bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Draft Requirement of Two Animal - Drawn Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Weeders
Authors: Unguwanrimi Y. A. , Sada A. M. , Ugama G. N. , Garuba H. S. , Ugoani A.
Published: February 2020

Draft requirements of two animal – drawn (IAR) weeders operating on loam soil were determined in the study. The implements include a straddle row weeder and an emcot attached rotary weeder evaluated under the same soil conditions, using a pair of white Fulani breed of oxen. The animal draft requirement was first estimated from the animal ergonomics measurements. Using area of 0.054 hectare as experimental plot for each implement the draft requirement of each implement was investigated after taking soil samples for soil moisture content and bulk density determinations. The implements tested showed variation in their average draft requirement. The straddle row weeder had the highest value of 338.15 N respectively while the emcot attached rotary weeder had the lowest value of 188.12 N with 47.03%, respectively. The average soil moisture contents and bulk density were 13.0% and 1.46%/cm3, respectively.
Somatic mutations and copy number variations in breast cancers with heterogeneous HER2 amplification
Authors: Van Bockstal Mieke R. , Agahozo Marie Colombe , van Marion Ronald , Atmodimedjo Peggy N. , Sleddens Hein F. B. M. , Dinjens Winand N. M. , Visser Lindy L. , Lips Esther H. , Wesseling Jelle , van Deurzen Carolien H. M.
Published: February 2020

Intratumour heterogeneity fuels carcinogenesis and allows circumventing specific targeted therapies. HER2 gene amplification is associated with poor outcome in invasive breast cancer. Heterogeneous HER2 amplification has been described in 5–41% of breast cancers. Here, we investigated the genetic differences between HER2‐positive and HER2‐negative admixed breast cancer components. We performed an in‐depth analysis to explore the potential heterogeneity in the somatic mutational landscape of each individual tumour component. Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded breast cancer tissue of ten patients with at least one HER2‐negative and at least one HER2‐positive component was microdissected. Targeted next‐generation sequencing was performed using a customized 53‐gene panel. Somatic mutations and copy number variations were analysed. Overall, the tumours showed a heterogeneous distribution of 12 deletions, 9 insertions, 32 missense variants and 7 nonsense variants in 26 different genes, which are (likely) pathogenic. Three splice site alterations were identified. One patient had an EGFR copy number gain restricted to a HER2‐negative in situ component, resulting in EGFR protein overexpression. Two patients had FGFR1 copy number gains in at least one tumour component. Two patients had an 8q24 gain in at least one tumour component, resulting in a copy number increase in MYC and PVT1. One patient had a CCND1 copy number gain restricted to a HER2‐negative tumour component. No common alternative drivers were identified in the HER2‐negative tumour components. This series of 10 breast cancers with heterogeneous HER2 gene amplification illustrates that HER2 positivity is not an unconditional prerequisite for the maintenance of tumour growth. Many other molecular aberrations are likely to act as alternative or collaborative drivers. This study demonstrates that breast carcinogenesis is a dynamically evolving process characterized by a versatile somatic mutational profile, of which some genetic aberrations will be crucial for cancer progression, and others will be mere ‘passenger’ molecular anomalies.
White House budget request decimates substance use prevention
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2020

The White House budget request for fiscal year 2021 for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) proposes to zero out a major prevention program — the Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grant — Partnerships for Success program. This is a cut of $109 million. It recommends using the prevention set‐aside (20%) from the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment (SAPT) block grant instead. But it doesn't give any more money to the block grant.
Methadone and buprenorphine superior to all other treatments
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2020

A very important insurance‐based retrospective study shows clearly what the clinical trials have already shown: Agonist treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) is better than abstinence‐based or antagonist‐based treatment in terms of reducing overdose and opioid‐related morbidity. (Buprenorphine and methadone are opioid agonists, naltrexone/Vivitrol is an antagonist.)
App for buprenorphine adherence moves forward
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2020

A pilot study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine last month paves the way for more clinical investigations of an application developed by Emocha Health. We talked to the CEO, Sebastian Seiguer, and to the primary investigator and lead author of the study, Judith Tsui, M.D., M.P.H., about how the app works.
The Vibration Behavior of Sub‐Micrometer Gas Vesicles in Response to Acoustic Excitation Determined via Laser Doppler Vibrometry
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Huang An , Bar‐Zion Avinoam , Wang Jiaying , Mena Oscar Vazquez , Shapiro Mikhail G. , Friend James
Published: February 2020

The ability to monitor sub‐micrometer gas vesicles' (GVs) vibration behavior to nonlinear buckling and collapse using laser Doppler vibrometry is reported, providing a precise noncontact technique for monitoring the motion of sub‐micrometer objects. The fundamental and first harmonic resonance frequencies of the vesicles are found to be 1.024 and 1.710 GHz, respectively. An interparticle resonance is furthermore identified at ≈300 MHz, inversely dependent upon the agglomerated GV size of around 615 nm. Most importantly, the vesicles amplify and broaden input acoustic signals at far lower frequencies—for example, 7 MHz—associated with medical and industrial applications, and they are found to transition from a linear to nonlinear response at 150 kPa and to collapse at 350 kPa or greater.
Effect of winter wheat cultivar on grain yield trend under different nitrogen management
Authors: Aula Lawrence , Omara Peter , Eickhoff Elizabeth , Oyebiyi Fikayo , Dhillon Jagmandeep S. , Raun William R.
Published: February 2020

