bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Assembly of Completely Inorganic Perovskite Nanocrystals with Improved Stability by Anchoring on Kaolinite Lamellae
Authors: Lv Wenzhen , Li Ling , Li Mingguang , Xu Ligang , Huang Wei , Chen Runfeng
Published: January 2020

Completely inorganic lead halide perovskite (CsPbX3, X = Cl, Br, I) nanocrystals (NCs) are attracting increasing attention due to their outstanding luminescent properties, but their inherently poor stability is a severe impediment to further practical applications. Here, a facile two‐step synthetic procedure for preparing highly stable CsPbX3 NCs with the assistance of kaolinite lamellae (KL) is demonstrated. Systematic investigation shows that the cesium ions can be anchored tightly to the KL with the aid of strong Coulombic force interactions. These trigger the efficient growth of orthorhombic phase CsPbX3 NCs on the KL surfaces in a highly ordered manner. As a benefit of the inhibited aggregation caused by isolation and the anchoring effect of KL, the CsPbBr3‐KL composites display high luminescent efficiency (up to 73.0%) and excellent stability in air (>240 h). An efficient, stable, white light‐emitting diode device is fabricated by packaging green CsPbBr3‐KL and red CsPb(Br0.5I0.5)3‐KL composites on a blue GaN chip. These findings demonstrate the first attempt to improve the stability of CsPbX3 NCs by designing composites with materials having natural layers. This should shed important light on the preparation of high‐efficiency, stable, and color‐tunable perovskite materials for applications requiring high‐performance devices.
Complete Control of Multichannel, Angle‐Multiplexed, and Arbitrary Spatially Varying Polarization Fields
Authors: Wang Enliang , Niu Jiebin , Liang Yonghao , Li HaiLiang , Hua Yilei , Shi Lina , Xie Changqing
Published: January 2020

In recent years, much effort is dedicated to the generation of vectorial optical fields with an arbitrary spatially varying polarization distribution by means of metasurfaces. However, simultaneous and independent control of the amplitude, phase, and polarization is still challenging, especially for the multichannel generation of a vectorial optical field with an angle‐multiplexed functionality. Here, a facile route, called coherent pixel polarization metaholography, is proposed to realize multichannel, angle‐multiplexed, and arbitrary spatially varying polarization fields and demonstrate how to enable a fully independent realization of full Poincaré beams (lemon, start, spider, and web beams), dual‐way switching print images, vectorial print images, and optical polarization knot profiles. Importantly, the demonstrated angle‐multiplexed metasurfaces have an independently controllable handedness and azimuth and can possess up to four channels. Such angle‐multiplexed multichannel arbitrary spatial polarization fields may enable various applications, including optical dynamic displays, information communication, optical encryption, and quantum experiments.
Synthesis of N‐Carbonyl Acridanes as Highly Potent Inhibitors of Tubulin Polymerization via One‐Pot Copper‐Catalyzed Dual Arylation of Nitriles with Cyclic Diphenyl Iodoniums
Authors: Peng Xiaopeng , Li Ling , Ren Yichang , Xue Huanxin , Liu Jin , Wen Shijun , Chen Jianjun
Published: January 2020

A novel Copper‐catalyzed cascade reaction between six‐membered cyclic diaryliodonium salts and nitriles is reported for the facile access to a variety of N‐carbonyl acridanes in good to excellent yields (up to 82%). The reaction is efficient and atom‐economical with a broad substrate scope (e. g. both aryl / alkyl nitriles and substituted / unsubstituted cyclic diaryliodonium salts compatible in the system). This method is particularly useful for the synthesis of substituted N‐carbonyl acridanes which are present in many pharmaceutically important compounds, but are not easy to obtain in conventional approaches. Furthermore, one of the newly synthesized acridanes displayed high antiproliferative activity against MB‐468 cancer cells (IC50=26 nM, comparable to paclitaxel and colchicine) by inhibiting tubulin polymerization. Together, these findings might grant a rapid access to a novel molecular scaffold with potential anticancer utilities.

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Does gypsum increase crop grain yield on no‐tilled acid soils? A meta‐analysis
Authors: De Castro Pias Osmar H. , Tiecher Tales , Cherubin Maurício R. , Silva Aijânio G. B. , Bayer Cimélio
Published: January 2020

Improving the chemical conditions for plant growth in the subsoil is especially difficult in no‐till (NT) soil because of the low solubility of limestone. In this situation, gypsum may be recommended due to its ability to mobilize exchangeable Ca2+ and other basic cations associated with SO42− anions mainly in the soil profile, thereby alleviating Al toxicity. However, the response of crops to gypsum is contradictory and ranges from a substantial increase to a slight decrease in grain yield. In this work, a meta‐analysis comprising 129 harvests of six different grain crops (930 observation pairs in all) was conducted to identify the conditions under which grain yield responds to gypsum and to establish criteria for optimal management of gypsum as an amendment for NT soils. Based on the results, cereals (maize [Zea mays L.], wheat [Triticum aestivum L.], white oat [Avena sativa L.], barley [Hordeum vulgare L.], and rice [Oryza sativa L.]) have a high probability (77–97%) of their grain yield being increased by gypsum application to soils, with Al saturation exceeding 5% in the 0.20‐ to 0.40‐m layer. The average increase in grain yield was 14 and 7% in crops growing in the presence and absence of water deficiency, respectively. A positive response of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] to gypsum was observed in water‐deficient soils with Al saturation exceeding 10%. Under these conditions, the probability of a positive response of soybean was 88%, and the average yield increase was 12%. Therefore, gypsum application decreases Al toxicity to plants and increases crop grain yields as a result in NT soils with high Al saturation.
Time‐based remote sensing yield estimates of cotton in water‐limiting environments
Authors: Thompson Corey N. , Mills Cory , Pabuayon Irish Lorraine B. , Ritchie Glen L.
Published: January 2020

