bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil microbial biomass and community composition as affected by cover crop diversity in a short‐term field experiment on a podzolized Stagnosol‐Cambisol
Authors: Di Rauso Simeone Giuseppe , Müller Mireen , Felgentreu Christoph , Glaser Bruno
Published: June 2020

Background: Cover cropping appears as a useful land management practice with numerous benefits for ecosystem functions.

Aim: The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of different winter cover crops on soil microbial biomass, activity, and community composition in intensively managed agriculture systems as function of cover crop diversity.

Methods: For this purpose, an on‐farm experiment was conducted at a podzolized Stagnosol‐Cambisol during seven months growing oil radish as single cover crop and five different cover crop mixtures comprising 5 to 13 plant species. A fallow treatment was used as control. Phospholipid fatty acids were used to determine the soil microbial biomass and soil microbial community composition. Basal respiration of the soil microorganisms was measured as a proxy for microbial activity.

Results: The results show that none of the cover crop mixture could increase soil organic carbon or total nitrogen content. Three cover crop mixtures and oil radish as single cover crop significantly increased soil microbial biomass by about 50% and all of the investigated cover crops significantly increased microbial respiration and metabolic quotient by 50–150%. Only highly diverse cover crop mixtures significantly increased individual microbial groups such as Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, actinobacteria, and saprotropic and mycorrhizal fungi by about 20% compared to the control. However, the ratio of fungi to bacteria was not influenced by any of the cover crop mixtures under study.

Conclusion: These findings corroborate that aboveground plant diversity is linked to belowground microbial diversity.
Role of sucrose in modulating the low‐nitrogen‐induced accumulation of phenolic compounds in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Zhou Weiwei , Liang Xin , Zhang Yuxue , Dai Peibin , Liang Bin , Li Junliang , Sun Chengliang , Lin Xianyong
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Phenolic compounds are phytochemicals present in vegetables which contribute to human health. Although nitrogen deficiency and sucrose (Suc) are linked to phenolic production in vegetables, the relationship between them in the regulation of phenolic biosynthesis remains unknown. This study investigated the potential role of Suc in regulating phenolic biosynthesis of lettuce under low‐nitrogen (LN) conditions.

RESULTS

Our results showed that LN treatment significantly increased Suc content in lettuce by inducing rapid increases in activities of sucrose synthesis‐related enzymes. Exogenous Suc further stimulated LN‐induced phenolic accumulation in lettuce by upregulating the expression of genes (PAL, CHS, F3H, DFR, F35H and UFGT) involved in phenolic biosynthesis. The opposite effects were true for exogenous 3‐(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐1,1‐dimethylurea (DCMU) application. No changes were observed in chlorophyll content in LN‐treated lettuce, in either the presence or absence of Suc application. Notably, exogenous DCMU resulted in decreases of maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II (PSII) photochemistry, actual efficiency of PSII and electron transport rate in PSII and increase of quantum yield of non‐regulated energy dissipation in PSII in lettuce under LN conditions, whereas these effects were reversed on Suc application. Exogenous Suc also increased glutamine synthetase and glutamate synthase activities in LN‐treated lettuce.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that Suc is involved in LN‐induced phenolic production in lettuce by enhancing photosynthetic and nitrogen assimilation efficiency to increase the supply of carbon resources and precursors for phenolic biosynthesis. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
On the soil–bean–cup relationships in Coffea arabica L
Authors: Morales‐Ramos Victorino , Escamilla‐Prado Esteban , Ruiz‐Carbajal Ricardo Abimael , Pérez‐Sato Juan Antonio , Velázquez‐Morales Juan Alberto , Servín‐Juárez Roselia
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The relationships between soil and coffee beans variables were evaluated and then the influence of bean composition on cup quality attributes was computed by means of relation studies. A total of 139 coffee and soil samples were collected directly from the same number of coffee plantations in Chiapas, Mexico.

RESULTS

In the elemental composition, only phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and copper in coffee beans had a significant (P < 0.05) relationship with the content of the same elements in soil. The level of macro‑ and microelements in the coffee bean affected some of the cup quality attributes, but variables such as texture, titratable acidity, and pH of water in soil had a major influence on those attributes. Caffeine, trigonelline, and 5‐caffeoylquinic acid in green coffee beans also had a significant influence (P < 0.05) on the sensory attributes of the beverage.

CONCLUSION

The elemental composition of soil and coffee beans was important in explaining the cup quality attributes, but the most important variables influencing the sensory quality of coffee were altitude of plantations and moisture of coffee beans. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Modulation of cecal microbiota in laying hens via intake of genetically modified corn with the maroACC or mCry1Ac genes
Authors: Zhong Ruqing , Zhang Lilan , Chen Liang , Yang Xiaoguang , Zhang Hongfu
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The present study investigated the chronic effect on the composition and proportions of the cecal microbiota of laying hens for 12 weeks after consuming two genetically modified (GM) corns containing the maroACC gene from the Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain (CC) and the mCry1Ac gene from the Bacillus thuringiensis strain (BT) in comparison with the isogenic corn (CT).