In many developing countries, crop production is achieved with little or no application of fertilizer N. Understanding grain yield trends as new winter wheat cultivars (Triticum aestivum L.) are released and grown under different N management is important for crop yield improvement. This study evaluated grain yield trends of winter wheat cultivars over time in a crop production system with and without N application. Yield data was obtained from two long‐term experiments; 502 (E502) and 222 (E222) between 1969 and 2018. Results showed a mean annual grain yield increase of 12 and 30 kg ha–1 yr–1 as new cultivars were released and grown under adequate N management in E222 and E502, respectively. However, without N application, yield declined annually by 2.4 kg ha–1 yr–1 in E222 and increased marginally by 0.6 kg ha–1 yr–1 in E502. Nonetheless, the yield increase or decrease was only significant for E502 at 112 kg N ha–1 (r2 = .145; p = .01) and its slope was significantly different from that of control treatment (p = .02). In both experiments, yield was significantly influenced by cultivar and N interaction (p < .01), an indication that yield changed according to the level of N applied. In general, when N was applied, grain yields were high as well. New cultivars released over time improved grain yield with adequate N management.
Pest potential of Neotephritis finalis (Loew) on Silphium integrifolium Michx., Silphium perfoliatum L., and interspecific hybrids
Authors: Reinert Stephan , Hulke Brent S. , Prasifka Jarrad R.
Published: February 2020

Neotephritis finalis (Loew), a fly known as a minor pest of cultivated sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.), has been observed to attack Silphium spp., which are being evaluated as new crops to produce biomass or edible oil. Infestations of Silphium integrifolium Michx., Silphium perfoliatum L. and their interspecific hybrids were assessed by securing bags over heads late in bloom and counting emerged adult flies ∼30 d later. Effects on seed production were assessed by examining the percent of achenes containing fully developed seeds (i.e., seed set). In 2017, more flies emerged from S. integrifolium and hybrids than from S. perfoliatum, but even high numbers of adult flies emerged per head appeared unrelated to seed set in S. integrifolium. In 2018, far fewer flies were found across Silphium spp., but seed set was similar to 2017. Combined, results indicate that N. finalis is unlikely to limit seed production of Silphium spp.
Renewable production of ammonia and nitric acid
Authors: Wang Ganzhou , Mitsos Alexander , Marquardt Wolfgang
Published: February 2020

Decarbonization of the power sector offers ammonia industry an opportunity to reduce its CO2 emissions through sector coupling. Extending from our previous work, we propose a power‐based process for ammonia and nitric acid production. The coupling of nitric acid production facilitates highly efficient heat integration between steam electrolysis and the rest of the process. We investigate the economic performance of the production complex through a model‐based dynamic optimization approach, considering scenarios with or without incorporation of intermittent wind power as well as deployment of battery storage. In all cases, the wind power integration proves to be economic with a peak‐to‐base load ratio of up to 2.3. The new process reduces primary energy consumption by more than 13% compared to conventional technologies. However, it is only economically competitive with help of either a low‐cost battery storage or a higher carbon price on fossil fuels. The results also confirm the importance of considering process dynamics during process design.
Continuous‐Flow Synthesis of ZIF‐8 Biocomposites with Tunable Particle Size
Authors: Carraro Francesco , Williams Jason D. , Linares‐Moreau Mercedes , Parise Chiara , Liang Weibin , Amenitsch Heinz , Doonan Christian , Kappe C. Oliver , Falcaro Paolo
Published: February 2020

Zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) biocomposites show the capacity to protect and deliver biotherapeutics. To date, the progress in this research area is based on laboratory batch methods. Now, the first continuous flow synthetic method is presented for the encapsulation of a model protein (bovine serum albumin, BSA) and a clinical therapeutic (α1‐antitrypsin, AAT) in ZIF‐8. The in situ kinetics of nucleation, growth, and crystallization of BSA@ZIF‐8 were studied by small‐angle X‐ray scattering. By controlling the injection time of ethanol, the particle growth could be quenched by ethanol‐induced crystallization from amorphous particles to ZIF‐8 crystals. The particle size of the biocomposite was tuned in the 40–100 nm range by varying residence time prior to introduction of ethanol. As a proof‐of‐concept, this procedure was used for the encapsulation of AAT in ZIF‐8. Upon release of the biotherapeutic from the composite, the trypsin inhibitor function of AAT was preserved.
Effect of cellular uniformity on the necking propagation of foam injection Molded PP/HDPE blend parts
Authors: Zhou Ying‐Guo , Cao Gang‐He , Cheng Yi‐Fan
Published: February 2020

