bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation in Sensory Properties of Liquid Extract Formulations Processed from Capsicum spp Varieties Sold in Abidjan
Authors: Daouda Sidibe , Adama Coulibaly , Jean Nyamien Yves Bléouh , Ysidor Konan N’Guessan , Carine N’cho , Marius Biego Godi Henri
Published: October 2019

Aims: Peppers are common raw spices facing significant post-harvest lost in the handling train. This study was carried out to promote the production of pepper concentrate as spices extracts for foods.

Study Design: Composite extracts formulated from raw peppers extracts using Central Composite Design, and resulted formulations submitted to sensory analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of Biochemistry and Food Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Training and Research Unit of Biosciences, Felix Houphouet-Boigny University, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, between June and October 2018.

Methodology: Using a central composite design, 25 peppers extract formulations (F1 to F25) were processed from raw extracts of four pepper varieties growing in Côte d’Ivoire, namely cultivars ‘’pili pili’’ and ‘’bill of bird’’ (Capsicum frutescens), ‘’pepper baoulé’’ (Capsicum annuum), and ‘’big sun’’ (Capsicum chinense). These formulations were then subjected to sensory descriptive and sensory acceptance analyses by panellists about the color appearance, the pungency flavor, the fluidity aspect, and the typical pepper aroma.

Results: The sensory perception of pungency, fluidity, and aroma didn’t differentiate the formulations. But four formulations (F18, F20, F21, and F24) evidenced more intensive orange- yellowish appearance (4.44/7, 5.33/7, 4.33/7, and 4.67/7, respectively). From these formulations, samples F18 and F20 have been more enjoyed as food spices, with respective scores of 76.17% and 77.76% panellists.

Conclusion: Both formulations F18 and F20 could be used as significant baselines in peppers extract processing for food interests.
Reporting Outcome and Evaluating the Efficacy of Biplanar Lateral Distal Femoral Osteotomy: Two Years Follow up Study
Authors: Yeganeh Ali , Otoukesh Babak , Moghtadaei Mehdi , PahlavanSabagh Alireza , Mahdavi Mani , Hosseinzadeh Shayan
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Genu valgum could be approached by uniplanar or biplanar osteotomy in which site union and postoperative knee range of motion play important roles in technique selection.

Methods: Study was performed on 30 cases including 14 males and 16 females. Two of them had severe genu varum deformity and 28 had genu valgum. Participants underwent biplanar lateral distal femoral osteotomy. Osteotomy requirement was assessed by Lateral distal femoral angle measurement.

Results: Thirty patients underwent the biplanar procedure over the 4 years. Two years follow up showed complete union, full knee range of motion and within the acceptable alignment.

Conclusion: Biplanar osteotomy is an effective method to create the wider inner cancellous surface to achieve better osteotomy site union and knee range of motion.
Relationship between Academic Motivation and Self-directed Learning in Nursing Students
Authors: Adib Masoomeh , Ghiyasvandian Shahrzad , Varaei Shokoh , Roushan Zahra Atrkar
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Rapid development of knowledge and information in various fields of medical sciences indicates the need to encourage self-directed learning in nursing students to provide quality and updated care. This study examined the relationship between self-directed learning and academic motivation in nursing students.

Materials and Methods: Through a descriptive-correlational study, 305 nursing students studying at the Shahid Beheshti School of Nursing and Midwifery, Rasht were recruited by the census in Spring 2015. These students were asked to complete the Self-Rating Scale of Self-directed Learning (SRSSDL) and Academic Motivation Scale (AMS). Instrument reliability of these scales was confirmed in previous studies. Data were analysed by descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and analytic tests (Pearson coefficient of correlation and Chi-square).

Results: There is a positive and significant relationship between self-directed learning and academic motivation (r=0.164; p=0.004). Among components of self-directed learning, the highest coefficient of correlation was related to interpersonal skills (r=0.125, p=0.025) and the lowest was related to evaluation (r=0.111, p=0.053).

Conclusion: Findings showed a significant relationship between academic motivation and self-directed learning. Planners and decision-makers need to plan for increasing academic motivation of students, facilitating and developing self-directed learning to provide optimal care for patients.
Fundamentals of Water Waves
Authors: Kennedy Andrew
Published: October 2019

Water waves may be found on almost any water body and are active across length scales ranging from millimeters to hundreds of kilometers. Wind‐generated waves can have great variations in height, with significant heights approaching 20 m in very strong storms, to glassy sea conditions in low winds. Although waves appear quite complex, many of their fundamental processes may be described by relatively simple relations between water depth, wave period, length, and height. Wave generation by wind may, in straightforward conditions, be related to wind strength, water depth, and open water fetch in easily predictable ways. Arising from these differences, water waves have quite different heights at different locations.