RESULTS

In total, 72 hens were randomly assigned to the CT corn‐based diet, CC corn‐based diet and BT corn‐based diet. The absolute weights of abdominal fat, breast, thigh meat and organ weight were not affected by the dietary treatment. High‐throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a few differences in the composition of cecal microbiota among the treatments. The only difference with respect to bacterial family was that the cecal abundance of Porphyromonadaceae (3.46 versus 2.11%; P = 0.073) tended to be higher for birds consuming the CC diet than those birds consuming the CT diet. Birds fed the BT diet tended to have a higher abundance of Barnesiella (0.62 versus 0.13%; P = 0.057) and a lower abundance of unclassified Ruminococcaceae (0.64 versus 1.19%; P = 0.097) than those fed the CT diet. Considering beneficial intestinal Barnesiella, this decreases and ultimately clears the colonization of vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus. The unclassified Ruminococcaceae was a low‐frequency and low‐abundance bacterial taxa and was not associated with intestinal pathology.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate a similar modulation of cecal microbiota in laying hens by long‐term feeding among transgenic CC corn, BT corn and non‐transgenic corn and provide data for biosafety evaluation of the transgenic corn. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Physical, structural and antioxidant properties of brewer's spent grain protein films
Authors: Proaño Janina L , Salgado Pablo R , Cian Raúl E , Mauri Adriana N , Drago Silvina R
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The development of brewer's spent grain protein (BSG‐PC) films with potential active packaging properties was investigated. Films were prepared by casting protein dispersions at different pH values (2, 8, 11), plasticizers [polyethylene glycol (PEG) or glycerol] and levels (0–0.25 g g−1) of PEG. Mechanical, water‐barrier and solubility, optical, antioxidant (reducing power, ABTS•+ and lipidic radical scavenging), and antimicrobial properties of films were determined. Also, the structural characteristics of films were evaluated by attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Only films prepared at pH 2 and plasticized by PEG were homogeneous in appearance and could be manipulated; thus, different levels of PEG were studied at this pH. Higher PEG concentrations increased water solubility, water vapor permeability and elongation at break, and decreased tensile strength and elastic modulus. PEG increased α‐helix structure only when 0.10 g PEG g‐1 BSG‐PC was used. This could be related to the better mechanical properties of F0.10 films (higher tensile strength, and elastic modulus) with respect to the other films. Antioxidant activity depended on PEG concentration, whereas no antimicrobial properties against Bacillus cereus, Salmonella newport and Penicillium corylophylum were detected.

CONCLUSION

The formulations with 0.10 and 0.15 g PEG g−1 BSG‐PC appear to be the most promising, balancing mechanical, water‐barrier properties and the antioxidant capacity of these films. Moreover, BSG proteins could be a cheap alternative for the preparation of biodegradable films, which are capable of being used as active food packaging. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Sensitivity of yellow foxtail (Setaria glauca L.) and barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus‐galli L.) to aqueous extracts or dry biomass of cover crops
Authors: Brijačak Ema , Košćak Laura , Šoštarčić Valentina , Kljak Kristina , Šćepanović Maja
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The common weeds Echinochloa crus‐galli L. and Setaria glauca L. were studied for their sensitivity to aqueous extracts or dry biomass of the following cover crops (CCs): Brassicaceae (Sinapis alba, Raphanus sativus var. Oleiformis, Camellina sativa), Fagopyrum esculentum and Guizotia abyssinica.

RESULTS

Treating E. crus‐galli with aqueous extracts of mixed CCs or individual brassica CC significantly reduced germination. Treating S. glauca with aqueous extracts of C. sativa or G. abyssinicia reduced germination. Aqueous extracts of all CCs significantly reduced radicle length of E. crus‐galli and S. glauca, with C. sativa and mixed CCs showing the greatest effect. Aqueous extracts of nearly all CCs delayed start and middle germination of E. crus‐galli and S. glauca, with S. alba and R. sativus showing the strongest effects. Aqueous extracts of Brassicaceae leaf and flower significantly reduced germination, coleoptile length, radicle length and seedling biomass of E. crus‐galli and S. glauca. Brassicaceae leaves and flowers contained higher phenolics than other tissues. Adding 4 or 8% S. alba and R. sativus dry powder to soil significantly reduced growth of E. crus‐galli and S. glauca; even concentrations of 1% measurably slowed growth of E. crus‐galli.

CONCLUSIONS

Brassicaceae may be allelopathic to S. glauca and E. crus‐galli. Aqueous extracts of leaves and flowers showed greater phytotoxic activity than other tissues and also contained more phenolics. Therefore Brassicaceae CCs may be most effective against S. glauca and E. crus‐galli if incorporated into soil during their flowering stage. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A high image quality organic light‐emitting diode display with motion blur reduction for ultrahigh resolution and premium TVs
Authors: Shin Hong Jae , Choi Soo Hong , Choi Jae Yi , Park Jae Kyu , Kim Sung Joong , Yun Seong Ho , Seo Jeong Rim , Bae Sung Joon , Kim Han Seop , Oh Chang Ho
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we present a high image quality organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) display with motion blur reduction technology. Our latest work includes driving method that reduces motion blur using an adaptive black data insertion, brightness compensation technology, the simple structure pixel with low capacitance coupling for horizontal noise, and the multifunction integrated gate driver. The moving picture response time (MPRT) value of the OLED display panel with a fast response time was significantly affected by the frame frequency and the compensation driving method. The MPRT value of the large‐size OLED display panels was significantly decreased by using the integrated gate driver circuit with an MPRT reduction method. The decrease in the MPRT value originated from the turning of the emitting pixels off in advance resulting from providing black data. The integrated gate drivers were designed to achieve the normal display, the black data insertion, and the compensation mode. The MPRT value of the 65‐in. ultrahigh‐definition (UHD) OLED panels was decreased to 3.4 ms by using an integrated gate driver circuit. The motion blur of large‐size OLED display panels was significantly reduced due to a decrease in the MPRT value.
Does multicenter care impact the outcomes of surgical patients with gastrointestinal malignancies requiring complex multimodality therapy?
Authors: Shannon Adrienne B. , Mo Julia , Song Yun , Paulson Emily C. , Roses Robert E. , Fraker Douglas L. , Kelz Rachel R. , Miura John T. , Karakousis Giorgos C.
Published: June 2020

