bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of creatine kinase and alpha‐1 antitrypsin as protein targets of alkylation by sulfur mustard
Authors: Lüling Robin , Schmeißer Wolfgang , Siegert Markus , Mückter Harald , Dietrich Alexander , Thiermann Horst , Gudermann Thomas , John Harald , Steinritz Dirk
Published: September 2020

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a toxic chemical warfare agent deployed in several conflicts within the last 100 years and still represents a threat in terroristic attacks and warfare. SM research focuses on understanding the pathophysiology of SM and identifying novel biomarkers of exposure. SM is known to alkylate nucleophilic moieties of endogenous proteins, for example, free thiol groups of cysteine residues. The two‐dimensional‐thiol‐differences in gel electrophoresis (2D‐thiol‐DIGE) technique is an initial proteomics approach to detect proteins with free cysteine residues. These amino acids are selectively labeled with infrared‐maleimide dyes visualized after GE. Cysteine residues derivatized by alkylating agents are no longer accessible for the maleimide–thiol coupling resulting in the loss of the fluorescent signal of the corresponding protein. To prove the applicability of 2D‐thiol‐DIGE, this technology was exemplarily applied to neat human serum albumin treated with SM, to lysates from human cell culture exposed to SM as well as to human plasma exposed to CEES (chloroethyl ethyl sulfide, an SM analogue). Exemplarily, the most prominent proteins modified by SM were identified by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight (tandem) mass spectrometry, MALDI‐TOF MS(/MS), as creatine kinase (CK) from human cells and as alpha‐1 antitrypsin (A1AT) from plasma samples. Peptides containing the residue Cys282 of CK and Cys232 of A1AT were unambiguously identified by micro liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization high‐resolution tandem‐mass spectrometry (μLC‐ESI MS/HR MS) as being alkylated by SM bearing the specific hydroxyethylthioethyl‐(HETE)‐moiety. Both peptides might represent potential biomarkers of SM exposure. This is the first report introducing these endogenous proteins as targets of SM alkylation.
Teaching quantitative ecology online: An evidence‐based prescription of best practices
Authors: Acevedo Miguel A.
Published: September 2020

Quantitative skills are becoming central to the undergraduate and graduate curriculum in ecology and evolutionary biology. While previous studies acknowledge that students perceive their quantitative training to be inadequate, there is little guidance on best practices. Moreover, with the recent COVID‐19 sudden transition to online learning, there is even less guidance on how to effectively teach quantitative ecology online. Here, I synthesize a prescription of pedagogical best practices for teaching quantitative ecology online based on a broad review of the literature on multiple quantitative disciplines. These best practices include the following: (1) design and implement the class to meet learning goals using online strategies specifically; (2) create an open, inclusive, and welcoming online environment that promotes a sense of learning community; (3) acknowledge the diversity of talents and learning strategies; (4) use real‐world examples and assessments; (5) account for gaps in knowledge; (6) emphasize the modeling cycle process; (7) focus on developing ideas rather than tools or procedures; (8) if needed, introduce computational tools thoroughly before combining them with mathematical or statistical concepts; (9) evaluate the course constantly; and (10) put your heart and soul into the class. I hope these practices help fellow instructors of quantitative ecology facing similar challenges in providing our students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the challenges of the future.
Local adaptation and rapid evolution of aphids in response to genetic interactions with their cottonwood hosts
Authors: Wooley Stuart C. , Smith David Solance , Lonsdorf Eric V. , Brown Sarah C. , Whitham Thomas G. , Shuster Stephen M. , Lindroth Richard L.
Published: September 2020

Several studies have demonstrated the ecological consequences of genetic variation within a single plant species. For example, these studies show that individual plant genotypes support unique composition of the plants' associated arthropod community. By contrast, fewer studies have explored how plant genetic variation may influence evolutionary dynamics in the plant's associated species. Here, we examine how aphids respond evolutionarily to genetic variation in their host plant. We conducted two experiments to examine local adaptation and rapid evolution of the free‐feeding aphid Chaitophorus populicola across genetic variants of its host plant, Populus angustifolia. To test for local adaptation, we collected tree cuttings and aphid colonies from three sites along an elevation/climate gradient and conducted a reciprocal transplant experiment. In general, home aphids (aphids transplanted onto trees from the same site) produced 1.7–3.4 times as many offspring as foreign aphids (aphids transplanted onto trees from different sites). To test for rapid evolution, we used 4 clonally replicated aphid genotypes and transplanted each onto 5 clonally replicated P. angustifolia genotypes. Each tree genotype started with the same aphid genotype composition. After 21 days (~two aphid generations), aphid genotype composition changed (i.e., aphids evolved) and some tree genotypes supported unique evolutionary trajectories of aphids. These results suggest that plant evolution in response to human perturbation, such as climate change and invasive species, will also result in evolutionary responses in strongly interacting species that could cascade to affect whole communities.
Bergmann's rule is followed at multiple stages of postembryonic development in a long‐distance migratory songbird
Authors: Youtz Joseph , Miller Kelly D. , Bowers Emerson K. , Rogers Samantha L. , Bulluck Lesley P. , Johnson Matthew , Peer Brian D. , Percy Katie L. , Johnson Erik I. , Ames Elizabeth M. , Tonra Christopher M. , Boves Than J.
Published: September 2020

