bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proximate, Phytochemical and Vitamin Compositions of Cucumis metuliferus (Horned Melon) Rind
Authors: Ezekaibeya Achikanu Cosmas , Nnenna Ani Onuabuchi , Kenechukwu Onyishi Chukwuebuka
Published: May 2020

Cucumis metuliferus also known as horned melon is a plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family which has been reported to have medicinal value. Every part of the plant is consumed, except the rind, although edible is mostly discarded as waste. Solid food waste contributes to greater percentage of pollution in our environment. Therefore, to minimize food wastage, the nutritional and medicinal value of the rind need to be evaluated to promote its usage. Hence, this study was aimed to investigate the proximate, phytochemical and vitamin compositions of the rind of Cucumis metuliferus. The analyses were carried out using standard methods. The proximate analyses showed that the rind contained high concentrations of carbohydrate (54.84%), moisture (18.40%) and crude fibre (11.34%); moderate concentration of crude fat (8.89%) with low concentration of ash (3.59%) and crude protein (2.95%). From the result of the phytochemical analysis, the rind contained varied concentrations of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, terpenoids and phenol. The result also showed that the rind is rich in vitamins C, E, D, B9 and A with appreciable concentrations of vitamins B2, K, B1 and β-carotene which were all above the recommended daily vitamin allowance. The high concentration of these nutrients and phytochemicals proves that the rind of Cucumis metuliferus has nutritive and medicinal value. Therefore, the rind could be useful as food supplements and in pharmaceutical preparations.
A Systematic Literature Review of Current Therapeutic Approaches for COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Soltani Saber , Zakeri Amir Mohammad , Karimi Mohammad Reza , Rezayat Sara Akhavan , Anbaji Fateme Zomorodi , Tabibzadeh Alireza , Yousefi Parastoo , Zakeri Armin , Jafarpour Ali , Norouzi Mehdi , Erfani Yousef , Poortahmasebi Vahdat
Published: May 2020

Background: In December 2019, the pneumonia outbreak reported in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. WHO introduced a novel coronavirus and the virus named Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in January 2020. There are not any specific antiviral agents for coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19).

Objective: Our review aimed to discuss treatment options and the efficacy of currently prescribed drugs and supportive care in COVID‐19 patients.

Study Design: A literature review of the articles in the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and EMBASE conducted.

Results: Lopinavir/ritonavir combination was the most frequently used drug, followed by Arbidol and Oseltamivir and Methylprednisolone. Lopinavir/Ritonavir outcome showed the fever and respiratory infection improve in day two and day eight, respectively. Also, negative PCR of SARS‐CoV‐2 in days six and 7day was seen and finally these patients discharged in 10 days.

Conclusions: Lopinavir/Ritonavir was the most improving administrated antiviral combination, which might be a good option for COVID-19 due to its availability. Although supportive care such as O2 supplementary and IV fluid therapy has improved outcomes. There are not evidence for suggesting a new treatment or a new drug, which mean the necessity of further investigations for drug research in a clinical trial for a conclusion about the optimum treatment.
Impact of varying air cavity on planning dosimetry for rectum patients treated on a 1.5 T hybrid MR‐linac system
Authors: Godoy Scripes Paola , Subashi Ergys , Burleson Sarah , Liang Jiayi , Romesser Paul , Crane Christopher , Mechalakos James , Hunt Margie , Tyagi Neelam
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To investigate the dosimetric impact of magnetic (B) field on varying air cavities in rectum patients treated on the hybrid 1.5 T MR‐linac.

Methods

Artificial air cavities of varying diameters (0.0, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, and 5.0 cm) were created for four rectum patients (two prone and two supine). A total of 56 plans using a 7 MV flattening filter‐free beam were generated with and without B‐field. Reference intensity‐modulated radiation therapy treatment plans without air cavity in the presence and absence of B‐field were generated to a total dose of 45/50 Gy. The reference plans were copied and recalculated for the varying air cavities. D95(PTV45–PTV50), D95(PTV50–aircavity), V50(PTV50–aircavity), Dmax(PTV50–aircavity), and V110%(PTV50–aircavity) were extracted for each patient. Annulus rings of 1‐mm‐diameter step size were generated for one of the air cavity plans (3.0 cm) for all four patients to determine Dmax (%) and V110% (cc) within each annulus.

Results

In the presence of B‐field, hot spots at the cavity interface start to become visible at ~1 cm air cavity in both supine and prone positioning due to electron return effect (ERE). In the presence of B‐field Dmax and V110% varied from 5523 ± 49 cGy and 0.09 ± 0.16 cc for 0 cm air cavity size to 6050 ± 109 cGy and 11.6 ± 6.7 cc for 5 cm air cavity size. The hot spots were located within 3 mm inside the rectal‐air interface, where Dmax increased from 110.4 ± 0.5% without B‐field to 119.2 ± 0.8 % with B‐field.

