bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myeloproliferative and lymphoproliferative disorders: State of the art
Authors: Rumi Elisa , Baratè Claudia , Benevolo Giulia , Maffioli Margherita , Ricco Alessandra , Sant'Antonio Emanuela
Published: December 2019

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), including polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), are clonal disorders complicated mainly by vascular events and transformation to myelofibrosis (for PV and ET) or leukemia. Although secondary malignancies, in particular, lymphoproliferative disorders (LPNs), are rare, they occur at a higher frequency than found in the general population, and there has been recent scientific discussion regarding a hypothetical relationship between treatment with JAK inhibitors in MPN and the risk of development of LPN. This has prompted increased interest regarding the coexistence of MPN and LPN. This review focuses on the role of JAK2 and the JAK/STAT pathway in MPN and LPN, whether there is a role for the genetic background in the occurrence of both MPN and LPN and whether there is a role for cytoreductive drugs in the occurrence of both MPN and LPN. Furthermore, whether an increased risk of lymphoma development is limited to patients who receive the JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib, is a more general phenomenon that occurs following JAK1/2 inhibition or is associated with preferential JAK1 or JAK2 targeting is discussed.
High intratumoural galectin‐1 expression predicts adverse outcome in ALK− ALCL and CD30+ PTCL‐NOS
Authors: Holst Johanne Marie , Ludvigsen Maja , Hamilton‐Dutoit Stephen Jacques , Bendix Knud , Plesner Trine Lindhardt , Nørgaard Peter , Møller Michael B. , Steiniche Torben , Rabinovich Gabriel A. , d'Amore Francesco , Pedersen Martin Bjerregård
Published: December 2019

Galectin‐1 (Gal‐1) has been associated with adverse prognosis in several cancers including lymphoma entities with CD30 expression. However, Gal‐1 expression has not been systematically assessed in peripheral T‐cell lymphomas (PTCL). Specimens from 169 nodal PTCL were assessed for intratumoural Gal‐1 expression by immunohistochemistry. Overall survival (OS) in groups exhibiting high and low Gal‐1 expression was compared in the cohort and in a subset analysis of CD30‐positive PTCL only. Gal‐1 expression was also correlated with biomarkers of the tumour microenvironment. No significant difference in OS based on Gal‐1 expression was observed in the entire PTCL cohort. However, in the CD30‐positive cohort, patients with high Gal‐1 levels had significantly poorer outcome (5 years OS 10%, 95% confidence interval CI, 1‐36) than their low Gal‐1 counterparts (5 years OS 48%, 95% CI, 30‐64, P = .021). In univariate analyses age 60 or younger, non‐elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and performance score less than 2 correlated with superior survival but high Gal‐1 expression significantly predicted adverse outcome at both univariate (HR 2.5, 95% CI, 1.1‐5.7, P = .026) and multivariate levels (HR 3.2, 95% CI, 1.2‐8.5, P = .017). Tumours with high Gal‐1 had few cytotoxic T cells in the tumour microenvironment. High intratumoural Gal‐1 expression before therapeutic intervention correlates with adverse outcome in nodal CD30+, ALK− PTCL patients.
Chronic and episodic acidification of streams along the Appalachian Trail corridor, eastern United States
Authors: Burns Douglas A. , McDonnell Todd C. , Rice Karen C. , Lawrence Gregory B. , Sullivan Timothy J.
Published: December 2019

Acidic atmospheric deposition has adversely affected aquatic ecosystems globally. As emissions and deposition of sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N) have declined in recent decades across North America and Europe, ecosystem recovery is evident in many surface waters. However, persistent chronic and episodic acidification remain important concerns in vulnerable regions. We evaluated acidification in 269 headwater streams during 2010–2012 along the Appalachian Trail (AT) that transits several ecoregions and is located downwind of high levels of S and N emission sources. Discharge was estimated by matching sampled streams to those of a nearby gaged stream and assuming equivalent daily mean flow percentiles. Charge balance acid‐neutralizing capacity (ANC) values were adjusted to the 15th (Q15) and 85th flow percentiles (Q85) by applying the ANC/discharge slope among sample pairs collected at each stream. A site‐based approach was applied to streams sampled twice or more and a second regression‐based approach to streams sampled once to estimate episodic acidification magnitudes as the ANC difference from Q15 to Q85. Streams with ANC <0 μeq/L doubled from 16% to 32% as discharge increased from Q15 to Q85 according to the site‐based approach. The proportion of streams with ANC <0 μeq/L at low flow and high flow decreased from north to south. Base cation dilution explained the greatest amount of episodic acidification among streams and variation in sulfate (SO42−) concentrations was a secondary explanatory variable. Episodic SO42− patterns varied geographically with dilution dominant in northern streams underlain by soils developed in glacial sediment and increased concentrations dominant in southern streams with older, highly weathered soils. Episodic acidification increased as low‐flow ANC increased, exceeding 90 μeq/L in 25% of streams. Episodic increases in ANC were the dominant pattern in streams with low‐flow ANC values <30 μeq/L. Chronic and episodic acidification remain an ecological concern among AT streams. The approach developed here could be applied to estimate the magnitude and extent of chronic and episodic acidification in other regions recovering from decreasing levels of atmospheric S and N deposition.
Can Life Emerge from Synthetic Polymers?
Authors: Lutz Jean‐François
Published: December 2019

