bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual control with hard constraints
Authors: Al‐Hajjar Ali M. H. , Swei Sean Shan‐Min , Zhu Guoming
Published: October 2019

Practical control problems are always subject to plant state and/or input constraints, which make designing an effective controller a challenging task. This paper introduces a novel virtual control approach to handling the presence of hard constraints in control systems by utilizing virtual mechanisms in the form of nonlinear springs and dampers. The augmented virtual mechanisms are to assist in better shaping the closed‐loop responses, especially when operating near the constrained boundary. A linear quadratic regulator based model predictive control method is utilized to develop stabilizing controllers that not only achieve desired system performance, but also meet the imposed hard constraints. The basic idea is to dramatically increase control penalty by way of tuning the spring and damper effect when the constrained state/input response is close to its hard constraint. The proposed method is applied to a balancing ball problem to demonstrate its applicability and effectiveness, and the simulation results validate the proposed concept.
Robust finite‐horizon optimal control of autonomous helicopters in aggressive maneuvering
Authors: Wang Hao , Shi Zongying , Zhong Yisheng
Published: October 2019

There has been an increasing need for autonomous helicopters to have the ability to perform aggressive maneuvers. To achieve this, robust and high performance controllers are required to accurately drive the helicopters. In this paper, the robust compensator (RC) technique is applied to the classic finite‐horizon LQR approach to deal with the uncertainties, including nonlinearities, external disturbances, and other interference. The robust properties of the proposed method are analyzed, and it is proved that the RC can eliminate the effects of the uncertainties as expected. The effectiveness of the proposed method is shown through simulations and real experiments of a prototype helicopter.
How can we evaluate the effectiveness of grammar schools in England? A regression discontinuity approach
Authors: Lu Binwei
Published: October 2019

Previous research evaluating grammar school effectiveness has generally relied on snapshot or longitudinal regression models to deal with pre‐existing differences between grammar school pupils and those in non‐selective schools. These passive designs are based on correlations, and cannot demonstrate clear positive causal relationships between grammar school attendance and subsequent attainment. After accounting for the variables available for the analysis, pupils in different schools might still have distinct and unmeasured characteristics which threaten the validity of any conclusions drawn. Given that a randomised trial is not feasible under current conditions, this study addresses the limitations of previous research, using a regression discontinuity design (RDD) approach. This is the first use of RDD to attempt to make a robust causal inference about the effectiveness of grammar schools in one local authority in England. However, the authority, the Department for Education and the schools would not provide the individual data on pupils’ 11+ entry test scores, and the scores obtained could not be uniquely matched to Key Stage 4 outcomes. While the model presented suggests that there is an advantage to grammar school attendance, the incomplete data means that the study is more a feasibility trial of this strong design than any kind of definitive test intended to settle the debate on grammar school effectiveness. Conducting this design with national data on grammar school selection would create the most powerful evidence so far. To promote an effective and equitable education system for generations to come, those advocating the expansion of grammar schools should make the responsible decision to disclose all grammar school selection data for the purposes of research.
Discovery of a role of the novel hepatokine, hepassocin, in obesity
Authors: Huang Ru‐Lai , Li Chung‐Hao , Du Ye‐Fong , Cheng Kai‐Pi , Lin Ching‐Han , Hu Che‐Yuan , Wu Jin Shang , Chang Chih‐Jen , Wu Hung‐Tsung , Ou Horng‐Yih
Published: October 2019

Obesity is a public health problem that has raised concerns worldwide and is often associated with hepatic steatosis. Hepassocin is a novel hepatokine that causes hepatic steatosis and induces insulin resistance (IR). However, the role of hepassocin in obesity remains obscure. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between hepassocin levels and obesity. In total, 371 subjects who had a normal weight (NW), were overweight, or were obese were enrolled. We found that hepassocin levels in subjects who were overweight (6,705 ± 1,707 pg/ml) or obese (7,335 ± 2,077 pg/ml) were significantly higher than those of subjects with a NW (5,767 ± 1,500 pg/ml) (p < .001, test for trend). A multiple linear regression analysis showed that the body‐mass index, waist circumference, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and homeostatic model assessment of IR were independently associated with hepassocin after adjusting for age, sex, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, systolic blood pressure, high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, log triglycerides, alanine transaminase, and the estimated glomerular filtration rate. This study provides evidence that subjects who were overweight or obese had significantly higher hepassocin levels than those with a NW. Hepassocin may be a useful biomarker in managing obesity and its related metabolic dysregulation.
DNA‐Methylierung – das 5. Element
Authors: Kuhlmann Markus
Published: October 2019

DNA‐Methylierung ist eine evolutionär hoch konservierte epigenetische Modifikation. Sie ist wichtig für die genomische Stabilität und kann einen Einfluss auf die Transkriptionsaktivität von Genen haben. In Tieren findet man Cytosinmethylierung im symmetrischen CG‐Sequenzkontext, in Pflanzen kann jedes Cytosin potenziell methyliert werden. Die Methylierung im symmetrischen Kontext ist vererbbar, im asymmetrischen Sequenzkontext muss sie jedes Mal neu „geschrieben“ werden. Der Mechanismus hierfür wird als RNA‐dirigierte DNA‐Methylierung bezeichnet. In Pflanzen erfolgt eine Demethylierung unter Zuhilfenahme des DNA‐Reparaturmechanismus. Eine Änderung im Methylierungsmuster kann zu phänotypischen Veränderungen führen. Man spricht hier von Epimutationen. Als Epigenetik wird der Einfluss von stabil vererbbaren Methylierungszuständen ohne DNA‐Sequenzänderung bezeichnet. Die Änderung der Methylierung ist einerseits vererbbar, andererseits jedoch reversibel. Somit besitzt der Organismus mit diesem „5. Element“ die Möglichkeit, eine Mutation sozusagen auszuprobieren oder abgeschwächte Formen einer veränderten Genexpression zu testen.
Haeckel und das Schöne in der Natur
Authors: Willmann Rainer
Published: October 2019

