main transfructosylation reaction between sucrose and tyrosol, several side reactions take place. A reaction network includes also the formation of fructooligosaccharides and the hydrolysis of sucrose and all reaction products.
Biotechnology, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Oliveira Arlindo L.
Published: March 2019

Developments in biotechnology are increasingly dependent on the extensive use of big data, generated by modern high‐throughput instrumentation technologies, and stored in thousands of databases, public and private. Future developments in this area depend, critically, on the ability of biotechnology researchers to master the skills required to effectively integrate their own contributions with the large amounts of information available in these databases. This article offers a perspective of the relations that exist between the fields of big data and biotechnology, including the related technologies of artificial intelligence and machine learning and describes how data integration, data exploitation, and process optimization correspond to three essential steps in any future biotechnology project. The article also lists a number of application areas where the ability to use big data will become a key factor, including drug discovery, drug recycling, drug safety, functional and structural genomics, proteomics, pharmacogenetics, and pharmacogenomics, among others.
Coculture of Endothelial Cells with Human Pluripotent Stem Cell‐Derived Cardiac Progenitors Reveals a Differentiation Stage‐Specific Enhancement of Cardiomyocyte Maturation
Authors: Dunn Kaitlin K. , Reichardt Isabella M. , Simmons Aaron D. , Jin Gyuhyung , Floy Martha E. , Hoon Kelsey M. , Palecek Sean P.
Published: March 2019

Cardiomyocytes (CMs) generated from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are immature in their structure and function, limiting their potential in disease modeling, drug screening, and cardiac cellular therapies. Prior studies have demonstrated that coculture of hPSC‐derived CMs with other cardiac cell types, including endothelial cells (ECs), can accelerate CM maturation. To address whether the CM differentiation stage at which ECs are introduced affects CM maturation, the authors coculture hPSC‐derived ECs with hPSC‐derived cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) and CMs and analyze the molecular and functional attributes of maturation. ECs have a more significant effect on acceleration of maturation when cocultured with CPCs than with CMs. EC coculture with CPCs increases CM size, expression of sarcomere, and ion channel genes and proteins, the presence of intracellular membranous extensions, and chronotropic response compared to monoculture. Maturation is accelerated with an increasing EC:CPC ratio. This study demonstrates that EC incorporation at the CPC stage of CM differentiation expedites CM maturation, leading to cells that may be better suited for in vitro and in vivo applications of hPSC‐derived CMs.
Genetic and chemical approaches for surface charge engineering of enzymes and their applicability in biocatalysis: A review
Authors: Pedersen Jacob Nedergaard , Zhou Ye , Guo Zheng , Pérez Bianca
Published: March 2019

Surface charge engineering has received considerable interest from the scientific and industrial community in the last few decades. Although it was previously hypothesized that the surface charge–charge interactions were not a fundamental force to determine protein folding and stability, many studies today show that surface charge plays a key role determining protein structure and activity. This review aims to (a) highlight the value of surface charged engineering of proteins to improve enzyme stability and activity in aqueous media and in the presence of ionic liquids (ILs) and organic solvents, (b) describe the existing approaches (genetic engineering or chemical modifications) for surface charged engineering, and (c) demonstrate the applicability of these surface charged enzymes in biocatalysis. The review provides a new foundation for the scientific and research community to exploit the surface engineering of protein concept for the development of new enzymes that are more active and stable in the presence of ILs and organic solvents, thereby offering new opportunities for industrial biocatalysis. Furthermore, this review is a useful tool for researchers to decide the best available technology to improve their enzyme system/process.
QSAR characterization of new synthesized hydantoins with antiproliferative activity
Authors: Tot Kristina , Lazić Anita , Božić Biljana , Mandić Anamarija , Djaković Sekulić Tatjana
Published: March 2019

