bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene expression in chronic granulomatous disease and interferon‐γ receptor‐deficient cells treated in vitro with interferon‐γ
Authors: Frazão Josias B. , Colombo Martino , Simillion Cedric , Bilican Adem , Keller Irene , Wüthrich Daniel , Zhu Zhiqing , Okoniewski Michal J. , Bruggmann Rémy , Condino‐Neto Antonio , Newburger Peter E.
Published: September 2018

Interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) plays an important role in innate and adaptive immunity against intracellular infections and is used clinically for the prevention and control of infections in chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) and inborn defects in the IFN‐γ/interleukin (IL)‐12 axis. Using transcriptome profiling (RNA‐seq), we sought to identify differentially expressed genes, transcripts and exons in Epstein‐Barr virus–transformed B lymphocytes (B‐EBV) cells from CGD patients, IFN‐γ receptor deficiency patients, and normal controls, treated in vitro with IFN‐γ for 48 hours. Our results show that IFN‐γ increased the expression of a diverse array of genes related to different cellular programs. In cells from normal controls and CGD patients, IFN‐γ‐induced expression of genes relevant to oxidative killing, nitric oxide synthase pathway, proteasome‐mediated degradation, antigen presentation, chemoattraction, and cell adhesion. IFN‐γ also upregulated genes involved in diverse stages of messenger RNA (mRNA) processing including pre‐mRNA splicing, as well as others implicated in the folding, transport, and assembly of proteins. In particular, differential exon expression of
WARS (encoding tryptophanyl‐transfer RNA synthetase, which has an essential function in protein synthesis) induced by IFN‐γ in normal and CGD cells suggests that this gene may have an important contribution to the benefits of IFN‐γ treatment for CGD. Upregulation of mRNA and protein processing related genes in CGD and IFNRD cells could mediate some of the effects of IFN‐γ treatment. These data support the concept that IFN‐γ treatment may contribute to increased immune responses against pathogens through regulation of genes important for mRNA and protein processing.
Hydrogen sulfide protects against acetaminophen‐induced acute liver injury by inhibiting apoptosis via the JNK/MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Li Xiaoyong , Lin Jiaqiong , Lin Yan , Huang Zena , Pan Yuguo , Cui Peng , Yu Chicai , Cai Cun , Xia Jintang
Published: September 2018

Acetaminophen (APAP) is a widely used over‐the‐counter analgesic and antipyretic. It can cause hepatotoxicity. Recent studies demonstrated that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) exhibits cell protection in several cell types. This study was designed to investigate whether H
2S ameliorated APAP‐induced acute liver injury and to elucidate its mechanisms. In this study, we analyzed the detailed biological and molecular processes of APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity using a bioinformatics analysis, which showed that apoptosis and the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK)/mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway were confirmed to play critical roles in these processes. We further investigated the protective effects of H
2S on APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity. In vivo, we observed that the exogenous supplement of H
2S ameliorated APAP‐induced liver injury. Cystathionine‐β‐synthase (CBS) and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase (CSE) systems were the endogenous pathway of H
2S. The expression of CBS/CSE was decreased in APAP‐treated mice, while H
2S could significantly restore it. In addition, APAP‐induced JNK activation was inhibited by H
2S in vivo. In vitro, H
2S abolished the active effects of APAP on caspase3, Bax, and Bcl‐2 expressions as well as JNK phosphorylation in hepatocytes. It was found through flow cytometry that the amount of APAP‐induced apoptotic hepatocytes was decreased in the presence of H
2S. In conclusion, our results suggested that H
2S attenuated APAP‐induced apoptosis in hepatocytes through JNK/MAPK siganaling pathway.
What's Keeping Some from Seeking Asylum? A Field Report Exploring Determinants and Implications for Fostering a Social Contract for Young People in Afghanistan
Authors: Alemi Qais , Smith Valerie , Montgomery Susanne , Stempel Carl
Published: September 2018

We examined characteristics of Afghan youth who intend to stay in Afghanistan, a generation of young people critical to rebuilding the country. A survey of 232 young adults residing in Kabul assessed various demographic, health and psychological factors. The majority of participants reported that they had no intent to seek asylum, and our analyses showed that these individuals were financially stable, physically healthier, experienced less stress, resilient and more hopeful for their country's sociopolitical future when compared to those intending on seeking asylum. Findings provide justification for renewing a social contract that assures various protections and opportunities for social advancement. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Surfactant Headgroups on Oil‐in‐Water Emulsion Droplet Formation: An Experimental and Simulation Study
Authors: Li Bao , Zhang Lei , Liu Shengyu , Fan Minqiang
Published: September 2018

Nonpolar oils such as kerosene and diesel oil are common collectors in coal flotation. Surfactants are usually added to the pulp to emulsify the oil collectors. The present study used dodecane as the oil collector and anionic sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS) and nonionic tetraethylene glycol monododecyl ether (C12EO) with different headgroups and identical chain alkyls to investigate the effect of the surfactant headgroups on oil‐in‐water emulsion droplet formation. The morphology and stability of dodecane emulsions were determined experimentally. Density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to explain the microscopic mechanism. The results of DFT indicated a larger interaction between SDS and the water molecules than that between C12EO and water molecules. The results obtained by MD suggested that the SDS headgroup exhibited a loose arrangement and a relatively large gap size, thereby weakening the interaction between SDS and water molecules at the dodecane/water interface. In contrast, the headgroups of C12EO were bent and interwoven with others to form a tight reticulation at the interface. According to the simulation results, the ability of the surfactant to form dodecane‐in‐water emulsion droplets depends on the arrangement of the surfactants at the oil–water interface rather than on the interaction strength between the headgroups of the surfactants and water molecules. The presented microscopic mechanism of the surfactant headgroup formation of oil‐in‐water emulsion droplets offers surfactant selection and design references.
Lymphedema and concomitant venous comorbidity in the extremity: Comprehensive evaluation, management strategy, and outcomes
Authors: Sachanandani Neil S. , Chu Sung‐Yu , Ho Olivia A. , Cheong Chon‐Fok , Lin Miffy Chia‐Yu , Cheng Ming‐Huei
Published: September 2018