Synthetic chemistry has drastically progressed during the last few decades. Like in DNA, it is now possible to synthesize abiotic macromolecules with precisely‐controlled sequences of monomers. Artificial systems allowing hybridization and information transfer have been described. Simple metabolism models have also been prepared and investigated. Thus, the creation of minimal artificial life forms appears as a (still relatively far) but possibly reachable objective. In this context, the aim of the present essay is to discuss recent achievement and future challenges towards man‐induced abiogenesis. In terms of polymer design, a synthetic macromolecule that would support Life as DNA do would require at least all the following properties: (i) information‐storage capacity, (ii) information‐transfer ability and (iii) the possibility to evolve through molecular mutations. Recent advances in that direction are summarized herein. However, Life is not only a matter of macromolecular design. In order to operate, a self‐replicator shall co‐exist with other molecules in non‐equilibrium conditions. Hence, systems chemistry aspects are also discussed in this essay.
Fluorescent Reporters for Drug Delivery Monitoring
Authors: Patsenker Leonid , Gellerman Gary
Published: December 2019

Monitoring of drug delivery is an essential technique for innovative medical treatments, including cancer therapy. Fluorescence imaging has become an important tool in tracking drug delivery and thus improving treatment efficacy. Binding fluorescent reporters to therapeutic agents paves the way to real time monitoring of drug delivery and drug distribution in vitro and in vivo. This review discusses fluorescent reporters used in drug delivery monitoring and provides an overview of recent achievements in the development of fluorescence based drug delivery systems.
Intravenous magnesium sulfate in the management of severe pre‐eclampsia: A randomized study of 12‐hour versus 24‐hour maintenance dose
Authors: Unwaha Emmanuel A. , Bello Folasade A. , Bello Oluwasomidoyin O. , Oladokun Adesina
Published: December 2019

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of a 12‐hour versus 24‐hour intravenous maintenance dose of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) in women with pre‐eclampsia, and the maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial conducted at the labor ward complex of University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria between May and August 2014. Pregnant women with severe pre‐eclampsia were randomized to receive a 12‐hour versus 24‐hour maintenance dose of MgSO4. Study outcomes were occurrence of seizures, adverse maternal effects, neonatal survival, and admission to the intensive care unit. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20.

Results

There were 80 patients randomized to the 12‐hour (n=40) and 24‐hour (n=40) groups. The participants in the two groups had comparable demographic features. There was no significant difference (P>0.999) between the satisfactory maternal outcome following the 12‐hour maintenance dose and the standard 24‐hour regimen (95.0% vs 97.5%). Similarly, there was no significant difference (P=0.276) in perinatal mortality in the 12‐hour versus 24‐hour arm (17.5% vs 12.5%, respectively). No case of eclampsia and maternal death was recorded.

Conclusion

A 12‐hour maintenance dose of intravenous MgSO4 in the management of severe pre‐eclampsia is effective and safe when compared with the 24‐hour maintenance dose.
Methods as Assertions
Authors: Lamping John , Abadi Martin
Published: December 2019

A method definition can be viewed as a logical assertion. Whenever we declare a method as the implementation of an operation, we assert that if the operation is invoked on objects of the appropriate types then the method body will satisfy the specification of the operation. This view of methods as assertions is simple but general. Among its applications are: methods defined on interfaces as well as on classes; an elementary type system for objects that handles multi‐methods; and a mechanism for method dispatch based on the desired output type as well as on the types of arguments. Further, these applications are compatible with traditional execution models and implementation techniques. Logical reasoning about methods plays a role at compile time, then gets out of the way.
Towards Deductive Object Databases
Authors: Bertino Elisa , Guerrini Giovanna , Montesi Danilo
Published: December 2019

This article proposes a new approach to model deductive object databases. Each object database is described by means of a Datalog language extended with extensional updates, called U‐Datalog. Objects can change state and cooperate. We introduce an extension of U‐Datalog to approach the problem of composition among object databases. It can be used for modular database design and for cooperation among deductive objects. The resulting language has a clear semantics for the evolution of objects and for modeling the transactional behavior of the resulting database. Finally, we describe some architectural issues of the prototype which has been developed.
Using Dynamic Classes and Role Classes to Model Object Migration
Authors: Wieringa Roel , de Jonge Wiebren , Spruit Paul
Published: December 2019

In this article, we argue that object‐oriented models must be able to represent three kinds of taxonomic structures: static classes, dynamic classes, and role classes, that behave differently with respect to object migration. If CAR is a static subclass of VEHICLE, then a vehicle that is not a car can never migrate to the CAR subclass. On the other hand, if EMPIoyee is a dynamic subclass of the PERSON object class, then a PERSON that is not an employee may migrate to EMP. In both cases, an instance of the subclass is identical to an instance of the superclass. By contrast, if EMP is modeled as a role class of PERSON, then every employee differs from every person, but a PERSON instance can acquire one or more EMP instances as roles. The distinctions between the three kinds of classes are orthogonal, so that we can have, for example, dynamic subclass of object or role classes, or role classes of dynamic or static classes.