Hydantois have been identified as constituents of a number of pharmacologically active molecules. In the present study, we have examined in vitro antiproliferative activity against human colon cancer cell lines HCT‐116 of three series of 3‐(4‐substituted benzyl)‐hydantoins with various substituent attached in position 5 of the hydantoin ring. Since the investigated compounds have recently been synthesized and show antiproliferative activity, a good understanding of the properties of the potential drug responsible for their pharmacokinetics is an important goal for their further development. One of the important properties is lipophilicity. Lipophilicity has been assessed by reversed‐phase liquid chromatography (high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography and high‐pressure liquid chromatography) by means of direct and indirect (using calibration curve) methods. Chromatographic lipophilicity indices in addition to calculated logP values were compared by hierarchical cluster analysis. The linear solvation energy relationship approach was used to understand and compare the types and relative strength of the molecular interactions that occur in the chromatographic as well as in the n‐octanol–water partitioning systems. Finally, correlation between in silico pharmacokinetic predictors and antiproliferative activity was examined. Preliminary quantitative structure–activity relationship modeling indicates that pharmacokinetic predictors capture only one‐quarter of all chemical features that are important for antiproliferative activity itself. Among selected descriptors are chromatographic lipophilicity indices.
Bioanalytical method for quantitative determination of mithramycin analogs in mouse plasma by HPLC–QTOF
Authors: Eckenrode Joseph M. , Mitra Prithiba , Rohr Jürgen , Leggas Markos
Published: March 2019

Mithramycin (MTM) has potent anticancer activity, but severe toxicities restrict its clinical use. Semi‐synthetic approaches have yielded novel MTM analogs with potentially lower toxicity and similar efficacy. In an effort to transition these analogs into in vivo models, a bioanalytical method was developed for their quantification in mouse plasma. Here we present the validation of the method for the quantitation of mithramycin SA‐tryptophan (MTMSA‐Trp) as well as the applicability of the methodology for assaying additional analogs, including MTM, mithramycin SK (MTMSK) and mithramycin SA‐phenylalanine (MTMSA‐Phe) with run times of 6 min. Assay linearity ranged from 5 to 100 ng/mL. Accuracies of calibration standards and quality control samples were within 15% of nominal with precision variability of <20%. MTMSA‐Trp was stable for 30 days at −80°C and for at least three freeze–thaw cycles. Methanol (−80°C) extraction afforded 92% of MTMSA‐Trp from plasma. Calibration curves for MTM and analogs were also linear from ≤5 to 100 ng/mL. This versatile method was used to quantitate MTM analogs in plasma samples collected during preclinical pharmacokinetic studies.
Potentides: New Cysteine‐Rich Peptides with Unusual Disulfide Connectivity from Potentilla anserina
Authors: Shen Yuping , Xu Lili , Huang Jiayi , Serra Aida , Yang Huan , Tam James P.
Published: March 2019

Cysteine‐rich peptides (CRPs), which are disulfide‐constrained peptides with 3 to 5 disulfide bonds and molecular weights of 2 to 6 kDa, are generally hyperstable and resistant to thermal, chemical, and enzymatic degradation. Herein, the discovery and characterization of a novel suite of CRPs, collectively named potentides pA1–pA16 from the root of the medicinal herb Potentilla anserina L, are described. Through a combination of proteomic and transcriptomic methods, it is shown that 35‐residue potentide pA3, which is the most abundant member of potentides, exhibits high stability against heat, acidic, and proteolytic degradation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that potentide precursor sequences contained four tandem repeats in the mature domain, which is the first report on tandem repeats being found in the Rosaceae family. Disulfide mapping showed that potentide pA3 displayed a novel disulfide connectivity of C1–C3, C2–C6, and C4–C5; a cystine motif that has not been reported in plant CRPs. Transcriptomic data mining and a neighbor‐joining clustering analysis revealed 56 potentide homologues and their distribution in the families of Rosaceae and Ranunculaceae in angiosperm. Altogether, these results reveal a new plant CRP structure with an unusual cystine connectivity. Additionally, this study expands the families and structure diversity of CRPs as potentially active peptide pharmaceuticals.
Two cases of atypical twinning: Phenotypically discordant monozygotic and conjoined twins
Authors: Barnes‐Davis Maria E. , Cortezzo DonnaMaria E.
Published: March 2019

Key Clinical Message

Atypical twinning highlights that complex mechanisms responsible for twinning are not fully understood and may give further insight into the mechanisms involved. To assume that phenotypic difference is the result of dizygotic twinning would be erroneous and could have significant implications in the care and counseling provided to these patients.
Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity via MoO2/BiOBr Nanohybrids under Visible and NIR light
Authors: Zhang Yi , Sun Kai , Wu Di , Xie Wenjie , Xie Fazhi , Zhao Xiaoli , Wang Xiufang
Published: March 2019