Bergmann’s rule is a well‐established, ecogeographical principle that states that body size varies positively with latitude, reflecting the thermoregulatory benefits of larger bodies as temperatures decline. However, this principle does not seem to easily apply to migratory species that are able to avoid the extreme temperatures during winter at higher latitudes. Further, little is known about the ontogeny of this relationship across life stages or how it is influenced by ongoing global climate change. To address these knowledge gaps, we assessed the contemporary relationship between latitude and body size in a long‐distance migratory species, the prothonotary warbler (Protonotaria citrea) across life stages (egg to adult) on their breeding grounds. We also measured historic eggs (1865‐1961) to assess if the relationship between latitude and size during this life stage has changed over time. In accordance with Bergmann’s rule, we found a positive relationship between latitude and body mass during all post‐embryonic life stages, from early nestling stage through adulthood. We observed this same predicted pattern with historic eggs, but contemporary eggs exhibited the reverse (negative) relationship. We suggest that these results indicate a genetic component to this pattern and speculate that selection for larger body size in altricial nestlings as latitude increases may possibly drive the pattern in migratory species as even rare extreme cold weather events may cause mortality during early life stages. Furthermore, the opposite relationships observed in eggs, dependent on time period, may be related to the rapidly warming environments of higher latitudes that is associated with climate change. Although it is unclear what mechanism(s) would allow for this recent reversal in eggs (but still allow for its maintenance in later life stages). This evidence of a reversal suggests that anthropogenic climate change may be in the process of altering one of the longest‐standing principles in ecology.
Calculation method of gas‐pressure rising process in puffer chamber of high‐voltage SF6 circuit‐breaker
Authors: Sato Motohiro , Yokomizu Yasunobu , Horinouchi Katsuhiko , Nakamura Yasunori , Yoshitomo Yuji , Shimizu Yoshinori
Published: September 2020

Regarding a PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) nozzle ablation due to arc radiation exposure in SF6 circuit‐breaker, the ablated mass of the nozzle was formulated as a function of an arc current and an internal radius of the nozzle surface considering the radiation power absorbed on the surface. Furthermore, this formulation contributed to subsequent development of calculation method for evaluating gas pressure rise process during current interruption. And, verification experiments of the calculation method were performed with a model SF6 circuit‐breaker equipped a puffer chamber. Calculation results derived from the developed calculation method showed good agreement with measured gas pressure rise process. On the basis of the verified results, a discussion was made to explain pressure rise mechanism.
Investigation of Tribological Properties of Vegetable Oil Based Hard Wax Alternatives in Comparison with Carnauba Wax
Authors: Fei Tao , Ren Kangzi , Wang Tong
Published: September 2020

The authors investigate the structure‐surface property relationship of different amide‐based waxes, which can be beneficial for designing new anti‐friction materials. Five different amide‐based samples (derived from soybean oil) and a carnauba wax sample are tested. The effect of normal load, sliding velocity, and environmental temperature on the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear loss is investigated. COF and wear loss of different materials respond to these factors very differently. The long carbon chain and high hardness of polyamide and Amidecoat result in low COF and less wear loss. The lower glass transition point of Amidecoat results in higher COF and more wear loss when tested at a high environmental temperature. Crystal morphology and crystallinity of these materials are found to have no apparent correlation with their friction and wear behaviors.

Practical Applications: It is shown in this research that the soybean oil based polyamide and Amidecoat have comparable friction and wear behavior as the high‐priced carnauba wax. The Amidecoat and polyamide can be suitable substitutes for carnauba wax for anti‐friction purposes, and this study is expected to provide some practical guidance for the application of amide‐based materials (derived from soybean oil) in the tribological field. The work should be a great interest in the coating and lubricant industries that are looking for green and renewable alternatives for the expensive natural waxes with limited availability.
Intelligent Proportional Integral Terminal Sliding Mode Control for variable speed standalone wind energy conversion system
Authors: Jain Anjana , Saravanakumar Rajendran
Published: September 2020

This study investigates the design of robust nonlinear controller for control of voltage and frequency of variable‐speed standalone Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS). The variation in wind‐speed and load raise the oscillation in terminal‐voltage and frequency. These oscillation need to be minimized for enhancing the power management. To overcome this issue, an Intelligent Proportional Integral Terminal Sliding Mode Controller (iPI‐TSMC) is proposed. Proposed iPI‐TSMC establishes a fast‐finite‐time convergence with minimum steady‐state error. Also this controller is robust against the wind velocity perturbation, load variations, and external disturbances. Closed‐loop stability of the proposed controller is validated using Lyapunov‐stability‐theorem. The cogency of the proposed iPI‐TSMC has been validated through MATLAB/simulink environment for different operating conditions. Also performance of iPI‐TSMC is compared with fractional‐order‐proportional‐integral (FOPI) and conventional integer‐order‐proportional‐integral (IOPI) controllers. The simulation results, signifies the efficacy of iPI‐TSMC as compared to other controllers. Feasibility of proposed iPI‐TSMC controller is verified in real‐time HIL simulator using op4510 platform.