Waves can act to rearrange coastlines both quickly during storms, and over centuries and millennia from the accumulated transport of sediment. These can generate quite complex landforms that depend almost entirely on wave strength and direction. Natural wave‐sediment processes are often interrupted by human activities on the coastline, and these interactions can lead to expensive and damaging erosional problems.
Piezotronic Tunneling Junction Gated by Mechanical Stimuli
Authors: Liu Shuhai , Wang Longfei , Feng Xiaolong , Liu Jinmei , Qin Yong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: October 2019

Tunneling junction is used in many devices such as high‐frequency oscillators, nonvolatile memories, and magnetic field sensors. In these devices, modulation on the barrier width and/or height is usually realized by electric field or magnetic field. Here, a new piezotronic tunneling junction (PTJ) principle, in which the quantum tunneling is controlled/tuned by externally applied mechanical stimuli, is proposed. In these metal/insulator/piezoelectric semiconductor PTJs, such as Pt/Al2O3/p‐GaN, the height and the width of the tunneling barriers can be mechanically modulated via the piezotronic effect. The tunneling current characteristics of PTJs exhibit critical behavior as a function of external mechanical stimuli, which results in high sensitivity (≈5.59 mV MPa−1), giant switching (>105), and fast response (≈4.38 ms). Moreover, the mechanical controlling of tunneling transport in PTJs with various thickness of Al2O3 is systematically investigated. The high performance observed with these metal/insulator/piezoelectric semiconductor PTJs suggest their great potential in electromechanical technology. This study not only demonstrates dynamic mechanical controlling of quantum tunneling, but also paves a way for adaptive interaction between quantum tunneling and mechanical stimuli, with potential applications in the field of ultrasensitive press sensor, human–machine interface, and artificial intelligence.
Seed‐Initiated Synthesis and Tunable Doping Graphene for High‐Performance Photodetectors
Authors: Li Jiurong , Yang Siwei , Wang Gang , Huang Tao , Guo Qinglei , Liu Zhiduo , He Peng , Zheng Xiaohu , Wang Yongqiang , Xu Anli , Zhao Menghan , Zhu Wei , Chen Da , Ding Guqiao
Published: October 2019

Due to the promising utilizations in nanoelectronics, doping‐tunable graphene is paid extensive attentions. Nevertheless, a harmless approach to dope/co‐dope graphene in a controllable and easy way with low cost is still unattainable. Herein, through seeding of 0D N & S dual‐doped graphene quantum dots (N & S dual‐doped GQDs) on a catalytic substrate and then dynamic chemical vapor deposition (CVD), a monolayered dual‐doped graphene film is demonstrated. The concentrations of dopants in graphene are strictly discerned in accordance with preliminary seeding for dual‐doped GQDs. Through the monitoring of growing process, the research elucidates the growth mechanism of the graphene, and unveils that dual‐doped GQDs can serve as the nucleation centers for creating doped‐graphene films by 2D epitaxial growth and thus graphene with designed dopant concentration can be obtained. Finally, the photodetector built on N & S dual‐doped graphene film is found to perform satisfactorily, accompanying high detectivity (≈1.42 × 1010 cm Hz1/2 W−1) and responsivity (61 mA W−1), at wavelength of 1550 nm. The research proposes a dexterous approach for synthesizing tunably doped graphene films by the combination of locally controlled nucleation seeds and in situ CVD, which lays the foundation for applying graphene in industries of photonic and electronic devices.
Spin‐Dependent Electronic Structure and Magnetic Anisotropy of 2D Ferromagnetic Janus Cr2I3X3 (X = Br, Cl) Monolayers
Authors: Zhang Fang , Mi Wenbo , Wang Xiaocha
Published: October 2019

Two‐dimensional (2D) Janus monolayers with mirror asymmetry have been found to possess extraordinary physical characteristics, meaning they could find applications in optoelectronic, electronic, and electromechanical devices. However, 2D Janus materials with intrinsic magnetism are rare. The electronic structure and magnetic properties of Janus Cr2I3X3 (X = Br, Cl) monolayers are investigated by first‐principles calculations. Janus Cr2I3X3 monolayers are an indirect band gap semiconductor with good stability, intrinsic ferromagnetism, and electric polarization. Cr2I3Br3 monolayer is a half semiconductor with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA), while Janus Cr2I3Cl3 monolayer is a bipolar magnetic semiconductor with in‐plane magnetic anisotropy (IMA). The band gap and Cr magnetic moment of Janus Cr2I3X3 monolayers can be tailored by biaxial strain. Additionally, a strain‐induced transition from half semiconductor to bipolar magnetic semiconductor, and reversal between PMA and IMA, appears in the Janus Cr2I3X3 monolayers. These results enrich the diversity of Janus 2D materials, which have potential applications in 2D spintronic devices.
Water, food, and the dual burden of disease in Galápagos, Ecuador
Authors: Thompson Amanda L. , Nicholas Khristopher M. , Watson Elijah , Terán Enrique , Bentley Margaret E.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Rapid development in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) has led to changes in diet that have outpaced water and sanitation improvements, contributing to a dual burden of overweight and noncommunicable disease risk factors (OWT/NCD) and undernutrition and infectious disease symptoms (UND/ID) within individuals and households. Yet, little work has examined the joint impact of water and food exposures on the development of the dual burden.

Methods

We use data from Ecuador's nationally representativeEncuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición(ENSANUT‐ECU) to test whether water access and quality and diet quality and security are associated with OWT/NCD and UND/ID among 1119 children and 1582 adults in Galápagos. Adjusted multinomial and logistic models were used to test the separate and joint associations between water and food exposures and the dual burden and its components at the individual and household levels.