Direct efficient employing of solar energy for environmental treatment is obtaining considerable attention at present, where the efficient utilizing the visible (Vis) and near‐infrared (NIR) light is of utmost importance. Herein, the plasmonic MoO2 has been firstly employed to enhance photocatalytic activity in visible and near‐infrared light. By loading MoO2 on BiOBr nanosheets, the plasmonic MoO2/BiOBr photocatalysts have been designed and synthesized through simple hydrothermal method. Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of MoO2 makes the light absorption range of MoO2/BiOBr extend near‐infrared light. The MoO2/BiOBr nanohybrids display higher photocatalytic performance for rhodamine B (RhB) degradation than that of individual MoO2 and BiOBr under Vis‐ and NIR‐light illumination. About 98 % and 60 % of RhB is degraded in 40 min under >420 nm and >780 nm light illumination. On the one hand, LSPR of MoO2 is beneficial for light absorption and utilization. On the other hand, the synergetic effect between MoO2 and BiOBr facilitates carrier generation, transportation in the interfaces of MoO2 and BiOBr, and reduce carrier recombination. Moreover, the catalytic activity of MoO2/BiOBr nanohybrid almost shows no significant weaken even after five consecutive runs. Our study may open avenues to design the efficient noble metal‐free plasmonic photocatalysts for taking advantage of solar energy efficiently.
3D Starfish‐Like FeOF on Graphene Sheets: Engineered Synthesis and Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Zhai Jingru , Lei Zhengyu , Sun Kening
Published: March 2019

To address the problems associated with poor conductivity and large volume variation in practical applications as a conversion cathode, engineering of hierarchical nanostructured FeOF coupled with conductive decoration is highly desired, yet rarely reported. Herein, 3D starfish‐like FeOF on reduced graphene oxide sheets (FeOF/rGO) is successfully prepared, for the first time, through a combination of solvothermal reaction, self‐assembly, and thermal reduction. Integrating the structural features of the 3D hierarchical nanostructure, which favorably shorten the path for electron/ion transport and alleviate volumetric changes, with those of graphene wrapping, which can further enhance the electrical conductivity and maintain the structural stability of the electrode, the as‐prepared FeOF/rGO composite exhibits a superior lithium‐storage performance, including a high reversible capacity (424.5 mA h−1 g−1 at 50 mA g−1), excellent stability (0.016 % capacity decay per cycle during 180 cycles), and remarkable rate capability (275.8 mA h−1 g−1 at 2000 mA g−1).
Chasing Multiple Bonding Interactions between Alkaline‐Earth Metals and Main‐Group Fragments
Authors: Wolf Benjamin M. , Anwander Reiner
Published: March 2019

Formally dianionic ligands such as alkylidenes or organoimidos play a major role in the organometallic chemistry of transition metals and are an emerging topical area of f‐element chemistry. The pursuit and development of main‐group‐metal congeners has been tackled sporadically but is clearly lacking behind. The pronounced ionic bonding in particular, prevailing in alkali and alkaline‐earth (Ae) metal derivatives, proved cumbersome. Recent substantial progress in the respective field of divalent Ae chemistry has been triggered by the implementation of new synthesis strategies involving new AeII precursors and tailor‐made ligands. The main emphasis of this Minireview will be on the synthesis and reactivity of well‐defined Group 2 alkylidenes, organoimides, silylenes, and phosphandiides.
Effect of Slip‐Stack Self‐Assembly on Aggregation‐Induced Emission and Solid‐State Luminescence in 1,3‐Diarylpropynones
Authors: Sivalingam Soumya , Debsharma Kingshuk , Dasgupta Ayan , Sankararaman Sethuraman , Prasad Edamana
Published: March 2019

Co‐facial stacking can result in aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) in conjugated organic luminogens. This study provides an attractive ‘slip‐stack’ self‐assembly approach which can eliminate the occurrence of ACQ. The obtained results from steady‐state and time‐resolved optical studies, along with X‐ray diffraction and computational studies demonstrate aggregation‐induced emission enhancement (AIEE) of a donor‐π‐acceptor based 1,3‐diarylpropynone, namely 1‐(naphthalenyl)‐3‐(pyren‐1‐yl)prop‐2‐yn‐1‐one (PYNAP). Unlike the monomer, which exhibits poor photoluminescence in solution (φf=2 % in ACN), the twisted manifold of PYNAP allows the orientation of the molecules in a slip‐stack fashion during the course of aggregation, which not only avoids a direct co‐facial arrangement, but also induces augmented rigidity, leading to restricted intramolecular rotation (RIR) and enhanced emission quantum yield (φf=5 % in ACN/H2O). The aggregation behavior of PYNAP's congener, 1‐phenyl‐3‐(pyren‐1‐yl)prop‐2‐yn‐1‐one (PYPH) reinforces the hypothesis that slip‐stack assembly is a useful strategy for AIEE in polycyclic hydrocarbon luminogens.
A Comparative Study of Longitudinal Toxicities of Cytotoxic Drugs, Molecularly Targeted Agents, Immunomodulatory Drugs, and Cancer Vaccines
Authors: Hirakawa Akihiro , Sudo Kazuki , Yonemori Kan , Sadachi Ryo , Kinoshita Fumie , Kobayashi Yumiko , Okuma Hitomi S. , Kawachi Asuka , Tamura Kenji , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Rubinstein Larry , Takebe Naoko
Published: March 2019