Background

Regionalization of oncologic care has increased, but less is known whether patient outcomes are influenced by receipt of multimodality care through multicenter care (MCC) or single‐center care (SCC).

Methods

Patients from 2004 to 2015 National Cancer Data Base diagnosed with stage II‐III esophageal (EA), stage II‐III pancreatic (PA), and stage II‐IV rectal (RA) adenocarcinoma who underwent resection at a high volume center (HVC) and required radiation and/or chemotherapy were included. MCC (care at 2+ facilities) and SCC patients were propensity‐score matched 1:2 and Cox proportional hazards regression used to analyze survival.

Results

On multivariable regression analysis, MCC in RA patients (N = 325/2097, 15.5%) was more associated with residing ≥40 miles from the HVC (odds ratio [OR] = 2.37; P = .044) and receipt of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (1.42, P = .040). In PA patients (N = 75/380, 19.7%), residing ≥40 miles from the HVC (OR = 3.22; P = .001), and in EA patients (N = 88/534, 16.5%), younger patients (<50 years: OR = 2.96; P = .011) were associated with MCC. Following propensity score matching, EA (N = 147), PA (N = 133), and RA (N = 661) patients had no difference in 1‐year and 3‐year overall survival when comparing MCC to SCC.

Conclusions

The use of MCC appears safe without a difference in survival and may offer significant advantages in convenience to patients as they undergo their complex oncologic care.
Three‐Dimensional Printed Model Fabrication and Effectiveness Evaluation in Fetuses With Congenital Heart Disease or With a Normal Heart
Authors: Huang Jia , Shi Hua , Chen Qian , Hu Jiaqi , Zhang Yuguo , Song Hongning , Zhou Qing
Published: June 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the technical feasibility and accuracy of applying 3‐dimensional (3D) printing of normal and abnormal fetal hearts based on spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) volume‐rendered data.

Methods

Spatiotemporal image correlation volume images of 15 healthy fetuses and 15 fetuses with cardiac abnormalities were collected, and Mimics software (Materialise NV, Leuven, Belgium) was used to postprocess the volume data to obtain a 3D digital model of fetal heart and large blood vessel morphologic characteristics and to output the file to a 3D printer for printing the 3D model of the fetal heart and large blood vessels. The effect accuracy of the 3D printed model was qualitatively evaluated by showing the 3D anatomic structure of the model combined with echocardiographic or autopsy results, and the dimensional accuracy of the 3D printed model was quantitatively evaluated by comparing the measured data of the model and echocardiography.

Results

In all 30 fetuses, STIC volume data of the fetal heart were successfully reprocessed and printed out, which could visually display the morphologic characteristics of the fetal heart chamber and passage of the great vessels under normal and abnormal pathologic conditions. No significant differences in all of the heart size parameters were found between the 3D digital model, 3D printed model, and routine echocardiographic images (all P > .05). Moreover, the size parameters were concordant well between the methods, and all of the data points fell within the limits of agreement.

Conclusions

It is feasible to 3D print the fetal heart using STIC volumetric images as the data source, and the 3D printed model can fully and accurately display abnormal anatomic structures of the heart.
Impact of Cochlear Implant With Diametric Magnet on Imaging Access, Safety, and Clinical Care
Authors: Young Nancy M. , Hoff Stephen R , Ryan Maura
Published: June 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Review safety and effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of patients implanted with a cochlear implant (CI) containing a diametric magnet housed within the undersurface of the device.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review with additional review of MRI at a tertiary‐care children's hospital.

Methods

Seven patients with mean age of 8.4 years (range = 1.3–19 years) with a diametric magnet in situ during MRI. The intervention comprised one or more sessions of 1.5 T or 3.0 T MRI without a head wrap. The main outcome measures were the occurrence of magnet‐related complications including discomfort and magnet displacement, use of anesthesia or sedation, and clinical usefulness of MRI studies.

Results

Seven CI recipients underwent 17 episodes of 1.5 or 3.0 T MRI with an in situ diametric magnet. Thirteen of 17 (76%) MRI sessions were completed in awake patients. No patients had device‐related discomfort. No magnet‐related complications occurred. Thirteen of 14 (93%) brain studies were clinically useful despite artifacts.

