bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of reproductive tract development and hormonal treatment on estrous synchronization in heifers
Authors: Peralta-Torres Jorge Alonso , Aké-López Jesús Ricardo , Luna-Palomera Carlos , Segura-Correa José Candelario , Torres-Chablé Oswaldo Margarito , Ojeda-Robertos Nadia Florencia
Published: April 2020

Evaluation of the reproductive tract development (RTD) is a criterion rarely used when heifers are included in estrous synchronization programs. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of RTD (mature and immature) and hormonal treatment (EC and EB) on estrous expression rate and pregnancy rate in Bos indicus heifers under tropical conditions. RTD was evaluated with an ultrasound and classified as mature (n=99) or immature (n=101). Heifers received an intravaginal device (DIB®; day 0), 2 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB) and 250 µg of cloprostenol (PGF2α). The DIB was removed on day 7 post insertion, and 250 µg of PGF2α was applied and heifers were divided into two groups: One group of heifers received 0.5 mg of estradiol cypionate (EC group), and on day 8, a second group of heifers received 1 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB group). Estrus was detected by visual observation, and all heifers were inseminated at a fixed-time (FTAI). Fifteen days after insemination, bulls were introduced to the treatment groups. Data were analyzed using general modeling and binary logistic regression procedures. The percentage of estrus was similar for both mature and immature heifers (P>0.05), however, the heifers treated with EB had 17% animals in estrus, than the heifers that received EC (P <0.05). The pregnancy rate after FTAI (74.8%) and total pregnancy (FTAI + natural mating = 91.9%) was greater for the group of heifers with a mature reproductive tract (P<0.05). The hormone treatment had not effect (P>0.05) on the pregnancy rate. In conclusion, the heifers with mature reproductive tracts had the highest pregnancy rate after artificial insemination and total pregnancy. Hormonal treatment did not influence the pregnancy rate.
Multivariate factor analysis (MFA) approach to evaluate the quality of stored Cavendish banana sourced from different geographical areas
Authors: Giuggioli Nicole Roberta , Peano Cristiana , Da Silva Thais Mendes
Published: April 2020

The Multiple Factor Analysis (MFA) was applied to assess deterioration patterns and evaluate quality stability of bananas samples with 5 different origins. Quality evaluation (weight loss, dry matter, colour, total soluble solids, texture and nutraceutical analysis) was conducted at 21°C for up to 12 days of storage time. Ecuador samples retained a better colour and firmer texture during shelf life while Cameroon samples demonstrated very poor quality for almost all quality indicators. Although MFA showed a similar shelf life pattern for all banana samples, it was possible to observe a greater quality retention of Ecuador samples, represented by higher score values at dimension 1 than other samples. Even though there were significant differences of nutraceutical values during shelf life, the MFA contribution plot demonstrated that nutraceutical quality was not a good indicator of deterioration among the samples, especially with texture and colour parameters.
Using unmanned aerial vehicle for identifying the vegetative vigor and quantify the area occupied by eucalyptus sprouts after chemical weeding in the state of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Medauar Caique Carvalho , Silva Samuel de Assis , Carvalho Luis Carlos Cirilo , Tibúrcio Rafael Augusto Soares , Medauar Paullo Augusto Silva
Published: April 2020

Currently, the efficiency of chemical weeding for controlling eucalyptus sprouts is measured by field sampling, but the inefficiency of the sampling methods has led to the investigation of new technologies, such as using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to help to identify the vegetative vigor of eucalyptus after chemical weeding. This study, therefore, used aerial images obtained by a UAV embedded with a sensor to identify the vegetative vigor and quantify the area occupied by eucalyptus sprouts 90 days after the chemical weeding. The study was conducted in three fields planted with eucalyptus whose sprouts had been previously controlled by the chemical weeding with the Scout® herbicide in November 2016. The vegetative vigor of the eucalyptus sprouts was evaluated from the aerial images obtained by the UAV with embedded sensor, during flights conducted in November 2016 and February 2017, that were used to calculate the normalized difference vegetation index and later, a random sample grid was constructed for each image by supervised classification of the area (m2) to determine the percentage occupied by the sprouts. The used chemical control method neither eradicated the sprouts nor reduced the sprout occupied area. The normalized difference vegetation index and supervised classification tools allowed determining with high precision sprout health status and size, generating interpretable data on the different evaluated fields and periods. The processing of the images obtained by the UAV provided a viable alternative of management to evaluate sprout status in reforestation areas.
Alternative for potassic fertilization of vegetables in organic management in low fertility natural soil of the humid tropics
Authors: Dos Santos Aline Moreno Ferreira
Published: April 2020

The organic food production and mainly the demand for these products have been growing much worldwide, and with this rising demand there is need for more adequate soil management. Organic fertilization is one of the points to improve and the alternative sources of nutrients should be better evaluated. Potassium is an essential nutrient required in large quantities by greenery and fruit, but according to the legislation of organic production, it can only be used as crushed rocks  such as potassium sulfate. The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of potassium sulfate (soluble source), wood ash and marble powder as alternative sources of potassium in organic system, using hybrid maize AG 1051 as the indicator crop. The experimental design applied was in randomized blocks in the 3x4x2 factorial scheme, consisting of three potassium sources applied in four doses (0, 60, 90 and 120 kg ha-1 K2O) in the presence and absence of Biofertilizer, with four repetitions. The data were submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the averages were compared by the Tukey test (p < 0.05). Both wood ash and marble powder tested can be used as complementary potassium fertilization in organic production systems. Marble powder proved to be the most efficient among the treatments and the Biofertilizer did not have a significant effect on the evaluated characteristics.
Neuroprotective effects of FK866 against traumatic brain injury: Involvement of p38/ERK pathway
Authors: Tan Zhongju , Chen Lili , Ren Yucheng , Jiang Xiaohang , Gao Wei
Published: April 2020