Backgroud

The optimal approaches for concurrent vascular lesions with limb lymphedema are not well established. The purpose of the study was to investigate the outcome of the surgical management of lymphedema with concomitant vascular lesions.

Methods

Between August 2010 and November 2015, 15 consecutive patients with extremity lymphedema and concomitant vascular lesions treated with vascularized lymph node flaps were reviewed. The patients had vascular interventions discovered during workup for lymphedema surgery. Outcomes were assessed using circumferential difference (CD) and circumferential reduction rate (CRR) at 12‐month and final follow‐up visits.

Results

Vascular lesions (n = 15) included proximal arterial occlusion (
n = 1), vascular malformation (
n = 2), and proximal venous compression/stenosis (
n = 12). Concomitant vascular lesions had an incidence of 15.8% in patients that underwent vascularized lymph node transfers (VLNTs). We had 100% VLNT survival rate and average number of episodes of cellulitis after VLNTs decreased significantly (
p < 0.05). The CRR for the below knee/elbow measurement at 12‐months follow‐up was significantly higher for patients that underwent vascular intervention for venous lesions before VLNT instead of concurrently or after (23.7% vs 12.2%,
P = 0.23). Final mean CRR was 23.7% and 12.2% respectively.

Conclusion

Preoperative workup of concomitant vascular lesions is important for lymphedema management. We suggest appropriate vascular intervention should be done prior to VLNT to maximize the short‐term and long‐term outcomes.
Success of genomic profiling of non–small cell lung cancer biopsies obtained by trans‐thoracic percutaneous needle biopsy
Authors: Gill Ritu R. , Murphy David John , Kravets Sasha , Sholl Lynnette Mary , Janne Pasi Antero , Johnson Bruce Evan
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Genomic profiling for personalized targeted therapy has become standard of care. We report the success of genomic profiling of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) obtained by trans‐thoracic needle biopsy (TTNB) in a single center experience.

Materials and Methods

Patients with NSCLC who underwent TTNB for genomic were identified. Pathology specimens were evaluated for tumor adequacy and then analyzed for selected exons of epidermal growth factor receptor, KRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, and ERBB2. ALK rearrangements were detected with fluorescence in situ hybridization and/or immunohistochemistry. Technical success was recorded and the factors affecting successful profiling were evaluated. Complications (pneumothorax, hemorrhage, and admission) were recorded. Comparison of yield and complications were done between the two groups (core biopsy and fine needle aspiration only group). Utility of PET‐CT to guide the needle track for optimized yield was assessed in a subset of patients.

Results

Between December 6, 2009, and December 30, 2016, 765 patients with NSCLC underwent TTNB. Five‐hundred and seventy‐seven of 765 (75%) of all TTNB were profiled, for genomic analysis. Five‐hundred and eight of 577 (88%) were successfully profiled. The number of samples obtained ranged from 1 to 10 (1 to 2 cm, 18 to 20 G). Lesions biopsied ranged in size from 0.6 to 16 cm. No statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of pneumothorax between two groups (P = 0.26). PET guidance was not found to be statistically significant (
P = 0.79) in the overall yield.

Conclusion

Computed tomographic guided TTNB is a safe and efficacious technique for genomic profiling, enables the acquisition of sufficient tissue for genetic mutation analyses allowing for personalized therapy with an acceptable complication rate.
Ultrasound Features of the Proximal Hamstring Muscle‐Tendon‐Bone Unit
Authors: Becciolini Marco , Bonacchi Giovanni , Bianchi Stefano
Published: September 2018

The hamstring muscle complex is made by a group of posterior biarticular thigh muscles, originating at the ischial tuberosity, which extend the hip and flex the knee joint. Proximal hamstring injuries are frequent among athletes, commonly involving their long myotendinous junction during an eccentric contraction. In this pictorial essay, we describe the ultrasound technique to visualize the normal anatomy of the proximal hamstring muscle‐tendon‐bone complex and present ultrasound findings in patients with traumatic injuries and tendinopathies.
Long‐term research reveals multiple relationships between the abundance and impacts of a non‐native species
Authors: Strayer David L. , Solomon Christopher T. , Findlay Stuart E. G. , Rosi Emma J.
Published: September 2018

