bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary history and genetic diversity of apomictic allopolyploids in Hieracium s.str.: morphological versus genomic features
Authors: Chrtek Jindřich , Mráz Patrik , Belyayev Alexander , Paštová Ladislava , Mrázová Viera , Caklová Petra , Josefiová Jiřina , Zagorski Danijela , Hartmann Matthias , Jandová Michaela , Pinc Jan , Fehrer Judith
Published: January 2020

Premise

The origin of allopolyploids is believed to shape their evolutionary potential, ecology, and geographical ranges. Morphologically distinct apomictic types sharing the same parental species belong to the most challenging groups of polyploids. We evaluated the origins and variation of two triploid taxa (Hieracium pallidiflorum, H. picroides) presumably derived from the same diploid parental pair (H. intybaceum, H. prenanthoides).

Methods

We used a suite of approaches ranging from morphological, phylogenetic (three unlinked molecular markers), and cytogenetic analyses (in situ hybridization) to genome size screening and genome skimming.

Results

Genotyping proved the expected parentage of all analyzed accessions of H. pallidiflorum and H. picroides and revealed that nearly all of them originated independently. Genome sizes and genome dosage largely corresponded to morphology, whereas the maternal origin of the allopolyploids had no discernable effect. Polyploid accessions of both parental species usually contained genetic material from other species. Given the phylogenetic distance of the parents, their chromosomes appeared only weakly differentiated in genomic in situ hybridization (GISH), as well as in overall comparisons of the repetitive fraction of their genomes. Furthermore, the repeatome of a phylogenetically more closely related species (H. umbellatum) differed significantly more.

Conclusions

We proved (1) multiple origins of hybridogeneous apomicts from the same diploid parental taxa, and (2) allopolyploid origins of polyploid accessions of the parental species. We also showed that the evolutionary dynamics of very fast evolving markers such as satellite DNA or transposable elements does not necessarily follow patterns of speciation.
Biological diversity in an Islamic archaeological population: A radiogenic strontium isotope and craniometric analysis of affinity in Ottoman Romania
Authors: Allen Kathryn Grow , Mills Ryan D. , Knudson Kelly J. , von Cramon‐Taubadel Noreen
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Written accounts, as well as a previous craniometric study, indicate that migrations of non‐Europeans and conversions of Europeans to Islam define Ottoman communities in Early Modern Europe. What is less clear are the roles of migration and admixture in generating intra‐communal variation. This study combines craniometric with strontium isotope data to compare the cranial affinities of locally born and immigrant individuals. We predict that locally born individuals are more likely than non‐locals to show evidence of admixture.

Materials and Methods

Radiogenic strontium isotope data for 21 Ottomans were compared against archaeological faunal values. Sixteen individuals with intact crania were also measured and compared against two comparative source populations from Anatolia and Europe. Discriminant function analysis assigned unclassified Ottoans to either comparative group based on typicality probabilities, with potential admixture established via intermediate morphology between the two source populations.

Results

Strontium isotope values revealed relatively high proportions of non‐locals, consistent with high mobility documented historically. The sexes differed, with more males classifying as “typically Anatolian” than females. Locals and non‐locals also had different cranial affinity patterns, with most classifying either as “typically Anatolian” or “typically European.” Contrary to expectation, none of the locals were identified as intermediate, suggesting admixture rates were relatively low.

Conclusions

Consistent with historical records, the results revealed high levels of extra‐regional migration, with most individuals identifiable as either typically Anatolian or European. Moreover, locals and non‐locals differed craniometrically, with no signs of admixture between Anatolian migrants and European converts in locals. This suggests intra‐communal divisions were maintained.
Catalytically Active Peptide–Gold Nanoparticle Conjugates: Prospecting for Artificial Enzymes
Authors: Mikolajczak Dorian J. , Berger Allison A. , Koksch Beate
Published: January 2020

The self‐assembly of peptides onto the surface of gold nanoparticles has emerged as a promising strategy towards the creation of artificial enzymes. The resulting high local peptide density surrounding the nanoparticle leads to cooperative and synergistic effects, which result in rate accelerations and distinct catalytic properties compared to the unconjugated peptide. This Minireview summarizes contributions to and progress made in the field of catalytically active peptide–gold nanoparticle conjugates. The origin of distinct properties, as well as potential applications, are also discussed.
Regulation of ash fusion behaviors for high aluminum coal by high calcium coal addition
Authors: Xiao Huixia , Li Fenghai , Wang Yifei
Published: January 2020

To meet the requirement of liquid slag tapping entrained‐flow gasification, two kinds of high ash fusion temperatures (AFTs) coals with significant difference in ash chemical composition (high aluminum coal: Al2O3 > 38%, Sunjiahao coal, and Shajuzi coal; high calcium coal: CaO > 35%, Hebi coal, and Xinjiang coal) were selected. The ash fusion behaviors of blending coal were investigated. The results showed that blending coal could significantly reduce the AFTs of high‐AFT coal. The formation of high melting point minerals led to the increase of AFTs (high aluminum coal: mullite, corundum, and cristobalite; high calcium coal: lime and periclase). Xinjiang coal reduced AFTs more obviously than that of Hebi coal because of the differences in the total amount of alkali oxides, Fe2O3 and MgO. The effect of CaO on AFTs was determined by the amount of CaO. CaO, Fe2O3, and MgO promoted the formation of low‐melting eutectic [anorthite, gehlenite, spinel, pyrope, and ringwoodite (Fe‐rich)] and made AFTs low when the mass ratios of high calcium coal were low. On the contrary, the high content of CaO increased AFTs. FactSage7.0 software is a very effective way to explore the effect of mineral transformation on AFTs.
Increased reliability of modified polyolefin backsheet over commonly used polyester backsheets for crystalline PV modules
Authors: Omazic Antonia , Oreski Gernot , Edler Michael , Eder Gabriele Christine , Hirschl Christina , Pinter Gerald , Erceg Matko
Published: January 2020

