bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Distribution and Dynamics of Events Registered by Lithuanian Police in 2015–2019
Authors: Beconytė Giedrė , Vasiliauskas Darius , Govorov Michael
Published: May 2020

The article presents the preliminary results of spatio-temporal analysis of the events registered by Lithuanian police in 2015–2019. Such analyses contribute to understanding of crime as a socially and spatially bound phenomenon. Distribution of crime is complex, inhomogeneous and depends on various characteristics of locations. Of all 3.48 million of events registered in the five-year period, five groups were selected for analysis: crime of violence, thefts, destruction of or damage to property, drug-related crime and public nuisance, presuming that these five groups best represent the crime situation in the country. The total amount of analysed records was 1.69 million. Point events have been aggregated into hexagonal cells 25 square kilometer each, covering the entire territory of the country. The crime rate was calculated based on the population data for each cell. Appropriate methods for the temporal and probability density analysis of crime were selected and applied to the cells, yielding relative crime probability density maps for all events and, separately, for open space events. The density information was complemented by the cells with a stable significant growth of the crime rate for five years. Thus the most problematic areas are clearly seen and can be further analysed in detail. The multi-scale lattice maps for each of the five groups of crime have been designed and made publicly available at the Lithuanian spatial information portal geoportal.lt where they can be laid over various available geospatial data and used for spatial insights.
Synovial Cell Count Poorly Predicts Septic Arthritis in the Presence of Crystalline Arthropathy
Authors: Luo T. David , Jarvis D. Landry , Yancey Hunter B. , Zuskov Andrey , Tipton Shane C. , Langfitt Maxwell K.
Published: May 2020

Abstract. Introduction: A synovial cell count greater than 50,000/mm3 is the threshold most commonly used to diagnose septic arthritis. This lab value may be nonspecific in the setting of crystalline arthropathy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of diagnosing septic arthritis using a synovial cell count cut-off of 50,000/mm3 in the setting of crystalline arthropathy.Methods: This was a retrospective review of joint aspirations performed between July 1st, 2013 and June 30th, 2016. Synovial fluid samples were evaluated for cell count, crystals, Gram stain, and culture. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of the synovial markers were calculated.Results: During the study period, 738 joint aspirations were sent for testing, of which 358 aspirations in 348 patients met inclusion criteria. There were 49 (13.7%) cases of culture-positive septic arthritis, and 47 patients underwent surgical irrigation and debridement. Gout and pseudogout crystals were present in 163 aspirates (45.5%). Three joints (0.8% overall rate) had concomitant crystalline arthropathy and septic arthritis, each of which had a synovial WBC ≥85,000/mm3. Increasing the WBC count cutoff to 85,000/mm3 demonstrated a specificity of 100%, but a PPV of 12.0%.Conclusions: A cut-off of 85,000/mm3 may be more appropriate to diagnose concomitant septic arthritis and crystalline arthropathy. We recommend medical management and observation in patients with crystal-positive joint aspirations unless the synovial cell count is elevated above 85,000/mm3. Prospective studies using this treatment guideline are needed to evaluate its validity and accuracy.
THE EFFECT OF BODY CONDITION SCORE OF HEIFERS ON GLUCOSE AND β-HYDROXYBUTYRATE CONCENTRATIONS AND GLUTHATIONE PEROXIDASE ACTIVITY
Authors: NIKŠIĆ Aleksandar , JEČMENICA Jovana , VALČIĆ Olivera , MILANOVIĆ Svetlana
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study was to establish if there are differences in glucose and βhydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations as well as glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity related to the body condition in heifers. Based on the body condition (BC), heifers were divided into two groups: 1. BC =3.75 and 2. BC ≥4.0. Whole blood samples from 23 heifers, taken between day 1 and day 10 after parturition, were used in the study. Glucose and BHB concentrations were determined immediately after sampling, while GPx activity was determined 24 hours after that. Heifers with higher body condition had significantly higher average BHB concentration and GPx activity. Average glucose concentrations did not differ between groups
RAW MEAT-BASED DIET (BARF) IN DOGS AND CATS NUTRITION
Authors: BROZIĆ Diana , MIKULEC Željko , SAMARDŽIJA Marko , ĐURIČIĆ Dražen , VALPOTIĆ Hrvoje
Published: May 2020

Diet based on raw meat or more popularly called BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) is defined as pet food diet that is composed of thermally untreated animal products that are either derived from wild or domestic animals and is used as a pet food diet for pets in households. Raw meat-based diet can be divided into two basic categories: commercially available finished products and diet prepared by pet owner (called homemade BARF). Homemade diets are based on recipes that are enabling the owner to self prepare the diet. Nevertheless, the recepies used do not have to be in coordinance with official recommendations that could potentially result in the development of pathologies as a result of nutrient imbalances. The lack of good quality studies has resulted in a general discussion on the subject of the potential risks and benefits that arise from this feeding practice. Studies have determined higher digestibility and excellent palatability of BARF diets. Nevertheless, studies that would prove beneficial effects of BARF diet on health or as a diet of choice for certain pathologies are lacking. The proponents of BARF diets base their recommendation on studies conducted on a small sample over a short period of time, or on popular publications that have not undergone peer review. On the other hand, research based on evaluation of infectious disease risks when feeding a BARF diet, is of the better quantity and quality. Namely, microbiological safety of BARF diets is a crucial segment that manufacturers are obligated to control with the additional control of all other production procedures (cold chain in all phases of production and storage) to minimize the contamination with zoonotic pathogens.
УТИЦАЈ ТЕЛЕСНЕ КОНДИЦИЈЕ ЈУНИЦА НА КОНЦЕНТРАЦИЈУ ГЛУКОЗЕ, БЕТА-ХИДРОКСИБУТИРАТА И АКТИВНОСТ ГЛУТАТИОН-ПЕРОКСИДАЗЕ
Authors: НИКШИЋ Александар , ЈЕЧМЕНИЦА Јована , ВАЛЧИЋ Оливера , МИЛАНОВИЋ Светлана
Published: May 2020