Conclusions

Air cavities inside rectum affects rectum plan dosimetry due ERE. Location and magnitude of hot spots are dependent on the size of the air cavity.
An experimental investigation of the misinformation effect in crime‐related amnesia claims
Authors: Mangiulli Ivan , Otgaar Henry , Curci Antonietta , Jelicic Marko
Published: May 2020

Research suggests that both internal (i.e., lying) and external (i.e., misinformation) factors can affect memory for a crime. We aimed to explore the effects of post‐event misinformation on crime‐related amnesia claims. We showed participants a mock crime and asked them to either simulate amnesia (simulators) or confess to it (confessors). Next, some participants were provided with misinformation. Finally, all participants were requested to genuinely recollect the crime. Overall, simulators reported less correct information than confessors. Moreover, these two groups were equally vulnerable to misinformation. In addition, exploratory analyses on strategies adopted by simulators revealed that those who previously, mostly omitted information while simulating amnesia exhibited the lowest amount of correct details. Simulators who instead used a mixed strategy disclosed more fabricated memory errors. Findings suggest that legal professionals and jurors should take into account that even offenders, irrespective of confessing or simulating memory loss for a crime, can be susceptible to post‐event misinformation.
Successive relearning improves performance on a high‐stakes exam in a difficult biopsychology course
Authors: Janes Jessica L. , Dunlosky John , Rawson Katherine A. , Jasnow Aaron
Published: May 2020

Successive relearning combines two effective learning techniques (retrieval practice and spaced practice) and involves practicing retrieval until some level of mastery has been reached (i.e., at least one correct retrieval attempt) in each of multiple sessions. Several laboratory studies have demonstrated the promise of successive relearning for enhancing student learning, but attempts to evaluate its effectiveness in authentic educational contexts are limited. In the current research, we implemented successive relearning in a difficult biopsychology course to examine its effectiveness at enhancing student learning on a high‐stakes exam. Students successively relearned some course content via a virtual flashcard program, whereas other course content was learned with business‐as‐usual activities. In two experiments, successive relearning boosted students' learning of course content by at least 10% (with ds ranging from 0.54 to 1.10). These findings suggest that implementing successive relearning in courses can be an effective method of promoting student achievement.
Investigation on the flow characteristics of a novel multi‐blade combined agitator by time‐resolved particle image velocimetry and large eddy simulation
Authors: Xu Yan , Wu Bin , Luo Peicheng
Published: May 2020

We investigated the flow characteristics in a tank of H/T = 1.5 stirred by a novel multi‐blade combined agitator (MBC) by using time‐resolved particle image velocimetry and large eddy simulation approach. The predictions were assessed by Y+ values, Taylor microscale and power spectrum analysis, as well as experimental validation of velocity distributions. Results demonstrate that the MBC agitator can load the energy into the system effectively with a power number of 12.5 in a turbulent regime, resulting in improved axial and radial mass exchange. The upper and lower short blades produce an axial down‐flow in the top half and an axial up‐flow in the bottom half, respectively. Part of axial flows change to radial flows by the radial pumping of the long blades, meanwhile, the impingement of two axial flows improves the axial mass exchange. These flow characteristics lead to an obvious improvement in the turbulent kinetic energy distribution uniformity with higher turbulent intensity.
High H2 permeable SAPO‐34 hollow fiber membrane for high temperature propane dehydrogenation application
Authors: Wang Zhigang , Xu Jeff , Pati Subhasis , Chen Tianjia , Deng Yuzhen , Dewangan Nikita , Meng Lie , Lin Jerry Y.S. , Kawi Sibudjing
Published: May 2020

SAPO‐34 hollow fiber zeolite membranes are successfully synthesized on α‐Al2O3 hollow fiber ceramic substrates by secondary growth method, and used to separate H2 from a binary mixture (H2, C3H8) or ternary mixture (H2, C3H8, and C3H6) under a wide temperature range (25–600°C) with the aim of using them for propane dehydrogenation (PDH) reactions at high temperature. The results show excellent performance for H2/C3H8 and H2/ C3H8 & C3H6 separation, with high H2 permeance of 3.1 × 10−7 mol/m2/s/Pa and H2/C3H8 selectivity of 41 at 600°C. Additionally, the membrane shows stable performance for 140 hr of H2/C3H8 separation test at 600°C. The high performance of this membrane is mainly attributed to the thin (∼2 μm) zeolite layer and asymmetric‐wall of the hollow fiber support. So far, this membrane offers the highest hydrogen permeation and selectivity for H2/C3H8 separation at high temperature (600°C) compared to those reported in literature.
Drop size correlation and population balance model for an agitated‐pulsed solvent extraction column
Authors: Tan Boren , Lan Minle , Li Longxiang , Wang Yong , Qi Tao
Published: May 2020

Agitated‐pulsed column (APC) is a newly designed extraction column with excellent mass transfer performance. In this work, Sauter mean drop diameter d32 and drop size distribution was investigated under different operation conditions in a 25 mm diameter APC. The results show that with an increase in pulsation intensity and agitation speed the drop size distribution is narrowed and d32 is decreased significantly. With increasing dispersed‐phase velocity, d32 increased and drop size distribution become narrow, while there was no noticeable change with continuous velocity. The cumulative size distribution was found to be predicted well using the Inverse Gaussian function. A new correlation was proposed to predict the experimental d32 data of the APC column used in this study. Furthermore, population balance model was applied to predict the drop size distribution with refitted parameters in the breakage, coalescence kernels functions.
Interfacial microdroplet evaporative crystallization on 3D printed regular matrix platform
Authors: Jiang Xiaobin , Han Mingguang , Xia Zeqiu , Li Jin , Ruan Xuehua , Yan Xiaoming , Xiao Wu , He Gaohong
Published: May 2020