The weathering stability of polymeric backsheets is very important for the reliability of photovoltaic (PV) modules. In addition to reliability, cost reduction and sustainability are upcoming challenges the PV backsheet industry is facing with. The most commonly used material for PV backsheets is poly(ethylene‐terephthalate)‐PET. However, PET is in general very sensitive to hydrolysis, which leads to chain scission and causes embrittlement, cracking, delamination, and dimensional instability of the backsheet. Compared to that newly developed modified polyolefin backsheets have favorable selective permeation properties and high mechanical flexibility, which could be key properties for backsheets in terms of higher PV module reliability. In this work, the weathering stability of PET/fluoropolymer backsheet and an alternative coextruded polyolefin‐backsheet was investigated in terms of thermal and mechanical stability. Both materials were artificially aged and the changes caused by aging were investigated. The polyester‐based backsheet showed embrittlement and reduced elongation at break for 70%. The polyolefin‐based backsheet retained its mechanical flexibility even after 2000 h of aging under damp‐heat conditions, with no significant physical or chemical aging processes occurring. The comparison of the results of both backsheets suggests that the polyolefin backsheet is a promising candidate for the reduction of cracks and delamination in the field. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48899.
Decorating Au nanoparticles onto optimized P(tBA‐co‐DMAEMA) carriers for ameliorative catalytic capability
Authors: Shen Tong , Zhong Lina , Liu Xiaohui , Zhang Jiatian , Zhang Dandan , He Kaibin , Yuan Conghui , Xu Yiting , Dai Lizong
Published: January 2020

Gold nanoparticles are increasingly being explored as novel catalytic nanomaterials due to their great reductive capacity. However, the van der Waals forces between them would bring poor stabilities as well as attenuated catalytic properties in solution. Therefore, it is significant to find carriers that could prevent catalytic gold nanoparticles from agglomerating. Herein, hydrophilic dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) and hydrophobic tert‐butyl acrylate (tBA) were used as co‐monomers to synthesize copolymer P(tBA‐co‐DMAEMA) microspheres by one‐step emulsifier‐free emulsion polymerization. Afterward, the self‐assembly behaviors of the amphiphilic polymers P(tBA‐co‐DMAEMA) under different conditions like molar ratio of DMAEMA/tBA and ethanol/water were explored to reveal an optimal condition for obtaining copolymer with appropriate size and morphology. These microspheres were used as carriers for gold nanoparticles, since HAuCl4 could be simply reduced and stabilized on their surface. Furthermore, various conditions such as HAuCl4 content, adding method of HAuCl4, protonation time and reducing conditions were filtered for the decoration of gold nanoparticles on the shell of that assembled copolymer. This composite was applied as an excellent catalyst for hydrogenation of hazardous chemicals (4‐nitrophenol and nitrobenzene). And it shows improved catalytic performance for both 4‐nitrophenol in the aqueous system and nitrobenzene in the oil system. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48920.
A Three‐Dimensional Print Model of the Pterygopalatine Fossa Significantly Enhances the Learning Experience
Authors: Tanner Jordan A. , Jethwa Beeran , Jackson Jeff , Bartanuszova Maria , King Thomas S. , Bhattacharya Arunabh , Sharma Ramaswamy
Published: January 2020

The pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) is a bilateral space deep within the skull that serves as a major neurovascular junction. However, its small volume and poor accessibility make it a difficult space to comprehend using two‐dimensional illustrations and cadaveric dissections. A three‐dimensional (3D) printed model of the PPF was developed as a visual and kinesthetic learning tool for completely visualizing the fossa, its boundaries, its communicating channels, and its neurovascular structures. The model was evaluated by analyzing student performance on pre‐ and post‐quizzes and a student satisfaction survey based on the five‐point Likert scale. The first cohort comprised of 88 students who had never before studied the PPF. The second cohort consisted of 30 students who were previously taught the PPF. Each cohort was randomly divided into a control group who were provided with a half skull and an intervention group that were provided with the 3D printed model. The intervention group performed significantly better on the post‐quiz as compared to the control group in cohort I (P = 0.001); while not significant, it also improved learning in cohort II students (P = 0.124). Satisfaction surveys indicated that the intervention group found the 3D printed model to be significantly more useful (P < 0.05) as compared to the half skull used by the control group. Importantly, the effect sizes for cohorts I and II (0.504 and 0.581, respectively) validated the statistical results. Together, this study highlights the importance of 3D printed models as teaching tools in anatomy education.
Synthesis of Sulfamate‐Fused 2‐Aminopyrroles via an Isocyanide‐Based Three Component [1+2+2] Annulation
Authors: Wang Chuan‐Chuan , Ma Zhi‐Wei , Qu Ya‐Li , Liu Zhi‐Jing , Chen Xiao‐Pei , Zhou Jing , Chen Ya‐Jing
Published: January 2020