Little is known about the toxicity of various therapeutics for cancer over time because randomized controlled clinical trials that compare several treatments are limited. In this study, we focused on the toxicities most frequently discussed, which are investigations (lab abnormalities), gastrointestinal disorders, skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders, and cardiac disorders, and compared their longitudinal toxicity data among four types of cancer therapeutics. In total, 28,235 patients who were enrolled into 772 early‐phase trials to evaluate the monotherapies of cytotoxic drugs, molecularly targeted agents, immunomodulatory drugs, or cancer vaccines were evaluated. For each toxicity, we compared their grade prevalence, mean grade at each cycle, and time to toxicity occurrence and identified the potential underlying similarities and differences of longitudinal toxicities among the four cancer treatment types. Our results will further help in understanding the profile of cancer therapeutic toxicities and their impact on oncology treatment in practice.
Perceptions of a large amount of food based on binge‐eating disorder diagnosis
Authors: Chao Ariana M. , Wadden Thomas A. , Walsh Olivia A. , Gruber Kathryn A. , Alamuddin Naji , Berkowitz Robert I. , Tronieri Jena Shaw
Published: March 2019

Objective

This study examined what adults with binge‐eating disorder (BED) and obesity perceived as the threshold for a large amount of food and how their evaluations compared to ratings by participants with obesity but without BED.

Method

This was a cross‐sectional study of 150 participants with obesity. BED was assessed using the Questionnaire on Eating and Weight Patterns and confirmed via interview. Participants completed the Eating Patterns Questionnaire and Eating Inventory.

Results

Participants with BED had significantly higher thresholds for a large amount of food relative to those without BED. Compared to participants without BED, those with BED had significantly higher thresholds on 13 of the 22 food items. In the overall sample, being male and having higher hunger scores were associated with greater thresholds.

Discussion

Individuals with obesity and BED had larger portion standards than participants without BED. Individuals with BED may benefit from interventions targeted toward decreasing perceptions of portion sizes.
Integrating social and ecological data to model metapopulation dynamics in coupled human and natural systems
Authors: Van Schmidt Nathan D. , Kovach Tony , Kilpatrick A. Marm , Oviedo Jose L. , Huntsinger Lynn , Hruska Tracy , Miller Norman L. , Beissinger Steven R.
Published: March 2019

Understanding how metapopulations persist in dynamic working landscapes requires assessing the behaviors of key actors that change patches as well as intrinsic factors driving turnover. Coupled human and natural systems (CHANS) research uses a multidisciplinary approach to identify the key actors, processes, and feedbacks that drive metapopulation and landscape dynamics. We describe a framework for modeling metapopulations inCHANSthat integrates ecological and social data by coupling stochastic patch occupancy models of metapopulation dynamics with agent‐based models of land‐use change. We then apply this framework to metapopulations of the threatened black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis) and widespread Virginia rail (Rallus limicola) that inhabit patchy, irrigation‐fed wetlands in the rangelands of the California Sierra Nevada foothills. We collected data from five diverse sources (rail occupancy surveys, land‐use change mapping, a survey of landowner decision making, climate and reservoir databases, and mosquito trapping and West Nile virus testing) and integrated them into an agent‐based stochastic patch occupancy model. We used the model to (1) quantify the drivers of metapopulation dynamics, and the potential interactions and feedbacks among them; (2) test predictions of the behavior of metapopulations in dynamic working landscapes; and (3) evaluate the impact of three policy options on metapopulation persistence (irrigation district water cutbacks during drought, incentives for landowners to create wetlands, and incentives for landowners to protect wetlands). Complex metapopulation dynamics emerged when landscapes functioned asCHANS, highlighting the importance of integrating human activities and other ecological processes into metapopulation models. Rail metapopulations were strongly top‐down regulated by precipitation, and the black rail's decade‐long decline was caused by the combination of West Nile virus and drought. Theoretical predictions of the two metapopulations’ responses to dynamic landscapes and incentive programs were complicated by heterogeneity in patch quality andCHANScouplings, respectively. Irrigation cutbacks during drought posed a serious extinction risk that neither incentive policy effectively ameliorated.
Disentangling data discrepancies with integrated population models
Authors: Saunders Sarah P. , Farr Matthew T. , Wright Alexander D. , Bahlai Christie A. , Ribeiro Jose W. , Rossman Sam , Sussman Allison L. , Arnold Todd W. , Zipkin Elise F.
Published: March 2019