The article is divided into two parts. In the first, informal part, we present an analysis of the differences between the three kinds of classes and motivate their utility by a number of examples. We argue that the inheritance of object life cycles is downward in the static class hierarchy and upward in the dynamic class hierarchy. We summarize this analysis by giving a number of modeling heuristics that can be used to make sound modeling decisions, and we compare our approach to class migration with other approaches.

In the second, formal part of the article, we outline one possible approach to formalizing the specification of static classes, dynamic classes, role classes and class migration, based on order‐sorted dynamic logic and process algebra. We illustrate this approach by giving a number of small example specifications and by proving some useful properties of these specifications. This article is an updated and extended version of (Wieringa et al., 1994).
Dynamic versus Static Optimization Techniques for Object‐Oriented Languages
Authors: Hölzle Urs , Agesen Ole
Published: December 2019

Object‐oriented programs can be optimized either dynamically, i.e., based on run‐time information, or statically, i.e., based on program analysis alone. Two promising optimization techniques for object‐oriented languages are type feedback (dynamic) and concrete type inference (static). We directly compare the two techniques, evaluating their effectiveness on a suite of 23 Self programs while keeping other factors constant. Our results show that both systems inline >95% of all sends and deliver similar overall performance with one exception: Self's automatic coercion of machine integers to arbitrary‐precision integers upon overflow confounds type inference and slows down arithmetic‐intensive benchmarks. We also show that a system combining the two optimizations can combine their strengths and outperform each individual optimization. We discuss several other issues which, given the comparable run‐time performance, may influence the choice between type feedback and type inference.
Toward Foundations of Concurrent Object‐Oriented Programming‐Types and Language Design
Authors: Kobayashi Naoki , Yonezawa Akinori
Published: December 2019

A number of attempts have been made to obtain type systems for object‐oriented programming. The view that lies common is “object‐oriented programming = λ‐calculus + record.” Based on an analogous view “concurrent object‐oriented programming = concurrent calculus + record,” we aim to establish a foundation for concurrent object‐oriented programming. We choose our own Higher‐Order ACL as a basic concurrent calculus, and show that a concurrent object‐oriented language can be easily encoded in the Higher‐Order ACL extended with record operations. Since Higher‐Order ACL has a strong type system with a polymorphic type Inference mechanism, programs of the concurrent object‐oriented language can be automatically type‐checked by the encoding in Higher‐Order ACL. Our approach can give clear accounts for various important mechanisms such as inheritance, method overriding and access control for methods within a simple framework.
Object‐Oriented Protocol Hierarchies for Distributed Workflow Systems
Authors: Lockemann Peter C. , Walter Hans‐Dirk
Published: December 2019

Modern information systems will increasingly have to support the cooperation between more or less independent partners that are distributed across local or global networks. Since the partners can naturally be modeled by objects, means must be provided that permit to model the cooperation among objects. In this paper we propose an extended object model which allows the explicit definition of dynamic relationships between objects. The new construct, called alliances, can be viewed as a protocol that materializes and enforces the cooperation of an arbitrary number of objects by relying on a set of communication rules. The rule‐based approach allows to specify cooperation protocols which circumscribe a space of possible cooperations. In other words, cooperation protocols restrict cooperation among objects to the minimum extent needed to leave the objects enough leeway for spontaneous reactions while still guaranteeing that the constraints inherent in a cooperation on a common task are being met. Workflows are specifications of cooperative applications. We demonstrate how alliances can be used as an implementation model for distributed workflow systems, which is superior to a pure object‐based implementation. This suggests that alliances are a lower‐level, more implementation‐oriented support structure for workflows. In particular, it should be possible to derive the cooperation constraints of an alliance from higher‐level workflow specifications which model business processes. Alliances can in turn be implemented on top of common distributed object technology which for its part relies on standard database and communication services.
Re‐exposure to reinforcement in Context A during treatment in Context B reduces ABC renewal
Authors: Craig Andrew R. , Sullivan William E. , Browning Kaitlyn O. , DeRosa Nicole M. , Roane Henry S.
Published: December 2019

Previous work from our laboratory showed that intermittently re‐exposing rats to reinforcement for lever pressing in a training (A) context, while eliminating lever pressing in a second (B) context, increased ABA renewal of lever pressing relative to rats that experienced only Context B during response elimination. In the current study, we replicated these procedures while assessing renewal in the presence of a novel context (i.e., ABC renewal). Unlike the findings described above, renewal was reduced in the group that experienced re‐exposure to Context A during lever‐press elimination relative to rats that experienced only Context B. These findings suggest that alternating between contexts associated with reinforcement and extinction during treatment reduces the probability that organisms will respond in novel contexts. These outcomes may be the result of discrimination and/or generalization processes. Moreover, this training procedure may offer a potential mitigation strategy for ABC renewal.
Peracetic acid as a single endodontic irrigant: effects on microhardness, roughness and erosion of root canal dentin
Authors: Keine Kátia C. , Kuga Milton C. , Coaguila‐Llerena Hernán , Palma‐Dibb Regina G. , Faria Gisele
Published: December 2019