Abstract

Non‐native species are among the most important drivers of the structure and function of modern ecosystems. The ecological impacts of a non‐native species ought to depend on the size and characteristics of its population, but the exact nature of this population‐impacts relationship is rarely defined. Both the mathematical form of this relationship (e.g., linear, exponential, and threshold) and the attributes of the invading population (e.g., density, biomass, and body size) that most efficiently describe its impacts could vary greatly across invaders, ecosystems, and ecological variables. Knowing the shape of this relationship could improve management and help to infer mechanisms of interaction between the invader and ecosystem. We used a long‐term data set on the invasion of the Hudson River ecosystem by two species of Dreissena (the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, and the quagga mussel, Dreissena rostriformis) to explore the shape of the population‐impacts relationship for selected ecological variables, including seston, phytoplankton, and several taxa of zooplankton. Most population‐impacts relationships appeared to follow a negative exponential form, but we also found apparent thresholds and scatterplots for some variables. Including information on the traits of Dreissena (body size and filtration rate) often substantially improved models of impacts. We found only slight evidence that the resistance of the Hudson River ecosystem to the Dreissena invasion might be increasing over time. Our results suggest important refinements to widely used conceptual models of invasive species impact, and indicate that defining the population‐effects relationship will be essential in understanding and managing the impacts of non‐native species.
Design, Preparation, and Performance of a Novel Bilayer Tissue‐Engineered Small‐Diameter Vascular Graft
Authors: Ran Xiaolin , Ye Zhiyi , Fu Meiling , Wang Qilong , Wu Haide , Lin Song , Yin Tieying , Hu Tingzhang , Wang Guixue
Published: September 2018

In clinical practice, the need for small‐diameter vascular grafts continues to increase. Decellularized xenografts are commonly used for vascular reconstructive procedures. Here, porcine coronary arteries are decellularized, which destroys the extracellular matrix structure, leading to the decrease of vascular strength and the increase of vascular permeability. A bilayer tissue‐engineered vascular graft (BTEV) is fabricated by electrospinning poly(l‐lactide‐co‐carprolactone)/gelatin outside of the decellularized vessels and functionalized by immobilizing heparin, which increases the biomechanical strength and anticoagulant activity of decellularized vessels. The biosafety and efficacy of the heparin‐modified BTEVs (HBTEVs) are verified by implanting in rat models. HBTEVs remain patent and display no expansion or aneurism. After 4 weeks of implantation, a cell monolayer in the internal surface and a dense middle layer have formed, and the mechanical properties of regenerated vessels are similar to those of rat abdominal aorta. Therefore, HBTEVs can be used for rapid remodeling of small‐diameter blood vessels.
Novel Surface Coatings Using Oxidized Glycosaminoglycans as Delivery Systems of Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP‐2) for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Anouz Reema , Repanas Alexandros , Schwarz Elisabeth , Groth Thomas
Published: September 2018

Tissue engineering of bone requires the delivery of growth factors in a localized, sustained manner. Here, chitosan is used as polycation, while heparin and chondroitin sulfate are employed either as native or oxidized polyanions for formation of multilayers by layer‐by‐layer technique. The use of oxidized heparin and oxidized chondroitin sulfate permits additional stabilization by cross‐linking through imine bond formation between amino groups of polycations and aldehydes of oxidized glycosaminoglycans (oGAGs). Since these multilayers are highly hydrophilic, adhesion of C2C12 myoblasts is improved either by the use of a specific 4 + 9 pH regime with native glycosaminoglycans or a terminal collagen I layer in case of oGAGs. Adhesion and proliferation studies with C2C12 myoblasts, seeded either on bone morphogenetic protein (BMP‐2) loaded or non‐loaded multilayers, show that intrinsic cross‐linking in oGAG‐based multilayers supports cell adhesion, spreading, proliferation, and subsequent cell differentiation into osteoblasts. This is related to higher thickness and roughness of multilayers made of oGAGs compared to their native counterparts studied by ellipsometry and atomic force microscopy. Taken together, oGAG multilayer systems provide stable surface coatings and are useful as biocompatible reservoirs for sustained release of BMP‐2, paving the way for coating implants and scaffolds for repair and regeneration of bone.
Maximizing the Degree of Sulfonation of Polysulfone Supports in TFC Membranes for Osmotically Driven Processes
Authors: Grinic Daria , Giagnorio Mattia , Cosola Andrea , Ricceri Francesco , Zanetti Maria Chiara , Sangermano Marco , Tiraferri Alberto
Published: September 2018

In this work, thin‐film composite (TFC) polyamide membranes are prepared by introducing the highest amount of sulfonated polysulfone into the polysulfone‐based support layer with the goal to improve membrane performance in osmotically driven processes. Sulfonated polymers are synthesized via a one‐step reaction and used in suitable blends with pristine polysulfone to cast porous layers by phase inversion process. The sulfonated support substrates exhibit enhanced wettability over the traditional polysulfone layers as confirmed by a two‐fold decrease in water contact angle. Using a 0.35 mm NaCl draw solution, the best sulfonated TFC membranes achieve up to 16 and 21 L m−2 h−1 under forward osmosis (FO) and pressure‐retarded osmosis (PRO) configurations, respectively. However, no significant alterations in the support layer morphology can be detected. It is speculated, therefore, that wettability is the key factor for the observed improved osmotic flux, with a trade‐off between water and reverse salt fluxes.
Tell it like it is: The effects of differing responses to negative online reviews
Authors: Esmark Jones Carol L. , Stevens Jennifer L. , Breazeale Michael , Spaid Brian I.
Published: September 2018

Negative electronic word‐of‐mouth (eWOM) has a notable impact on a consumer's online purchase decisions and attitude toward a company or product. Despite substantial research examining this phenomenon, little attention has been given to the impact of responses to negative eWOM. The authors examine negative eWOM in the form of online reviews to understand how responses may impact a consumer’s product satisfaction and attitude toward the company. Three studies examine specific aspects of responses, including responder type, attribution, and severity of negative review. Consistent findings across the studies reveal while any response is better than no response, a fellow consumer responding to a negative review can produce the most beneficial outcomes. The findings of this study are important for advancing theory in relation to negative eWOM and for helping practitioners develop appropriate response strategies.
Technical Note: Experimental verification ofEGSnrc calculated depth dose within a parallel magnetic field in a lung phantom
Authors: Ghila Andrei , Fallone B. Gino , Rathee Satyapal
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The calculation of depth doses from a 6MVphoton beam in polystyrene usingEGSnrc Monte Carlo, within a parallel magnetic field, has been previously verified against measured data. The current work experimentally investigates the accuracy ofEGSnrc calculated depth doses in lung within the same parallel magnetic field.

