bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Materialidade e comemoração da morte no Principado romano: uma leitura dos Funera de Druso e Germânico em Tácito (séculos I-II d. C.)
Authors: Omena Luciane Munhoz de , Gomes Erick Messias Costa Otto
Published: July 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo compreender as representações da morte    e suas relações com a memória, a partir das procissões funerárias nos Anais de Tácito, em diálogo com os vestígios materiais. Traçaremos algumas reflexões críticas acerca dos rituais mortuários, já que os funerais se transformavam em espetáculos de poder em todo o império. Torna-se, então, relevante analisar a procissão funerária e seu desenrolar no espaço urbano, pois, juntamente com seus integrantes, os símbolos e as insígnias, incorporavam um cerimonial teatralizado, que colocava em cena o morto na estrutura de poder e sua posição nas gerações da família. Para tanto, devemos nos concentrar nos funerais de Germânico e Druso e, a partir  daí, compreender as dimensões simbólicas da morte para a manutenção   e legitimação da domus de Tibério na aula imperial.
Os crânios do cemitério do Vale Superior do Walbrook: tafonomia e ritos
Authors: Pinto Renato
Published: July 2020

A presença de uma grande quantidade de crânios humanos desarticulados em canais aterrados no vale superior do rio Walbrook está atestada desde o séc. XIX. Desde então, surgiram várias teorias para explicar a desproporção daquela parte anatômica na assembleia estudada. Em 2015, a publicação do relatório que une os resultados de seis escavações realizadas entre 1987 e 2017, no cemitério do vale superior do Walbrook, ao norte de Londinium, indica que a tafonomia pode explicar o fenômeno dos crânios. Interpretações prévias que envolviam rituais de desmembramento, ‘caça à cabeça’ e decapitações, são porfiadas pela prova forense, que indica que a aguda erosão das sepulturas e o deslocamento de restos humanos causados pelas correntes de água são responsáveis pelo processo de deposição. Este artigo-revisão almeja contextualizar os resultados, ao adicionar-lhes outros ainda complexos aspectos, relacionados aos crânios do Walbrook e aos rituais mortuários dos bretões.
Quando os mortos invadem os sonhos dos vivos: história e contemporaneidades
Authors: Santos Cícero Joaquim dos
Published: July 2020

Este artigo objetiva compreender os focos narrativos presentes nas memórias orais sobre encontros oníricos entre os vivos e os mortos    na contemporaneidade. Trata-se de um recorte de uma pesquisa de doutoramento em História, concernente às narratividades sobre as aparições e os trânsitos dos mortos entre o mundo terreno e o além cristão. O texto problematiza as narrativas construídas em entrevistas de história oral, realizadas com idosos católicos, residentes nos espaços urbanos e rurais da região do Cariri/CE. Em diálogo com a história cultural, o texto demonstra como os sonhos dos entrevistados são importantes canais de acesso às sensibilidades e aos imaginários sociais. São mecanismos a partir dos quais os mortos continuam assumindo funcionalidades, ora revelando mistérios do outro mundo, ora preservando-os e ensinando lições sobre o tempo da vida, da morte e dos mortos.
Development of a method to create uniform phantoms for task‐based assessment of CT image quality
Authors: Conzelmann Juliane , Schwarz Felix Benjamin , Hamm Bernd , Scheel Michael , Jahnke Paul
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To develop a customized method to produce uniform phantoms for task‐based assessment of CT image quality.

Methods

Contrasts between polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and fructose solutions of different concentrations (240, 250, 260, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330, and 340 mg/mL) were calculated. A phantom was produced by laser cutting PMMA slabs to the shape of a patient’s neck. An opening of 10 mm diameter was cut into the left parapharyngeal space. An angioplasty balloon was inserted and filled with the fructose solutions to simulate low‐contrast lesions. The phantom was scanned with six tube currents. Images were reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP) and adaptive iterative dose reduction 3D (AIDR 3D). Calculated and measured contrasts were compared. The phantom was evaluated in a detectability experiment using images with 4 and 20 HU lesion contrast.

Results

Low‐contrast lesions of 4, 9, 11, 13, 18, 20, 24, 30, 35, and 37 HU contrast were simulated. Calculated and measured contrasts correlated excellently (r = 0.998; 95% confidence interval: 0.991 to 1). The mean ± SD difference was 0.41 ± 2.32 HU (P < 0.0001). Detection accuracy and reader confidence were 62.9 ± 18.2% and 1.58 ± 0.68 for 4 HU lesion contrast and 99.6 ± 1.3% and 4.27 ± 0.92 for 20 HU lesion contrast (P < 0.0001), confirming that the method produced lesions at the threshold of detectability.