The use of high‐throughput phenotyping aids breeding programs in making more informed selections and advancements. This study's objectives were to determine which proximal remote sensing parameters (normalized difference red edge [NDRE], normalized difference vegetation index [NDVI], difference between canopy and air temperatures [∆T], and plant height) are robust estimators of cotton lint yield and to use a time‐integrated function of one parameter as a single phenotypic measurement for predicting yield. This study evaluated remote sensing parameters (NDRE, NDVI, ∆T, and plant height) measured weekly from squaring through boll production and development. Of these measurements, NDRE was most consistent in terms of r2, slope, and normality in predicting yield. From these findings, a temporal analysis was calculated as NDRE integrated over the season, namely NDRE‐days. Significant r2 values were detected for the individual remote sensing measurements, with the largest r2 occurring around peak bloom (80 d after planting). An r2 of 0.81 was identified between ∆T and lint yield in 2015, whereas in 2017 the largest r2 value with lint yield was with NDRE (r2 = .71). The temporal analysis showed a significant relationship between NDRE‐days and lint yield (P < .0001; r2 = .58 in 2015 and r2 = .68 in 2017) that was not cultivar specific. This study presents a suitable method that breeders could use to efficiently evaluate plant growth and estimate yield for variety selections while cutting resource requirements.
Soil disturbance under small harvester traffic in paddy‐based smallholder farms in China
Authors: Huo Lian Fei , Liang Lei , Abbas Adnan , White David , Ding Qi Shuo , Wang Xiao Chan , He Rui Yin
Published: January 2020

Machine‐induced soil disturbance may negatively impact the sustainability of a smallholder farming system. On‐farm studies at 143 fields were conducted over three crop seasons with the goal of quantifying the effect of soil disturbance on rice (Oryza sativa L.) paddy productivity induced by small harvesters (i.e., power <75 kW, weight < 3.5 Mg, and working width <2200 mm). A field survey toolbox containing fine‐layered cone penetration test, soil micro‐relief measurement, soil physics test (water content, bulk density, and porosity), documentation of field attributes, harvesters’ technical specifications, cropping systems, and farmers’ practices was used for field observation. Results showed that harvester traffic increased soil bulk density and decreased soil porosity. However, harvester‐induced soil changes in statistics were not detected. In addition, trafficked lanes had great soil strength (P = .05) than non‐trafficked lanes, and equipment induced compaction was limited to the surface 150 mm. Therefore, small harvesters minimized subsurface soil damage. However, regardless of the model and specification, all harvesters caused ruts. Small field sizes, irregular field shapes, inconsistent field management practices, lacking soil protection awareness, excessive soil water content during rice harvesting and random field traffic were identified as major factors aggravating soil disturbance. Above these, several well‐established approaches to alleviate machine‐induced soil damage were also observed during the field survey, including pre‐harvesting drainage, floating chassis, ultra‐narrow wheels, and puddling.
Resource availability alters fitness trade‐offs: implications for evolution in stressful environments
Authors: MacTavish Rachel , Anderson Jill T.
Published: January 2020

Premise

Industrialization and human activities have elevated temperatures and caused novel precipitation patterns, altering soil moisture and nutrient availability. Predicting evolutionary responses to climate change requires information on the agents of selection that drive local adaptation and influence resource acquisition and allocation. Here, we examined the contribution of nutrient and drought stress to local adaptation, and we tested whether trade‐offs across fitness components constrain or facilitate adaptation under resource stress.

Methods

We exposed 35 families of Boechera stricta (Brassicaceae) to three levels of water and two levels of nutrient supply in a factorial design in the greenhouse. We sourced maternal families from a broad elevational gradient (2499–3530 m a.s.l.), representing disparate soil moisture and nutrient availability.

Results

Concordant with local adaptation, maternal families from arid, low‐elevation populations had enhanced fecundity under severe drought over those from more mesic, high‐elevation sites. Furthermore, fitness trade‐offs between growth and reproductive success depended on the environmental context. Under high, but not low, nutrient levels, we found a negative phenotypic relationship between the probability of reproduction and growth rate. Similarly, a negative phenotypic association only emerged between fecundity and growth under severe drought stress, not the benign water treatment levels, indicating that stressful resource environments alter the direction of trait correlations. Genetic covariances were broadly concordant with these phenotypic patterns.

Conclusions

Despite high heritabilities in all fitness components across treatments, trade‐offs between growth and reproduction could constrain adaptation to increasing drought stress and novel nutrient levels.
Ectopic maxillary third molar in Early PleistoceneHomo antecessorfrom Atapuerca‐Gran Dolina site (Burgos, Spain)
Authors: Martín‐Francés Laura , Martinón‐Torres María , Martínez de Pinillos Marina , Bayle Priscilla , Fernández‐Colón Pilar , García‐Campos Cecilia , Modesto‐Mata Mario , Carbonell Eudald , Arsuaga Juan Luis , Bermúdez de Castro José María
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Here we describe the case of an ectopic maxillary third molar (M3), preventing the eruption of the M2, in the individual H3 of the hominin hypodigm of level TD6.2 of the Early Pleistocene site of Gran Dolina (Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain).