An efficient preparation of sulfamate‐fused 2‐aminopyrroles was achieved through an isocyanide‐based three‐component [1+2+2] annulation of isocyanides, dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates, and sulfamate‐derived cyclic imines in good to excellent yields (up to 99 %). This reaction proceeds smoothly without any activation or modification of substances under neutral and metal‐free conditions. The reaction could also be conveniently performed on a gram scale.
Effect of detoxification methods on ABE production from corn stover hydrolysate by Clostridium acetobutylicum CICC 8016
Authors: Wang Fengqin , Dong Yuheng , Cheng Xiang , Xie Hui , Song Andong , Zhang Zhanying
Published: January 2020

In this study, effects of different single biomass derived inhibitors on acetone–butanol–ethanol (ABE) production by Clostridium acetobutylicum CICC 8016 were first investigated. The results showed that formic acid, coumaric acid, and furfural at 0.5 g/L (sodium formate equivalent) inhibited ABE production. Furthermore, corn stover hydrolysate media were prepared following dilute acid pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, and detoxification with different methods. Among overliming, steam stripping, acetone–ethyl ether extraction, and ion exchange with five anion resins, adsorption with resin D301 showed the highest efficiency for inhibitor removal (99–100% of phenolics and 87–99% of sugar degradation products). Without detoxification, ABE production was lower than 1.0 g/L from 28.1 g/L sugars whereas ABE production with medium detoxified by D301 resin achieved higher ABE concentrations and yields than control with synthetic medium. Correlation analysis further revealed that formic acid, coumaric acid, and total phenolics were the major compounds inhibiting ABE production. The results also showed that the single detoxification method was sufficient to detoxify the hydrolysate for ABE production at the pretreatment conditions used in this study.
Meta-analysis of α-blockade versus no blockade before adrenalectomy for phaeochromocytoma
Authors: Schimmack S , Kaiser J , Probst P , Kalkum E , Diener M K , Strobel O
Published: January 2020

Background

Preoperative α-blockade in phaeochromocytoma surgery is recommended by all guidelines to prevent intraoperative cardiocirculatory events. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the benefit of such preoperative treatment compared with no treatment before adrenalectomy for phaeochromocytoma.

Methods

A systematic literature search was undertaken in MEDLINE, Web of Science and CENTRAL without language restrictions. Randomized and non-randomized comparative studies investigating preoperative α-blockade in phaeochromocytoma surgery were included. Data on perioperative safety, effectiveness and outcomes were extracted. Pooled results were calculated as an odds ratio or mean difference with 95 per cent confidence interval.

Results

A total of four retrospective comparative studies were included investigating 603 patients undergoing phaeochromocytoma surgery. Mortality, cardiovascular complications, mean maximal intraoperative systolic and diastolic BP, and mean maximal intraoperative heart rate did not differ between patients with or without α-blockade. The certainty of the evidence was very low owing to the inferior quality of studies.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis has shown a lack of evidence for preoperative α-blockade in surgery for phaeochromocytoma. RCTs are needed to evaluate whether preoperative α-blockade can be abandoned.
Network meta-analysis of local and regional analgesia following colorectal resection
Authors: Xu W , Varghese C , Bissett I P , O'Grady G , Wells C I
Published: January 2020

Background

Postoperative pain management after colorectal surgery remains challenging. Systemic opiates delivered on demand or via a patient-controlled pump have traditionally been the mainstay of treatment. Opiate analgesia is associated with slower gastrointestinal recovery and unpleasant side-effects; many regional and local analgesic techniques have been developed as alternatives.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL databases were searched systematically for RCTs comparing analgesic techniques after major colorectal resection. A network meta-analysis was performed using a Bayesian random-effects framework with a non-informative prior. Primary outcomes included pain at rest and cumulative opiate consumption 24 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included pain at rest and cumulative opiate consumption at 48 h, pain on movement and cough at 24 and 48 h, time to first stool, time to tolerance of oral diet, duration of hospital stay, nausea and vomiting, and postoperative complications.

Results

Seventy-four RCTs, including 5101 patients and 11 different techniques, were included. Some inconsistency and heterogeneity was found. SUCRA scores showed that spinal analgesia was the best intervention for postoperative pain and opiate reduction at 24 h. Transversus abdominus plane blocks were effective in reducing pain and opiate consumption 24 h after surgery. Subgroup analysis showed similar results for open versus minimally invasive surgical approaches, and enhanced recovery after surgery programmes.

Conclusion

Spinal analgesia and transversus abdominus plane blocks best balanced pain control and opiate minimization in the immediate postoperative phase following colorectal resection. Multimodal analgesia reduces pain, minimizes systemic opiate use and optimizes postoperative recovery.
Perioperative fluid management for major elective surgery
Authors: Heming N , Moine P , Coscas R , Annane D
Published: January 2020

Background

Adequate fluid balance before, during and after surgery may reduce morbidity. This review examines current concepts surrounding fluid management in major elective surgery.

Method

A narrative review was undertaken following a PubMed search for English language reports published before July 2019 using the terms ‘surgery’, ‘fluids’, ‘fluid therapy’, ‘colloids’, ‘crystalloids’, ‘albumin’, ‘starch’, ‘saline’, ‘gelatin’ and ‘goal directed therapy’. Additional reports were identified by examining the reference lists of selected articles.

Results

Fluid therapy is a cornerstone of the haemodynamic management of patients undergoing major elective surgery. Both fluid overload and hypovolaemia are deleterious during the perioperative phase. Zero-balance fluid therapy should be aimed for. In high-risk patients, individualized haemodynamic management should be titrated through the use of goal-directed therapy. The optimal type of fluid to be administered during major surgery remains to be determined.

Conclusion

Perioperative fluid management is a key challenge during major surgery. Individualized volume optimization by means of goal-directed therapy is warranted during high-risk surgery. In most patients, balanced crystalloids are the first choice of fluids to be used in the operating theatre. Additional research on the optimal type of fluid for use during major surgery is needed.
Associations between personality and whole‐brain functional connectivity at rest: Evidence across the adult lifespan
Authors: Simon Sharon S. , Varangis Eleanna , Stern Yaakov
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Personality is associated with cognitive, emotional, and social functioning, and can play a role in age‐related cognitive decline and dementia risk; however, little is known about the brain dynamics underlying personality characteristics, and whether they are moderated by age.

Methods

We investigated the associations between personality and resting‐state functional MRI data from 365 individuals across the adult lifespan (20–80 years). Participants completed the 50‐item International Personality Item Pool and a resting‐state imaging protocol on a 3T MRI scanner. Within‐network connectivity values were computed based on predefined networks. Regression analyzes were conducted in order to investigate personality–connectivity associations, as well as moderation by age. All models controlled for potential confounders (such as age, sex, education, IQ, and the other personality traits).

Results

We found that openness was positively associated with connectivity in the default‐mode network, neuroticism was negatively associated with both the ventral and dorsal attention networks, and agreeableness was negatively associated with the dorsal attention network. In addition, age moderated the association between conscientiousness and the frontoparietal network, indicating that this association become stronger in older age.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that personality is associated with brain connectivity, which may contribute to identifying personality profiles that play a role in protection against or risk for age‐related brain changes and dementia.
Extracellular vesicle‐derived circ_SLC19A1 promotes prostate cancer cell growth and invasion through the miR‐497/septin 2 pathway
Authors: Zheng Yu , Li Jian‐xin , Chen Chao‐jiang , Lin Zhuo‐yuan , Liu Jia‐xuan , Lin Fu‐jun
Published: January 2020

The occurrence and development of prostate cancer (PCa) is complex, and the related mechanism is not fully understood. Current studies have found that extracellular vesicles (EVs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) have important functions in various tumours and other diseases. In this study, the detection of circRNAs in PCa showed that circ_SLC19A1 was increased in PCa cells and their secreted EVs. EVs with high expression of circ_SLC19A1 could be taken up by PCa cells, which promoted cell proliferation and invasion. The sequence of circ_SLC19A1 contained multiple binding sites for miR‐497, and circ_SLC19A1 could bind directly to miR‐497 in cells. The expression of miR‐497 was downregulated in PCa cells, while the expression of its target gene septin 2 (SEPT2) was upregulated significantly. Transfection of circ_SLC19A1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) or miR‐497 mimics could significantly inhibit the expression of SEPT2 and the phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2). After co‐transfection of circ_SLC19A1 siRNA and miR‐497 inhibitors or SEPT2 overexpression vector, the expression of SEPT2 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels showed no significant changes. Similar results were obtained with co‐transfection of miR‐497 mimics and the SEPT2 overexpression vector. Therefore, cancer cells can regulate the expression of SEPT2 through miR‐497 by secreting EVs with high expression of circ_SLC19A1, thus affecting the activation of the downstream ERK1/2 pathway and ultimately regulating PCa cell growth and invasion. Therefore, EV‐derived circ_SLC19A1 plays an important regulatory role in PCa and may be an important target for PCa prevention and treatment.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric [2+2+2] Cycloaddition of 1,6‐Enynes with Racemic Secondary Allylic Alcohols through Kinetic Resolution
Authors: Suzuki Shunsuke , Shibata Yu , Tanaka Ken
Published: January 2020

It has been established that a cationic rhodium(I)/P‐phos complex catalyzes the asymmetric [2+2+2] cycloaddition of 1,6‐enynes with racemic secondary allylic alcohols to produce the corresponding chiral bicyclic cyclohexenes, possessing three stereogenic centers, as a single diastereomer with excellent ee values. Mechanistic experiments revealed that the present cycloaddition proceeds through the kinetic resolution of the racemic secondary allylic alcohols, in which one enantiomer preferentially reacts with the 1,6‐enyne.
Electrochemically Enabled Intramolecular Aminooxygenation of Alkynes via Amidyl Radical Cyclization
Authors: Hou Zhong‐Wei , Xu Hai‐Chao
Published: January 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