Conclusion

A cost‐effective and flexible approach was developed to create uniform phantoms with low‐contrast signals. The method should facilitate access to customized phantoms for task‐based image quality assessment.
Diffusion Analysis in Pore Hierarchies by the Two‐Region Model
Authors: Hwang Seungtaik , Haase Jürgen , Miersemann Erich , Kärger Jörg
Published: July 2020

Mass transfer in hierarchically porous materials is a function of various parameters, notably including the diffusivities in the various pore spaces, their relative populations and the exchange rates. Their interplay is shown to be quantified in the two‐region model of diffusion which in magnetic resonance imaging is in common use under the name Kärger equations. After manifold applications in NMR diffusometry with compartmented systems, the underlying formalism is now demonstrated to offer an excellent tool for assessing mass transfer in hierarchically porous materials. The potentials include a comprehensive description of mass transfer, in parallel with the specification of the various limiting cases and their reflection by experimental measurement. Information provided by application of microscopic techniques of measurement such as microimaging and pulsed field gradient NMR is shown to notably exceed the message of, e.g., macroscopic uptake measurement of diffusion in hierarchically porous media. This includes, in particular, experimental insight into the dominating mechanisms of mass transfer, which is crucial for the development of optimal strategies of performance enhancement for the technological exploitation of such materials. Depending on the microstructural and microdynamic situation, elucidated in such studies, very different and even mutually opposing strategies for performance enhancement are shown to result.
Synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐Tetrahydrobenzofuro[3,2‐d]pyrimidines via [4+2] Annulation Reaction of 1,3,5‐Triazinanes and Aurone‐Derived α,β‐Unsaturated Imines
Authors: Cheng Bin , Zhang Xinping , Zhai Shengxian , He Yixuan , Tao Qingqing , Li Hui , Wei Jian , Sun Haiyan , Wang Taimin , Zhai Hongbin
Published: July 2020

A [4+2] annulation reaction of 1,3,5‐triazinanes and aurone‐derived α,β‐unsaturated imines has been developed, which enables the synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrobenzofuro[3,2‐d]pyrimidines under thermal conditions in high yields. This protocol is catalyst‐free and additive‐free.

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A Highly Sensitive, Reliable, and High‐Temperature‐Resistant Flexible Pressure Sensor Based on Ceramic Nanofibers
Authors: Fu Min , Zhang Jianming , Jin Yuming , Zhao Yue , Huang Siya , Guo Chuan Fei
Published: July 2020

Flexible pressure sensors are essential components for soft electronics by providing physiological monitoring capability for wearables and tactile perceptions for soft robotics. Flexible pressure sensors with reliable performance are highly desired yet challenging to construct to meet the requirements of practical applications in daily activities and even harsh environments, such as high temperatures. This work describes a highly sensitive and reliable capacitive pressure sensor based on flexible ceramic nanofibrous networks with high structural elasticity, which minimizes performance degradation commonly seen in polymer‐based sensors because of the viscoelastic behavior of polymers. Such ceramic pressure sensors exhibit high sensitivity (≈4.4 kPa−1), ultralow limit of detection (<0.8 Pa), fast response speed (<16 ms) as well as low fatigue over 50 000 loading/unloading cycles. The high stability is attributed to the excellent mechanical stability of the ceramic nanofibrous network. By employing textile‐based electrodes, a fully breathable and wearable ceramic pressure sensor is demonstrated for real‐time health monitoring and motion detection. Owing to the high‐temperature resistance of ceramics, the ceramic nanofibrous network sensor can function properly at temperatures up to 370 °C, showing great promise for harsh environment applications.
Awake tracheostomy in a child with respiratory distress due to retropharyngeal abscess
Authors: Ahuja V. , Chachra A. , Singh M. , Gupta N. , Singh P.
Published: July 2020

Awake tracheostomy in a child with respiratory distress is an emergency life‐saving procedure when risk of airway loss after induction of general anaesthesia is greater due to difficult anatomy. A 10‐year‐old boy presented three days after removal of a foreign body in the throat under general anaesthesia. Over the subsequent days, the patient had a progressively increasing visible swelling in the neck, stridor and respiratory distress. An urgent X‐ray and computed tomography scan of the neck revealed a retropharyngeal abscess compressing the trachea. Due to anticipated difficulty in airway management under general anaesthesia, we decided to perform an awake tracheostomy. The child and the parents were counselled regarding steps of awake tracheostomy, as well as the benefits and possible risks associated with it. Topicalisation was achieved by administering glycopyrrolate, nebulisation with lidocaine 4%, and the skin was prepared with lidocaine 2% with 1:200,000 adrenaline. After the awake tracheostomy was successfully performed, general anaesthesia was induced and the retropharyngeal abscess was drained. Effective communication and building rapport is essential for safe awake tracheostomy in a child with respiratory distress when impending airway loss may occur at any moment.
The effect of silica nanoparticle on thermal, chemical, corrosive, and the nature‐friendly properties of refrigerant compressor lubricants—A comparative study
Authors: Narayanasarma Subramani , Kuzhiveli Biju T.
Published: July 2020

Polyolester (POE) oil and mineral (Min) oil are widely used in household refrigerators as compressors lubricants in India. An experimental calculation on the thermal, chemical, corrosion, and nature‐friendly properties of POE oil and Min oil suspended with silica nanoparticles is conducted for confirming its practicality to adopt in refrigeration compressors as nanolubricant. No surfactants were used for synthesizing the nanolubricants. The mass fractions from 0.01% to 0.2% and temperatures from 25°C to 85°C are considered. The thermal conductivity and fire point increased as SiO2 mass proportions increased. The pour and cloud points decreased, and in the corrosive nature, apparently little effect was observed by adding SiO2 nanoparticles. The total acid number (TAN) and saponification number increased with the increase in SiO2 nanoparticle concentration. All the synthesized nanolubricants were biodegradable and a little toxic. Refrigerant compressors with long life, with smooth and safe working are expected using POE oil and Min oil with up to 0.2% SiO2 (without surfactants) because of augmented thermal properties and less influenced corrosive, chemical, and eco‐friendly properties.
Halloysite nanotubes grafted polylactic acid and its composites with enhanced interfacial compatibility
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Li Peixian , Wu Minjie , Yu Xiaoyan , Naito Kimiyoshi , Zhang Qingxin
Published: July 2020