Materials and Methods

The fossil remains from the TD6.2 level of the Gran Dolina site (about 170 specimens) are assigned toHomo antecessor. Different geochronological methods place these hominins in the oxygen isotopic stage 21, between 0.8 and 0.85 million years ago (Ma). The immature individual H3 is represented by an almost complete midface (ATD6‐69), preserving various teeth in situ. We used high‐resolution microtomograhy (mCT) to investigate the abnormal position of the left M3, virtually reconstruct M2, and M3as well as assessing the development stage of these. Finally, we compare this case with extinct and extant populations.

Results

Based on the identified signs, we suggest that individual H3 suffered from a unilateral impaction of the M2as a result of the ectopic position of the developing M3.

Discussion

We conclude that the most likely etiology for the ectopic position of the M3is the lack of space in the maxilla. We discuss possible contributing factors, such as morphometric aspects of the maxilla and the early mineralization of the M3, to support the M2impaction. Finally, due to the early age at death of this individual we did not identify any secondary lesion associated with the M2impaction.
Factors impacting revision surgery in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis
Authors: Loftus Catherine A. , Soler Zachary M. , Desiato Vincent M. , Koochakzadeh Sina , Yoo Frederick , Storck Kristina A. , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: January 2020

Background

Surgical treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) has evolved over the last decade as rhinologists have increasingly used topical steroid therapies and altered surgical techniques. It is important to understand the changes in success rates of surgery and frequency of revision endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in CRSwNP. The aim of this study was to retrospectively review the revision surgical rate of CRSwNP patients by evaluating outcomes in a cohort from the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC).

Methods

Retrospective review of CRSwNP patients operated upon at the MUSC between 2002 and 2019 by a single surgeon was performed. Assessed factors included demographics, comorbidities, CRSwNP subtype, extent of surgery, and steroid rinse compliance. Logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with revision surgery.

Results

Among 338 patients with at least 6 months of follow‐up, 24.9% had revision surgery, with a mean follow‐up of 52.6 months. In patients with any person‐time measure, the revision rate was 5.58 per 100 person‐years. Independent risk factors associated with increased odds ratio (OR) for revision surgery were: younger age (OR, 1.1); prior surgery (OR, 3.3); longer follow‐up (OR, 1.1); and surgery before 2009 (OR, 2.4) (p < 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

The revision surgery rate for CRSwNP was 24.9% among those with at least 6 months of follow‐up. Risk factors for higher revision rates included younger age, previous surgery, longer follow‐up, and surgery at the MUSC prior to 2009. As we enter an era of personalized medicine, it is important to consider patient‐ and surgeon‐specific factors, which impact revision surgery rates.
Proton Insertion Chemistry of a Zinc–Organic Battery
Authors: Tie Zhiwei , Liu Luojia , Deng Shenzhen , Zhao Dongbing , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: January 2020

Proton storage in rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) is attracting extensive attention owing to the fast kinetics of H+ insertion/extraction. However, it has not been achieved in organic materials‐based ZIBs with a mild electrolyte. Now, aqueous ZIBs based on diquinoxalino [2,3‐a:2′,3′‐c] phenazine (HATN) in a mild electrolyte are developed. Electrochemical and structural analysis confirm for the first time that such Zn–HATN batteries experience a H+ uptake/removal behavior with highly reversible structural evolution of HATN. The H+ uptake/removal endows the Zn–HATN batteries with enhanced electrochemical performance. Proton insertion chemistry will broaden the horizons of aqueous Zn–organic batteries and open up new opportunities to construct high‐performance ZIBs.
Optical Waveguiding Organic Single Crystals Exhibiting Physical and Chemical Bending Features
Authors: Lu Zhuoqun , Zhang Yuping , Liu Hao , Ye Kaiqi , Liu Wentao , Zhang Hongyu
Published: January 2020

Bendable (elastic and plastic) organic single crystals have been widely studied as emerging flexible materials with highly ordered packing structures. However, even though manifold bendable organic crystals have been recently reported, most of them bend in response to only one stimulus. Herein, we report an organic single crystal of (Z)‐4‐(1‐cyano‐2‐(4‐(dimethylamino)phenyl)vinyl)benzonitrile, which bends under external stress (physical process) and also hydrochloric acid atmosphere (chemical process). This observation indicates that a single organic crystal, whose structure has been optimized simultaneously at both the molecular and supramolecular levels, may display multiple crystal‐bending modes. Furthermore, the crystals exhibit bright orange‐yellow emission and can serve as an active low‐loss optical waveguide in both the straight and the bent state, which indicates a potential optical application.
Copper(I)–creatine complex on magnetic nanoparticles as a green catalyst for N‐ and O‐arylation in deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Bagheri Sepideh , Pazoki Farzane , Radfar Iman , Heydari Akbar
Published: January 2020

Immobilization of copper(I) ions on magnetic nanoparticles was performed using surface modification of Fe3O4 with creatine. Fe3O4@creatine‐Cu(I) magnetic catalyst was synthesized and applied in C&bond;X cross‐coupling reactions with aryl halides in a deep eutectic as a green solvent. The results indicate the Fe3O4@creatine‐Cu(I) magnetic nanoparticles showed excellent activity and high stability. In addition, it was revealed that this catalyst can be recycled five times without significant loss in catalytic activity.
Novel thin film nanocomposite membranes incorporated with polyoxovanadate nanocluster for high water flux and antibacterial properties
Authors: Amini Mojtaba , Shekari Zahra , Akbari Ali , Naslhajian Hadi , Sheykhi Ayda , Karimi Esmaeil , Gautam Sanjeev , Chae Keun Hwa
Published: January 2020