Statement of Industrial Relevance

Simulation analysis and the comparative study of iPI‐TSMC with FOPI, and IOPI shows better performance to keep constant terminal‐voltage during different wind‐profiles, load variation, and external disturbance. Also, performance assessment of iPI‐TSMC for different matrices during varying wind‐profiles is found superior than FOPI and IOPI controllers. Performance validation of proposed iPI‐TSMC for varying wind‐velocity and load in real‐time HIL simulator op4510 platform shows the feasibility of the proposed controller, which makes it suitable for real‐time application.
Research on the influence of wollastonite fibers on the stability of foam extinguishment agent and its effect on the extinguishing efficiency of pool fire
Authors: Li Xiujuan , Guo Ruisong , Qian Xiaodong
Published: September 2020

Aqueous film‐forming foam (AFFF) is a frequently used foam extinguishment agent for oil fires, but the foam stability of AFFF is not perfect, which results in poor fire extinguishing performance. In order to improve the foam stability of AFFF, wollastonite fibers were explored to increase the performance of foam extinguishment agent. The influences of wollastonite fibers' concentration on foam extinguishment agent's stability are studied. When the concentration of wollastonite fibers is 30.00 g/100 mL, the drainage time is prolonged, which is the best among all the formulas. Moreover, the fire resistance and fire‐fighting performances are increased significantly due to the incorporation of wollastonite fibers. In order to reveal the effect of wollastonite fibers on the stability of foam extinguishment agent, the structure of the foam and the diameter of the bubbles are investigated. The results show that the complexity and compactness of foam layer's structure are very important for foam stability, and the fire‐extinguishing performance is improved due to the introduction of wollastonite fibers.
Retroauricular thyroidectomy with a single‐arm robotic surgical system: Preclinical cadaveric study
Authors: Noel Julia E. , Lee Myung‐Chul , Tam Kenric , Lim Gil‐Chai , Holsinger F. Christopher , Koh Yoon Woo
Published: September 2020

Background

In this study, we evaluate a new flexible, single‐arm robotic system in performing thyroidectomy via a retroauricular approach.

Methods

Four fresh cadavers were used. Technical details of the new system are discussed, and the comprehensive surgical procedures are described step by step.

Results

This single‐port flexible system could be used to successfully perform retroauricular thyroidectomy. The ideal angle to dock the patient‐side cart was at a 90° angle to the operating table. When the cannula tip was placed 10 to 15 cm away from the skin incision, positioning and full movement of all four instruments without collisions were possible. Three flexible instruments and an endoscope made the robotic dissection more efficient.

Conclusions

We describe the first preclinical evaluation of an innovative, flexible, single‐arm robotic surgical system for retroauricular thyroidectomy.
Image‐guided robotic radiosurgery for glomus jugulare tumors—Multicenter experience and review of the literature
Authors: Ehret Felix , Kufeld Markus , Fürweger Christoph , Haidenberger Alfred , Schichor Christian , Lehrke Ralph , Fichte Susanne , Senger Carolin , Bleif Martin , Rueß Daniel , Ruge Maximilian , Tonn Jörg‐Christian , Muacevic Alexander , Hempel John‐Martin
Published: September 2020

Background

Glomus jugulare tumors (GJTs) are challenging to treat due to their vascularization and location. This analysis evaluates the effectiveness and safety of image‐guided robotic radiosurgery (RRS) for GJTs in a multicenter study and reviews the existing radiosurgical literature.

Methods

We analyzed outcome data from 101 patients to evaluate local control (LC), changes in pretreatment deficits, and toxicity. Moreover, radiosurgical studies for GJTs have been reviewed.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 35 months, the overall LC was 99%. Eighty‐eight patients were treated with a single dose, 13 received up to 5 fractions. The median tumor volume was 5.6 cc; the median treatment dose for single‐session treatments is 16 Gy, and for multisession treatments is 21 Gy. Fifty‐six percentage of patients experienced symptom improvement or recovered entirely.