Циљ овог рада рада је био да се утврди да ли постоје промене у концентрацији глукозе, бета-хидроксибутирата (BHB) и активности глутатион-пероксидазе (GPx) у зависности од телесне кондиције код јуница. Јунице су на основу телесне кондиције (ТК) сврстане у две групе: 1. ТК=3,75 и 2. ТК ≥4,0. У огледу је коришћена пуна крв 23 јунице узета 1–10 дан након партуса. Концентрације глукозе и BHB одређиване су одмах по узорковању крви, а активност GPX одређивана је након 24 сата. Јунице са већом телесном кондицијом имале су статистички значајно већу просечну концентрацију BHB и активност GPX. Просечна концентрација глукозе у обе групе се није разликовала.
MIKROSKOPSKA ISTRAŽIVANJA VUNSKIH VLAKANA PRAMENKE U CILJU KVALITETNIJEG RAZVRSTAVANJA SIROVE VUNE
Authors: MLAĆO Nadžida , KATICA Amela , KATICA Velija , SOFTIĆ Almira , ŠAKIĆ Vedad , ĆUTAHIJA Velida , BEJDIĆ Pamela , HADŽIOMEROVIĆ Nedžad , KATICA Jasmin
Published: May 2020

U Bosni i Hercegovini, Crnoj Gori, kao i većini zemalja Balkana, vuna predstavlja veliki ekološki problem. Nakon striže ovaca, farmeri obično ostavljaju vunu na mjestima striže što predstavlja teško razgradiv otpad organskog porijekla. Otkupna cijena takve, netretirane vune je veoma mala kao i njen kvalitet. Istraživanjem smo pokušali skrenuti pažnju na kvalitet vunskih vlakana pojedinih dijelova tijela, sa jednog drugog aspekta, što je u konačnici veoma bitno u tekstilnoj industriji i selekciji vune u daljoj preradi. Kutikulu čine orožale ćelije, ljuspice, koje se nalaze na površini runskih vlakana. Jedna od značajnih uloga kutikule je zaštitna. Naime, kutikula štiti vunsko vlakno od različitih vanjskih inzulta, bilo mehaničkih, fizičko-hemijskih (kao što je isparavanje amonijaka u loše održavanim nastambama i sl.), koji mogu oštetiti runo, te ga na taj način učiniti manje kvalitetnim. Na istraživanim uzorcima runskih vlakana ustanovili smo izvjesne razlike u položaju i obliku orožalih ljuspica, zavisno od dijela tijela odakle su uzorkovane. Međutim, mikroskopskom analizom uzoraka uzetih sa korijena repa, ustanovili smo da su ljuspice znatno manjih dimenzija, finije građe u odnosu na raspored i izgled rožnih ljuspica sapi. U radu smo komparirali izgled, raspored ljuspica kutikule, što je veoma važno u procjeni kvaliteta vune, te njenoj daljoj upotrebi kao sirovine.
ПОСТОПЕРАТИВНА ИНФЕКЦИЈА РАНЕ ТВРДОГ НЕПЦА СА КLEBSIELLА PNEUMONIAE КОД ПСА: ПРИКАЗ СЛУЧАЈА
Authors: СТЕВАНОВИЋ ОЛИВЕР , ДОБРИЈЕВИЋ МИЉАН , ВУЈАНИЋ ДЕЈАН , НЕДИЋ ДРАГО
Published: May 2020

Инфекције рана код паса и мачака са ентеробактеријама из рода Кlebsiella spp. су ријетке у клиничкој пракси. У Ветеринарску амбуланту „БЛ-вет“ Бања Лука доведена је женка бултеријера стара 8 мјесеци. Из анамнезе од власника сазнајемо да је куја оперисана у другој ветеринарској клиници неколико седмица прије него што су власници примијетили обилан исједак из носа. Клиничким прегледом је установљено да је опште стање пса неизмијењено. Из ноздрва је био примјетан обилан гнојни исцједак свијетло-зеленe боје са примјесама хране. Из усне шупљине, био је осјетан јак задах – foetor ex ore. Прегледом усне шупљине се уочава свјеже инфицирана рана на тврдом непцу. Зарастање ране је било очигледно отежано са присутном инфекцијом, тако да су рубови непца остали неприпојени. Тек након узимања бриса дна ране, могло се уочити да је ријеч о активном гнојном процесу. Klebsiella pneumoniae je изолована из ране непца код пса.
Highly sensitive persons, caregiving strategies and humour: the case of Italian and Israeli medical clowns
Authors: Dionigi Alberto , Goldberg Alon
Published: May 2020

The medical clown is a healthcare practitioner whose character is strictly associated with the performer’s own personality. In this study, the relationships between level of sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), caregiving strategies and humour in Italian and Israeli clowns were compared. Participants were 159 medical clowns (97 Italian and 62 Israeli), ranging from 22 to 74 years of age, who completed a demographic questionnaire, the self-reported Highly Sensitive Person Scale, the Caregiving Strategies Scale and the BenCor. Results showed that higher SPS was related to higher hyperactivation and deactivation, and that hyperactivation was related to lower benevolent humour and greater corrective humour. Hyperactivation negatively predicts benevolent humour but positively predicts corrective humour, beyond the effect of SPS. Deactivation had no relationship to either benevolent or corrective humour. The results are also discussed in reference to differences between the two groups and to previous studies conducted with general populations.
PHACTR1 is associated with disease progression in Chinese Moyamoya disease
Authors: Yang Yongbo , Wang Jian , Liang Qun , Wang Yi , Chen Xinhua , Zhang Qingrong , Na Shijie , Liu Yi , Yan Ting , Hang Chunhua , Zhu Yichao
Published: May 2020