Der Evolutionsbiologe Ernst Haeckel hat mit seiner ganzheitlichen Weltsicht versucht, Wissenschaft, Philosophie, Ethik und Kunst zusammenzuführen. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden seine Auseinandersetzung mit den Schönheiten der Natur und ihrem Anwendungsbezug dargestellt. Die Kunst solle sich Haeckels Auffassung zu Folge in ihrer Motivfindung vor allem an den Formen des Lebens orientieren. Diese betrachtete er als die höchsten Ausprägungen ästhetischer Erscheinungen. Durch sie solle der Mensch einen Zugang zur Natur gewinnen, zumal der Mensch nicht im Gegensatz zur Natur stehen dürfe. Künstlerisch hoch begabt, hat Haeckel selber durch die zeichnerische Darstellung tausender, meist mikroskopisch kleiner Organismen wesentliche Anregungen für einen solchen Weg gegeben. Zugleich hatte er mit seinen Zeichnungen Einblicke in zuvor weitgehend unbekannte natürliche Strukturen geboten. Auf diese Weise hat er in erheblichem Maße Einfluss auf die Malerei und Bildgestaltung, auf Schmuck‐ und Glaskunst, Architektur, Möbeldesign und Innenraumgestaltung um die Wende des 19. zum 20. Jahrhunderts genommen.
Rückgang der Insektenvielfalt – Fakten, Folgen und Handlungserfordernisse
Authors: Krüß Andreas , Nigmann Ursula , Sukopp Ulrich
Published: October 2019

Die Insekten gehen in den Landschaften Mitteleuropas drastisch zurück – diese Erkenntnis ist in unserer Gesellschaft angekommen. Wie aber sieht die Daten‐ und Faktenlage dazu aus? Welche Auswirkungen wird diese besorgniserregende Entwicklung haben? Welche Notwendigkeiten und Möglichkeiten des Handelns ergeben sich daraus? Antworten auf diese und viele weitere Fragen sowie einen Einblick in die Vielfalt der Insekten und ihrer Lebensweisen gibt die Schwerpunktausgabe 6/7‐2019 der Fachzeitschrift „Natur und Landschaft“ (Abbildung 1).
Proteindenaturierung am Beispiel von Milch‐ und Sojaeiweißen
Authors: Högermann Christiane
Published: October 2019

Experimente mit Cola und „Cola light“ für den Sekundarbereich II

Die Proteinchemie (Bau von Aminosäuren, Polypeptidstrukturen) sowie Ursachen und Formen der Proteindenaturierung stehen in der Regel auf dem Lehrplan des Sekundarbereiches II. Diese irreversible Strukturveränderung hat dahingehend vielfachen Alltagsbezug für die Schüler, als sie in Alltagssituationen häufig präsent ist, so z. B. beim Kochen eines Hühnereis. Der Beitrag stellt eine einfache Versuchsreihe zur Veranschaulichung der dahinterstehenden biochemischen Ursachen vor.
Optogenetik – Genetik, die (man) sehen kann?
Authors: Fachinger Alex
Published: October 2019

Wer träumt nicht davon, zellgenau und lichtschnell biologische Systeme wie beispielsweise komplexe multizelluläre Organismen nach seiner Nase tanzen zu lassen? – Optogenetik macht es möglich. Darum lohnt es sich in jedem Fall, dieser Methode ein wenig Aufmerksamkeit zu schenken. Nicht umsonst wurde sie im Jahre 2010 auch von der Fachzeitschrift Nature zur Methode des Jahres gekürt [1].
Nachrichten des Verbandes Biologie, Biowissenschaften & Biomedizin in Deutschland
Authors: Wolters Volkmar
Published: October 2019

Wissenschaft & Gesellschaft

Positionspapier zur Grundlagenforschung vorgelegt

Arbeitsgremien

Neue Adhoc‐Arbeitsgruppe

Landesverbände

Berlin‐Brandenburg

NRW

Thüringen

Sachsen

Bundesdelegiertenversammlung
Gondwana – Das Praehistorium: Zeitreisen sind möglich!
Authors: Faletto Silvia
Published: October 2019

Im Naturhistorischen Museum Gondwana – Das Praehistorium, in Schiffweiler im Saarland angesiedelt, erwartet die Besucher eine einzigartige Zeitreise durch Jahrmillionen Erd‐ und Evolutionsgeschichte. In naturgetreu nachgestellten Themenwelten erleben Sie dunkle Sumpfwälder, Riesenlibellen, brachiale Sturzfluten und die imposanten Tiere der Urzeit hautnah und live. Beeindruckend ist auch der Einblick in das Leben unserer Vorfahren. Wandern Sie durch Szenen des Mittelalters, der Mayas, der Hochkultur Ägyptens, der Bronzezeit, der Neandertaler und vieler Epochen mehr. Abgerundet wird Ihr Besuch durch eine weltweit einzigartige Sauriershow und eine Rekonstruktion des Urzeithais Megalodon.
Der Blutegel: Renaissance des unheimlichen Dienstleisters
Authors: Eitner Pascal
Published: October 2019

