bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward mapping spatiotemporal characteristics of muscle oxygenation in different motor modalities by multichannel near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Cui Han , Geng Yanjuan , Samuel Oluwarotimi Williams , Jiang Naifu , Guo Kaifeng , Huang Zhen , Li Guanglin
Published: April 2019

Commonly, the near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) devices are used to measure muscle oxygenated hemoglobin (HBO) concentration and total hemoglobin (HBT) concentration with a single channel, which can obtain the temporal HBO and HBT signals. Lacking of the spatial information of muscle oxygenation will limit the exploration of the heterogeneity of muscle activities. In this study, a multichannel NIRS recording system was used to measure the muscle oxygenation with an attempt to simultaneously provide the temporal and spatial HBO and HBT concentration. In the experiment, the influences of four motor tasks, including active, passive, imaginary movement, and the control task (no movement), on muscle oxygenation were investigated in eight normal subjects. Our results showed that both amplitude and spatial heterogeneity associated with variation in muscle oxygenation during active and passive motor tasks were significantly different between the motor time and rest time (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the region where HBO concentration decreased during the active motor task was in accordance with the anatomical position of contracted muscle, which cannot be observed from the results of the passive task. Considering the imaginary and control tasks in which the muscle was in a fixed/stationary state, the amplitude and spatial heterogeneity associated with variations in muscle oxygenation only exhibited slight changes (P > 0.05). This pilot study suggested that the spatiotemporal information obtained from multichannel NIRS devices might be potential for accurate measurement of the variation in muscle oxygenation during motor tasks, which would be useful for different clinical applications.
How Water Can Affect Keratin: Hydration‐Driven Recovery of Bighorn Sheep (Ovis Canadensis) Horns
Authors: Huang Wei , Zaheri Alireza , Yang Wen , Kisailus David , Ritchie Robert O. , Espinosa Horacio , McKittrick Joanna
Published: April 2019

Keratin is one of the most common structural biopolymers exhibiting high strength, toughness, and low density. It is found in various tissues such as hairs, feathers, horns, and hooves with various functionalities. For instance, horn keratin absorbs a large amount of energy during intraspecific fights. Keratinized tissues are permanent tissues because of their basic composition consisting of dead keratinized cells that are not able to remodel or regrow once broken or damaged. The lack of a self‐healing mechanism presents a problem for horns, as they are under continued high risk from mechanical damage. In the present work, it is shown for the first time that a combination of material architecture and a water‐assisted recovery mechanism, in the horn of bighorn sheep, endows them with shape and mechanical property recoverability after being subjected to severe compressive loading. Moreover, the effect of hydration is unraveled, on the material molecular structure and mechanical behavior, by means of synchrotron wide angle X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nanoindentation, and in situ and ex situ tensile tests. The recovery and remodeling mechanism is anisotropic and quite distinct to the self‐healing of living tissue such as bones.
Stable Na Metal Anode Enabled by a Reinforced Multistructural SEI Layer
Authors: Xu Zhixin , Yang Jun , Zhang Tao , Sun Limin , Nuli Yanna , Wang Jiulin , Hirano Shin‐ichi
Published: April 2019

Metallic sodium (Na) is one of the most promising anode candidates for next‐generation secondary batteries. The development of Na metal batteries with a high energy density and low cost is desirable to meet the requirements of both portable and stationary electrical energy storage. Unfortunately, several problems caused by the unstable Na metal anode severely hinder the practical applications of these batteries. Here reported is a facile but effective methodology to form a multistructural interphase layer containing a sodium fluoride‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and crisscrossed Na3Sb bars on the Na electrode surface. The reinforced Na‐alloy network and chemically/electrochemically complementary SEI formation greatly improve the interphase strength and Na+ conductivity. The well‐protected Na metal electrode in symmetric Na|Na cells is stable and dendrite‐free in the plating and stripping cycling processes with a negligible voltage divergence, even at a large current density of 5 mA cm−2 or with a high deposition capacity of 10 mAh cm−2. Moreover, this anode is especially compatible with different cathodes and demonstrates outstanding cycle performance in the full cells. It is believed that this approach provides a practical solution toward stable Na metal anodes and related battery systems.
Tracking Structural Phase Transitions in Lead‐Halide Perovskites by Means of Thermal Expansion
Authors: Keshavarz Masoumeh , Ottesen Martin , Wiedmann Steffen , Wharmby Michael , Küchler Robert , Yuan Haifeng , Debroye Elke , Steele Julian A. , Martens Johan , Hussey Nigel E. , Bremholm Martin , Roeffaers Maarten B. J. , Hofkens Johan
Published: April 2019

The extraordinary properties of lead‐halide perovskite materials have spurred intense research, as they have a realistic perspective to play an important role in future photovoltaic devices. It is known that these materials undergo a number of structural phase transitions as a function of temperature that markedly alter their optical and electronic properties. The precise phase transition temperature and exact crystal structure in each phase, however, are controversially discussed in the literature. The linear thermal expansion of single crystals of APbX3 (A = methylammonium (MA), formamidinium (FA); X = I, Br) below room temperature is measured using a high‐resolution capacitive dilatometer to determine the phase transition temperatures. For δ‐FAPbI3, two wide regions of negative thermal expansion below 173 and 54 K, and a cascade of sharp transitions for FAPbBr3 that have not previously been reported are uncovered. Their respective crystal phases are identified via powder X‐ray diffraction. Moreover, it is demonstrated that transport under steady‐state illumination is considerably altered at the structural phase transition in the MA compounds. The results provide advanced insights into the evolution of the crystal structure with decreasing temperature that are essential to interpret the growing interest in investigating the electronic, optical, and photonic properties of lead‐halide perovskite materials.
High‐Efficiency Cryo‐Thermocells Assembled with Anisotropic Holey Graphene Aerogel Electrodes and a Eutectic Redox Electrolyte
Authors: Li Guangyong , Dong Dapeng , Hong Guo , Yan Lifeng , Zhang Xuetong , Song Wenhui
Published: April 2019