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a progressive stenosis at the terminal portion of internal carotid artery and frequently occurs in East Asian countries. The etiology of MMD is still largely unknown. We performed a case-control design with whole-exome sequencing analysis on 31 sporadic MMD patients and 10 normal controls with matched age and gender. Patients clinically diagnosed with MMD was determined by digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Twelve predisposing mutations on seven genes associated with the sporadic MMD patients of Chinese ancestry (CCER2, HLA-DRB1, NSD-1, PDGFRB, PHACTR1, POGLUT1, and RNF213) were identified, of which eight single nucleotide variants (SNVs) were deleterious with CADD PHRED scaled score > 15. Sanger sequencing of nine cases with disease progression and 22 stable MMD cases validated that SNV (c.13185159G>T, p.V265L) on PHACTR1 was highly associated with the disease progression of MMD. Finally, we knocked down the expression of PHACTR1 by transfection with siRNA and measured the cell survival of human coronary artery endothelial cell (HCAEC) cells. PHACTR1 silence reduced the cell survival of HCAEC cells under serum starvation cultural condition. Together, these data identify novel predisposing mutations associated with MMD and reveal a requirement for PHACTR1 in mediating cell survival of endothelial cells.
Linking diffuse radiation and ecosystem productivity of a desert steppe ecosystem
Authors: Li Cheng , Jia Xin , Ma Jingyong , Liu Peng , Yang Ruizhi , Bai Yujie , Hayat Muhammad , Liu Jinglan , Zha Tianshan
Published: May 2020

Radiation components have distinct effects on photosynthesis. In the desert steppe ecosystem, the influence of diffuse radiation on carbon fixation has not been thoroughly explored. We examined this diffusion and its effect on ecosystem productivity was examined during the growing season from 2014 to 2015 on the basis of eddy covariance measurements of CO2 exchange in a desert steppe ecosystem in northwest China. Our results indicated that the gross ecosystem production (GEP) and diffuse photosynthetically active radiation (PARdif) peaked when the clearness index (CI) was around 0.5. The maximum canopy photosynthesis (Pmax) under cloudy skies (CI < 0.7) was 23.7% greater than under clear skies (CI ≥ 0.7). When the skies became cloudy in the desert steppe ecosystem, PARdif had a greater effect on GEP. Additionally, lower vapor pressure deficits (VPD ≤ 1 kPa), lower air temperatures (Ta ≤ 20 °C), and non-stressed water conditions (REW ≥ 0.4) were more conducive for enhanced ecosystem photosynthesis under cloudy skies than under clear skies. This may be due to the comprehensive effects of VPD and Ta on stomatal conductance. We concluded that cloudiness can influence diffuse radiation components and that diffuse radiation can increase the ecosystem production of desert steppe ecosystems in northwest China.
Genetic diversity of Alternaria species associated with black point in wheat grains
Authors: Turzhanova Ainur , Khapilina Oxana N. , Tumenbayeva Asem , Shevtsov Vladislav , Raiser Olesya , Kalendar Ruslan
Published: May 2020

The genus Alternaria is a widely distributed major plant pathogen that can act as a saprophyte in plant debris. Fungi of this genus frequently infect cereal crops and cause such diseases as black point and wheat leaf blight, which decrease the yield and quality of cereal products. A total of 25 Alternaria sp. isolates were collected from germ grains of various wheat cultivars from different geographic regions in Kazakhstan. We investigated the genetic relationships of the main Alternaria species related to black point disease of wheat in Kazakhstan, using the inter-primer binding site (iPBS) DNA profiling technique. We used 25 retrotransposon-based iPBS primers to identify the differences among and within Alternaria species populations, and analyzed the variation using clustering (UPGMA) and statistical approaches (AMOVA). Isolates of Alternaria species clustered into two main genetic groups, with species of A.alternata and A.tennuissima forming one cluster, and isolates of A. infectoria forming another. The genetic diversity found using retrotransposon profiles was strongly correlated with geographic data. Overall, the iPBS fingerprinting technique is highly informative and useful for the evaluation of genetic diversity and relationships of Alternaria species.
Gorontalo Fishermen Knowledge Studies Related to Astronomy and the Movement of Fish in Tomini Bay
Authors: Madjowa Verrianto , Olii Abdul Hafidz , Baruadi Alfi Sahri Remi
Published: May 2020

Tomini Gulf coast inhabited by various ethnic groups in Indonesia, one of Gorontalo. The coastal area Gorontalo Tomini Bay stretches from the border Bone Bolango - Mongondow Bolaang South (North Sulawesi) to Pouhuwato - Parigi Moutong (Central Sulawesi). The purpose of this research for the inventory of local knowledge Gorontalo related to astronomy and movement of pelagic fish in the Gulf of Tomini. Based on this research, there is local wisdom that still retained fishermen off the coast of Gorontalo, Tomini, like the seasons, currents and astronomy (astrology). Fishermen off the coast of Gorontalo, Tomini, referring to the constellation as a direction and a benchmark in the utilization of fishery resources.