Results

The prevalence of the dual burden of OWT/NCD and UND/ID was 16% in children, 33% in adults, and 90% in households. Diet quality was associated with a higher risk of dual burden in individuals and households. Mild food insecurity was positively associated with the risk of dual burden at the household level. No water variable separately predicted the dual burden. Joint exposure to poor water access and food insecurity was associated with greater odds of dual burden in households.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that unhealthy diets and poor water quality contribute to the dual burden at the individual and household levels. Addressing both food and water limitations is important in LMIC.
Ethical priority of the most actionable system of biomolecules: the metabolome
Authors: Lewis Cecil M. , McCall Laura‐Isobel , Sharp Richard R. , Spicer Paul G.
Published: October 2019

The metabolome is a system of small biomolecules (metabolites) and a direct result of human bioculture. Consequently, metabolomics is well poised to impact anthropological and biomedical research for the foreseeable future. Overall, we provide a perspective on the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of metabolomics, which we argue are often more alarming than those of genomics. Given the current mechanisms to fund research, ELSI beyond human DNA is stifled and in need of considerable attention.
Singular Characteristics of Optical Thue–Morse Multilayers Composed of PT‐Symmetric Elements
Authors: Tang Yan , Yang Xiangbo , Zheng Jian , Tang Xiaopeng , Wu Huizhou , Deng Dongmei , Liu Hongzhan
Published: October 2019

Aperiodic 1D Thue–Morse (TM) multilayer optical structures composed of two parity‐time‐symmetric (PT‐symmetric) elements are constructed. The transfer matrix and scattering matrix are utilized for singular propagation characteristic analysis of the structures. The structures display interesting and singular properties, including an unusual eigenvalue spectra, transparency, and unidirectional reflectionless and unidirectional invisibility. Additionally, even‐generation and odd‐generation structures show a significant difference in the aforementioned four properties. The main reason for this is the symmetry difference between the two structures: for even‐generation structures, each individual element as well as the entire system with respect to the PT‐symmetry; while for the odd‐generation structures, each individual element has PT‐symmetry; however, the system as a whole does not have PT‐symmetry. The propagation characteristics of the entire structure, which is not a PT‐symmetric system being composed of PT‐symmetric elements, have not yet been reported. This work can contribute to the understanding of the TM sequence, as well as contribute to understanding the influence of the degree of PT‐symmetry on the singular optical propagation characteristics of aperiodic optical structures. Additionally, this may open new possibilities for important applications, such as the design of a diverse family of all‐optical devices with intriguing behaviors.
Protein‐NMR‐Resonanzzuordnung ohne Spektralanalyse: automatisierte Festkörper‐Projektionsspektroskopie in 5D (SO‐APSY)
Authors: Orton Henry W. , Stanek Jan , Schubeis Tobias , Foucaudeau Dylan , Ollier Claire , Draney Adrian W. , Le Marchand Tanguy , Cala‐De Paepe Diane , Felli Isabella C. , Pierattelli Roberta , Hiller Sebastian , Bermel Wolfgang , Pintacuda Guido
Published: October 2019

Schmale Protonensignale, hohe Empfindlichkeit und effiziente Kohärenztransfers durch schnelles Drehen im magischen Winkel und hohen Magnetfeldern ermöglichen eine automatisierte Projektionsspektroskopie in der Protein‐Festkörper‐NMR. Wir präsentieren die erste ultrahochdimensionale Implementierung dieses Ansatzes für Proteinproben mit unterschiedlicher Molekülgröße und Aggregationsstufe. 5D‐Peaklisten werden aus einer Reihe von 2D‐Projektionen, die eine begrenzte Dispersion chemischer Verschiebungen oder inhomogener Verbreiterung aufweisen, rekonstruiert. Die resultierenden Datensätze eignen sich besonders für die automatisierte Analyse und ergeben schnelle und unverfälschte Rückgratresonanzzuweisungen.
A Versatile 3D and 4D Printing System through Photocontrolled RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Zhang Zhiheng , Corrigan Nathaniel , Bagheri Ali , Jin Jianyong , Boyer Cyrille
Published: October 2019

Reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization is a valuable tool for synthesizing macromolecules with controlled topologies and diverse chemical functionalities. However, the application of RAFT polymerization to additive‐manufacturing processes has been prevented due to the slow polymerization rates of typical systems. In this work, we developed and optimized a rapid visible (green) light mediated RAFT polymerization process and applied it to an open‐air 3D printing system. The reaction components are non‐toxic, metal free and environmentally friendly, which tailors these systems toward biomaterial fabrication. The inclusion of RAFT agent in the photosensitive resin provided control over the mechanical properties of 3D printed materials and allowed these materials to be post‐functionalized after 3D printing. Additionally, photoinduced spatiotemporal control of the network structure provided a one‐pass approach to 4D printed materials. This RAFT‐mediated 3D and 4D printing process should provide access to a range of new functional and stimuli‐responsive materials.
Role of particle morphology in the yielding behavior of dense thermosensitive microgel suspensions
Authors: Kaithakkal Jathavedan Kiran , Kanheerampockil Fayis , Bhat Suresh
Published: October 2019

