bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systems Metabolic Engineering of Escherichia coli Improves Coconversion of Lignocellulose‐Derived Sugars
Authors: Kim Joonhoon , Tremaine Mary , Grass Jeffrey A. , Purdy Hugh M. , Landick Robert , Kiley Patricia J. , Reed Jennifer L.
Published: July 2019

Currently, microbial conversion of lignocellulose‐derived glucose and xylose to biofuels is hindered by the fact that most microbes (including Escherichia coli [E. coli], Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Zymomonas mobilis) preferentially consume glucose first and consume xylose slowly after glucose is depleted in lignocellulosic hydrolysates. In this study, E. coli strains are developed that simultaneously utilize glucose and xylose in lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysate using genome‐scale models and adaptive laboratory evolution. E. coli strains are designed and constructed that coutilize glucose and xylose and adaptively evolve them to improve glucose and xylose utilization. Whole‐genome resequencing of the evolved strains find relevant mutations in metabolic and regulatory genes and the mutations’ involvement in sugar coutilization is investigated. The developed strains show significantly improved coconversion of sugars in lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysates and provide a promising platform for producing next‐generation biofuels.
Risk factors associated with suicide among kidney cancer patients: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results analysis
Authors: Guo Chenyu , Zheng Wenwen , Zhu Weiwei , Yu Shengqiang , Ding Yuexia , Wu Qingna , Tang Qiling , Lu Congxiao
Published: July 2019

Background

The suicide risk was higher in kidney cancer patients than in the general population. The purpose of this study was to characterize the suicide rates among kidney cancer patients and to identify the potential risk factors associated with suicide from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Methods

Kidney cancer patients were identified from the SEER database during 1973‐2015. Suicide rates and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) of this population were calculated, and the US general population during 1981‐2015 was chosen as a reference. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression were performed to find out potential risk factors of suicide.

Results

There were 207 suicides identified among 171 819 individuals with kidney cancer observed for 948 272 person‐years. The suicide rate was 21.83 per 100 000 person‐years, and SMR was 1.83 (95% CI: 1.59‐2.10). On Cox regression, diagnosis in early years (1973‐1982 vs 2003‐2015, HR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.01‐4.11, P = 0.048; 1983‐1992 vs 2003‐2015, HR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.18‐3.35, P = 0.010), male sex (vs female sex, HR: 4.43, 95% CI: 2.95‐6.65, P < 0.001), unmarried status (vs married status, HR: 2.54, 95% CI: 1.91‐3.38, P < 0.001), non‐black race (white race vs black race, HR: 4.47, 95% CI: 2.09‐9.58, P < 0.001; other races vs black race, HR: 3.01, 95% CI: 1.08‐8.37, P = 0.035), higher histologic grade (grade IV vs grade I, HR: 3.27, 95% CI: 1.50‐7.13, P = 0.003; grade III vs grade I, HR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.19‐3.81, P = 0.011) and cancer‐directed surgery not performed (vs performed, HR: 2.78, 95% CI: 1.52‐5.11, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors of suicide among kidney cancer patients.

Conclusions

Diagnosis in early years, male sex, unmarried status, non‐black race, higher histologic grade, and cancer‐directed surgery not performed were significantly associated with suicide among kidney cancer patients. In order to prevent suicidal death, clinicians should pay more attention to patients with high‐risk factors of suicide.
Esterified Derivatives of Panaxadiol and Their Inhibitory Effect on HL‐60, THP‐1, and PC‐3 Cell Lines
Authors: Wang Ziyi , Ding Meng , Lin Zhe , He Cuiwei , Zhao Yuqing
Published: July 2019

Panaxadiol is a dammarane‐type ginsenoside having high ginseng content. The 3‐hydroxy group of panaxadiol (PD) was modified by fatty acids and diacids. The modified panax glycol had enhanced anticancer activity. Twelve PD derivatives were evaluated and purified by chemical synthesis, column chromatography, co‐synthesis, and identification. The human leukemia cells THP‐1, HL‐60, and human prostate cancer cell lines PC‐3 were evaluated; PD derivatives were tested and evaluated in vitro by MTT assay. The results showed that the antitumor activities of some derivatives on three tumor cell lines were better than those of PD.
Cyclic Cell‐Penetrating Peptides with Single Hydrophobic Groups
Authors: Song Jian , Qian Ziqing , Sahni Ashweta , Chen Kuangyu , Pei Dehua
Published: July 2019

A new family of cyclic cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) has been discovered; they differ from previously reported cyclic CPPs by containing only a single hydrophobic residue. The optimal CPP structure consists of four arginine residues and a hydrophobic residue with a long alkyl chain (e.g., a decyl group) in a cyclohexapeptide ring. The most active member of this family, CPP 17, has an intrinsic cellular entry efficiency similar to that of cyclic CPP12, the most active CPP reported to date. However, CPP 17 is 2.8 times more active than CPP12 under high serum protein concentrations, presumably because of the lower protein binding. CPP 17 enters the cell primarily by direct translocation at a relatively low concentration (≥5 μm).
Nanoscale Structural Organization of Insulin Fibril Polymorphs Revealed by Atomic Force Microscopy–Infrared Spectroscopy (AFM‐IR)
Authors: Rizevsky Stanislav , Kurouski Dmitry
Published: July 2019