Collecting data in this study done by observation and interviews with several respondents fishermen. Respondents were determined by purposive sampling (intentionally). Data collection for this study from September 2017 until February 2019. Similarly Discussion Forum Focus (Focus Group Discussion, FGD) in several places on local wisdom for the season, currents and  astronomy.
Efficacy of Bio-inoculants Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Phosphorus on Micronutrient Status of Leaves and Soil in Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) Layers in Nursery Condition
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Singh R. R. , Rani Ruby , Singh Mahendra , Kumar Uday
Published: May 2020

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) originated from South China, it is sub-tropical evergreen fruit crops, especially grown on the marginal climate of tropics and subtropics. It is delicious juicy fruit of India having excellent nutritional quality, pleasant flavoured, good amount of antioxidant and vitamins C, vitamin B-complex and phytonutrients flavonoids. It has a great potential to earn foreign exchange in the national and international market through export. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) infection is a common association between plant roots and microorganisms. It is responsible for increasing plant nutrient uptake and also increases in macro and micronutrients in leaf. Therefore, the present work has been analyzed macro and micro nutrients from soil and leaf, after 60, 90 and 120 days after inoculation of two bio-inoculants with phosphorus (SSP) including nine treatments with three replications. After 120 days of inoculation both the species of mycorrhizal combination with phosphorus application were very effective. Highest Copper content is (10.99 ppm), Zinc (33.17 ppm), Iron (121.47 ppm) and Manganese (15.33 ppm) was recorded in case T5 (G. mosseae 10 g + Phosphorus 50 mg kg-1 of soil) which is gradually increases. The soil nutrient content gradually decreased with time duration but no- significant difference was found among treatments after 120 days inoculation. After 120 days potting result was found that the Copper content is (1.70 ppm), Zinc (3.07 ppm), Iron (7.80 ppm) and Manganese (4.00 ppm) was recorded in case T5 (G. mosseae 10 g + Phosphorus 50 mg kg-1 of soil).this research was undertaken to find out whether Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) infection and phosphorus affect the micro-nutrient status of soil and leaves in nursery stage.
Studies on Screening of Onion (Allium cepa L.) Genotypes against Bolting Behaviour
Authors: Singh R. K. , Singh S. K. , Tailor A. K.
Published: May 2020

In India, onion is grown during Kharif, late Kharif and Rabi season, though Rabi is the main crop. India is the second largest producer of onion in the world after China. The onion is grown as bulb crop, some inflorescence stalks are produced before formation of normal bulbs known as bolting, it is not a desirable because it stop the development of bulbs in bulbing crops. These bulbs become fibrous and light in weight. The study conducted at Nashik and Karnal during kharif, 2017, revealed that at Nashik, the highest gross yield (360.71 q/ha) and marketable yield (356.44 q/ha) were recorded in the check variety NHRDF Red-4 and found at par with all the advance lines except L-764, L-705, L-743, L-833 and L-872. Highest total soluble solids (12.07%) and dry matter (13.58%) were noted in check variety NHRDF Red-3, however at Karnal, the highest gross yield (198.36 q/ha) and marketable yield (183.44 q/ha) were recorded in advance line L-883 and found at par with advance lines L-863, L-882 and L-884 in respect of gross yield. Highest total soluble solids (15.01%) was recorded in the advance line L-881 and found at par with the advance lines L-653, L-682 and L-880. It is concluded from the study that the advance lines such as L-883 and NHRDF Red-4, which has highest yield can be utilized for higher yield. Regarding bolting behavior, no bolters were recorded in lines L-705, L-748, L-750, L-831, L-833, L-870, L-888, L-890, L-894 and check NHRDF Red-4, however, these lines can be utilized by onion breeder for developing good quality onion variety for different agroclimatic condition.
The association of leisure-time physical activity and walking during commuting to work with depressive symptoms among Japanese workers: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Fukai Kota , Kuwahara Keisuke , Chen Sanmei , Eguchi Masafumi , Kochi Takeshi , Kabe Isamu , Mizoue Tetsuya
Published: May 2020

Objective

To examine whether the cross-sectional association of leisure-time physical activity and walking during commuting to work with depressive symptoms depends on the level of work-related physical activity among Japanese workers.

Methods

Participants were 2024 workers aged 19-69 years in two manufacturing companies in Japan. Leisure-time physical activity and walking during commuting to work were ascertained via a self-administered questionnaire. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale. The odds ratio (OR) of depressive symptoms (CES-D score ≥16) was estimated by using multiple logistic regression with adjustment for covariates.

Results

Leisure-time physical activity was inversely associated with depressive symptoms; multivariable-adjusted ORs (95% confidence intervals) of having depressive symptoms for leisure-time physical activity were 1.00 (reference), 0.85 (0.64, 1.12), 0.69 (0.51, 0.94), and 0.59 (0.44, 0.80) for 0, >0 to <3.0, 3.0 to <10.0, and ≥10.0 MET-h/wk, respectively (P for trend <.001). This inverse trend for leisure-time physical activity was clearer among individuals who had low physical activity at workplace (less than 7.0 MET-h/d). For walking to work, such an inverse association was not observed.

Conclusion

Leisure-time physical activity was associated with fewer depressive symptoms, especially in workers with low work-related physical activity.
Automated cot‐side tracking of functional brain age in preterm infants
Authors: Stevenson Nathan J. , Oberdorfer Lisa , Tataranno Maria‐Luisa , Breakspear Michael , Colditz Paul B. , de Vries Linda S. , Benders Manon J. N. L. , Klebermass‐Schrehof Katrin , Vanhatalo Sampsa , Roberts James A.
Published: May 2020

Objective

A major challenge in the care of preterm infants is the early identification of compromised neurological development. While several measures are routinely used to track anatomical growth, there is a striking lack of reliable and objective tools for tracking maturation of early brain function; a cornerstone of lifelong neurological health. We present a cot‐side method for measuring the functional maturity of the newborn brain based on routinely available neurological monitoring with electroencephalography (EEG).