The aim was to assess the effects of 1% peracetic acid (PAA) as a single endodontic irrigant on microhardness, roughness, and erosion of root canal dentin, compared with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and with 2.5% NaOCl combined with 17% EDTA. Forty human, single‐rooted tooth hemisections were submitted to Knoop microhardness test, before and after the following irrigation protocols: PAA = 1% PAA; NaOCl = 2.5% NaOCl; NaOCl‐EDTA‐NaOCl = 2.5% NaOCl +17% EDTA +2.5% NaOCl; and SS = saline. Another 40 roots were instrumented, irrigated with the same protocols, and sectioned longitudinally. The roughness analysis was performed on the mesial section using a confocal laser scanning microscope, whereas erosion was analyzed on each third of the distal section, using a scanning electron microscope. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey post‐tests, and Kruskal‐Wallis and Dunn post‐tests (α = .05). The PAA and NaOCl‐EDTA‐NaOCl groups showed no significant differences (p > .05); both promoted reduction in microhardness and increase in roughness, compared with the NaOCl and SS groups (p < .05). NaOCl‐EDTA‐NaOCl promoted higher erosion in the cervical and middle thirds than the other groups (p < .05); there was no difference among PAA, NaOCl, and SS (p > .05). There was also no difference among the groups regarding the apical third (p > .05). PAA used as a single endodontic irrigant caused reduction in root canal dentin microhardness and increase in roughness in a similar way to NaOCl‐EDTA‐NaOCl; however, PAA caused less erosion than NaOCl‐EDTA‐NaOCl.
Anti‐corrosive property of bioinspired environmental benign imidazole and isoxazoline heterocyclics: A cumulative studies of experimental and DFT methods
Authors: Ramkumar Sowmya , Nalini D. , Quraishi Mumtaz A. , Ebenso Eno E. , Verma Chandrabhan
Published: December 2019

In the present study, four imidazoline (IDZ) and four isoxazolines (ISO) heterocyclics differing in the nature of methoxy (‐OCH3) and aromatic (phenyl and naphthyl) moieties are synthesized, characterized and evaluated as corrosion inhibitors for mild steel in acidic solution of 1 M HCl. Results showed that imidazoline based heterocyclic compounds are better corrosion inhibitors than isoxazoline based heterocyclics and both classes of compounds showed inhibition efficiency of more than 85% at 20 mgL−1 concentration. Results further showed that inhibitors containing methoxy, phenyl, and naphthyl moieties showed higher protection efficiency as compared to the inhibitors without these moieties. PDP Study revealed that investigated IDZs and ISOs acted as mixed type inhibitors and their adsorption on the metallic surface followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. All the experimental results were corroborated by density function theory (DFT) based quantum chemical calculations. Numerous DFT based indices calculated for neutral as well as protonated forms of the IDZs and ISOs in order to get better insight about metal‐IDZs/ISOs interactions. Outcomes of the DFT analysis showed that protonated (cationic) form of the all the inhibitors are more strongly adsorbed on the metallic surface as compared to their neutral form.
Preparation of co‐Co3O4/carbon nanotube/carbon foam for glucose sensor
Authors: Han Jiajia , Miao Longfei , Song Yonghai
Published: December 2019

Co‐Co3O4/carbon nanotube/carbon foam (Co‐Co3O4/CNT/CF) nanocomposites were prepared by soaking melamine foam into a solution of Co(NO3)2·6H2O, followed by calcination in N2and air in sequence. The obtained Co‐Co3O4/CNT/CF nanocomposites were characterized with scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry. It was found that Co3O4nanoparticles were grown on the external of CF successfully, while CNTs were grown on the surfaces of CF in a large amount, which further improved the electrical conductivity of the. The prepared Co‐Co3O4/CNT/CF nanocomposites were then used to construct nonenzymatic sensor to detect glucose in alkaline solution. The sensor showed detection range from 1.2 μM to 2.29 mM with a detection limit of 0.4 μM (S/N=3) and a high sensitivity of 637.5 μA−1cm−2. The developed sensor also showed an instant response, favorable reproducibility, and high selectivity. The results attest that Co‐Co3O4/CNT/CF composites have great potential in the development of nonenzymatic sensors for glucose.
Ion trap MS using high trapping gas pressure enables unequivocal structural analysis of three isobaric compounds in a mixture by using energy‐resolved mass spectrometry and the survival yield technique
Authors: Maroto Alicia , Jeanne Dit Fouque Dany , Memboeuf Antony
Published: December 2019