Spontaneous aggregation of misfolded proteins typically results in the formation of morphologically and structurally different amyloid fibrils, protein aggregates that are strongly associated with various neurodegenerative disorders. Elucidation of the structural organization of amyloid aggregates is crucial to understanding their role in the onset and progression of these diseases. Using atomic force microscopy–infrared spectroscopy (AFM‐IR), we investigated the structural organization of insulin fibrils. We found that insulin aggregation results in the formation of two structurally different fibril polymorphs. One polymorph has a β‐sheet core surrounded by primarily unordered protein secondary structure. This polymorph has β‐sheet‐rich surface, whereas the surface of the other fibril polymorph is primarily composed of unordered protein. Using AFM‐IR, we also revealed the structural organization of the insulin oligomers. Finally, we discovered a new pathway for amyloid fibril formation that is based on a fusion of several oligomers into a single fibril structure.
Biosynthetic Machinery of 6‐Hydroxymellein Derivatives Leading to Cyclohelminthols and Palmaenones
Authors: Ugai Takahiro , Minami Atsushi , Tanaka Shizuya , Ozaki Taro , Liu Chengwei , Shigemori Hideyuki , Hashimoto Masaru , Oikawa Hideaki
Published: July 2019

Oxygenated cyclopentene systems are unique structural motifs found in fungal polyketides such as terrein, cyclohelminthols, and palmaenones. Here we report the identification of the biosynthetic gene clusters for cyclohelminthols and palmaenones and the functional characterization of the polyketide synthases and halogenases involved in the construction of 6‐hydroxymellein derivatives. Heterologous expression in Aspergillus oryzae demonstrated that 6‐hydroxymellein is a common biosynthetic intermediate and that chlorination occurs in the early stages of its products’ biosynthesis. This was further confirmed by in vitro enzymatic reactions conducted in the presence of recombinant proteins. Plausible means of biogenesis of fungal polyketides from 6‐hydroxymellein derivatives, additionally supported by the reported labeling patterns of terrein and structurally related fungal polyketides, are also discussed. This study sets the stage for elucidation of the biosynthetic machinery of fungal polyketides of this type.
Effect of premilling treatments on the functional and bread‐baking properties of whole yellow pea flour using micronization and pregermination
Authors: Frohlich Peter , Young Gina , Bourré Lindsay , Borsuk Yulia , Sarkar Ashok , Sopiwnyk Elaine , Pickard Mark , Dyck Adam , Malcolmson Linda
Published: July 2019

Background and objectives

There is interest in partially replacing wheat flour with pulse flours in bread. However, flavor of pulse flours may be detrimental to the final product. Processing pulses prior to milling, using micronization and pregermination (early seed germination without radicle emergence), was investigated as a way to improve the flavor of yellow pea flour while maintaining or improving flour functionality.

Findings

Micronization and pregermination of peas prior to milling resulted in changes to flour particle size, color, and compositional and functional properties of the flours. Peas tempered to 18%–20% and micronized to 105–110°C produced a flour that was similar in baking properties to the flour milled from untreated peas with the exception of crumb firmness and aroma and flavor of the bread. All bread made from micronized peas tended to have reduced crumb firmness and improved aroma and flavor properties compared to bread made with untreated peas. Results for the pregerminated peas showed that the flour had higher starch damage and WAC and lower peak and final viscosities compared to the flour milled from untreated peas. Bread baked from pregerminated peas had lower bread quality in terms of bread scores, volume, crumb color, and C‐cell properties, but the bread had reduced crumb firmness and improved aroma and flavor properties, compared to bread made with untreated peas.

Conclusions

Both micronization and pregermination were suitable premilling treatments for yellow peas. Pregermination, however, warrants additional research to determine whether flour and baking properties can be improved.

Significance and novelty

Pretreating yellow peas using either micronization or pergermination prior to milling were successful in reducing undesirable flavors associated with pea flour. Depending on the treatment and conditions used, flour functionality and bread‐baking properties were maintained.
Heterozygous loss of function of NR4A2 is associated with intellectual deficiency, rolandic epilepsy, and language impairment
Authors: Ramos Luiza L. P. , Monteiro Fabiola P. , Sampaio Leticia P. B. , Costa Larissa A. , Ribeiro Mara D. O. , Freitas Erika L. , Kitajima Joao P. , Kok Fernando
Published: July 2019

Recognition of a de novo mutation in NR4A2 associated with a neurodevelopmental phenotype reinforces its role in 2q23q24 microdeletion syndrome. Using the proband WES data and the probability of loss‐of‐function intolerance index (pLi) set at 1.0 (highest intolerance constraint), we could target NR4A2 as the candidate gene in this patient.
Prognostic value of platelet to lymphocyte ratio in predicting survival of patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer receiving abiraterone acetate: An evidence‐based case report and review of literature
Authors: Yausep Oliver E. , Agarwal Raksheeth , Aulina Rifqha , Wijaya Anthony E. , Amaia Ilonka , Moekti Addina W. , Rinaldi Ikhwan , Hamid Agus Rizal A. H.
Published: July 2019

Platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) is a candidate prognostic marker for metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients receiving abiraterone acetate and evidence demonstrates that a high PLR is associated with poor survival. More studies are required to verify current findings and establish a definite cutoff point.
Construction of 2D MOFs@reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites with Enhanced Visible Light‐induced Fenton‐like Catalytic Performance by Seeded Growth Strategy
Authors: Hou Xiaojun , Hu Kangze , Zhang Huan , Tao Zhang , Yang Mu , Wang Ge
Published: July 2019