Methods

We used a dataset of 177 EEG recordings from 65 preterm infants to train a multivariable prediction of functional brain age (FBA) from EEG. The FBA was validated on an independent set of 99 EEG recordings from 42 preterm infants. The difference between FBA and postmenstrual age (PMA) was evaluated as a predictor for neurodevelopmental outcome.

Results

The FBA correlated strongly with the PMA of an infant, with a median prediction error of less than 1 week. Moreover, individual babies follow well‐defined individual trajectories. The accuracy of the FBA applied to the validation set was statistically equivalent to the training set accuracy. In a subgroup of infants with repeated EEG recordings, a persistently negative predicted age difference was associated with poor neurodevelopmental outcome.

Interpretation

The FBA enables the tracking of functional neurodevelopment in preterm infants. This establishes proof of principle for growth charts for brain function, a new tool to assist clinical management and identify infants who will benefit most from early intervention.
Best Practices for Preclinical In Vivo Testing of Cancer Nanomedicines
Authors: Valcourt Danielle M. , Kapadia Chintan H. , Scully Mackenzie A. , Dang Megan N. , Day Emily S.
Published: May 2020

Significant advances have been made in the development of nanoparticles for cancer treatment in recent years. Despite promising results in preclinical animal models, cancer nanomedicines often fail in clinical trials. This failure rate could be reduced by defining stringent criteria for testing and quality control during the design and development stages, and by performing carefully planned preclinical studies in relevant animal models. This article discusses best practices for the evaluation of nanomedicines in murine tumor models. First, a recommended set of experiments to perform is introduced, including discussion of the types of data to collect during these studies. This is followed by an outline of various tumor models and their clinical relevance. Next, different routes of nanoparticle administration are overviewed, followed by a summary of important controls to include in in vivo studies of nanomedicine. Finally, animal welfare considerations are discussed, and an overview of the steps involved in achieving US Food and Drug Administration approval after animal studies are completed is provided. Researchers should use this report as a guideline for effective preclinical evaluation of cancer nanomedicine. As the community adopts best practices for in vivo testing, the rate of clinical translation of cancer nanomedicines is likely to improve.
Multiphoton Fabrication of Proteinaceous Nanocomposite Microstructures with Photothermal Activity in the Infrared
Authors: Zeynali Amirbahador , Marini Mario , Chirico Giuseppe , Bouzin Margaux , Borzenkov Mykola , Sironi Laura , D'Alfonso Laura , Pallavicini Piersandro , Cassina Valeria , Mantegazza Francesco , Granucci Francesca , Marongiu Laura , Polli Dario , De la Cadena Alejandro , Collini Maddalena
Published: May 2020

Two‐photon laser writing is used here to fabricate 3D proteinaceous microstructures with photothermal functionality in the near‐infrared spectral region and tunable elasticity. The photo‐cross‐linking is initiated in bovine serum albumin (BSA) by rose bengal or methylene blue and the photo‐thermal effect arises from gold non‐spherically symmetric nanoparticles dispersed in the ink. Massive energy transfer of the plasmonic resonances of the gold nanoparticles to methylene blue prevents effective photo‐crosslinking of BSA. However, stable microstructures with photo‐thermal functionality can be fabricated in the rose bengal proteinaceous inks. On these microstructures, with a gold atom concentration as low as 1% w/w, a highly localized temperature increase can be quickly (≅1 s) reached and maintained under continuous wave laser irradiation at 800 nm. The photothermal efficiency under continuous wave laser irradiation depends on the thickness of the microstructure and can reach 12.2 ± 0.4 °C W−1 These proteinaceous microstructures represent therefore a promising platform for future applications in the fields like physical stimulation of cells for regenerative nanomedicine.
Infinite Parallel Plates Algorithm
Authors: Kim Mingyo , Hwang Chi‐Ok
Published: May 2020

In a diffusion Monte Carlo simulation, when diffusion starts between two parallel planes, the “walks‐on‐spheres” (WOS) algorithm is usually used. In this case, an absorption ε‐layer is used to terminate the diffusion. Here, based on isomorphism between the electrostatic Poisson problem and the corresponding diffusion motion expectation of the first passage, a new parallel‐plates algorithm is developed without an absorption layer, which induces another diffusion error in addition to the intrinsic Monte Carlo error. As there is not an analytic closed solution for the induced charge density on the parallel plates by a charge at the center between them, a series solution is used, combined with the acceptance–rejection sampling method. Using this algorithm, even though a series solution is used, it is shown that an exact sampling can be performed, which means that the random walk jump can be performed to the parallel planes without using the detailed WOS random walk jumps. It is verified that the proposed parallel plates algorithm is significantly more efficient than the current WOS algorithm.
Accessing the Two‐Electron Charge Storage Capacity of MnO2 in Mild Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Mateos Mickaël , Makivic Nikolina , Kim Yee‐Seul , Limoges Benoît , Balland Véronique
Published: May 2020