Using interfacial polymerization (IP) of m‐phenylenediamine aqueous solution containing polyoxovanadate nanoclusters (POV) and trimesoyl chloride (TMC) in organic solution, we fabricated a novel polyamide (PA)‐ polyoxovanadate nanocluster (POV) nanocomposite membranes (PA‐POV TFN). The chemical structures and morphologies of the synthesized membranes were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and water contact angle measurements. Experimental results showed that the performances of PA‐POV TFN membranes are remarkably dependent on POV incorporation in the membranes, which could be controlled by using different amounts of POV particles. Moreover, the PA‐POV TFN membranes illustrated outstanding antibacterial properties against Gram‐negative E. coli. On the other hand, the incorporation of various amounts of POV in the membranes improved the membrane separation performances (water flux and salt rejection) as well as the antibacterial activity in FO process as compared to the original thin‐film composite (TFC) polyamide membrane.
Fatty Acid Profile and Bioactive Compound Extraction in Purple Viper's Bugloss Seed Oil Extracted with Green Solvents
Authors: Rincón‐Cervera Miguel Ángel , Galleguillos‐Fernández Raúl , González‐Barriga Valeria , Valenzuela Rodrigo , Speisky Hernán , Fuentes Jocelyn , Valenzuela Alfonso
Published: January 2020

Oil extraction from seeds of purple viper's bugloss (Echium plantagineum) was carried out using different solvents (chloroform:methanol, n‐hexane, ethanol, 2‐propanol and ethyl acetate) at room temperature and also using Randall extraction. Extraction yields were calculated and oils were analyzed in terms of fatty acid profiles and distribution among lipid classes, total polyphenol content, oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and phytosterol content. No considerable differences were found on fatty acid profiles and distribution in oils regardless of the solvent and temperature used for the extraction. However, ethanol combined with Randall extraction (85 °C for 1 hour) offered the best results in terms of total polyphenol content (20.9 mg GAE/100 g oil), ORAC (468.0 μmol TE/100 g oil), and phytosterol amount (437.2 mg identified phytosterols/100 g oil) among all assayed extraction methods. A higher extraction temperature led to significantly higher concentrations of bioactive compounds and ORAC values in the oil when ethanol or 2‐propanol were used as extracting solvent, but that was not the case using n‐hexane except for the concentrations of β‐sitosterol and stigmasterol, which were significantly higher using Randall extraction than room temperature extraction with n‐hexane. Ethanol is classified as a “green solvent,” and it could be considered a suitable option to produce oil from E. plantagineum seeds with a higher antioxidant capacity and bioactive compound concentration than the current commercial oil, which is usually extracted with n‐hexane.
Meteorological and flight altitude effects on deposition, penetration, and drift in pineapple aerial spraying
Authors: Wang Juan , Lan Yubin , Wen Sheng , Hewitt Andrew John , Yao Weixiang , Chen Pengchao
Published: January 2020

It is difficult for the handheld/backpack or ground machinery to spray pineapple plant fields because the plant profile is relatively inaccessible. In this situation, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are a good choice for easy access and no physical damage to the crops. Aerial spray quality and optimum application parameter settings can be influenced by many factors such as UAV type, UAV operating parameters, meteorological conditions, crop growth period, and pest species. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different meteorological conditions and UAV operating height on the spray application in pineapple fields. There were five treatments involving three UAV operating heights. Mylar cards, water‐sensitive papers, and airborne concentrations of spray were sampled at various locations from −10 to 50 m downwind of the edge of the sprayed blocks. The results indicated that as the wind speed increased, the swath location was displaced 2 to 4 m, the percent area coverage uniformity changed along with the spray penetration capacity, and the 90% of total measured drift distance varied from 3.7 to 46.5 m. The test results again proved that droplet size and wind speed were significant factors in spray transport and impacted the UAV spray quality.
Low‐temperature assembling of naturally driven copper ferrite starch nanocomposites hydrogel with magnetic and antibacterial activities
Authors: Nematollahi Mohammad Reza , Montazer Majid
Published: January 2020