Thermocells, capable of converting temperature‐dependent electrochemical redox potentials into electrical power, can harvest waste or low‐grade heat in an economical and continuous approach with zero carbon emission. However, the power density and conversion efficiency of thermocells are hindered by a narrow operation window and low ion conductivity of the electrodes, especially in freezing weather conditions. Herein, highly efficient cylindrical thermocells, working in a wide operation window of cold temperatures, are developed. A eutectic electrolyte consisting of formamide and water is formulated with a high ion conductivity, which is retained at a significantly extended lower limit of the operation window from conventional 0 to −40 °C. In parallel, an electrode material based on anisotropic holey graphene aerogel is synthesized with improved ion conductivity, especially at temperatures below 0 °C, due to its aligned graphene sheets and pores. By taking the advantages of both components, the power density and the Seebeck coefficient of a single‐cylinder thermocell reaches an exceptionally high value, i.e., 3.6 W m−2 and 1.3 mV K−1, respectively. Moreover, assembled thermocells in series packaging substantially enhance the voltage of the open‐circuit, i.e., from 140 mV (1‐cylinder thermocell) to 2.1 V (15‐cylinder thermocells).
In Situ Direct Lithium Distribution Analysis Around Interfaces in an All‐Solid‐State Rechargeable Lithium Battery by Combined Ion‐Beam Method
Authors: Tsuchiya Bun , Ohnishi Junji , Sasaki Yoshitaka , Yamamoto Takayuki , Yamamoto Yuta , Motoyama Munekazu , Iriyama Yasutoshi , Morita Kenji
Published: April 2019

Charge–discharge reaction in all‐solid‐state battery (SSB) is governed by Li‐ion movements and large resistance at solid–solid interface degrades rate capability of the SSBs. Thus, lithium (Li) distribution and its movement around interface in static or operated SSBs should be clarified well. Here, it is reported that combined ion beam analysis of high‐energy elastic recoil detection and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry probing 9.0 MeV O4+ beams is a powerful technique to clarify static Li distribution around the interface, and that relative Li concentration change is correctly detected with reliable depth resolution in a few tens of nm scale. It is interesting to note that Li deficient region is formed inside the Li+‐conductive crystalline glass solid electrolyte, LATP, at around the LiCoO2/LATP interface with the thickness of 120 ± 30 nm. Additionally, presence of hydrogen around both interfaces and their migration with the voltages are also detected.
Light‐Directed Soft Mass Migration for Micro/Nanophotonics
Authors: Kim Kwangjin , Park Haedong , Park Kyung Jin , Park Sung Hun , Kim Hyeon Ho , Lee Seungwoo
Published: April 2019

In this review, it is argued that soft mass migrations, driven and guided by spatially controlled photopolymerization and photochromic isomerization (also called directional plastic deformation or photofluidization of azobenzene materials), offer toolsets for optical engineers to develop various micro/nanophotonic materials and devices that are not readily available with conventional lithographic methods and self‐assembly techniques. In this direction, the two seemingly different concepts of (i) photopolymerization and (ii) photochromic‐isomerization‐driven mass migrations are tied together, and then recent technological advances in these two fields are summarized, including diffractive optical elements (DOEs), electro‐optic DOE devices, colorimetric sensors, biologically inspired optics, plasmonic devices and near‐field studies, and exceptional point optics. This review establishes the technological viability of light‐directed soft mass migration for the overall evolving field of micro/nanophotonics and its research perspectives.
Surface Dynamics at Photoactive Liquid Crystal Polymer Networks
Authors: Liu Danqing
Published: April 2019

The field of advanced and responsive soft materials is at the edge of a new era. After several decades during which liquid crystals generated new functions for information displays and could solve many problems in emerging fields such as (tele)communications, this material system is being utilized to reach out to completely new application fields with functions that can take over biological actions (cell growth and manipulation), change the way materials, machines, or robots interact with humans (haptics), and modulate surface properties, e.g., tribology and wettability. This Progress Report concentrates on creating surface movement in liquid crystal networks with an emphasis on the light‐responsive dynamic surface topographies that transfer from a flat to a predesigned corrugated state via light illumination, e.g., UV and visible light. Within this framework, the interaction between dynamic surfaces and the environment, such as controlled friction, wettability, and material transport, are illustrated. In addition, the light‐induced thermal effect is discussed. The article concludes with the existing challenges and an outlook on the opportunities.
Does speculation cause high red meat prices? Evidence from Turkey
Authors: Ganioğlu Aytül
Published: April 2019

The focus of this letter is the upward trend of red meat prices in Turkey that began to surge in 2009. A typical explanation for such price increases would be an inadequate supply of livestock. Yet, although measures were taken to raise the supply of red meat, they were not sufficient to reverse or stop this upward trend in prices. We specifically search for the dynamics behind the price spikes by exploring whether they were driven by speculation. We investigated the presence of rational speculative bubbles in the red meat market in Turkey by employing a recent methodology developed by Phillips et al. (2015). We found evidence for explosive periods and detected the periods of speculative bubbles in the red meat market in Turkey. [EconLit citations: C4, D4, O13].
Malignant mesothelioma in Lynch syndrome: A report of two cases and a review of the literature
Authors: Shih Angela R. , Kradin Richard L.
Published: April 2019