Conclusions

RRS is an effective primary and secondary treatment option for GJTs. The available literature suggests that radiosurgery is a treatment option for most GJTs.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Impairs the Liver–Alpha Cell Axis Independent of Hepatic Inflammation and Fibrosis
Authors: Pedersen Julie Steen , Rygg Marte Opseth , Kristiansen Viggo Bjerregaard , Olsen Beth Hærstedt , Serizawa Reza Rafiolsadat , Holst Jens Juul , Madsbad Sten , Gluud Lise Lotte , Bendtsen Flemming , Wewer Albrechtsen Nicolai Jacob
Published: September 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with impaired hepatic actions of glucagon and insulin. Glucagon and amino acids are linked in an endocrine feedback circuit, the liver–alpha cell axis, that may be disrupted by NAFLD. We investigated how NAFLD severity affects glucagon and insulin resistance in individuals with obesity and whether bariatric surgery improves these parameters. Plasma and liver biopsies from 33 individuals with obesity (collectively, OBE) were obtained before and 12 months after bariatric surgery (Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass [RYGB] or sleeve gastrectomy [SG]). Nine healthy control individuals (collectively, CON) undergoing cholecystectomy were used as a comparison group. The NAFLD activity score (NAS) was used to subdivide study participants into the following groups: OBE‐no steatosis, OBE+steatosis, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and/or grade 2 fibrosis (Fib) (OBE‐NASH‐Fib). Measurements of amino acids by targeted metabolomics and glucagon were performed. Glucagon, amino acids (P < 0.05), and the glucagon‐alanine index, a validated surrogate marker of glucagon resistance, were increased in OBE by 60%, 56%, and 61%, respectively, when compared with CON but irrespective of NAFLD severity. In contrast, markers of hepatic insulin resistance increased concomitantly with NAS. Hyperglucagonemia resolved in OBE‐no steatosis and OBE+steatosis but not in OBE‐NASH‐Fib (median, 7.0; interquartile range, 5.0‐9.8 pmol/L), regardless of improvement in insulin resistance and NAS. The type of surgery that participants underwent had no effect on metabolic outcomes. Conclusion: Glucagon resistance to amino acid metabolism exists in individuals with NAFLD independent of NAS severity. Patients with NASH showed persistent hyperglucagonemia 12 months after bariatric surgery, indicating that a disrupted liver–alpha cell may remain in NAFLD despite major improvement in liver histology.
Exploratory Study of Autoantibody Profiling in Drug‐Induced Liver Injury with an Autoimmune Phenotype
Authors: Lammert Craig , Zhu Chengsong , Lian Yun , Raman Indu , Eckert George , Li Quan‐Zhen , Chalasani Naga
Published: September 2020

Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) sometimes presents with an autoimmune hepatitis‐like phenotype (AI‐DILI), and it is challenging to distinguish it from de novo autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). We conducted a study to identify autoantibodies unique to AI‐DILI by profiling serum autoantibodies. Autoantibodies were quantified using an autoantigen array containing 94 autoantigens from four groups: AI‐DILI (n = 65), DILI controls (n = 67), de novo AIH (n = 17), and healthy controls (HCs; n = 30). In 37 patients with AI‐DILI, samples were also collected 6 months after presentation. AI‐DILI and de novo AIH had similar anti‐neutrophil antibody and anti‐smooth muscle antibody prevalence. Compared to HCs, de novo AIH had an increase in many immunoglobulin G (IgG; 35 [46.1%]) and IgM (51 [70%]) autoantibodies, whereas AI‐DILI had an increase of IgM (40 [54.8%]) but not IgG autoantibodies. DILI controls had a similar IgG and IgM profile compared to HCs. Comparing de novo AIH to AI‐DILI identified 18 (23.7%) elevated IgG but only one (1.4%) IgM autoantibodies, indicating the unique IgG autoantibody profile in de novo AIH. Compared to DILI and HCs, increased IgM autoantibodies in AI‐DILI and de novo AIH were common; however, AI‐DILI induced by different drugs showed different frequencies of IgM autoantibodies, with nitrofurantoin‐related AI‐DILI showing a higher number of increased IgM autoantibodies. AI‐DILI autoantibody levels at diagnosis and at 6 months showed a significant decline in 37 IgM autoantibodies. A model with highly correlated IgG and IgM was fitted into multivariate logistic regression and revealed an area under the curve of 0.87 (95% confidence interval, 0.79‐0.95) to distinguish de novo AIH from AI‐DILI. Conclusion: The unique IgG and IgM autoantibody signature appears to be a promising biomarker for distinguishing AI‐DILI from de novo AIH.
Outward foreign direct investment and economic growth in Romania: Evidence from non‐linear ARDL approach
Authors: Amin Azka , Anwar Sofia , Liu Xi‐Hua
Published: September 2020

Globally, the outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) has significantly increased during recent years. In the light of OFDI's role in determining the GDP growth rate, it is necessary to assess how economic growth rate responds to such outflows. Based on the non‐linear autoregressive distributive lag (NARDL) model, the present study investigates the long‐run and short‐run asymmetric impacts of OFDI on the economic growth in Romania covering the period 1990–2019. The results indicate that both an increase and a decrease in OFDI have a positive and significant impact on Romania's economic growth, with a greater effect arising from the increase in OFDI. Our research adds to the preceding literature by providing new insights into the OFDI‐led growth hypothesis. The results of the present study portray the growth‐enhancing effects of OFDI, which are consistent with the notion that firms conduct OFDI in order to combine domestic output with overseas output to decrease expenditures and to enhance their competitiveness both at global and domestic levels. Thus, an increase in OFDI is both a cause and a consequence of the home country's economic growth.
Cobalt‐containing bioactive glass mimics vascular endothelial growth factor A and hypoxia inducible factor 1 function
Authors: de Laia Andréia Grossi Santos , Valverde Thalita Marcolan , Barrioni Breno Rocha , Cunha Pricila da Silva , de Goes Alfredo Miranda , de Miranda Marcelo Coutinho , Gomes Dawidson Assis , Queiroz‐Junior Celso Martins , de Sá Marcos Augusto , de Magalhães Pereira Marivalda
Published: September 2020

