bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survey of patients with cystic fibrosis and caregivers decisions regarding CFTR modulators
Authors: George Ashish , Smith Beth , Sawicki Gregory S. , Goetz Danielle M.
Published: June 2020

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators are a novel approach to CF management that has become more readily available chronic CF therapies for certain populations of patients with CF. A cross‐sectional survey of adults with CF and caregivers of pediatric patients with CF was done in two CF Centers to better understand the decision‐making process including the potential influence of social media, CF care‐teams, and family members on their decision whether to begin a CFTR modulator. For the 90 participants, the most common influences in the decision to start modulator therapy were the CF providers/care teams (n = 63), parents (n = 49), and individuals with CF (n = 27). The most impactful influence in the decision‐making process were providers/care team (n = 47) and parents (n = 18). Social media was an influence for only 12 respondents, with an overall positive impact. Information from the CF Foundation was an influence for 12 participants and the main influence for six participants. The most common reasons for stopping lumacaftor‐ivacaftor were having tezacaftor‐ivacaftor as an option (n = 25) and side‐effects (n = 15). Family and CF clinicians were the two main influences on the decision to initiate modulator therapy. CF clinicians were seen to be the most influential source. Social media had less influence on the decision‐making process than expected despite the wide presence of the CF community online.
The remaining barriers to normalcy in CF: Advances in assessment of CF lung disease
Authors: Muston Heather N. , Perrem Lucy , Davis Michael D. , Ratjen Felix , Ren Clement L.
Published: June 2020

Despite early diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF) through newborn screening, a substantial proportion of infants and young children with CF still demonstrate physiologic and structural evidence of lung disease progression, such as obstructive airway disease and bronchiectasis. The growing availability of highly effective CF transmembrane conductance regulatory modulator therapy to the vast majority of people with CF has led to the potential to alter the natural history of CF lung disease, but to assess the full impact of these therapies on CF lung disease and to help guide treatment, sensitive measures of early and mild disease are needed. Chest imaging using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging is one approach, but technologic barriers and/or concern about exposure to ionizing radiation may limit its use. However, advances in physiologic measurement techniques and exhaled breath analysis offer another option for assessment of CF lung disease
Novel imaging techniques for cystic fibrosis lung disease
Authors: Goralski Jennifer L. , Stewart Neil J. , Woods Jason C.
Published: June 2020

With an increasing number of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) receiving highly effective CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator protein) modulator therapy, particularly at a young age, there is an increasing need to identify imaging tools that can detect and regionally visualize mild CF lung disease and subtle changes in disease state. In this review, we discuss the latest developments in imaging modalities for both structural and functional imaging of the lung available to CF clinicians and researchers, from the widely available, clinically utilized imaging methods for assessing CF lung disease—chest radiography and computed tomography—to newer techniques poised to become the next phase of clinical tools—structural/functional proton and hyperpolarized gas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Finally, we provide a brief discussion of several newer lung imaging techniques that are currently available only in selected research settings, including chest tomosynthesis, and fluorinated gas MRI. We provide an update on the clinical and/or research status of each technique, with a focus on sensitivity, early disease detection, and possibilities for monitoring treatment efficacy.
Potential for a biopesticide bait to control black beetle, Heteronychus arator (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)
Authors: Mansfield Sarah , Wilson Michael J , Gerard Philippa J , Wilson Derrick J , Swaminathan Jayanthi , Wright David A , van Koten Chikako , Hurst Mark RH
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Yersinia entomophaga is an entomopathogenic bacterium that is active against scarab beetles, among other insects. In New Zealand, the African black beetle, Heteronychus arator (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), is a major pest of pastures and arable crops but very few control options exist and no insecticides are registered for use in established pastures.

RESULTS

In laboratory bioassays, H. arator adults were susceptible to a bait containing Y. entomophaga at low doses. This bait was more effective against H. arator adults during spring than autumn in small‐scale field plots (320 mm diameter). A large‐scale field trial (40 × 40 m plots) reduced adult numbers substantially: approximately twice as many beetles were captured in pitfall traps from untreated plots compared with plots treated with the Y. entomophaga bait at 70 kg ha−1. This single bait application in spring also reduced subsequent larval populations in summer.

CONCLUSIONS

Heteronychus arator is a difficult pest to manage using chemical insecticides. This biopesticide with Y. entomophaga as the active ingredient offers a new solution for New Zealand pastures, with potential for application to other crops affected by H. arator and for control of other pests. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Field assessment of a newly‐designed pneumatic spout to contain spray drift in vineyards: evaluation of canopy distribution and off‐target losses
Authors: Grella Marco , Miranda‐Fuentes Antonio , Marucco Paolo , Balsari Paolo
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The efficacy and environmental sustainability of pesticide application largely depend on maximizing target coverage, while minimizing off‐target losses. Recently, laboratory‐based measurements were used to develop new cannon‐type spout to increase the droplet size spectra produced by a pneumatic vineyard sprayer. The study described below evaluated the effectiveness of the new device to reduce off‐target losses (both in‐field and off‐field ground losses), and to distribute an adequate canopy spray. Field trials were conducted to measure canopy spray deposition, canopy coverage, and off‐target losses from a multiple‐row pneumatic sprayer equipped with newly‐designed spout under three different positional configurations. The configurations were defined by the variation of liquid release positions from the inner to the outer part of the cannon‐type spout: conventional, alternative, and extreme. Each configuration was tested in a vineyard by applying a solution of water and yellow‐dye tracer.