Conclusions

The diametric magnet enabled MRI with magnet in situ without the discomfort or magnet displacement associated with removable axial magnets. The reduction in MRI magnet‐related complications occurred because torque is not directed perpendicular and outward from the plane of the magnet, and the magnet is securely contained within its housing. The design of this device increased access and reduced the need for sedation or anesthesia.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E952–E956, 2021
Terrestrial exports of dissolved and particulate organic carbon affect nearshore ecosystems of the Pacific coastal temperate rainforest
Authors: St. Pierre Kyra A. , Oliver Allison A. , Tank Suzanne E. , Hunt Brian P. V. , Giesbrecht Ian , Kellogg Colleen T. E. , Jackson Jennifer M. , Lertzman Ken P. , Floyd William C. , Korver Maartje C.
Published: June 2020

Watersheds of the coastal temperate rainforests of Pacific North America export large amounts of organic carbon (OC) to the coastal ocean. While it has been suggested that terrestrially derived organic matter could subsidize marine food webs and affect ocean biogeochemistry along the coastal margin, little work has been done to quantify and characterize OC across the freshwater to marine continuum. We conducted monthly and targeted rainfall event surveys of dissolved and particulate organic carbon (DOC and POC) quantity and quality (δ13C, dissolved organic matter characterization) across a freshwater to marine salinity gradient between Calvert and Hecate Islands, British Columbia, Canada. Freshwater DOC concentrations (9.97 ± 0.25 mg L−1) far exceeded those in marine waters (1.24 ± 0.03 mg L−1), while POC concentrations were similar across all sites (0.23 ± 0.01 mg L−1). δ13C‐DOC and ‐POC in freshwaters were constant, but varied seasonally at the marine stations with freshwater and marine processes. Rainfall events facilitated the rapid export of terrestrial DOC and POC to coastal waters, altering water quality and potentially subsidizing microbial productivity across marine surface waters. On an annual basis, primary production in marine waters (21–42 Gg C) exceeded total freshwater OC contributions (1.8–2.2 Gg C); however, freshwater exports were more important during the autumn and winter months, when rainfall was highest and primary production was limited by shorter days and deep turbulent mixing. Our results highlight the importance of storms for connecting the coastal temperate rainforest with surface coastal waters, especially during the summer when connectivity between the freshwater and marine ecosystems is otherwise low.
Topological Valley Hall Edge State Lasing
Authors: Zhong Hua , Li Yongdong , Song Daohong , Kartashov Yaroslav V. , Zhang Yiqi , Zhang Yanpeng , Chen Zhigang
Published: June 2020

Topological lasers based on topologically protected edge states exhibit unique features and enhanced robustness of operation in comparison with conventional lasers, even in the presence of disorder, edge deformation, or local defects. Here a new class of topological lasers arising from the valley Hall edge states is proposed, which does not rely on magnetic fields. Specifically, topological lasing occurs at domain walls between two honeycomb waveguide arrays with broken spatial inversion symmetry. Two types of valley Hall edge lasing modes are found by shaping the gain landscape along the domain walls. In the presence of uniform losses and two‐photon absorption, the lasing results in the formation of stable nonlinear dissipative excitations localized on the edge of the structure, even if it has complex geometry and even if it is finite. Robustness of lasing edge states is demonstrated in both periodic and finite structures, where such states can circumvent certain corners without scattering losses or radiation into the bulk, as long as the intervalley scattering is absent. The photonic structure and mechanism proposed here for topological lasing is fundamentally different from those previously employed in topological lasers, and can be used for fabrication of practical topological lasers of various geometries.
Bioactive Polylactide Fibrous Materials Prepared by Crazing Mechanism
Authors: Khavpachev Mukhamed A. , Trofimchuk Elena S. , Nikonorova Nina I. , Garina Elisaveta S. , Moskvina Marina A. , Efimov Alexander V. , Demina Varvara A. , Bakirov Artem V. , Sedush Nikita G. , Potseleev Vladislav V. , Cherdyntseva Tatiana A. , Chvalun Sergei N.
Published: June 2020

Bioactive suture materials made of biodegradable polymers containing biologically active substances are increasingly demanded in contemporary surgical practice. Herein, the functional fibrous materials are produced by structural modification of polylactide (PLA) fibers according to the crazing mechanism in water–ethanol solutions. The threshold of ethanol concentration, at which the breaking elongation of the polymer substantially increases (up to 600–700%), is found to be 30 wt%. The crazing mechanism is employed to fill the porous structure of PLA fibers by different antiseptic substances (brilliant green, iodine, and fuchsin). PLA loaded by 0.8 wt% of brilliant green exhibits antimicrobial activity on Escherichia coli and Candida guilliermondii. The additive is released stepwise for a prolongated time period (2.5 months). The addition of 1–6 wt% iodine dramatically accelerates the polymer degradation in sodium‐phosphate buffer solution at 37 °C. The obtained filled fibers may possess great interest for producing suture materials with prolonged action of functional components and variable degradation times.
Long‐Chain Alkyl Epoxides and Glycidyl Ethers: An Underrated Class of Monomers
Authors: Verkoyen Patrick , Frey Holger
Published: June 2020