Bioactive glasses (BGs) have shown great potential for tissue regeneration and their composition flexibility allows the incorporation of different ions with physiological activities and therapeutic properties in the glass network. Among the many ions that could be incorporated, cobalt (Co) is a significant one, as it mimics hypoxia, triggering the formation of new blood vessels by the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), due to the stabilizing effect on the hypoxia inducible factor 1 subunit alpha (HIF1A), an activator of angiogenesis‐related genes, and is therefore of great interest for tissue engineering applications. However, despite its promising properties, the effects of glasses incorporated with Co on angiogenesis, through human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) studies, need to be further investigated. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the biocompatibility and angiogenic potential of a new sol–gel BG, derived from the SiO2–CaO–P2O5–CoO system. The structural evaluation showed the predominance of an amorphous glass structure, and the homogeneous presence of cobalt in the samples was confirmed. in vitro experiments showed that Co‐containing glasses did not affect the viability of HUVECs, stimulated the formation of tubes and the gene expression of HIF1A and VEGFA. in vivo experiments showed that Co‐containing glasses stimulated VEGFA and HIF1A expression in blood vessels and cell nuclei, respectively, in the deep dermis layer of the dorsal region of rats, featuring considerable local stimulation of the angiogenesis process due to Co‐release. Co‐containing glasses showed therapeutic effect, and Co incorporation is a promising strategy for obtaining materials with superior angiogenesis properties for tissue engineering applications.
Pure and cerium‐doped zinc oxides: Hydrothermal synthesis and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under visible light irradiation
Authors: Ha Luu Thi Viet , Dai Luu Minh , Lim Duong Thi , Nhiem Dao Ngoc , Pham Ngo Nghia
Published: September 2020

Pristine and cerium‐doped zinc oxides with a different dopant concentration between 1 and 5% were fabricated using the hydrothermal method. Prepared materials show direct bandgaps of comparable values. Cerium‐doped materials show UV‐Vis spectra with broad tails toward the visible light range. Pure zinc oxide displays the flower‐like form, while cerium‐doped materials possess rod‐shaped morphologies. The materials were tested for the degradation performance of methylene blue under visible light irradiation. To elucidate the difference in their performance, further measurements and experiments were conducted. Overall, 3%‐cerium doped zinc oxide shows the greatest photocatalytic performance. This is possibly attributed to its rod shape with good uniformity and to the enrichment of oxygen vacancies in its surface layers. Finally, trapping experiments reveal that positive holes and hydroxyl radicals were the predominant active species during the photocatalytic degradation process.
CD33‐Targeted Therapies: Beating the Disease or Beaten to Death?
Authors: Maakaron Joseph E. , Rogosheske John , Long Meixiao , Bachanova Veronika , Mims Alice S.
Published: September 2020

CD33 is a transmembrane protein that is found on cells of myeloid lineage. It is also intensely expressed on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) progenitor cells but not on normal stem cells. It internalizes on binding and dimerization, making it a specific and ideal target for AML therapeutics and drug delivery. Several targeted therapies have been tested and many are still currently in development. Gemtuzumab ozogamicin was the first and only CD33‐directed antibody‐drug conjugate to be US Food and Drug Administration approved for AML. Other targeted agents have not achieved such success. Promising new strategies include cellular therapy mechanisms and linker molecules. This is an exciting target that requires a considerable amount of precision to yield clinical benefit.
Organic phosphorus affects the retention of arsenite and arsenate by goethite
Authors: Balint R. , Celi L. , Barberis E. , Prati M. , Martin M.
Published: September 2020

The hazardous effects of arsenic are closely linked to its speciation and interaction with different soil minerals, which influence both As mobility and bioavailability. Adsorption onto iron (oxyhydr)oxides is one of the main processes controlling the partitioning of arsenite [As(III)] and arsenate [As(V)] between aqueous and solid phases. Arsenic retention can be affected by changes in soil pH and the presence of competing anions, like phosphate. Although competition with inorganic phosphorus (P) for sorption sites on mineral surfaces has been widely studied, little is known about the interactions with organic P (Po) compounds, in particular inositol phosphates, even though they may represent a large fraction of total soil P. We quantified the effects of myo‐inositol hexaphosphate (InsP6) on the adsorption and retention of As(III) and As(V) on goethite as influenced by pH, the order of anion addition, and residence time. The efficiency of InsP6 in displacing adsorbed As(III) decreased with increasing pH values and interaction time, which may be attributed to the increase in bonding strength of the As(III) complexes on the surface of goethite. Adsorption and retention of As(V) by goethite generally decreased with increasing pH, particularly in the presence of InsP6 due to the similar pKa values and the competition for the same binding sites. The addition of InsP6 before, together with, or after adsorption of As(III) and As(V) strongly reduced the amounts of sorbed As, suggesting that the addition of Po–rich matrices to As‐contaminated soils may strongly enhance As mobility.
Bleeding outcomes in thrombocytopenic acute leukemic patients with venous thromboembolism
Authors: Wilson Nathaniel R. , Khan Maliha , Cox Travis M. , Nassif Mohammed , Qiao Wei , Garg Naveen , Aung Fleur M. , Oo Thein Hlaing , Rojas‐Hernandez Cristhiam M.
Published: September 2020