RESULTS

It was confirmed that the increased droplet size corresponding to the alternative and extreme liquid release positions has no effect on total canopy deposition or coverage. The alternative and extreme configurations produced reduced off‐field losses, up to 75% and 83%, respectively, by increasing the droplet size spectra. These reduced off‐field losses imply increased in‐field losses of 13% and 16%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The newly‐designed pneumatic spout offers the first effective option for environmentally‐friendly pneumatic spray pesticide application with the guarantee of canopy spray deposition and coverage levels similar to those obtained with conventional pneumatic application. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of abamectin‐loaded nanoemulsion and its insecticidal activity and cytotoxicity
Authors: Feng Jianguo , Chen Wang , Liu Qi , Chen Zhiyang , Yang Jinghan , Yang Wenchao
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Owing to the advantages of high‐efficiency, environmental protection and safety, nanoemulsions have become a highly popular water‐insoluble pesticide delivery system in recent years.

RESULTS

In this study, abamectin‐loaded nanoemulsion with remarkable physical stability and application performance was obtained by selecting the type and concentration of surfactant and the emulsification method. The optimal formula was 2% abamectin and 5% castor oil polyoxyethylene (EL‐40) dissolved in 7.5% hydrocarbon solvent (S‐200) made up to 100% with deionized water, which conformed to the quality indicators from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) standards. Droplets on cabbage leaves showed a small dynamic contact angle, which ensured that the resulting nanoemulsion exhibited excellent wettability and diffusivity. Compared with emulsifiable concentrates (EC) and microemulsions (ME), the abamectin‐loaded nanoemulsion had the lowest LC50 (0.0686 mg L−1) to third‐instar larva of Plutella xylostella, causing the larval body to blacken and shrivel, which improved insecticidal activity. In addition, the abamectin‐loaded nanoemulsion had low cytotoxicity. The viability of dendritic cells with added nanoemulsion reached 100% after 2 h, whereas that of cells with EC and ME was lower. After 24 h, the cell viability of dendritic cells with added ME was 0.

CONCLUSION

This research facilitated the design and fabrication of nanoemulsions for water‐insoluble pesticide to enhance insecticidal activity, lower cytotoxicity and reduce environmental pollution. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Making sense of antisense oligonucleotide therapy
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: June 2020

Unlike conventional medicines, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) work by addressing the genetic changes underlying a disease. One ASO, nusinersen, is already on the market for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy, and several more ASO therapies in development hold potential for other neurological and neuromuscular conditions, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Tumor Growth Dynamic Modeling in Oncology Drug Development and Regulatory Approval: Past, Present, and Future Opportunities
Authors: Al‐Huniti Nidal , Feng Yan , Yu Jingyu (Jerry) , Lu Zheng , Nagase Mario , Zhou Diansong , Sheng Jennifer
Published: June 2020

Model‐informed drug development (MIDD) approaches have rapidly advanced in drug development in recent years. Additionally, the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) VI has specific commitments to further enhance MIDD. Tumor growth dynamic (TGD) modeling, as one of the commonly utilized MIDD approaches in oncology, fulfills the purposes to accelerate the drug development, to support new drug and biologics license applications, and to guide the market access. Increasing knowledge of TGD modeling methodologies, encouraging applications in clinical setting for patients’ survival, and complementing assessment of regulatory review for submissions, together fueled promising potentials for imminent enhancement of TGD in oncology. This review is to comprehensively summarize the history of TGD, and present case examples of the recent advance of TGD modeling (mixture model and joint model), as well as the TGD impact on regulatory decisions, thus illustrating challenges and opportunities. Additionally, this review presents the future perspectives for TGD approach.
Maximum Stresses in Rectangular Auxetic Membranes
Authors: Lim Teik-Cheng
Published: June 2020

Auxetic materials exhibit a negative Poisson's ratio. Herein, the performance of rectangular auxetic membranes, under uniform load, is evaluated in terms of the maximum stress encountered. To facilitate convenient calculation, empirical modeling is conducted on the exact solution to reproduce displacement coefficients that are sufficiently accurate. A dimensionless maximum stress is then introduced to allow the effect from the membrane's Poisson's ratio and aspect ratio to be directly observed. Results reveal that 1) the dimensionless maximum stress reduces monotonically and nonmonotonically for conventional and auxetic membranes, respectively, 2) for the same Poisson's ratio magnitude the stresses in auxetic membranes are lower than those from conventional ones, 3) the optimal Poisson's ratio, on the basis of dimensionless maximum stress minimization, falls within the negative range, and 4) the dimensionless maximum stress minimization is especially effective for square membranes as well as very long and narrow membranes. It is therefore recommended that material auxeticity be taken into account—alongside geometrical and other material properties—in designing membranes and highly compliant very thin plates.
Revealing Nanoscale Domains in Cu2ZnSnS4 Thin Films by Catalyzed Chemical Etching
Authors: Xue Chaowei , Huang Jialiang , Sun Kaiwen , Yan Chang , Kampwerth Henner , Hao Xiaojing
Published: June 2020