Long‐chain epoxides and specifically alkyl glycidyl ethers represent a class of highly hydrophobic monomers for anionic ring‐opening polymerization (AROP), resulting in apolar aliphatic polyethers. In contrast, poly(ethylene glycol) is known for its high solubility in water. The combination of hydrophobic and hydrophilic monomers in block and statistical copolymerization reactions enables the synthesis of amphiphilic polyethers for a wide range of purposes, utilizing micellar interactions in aqueous solutions, e.g., viscosity enhancement of aqueous solutions, formation of supramolecular hydrogels, or for polymeric surfactants. Controlled polymerization of these highly hydrophobic long‐chain epoxide monomers via different synthesis strategies, AROP, monomer‐activated anionic ring‐opening polymerization, catalytic polymerization, or via postmodification, enables precise control of the hydrophilic/lipophilic balance. This renders amphiphilic polymers highly interesting candidates for specialized applications, e.g., as co‐surfactants in microemulsion systems. Amphiphilic polyethers based on propylene oxide and ethylene oxide, such as poloxamers are already utilized in many established applications due to the high biocompatibility of the polyether backbone. Long alkyl chain epoxides add an interesting perspective to this area and permit structural tailoring. This review gives an overview of the recent developments regarding the synthesis of amphiphilic polyethers bearing long alkyl chains and their applications.
Effect of Silane‐Based External Donor to Product Properties of Homopolypropylene Synthesized by Ziegler–Natta Catalyst
Authors: Herlambang Bayu , Chadarwati Sekar Ayu
Published: June 2020

Polypropylene utilization has been rapidly growing since its discovery in 1954 due to its unique combination of mechanical and chemical properties. Most polypropylene manufacturer use MgCl2‐supported Ziegler–Natta catalyst comprises of MgCl2 support, internal donor, and active site of TiCl4. Addition of cocatalyst and external donor are also necessary in polymerization process. External donor, also known as selectivity control agent is often used in polypropylene production for stereo‐selectivity control as well as for product properties adjustment. The effect of two different silane‐based donor cyclohexylmethyldimethoxysilane (C‐Donor) and dicyclopentyldimethoxysilane (D‐Donor) on the product properties are studied. The impact is observed in homopolypropylene with similar melt flow rate synthesized with Ziegler–Natta catalyst. Product properties such as resin fundamental properties (xylene soluble, color), film physical properties (tensile strength, elongation), and film optical properties (clarity, haze, gloss) are observed and evaluated. From the series of testing, both C‐donor and D‐donor products perform comparable fundamental, physical, and optical properties. This study shows that the type of silane‐based external donor gives only slight effect to homopolypropylene product properties.
Study of Analysis Method on Microplastic Identification in Bottled Drinking Water
Authors: Zainuddin Zarlina , Syuhada
Published: June 2020

Microplastic has attracted the attention of the scientific community since the last 3 years due to its effects and damages to the environment. Microplastics are defined as tiny solid plastics generally ranging from 20 µm to 5 mm in diameter. They are roughly classified into small (20 µm–1 mm) and large (1–5 mm) microplastics. In this study two preparation methods to analyze the presence of microplastics in bottled drinking water are developed. Microplastic in drinking water is isolated by direct filtration and drying methods. By drying method, the isolated material is then analyzed using Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) instrument. Since the isolated material from filtration method is observed by digital microscope and further analyzed using FTIR microscope. FTIR microscope has been used to identify the type of plastic material. The small size of a particle starting at 20 microns can be identified using this instrument. Microplastics, high density polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, size 20–200 µm are spiked in drinking water as control. The observation of the filtrates shows that microplastic only appeared in drinking water that has been spiked with microplastic. Further plastic identification using FTIR spectroscopy, DSC, and TGA needs microplastic in large amount.
Loss of prdm1a accelerates melanoma onset and progression
Authors: Iwanaga Ritsuko , Truong Brittany T. , Hsu Jessica Y. , Lambert Karoline A. , Vyas Rajesh , Orlicky David , Shellman Yiqun G. , Tan Aik‐Choon , Ceol Craig , Artinger Kristin Bruk
Published: June 2020

Melanoma is an aggressive, deadly skin cancer derived from melanocytes, a neural crest cell derivative. Melanoma cells mirror the developmental program of neural crest cells in that they exhibit the same gene expression patterns and utilize similar cellular mechanisms, including increased cell proliferation, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, and migration. Here we studied the role of neural crest regulator PRDM1 in melanoma onset and progression. In development, Prdm1a functions to promote neural crest progenitor fate, and in melanoma, we found that PRDM1 has reduced copy number and is recurrently deleted in both zebrafish and humans. When examining expression of neural crest and melanocyte development genes, we show that sox10 progenitor expression is high in prdm1a−/− mutants, while more differentiated melanocyte markers are reduced, suggesting that normally Prdm1a is required for differentiation. Data mining of human melanoma datasets indicates that high PRDM1 expression in human melanoma is correlated with better patient survival and decreased PRDM1 expression is common in metastatic tumors. When one copy of prdm1a is lost in the zebrafish melanoma model Tg(mitfa:BRAFV600E);p53−/−;prdm1a+/−, melanoma onset occurs more quickly, and the tumors that form have a larger area with increased expression of sox10. These data demonstrate a novel role for PRDM1 as a tumor suppressor in melanoma.
Levodopa–Carbidopa Intestinal Gel in Pediatric Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Brooks Madison , Carter Emma , Quiros Antonio , Revuelta Gonzalo
Published: June 2020

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Development and Validation of the Orthostatic Tremor Severity and Disability Scale (OT‐10)
Authors: Merola Aristide , Torres‐Russotto Diego R. , Stebbins Glenn T. , Vizcarra Joaquin A. , Shukla Aparna Wagle , Hassan Anhar , Marsili Luca , Krauss Joachim K. , Elble Rodger J. , Deuschl Günther , Espay Alberto J.
Published: June 2020

Background

Limited tools are available for the assessment of orthostatic tremor severity and disability.