Seeded growth strategy to synthesize NH2‐MIL‐88B(Fe) embedded on reduced graphene oxide (NM88@RGO) is reported in this work. The 2D NM88@RGO composites show intensive Fenton‐like catalytic performance in the visible light‐driven degradation of contaminant. Among as‐synthesized samples, NM88@RGO‐15 is confirmed to possess the highest catalytic activity to the removal of RhB within 1 h and the efficiency is held at high level after 5 cycles. Besides, the synergistic interaction between NH2‐MIL‐88B(Fe) and RGO and photocatalytic mechanism are investigated thoroughly by the electrochemical measurements, the trap experiment of active species, and the analysis of energy‐level position. RGO is capable of acting as a template to direct the formation of 2D nanostructures and behaves as an electron‐captured net to facilitate the charge transfer and inhibit the recombination of electron‐holes on the NH2‐MIL‐88B(Fe). The homogeneous distribution of Fe‐MOFs particles on RGO nanosheets is in favor of the formation and exposure of active sites for light‐driven Fenton‐like reaction.
Controlling the Degree of Functionalization: In‐Depth Quantification and Side‐Product Analysis of Diazonium Chemistry on SWCNTs
Authors: Schirowski Milan , Hauke Frank , Hirsch Andreas
Published: July 2019

We present an in‐depth qualitative and quantitative analysis of a reaction between 4‐iodobenzenediazonium tetrafluoroborate and single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) via thermogravimetric analysis coupled with mass spectrometry (TG‐MS) or a gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (TG‐GC‐MS) as well as Raman spectroscopy. We propose a method for precise determination of the degree of functionalization and quantification of physisorbed aromates, detaching around their boiling point, alongside covalently bonded ones (cleavage over 200 °C). While the presence of some side products like phenol‐ or biphenyl species could be excluded, residual surfactant and minor amounts of benzene could be identified. A concentration‐dependent experiment shows that the degree of functionalization increases with the logarithm of the concentration of applied diazonium salt, which can be exploited to precisely adjust the amount of aryl addends on the nanotube sidewall, up to 1 moiety per 100 carbon atoms.
Designed One‐Pot Strategy for Dual‐Carbon‐Protected Na3V2(PO4)3 Hybrid Structure as High‐Rate and Ultrastable Cathode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Jie , Peng Bo , Li Yapeng , Yu Lai , Wang Gongrui , Shi Liang , Zhang Genqiang
Published: July 2019

Sodium‐ion batteries have attracted tremendous attention due to their much lower cost and similar working principle compared with lithium‐ion batteries, which have been invited great expectation as energy storage devices in grid‐level applications. The sodium superionic conductor Na3V2(PO4)3 has been considered as a promising cathode candidate; however, its intrinsic low electronic conductivity results in poor rate performance and unsatisfactory cycling performance, which severely impedes its potential for practical applications. Herein, we developed a facile one‐pot strategy to construct dual carbon‐protected hybrid structure composed of carbon coated Na3V2(PO4)3 nanoparticles embedded with carbon matrix with excellent rate performance, superior cycling stability and ultralong lifespan. Specifically, it can deliver an outstanding rate performance with a 51.5 % capacity retention from 0.5 to 100 C and extraordinary cycling stability of 80.86 % capacity retention after 6000 cycles at the high rate of 20 C. The possible reasons for the enhanced performance could be understood as the synergistic effects of the strengthened robust structure, facilitated charge transfer kinetics, and the mesoporous nature of the Na3V2(PO4)3 hybrid structure. This work provides a cost‐effective strategy to effectively optimize the electrochemical performance of a Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, which could contribute to push forward the advance of its practical applications.
Rational Synthesis of Iron/Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Catalyst through a Spatial Isolation Strategy for Efficient Oxygen Reduction in Acidic and Alkaline Media
Authors: Feng Bomin , Wu Xiuju , Li Ling , Gao Wei , Hu Weihua , Li Chang Ming
Published: July 2019

It remains challenging to rationally synthesize iron/nitrogen‐doped carbon (Fe/N‐C) catalysts with rich Fe−Nx atomic active sites for improved oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysis. A highly efficient Fe/N‐C catalyst, which has been synthesized through a spatial isolation strategy, is reported. Derived from bioinspired polydopamine (PDA)‐based hybrid microsphere precursors, it is a multifunctional carrier that loads atomically dispersed Fe3+/Zn2+ ions through coordination interactions and N‐rich melamine through electrostatic attraction and covalent bonding. The Zn2+ ions and melamine in the precursor efficiently isolate Fe3+ atoms upon pyrolysis to form rich Fe−Nx atomic active sites, and generate abundant micropores during high‐temperature treatment; as a consequence, the resultant Fe‐N/C catalyst contains rich catalytically active Fe−Nx sites and a hierarchical porous structure. The catalyst exhibits improved ORR activity that is superior to and close to that of Pt/C in alkaline and acidic solutions, respectively.
From MOF‐74‐Zn to Triazolate‐Directed Nonsymmetric Assembly of Chiral Zn6@Zn6 Clusters
Authors: Yang Huajun , Le James , Dinh Andy , Zhao Xiang , Chen Xitong , Peng Fang , Feng Pingyun , Bu Xianhui
Published: July 2019