Methods

Two cylindrical bore electromagnets produced a magnetic field parallel to the central axis of a Varian Silhouette beam. A Gammex lung phantom was used, along with a parallel plate ion chamber, for the depth dose measurements. Two experimental setups were investigated: top of phantom coinciding with the top of the magnet's bore, and top of phantom coinciding with the center of the bore.EGSnrc was modified to read the 3D magnetic field distribution and then used to simulate the depth dose in lung.

Results

The parallel magnetic field caused measurable increases in dose at the surface and in the buildup region for both setups. For the setup where the top of the lung phantom coincides with the top of the magnet, the surface dose increased by ~11% compared to the no magnetic field case but the depth of maximum dose remained unchanged. When the phantom's top surface coincided with the center of the magnet, the surface dose increased by 32% and dose maximum occurred at a shallower depth.EGSnrc was able to calculate these dose increases due to the magnetic field accurately for both setups. All the simulated depth dose values were within 2% (with respect to Dmax) of the measured ones, and most of the investigated points were within 1.5%.

Conclusions

Surface and dose increases due to a parallel magnetic field have been measured in a lung phantom at two separate locations within the magnetic field.EGSnrc has been shown to match these measurements to within 2%.
Identifying clinical practice guidelines for the supportive care of children with cancer: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Seelisch Jennifer , Sung Lillian , Kelly Michael J. , Raybin Jennifer L. , Beauchemin Melissa , Dvorak Christopher C. , Kelly Katherine Patterson , Nieder Michael L. , Noll Robert B. , Thackray Jennifer , Ullrich Nicole J. , Cabral Sandra , Dupuis L. Lee , Robinson Paula D.
Published: September 2018

Providing evidence‐based supportive care for children with cancer has the potential to optimize treatment outcomes and improve quality of life. The Children's Oncology Group (COG) Supportive Care Guidelines Subcommittee conducted a systematic review to identify current supportive care clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) relevant to childhood cancer or pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Only 22 papers met the 2011 Institute of Medicine criteria to be considered a CPG. The results highlight the paucity of CPGs available to pediatric oncology healthcare professionals and the pressing need to create CPGs using current methodological standards.
Time‐Resolved NMR Analysis of Proteolytic α‐Synuclein Processing in vitro and in cellulo
Authors: Limatola Antonio , Eichmann Cédric , Jacob Reeba Susan , Ben‐Nissan Gili , Sharon Michal , Binolfi Andres , Selenko Philipp
Published: September 2018

Targeted proteolysis of the disordered Parkinson's disease protein alpha‐synuclein (αSyn) constitutes an important event under physiological and pathological cell conditions. In this work, site‐specific αSyn cleavage by different endopeptidases in vitro and by endogenous proteases in extracts of challenged and unchallenged cells was studied by time‐resolved NMR spectroscopy. Specifically, proteolytic processing was monitored under neutral and low pH conditions and in response to Rotenone‐induced oxidative stress. Further, time‐dependent degradation of electroporation‐delivered αSyn in intact SH‐SY5Y and A2780 cells was analyzed. Results presented here delineate a general framework for NMR‐based proteolysis studies in vitro and in cellulo, and confirm earlier reports pertaining to the exceptional proteolytic stability of αSyn under physiological cell conditions. However, experimental findings also reveal altered protease susceptibilities in selected mammalian cell lines and upon induced cell stress.
“Open‐Mouth” Mesoporous Hollow Micro/Nano Coatings Based on POSS/PDMS: Fabrication, Mechanisms, and Anti‐Icing Performance
Authors: Yin Yuan , Liu Meihua , Wei Wei , Zhang Yifan , Gutowski Voytek , Zhang Wanxi , Deng Pengyang
Published: September 2018

A simple spray approach for fabricating unique micro–nano polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane/polydimethylsiloxane (POSS/PDMS) composite coatings decorated with 3D “opened‐mouth” hollow structures is reported. The structures are formed by a template‐free self‐assembly of cuboidal POSS precursors driven by room‐temperature aerosol‐assisted process. A three‐stage mechanism is proposed to explain the formation of the structures. The morphology and performance of the coatings are controlled via the type of the carrier liquid, the content of crystalline nanoparticles (POSS), the presence of ligands, and processing temperature. Mechanically stable micro‐ or micro–nano “open‐mouth” spherical or cylindrical structures with excellent super‐hydrophobic and anti‐icing properties are formed when POSS content exceeds 5%. Such spatial geometry of interphase‐embedded hollow structures incorporates effective heat‐transfer barrier, drastically reduces surface wettability and ice adhesion, which are quantified by water freezing temperature lowered to −26.3 °C and ice adhesion to 86 kPa.
Diagnostic and clinical course of pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis: The tip of the iceberg
Authors: Yonker Lael M. , Kinane T. Bernard
Published: September 2018