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer most typically associated with prior asbestos exposure. The nature of the relationship between asbestos exposure and hereditary familial syndromes predisposing to malignancy has not been determined. We report two Lynch syndrome patients with paraoccupational asbestos exposure who developed diffuse malignant mesothelioma of the pleura or peritoneum. Interestingly, one showed a separate focus of pleural well‐differentiated papillary mesothelioma. It is likely that Lynch syndrome patients are at increased risk for the development of mesothelioma in the setting of exposure to asbestos, even at what is generally considered to be low levels. In the presence of a documented history of low‐level asbestos exposure, patients with genetic predisposition disorders (including Lynch syndrome) should be considered to have an independent risk factor modifying the effects of asbestos exposure.
Respirable coal mine dust in underground mines, United States, 1982‐2017
Authors: Doney Brent C. , Blackley David , Hale Janet M. , Halldin Cara , Kurth Laura , Syamlal Girija , Laney A. Scott
Published: April 2019

Background

This study summarized the mass concentration and quartz mass percent of respirable coal mine dust samples (annually, by district, and by occupation) from underground coal mines during 1982‐2017.

Methods

Respirable dust and quartz data collected and analyzed by Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) were summarized by year, coal mining occupation, and geographical area. The older (before August 2016) 2.0 mg/m
3 respirable dust MSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) was used across all years for comparative purposes. For respirable dust and quartz, geometric mean and percent of samples exceeding the respirable dust PEL (2.0 mg/m
3 or a reduced standard for samples with >5% quartz content) were calculated. For quartz samples, the average percent quartz content was also calculated.

Results

The overall geometric mean concentration for 681 497 respirable dust samples was 0.55 mg/m
3 and 5.5% of the samples exceeded the 2.0 mg/m
3 PEL. The overall respirable quartz geometric mean concentration for 210 944 samples was 0.038 mg/m
3 and 18.7% of these samples exceeded the applicable standard. There was a decline over time in the percent of respirable dust samples exceeding 2.0 mg/m
3. The respirable dust geometric mean concentration was lower in central Appalachia compared to the rest of the United States. However, the respirable quartz geometric mean concentration and the mean percent quartz content were higher in central Appalachia.

Conclusion

This study summarizes respirable dust and quartz concentrations from coal mine inspector samples and may provide an insight into differences in the prevalence of pneumoconiosis by region and occupation.
Wie Dihalogene Michael‐Additionsreaktionen katalysieren
Authors: Hamlin Trevor A. , Fernández Israel , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: April 2019

Die katalytische Wirkung von Dihalogenmolekülen (X2=F2, Cl2, Br2 und I2) auf die Aza‐Michael‐Addition von Pyrrolidin und Methylacrylat wurde mithilfe von relativistischen Dichtefunktionaltheorie‐ und Coupled‐Cluster‐Rechnungen quantenchemisch analysiert. Unsere nach modernsten technischen Standards durchgeführten Berechnungen zeigen, dass die Aktivierungsbarrieren beim Übergang zu schwereren Dihalogenmolekülen von 9.4 kcal mol−1 für F2 auf 5.7 kcal mol−1 für I2 systematisch abnehmen. Activation‐Strain‐ und Bindungsanalysen identifizieren die Pauli‐Abstoßung zwischen Nucleophil und Michael‐Akzeptor als einen unerwarteten physikalischen Faktor, der die berechneten Reaktivitätstrends steuert. So beschleunigen Dihalogene Michael‐Additionen nicht nach dem allgemein akzeptierten Mechanismus einer verstärkten Donor‐Akzeptor‐Wechselwirkung [HOMO(Nucleophil)‐LUMO(Michael‐Akzeptor)], sondern durch eine verminderte Pauli‐Abstoßung zwischen dem freien Elektronenpaar des Nucleophils und dem π‐Elektronen‐System des Michael‐Akzeptors.
How Dihalogens Catalyze Michael Addition Reactions
Authors: Hamlin Trevor A. , Fernández Israel , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: April 2019

We have quantum chemically analyzed the catalytic effect of dihalogen molecules (X2=F2, Cl2, Br2, and I2) on the aza‐Michael addition of pyrrolidine and methyl acrylate using relativistic density functional theory and coupled‐cluster theory. Our state‐of‐the‐art computations reveal that activation barriers systematically decrease as one goes to heavier dihalogens, from 9.4 kcal mol−1 for F2 to 5.7 kcal mol−1 for I2. Activation strain and bonding analyses identify an unexpected physical factor that controls the computed reactivity trends, namely, Pauli repulsion between the nucleophile and Michael acceptor. Thus, dihalogens do not accelerate Michael additions by the commonly accepted mechanism of an enhanced donor–acceptor [HOMO(nucleophile)–LUMO(Michael acceptor)] interaction, but instead through a diminished Pauli repulsion between the lone‐pair of the nucleophile and the Michael acceptor's π‐electron system.
Toward optimization of a robust low‐cost sulfonated‐polyethersulfone containing layered double hydroxide for PEM fuel cells
Authors: Simari Cataldo , Vecchio Carmelo Lo , Enotiadis Apostolos , Davoli Mariano , Baglio Vincenzo , Nicotera Isabella
Published: April 2019