Polylactic acid (PLA) polymers are promising substitutes for polluting fossil fuel‐derived polymers in the field of food safety due to their environmental friendliness, good biocompatibility, and degradability. However, their poor mechanical property limits their practical utilization. In this study, abundant natural halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were incorporated into PLA to address these issues. To overcome interfacial incompatibility between the matrix (PLA) and nanofillers (HNTs), 3‐Aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APS) were firstly grafted onto HNTs to form end‐up amino groups which were served as binding sites for the polycondensation of lactic acid precursors. This formed PLA modified HNTs (pHNTs) precursor was further mixed with bulk PLA polymers to prepare the composite films by the solvent casting method. Compared with the pristine composite, the PLA/pHNTs composites show better thermal stability and mechanical properties, and the composite with 2 wt% pHNTs exhibits the best performance.
Multiscale damage analysis of the tension‐tension fatigue behavior of a low‐density sheet molding compound
Authors: Shirinbayan Mohammadali
Published: July 2020

This article presents the experimental findings of tension‐tension stress‐controlled fatigue tests performed on low‐density sheet molding compound (LD‐SMC). LD‐SMC composite is a type of SMC including a polyester resin reinforced with chopped glass fibers bundles and hollow glass spheres. The coupled frequency‐amplitude affects the nature of the overall fatigue response, which can be controlled by the damage mechanisms accumulation and/or by the self‐heating. In fact, the self‐heating produced a material softening and decreased the fatigue lifetime. For fatigue loading at 80 Hz, self‐heating has been observed and yielded to a temperature rise to 65°C, which is more than a glass transition temperature of polyester. Thus, the polyester matrix is subjected to remarkable thermally activated modifications of its physical state. Multiscale damage analysis of the randomly‐oriented sample in fatigue showed that the first observed damage phenomenon corresponds to the debonding of the hollow glass microspheres occurring in the fiber depleted zones.
Machine learning: A powerful tool for gene function prediction in plants
Authors: Mahood Elizabeth H. , Kruse Lars H. , Moghe Gaurav D.
Published: July 2020

Recent advances in sequencing and informatic technologies have led to a deluge of publicly available genomic data. While it is now relatively easy to sequence, assemble, and identify genic regions in diploid plant genomes, functional annotation of these genes is still a challenge. Over the past decade, there has been a steady increase in studies utilizing machine learning algorithms for various aspects of functional prediction, because these algorithms are able to integrate large amounts of heterogeneous data and detect patterns inconspicuous through rule‐based approaches. The goal of this review is to introduce experimental plant biologists to machine learning, by describing how it is currently being used in gene function prediction to gain novel biological insights. In this review, we discuss specific applications of machine learning in identifying structural features in sequenced genomes, predicting interactions between different cellular components, and predicting gene function and organismal phenotypes. Finally, we also propose strategies for stimulating functional discovery using machine learning–based approaches in plants.
Comparison of control charts for Poisson count data in health‐care monitoring
Authors: Scagliarini Michele , Boccaforno Nunzia , Vandi Marco
Published: July 2020

Statistical surveillance is a noteworthy endeavor in many health‐care areas such as epidemiology, hospital quality, infection control, and patient safety. For monitoring hospital adverse events, the Shewhartu‐control chart is the most used methodology. One possible issue of theu‐chart is that in health‐care applications the lower control limit (LCL) is often conventionally set to zero as the adverse events are rare and the sample sizes are not sufficiently large to obtain LCL greater than zero. Consequently, the control chart loses any ability to signal improvements. Furthermore, as the area of opportunity (sample size) is not constant over time, the in‐control and out‐of‐control run length performances of the monitoring scheme are unknown. In this article, on the basis of a real case and through an intensive simulation study, we first investigate the in‐control statistical properties of theu‐chart. Then we set up several alternative monitoring schemes with the same in‐control performances and their out‐of‐control properties are studied and compared. The aim is to identify the most suitable control chart considering jointly: the ability to detect unexpected changes (usually worsening), the ability to test the impact of interventions (usually improvements), and the ease of use and clarity of interpretation. The results indicate that the exponentially weighted moving average control chart derived under the framework of weighted likelihood ratio test has the best overall performance.
Stability of d‐luciferin for bioluminescence to detect gene expression in freely moving mice for long durations
Authors: Nakajima Kanako , Hamada Kazuko , Ito Ryoga , Yoshida Yukina , Sutherland Kenneth , Ishikawa Masayori , Ozaki Michitaka , Shirato Hiroki , Hamada Toshiyuki
Published: July 2020