Viele Jahrhunderte diente der Blutsauger als Förderer der Gesundheit und war gleichzeitig Grundlage für den Wohlstand einer ganzen Region. Nachdem der Blutegel zwischenzeitlich in der Bedeutungslosigkeit zu verschwinden drohte, haben ihn die moderne Medizin sowie die Neurobiologie wiederentdeckt.
Bioprocess optimization of laccase production through solid substrate fermentation using Perenniporia tephropora‐L168 and its application in bioremediation of triaryl‐methane dye
Authors: Patil Nayna D. , Chopade Lalit R. , Narkhede Ketan P. , Chaudhari Bhushan L. , Mahajan Raghunath T.
Published: October 2019

Laccases are multi copper oxidases that can oxidize both phenolic and nonphenolic lignin related compounds. Consequently, there has been continuous demand for laccases for the oxidative degradation of phenolic dyes in effluents. In view of this, the present work was focused on laccase production by solid substrate fermentation using a newly isolated fungus Perenniporia tephropora‐L168. To intensify the laccase production, the process parameters pH, nitrogen, inducer, and substrate: water ratio were optimized by using statistical model. A set of optimal conditions noted were pH 3, nitrogen 0.001 g/L; inducer 0.5% and substrate: water ratio (1:10), which yielded laccase 1,160 U/g. The crude laccase exhibited noteworthy potential to degrade a triaryl‐methane dye especially Malachite green. Also, during bioremediation studies, the statistical process optimization could achieve 81% decolourization within 180 min. The laccase treatment brought chemical transformation in malachite green as evident from UV–Visible spectra, FTIR, HPLC while toxicity against bacteria and fungi was also reduced. During phytotoxicity study, effect of treated and untreated dye on germination of seed was analyzed. Interestingly, the germination index for Vigna aconitifolia and Vigna radiata was increased by two and fourfold, respectively. Overall, this work demonstrates optimized production of laccase using Perenniporia tephropora‐L168 and its efficient bioremediation potential for triaryl‐methane dye.
Surgical Anatomy of the Marginal Mandibular Nerve: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Marcuzzo Alberto Vito , Šuran‐Brunelli Azzurra Nicole , Dal Cin Elisa , Rigo Stefania , Piccinato Alice , Boscolo Nata Francesca , Tofanelli Margherita , Boscolo‐Rizzo Paolo , Grill Vittorio , Di Lenarda Roberto , Tirelli Giancarlo
Published: October 2019

The high number of marginal mandibular nerve (MMN) anatomical variants have a well‐known clinical significance due to the risk of nerve injury in several surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to find and systematize the available anatomical data concerning this nerve. The PubMed and Scopus databases were investigated in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guidelines. All studies reporting extractable data on the origin, course, splitting, anastomosis and relationship of the MMN with the mandible or the facial vessels were included. We included 28 studies analyzing 1861 halves. The MMN had one (PP = 35% 95% CI:18–54%), two (PP =35% 95% CI:18–54%), three (PP = 18% 95% CI:0–35%), or four branches (PP = 2% 95% CI:0–8%). Anastomosis with the great auricular nerve, transverse cervical nerve, mental nerve, and other branches of the facial nerve were defined. The origin of the MMN in relation to the parotid and the mandible was variable. The MMN nearly always crossed the anterior facial vein laterally (PP = 38% 95% CI:9–72% if single, PP = 57% 95% CI:22–90% when multiple); its relation with other vessels was less constant. At least one branch of the MMN was found below the inferior border of the mandible (IBM), with a PP of 39% (95% CI:30–50%). The MMN has high anatomical variability and it is more often represented by one or two branches; its origin is frequently described at the parotid apex and above the IBM, although in its course at least one branch often runs below the IBM. Its most frequent anastomosis is with the buccal branch of the facial nerve. Clin. Anat., 33:739–750, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Natural Monoterpenes: Much More than Only a Scent
Authors: Wojtunik‐Kulesza Karolina A. , Kasprzak Kamila , Oniszczuk Tomasz , Oniszczuk Anna
Published: October 2019

Terpenes are a widespread group of secondary metabolites that can be found in various family plants such as the Lamiaceae. In view of their numerous valuable biological activities, the industrial production of concrete terpenes and essential oils rich in the substances is intensively studied. Monoterpenes constitute a significant part of the whole group of the aforementioned secondary metabolites. This is due to their numerous biological activities and their ability to permeate the skin. Despite the fact that these substances have gain popularity, they are not comprehensively characterized. The presented review is based on studies of the biological activities of the most important monoterpenes and the essential oils rich in these compounds. The authors focused attention on antioxidant activity, inhibition towards acetyl‐ and butyrylcholinesterase, and α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase, antifungal, hepatoprotective, sedative properties, and their skin permeation enhancement.
Self‐assembly of Atomically Dispersed Ag Catalysts on Polyhedral Co3O4 at Elevated Temperatures: A Top‐Down Nanofabrication of High‐Loading Atomically Dispersed Catalysts
Authors: Huang Zhiwei , Zhang Jie , Du Yuyao , Zhang Ying , Wu Xiaomin , Jing Guohua
Published: October 2019