Recently, it has been shown that energy‐resolved mass spectrometry (MS) can provide quantitative information from two isomeric or isobaric compounds in mixtures by using the survival yield (SY) technique together with “gas‐phase collisional purification” (GPCP) strategy (Anal. Chem., 2016, 88, p.10821). Herein, we present an improvement and an extension of this concept to the structural analysis of a model mixture of three isobaric compounds (two peptides and a polyether). By using default collision‐induced dissociation (CID) tandem MS parameters on an ion trap instrument, the previous approach did not show any signs of isobaric contamination. However, by modifying CID conditions and using a threefold increase of the He trapping gas pressure (to reach 3.00·10−5 mbar), the SY curve was unexpectedly and strongly shifted to higher excitation voltages with two plateaus appearing. Those plateaus, indicating clearly the presence of three isobaric compounds, were taken as reliable indicators to perform GPCP at carefully selected excitation voltages in order to selectively fragment one compound after the other. In this way, CID mass spectra of each compound were correctly recovered, both in terms of fragment ion peaks and in terms of relative intensities, from energy‐resolved MSn spectra of the three compounds mixture. This feature enables their unequivocal structural analysis as if samples were free from isobaric interferences. In this paper, we also discuss the possibility for recovering SY curves for pure compounds directly from the mixture. Clearly, in this case, the higher He trapping gas pressure made it possible to use the SY technique, for the first time, for the structural analysis in the case of mixtures of three isobaric compounds. This observation, quite unexpected, demonstrates that the trapping gas pressure is of paramount importance although it is usually not considered in energy‐resolved MS for structural and/or quantitative analysis.
Analysis of color volume of multi‐chromatic displays using gamut rings
Authors: Masaoka Kenichiro , Jiang Fu , Fairchild Mark D. , Heckaman Rodney L.
Published: December 2019

There are claims that multi‐chromatic displays can achieve a wider color gamut by the use of additional highly saturated secondary color channels. However, there are other claims that these displays lose lightness and/or color saturation at brighter levels. These apparently divergent views have led to some controversy in the display industry and at standard setting organizations. This study examines the color gamut volume for a variety of simulated and measured multi‐chromatic (sometimes incorrectly referred to as “multi‐primary”) displays using combinations of white and/or secondary color channels, such as cyan, magenta, and yellow. Furthermore, a two‐dimensional gamut representation, referred to as “gamut rings,” is introduced to illustrate that the addition of nonprimary optical color channels to a trichromatic (RGB) display can result in a significant decrease in the chroma at higher lightness levels. The additional saturated color channels can increase the gamut volume only around their hues at darker levels. The results also confirm the validity of comparing the color light output and white light output for revealing the design trade‐offs between the high‐peak white and the color‐image brightness for multi‐chromatic displays.
Effect of blue light from LCD on VDT work: Experiment using blue light reduction function LCD
Authors: Yoshimura Kumiko , Sakakibara Hisataka , Ikeda Mitsuru , Shibata Kazuhiro , Tamamura Yoshinori
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the blue light from the visual display terminal (VDT) on visual search tasks. We assessed the quantity of the blue light from medical imaging diagnoses (medical‐grade) liquid‐crystal display (LCD) and general (personal computer‐grade) LCD for the VDT work, both equipped with the blue light reduction function. Then, we measured the visibility of display by evaluating the correct answer rate and reaction time of visual search tasks. The quantity of the blue light was proportional to the luminance of the display. When the blue light reduction function was used during the VDT work, the blue light at the peak wavelength was reduced by about 56%. Though the luminance of the display reduced, the visibility of the display was not decreased. These findings suggest that the blue light reduction on the LCD could work efficiently in the VDT work, maintaining the visibility of the display.
Determination of pesticides in dried minor tropical fruits from Colombia using the Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe method‐gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Varela‐Martínez Diana Angélica , González‐Curbelo Miguel Ángel , González‐Sálamo Javier , Hernández‐Borges Javier
Published: December 2019

The AOAC 2007.1 quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe official method, together with gas chromatography coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer was applied for the analysis of 38 multiclass pesticides from dried fruits typically cultivated and exported from Colombia: uchuva (Physalis peruviana), lulo (Solanum quitoense), guanabana (Anona muricata), and pitahaya (Hylocereus undatus). The whole method was validated in terms of matrix‐matched calibration, matrix effect, and recovery using atrazine‐d5 as internal standard, triphenylphosphate for quality control of the injection, and a proper mixture of analytes protectants. Matrix‐matched calibration data were found satisfactory for all pesticides and dried fruits, reporting R2 values above 0.99. Matrix effect values evidenced the existence of such effect in most cases. The applied procedure gave satisfactory recovery percentages (70–120%) and relative standard deviation values (< 20%) for 92% of the 456 combinations pesticide/fruit studied (spiked levels of 25, 200, and 400 µg/kg). Finally, 20 real dried fruit samples were analyzed and residues of tebuconazole were found in two samples of uchuva at a concentration below the lowest calibration level of the method for one of them and at 10.8 ± 1.6 µg/kg for the other, being below or similar to the general maximum residue level established for monitoring purposes in food applications.
Assessing the degree of land degradation and rehabilitation in the Northeast Asia dryland region using net primary productivity and water use efficiency
Authors: Kang Wenping , Kang Sinkyu , Liu Shulin , Han Youngji
Published: December 2019