Necking propagation (NP) is an important phenomenon that is facilitated by the superductility of many materials, although necking is often considered to be a type of unstable and heterogeneous deformation under tensile loading. In this study, the NP of samples produced with injection molding of polypropylene (PP) and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) blends with or without a blowing agent was investigated by standard tensile testing, and the foam morphology and cellular structure were characterized with scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the foam parts fabricated with the PP/HDPE blends had the ability to be superductile under a low tensile test speed, which was attributed to the necking spreading throughout the tested gauge section stably and reliably. However, the NP of the foam PP/HDPE blend samples strongly depended on the distribution of the cellular foam. To investigate the relationship between the cellular structure and NP, a design of experiment approach based on the Taguchi method was used to fabricate many samples with different foam structures. The tensile test results of these samples suggested that the cellular uniformity, which was determined based on the statistical results of the fracture surface morphology, played an important role in the NP. The results suggested that there is a close relationship between the NP and the cellular uniformity. Using nonlinear fitting, it was straightforward to obtain a model between the NP length and cellular uniformity index for PP/HDPE molded foam parts.
Ionic Dopant‐Encapsulating Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Films with Metal‐Like Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Iihara Yu , Kawai Tsuyoshi , Nonoguchi Yoshiyuki
Published: February 2020

Heavy doping is inevitable for utilizing single‐walled carbon nanotubes for wiring. However, the electrical conductivity of their films is currently as low as one tenth of the films made from typical metal pastes. Herein we report on metal‐comparable electrical conductivity from single‐walled carbon nanotube network films. We use ionic liquids and crown ether complexes for p‐type and n‐type doping, respectively. The encapsulation of counterions into carbon nanotubes promotes the conductivities in the range of 7000 S cm−1, approximately ten times larger than those of undoped films.
Catalyst‐Free Regioselective [3+2] Cycloadditions of α,β‐unsaturated N‐arylnitrones with Alkenes to Access Functionalized Isoxazolidines: A DFT Study
Authors: Ghosh Arnab , Mane Manoj V. , Rode Haridas B. , Patil Siddappa A. , Sridhar Balasubramanian , Dateer Ramesh B.
Published: February 2020

The catalyst‐free regioselective [3+2]‐cycloaddition of α,β‐unsaturated N‐arylnitrones with alkenes are developed. The series of synthetically important functionalized isoxazolidines are prepared in good to excellent yields by step economic pathway under ligand and transition‐metal‐free conditions. The regioselective cycloaddition pathway supported by control experiment and computational study.
Indole‐N‐Carboxylic Acids and Indole‐N‐Carboxamides in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Zeng Linwei , Lin Yuxin , Cui Sunliang
Published: February 2020

Indoles are ubiquitous structures that are found in natural products and biologically active molecules. The synthesis of indoles and indole‐involved synthetic methodologies in organic chemistry have been receiving considerable attention. Indole‐N‐carboxylic acids and derived indole‐N‐carboxamides are intriguing compounds, which have been widely used in organic synthesis, especially in multicomponent reactions and C−H functionalization of indoles. This Minireview summarizes the advances of reactions involving indole‐N‐carboxylic acids and indole‐N‐carboxamides in organic chemistry, and discusses the synthetic potential and perspective of this field.
Silver‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Allylation of Difluoroarylacetic Acids with Allyl Sulfones in Water
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhang Ruihong , Zhang Xiaofei , Zhu Peiyuan , Yao Tuanli
Published: February 2020

A practical silver‐catalyzed decarboxylative allylation of α,α‐difluoroarylacetic acids with allyl sulfones is described, which provides a variety of β,β‐difluorinated alkenes in good yields. Notably, the reaction proceeds smoothly in water with good functional group tolerance. The practicality and synthetic value of this process was demonstrated by scaled‐up experiment and elaboration of the products via reduction or Heck reaction. Primary mechanism investigations suggest that a radical process might be involved.
The assessment has become the curriculum: Teachers’ views on the Phonics Screening Check in England
Authors: Carter Jane
Published: February 2020

The Phonics Screening Check (PSC) was introduced in England in 2012 for Year 1 children (aged 5 and 6). There have been criticisms of the check in relation to its reliability and appropriateness as an assessment for early reading, although advocates of the check see it as a valuable tool in securing progress in early reading. This mixed methods study sought to evaluate the intended and possible unintended consequences of the PSC, foregrounding the voices of children and their teachers. This article reports on findings from the teachers’ data. The study focused initially on questionnaire data from 14 schools (59 teachers) selected for their diversity in relation to attainment data (PSC and reading) and socio‐economic status. Focus groups in seven of the schools (25 teachers) enabled a more in‐depth exploration of teachers’ views and practices in relation to the PSC. The study identified the ‘negative backwash’ of assessment. The PSC was seen as an end in itself, rather than a way of securing progress in one of the skills of reading. It found that, the assessment had become the curriculum, to the detriment of specific groups of learners (higher‐attaining readers and children with English as an Additional Language). Teachers were found to use the assessment processes of the PSC as objectives for teaching rather than using them as the tools of assessment.
Fluorescence or X-ray cholangiography in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Lehrskov L L , Westen M , Larsen S S , Jensen A B , Kristensen B B , Bisgaard T
Published: February 2020

Background

Safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy may necessitate biliary imaging, and non-invasive fluorescence cholangiography may have advantages over contrast X-ray cholangiography. This trial compared fluorescence and X-ray cholangiography for visualization of the critical junction between the cystic, common hepatic and common bile ducts.