A common challenge for studying wildlife populations occurs when different survey methods provide inconsistent or incomplete inference on the trend, dynamics, or viability of a population. A potential solution to the challenge of conflicting or piecemeal data relies on the integration of multiple data types into a unified modeling framework, such as integrated population models (IPMs).IPMs are a powerful approach for species that inhabit spatially and seasonally complex environments. We provide guidance on exploiting the capabilities ofIPMs to address inferential discrepancies that stem from spatiotemporal data mismatches. We illustrate this issue with analysis of a migratory species, the American Woodcock (Scolopax minor), in which individual monitoring programs suggest differing population trends. To address this discrepancy, we synthesized several long‐term data sets (1963–2015) within anIPMto estimate continental‐scale population trends, and link dynamic drivers across the full annual cycle and complete extent of the woodcock's geographic range in eastern North America. Our analysis reveals the limiting portions of the life cycle by identifying time periods and regions where vital rates are lowest and most variable, as well as which demographic parameters constitute the main drivers of population change. We conclude by providing recommendations for resolving conflicting population estimates within an integrated modeling approach, and discuss how strategies (e.g., data thinning, expert opinion elicitation) from other disciplines could be incorporated into ecological analyses when attempting to combine multiple, incongruent data types.
All‐Sprayable Hierarchically Nanostructured Conducting Polymer Hydrogel for Massively Manufactured Flexible All‐Solid‐State Supercapacitor
Authors: Han Yu , Chu Xiang , Zhang Haitao , Huang Haichao , Tian Guo , Wang Zixing , Gu Bingni , Chen Ningjun , Deng Wen , Deng Weili , Yang Weiqing
Published: March 2019

The low‐cost processing and uniquely structured design of conducting polymer hydrogels (CPHs), with the advantages of both conducting polymers and 3D frameworks, are the keys to their wide commercial application in next‐generation flexible solid supercapacitors. Herein, an all‐sprayable hierarchically nanostructured polyaniline–phytic acid conducting polymer hydrogel (pp‐CPHs) for upgradable art patterns and massively manufactured supercapacitor electrodes is presented. Ascribing to fully anticipating the efficient electrode–electrolyte interface of 3D porous nanostructures constructed by interconnected nanorods, the pp‐CPH‐based flexible all‐solid‐state supercapacitors exhibit an excellent areal capacitance of 91 mF cm−2 at a current density of 1 mA cm−2 and a drastically improved cycling stability with 93.5% capacitance retention after 10 000 cycles at 5 mA cm−2. In addition, the electrochemical performance of this device can be constantly maintained under various mechanical loadings such as bending and twisting. Also, this device shows a remarkable integration ability from its universal tandem and parallel connections. Unambiguously, these aforementioned merits of pp‐CPH‐based flexible all‐solid‐state supercapacitors make it an ideal maneuver for the massive fabrication of flexible power supply.
Polymer‐MTiO3 (M = Ca, Sr, Ba) composites as facile and scalable supercapacitor separators
Authors: Alvarez‐Sanchez Christian O. , Lasalde‐Ramírez José A. , Ortiz‐Quiles Edwin O. , Massó‐Ferret Roberto , Nicolau Eduardo
Published: March 2019