Changes in vegetation productivity and species composition have been used as conventional indicators of land degradation and rehabilitation assessments. The two biophysical parameters vary nonlinearly during land change process with various time lags, which provide, as a whole, a useful framework to diagnose degree of land degradation and rehabilitation. In this study, the net primary productivity (NPP) and water use efficiency (WUE), which are the proxies of vegetation productivity and eco‐physiological properties related to species composition, were combined to develop an eco‐physiological framework to assess the degree of land degradation in the Northeast‐Asia dryland regions (NADR) from 1982 to 2012. Results from long‐term trends analysis showed early, middle or late degradation stages occurred in northern grassland and central barren or sparsely vegetated regions, respectively, while the rehabilitation prevailed in eastern croplands and forest, southern, and western grassland. In contrast, short‐term trend analysis illustrated the recent rehabilitation in mid‐eastern Mongolia and Loess Plateau, which was unseen in long‐term trend analysis. The spatial patterns and temporal changes of land degradation and rehabilitation could be explained partly by either or both natural and anthropogenic factors. Long‐term drying and warming might induce land degradation in northern and central NADR, respectively, while the recovery projects and wetting conditions after 2000s promoted the land rehabilitation in Loess Plateau and mid‐eastern Mongolia. Here, our NPP–WUE framework may contribute further conceptual development and rapid assessments on land degradation and rehabilitation in wide geographic regions.
Effects on the plant stem arrangement onsediment transport capacity of croplands
Authors: Fu Suhua , Mu Hongli , Liu Baoyuan , Yu Xianju , Zhang Guanghui , Liu Yingna
Published: December 2019

Vegetation effectively prevents soil erosion; however, little information is available on the effects of plant stems on sediment transport capacity. The purposes of this study were to investigate the effects of plant stem arrangement patterns on sediment transport capacity and to quantify this relationship. Artificial plant stems (stem diameter, 0.01 m) were arranged in five patterns: tessellated, random, bead, zigzag, and banding. Two discharges, two slope gradients, and two plant basal cover conditions were used to conduct flume experiments. Results revealed that plant stem arrangement affected flow regime, hydraulic parameters, hydrological connectivity, and sediment transport capacity. The structural index of connectivity (i.e., the index of sediment connectivity) and the functional index of connectivity (i.e., flow velocity) were used to quantify the effects of plant stem arrangement on sediment transport capacity. The latter exhibited a significant linear function with hydraulic parameters, including flow velocity (p < .05). Unit stream power had the greatest adjusted R2 value and provided the best estimation of sediment transport capacity. Plant stem arrangement did not affect the relationship between sediment transport capacity and hydraulic parameters. These results are helpful and will enhance our predictions of different plant stem arrangement effects on sediment transport capacity.
Unfair Advantages for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Listed for Liver Transplant in Short‐Wait Regions Following 2015 Hepatocellular Carcinoma Policy Change
Authors: Brondfield Max N. , Dodge Jennifer L. , Hirose Ryutaro , Heimbach Julie , Yao Francis Y. , Mehta Neil
Published: December 2019

For patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) listed for liver transplantation (LT), United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) enacted policy changes in 2015 to improve equity between HCC and non‐HCC patients. We evaluated the impact of these changes on regional disparities in wait‐list dropout and LT. We included patients in the UNOS database listed with Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease HCC exceptions in long‐wait regions (LWRs), mid‐wait regions (MWRs), and short‐wait regions (SWRs) before these policy changes (era 1, January 1 to December 31, 2013) and after (era 2, October 7, 2015, to October 7, 2016). Cumulative incidence of wait‐list dropout and LT were evaluated using competing risk regression. Median time to LT increased by 3.6 months (3.1 to 6.7 months) in SWRs and 1.3 months (6.9 to 8.2 months) in MWRs (P < 0.001), with a slight decrease in LWRs (13.4 to 12.9 months; P = 0.02). The 2‐year cumulative incidence of dropout increased from 9.7% to 14.8% in SWRs (P = 0.03) and from 18.9% to 22.6% in MWRs (P = 0.18) but decreased in LWRs from 26.7% to 24.8% (P = 0.31). Factors predicting wait‐list dropout included listing in era 2 (hazard ratio [HR], 1.17), in LWRs (HR, 2.56), and in MWRs (HR, 1.91). Regional differences in wait‐list outcomes decreased with policy changes, but HCC patients in SWRs remain advantaged. Recent policy change may narrow these disparities.
Hypomethylation of MIR‐378 5’‐flanking region predicts poor survival in young patients with myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Wu De‐hong , Zhu Xiao‐wen , Wen Xiang‐mei , Zhang Ying‐ying , Ma Ji‐chun , Yao Dong‐ming , Zhou Jing‐dong , Guo Hong , Wu Peng‐fei , Zhang Xing‐li , Qiu Hong‐chun , Lin Jiang , Qian Jun
Published: December 2019

Background

Previous studies have disclosed up‐regulation of MIR‐378 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and might consequently affect the outcome of the patients. Correspondingly, hypomethylation of MIR‐378 was also identified in AML, particularly for FAB‐M2 subtype with t(8;21) chromosomal translocation. Nevertheless, the methylation status of MIR‐378 has not been illustrated in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Herein we designed to understand the methylation pattern of MIR‐378 involved in MDS and clinical interrelation thereof.

Methods

Real‐time quantitative methylation‐specific PCR (RQ‐MSP) was performed to evaluate the methylation degree of MIR‐378 5’‐flanking region on bone marrow mononuclear cells collected from 95 de novo MDS patients. Five gene mutations (IDH1, IDH2, DNMT3A, U2AF1, and SF3B1) were detected by high‐resolution melting analysis to further evaluate the clinical relevance of hypomethylation of MIR‐378.