“Pulmonary Interstitial Glycogenosis: Diagnostic Evaluation and Clinical Course,” written by Liptzin et al is a timely and insightful phenotypic summary of a rare pediatric interstitial lung disease. Twenty‐four infants with biopsy‐proven pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis (PIG) were reviewed at their center. Genetic analysis, bronchoscopy results, imaging, biopsy, and cardiology findings were described, and treatment decision and clinical outcomes were discussed.
Computational study on the selective inhibition mechanism of MS402 to the first and second bromodomains of BRD4
Authors: Wang Qianqian , Li Ying , Xu Jiahui , Wang Yuwei , Shi Danfeng , Liu Liang , Leung Elaine Lai‐Han , Yao Xiaojun
Published: September 2018

As a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) family, BRD4 is considered as a potential target for cancer treatment. However, because of the highly conservation of its two homologous bromodomains (BD1/BD2), selective inhibition of each bromodomain remains a challenge. MS402 is a domain‐selective inhibitor of BRD4‐BD1 over BRD4‐BD2 reported recently. Understanding the selectivity mechanism would be very useful for the further design of more potent BD1‐selectivity inhibitors. Molecular dynamics simulation, adaptive biasing force and multiple‐walker adaptive biasing force were performed to study the inhibition and domain‐selective mechanism of MS402 toward BRD4‐BD1 over BRD4‐BD2 here. Results demonstrate BRD4‐BD1 binds to MS402 with lower binding free energy than BRD4‐BD2. Residues Gln85, Pro86, Asn140, and Ile146 are crucial for MS402's selectively binding to BRD4‐BD1. MS402 needs to overcome more energy barrier to dissociate from BD1 than from BD2 pocket. These findings will be helpful for rational structural modification of existing inhibitors to increase their BD1‐selectivity.
Magnetic Field Modulated Weak Localization and Antilocalization State in Bi2(TexSe1−x)3 Films
Authors: Wang Zhenhua , Wei Lingnan , Li Mingze , Zhang Zhidong , Gao Xuan P. A.
Published: September 2018

The magneto‐transport properties of a series of Bi2(TexSe1−x)3 films are investigated. It is seen that the doped samples develop an insulating behavior at low temperatures upon the increasing doping level as compared to the pristine sample Bi2Se3. The field evolution of the magneto‐resistance (MR) under perpendicular and parallel magnetic fields for Bi2(TexSe1−x)3 films with x = 0, 0.1, 0.24, 0.4, and 0.6 at temperatures from 2 to 200 K is investigated. A low field cusp behavior appears in MR data of Bi2(Te0.1Se0.9)3 film, which is associated with the weak anti‐localization (WAL). In Bi2(Te0.4Se0.6)3 films, MR with perpendicular and parallel magnetic fields shows signatures of WAL at low magnetic fields. A remarkable negative behavior, similar to weak localization (WL), under a high magnetic field parallel to the film surface is found which is dominated by bulk‐state electrons. MR of Bi2(Te0.6Se0.4)3 film reveals a low‐field WAL behavior and a high‐field parabolic behavior, revealing a two‐dimensional magneto‐transport property.
Tailoring of Optoelectronic Properties of ϵ‐Fe2O3 Thin Films Through Insertion of Organic Interlayers
Authors: Tanskanen Anne , Karppinen Maarit
Published: September 2018

Combined atomic/molecular layer deposition (ALD/MLD) technique enables the engineering of inorganic–organic superlattices with atomic/molecular layer accuracy for the individual layer thicknesses. Here we demonstrate how the optical and electronic properties of ϵ‐Fe2O3 thin films can be gradually tuned with an insertion of monomolecular organic layers. In our ϵ‐Fe2O3:benzene superlattice (SL) structures the thickness of individual iron oxide layers varies in the range of 1–17 nm. With decreasing ϵ‐Fe2O3 layer thickness, that is, SL period, the films become more transparent. Moreover revealed from the UV–vis spectra is that the indirect optical bandgap increases from ≈2.0 eV for ϵ‐Fe2O3 up to ≈2.3 eV for the SL films with the shortest SL period. We foresee that the ALD/MLD approach presented here for the ϵ‐Fe2O3–benzene thin films can be exploited in fabricating many other interesting hybrid material systems with controlled optoelectronic properties.
Understanding the influence of individual variables contributing to multivariate outliers in assessments of data quality
Authors: Zink Richard C. , Castro‐Schilo Laura , Ding Jianfeng
Published: September 2018

Mahalanobis distance is often recommended to identify patients or clinical sites that are considered unusual in clinical trials. Patients extreme in one or more covariates may be considered outliers in that they reside some distance from the multivariate mean, which can be thought of as the center of the data cloud. Less often discussed, patients whose data are believed to be “too good to be true” are located near the centroid as inliers. In order to efficiently investigate these anomalies for potential lapses in data quality, it is important to understand how the individual variables contribute to each multivariate outlier. There is a lack of literature describing a reasonable workflow for identification of outliers and their subsequent investigation to understand how each variable contributes to an observation being considered extreme. We describe how to identify multivariate inliers and outliers, classify outliers according to varying levels of severity, and summarize the contributions of variables using principal components in a manner that is accessible to a wide audience with straightforward interpretation. We illustrate how numerous data visualizations, including Pareto plots, can facilitate further review even in studies containing numerous observations and variables. We illustrate these methodologies using data from a multicenter clinical trial.
Odd aromatic Si4 ring stabilized by VV bond passing through it: May π‐bonding form without σ‐bonding as precondition?
Authors: Liu Nannan , Wang Jian
Published: September 2018