Objectives

To develop and validate a self‐administered orthostatic tremor scale.

Methods

After expert consensus and literature review generating a list of 42 items, the scale was developed and modified for validation after a patient focus group, multiple rounds of Delphi panels, and cognitive interviews. Clinimetric evaluations included assessing content validity, internal consistency, measurement error and reliability, construct validity, and concurrent validity anchored on the examiner's Clinical Global Impression score.

Results

Eleven items ranked on a Likert scale from 0 (no disability/severity) to 5 (maximal disability/severity) were evaluated in 54 orthostatic tremor patients (16 men and 38 women; mean age: 69.17 ± 9.64 years; disease duration: 13.83 ± 11.24 years) to probe severity and disability over the preceding 1‐week period. The 11‐item scale showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.863) and acceptable (>0.40) item‐to‐total correlation. However, one item was removed at the final Delphi panel because of significant floor effect, poor item‐to‐total correlation, and poor factor‐loading, leaving the scale with 10 items (10‐item Orthostatic Tremor Severity and Disability Scale). Test‐retest reliability at 2 weeks was excellent (two‐way random intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.90), and the individual item test‐retest reliability showed good agreement, with a threshold weighted kappa >0.60 for all items. Exploratory factor analyses revealed a parsimonious two‐factor construct accounting for 57.7% of the scale's variance. The 10‐item Orthostatic Tremor Severity and Disability Scale scores correlated with the CGI.

Conclusions

The self‐administered 10‐item Orthostatic Tremor Severity and Disability Scale scale is valid and reliable for capturing orthostatic tremor–related severity and disability. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Analytical exact solutions for the Razavy type potential
Authors: Karayer H. , Demirhan D. , Atman K. G.
Published: June 2020

A quantum system with Razavy type potential which transforms to single or double well potential according to negative or positive potential parameterk, is solved analytically by using extended form of Nikiforov–Uvarov (NU) method. It is presented that eigenvalue spectra of Schrödinger equation for this potential can be attained analytically by the method. Eigenfunction solutions that are depending on confluent Heun polynomials, are analyzed graphically for specified parameters.
Impact of Phenol‐Enriched Virgin Olive Oils on the Postprandial Levels of Circulating microRNAs Related to Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Daimiel Lidia , Micó Víctor , Valls Rosa M , Pedret Anna , Motilva María José , Rubió Laura , Fitó Montse , Farrás Marta , Covas María Isabel , Solá Rosa , Ordovás José M.
Published: June 2020

Scope

We investigate the postprandial modulation of cardiovascular‐related microRNAs elicited by extra virgin olive oil (EVOOs) containing different levels of their own polyphenols.

Methods and results

It is randomized, postprandial, parallel, double‐blind study. Twelve healthy participants consumed 30 mL of EVOO containing low (L‐EVOO; 250 mg total phenols kg−1 of oil), medium (M‐EVOO; 500 mg total phenols kg−1 of oil), and high (H‐EVOO; 750 mg total phenols kg−1 of oil) enriched EVOOs. Postprandial plasma microRNAs levels are analyzed by real‐time quantitative PCR. The results show that L‐EVOO intake is associated with decreased let‐7e‐5p and miR‐328a‐3p levels and increased miR‐17‐5p and miR‐20a‐5p, concentrations. M‐EVOO decreases plasma let‐7e‐5p and increases miR‐17‐5p, miR‐20a‐5p, and miR‐192‐5p levels. Finally, H‐EVOO decreases let‐7e‐5p, miR‐10a‐5p, miR‐21‐5p, and miR‐26b‐5p levels.

Conclusion

During the postprandial state, the levels of let‐7e‐5p decrease with EVOO regardless of polyphenol content suggesting a general response to the fatty acid composition of EVOO or/and the presence of at least 250 mg polyphenol kg−1 olive oil. Moreover, the miR‐17‐92 cluster increases by low and medium polyphenol content suggesting a role in fatty acid metabolism and nutrient sensing. Thus, postprandial modulation of circulating microRNAs levels could be a potential mechanism for the cardiovascular benefits associated with EVOO intake.
3D microcalcification detection using a color Doppler twinkling artifact with optimized transmit conditions: Preliminary results
Authors: Kang Jinbum , Han Kanghee , Kim Kang‐Sik , Jang Won Seuk , Kim Min Jung , Yoo Yangmo
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Mammography is the only method that has been proven to detect breast microcalcifications (MCs), but the sensitivity of mammography varies according to breast density. This paper proposes an ultrasound (US) color Doppler twinkling artifact (CDTA) method with optimized transmit conditions to identify breast MCs without ionizing radiation.

Methods

The transmit conditions for US color Doppler imaging (CDI) were optimized to enhance the sensitivity of the twinkling artifact (TA) that arises from random scattering on rough surfaces of breast MCs. To validate the proposed breast MC detection method, a chicken breast phantom with MC particles (groups of particles <400  and <240 ) was fabricated and scanned by a digital mammography system and an US research platform by an L11‐5v linear array probe with a three‐dimensional (3D) motion tracking system.