Rechargeable batteries based on MnO2 cathodes, able to operate in mild aqueous electrolytes, have attracted attention due to their appealing features for the design of low‐cost stationary energy storage devices. However, the charge/discharge mechanism of MnO2 in such media is still a matter of debate. Here, an in‐depth quantitative spectroelectrochemical analysis of MnO2 thin‐films provides a set of unrivaled mechanistic insights. A major finding is that charge storage occurs through the reversible two‐electron faradaic conversion of MnO2 into Mn2+ in the presence of a wide range of weak Brønsted acids, including the [Zn(H2O)6]2+ or [Mn(H2O)6]2+ complexes present in aqueous Zn/MnO2 batteries. Furthermore, it is shown that buffered electrolytes loaded with Mn2+ are ideal to achieve highly reversible conversion of MnO2 with both high gravimetric capacity and remarkably stable charging/discharging potentials. In the most favorable case, a record gravimetric capacity of 450 mA·h·g−1 is obtained at a high rate of 1.6 A·g−1, with a Coulombic efficiency close to 100% and a MnO2 utilization of 84%. Overall, the present results challenge the common view on MnO2 the charge storage mechanism in mild aqueous electrolytes and underline the benefit of buffered electrolytes for high‐performance rechargeable aqueous batteries.
Clinical Integration of Point‐of‐care Ultrasound by Emergency Medicine Residents: A Single‐center Mixed‐methods Study
Authors: Haney Rachel M. , Halperin Michael , Diamond Eden , Ratanski Daniel , Shokoohi Hamid , Huang Calvin , Liteplo Andrew S.
Published: May 2020

Background

Point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) competence consists of image acquisition, image interpretation, and clinical integration. Limited data exist on POCUS usage patterns and clinical integration by emergency medicine (EM) residents. We sought to determine actual POCUS usage and clinical integration patterns by EM residents and to explore residents' perspectives on POCUS clinical integration.

Methods

We conducted an explanatory sequential mixed‐methods study at a 4‐year EM residency program. In phase 1, EM ultrasound (US) attendings observed PGY‐4 EM residents' clinical integration of POCUS in real time while on shift in the emergency department (ED). EM US attendings evaluated residents on their intent to perform POCUS, actual POCUS usage, and competence per patient encounter. We used logistic regression to analyze these parameters. In phase 2, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with the observed PGY‐4 residents regarding POCUS usage and clinical integration in the ED. We analyzed qualitative data for themes.

Results

Emergency medicine US attendings observed 10 PGY‐4 EM residents during 254 high‐acuity patient encounters from December 2018 to March 2019. EM US attendings considered POCUS indicated for 26% (66/254) of patients, possibly indicated for 12% (30/254) and not indicated for 62% (158/254). Of the 66 patients for whom EM US attendings considered POCUS indicated, PGY‐4s intended to perform POCUS for patient management 61% (40/66) of the time. PGY‐4s subsequently incorporated POCUS into patient management 73% (48/66) of the time. EM US attendings considered PGY‐4s entrustable to perform POCUS independently 81% (206/254) of the time. We did not find a statistically significant association between shift volume, shift type, or POCUS application, and resident intent to perform POCUS nor competence. Interviews identified three factors that influence PGY‐4's POCUS clinical integration: motivations to use POCUS, barriers to utilization, and POCUS educational methods.

Conclusions

This mixed‐methods study identified a significant gap in POCUS utilization and clinical integration by PGY‐4 EM residents for clinically indicated cases identified by EM US attendings. As clinical integration is a cornerstone of POCUS competence, it is important to ensure that EM resident POCUS curricula emphasize training on clinical utilization and indications for POCUS while on shift in the ED.
Is remnant pancreatic cancer after pancreatic resection more frequent in early‐stage pancreatic cancer than in advanced‐stage cancer?
Authors: Miyasaka Yoshihiro , Ohtsuka Takao , Kimura Ryuichiro , Matsuda Ryota , Mori Yasuhisa , Nakata Kohei , Watanabe Masato , Oda Yoshinao , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: May 2020

Aim

As the prognosis of patients who undergo resection for pancreatic cancer has improved, reports of remnant pancreatic cancer after pancreatic cancer resection have been increasing. Previous studies regarding early‐stage pancreatic cancer showed a high incidence of remnant pancreatic cancer in these patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of remnant pancreatic cancer according to the degree of progression of the initial pancreatic cancer.

Methods

Patients who underwent partial pancreatic resection for primary pancreatic cancer were retrospectively reviewed and divided into an early‐stage group and an advanced‐stage group according to the stage of the initial cancer. Patient characteristics and long‐term outcomes, including development of remnant pancreatic cancer, were compared between the two groups.

Results

This study included 321 patients who underwent partial pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer; 32 patients in the early‐stage group and 289 patients in the advanced‐stage group. Remnant pancreatic cancer developed in 19 patients (5.9%); seven patients (21.9%) in the early‐stage group and 12 patients (4.5%) in the advanced‐stage group. The cumulative incidence of remnant pancreatic cancer according to the Kaplan–Meier method was comparable between the two groups (5‐year cumulative incidence: 20.6% vs 9.9%, early‐stage group vs advanced‐stage group; P = .1827).

Conclusion

Our results suggested that the potential for developing remnant pancreatic cancer was comparable between the early‐stage and the advanced‐stage groups. Therefore, the incidence of remnant pancreatic cancer may increase along with improved pancreatic cancer treatment.
Intracellular Entropy‐Driven Multi‐Bit DNA Computing for Tumor Progression Discrimination
Authors: Bai Min , Chen Feng , Cao Xiaowen , Zhao Yue , Xue Jing , Yu Xu , Fan Chunhai , Zhao Yongxi
Published: May 2020

Tumor progressions such as metastasis are complicated events that involve abnormal expression of different miRNAs and enzymes. Monitoring these biomolecules in live cells with computational DNA nanotechnology may enable discrimination of tumor progression via digital outputs. Herein, we report intracellular entropy‐driven multivalent DNA circuits to implement multi‐bit computing for simultaneous analysis of intracellular telomerase and microRNAs including miR‐21 and miR‐31. These three biomolecules can trigger respective DNA strand displacement recycling reactions for signal amplification. They are visualized by fluorescence imaging, and their signal outputs are encoded as multi‐bit binary codes for different cell types. The results can discriminate non‐tumorigenic, malignant and metastatic breast cells as well as respective tumors. This DNA computing circuit is further performed in a microfluidic chip to differentiate rare co‐cultured cells, which holds a potential for the analysis of clinical samples.
Characterization of the FeV=O Complex in the Pathway of Water Oxidation
Authors: Ezhov Roman , Ravari Alireza Karbakhsh , Pushkar Yulia
Published: May 2020