Droplet evaporative crystallization on microscale heterogeneous surface is a vivid topic in chemical engineering, bioengineering, nanomaterials, and so on. Here, 3D printed interfacial matrix platform with regular pillar convexity and tunnel structure is fabricated to reveal the mechanism of the interfacial micro droplet crystallization. Element‐based rotation volume model is established to simulate the concentration and nucleation barrier distribution during the microscale process. Sodium urate monohydrate and NaCl crystallization on the pillar convex structure both confirm that confined capillary flow in the micro droplet and initial nucleation condition dominate the nucleation, growth control and particle distribution. Droplet crystallization stretches over the tunnel structure reveal an interesting phenomenon that two regions possessing distinct‐different nucleation barriers can isolated obtain the crystal particles from nanoscale to even millimeter scale. The fabricated platform and the capillary circulation transfer theory unfold a potential approach to harvest high value‐added crystals with specific morphology and desire sizes distribution.
The effect of genetic vs nongenetic parental care on adult children's income and wealth in later life: An evolutionary analysis
Authors: Timming Andrew R. , French Michael T.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Using Wave IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health data set, this preregistered study set out to investigate the effect of parental care arrangements (eg, genetically related parents, adoptive, step/ foster, genetic nonparental relative, and no parental figure) on adult children's income and wealth in later life.

Methods

Consistent with the preregistration plan, multivariate analyses of covariance were first used to examine, separately, the effects of paternal and maternal care arrangements on children's income and wealth in later life. Further post hoc exploratory analyses were carried out to evaluate the robustness of the findings.

Results

The results indicate that individual earnings in later life are unrelated to paternal care arrangements, thus questioning a key tenet of kin selection theory. However, children raised by biological fathers and adoptive fathers still enjoy significant economic advantages over nongenetic father figures and homes without fathers in relation to household income and wealth.

Conclusions

Prevailing theories suggest that children raised by relatives, nongenetically related parents, and no father or mother suffer from a lack of parental investment that should manifest itself in reduced earnings and assets in adulthood. These theories are only partially correct, with evidence pointing to no deleterious effect of variable parental arrangements on individual earnings.
A pathogenic variant in the SETBP1 hotspot results in a forme‐fruste Schinzel–Giedion syndrome
Authors: Sullivan Jennifer A. , Stong Nicholas , Baugh Evan H. , McDonald Marie T. , Takeuchi Akihito , Shashi Vandana
Published: May 2020

Schinzel–Giedion syndrome (SGS; OMIM 269150) is an ultra‐rare genetic disorder associated with a distinctive facial gestalt, congenital malformations, severe intellectual disability, and a progressive neurological course. The prognosis for SGS is poor, with survival beyond the first decade rare. Germline, de novo heterozygous variants in the SETBP1 gene cause SGS with the pathogenic variants associated with the SGS phenotype missense and confined to exon 4 of the gene, clustered in a four amino acid (12 bp) hotspot in the SKI homologous region of the SETBP1 protein. We report a patient with a de novo I871S variant within the SKI homologous region, which has been associated with the severe phenotype previously; but our patient has fewer features of SGS and a milder course. This is the first report of a forme‐fruste phenotype in a patient with a pathogenic variant within the SGS hotspot on the SETBP1 gene and it highlights the importance of considering atypical clinical presentations in the context of severe ultra‐rare genetic disorders.
Exhalation delivery system with fluticasone improves quality of life and health status: pooled analysis of phase 3 trials NAVIGATE I and II
Authors: Soler Zachary M. , Colman Sam , Velez Fulton F. , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps (CRSwNP/CRSsNP) seriously impairs health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). This analysis describes the impact of the exhalation delivery system with fluticasone (EDS‐FLU) on HRQoL, assessed by the 36‐item Short‐Form Health Survey version 2 (SF‐36v2), and on utilities, assessed via the Short‐Form 6‐Dimension (SF‐6D), in patients with CRSwNP.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of pooled randomized clinical trial data (NAVIGATE I and II; N = 643) to examine change from baseline in SF‐36v2 and SF‐6D at end‐of‐double‐blind (EODB: 16 weeks) and end‐of‐open‐label (EOOL: 24 weeks; following 8 weeks of open‐label treatment) for EDS‐FLU vs placebo (EDS‐PBO). Baseline characteristics predictive of change in SF‐36 and SF‐6D scores were assessed.

Results

Mean baseline SF‐36v2 scores were below population norms. At EODB, mean improvement was greater for all SF‐36v2 domain and component scores with EDS‐FLU (range: 2.9 [physical functioning] to 5.11 [bodily pain {BP}]) vs EDS‐PBO (range: 0.81 [mental health] to 2.87 [BP]) (each comparison p < 0.01); physical and mental component score improvements within the EDS‐FLU group exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements in SF‐6D utility scores were seen in EDS‐FLU–treated patients compared to EDS‐PBO–treated patients (0.058 vs 0.023, respectively, p < 0.001). At EOOL, SF‐36v2 and SF‐6D mean scores were at or above population norms, with clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements from baseline.