The presence of ZnS precipitates is common in Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) films due to the preferred Cu‐poor and Zn‐rich composition for high‐efficiency CZTS devices. It is important to identify their distribution in the film as it can serve as a fingerprint for the CZTS forming process. However, limited methods are viable to quantify their distribution as they are small in size and few in number. Herein, a fast and cost‐effective chemical treatment is presented that can reveal the nanoscale ZnS domains within CZTS films to be captured under a common scanning electron microscope (SEM). This method exploits a hole‐injection process driven by gold catalysis and the band alignment between CZTS and ZnS. ZnS precipitates as small as 10 nm in diameter can be revealed clearly. Using this approach, a characteristic lognormal size distribution of the ZnS precipitates close to the CZTS film surface with a median diameter of 80 nm and a density of around 2 in a 1 μm2 surface area is demonstrated. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) mapping and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) imaging further confirm the existence of ZnS precipitates in the film. This method provides a fast means for capturing fingerprints of ZnS precipitations in CZTS process.
Investigating the ameliorative effect of alpha‐mangostin on development and existing pain in a rat model of neuropathic pain
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar Mahboobeh , Razavi Bibi Marjan , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: June 2020

Mangosteen fruit has been used for various disorders, including pain. The effects of alpha‐mangostin, the main component of mangosteen, on the neuropathic pain caused by chronic constriction injury (CCI) were evaluated in rats. In treatment groups, alpha‐mangostin (10, 50, 100 mg/kg/day, i.p.) was administered from Day 0, the day of surgery, for 14 days. The degree of heat hyperalgesia, cold, and mechanical allodynia was assessed on Days 0, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14. The lumbar spinal cord levels of MDA, GSH, inflammatory markers (TLR‐4, TNF‐α, MMP2, COX2, IL‐1β, iNOS, and NO), apoptotic markers (Bcl‐2, Bax, and caspase‐3) were measured by western blot on Days 7 and 14. Rats in the CCI group showed thermal hyperalgesia, cold, and mechanical allodynia on Days 3–14. All concentrations of alpha‐mangostin alleviated CCI‐induced behavioral alterations. MDA level augmented and GSH level decreased in the CCI group and alpha‐mangostin (50, 100 mg/kg) reversed the alterations. An enhancement in the levels of all inflammatory markers, Bax, and caspase‐3 was shown on Days 7 and 14, which was controlled by alpha‐mangostin (50 mg/kg). The detected antinociceptive effects of alpha‐mangostin may be mediated through antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties.
Protective effect of punicalagin, the main polyphenol compound of pomegranate, against acrylamide‐induced neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Foroutanfar Amir , Mehri Soghra , Kamyar Marzyeh , Tandisehpanah Zahra , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: June 2020

Acrylamide (ACR) is widely used in industries. Oxidative stress and apoptosis pathways are important mechanisms behind ACR‐induced hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Regarding to antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties of punicalagin (PUN), the protective effect of this agent on ACR‐induced toxicity in rat was evaluated. Rats were divided into seven groups: control, ACR (50 mg/kg/day, i.p.), PUN (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg/day, i.p.) plus ACR, vitamin E (200 mg/kg, i.p.) plus ACR, and PUN groups. After 11 days, the gait score test was evaluated. Then, the animals were sacrificed and the malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) contents were determined in the brain and liver tissues. Apoptosis‐involved factors and myelin basic protein (MBP) were determined by western blotting. Severe movement disorder, MDA enhancement, and GSH reduction in the brain and liver tissues were observed in ACR‐treated animals. The Bax/Bcl2 ratio and caspase‐3 levels were enhanced in the tested tissues. ACR elevated the level of aspartate aminotransferases and decreased serum protein and albumin concentration. PUN recovered movement disorders, changed the level of markers which are important in oxidative stress and reduced apoptosis. Also, PUN increased the MBP level which was reduced due to ACR toxicity. PUN can protect against ACR‐induced toxicity through antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties.
The devil in the details: A tutorial review on some undervalued aspects of density functional theory calculations
Authors: Morgante Pierpaolo , Peverati Roberto
Published: June 2020

Density functional theory (DFT) has become ubiquitous for chemical applications in research and in education. The exact functional at the foundation of DFT is unfortunately unknown, and issues arise when choosing an approximation for a specific application. With this tutorial review, we tackle the selection problem and many related ones, such as the choices of a basis set and of an integration grid, that are often overlooked by occasional practitioners and by more experienced users as well. We offer a practical approach in the form of a commented notebook containing 12 experiences that can be run on a simple computer in just a few hours. We propose this review as a primary source for those who are willing to include DFT in their everyday research or teaching activities in a way that reflects the research advances of the field in the last couple of decades.
Particle formation and surface processes on atmospheric aerosols: A review of applied quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Leonardi Angelina , Ricker Heather M. , Gale Ariel G. , Ball Benjamin T. , Odbadrakh Tuguldur T. , Shields George C. , Navea Juan G.
Published: June 2020