The yielding behavior of dense thermosensitive microgel suspensions of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) with two different particle morphologies viz core–shell (CS) morphology and particles with uniform crosslink density were studied. Structural properties were examined using dynamic light scattering and yielding behavior was investigated by nonlinear oscillatory rheology. Suspensions of particles with uniform crosslinking density showed a typical hard sphere like behavior with the loss modulus (G″) exhibiting a single peak due to cage breaking while CS type particles shows a double yielding at different ranges of strain similar to that seen in attractive colloidal glasses. The first yielding process in CS microgels is interpreted as due to the disentanglement of the overlapped polymer chains from the shells of the neighboring microgels and the second yielding process due to the breakage of cages formed by neighboring microgel particles. Current study suggests that the interpenetration of polymer chains at high concentrations sets in an attractive like potential leading to double yielding phenomena in an otherwise purely repulsive system. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48625.
Mortality by mode of delivery among infants with spina bifida in Texas
Authors: Benjamin Renata H. , Lopez Adriana , Mitchell Laura E. , Tsao KuoJen , Johnson Anthony , Langlois Peter H. , Swartz Michael D. , Agopian A. J.
Published: October 2019

Background

It is hypothesized that cesarean delivery may reduce mortality among infants with spina bifida (e.g., by reducing trauma to the open lesion); however, few studies have assessed this relationship.

Methods

We used the Texas Birth Defects Registry to identify neonates with spina bifida born between 1999 and 2014. The mode of delivery (main exposure) was abstracted from each subject's birth certificate. The vital status (main outcome) was determined based on the presence or absence of a death certificate. When a death certificate was present, survival time was calculated by subtracting the date of birth from the date of death. We then conducted multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio between cesarean delivery and death prior to 29 days. We adjusted for maternal race/ethnicity, maternal education, gestational age/birthweight, and breech presentation. This analysis was repeated for death prior to 365 days.

Results

We analyzed 1,983 nonsyndromic, liveborn neonates with spina bifida, and 68% of these neonates were delivered by cesarean. After adjusting for potential confounders, the adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] for death prior to 29 days was 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49, 1.21) and the aHR for death prior to 365 days was 0.93 (95% CI 0.63, 1.38) comparing infants delivered by cesarean to those delivered vaginally.

Conclusions

Despite a lack of strong prior epidemiologic evidence, cesarean rates for neonates with spina bifida were high. Further investigations of the relationship between mode of delivery and infant outcomes, including mortality, complications, and long‐term prognosis, are warranted.
Streptomyces thermocerradoensis I3 secretes a novel bifunctional xylanase/endoglucanase under solid‐state fermentation
Authors: Gama Aline Rodrigues , Brito‐Cunha Carolina Candida Q. , Campos Ivan T. N. , de Souza Guilherme Rocha L. , Carneiro Lilian Carla , Bataus Luiz Artur Mendes
Published: October 2019

Lignocellulosic wastes can be potentially converted into several bioproducts such as glucose, xylo‐oligosaccharides, and bioethanol. Certain processes, such as enzymatic hydrolysis, are generally needed to convert biomass into bioproducts. The present study investigated the production of xylanases and cellulases by Streptomyces thermocerradoensis I3 under solid‐state fermentation (SSF), using wheat bran as a low‐cost medium. The activities of xylanase and carboxymethyl cellulase (CMCase) were evaluated until 96 hr of incubation. The highest enzyme activity was observed after 72 hr of incubation. The crude enzyme extract was sequentially filtered, first using a 50 kDa filter, followed by a 30 kDa filter. Fraction 3 (F3) exhibited activities of both xylanase and CMCase. Xylanase and CMCase showed optimum activity at 70°C and pH 6.0 and 55°C and pH 6.0, respectively. The zymogram analysis showed a single activity band with a molecular mass of approximately 17 kDa. These findings provide strong evidence that the enzyme is a bifunctional xylanase/endoglucanase. This enzyme improved the saccharification of sugarcane bagasse by 1.76 times that of commercial cellulase. This enzyme has potential applications in various biotechnological procedures.
Exosomal miRNA‐1231 derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells inhibits the activity of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Shang Song , Wang Jinfeng , Chen Shilin , Tian Renyun , Zeng Hui , Wang Liang , Xia Man , Zhu Haizhen , Zuo Chaohui
Published: October 2019

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly malignant tumor with increased morbidity and mortality, which is difficult to diagnose and cure in the clinic. Through secreting exosomes containing biological molecules, including diverse RNAs and proteins, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM‐MSCs) influence the immunity, inflammation, tumor environment, and cancer metastasis. In this study, low expression of miRNA‐1231 (miR‐1231) in exosomes derived from the peripheral blood was significantly correlated with the TNM stage of PC, suggesting the potential inhibitory effect of exosomal miR‐1231 on PC occurrence and development. The proliferation, migration, invasion, and adhesion to the matrix of PC cells BxPC‐3 and PANC‐1 were negatively regulated by exosomes derived from the supernatants of BM‐MSCs that transfected with miR‐1231 oligonucleotides. Simultaneously, tumor growth in vivo was seriously restrained in BALB/C nude mice by tail vein injection with exosomes originated from BM‐MSCs that transfected with miR‐1231 mimics. The exosomes extracted from BM‐MSCs with high level of miR‐1231 inhibit the activity of PC, providing the potential application for developing new and efficient medicine for cancer therapy, especially for PC treatment. The exosomal miR‐1231 of peripheral blood may also be a potential indicator for PC diagnosis in the future.
Interactive fluid flow simulation in computer graphics using incompressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Hassaballah M. , Aly Abdelraheem M. , Abdelnaim A.
Published: October 2019