Objective

FK866 is an inhibitor of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), which exhibits neuroprotective effects in ischemic brain injury. However, in traumatic brain injury (TBI), the role and mechanism of FK866 remain unclear. The present research was aimed to investigate whether FK866 could attenuate TBI and clarified the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

A controlled cortical impact model was established, and FK866 at a dose of 5 mg/kg was administered intraperitoneally at 1 h and 6 h, then twice per day post‐TBI until sacrifice. Brain water content, Evans blue dye extravasation, modified neurological severity scores (mNSS), Morris water maze test, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunofluorescence staining, and western blot were performed.

Results

The results demonstrated that FK866 significantly mitigated the brain edema, blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption, and ameliorated the neurological function post‐TBI. Moreover, FK866 decreased the number of Iba‐1‐positive cells, GFAP‐positive astrocytes, and AQP4‐positive cells. FK866 reduced the protein levels of proinflammatory cytokines and inhibited NF‐κB from translocation to the nucleus. FK866 upregulated the expression of Bcl‐2, diminished the expression of Bax and caspase 3, and the number of apoptotic cells. Moreover, p38 MAPK and ERK activation were significantly inhibited by FK866.

Interpretation

FK866 attenuated TBI‐induced neuroinflammation and apoptosis, at least in part, through p38/ERK MAPKs signaling pathway.
Effects on lung, immune function offer warning for drinking in crisis
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: April 2020

While it remains much too early to determine precisely how alcohol use might affect risk for or progression of COVID‐19, any efforts to connect the dots from past alcohol research would suggest it wise for nondrinkers and low‐risk drinkers to maintain that status during this public health crisis. It's already known that disaster can result in increased alcohol consumption based on the work of Deborah Hasin, Ph.D., after 9/11 (see “Alcohol and isolation: Experts comment on drinking behavior during COVID‐19,” ADAW March 30; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.32670).
NA success linked to support by treatment
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2020

A deeply researched white paper shows how mutual support groups can assist — and have assisted — people trying to deal with their drug use. The paper summarizes research on the use of these support groups and details how Narcotics Anonymous (NA) helps drug users, in much the same way Alcoholics Anonymous helps alcohol users, but there are some important distinctions.
Glycocalyx‐Like Hydrogel Coatings for Small Diameter Vascular Grafts
Authors: Dimitrievska Sashka , Wang Juan , Lin Tylee , Weyers Amanda , Bai Hualong , Qin Lingfeng , Li Guangxin , Cai Chao , Kypson Alan , Kristofik Nina , Gard Ashley , Sundaram Sumati , Yamamoto Kota , Wu Wei , Zhao Liping , Kural Mehmet H. , Yuan Yifan , Madri Joseph , Kyriakides Themis R. , Linhardt Robert J. , Niklason Laura E.
Published: April 2020

Novel biological vascular conduits, such as decellularized tissue engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) are hindered by high thrombogenicity. To mimic the antithrombogenic surface of native vessels with a continuous glycosaminoglycan layer that is present on endothelial cells (ECs), a hyaluronic acid (HA) modified surface is established, to effectively shield blood platelets from collagen‐triggered activation. Using the amine groups present on 4 mm diameter decellularized TEVGs, a continuous HA hydrogel coating is built via a bifunctional thiol‐reactive cross‐linker, thereby avoiding nonspecific collagen matrix cross‐linking. The HA hydrogel layer recreates a luminal wall, “hiding” exposed collagen from the bloodstream. In vitro blood tests show that adhered platelets, fibrinogen absorption, and fibrin formation on HA‐coated decellularized TEVGs are significantly lower than on uncoated decellularized TEVGs. The HA surface also inhibits macrophage adhesion in vitro. HA‐coated decellularized syngeneic rat aortae (≈1.5 mm diameter), and TEVGs in rat and canine models, respectively, are protected from aggressive thrombus formation, and preserve normal blood flow. Re‐endothelialization is also observed. HA‐coated TEVGs may be an off‐the‐shelf small‐diameter vascular graft with dual benefits: antithrombogenic protection and promotion of endothelium.
Bioinspired Materials with Self‐Adaptable Mechanical Properties
Authors: Orrego Santiago , Chen Zhezhi , Krekora Urszula , Hou Decheng , Jeon Seung‐Yeol , Pittman Matthew , Montoya Carolina , Chen Yun , Kang Sung Hoon
Published: April 2020