Aerosols significantly influence atmospheric processes such as cloud nucleation, heterogeneous chemistry, and heavy‐metal transport in the troposphere. The chemical and physical complexity of atmospheric aerosols results in large uncertainties in their climate and health effects. In this article, we review recent advances in scientific understanding of aerosol processes achieved by the application of quantum chemical calculations. In particular, we emphasize recent work in two areas: new particle formation and heterogeneous processes. Details in quantum chemical methods are provided, elaborating on computational models for prenucleation, secondary organic aerosol formation, and aerosol interface phenomena. Modeling of relative humidity effects, aerosol surfaces, and chemical kinetics of reaction pathways is discussed. Because of their relevance, quantum chemical calculations and field and laboratory experiments are compared. In addition to describing the atmospheric relevance of the computational models, this article also presents future challenges in quantum chemical calculations applied to aerosols.
An improved matrix‐based endovascular guidewire position simulation using fusiform ternary tree
Authors: Qiu Jianpeng , Lyu Tianling , Chen Yang , Zhou Shoujun , Xing Liudong
Published: June 2020

In this paper, a new matrix‐based method is proposed to real‐time determine, the guidewire position inside an arterial system. The guidewire path is obtained by the optimal path method, particularly, the fusiform ternary tree method according to the principle of minimum output value of root node. An adaptive sampling strategy, and an optimization strategy based on the proximal end and distal end of the guidewire are proposed to change the guidewire position for obtaining an ideal guidewire path. Compared to the existing methods, the proposed method can achieve 74%, 64%, and 70% improvements in accuracy for phantoms 1, 2, and 3, respectively, investigated in this work.
Genetic disorders and male infertility
Authors: Kuroda Shinnosuke , Usui Kimitsugu , Sanjo Hiroyuki , Takeshima Teppei , Kawahara Takashi , Uemura Hiroji , Yumura Yasushi
Published: June 2020

Background

At present, one out of six couples is infertile, and in 50% of cases, infertility is attributed to male infertility factors. Genetic abnormalities are found in 10%‐20% of patients showing severe spermatogenesis disorders, including non‐obstructive azoospermia.

Methods

Literatures covering the relationship between male infertility and genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities were studied and summarized.

Main findings (Results)

Genetic disorders, including Klinefelter syndrome, balanced reciprocal translocation, Robertsonian translocation, structural abnormalities in Y chromosome, XX male, azoospermic factor (AZF) deletions, and congenital bilateral absence of vas deferens were summarized and discussed from a practical point of view. Among them, understanding on AZF deletions significantly changed owing to advanced elucidation of their pathogenesis. Due to its technical progress, AZF deletion test can reveal their delicate variations and predict the condition of spermatogenesis. Thirty‐nine candidate genes possibly responsible for azoospermia have been identified in the last 10 years owing to the advances in genome sequencing technologies.

Conclusion

Genetic testing for chromosomes and AZF deletions should be examined in cases of severe oligozoospermia and azoospermia. Genetic counseling should be offered before and after genetic testing.
Effects of upstream and downstream slopes and clay content on levee's breaching by overtopping
Authors: Salehi Saeed , Azimi Amir H.
Published: June 2020

The present study investigated the effects of clay content and levee's slopes on the breach formation process for levees constructed by both cohesive and non‐cohesive soils. Twelve experiments were carried out and the breach formation of levees was observed by measuring the breach discharge variations and scour topography with time. The initiation of surface erosion was analysed by comparing the estimated bed shear stress and the critical soil shear stress, and the rate of erosion during breaching was estimated by employing the erosion index. The erosion of levees due to overtopping was classified into three regimes of uniform surface erosion, erosion from the toe, and single scour formation. It was found that the upstream levee's slope had negligible effects on the breach process, whereas the downstream slope significantly increased the erosion index. The peak breach discharge increased with increasing downstream slope and it occurred earlier. Experimental results also showed that the peak breach discharge was higher in non‐cohesive levees than the cohesive embankments and it occurred much earlier. Based on dimensional analysis, empirical equations were proposed to predict the breach discharge and the topography of erosion during the breach.
Analysing the potential to restore the multi‐functionality of floodplain systems by considering ecosystem service quality, quantity and trade‐offs
Authors: Funk Andrea , Tschikof Martin , Grüner Barbara , Böck Kerstin , Hein Thomas , Bondar‐Kunze Elisabeth
Published: June 2020