Interactive simulations of fluids flow play an important role in several computer graphics‐based applications such as computer games, computer animation, movie industry, and virtual realities. The incompressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics (ISPH) model is a promising numerical scheme for large‐scale and large‐deformation simulations, where the pressure can be determined precisely by solving pressure Poisson equation (PPE). The three main shortcomings of the ISPH scheme are oscillating pressure, particles disorders, and particles penetrations through rigid boundary. In this paper, the stable pressure is obtained from modifications in the source term of PPE, in which the divergence‐free velocity condition plus density‐invariance condition multiply by a relaxation coefficient are included. The particles disorders are solved via utilizing a shifting technique with the current treatment of source term in PPE. Additionally, the dummy boundary particles are used for the rigid boundary treatment. For getting enough pressure on the boundary, the Neumann boundary condition is satisfied during the implicit solving processes. The performance of the stabilized ISPH model is tested on various numerical simulations with largely distorted free surface including liquid sloshing problems, fluid–fluid and fluid–structure interactions, and dam‐break flows. To extend the applicability of the stabilized ISPH model, the post process including visual realism with a highly rendering scheme is coupled. The coupled scheme introduces several simulations including free falling of a rigid body, water splashes, and dam break analysis. Furthermore, the proposed ISPH‐based method enables efficient and viscous fluid simulations with large time steps, higher viscosities, and resolutions, and it is a robust scheme in long interval simulations of nonlinear free‐surface flows.
The l‐Alanosine Gene Cluster Encodes a Pathway for Diazeniumdiolate Biosynthesis
Authors: Ng Tai L. , McCallum Monica E. , Zheng Christine R. , Wang Jennifer X. , Wu Kelvin J. Y. , Balskus Emily P.
Published: October 2019

N‐Nitroso‐containing natural products are bioactive metabolites with antibacterial and anticancer properties. In particular, compounds containing the diazeniumdiolate (N‐nitrosohydroxylamine) group display a wide range of bioactivities ranging from cytotoxicity to metal chelation. Despite the importance of this structural motif, knowledge of its biosynthesis is limited. Herein we describe the discovery of a biosynthetic gene cluster in Streptomyces alanosinicus ATCC 15710 responsible for producing the diazeniumdiolate natural product l‐alanosine. Gene disruption and stable isotope feeding experiments identified essential biosynthetic genes and revealed the source of the N‐nitroso group. Additional biochemical characterization of the biosynthetic enzymes revealed that the non‐proteinogenic amino acid l‐2,3‐diaminopropionic acid (l‐Dap) is synthesized and loaded onto a free‐standing peptidyl carrier protein (PCP) domain in l‐alanosine biosynthesis, which we propose may be a mechanism of handling unstable intermediates generated en route to the diazeniumdiolate. These discoveries will facilitate efforts to determine the biochemistry of diazeniumdiolate formation.
A novel detrimental homozygous mutation in the WFS1 gene in two sisters from nonconsanguineous parents with untreated diabetes insipidus
Authors: Papadimitriou Dimitrios T. , Kleanthous Kleanthis , Manolakos Emmanouil , Tiulpakov Anatoly , Nikolopoulos Thomas , Delides Alexandros , Voros Gerasimos , Dinopoulos Argyrios , Zoupanos George , Papadimitriou Anastasios , Mastorakos Georgios , Urano Fumihiko
Published: October 2019

Given the limited lifespan and with the recent progress in experimental treatments for WS, timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment for DI/DM, hydronephrosis, and visual/psychiatric status—maintaining quality of life—are of crucial importance.
Targeted Enzyme Engineering Unveiled Unexpected Patterns of Halogenase Stabilization
Authors: Minges Hannah , Schnepel Christian , Böttcher Dominique , Weiß Martin S. , Sproß Jens , Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Sewald Norbert
Published: October 2019

Halogenases are valuable biocatalysts for selective C−H activation, but despite recent efforts to broaden their application scope by means of protein engineering, improvement of thermostability and catalytic efficiency is still desired. A directed evolution campaign aimed at generating a thermostable flavin‐dependent tryptophan 6‐halogenase with reasonable activity suitable for chemoenzymatic purposes. These characteristics were tackled by combining successive rounds of epPCR along with semi‐rational mutagenesis leading to a triple mutant (Thal‐GLV) with substantially increased thermostability (▵TM=23.5 K) and higher activity at 25 °C than the wild type enzyme. Moreover, an active‐site mutation has a striking impact on thermostability but also on enantioselectivity. Our data contribute to a detailed understanding of biohalogenation and provide a profound basis for future engineering strategies to facilitate chemoenzymatic application of these attractive biocatalysts.
Optimized Process and Bioreactor Characterization
Authors: Maischberger Thomas
Published: October 2019

The mass transfer coefficient (kL)and the value of the interfacial area (a) is used to characterize bioreactor systems for their oxygen transfer capability. The kLa value and the mixing time are amongst the most important performance indicators for bioreactors. Their calculation and modeling is extremely complex in highly aerated systems. This paper describes a new methodology for measuring the kLa value to accurately determine the coefficient. The valuable insights obtained allow for improved bioreactor characterization, thus, making it easier to meet regulatory requirements. Furthermore, examples outlining the benefits in the practical application of the new methodology are presented.
An electric vehicle operation optimization method based on demand‐side management
Authors: Gan Haiqing , Zheng Chuiyong
Published: October 2019