Catalysts based on atomically dispersed noble metal catalysts have attracted considerable attention due to their enhanced reactivity and selectivity. However, to prevent the formation of metal nanoparticles and to keep the dispersity of isolated single atoms on surface, the loading concentration of the noble metal must be kept low (usually below 0.5 %). Here, we report a self‐assembly approach for synthesizing a stable atomically dispersed silver‐cobalt oxide catalyst on polyhedral Co3O4 nanoparticles containing Ag up to 10 wt % at elevated temperature. The sample‐averaged extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analysis revealed the presence of highly dispersed Ag species along with small Ag clusters. The coordinatively unsaturated Co3+ centers present on the {110} facets of the Co3O4 surface were shown to be crucial for anchoring catalytically active single Ag atoms. Control experiments showed that polyhedral Co3O4 was more effective than Co3O4‐cube and Co3O4‐octahedron at anchoring Ag atoms. The oxidized nature of the atomically dispersed Ag sites was revealed by X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) Ag−L3‐edge spectra. From the H2‐temperature programmed reduction and CO oxidation test, it was discovered that downsizing catalytically active components from nanocrystals to single atoms not only enhanced the catalytic activity, but also endowed single‐atom catalysts with exceptional oxygen activation ability at low temperature.
Degradation Kinetics of Beech Wood and its Components Cellulose, Lignin and D‐Xylose at HTC Conditions
Authors: Bär Fabian , Curtze Jan H. , Dörr Timo , Drochner Alfons , Vogel Herbert
Published: October 2019

Die energetische Nutzung organischer Abfälle kann die Tank‐vs.‐Teller‐Problematik mildern. Durch Einsatz der hydrothermalen Carbonisierung (HTC) kann aus Abfallbiomasse und insbesondere Feuchtbiomasse eine energiereiche Biokohle erhalten werden. Durch die Bestimmung der Abbaukinetik von Cellulose, D‐Xylose und Lignin konnte das Reaktionsverhalten bestimmt und gegenüber einer realen Biomasse (Buchenholz) validiert werden.
∆Np63/p40 correlates with the location and phenotype of basal/mesenchymal cancer stem‐like cells in human ER+ and HER2+ breast cancers
Authors: Liu Yajing , Nekulova Marta , Nenutil Rudolf , Horakova Iva , Appleyard M Virginia , Murray Karen , Holcakova Jitka , Galoczova Michaela , Quinlan Philip , Jordan Lee B , Purdie Colin A , Vojtesek Borivoj , Thompson Alastair M , Coates Philip J
Published: October 2019

ΔNp63, also known as p40, regulates stemness of normal mammary gland epithelium and provides stem cell characteristics in basal and HER2‐driven murine breast cancer models. Whilst ΔNp63/p40 is a characteristic feature of normal basal cells and basal‐type triple‐negative breast cancer, some receptor‐positive breast cancers express ΔNp63/p40 and its overexpression imparts cancer stem cell‐like properties in ER+ cell lines. However, the incidence of ER+ and HER2+ tumours that express ΔNp63/p40 is unclear and the phenotype of ΔNp63/p40+ cells in these tumours remains uncertain. Using immunohistochemistry with p63 isoform‐specific antibodies, we identified a ΔNp63/p40+ tumour cell subpopulation in 100 of 173 (58%) non‐triple negative breast cancers and the presence of this population associated with improved survival in patients with ER−/HER2+ tumours (p = 0.006). Furthermore, 41% of ER+/PR+ and/or HER2+ locally metastatic breast cancers expressed ΔNp63/p40, and these cells commonly accounted for <1% of the metastatic tumour cell population that localised to the tumour/stroma interface, exhibited an undifferentiated phenotype and were CD44+/ALDH−. In vitro studies revealed that MCF7 and T47D (ER+) and BT‐474 (HER2+) breast cancer cell lines similarly contained a small subpopulation of ΔNp63/p40+ cells that increased in mammospheres. In vivo, MCF7 xenografts contained ΔNp63/p40+ cells with a similar phenotype to primary ER+ cancers. Consistent with tumour samples, these cells also showed a distinct location at the tumour/stroma interface, suggesting a role for paracrine factors in the induction or maintenance of ΔNp63/p40. Thus, ΔNp63/p40 is commonly present in a small population of tumour cells with a distinct phenotype and location in ER+ and/or HER2+ human breast cancers.
Why only blue in the traditional architecture of western Himalaya, India?
Authors: Joshi Naveen C. , Rawat Gopal S.
Published: October 2019

The local environment defines the traditional designs and color of buildings in remote wilderness areas. Color, an integral element of the traditional architecture, is related to the culture, experience, perception, and beliefs, which forms a part of the traditional knowledge of the user. Some ethnic groups have been using some specific color patterns in their houses for generations, which have been carried forward in their traditions and customs. Recognizing this, a study to document the color preference and motivations for the preference of specific colors by an ethnic community residing in the interior valleys of western Himalaya was conducted. By group discussions, 13 indicators, which further merged into five motivation categories, were identified. Semistructured interviews (n = 159) were conducted to assess the perception of selected ethnic groups toward color preference. This study reveals that color preference in architecture is influenced by psychological and sociocultural reasons that vary with gender and age classes.
Virtual Materials Intelligence for Design and Discovery of Advanced Electrocatalysts
Authors: Malek Ali , Eslamibidgoli Mohammad Javad , Mokhtari Mehrdad , Wang Qianpu , Eikerling Michael H. , Malek Kourosh
Published: October 2019