Conclusion

In this pooled analysis of 2 large pivotal EDS‐FLU trials, health domain and health utilities improvements were significantly greater with EDS‐FLU than EDS‐PBO and were comparable to population norms.
Predictors of rhinorrhea response after posterior nasal nerve cryoablation for chronic rhinitis
Authors: Yoo Frederick , Kuan Edward C. , Batra Pete S. , Chan Carmen K. , Tajudeen Bobby A. , Craig John R.
Published: May 2020

Background

Posterior nasal nerve (PNN) cryoablation has shown promise in improving rhinorrhea due to allergic and nonallergic rhinitis (NAR). Early case series have shown meaningful clinical improvement in 75‐80% of patients, but variables predicting PNN cryoablation success have not been studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether disease features and ipratropium nasal spray response predicted rhinorrhea response after PNN cryoablation.

Methods

A multi‐institutional retrospective case‐control study of 55 patients who underwent PNN cryoablation for bilateral rhinorrhea due to allergic, nonallergic, or mixed rhinitis was conducted at 3 tertiary medical centers. Patients received a 1‐month trial of ipratropium spray. Runny Nose Scores (RNSs) of 0‐5 from the 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test were collected prospectively, before and after PNN cryoablation.

Results

The mean age of subjects was 55.3 years and 54.6% were women. Mean follow‐up was 170 days. NAR comprised 62% of patients. Of the 48 patients who trialed ipratropium spray, 33 (69%) had some response and 15 (31%) had no response. Mean overall preprocedural RNS was 4.2 ± 1.0. After PNN cryoablation, there was a ≥1‐point decrease in RNS in 39 patients (71%). Only ipratropium spray (INS) response predicted cryoablation success. For ipratropium spray responders, 28 of 33 (85%) had improved RNS after cryoablation, whereas 5 of 15 (33%) nonresponders improved (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

In chronic rhinitis patients, rhinorrhea response to ipratropium was predictive of rhinorrhea improvement after PNN cryoablation. This study has important implications for preoperative counseling and guiding patient expectations when considering PNN cryoablation.
Using the Therapist's Inner Conversation in Teamwork with Novice Therapists
Authors: Zamorano Díaz Claudio , Fuenzalida Muñoz Carolina , Cornejo Valenzuela Javiera
Published: May 2020

Peter Rober's work (2005a) on the therapist’s inner conversation (TIC) has been a significant contribution to understanding the therapist's 'here and now' experience that focuses on the emergence of different voices responding to what is said in the therapy session. Frediani and Rober (2016) conducted an investigation into the experience and TIC of novice therapists concerning emotions aroused and how they deal with them during family therapy. Their research prompted us to ask how this methodology could work with recent graduates and those in the last year of their undergraduate training. This was addressed in the adolescent psychotherapy team that is part of the Equipo de Trabajo y Asesoría Sistémica (Systemic Counselling and Teamwork) (eQtasis) of the Psychology Department of the University of Chile. An important characteristic has been developing an ethics for clinical practice and generating a collaborative reflexive approach as a central aspect of the clinical training. The paper aims to promote the legitimacy of the experience of novice therapists who despite limited professional experience have many stories that connect with what is said in therapy.
Synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of new mixed ammine/amine platinum(IV) complexes
Authors: Jia Chunyan , Cong Yanwei , Pu Shaoping , Cai Linxiang , Zhong Yunshuang , Zhang Xinzhong , Liao Xiali , Li Yamin , Yang Bo , Gao Chuanzhu
Published: May 2020

A series of mixed ammine/amine platinum(IV) complexes with lipophilic ligands in their axial positions were designed, synthesized, and spectrally characterized. In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation of these complexes and their lead compounds have been carried out against A549, SMMC‐7721, MCF‐7, and SW480 human cancer cell lines. The introduction of carboxylate ions as leaving group can improve the aqueous solubility and stability of the platinum(II) complexes. The carboxylato ligands and chloride ligands in the axial position markedly increased the lipophilicity and cytotoxicity of compounds C4 and C5. Particularly, compound C5 showed two to eight times higher cytotoxicity than cisplatin and satraplatin against selected cell lines. For its oral activity and no cross‐resistance potentiality, C5 is expected to be an antitumor platinum drug candidate. This novel class of platinum compounds represents a valuable lead in the development of new‐generation agents capable of demonstrating cytotoxicity superior to that of the clinically established cisplatin.
Synthesis and analysis of phase segregation of polystyrene‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate) copolymer obtained by Steglich esterification from semitelechelic blocks of polystyrene and poly(methyl methacrylate)
Authors: Boni Felipe R. , Ferreira Filipe V. , Pinheiro Ivanei F. , Rocco Silvana A. , Sforça Mauricio L. , Lona Liliane M. F.
Published: May 2020