Against the background of energy restriction and environmental pollution, in recent years, new energy electric vehicles have developed rapidly with their advantages of energy saving and environmental protection. To realize the benign interaction between electric vehicle charging and switching power stations and power grid, and the demand‐side management of electric vehicle charging and switching power stations, the Monte Carlo random sampling method is used to collect the battery‐charged state of batteries in one day. Considering the constraints of charging and discharging times of charging stations, the operation model of charging and switching stations for electric vehicles is established, and the interior point optimization method is used to solve the model; thus, the optimal orderly charging and discharging strategy for electric vehicles can be obtained. Finally, simulation results show that the optimized charging mode can effectively reduce the peak‐valley difference of the system load and improve the stability of the system compared with the stochastic charging mode. In addition, this mode of charging can effectively develop the economic potential of the electric‐vehicle batteries without affecting the use needs of the owners, and it has good prospects for engineering popularization.
Enhancing the performance of optical VLC system based on asymmetric symmetric subcarriers OFDM
Authors: Sobhy Androw , ElSayed Shaimaa , Zekry Abdelhalim
Published: October 2019

Recently, visible light communications (VLCs) based on the orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing (OFDM) technique play an important role in the field of wireless communications. Researches in that field found techniques to improve performance and reduce the system complexity. This paper proposes a system named asymmetric symmetric subcarriers enhanced optical (ASSEO)‐OFDM applied to VLC based on OFDM technique. The proposed system enhances the transmitted data rate by a factor of 1/8 compared with other existing systems. Keeping the same transmitted data rate as the comparable techniques, simulation results show an enhancement of the Eb/No for the proposed system by at least 0.65 dB than asymmetrically and symmetrically clipping optical (ASCO)‐OFDM, by at least 2 dB than asymmetrically clipped optical (ACO)‐OFDM and FLIP‐OFDM, and by at least 0.9 dB than DC‐biased optical (DCO)‐OFDM system at bit error rate (BER) of 10−4. An analytical description of the ASSEO proposed system is also introduced in this paper besides a comparative study with other existing systems.
Mental health problems increasing for youth, access to services not adequate
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2019

Youth in America are experiencing more mental health problems and a greater prevalence of major depressive issues, according to a nationwide annual report put together by Mental Health America. According to the report, major depressive episodes increased by more than 4% between 2012 and 2017, which means that more than 2 million youths and adolescents suffer from depression. And the highest rates of suicidal ideation were found in young adults aged 18–25.
Clinical value of serum hyaluronan and propeptide of type III collagen in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Chen Inna M. , Willumsen Nicholas , Dehlendorff Christian , Johansen Astrid Z. , Jensen Benny V. , Hansen Carsten P. , Hasselby Jane P. , Bojesen Stig E. , Pfeiffer Per , Nielsen Svend E. , Holländer Niels H. , Yilmaz Mette K. , Karsdal Morten , Johansen Julia S.
Published: October 2019

Hyaluronan (HA) and collagen are highly expressed in pancreatic cancer (PC) stroma. HA and collagen accumulation increase tumor interstitial fluid pressure, compromising blood flow and drug penetration. The aim of this biomarker study was to determine the clinical utility of serum HA and the propeptide of type III collagen (PRO‐C3) in patients with PC. A cohort from the Danish BIOPAC study (NCT03311776) including patients with histologically confirmed pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (n= 809), ampullary carcinoma (n= 44), distal biliary tract cancer (n= 31), chronic pancreatitis (n= 15), intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (n= 41), duodenal adenoma (n= 7) and no cancer (n= 25). Healthy controls were available for serum HA (n= 141) and PRO‐C3 (n= 8). The main outcome was overall survival (OS) of patients with PC in relation to pretreatment serum HA and PRO‐C3 levels. Patients with PC had higher baseline serum HA and PRO‐C3 than healthy subjects and patients with benign conditions. Pretreatment serum baseline HA and PRO‐C3 in patients with PC were associated with poorer survival and PRO‐C3 remained prognostic also after adjusting for age, performance status, stage, the presence of liver and peritoneum metastasis, and CA19‐9. Detection of HA and PRO‐C3 may be useful in differentiating between malignant and benign pancreatic conditions. Serum HA and PRO‐C3 were prognostic for OS in patients with PC.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 Gene Therapy in Mice Inhibits Myeloma Tumor Growth, But Has a Negative Impact on Bone
Authors: Westhrin Marita , Holien Toril , Zahoor Muhammad , Moen Siv Helen , Buene Glenn , Størdal Berit , Hella Hanne , Yuan Huipin , de Bruijn Joost D , Martens Anton , Groen Richard WJ , Bosch Fatima , Smith Ulf , Sponaas Anne‐Marit , Sundan Anders , Standal Therese
Published: October 2019