Polyethersulphone (PES) is an aromatic thermoplastic, at low environmental impact, evaluated in this work as a promising candidate for new polymer electrolytes in the PEMFCs technology. A sulfonation procedure has been tuned in order to graft sulfonic acid groups on the polymer chains (sPES) and to make it hydrophilic. Homogeneous membranes with different polymer's sulfonation degrees (SD%) have demonstrated excellent mechanical properties and very low permeability toward methanol (important in the DMFCs), even if low proton conductivity. Nanocomposite sPES membranes were prepared by dispersion of highly hydrophilic lamellar particles such as layered double hydroxide (LDH) in the polymer. Deep investigations performed by a combination of PFG‐NMR, EIS, XRD, DMA, and scanning electron microscopy have evidenced the exfoliation of the lamellae in polymer matrix. However, a certain anisotropy was evidenced both in the morphology and molecular diffusion, favored in the longitudinal direction (parallel to surface), while completely inhibited in the cross‐section. This finding is most likely induced by the polymer structure, therefore particular attention must be paid to the choice of the filler and preparation of the composites. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47884.
Inorganic nanoparticles incorporated in polyacrylonitrile‐based mixed matrix membranes for hydrophilic, ultrafast, and fouling‐resistant ultrafiltration
Authors: Liu Qiao , Li Lin , Pan Zonglin , Dong Qiang , Xu Nong , Wang Tonghua
Published: April 2019

Mixed matrix membrane (MMM) structures and performances are greatly affected by the distribution of nanoparticles in the polymeric matrix. Until now, there has been little research on the effects of nanoparticle distribution states on polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based MMM structures and performances. In this paper, different intermolecular interactions between nanoparticles and PAN molecules were generated by in situ fabricated amino‐functionalized SiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles to create absolutely different distribution states of nanoparticles in a PAN matrix. The results indicated that, due to the strong interactions between amino and cyano groups, SiO2 is distributed in the PAN membranes homogeneously, while most of the TiO2 migrates to the membrane's top surfaces or the walls of pores or even escape from the membranes during the nonsolvent index phase separation (NIPS) process. PAN‐TiO2 MMMs have more hydrophilic top surfaces, higher porosity, larger mean pore size, and stronger antifouling performances than pure PAN and PAN‐SiO2 membranes. The PAN‐TiO2 MMMs have an ultrahigh water flux of 1204.6 L/(m2 h), which is more than 44 times that of PAN membranes. And the good pore structures and hydrophilicity of the membranes derived from special interactions between in situ TiO2 nanoparticles and PAN molecules can give high‐performance PAN‐based ultrafiltration membranes a bright future. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47902.
Aortic valve replacement in patients with preexisting liver disease: Transfemoral approach with favorable survival
Authors: Seppelt Philipp Christian , Zappel Jessica , Weiler Helge , Mas‐Peiró Silvia , Papadopoulos Nestoras , Walther Thomas , Zeiher Andreas Michael , Fichtlscherer Stephan , Vasa‐Nicotera Mariuca
Published: April 2019

Introduction

The treatment of aortic stenosis has been revolutionized by transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), but the experience in patients with liver disease is limited. To address this open question, we report the outcome of patients with liver disease undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), transapical (TA), and transfemoral (TF) TAVR.

Methods and Results

Between January 2004 and August 2016, 4,394 patients received aortic valve replacement at our institution. We identified 85 patients (mean follow‐up 504 ± 733 days, age 73.4 ± 9.2 years, 44.7% female) with preexisting liver disease (median model of end‐stage liver disease score 11, MELD‐Na), who underwent TF‐TAVR (n = 30), TA‐TAVR (n = 13), or SAVR (n = 42). Baseline Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality (STS‐PROM) and of Mortality and Morbidity (STS‐PROMM) were the lowest in SAVR patients (related to TF‐ and TA‐TAVR, both p < 0.01). Operative mortality (18.8%) was high, but no procedure showed superior short‐term outcome. Need for renal replacement therapy (31.5% vs. 10.3%, p = 0.046) and reoperation occurred more frequently after SAVR than after TF‐TAVR (26.6% vs. 6.7%, p = 0.021). Moreover, TF‐TAVR patients had superior long‐term survival compared to SAVR (log‐rank test p = 0.048 and Cox regression adjusted for MELD and STS‐PROM, p = 0.01, HR 0.25, CI95 0.09–0.71). Baseline MELD‐Na (p = 0.013) and STS PROMM (p = 0.01) were predictors for operative mortality (ROC‐analysis).

Conclusions

Our results indicate increased perioperative risks for patients with liver disease undergoing AVR, but favorable long‐term survival after TF‐TAVR compared to SAVR. For baseline risk, stratification in patients with liver disease undergoing AVR, MELD‐Na and STS‐PROMM are valuable predictors.
Optimization of the Hydrogen‐Adsorption Free Energy of Ru‐Based Catalysts towards High‐Efficiency Hydrogen Evolution Reaction at all pH
Authors: Cheng Min , Geng Hongbo , Yang Yang , Zhang Yufei , Li Cheng Chao
Published: April 2019