Here, an alternative route to successfully synthesize polystyrene‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PS‐b‐PMMA) is reported. Steglich esterification was used as an effective, metal free approach for coupling carboxylic terminated PS and the hydroxyl end‐functionalized PMMA chains obtained by nitroxide‐mediated polymerization and atom transfer radical polymerization, respectively. α‐Functionalization was obtained using 4,4′‐azobis(4‐cyanovaleric acid) and 2,2,2‐tribromoethanol as initiators. The synthesis of PS‐b‐PMMA was confirmed by gel permeation chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), while the dependence of the diffusion coefficients of the polymers (PS, PMMA, PS/PMMA blend, and PS‐b‐PMMA) with their corresponding molecular weights was discussed based on the results of atomic force microscopy‐based infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and spectra of diffusion‐ordered NMR spectroscopy. Differently from PS‐b‐PMMA, a partial segregation was observed for the PS/PMMA blend, affecting its thermal behavior and diffusion coefficient. The study here presented provides an easier and efficient strategy for the synthesis of PS‐b‐PMMA and new insights into the diffusion of polymers.
Development of 18 microsatellite markers for Atractylodes japonica
Authors: Jeong Jin‐Tae , Chung Hee , Ha Bo‐Keun , Gil Jinsu , Lee Jeong‐Hoon , Lee Yun‐Ji , Kim Mi Ran , Oh MyeongWon , Park Chun Geon , Chang Jae Ki , Hong Chang Pyo , Park Sin‐Gi , Lee Yi
Published: May 2020

Premise

Atractylodes japonica (Asteraceae) is endemic to East Asia, where its rhizomes are used in traditional medicine. To investigate the genetic diversity of this species, we developed polymorphic microsatellite markers.

Methods and Results

We obtained a total of 175,825 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci using the Illumina HiSeq 2500 system. Eighteen polymorphic SSR primer pairs were selected to determine heterozygosity levels and allele numbers in 80 individuals from four A. japonica populations. The levels of observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.000 to 1.000 and from 0.133 to 0.892, respectively. Cross‐amplification in the related species A. macrocephala and A. lancea was successful in 15 and 14 of the 18 markers, respectively.

Conclusions

These microsatellite markers will be useful for future studies involving A. japonica population genetics and breeding.
Development and growth of the pelvic fin in the extant coelacanthLatimeria chalumnae
Authors: Mansuit Rohan , Clément Gaël , Herrel Anthony , Dutel Hugo , Tafforeau Paul , Santin Mathieu D. , Herbin Marc
Published: May 2020

The ontogeny of the paired appendages has been extensively studied in lungfishes and tetrapods, but remains poorly known in coelacanths. Recent work has shed light on the anatomy and development of the pectoral fin inLatimeria chalumnae. Yet, information on the development of the pelvic fin and girdle is still lacking. Here, we described the development of the pelvic fin and girdle inLatimeria chalumnaebased on 3D reconstructions generated from conventional and X‐ray synchrotron microtomography, as well as MRI acquisitions. As in other jawed vertebrates, the development of the pelvic fin occurs later than that of the pectoral fin inLatimeria. Many elements of the endoskeleton are not yet formed at the earliest stage sampled. The four mesomeres are already formed in the fetus, but only the most proximal radial elements (preaxial radial 0–1) are formed and individualized at this stage. We suggest that all the preaxial radial elements in the pelvic and pectoral fin ofLatimeriaare formed through the fragmentation of the mesomeres. We document the progressive ossification of the pelvic girdle, and the presence of a trabecular system in the adult. This trabecular system likely reinforces the cartilaginous girdle to resist the muscle forces exerted during locomotion. Finally, the presence of a preaxial element in contact with the pelvic girdle from the earliest stage of development onward questions the mono‐basal condition of the pelvic fin inLatimeria. However, the particular shape of the mesomeres may explain the presence of this element in contact with the girdle.
Impregnation is an essential part of mummification
Authors: Tomov Nikola
Published: May 2020

A contemporary prospective experiment, recreating ancient Egyptian practice, demonstrates morphological alterations during mummification. However, in order to emulate the process from antiquity, the conclusive step of mummification—impregnation—has to be taken into account. The present commentary gives a perspective on this topic.
Gross anatomy, histological, and histochemical analysis of the eyelids and orbital glands of the neonate pygmy hippopotamus (Suina: Choeropsis liberiensis or Hexaprotodon liberiensis, Morton 1849) with reference to its habitat
Authors: Klećkowska‐Nawrot Joanna Elżbieta , Goździewska‐Harłajczuk Karolina , Paszta Wojciech
Published: May 2020