Most hydrogels are prepared with using synthetic polymers that are nonecofriendly materials. Also, hydrogel nanocomposites are mostly prepared in the multi‐step processing through costly techniques. Here, starch as a natural, biodegradable, hydrophilic, and inexpensive material was used for fabrication of a copper ferrite starch nanocomposites hydrogel. This was synthesized using alkali starch solution along with copper and iron salts through coprecipitation method at low‐temperature led to the one‐step gelatinization and retrogradation. The various characteristics of the nanocomposites hydrogel were examined including morphology and chemical structure besides magnetic, antimicrobial, and swelling behaviors. Further, the remaining ashes were considered as a simple method to estimate organic matter and inorganic nanoparticles content of hydrogel nanocomposite. The results indicated successful fabrication of a green hydrogel with magnetic and antibacterial features through a very simple method. The obtained ecofriendly hydrogel can be used in various applications such as controlled drug delivery, cancer hyperthermia, waste‐water treatment, and many others. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48961.
Transplantation and Tracking of the Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell Labeled with Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide in Deaf Pigs
Authors: Xu Liangwei , Yuan Shuolong , Chen Wei , Ma Yueying , Luo Yi , Guo Weiwei , Yang Shiming
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to establish a safe and effective approach to label the human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC‐MSCs) derived from the Wharton's Jelly with superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles as a cell tracer. The cytotoxicity of the SPIO was screened in vitro by cytochemical experiments. The results showed the new infection protocol of SPIO‐Lip2000 mixture had high efficiency and the optimal labeling concentration was a 50 μg/ml SPIO suspension. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) confirmed the distribution of the intracellular SPIO. We transplanted the labeled UC‐MSCs into the sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) minipigs at 1 week after noise exposure. Auditory brainstem response results demonstrated the transplantation of UC‐MSCs was an efficient therapy for SNHL. The positive sediments in cochlear blood vessels, the bony wall of scala tympani, and spiral ganglion nerve fibers were found in the stem cell recipients' cochlea. We did not detect iron elements in the inner/outer hair cells' stereocilia, cuticular plate, or pillar cells from the basal to apex turns of the stem cell recipients' cochlea. In addition, TEM found SPIO in the medulla oblongata and the cerebrum in the SNHL minipigs after stem cell transplantation. In conclusion, we established a safe and effective approach to labeled human UC‐MSCs derived from Wharton's Jelly by using SPIO nanoparticles as a cell tracer in vitro and in vivo. This protocol showed a wide promising application in stem cell therapy and tracing in vivo for experiments with large mammals. Anat Rec, 303:494–505, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Serum soluble lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐1 as a biomarker of delayed cerebral ischemia after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Lin Qun , Ba Hua‐Jun , Dai Jun‐Xia , Sun Jun , Lu Chuan , Chen Mao‐Hua , Chen Xian‐Dong , Cai Jian‐Yong
Published: January 2020

Objective

Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) greatly contributes to the high morbidity and mortality of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) patients. Expression of lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐1 (LOX‐1) was substantially raised in the basilar arterial wall of SAH rabbits. We attempted to ascertain the relationship between serum soluble LOX‐1 (sLOX‐1) levels and the occurrence of DCI after aSAH.

Materials and methods

We enrolled 125 aSAH patients and 125 healthy controls. Serum sLOX‐1 levels were quantified using commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. The relationship between sLOX‐1 levels and DCI was analyzed utilizing the multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Serum sLOX‐1 levels were significantly higher in stroke patients than in controls (median: 1,450.2 vs. 445.7 pg/ml, p < .001). Serum sLOX‐1 levels were highly correlated with World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) scores, Hunt‐Hess scores, and modified Fisher scores (r = .574, .625, and .569, respectively). Forty‐two patients (33.6%) experienced DCI. Serum sLOX‐1 > 1,450.2 pg/ml, WFNS scores and modified Fisher scores were the independent predictors of DCI. Under receiver operating characteristic curve, serum sLOX‐1 levels exhibited a significant discriminatory capability (area under curve 0.825, 95% confidence interval 0.747–0.887). The predictive power of serum sLOX‐1 levels was similar to those of WFNS scores and modified Fisher grade (both p > .05). Moreover, serum sLOX‐1 levels significantly improved their predictive capability (both p < .05).

Conclusions

Serum soluble LOX‐1, in positive association with hemorrhagic severity, appears to have the potential to become a promising predictor of DCI after aSAH.
Involvement of dopamine D3 receptor and dopamine transporter in methamphetamine‐induced behavioral sensitization in tree shrews
Authors: Huang Jian , Yang Genmeng , Li Zhen , Leung Chi‐Kwan , Wang Wenguang , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Liu , Shen Baoyu , He Cuihua , He Yongwang , Zeng Xiaofeng , Li Juan
Published: January 2020

Introduction

This study aims to establish a methamphetamine (METH)‐induced behavioral sensitization model using tree shrews, as well as to measure the protein expression of the dopamine D3 receptor (D3R) and dopamine transporter (DAT).

Methods

Forty tree shrews were equally and randomly divided into four experimental groups: those administered with 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg METH and a control group (treated with an equal amount of normal saline). Each experimental group was repeatedly exposed to METH for nine consecutive days to induce the development of behavioral sensitization, followed by four days of withdrawal (without the METH treatment) to induce the transfer of behavioral sensitization, then given 0.5 mg/kg of METH to undergo the expression of behavioral sensitization. Altered locomotor and stereotypic behaviors were measured daily via open‐field experiments during the development and expression stages, and weight changes were also recorded. Then, the Western blot method was used to detect the expression levels of D3R and DAT in three brain regions: the nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex, and dorsal striatum 24 hr after the last behavioral test.

Results

METH administration augmented motor‐stimulant responses and stereotypic behaviors in all experimental groups, and stereotypic behaviors intensified more in the groups treated with 2 and 4 mg/kg METH. Motion distance, speed, and trajectory were significantly elevated in all experimental, however, METH at 4 mg/kg induced more stereotypic behaviors, decreasing these locomotor activities as compared with the 2 mg/kg METH group. 2 and 4 mg/kg METH significantly upregulated and downregulated D3R and DAT expression levels, respectively, in three brain regions, and these changes are more pronounced in 2 mg/kg METH.