Natural structural materials, such as bone, can autonomously modulate their mechanical properties in response to external loading to prevent failure. These material systems smartly control the addition/removal of material in locations of high/low mechanical stress by utilizing local resources guided by biological signals. On the contrary, synthetic structural materials have unchanging mechanical properties limiting their mechanical performance and service life. Inspired by the mineralization process of bone, a material system that adapts its mechanical properties in response to external mechanical loading is reported. It is found that charges from piezoelectric scaffolds can induce mineralization from surrounding media. It is shown that the material system can adapt to external mechanical loading by inducing mineral deposition in proportion to the magnitude of the stress and the resulting piezoelectric charges. Moreover, the mineralization mechanism allows a simple one‐step route for fabricating functionally graded materials by controlling the stress distribution along the scaffold. The findings can pave the way for a new class of self‐regenerating materials that reinforce regions of high stress or induce deposition of minerals on the damaged areas from the increase in mechanical stress to prevent/mitigate failure. It is envisioned that the findings can contribute to addressing the current challenges of synthetic materials for load‐bearing applications from self‐adaptive capabilities.
Polarization Multiplexing Terahertz Metasurfaces through Spatial Femtosecond Laser‐Shaping Fabrication
Authors: Li Bohong , Li Xiaowei , Zhao Ruizhe , Wang Guocui , Han Weina , Zhao Bingquan , Huang Lingling , Zhang Yan , Lu Yongfeng , Jiang Lan
Published: April 2020

Terahertz (THz) metasurface has emerged as a powerful technique to fully modulate the wavefronts of THz radiation. To improve the information storage capability and enhance the encryption security of THz metasurface holograms, smart metasurface designs, and fabrications for polarization multiplexing are essential. In this study, two kinds of polarization multiplexing THz metasurfaces are fabricated through the slit‐based spatial modulation of femtosecond laser. Controllable elliptical aperture arrays can easily and flexibly be fabricated on gold films by adjusting the width and position of the slit combined with the laser pulse energy. Based on the Pancharatnam–Berry phase and amplitude modulation, respectively, THz metasurfaces, with two independent target phases or amplitude profiles, are obtained. A variety of information can be processed under different polarization states through these THz metasurfaces. This method allows flexible and efficient customization of THz metasurfaces because of the high‐speed fabrication and reproducibility as well as precise control of elliptical apertures location on the surface.
Lanthanide Luminescence to Mimic Molecular Logic and Computing through Physical Inputs
Authors: Hernández‐Rodríguez Miguel A. , Brites Carlos D. S. , Antorrena Guillermo , Piñol Rafael , Cases Rafael , Pérez‐García Lluïsa , Rodrigues Mafalda , Plaza José António , Torras Nuria , Díez Isabel , Millán Angel , Carlos Luís D.
Published: April 2020

The remarkable advances in molecular logic reported in the last decade demonstrate the potential of luminescent molecules for logical operations, a paradigm‐changing concerning silicon‐based electronics. Trivalent lanthanide (Ln3+) ions, with their characteristic narrow line emissions, long‐lived excited states, and photostability under illumination, may improve the state‐of‐the‐art molecular logical devices. Here, the use of monolithic silicon‐based structures incorporating Ln3+ complexes for performing logical functions is reported. Elementary logic gates (AND, INH, and DEMUX), sequential logic (KEYPAD LOCK), and arithmetic operations (HALF ADDER and HALF SUBTRACTOR) exhibiting a switching ratio >60% are demonstrated for the first time using nonwet conditions. Additionally, this is the first report showing sequential logic and arithmetic operations combining molecular Ln3+ complexes and physical inputs. Contrary to chemical inputs, physical inputs may enable the future concatenation of distinct logical functions and reuse of the logical devices, a clear step forward toward input–output homogeneity that is precluding the integration of nowadays molecular logic devices.
ImmunoPET Imaging of TIM‐3 in Murine Melanoma Models
Authors: Wei Weijun , Jiang Dawei , Lee Hye Jin , Engle Jonathan W. , Akiba Hisaya , Liu Jianjun , Cai Weibo
Published: April 2020

T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain‐containing‐3 (TIM‐3) is an immune checkpoint expressed mainly on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. In addition to negatively regulating inflammatory T cell function, TIM‐3 is a promising immunotherapy target. Herein, the aim is to develop an immuno‐positron emission tomography (immunoPET) probe for noninvasively characterizing TIM‐3 expression. Flow cytometry is used to detect the expression levels of TIM‐3 in B16F10 cells. RMT3‐23, a rat antimouse TIM‐3‐specific monoclonal antibody, is radiolabeled with 64Cu and the performance of 64Cu‐NOTA‐RMT3‐23 is interrogated by immunoPET in murine melanoma models before and after radiation therapies. Biodistribution and immunofluorescent staining studies are carried out after the immunoPET imaging studies. TIM‐3 is negatively expressed in B16F10 cells, and its expression is not induced by radiation therapies. ImmunoPET imaging with 64Cu‐NOTA‐RMT3‐23 precisely tracks the unique distribution of TIM‐3‐positive lymphocytes in immunocompetent melanoma models, and tumor uptake of the radiotracer is not affected by either single‐dose or fractionated radiation therapies. The 64Cu‐NOTA‐RMT3‐23 immunoPET imaging results are further mirrored by the immunofluorescent staining studies. These results demonstrate the feasibility of 64Cu‐NOTA‐RMT3‐23 immunoPET in tracking TIM‐3 and highlight a new opportunity to optimize TIM‐3‐targeted immunotherapies with this novel imaging strategy.
Usefulness of venoarterial extracorporeal membranous oxygenation for fatal cibenzoline succinate poisoning
Authors: Sato Hiroki , Kyan Ryoko , Uemura Shuji , Toyo Yoshitake , Wada Kenshiro , Nomura Kazuhito , Bunya Naofumi , Narimatsu Eichi
Published: April 2020

Background

The effect of venoarterial extracorporeal membranous oxygenation (V‐A ECMO), plasma exchange (PE), and direct hemoperfusion (DHP) for fatal cibenzoline succinate poisoning is unclear. We report a rare case of severe cibenzoline succinate poisoning along with cardiac arrest, wherein the patient was managed with V‐A ECMO, PE, and DHP. We also measured the blood levels of cibenzoline succinate frequently.