The creation of new cluster building blocks, as well as new ligand coordination modes, are among the most effective ways to develop new framework materials. Yet, large and chiral clusters are both difficult to create and relatively few. Here, by studying the competing coordination of different azolates against carboxylate and combined carboxylate/phenolate, it is shown that the impact of azolates in the MOF‐74 synthesis system differs dramatically, leading to the synthesis of MOF‐74, UTSA‐74, and CPM‐72 for 2‐methylimidazole, 1,2,4‐triazole, and 1,2,3‐triazole, respectively. The new CPM‐72 contains a novel chiral Zn12 triazolate cluster, which features a trigonal‐prismatic Zn6 core inside an octahedral Zn6 shell. In contrast with MOF‐74 with fully deprotonated and symmetrically bonded 2,5‐dihydroxyterephthalic acid (H4DOBDC), H4DOBDC adopts an unusual nonsymmetric bonding mode in CPM‐72 (carboxylate only at one end and carboxylate/phenolate at the other), resulting in a highly porous and intrinsically chiral 3D framework. The nonsymmetric bonding mode by H4DOBDC, apparently dictated by the chiral Zn12 cluster, can be replicated with 2‐hydroxyterephthalic acid (H3OBDC), leading to the synthesis of porous isoreticular CPM‐73.
A Straightforward Approach to Multifunctional Graphene
Authors: Lucherelli Matteo Andrea , Raya Jésus , Edelthalhammer Konstantin F. , Hauke Frank , Hirsch Andreas , Abellán Gonzalo , Bianco Alberto
Published: July 2019

Graphene has been covalently functionalized through a one‐pot reductive pathway using graphite intercalation compounds (GICs), in particular KC8, with three different orthogonally protected derivatives of 4‐aminobenzylamine. This novel multifunctional platform exhibits excellent bulk functionalization homogeneity (Hbulk) and degree of addition while preserving the chemical functionalities of the organic addends through different protecting groups, namely: tert‐butyloxycarbonyl (Boc), benzyloxycarbonyl (Cbz) and phthalimide (Pht). We have employed (temperature‐dependent) statistical Raman spectroscopy (SRS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), magic angle spinning solid state 13C NMR (MAS‐NMR), and a characterization tool consisting of thermogravimetric analysis coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (TG‐GC‐MS) to unambiguously demonstrate the covalent binding and the chemical nature of the different molecular linkers. This work paves the way for the development of smart graphene‐based materials of great interest in biomedicine or electronics, to name a few, and will serve as a guide in the design of new 2D multifunctional materials.
Ultrasensitive Detection and Binding Mechanism of Cocaine in an Aptamer‐based Single‐molecule Device
Authors: Chen Xinjiani , Zhou Chenguang , Guo Xuefeng
Published: July 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Aptamer serves as a potential candidate for the micro‐detection of cocaine due to its high specificity, high affinity and good stability. Although cocaine aptasensors have been extensively studied, the binding mechanism of cocaine‐aptamer interactions is still unknown, which limits the structural refinement in the design of an aptamer to improve the performance of cocaine aptasensors. Herein, we report a label‐free, ultrasensitive detection of single‐molecule cocaine‐aptamer interaction by using an electrical nanocircuit based on graphene‐molecule‐ graphene single‐molecule junctions (GMG‐SMJs). Real‐time recordings of cocaine‐aptamer interactions have exhibited distinct current oscillations before and after cocaine treatment, revealing the dynamic mechanism of the conformational changes of aptamer upon binding with cocaine. Further concentration‐dependent experiments have proved that these devices can act as a single‐molecule biosensor with at least a limit of detection as low as 1 nmol∙L–1. The method demonstrated in this work provides a novel strategy for shedding light on the interaction mechanism of biomolecules as well as constructing new types of aptasensors toward practical applications.
Outcomes for older adults with acute myeloid leukemia after an intensive care unit admission
Authors: Slavin Samuel D. , Fenech Alyssa , Jankowski Amanda L. , Abel Gregory A. , Brunner Andrew M. , Steensma David P. , Fathi Amir T. , DeAngelo Daniel J. , Wadleigh Martha , Hobbs Gabriela S. , Amrein Philip C. , Stone Richard M. , Temel Jennifer S. , El‐Jawahri Areej
Published: July 2019

Background

Older adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are often assumed to have poor outcomes after admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). However, little is known about ICU utilization and post‐ICU outcomes in this population.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective analysis for 330 patients who were 60 years old or older and were diagnosed with AML between 2005 and 2013 at 2 hospitals in Boston.They used descriptive statistics to examine the proportion of patients admitted to the ICU as well as their mortality and functional recovery. They used logistic regression to identify risk factors for in‐hospital mortality.

Results

Ninety‐six patients (29%) were admitted to the ICU, primarily because of respiratory failure (39%), septic shock (28%), and neurological compromise (9%). The proportions of patients who survived to hospital discharge, 90 days, and 1 year were 47% (45 of 96), 35% (34 of 96), and 30% (29 of 96), respectively. At 90 days, 76% of the patients had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) of 0 or 1, and 86% were in complete remission (CR) and/or continued to receive AML‐directed therapy. In a multivariate analysis, a poorer baseline ECOG PS score (odds ratio, 2.76; P = .013) and the need for 2 or more life‐sustaining therapies (ie, vasopressors, invasive ventilation, and/or renal replacement therapy; odds ratio, 12.4; P < .001) were associated with increased odds of in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusions

Although almost one‐third of older patients with AML are admitted to an ICU, nearly half survive to hospital discharge with good functional outcomes. The baseline performance status and the need for 2 or more life‐sustaining therapies predict hospital mortality. These data support the judicious use of ICU resources for older patients with AML.
Platinum Alloy Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction: Advances, Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Wu Dezhen , Shen Xiaochen , Pan Yanbo , Yao Libo , Peng Zhenmeng
Published: July 2019

One of the challenges in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is developing cost‐effective, active and stable catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Platinum alloy‐based catalyst materials have drawn great attention and been intensively investigated for the excellent activity property, with some of them already exceeding 2020 DOE target for the ORR activity. In the meantime, the electrochemical stability of these Pt alloys remains a challenge to be overcome. This review first highlights important understandings of ORR pathways and mechanisms and then proceeds to summarize recent research progresses on development of Pt alloy catalyst materials. Current obstacles in Pt alloy catalyst research are discussed, with the stability issue being specifically emphasized and a theoretical model being developed for depicting the stability property. This review also provides perspectives of future research directions in this field.
Structure and Magnetic Properties of RIn2.9Co0.1 (R = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Lu)
Authors: Tan Hui , Guo Yong‐Quan
Published: July 2019

RIn2.9Co0.1 (R = rare earth) intermetallic compound has been synthesized, and its structure and magnetic properties have been investigated using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectrum and magnetic measurement. RIn2.9Co0.1 crystallizes in cubic AuCu3‐type structure for R = heavy rare earths, and a small amount of R(In, Co)2 metaphase separates from RIn2.9Co0.1 for R = light rare earth. Rietveld's structural refinement confirms that R(In, Co)2 metaphase is the isomorphism of hexagonal CaIn2. The lattice parameters of RIn2.9Co0.1 tend to decrease with increasing atomic number of R due to the shrinking effect of atomic radius in rare earth group. The cubic phase can be stabilized in the range of 1.048–1.133 for the effective atomic radius ratio RA and 0.35–0.41 for the electronegativity difference ΔX. The magnetizing process of RIn2.9Co0.1 shows various characteristics with increasing atomic number of rare earth, and the magnetizing curves follow a ferromagnetic model for R = La, a mixed ferromagnetic and paramagnetic model for R = Ce, Pr, Nd, Gd, Tb, Dy. The formation of ferromagnetic characteristics results from the strong spin–spin interaction between R and Co.
Proactive multipath routing with a predictive mechanism in software‐defined networks
Authors: Lin Ying‐Dar , Liu Te‐Lung , Wang Shun‐Hsien , Lai Yuan‐Cheng
Published: July 2019

With the growth of network traffic volume, link congestion cannot be avoided efficiently with conventional routing protocols. By utilizing the single shortest‐path routing algorithm from link state advertisement information, standard routing protocols lack of global awareness and are difficult to be modified in a traditional network environment. Recently, software‐defined network (SDN) provided innovative architecture for researchers to program their own network protocols. With SDN, we can divert heavy traffic to multiple paths in order to resolve link congestion. Furthermore, certain network traffics come in periodic fashion such as peak hours at working days so that we can leverage forecasting for resource management to improve its performance. In this paper, we propose a proactive multipath routing with a predictive mechanism (PMRP) to achieve high‐performance congestion resolution. PMRP has two main concepts: (a) a proactive mechanism where PMRP deploys M/M/1 queue and traffic statistics to simulate weighted delay for possible combinations of multipaths placement of all subnet pairs, and leverage genetic algorithm for accelerating selection of optimized solution, and (b) a predictive mechanism whereby PMRP uses exponential smoothing for demand traffic volumes and variance predictions. Experimental results show a 49% reduction in average delay as compared with single shortest routing, and a 16% reduction in average delay compared with utilization & topology‐aware multipath routing (UTAMP). With the predictive mechanism, PMRP can decrease an additional 20% average delay. Furthermore, PMRP reduces 93% of flow table usage on average as compared with UTAMP.
Topical hydrogels with escin β‐sitosterol phytosome and escin: Formulation development and in vivo assessment of antihyperalgesic activity
Authors: Djekic Ljiljana , Čalija Bojan , Micov Ana , Tomić Maja , Stepanović‐Petrović Radica
Published: July 2019

The physicochemical properties, stability, in vivo antihyperalgesic activity, and skin irritation potential of the carbomer hydrogels with the new chemical entity escin β‐sitosterol (ES) phytosome were characterized and compared with those containing escin. Physicochemical characterization of the hydrogels (performed 48 hr after preparation) included organoleptic examination, pH measurement, light microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry analysis and rheological tests. The obtained results showed that increasing concentration of the active substances within 1–5% affected the appearance (color and transparency) of the hydrogels, their pH, consistency, and rheological behavior. Unlike acidic escin, which was dissolved in the liquid phase of the pseudoplastic hydrogels E1–E5 and reduced their maximal apparent viscosity (ηmax), minimal apparent viscosity (ηmin), and hysteresis area (H) in comparison to the plain carbomer hydrogel, amphiphilic ES‐enhanced ηmax, ηmin, and thixotropy of the hydrogels ES1–ES5, which is favorable for prolonged retention at skin surface. Evaluation of in‐use stability of the hydrogels showed that organoleptic characteristics, flow behavior, and pH values could be preserved for 3 months under ambient conditions. The rat ear test results suggested that the hydrogels are safe to be used on human skin. Both escin and ES‐loaded hydrogels exerted significant, concentration‐dependent antihyperalgesic effect in inflammatory pain model in rats. ES‐loaded hydrogels were significantly more effective than those loaded with escin. This is a first report on the antihyperalgesic effect of topically applied escin as well as ES in a model of inflammatory pain.
Models and treatments for traumatic optic neuropathy and demyelinating optic neuritis
Authors: Bastakis George G. , Ktena Niki , Karagogeos Domna , Savvaki Maria
Published: July 2019

Pathologies of the optic nerve could result as primary insults in the visual tract or as secondary deficits due to inflammation, demyelination, or compressing effects of the surrounding tissue. The extent of damage may vary from mild to severe, differently affecting patient vision, with the most severe forms leading to complete uni‐ or bilateral visual loss. The aim of researchers and clinicians in the field is to alleviate the symptoms of these, yet uncurable pathologies, taking advantage of known and novel potential therapeutic approaches, alone or in combinations, and applying them in a limited time window after the insult. In this review, we discuss the epidemiological and clinical profile as well as the pathophysiological mechanisms of two main categories of optic nerve pathologies, namely traumatic optic neuropathy and optic neuritis, focusing on the demyelinating form of the latter. Moreover, we report on the main rodent models mimicking these pathologies or some of their clinical aspects. The current treatment options will also be reviewed and novel approaches will be discussed.
Discrepancies in vegetation phenology trends and shift patterns in different climatic zones in middle and eastern Eurasia between 1982 and 2015
Authors: Li Yaobin , Zhang Yuandong , Gu Fengxue , Liu Shirong
Published: July 2019

Changes in vegetation phenology directly reflect the response of vegetation growth to climate change. In this study, using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index dataset from 1982 to 2015, we extracted start date of vegetation growing season (SOS), end date of vegetation growing season (EOS), and length of vegetation growing season (LOS) in the middle and eastern Eurasia region and evaluated linear trends in SOS, EOS, and LOS for the entire study area, as well as for four climatic zones. The results show that the LOS has significantly increased by 0.27 days/year, mostly due to a significantly advanced SOS (−0.20 days/year) and a slightly delayed EOS (0.07 days/year) over the entire study area from 1982 to 2015. The vegetation phenology trends in the four climatic zones are not continuous throughout the 34‐year period. Furthermore, discrepancies in the shifting patterns of vegetation phenology trend existed among different climatic zones. Turning points (TP) of SOS trends in the Cold zone, Temperate zone, and Tibetan Plateau zone occurred in the mid‐ or late 1990s. The advanced trends of SOS in the Cold zone, Temperate zone, and Tibetan Plateau zone exhibited accelerated, stalled, and reversed patterns after the corresponding TP, respectively. The TP did not occurred in Cold‐Temperate zone, where the SOS showed a consistent and continuous advance. TPs of EOS trends in the Cold zone, Cold‐Temperate zone, Temperate zone, and Tibetan Plateau zone occurred in the late 1980s or mid‐1990s. The EOS in the Cold zone, Cold‐Temperate zone, Temperate zone, and Tibetan Plateau zone showed weak advanced or delayed trends after the corresponding TP, which were comparable with the delayed trends before the corresponding TP. The shift patterns of LOS trends were primarily influenced by the shift patterns of SOS trends and were also heterogeneous within climatic zones.
Beyond the black box: promoting mathematical collaborations for elucidating interactions in soil ecology
Authors: Bennett Alison E. , Preedy Katharine , Golubski Antonio , Umbanhowar James , Borrett Stuart R. , Byrne Loren , Apostol Kent , Bever James D. , Biederman Lori , Classen Aimée T. , Cuddington Kim , de Graaff Marie‐Anne , Garrett Karen A. , Gross Lou , Hastings Alan , Hoeksema Jason D. , Hrynkiv Volodymyr , Karst Justine , Kummel Miro , Lee Charlotte T. , Liang Chao , Liao Wei , Mack Keenan , Miller Laura , Ownley Bonnie , Rojas Claudia , Simms Ellen L. , Walsh Vonda K. , Warren Matthew , Zhu Jun
Published: July 2019

Understanding soil systems is critical because they form the structural and nutritional foundation for plants and thus every terrestrial habitat and agricultural system. In this paper, we encourage increased use of mathematical models to drive forward understanding of interactions in soil ecological systems. We discuss several distinctive features of soil ecosystems and empirical studies of them. We explore some perceptions that have previously deterred more extensive use of models in soil ecology and some advances that have already been made using models to elucidate soil ecological interactions. We provide examples where mathematical models have been used to test the plausibility of hypothesized mechanisms, to explore systems where experimental manipulations are currently impossible, or to determine the most important variables to measure in experimental and natural systems. To aid in the development of theory in this field, we present a table describing major soil ecology topics, the theory previously used, and providing key terms for theoretical approaches that could potentially address them. We then provide examples from the table that may either contribute to important incremental developments in soil science or potentially revolutionize our understanding of plant–soil systems. We challenge scientists and mathematicians to push theoretical explorations in soil systems further and highlight three major areas for the development of mathematical models in soil ecology: theory spanning scales and ecological hierarchies, processes, and evolution.
Ecosystem services and disservices of bear foraging on managed timberlands
Authors: Mendia Shannon M. , Johnson Matthew D. , Higley J. Mark
Published: July 2019

The literature on ecosystem services has been criticized for inadequately acknowledging culture values and for de‐emphasizing economic disservices. While economic loss due to tree damage by American black bears (Ursus americanus, hereafter bears) may negatively affect timber production, it also alters forest structure and habitat that may contribute to forest wildlife diversity, including culturally significant species. We examined the relationship between bear damage to Douglas‐fir trees (Pseudotsuga menziesiivar.menziesii) and response of cavity‐nesting birds on the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation. We measured disservices from bear damage by calculating current and future timber revenue loss, and ecosystem services by calculating forest structural complexity, abundance and diversity of cavity‐nesting birds, and woodpecker activity. Bear damage was correlated negatively with tree growth and positively with estimated timber loss. Forest structural complexity was positively correlated with bear damage, and cavity‐nester abundance and woodpecker foraging activity were positively correlated with forest structural complexity and bear damage. Pileated woodpeckers (Dryocopus pileatus) and red‐breasted sapsuckers (Sphyrapicus ruber) used bear‐damaged trees out of proportion to their availability, and pileated woodpeckers selected for more structurally complex sample units. Information from this study advances our understanding of the potential for bear foraging to negatively affect economic revenue and the trade‐offs with habitat conditions favoring other important wildlife species. Understanding the costs and benefits of bear damage can help guide management decisions vital to forest managers both on and off tribal lands.
Effect of lightning impulse prestress on AC partial discharge characteristics in cast resin transformer
Authors: Maruyama Hirofumi , Matsuo Kensuke , Kozako Masahiro , Hikita Masayuki , Iida Kazuo , Umemura Tokihiro , Nakamura Yusuke , Nakamae Tetsuo , Maeda Teruhiko , Higashiyama Masakazu
Published: July 2019

It is crucial for cast resin transformer to detect void and delamination existing in the cast resin because these defects reduce insulation performance of cast resin equipment. Furthermore, defects are likely to be mixed in cast resin because of several surface boundaries between resin and conductor. It is considered that detecting partial discharge (PD) is effective to diagnose equipment of power equipment. However, it is reported that withstand lightning impulse voltage test may give influence on AC partial discharge test, especially partial discharge inception voltage. This paper deals with accumulated charge in a void under AC voltage to investigate the effect of the impulse voltage prestress on subsequent AC PD characteristics in cast resin transformer. AC PD characteristics were compared before and after impulse application. In addition, recovery of PD characteristics was measured to investigate charge decay. As a result, the mechanism of prestress effect is revealed and surface charge density is estimated quantitatively in cast resin transformer.
Tuning the C2/C1 Hydrocarbon Separation Performance in a BioMOF by Surface Functionalization
Authors: Huang Yong‐Liang , Qiu Pei‐Li , Zeng Heng , Liu Huan , Luo Dong , Li Yan Yan , Lu Weigang , Li Dan
Published: July 2019

Solvothermal reaction of adenine, 1,3,6,8‐tetrakis(p‐benzoic acid)pyrene (H4TBAPy), and Zn(NO3)2 in DMF afforded a three‐dimensional anionic bioMOF 1. It features one‐dimensional tubular channels with exposed Watson–Crick faces and nitrogen‐rich purines, which endows 1 with multiple adsorption sites on its polar surface, translating into high selectivity of C2 hydrocarbons over C1. Moreover, an isostructural bioMOF 1‐NH2 was synthesized by using 2‐aminoadenine in place of adenine, resulting in additional amine groups pointing toward the channel cavity. The added strong adsorption sites have been demonstrated to be able to further increase the selectivity of C2 hydrocarbons over C1.
Bis(benzoxazol‐2‐yl)methanes Hounding NacNac: Varieties and Applications in Main Group Metal Coordination
Authors: Kretsch Johannes , Koehne Ingo , Lõkov Märt , Leito Ivo , Stalke Dietmar
Published: July 2019

Inspired by the well‐established class of β‐diketiminate or NacNac ligand scaffolds, the systematic building of ligand platforms mimicking its structural features and shielding abilities represents an exciting challenge. One of our focuses in the past decade has been the development of bis(benzheterocyclo)methanes, ‐amines and –phosphanes featuring additional donor‐sites in the ligand backbone as well as increasing steric bulk adjacent to the coordination pocket. This article addresses the variety of obtained ligand scaffolds, highlights some applications in 1, 2 and 13 metal coordination and looks to future developments of even more steric demanding systems to finally complement the famous Dipp‐substituted NacNac system.
Synthesis and Structure of a Strained, Cyclic meta‐Quaterphenylene Acetylene
Authors: De Hoe Clement , Dean Ryan T. , Hacker Allison S. , Dutta Sudeep H. , Dominguez Omar , Parsons Leo W. T. , Sommerville Parker J. W. , Vandivier Kai P. , Chalifoux Wesley A. , Frantz Derik K.
Published: July 2019

A strained, cyclic hydrocarbon comprising a meta‐quaterphenyl‐based arc that is clamped by an alkyne tether was synthesized via Yamamoto coupling of a dichloro precursor. DFT calculations (B3LYP/6‐31G*) indicate that the lowest‐energy ground state adopts a twisted, C2 conformation that bears 19.0 kcal/mol of strain energy. X‐ray crystallographic analysis confirms that, in the solid state, the molecule adopts a twisted structure that is similar to the calculated C2 conformation. Exposure of the ortho‐linked dichloro precursor to Yamamoto conditions generates 9,9′‐bisfluorenylidene in high yield.
N‐[ω‐(Purin‐6‐yl)aminoalkanoyl] Derivatives of Chiral Heterocyclic Amines as Promising Anti‐Herpesvirus Agents
Authors: Krasnov Victor P. , Musiyak Vera V. , Vozdvizhenskaya Olga A. , Galegov Georgiy A. , Andronova Valeria L. , Gruzdev Dmitry A. , Chulakov Evgeny N. , Vigorov Alexey Yu. , Ezhikova Marina A. , Kodess Mikhail I. , Levit Galina L. , Charushin Valery N.
Published: July 2019

Novel conjugates of 2‐aminopurine and purine containing fragments of chiral heterocyclic amines attached at position 6 of purine core via a linker, fragment of omega‐amino acid, have been synthesized and evaluated in vitro for their anti‐herpetic activity in the Vero E6 cells; as a result, a new group of compounds possessing high inhibitory activity against herpes simplex virus type 1, including acyclovir‐resistant (TK–) strain has been revealed. The anti‐herpetic activity of the synthesized compounds is substantially dependent on the stereo configuration of the fragment of heterocyclic amine.
Analysis of the influence of natural adsorbent functionalization (Moringa oleifera) for Pb(II) removal from contaminated water
Authors: de Oliveira Tavares Fernanda , de Moraes Pinto Laura A. , Marinozi Vicentini Jean C. , Vieira Marcelo F. , Bergamasco Rosângela , Vieira Angélica M. S.
Published: July 2019

Due to lead (Pb) being highly toxic and harmful to living beings, several techniques have been studied aiming at its removal from contaminated water, with great emphasis on the adsorption process. In this sense, the objective of this study was to investigate if the chemical functionalization in biosorbents of Moringa oleifera pods promotes greater potential in the process of removing lead from aqueous solution. To this end, characterization of biomass was performed by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and zero load point. Additionally, the parameters that influence the efficiency of lead biosorption have been investigated. From the studied parameters, the optimal conditions obtained for both analyzed biosorbents are as follows: 30 min to equilibrium, pH 6 and 25°C temperature. Biosorption studies revealed kinetic modeling of data were better represented by the pseudo‐second model. In relation to adsorption isotherms, the model that best fit the experimental data were the Langmuir model for both biosorbents. When comparing the biosorbents studied, it was concluded that chemical functionalization carried out using basic treatment agent was the most efficient in removing lead ions (II), and the maximum adsorption capacity obtained was 38.52 mg/g.
Bayesian variable selection using partially observed categorical prior information in fine‐mapping association studies
Authors: Alenazi Abdulaziz A. , Cox Angela , Juarez Miguel , Lin Wei‐Yu , Walters Kevin
Published: July 2019

Several methods have been proposed to allow functional genomic information to inform prior distributions in Bayesian fine‐mapping case–control association studies. None of these methods allow the inclusion of partially observed functional genomic information. We use functional significance (FS) scores that combine information across multiple bioinformatics sources to inform our effect size prior distributions. These scores are not available for all single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) but by partitioning SNPs into naturally occurring FS score groups, we show how missing FS scores can easily be accommodated via finite mixtures of elicited priors. Most current approaches adopt a formal Bayesian variable selection approach and either limit the number of causal SNPs allowed or use approximations to avoid the need to explore the vast parameter space. We focus instead on achieving differential shrinkage of the effect sizes through prior scale mixtures of normals and use marginal posterior probability intervals to select candidate causal SNPs. We show via a simulation study how this approach can improve localisation of the causal SNPs compared to existing mutli‐SNP fine‐mapping methods. We also apply our approach to fine‐mapping a region around the CASP8 gene using the iCOGS consortium breast cancer SNP data.
Characterization of Gut Microbiota, Bile Acid Metabolism, and Cytokines in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Jia Xiaodong , Lu Shanshan , Zeng Zhen , Liu Qingyan , Dong Zheng , Chen Yan , Zhu Zhenyu , Hong Zhixian , Zhang Ting , Du Guifang , Xiang Jiao , Wu Dawei , Bai Wenlin , Yang Bin , Li Yinyin , Huang Jiagan , Li Haiyang , Safadi Rifaat , Lu Yinying
Published: July 2019

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), a type of bile duct cancer, has a high mortality rate. Gut microbiota, bile acid (BA) metabolism, and cytokines have not been characterized in patients with ICC, and better noninvasive diagnostic approaches for ICC are essential to be established. Therefore, in this study we aimed to improve our understanding of changes in gut microbiota, BA metabolism, and cytokines in patients with ICC. We found that the α‐diversities and β‐diversities of ICC were highest and that the abundances of four genera (Lactobacillus, Actinomyces, Peptostreptococcaceae, and Alloscardovia) were increased in patients with ICC compared with those in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or liver cirrhosis and in healthy individuals. The glycoursodeoxycholic acid and tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) plasma‐stool ratios were obviously increased in patients with ICC. Furthermore, the genera Lactobacillus and Alloscardovia that were positively correlated with TUDCA plasma‐stool ratios were combined to discriminate ICC from the other three diseases. Vascular invasion (VI) frequently led to a poor prognosis in patients with ICC. Compared with patients with ICC without VI, patients with VI had a greater abundance of the family Ruminococcaceae, increased levels of plasma interleukin (IL)‐4 and six conjugated BAs, and decreased levels of plasma IL‐6 and chenodeoxycholic acid. A positive correlation between plasma taurocholic acid and IL‐4 was observed in patients with ICC. Plasma TUDCA was negatively correlated with the abundance of the genus Pseudoramibacter and the survival time of patients with ICC, but had no effect on tumor size, as determined in two murine tumor models. Conclusion: In this study, we identified some biomarkers, including gut microbiota, BAs and inflammatory cytokines, for the diagnosis of ICC and prediction of VI in patients with ICC.