Conclusions

These results indicated that this animal model may be used to study the neurobiological mechanisms that underly the development and expression of behavioral sensitization to METH. Deregulated D3R and DAT expression may be involved in the METH‐induced behavioral sensitization.
Superhydrophobic nanocarbon‐based membrane with antibacterial characteristics
Authors: Aljumaily Mustafa M. , Alsaadi Mohammed A. , Binti Hashim Nur Awanis , Mjalli Farouq S. , Alsalhy Qusay F. , Khan Abdul L. , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed
Published: January 2020

To overcome the biofouling challenge which faces membrane water treatment processed, the novel superhydrophobic carbon nanomaterials impregnated on/powder activated carbon (CNMs/PAC) was utilized to successfully design prepare an antimicrobial membrane. The research was conducted following a systematic statistical design of experiments technique considering various parameters of composite membrane fabrication. The impact of these parameters of composite membrane on Staphylococcus aureus growth was investigated. The bacteria growth was analyzed through spectrophotometer and SEM. The effect of CNMs' hydrophobicity on the bacterial colonies revealed a decrease in the abundance of bacterial colonies and an alteration in structure with increasing the hydrophobicity. The results revealed that the optimum preparative conditions for carbon loading CNMs/PAC was 363.04 mg with a polymer concentration of 22.64 g/100 g, and a casting knife thickness of 133.91 μm. These conditions have resulted in decreasing the number of bacteria colonies to about 7.56 CFU. Our results provided a strong evidence on the antibacterial effect and consequently on the antibiofouling potential of CNMs/PAC in membrane.
Legal issues arise even in team motivational videos
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: January 2020

College sports teams use a variety of methods to motivate their student‐athletes. One approach that can be attention‐getting, inspiring, and fun involves the compilation of video recordings of outstanding individual and team performances over a period of time or against a particular opponent. The video highlights often demonstrate the end result of challenging practice and preparation sessions, superior effort and skill, and overall excellence while in the heat of competition and inspire student‐athletes to strive to match that performance level in the future.
Integrating Network Pharmacology and Component Analysis Study on Anti‐Atherosclerotic Mechanisms of Total Flavonoids of Engelhardia roxburghiana Leaves in Mice
Authors: Wei Jie , Zhang Ying , Li Dongmei , Xie Tanggui , Li Yanjing , Li Jia , Chen Xiaojun , Wei Guining
Published: January 2020

Engelhardia roxburghiana Wall. leaves are widely used to develop herbal teas in southeast of China due to medicinal use for diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia. Studies have demonstrated that the total flavonoids of E. roxburghiana leaves (TFER) exhibited regulatory effects on blood glucose and lipids. To clarify the active ingredients of TFER and their targets in treating atherosclerosis, the present study integrated chemical analysis, network pharmacology analysis and animal experimental studies. Firstly, high performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS) was utilized to identify components of TFER. Then, active ingredients were screened by oral bioavailability (OB) and drug‐likeness (DL) index. Thirdly, network was constructed to predict major targets of active ingredients against atherosclerosis. Finally, to verify parts of predicted signaling, Apoe−/− mice were used to develop atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic plaques in aorta were evaluated by echocardiography. Then, serum lipids, target genes expressions in thoracic aorta were determined by qRT‐PCR and ELISA methods. Chemical analysis revealed 10 components in TFER sample, 7 of which acted as active ingredients, including naringenin, kaempferol, quercetin, isoengeletin, engeletin, astilbin and quercitrin. KEGG pathway analysis highly enriched in some inflammatory signalings, including NF‐κB signaling, Toll‐like receptor signaling and TNF signaling. The animal studies indicated that TFER reduced atherosclerotic plaques size in aorta and significantly decreased the serum lipids, down‐regulated NF‐κB signaling by decreasing mRNA level of NF‐κB p65 subunit, TNF‐α and VCAM‐1, as well as IL‐1β expressions in thoracic aorta, eventually alleviating atherosclerosis progression, which was in consistent with our prediction.
AMPK activation suppresses mTOR/S6K1 phosphorylation and induces leucine resistance in rats with sepsis
Authors: Shi Mengyao , Hu Zunqi , Zhang Xin , You Qing , Wang Weimin , Yan Ronglin , Zhu Zhenxin
Published: January 2020

Although it has been known that protein synthesis is suppressed in sepsis, which cannot be corrected by leucine supplement (also known as leucine resistance), the molecular signaling mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the AMP‐activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (AMPK/mTOR) pathway in sepsis‐induced leucine resistance and its upstream signals, and to seek a way to correct leucine resistance in sepsis. Sepsis was produced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model in rat. Both septic rats and sham operation rat received total parenteral nutrition (TPN) with or without leucine for 24 h, and then protein synthesis and AMPK/mTOR and protein kinase B (PKB) were tested. In vitro C2C12 cells were treated with or without leucine, and we tested the AMPK/mTOR pathway and protein synthesis. We blocked AMPK by compound C and stimulated it by 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAR) individually. The results showed that AMPK was highly phosphorylated and suppressed mTOR/S6K1 activation in CLP rats. In vitro when AMPK was activated by AICAR, protein synthesis was suppressed and leucine resistance was observed. High phosphorylation of AMPK was accompanied by PKB inactivation in CLP rats. When PKB was blocked, both AMPK activation and leucine resistance were observed. In CLP rats, nutrition support with intensive insulin therapy reversed leucine resistance by activating PKB and suppressing AMPK phosphorylation. These findings suggest that high phosphorylation of AMPK induced by PKB inactivation in sepsis suppresses mTOR, S6K1 phosphorylation, and protein synthesis and leads to leucine resistance. Intensive insulin treatment can reverse leucine resistance by suppressing AMPK activation through activation of PKB.
Reshaping bicuspid aortic valve stenosis with an hourglass‐shaped balloon for transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A pilot study
Authors: Zhao Zhen‐Gang , Feng Yuan , Liao Yan‐Biao , Li Yi‐Jian , Xiong Tian‐Yuan , Ou Yuan‐Weixiang , Wang Zi‐Jie , Wei Jia‐Fu , Peng Yong , Wei Xin , Xu Yuan‐Ning , Pedersen Wesley R. , Chen Mao , Leon Martin B.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

We evaluated the safety and usefulness of preparatory anatomical reshaping with a geometric hourglass‐shaped balloon to optimize transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) outcomes in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) stenosis.

Background

TAVR has been increasingly performed for BAV stenosis; however, technical challenges remain. Procedural results are suboptimal given unfavorable valvular anatomies.

Methods

Eligible patients with BAV stenosis were enrolled to undergo aortic valve predilatation with the hourglass‐shaped TAV8 balloon before TAVR using the self‐expandable Venus A‐Valve. Procedural details and outcomes were compared to a sequential group of patients with BAV who underwent TAVR with the same device following preparatory dilatation using a cylindrical balloon.

Results

A total of 22 patients were enrolled in the TAV8 group and 53 were included in the control group. Valve downsizing was less common in the TAV8 group (36.4 vs. 67.9%; p = .012). Stable valve release and optimal implant depth were consistently achieved in the TAV8 group with no requirement for a second valve (0 vs. 17.0%; p = .039) and with higher device success rates (100.0 vs 77.4%; p = .014). Residual aortic regurgitation graded as ≥mild was less common in the TAV8 group (13.6 vs 45.3%; p = .009). Mortality was similar (0 vs. 3.8%; p = 1); no major/disabling stroke or conversion to open‐heart surgery was seen in either group within 30 days.

Conclusions

Compared with standard cylindrical balloon valvuloplasty, preparatory reshaping with the hourglass‐shaped balloon before self‐expandable TAVR in BAV was associated with significantly better procedural results and may encourage more promising outcomes.
Early calcific degeneration of the St. Jude Medical Epic aortic bioprosthesis
Authors: Izzat Mohammad Bashar , Sabbagh Nada , Aljasem Hazem
Published: January 2020

This report highlights the need for close surveillance of bioprosthetic valves. Unaccountable degeneration of bioprosthetic valves can develop early after implantation and usually requires replacing the failed valve with a mechanical prosthesis.
Distinctive Improved Synthesis and Application Extensions Graphdiyne for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Li Yanbing , Yang Hao , Wang Guorong , Ma Bingzhen , Jin Zhiliang
Published: January 2020

Graphdiyne (GD), a novel two‐dimension carbon hybrid material, due to its unique and excellent properties, has been widely concerned since this innovative material was successfully synthesized by Prof. Yuliang Li in 2010. Traditionally, its synthesis method is growing graphdiyne on copper foils or foam copper as a base catalytic material to deliver copper ions (Cu2+) under pyridine conditions. Here, an innovative progress for graphdiyne preparation approach of using Cu+ ion as a catalytic material is reported and its application in extending to the photocatalytic water‐splitting to produce hydrogen in situ as well. In detail, by means of cuprous iodide used as a catalyst‐carrier to grow a graphdiyne in a pyridine solution of monomeric hexynylbenzene and such CuI‐graphdiyne composite catalyst is directly applied to photocatalytic hydrogen production in situ. Meanwhile, the hydrogen production of GD and CuI are 29.42 μmol/5 h and 156.49 μmol/5 h, respectively. In particular, the composite catalyst GD‐CuI exhibits an optimum photo‐catalytic hydrogen production activity (465.95 μmol/5 h) which is 15.8 times and 3.0 times that of pure GD and CuI respectively. This rational design, one‐step construction of GD‐CuI, successfully enhances photo‐catalytic hydrogen evolution activity. The deeper characterization study results such as TEM, SEM, XPS, XRD, UV‐vis DRS, Transient photocurrent and FT‐IR etc. have been well researched and the results of which are in good agreement with each other.
Branched Sulfonated Polyimide/Sulfonated Methylcellulose Composite Membranes with Remarkable Proton Conductivity and Selectivity for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Long Jun , Yang Hongyan , Wang Yanlin , Xu Wenjie , Liu Jun , Luo Huan , Li Jinchao , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Hongping
Published: January 2020

A series of branched sulfonated polyimide (bSPI)/sulfonated methylcellulose (s‐MC) composite membranes composed of a designed and synthesized bSPI polymer and functionalized s‐MC are prepared by using a facile solution casting method for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). Among all bSPI/s‐MC composite membranes, the optimized bSPI/s‐MC‐20 % composite membrane has the best proton selectivity of 2.45×105 S min cm−3, which is 14.4 times as high as the Nafion 115 membrane. The bSPI/s‐MC‐20 % composite membrane possesses superior proton conductivity compared to most reported SPI‐based composite membranes for VRFBs. The VRFB with a bSPI/s‐MC‐20 % composite membrane shows excellent battery efficiencies (CE=99.2–98.0 %, EE=66.3–77.6 %) and capacity retention (73.3–47.2 %). Moreover, the cost of the bSPI/s‐MC‐20 % composite membrane is only a quarter of that of a commercial Nafion 115 membrane. This work develops a new strategy to fabricate cheap bSPI‐based composite membranes by introducing a suitable functionalized biomass material.
Unveiling Capacity Degradation Mechanism of Li‐ion Battery in Fast‐charging Process
Authors: Zhang Sheng S.
Published: January 2020

In this work, capacity degradation in fast‐charging process is studied by using a power‐optimized graphite‐LiNi0.80Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) electrode couple and a three‐electrode coin cell as the testing vehicle. It is shown that capacity degradation consists of two distinct stages, (1) rapid degradation in early period and (2) progressive degradation over lifetime, which are associated with the electrochemical reduction of electrolyte solvents on the graphite anode and the structural deterioration of the NCA cathode, and are well correlated to a decrease in Coulomb efficiency. Analyses on the change in differential capacity profile and the recoverability of the lost capacity reveal that capacity degradation mainly originates from structural deterioration of the NCA cathode over lifetime, and it aggravates with the state‐of‐charge and temperature. Based on this guideline, we show that capacity degradation of the Li‐ion batteries in the fast‐charging applications can be greatly mitigated by limiting the cell's operation to a relatively low state‐of‐charge (i. e., a relatively low charging cut‐off voltage).
Study of Ion Permeation through the Graphene Oxide/Polyether Sulfone Membranes
Authors: Zhang Yongjing , Chen Zhe , Yao Lei , Wang Xiao , Fu Qiu Ming , Lin Zhi Dong , Wang Sheng Gao
Published: January 2020

The ion diffusion process through the graphene oxide (GO)/polyether sulfone(PES) membrane was probed by using electrochemical techniques. It was found that the GO/PES membrane exhibited lower rejection when feeding a solution with higher ion concentration. The calculated diffusion coefficient indicated that the Donnan repulsive interaction from the GO platelets might play a key role in the rejection of GO/PES membrane. Computational calculation confirms that interlayer spacing shrinks less than 5 % when increasing the solution concentration. These results suggest that, compared with interlayer spacing, the Donnan repulsive interaction is more important for ion permeation during concentration‐gradient‐driven diffusion. To investigate the detail of ion diffusion, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was utilized to probe the GO/PES membrane at the initial immersing process. The EIS results showed an additional inductive loop at low frequency in the Nyquist plot at the initial diffusion stage, which would be more visible for the GO/PES membrane immersing at lower ion concentration. This inductive loop could be attributed to the uneven distribution of ions in GO/PES membrane, which is related to the cation‐adsorption capacity of GO.
On the Aqueous Chemistry of the UIV–DOTA Complex
Authors: Dovrat Gev , Illy Marie‐Claire , Berthon Claude , Lerner Ana , Mintz Moshe H. , Maimon Eric , Vainer Radion , Ben‐Eliyahu Yeshayahu , Moiseev Yulia , Moisy Philippe , Bettelheim Armand , Zilbermann Israel
Published: January 2020

The 1,4,7,10‐tetrazacyclodecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid (DOTA) aqueous complex of UIV with H2O, OH−, and F− as axial ligands was studied by using UV/Vis spectrophotometry, ESI‐MS, NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray crystallography, and electrochemistry. The UIV–DOTA complex with either water or fluoride as axial ligands was found to be inert to oxidation by molecular oxygen, whereas the complex with hydroxide as an axial ligand slowly hydrolyzed and was oxidized by dioxygen to a diuranate precipitate. The combined data set acquired shows that, although axial substitution of fluoride and hydroxide ligands instead of water does not seem to significantly change the aqueous DOTA complex structure, it has an important effect on the electronic configuration of the complex. The UIV/UIII redox couple was found to be quasi‐reversible for the complex with both axially bonded H2O and hydroxide, but irreversible for the complex with axially bonded fluoride. Intriguingly, binding of the axial fluoride renders the irreversible one‐electron UV/UIV oxidation of the [UIV(DOTA)(H2O)] complex quasi‐reversible, which suggests the formation of the short‐lived pentavalent form of the complex, an aqueous non‐uranyl chelated UV cation.
La3B6O13(OH): The First Acentric High‐Pressure Borate Displaying Edge‐Sharing BO4 Tetrahedra
Authors: Fuchs Birgit , Heymann Gunter , Wang Xuefei , Tudi Abudukadi , Bayarjargal Lkhamsuren , Siegel Renée , Schmutzler Adrian , Senker Jürgen , Joachim‐Mrosko Bastian , Saxer Andreas , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie , Huppertz Hubert
Published: January 2020

La3B6O13(OH) was obtained by a high‐pressure/high‐temperature experiment at 6 GPa and 1673 K. The compound crystallizes in the space group P21 (no. 4) with the lattice parameters a=4.785(2), b=12.880(4), c=7.433(3) Å, and β=90.36(10)°, and is built up of corner‐ as well as edge‐sharing BO4 tetrahedra. It represents the first acentric high‐pressure borate containing these B2O6 entities. The compound develops borate layers of „sechser“‐rings with the La3+ cations positioned between the layers. Single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction, vibrational and MAS NMR spectroscopy, second‐harmonic generation (SHG) and thermoanalytical measurements, as well as computational methods were used to affirm the proposed structure and the B2O6 entities.
Bifunctional RNA‐Targeting Deoxyribozyme Nanodevice as a Potential Theranostic Agent
Authors: Spelkov Aleksandr A. , Goncharova Ekaterina A. , Savin Artemii M. , Kolpashchikov Dmitry M.
Published: January 2020

Theranostic approaches rely on simultaneous diagnostic of a disease and its therapy. Here, we designed a DNA nanodevice, which can simultaneously report the presence of a specific RNA target through an increase in fluorescence and cleave it. High selectivity of RNA target recognition under near physiological conditions was achieved. The proposed approach can become a basis for the design of DNA nanomachines and robots for diagnostics and therapy of viral infections, cancer, and genetic disorders.