Similar to advancements gained from big data in genomics, security, internet of things, and e‐commerce, the materials workflow could be made more efficient and prolific through advances in streamlining data sources, autonomous materials synthesis, rapid characterization, big data analytics, and self‐learning algorithms. In electrochemical materials science, data sets are large, unstructured/heterogeneous, and difficult to process and analyze from a single data channel or platform. Computer‐aided materials design together with advances in data mining, machine learning, and predictive analytics are expected to provide inexpensive and accelerated pathways towards tailor‐made functionally optimized energy materials. Fundamental research in the field of electrochemical energy materials focuses primarily on complex interfacial phenomena and kinetic electrocatalytic processes. This perspective article critically assesses AI‐driven modeling and computational approaches that are currently applied to those objects. An application‐driven materials intelligence platform is introduced, and its functionalities are scrutinized considering the development of electrocatalyst materials for CO2 conversion as a use case.
Cyclic Four‐Membered Stanna Thio and Seleno Compounds from 2‐Aminopyridinato Stannylenes
Authors: Sen Nilanjana , Pal Shiv , Khade Vikas Vilas , Khan Shabana
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we have used 2‐aminopyridinato ligands (1 and 2) to stabilize two four‐coordinated tin(II) aminopyridinato compounds ([Sn{NPh(py)}2] (3) and [Sn{N(SiMe3)py}2] (4)) (py=pyridine) through a salt elimination reaction. The reactions of 3 and 4 with elemental sulfur and selenium resulted in the formation of compounds (5–8) with Sn2E2 (E = S and Se) four‐membered rings. By increasing the stoichiometry of SnCl2 from 0.5 equiv. to 1 equiv., we have obtained bis(chlorostannylenes) derivatives 9 and 10. Apart from 7, all other compounds have been characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies.
An Expeditious Benzannulation Reaction of Indol‐3‐yl‐but‐3‐yn‐2‐ols to Substituted 2‐Iodocarbazoles via Domino 5‐endo Spirocyclization/Selective Vinyl Shift and Aromatization
Authors: Yaragorla Srinivasarao , Dada Ravikrishna , Bag Debojyoti
Published: October 2019

Regioselective benzannulation reaction of indol‐3‐yl‐but‐3‐yn‐2‐ols to functionaly embellished 2‐iodocarbazoles is described for the first time using iodine at room temperature in an open flask. This reaction proceeds through a cascade of 5‐endo spirocyclization, ring‐rearrangement through a vinyl shift, and aromatization in a short time. This protocol offers direct access to uncovered 2‐iodocarbazoles, with a broad substrate scope and good to moderate yields. Further, we have demonstrated the synthetic potential of these compounds using cross‐coupling reactions.
Synthesis of Trisubstituted 1,2,4‐Triazoles from Azlactones and Aryldiazonium Salts by a Cycloaddition/Decarboxylation Cascade
Authors: Yu Xiao‐Ye , Xiao Wen‐Jing , Chen Jia‐Rong
Published: October 2019

Azlactones, also known as oxazolones, possess multiple reactive sites, and are thus widely used as versatile class of reagents in organic synthesis, particularly in cycloaddition reactions for heterocycle synthesis. However, the use of azlactones as three‐member fragments in cycloaddition reactions/decarboxylation cascade were rarely explored. In this context, a metal‐free cycloaddition/decarboxylation reaction between azlactones and aryldiazonium salts has been achieved for the first time, which provides efficient and facile access to privileged 1,3,5‐trisubstituted 1,2,4‐triazoles. Notably, aryldiazonium salts serve as two‐nitrogen unit rather than the sources of aryl radicals in this transformation, which provides an alternative class of reagents for the construction of N‐heterocycles.
MHD boundary layer of GO–H2O nanoliquid flow upon stretching plate with considering nonlinear thermal ray and Joule heating effect
Authors: Shahlaei S. , Hassankolaei M. G.
Published: October 2019

This essay investigates a steady three‐dimensional laminar boundary layer flow of magnetohydromagnetic radiative of graphene oxide‐water nanofluid over an extensible surface in the attendance of couple stress, thermal ray, and Joule heating impact. Governing equations are solved numerically using the Runge‐Kutta‐Fehlberg 4.5 approach after the transformation of partial differential equations into ordinary differential equations. The main goal of this essay is to check the impacts of variations in the value of numerous parameters on the velocity along x and y‐axis directions () and temperature () profiles, and also on the local skin friction coefficient along x and y‐axis directions in the presence of couple stress (K > 0) and the lack of couple stress (K = 0) and local Nusselt number for the two modes of nonlinear () and linear () thermal ray. The results elucidate that the local Nusselt number for both and modes has a direct connection with radiation parameter (R) and Prandtl number (Pr) and an inverse relation with Eckert number (Ec) and Hartman number (Ha). In addition, the skin friction coefficient has an inverse relation with couple stress (K).
Numerical study and sensitivity analysis on convective heat transfer enhancement in a heat pipe partially filled with porous material using LTE and LTNE methods
Authors: Roohani Isfahani Seyed N. , Salimpour Mohammad R. , Shirani Ebrahim
Published: October 2019

An improved design for convective heat transfer in a heat pipe partially filled with porous medium is presented. In the present study, porous media is used to increase heat transfer in laminar flow inside the tube with a constant heat flux boundary condition. The porous segments are set in different positions in the tube, while the ratio of porous volume to total volume of tube is considered to be constant. A performance evaluation criteria (PEC), which takes account of both heat transfer and pumping power, is defined to find the enhanced mode of porous media arrangement. According to the current results, PEC increases with the number of porous segments. Moreover, the sequence of unequal segments arrangement within the tube is from the largest to the smallest part for a higher PEC. Effects of parameters including porosity, Darcy number, and ratio of effective coefficient of thermal conductivity to coefficient of thermal conductivity of fluid (TKR) are investigated for sensitivity analysis. Simulations are conducted using the local thermal equilibrium method. In addition, the local thermal nonequilibrium is also used for comparison. For TKR numbers less than 10, these models show the same results with negligible differences except for TKR more than 10.
Teaching software‐defined network security through malicious tenant detection
Authors: Abazari Farzaneh , Esposito Flavio , Takabi Hassan , Hosseinvand Hamid , Pecorella Tommaso
Published: October 2019