Cancer‐associated thrombosis in acute leukemia patients with severe thrombocytopenia (platelets ≤50 × 109/L) poses a management challenge due to competing risks of bleeding and recurrent thrombosis. A retrospective analysis was conducted to determine the occurrence of clinically relevant bleeding (CRB) rates during treatment for acute venous thromboembolic events (VTE) in thrombocytopenic acute leukemic patients. A cohort of 74 patients were subgrouped into three VTE‐treatment interventions: anticoagulation (n = 24), inferior vena cava filter placement (n = 22), and observation (n = 28). Multivariate analysis found a significant correlation between CRB occurrence and quantity of overall blood transfusions, chemotherapy administration, and relapsed leukemia presentation. There was no difference in the occurrence of CRB between VTE‐treatment subgroups, regardless of initial platelet count at the time of VTE diagnosis. Regarding the hematologic parameters, only the velocity of the platelet count recovery was associated with the risk of bleeding. From this analysis, it appears the trajectory of the platelet count and the factors associated with a slower recovery of it, are the main determinants for the occurrence of hemorrhagic complications during VTE treatment in acute leukemia.
A novel eco‐friendly on‐water protocol for the synthesis of 2,2‐disubstituted 2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐perimidines
Authors: Harry Nissy Ann , Shilpa Thomas , Ujwaldev Sankuviruthiyil M. , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: September 2020

An efficient green on‐water protocol for the synthesis of 2,2‐disubstituted 2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐perimidines is demonstrated. The reaction used safer p‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) as a catalyst on water at 80°C, for 2 hours affording a novel method for the synthesis of various disubstituted perimidines in moderate to excellent yields.
Where do plasmacytoid dendritic cells find the energy?
Authors: Aisenberg Laura K , Chattergoon Michael A
Published: September 2020

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Spatiotemporal characteristics and estimates of extreme precipitation in the Yangtze River Basin using GLDAS data
Authors: Chen Zeqiang , Zeng Yi , Shen Gaoyun , Xiao Changjiang , Xu Lei , Chen Nengcheng
Published: September 2020

The Yangtze River Basin has periodically been subject to torrential rains and floods. It is of great significance to characterize the extreme precipitation patterns to learn about frequent flood characteristics in the Yangtze River Basin. Commonly, spatiotemporal characteristics of extreme precipitation was studied by regional frequency analysis method with site data. Spatial sparse site data may cause imprecise divisions of homogeneous regions. In this paper, the spatiotemporal characteristics of extreme precipitation was studied by regional frequency analysis with corrected satellite‐based grid precipitation data (Global Land Data Assimilation System, GLDAS) rather than site data. The results show that: (1) The corrected GLDAS daily precipitation data had greatly improved its ability to capture extreme precipitation events in Yangtze River Basin, as the data average accuracy increased from 0.215 before correction to 0.849 after correction. It is feasible to use satellite‐based grid precipitation data to replace the site data for the regional frequency analysis of extreme precipitation. (2) The Yangtze River Basin was categorized into seven homogeneous regions for the annual maximum 1‐day (RX1DAY) index with an automatic subjective adjustment method. (3) The regional growth curves and quantiles of the Yangtze River Basin were drawn for the return period for 2–100 years. (4) Spatial patterns of extreme daily precipitation series with a return period of 100 years indicated that the precipitation amount increases gradually from the upper to the lower Yangtze River Basin, from the “arid zone” to the “wet zone” and then to the “special wet zone”, and the 100‐year return level of RX1DAY varied from 30.3 to 301.8 mm. There were three main precipitation centres, the Sichuan Basin, Dongting Lake Basin, and a great triangle area covering the Poyang Lake Basin and the south foot of Dabie Mountain.
Changing spatio‐temporal trends of heat wave and severe heat wave events over India: An emerging health hazard
Authors: Singh Saumya , Mall R K , Singh Nidhi
Published: September 2020

Heat wave (HW) and severe heat wave (SHW) events are the manifestations of extreme temperature causing an array of impacts on health, ecosystem, and economy. Since the mid‐20th century, an increasing trend in the characteristics of heat waves has been observed over India causing an increased rate in human mortality. Our study aimed to analyse monthly, seasonal, and decadal variations along with long‐term trends of HW and SHW events for pre‐monsoon (March–May) and early summer monsoon (June–July) season during 1951–2016. HW and SHW events were identified using revised criteria given by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) using daily gridded maximum temperature data at 0.5° × 0.5° resolution from IMD. The study found a Spatio‐temporal shift in the occurrence of HW events with a significantly increasing trend in three prominent heat wave prone regions that is northwestern, central, and south‐central India, the highest being in West Madhya Pradesh (0.80 events/year), while a significantly decreasing trend was observed over an eastern region that is Gangetic West Bengal (−0.13events/year). SHW events showed a southward expansion and a spatial surge during the decades of 2001–2010 and 2010–2016. Tri‐decadal comparative assessment shows a decadal increase of around 12 HW and 5 SHW events post the 1980s. State‐wise Pearson's correlation between HW/SHW events and observed mortality reveals that the eastern coastal states that are Odisha and Andhra Pradesh show a significant positive correlation of 0.62 and 0.73, respectively. This significantly increasing trend in HW and SHW events may pose a grave risk to human health, predominantly on the vulnerable sections of the society. Heat waves need to be recognized as a potential health risk and demand further study, robust preparedness, and policy intervention.
Detectability of the trend in precipitation characteristics over China from 1961 to 2017
Authors: Li Wei , Chen Yang
Published: September 2020