River floodplains are hotspots of productivity and biodiversity and recognized to fulfil vital ecosystem functions and services. Restoration measures of the decoupled Danube floodplains east of Vienna aim to re‐establish multi‐functionality, that is, ensure navigation, preserve and restore unique fluvial and riparian habitats and re‐establish natural processes and service provisioning. Side‐channels are proposed for reconnection combined with the removal of embankments and groins. We evaluated how a programme of measures influences the diversity and quantity of specific ecosystem services (ES) and therefore, the overall multi‐functionality of the floodplain compared to the current situation. Therefore, regulating ecosystem services (RES), such as nutrient retention and habitat provisioning, were modelled and predicted using multivariate regression models. Also, the potential of cultural ecosystem services (CES) was assessed based on mapping of recreational activities. The impact of proposed measures on ES quantity, that is, quantitative spatial representation, and quality, that is, biodiversity and nature experience, as well as potential synergies and trade‐offs were analysed. Our results show clear synergies especially for RES (habitat for the rheotopic community and nutrient retention) and the CES of nature experience. Those services have a weak and local trade‐off with the quantitative availability of opportunities for recreation. This pattern could only be detected by considering both, quantitative as well as qualitative aspects of ES. Overall, our results show that the restoration measures have a high potential to increase the multi‐functionality of the floodplain system by supporting the provisioning of RES including habitat for endangered species and selected CES.
Implementation of a geographical routing scheme for low Earth orbiting satellite constellations using intersatellite links
Authors: Roth Manuel , Brandt Hartmut , Bischl Hermann
Published: June 2020

A major problem for low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations with intersatellite links is the efficient routing of the data packets through such a highly dynamic network. In order to achieve a worldwide coverage even in remote areas and Internet access with a limited amount of gateway stations, intersatellite links are a promising approach. Since LEO constellations represent a distinct, highly dynamic routing environment, specific strategies are needed. To this end, a suitable geographical routing scheme is proposed and investigated in two Walker Star constellations. The proposed scheme targets reliable transmissions with low latency and high data rates. The approach is based on a geographical address identifier in Layer 2 of the communication stack. The globe is thus divided into geographical areas that determine this identifier in the MAC address of the terminals. As mobile terminals are considered, the MAC addressing scheme is flexible, whereas the IP addresses of the terminals remain static. This decoupling allows for flexibility in the choice of the address resolution scheme. Moreover, the geographical identifier in the MAC address enables fast routing table lookups and switching. The proposed routing scheme also takes possible overloads of the satellites due to traffic into account and applies a rerouting procedure. When a packet arrives in the geographical area of the destination terminal, a local rerouting scheme is applied if needed. The proposed approaches take handover events that possibly occur during a transmission into account. Furthermore, the scan angles of the satellites have been adapted to the constellations to provide full coverage and high elevation angles. So a robust and adaptable routing scheme is provided for a dynamic environment where satellites and terminals are constantly moving. The proposed definitions and procedures have been implemented in a system level simulator, which allows for comparisons with adjustable parameters in various scenarios. In this work, an Iridium‐like constellation and a megaconstellation are investigated and compared regarding the address resolution procedures, the average end‐to‐end transmission delay, and the dropping and rerouting rates. Additionally, the signaling overhead is compared with other approaches. The simulator and results of the simulations provide grounds for further research w.r.t. the routing in satellite constellations using intersatellite links.
An interfacial chemistry study of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate and tantalum for heat exchanger applications
Authors: Bevas Clayton J. , Abel Marie‐Laure , Jacobs Ivo , Watts John F.
Published: June 2020

The interactions between oxidised tantalum and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) have been investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS). Thin (approximately 2 nm) and thick layers of polymeric MDI were deposited on tantalum; one set was cured at 200°C, the other dried at ambient temperature (20°C). The thick layers serve as a characteristic pMDI layer, and thin layers contain information relating to the nature of interfacial bonding. By careful fitting of the N1s region contributions relating to interfacial bonding have been established. All spectra show an Nδ+ contribution indicative of acid–base bonding; in the case of the thick films, this is of an intermolecular nature whereas in the thin films, the more intense contribution is a result of such forces between pMDI and substrate. This is confirmed by ToF‐SIMS. A lower binding energy component at ca 396 eV on the air‐dried thin layer of pMDI is the result of a formal reaction between pMDI and tantalum yielding a nitride‐like species in the N1s spectrum.
Preparation and Characterization of Dendrimer‐Modified Magnetite Nanoparticles for Adsorption of Humic Acid from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Beiki Somayeh , Moniri Elham , Hassani Amir Hessam , Ahmad Panahi Homayon
Published: June 2020

In the present study, innovative Dendrimer‐Modified Magnetite Nanoparticle (DMMN) with core‐shell structures were synthesized as an adsorbent to remove humic acid (HA) from aqueous solution. Using the co‐precipitation technique, super paramagnetic iron nanoparticles were synthesized, and the surface of nanoparticles was functionalized with 3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS). Then, 10‐generation dendrons were synthesized on the surface of functionalized nanoparticles by polymer grafting method. The sample was characterized by Fourier Transform Infra‐Red (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray (EDX), and Barrett‐Joyner‐Halenda (BJH) as well as Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) analyses, which the surface area of specific DMMN was achieved as 81.37 m2 g−1. Based on the obtained analysis results (SEM, XRD), 90 % of synthesized average nanoparticles diameter is less than 4 nm. Batch experiments were performed under varying operational conditions, namely pH, contact time, initial concentration HA, and adsorbent weight. The optimum adsorbent weight was found to be 0.25 gL−1, while the adsorption process was found to be optimal in the broad pH range of 3–9. The pseudo‐second‐order equation excellently defined the adsorption kinetics when the Langmuir model (R2=0.9967) better fit the adsorption isotherms. The adsorption capacity of DMMN was 103.8 mg HAg−1, that led to 99 % HA adsorption. Moreover, the calculated thermodynamic parameters, including standard enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy, show the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption procedure.
Preparation and Characterization of Paraffin@CLPS/MS Phase Change Microcapsules for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Zhao Manxiang , Li Mingkun , Wang Lu , Zhang Xu , Kong Xiangfei
Published: June 2020