Software‐Defined Networking (SDN) has radically changed how we manage our network, increasing flexibility, and enabling network programmability. Providing security for tenants is one of the most significant issues in SDN. In this paper, our goal is to introduce with an educational use case, four types of attack vectors associated with malicious tenants that seriously challenge the SDN foundation. We also provide suggestions to teach how to investigate the mitigation of these techniques against the attacks. Our solution, to be tested in the classroom, introduce an approach that utilizes several concepts, such as a topological graph to detect malicious tenants. Unlike other methods to teach how to secure SDNs, our proposed approach teaches how to detect and secure a system without requiring any changes to the underlying protocols.
Autofluorescence excitation‐emission matrices as a quantitative tool for the assessment of meat quality
Authors: Islam Kashif , Mahbub Saabah B. , Clement Sandhya , Guller Anna , Anwer Ayad G. , Goldys Ewa M.
Published: October 2019

Commercially produced meat is currently graded by a complex and partly subjective multiparameter methodology; a quantitative method of grading, using small samples would be desirable. Here, we investigate the correlation between commercial grades of beef and spectral signatures of native fluorophores in such small samples. Beef samples of different commercial grades were characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy complemented by biochemical and histological assessment. The excitation‐emission matrices of the specimens reveal five prominent native autofluorescence signatures in the excitation range from 250 to 350 nm, derived mainly from tryptophan and intramuscular fat. We found that these signatures reflect meat grade and can be used for its determination.
Three‐dimensional intravital imaging in bone research
Authors: Liu Yuhao , Yuan Quan , Zhang Shiwen
Published: October 2019

Intravital imaging has emerged as a novel and efficient tool for visualization of in situ dynamics of cellular behaviors and cell‐microenvironment interactions in live animals, based on desirable microscopy techniques featuring high resolutions, deep imaging and low phototoxicity. Intravital imaging, especially based on multi‐photon microscopy, has been used in bone research for dynamics visualization of a variety of physiological and pathological events at the cellular level, such as bone remodeling, hematopoiesis, immune responses and cancer development, thus, providing guidance for elucidating novel cellular mechanisms in bone biology as well as guidance for new therapies. This review is aimed at interpreting development and advantages of intravital imaging in bone research, and related representative discoveries concerning bone matrices, vessels, and various cells types involved in bone physiologies and pathologies. Finally, current limitations, further refinement, and extended application of intravital imaging in bone research are concluded.
lncRNA RPL34‐AS1 inhibits cell proliferation and invasion while promoting apoptosis by competitively binding miR‐3663‐3p/RGS4 in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Ji Lili , Fan Xing , Zhou Feng , Gu Jun , Deng Xuedong
Published: October 2019

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) accounts for 80% of all thyroid cancers and seriously impacts the quality of people's lives. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in PTC. In previous studies, thousands of lncRNAs were screened to study their potential relationships with PTC. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of RPL34‐AS1 in PTC and to explore its potential mechanisms. Bioinformatic analyses were performed to characterize the possible function and biological features of RPL34‐AS1. Apoptosis, proliferation, and invasion were detected to assess the effect of RPL34‐AS1. Cell proliferation was measured using a Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay. Western blot analysis was used to assess the apoptosis proteins Bax and Bcl‐2. Cell invasion was measured using a Transwell assay. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) analysis was performed to examine RPL34‐AS1, miR‐3663‐3P, and RGS4 expression. Dual‐luciferase assay was performed to assess the binding of miR‐3663‐3P by RPL34‐AS1. RIP experiment was used to verify the combination between miR‐3663‐3p and RGS4. We found that overexpression of RPL34‐AS1 could inhibit proliferation and invasion while promoting apoptosis in PTC cell lines. Moreover, RPL34‐AS1 could also competitively bind miR‐3663‐3p and exert its function by regulating the miR‐3663‐3p/RGS4 in PTC cell lines. We found a previously uncharacterized lncRNA, RPL34‐AS1, and studied its function and mechanism in PTC. Our research will provide new insights into PTC and new clues for its clinical treatment.
Elevating SOX2 in prostate tumor cells upregulates expression of neuroendocrine genes, but does not reduce the inhibitory effects of enzalutamide
Authors: Metz Ethan P. , Wilder Phillip J. , Dong Jixin , Datta Kaustubh , Rizzino Angie
Published: October 2019