Hypervalent FeV=O species are implicated in a multitude of oxidative reactions of organic substrates, as well as in catalytic water oxidation, a reaction crucial for artificial photosynthesis. Spectroscopically characterized FeV species are exceedingly rare and, so far, were produced by the oxidation of Fe complexes with peroxy acids or H2O2: reactions that entail breaking of the O−O bond to form a FeV=O fragment. The key FeV=O species proposed to initiate the O−O bond formation in water oxidation reactions remained undetected, presumably due to their high reactivity. Here, we achieved freeze quench trapping of six coordinated [FeV=O,(OH)(Pytacn)]2+ (Pytacn=1‐(2′‐pyridylmethyl)‐4,7‐dimethyl‐1,4,7‐triazacyclononane) (2) generated during catalytic water oxidation. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) confirmed the FeV oxidation state and the presence of a FeV=O bond at ≈1.60 Å. Combined EPR and DFT methods indicate that 2 contains a S=3/2 FeV center. 2 is the first spectroscopically characterized high spin oxo‐FeV complex and constitutes a paradigmatic example of the FeV=O(OH) species proposed to be responsible for catalytic water oxidation reactions.
A General Approach to Deboronative Radical Chain Reactions with Pinacol Alkylboronic Esters
Authors: André‐Joyaux Emy , Kuzovlev Andrey , Tappin Nicholas D. C. , Renaud Philippe
Published: May 2020

The generation of carbon‐centered radicals from air‐sensitive organoboron compounds through nucleohomolytic substitution at boron is a general method to generate non‐functionalized and functionalized radicals. Due to their reduced Lewis acidity, alkylboronic pinacol esters are not suitable substrates. We report their in situ conversion into alkylboronic catechol esters by boron‐transesterification with a substoichiometric amount of catechol methyl borate combined with an array of radical chain processes. This simple one‐pot radical‐chain deboronative method enables the conversion of pinacol boronic esters into iodides, bromides, chlorides, and thioethers. The process is also suitable the formation of nitriles and allylated compounds through C−C bond formation using sulfonyl radical traps. The power of combining radical and classical boron chemistry is illustrated with a modular 5‐membered ring formation using a combination of three‐component coupling and protodeboronative cyclization.
Visible‐Light‐Enabled Trifluoromethylative Pyridylation of Alkenes from Pyridines and Triflic Anhydride
Authors: Lee Kangjae , Lee Seojin , Kim Namhoon , Kim Seonyul , Hong Sungwoo
Published: May 2020

A general strategy for visible‐light‐enabled site‐selective trifluoromethylative pyridylation of unactivated alkenes has been developed using pyridines and triflic anhydride (Tf2O). Intriguingly, the N‐triflylpyridinium salts, generated in situ from pyridines and Tf2O, serve as effective modular bifunctional reagents to install both CF3 and pyridyl groups to various olefins while controlling C4‐selectivity in radical addition to the pyridine core. This synthetic route exhibited broad substrate scope under metal‐free and mild photocatalytic conditions, granting efficient access to valuable C4‐alkylated pyridines and quinolines without requiring prefunctionalization of the reaction site.
Mechanochromic Delayed Fluorescence Switching in Propeller‐Shaped Carbazole–Isophthalonitrile Luminogens with Stimuli‐Responsive Intramolecular Charge‐Transfer Excited States
Authors: Yang Minlang , Park In Seob , Miyashita Yasuhiro , Tanaka Katsunori , Yasuda Takuma
Published: May 2020

Herein, the universal design of high‐efficiency stimuli‐responsive luminous materials endowed with mechanochromic luminescence (MCL) and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) functions is reported. The origin of the unique stimuli‐triggered TADF switching for a series of carbazole–isophthalonitrile‐based donor–acceptor (D–A) luminogens is demonstrated based on systematic photophysical and X‐ray analysis, coupled with theoretical calculations. It was revealed that a tiny alteration of the intramolecular D–A twisting in the excited‐state structures governed by the solid morphologies is responsible for this dynamic TADF switching behavior. This concept is applicable to the fabrication of bicolor emissive organic light‐emitting diodes using a single TADF emitter.
Two Colour Photoflow Chemistry for Macromolecular Design
Authors: Van De Walle Matthias , De Bruycker Kevin , Blinco James P. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: May 2020

We report a photochemical flow setup that exploits λ‐orthogonal reactions using two different colours of light (λ1=350 nm and λ2=410 nm) in sequential on‐line irradiation steps. Critically, both photochemically reactive units (a visible‐light reactive chalcone and a UV‐activated photo‐caged diene) are present in the reaction mixture. We demonstrate the power of two colour photoflow by the wavelength‐selective end group modification of photo‐caged polymer end groups and the subsequent polymer ring closure driven by a [2+2] cycloaddition. Importantly, we evidence that the high energy gate does not induce the visible light reaction of the chalcone, which attests the true λ‐orthogonal nature of the flow reaction system. For the first time, this study opens the realm of photoflow reactions to λ‐orthogonal photochemistry.
Spray‐Coating of Catalytically Active MOF–Polythiourea through Postsynthetic Polymerization
Authors: Kalaj Mark , Cohen Seth M.
Published: May 2020

A UiO‐66‐NCS MOF was formed by postsynthetic modification of UiO‐66‐NH2. The UiO‐66‐NCS MOFs displays a circa 20‐fold increase in activity against the chemical warfare agent simulant dimethyl‐4‐nitrophenyl phosphate (DMNP) compared to UiO‐66‐NH2, making it the most active MOF materials using a validated high‐throughput screening. The −NCS functional groups provide reactive handles for postsynthetic polymerization of the MOFs into functional materials. These MOFs can be tethered to amine‐terminated polypropylene polymers (Jeffamines) through a facile room‐temperature synthesis with no byproducts. The MOFs are then crosslinked into a MOF–polythiourea (MOF–PTU) composite material, maintaining the catalytic properties of the MOF and the flexibility of the polymer. This MOF–PTU hybrid material was spray‐coated onto Nyco textile fibers, displaying excellent adhesion to the fiber surface. The spray‐coated fibers were screened for the degradation of DMNP and showed durable catalytic reactivity.
Superwetting Patterned Membranes with an Anisotropy/Isotropy Transition: Towards Signal Expression and Liquid Permeation
Authors: Qu Ruixiang , Li Xiangyu , Liu Yanan , Zhai Huajun , Zhao Shuaiheng , Feng Lin , Wei Yen
Published: May 2020

Superwetting membranes with responsive properties have attracted heightened attention because of their fine‐tunable surface wettability. However, their functional diversity is severely limited by the “black‐or‐white” wettability transition. Herein, we describe a coating strategy to fabricate multifunctional responsive superwetting membranes with SiO2/octadecylamine patterns. The adjustable patterns in the responsive region are the key factor for functional diversity. Specifically, the coated part of the membrane displayed a superhydrophobicity/superhydrophilicity transition at different pH values, whereas the uncoated part exhibited invariant superhydrophilicity. On the basis of this anisotropy/isotropy transition, the membranes can serve as either responsive permeable membranes or signal‐expression membranes, thus enabling the responsive separation and permeation of liquids with satisfactory separation efficiency (>99.90 %) and flux (ca. 60 L m−2 h), as well as real‐time liquid signal expression with alterable signals.
Electrocatalytically Active Fe‐(O‐C2)4 Single‐Atom Sites for Efficient Reduction of Nitrogen to Ammonia
Authors: Zhang Shengbo , Jin Meng , Shi Tongfei , Han Miaomiao , Sun Qiao , Lin Yue , Ding Zhenhua , Zheng Li Rong , Wang Guozhong , Zhang Yunxia , Zhang Haimin , Zhao Huijun
Published: May 2020

Single‐atom catalysts have demonstrated their superiority over other types of catalysts for various reactions. However, the reported nitrogen reduction reaction single‐atom electrocatalysts for the nitrogen reduction reaction exclusively utilize metal–nitrogen or metal–carbon coordination configurations as catalytic active sites. Here, we report a Fe single‐atom electrocatalyst supported on low‐cost, nitrogen‐free lignocellulose‐derived carbon. The extended X‐ray absorption fine structure spectra confirm that Fe atoms are anchored to the support via the Fe‐(O‐C2)4 coordination configuration. Density functional theory calculations identify Fe‐(O‐C2)4 as the active site for the nitrogen reduction reaction. An electrode consisting of the electrocatalyst loaded on carbon cloth can afford a NH3 yield rate and faradaic efficiency of 32.1 μg h−1 mgcat.−1 (5350 μg h−1 mgFe−1) and 29.3 %, respectively. An exceptional NH3 yield rate of 307.7 μg h−1 mgcat.−1 (51 283 μg h−1 mgFe−1) with a near record faradaic efficiency of 51.0 % can be achieved with the electrocatalyst immobilized on a glassy carbon electrode.
Effect of gamma irradiation on the oxygen barrier properties in ethyl‐vinyl acetate/ethylene‐vinyl alcohol/ethyl‐vinyl acetate multilayer film
Authors: Dorey Samuel , Gaston Fanny , Girard‐Perier Nina , Dupuy Nathalie , Marque Sylvain R.A. , Delaunay Lucie
Published: May 2020

The potential changes of single‐use plastic materials (EVA/EVOH/EVA multilayer film in this study) used in biopharmaceutical and food‐packaging industries are investigated after several gamma irradiation doses: 30, 50, 115, and 270 kGy, and for nonsterilized samples (0 kGy) from a point of view of mechanical properties, thermal properties and permeability properties. Tensile tests, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) are performed on the multilayer film. For irradiation doses below 50 kGy, thermal and water vapor barrier properties are not altered. For higher doses (50 to 270 kGy), mechanical, thermal and water vapor barrier properties are slightly altered whereas oxygen barrier property decreases from 13 to 27 cm3.m−2.day−1. This slight change is shown not to happen due to chain entanglement or chain mobility loss in the amorphous phase of the different polymers. It rather comes from a change of the chemical environment of the EVOH layer.
Evaluating nonlinear maximum likelihood optimal estimation uncertainty in cloud and aerosol remote sensing
Authors: Western Luke M. , Rougier Jonathan C. , Watson I. Matthew , Francis Peter N.
Published: May 2020

Uncertainty estimates are important when retrieving properties of clouds and aerosols from satellites measurements. These measurements must be interpreted using a form of inverse theory, such as optimal estimation. In atmospheric remote sensing these inverse methods often assume that the forward model is linear in the region of uncertainty. This assumption is not necessarily valid. This paper presents an exact confidence procedure in contrast to the linear approximation using a maximum likelihood estimator. Two simple examples of retrieving the effective radius and optical depth of a volcanic ash cloud and water cloud show a discrepancy between the linear approximation and the exact procedure. The exact procedure is especially useful for inference where the entire parameter space has been forward modelled prior to or during the retrieval, such as using look up tables. When the inference method calculates the likelihood over the whole parameter space, it is less computationally expensive than a linear approximation.