The pygmy hippopotamus is phylogenetically related to members of both the Suidae and Cetacea. However, differences in their habitats may have resulted in variation in the anatomy and physiology of the ocular adnexa between these species. Therefore, this study focuses on the identification of accessory organs of the eye, which are typical for the pygmy hippopotamus and are comparable to organs present in mammals related to it. Moreover, the secretions produced by the superficial gland of the third eyelid, the deep gland of the third eyelid and the lacrimal gland were examined, as they ensure eyeball protection. In the upper and lower eyelids, numerous serous glands where identified, which were typical for the pygmy hippopotamus and similar as in the Cetacea. This study enabled to identify additional folds in the eyelids of the pygmy hippopotamus. Lymphoid follicles and diffuse lymphocytes were not found in the lymphoid region in the upper or lower eyelids and the third eyelid, which was most likely caused by the age of the studied hippopotamuses. An accurate histochemical analysis revealed that the secretions of the pygmy hippopotamus are very similar to the Sus scrofa. The structural differences between the pygmy hippopotamus and representatives of Cetacea are most likely caused by the fact that most of Cetacea live in saltwater and are exposed to more frequent fluctuations in water temperature compared to the pygmy hippopotamus, which lives in fresh water and does not lead a migratory lifestyle like the Cetacea.
Production routes of advanced renewable C1 to C4 alcohols as biofuel components – a review
Authors: Schubert Teresa
Published: May 2020

In 2018, the EU's revised Renewable Energy Directive came into force, increasing renewable energy targets for all energy sectors while limiting the use of first‐generation biomass as feedstock. Fuel components like methanol, ethanol, propanols, and butanols represent promising candidates to enable the targets for transportation to be achieved because they can be used with existing infrastructure and can be further processed to give additives and substitutes. A wide variety of feedstocks and processes are available for this purpose. In this review, the thermocatalytic and biological synthesis routes for C1–C4 alcohol fuels are summarized to illustrate the many alternatives. They include biomass and waste gasification and carbon capture and utilization to obtain syngas for catalytic conversion, fermentation of sugars from lignocellulosic feedstock, and novel, less developed pathways like syngas fermentation, glycerol conversion, and biogas reforming. The current state of technology is presented by discussing the advantages and technical hurdles, and by introducing recent scaled‐up approaches. This demonstrates the need for further research and development. The assessment of techno‐economic analyses in the literature illustrates the dominant factors affecting production costs and reveals the broad range of feasibility of the various production routes. The review shows that the routes most similar to conventional, well‐established syntheses bear the highest potential to be implemented in the short and medium term. The availability of cheap and abundant feedstock also plays a crucial role. Methanol synthesis from biomass gasification and ethanol, and acetone‐butanol‐ethanol fermentation from lignocellulosic biomass, are therefore considered to be very promising. © 2020 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
New insights into the core Hippo signaling and biological macromolecules interactions in the biology of solid tumors
Authors: Mohammadi Solmaz , Arefnezhad Reza , Danaii Shahla , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: May 2020

As an evolutionarily conserved pathway, Hippo signaling pathway impacts different pathology and physiology processes such as wound healing, tissue repair/size and regeneration. When some components of Hippo signaling dysregulated, it affects cancer cells proliferation. Moreover, the relation Hippo pathway with other signaling including Wnt, TGFβ, Notch, and EGFR signaling leaves effect on the proliferation of cancer cells. Utilizing a number of therapeutic approaches, such as siRNAs and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) to prevent cancer cells through the targeting of Hippo pathways, can provide new insights into cancer target therapy. The purpose of present review, first of all, is to demonstrate the importance of Hippo signaling and its relation with other signaling pathways in cancer. It also tries to demonstrate targeting Hippo signaling progress in cancer therapy.
Smart Engineering: Innovative moisture measurement of screed by digital sensors
Authors: Penkert Sebastian , Glock Christian
Published: May 2020

The advancing digitalization is changing almost all areas of society and drives rapid innovation. The construction industry provides many fields of application with numerous opportunities for improvement of efficiency. Accordingly, there are chances and threats caused by digital change at present. The main challenge is the extreme wide range of topics and tasks in all phases of the value chain—development, design, construction, and operation—concerning hardware and software. The aim of this study is to evaluate, if digital sensors can be helpful for an enhanced construction. In a first study for an application field, the authors pointed out the moisture content of structures, because this is a comparatively clear but also crucial point in construction process. In specific, a new digital sensor system for the moisture measurement in screed is being developed and evaluated. The achieved results show general feasibility of digital sensors to improve the construction process and motivate for further studies in this research field.
IPDS: A semantic mediator‐based system using Spark for the integration of heterogeneous proteomics data sources
Authors: Messaoudi Chaimaa , Fissoune Rachida , Badir Hassan
Published: May 2020

With the constant rise of data volumes in many disciplines, various new Big data management systems have emerged to provide scalable tools for efficient data integration, processing, and analysis. In this article, we provide an overview of biomedical data integration systems focusing on ontology‐based semantic systems and Big data technologies based systems such as Apache Spark. We also propose a new semantic data integration system, called Integrated Proteomics Data System (IPDS), which uses a mediator approach. IPDS provides users a unified interface for query processing and data exploration. This system takes advantage of the Apache Spark framework to perform the query transformation and execution needed to question the integrated data sources. We develop a domain ontology that allows the user to formulate its queries in terms defined in the ontology. IPDS is a case study of semantic proteomics data integration linking four data sources UniProt (protein annotation), String (protein‐protein interaction), PDB (protein structure), and Pubmed (biomedical citation).
Blockchain adoption drivers: The rationality of irrational choices
Authors: Koens Tommy , Van Aubel Pol , Poll Erik
Published: May 2020