The utilization of noble‐metal catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) provides an efficient strategy for hydrogen acquisition. However, exploring catalysts with suitable hydrogen binding strength for the HER process is always of great importance, but extremely challenging. In this work, sulfur and phosphor as electron‐withdrawing elements were incorporated into carbon nanotube (CNT)‐supported Ru catalysts, which were prepared through a facile solution reduction reaction and post thermo treatment. Owing to the suitable electronegativity provided by P and synergistic effects of the carbon nanotubes, the RuP2/CNT achieved a high catalytic performance as a HER electrocatalyst. This may result from the modulation effect of the electronic properties and the depressed adsorption free energy of RuP2. Electrochemical tests present that the RuP2/CNT composite exhibit a small overpotential of 58 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in acidic electrolyte. In a neutral or alkaline environment, the overpotential is 82 and 40 mV, respectively. The RuP2/CNT electrode also possesses stable durability for long‐time cycling, suggesting its remarkable property as promising all‐pH HER catalyst.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Pauson–Khand‐Type Cyclization of 1,5‐Allene‐Alkynes: A Chirality Transfer Strategy for Optically Active Bicyclic Ketones
Authors: Han Yulin , Zhao Yichuan , Ma Shengming
Published: April 2019

An efficient chirality transfer in the [RhCl(CO)2]2‐catalyzed [2+2+1] cyclization of optically active axially chiral 1,3‐disubstituted allenynes with CO to access optically active bicyclopentenone compounds has been developed. The distal C=C bond of allenes reacted with the alknye unit and CO to afford [4.3.0]‐bicyclic products with high ee values under mild reaction conditions with an excellent selectivity.
An H‐Substituted Rhodium Silylene
Authors: MacNeil Connor S. , Hayes Paul G.
Published: April 2019

Divergent reactivity of organometallic rhodium(I) complexes, which led to the isolation of neutral rhodium silylenes, is described. Addition of PhRSiH2 (R=H, Ph) to the rhodium cyclooctene complex (iPrNNN)Rh(COE) (1‐COE; iPrNNN=2,5‐[iPr2P=N(4‐iPrC6H4)]2N(C6H2)−, COE=cyclooctene) resulted in the oxidative addition of an Si−H bond, providing rhodium(III) silyl hydride complexes (iPrNNN)Rh(H)SiHRPh (R=H, 2‐SiH2Ph; Ph, 2‐SiHPh2). When the carbonyl complex (iPrNNN)Rh(CO) (1‐CO) was treated with hydrosilanes, base‐stabilized rhodium(I) silylenes κ2‐N,N‐(iPrNNN)(CO)Rh=SiRPh (R=H, 3‐SiHPh; Ph, 3‐SiPh2) were isolated and characterized using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography. Both silylene species feature short Rh−Si bonds [2.262(1) Å, 3‐SiHPh; 2.2702(7) Å, 3‐SiPh2] that agree well with the DFT‐computed structures. The overall reaction led to a change in the iPrNNN ligand bonding mode (κ3→κ2) and loss of H2 from PhSiRH2, as corroborated by deuterium labelling experiments.
Terminal organization of the corticospinal projection from the lateral premotor cortex to the cervical enlargement (C5–T1) in rhesus monkey
Authors: Morecraft Robert J. , Ge Jizhi , Stilwell‐Morecraft Kim S. , Rotella Diane L. , Pizzimenti Marc A. , Darling Warren G.
Published: April 2019

High‐resolution tract tracing and stereology were used to study the terminal organization of the corticospinal projection (CSP) from the ventral (v) and dorsal (d) regions of the lateral premotor cortex (LPMC) to spinal levels C5–T1. The LPMCv CSP originated from the postarcuate sulcus region, was bilateral, sparse, and primarily targeted the dorsolateral and ventromedial sectors of contralateral lamina VII. The convexity/lateral part of LPMCv did not project below C2. Thus, very little LPMCv corticospinal output reaches the cervical enlargement. In contrast, the LPMCd CSP was 5× more prominent in terminal density. Bilateral terminal labeling occurred in the medial sectors of lamina VII and adjacent lamina VIII, where propriospinal neurons with long‐range bilateral axon projections reside. Notably, lamina VIII also harbors axial motoneurons. Contralateral labeling occurred in the lateral sectors of lamina VII and the dorsomedial quadrant of lamina IX, noted for harboring proximal upper limb flexor motoneurons. Segmentally, the CSP to contralateral laminae VII and IX preferentially innervated C5–C7, which supplies shoulder, elbow, and wrist musculature. In contrast, terminations in axial‐related lamina VIII were distributed bilaterally throughout all cervical enlargement levels, including C8 and T1. These findings demonstrate the LPMCd CSP is structured to influence axial and proximal upper limb movements, supporting Kuypers conceptual view of the LPMCd CSP being a major component of the medial motor control system. Thus, distal upper extremity control influenced by LPMC, including grasping and manipulation, must occur through indirect neural network connections such as corticocortical, subcortical, or intrinsic spinal circuits.
Solution Studies and Crystal Structures of Heteropolynuclear Potassium/Copper Complexes with Phytate and Aromatic Polyamines: Self‐Assembly through Coordinative and Supramolecular Interactions
Authors: Quiñone Delfina , Martínez Sebastián , Bozoglián Fernando , Bazzicalupi Carla , Torres Julia , Veiga Nicolás , Bianchi Antonio , Kremer Carlos
Published: April 2019