The quantum of research in the area of supercapacitors is typically focused on the electrode materials. As such, there are many opportunities for the optimization of the other components, such as the separators, to further increase the power, efficiency, and longevity of supercapacitors. To contribute to this field of research, we present an innovative alternative for the fabrication of separators; using polymer/ceramic composites (PCC) based on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polypropylene (PPG) mixed with different alkaline earth metal‐based titanates (eg barium, calcium, and strontium). The PCC separators were prepared via phase inversion precipitation technique, a feasible and scalable method for the fabrication of these composites. Different additives were used to modulate the porosity and thus, improve the charge transfer rates. Then, a heating process ensured a uniform organization of the composites. Furthermore, we tested the effect of thermally annealing the ceramics on the separators’ performance. The precursor materials and the PCC's were extensively characterized by means of X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrochemical, mechanical, and dielectric properties of the PCC's were measured and compared to common commercial separators used today. Results suggest that thermal treatment improves tensile strength of the separators by at least ca. 60% without compromising the similar electrochemical profile to the commercial separators (44.52 ± 2.82 Ω vs 67.65 ± 29.01 Ω). Lastly, all of the fabricated PCC's showed higher dielectric constants (4.52 in average for the as prepared separators and 2.99 for the heated PCC's) than the polymer based commercial separators (2.2).
Adjuvant Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Prospect of Immunotherapy
Authors: Brown Zachary J. , Greten Tim F. , Heinrich Bernd
Published: March 2019

Although patients undergo procedures with curative intent for early‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), up to 70% of patients may have disease recurrence in the liver at 5 years. Thus far, no therapy has proven to be effective in the adjuvant setting. Here, we discuss the application of immune‐based therapies in the adjuvant setting for HCC, focusing on the underlying rationale for immunotherapies, which patients may benefit from an immune‐based therapy, and what type of immune therapy should be implemented.
Opportunistic testing of BRCA1, BRCA2 and mismatch repair genes improves the yield of phenotype driven hereditary cancer gene panels
Authors: Feliubadaló Lídia , López‐Fernández Adrià , Pineda Marta , Díez Orland , del Valle Jesús , Gutiérrez‐Enríquez Sara , Teulé Alex , González Sara , Stjepanovic Neda , Salinas Mónica , Capellá Gabriel , Brunet Joan , Lázaro Conxi , Balmaña Judith ,   on behalf of the Catalan Hereditary Cancer Group
Published: March 2019

Multigene panels provide a powerful tool for analyzing several genes simultaneously. We evaluated the frequency of pathogenic variants (PV) in customized predefined panels according to clinical suspicion by phenotype and compared it to the yield obtained in the analysis of our clinical research gene panel. We also investigated mutational yield of opportunistic testing of BRCA1/2 and mismatch repair (MMR) genes in all patients. A total of 1,205 unrelated probands with clinical suspicion of hereditary cancer were screened for germline mutations using panel testing. Overall, 1,048 females and 157 males were analyzed, mean age at cancer diagnosis was 48; 883 had hereditary breast/ovarian cancer‐suspicion, 205 hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)‐suspicion, 73 adenomatous‐polyposis‐suspicion and 44 with other/multiple clinical criteria. At least one PV was found in 150 probands (12%) analyzed by our customized phenotype‐driven panel. Tumoral MMR deficiency predicted for the presence of germline MMR gene mutations in patients with HNPCC‐suspicion (46/136 vs. 0/56 in patients with and without MMR deficiency, respectively). Opportunistic testing additionally identified five MSH6, one BRCA1 and one BRCA2 carriers (0.6%). The analysis of the extended 24‐gene panel provided 25 additional PVs (2%), including in 4 out of 51 individuals harboring MMR‐proficient colorectal tumors (2 CHEK2 and 2 ATM). Phenotype‐based panels provide a notable rate of PVs with clinical actionability. Opportunistic testing of MMR and BRCA genes leads to a significant straightforward identification of MSH6, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers, and endorses the model of opportunistic testing of genes with clinical utility within a standard genetic counseling framework.
Factors associated with obstetric anal sphincter injuries during vacuum delivery among Chinese women
Authors: Chen Sue‐Jar , Chen Chie‐Pein , Sun Fang‐Ju , Chen Chen‐Yu
Published: March 2019

Objective

To investigate factors associated with obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) during vacuum delivery among Chinese women.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of Chinese women who underwent vacuum‐assisted vaginal delivery at a tertiary referral hospital in Taiwan between January 2010 and December 2016. Logistic regression analysis was used to compare various factors (maternal, delivery, and neonatal factors) between women with and those without OASIS.

Results

Among 18 744 Chinese women with singleton vaginal delivery, 3141 (16.76%) had vacuum assistance and 2634 (83.86%) were primiparous. Of the women who had a vacuum delivery, 1073 (34.16%) sustained OASIS, of whom 967 (90.12%) were primiparous. The major independent risk factors for OASIS were primiparity (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.29–3.76) and use of midline episiotomy (aOR, 3.01; 95% CI, 1.74–5.17). However, epidural analgesia had a protective effect (aOR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.54–0.75) against OASIS. In multivariate analysis for the primiparous subgroup, the independent significant risk factors for OASIS remained the same.