Multiple myeloma is characterized by accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. Most patients suffer from an osteolytic bone disease, caused by increased bone degradation and reduced bone formation. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) is important for both pre‐ and postnatal bone formation and induces growth arrest and apoptosis of myeloma cells. BMP4‐treatment of myeloma patients could have the potential to reduce tumor growth and restore bone formation. We therefore explored BMP4 gene therapy in a human‐mouse model of multiple myeloma where humanized bone scaffolds were implanted subcutaneously in RAG2−/− γC−/−mice. Mice were treated with adeno‐associated virus serotype 8 BMP4 vectors (AAV8‐BMP4) to express BMP4 in the liver. When mature BMP4 was detectable in the circulation, myeloma cells were injected into the scaffolds and tumor growth was examined by weekly imaging. Strikingly, the tumor burden was reduced in AAV8‐BMP4 mice compared with the AAV8‐CTRL mice, suggesting that increased circulating BMP4 reduced tumor growth. BMP4‐treatment also prevented bone loss in the scaffolds, most likely due to reduced tumor load. To delineate the effects of BMP4 overexpression on bone per se, without direct influence from cancer cells, we examined the unaffected, non‐myeloma femurs by μCT. Surprisingly, the AAV8‐BMP4 mice had significantly reduced trabecular bone volume, trabecular numbers, as well as significantly increased trabecular separation compared with the AAV8‐CTRL mice. There was no difference in cortical bone parameters between the two groups. Taken together, BMP4 gene therapy inhibited myeloma tumor growth, but also reduced the amount of trabecular bone in mice. Our data suggest that care should be taken when considering using BMP4 as a therapeutic agent. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Dysregulated circRNAs serve as prognostic and diagnostic markers in osteosarcoma by sponging microRNA to regulate the downstream signaling pathway
Authors: Huang Xin , Yang Wenbo , Zhang Zhicai , Shao Zengwu
Published: October 2019

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been extensively studied in many tumors. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the relationship between circRNAs and clinical features, prognosis, and diagnosis of osteosarcoma patients. We mainly included studies about circRNAs expression and osteosarcoma. The odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for clinical features, sensitivity, and specificity, while the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs were used to assess overall survival (OS). A number of 13 articles were included in this study, including 9 about clinical features, 11 about prognosis, and 5 about diagnosis. The results showed that increased circRNAs expression was significantly correlated with adverse clinical characteristics. In terms of prognosis, oncogenic circRNAs had adverse effects on overall survival (OS: HR = 2.54; 95%Cl: 2.05–3.03), and increased expression of cancer‐suppressor circRNAs prolonged survival (OS: HR = 0.42; 95%Cl: 0.210.64). Our study further showed an AUC of 0.85, with an 80% sensitivity and 77% specificity to distinguish osteosarcoma patients from healthy controls. In conclusion, circRNAs may be new promising indicators for prognostic evaluation and early diagnosis of osteosarcoma patients.
Fractionating the all‐or‐nothing definition of goal‐directed and habitual decision‐making
Authors: Schreiner Drew C. , Renteria Rafael , Gremel Christina M.
Published: October 2019

Goal‐directed and habitual decision‐making are fundamental processes that support the ongoing adaptive behavior. There is a growing interest in examining their disruption in psychiatric disease, often with a focus on a disease shifting control from one process to the other, usually a shift from goal‐directed to habitual control. However, several different experimental procedures can be used to probe whether decision‐making is under goal‐directed or habitual control, including outcome devaluation and contingency degradation. These different experimental procedures may recruit diverse behavioral and neural processes. Thus, there are potentially many opportunities for these disease phenotypes to manifest as alterations to both goal‐directed and habitual controls. In this review, we highlight the examples of behavioral and neural circuit divergence and similarity, and suggest that interpretation based on behavioral processes recruited during testing may leave more room for goal‐directed and habitual decision‐making to coexist. Furthermore, this may improve our understanding of precisely what the involved neural mechanisms underlying aspects of goal‐directed and habitual behavior are, as well as how disease affects behavior and these circuits.
Missing pouches in high‐density mapping of atrial tachyarrhythmia in congenital heart diseases
Authors: Kwok Sit‐Yee , Yung Tak‐Cheung , Ho Ngai‐Lun , Hai Jo‐Jo , Tsao Sabrina , Tse Hung‐Fat
Published: October 2019

Background

The use of high‐density electroanatomical mapping in the Chinese population for congenital heart disease (CHD) is not well reported.

Methods

Retrospective review of consecutive transcatheter ablation of atrial tachyarrhythmia using high‐density mapping for CHD patients (at least moderate complexity) in the only tertiary congenital heart center in the territory from January 2017 to January 2019 was conducted. Orion mapping catheter in Rhythmia system (Boston Scientific) was used to create activation and voltage maps. Parameters including mechanism of arrhythmia, acute success, and follow‐up data were recorded.

Results

Eight patients were identified (median age 35.5 years) who underwent transcatheter ablation of atrial arrhythmia. More than one reentry circuits of IART were identified in five patients. It took a median of 32.4 minutes with 15,952 (IQR 13,395‐18,530) mapping points per map. Cavo‐annulus isthmus‐dependent mechanism was the predominant reentry mechanism. Acute success with the elimination of all inducible tachycardia was achieved in six patients (75%), and partial success in two patients. There was recurrence of atrial arrhythmia in four patients (50%), in which three patients could be maintained in sinus rhythm with low‐dose antiarrhythmic medication. Targeted substrate ablation was performed in six patients with multiple IART circuits. Critical anatomical pouches were identified in three patients, which were missed in the initial mapping using Orion basket mapping catheter.