In this study, a series of encapsulated micro phase change material (EMPCM) based on industrial paraffin and inorganic‐organic hybrid shell was reported. The microcapsules (28#P@CLPS/MS) were synthesized with 28#paraffin (28#P) as phase change material (PCM), crosslinked polystyrene (CLPS) as flexible organic shell and modified nano SiO2(MS) as rigid inorganic shell, via a Pickering emulsion polymerization method. MS reduces the interfacial tension of water and plays a good emulsification effect. Secondly, after polymerization, the mechanical stability of the microcapsule shell can be enhanced, and the thermal reliability of the phase change microcapsules can be improved. The morphology, thermal energy storage capacity, and structure of microcapsules were characterized and analyzed. Besides, the grafting ratio of nano SiO2on the heat storage properties of microcapsules was investigated. When the graft ratio of nano‐SiO2was 4.2 %, the prepared microcapsules with highst paraffin content (54.37 %) and encapsulation efficiency (95.15 %). The synthesized microcapsules with regular spherical shape and size range of 1–5 μm, latent heat capacity (Tm28.20 °C, 86.35 J/g) and good thermal stability. Besides, the chemical composition of the microcapsules did not change after 500 cycles, and the latent heat did not decrease. Our research shows that Pickering emulsion polymerization is a convenient, economical and green method for the preparation of highly stable energy storage microcapsules.
Palindromic Peptide LfcinB (21‐25)Pal Exhibited Antifungal Activity against Multidrug‐Resistant Candida
Authors: Vargas‐Casanova Yerly , Carlos Villamil Poveda Jean , Jenny Rivera‐Monroy Zuly , Ceballos Garzón Andrés , Fierro‐Medina Ricardo , Le Pape Patrice , Eduardo García‐Castañeda Javier , Marcela Parra Giraldo Claudia
Published: June 2020

Palindromic peptide LfcinB (21–25)Pal: RWQWRWQWR was synthesized by Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS‐Fmoc/tBu), purified by Reverse Phase Solid Phase Extraction (RP‐SPE) and characterized by Reverse Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP‐HPLC) and Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization‐Time Of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS). The antifungal activity of LfcinB (21–25)Pal against both ATCC strains and clinical isolates of C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. auris and C. tropicalis was evaluated. The palindromic peptide exhibited fungistatic and fungicidal activity against all yeast evaluated. The antifungal activity was dependent on peptide concentration in all cases. Additionally, LfcinB (21–25)Pal (25–50 μg/mL) combined with fluconazole exhibited a synergistic antifungal effect against C. tropicalis 883 and C. krusei 6258 (resistant to fluconazole). This study showed that the palindromic peptide derived from Lactoferricin B (LfcinB) exhibited significant antifungal activity against Candida spp, suggesting that this peptide could have a therapeutic application solely or in combination with fluconazole.
Bromine‐Terminated β‐Alkyl‐Substituted Tripyrrin: Reactivity, Coordination Ability, and Role as Extendable Acyclic Oligo‐Pyrrole Ligand
Authors: Imafuku Masato , Oki Setsuna , Suzuki Masaaki
Published: June 2020

Bromine‐terminated tripyrrin, a partial porphyrin structure, is synthesized by saponification of tripyrrane dimethyl ester and subsequent treatment with an aqueous bromine solution. In this reaction, bromine serves as a decarboxylating, oxidizing, and brominating agent. The resulting ligand can be coordinated with a metal ion such as Re+, which is not easily encapsulated in porphyrin cores. Nucleophilic substitution reactions at the brominated positions were also investigated, particularly the substitution with diethylamino and/or ethoxy groups. Structural elucidation was carried out by X‐ray crystallography, which revealed the flatter frameworks of the free bases and distorted geometries of the metal complexes. Such chemical modifications dramatically influence the photophysical properties, such as UV‐visible absorption, and are promising for bio‐related applications such as SPECT imaging probes.
Selective Cross‐Metathesis of Highly Chelating Substrates in Aqueous Media
Authors: Timmer Brian J. J. , Kravchenko Oleksandr , Ramström Olof
Published: June 2020