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in men. In this cancer, the stem cell transcription factor SOX2 increases during tumor progression, especially as the cancer progresses to the highly aggressive neuroendocrine‐like phenotype. Other studies have shown that knockdown of RB1 and TP53 increases the expression of neuroendocrine markers, decreases the sensitivity to enzalutamide, and increases the expression of SOX2. Importantly, knockdown of SOX2 in the context of RB1 and TP53 depletion restored sensitivity to enzalutamide and reduced the expression of neuroendocrine markers. In this study, we examined whether elevating SOX2 is not only necessary, but also sufficient on its own to promote the expression of neuroendocrine markers and confer enzalutamide resistance. For this purpose, we engineered LNCaP cells for inducible overexpression of SOX2 (i‐SOX2–LNCaP). As shown previously for other tumor cell types, inducible elevation of SOX2 in i‐SOX2–LNCaP inhibited cell proliferation. SOX2 elevation also increased the expression of several neuroendocrine markers, including several neuropeptides and synaptophysin. However, SOX2 elevation did not decrease the sensitivity of i‐SOX2–LNCaP cells to enzalutamide, which indicates that elevating SOX2 on its own is not sufficient to confer enzalutamide resistance. Furthermore, knocking down SOX2 in C4‐2B cells, a derivative of LNCaP cells which is far less sensitive to enzalutamide and which expresses much higher levels of SOX2 than LNCaP cells, did not alter the growth response to this antiandrogen. Thus, our studies indicate that NE marker expression can increase independently of the sensitivity to enzalutamide.
Inhibition of microRNA‐327 ameliorates ischemia/reperfusion injury‐induced cardiomyocytes apoptosis through targeting apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain
Authors: Li Qi , Yang Jun , Zhang Jing , Liu Xiao‐Wen , Yang Chao‐Jun , Fan Zhi‐Xing , Wang Hui‐Bo , Yang Ying , Zheng Tao , Yang Jian
Published: October 2019

Apoptosis is the major cause of cardiomyocyte death in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI). Increasing evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) can contribute to the regulation of cardiomyocytes apoptosis by posttranscriptional modulation of gene expression networks. However, the effects of miR‐327 in regulating MI/RI‐induced cardiomyocytes apoptosis have not been extensively investigated. This study was performed to test whether miR‐327 participate in cardiomyocytes apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo, and reveal the potential molecular mechanism of miR‐327 regulated MI/RI through targeting apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain (ARC). Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to MI/RI by left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion for 30 min and reperfusion for 3 hr. H9c2 cells were exposed to hypoxia for 4 hr and reoxygenation for 12 hr to mimic I/R injury. miRNA‐327 recombinant adenovirus vectors were transfected into H9c2 cells for 48 hr and rats for 72 hr before H/R and MI/RI treatment, respectively. The apoptosis rate, downstream molecules of apoptotic pathway, and the target reaction between miRNA‐327 and ARC were evaluated. Our results showed that miR‐327 was upregulated and ARC was downregulated in the myocardial tissues of MI/RI rats and in H9c2 cells with H/R treatment. Inhibition of miR‐327 decreased the expression levels of proapoptotic proteins Fas, FasL, caspase‐8, Bax, cleaved caspase‐9, cleaved caspase‐3, and the release of cytochrome‐C, as well as increasing the expression levels of antiapoptotic protein Bcl‐2 via negative regulation of ARC both in vivo or vitro. In contrast, overexpression miR‐327 showed the reverse effect. Moreover, the results of luciferase reporter assay indicated miR‐327 targets ARC directly at the posttranscriptional level. Taken together, inhibition of miR‐327 could attenuate cardiomyocyte apoptosis and alleviate I/R‐induced myocardial injury via targeting ARC, which offers a new therapeutic strategy for MI/RI.
Making Decisions in Foreign Languages: Weaker Senses of Ownership Attenuate the Endowment Effect
Authors: Karataş Mustafa
Published: October 2019

Although the number of bilingual consumers is expanding, research on the impact of language on consumer decision making is scarce. The current research examines the endowment effect, which is a fundamental consumer decision‐making regularity, under native versus foreign language processing. I show that the endowment effect, which refers to higher valuation of a given product by sellers than buyers, is attenuated when sellers and buyers process information in a foreign language due to a decrease in sellers’ valuation of the product. I further document empirical evidence for the underlying mechanism of this finding. Thinking in a foreign language diminishes the impact of affective reactions on sellers’ judgment, which results in lowered sense of psychological ownership. This lowered sense of psychological ownership significantly decreases sellers’ valuation to a level comparable to the valuation of buyers. The implications of these results for theory and practice, and avenues for future research are discussed.
Using Big Data to Study the Impact of Mass Violence: Opportunities for the Traumatic Stress Field
Authors: Jones Nickolas M. , Brymer Melissa , Silver Roxane Cohen
Published: October 2019

Studying the community impact of mass violence using a Big Data approach from social media data (e.g., Twitter) offers traumatic stress researchers an unprecedented opportunity to study and clarify theoretical assumptions using large‐scale, observational, ecologically valid data. We describe challenges and benefits of working with Twitter data and briefly review studies that used Twitter data to explore community responses to mass violence. We then demonstrate the use of Twitter data to examine community responses to a specific event: the 2015 San Bernardino terrorist attack, in which 14 people were killed and 22 were wounded. In a 6‐week time frame around this attack, we evaluated the time course of community‐level negative emotion. We downloaded 1.16 million tweets, representing 25,894 users from San Bernardino, CA, and a matched control community, Stockton, CA. All tweets were coded in R using the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) negative emotion dictionary. A piecewise regression technique with a discontinuity analysis was used to evaluate pre‐ and postevent trajectories of negative emotion across the study window. Controlling for within‐user variability, negative emotion increased by 6.2%, β = .182, SE = .014, p < .001, in San Bernardino on the day of the attack and remained elevated for 5 days; no elevation was observed in Stockton. We discuss how data‐driven text analytic techniques are useful for exploring Twitter content generated after collective traumas and describe challenges and opportunities accompanying analyses of social media data to understand the impact of mass violence on affected populations.
Targeting MDM2 for novel molecular therapy: Beyond oncology
Authors: Wang Wei , Qin Jiang‐Jiang , Rajaei Mehrdad , Li Xin , Yu Xiaoyi , Hunt Courtney , Zhang Ruiwen
Published: October 2019