Phytate (L12−) is a relevant natural product. It interacts strongly with biologically relevant cations, due to the high negative charge exhibited in a wide pH range. The synthesis and crystal structures of the mixed‐ligand Cu(II) polynuclear complexes K(H2tptz)0.5[Cu(H8L)(tptz)] ⋅ 3.6H2O (1), K(H2O)3{[Cu(H2O)(bpca)]3(H8L)} ⋅ 1.75H2O (2), and K1.5(H2O)2[Cu(bpca)](H9.5L) ⋅ 8H2O (3) (tptz=2,4,6‐tri(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐1,3,5‐triazine; Hbpca=bis(2‐pyridylcarbonyl) amine) are reported herein. They were obtained by the use of an aromatic rigid amine, which satisfies some of the metal coordination sites and promotes the hierarchical assembly of 2D polymeric structures. Speciation of phytate−Cu(II)−Hbpca system and determination of complex stability constants were performed by means of potentiometric titrations, in 0.15 M NMe4Cl at 37.0 °C, showing that, even in solution, this system is able to produce highly aggregated complexes, such as [Cu3(bpca)3(H7L)]2−. Furthermore, the Cu(II)‐mediated tptz hydrolysis was studied by UV‐vis spectroscopy at room temperature in 0.15 M NMe4Cl. Based on the equilibrium results and with the aid of molecular modelling tools, a plausible self‐assembly process for 2 and 3 could be proposed.
The impact of women leaders on environmental performance: Evidence on gender diversity in banks
Authors: Birindelli Giuliana , Iannuzzi Antonia Patrizia , Savioli Marco
Published: April 2019

This study analyses the impact of women leaders on environmental performance in a sample of 96 listed banks in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) region from 2011 to 2016. Gender diversity in leadership positions is explored through women in the board of directors, chief executive officer gender, and the interaction between these two aspects. This study sheds light on inconsistent results in prior literature by testing three theoretical perspectives: gender difference, critical mass, and homophily. The main results suggest that there is nonlinear relationship between women directors and the environmental performance of banks and that female chief executive officers play a strategic role in shaping this relationship, by confirming the homophily perspective for the banking sector. Therefore, leader gender diversity is an important driver of environmental sustainability in banks, which are increasingly involved in environmental issues either directly, as companies, or indirectly, through their lending activity.
Habitat and introduced predators influence the occupancy of small threatened macropods in subtropical Australia
Authors: McHugh Darren , Goldingay Ross L. , Link Jeremy , Letnic Mike
Published: April 2019

Australia has had the highest rate of mammal extinctions in the past two centuries when compared to other continents. Frequently cited threats include habitat loss and fragmentation, changed fire regimes and the impact of introduced predators, namely the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the feral cat (Felis catus). Recent studies suggest that Australia's top predator, the dingo (Canis dingo), may have a suppressive effect on fox populations but not on cat populations. The landscape of fear hypothesis proposes that habitat used by prey species comprises high to low risk patches for foraging as determined by the presence and ubiquity of predators within the ecosystem. This results in a landscape of risky versus safe areas for prey species. We investigated the influence of habitat and its interaction with predatory mammals on the occupancy of medium‐sized mammals with a focus on threatened macropodid marsupials (the long‐nosed potoroo [Potorous tridactylous] and red‐legged pademelon [Thylogale stigmatica]). We assumed that differential use of habitats would reflect trade‐offs between food and safety. We predicted that medium‐sized mammals would prefer habitats for foraging that reduce the risk of predation but that predators would have a positive relationship with medium‐sized mammals. We variously used data from 298 camera trap sites across nine conservation reserves in subtropical Australia. Both dingoes and feral cats were broadly distributed, whilst the red fox was rare. Long‐nosed potoroos had a strong positive association with dense ground cover, consistent with using habitat complexity to escape predation. Red‐legged pademelons showed a preference for open ground cover, consistent with a reliance on rapid bounding to escape predation. Dingoes preferred areas of open ground cover whereas feral cats showed no specific habitat preference. Dingoes were positively associated with long‐nosed potoroos whilst feral cats were positively associated with red‐legged pademelons. Our study highlights the importance of habitat structure to these threatened mammals and also the need for more detailed study of their interactions with their predators.
Differential perception of sharp pain in patients with borderline personality disorder
Authors: Schloss Natalie , Shabes Polina , Kuniss Sarah , Willis Franziska , Treede Rolf‐Detlef , Schmahl Christian , Baumgärtner Ulf
Published: April 2019

Background

Cutting is the most common method of non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) to reduce inner tension in patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Aim of this study was to compare pain perception induced by an incision and by application of a surrogate model for sharp mechanical pain (a non‐invasive “blade”) in BPD.

Methods

22 female patients and 20 healthy controls (HC) received a small incision into the volar forearm, a 7s‐blade application on the same side, and non‐invasive phasic stimuli (pinprick, blade, laser, tactile). Pain intensity as well as affective versus sensory components were assessed.

Results

Incision was rated similarly by both groups (BPD: 28.6 ± 5.5 vs. HC: 33.9 ± 6.6; mean maximum pain ± SEM; p > 0.8), without significant difference for “7‐s‐blade” (BPD: 18.1 ± 3.8 vs. HC: 25.3 ± 3.6; mean maximum pain ± SEM; p > 0.17) or between “7‐s‐blade” and incision (BPD: p > 0.12; HC: p > 0.84). However, patients’ intensity ratings returned significantly faster to baseline after incision (BPD: 38.9 ± 12.6 s vs. HC: 74.52 ± 11.5 s; p < 0.05), and patients evaluated “blade” and incision without any affective and with different sensory descriptors, indicating an altered evaluation of NSSI‐like stimulation with qualitative in addition to quantitative differences—especially for the sharp pain component.

Conclusions

The reduced perception of suprathreshold nociceptive stimuli is based on a missing affective component and specific loss of the perception of “sharpness” as part of the sensory component of pain. The results further demonstrate the usefulness of the “blade” for the perception of sharpness in patients.

Significance

Patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) who engage in non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) report less pain in response to phasic nociceptive stimuli. In comparing an invasive pain stimulus to phasic nociceptive stimuli in BPD patients, the “blade” as non‐invasive surrogate model for sharp mechanical pain in psychiatric patients is used. In contrast to healthy volunteers, BPD patients do not report significant affective ratings and specifically display a reduced sensory component for sharpness.
Spatial distribution of Robson 10‐group classification system and poverty in southern and southeastern Brazil
Authors: Brunherotti Marisa A.A. , Prado Marli F. , Martinez Edson Z.
Published: April 2019

Objective

To assess the spatial distribution of the Robson 10‐group classification system (TGCS) and poverty in southeastern and southern regions of Brazil in 2016.

Methods

An ecologic study based on public data from the Brazilian Information System on Live Births and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, including 1 519 289 (53.2%) of all live‐born neonates in Brazil between January and December 2016. Statistical analysis used Bayesian modelling with spatial distribution following an autoregressive conditional structure, and Moran index.

Results

In 2016, the percentage of live‐born neonates delivered by cesarean was 58.8% and 60.7% in the southeastern and southern regions, respectively. Robson groups 1 and 3, involving spontaneous labor, were related to regions with higher poverty (Moran index, 0.36 and 0.44, respectively), whereas groups 2 and 5, involving cesarean delivery, were related to poorer regions (Moran index, 0.56 and 0.45, respectively).

Conclusion

The frequencies of each group of the Robson TGCS were heterogeneously distributed in the geographic space owing to important associations with the proportion of poverty in the different regions. Actions are needed to develop the poorest regions in order to minimize existing disparities.
Endocrinological, Biophysical, and Biochemical Parameters of Semen Collected via Masturbation versus Sexual Intercourse
Authors: SOFIKITIS NIKOLAOS V. , MIYAGAWA IKUO
Published: April 2019

In clinical programs of assisted reproduction involving infertile males, it is essential to obtain semen of maximum quality. To evaluate ways of achieving this objective, and to assess the fertilizing capacity of the sperm, six semen samples were collected from each of 38 infertile men via masturbation. Six more samples were then collected from each man at sexual intercourse using a semen collection device (SCD). We confirmed that the volume of seminal plasma, total sperm count, sperm motility, and percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa were significantly higher in samples collected at intercourse than masturbation, as reported previously. In addition, the markers of the secretory function of the prostate and the outcome of sperm function tests (hypoosmotic swelling test, acrosin assay, and sperm penetration assay) were significantly higher for the samples collected at intercourse. There were no significant differences in markers of the secretory function of the seminal vesicles and epididymis between the samples. The improved spermatozoal parameters in the samples collected at intercourse may reflect a higher prostatic secretory function at that time. There were no significant differences in the serum concentrations of gonadotropins, or in the serum or seminal plasma concentrations of testosterone, before or after masturbation or sexual intercourse. Therefore, the differences in prostatic secretory function and semen parameters may not be attributed to differences in hormonal levels. Semen collection during intercourse using an SCD appears to be the method of choice for selecting semen samples for artificial insemination.
Retracted: Carcinogenic role of K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 signaling in bladder cancer via inhibition of H1.2 phosphorylation at T146
Authors: Fan Li , Wang Yao , Wang Weihua , Wei Xin
Published: April 2019

It has been reported that Ras‐ERK signaling regulated tumor suppressive genes via epigenetic mechanisms. Herein, we set out to investigate the correlation between K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 signaling and H1.2 phosphorylation, to provide a better understanding of K‐Ras‐ERK signaling in cancer. A plasmid for expression of mutated K‐Ras was transfected into human bladder carcinoma HT1197 cells. Western blot was carried out for testing the expression changes of ERK1/2 and H1.2. The 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, soft‐agar colony formation assay, and transwell assay were used to test the effects of H1.2 phosphorylation at T146 (H1.2
T146ph) on HT1197 cells growth and migration. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) were performed to test whether H1.2
T146ph regulated K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 downstream genes. Furthermore, how K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 regulated H1.2
T146ph expression was studied. We found that the ERK1/2 was activated when K‐Ras was mutated, and H1.2
T146ph expression was significantly downregulated by K‐Ras mutation. H1.2
T146E for mimicking H1.2
T146ph significantly attenuated K‐Ras mutation induced increases in HT1197 cells viability, colony formation, and relative migration. Besides, H1.2
T146ph regulated the transcription of K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 downstream genes, including NT5E, GDF15, CARD16, CYR61, IGFBP3, and WNT16B. Furthermore, K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 signaling inhibited H1.2 phosphorylation at T146 through degradation of DNA‐PK, and the degraded DNA‐PK by K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 possibly via modulation of MDM2. In conclusion, the activation of K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 signaling will repress the phosphorylation of H1.2 at T146, and thereby, promoted the growth and migration of bladder cancer cells. K‐Ras‐ERK1/2 signaling repressed H1.2 phosphorylation possibly by MDM2‐mediated degradation of DNA‐PK.
Oxonium Salts in the Synthesis and Spectral Behavior of Pyrano(pyrylium)‐mono methine Cyanine Dyes
Authors: Koraiem Ahmed I. M. , Shindy Hassan A. , Abu‐El‐Hamd Ragab M. , Motaleb Ahmed M. A.
Published: April 2019