There has been a huge increase in interest in blockchain technology. However, little is known about the drivers behind the adoption of this technology. In this article we identify and analyze these drivers, using six real‐world and representative scenarios. We confirm in our analysis that blockchain is not an appropriate technology for some scenarios, from a purely technical point of view. The choice for blockchain technology in such scenarios may therefore seem as an irrational choice. However, our analysis reveals that there are nontechnical drivers at play that drive the adoption of blockchain, such as philosophical beliefs, network effects, and economic incentives. These nontechnical drivers may explain the rationality behind the choice for blockchain adoption.
Structure Effects on the Ionicity of Protic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Mann Sarah K. , Brown Steven P. , MacFarlane Douglas R.
Published: May 2020

We report on the characterisation of 16 protic ionic liquids (PILs) prepared by neutralisation of primary or tertiary amines with a range of simple carboxylic acids, or salicylic acid. The extent of proton transfer was greater for simple primary amine ILs compared to tertiary amines. For the latter case, proton transfer was increased by providing a better solvation environment for the ions through the addition of a hydroxyl group, either on the tertiary amine, or by formation of PIL/molecular solvent mixtures. The library of PILs was characterised by differential scanning calorimetry and a range of transport properties (i. e. viscosity, conductivity and diffusivity) were measured. Using the (fractional) Walden rule, the conductivity and viscosity results were analysed with respect to their deviation from ideal behaviour. The validity of the Walden plot for PILs containing ions of varying sizes was also verified for a number of samples by directly measuring self‐diffusion coefficients using pulsed‐field gradient spin‐echo (PGSE) NMR. Ionicity was found to decrease as the alkyl chain length and degree of branching of both the cations and anions was increased. These results aim to develop a better understanding of the relationship between PIL properties and structure, to help design ILs with optimal properties for applications.
Solvent‐Dependent Bending Ability of Salen‐Derived Organic Crystals
Authors: Kusumoto Sotaro , Saso Akira , Ohmagari Hitomi , Hasegawa Miki , Kim Yang , Nakamura Masaaki , Lindoy Leonard F. , Hayami Shinya
Published: May 2020

The formation of plastic or brittle organic crystals of salen derivatives that depend on the solvents employed for crystallization is demonstrated. Large yellow crystals (ranging from mm to cm size) of ten different salen derivatives were obtained and investigated. Among them, (bis(2‐hydroxyacetophenone)ethylenediimine) 2, which was recrystallized from dichloromethane, tetrahydrofuran or chloroform, exhibited plastic deformation behaviour when mechanical force was applied to the (001) face. In contrast, when 2 was recrystallized from benzene, brittle crystals were obtained. Face indexing confirmed that different crystal faces were obtained by depending on the solvent employed for recrystallization, which leads to either flexible (plastic) or brittle crystals. Photoluminescence with a band maximum at 510 nm and thermochromism related to tautomerism between OH and NH forms were also investigated, and indicate that 2 is a flexible organic single‐crystal material with multifunctional properties.
An internet‐delivered self‐management programme for bipolar disorder in mental health services in Ireland: Results and learnings from a feasibility trial
Authors: Enrique Angel , Duffy Daniel , Lawler Kate , Richards Derek , Jones Steven
Published: May 2020

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic condition that requires continued care. Psychological interventions are recommended by clinical guidelines but there are treatment barriers that prevent patients to access these services. Internet‐delivered self‐management interventions are promising alternatives to improve treatment accessibility in patients with BD. Several studies indicate that these interventions are acceptable and beneficial for patients with BD, but no studies have been conducted in routine care settings. This trial aimed to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of implementing an internet‐delivered, clinician‐supported intervention for BD as an adjunct to treatment as usual at two secondary‐care services in Ireland. This study used an uncontrolled design with mixed‐methods evaluation. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed in terms of recruitment, use of the intervention, and satisfaction from both clinicians and patients' perspectives. Personal recovery, quality of life, and severity of symptoms were measured at baseline and post‐intervention. Fifteen patients signed consent and used the programme for 10 weeks. Usage of the intervention was adequate with high frequency of tool usage. There was a significant improvement in patients' sense of personal recovery (z = 2.38, p = .017). The intervention was found acceptable and easy‐to‐use; however, implementation barriers will need to be overcome for scaling the intervention. This is the first study testing the feasibility of a digital intervention for patients with BD in public mental health services in Ireland. More research is needed in order to increase the understanding of how to promote the integration and the uptake of digital interventions for individuals with BD.
A Real‐World Evidence Framework for Optimizing Dosing in All Patients With COVID‐19
Authors: Peck Richard W. , Weiner Daniel , Cook Jack , Robert Powell J.
Published: May 2020

Potential treatments for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are being investigated at unprecedented speed, and successful treatments will rapidly be used in tens or hundreds of thousands of patients. To ensure safe and effective use in all those patents it is essential also to develop, at unprecedented speed, a means to provide frequently updated, optimal dosing information for all patient subgroups. Success will require immediate collaboration between drug developers, academics, and regulators.
Image‐Based Cell Profiling Enables Quantitative Tissue Microscopy in Gastroenterology
Authors: Wills John W. , Robertson Jack , Summers Huw D. , Miniter Michelle , Barnes Claire , Hewitt Rachel E. , Keita Åsa V. , Söderholm Johan D. , Rees Paul , Powell Jonathan J.
Published: May 2020