Case Presentation

A 51‐year‐old woman had a refractory cardiac arrest after cibenzoline succinate ingestion. We initiated V‐A ECMO, PE, and DHP. Plasma exchange did not improve clinical manifestations. Her clinical condition improved during DHP, but there was no evidence about removal of drugs. On day 3, DHP and ECMO were terminated. On day 9, she was transferred to another hospital without arrhythmia recurrence.

Conclusion

Venoarterial ECMO is effective in cases of cibenzoline succinate poisoning‐related cardiac dysfunction or cardiac arrest. No evidence was obtained for the effects of PE and DHP.
Estimating Oil and Protein Content of Sesame Seeds Using Image Processing and Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Parsaeian Mahdieh , Shahabi Mojtaba , Hassanpour Hamid
Published: April 2020

Image processing has many applications in different fields of agriculture. The present study aimed to use image processing techniques and artificial neural networks (ANN) to estimate oil and protein contents of sesame genotypes without the use of time‐consuming and costly laboratory methods. The proposed method accurately estimates the parameters in sesame seeds without destructing the genetically valuable material. In this study, a set of 138 morphological features were extracted from the digital image of 125 sesame seed genotypes. A multilayer perceptron (MLP) ANN was then employed to estimate oil and protein contents and determine the relationship between estimated values and laboratory‐measured values. The efficiency of this model was compared to radial bases function (RBF), extended RBF (ERBF), GRNN, M5‐Rule, M5‐Tree, support vector machine regression, and linear regression models. Results showed that MLP performed better in estimating qualitative parameters of seeds in the sesame germplasm. The model estimated oil content with an root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.13% (the accuracy of 97.87%) and an R2 of 0.93. Protein content was estimated by an RMSE of 0.378% (the accuracy of 99.62%) and an R2 of 0.96.
To what extent do the storage conditions of polyether‐based polyurethane have an impact on diazepam delivery?
Authors: Maiguy‐Foinard Aurélie , Masse Morgane , Degoutin Stéphanie , Genay Stéphanie , Chai Feng , Barthélémy Christine , Odou Pascal , Blanchemain Nicolas , Décaudin Bertrand
Published: April 2020

Interactions between medical device material and the drug itself have been evoked for polyurethane and may lead to underdosing. Polyurethane, sterilization mode, and the crosslinking level of the polymer have an influence on sorption. The aim here is to evaluate the impact of polyurethane conservation time and conditions as well as sterilization mode. Two polyurethane extension tubes were tested, one sterilized by ethylene oxide and the second by gamma radiation. Forced degradation experiments were performed. After 3 and 6 months of incubation, thermal properties, diazepam delivery and cytotoxicity of leachates were assessed. Diazepam delivery differs significantly according to the version of polyurethane. Sterilization however has no impact on diazepam delivery. No cytotoxicity was observed whatever the infusion tube and the aging conditions. In conclusion, sterilization procedures do not induce polyurethane degradation, but high temperature/relative humidity/time storage conditions lead to a slight degradation in polyurethane.
Crystal Contact Engineering Enables Efficient Capture and Purification of an Oxidoreductase by Technical Crystallization
Authors: Grob Phillip , Huber Max , Walla Brigitte , Hermann Johannes , Janowski Robert , Niessing Dierk , Hekmat Dariusch , Weuster‐Botz Dirk
Published: April 2020

Technical crystallization is an attractive method to purify recombinant proteins. However, it is rarely applied due to the limited crystallizability of many proteins. To overcome this limitation, single amino acid exchanges are rationally introduced to enhance intermolecular interactions at the crystal contacts of the industrially relevant biocatalyst Lactobacillus brevis alcohol dehydrogenase (LbADH). The wildtype (WT) and the best crystallizing and enzymatically active LbADH mutants K32A, D54F, Q126H, and T102E are produced with Escherichia coli and subsequently crystallized from cell lysate in stirred mL‐crystallizers. Notwithstanding the high host cell protein (HCP) concentrations in the lysate, all mutants crystallize significantly faster than the WT. Combinations of mutations result in double mutants with faster crystallization kinetics than the respective single mutants, demonstrating a synergetic effect. The almost entire depletion of the soluble LbADH fraction at crystallization equilibrium is observed, proving high yields. The HCP concentration is reduced to below 0.5% after crystal dissolution and recrystallization, and thus a 100‐fold HCP reduction is achieved after two successive crystallization steps. The combination of fast kinetics, high yields, and high target protein purity highlights the potential of crystal contact engineering to transform technical crystallization into an efficient protein capture and purification step in biotechnological downstream processes.
Simultaneous measurement of epinastine and its metabolite, 9,13b‐dehydroepinastine, in human plasma by a newly developed ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and its application to pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Jeong Seung‐Hyun , Jang Ji‐Hun , Cho Hea‐Young , Lee Yong‐Bok
Published: April 2020