This work theoretically presents a type of inverse sandwiches [VCl]2[Si4R4] (RH, CH3, SiH3), of which VV, VSi, and SiSi bonding modes are very odd. [VCl]2[Si4R4] has the tetragonal dipyramid structure of two V atoms bridged by Si4 ring. The eight VSi edges mainly consist of four 3c‐2e VSiV and two 4c‐2e VSiVSi bridge bonds. A VV bond passes through the square aromatic Si4 ring. The oddest phenomenon is that no apparent SiSi σ‐bonding is found in the 4c‐6e aromatic Si4 ring, indicating that π‐bonding may form without σ‐bonding as precondition. The orbital and bond order analyses prove the phenomenon. The odd aromatic π system may be stabilized by bridge bonds and the unique VV bond passing through the center ligand, because such phenomena are not available for [TiCl]2[Si4R4]. Since π‐bondings are not so stronger than σ‐bondings, it is easy to perform interconversion between the aromatic/non‐cyclic 4c‐6e π systems of [VCl]2[Si4R4].
Photophysical and optoelectronic properties of a platinum(II) complex and its derivatives, designed as a highly efficient OLED emitter: A theoretical study
Authors: Omidyan Reza , Abbasi Maryam , Azimi Gholamhassan
Published: September 2018

New platinum(II) complex with picolinate (pic) and 2‐phenyl naphtothiazole (pntl) ligand as the guest material has been designed and its capability for OLED applications have been examined. Also, we have studied the effects of different substitutions (ie, electron‐withdrawing and electron donating groups) on naphtothiazole moiety on optovoltaic characters. We have employed density functional theoretical (B3LYP/DFT) methods to reveal the photophysical and structure properties relationships with the typical host material. The valence MO energies, vertical and adiabatic triplet energy, reorganization energy, and triplet exciton generation fraction (χ
T) have been extensively studied to exploring high phosphorescence efficiency in OLEDs. It has been predicted that substituted systems are good candidates for OLED applications as well as their parent system.
Semiempirical computational study of oxygen vacancies in a decahedral anatase nanoparticle
Authors: Vorontsov Alexander V. , Smirniotis Panagiotis G.
Published: September 2018

Formation of oxygen vacancies (VO) is an important step of many catalytic reactions following the Mars van Krevelen mechanism. High rate of oxidation is associated with low energy of VO formation while high selectivity requires an optimal energy of VO formation. In the present computational study, enthalpy of VO formation (ΔHOVF) is studied in a decahedral anatase nanoparticle (TiO2)121(H2O)6 using PM6 method. ΔHOVF shows large variations for oxygen atoms in different locations on facets, edges and vertices. VO are much more stable in the (101) facet compared to the (001) facet, while internal VO are more stable for (101) but equally stable for (001) facet compared to surface vacancies on average. Comparison with literature DFT methods results reveals good consistency and high computational efficiency of the PM6 method for vacancies formation energy. Pm6 also correctly predicts admixture states of the Ti3+ within the band gap, but absolute values of electronic band gap and position of admixture states is overestimated and needs scaling factors.
Visible‐Light‐Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Totally Inorganic Halide‐Based Perovskite
Authors: Reyes‐Pérez Fran , Gallardo Juan Jesús , Aguilar Teresa , Alcántara Rodrigo , Fernández‐Lorenzo Concha , Navas Javier
Published: September 2018

The removal of contaminants is an interesting topic in environmental research and for society nowadays. In this sense, perovskite materials have proven to be amazing photocatalysts. In this study, CsSnBr3 perovskite was synthesized and characterized using techniques such as x‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV‐vis spectroscopy. A mixture of cubic and tetragonal crystalline phases was found in the sample, and XPS revealed the presence of two oxidation states for Sn, and the formation of surface non‐stoichiometric tin oxide. A good light harvesting in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum was also found for the perovskite synthesized, which is also insoluble in water. Furthermore, adsorption and photocatalytic tests were performed. Degradation of crystal violet dye was found after the adsorption tests, but the adsorption rate affected the photocatalytic process. Therefore, CsSnBr3 shows a good photocatalytic activity for degrading dyes and contaminants.
RGO‐ZnSe Photocatalyst towards Solar‐Light‐Assisted Degradation of Tetracycline Antibiotic Water Pollutant
Authors: Das Poulomi , Pan Arvind , Chakraborty Koushik , Pal Tanusri , Ghosh Surajit
Published: September 2018

It is well known that – mainly, three processes govern the photocatalytic activity – the first one being the exciton formation after absorption of light, the second one is the charge separation and migration and the third one is the surface redox potential. In this study, an effective charge transfer and migration of photo generated electrons and holes from Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) to Reduced Graphene Oxide (RGO) have been reported. Further, these photocatalysts are evaluated by tetracycline (TC) photodegradation under simulated solar light irradiation. The ZnSe decorated RGO photocatalysts have been successfully synthesized using a one‐step solvothermal reaction. X‐ray diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, Raman and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy are used to characterize the RGO‐ZnSe composite. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and scavenger experiments are used to explore the photocatalysis mechanism of the water pollutant antibiotic TC. The main active species in TC photodegradation was found to be hole (h+). Furthermore, this work initiated a promising and effective photocatalyst, the RGO–ZnSe nanocomposites. Hence these nanocomposites could be potentially used for the degradation of organic pollutants.
Tuning the Selectivity: Study of Solvent‐Free Acid‐Mediated Pinacolic‐Pinacolone Rearrangement under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Billamboz Muriel , Banaszak Estelle , Rigo Benoît
Published: September 2018