Conclusions

High acute success rate of atrial arrhythmia ablation can be achieved using high‐density anatomical mapping in CHD. Substrate ablation was required with multiple IART circuits identified. Vigilance should be sought to identify anatomical pouches.
Sustainable and green microextraction of organophosphorus flame retardants by a novel phosphonium‐based deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Shahbodaghi Maryam , Faraji Hakim , Shahbaazi Hamidreza , Shabani Mohsen
Published: October 2019

Based on the solidification of a hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent in air‐assisted liquid phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, a green and sustainable microextraction technique was developed for extracting, separating, and detecting organophosphorus flame retardants in aqueous samples. In this study, some strategies were considered for overcoming or improving the challenges of conventional solvent microextraction procedures. In addition, a hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent with a freezing point near the ambient temperature was employed as an extraction phase, the dispersive solvent was substituted by the syringe pump process, and the centrifugation step was omitted by using salting‐out phenomenon. Further, the effect of the main independent variables was evaluated by using the chemometric methods in order to maximize the extraction efficiency of the procedure. Under optimal conditions, the calibration model was linear in the range of 0.01–25.0 µg/L. Limits of detection and quantitation were assessed at the concentration levels of 2–23 and 9–65 ng/L, respectively. The precision involving repeatability and reproducibility was evaluated by estimating the relative standard deviation, the levels of which were <6.6 and <8.7%, respectively. The applicability of the method was successfully evaluated by analyzing the target analytes in real aqueous samples, which illustrated satisfactory recoveries (95–104.61%).
Adult ambulatory otologic surgery: Unplanned revisits and complications
Authors: Heilbronn Cameron , Lin Harrison , Bhattacharyya Neil
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Determine rates and reasons for unplanned revisits after ambulatory otologic surgery.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis of State Ambulatory Surgery Databases of California, Florida, Iowa, and New York was performed for years 2010 and 2011. Ambulatory adult otology surgical procedures were linked to ambulatory, emergency, and inpatient databases for revisit encounters occurring within 30 days. The numbers of revisits and associated diagnoses were analyzed.

Results

A total of 16,709 ambulatory otologic cases were extracted (mean age, 50.3 years; 54.2% female). The most common primary procedures performed were tympanoplasty (n = 7,919), stapedectomy (n = 2504), cochlear implantation (n = 1444), tympanomastoidectomy (n = 713), and mastoidectomy (n = 697). The 30‐day revisit rate was 5.2% (n = 875; 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.9%–5.6%). Urinary retention/urinary tract infection (UTI) (n = 93, 10.6%; CI 8.8%–12.9%) was the most common diagnosis at revisit, followed by otalgia (n = 85, 9.7% of revisits; CI: 7.9%–11.9%) and dizziness (n = 80, 9.1%; CI 7.4%–11.2%). Revisits most frequently occurred within the first 10 days postoperatively (47.2% of revisits), and a second revisit occurred 134 times (0.8% of cases). Fewer than 10 cases of facial nerve palsy were diagnosed (CI 0.03%–0.11%).

Conclusion

With a relatively low unplanned revisit rate, ambulatory otologic surgery demonstrates a favorable safety profile. Common reasons for revisit included pain, urinary retention, and dizziness. Quality improvement measures should be directed at addressing these postoperative issues to minimize rates of complications and unplanned revisits.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 130:1788–1791, 2020
Ex Situ Liver Machine Perfusion: The Impact of Fresh Frozen Plasma
Authors: Liu Qiang , Hassan Ahmed , Pezzati Daniele , Soliman Basem , Lomaglio Laura , Grady Patrick , Del Angel Diaz Laurent , Simioni Andrea , Maikhor Shana , Etterling John , D’Amico Giuseppe , Iuppa Giuseppe , Diago Uso Teresa , Hashimoto Koji , Aucejo Federico , Fujiki Masato , Eghtesad Bijan , Sasaki Kazunari , Kwon Choon Hyuck David , Cywinski Jacek , Irefin Samuel , Bennett Ana , Baldwin William , Miller Charles , Quintini Cristiano
Published: October 2019

The primary aim of this single‐center, phase 1 exploratory study was to investigate the safety, feasibility, and impact on intrahepatic hemodynamics of a fresh frozen plasma (FFP)–based perfusate in ex situ liver normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) preservation. Using an institutionally developed perfusion device, 21 livers (13 donations after brain death and 8 donations after circulatory death) were perfused for 3 hours 21 minutes to 7 hours 52 minutes and successfully transplanted. Outcomes were compared in a 1:4 ratio to historical control patients matched according to donor and recipient characteristics and preservation time. Perfused livers presented a very low resistance state with high flow during ex situ perfusion (arterial and portal flows 340 ± 150 and 890 ± 70 mL/minute/kg liver, respectively). This hemodynamic state was maintained even after reperfusion as demonstrated by higher arterial flow observed in the NMP group compared with control patients (220 ± 120 versus 160 ± 80 mL/minute/kg liver, P = 0.03). The early allograft dysfunction (EAD) rate, peak alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and peak aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels within 7 days after transplantation were lower in the NMP group compared with the control patients (EAD 19% versus 46%, P = 0.02; peak ALT 363 ± 318 versus 1021 ± 999 U/L, P = 0.001; peak AST 1357 ± 1492 versus 2615 ± 2541 U/L, P = 0.001 of the NMP and control groups, respectively). No patient developed ischemic type biliary stricture. One patient died, and all other patients are alive and well at a follow‐up of 12‐35 months. No device‐related adverse events were recorded. In conclusion, with this study, we showed that ex situ NMP of human livers can be performed safely and effectively using a noncommercial device and an FFP‐based preservation solution. Future studies should further investigate the impact of an FFP‐based perfusion solution on liver hemodynamics during ex situ normothermic machine preservation.