Results

From the phantom experiment, the proposed 3D CDTA imaging method with optimized transmit conditions (i.e., a center frequency of 5.0 MHz, an f‐number of 1.3, and a peak negative pressure of 1.83 MPa) successfully detected all 16 MC particles, comparable to detection with mammography. For a human breast surgical specimen in the ex vivo study, all 10 MC clusters, marked by a radiologist on the mammogram, were identified with the proposed 3D CDTA imaging method.

Conclusions

In the phantom and ex vivo breast specimen studies, the proposed 3D CDTA imaging method successfully detected MCs, and the spatial localization was highly correlated with the mammogram results. These results indicate that the proposed 3D CDTA imaging method has great potential for the detection of MCs without ionizing radiation.
Three‐dimensional discrete element simulation of indirect tensile behaviour of a transversely isotropic rock
Authors: Li Kaihui , Yin Zhen‐Yu , Cheng Yungming , Cao Ping , Meng Jingjing
Published: June 2020

This paper presents the development of a three‐dimensional discrete element model using flat‐joint and smooth‐joint contact models to investigate the effect of anisotropy on the tensile behaviour of slate, a transversely isotropic rock, under Brazilian testing from both macro and microscales. The effect of anisotropy is further realised by exploring the influence of foliation orientations (β and ψ) on the tensile strength, fracture pattern, microcracking and stress distribution of the transversely isotropic rock. The variation of tensile strength with foliation orientation is presented. The cross‐weak‐plane fracture growth observed in laboratory is reproduced, and the criterion for which to form is also given from the aspect of foliation orientation. Furthermore, the proportional variations of microcracks well account for the effects of foliation orientation on the tensile strength and failure pattern. Finally, it is found that the existence of weak planes increases both the heterogeneity and the anisotropy of stress distributions within the transversely isotropic rock, with the degree of influence varying with the foliation orientation.
Adaptive basis construction and improved error estimation for parametric nonlinear dynamical systems
Authors: Chellappa Sridhar , Feng Lihong , Benner Peter
Published: June 2020

An adaptive scheme to generate reduced‐order models for parametric nonlinear dynamical systems is proposed. It aims to automatize the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD)‐Greedy algorithm combined with empirical interpolation. At each iteration, it is able to adaptively determine the number of the reduced basis vectors and the number of the interpolation basis vectors for basis construction. The proposed technique is able to derive a suitable match between the RB and the interpolation basis vectors, making the generation of a stable, compact and reliable ROM possible. This is achieved by adaptively adding new basis vectors or removing unnecessary ones, at each iteration of the greedy algorithm. An efficient output error indicator plays a key role in the adaptive scheme. We also propose an improved output error indicator based on previous work. Upon convergence of the POD‐Greedy algorithm, the new error indicator is shown to be sharper than the existing ones, implicating that a more reliable ROM can be constructed. The proposed method is tested on several nonlinear dynamical systems, namely, the viscous Burgers' equation and two other models from chemical engineering.
Neuroimaging of Cerebral Blood Flow and Sodium in Women with Lipedema
Authors: Petersen Kalen J. , Garza Maria , Donahue Paula M. C. , Harkins Kevin D. , Marton Adriana , Titze Jens , Donahue Manus J. , Crescenzi Rachelle
Published: June 2020

Objective

Lipedema is characterized by pain, fatigue, and excessive adipose tissue and sodium accumulation of the lower extremities. This case‐control study aims to determine whether sodium or vascular dysfunction is present in the central nervous system.

Methods

Brain magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 3 T in patients with lipedema (n = 15) and control (n = 18) participants matched for sex, age, race, and BMI. Standard anatomical imaging and intracranial angiography were applied to evaluate brain volume and vasculopathy, respectively; arterial spin labeling and sodium magnetic resonance imaging were applied to quantify cerebral blood flow (CBF) (milliliters per 100 grams of tissue/minute) and brain tissue sodium content (millimoles per liter), respectively. A Mann‐Whitney U test (significance criteria P < 0.05) was applied to evaluate group differences.

Results

No differences in tissue volume, white matter hyperintensities, intracranial vasculopathy, or tissue sodium content were observed between groups. Gray matter CBF was elevated (P = 0.03) in patients with lipedema (57.2 ± 9.6 mL per 100 g/min) versus control participants (49.8 ± 9.1 mL per 100 g/min).

Conclusions

Findings provide evidence that brain sodium and tissue fractions are similar between patients with lipedema and control participants and that patients with lipedema do not exhibit abnormal radiological indicators of intracranial vasculopathy or ischemic injury. Potential explanations for elevated CBF are discussed in the context of the growing literature on lipedema symptomatology and vascular dysfunction.
On the conditions of living/dying together in the Middle East
Authors: Aydın Barış
Published: June 2020