An electrochemical synthesis of oxazol‐2‐ones and imidazol‐2‐ones has been developed via 5‐exo‐dig cyclization of propargylic carbamates‐ and ureas‐derived amidyl radicals. The electrosynthesis relies on the dual function of 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐ 1‐yl)oxyl (TEMPO) as a redox mediator for amidyl radical formation and an oxygen atom donor. The reactions are conducted under mild conditions using a simple setup and provide convenient access to functionalized oxazol‐2‐ones and imidazol‐2‐ones from readily available materials.
An Investigation on the Production of Random Copolymer with Monothiocarbonate and Trithiocarbonate Units over Cyclic Thiocarbonate via Metal‐free Catalysis
Authors: Yang Jia‐Liang , Hu Lan‐Fang , Cao Xiao‐Han , Wang Ying , Zhang Xing‐Hong
Published: January 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Synthesis of poly(thiocarbonate)s from the copolymerization of epoxides and carbon disulfide (CS2) remains a tough challenge, due to inevitable oxygen‐sulfur atom scrambling process. In this work, we utilized the oxygen‐sulfur exchange reaction (O‐S ER) to synthesize a random copolymer with monothiocarbonate and trithiocarbonate units from CS2 and phenyl glycidyl ether (PGE) via metal‐free Lewis pairs. The copolymers contained monothiocarbonate and trithiocarbonate units of which the molar fraction could be tuned by varying either the types of Lewis pairs or the reaction temperature. Keeping track on the intermediate provided an insight in the process of O‐S ER and thus gave a hint to control the product structure. Production and consumption of phenyl thioglycidyl ether was the key process to regulate the chain structure. Remarkably, the oxygen atoms of PGE could be excluded out of the chain, resulting in the nearly complete production of poly(trithiocarbonate)s. Correspondingly, the refractive index of this kind of copolymer could be regulated in a wide range of 1.73—1.79 (at 590 nm).
Heterogeneous vestibulocerebellar mossy fiber projections revealed by single axon reconstruction in the mouse
Authors: Ando Takahiro , Ueda Mitsuhito , Luo Yuanjun , Sugihara Izumi
Published: January 2020

A significant population of neurons in the vestibular nuclei projects to the cerebellum as mossy fibers (MFs) which are involved in the control and adaptation of posture, eye‐head movements, and autonomic function. However, little is known about their axonal projection patterns. We studied the morphology of single axons of medial vestibular nucleus (MVN) neurons as well as those originating from primary afferents, by labeling with biotinylated dextran amine (BDA). MVN axons (n = 35) were classified into three types based on their major predominant termination patterns. The Cbm‐type terminated only in the cerebellum (15 axons), whereas others terminated in the cerebellum and contralateral vestibular nuclei (cVN/Cbm‐type, 13 axons), or in the cerebellum and ipsilateral vestibular nuclei (iVN/Cbm‐type, 7 axons). Cbm‐ and cVN/Cbm‐types mostly projected to the nodulus and uvula without any clear relationship with longitudinal stripes in these lobules. They were often bilateral, and sometimes sent branches to the flocculus and to other vermal lobules. Also, the iVN/Cbm‐type projected mainly to the ipsilateral nodulus. Neurons of these types of axons showed different distribution within the MVN. The number of MF terminals of some vestibulocerebellar axons, iVN/Cbm‐type axons in particular, and primary afferent axons were much smaller than observed in previously studied MF axons originating from major precerebellar nuclei and the spinal cord. The results demonstrated that a heterogeneous population of MVN neurons provided divergent MF inputs to the cerebellum. The cVN/Cbm‐ and iVN/Cbm‐types indicate that some excitatory neuronal circuits within the vestibular nuclei supply their collaterals to the vestibulocerebellum as MFs.
Assessing color of gemstones
Authors: De Meo Silvia , Plutino Alice , Rizzi Alessandro
Published: January 2020

A precise and shared description of gemstones color could greatly help their classification and market evaluation, and the key to develop an efficient color evaluation system for gemstones is the creation of a common descriptive language and assessment method. Nowadays, there is a lack of standards for the determination of color of gemstones, and traditional color assessment is exclusively based on the direct visual observation in some cases with lenses and microscopes. The underlying problem is that light impinging gemstones, due to their physical characteristics, produce scattering and multiple reflecting phenomena. This puts the process of gemstone color assessment out of the scope of classic colorimetry. What needs to be assessed is the overall appearance of the gemstone and this explain why, so far, it is realized mainly by visual inspection. In this study, we investigate the relationship between the use of color measuring instruments and the visual inspection method for the determination of gems color appearance. We set up a perceptual experiment involving 21 participants to correlate the measured and the perceived colors of a set of gemological samples. Results report the correlations between instrumental measures and the visual assessment of gemstones color appearance and can be a potential base for a future standard method for gemstones color assessment.
On the Role of Water as a Catalyst in Prebiotic Chemistry
Authors: Saa José M. , Frontera Antonio
Published: January 2020

In this manuscript we provide computational support to the catalytic role of water in all kinds of pseudopericyclic reactions operating in the reductive acid cycle, as well as in other metabolic processes. Water catalysis is not limited to those reactions where simple translocation of hydrogen atoms occurs, such as those represented by NuH+E→Nu‐EH general equation. Indeed, water catalysis is more general and extremely important in tautomerization reactions of the type HX−Y=Z→X=Y−ZH, which operate in the reductive citric acid cycle and metabolic processes. Moreover, the comprehensive theoretical study reported herein illustrates that these reactions appear to behave as authentic enzyme‐catalyzed reactions showing Michaelis‐Menten behavior, however with the abnormal singularity that the concentration of the catalytic “water clusters” of different length and nature must be taken as a huge number. Overall, the results presented are suggestive of the workability of the so‐called “metabolism first” proposal in a hot water world, as water catalysis eliminates the dilution problem frequently associated to this proposal.
Usefulness of the newly developed artificial denture plaque for practical denture care training
Authors: Kawanishi Katsuya , Okahashi Tomoe , Aita Hideki , Kan Yuki , Yamazaki Masao , Asahiro Kenya , Oyama Shizue , Ueki Takumi , Sugihara Kana , Chiba Riyo , Yamagata Masa , Matsubara Kunio , Murata Yukie , Shirai Kaname , Kono Mai , Sasaki Mizuho , Toyoshita Yoshifumi , Sakakura Yasunori , Nagasawa Toshiyuki , Koshino Hisashi
Published: January 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the newly developed artificial dental plaque (A‐DP) is useful as an educational tool for denture care of dental hygienist that compared it with conventional artificial dental plaque from the viewpoint of practical skills.

Material and methods

The 125 dental hygienist school students and 26 dental hygienists who had clinical experience were subjected a practical training of denture plaque control using the conventional denture plaque (C‐DP) and the A‐DP. The questionnaires based on the semantic differential method were used to survey whether the A‐DP is similar to the real denture plaque (R‐DP). Factor analysis by rotation of promax was carried out.

Results

In the results of the factor analysis, the two factors could be detected in students and three factors in dental hygienists. The total score of each denture plaque was calculated for each factor, and correlation coefficient was examined. There was significant correlation between the A‐DP and the R‐DP at the first factors, both students and dental hygienists. C‐DP was not similar to R‐DP in all factors.

Conclusions

These results suggested that A‐DP resembles R‐DP better than C‐DP. It was concluded that the A‐DP was similar to the R‐DP and could be a potent educational tool for practical denture care.
Genetic architecture of polyphenol oxidase activity in wheat flour by genome‐wide association study
Authors: Zhai Shengnan , He Zhonghu , Wen Weie , Liu Jindong , Jin Hui , Yan Jun , Zhang Yong , Zhang Pingzhi , Wan Yingxiu , Xia Xianchun
Published: January 2020

The primary cause of time‐dependent discoloration in wheat (Triticum aestivumL.)‐based products is polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity. A comprehensive genetic characterization of PPO activity in wheat could expedite the development of wheat varieties with low PPO activity. To dissect the genetic architecture of PPO activity in wheat flour, a panel of 166 diverse bread wheat cultivars was phenotyped in four different environments and genotyped by high‐density wheat 90K and 660K arrays. A genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was performed by a mixed linear model that incorporated population structure and relative kinship. Four hundred and sixty‐five stable marker–trait associations representative of 43 quantitative trait loci (QTL) for PPO activity identified in at least two environments were located on all wheat chromosomes except 5A, with each explaining 6.6–32.4% of the phenotypic variance. Based on IWGSC RefSeq v1.0, we found thatQPPO2A.3,QPPO2B.1,QPPO2B.2, andQPPO2D.2were consistent with the previously reported QTL, and 12 QTL located on homoeologous group 1 chromosomes (6 QTL), chromosomes 4B, 4D, and 7A (2 QTL), and chromosome 7B (2 QTL) are likely to be new PPO loci. Based on physical positions of QTL and previous studies,Ppo‐A1,Ppo‐A2,Ppo‐B2,Ppo‐D2,Pinb‐D1, and genes encoding a Cu ion‐binding protein and a Cu‐transporting ATPase RAN1‐like protein were considered as candidates forQPPO2A.3,QPPO2B.1,QPPO2D.2,QPPO5D.1,QPPO4A.2, andQPPO7D.2, respectively. This study provided insights into the molecular basis of wheat PPO activity, and associated markers can be used for selection of low PPO breeding lines as a means of improving the marketing quality of wheat products.
Curriculum orientations and their role in parental involvement among immigrant parents
Authors: Antony‐Newman Max
Published: January 2020

The current study is based on interviews with 19 immigrant parents from Eastern European countries, whose children attend elementary schools in the province of Ontario, Canada. It uses the concept of curriculum orientations (academic rationalism, social efficiency, humanism and social reconstruction) to explore the connections between parental satisfaction with school and their involvement in children's education. I found that interviewed parents were split between supporters of academic rationalism and the blend of social efficiency and humanism. Parents who adopted social efficiency and humanism were satisfied with their children's education and followed normative school‐based involvement. Parents who preferred academic rationalism were not happy with their children's school and expected more emphasis on academic development. They were mostly active at home and faced difficulty communicating with teachers. Mismatch in curriculum orientations of immigrant parents and host country teachers results in additional barriers to their parental involvement and might shape such involvement in profound ways.
A prospective study on the link between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating: Role of food addiction and psychological distress
Authors: Ahorsu Daniel K. , Lin Chung‐Ying , Imani Vida , Griffiths Mark D. , Su Jian‐An , Latner Janet D. , Marshall Rachel D. , Pakpour Amir H.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

This prospective study investigated the link between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating by (a) examining the temporal association between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating; (b) investigating the mediating role of food addiction in the association between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating; and (c) examining the mediating role of psychological distress in the association between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating.

Method

Participants comprised 1,497 adolescents (mean = 15.1 years;SD= 6.0). Body mass index and weight bias were assessed at baseline; psychological distress (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress) assessed and food addiction at 3 months; and binge eating at 6 months. The mediation model was analyzed using Model 4 in the PROCESS macro for SPSS with 10,000 bootstrapping resamples.

Results

There was no significant direct association between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating. However, food addiction and psychological distress significantly mediated the association between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating.

Discussion

These findings highlight the indirect association between weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating via food addiction and psychological distress. Consequently, intervention programs targeting food addiction and psychological distress among adolescents may have significant positive effects on outcomes for weight‐related self‐stigma and binge eating. The findings will be beneficial to researchers and healthcare professionals working with adolescents during this critical developmental period.
Rewilding of Fukushima's human evacuation zone
Authors: Lyons Phillip C , Okuda Kei , Hamilton Matthew T , Hinton Thomas G , Beasley James C
Published: January 2020

There is substantial interest in understanding the ecological impacts of the nuclear accidents at the Chernobyl and Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plants. However, population‐level data for large mammals have been limited, and there remains much speculation regarding the status of wildlife species in these areas. Using a network of remote cameras placed along a gradient of radiological contamination and human presence, we collected data on population‐level impacts to wildlife (that is, abundance and occupancy patterns) following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident. We found no evidence of population‐level impacts in mid‐ to large‐sized mammals or gallinaceous birds, and show several species were most abundant in human‐evacuated areas, despite the presence of radiological contamination. These data provide unique evidence of the natural rewilding of the Fukushima landscape following human abandonment, and suggest that if any effects of radiological exposure in mid‐ to large‐sized mammals in the Fukushima Exclusion Zone exist, they occur at individual or molecular scales, and do not appear to manifest in population‐level responses.
PTPRε Acts as a Metastatic Promoter in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Facilitating Recruitment of SMAD3 to TGF‐β Receptor 1
Authors: Liao Zhibin , Chen Lin , Zhang Xuewu , Zhang Hongwei , Tan Xiaolong , Dong Keshuai , Lu Xun , Zhu He , Liu Qiumeng , Zhang Zhanguo , Ding Zeyang , Dong Wei , Zhu Peng , Chu Liang , Liang Huifang , Datta Pran K. , Zhang Bixiang , Chen Xiaoping
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) suppresses early stages of tumorigenesis, but contributes to the migration and metastasis of cancer cells. However, the role of TGF‐β signaling in invasive prometastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the roles of canonical TGF‐β/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3 (SMAD3) signaling and identified downstream effectors on HCC migration and metastasis.

Approach and Results

By using in vitro trans‐well migration and invasion assays and in vivo metastasis models, we demonstrated that SMAD3 and protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor epsilon (PTPRε) promote migration, invasion, and metastasis of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Further mechanistic studies revealed that, following TGF‐β stimulation, SMAD3 binds directly to PTPRε promoters to activate its expression. PTPRε interacts with TGFBR1/SMAD3 and facilitates recruitment of SMAD3 to TGFBR1, resulting in a sustained SMAD3 activation status. The tyrosine phosphatase activity of PTPRε is important for binding with TGFBR1, recruitment and activation of SMAD3, and its prometastatic role in vitro. A positive correlation between pSMAD3/SMAD3 and PTPRε expression was determined in HCC samples, and high expression of SMAD3 or PTPRε was associated with poor prognosis of patients with HCC.

Conclusions

PTPRε positive feedback regulates TGF‐β/SMAD3 signaling to promote HCC metastasis.
Six gene and TH2 signature expression in endobronchial biopsies of participants with asthma
Authors: Sánchez‐Ovando Stephany , Baines Katherine J. , Barker Daniel , Wark Peter A. , Simpson Jodie L.
Published: January 2020

Background

Both the six gene signature (6GS: CPA3, DNASE1L3, CLC, IL1B, ALPL, and CXCR2) and T‐helper 2 signature (TH2S: CLCA1, SERPINB2, and POSTN) are proposed as biomarkers in the identification of inflammatory phenotypes of asthma in induced sputum and epithelial brushings, respectively. The aim of this study was to explore patterns of gene expression of known signatures, 6GS and TH2S in endobronchial biopsies.

Methods

This was an exploratory cross‐sectional study of gene expression in endobronchial biopsies of 55 adults with asthma and 9 healthy controls (HC). The expression of the 6GS and TH2S was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Correlations with clinical and cellular characteristics were performed, and receiver operating characteristic was utilized to assess signatures' ability to predict asthma from HC and inflammatory phenotypes.

Results

Gene expression of DNASE1L3 (P = .045) was upregulated in asthma compared with HC, and IL1B (P = .017) was upregulated in neutrophilic asthma compared with non‐neutrophilic asthma. In asthma, the expression of CPA3 was negatively associated with ICS daily dose (r = −.339; P = .011), IL1B expression was positively associated with bronchial lavage fluid (BLF) total cell count (r = .340; P = .013) and both CLC and POSTN expression were associated with lymphocytes percentage in BLF (r = −.355, P = .009; r = −.300, P = .025, respectively). Both 6GS (area under curve [AUC] = 86.3%; P = .017) and TH2S (AUC = 72.7%; P = .037) could significantly predict asthma from HC. In addition, 6GS can identify neutrophilic (AUC = 93.2%; P = .005) and TH2S identifies eosinophilic (AUC = 62.7%; P = .033) asthma.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

There was increased expression of DNASE1L3 in asthma and IL1B in neutrophilic asthma. These results show similar upregulated patterns of expression in two genes of the 6GS in endobronchial biopsies, previously identified in sputum. The upregulation of DNASE1L3 and IL1B suggests that common mechanisms may be at play throughout the airway.
Ligand‐based pharmacophore modeling and docking studies on vitamin D receptor inhibitors
Authors: Yadav Dharmendra Kumar , Kumar Surendra , Teli Mahesh Kumar , Kim Mi‐Hyun
Published: January 2020

In recent years, pharmacophore modeling and molecular docking approaches have been extensively used to characterize the structural requirements and explore the conformational space of a ligand in the binding pocket of the selected target protein. Herein, we report a pharmacophore modeling and molecular docking of 45 compounds comprising of the indole scaffold as vitamin D receptor (VDR) inhibitors. Based on the selected best hypothesis (DRRRR.61), an atom‐based three‐dimensional quantitative structure‐activity relationships model was developed to rationalize the structural requirement of biological activity modulating components. The developed model predicted the binding affinity for the training set and test set with R2(training) = 0.8869 and R2(test) = 0.8139, respectively. Furthermore, molecular docking and dynamics simulation were performed to understand the underpinning of binding interaction and stability of selected VDR inhibitors in the binding pocket. In conclusion, the results presented here, in the form of functional and structural data, agreed well with the proposed pharmacophores and provide further insights into the development of novel VDR inhibitors with better activity.
Effects of gill excision and food deprivation on metabolic scaling in the goldfish Carassius auratus
Authors: Xiong Wei , Zhu Yanqiu , Zhu Xiaoling , Li Qian , Luo Yiping
Published: January 2020

According to the metabolic‐level boundaries hypothesis, metabolic level mediates the relative influence of surface area or volume‐related metabolic processes on metabolic scaling in organisms. Therefore, variation in both metabolic level and surface area may affect metabolic scaling. Goldfish were used to determine the influence of both a surgical reduction in respiratory surface area and food deprivation on metabolic scaling exponents (bR). Gill excision did not change resting metabolic rate (RMR) or bR (a common value of 0.895). However, ventilation frequency (VF) increased from 21.6 times min−1 before gill excision to 52.8 times min−1 after gill excision. This suggests that the acceleration of breathing after gill excision offsets the constraints of the respiratory surface area on RMR and results in no influence of surface area reduction on metabolic scaling. In the food deprivation experiment, RMR decreased; however, bR (a common value of 0.872) did not increase. The VFs of the fish at weeks 1 and 2 were approximately 22% and 38% lower than that at Week 0, which may enhance exchange surface area limits and result in no increase in bR with a decreasing RMR induced by food deprivation. The results suggest that food deprivation reduces metabolic level, but does not alter metabolic scaling exponent owing to variation in VF.
Evaluation of the uterine hormonal control of the bat Artibeus lituratus during the different phases of its reproductive cycle
Authors: Santiago Cornélio S. , Albernaz Edna S. S. , Santos Renata T. S. , Guerra Luiz H. A. , Santos Fernanda C. A. , Góes Rejane M. , Morielle‐Versute Eliana , Taboga Sebastião R. , Beguelini Mateus R.
Published: January 2020

Artibeus lituratus is a frugivorous bat that directly assists in the restoration of degraded habitats through the effective dispersion of seeds and fruits. Given its great importance, this work aimed to evaluate the uterine hormonal control of A. lituratus during its different reproductive phases. The uteri of 30 sexually mature adult females, five specimens for each of the six sample groups (NON, nonreproductive; P1, initial pregnancy; P2, intermediate pregnancy; P3, advanced pregnancy; LAC, lactating; P + LAC, pregnant‐lactating), were submitted to analyses of serum estradiol and progesterone concentrations, in addition to immunohistochemical analyses. Both estradiol and progesterone, gradually increased during pregnancy, with a marked significant increase in P3 females. Both returned to low levels in LAC‐females; however, estradiol levels decreased further in P + LAC‐females, while progesterone increased in the same group. In general, signs indicative of aromatase expression were observed in the endometrium of all analyzed groups and in the placenta of bats in the gestation groups. Similarly, ERα and PR were expressed in the myometrium, endometrium and placenta at varying levels of intensity. The results indicate that the uterine microenvironment of A. lituratus is directly regulated by serum concentrations of estradiol and progesterone, and fluctuations in these concentrations control morphological and physiological changes of this organ during different phases of the reproductive cycle.

Research highlights

Increases in serum concentrations of estradiol and progesterone coordinate the gestational period of A. lituratus.

Estradiol activates ERα, stimulating cell proliferation in the uterus, in addition to activating the expression of PR, which trigger the quiescence of the myometrium and stimulation of the secretion and differentiation of the endometrium.

Results showed several similarities to humans, indicating the use of A. lituratus as an animal model in reproductive studies.