Here we report an efficient solvent‐free pinacolic‐pinacolone rearrangement using supported acids. Given a standard procedure (5 minutes microwave heating at 180 °C), changing the acid catalyst allow to reverse the selectivity of the reaction. The optimized conditions represent an efficient means by which pinacol‐pinacolone rearrangement can be carried out while avoiding the use of strong homogeneous Brönsted acids and extended reaction times. This neat reaction gave the products in high yield, purity and ease of recovery. Moreover, the catalyst can be reused on 10 runs without any loss of activity nor selectivity. As a consequence, that protocol can be referred as a green and efficient process for pinacol‐pinacolone rearrangement.
Hybrid Hydrogels Based on insitu Interpenetrating Networks Graphene Oxide (GO) and Au Nanoparticles, and Its Application as Peroxidase Mimetics for Glucose Detection
Authors: Song Dandan , Yang Yuyan , Zhou Tong , Liu Yang , Song Shasha , Zhang Juan , Lu Hongsheng , Zhao Zengdian
Published: September 2018

Graphene oxide (GO) and Au Nanoparticles (NPs) hybrid hydrogels were prepared through one‐step hydrothermal method. The microstructure of GO/AuNPs hydrogels determined by SEM demonstrated that the hydrogels displayed three‐dimensional (3D) network structure. The freeze‐dried GO/AuNPs hydrogels (xerogels), i. e., GO/Au nanocomposites, could efficiently catalyze the oxidation reaction of peroxidase substrate, 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB), in the presence of H2O2 to produce a blue color reaction. Compared with the natural enzyme, horse radish peroxidase (HRP), GO/Au nanocomposites exhibited higher peroxidase‐like activity. The reason might be that the porous 3D network structure of GO/Au nanocomposite enhanced the reaction activity. The catalytic reaction mechanism of GO/Au nanocomposite was followed the Michaelis‐Menten behavior. The combination of GO/Au nanocomposite with glucose oxidase (GOx) performed a selective colorimetric assay for glucose detection with a detection limit of 0.4728 μmol⋅L−1, which can be used as a promising candidate biosensor for glucose detection.
A New Defect‐Rich CoGa Layered Double Hydroxide as Efficient and Stable Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalyst
Authors: Zhang Jie , Dong Chaoqun , Wang Zhenbin , Gao Hui , Niu Jiazheng , Peng Zhangquan , Zhang Zhonghua
Published: September 2018

Developing highly efficient and earth‐abundant electrocatalysts is urgent for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and layered double hydroxides (LDHs) show great potentials as advanced electrocatalysts toward OER. However, the catalytic activity of LDHs is normally limited by their poor electronic conductivity and low electrochemical active areas. Herein, a novel sputtering–painting–alloying–dealloying strategy is reported to synthesize CoGa LDH anchored on stainless steel mesh (CoGa LDH/stainless steel mesh, SSM), in which abundant oxygen vacancies are introduced into the ultrathin CoGa LDH nanosheets. Owing to the unique painting‐like operation, the nanosheet‐decorated CoGa LDH/SSM electrode can be fabricated on a large scale (8 × 8 cm2 for instance), and possesses excellent flexibility and self‐supported feature. Free of any conducting/binder agents, the CoGa LDH/SSM electrode shows excellent electrocatalytic activity toward OER in an alkaline solution (low overpotential of 258 mV @ 10 mA cm−2, small Tafel slope of 34.1 mV dec−1, long‐term stability of 70 h), which is superior to that of state‐of‐the‐art Co‐based electrocatalysts. More importantly, the electrode needs only an overpotential of 198 mV to reach 10 mA cm−2 at 335 K. The OER performance of CoGa LDH/SSM can be rationalized by numerous oxygen vacancies, ultrathin nanosheet morphology, self‐supported nature, and low activation energy barrier.
Islamic, socially responsible, and conventional market comovements: Evidence from stock indices
Authors: Paltrinieri Andrea , Floreani Josanco , Kappen Jeffrey A. , Mitchell Matthew C. , Chawla Kavilash
Published: September 2018

This article extends the literature on ethical investment risks, correlations, and comovements. Through a sample of 17 Islamic, socially responsible investment (SRI), and conventional stock indices, we investigate cointegration and dynamic correlations for the period 2005–2015. We also examine these stock indices’ responses to two major economic factors, namely, oil prices and market volatility. Our results show cointegration between Islamic, SRI and conventional stock indices, and comovements with mutual causalities. During crises, dynamic correlations tend to spike; however, quite a different pattern emerges during postcrisis periods when there is more variability in conditional covariances. Finally, we provide evidence that all three types of stock indices react positively to oil price changes, but negatively to global equity market volatility, albeit with different magnitudes. Overall, investors can obtain portfolio diversification benefits through SRI and Islamic stock indices, particularly in postcrisis periods.
The efficacy of oleuropein against non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug induced toxicity in rat kidney
Authors: Koc Kubra , Cerig Salim , Ozek Nihal Simsek , Aysin Ferhunde , Yildirim Serkan , Cakmak Ozge , Hosseinigouzdagani Mirkhalil , Geyikoglu Fatime
Published: September 2018