Conclusion

A high incidence of OASIS during vacuum delivery was observed among Chinese women. Midline episiotomy was found to be a modifiable risk factor for OASIS, whereas epidural analgesia had a protective effect.
Association between LINC00657 and miR‐106a serum expression levels and susceptibility to colorectal cancer, adenomatous polyposis, and ulcerative colitis in Egyptian population
Authors: Shaker Olfat G. , Ali Marwa A. , Ahmed Tarek I. , Zaki Othman M. , Ali Doaa Y. , Hassan Essam A. , Hemeda Nada F. , AbdelHafez Marwa N.
Published: March 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represented the second cause of mortality among cancer patients. Long noncoding RNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) serve as noninvasive biomarkers for CRC surveillance and introduce new therapeutic approaches. LINC00657 and miR‐106a expression levels play a pivotal role in CRC. This study included 190 Egyptian subjects, and the expression levels of LINC00657 and miR‐106a in serum were measured by using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. We found that upregulation of LINC00657 and downregulation of miR‐106a are significantly associated with the development of CRC. Also, a positive correlation was detected between their serum levels. In addition, serum LINC00657 can distinguish adenomatous polyposis (AP) patients and/or ulcerative colitis (UC) patients from controls. Also the miRNA‐106a expression level discriminates AP but not UC from healthy individuals. Our study cited new diagnostic biomarkers for CRC, AP, and UC among Egyptians in addition to be noninvasive screening tools for CRC in both healthy subjects and those having precancerous lesions. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(9):1322–1335, 2019
Supporting Online Synchronous Collaborative Writing in the Secondary Classroom
Authors: Krishnan Jenell , Yim Soobin , Wolters Alissa , Cusimano Andrew
Published: March 2019

Online synchronous collaborative writing (SCW) is ubiquitous among youths and has found its way into many secondary English language arts classrooms. Yet, to maximize the affordances of online SCW, teachers need a synthesis of contemporary, evidence‐based practices for how to support students during this form of writing. The purpose of this article is to highlight best practices for teachers and schools interested in leveraging their one‐to‐one technologies in more collaborative ways that include online SCW. The authors situate SCW in contemporary educational initiatives and then describe ways that teachers can incorporate SCW in their writing instruction through a hybrid approach—face‐to‐face and online—that enhances rich, meaningful peer‐to‐peer learning. The authors present actionable recommendations for teachers to consider before, during, and after online SCW. The authors conclude with how this approach to writing provides students with the technical and social tools to achieve success in the information society.
COPS5 negatively regulates goat endometrial function via the ERN1 and mTOR‐autophagy pathways during early pregnancy
Authors: Yang Diqi , Zhang Beibei , Wang Zongjie , Zhang Linlin , Chen Huatao , Zhou Dong , Tang Keqiong , Wang Aihua , Lin Pengfei , Jin Yaping
Published: March 2019

In ruminant, adequate endometrial function is a major factor affecting implantation and economic efficiency. However, the precise mechanisms regulating goat endometrial function during the peri‐implantation period of pregnancy are still unclear. Here, we investigated the functional role and signal transduction of the fifth component of the constitutive photomorphogenic‐9 signalosome (COPS5) in the regulation of endometrial function in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs). Our results showed that hormones decreased COPS5 expression, and COPS5‐mediated regulation of endometrial function. We also found that knockdown of COPS5 hindered EECs proliferation by the G1‐phase cell cycle arrest. Hormones affected the activity of COPS5 through hormones receptors, while feedback from the expression of COPS5 regulated the transcription of the receptor. Moreover, knockdown of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to nucleus signaling 1 (ERN1) via si‐ERN1 partly inhibited endometrial function in shCOPS5 EECs. In addition, blocking the mTOR pathway by rapamycin promoted endometrial function in si‐ERN1‐transfected shCOPS5 EECs. Overall, these results suggest that COPS5 negatively regulates goat endometrial function via the ERN1 and mTOR‐autophagy pathways and provide new insights into the mechanistic pathways of COPS5 during female reproductive development.
Protective effects of microRNA‐22‐3p against retinal pigment epithelial inflammatory damage by targeting NLRP3 inflammasome
Authors: Hu Zizhong , Lv Xuehua , Chen Lu , Gu Xunyi , Qian Huiming , Fransisca Silvia , Zhang Zhengyu , Liu Qinghuai , Xie Ping
Published: March 2019