Pyrano‐ and pyrylium mono‐8[4(1)] and/or 5(6)‐[2(4)]methine cyanine dyes (6a–k, 7a–f) were synthesized based on acyclic heterocyclic Schiff bases of pyrolo[3,2‐d]pyrazole[oxazole(imidazol‐6‐one)]‐1‐ium iodide salts, 5‐acetyl‐N‐aryl[pyrazolinyl(pyridinyl)]pyrolo‐[5,4‐d]pyrazolin‐iodide salts, and/or (anhydro bases) precursors (1a–i, 2a–I, 3a–i, 4a–i, and 5A,Ba–i). The structure of pyrylium‐9‐chloride and/or iodide and their pyrano(pyrylium)‐mono‐8[4(1)] and 5(6)[2(4)]methine cyanine dyes was identified by elemental and spectral data. The absorption spectra of some selected dyes were investigated in 95% EtOH, polar (nonpolar) organic solvents and in universal buffer solutions to investigate the optimal conditions for the application of such dyes as photosensitizers.
A molecularly imprinted nanofilm‐based quartz crystal microbalance sensor for the real‐time detection of pirimicarb
Authors: Cakir Oguz
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to prepare a novel quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor for the detection of pirimicarb. Pirimicarb‐imprinted poly (ethylene glycol dimethacrylate‐N‐metacryloyl‐(l)‐tryptophan methyl ester) [p (EGDMA‐MATrp)] nanofilm (MIP) on the gold surface of a QCM chip was synthesized using the molecular imprinting technique. A nonimprinted p (EGDMA‐MATrp) nanofilm (NIP) was also synthesized using the same experimental technique. The MIP and NIP nanofilms were characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy, contact angle, atomic force microscopy, and an ellipsometer. A competitive adsorption experiment on the sensor was performed to display the selectivity of the nanofilm. An analysis of the QCM sensor showed that the MIP nanofilm exhibited high sensitivity and selectivity for pirimicarb determination. A liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method was prepared and validated to determine the accuracy and precision of the QCM sensor. The accuracy and precision of both methods were determined by a comparison of six replicates at three different concentrations to tomato samples extracted by using a Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe (QuEChERS) method. The limit of detection of the QCM sensor was found to be 0.028 nM. In conclusion, the QCM sensor showed good accuracy, with recovery percentages between 91 and 94%. Also, the pirimicarb‐imprinted QCM sensor exhibited a fast response time, reusability, high selectivity and sensitivity, and a low limit of detection. Therefore, it offers a serious alternative to the traditional analytical methods for pesticide detection in both natural sources and aqueous solutions.
Pin1 inhibition potently suppresses gastric cancer growth and blocks PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β‐catenin oncogenic pathways
Authors: Zhang Zhenzhen , Yu Weixing , Zheng Min , Liao Xinhua , Wang Jichuang , Yang Dayun , Lu Wenxian , Wang Long , Zhang Sheng , Liu Hekun , Zhou Xiao Zhen , Lu Kun Ping
Published: April 2019

Gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer‐related mortality and the fourth most common cancer globally. High intratumor heterogeneity of advanced gastric cancer poses great challenges to targeted therapy due to simultaneous activation of many redundant cancer‐driving pathways. A central common signaling mechanism in cancer is proline‐directed phosphorylation, which is further regulated by the unique proline isomerase Pin1. Pin1 inhibition exerts anticancer activity by blocking multiple cancer‐driving pathways in some cancers, but its role in gastric cancer is not fully understood. Here we detected Pin1 protein expression in 1065 gastric cancer patients and paired normal tissues using immunohistochemistry and Western blot, and then examined the effects of Pin1 overexpression, and genetic and chemical Pin1 inhibition using Pin1 short hairpin RNA or small molecule inhibitor all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on tumorigenesis of human gastric cancer in vitro and in vivo, followed by biochemical analyses to elucidate Pin1 regulated oncogenic pathways. We found that Pin1 was significantly overexpressed in primary and metastasized tumors, with Pin1 overexpression being correlated with advanced stage and poor prognosis. Furthermore, whereas Pin1 overexpression promoted the transformed phenotype in immortalized and nontransformed human gastric cells, either genetic or chemical Pin1 inhibition in multiple human gastric cancer cells potently suppressed cell growth, G1/S transition and colony formation in vitro, as well as tumor growth in xenograft tumor models in vivo, which were further supported by downregulation of multiple key oncoproteins in PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathways. These results not only provide the first evidence for a critical role of Pin1 in the tumorigenesis of gastric cancer but also suggest that targeting Pin1 using ATRA or other inhibitors offers an effective new therapeutic approach for treating advanced gastric cancer.
Study cautions that third parties may share mental health app information
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2019

Third parties like Google and Facebook may not always be trusted with sensitive data related to users of smartphone apps for depression and smoking cessation, say researchers of what could be the first study, to assess data transmission practices involving third parties.
A mixed DOF collocation method for elastic problems in heterogeneous structure
Authors: Yang Mao , Lu Shan
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a collocation method with mixed degrees of freedom (DOFs) is proposed for heterogeneous structures. Local tractions of the outer and interface boundaries are introduced as DOFs in the mixed collocation scheme. Then, the equilibrium equations of all the nodes and the outer boundary conditions are discretized and assembled into the global stiffness matrix. A local force equilibrium equation for modeling the stress discontinuity through the interface is developed and added into the global stiffness matrix as well. With those contributions, a statically determined stiffness matrix is obtained. Numerical examples show that the present method is superior to the classical mixed collocation method in the heterogeneous structure because it improves the accuracy and the convergence and remains the efficiency. Besides, almost constant convergence rates of displacements and stresses are found in all the examples, even for three‐dimensional problems.