Methods

This non-inferiority blinded RCT included patients who had either intraoperative fluorescence cholangiography using 0·05 mg/kg indocyanine green or X-ray cholangiography during elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Results

Between March 2015 and August 2018, a total of 120 patients were randomized (60 in each group). There were no drop-outs and 30-day follow-up data were available for all patients. In intention-to-treat analysis, there was no difference between the fluorescence and X-ray cholangiography groups in ability to visualize the critical junction (49 of 60 versus 51 of 60 respectively; P = 0·230). Fluorescence cholangiography was faster by a few minutes: median 2·0 (range 0·5–5·0) versus 4·8 (1·3–17·6) min (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

Fluorescence cholangiography was confirmed to be non-inferior to X-ray cholangiography in visualizing the critical junction during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Registration number: NCT02344654 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Surgical histopathologic findings of 232 Chinese children cases with drug‐resistant seizures
Authors: Kun Yao , Zejun Duan , Jian Zhou , Feng Zhai , Changqing Liu , Xueling Qi
Published: February 2020

Objectives

The drug‐resistant seizures are characterized by frequent and severe onset of seizures in childhood. There is only little literature had extensively explored the types of pathological brain damage in Chinese children cases. The present study aims to investigate the histopathologic findings and seizure outcomes of drug‐resistant seizures in cases of 0–14‐year‐old children.

Materials and Methods

About 232 children cases were retrospectively who underwent epilepsy surgery. The medical records, onset age, age of surgery, disease course, seizure type, pathological reports, and seizure outcomes of these patients were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The most common categories were malformations of cortical development (focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) was the most common type (94.36%, 67/71), found in 30.60% of the patients, tumors in 18.11%, glial scar in 12.50%, and encephalitis in 11.63%). It was found that the effective seizure outcome of FCD cases with shorter duration of epilepsy (<2 years, 87.23%) was better than that with longer duration (≥2 years, 60.00%) and the difference was statistically significant (χ2 = 4.76, p < .05). Patients with FCD I, FCD II, and tumor showed the relatively better postsurgical seizure outcome than patients with other pathological types.

Conclusion

The malformations of cortical development (MCD) (most FCD) were the most common pathological type for children cases in China with drug‐resistant seizures. It was speculated further that the FCD patients with shorter duration of epilepsy before surgery seem to have a higher ratio of being seizure‐free after surgery.
Idiographic network analysis of discrete mood states prior to treatment
Authors: Howe Esther , Bosley Hannah G. , Fisher Aaron J.
Published: February 2020

Idiographic network models based on time‐series data have received recent attention for their ability to model relationships among symptoms and behaviours as they unfold in time within a single individual (cf. Epskamp, Borsboom, & Fried, 2018; Fisher, Medaglia, & Jeronimus, 2018). Rather than examine the correlational relationships between variables in a sample of individuals, an idiographic network examines correlations within a single person, averaged over many time points. Because the approach averages over time, the data must be stationary (i.e. relatively consistent over time). If individuals experience varying states over time—different mixtures of symptoms and behaviours in one moment or another—then averaging over categorically different moments may undermine model accuracy. Fisher and Bosley (2019) address these concerns via the application of Gaussian finite mixture modelling to identify latent classes of time points in intraindividual time‐series data from a sample of adults with major depressive disorder and/or generalised anxiety disorder (n = 45). The present paper outlines an extension of this work, wherein network analysis is used to model within‐class covariation of symptoms. To illustrate this approach, network models were constructed for each intraindividual class identified by Fisher and Bosley (137 networks across the 45 participants, mean classes/person = ~3, range = 2–4 classes/person). We examine the relative consistency in symptom organisation between each individual's multiple mood state networks and assess emergent group‐level patterns. We highlight opportunities for enhanced treatment personalisation and review nomothetic patterns relevant to transdiagnostic conceptualisations of psychopathology. We address opportunities for integrating this approach into clinical practice and outline potential shortcomings.
Working toward diversity in a campus police department
Authors: Rahn Josh
Published: February 2020

Police departments across the nation face challenges when it comes to achieving a diverse workforce. At the same time, research often points to the many benefits of diversity, from better community relationships to more successful recruiting efforts. And while campus police departments might have some recruiting advantages in this regard — universities are, after all, incredibly diverse environments — the challenges remain. Overcoming the many roadblocks to diversity requires a comprehensive approach and a willingness to embrace change.
We can disagree and still be friends
Authors: Zacarese Lawrence M.
Published: February 2020

Mahatma Ghandi once said, “Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress.” He was a brilliant, tolerant man from a different generation, and times have certainly changed. Just because times have changed doesn't necessarily mean we have to change our societal values and our general sense of open‐mindedness.
Downregulation of CLDN6 inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via regulating EGFR/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Lingyuan , Zhao Chanjuan , Sun Kai , Yang Dandan , Yan Linxia , Luo Dan , He Jinli , Hu Xuemei , Wang Rong , Shen Xiaofei , Xiao Ning , Zhong Zhendong
Published: February 2020

Accumulating evidence showed that the claudin‐6 (CLDN6) expression was abnormal in many cancers, while its expression and biological functions in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unclear. The present study demonstrated that CLDN6 was upregulated in HCC tissues compared with tumour‐adjacent tissues. CLDN6 silencing was significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of HepG2 cells. Meanwhile, downregulation of CLDN6 remarkably inhibited the activation of EGFR/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Interestingly, the effect of CLDN6 overexpression on HepG2 cell proliferation and invasion could be inhibited by EGFR/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway inhibitor (AG1478).