Indomethacin is generally used in clinical therapeutics as a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug. However, its use has been limited due to the gastrointestinal and renal toxic effects of this drug. These toxic effects were associated with not only the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis but also drug‐elevated oxidative stress. To ameliorate these toxicities, natural antioxidants can be used as an alternative and/or combination therapies. Therefore, the current study was conducted to assess the renoprotective effects of oleuropein against indomethacin‐induced renal damages. Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were pretreated with oleuropein (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg), and then treated with indomethacin (25 mg/kg). To evaluate kidney function, serum blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, and creatinine were measured. In addition, prostaglandin E2, tumor necrosis factor‐alpha, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, caspase‐3, oxidant/antioxidant status, and 8‐Oxo‐2′‐deoxyguanosine levels were determined for the antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory effects of oleuropein. Tissue sections were also histopathologically assessed. The biochemical and histopathological analysis proved the toxic effects of indomethacin on kidney. However, the pretreatment with oleuropein (300 mg/kg) protects kidney from indomethacin‐induced damages. Our study proved that prior administration of oleuropein has renoprotective activity against indomethacin‐associated toxicities.
Nucleon gravitational form factors from instantons: forces between quark and gluon subsystems
Authors: Polyakov Maxim V. , Son Hyeon-Dong
Published: September 2018

Abstract

Using the instanton picture of the QCD vacuum we compute the nucleon

$$ {\overline{c}}^Q(t) $$

c
¯

Q

t

form factor of the quark part of the energy momentum tensor (EMT). This form factor describes the non-conservation of the quark part of EMT and contributes to the quark pressure distribution inside the nucleon. Also it can be interpreted in terms of forces between quark and gluon subsystems inside the nucleon. We show that this form factor is parametrically small in the instanton packing fraction. Numerically we obtain for the nucleon EMT a small value of

$$ {\overline{c}}^Q(t) $$

c
¯

Q

t

$$ {\overline{c}}^Q(0)\simeq 1.4\ \cdotp\ {10}^{-2} $$

c
¯

Q

0

≃
1.4

·

10

−
2

at the low normalisation point of ∼ 0.4 GeV2. This smallness implies interesting physics picture — the forces between quark and gluon mechanical subsystems are smaller than the forces inside each subsystem. The forces from side of gluon subsystem squeeze the quark subsystem — they are compression forces. Additionally, the smallness of

$$ {\overline{c}}^Q(t) $$

c
¯

Q

t

might justify Teryaev’s equipartition conjecture. We estimate that the contribution of

$$ {\overline{c}}^Q(t) $$

c
¯

Q

t

to the pressure distribution inside the nucleon is in the range of 1-20% relative to the contribution of the quark D-term.
Note on differential operators, CHY integrands, and unifying relations for amplitudes
Authors: Zhou Kang , Feng Bo
Published: September 2018

Abstract

An elegant unified web for amplitudes of various theories was given by Cachazo, He and Yuan in the CHY framework a few years ago. Recently, similar web has also been constructed by Cheung, Shen and Wen, which relies on a set of differential operators. In this note, by acting these differential operators on CHY-integrands systematically, we have established the relation between these two approaches. Thus, amplitudes for all theories which have CHY representations, include gravity theory, Einstein-Yang-Mills theory, Einstein-Maxwell theory, pure Yang-Mills theory, Yang-Mills-scalar theory, Born-Infeld theory, Dirac-Born-Infeld theory and its extension, bi-adjoint scalar theory, ϕ
4 theory, non-linear sigma model, as well as special Galileon theory, have been included in the unified web rooted from gravity theory.
A computerized, self‐administered test of verbal episodic memory in elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment and healthy participants: A randomized, crossover, validation study
Authors: Morrison Randall L. , Pei Huiling , Novak Gerald , Kaufer Daniel I. , Welsh‐Bohmer Kathleen A. , Ruhmel Stephen , Narayan Vaibhav A.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Performance of “Revere”, a novel iPad‐administered word‐list recall (WLR) test, in quantifying deficits in verbal episodic memory, was evaluated versus examiner‐administered Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) in patients with mild cognitive impairment and cognitively normal participants.

Methods

Elderly patients with clinically diagnosed mild cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment score 24–27) and cognitively normal (Montreal Cognitive Assessment score ≥28) were administered RAVLT or Revere in a randomized crossover design.

Results

A total of 153/161 participants (Revere/RAVLT n = 75; RAVLT/Revere n = 78) were randomized; 148 (97%) completed study; 121 patients (mean [standard deviation] age: 70.4 [7.84] years) were included for analysis. Word‐list recall scores (8 trials) were comparable between Revere and RAVLT (Pearson's correlation coefficients: 0.12–0.70; least square mean difference [Revere‐RAVLT]: −0.84 [90% CI, −1.15; −0.54]). Model factor estimates indicated trial (P < .001), period (P < .001) and evaluation sequence (P = .038) as significant factors. Learning over trials index and serial position effects were comparable.

Discussion

Participants' verbal recall performance on Revere and RAVLT were equivalent.
Intensities and shifts of Lyman and Balmer lines of hydrogen-like ions in high density plasmas
Authors: Zhao G.P. , Liu L. , Wang J.G. , Janev R.K. , Yan J.
Published: September 2018

The spectral line intensities and line shifts of Lyman and Balmer series for transitions up to n = 5 of hydrogen-like ion are studied in plasmas with densities and temperatures in the ranges ne ∼ 1018–1021 cm−3, Te = 0.3–1.2 eV respectively. The screened potential used to describe the interaction between charged particles includes the electron exchange-correlation and finite-temperature gradient effects and is valid for both weakly and strongly coupled plasmas. The dependencies of alpha, beta and gamma line shifts of Lyman and Balmer series on plasma density (for fixed temperature) and temperature (for fixed density) are investigated. The results for the Hα line shifts are compared with the available high-density experimental data.