NLRP3, as a crucial inflammasome component, plays important roles in age‐related macular degeneration. Though some activators of NLRP3 have been studied, microRNAs (miRNAs) which potentially regulate NLRP3 messenger RNA (mRNA) have not been fully explored in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and retinopathy. In this study, by miRNA microarray proﬁling and bioinformatic analysis, we identified that four miRNAs, miR‐4286, miR‐223‐3p, miR‐365a, miR‐22‐3p, may target NLRP3 mRNA in RPE inflammatory damage in vivo. Further, real‐time polymerase chain reaction verified that only miR‐22‐3p was significantly decreased, which was associated with NLRP3 upregulation in blue‐light‐induced retinopathy. Mechanistically, the dual‐fluorescent reporter suggested miR‐22‐3p directly binds NLRP3 mRNA. Moreover, overexpression of miR‐22‐3p could significantly reduce whereas inhibition miR‐22‐3p could increase the mRNA and protein expressions of NLRP3, Caspase‐1, and mature IL‐1β. Collectively, our results indicate that miR‐22‐3p plays a suppressive role in RPE damage by targeting NLRP3, which provides new insights into the future intervention to retinopathy.
Four novel biomarkers for bladder cancer identified by weighted gene coexpression network analysis
Authors: Yan Xin , Guo Zi‐Xin , Liu Xiao‐Ping , Feng Yu‐Jia , Zhao Ying‐Jie , Liu Tong‐Zu , Li Sheng
Published: March 2019

Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most malignancies in terms of incidence and recurrence worldwide. The aim of this study is to find out novel and prognostic biomarkers for patients with BC. First, we identified 258 differentially expressed genes by using GSE19915 from Gene Expression Omnibus database. Second, a total of 33 modules were identified by constructing a coexpression network by using weighted gene coexpression network analysis and yellow module was regarded as the key module. Furthermore, by constructing protein–protein interaction networks, we preliminarily picked out 13 genes. Among them, four hub genes (CCNB1, KIF4A, TPX2, and TRIP13) were eventually identified by using five different methods (survival analysis, one‐way analysis of variance, the Spearman correlation analysis, receiver operating characteristic curve, and expression value comparison), which were significantly correlated with the prognosis of BC. The validation of transcriptional and translational levels made sense (based on Oncomine and The Human Protein Atlas database). Moreover, functional enrichment analysis suggested that all the hub genes played crucial roles in chromosome segregation, sister chromatid segregation, nuclear chromosome segregation, mitotic nuclear division, nuclear division, and organelle fission during cell mitosis. In addition, three of the hub genes (KIF4A, TPX2, and TRIP13) might be potential targets of cancer drugs according to the results of the genetical alteration. In conclusion, this study indicates that four hub genes have great predictive value for the prognosis of BC, and may contribute to the exploration of the further and more in‐depth research of BC.
Differential age‐specific distribution of influenza virus types and subtypes in tropical Singapore, 2011 to 2017
Authors: Ang Li Wei , Cui Lin , Mak Tze Minn , Ng Yixiang , Leo Yee Sin , Lee Vernon Jian Ming , Lin Raymond Tzer‐Pin
Published: March 2019

Surveillance and reporting of epidemiological features of seasonal influenza mostly are aggregates across all‐ages. We investigated age‐specific differences in distribution of influenza virus (sub)types in tropical Singapore, using laboratory‐confirmed virological data collected under the national influenza surveillance programme from 2011 to 2017. The proportion of influenza‐positive specimens from outpatients with influenza‐like illness was used as an indicator of influenza activity in the community. The highest influenza positivity for age groups of 5 to 14 years and 15 to 64 years coincided in the same month in 5 out of the 7 years under study. Influenza positivity was lowest in young children <5 years of age compared with older age groups. Influenza A(H3N2) was most prevalent in the community except in 2012 when a predominance of influenza B was observed. The dominant virus (sub)type varied across the years in children <5 years and 5 to 14 years of age. Influenza A(H3N2) was the predominant circulating virus subtype among elderly persons aged ≥65 years during the 7‐year period, and among adults aged 15 to 64 years since 2013. Knowledge about the age‐specific differences in distribution of influenza virus (sub)types helps to facilitate better understanding of seasonal epidemics and to inform targeted strategies in prevention and control of influenza virus transmission.