The role of non‐productive chelation in olefin metathesis has been investigated for a variety of highly functionalized substrates in aqueous environment. Using a morpholine‐substituted catalyst, the reactivity of oligoethylene glycols and oligopeptides was evaluated, either in self‐metathesis protocols, or in cross‐metathesis processes with allyl alcohol. The limited reactivity of the substrates in self‐metathesis reactions could be utilized to achieve selectivity in cross‐metathesis with more reactive alkenes. With 2.5 mol % catalyst loading, up to 62% conversion to cross‐metathesis products could be observed for the model systems within 5 h. Overall, this study opens up new potential avenues for olefin metathesis in the field of chemical biology where chelating substrates are omnipresent.
Machine learning for pattern discovery in management research
Authors: Choudhury Prithwiraj , Allen Ryan T. , Endres Michael G.
Published: June 2020

Research Summary

Supervised machine learning (ML) methods are a powerful toolkit for discovering robust patterns in quantitative data. The patterns identified by ML could be used for exploratory inductive or abductive research, or for post hoc analysis of regression results to detect patterns that may have gone unnoticed. However, ML models should not be treated as the result of a deductive causal test. To demonstrate the application of ML for pattern discovery, we implement ML algorithms to study employee turnover at a large technology company. We interpret the relationships between variables using partial dependence plots, which uncover surprising nonlinear and interdependent patterns between variables that may have gone unnoticed using traditional methods. To guide readers evaluating ML for pattern discovery, we provide guidance for evaluating model performance, highlight human decisions in the process, and warn of common misinterpretation pitfalls. The Supporting Information section provides code and data to implement the algorithms demonstrated in this article.

Managerial Summary

Supervised machine learning (ML) methods are a powerful toolkit that might help managers and researchers discover interesting patterns in large and complex data. We demonstrate this by using several ML algorithms to investigate the drivers of employee turnover at a large technology company. We evaluate the performance of the models, and use visual tools to interpret the patterns revealed. These patterns can be useful in understanding turnover, but we caution not to confuse correlation with causation. These methods should be viewed as “exploratory” and not conclusive proof of relationships in the data. Our guidance can be helpful for managers evaluating analysis conducted by data scientists in their organizations.
Distributed Deep Reinforcement Learning Method Using Profit Sharing for Learning Acceleration
Authors: Kodama Naoki , Harada Taku , Miyazaki Kazuteru
Published: June 2020

Profit Sharing (PS), a reinforcement learning method that strongly reinforces successful experiences, has been shown to contribute to the improvement of learning speed when combined with a deep Q‐network (DQN). We expect a further improvement in learning speed by integrating PS‐based learning and Ape‐X DQN that has state‐of‐the‐art learning speed instead of the DQN. However, PS‐based learning does not use replay memory. In contrast, the Ape‐X DQN requires the use of replay memory because the exploration of the environment for collecting experiences and network training are performed asynchronously. In this study, we propose Learning‐accelerated Ape‐X, which integrates the Ape‐X DQN and PS‐based learning with some improvements including the use of replay memory. We show through numerical experiments that the proposed method improves the scores in Atari 2600 video games in a shorter time than the Ape‐X DQN. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Preparing the Academy for the Evolution of Healthcare Education
Authors: Groccia James E. , Ford Channing R.
Published: June 2020

This chapter takes a brief look at this history of health professions education focusing on human medicine, pharmacy, and nursing. This is followed by a description of a model of university teaching and learning to provide a framework for understanding and enhancing healthcare education. Finally, challenges facing today's system for educating health providers are detailed and the chapter concludes by listing suggestions for meeting these challenges.
Facilitating Professional Identity Development in Healthcare Education
Authors: Wilkins Emily B.
Published: June 2020

The teaching of professionalism is an established best practice in healthcare education. This chapter highlights a more recent focus among educators in health professions to impart not only standards of professionalism, but also to foster professional identity development as a key aspect of a student's transition to a practitioner.
Holistic Support for Innovative Educators in the Health Professions
Authors: Haggar Faye , Young William , Love Linda
Published: June 2020

The long‐term success for educational innovation in the health professions is not just the responsibility of the educator. It requires a synergy and collaboration among multiple factors that contribute to the process. This chapter examines these factors through a framework for holistic support of innovative educators.
Design Thinking in Pharmacy Education: The Future of Classroom Preparation
Authors: Slater Nicole A. , Dhanasekaran Muralikrishnan , Govindarajulu Manoj
Published: June 2020

Design thinking is on the rise as a novel method for creative problem solving in healthcare professional programs. This article will focus on implementation of the concepts of design thinking in the classroom, its utility in pharmacy education, and the advantages it provides from both the faculty and students’ perspectives within the practice‐ready pharmacy curriculum.
Addressing Biases in Health Care by Promoting Inclusive Teaching Practices Among Faculty in Health Professions Education Programs: “Learning to Say the Right Words at the Right Time”
Authors: Gillian‐Daniel Donald L. , Petty Elizabeth M. , Schmid Megan E. , Stahr Anne , Raymond Nancy C.
Published: June 2020

This chapter offers an evidence‐based approach for training faculty educators in the health professions that includes raising awareness of inequities, facilitating self‐reflection about identity, and building skills through applied improvisational techniques to act when bias or microaggressions occur.
Challenges and Successes of Interprofessional Health Education
Authors: Mitchell Anne Bradley , Ankam Nethra , Umland Elena , Earland Tracey Vause , Dallas Sarah , Ukanna Aniekan
Published: June 2020

This chapter explores the development of the Jefferson Health Mentors Program over the past decade and the challenges and solutions to continue to provide a relevant interprofessional curriculum.
COSMC mutations reduce T‐synthase activity in advanced Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Gollamudi Seema , Lekhraj Rukmani , Lalezari Shirin , Lalezari Parviz
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Mutations in brain tissues that cumulate with age may contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Abnormal glycoprotein and Tn antigen expression have been demonstrated in AD. We identified C1GALT1C1/COSMC mutations in AD and age‐matched normals without AD. The COSMC coding mutations resulted in a significant reduction in T‐synthase activity in advanced AD cases.