Results

Unmethylated level of MIR‐378 5’‐flanking region was significantly higher in MDS patients than that in controls (p = .034). Hypomethylated MIR‐378 was identified in 20 of 95 (21%) cases with MDS. Male patients appeared to be more frequent to harbor MIR‐378 hypomethylation compared to female patients (15/55, 27.3% vs. 4/40, 10.0%, p = .04). There was no significant difference in age, white blood cell counts, platelet counts, hemoglobin concentration, and karyotypes between the patients with and without MIR‐378‐hypomethylation. Distinct distribution of five gene mutations was not observed in the two groups as well. However, MIR‐378‐hypomethylated patients had significantly shorter overall survival than those without MIR‐378 hypomethylation (p = .036). Moreover, among patients <60 years, hypomethylation of MIR‐378 was confirmed to be an independent adverse prognostic factor by both Kaplan–Meier and Multivariate Cox analyses.

Conclusion

Hypomethylation of MIR‐378 5’‐flanking region is an adverse prognosticator in MDS, particularly in patients <60 years.
Numerical solution of fractional differential equations by semiorthogonal B‐spline wavelets
Authors: Liu Can , Zhang Xinming , Wu Boying
Published: December 2019

In this paper, semiorthogonal B‐spline wavelets collection method (SOBWCM) is applied for solving the fractional differential equations with derivatives in Caputo sense. This method transforms the original fractional differential equations to a system of algebraic equations based on the semiorthogonal B‐spline wavelets and the relevant scaling functions on a bounded interval. The operational matrix of SOBWCM is presented, and the error analysis is derived. Finally, some test examples are provided to demonstrate the accuracy of the method.
A fast adaptive spectral graph wavelet method for the viscous Burgers' equation on a star‐shaped connected graph
Authors: Shukla Ankita , Mehra Mani , Leugering Günter
Published: December 2019

Water wave propagation in an open channel network can be described by the viscous Burgers' equation on the corresponding connected graph, possibly with small viscosity. In this paper, we propose a fast adaptive spectral graph wavelet method for the numerical solution of the viscous Burgers' equation on a star‐shaped connected graph. The vital feature of spectral graph wavelets is that they can be constructed on any complex network using the graph Laplacian. The essence of the method is that the same operator can be used for the construction of the spectral graph wavelet and the approximation of the differential operator involved in the Burgers' equation. In this paper, two test problems are considered with homogeneous Dirichlet boundary condition. The numerical results show that the method accurately captures the evolution of the localized patterns at all the scales, and the adaptive node arrangement is accordingly obtained. The convergence of the given method is verified, and efficiency is shown using CPU time.
Aging methods and age‐at‐death distributions: Does transition analysis call for a re‐examination of bioarchaeological data?
Authors: Clark Melissa A. , Simon Allyson , Hubbe Mark
Published: December 2019

Age estimation of adult skeletal remains is notoriously difficult because the degenerative change of adult skeletons is far more variable across individuals, populations, and anatomical regions than the developmental changes that occur during growth. Additionally, age mimicry makes it difficult to discern between the true population age structure and the age structure produced as an artifact of the reference sample. Transition analysis is an age estimation method that was developed to improve the accuracy of age estimation, especially in older adults, by applying a stricter statistical framework based on multiple osteological age markers. Despite its availability since 2002, bioarchaeologists continue to rely heavily on traditional aging methods. However, since transition analysis has begun to gain popularity, it is necessary to identify how the choice of age estimation method affects interpretations about life in the past, especially when samples aged through transition analysis are compared to samples aged with traditional methods. This study evaluates the effect of aging methods on age‐at‐death distributions in a sample from the Late Archaic and Prehistoric periods in Northeast Ohio. Ninety‐three skeletons were aged using both traditional aging methods and transition analysis, and the results from both methods were compared. The two aging methods produced vastly different age‐at‐death distributions and significantly different survival curves. This study shows that bioarchaeologists should be wary of taking pre‐existing data at face value and should consider interpreting data using both traditional aging methods and transition analysis until the accuracy of transition analysis is more clearly established.
Electrochemical Oxidation of Sulfonamides with Boron‐Doped Diamond and Pt Anodes
Authors: Li Hongna , Jiang Huan , Liu Chong , Zhu Changxiong , Zhu Xiuping P.
Published: December 2019

Electrochemical oxidation processes usually favored specific degradation pathways depending on anode materials. In this work, a series of sulfonamides (SNs) were degraded by electrochemical oxidation. Compared to Pt anodes (0.1567–0.1795 h−1), degradation rates of SNs were much higher at boron‐doped diamond (BDD) anodes (2.4290–13.1950 h−1). However, the same intermediates were detected in the two anode systems. Due to the strong oxidizing ability of BDD anodes, a large amount of intermediates with high toxicities were initially generated and then finally reduced in the BDD anode systems, while the amount of intermediates continuously increased in the Pt anode systems. Additionally, SNs were degraded faster in Na2SO4 than NaH2PO4 electrolytes at BDD anodes, while they were similar at Pt anodes. This study demonstrated that the degradation pathways of SNs at BDD and Pt anodes were similar, but the evolutions of intermediate amounts and toxicities were different due to their varied oxidizing abilities.
Co‐management of culturally important species: A tool to promote biodiversity conservation and human well‐being
Authors: Freitas Carolina Tavares , Lopes Priscila F. M. , Campos‐Silva João Vitor , Noble Mae M. , Dyball Robert , Peres Carlos A.
Published: December 2019

Co‐management has been advocated as an effective tool to achieve natural resource conservation worldwide. Yet, the potential of co‐management arrangements can fail to be realized when there is insufficient local engagement.

In this perspective paper, we argue that co‐management schemes focusing on culturally important species (CIS) can help overcome this issue by engaging local people's interest.

To develop this theory, we explore published data on the outcomes of two management schemes, both encompassing multiple independent initiatives, to discuss CIS‐management effects and benefits.

We also show a compilation of CIS examples throughout the world and discuss the potential of CIS‐management to reach a global audience.

Based on these data, we argue that CIS‐management can be an effective tool to reconcile the often intractable goals of biodiversity conservation and human welfare.
Calcitriol Prevents RAD51 Loss and cGAS‐STING‐IFN Response Triggered by Progerin
Authors: Coll‐Bonfill Nuria , Cancado de Faria Rafael , Bhoopatiraju Sweta , Gonzalo Susana
Published: December 2019

Hutchinson Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a devastating accelerated aging disease caused by LMNA gene mutation. The truncated lamin A protein produced “progerin” has a dominant toxic effect in cells, causing disruption of nuclear architecture and chromatin structure, genomic instability, gene expression changes, oxidative stress, and premature senescence. It was previously shown that progerin‐induced genomic instability involves replication stress (RS), characterized by replication fork stalling and nuclease‐mediated degradation of stalled forks. RS is accompanied by activation of cGAS/STING cytosolic DNA sensing pathway and STAT1‐regulated interferon (IFN)‐like response. It is also found that calcitriol, the active hormonal form of vitamin D, rescues RS and represses the cGAS/STING/IFN cascade. Here, the mechanisms underlying RS in progerin‐expressing cells and the rescue by calcitriol are explored. It is found that progerin elicits a marked downregulation of RAD51, concomitant with increased levels of phosphorylated‐RPA, a marker of RS. Interestingly, calcitriol prevents RS and activation of the cGAS/STING/IFN response in part through maintenance of RAD51 levels in progerin‐expressing cells. Thus, loss of RAD51 is one of the consequences of progerin expression that can contribute to RS and activation of the IFN response. Stabilization of RAD51 helps explain the beneficial effects of calcitriol in these processes.
A theoretical and spectroscopic (NMR and IR) study of indirubin in solution and in the solid state
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , Dardonville Christophe , Reviriego Felipe , Santa María Dolores , Claramunt Rosa M. , Marín‐Luna Marta
Published: December 2019

The infrared spectrum of indirubin in the solid state and the1H,13C and15N NMR spectra in DMSO‐d6solution as well as the13C and15N CPMAS spectra have been recorded. Different types of calculations (B3LYP, GIAO, and GIPAW) have been carried out. Experimental and calculated values were compared yielding commensurate results.E/Zisomerism was explored, as was oxo/hydroxy tautomerism.
Puente para cuidar (bridge to caring): A palliative care patient navigator and counseling intervention to improve distress in Latino/as with advanced cancer
Authors: Bekelman David B. , Fink Regina M. , Sannes Timothy , Kline Danielle M. , Borrayo Evelinn A. , Turvey Carolyn , Fischer Stacy M.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Interventions are needed to improve mental health (ie, depression, anxiety) and palliative care (ie, symptoms, goals of care, and advance care planning) outcomes in Latino/as with advanced cancer.

Methods

An interprofessional study team used the ecological validity model and a participatory approach to adapt an evidence‐based counseling intervention for Latino/as and integrate the counseling intervention with an evidence‐based patient navigator intervention. Next, a small pilot study was conducted to understand and improve the feasibility of the integrated puente para cuidar intervention.

Results

Adaptations were made to language, literacy, and content of the counseling intervention, and video vignettes of the counseling case studies were produced on the recommendation of Latino/a stakeholders. Bicultural, bilingual patient navigators were used as “cultural brokers” between Latino/a patients and the counselor. The pilot study of puente para cuidar demonstrated feasibility based on participant perception of helpfulness and acceptability and nearing goal visit completion rates.

Conclusions

A culturally adapted intervention to address mental health and palliative care needs in Latino/as with advanced cancer was developed from prior evidenced‐based interventions using a cultural adaptation model and a participatory approach. The intervention is ready for effectiveness testing.
The crystal structure of the mycobacterial trehalose monomycolate transport factor A, TtfA, reveals an atypical fold
Authors: Ung Kien Lam , Alsarraf Husam M. A. B. , Kremer Laurent , Blaise Mickaël
Published: December 2019

Trehalose monomycolate (TMM) represents an essential element of the mycobacterial envelope. While synthesized in the cytoplasm, TMM is transported across the inner membrane by MmpL3 but, little is known regarding the MmpL3 partners involved in this process. Recently, the TMM transport factor A (TtfA) was found to form a complex with MmpL3 and to participate in TMM transport, although its biological role remains to be established. Herein, we report the crystal structure of the Mycobacterium smegmatis TtfA core domain. The phylogenetic distribution of TtfA homologues in non‐mycolate containing bacteria suggests that TtfA may exert additional functions.