Epinastine is an antiallergic drug with high selectivity for histamine receptors. It has been reported that 9,13b‐dehydroepinastine is present as a metabolite in vivo in humans, but there was little information about their pharmacokinetics (PKs) in humans. Although several analytical methods have been reported for epinastine analysis in different matrices, none are available for its metabolite. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop an analytical method to simultaneously measure epinastine and its metabolite, 9,13b‐dehydroepinastine, in human plasma samples using an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometer. Analytes were separated on a C18 column. Quantification of this analysis was performed on a triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometer. Chromatograms showed high sensitivity, selectivity, and resolution with no interference with plasma constituents. Calibration curves for both epinastine and 9,13b‐dehydroepinastine in human plasma were 0.1–50 ng/ml and displayed excellent linearity with correlation coefficients (r2) >0.99. The developed analytical method satisfied the criteria of international guidance and was validated. The method could be successfully applied to pharmacokinetic studies of epinastine and, for the first time, the metabolite kinetics of epinastine to 9,13b‐dehydroepinastine in humans after oral administration of 20 mg epinastine hydrochloride tablets. Our study is expected to be useful in future studies such as dosage settings and clinical pharmacotherapy.
Misdiagnosis of Bell's palsy: Case series and literature review
Authors: Bacorn Colin , Fong Nancy Su Teng , Lin Lily Koo
Published: April 2020

Although Bell's palsy is a common etiology for isolated facial paralysis, it is important clinicians perform a complete neurologic examination to avoid misdiagnosis. Multiple cranial neuropathy is often caused by tumor or infection.
Biventricular thrombosis and survival after two different mechanical supports before heart transplantation
Authors: Ricarte Bratti Juan Pablo , Chronopoulos Alexandra , Sia Ying Tung , Carrier Francois Martin , Denault André Y.
Published: April 2020

Patient survival from biventricular thrombosis is possible using mechanical support followed by cardiac transplantation.
Deep hypothermia prevents striatal alterations produced by perinatal asphyxia: Implications for the prevention of dyskinesia and psychosis
Authors: Vázquez‐Borsetti Pablo , Acuña Andrés , Soliño Manuel , López‐Costa Juan José , Kargieman Lucila , Loidl Fabián César
Published: April 2020

GABAergic medium spiny neurons are the main neuronal population in the striatum. Calbindin is preferentially expressed in medium spiny neurons involved in the indirect pathway. The aim of the present work is to analyze the effect of perinatal asphyxia on different subpopulations of GABAergic neurons in the striatum and to assess the outcome of deep therapeutic hypothermia. The uterus of pregnant rats was removed by cesarean section and the fetuses were exposed to hypoxia by immersion in water (19 min) at 37°C (perinatal asphyxia). The hypothermic group was exposed to 10°C during 30 min after perinatal asphyxia. The rats were euthanized at the age of one month (adolescent/adult rats), their brains were dissected out and coronal sections were immunolabeled for calbindin, calretinin, NeuN, and reelin. Reelin+ cells showed no staining in the striatum besides subventricular zone. The perinatal asphyxia (PA) group showed a significant decrease in calbindin neurons and a paradoxical increase in neurons estimated by NeuN staining. Moreover, calretinin+ cells, a specific subpopulation of GABAergic neurons, showed an increase caused by PA. Deep hypothermia reversed most of these alterations probably by protecting calbindin neurons. Similarly, there was a reduction of the diameter of the anterior commissure produced by the asphyxia that was prevented by hypothermic treatment.
Training lip force by oral screens. Part 3: Outcome for patients with stroke and peripheral facial palsy
Authors: Wertsén Madeleine , Stenberg Manne
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate whether training with an oral screen can improve oral motor function in patients with stroke and peripheral palsy. The participants in the study were eight patients with orofacial dysfunction after stroke, included 7–14 months after onset, and seven patients with peripheral palsy, included 14–28 months after onset. A customized oral screen in acrylic was made for each participant. The screen had a tube around the handle to allow air to pass when measurements were made of the perioral muscle force. When measuring the ability to suck, the hole was sealed with wax. The participants trained with the oral screen two times daily for 5 min. Measurements were made at baseline, after 1 month and thereafter every third month until no further improvement was achieved. Measurements were made with two different instructions, to squeeze and to suck. In the stroke group, muscles around the mouth improved when pouting and smiling; these participants also achieved statistically significant changes when sucking. For the peripheral palsy group, little improvement could be seen when pouting and smiling. However, these patients reported less or no drooling, and the measurements for sucking increased significantly for six of the seven patients. The first recorded significant change was seen in the stroke group after 4 weeks training and in the group with peripheral palsy after 6 weeks. Training with a custom‐made oral screen can significantly improve perioral muscle force and the ability to create negative intraoral pressure. The patients reported less leakage in saliva, drink, and food as well as fewer bite injuries and less food accumulation.
Response to salt stress imposed on cultivars of three turfgrass species: Poa pratensis, Lolium perenne, and Puccinellia distans
Authors: Bushman B. Shaun , Robbins Matthew D. , Robins Joseph G. , Thorsted Kimberly , Harris Paul , Johnson Paul G.
Published: April 2020