The detection and attribution of precipitation changes are fundamental for adaptation and mitigation planning. Based on high‐quality observations, we determined the detectability of the trends of multiple precipitation characteristics across China using a field significance test. Furthermore, the timing at which spatially aggregated changes become significant and do not reflect random internal variability was also estimated. The results show that the significant increases in the annual total precipitation (PRCPTOT) and simple precipitation intensity (SDII) and significant decreases in the wet days (WD) are detectable from 1961 to 2017. Namely, the percentage of stations showing significant trends exceeds that expected by chance. The time of the trend emergence from the mimicked range of internal variability is around 2000 for SDII and WD, while the PRCPTOT trend can only be significantly detected for recent years. The analysis on precipitation of various intensity levels unearths that the significant increases in the amount and frequency of extreme heavy precipitation emerged around 2014, while a significant decreasing trend in light precipitation might be detected as early as 2000. Global warming is expected to affect the detection of precipitation trends because the timing at which global warming signal in trend of precipitation emerges is consistent with the time at which the trends become significant. In general, significant changes in the PRCPTOT, SDII and WD occur more frequently in winter than in summer.

Key findings

An overall increasing trend signal in annual total precipitation (PRCPTOT) and simple precipitation intensity (SDII) and a decreasing trend signal in wet days (WD) have been already detectable during 1961 to 2017. The trend signal for WD and SDII is detected earlier than that for PRCPTOT.

For the four precipitation categories based on percentiles, a significant increasing trend in extreme heavy precipitation was detected recently (close to the year 2014). The detectability of the significant decreasing trend in the light precipitation is the most robust and the overall trend become significant close to the year 2000.

The anthropogenic warming may play a dominant role in the detectability of significant trend in precipitation characteristics, because the time at which global warming signal in trend of precipitation characteristics emerges is almost the same as the time at which the trend became significant.
Silicon supplementation improves the nutritional and sensory characteristics of lentil seeds obtained from drought‐stressed plants
Authors: Biju Sajitha , Fuentes Sigfredo , Gonzalez Viejo Claudia , Torrico Damir D , Inayat Sumayya , Gupta Dorin
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Lentil is an important nutritionally rich pulse crop in the world. Despite having a prominent role in human health and nutrition, it is very unfortunate that global lentil production is adversely limited by drought stress, causing a huge decline in yield and productivity. Drought stress can also affect the nutritional profile of seeds. Silicon (Si) is an essential element for plants and a general component of the human diet found mainly in plant‐based foods. This study investigated the effects of Si on nutritional and sensory properties of seeds obtained from lentil plants grown in an Si‐supplied drought‐stressed environment.

RESULTS

Significant enhancements in the concentration of nutrients (protein, carbohydrate, dietary fibre, Si) and antioxidants (ascorbate, phenol, flavonoids, total antioxidants) were found in seeds. Significant reductions in antinutrients (trypsin inhibitor, phytic acid, tannin) were also recorded. A novel sensory analysis was implemented in this study to evaluate the unconscious and conscious responses of consumers. Biometrics were integrated with a traditional sensory questionnaire to gather consumers responses. Significant positive correlations (R= 0.6–1) were observed between sensory responses and nutritional properties of seeds. Seeds from Si‐treated drought‐stressed plants showed higher acceptability scores among consumers.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated that Si supplementation can improve the nutritional and sensory properties of seeds. This study offers an innovative approach in sensory analysis coupled with biometrics to accurately assess a consumer's preference towards tested samples. In the future, the results of this study will help in making a predictive model for sensory traits and nutritional components in seeds using machine‐learning modelling techniques. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Isolation of six anthraquinone diglucosides from cascara sagrada bark by high‐performance countercurrent chromatography
Authors: Rho Taewoong , Kil Hyn Woo , Seo Young Ju , Shin Kye Jung , Wang Daijie , Yoon Kee Dong
Published: September 2020