Significance of the study

These findings suggested that CLDN6 may act as an oncogene in HCC and improve HepG2 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion may via EGFR/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway.
A case of periostomy intestinal metaplasia without adenomatous or dysplastic changes in an ulcerative colitis patient
Authors: Udechukwu Nneka S. , Selim Maria A. , Nicholas Matilda W.
Published: February 2020

We strive to educate medical providers of the possibility of cellular transformation occurring as a parastomal complication and to emphasize the importance of close monitoring, as there is a risk, although low, of subsequent malignant transformation.
Recent Advances in One‐Electron‐Oxidized CuII–Diphenoxide Complexes as Models of Galactose Oxidase: Importance of the Structural Flexibility in the Active Site
Authors: Oshita Hiromi , Shimazaki Yuichi
Published: February 2020

The phenoxyl radical plays important roles in biological systems as cofactors in some metalloenzymes, such as galactose oxidase (GO) catalyzing oxidation of primary alcohols to give the corresponding aldehydes. Many metal(II)–phenoxyl radical complexes have hitherto been studied for understanding the detailed properties and reactivities of GO, and thus the nature of GO has gradually become clearer. However, the effects of the subtle geometric and electronic structural changes at the active site of GO, especially the structural change in the catalytic cycle and the effect of the second coordination sphere, have not been fully discussed yet. In this Review, we focus on further details of the model studies of GO and discuss the importance of the structural change at the active site of GO.
Rapid Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of CdS/Graphene/MoSx Tunable Heterojunctions and Their Application in Photocatalysis
Authors: Tzanidis Iordanis , Bairamis Feidias , Sygellou Lamprini , Andrikopoulos Konstantinos S. , Avgeropoulos Apostolos , Konstantinou Ioannis , Tasis Dimitrios
Published: February 2020

Nanoscale two‐dimensional nanostructures have shown great potential as functional components in photocatalysis. Here, investigations on the synthesis of heterostructured hybrids, comprised of 0D CdS nanoparticles as semiconductor and 2D/2D graphene/MoSx as co‐catalyst, are reported. The approach involves a rapid microwave‐assisted reaction in autoclave conditions, by adopting either a one‐step or a two‐step protocol. The chemical speciation of the nanocomposites was found to depend strongly on the compounding conditions of the precursor substances. The photocatalytic activity was assessed by monitoring the photodegradation rate of 4‐nitrophenol in solution using simulated solar light irradiation. The photocatalytic activity of the hybrids may be attributed to a combination of beneficial characteristics, strongly related to the chemical speciation of the composite components. Moreover, intimate contacts of the latter result in efficient heterojunctions. Overall, the present study provides valuable insight into the development of functional heterostructured photocatalysts comprised of two‐dimensional nanomaterials.
The effectiveness of completely and incompletely sealed first permanent molars on caries prevention
Authors: Likar Ostrc Lenka , Suklan Jana , Pavlič Alenka
Published: February 2020

Fissure sealants are effective caries preventive measure. However, a dilemma has been expressed more than once, whether incompletely sealed fissures provides sufficient protection against caries. Dental examinations were performed in 88 children, aged 8 and then 4 years later at 12 years. All first permanent molars (FPMs), as diagnosed at the age of 8, were divided into three groups: nonsealed, incompletely and completely sealed. Four years later caries incidence and changes in presence and quality of fissure sealant were analyzed. At the age of 8 and 12 mean DMFT were 0.73 ± 1.24 and 3.48 ± 3.04, respectively. 71.59% of the 8‐year‐olds and 78.41% of the 12‐year‐olds had at least one sealed FPM. At the age of 8, 154 FPMs were completely sealed and 42 FPMs were incompletely sealed. Four years later, 81.17%, 71.43% and 69.4% of FPMs were healthy (sound or with noncavitated caries) in the baseline groups completely sealed, incompletely sealed and nonsealed FPMs, respectively. Incompletely sealed fissures were more susceptible to caries development than completely sealed fissures. It is important that incompletely sealed fissures are resealed as soon as possible.
New challenges for corporate sustainability reporting: United Nations' 2030 Agenda for sustainable development and the sustainable development goals
Authors: Tsalis Thomas A. , Malamateniou Kyveli E. , Koulouriotis Dimitrios , Nikolaou Ioannis E.
Published: February 2020

Complying with the requirements of sustainability development is a very high priority for the business community. The United Nations' 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (UN_SDGs) pose new challenges for firms, which have to adjust their operations and strategies to the requirements of SDGs. In this context, this paper aims to develop a methodological framework for evaluating the level of alignment of corporate sustainability reporting practices with the scope of UN_SDGs. Based on disclosure topics from Global Reporting Initiative and a scoring system, an evaluation framework was developed in order to assess the quality of information published in sustainability reports with respect to each UN_SDG. An empirical analysis was performed in a sample of sustainability reports in order to examine the structure and the applicability of the proposed methodological framework. The outcomes of the empirical analysis reflect some implications for future research on the UN_SDG reporting practices.
Does the optimization of a company's environmental performance reduce its systematic risk? New evidence from European listed companies
Authors: Djoutsa Wamba Léopold , Sahut Jean‐Michel , Braune Eric , Teulon Frédéric
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between a company's environmental performance and its systematic risk. Using a sample of 351 European listed companies over the 2007–2015 period, the technique of principal components analysis is applied to calculate a synthetic global index of corporate environmental performance using 71 evaluation criteria suggested by the ASSET4 database. Using this same approach, subindices of the global index are calculated using the following ASSET4 dimensions: reduction of emissions, product innovation, and reduction of resource usage. To test the relationship between these variables and risk, panel data regression techniques are applied. Results indicate that the synthetic global index of environmental performance negatively affects the systematic risk of company. The decomposition of this global index into three subindices shows that those subindices relating to the reduction of environmental emissions and of resource usage make it possible to significantly reduce systematic risk, whereas the subindex relating to product innovation has a rather moderate effect. Thus, environmental performance, like governance, can be considered as an insurance mechanism for the company, which reduces the probability of events occurring, which negatively affect its cash flow and risks faced by shareholders.
Phendione–Transition‐Metal Complexes with Bipolar Redox Activity for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Lakraychi Alae Eddine , De Kreijger Simon , Gupta Deepak , Elias Benjamin , Vlad Alexandru
Published: February 2020

1,10‐Phenanthroline‐5,6‐dione (phendione)‐based transition‐metal complexes are known for their use in pharmacological and catalysis applications. However, their application in electrochemical energy storage has not been investigated thus far. Herein, the feasibility of employing phendione–transition‐metal complexes was investigated for electrochemical charge storage by taking advantage of the reversible redox activity of both carbonyl groups and transition metal center, contributing to augmented charge storage. Interestingly, the chemistry of the counter ion in the studied complexes effectively tuned the solubility and improved the cycling stability. Although further studies are required to limit the solubility and active‐species shuttle, this study explores the bottlenecks of phendione–transition‐metal complexes as electrode materials for solid‐electrode‐format batteries.
Long‐lifespan Polyanionic Organic Cathodes for Highly Efficient Organic Sodium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Li Di , Tang Wu , Yong Chen Yue , Tan Zheng Hui , Wang Chuan , Fan Cong
Published: February 2020

An organic Na‐ion battery is reported with a polyanionic 9,10‐anthraquinone‐2,6‐disulfonate (Na2AQ26DS, 130 mAh g−1) cathode and the Na‐intercalated state (Na4TP) of sodium terephthalate (Na2TP, 255 mAh g−1) as the anode. The resulting full cells deliver the maximum discharge capacity of 131 mAh g−1cathode in 0.5–3.2 V, simultaneously maintaining the average value of ≈62 mAh g−1cathode during 1200 cycles (0.5 A g−1, ≈4 C). These results are among the best performing organic sodium‐ion full cells reported to date.
Curriculum integration: the challenges for primary and secondary schools in developing a new curriculum in the expressive arts
Authors: Kneen Judith , Breeze Thomas , Davies‐Barnes Sian , John Vivienne , Thayer Emma
Published: February 2020

Curriculum integration is a feature of many new curricula that have emerged in different countries since around the turn of the millennium. It focuses on removing the boundaries between traditional subject specialisms, to enable more holistic and ‘joined‐up’ learning opportunities. This study draws on the experiences of a group of primary and secondary teachers in Wales, engaged in creating a framework for an integrated curriculum for expressive arts. Whilst the teachers are united in their ambition for establishing a curriculum that gives greater status to the arts, curriculum integration presents significant challenges, notably in how subject knowledge is understood and presented within an integrated curriculum. The teachers take different approaches to curriculum integration, with primary teachers favouring atransdisciplinaryapproach, with child‐led learning and themes taking precedence, and secondary teachers opting formultidisciplinaryapproaches, where the themes are organising devices but where subjects take priority. Differing practices suggest differing conceptions of subject knowledge and mastery within an integrated curriculum. Drawing, in particular, on Bernstein’s concepts relating to knowledge discourses, this paper suggests that the danger of an integrated curriculum is weakened disciplinary knowledge. Whilst this paper relates to the arts, the messages about curriculum integration might be applied more widely.
Transgenerational plasticity of inducible defences: Combined effects of grand‐parental, parental and current environments
Authors: Tariel Juliette , Plénet Sandrine , Luquet Émilien
Published: February 2020

Phenotypic plasticity can occur across generations (transgenerational plasticity) when environments experienced by the previous generations influenced offspring phenotype. The evolutionary importance of transgenerational plasticity, especially regarding within‐generational plasticity, is a currently hot topic in the plasticity framework. How long an environmental effect can persist across generations and whether multigenerational effects are cumulative are primordial—for the evolutionary significance of transgenerational plasticity—but still unresolved questions. In this study, we investigated how the grand‐parental, parental and offspring exposures to predation cues shape the predator‐induced defences of offspring in the Physa acuta snail. We expected that the offspring phenotypes result from a three‐way interaction among grand‐parental, parental and offspring environments. We exposed three generations of snails without and with predator cues according to a full factorial design and measured offspring inducible defences. We found that both grand‐parental and parental exposures to predator cues impacted offspring antipredator defences, but their effects were not cumulative and depended on the defences considered. We also highlighted that the grand‐parental environment did alter reaction norms of offspring shell thickness, demonstrating an interaction between the grand‐parental transgenerational plasticity and the within‐generational plasticity. We concluded that the effects of multigenerational exposure to predator cues resulted on complex offspring phenotypic patterns which are difficult to relate to adaptive antipredator advantages.
Tritoroidal particle rings formation in open microfluidics induced by standing surface acoustic waves
Authors: Zheng Tengfei , Wang Chaohui , Xu Chaoping
Published: February 2020

In this paper, the particle movements in a sessile droplet induced by standing surface acoustic waves (SSAWs) are studied. Tritoroidal particle rings are formed under the interaction of acoustic field and electric field. The experimental results demonstrate that the electric field plays an important role in patterning nanoparticles. The electric field can define the droplet shape due to electrowetting. When the droplet approximates a hemisphere, the acoustic radiation force induced by SSAWs drives the particles to form tritoroidal particle rings. When the droplet approximates a convex plate, the drag force induced by acoustic steaming drives the particle to move. The results will be useful for better understanding the nanoparticle movements in a sessile droplet, which is important to explain the mechanism that SSAWs enhance reaction and crystallization in droplet.
Synergistically applying 1‐D modeling and CFD for designing industrial scale bubble column syngas bioreactors
Authors: Siebler Flora , Lapin Alexey , Takors Ralf
Published: February 2020

The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and future perspectives of circular economy ask for new solutions to produce commodities and fine chemicals. Large‐scale bubble columns operated by gaseous substrates such as CO, CO2, and H2 to feed acetogens for product formations could be promising approaches. Valid in silico predictions of large‐scale performance are needed to dimension bioreactors properly taking into account biological constraints, too. This contribution deals with the trade‐off between sophisticated spatiotemporally resolved large‐scale simulations using computationally intensive Euler–Euler and Euler–Lagrange approaches and coarse‐grained 1‐D models enabling fast performance evaluations. It is shown that proper consideration of gas hold‐up is key to predict biological performance. Intrinsic bias of 1‐D models can be compensated by reconsideration of Sauter diameters derived from uniquely performed Euler–Lagrange computational fluid dynamics.
Microglial responses after phagocytosis: Escherichia coli bioparticles, but not cell debris or amyloid beta, induce matrix metalloproteinase‐9 secretion in cultured rat primary microglial cells
Authors: Hamanaka Gen , Kubo Tomoya , Ohtomo Ryo , Takase Hajime , Reyes‐Bricio Estefania , Oribe Shuntaro , Osumi Noriko , Lok Josephine , Lo Eng H. , Arai Ken
Published: February 2020

Upon infection or brain damage, microglia are activated to play roles in immune responses, including phagocytosis and soluble factor release. However, little is known whether the event of phagocytosis could be a trigger for releasing soluble factors from microglia. In this study, we tested if microglia secrete a neurovascular mediator matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) after phagocytosis in vitro. Primary microglial cultures were prepared from neonatal rat brains. Cultured microglia phagocytosed Escherichia coli bioparticles within 2 hr after incubation and started to secrete MMP‐9 at around 12 hr after the phagocytosis. A TLR4 inhibitor TAK242 suppressed the E. coli‐bioparticle‐induced MMP‐9 secretion. However, TAK242 did not change the engulfment of E. coli bioparticles in microglial cultures. Because lipopolysaccharides (LPS), the major component of the outer membrane of E. coli, also induced MMP‐9 secretion in a dose–response manner and because the response was inhibited by TAK242 treatment, we assumed that the LPS‐TLR4 pathway, which was activated by adhering to the substance, but not through the engulfing process of phagocytosis, would play a role in releasing MMP‐9 from microglia after E. coli bioparticle treatment. To support the finding that the engulfing step would not be a critical trigger for MMP‐9 secretion after the event of phagocytosis in microglia, we confirmed that cell debris and amyloid beta were both captured into microglia via phagocytosis, but neither of them induced MMP‐9 secretion from microglia. Taken together, these data demonstrate that microglial response in MMP‐9 secretion after phagocytosis differs depending on the types of particles/substances that microglia encountered.
Sphingosine 1‐phosphate promotes the proliferation of olfactory ensheathing cells through YAP signaling and participates in the formation of olfactory nerve layer
Authors: Bao Xiaomei , Xu Xingxing , Wu Qian , Zhang Jingjing , Feng Wenjin , Yang Danlu , Li Fayi , Lu Sheng , Liu Huitao , Shen Xiya , Zhang Fan , Xie Changnan , Wu Shiyang , Lv Zhaoting , Wang Wei , Li Hongjuan , Fang Yuanyuan , Wang Ying , Teng Honglin , Huang Zhihui
Published: February 2020

Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are unique glial cells with axonal growth‐promoting properties in the olfactory epithelium and olfactory bulb, covering the entire length of the olfactory nerve. The proliferation of OECs is necessary for the formation of the presumptive olfactory nerve layer (ONL) during development and OECs transplantation. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the regulation of OEC proliferation in the ONL still remains unknown. In the present study, we examined the role of sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) and S1P receptors (S1PRs) on OEC proliferation. Initially, reverse transcription‐PCR (RT‐PCR), western blot and immunostaining revealed that S1PRs were highly expressed in the OECs in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that S1P treatment promoted the proliferation of primary cultured OECs mediated by S1PR1. Mechanistically, yes‐associated protein (YAP) was required for S1P‐induced OEC proliferation through RhoA signaling. Finally, conditional knockout of YAP in OECs reduced OEC proliferation in ONL, which impaired the axonal projection and growth of olfactory sensory neurons, and olfactory functions. Taken together, these results reveal a previously unrecognized function of S1P/RhoA/YAP pathway in the proliferation of OECs, contributing to the formation of ONL and the projection, growth, and function of olfactory sensory neurons during development.
Time‐varying nodal measures with temporal community structure: A cautionary note to avoid misinterpretation
Authors: Thompson William Hedley , Kastrati Granit , Finc Karolina , Wright Jessey , Shine James M. , Poldrack Russell A.
Published: February 2020

In network neuroscience, temporal network models have gained popularity. In these models, network properties have been related to cognition and behavior. Here, we demonstrate that calculating nodal properties that are dependent on temporal community structure (such as the participation coefficient [PC]) in time‐varying contexts can potentially lead to misleading results. Specifically, with regards to the participation coefficient, increases in integration can be inferred when the opposite is occurring. Further, we present a temporal extension to the PC measure (temporal PC) that circumnavigates this problem by jointly considering all community partitions assigned to a node through time. The proposed method allows us to track a node's integration through time while adjusting for the possible changes in the community structure of the overall network.
Clinical outcomes for larynx patients with cancer treated with refinement of high‐dose radiation treatment volumes
Authors: Burr Adam R. , Harari Paul M. , Haasl Alyx M. , Wieland Aaron M. , Bruce Justine Y. , Kimple Randall J. , Hartig Gregory K. , McCulloch Timothy M. , Witek Matthew E.
Published: February 2020

Background

To evaluate disease control, toxicities, and dose to dysphagia/aspiration risk structures (DARS) using a direct gross tumor volume (GTV70Gy) to planning target volume expansion (dPTV70Gy) for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx (LSCC).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on patients with LSCC treated between 2003 and 2018. Clinical outcomes, toxicities, and dosimetric data were analyzed.

Results

Seventy‐three patients were identified. Overall survival at 5‐years was 57.8%. Five‐year local and regional control was 79.8% and 88.2%, respectively. Distant metastatic‐only failure was 2.7%. Eighty percent of failures were 95% contained within the dPTV70Gy. Mean dose and the volume of DARS receiving 70 Gy was significantly lower for dPTV70Gy compared to a consensus‐defined PTV70Gy.

Discussion

Judicious reduction in high‐dose target volumes can preserve high tumor control rates while reducing dose to normal surrounding structures underscoring the potential benefit of this approach in enabling local therapy intensification to improve locoregional control.
Synthesis of a New Class of Materials with a Regular (Periodic) Interconnected Microstructure
Authors: Shevchenko V. Ya. , Kovalchuk M. V. , Oryschenko A. S.
Published: February 2020

The scientific basis for the synthesis of a new class of materials with an regular (periodic) interconnected structure based on triply periodic surfaces of minimum energy is formulated. The analysis of chemical synthesis based on the reaction‐diffusion Turing reaction, which allows obtaining periodic microstructures.
Is a mother's recalled parental rearing behavior, her attributions of her child's behavior, and her psychopathology associated with her mother–child relationship quality?
Authors: Albers Carolin C. , Müller Jörg M. , Mehring Kathrin , Romer Georg
Published: February 2020

Background

The mother–child relationship quality (MCRQ) may represent a transgenerational transmission mechanism of mental health problems. In this context, we examine the mother's recalled parental rearing behavior, actual attributions of her child's behavior, and her current psychopathology.

Method

A clinical sample of mother–child dyads was assessed with the Questionnaire for the Assessment of Recalled Parental Rearing Behavior, the Parent Cognition Scale, and the Symptom Checklist at the Child Psychiatric Family Day Hospital for preschool children in Münster, Germany, at admission. MCRQ was assessed with the Parent–Infant Relationship Global Assessment Scale, a structured interview with the child (Strukturiertes Interview zur Erfassung der Kind‐Eltern‐Interaktion), and the Multiperspective Parent–Child Relationship Questionnaire.

Results

Multiple regression analyses showed no direct association between the mother's recalled parental rearing behavior and any measure of the MCRQ. However, maternal dysfunctional attributions about her child's behavior and her actual psychopathology showed the expected negative associations with the multiperspective measures of MCRQ. The relationship quality assessments did not correlate significantly with each other.

Conclusion

The divergent measures of MCRQ, which seem to assess different aspects, are a barrier to investigate the association between the mother's recalled parental rearing behavior and MCRQ. However, low MCRQ is associated with increased maternal psychopathology and maternal dysfunctional attributions on child behavior.