Cool‐season turfgrasses can be subjected to salt stress through a variety of sources, and selection for salt tolerance is an increasingly high priority. Two of the main turfgrass species in temperate regions are perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) (PRG) and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) (KBG), and greenhouse evaluations have occurred to rank and characterize salt tolerance in each species. However, salt tolerance in a field setting in a semiarid climate has not been tested, and the genetic mechanisms by which each species specifically responds to salt stress is still unclear. In this study, we evaluated salt tolerance of 10 PRG and 12 KBG entries in a field setting and compare their salt tolerances to two alkaligrass cultivars. Using electrolyte leakage (EL) and turf green cover, tolerant and susceptible cultivars and accessions were identified from both species. Transcriptome‐level gene expression analysis was applied on a subset of the entries, and 62 differentially expressed transcripts were shared among the three species with a preponderance of transcripts involving carbohydrate metabolism, oxidation‐reduction processes, and ion transport within the cell. Upon further gene enrichment analysis of KBG, more transcripts in those three categories were found. The differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) represent mechanisms by which PRG and KBG respond to salt stress, as well as targets for selection for salt tolerance.
Developmental regulation of microtubule‐based trafficking and anchoring of axonal mitochondria in health and diseases
Authors: Cheng Xiu‐Tang , Sheng Zu‐Hang
Published: April 2020

Mitochondria are cellular power plants that supply most of the ATP required in the brain to power neuronal growth, function, and regeneration. Given their extremely polarized structures and extended long axons, neurons face an exceptional challenge to maintain energy homeostasis in distal axons, synapses, and growth cones. Anchored mitochondria serve as local energy sources; therefore, the regulation of mitochondrial trafficking and anchoring ensures that these metabolically active areas are adequately supplied with ATP. Chronic mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark feature of major aging‐related neurodegenerative diseases, and thus, anchored mitochondria in aging neurons need to be removed when they become dysfunctional. Investigations into the regulation of microtubule (MT)‐based trafficking and anchoring of axonal mitochondria under physiological and pathological circumstances represent an important emerging area. In this short review article, we provide an updated overview of recent in vitro and in vivo studies showing (1) how mitochondria are transported and positioned in axons and synapses during neuronal developmental and maturation stages, and (2) how altered mitochondrial motility and axonal energy deficits in aging nervous systems link to neurodegeneration and regeneration in a disease or injury setting. We also highlight a major role of syntaphilin as a key MT‐based regulator of axonal mitochondrial trafficking and anchoring in mature neurons.
Effects of ocean acidification on Antarctic marine organisms: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Hancock Alyce M. , King Catherine K. , Stark Jonathan S. , McMinn Andrew , Davidson Andrew T.
Published: April 2020

Southern Ocean waters are among the most vulnerable to ocean acidification. The projected increase in the CO2 level will cause changes in carbonate chemistry that are likely to be damaging to organisms inhabiting these waters. A meta‐analysis was undertaken to examine the vulnerability of Antarctic marine biota occupying waters south of 60°S to ocean acidification. This meta‐analysis showed that ocean acidification negatively affects autotrophic organisms, mainly phytoplankton, at CO2 levels above 1,000 μatm and invertebrates above 1,500 μatm, but positively affects bacterial abundance. The sensitivity of phytoplankton to ocean acidification was influenced by the experimental procedure used. Natural, mixed communities were more sensitive than single species in culture and showed a decline in chlorophyll a concentration, productivity, and photosynthetic health, as well as a shift in community composition at CO2 levels above 1,000 μatm. Invertebrates showed reduced fertilization rates and increased occurrence of larval abnormalities, as well as decreased calcification rates and increased shell dissolution with any increase in CO2 level above 1,500 μatm. Assessment of the vulnerability of fish and macroalgae to ocean acidification was limited by the number of studies available. Overall, this analysis indicates that many marine organisms in the Southern Ocean are likely to be susceptible to ocean acidification and thereby likely to change their contribution to ecosystem services in the future. Further studies are required to address the poor spatial coverage, lack of community or ecosystem‐level studies, and the largely unknown potential for organisms to acclimate and/or adapt to the changing conditions.
Contrasting altitudinal variation of alpine plant communities along the Swedish mountains
Authors: Måsviken Johannes , Dalerum Fredrik , Cousins Sara A. O.
Published: April 2020

Changes in abiotic factors along altitudinal and latitudinal gradients cause powerful environmental gradients. The topography of alpine areas generates environmental gradients over short distances, and alpine areas are expected to experience greater temperature increase compared to the global average. In this study, we investigate alpha, beta, and gamma diversity, as well as community structure, of vascular plant communities along altitudinal gradients at three latitudes in the Swedish mountains. Species richness and evenness decreased with altitude, but the patterns within the altitudinal gradient varied between sites, including a sudden decrease at high altitude, a monotonic decrease, and a unimodal pattern. However, we did not observe a decline in beta diversity with altitude at all sites, and plant communities at all sites were spatially nested according to some other factors than altitude, such as the availability of water or microtopographic position. Moreover, the observed diversity patterns did not follow the latitudinal gradient. We observed a spatial modularity according to altitude, which was consistent across sites. Our results suggest strong influences of site‐specific factors on plant community composition and that such factors partly may override effects from altitudinal and latitudinal environmental variation. Spatial variation of the observed vascular plant communities appears to have been caused by a combination of processes at multiple spatial scales.
Electrochemically Reduced Graphene Oxide as Screen‐printed Electrode Modifier for Fenamiphos Determination
Authors: Gevaerd A. , Watanabe E. Y. , Fernandes K. , Papi M. A. P. , Banks C. E. , Bergamini M. F. , Marcolino‐Junior L. H.
Published: April 2020