In this study, high‐performance countercurrent chromatography was employed to isolate six anthraquinone diglucosides, namely, cascarosides A–F, from cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana DC [Rhamnaceae]) bark. The n‐butanol–soluble extract of cascara sagrada was separated by off‐line two‐dimensional high‐performance countercurrent chromatography. The first‐dimensional high‐performance countercurrent chromatography resolved the n‐butanol‐soluble extract (510 mg) of cascara sagrada using the flow‐rate gradient method with a chloroform–methanol–isopropanol–water (6:6:1:4, v/v/v/v, normal‐phase mode) system to afford four anthraquinone diglucoside fractions (groups I [cascarosides C–D, 71 mg], II [cascarosides E–F, 56 mg], III [cascaroside A, 53 mg], and IV [cascaroside B, 31 mg]). Groups I and II were separated by the second‐dimensional high‐performance countercurrent chromatography using an ethyl acetate–n‐butanol–water (7:3:10, v/v/v, normal‐phase mode) system to yield cascarosides C (34 mg), D (26 mg), E (19 mg), and F (15 mg). Additionally, one‐step preparative‐scale high‐performance countercurrent chromatography method was developed to isolate large amounts of cascarosides A (389 mg) and B (187 mg) from the water‐soluble extract (2.1 g) of cascara sagrada using an ethyl acetate–n‐butanol–water (2:8:10, v/v/v, normal‐phase mode) system. The current study demonstrated that high‐performance countercurrent chromatography is a powerful technique for the isolation of marker compounds from herbal materials.
Tracheal A‐Frame Deformities Following Airway Reconstruction
Authors: Kennedy Aimee A. , de Alarcon Alessandro , Tabangin Meredith E. , Rutter Michael J. , Myer Charles M. , Smith Matthew M. , Hart Catherine K.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Airway reconstruction for subglottic and tracheal stenosis is often successful in achieving tracheostomy decannulation and improving airway symptoms. However, one common reason for late failure is development of a tracheal A‐frame deformity, which can necessitate additional surgery. Although knowledge of this deformity exists, the incidence and risk factors have not been reported. This study seeks to determine the incidence of A‐frame following airway reconstruction and define factors that correlate with development of this deformity.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Patients under 21 years of age undergoing open airway reconstruction at our institution between January 2005–December 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, comorbidities, airway history/reconstruction type, and follow‐up airway findings were examined using multivariable logistic regression. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to examine time to A‐frame repair.

Results

Two hundred patients underwent airway reconstruction and 69 (34.5%) developed an A‐frame deformity. History of tracheostomy was the most significant contributor to A‐frame development (P < .0001). Double‐ versus single‐stage procedures were not associated with increased odds of A‐frame development (P = .94), however, patients undergoing resection procedures as opposed to laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) with cartilage grafts had a significantly lower chance of developing this deformity (P = .004). Of the patients with an A‐frame, 27 (39%) required further surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Approximately one‐third of patients undergoing airway reconstruction developed a tracheal A‐frame deformity, with a significantly higher rate among patients with a history of tracheostomy and those undergoing LTR. Patients should be followed long term to assess for the development of an A‐frame.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 131:E1363–E1368, 2021
Clinical Analysis of Type II First Branchial Cleft Anomalies in Children
Authors: Liu Wei , Chen Min , Liu Bing , Zhang Jie , Ni Xin
Published: September 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

We aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics and introduce a new subclassification system for type II first branchial cleft anomalies (FBCAs) based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.

Study Design

Retrospective cases study.

Methods

We conducted an analysis of data from patients with type II FBCAs. MRI findings were used to categorize FBCAs into three subtypes. FBCAs located between the subcutaneous tissue and parotid were classified as type IIa. FBCAs located between the deep and superficial lobes of the parotid were classified as type IIb. FBCAs located between the parotid and the carotid sheath were classified as type IIc.

Results

Patients with type II FBCAs were classified as type IIa, IIb, and IIc in 14, 14, and seven cases, respectively. Type IIa lesions exhibited a close relationship with the facial nerve in 42.9% of cases. In these cases, the main trunk of the facial nerve adhered to the lesion and was located superficially to the FBCA. In all patients with type IIb lesions, the main trunk and marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve adhered to the lesion. The main trunk of the facial nerve adhered to the lesion in one patient with a type IIc. There was no relationship between the lesion and the facial nerve in the remaining type IIc cases.

Conclusions

MRI can be used to identify the locations of FBCA and the parotid, which can aid surgeons in predicting the relationship between the lesion and the facial nerve. It is feasible to classify type II FBCAs into three subtypes based on MRI.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:916–920, 2021
National Trends in Daily Ambulatory Electronic Health Record Use by Otolaryngologists
Authors: Giliberto John Paul , Ator Gregory , Carroll Thomas L. , Chan Teresa , Vahabzadeh‐Hagh Andrew
Published: September 2020

Objective

Since their development in the 1970s electronic health records (EHRs) are now nearly ubiquitous. This study aims to characterize the daily interactions of otolaryngology providers with EHRs.

Methods

This study was a cross‐sectional review of provider efficiency profile (PEP) data, as collected by a major EHR vendor. Participating institutions had 6 months of de‐identified PEP data reviewed starting January 1, 2019. PEP data is generated for providers with scheduled patients, both attendings and advanced practice providers (APPs). Time metrics are recorded when a provider is interacting with the EHR including a 5‐second time‐out for inactivity.

Results

Data on 269 otolaryngologists and 29 APPs from 10 institutions were evaluated. On scheduled ambulatory clinic days attendings spent 70 ± 36 (mean ± standard deviation) min interacting in the EHR versus 108 ± 46 min for APPs. Of the daily EHR time, mean time in notes, clinical review, in basket, orders, and schedule were 30.1 ± 19.4, 9.6 ± 6.1, 7.3 ± 5.8, and 5.8 ± 7.6 min, respectively. Per patient visit, median (interquartile range) time in notes, clinical review, and orders were 3.19 (2.2–4.9), 1.14 (0.63–1.8), and 0.70 (0.47–1.05) min, respectively. Mean progress note length was 4638 ± 2143 characters.

Conclusion

Otolaryngology providers spend a meaningful portion of their clinic day interacting with the EHR. PEP data may provide means to target interventions and a metric to measure the impact of those interventions on provider EHR efficiency.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:975–981, 2021