The murine double minute 2 (MDM2) oncogene exerts major oncogenic activities in human cancers; it is not only the best‐documented negative regulator of the p53 tumor suppressor, but also exerts p53‐independent activities. There is an increasing interest in developing MDM2‐based targeted therapies. Several classes of MDM2 inhibitors have been evaluated in preclinical models, with a few entering clinical trials, mainly for cancer therapy. However, noncarcinogenic roles for MDM2 have also been identified, demonstrating that MDM2 is involved in many chronic diseases and conditions such as inflammation and autoimmune diseases, dementia and neurodegenerative diseases, heart failure and cardiovascular diseases, nephropathy, diabetes, obesity, and sterility. MDM2 inhibitors have been shown to have promising therapeutic efficacy for treating inflammation and other nonmalignant diseases in preclinical evaluations. Therefore, targeting MDM2 may represent a promising approach for treating and preventing these nonmalignant diseases. In addition, a better understanding of how MDM2 works in nonmalignant diseases may provide new biomarkers for their diagnosis, prognostic prediction, and monitoring of therapeutic outcome. In this review article, we pay special attention to the recent findings related to the roles of MDM2 in the pathogenesis of several nonmalignant diseases, the therapeutic potential of its downregulation or inhibition, and its use as a biomarker.
Analysis of the impact of chronic corticosteroid use on free flap reconstruction
Authors: Weisberger Joseph S. , Oleck Nicholas C. , Ayyala Haripriya S. , Malhotra Radhika , Lee Edward S.
Published: October 2019

Background

Systemic corticosteroids negatively impact wound healing, potentially increasing postoperative wound complication rates. In this study, the authors utilize the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement (NSQIP) database to investigate the impact of chronic steroid usage on postoperative complications following microvascular free tissue transfer procedures.

Methods

The ACS NSQIP database was queried for all free flap procedures performed between 2005 and 2016. Patients with a history of chronic steroid use (n = 159) were compared to patients with no history of chronic steroid use (n = 3,405). The two cohorts were compared by univariate analysis, followed by multivariate binary logistic regression for all complications noted to be statistically significant on univariate analysis.

Results

Patients treated with systemic corticosteroids were more likely to be smokers, have a history of diabetes, hypertension, bleeding disorders, hypoalbuminemia, anemia, and have a wound infection at time of surgery. There were increased rates of bleeding requiring transfusion (37.7 vs. 27.5% p = .005), overall surgical complications (48.4 vs. 36.7%, p = .003) and overall complication rates (56.0 vs. 42.3%, p = .001) in these patients. On multivariate analysis, chronic steroid use was not associated with increased risk of surgical complications (OR = 2.540, p = .056, 95% CI 0.975–6.622), overall complications (OR = 2.303, p = .086, 95% CI 0.888–5.973), or wound complications. However, chronic steroid usage conferred nearly a four times increased risk for major bleeding complications (OR = 3.995, p = .009, 95% CI 1.415–11.279).

Conclusion

Chronic corticosteroid use does not increase rates of wound complications, reoperation, or readmission. However, this population may be at increased risk for major bleeding requiring blood transfusion following free flap reconstruction.
Experimental characterization of magnetically focused electron contamination at the surface of a high‐field inline MRI‐linac
Authors: Roberts Natalia F. , Patterson Elizabeth , Jelen Urszula , Causer Trent , Holloway Lois , Liney Gary , Lerch Michael , Rosenfeld Anatoly B. , Cutajar Dean , Oborn Bradley M. , Metcalfe Peter
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The fringe field of the Australian MRI‐linac causes contaminant electrons to be focused along the central axis resulting in a high surface dose. This work aims to characterize this effect using Gafchromic film and high‐resolution detectors, MOSkinTM and microDiamond. The secondary aim is to investigate the influence of the inline magnetic field on the relative dose response of these detectors.

Methods

The Australian MRI‐linac has the unique feature that the linac is mounted on rails allowing for measurements to be performed at different magnetic field strengths while maintaining a constant source‐to‐surface distance (SSD). Percentage depth doses (PDD) were collected at SSD 1.82 m in a solid water phantom positioned in a low magnetic field region and then at isocenter of the MRI where the magnetic field is 1 T. Measurements for a range of field sizes were taken with the MOSkinTM, microDiamond, and Gafchromic® EBT3 film. The detectors’ relative responses at 1 T were compared to the near 0 T PDD beyond the region of electron contamination, that is, 20 mm depth. The near surface measurements inside the MRI bore were compared among the different detectors.

Results

Skin dose in the MRI, as measured with the MOSkinTM, was 104.5% for 2.1 × 1.9 cm2, 185.6% for 6.1 × 5.8 cm2, 369.1% for 11.8 × 11.5 cm2, and 711.1% for 23.5 × 23 cm2. The detector measurements beyond the electron contamination region showed agreement between the relative response at 1 T and near 0 T. Film was in agreement with both detectors in this region further demonstrating their relative response is unaffected by the magnetic field.

Conclusions

Experimental characterization of the high electron contamination at the surface was performed for a range of field sizes. The relative response of MOSkinTM and microDiamond detectors, beyond the electron contamination region, were confirmed to be unaffected by the 1‐T inline magnetic field.