The idea of a “community of death” theorized by Maurice Blanchot with reference to George Bataille, and the discussion he pursued assuming Acéphale and May 68 as its concrete forms provides an important conceptual framework for the idea of emancipation‐oriented social movement. The thinkers discussed in here deliberated society or community as rather than being a platform of immanence that sacrificed the its singularity and the absolute otherness to an organic social ideal, connoting its singularity as the medium of revealing and sharing in a way that corresponds to a surplus within the community. Even if the most prominent aspect of the Arab Spring and Gezi Movement, storming through the Middle East, was the subsequent strengthening of the forces leading to blood and tears in these ancient lands, it is possible to answer questions about these phenomena such as “Are there any small sparks, glows or flares in the dust that can give lifeblood to the co‐existence of the inhabitants of these lands? What are the conditions?” by way of conceptual ammunition. Despite the subsequent antidemocratic pushbacks, this wave of social movements has now irreversibly placed new forms of individuality and subjectivity based on social and political freedom on the agenda of the masses in the Middle East. For the Arab Spring and the Gezi movement, the plurality of the public that emerged during the demonstrations, which could not be reduced to any identity or class, points to both the chances and the saddening misfortune of the social movements here, as Blanchot said.
Oxidation time effects of multiwalled carbon nanotubes on thermal, mechanical, and cure kinetics of epoxy‐based nanocomposites
Authors: Frankowiak Juliana C. , Bello Roger H. , Coelho Luiz A. F.
Published: June 2020

In this work, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were oxidized in a mixture of sulfuric and nitric acid (3:1 v/v) using two distinct times (9 and 18 hours). The effects of different oxidation levels and concentrations of MWCNT on curing kinetics, thermal, and mechanical properties of bisphenol A diglycidyl ether nanocomposites were studied. The nanocomposites were produced using in situ polymerization technique at two different volume fractions (0.15% and 0.50% v/v) without using solvents. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results indicated that MWCNT were in fact oxidized and just 9 hours of acid treatment showed a greater amount of oxygen on the MWCNT surfaces. Results of differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis showed small variations in the glass transition temperatures of the nanocomposites, indicating alterations in the quality of the interphase matrix/carbon nanotubes. Concerning the thermogravimetric analysis results, the most thermally stable samples were those containing 0.15% v/v of pristine and 18 hours of oxidized MWCNT, which also had the highest stiffness of all nanocomposites. Finally, the cure kinetics of nanocomposites is fairly represented by Kamal and Sourour's semiempirical model with an autocatalytic behavior at 100°C and 120°C, but decelerated at 140°C.
Sustainable, rigid imide building blocks as promising substitutes for phthalic anhydride in alkyd resins
Authors: Hayden Douglas R , Papegaaij Alwin , Reuvers Bart , Buijsen Paul , Koning Cor
Published: June 2020

New, highly rigid bio‐based building blocks were synthesized from renewable raw materials. In a first reaction step, an imide was made from citraconic anhydride and the amino acid glycine. This imide was subsequently reacted with sorbic acid using Diels–Alder chemistry, furnishing a double‐ring structure. This new, very rigid renewable building block was then incorporated into alkyd resins by standard polycondensation chemistry and technology. The resulting, >80 wt% renewable, alkyd resins were evaluated as white paints in a preliminary way by solvent casting from xylene. The properties of the renewable coatings look promising, some even outperforming those of standard commercial alkyd resins. For further enhancing the sustainability of the systems discussed, turning these highly bio‐based alkyd resins into stable aqueous emulsions is a must. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Thermally Induced Magnetoelastic Effect in Planar CoNi Microparticles on Lithium Niobate
Authors: Bizyaev Dmitry Anatolevich , Bukharaev Anastas Akhmetovich , Nurgazizov Niaz Ilgizovich , Chuklanov Anton Petrovich , Migachev Stanistav Alexandrovich
Published: June 2020

The temperature effect on the magnetization distribution in planar CoNi microparticles deposited on hexagonal single‐crystal lithium niobate has been studied. The transition of the magnetization distribution of such microparticles from multidomain to quasiuniform state by changing the substrate temperature has been demonstrated. It is established that the transition into the quasiuniform state occurs upon heating/cooling of the sample with respect to the deposition temperature of the microparticles. This is due to the noticeable difference in the thermal expansion coefficients along various crystallographic axes of lithium niobate. The uniaxial mechanical stresses are induced in the CoNi microparticles deposited on the crystal at the thermal change in the crystal size. The stresses induced in this manner are determined. In addition, this makes it possible to reduce the external magnetic field required for magnetization switching up to two times.
Atomic Layer Deposition‐Assisted Fabrication of Co‐Nanoparticle/N‐Doped Carbon Nanotube Hybrids as Efficient Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Han HyukSu , Paik Ju Won , Ham MinJi , Kim Kang Min , Park Jin Kuen , Jeong Young Kyu
Published: June 2020

Transition metal (TM)‐based carbon hybrids have numerous applications in the field of regenerative electrochemical energy. The synergetic effects of high conductivity of carbon supports and abundant catalytic active sites in TMs make these hybrids promising oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts. However, strategies for modulating the catalytic active species in the above hybrids are limited despite being highly sought after. Furthermore, the exact roles of chemical species in the hybrids (e.g., N, C, or TM) mainly responsible for this high OER performance remain unknown. Herein, an innovative approach based on atomic layer deposition is developed to tune the true active species in Co nanoparticle/N‐doped carbon nanotube (Co/N‐CNT) hybrids. Specifically, the configuration predominantly promoting water oxidation in an alkaline medium is identified as pyridinic N–Co–C. Furthermore, a physicochemical intact interface between metallic Co nanoparticles and conductive N‐CNTs is demonstrated to induce synergetic effects for accelerating charge transfer and enhancing electrocatalytic activity as well as stability in the hybrid catalysts. The optimized hybrid catalyst is revealed to exhibit outstanding alkaline OER activity and stability, outperforming RuO2, a benchmark novel OER electrocatalyst.