In this study, electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) was used for the preparation of a screen‐printed modified electrode and applied for the voltammetric determination of fenamiphos (FNP) in tomato samples. Graphene oxide (GO) used for sensor construction was prepared according to an improved Hummers method and characterized by XRD, TEM, and FTIR, which confirmed the nanomaterial obtention. The ERGO formation was carried out from the electrodeposition by cyclic voltammetry, at 50 mV s−1 in the potential range of 0.0 to −1.5 V, during 50 cycles. ERGO‐SPE was used in the evaluation of the voltammetric behavior of FNP. The ERGO‐SPE proposed presented excellent electrochemical performance towards FNP oxidation, promoting an enhance on the anodic peak current and a decrease of peak potential. Under optimized conditions, it was possible to construct an analytical curve, using square wave voltammetry, with a linear region of 0.25 to 25.0 μM, with calculated limits of detection and quantification of 0.067 and 0.22 μM. From this, it was possible to analyze FNP in fortified tomato samples at three concentration levels, which showed recoveries values varying between 82 and 102 %. The ERGO‐SPE device proved useful in determining FNP, where the effect of the electrodeposition of the GO promoted a significant increase in the employability of the printed electrode.
Electrochemical Characteristics of a Novel Pyridinium Salt as a Candidate Drug Molecule and Its Interaction with DNA
Authors: Topkaya Seda Nur , Karasakal Ayça , Cetin Arif E. , Parlar Sülünay , Alptüzün Vildan
Published: April 2020

In this article, for the first time, the electrochemical properties of a novel pyridine derivative, 4‐(2‐(2‐hydroxybenzylidene) hydrazinyl)‐1‐(3‐phenylpropyl) pyridinium bromide (abbreviated as 4‐Pyri), and its interaction with double stranded DNA (dsDNA) was investigated. The interaction between candidate drug molecule (4‐Pyri) and dsDNA was analyzed by examining 4‐Pyri (+0.6 V and +0.8 V) and guanine (+1.0 V) oxidation signal changes with Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV) and Cyclic Voltammetry (CV). Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was used to show the resistance changes before and after the interaction between 4‐Pyri and dsDNA. We showed that after the interaction with 4‐Pyri, the oxidation currents of guanine decreased dramatically, whereas the intrinsic oxidation currents of 4‐Pyri dramatically increased. 4‐Pyri oxidation current differences before and after the interaction with dsDNA enabled us to determine such interaction separately from guanine oxidation signals. In addition, resistance differences were observed at before and after the interaction with each other that confirmed the possible interaction. In addition, toxicity effect (S%) value, which is an important parameter for electrochemical studies indicated 4‐Pyri's toxicity to dsDNA. Our results demonstrated that 4‐Pyri interacts with dsDNA, and could be used as a potential candidate drug molecule due to its remarkable impact on dsDNA.
Explicit stencil computation schemes generated by Poisson's formula for the 2D wave equation
Authors: Khutoryansky Naum M.
Published: April 2020

A new approach to building explicit time‐marching stencil computation schemes for the transient two‐dimensional acoustic wave equation is implemented. It is based on using Poisson's formula and its three time level modification combined with polynomial stencil interpolation of the solution at each time‐step and exact integration. The time‐stepping algorithm consists of two explicit stencil computation procedures: a first time‐step procedure incorporating the initial conditions and a two‐step scheme for the second and next time‐steps. Three particular explicit stencil schemes (with 5, 9, and 13 space points) are constructed using this approach. Their stability regions are presented. All of the obtained first time‐step computation expressions are different from those used in conventional finite‐difference methods. Accuracy advantages of the new schemes in comparison with conventional finite‐difference schemes are demonstrated by simulation using an exact benchmark solution.
The role of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex in automatic formation of impression and reflected impression
Authors: Ito Ayahito , Yoshida Kazuki , Takeda Kenta , Sawamura Daisuke , Murakami Yui , Hasegawa Ai , Sakai Shinya , Izuma Keise
Published: April 2020

Previous neuroimaging studies demonstrated that ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) activity reflects how much an individual positively views each person (impression). Here, we investigated whether the degree to which individuals think others positively view them (reflected impression) is similarly tracked by activity in the vmPFC by using fMRI and speed‐dating events. We also examined whether activity of the vmPFC in response to the faces of others would predict the impression formed through direct interactions with them. The task consisted of three sessions: pre‐speed‐dating fMRI, speed‐dating events, and post‐speed‐dating fMRI (not reported here). During the pre‐speed‐dating fMRI, each participant passively viewed the faces of others whom they would meet in the subsequent speed‐dating events. After the fMRI, they rated the impression and reflected impression of each face. During the speed‐dating events, the participants had 3‐min conversations with partners whose faces were presented during the fMRI task, and they were asked to choose the partners whom they preferred at the end of the events. The results revealed that the value of both the impression and reflected impression were automatically represented in the vmPFC. However, the impression fully mediated the link between the reflected impression and vmPFC activity. These results highlight a close link between reflected appraisal and impression formation and provide important insights into neural and psychological models of how the reflected impression is formed in the human brain.
Stagnation point flow of Maxwell nanofluid containing gyrotactic micro‐organism impinging obliquely on a convective surface
Authors: Abbasi Aamar , Farooq Waseh , Riaz Iqra
Published: April 2020