Methods

Identification of COSMC mutations, Real‐Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR (Q‐RT‐PCR), western blotting, and T‐synthase activity assays.

Results

COSMC mutations were detected in the promotor, coding region and 3′UTR in AD and normals. COSMC coding mutations demonstrated a correlation with AD progression. T‐synthase levels were significantly elevated in advanced AD compared to AD III (P = 0.03) and normals (P = 0.002). T‐synthase activity in advanced AD {Braak and Braak (B&B) stages V and VI} with COSMC coding mutations was 3‐fold lower than advanced AD without mutations, and 1.3‐fold lower than normal (P = 0.001) and AD B&B stage III (P = 0.01) with coding mutations.

Discussion

COSMC coding mutations significantly diminished T‐synthase activity in advanced AD, potentially causing defective galactosylation.
Differences in association of leisure time activities and cognition in a racially/ethnically diverse cohort of older adults: Findings from the KHANDLE study
Authors: Peterson Rachel L. , Gilsanz Paola , George Kristen M. , Ackley Sarah , Glymour M. Maria , Mungas Dan M. , Whitmer Rachel A.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Leisure time activity is associated with better cognitive function but has not been well studied in racially/ethnically diverse cohorts, who may have different access to activities.

Methods

Frequency of participation in 10 leisure time activities (eg, reading, attending cultural events) and cognition (executive function, semantic memory, and verbal episodic memory) were assessed at Wave 1 in the Kaiser Healthy Aging and Diverse Life Experiences (KHANDLE) study, a prospective cohort initiated in 2017. Linear regression models adjusted for sociodemographics and depression estimated cross‐sectional associations between leisure time activity variety and frequency and cognitive domains overall and by race/ethnicity. Logistic regression models estimated odds of cognitive impairment among those in the lowest quartiles of activity variety and frequency. All models controlled for age, sex, education, income, retirement status, and depression.

Results

Higher leisure time activity variety was significantly associated with better cognition for all, except for verbal episodic memory among Asians (β = 0.05, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.004, 0.11) and semantic memory among Latinos (β = 0.04, 95% CI: −0.01, 0.08). Low activity variety was associated with nearly three‐fold increased odds of cognitive impairment (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.87, 95% CI: 1.77, 4.64). Activity frequency was associated with higher executive function only among whites (β = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.18). Patterns by race/ethnicity were not explained by education.

Discussion

Engaging in a wider variety of leisure time activities may be more important than frequently participating in fewer activities for cognitive aging in racially/ethnically diverse cohorts.
Fatty acid benzyl esters asbio‐basedplasticizers insilica‐filled solution‐polymerized styrene‐butadienerubber/butadiene rubber composites
Authors: Huang Ruoming , Long Yanni , Feng Kunhao , Pan Qiwei , Chen Zhaohui
Published: June 2020

Bio‐oil based plasticizers have gained great attention in rubber industry as alternatives of petro‐based plasticizers with high content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. In this work, five fatty acid benzyl esters were synthesized by the esterification of fatty acids (lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid, which are obtained after hydrolysis of some vegetable oils) with benzyl alcohol. They were further applied as plasticizers in silica‐filled solution‐polymerized styrene‐butadiene rubber/butadiene rubber (SSBR/BR) composites in order to study the structure‐property relationship, compared with treated distillate aromatic extract (TDAE) as standard. The composites were studied for their processability, curing, static, and dynamic mechanical properties by developing through compatibility between bio‐plasticizers and polymer matrix. The results show that benzyl laurate with suitable hydrocarbon chain length and benzyl oleate with a carbon‐carbon double bond have comparatively improved performance compared to TDAE in the silica‐filled SSBR/BR composites.
The roles of hnRNP A2/B1 in RNA biology and disease
Authors: Liu Yu , Shi Song‐Lin
Published: June 2020

The RNA‐binding protein hnRNPA2/B1 is a member of the hnRNPs family and is widely expressed in various tissues. hnRNPA2/B1 recognizes and binds specific RNA substrates and DNA motifs and is involved in the transcription, splicing processing, transport, stability, and translation regulation of a variety of RNA molecules and in regulating the expression of a large number of genes. hnRNPA2/B1 is also involved in telomere maintenance and DNA repair, while its expression changes and mutations are involved in the development of various tumors and neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. This paper reviews the role and mechanism of hnRNPA2/B1 in RNA metabolism, tumors, and neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease