bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scherfestigkeits‐ und Verformungsverhalten von tertiären Böden
Authors: Mahler András , Móczár Balázs
Published: August 2019

This article presents the results of in‐situ and triaxial testing of tertiary soils (Pannonian sand and Oligocene clay) performed for two major Hungarian projects. The shear strength of these formations varies greatly. Just interpreting the shear strength of tertiary soils poses a number of questions, which definitely exceeds the scope of existing standards. Since extracting multiple samples from the overconsolidated, high‐density samples was not possible, the necessary parameters had to be determined from one larger specimen. Through short examples, it is demonstrated how the test results can be described using soil models and transferred into geotechnical design, highlighting the limits of numerical modelling (in case of these soils).
Psychosis of Alzheimer's disease: Neuropsychological and neuroimaging longitudinal study
Authors: D'Antonio Fabrizia , Di Vita Antonella , Zazzaro Giulia , Brusà Erica , Trebbastoni Alessandro , Campanelli Alessandra , Ferracuti Stefano , de Lena Carlo , Guariglia Cecilia , Boccia Maddalena
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Psychosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) may represent a distinct disease phenotype; however, neuropsychological profile and neural basis linked to this phenotype have not yet been clarified. In this study, we aimed at detecting whether impairment in specific cognitive domains predicts the onset of psychosis in AD patients and what grey matter alterations, their location, and the rate of atrophy are associated with psychosis of AD.

Methods

Longitudinal neuropsychological data from AD patients with and without psychosis were analysed to determine whether the neuropsychological profile can predict the onset of psychosis. A voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) on longitudinal T1‐weighted images was used to explore differences in grey matter volume and in the rate of atrophy between groups.

Results

Noncognitive domain predicted the psychosis onset. However, AD patients with psychosis exhibited greater atrophy in the right anterior‐inferior temporal lobe, including the fusiform gyrus (cluster‐p‐family‐wise error [pfwe] < 0.05; peak‐p uncorrected [pUNC] < 0.001) as well as greater rate of atrophy in the right insula than nonpsychotic patients (cluster‐pFWE = 0.075; peak‐pUNC < 0.001). The anterior‐inferior temporal lobe is part of the ventral visual stream, and the insula plays a key role in the salience network.

Conclusions

This finding suggests that damage in these areas underpins an impairment in the visual processing of the objects and an impairment in the attribution of salience to the misperceived stimuli, which in turn leads to the onset of psychosis. These findings tie in well with the neuropsychological model of psychosis, according to which the simultaneous presence of two factors, namely misperception and misattribution, underlies psychosis in dementia.
A longitudinal study of the associations of BDNF genotype and methylation with poststroke anxiety
Authors: Kang Hee‐Ju , Kim Kyu‐On , Kim Ju‐Wan , Kim Sung‐Wan , Park Man‐Seok , Kim Hye‐Ran , Shin Myung‐Geun , Cho Ki‐Hyun , Kim Jae‐Min
Published: August 2019

Background

Although the precise etiology of poststroke anxiety (PSA) has yet to be fully elucidated, it is known that brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is important for neural plasticity and long‐term potentiation, associated with the pathophysiology of anxiety. The expression of BDNF is regulated by epigenetic and genetic profiles. Thus, we investigated the association between BDNF methylation status and PSA at 2 weeks and 1 year after stroke while accounting for interactions with the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism.

Methods

The baseline sample comprised 286 patients who were assessed at 2 weeks after stroke; of these patients, 222 (78%) were followed up with at 1 year after stroke. The presence of PSA was determined using the anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the effects of BDNF methylation status and polymorphisms on PSA status were assessed with multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

The prevalence of PSA was slightly lower (27 [9.4%]) at baseline, and 35 (15.8%) patients were identified as having PSA at the 1‐year follow‐up. Stroke patients with a higher average methylation status were more likely to have PSA at 1 year. The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism was not independently associated with PSA during either the acute or chronic phase after stroke, but there was a significant interactive effect between BDNF methylation and genotype on PSA at 2 weeks.

Conclusions

In this study, BDNF methylation in combination with the met/met BDNF polymorphism (Val66Met polymorphism) was associated with PSA. These findings may help identify patients at higher risk for PSA.
Lay‐delivered behavioral activation for depressed senior center clients: Pilot RCT
Authors: Raue Patrick J. , Sirey Jo Anne , Dawson Alexis , Berman Jaquelin , Bruce Martha L.
Published: August 2019

Objective

We describe the development of a lay‐delivered behavioral intervention (“Do More, Feel Better”) for depressed senior center clients, and we present preliminary data from a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) on (a) the feasibility of training lay volunteers to fidelity and (b) the acceptability, impact, and safety of the intervention.

Methods

We trained 11 volunteers at two aging service settings in “Do More, Feel Better” and randomized 18 depressed clients to receive the intervention or referral to mental health services.

Results

Pilot data indicated that we can successfully train and certify 64% of older volunteers and that depressed clients receiving the intervention reported high levels of session attendance and satisfaction. While there were no significant differences in 12‐week reduction in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores between groups, intervention clients showed an 8‐point reduction in comparison with a 0‐point reduction among referral clients.

Conclusions

“Do More, Feel Better” has the potential of transferring evidence‐based behavioral interventions to the hands of supervised lay volunteers and can address the insufficient workforce providing geriatric mental health services.
Differential development of relational memory and pattern separation
Authors: Hassevoort Kelsey M. , Khan Naiman A. , Hillman Charles H. , Cohen Neal J.
Published: August 2019

Researchers have taken a number of different approaches in their exploration of hippocampal function. One approach seeks to describe hippocampal function by probing the memory representations that the hippocampus supports. Another approach focuses on the role of the hippocampus in pattern separation and completion. Each of these approaches to understanding hippocampal function utilizes a distinct set of specialized tasks, and both of these task sets are known to be sensitive to changes in hippocampal function with age and disease status. But the question remains whether the tasks utilized in these two approaches tap into the same aspects of hippocampal function. We explored this question in the context of hippocampal development. Preadolescent children (N= 73) and young adults (N= 41) completed an identical battery of cognitive tasks consisting of a spatial reconstruction relational memory task, the mnemonic similarity task (MST)—an object‐based pattern separation task, and a novel hybrid task—the Object Discrimination and Distribution (ODD) Task—designed to integrate and simultaneously tax pattern separation and spatial relational memory. Children did not demonstrate impairments in lure discrimination relative to young adults on either the object‐based pattern separation task or for aspects of the ODD task that required pattern separation in the absence of relational memory demands but performed more poorly across aspects of tasks that required relational binding.
Effects of continuous care for patients with type 2 diabetes using mobile health application: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wang Yanmei , Li Ming , Zhao Xinxiang , Pan Xinxin , Lu Min , Lu Jing , Hu Yan
Published: August 2019

Background

Type 2 diabetes is a worldwide disorder that affects millions of people and can exert negative clinical and social effects on the patients. In some previous studies, mobile health applications have been used as a means of clinical intervention. However, the therapeutic effect of continuous care through mobile phone applications for patients with type 2 diabetes remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the clinical effect of continuous care for patients with type 2 diabetes using mobile health application by comparing traditional discharge nursing.

Methods

In total, 120 patients with type 2 diabetes were randomly divided into two groups: The test group received continuous care based on the mobile phone application (n = 60), and the control group received conventional care (n = 60). Primary clinical outcomes, such as Glycaemic Haemoglobin (GH) levels, blood glucose levels, self‐care abilities, disease cognition abilities, and the number of readmissions, were examined in both groups.

Results

The results showed significant improvements pertaining to disease awareness levels (81.28 vs 71.34, P < .05), self‐management abilities (9.14 vs 7.81, P < .05), GH (−1.50% vs −0.76%, P < .05), fast blood glucose (−3.23 vs −1.25 mmol/L, P < .05), postprandial blood glucose levels (−4.34 vs −2.34 mmol, P < .05), and control levels in the test group. Moreover, in the test group, the frequency of rehospitalisation was reduced during the intervention period, as was the average number of rehospitalisation within 6 months after discharge (−1.19 vs P < .05).

Conclusions

Continuous care based on a mobile health application has potential as a management strategy for patients with type 2 diabetes.
Exploration and practice of the “1 + 10 + 1100000” model
Authors: Ge Jianli , Geng Shasha , Jing Limei , Jiang Hua , Sun Xiaoming
Published: August 2019

The exploration and practice of the “1 + 10 + 1100000” model of local medical consortium includes three aspects: graded diagnosis and treatment, two‐way referral, and dynamic flow; seamless connection between general practice and specialty to realize health management; and establishment of the “community health center‐East Hospital‐Tongji University” teaching platform.
Conflicting norms: Impact of the Model Law on Chapter 11's Global Restructuring Role
Authors: Warner G. Ray
Published: August 2019

The Model Law's emphasis on the debtor's center of main interest (COMI) as the proper jurisdiction for the main insolvency proceeding is at odds with the traditional United States approach of applying Chapter 11 to restructure foreign entities with no significant US connection. This paper explores whether adoption of the Model Law has made Chapter 11 less available for debtors with a foreign COMI. The Model Law has had no direct impact on the US courts approach to foreign‐entity Chapter 11 cases. However, shortly after the Model Law's adoption, several reported US decisions added the pendency of a foreign insolvency proceeding as a factor supporting discretionary abstention or dismissal of foreign Chapter 11 cases. While those decisions do not refer to the Model Law, it is possible that the Model Law's COMI‐centric approach influenced this new trend.
Hybrid cardiovascular sourced extracellular matrix scaffolds as possible platforms for vascular tissue engineering
Authors: Reid James A. , Callanan Anthony
Published: August 2019

The aim when designing a scaffold is to provide a supportive microenvironment for the native cells, which is generally achieved by structurally and biochemically imitating the native tissue. Decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) possesses the mechanical and biochemical cues designed to promote native cell survival. However, when decellularized and reprocessed, the ECM loses its cell supporting mechanical integrity and architecture. Herein, we propose dissolving the ECM into a polymer/solvent solution and electrospinning it into a fibrous sheet, thus harnessing the biochemical cues from the ECM and the mechanical integrity of the polymer. Bovine aorta and myocardium were selected as ECM sources. Decellularization was achieved using sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and the ECM was combined with polycaprolactone and hexafluoro‐2‐propanol for electrospinning. The scaffolds were seeded with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The study found that the inclusion of aorta ECM increased the scaffold's wettability and subsequently lead to increased HUVEC adherence and proliferation. Interestingly, the inclusion of myocardium ECM had no effect on wettability or cell viability. Furthermore, gene expression and mechanical changes were noted with the addition of ECM. The results from this study show the vast potential of electrospun ECM/polymer bioscaffolds and their use in tissue engineering.
System for application of controlled forces on dental implants in rat maxillae: Influence of the number of load cycles on bone healing
Authors: de Barros e Lima Bueno Renan , Dias Ana P. , Ponce Katia J. , Brunski John B. , Nanci Antonio
Published: August 2019

Experimental studies on the effect of micromotion on bone healing around implants are frequently conducted in long bones. In order to more closely reflect the anatomical and clinical environments around dental implants, and eventually be able to experimentally address load‐management issues, we have developed a system that allows initial stabilization, protection from external forces, and controlled axial loading of implants. Screw‐shaped implants were placed on the edentulous ridge in rat maxillae. Three loading regimens were applied to validate the system; case A no loading (unloaded implant) for 14 days, case B no loading in the first 7 days followed by 7 days of a single, daily loading session (60 cycles of an axial force of 1.5 N/cycle), and case C no loading in the first 7 days followed by 7 days of two such daily loading sessions. Finite element modeling of the peri‐implant compressive and tensile strains plus histological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that in case B any tissue damage resulting from the applied force (and related interfacial strains) did not per se disturb bone healing, however, in case C, the accumulation of damage resulting from the doubling of loading sessions severely disrupted the process. These proof‐of‐principle results validate the applicability of our system for controlled loading, and provide new evidence on the importance of the number of load cycles applied on healing of maxillary bone.
Vertebral Fracture Assessment Increases Use of Pharmacologic Therapy for Fracture Prevention in Clinical Practice
Authors: Schousboe John T , Lix Lisa M , Morin Suzanne N , Derkatch Sheldon , Bryanton Mark , Alhrbi Mashael , Leslie William D
Published: August 2019

The impact of vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) on lateral spine images in clinical practice on subsequent patient use of fracture prevention medication is unknown. Our objective was to determine the association of prevalent vertebral fracture identified on bone density lateral spine images (positive VFA) with subsequent use of fracture prevention therapy in usual clinical practice, using the Manitoba Bone Density Program database prospective observational cohort. Since 2010, targeted VFA imaging has been done at the time of bone densitometry in Manitoba for 21% of women and men meeting criteria based on age, bone mineral density (BMD), height loss, and glucocorticoid use. Among 6652 treatment-naive individuals with at least 90 days follow-up who had VFA imaging, 923 (13.9%) had one or more definite vertebral fractures identified using a modified algorithm-based qualitative (ABQ) method. For those with a positive VFA, their bone density reports stated the patient was at high risk of subsequent fracture and qualified for fracture prevention therapy. Subsequent osteoporosis treatment initiated within the next 12 months was identified using population-based pharmacy data. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association of positive VFA with subsequent prescription (Rx), compared to negative VFA. Fracture prevention medication was started by 2127 (32%) individuals, 52.3% with positive versus 28.4% with negative VFA (p value <0.001). This association was substantially stronger in those designated (before VFA results were known) to have low or moderate fracture risk compared to high fracture risk (interaction p value <0.001), and in those with osteopenia (OR 4.51; 95% CI, 3.48 to 5.85) compared to those with osteoporosis by BMD criteria (OR 1.72; 95% CI, 1.43 to 2.08, interaction p value <0.001). Targeted VFA imaging at the time of bone densitometry substantially improves identification of those at high fracture risk and fracture prevention medication use among those with prevalent vertebral fracture. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Interrater agreement and discrepancy when assessing problem behaviors, social‐emotional skills, and developmental status of kindergarten children
Authors: Bergold Sebastian , Christiansen Hanna , Steinmayr Ricarda
Published: August 2019

Objective

The present study examined parent‐teacher agreement and discrepancy when assessing kindergarten children's behavioral and emotional problems, social‐emotional skills, and developmental status.

Method

Parents and teachers of overall n = 922 kindergarten children (M
age = 3.99; 449 girls) rated the children using the Conners Early Childhood, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and the Questionnaire for Assessing Preschool Children's Behavior.

Results

Agreement was moderate for problem behaviors and social‐emotional skills and substantial for developmental status. Agreement was stronger for externalizing than for internalizing problems. Agreement on the clinical relevance of problem behaviors and of social‐emotional skills was stronger for children with a clinical diagnosis than for those without. Parents tended to report more problems, but also greater social‐emotional skills and developmental status, than teachers.

Conclusions

The findings corroborate the importance of situational specificity for understanding interrater agreement and discrepancy. Future teacher questionnaires should more specifically assess children's functioning in kindergarten.
Clue to the cause of portal hypertension: Look at the raindrops
Authors: Mishra Shubhra , Mahajan Rahul , Saikia Uma , Gupta Pankaj , Dutta Usha , Sharma Vishal , Mandavdhare Harshal S
Published: August 2019

Portal hypertension is a clinical syndrome characterized by splenomegaly, with or without hypersplenism, and esphagogastric varices. Non‐cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) belongs to the presinusoidal sub category of portal hypertension. We present the case of a young 35‐year‐old male who had presented with two episodes of upper gastrointestinal bleed. On endoscopy, he was found to have large esophageal varices. On general physical examination, there were diffuse hyperpigmented papules and nodules all over the body, with palmoplantar thickening. His liver function tests were normal. Computed tomography of the abdomen showed a dilated portal and splenic vein with splenomegaly and normal liver size and histopathology showed non‐cirrhotic portal fibrosis (NCPF). He had history of intake of oral indigenous medications for skin lesions. On investigating, patient was found to have chronic arsenicosis, which was likely the underlying etiology for NCPF as well. Hence, while evaluating patients of NCPF, it is imperative to rule out the use of indigenous medications, especially in the Indian scenario.
Getting youth PrEPared: adolescent consent laws and implications for the availability of PrEP among youth in countries outside of the United States
Authors: Taggart Tamara , Bond Keosha T , Ritchwood Tiarney D , Smith Justin C
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Youth under the age of 25 are at high risk for HIV infection. While pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has the potential to curb new infections within this population, it is unclear how country‐specific laws and policies that govern youth access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services impact access to PrEP. The purpose of this review was to analyse laws and policies concerning PrEP implementation and SRH services available to youth in countries with a high HIV incidence. To the best of our knowledge this is the first systematic assessment of country‐level policies that impact the availability of PrEP to adolescent populations.

Methods

We conducted a review of national policies published on or before 12 June 2018 that could impact adolescents’ access to PrEP, SRH services and ability to consent to medical intervention. Countries were included if: (1) there was a high incidence of HIV; (2) they had active PrEP trials or PrEP was available for distribution; (3) information regarding PrEP guidelines were publicly available. We also included a selected number of countries with lower adolescent HIV incidence. Internet and legal database searches were used to identify policies relevant to adolescent PrEP (e.g. age of consent to HIV testing).

Results and Discussion

Fifteen countries were selected for inclusion in this review. Countries varied considerably in their respective laws and policies governing adolescents’ access to PrEP, HIV testing and SRH services. Six countries had specific polices around the provision of PrEP to youth under the age of 18. Five countries required people to be 18 years or older to access HIV testing, and six countries had specific laws addressing adolescent consent for‐ and access to‐ contraceptives.

Conclusions

Adolescents’ access to PrEP without parental consent remains limited or uncertain in many countries where this biomedical intervention is needed. Observational and qualitative studies are needed to determine if and how adolescent consent laws are followed in relation to adolescent PrEP provisions. Intensified efforts to amend laws that limit adolescent access to PrEP and restrict the establishment of national guidelines supporting adolescent PrEP are also needed to address the epidemic in this group.
Etesians and the summer circulation over East Mediterranean in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 simulations: Connections to the Indian summer monsoon
Authors: Logothetis Ioannis , Tourpali Kleareti , Misios Stergios , Zanis Prodromos
Published: August 2019

Etesians are north to south direction winds in the lower atmosphere, blowing over the Aegean basin from early summer to early autumn. They are an important circulation component for the East Mediterranean (EMED) area, linked to the subsidence and ascent circulation over EMED and the extended Indian monsoon region, respectively. In this study we investigate the evolution of Etesian days and the associated wind speed (10 m) over the recent past (1979–2005) in simulations from Earth System Models (ESMs) available from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5. Results from this analysis are compared to the ERA‐Interim reanalysis. Moreover, we study the connection of the Etesians to the atmospheric circulation over EMED and the wider Indian monsoon area, in particular over the west Indian summer monsoon (wISM) and the Bay of Bengal (BoB). Our findings suggest that while the ESMs underestimate the wind speed of the Etesians, their frequency and summer cycle are in good agreement to reanalysis. ESMs can accurately represent the summer atmospheric circulation and depict the connection between EMED and Indian summer monsoon (ISM), capturing the link between them. Finally, we highlight here the capability and efficiency of ESMs in representing the climatology of Etesians and related atmospheric circulation.
Determination of Acoustical Parameters of Aqueous Solution of Kolliphors Binary Mixtures Using Density, Speed of Sound, Viscosity, and Surface Tension Measurements
Authors: Szymczyk Katarzyna , Szaniawska Magdalena , Terpiłowski Konrad
Published: August 2019

Measurements of density, speed of sound, and surface tension as well as viscosity of aqueous Kolliphor® ELP (ELP) and Kolliphor® RH 40 (RH40) solutions as well as binary mixtures at different surfactant mole fractions were made at 293 K to investigate their aggregation behavior. The free volume, internal pressure, and molar cohesive energy were calculated and compared to the specific acoustic impedance and intermolecular free length to obtain qualitative information about the character of interactions between the surfactant molecules in the mixture through the water phase.
Production and Characterization of Surface‐Active Lipopeptides by Haloalkaliphilic Bacteria Salibacterium sp. 4CTb
Authors: Barbachano‐Torres Alejandra , López‐Ortega Mayra A. , Delgado‐García Mariana , González‐García Yolanda , Rodríguez Jorge A. , Kirchmayr Manuel R. , Camacho‐Ruíz Rosa M.
Published: August 2019

Surface‐Active Biomolecules (SAB) obtained from microbial sources are safe alternatives to chemically synthesized counterparts for many environmental and industrial applications. These applications frequently involve the exposure of the SAB to extreme factors making necessary to seek for molecules that are able to function under such conditions. In this work, the polyextremophilic bacterium Salibacterium sp. 4CTb is reported as a SAB producer. Its emulsifier activity increased almost twofold when the C/N ratio and culture conditions were modified. The partially purified molecule was able to form stable emulsions under extreme conditions (70 °C, pH 12, and 4 M NaCl) better than other commercial molecules, and reduced the surface tension of the water to 49.78 mN m−1 with critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 15.1 mg L−1. Carbohydrate, lipid, and protein assays, accompanied by the Fourier Transform Infra‐Red (FTIR) and electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (ESI‐MS) results, indicate the lipopeptide nature of the compound with masses around 645 and 746 Da. The SAB obtained from Salibacterium sp. 4CTb may be suitable for electrical, food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, agriculture, and environmental applications, among others.
Enzymatic hydrolysis increases ginsenoside content in Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) and its biotransformation under hydrostatic pressure
Authors: Kim Hyo Won , Han Sung Hee , Lee Seog‐Won , Choi Hyeon‐Son , Suh Hyung Joo , Hong Ki‐Bae
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Enzymatic hydrolysis and high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) are common processing techniques in the extraction of active compounds from food materials. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of enzymatic hydrolysis combined with HHP treatments on ginsenoside metabolites in red ginseng.

RESULTS

The yield and changes in the levels of polyphenol and ginsenoside were measured in red ginseng treated with commercial enzymes such as Ultraflo L, Viscozyme, Cytolase PCL5, Rapidase and Econase E at atmospheric pressure (0.1 MPa), 50 MPa, and 100 MPa. β‐Glucosidase activity of Cytolase was the highest at 4258.2 mg−1, whereas Viscozyme showed the lowest activity at 10.6 mg−1. Pressure of 100 MPa did not affect the stability or the activity of the β‐glucosidase. Treatment of red ginseng with Cytolase and Econase at 100 MPa significantly increased the dry weight and polyphenol content of red ginseng, compared with treatments at 0.1 MPa and 50 MPa (P < 0.05). The amounts of ginsenoside and ginsenoside metabolites derived from red ginseng processed using Cytolase were higher than those derived from red ginseng treated with the other enzymes. Treatment with Cytolase also significantly increased the skin and intestinal permeability of red ginseng‐derived polyphenols.

CONCLUSION

Cytolase could be useful as an enzymatic treatment to enhance the yield of bioactive compounds from ginseng under HHP. In addition, ginsenoside metabolites obtained by Cytolase hydrolysis combined with HHP are functional substances with increased intestinal and skin permeability. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Strong effects of elevated CO2 on freshwater microalgae and ecosystem chemistry
Authors: Brown Terry‐René W. , Lajeunesse Marc J. , Scott Kathleen M.
Published: August 2019

The carbonate chemistry of freshwater systems can range from inorganic carbon‐limited to supersaturated with respect to the atmosphere, and the pH of these systems can vary temporally and spatially from alkaline to acidic. Determining how these heterogeneous systems respond to increases in atmospheric CO2 is critical to understanding global impacts of these changes. Here, we synthesize 22 studies from a variety of systems to explore the effects of elevated CO2 on freshwater chemistry and microalgae, which form the base of autotrophic food webs. Across the variability in freshwater systems, elevated CO2 significantly affected water chemistry by decreasing pH and increasing dissolved inorganic carbon. Microalgae were also affected by elevated CO2 with measured increases in (1) nutrient acquisition through microalgal carbon‐to‐nutrient ratios, (2) photosynthetic activity, and (3) growth. While these effects were measured from controlled experiments, the results indicate a wide range of potential freshwater ecosystem effects from elevated atmospheric CO2. Our synthesis also identified several knowledge gaps. Generally, larger sample sizes and studies of longer duration are needed for more robust analyses and conclusions. Additionally, more field experiments across a range of freshwater ecosystem types and studies involving benthic species and multiple trophic levels are needed to strengthen global predictions across the broad variability found within and among freshwater systems.
The autonomous clean environmental (ACE) sampler: A trace‐metal clean seawater sampler suitable for open‐ocean time‐series applications
Authors: van der Merwe Pier , Trull Thomas W. , Goodwin Trevor , Jansen Peter , Bowie Andrew
Published: August 2019

The fundamental role of the micronutrient Fe in controlling phytoplankton growth in large parts of Earth's oceans and a lack of information on seasonal transitions in remote regions motivated us to create an autonomous water sampler capable of collecting uncontaminated open‐ocean seawater samples with monthly resolution over a full annual cycle. Phytoplankton are at the base of the food chain, which take up carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. Assessing Fe availability is essential to understanding both ocean productivity and our climate. This need is particularly important in the Southern Ocean, where Fe limitation is wide spread and access is difficult especially in winter. To address this need, we have developed an autonomous system capable of observing iron concentrations over a full seasonal cycle, at the subnanomolar concentrations that are important in the open ocean. The automated clean environmental sampler has been developed initially for 1‐yr deployments on oceanographic moorings. Twelve samples per unit can be programmed to collect 65 mL of seawater through a noncontaminating, primarily Teflon sample path. The system is vaned to maintain its intake tubes in upstream water and has been tested to 100 m depth. The system was deployed during a GEOTRACES section (SR3 line, GS01) in 2018 alongside an industry standard, trace metal clean rosette, and no significant difference was found in Fe concentrations in the 50 pmol L–1 range, proving its capability at collecting uncontaminated seawater samples in the open ocean at temperatures above 0°C.
Increased Dairy Product Intake Alters Serum Metabolite Profiles in Subjects at Risk of Developing Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: O'Connor Sarah , Greffard Karine , Leclercq Mickael , Julien Pierre , Weisnagel Stanley John , Gagnon Claudia , Droit Arnaud , Bilodeau Jean‐François , Rudkowska Iwona
Published: August 2019

Scope

Metabolomics is increasingly used to identify biomarkers of diet or chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. Yet, metabolite signatures following dairy intake in hyperinsulinemic subjects have not been identified. The objective is to evaluate the effects of a high dairy diet (HD) for 6 weeks (4 servings or more per day), compared with an adequate dairy diet (AD) (2 servings or less per day), on serum metabolite profiles in hyperinsulinemic adults.

Methods and results

In this crossover trial, subjects are randomized to HD or AD for 6 weeks. Serum metabolites are assessed using GC/MS. Twenty‐six subjects completed the study. Levels of pentadecanoic acid, tyrosine and lathosterol are increased in HD, while 1,5‐anhydrosorbitol, myo‐inositol, 3‐aminoisobutyric acid and beta‐sitosterol are decreased (p< 0.05). Sorbitol levels are increased after AD, while hexanoic acid, lauric acid, l‐kynurenine, methionine, and benzoic acid levels are reduced (p< 0.05). Histidine, caprylic acid, nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, lauric acid, heptadecanoic acid, and benzoic acid levels are increased in HD compared to AD, while malic acid levels are increased in AD compared with HD (p< 0.05).

Conclusion

Higher dairy products intake modifies metabolite profiles in hyperinsulinemic subjects.
Impact of patent rights on innovation: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Panda Sidheswar , Sharma Ruchi
Published: August 2019

Research shows that the enforcement of patent rights (PRs) play a significant role in countries' innovation and technological development. The existing narrative reviews find that the impact of PRs on innovation is not clear across countries. Therefore, this study examines the impact of patent rights protection on innovation across countries by conducting a meta‐analysis from 14 empirical studies that contain 145 estimates, undertaken during 1996–2019. This study intends to test whether the findings are sensitive to various measures employed and identify possible policy implications across countries. Our analysis suggests that certain aspects of measuring innovation are crucial in explaining the significance of these findings. This study finds that countries' strength in PRs plays a significant role in determining its innovation. We also find that there is a distinction in PRs' contribution to domestic innovation across developed and developing countries in the existing primary studies.
Recent progress in conductive polymeric materials for biomedical applications
Authors: Nair Sarita S. , Mishra Sujeet K. , Kumar Devendra
Published: August 2019

Advanced polymeric materials undoubtedly constitute one of the most promising classes of new materials due to their intriguing electronic, optical, and redox properties. The incredible progress in this area has been driven by the development of novel synthetic procedures owing to the emergence of nanotechnology and by the large array of applications. In particular, hybridization of polymeric materials with nanomaterials has allowed the production of promising functional materials with tailored properties and functionalities for targeted biomedical applications. Consequently, sufficient researchers have carried out imperative studies on these advanced polymeric materials over the last decade. Beyond scientific and fundamental interest, such advanced materials are conspicuous from technological perspectives as well. In this review, we accentuate the proliferation of advanced polymeric materials in diverse biomedical applications.
Reduction‐responsive poly (ethylene glycol)‐dexamethasone biarm conjugate and its self‐assembled nanomicelles: Preparation, physicochemical characterization, and thiol‐triggered drug release
Authors: Tran Thi Ngoc Van , Hwang Hee Sook , Kim Yugyeong , Kang Han Chang , Huh Kang Moo
Published: August 2019

In this study, a reduction‐responsive poly (ethylene glycol)‐dexamethasone biarm conjugate was synthesized as intracellular targeted drug delivery carriers. The hydroxyl end group of methoxy poly (ethylene glycol) (mPEG) was modified to introduce a biarm structure with bioreducible disulfide bond and amine end groups. Dexamethasone (Dex) as a nuclear targeting moiety was conjugated to the amine end groups of mPEG biarm derivatives, mPEG‐(NH2)2 or mPEG‐(ss‐NH2)2, with or without bioreducible disulfide bonds. The bioreducible and nonreducible mPEG‐Dex biarm conjugates, R‐mPEG‐Dex and N‐mPEG‐Dex, were synthesized and characterized by various analytical methods, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR), Fourier transform infraredspectroscopy (FT‐IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and fluorescence measurements. Amphiphilic mPEG‐Dex conjugates self‐assembled in aqueous solutions to form nanoparticles (NPs) with a size range of 130 to 150 nm, and their critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) were determined to be 12.4 and 15.3 mg/L, respectively, for bioreducible and nonreducible ones. The R‐mPEG‐Dex NPs maintained good colloidal stability in the presence of bovine serum albumin (BSA) for more than 1 week but demonstrated a significant change in colloidal stability in the presence of dithiothreitol (DTT). In DTT‐containing phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), the bioreducible NPs showed not only reduction‐responsive destabilization with PEG shedding but also thiol‐dependent drug release profile. Our observations indicated that the R‐mPEG‐Dex NPs have a promising prospective as an efficient nanocarrier for intracellular targeted delivery of various anticancer drugs.
Single‐center experience suggests donor lymphocyte infusion may promote long‐term survival in children with high‐risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Liberio Nicole , Robinson Haley , Nugent Melodee , Simpson Pippa , Margolis David A. , Malarkannan Subramaniam , Keever‐Taylor Carolyn , Thakar Monica S.
Published: August 2019

Background

 Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) is often used to treat leukemic relapse after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). However, the relationship between outcomes and distinct DLI cellular composition has not been previously reported. Additionally, there are limited published data on efficacy in pediatrics. We evaluated whether DLI cellular content and development of graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) impacted disease and influenced overall survival (OS) in children receiving DLI for recurrent leukemia.

Methods

We performed an Institutional Review Board–approved, retrospective study investigating all consecutive DLIs given to patients at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin between 1980 and 2018. Analyses were conducted using Mann–Whitney, Fisher exact, and chi‐square tests.

Results

 Thirty patients ≤20 years old with hematologic malignancies (myeloid [AML/MDS/CML/JMML], n = 23; lymphoid [ALL], n = 7) received DLI to treat post‐transplant relapse. We found no significant difference in OS or development of GVHD based on CD3, CD4, CD8, CD56, or CD19 DLI cellular composition. With a median follow‐up of 0.69 (range, 0.04–16.61) years, OS at five years was 32% ± 9%.  The lymphoid group had a five‐year survival rate at 71% ± 17% compared with the myeloid group at 22% ± 9%, although not statistically significant (P = 0.11).  The development of GVHD did not affect OS (P = 0.62).

Conclusion

 Here, we report a single‐center, long‐term experience of pediatric DLIs. Surprisingly, many children with ALL were able to achieve durable remissions. Although cellular composition did not have a significant effect on GVHD or OS in our small study, engineering DLI products to maximize specific effector cell populations could be one strategy to improve efficacy.
Deposition of 2‐oxazoline‐based plasma polymer coatings using atmospheric pressure helium plasma jet
Authors: Al‐Bataineh Sameer A. , Cavallaro Alex A. , Michelmore Andrew , Macgregor Melanie N. , Whittle Jason D. , Vasilev Krasimir
Published: August 2019

We report on the use of helium plasma jet for plasma polymerisation of 2‐methyl‐2‐oxazoline (OX) on heated silicon substrates. The X‐ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS) characterisation shows a substantial improvement in film stability in buffer solution when depositing at temperatures above 50°C. Principal component analysis of the time‐of‐flight–secondary ion mass spectrometry data shows excellent correlation with the XPS results, providing insights into the degree of crosslinking in the plasma coatings as a function of substrate temperature. Atomic force microscopy images showed the topography of OX plasma polymer coatings deposited at 80°C and 120°C to be smoother with lower surface roughness values compared to those produced at 50°C. Finally, an 80% reduction in the adhesion of Staphylococcus epidermidis is achieved at the centre of the plasma coatings deposited at 120°C.
The Role of Gold‐Alumina Template in the Electrochemical Deposition of CeO2 Nanotubes
Authors: González‐Souto Lorena , González‐Rovira Leandro , Botana Francisco Javier , Calvino José Juan , Cauqui Miguel Ángel , Hernández‐Garrido Juan Carlos
Published: August 2019

Electrochemical synthesis employing porous membranes previously metalized with a gold layer as a template is an easy and widespread method to obtain 1D nanostructures. Nevertheless, experimental factors for tuning the morphology and structural details of such nanostructures are still investigated. The influence of the amount of gold on morphology and structure of the 1D systems is studied for the first time. For this purpose, CeO2 nanotubes are synthesized via template‐based electrodeposition inside the pores of gold‐sputtered anodic aluminum oxide (AAO). X‐ray diffraction and electron microscopy techniques, including 3D electron tomography, are applied for the characterization of the template and the nanostructures. On one hand, the results reveal how gold is deposited on top and inside the pores of the AAO as a thin layer or as particles. On the other hand, the 1D systems consist of nanotubes formed by randomly oriented fluorite‐like nanocrystals (2–5 nm), which features a network of inner walls whose compactness directly relates to the thickness of the gold‐sputtered layer. From the combined analysis of voltage–time curves recorded during electrodeposition and the 2D, 3D structural information, a growth mechanism is proposed, which may enlighten paths to tailor the morphology and properties of CeO2 1D nanostructures.
Heat of Formation of ADN‐Based Liquid Monopropellants
Authors: Wingborg Niklas
Published: August 2019

Energetic ionic liquids have obtained substantial attention the last decades as less toxic, or green, monopropellants to replace the carcinogenic and toxic hydrazine. Among the most promising hydrazine substitutes are propellants based on ammonium dinitramide, ADN, dissolved in a fuel/water mixture. These types of propellants are single phase mixtures, and thus their heats of formation are influenced by the heats of solution and heats of mixing of the respective components used. These enthalpy contributions have been measured for three different ADN‐based propellants (LMP‐103S, FLP‐106 and FLP‐107) and their specific impulses have been calculated. The results show that ADN heat of solution must be considered in order to accurately calculate the specific impulse.
A false‐positive pneumococcal rapid urinary antigen test in Streptococcus intermedius infection
Authors: Takahashi Saeko , Ishitsuka Takahiro , Namatame Kaoru , Nakamura Morio
Published: August 2019

An 83‐year‐old woman was admitted with empyema. Pneumococcal rapid urinary antigen testing on admission showed a positive result, but culture of pleural effusion yielded only Streptococcus intermedius. S. intermedius is a member of the anginosus group and a component of the regular flora of the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. As a human pathogen, this species has gained notoriety for abscess formation in the liver and brain but has also been reported recently as a major agent causing pulmonary abscesses or empyema, and the number of affected patients is increasing with the aging of society. We present the first case of a false‐positive pneumococcal rapid urinary antigen test in empyema caused by S. intermedius.
A personalized preoperative modeling system for internal fixation plates in long bone fracture surgery—A straightforward way from CT images to plate model
Authors: Liu Bin , Zhang Song , Zhang Jianxin , Xu Zhao , Chen Yanjie , Liu Shujun , Qi Wen , Yang Liang
Published: August 2019

Background

Long bone fractures are a type of physical damage with high incidence rates that have serious impacts on the normal lives of humans.

Aims

How to obtain a preoperative internal fixation plate model before cutting muscle has become a critical issue.

Materials and Methods

In this paper, we present a new personalized modeling system for internal fixation plates in long bone fracture surgery. This system can achieve straight semi‐automatic processing from CT images to 3D models. First, broken bones are separated in CT images. Second, the axes of long broken bones are extracted using 3D models. Third, the vertices on the broken bone cross‐sections are segmented. Fourth, rough alignment and fine registration are implemented.

Results

An internal fixation plate is reconstructed for a long bone fracture.

Discussion

Three validations indicate that this method framework is reasonable and feasible.

Conclusion

This system can provide technical support for the personalized, minimally invasive and accurate operation on long bone fractures.
Reduced Graphene Oxide and Pd Nanocomposite as a Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Rechargeable Li‐Oxygen Battery
Authors: Kumar Surender , Kumar Satendra , Kumar Divyaratan , Sathish N. , Singh Archana , Goswami Manoj
Published: August 2019

Pd+2 ions are reduced on two‐dimensional reduced graphene oxide nanosheets in aqueous phase by NaBH4 as reducing agent. Pd nanoparticles are uniformly grown on graphene sheets in 5–15 nm range, verified by TEM investigation. Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is carried in nonaqueous medium by using rotating disk electrode technique. For comparison, ORR activity of pure RGO is also studied; ORR follows one e− pathway (O2 + e−=O2−) in non‐aqueous electrolyte. Pd‐RGO has ORR activity five times more as compared to pure RGO in 0.10 M TBAP‐DMSO solution. Pd‐RGO catalyst is used to assemble the non‐aqueous Li‐O2 batteries and charge‐discharge cycling is carried out. At 0.20 mA cm−2 the discharge capacity of 8192 mAh g−1 is obtained. Overpotential for ORR (or discharge) step is 260 mV. This is first report on reaction chemistry in Li‐O2 battery using Pd nanoparticles. Li2O2 and Li2O are confirmed as discharged products by ex‐situ XRD studies.
A Series of Umbrella‐Shape Copper‐Lanthanides Based Mixed Metallic Coordination Complexes
Authors: Gorantla N. V. T. Sai Manoj , Kushvaha Saroj Kumar , Mandal Rajkumar , Mondal Kartik Chandra
Published: August 2019

A series of six hetero‐bimetallic complexes having umbrella shape topology and general formula (L)2CuLn(NO3)(Ph3PO) have been synthesized by reacting a methanolic solution of diprotic ligand (H2L) [(E)‐2‐(((2‐hydroxyphenyl)imino)methyl)‐6‐methoxyphenol] and co‐ligand Ph3P=O with CuCl2.2H2O and Ln(NO3)3⋅6H2O (Ln= Gd(1), Tb(2),Dy(3), Ho(4), Er(5) and Y(6)) in the presence of triethylamine base. The iso‐structural complexes (1‐6) have been characterized by Single crystal XRD measurement. Elemental analysis, EPR, IR and UV/Vis spectra have been recorded to further characterise these complexes. The direct current (dc) and alternating current (ac) magnetic susceptibility measurements has been carried out to study magnetic properties of the complexes. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) has also been done to assess thermal stability of the complexes.