A numerical study is performed to discuss the nonaligned stagnation of a rate type fluid over a convective surface. The rheology of the fluid is presented by the constitutive equation of the Maxwell fluid model. Buongiorno's model is used to elaborate on the effects of Brownian motion and thermophoresis and motile microorganisms are introduced for the stability of the nanoparticles. The governing equations were solved by the implicit finite difference method. Graphical illustrations for velocity, temperature, nanoparticle concentration and motile microorganism profiles for various involved parameters are presented for both convective and nonconvective surfaces. It is depicted that the temperature, nanoparticle, and microorganism concentration profiles decease while both axial and tangential velocities increase with the velocity ratio parameter for both Newtonian and Maxwellian fluids. The magnitude of temperature, nanoparticle, and microorganism concentration profiles is large for the nonconvective surface as compared to the convective surface. The Nusselt number, Sherwood number, and motile organism number decrease as we move from Newtonian fluid to non‐Newtonian fluid. Furthermore, the increase in the Brownian motion parameter and thermophoresis parameter decreases the density of the motile organism over the convective as well as nonconvective surface.
Towards smart transportation: A learning‐based data‐driven optimization approach for electric taxi dispatch problem
Authors: Li Xiaoming , Zhao Liang
Published: April 2020

Electric taxi dispatch problem (ETDP) is one of the key issues in smart transportation. Existing study in the context of centralized optimization adopts either deterministic optimization, regular stochastic programming (SP) or simulation technique. Nevertheless, in data‐driven environment, the real passenger demands normally follow complicating probability distribution which cannot be described exactly by the parametric approaches. Hence, we propose a novel data‐driven optimization framework that integrates robust kernel density estimation (RKDE) and the two‐stage SP modeling technique. In particular, the probability distributions of customer demands are derived from historical data by RKDE, and the ETDP is formulated as a two‐stage SP model with the input parameters from RKDE. Meanwhile, a Monte Carlo method called sample average approximation is introduced to reformulate and solve the SP model. Finally, the experimental results show that the proposed approach outperforms the deterministic counterpart with the average demands as the input.
The incidence and carrier frequency of Tay‐Sachs disease in the French‐Canadian population of Quebec based on retrospective data from 24 years, 1992–2015
Authors: Sillon Guillaume , Allard Pierre , Drury Stella , Rivière Jean‐Baptiste , De Bie Isabelle
Published: April 2020

Tay‐Sachs disease (TSD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative condition inherited through an autosomal recessive pattern. The incidence and carrier frequency of infantile TSD were found to be increased among French Canadians in specific areas of the province of Quebec or calculated from New England populations with French‐Canadian heritage. No accurate infantile TSD carrier frequency for the whole French‐Canadian population in Quebec has been published. In this study, we estimate the incidence and carrier frequency of infantile TSD in the Quebec French‐Canadian population. The number of TSD cases was ascertained during the 1992–2015 period, as well as the number of births to mothers whose language of use is French. Seven cases of TSD have been diagnosed in Quebec during the period of ascertainment. This corresponds to an incidence of 1/218,144, which in turn corresponds to a carrier frequency of 1/234. In the same 24‐year period, there are two French‐Canadian couples who had a fetus prenatally diagnosed with TSD. If these cases are included, the incidence of TSD in the French‐Canadian population of Quebec is 1/169,668 and the carrier frequency 1/206. These findings can be used for genetic counseling and policy decisions regarding carrier screening for TSD in populations of French‐Canadian descent.
A novel flow cytometry-based assay to measure compromised B cell receptor signaling as a prognostic factor in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Heitmann Jonas S , Märklin Melanie , Truckenmüller Felicia M , Hinterleitner Clemens , Dörfel Daniela , Haap Michael , Kopp Hans-Georg , Wirths Stefan , Müller Martin R
Published: April 2020

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults. In the past years, new therapeutic approaches (e.g., ibrutinib or venetoclax) have been established and greatly improved treatment of CLL. However, complete control or cure of the disease have not been reached so far. Thus, reliable prognostic markers are an imperative for treatment decisions. Recent studies have revealed an essential role for B cell receptor (BCR) signaling in the pathogenesis, prognosis, and therapy of CLL. A heterogeneous response to receptor stimulation with anti-IgM treatment culminating in different calcium flux capabilities has been demonstrated by several authors. However, the methods employed have not reached clinical application. Here, we report on a flow cytometry-based assay to evaluate calcium flux capabilities in CLL and demonstrate that compromised BCR signaling with diminished calcium flux is associated with a significantly better clinical outcome and progression free survival. In summary, our data strongly support the role of compromised BCR signaling as an important prognostic marker in CLL and establish a novel diagnostic tool for its assessment in clinical settings.