Circadian disturbance of clock gene expression is a risk factor for diseases such as obesity, cancer, and sleep disorders. To study these diseases, it is necessary to monitor and analyze the expression rhythm of clock genes in the whole body for a long duration. The bioluminescent reporter enzyme firefly luciferase and its substrate d‐luciferin have been used to generate optical signals from tissues in vivo with high sensitivity. However, little information is known about the stability of d‐luciferin to detect gene expression in living animals for a long duration. In the present study, we examined the stability of a luciferin solution over 21 days. l‐Luciferin, which is synthesized using racemization of d‐luciferin, was at high concentrations after 21 days. In addition, we showed that bioluminescence of Period1 (Per1) expression in the liver was significantly decreased compared with the day 1 solution, although locomotor activity rhythm was not affected. These results showed that d‐luciferin should be applied to the mouse within, at most, 7 days to detect bioluminescence of Per1 gene expression rhythm in vivo.
Synthesis and mechanoluminescence study of Li6Y(BO3)3:Dy3+/Eu3+ phosphor
Authors: Yawalkar Mrunal M. , Nayar Renu , Nayar Vinit , Dhoble S.J.
Published: July 2020

Li6Y(BO3)3 phosphor was prepared using solid‐state synthesis by varying europium/dysprosium (Eu/Dy) concentrations in the range 0.05–1.0 mol%. X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared characterizations provided insight into the phase, crystallinity, morphology and functional groups. Photoluminescence (PL) of the Li6Y(BO3)3:Dy3+ phosphor was also studied. Li6Y(BO3)3:Dy3+ displayed excellent PL due to the characteristic emission of Dy3+ ions in the visible region at 482 nm (4F9/2→6H15/2) and 580 nm (4F9/2→6H13/2,), when excited at 352 nm. The Li6Y(BO3)3:Eu3+ phosphor was discussed in our previous publication. Uniaxial compression experiments on Li6Y(BO3)3 showed that the mechanoluminescence (ML) intensity was linearly dependent on mechanical power. When pressure was applied to these phosphors mixed in an epoxy resin, initially the ML intensity increased with time, attained a peak value Im at a particular time tm, and decreased further with increase in time. After tm, ML intensity decreased exponentially, initially at a faster rate that subsequently slowed down, ML intensity increased linearly for a wide measurement range of dynamic load that made the Li6Y(BO3)3 phosphor a good elastico ML (EML) material to be utilized as a stress sensor with Li6Y(BO3)3:Eu3+ and showing greater ML intensity than Li6Y(BO3)3:Dy3+.
Benzoate Synthesis from Glucose or Glycerol Using Engineered Pseudomonas taiwanensis
Authors: Otto Maike , Wynands Benedikt , Marienhagen Jan , Blank Lars M. , Wierckx Nick
Published: July 2020

Benzoic acid is one of the most commonly used food preservatives, but currently exclusively produced in petrochemical processes. In this study, a bio‐based production pathway using an engineered strain of Pseudomonas taiwanensis is described. In a phenylalanine‐overproducing strain, bacterial and plant genes are heterologously expressed to achieve production of benzoate via a β‐oxidation pathway. Strategic disruption of the native Pseudomonas benzoate degradation pathway further allows the production of catechol and cis,cis‐muconate. Taken together, this work demonstrates new routes for the microbial production of these industrially relevant chemicals from renewable resources.
Off‐line effects of alpha‐frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation on a visuomotor learning task
Authors: Harada Taiki , Hara Masayuki , Matsushita Kojiro , Kawakami Kenji , Kawakami Keisuke , Anan Masaya , Sugata Hisato
Published: July 2020

Introduction

It has been suggested that transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) at both alpha and beta frequencies promotes motor function as well as motor learning. However, limited information exists on the aftereffects of tACS on motor learning and neurophysiological profiles such as entrainment and neural plasticity in parallel. Therefore, in the present study, we examined the effect of tACS on motor learning and neurophysiological profiles using an off‐line tACS condition.

Methods

Thirty‐three healthy participants were randomly assigned to 10 Hz, 20 Hz, or the sham group. Participants performed visuomotor learning tasks consisting of a baseline task (preadaptation task) and training task (adaptation task) to reach a target with a lever‐type controller. Electroencephalography was recorded from eight locations during the learning tasks. tACS was performed between the preadaptation task and adaptation task over the left primary motor cortex for 10 min at 1 mA.

Results

As a result, 10 Hz tACS was shown to be effective for initial angular error correction in the visuomotor learning tasks. However, there were no significant differences in neural oscillatory activities among the three groups.

Conclusion

These results suggest that initial motor learning can be facilitated even when 10 Hz tACS is applied under off‐line conditions. However, neurophysiological aftereffects were recently demonstrated to be induced by tACS at individual alpha frequencies rather than fixed alpha tACS, which suggests that the neurophysiological aftereffects by fixed frequency stimulation in the present study may have been insufficient to generate changes in oscillatory neural activity.
A Study of the Reactivity of (Aza‐)Quinone Methides in Selective C6‐Alkylations of Indoles
Authors: Yan Jiyao , Zhang Zhihan , Chen Min , Lin Zhenyang , Sun Jianwei
Published: July 2020

The kinetic and thermodynamic features of indole N1‐ and C6‐alkylation reactions with (aza‐)quinone methides have been studied. The electrophilic reactivity of these quinone methides have also been compared for the first time by both experiments and DFT calculations. The indole N1‐alkylation is typically kinetically favorable, but the C6‐alkylation is more thermodynamically favorable. With suitable conditions, the C6‐alkylation could be achieved with high efficiency and selectivity. Among these quinone methides, the reactivity increases from aza‐p‐QMs to o‐QMs. The results not only provide access to a range of valuable triarylmethanes, but also guide future development of new reactions with these versatile electrophiles.
Gas‐Phase Models for the Nickel‐ and Palladium‐Catalyzed Deoxygenation of Fatty Acids
Authors: Parker Kevin , Weragoda Geethika K. , Pho Victoria , Canty Allan J. , Polyzos Anastasios , O'Hair Richard A. J. , Ryzhov Victor
Published: July 2020

Using fatty acids as renewable sources of biofuels requires deoxygenation. While a number of promising catalysts have been developed to achieve this, their operating mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, model molecular systems are studied in the gas phase using mass spectrometry experiments and DFT calculations. The coordinated metal complexes [(phen)M(O2CR)]+ (where phen=1,10‐phenanthroline; M=Ni or Pd; R=CnH2n+1, n≥2) are formed via electrospray ionization. Their collision‐induced dissociation (CID) initiates deoxygenation via loss of CO2 and [C,H2,O2]. The CID spectrum of the stearate complexes (R=C17H35) also shows a series of cations [(phen)M(R’)]+ (where R’ < C17) separated by 14 Da (CH2) corresponding to losses of C2H4‐C16H32 (cracking products). Sequential CID of [(phen)M(R’)]+ ultimately leads to [(phen)M(H)]+ and [(phen)M(CH3)]+, both of which react with volatile carboxylic acids, RCO2H, (acetic, propionic, and butyric) to reform the coordinated carboxylate complexes [(phen)M(O2CR)]+. In contrast, cracking products with longer carbon chains, [(phen)M(R)]+ (R>C2), were unreactive towards these carboxylic acids. DFT calculations are consistent with these results and reveal that the approach of the carboxylic acid to the “free” coordination site is blocked by agostic interactions for R > CH3.
Lipid levels and risk of new‐onset atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and dose‐response meta‐analysis
Authors: Yao Yisong , Liu Feng , Wang Yangyang , Liu Zengzhang
Published: July 2020

Lipid levels are closely associated with health, but whether lipid levels are associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) remains controversial. We thought that blood lipid levels may influence new‐onset AF. Here, we used a meta‐analysis to examine the overall association between lipid levels and new‐onset AF. PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched up to 20 December 2019. We conducted a systematic review and quantitative meta‐analysis of prospective studies to clarify the association between lipid levels and the risk of new‐onset AF. Sixteen articles with data on 4 032 638 participants and 42 825 cases of AF were included in this meta‐analysis. The summary relative risk (RR) for a 1 mmol/L increment in total cholesterol (TC) was 0.95 (95% CI 0.93‐0.96, I2 = 74.6%, n = 13). Subgroup analyses showed that follow‐up time is a source of heterogeneity; for low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), RR was 0.95 (95% CI 0.92‐0.97, I2 = 71.5%, n = 10). Subgroup analyses indicated that adjusting for heart failure explains the source of heterogeneity; for high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), RR was 0.97 (95% CI 0.96‐0.99, I2 = 26.1%, n = 11); for triglycerides (TGs), RR was 1.00 (95% CI 0.96‐1.03, I2 = 81.1%, n = 8). Subgroup analysis showed that gender, age, follow‐up time, and adjustment for heart failure are sources of heterogeneity. Higher levels of TC, LDL‐C, and HDL‐C were associated with lower risk of new‐onset AF. TG levels were not associated with new‐onset AF in all subjects.
MASCC/ISOO clinical practice guidelines for the management of mucositis secondary to cancer therapy
Authors: Elad Sharon , Cheng Karis Kin Fong , Lalla Rajesh V. , Yarom Noam , Hong Catherine , Logan Richard M. , Bowen Joanne , Gibson Rachel , Saunders Deborah P. , Zadik Yehuda , Ariyawardana Anura , Correa Maria Elvira , Ranna Vinisha , Bossi Paolo ,   for the Mucositis Guidelines Leadership Group of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer and International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO)
Published: July 2020

Background

Mucositis is a significant toxicity of cancer therapy with numerous systemic sequelae. The goal of this systematic review was to update the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer and International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO) Clinical Practice Guidelines for the management of mucositis.

Methods

The literature was reviewed systematically to identify interventions for mucositis. Studies were rated according to the presence of major and minor flaws according to previously published criteria. The body of evidence for each intervention and in each treatment setting was assigned a level of evidence based on previously published criteria. Guidelines were developed based on the level of evidence, with 3 possible guideline determinations: recommendation, suggestion, or no guideline possible.

Results

The guideline covers evidence from 1197 publications related to oral or gastrointestinal mucositis. Thirteen new guidelines were developed for or against the use of various interventions in specific treatment settings, and 11 previous guidelines were confirmed after aa review of new evidence. Thirteen previously established guidelines were carried over because there was no new evidence for these interventions.

Conclusions

The updated MASCC/ISOO Clinical Practice Guidelines for mucositis provide professional health caregivers with a clinical setting‐specific, evidence‐based tool to help with the management of mucositis in patients who have cancer.
A simple and highly efficient method for multi‐allelic CRISPR‐Cas9 editing in primary cell cultures
Authors: Hoellerbauer Pia , Kufeld Megan , Arora Sonali , Wu Hua‐Jun , Feldman Heather M. , Paddison Patrick J.
Published: July 2020

Background

CRISPR‐Cas9‐based technologies have revolutionized experimental manipulation of mammalian genomes. None‐the‐less, limitations of the delivery and efficacy of these technologies restrict their application in primary cells.

Aims

To create an optimized protocol for penetrant, reproducible, and fast targeted genome editing in cell cultures derived from primary cells, using patient‐derived glioblastoma stem‐like cells (GSCs) and human neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs) for proof‐of‐concept experiments.

Methods and results

We employed transient nucleofection of Cas9:sgRNA ribonucleoprotein complexes composed of chemically synthesized 2′‐O‐methyl 3′phosphorothioate‐modified sgRNAs and purified Cas9 protein. Insertion‐deletion mutation (indel) frequency and size distribution were measured via computational deconvolution of Sanger sequencing trace data. We found that this optimized technique routinely allows for >90% indel formation in only 3 days, without the need to create clonal lines for simple loss‐of‐function experiments. Using Western blotting, we observed near‐total protein loss of target genes in cell pools. Additionally, we found that this approach allows for the creation of targeted genomic deletions. Furthermore, by using RNA‐seq in edited NSCs to assess gene expression changes resulting from knockout of tumor suppressors commonly altered in glioblastoma, we also demonstrated the utility of this method for quickly creating a series of gene knockouts that allow for the study of oncogenic activities.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that this relatively simple method can be used for highly efficient and fast gene knockout, as well as for targeted genomic deletions, even in hyperdiploid cells (such as GSCs). This represents an extremely useful tool for the cancer research community when wishing to inactivate not only coding genes, but also non‐coding RNAs, UTRs, enhancers, and promoters. This method can be readily applied to diverse cell types by varying the nucleofection conditions.
Relationship between pupillary size, brightness, and photoreceptor responses for unrelated self‐luminous stimuli at low photopic light levels
Authors: Sandoval Salinas Claudia , Hermans Stijn , Sandoval José , Smet Kevin A. G. , Hanselaer Peter , Colombo Elisa
Published: July 2020

Research on the correlation between the initial pupillary light reflex, the perceptual brightness, and the excitations of the photoreceptors was performed for unrelated self‐luminous 10° stimuli at low photopic light levels (5 to 80 cd/m2). All stimuli were optically characterized using a spectroradiometer. For determining the pupillary diameter, an Eye Tracker was used. The perceived brightness was evaluated with the magnitude estimation method. Test stimuli were presented alternating with a reference stimulus and the Michelson contrast of the pupillary diameter between test and reference conditions was calculated. Six observers (three female and three male) participated, with ages between 30 and 39 years (with an average of 34.5 years). It was found that the coefficient of determination between the pupillary response and the perceived stimulus brightness was higher than the corresponding value for luminance, allowing the suggestion that brightness has a greater effect on pupillary size than luminance. Nevertheless, this is not the complete story: highly saturated red and blue stimuli both induce a high brightness perception but the pupil contraction induced by the blue stimuli is much greater than for the red stimuli. Pupillary diameter was also studied as a function of the relative excitations of the five photoreceptors. The effect of rod and ipRGC excitations on pupillary size variation seems to be larger than that of the other photoreceptors. However, for the working conditions prevailing in this research, it could be expected that rods are not very active and that the ipRGC response might be the major driving mechanism.
Canadian sainfoin and fenugreek as forage and functional foods
Authors: Wijekoon Champa , Acharya Surya N. , Siow Yaw L. , Sura Srinivas , Thandapilly Sijo , Sabra Ali
Published: July 2020

Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum L.) are two legumes that are being developed as forage crops in Canada with potential benefits for animal and human health. Sainfoin, a perennial crop containing condensed tannins (CTs), is gaining popularity in western Canada because of its benefits for cattle. Its CTs make the crop bloat‐free for grazing cattle while improving protein digestibility and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The CT‐containing fenugreek is also considered as a bloat‐free annual forage legume that was developed to serve in short‐term crop rotations in western Canada. These crops are known to provide health and nutritional benefits to cattle with their high protein content and other beneficial nutraceuticals such as crude fiber, 4‐hydroxyisoleucine, steroid sapogenins, and galactomannans. Some of these nutraceuticals have the potential to benefit human health; however, such attributes have not been studied enough to harness the full potential of these legume crops in Canada. Recent research suggests that legumes are a healthy substitute for meat. However, metabolite analysis of sainfoin is mostly limited to proteins and CTs. The CTs reported in sainfoin are involved in reduction of blood pressure and detoxification and providing anticancer properties in humans. Recent studies on fenugreek have highlighted the beneficial nutraceuticals associated with human health but most of those claims are not backed by relevant clinical studies. In this article, we reviewed the nutritional quality attributes of sainfoin and fenugreek and assessed their potential as functional foods and nutraceuticals for animal and human health based on scientific evidence.
The contribution of animal models to understanding the role of the immune system in human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Miles Tylah , Hoyne Gerard F , Knight Darryl A , Fear Mark W , Mutsaers Steven E , Prêle Cecilia M
Published: July 2020

Pulmonary fibrosis occurs in a heterogeneous group of lung disorders and is characterised by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins within the pulmonary interstitium, leading to impaired gas transfer and a loss of lung function. In the past 10 years, there has been a dramatic increase in our understanding of the immune system and how it contributes to fibrogenic processes within the lung. This review will compare some of the models used to investigate the pathogenesis and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, in particular those used to study immune cell pathogenicity in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages in dissecting human disease.
Experimental and theoretical study of density, potential, and current structures of a helium plasma in front of an radio frequency antenna tilted with respect to the magnetic field lines
Authors: Ledig Jordan , Faudot Eric , Moritz Jérôme , Heuraux Stéphane , Lemoine Nicolas , Devaux Stéphane
Published: July 2020

Potential and density structures in the vicinity of an radio frequency (RF) electrode/antenna in a magnetized plasma are investigated using an RF‐compensated cylindrical Langmuir probe. These measurements were performed in the ALINE plasma device in which only electrons can be considered well magnetized. Very precise 2‐D maps of the plasma parameters are drawn thanks to a 3‐D automatic manipulator on which the probe is mounted. The effect of the tilted magnetic angle between the RF‐biased surface and the magnetic lines is also studied thanks to a tilting electrode. Comparison of several simplistic models with the experiments proved the reliability of simple Langmuir probe measurements in such an RF and magnetized environment (space potential vs. tilting angle of the antenna with respect to magnetic field lines and recovery of the floating potential structure using measured currents). A fluid model based on total current density and ion diffusion equations over the biased flux tube provides the same density structures in front of the electrode as the measurements. Those density structures display a “bunny ears” shape and can be explained using transverse RF and collisional current behaviour: In front of the antenna, the transverse ion currents deplete the magnetized flux tube, while at the edge of the biased flux tube, the same currents increase the density.
Learning to spell for children 5–8 years of age: The importance of an integrated approach to ensure the development of phonic, orthographic and morphemic knowledge at compatible levels
Authors: McMurray Sharon
Published: July 2020

This paper considers samples of independent writing highlighting the integral role of phonology, orthography and morphology in spelling development for children from 5–6 years to 7–8 years (3 years of formal schooling). It also introduces an approach to monitoring spelling development by considering the sources of knowledge that are evident in children's attempts to spell when writing independently. Synthetic phonics can be a powerful and effective strategy for both reading and spelling; however when the development of a synthetic phonics strategy fails to take account of the importance of compatibility with orthographic and morphemic knowledge its predominant use can lead to long term spelling difficulties for children who cannot acquire this knowledge from implicit learning when reading. Furthermore, this paper proposes that there may be an optimum period for ensuring the interaction between phonemic, orthographic and morphemic knowledge (5–6 years to 7–8 years; 3 years of formal schooling) during which time significant gains can be made for all children. This optimum period is particularly important for children who are at risk of long‐term spelling difficulties because they spell by sounds alone as a result of insensitivity to orthographic and ortho‐morphemic patterns.
Eye movements in anorexia nervosa: State or trait markers?
Authors: Phillipou Andrea , Abel Larry A. , Gurvich Caroline , Castle David J. , Rossell Susan L.
Published: July 2020

Objective

Differences in saccadic eye movements are widely reported in mental illnesses, and can indirectly inform our understanding of neurobiological and cognitive underpinnings of psychiatric conditions, including anorexia nervosa (AN). Preliminary research has suggested that individuals with AN may show specific eye movement abnormalities; whether these deficits are representative of state or trait effects is, however, unclear. The aim of this study was to identify whether there are demonstrable differences in performance on saccadic eye movement tasks in individuals with current AN (c‐AN), those who are weight‐restored from AN (wr‐AN), biological sisters of individuals with AN (AN‐sis), and healthy controls (HC).

Methods

Eighty participants took part in the study (n = 20/group). A set of saccadic eye movement tasks was administered, including prosaccade, antisaccade, memory‐guided saccade, and visual scanpath tasks.

Results

The c‐AN group showed an increased rate of inhibitory errors to 10° targets on the memory‐guided saccade task.

Discussion

The results are discussed in terms of the potential role of the superior colliculus in AN, and that the findings may reflect a state measure of AN.
Leaf litter quality drives the feeding by invertebrate shredders in tropical streams
Authors: Sena Guilherme , Francisco Gonçalves Júnior José , Tavares Martins Renato , Hamada Neusa , de Souza Rezende Renan
Published: July 2020

Amazon and Cerrado‐forested streams show natural fluctuations in leaf litter quantity along the time and space, suggesting a change on litter quality input. These natural fluctuations of leaf litter have repercussion on the organic matter cycling and consequently effects on leaf decomposition in forested streams. The effects of the quantity of leaf litter with contrasting traits on consumption by larvae of shredder insects from biomes with different organic matter dynamics have still been an understudied question. The TrichopteraPhylloicusspp. is a typical shredder in tropical headwater streams and keep an important role in leaf litter decomposition. Here, we assessed the consumption by shredderPhylloicusspp., from Amazonia and Cerrado biomes, on higher (Maprounea guianensis) and lower quality leaves (Inga laurina) in different proportions and quantities. Experiments were performed concomitantly in microcosms approaches, simulating Cerrado and Amazonian streams. Higher leaf consumption occurred in Cerrado microcosms. Litter quantity influenced negatively leaf consumption by shredders in Cerrado, in opposition to Amazonia, where consumption was not affected by leaf quantity. In both sites, we observed higher consumption by shredders in treatment with onlyM. guianensisand no difference between other treatments with mixture of leaves. In treatment with litter ofI. laurina,we noted the use of substrate for case building (due to the higher leaf toughness),affecting the fragmentation process. Therefore, our results indicate that leaf litter quality drives the preference of consumption byPhylloicuslarvae in Cerrado and Amazonia streams.
Emerging Organic Photoredox Catalysts for Organic Transformations
Authors: Lee Yungyeong , Kwon Min Sang
Published: July 2020

A lot of efforts have been made for the development of novel organic photoredox catalysts (PCs) due to their gratifying replacement for conventional transition metal‐based PCs in photoredox catalysis. In this minireview, we summarized and classified the recently reported organic PCs into several categories based on functional groups (e.g. cyanoarene, phenazine, xanthene, and others) with their applications to various organic transformations including polymerization reactions. The strategies used to design organic PCs then also introduced. The emerging trends for the discovery of organic PCs are systematic approaches which include computer‐aided and mechanism‐based design. We anticipate that this minireview will provide not only the characteristics of the recently reported organic PCs, but also an insight into the design and discovery of organic PCs for desired applications.
Hydrothermally Synthesized MoS2 Nanoclusters for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Mishra Shanu , Mishra Ashish Kumar
Published: July 2020

As an alternative to noble metals, MoS2 has been recognized as promising active and earth abundant electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Here, we demonstrate novel 2H‐phase MoS2 nanoclusters as efficient electrocatalyst for HER, prepared via hydrothermal process without using additional reducing agents to precursors. The MoS2 nanoclusters coated carbon paper electrode shows Tafel slope of 103 mV dec−1 at voltage sweep rate of 2 mV s−1 for HER with onset potential and over‐potential (η10) of 0.132 and 0.212 V, respectively. The good catalytic performance can be attributed to large accessible electrochemically active surface area and sites along with easy transport of electrolyte due to hydrophilic nature of prepared MoS2 nanoclusters.
A Batch Injection Analysis System with Square‐wave Voltammetric Detection for Fast and Simultaneous Determination of Zinc and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Ribeiro Michelle M. A. C. , Rocha Raquel G. , Munoz Rodrigo A. A. , Richter Eduardo M.
Published: July 2020

The determination of organic and inorganic compounds in a single run is still a great challenge. In this paper, we developed a method for fast simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid (AA) and zinc ions (Zn) using batch injection analysis with detection by square‐wave anodic stripping voltammetry (BIA‐SWASV). Britton‐Robinson (BR) buffer solution (pH=6.0) as the supporting electrolyte and boron doped diamond (BDD) as the working electrode. The method presented favorable analytical characteristics such as fast response (67 injections h−1), low detection limits (0.2 and 5.4 μmol L−1for Zn ions and AA, respectively) and recovery values of 99±3%.
Paper‐based Potentiometric Biosensor for Monitoring Galactose in Whole Blood
Authors: Bouri Mohamed , Zuaznabar‐Gardona Julio C. , Novell Marta , Blondeau Pascal , Andrade Francisco J.
Published: July 2020

A filter paper sputtered with a layer of Pt and subsequently coated with a Nafion® membrane is used as working electrode. The mixed potential of the Pt electrode allows the detection of H2O2 generated by the oxidation of galactose in the presence of the galactose oxidase enzyme. This provides a simple and mediator‐free approach method. The system shows sensitivity values of −62.8±9.4 mV/decade of galactose in the range from 0.3 to 31.6 mM, well within the clinical relevant range. MnO2 nanoparticles were added to decrease the interference from ascorbic acid so that validation of the sensor in whole blood samples was performed with good recovery.
Fe2O3/MCM‐41 as catalysts for methyl orange degradation by Fenton‐like reactions
Authors: Sidney Santana Cássia , Freire Bonfim Daniela Patrícia , da Cruz Ivana Helena , da Silva Batista Marcelo , Fabiano Demian Patrick
Published: July 2020

A large amount of contaminated industrial wastewater has aroused mounting concern by researchers and environmentalists. Dyes contained in industrial effluents are often quite persistent to biodegradation, which must be treated before being disposed of. In this context, the use of Fenton processes is a potential alternative to treat a wide range of dyes and other organic pollutants found in wastewater. Thus, several Fe2O3/MCM‐41 catalysts have been synthesized in the following molar ratio of SiO2/Fe2O3: 10, 20, 40, 100, and 200. They were characterized by N2adsorption–desorption isotherm, X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis spectroscopy and H2temperature‐programmed reduction (H2‐TPR), and applied to degrade methyl orange dye (MO) via a heterogeneous Fenton reaction. Catalytic tests revealed that SiO2/Fe2O3= 10 reached the highest activity due to greater availability of active sites which generated a larger quantity of hydroxyl (•OH) and perhydroxyl (•OOH) radicals. Furthermore, 70% of color removal has been achieved after 120 min at room temperature. Moreover, the systems moderately enhanced organic matter mineralization according to chemical oxygen demand (COD) testing. There was also catalytic activity loss in consecutive reaction cycles, which is probably due to dye molecules adsorption on active sites.