Immunofluorescence microscopy is an essential tool for tissue‐based research, yet data reporting is almost always qualitative. Quantification of images, at the per‐cell level, enables “flow cytometry‐type” analyses with intact locational data but achieving this is complex. Gastrointestinal tissue, for example, is highly diverse: from mixed‐cell epithelial layers through to discrete lymphoid patches. Moreover, different species (e.g., rat, mouse, and humans) and tissue preparations (paraffin/frozen) are all commonly studied. Here, using field‐relevant examples, we develop open, user‐friendly methodology that can encompass these variables to provide quantitative tissue microscopy for the field. Antibody‐independent cell labeling approaches, compatible across preparation types and species, were optimized. Per‐cell data were extracted from routine confocal micrographs, with semantic machine learning employed to tackle densely packed lymphoid tissues. Data analysis was achieved by flow cytometry‐type analyses alongside visualization and statistical definition of cell locations, interactions and established microenvironments. First, quantification of Escherichia coli passage into human small bowel tissue, following Ussing chamber incubations exemplified objective quantification of rare events in the context of lumen‐tissue crosstalk. Second, in rat jejenum, precise histological context revealed distinct populations of intraepithelial lymphocytes between and directly below enterocytes enabling quantification in context of total epithelial cell numbers. Finally, mouse mononuclear phagocyte—T cell interactions, cell expression and significant spatial cell congregations were mapped to shed light on cell–cell communication in lymphoid Peyer's patch. Accessible, quantitative tissue microscopy provides a new window‐of‐insight to diverse questions in gastroenterology. It can also help combat some of the data reproducibility crisis associated with antibody technologies and over‐reliance on qualitative microscopy. © 2020 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Diagnostic utility of cytology smears and cell block in adrenal lesions
Authors: Mukherjee Sriranjan , Sengupta Moumita , Das Ram Narayan , Chatterjee Uttara , Kanjilal Banhisikha , Basu Keya , Kar Anish , Mondal Akash , Mukhopadhyay Satinath
Published: May 2020

Background

Cytology of the adrenal gland is a less performed technique even in tertiary care centres; yet cytological evaluation is an important diagnostic tool for assessment of adrenal lesions. Our objective was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of FNAC smears and cellblock with immunohistochemistry (IHC) in lesions of the adrenal.

Material and methods

We had a total of 50 cases over a period of 2 years where both FNAC smears and cellblocks were taken. The smears and cellblocks were examined for adequacy. They were subsequently categorised into four groups: unsatisfactory, benign, suspicious of malignancy and malignant. The diagnostic accuracy of FNAC smears and cellblock with IHC were evaluated and compared, taking histopathology, wherever available, as the gold standard,

Result

We had 50 cases with age ranging from 6 to 53 years with a median of 7.5 years. Of these, 54% were cytologically malignant and neuroblastoma was the commonest lesion. Histopathology was available in 23 cases only, where the diagnostic accuracy was evaluated. The sensitivity and specificity of FNAC smear was 100% and 85.71%, respectively whereas the sensitivity and specificity of cellblock with IHC was 100% and 92.86%, respectively.

Conclusion

Cellblock together with IHC provides a higher degree of specificity, reduces the unsatisfactory rate and improves the diagnostic accuracy in lesions of the adrenal gland. Immunohistochemistry is an important adjunctive tool.
Progress on efficient current‐induced magnetization switching
Authors: Kato Takeshi , Iwata Satoshi , Oshima Daiki
Published: May 2020

As efficient current‐induced magnetization switching schemes, thermally assisted spin transfer torque (STT) switching, spin orbit torque (SOT) switching of rare‐earth transition metal films, and electric‐field–assisted SOT switching were briefly reviewed. For thermally assisted STT switching, hybrid memory layer with a low curie temperature (TC) and high TC layers were found to be effective to reduce the critical current density Jc without sacrificing the thermal stability Δ at room temperature. In SOT switching of GdFeCo, the large SOT was confirmed even at the compensation composition of GdFeCo. In SOT switching of MgO / Co / Pt films, the switching current density Jc was confirmed to be modified around 20% by applying an electric field of 1 V/nm through the insulator film.
Recent Advances in Sulfur‐Centered S–X (X = N, P, O) Bond Formation Catalyzed by Transition Metals
Authors: Peng Kang , Dong Zhi‐Bing
Published: May 2020

Compounds containing S–X (X = N, P, O) bonds are commonly found in organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry and pesticide chemistry. The use of transition metal catalysts enables the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly synthetic processes. The reaction strategy between sulfur sources (such as sulfenyl or sulfonyl compounds) and organic substrates (such as amines, phosphites, or alcohols) is one of the most important methods to give S–X (X = N, P, O) bond. Herein, we summarize the recent research progress on the S–X (X = N, P, O) bond formation catalyzed by transition metals, mainly starting from sulfur sources containing sulfenyl or sulfonyl group.