bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Small Ruminants Fasciolosis in Mekelle, Tigrai Regional State, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Mengistu Berhe Mekonnen , Azbite Abebe Asnake , Bitsue Habtom Kiros
Published: December 2019

Fasciolosis is one of the most economically important and widespread parasitic diseases of domestic animals. Accordingly, a cross sectional study was conducted in Mekelle, northern Ethiopia to assess the prevalence of small ruminants Fasciolosis. Fecal samples were collected from a total of 384 small ruminants comprising of 245 sheep and 139 goats and were examined by using the sedimentation technique to find out the eggs of Fasciola species. Out of the total, 384 examined fecal samples, 67 were found to be positive for Fasciolosis with an overall prevalence rate of 17.5 percent. The prevalence of Fasciolosis was higher in sheep (24.1%) as compared to goats (5.8%). There was a statistically significant difference (P=.00) among sheep and goats as regards to the occurrence of Fasciola spp. With body condition scores of the animals, Fasciolosis was statistical significant (P=.00) which was higher in animals with poor body scores followed by medium and good body conditions, respectively. However, the prevalence of Fasciolosis between males and females (P=.19) as well as young and adult animals (P=.92) was not statistically significant difference. The result among the origins of the animals also revealed that no statistically significance difference (P=.81). In conclusion, the burden of Fasciolosis still remains a great problem in the study area. Thus, we need for further investigation to study the impact of the disease on animal production and its economic values and requires integrated interventional strategies to be implemented to tackle such an economically important disease of small ruminants.
Transmembrane protease serine 5: a novel Schwann cell plasma marker for CMT1A
Authors: Wang Hongge , Davison Matthew , Wang Kathryn , Xia Tai‐He , Kramer Martin , Call Katherine , Luo Jun , Wu Xingyao , Zuccarino Riccardo , Bacon Chelsea , Bai Yunhong , Moran John J. , Gutmann Laurie , Feely Shawna M. E. , Grider Tiffany , Rossor Alexander M. , Reilly Mary M. , Svaren John , Shy Michael E.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Development of biomarkers for Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease is critical for implementing effective clinical trials. The most common form of CMT, type 1A, is caused by a genomic duplication surrounding the PMP22 gene. A recent report (Neurology 2018;90:e518–3524) showed elevation of neurofilament light (NfL) in plasma of CMT1A disease patients, which correlated with disease severity. However, no plasma/serum biomarker has been identified that is specific to Schwann cells, the most directly affected cells in CMT1A.

Methods

We used the Olink immuno PCR platform to profile CMT1A patient (n = 47, 2 cohorts) and normal control plasma (n = 41, two cohorts) on five different Olink panels to screen 398 unique proteins.

Results

The TMPRSS5 protein (Transmembrane protease serine 5) was elevated 2.07‐fold (P = <0.0001) in two independent cohorts of CMT1A samples relative to controls. TMPRSS5 is most highly expressed in Schwann cells of peripheral nerve. Consistent with early myelination deficits in CMT1A, TMPRSS5 was not significantly correlated with disease score (CMTES‐R, CMTNS‐R), nerve conduction velocities (Ulnar CMAP, Ulnar MNCV), or with age. TMPRSS5 was not significantly elevated in smaller sample sets from patients with CMT2A, CMT2E, CMT1B, or CMT1X. The Olink immuno PCR assays confirmed elevated levels of NfL (average 1.58‐fold, P < 0.0001), which correlated with CMT1A patient disease score.

Interpretation

These data identify the first Schwann cell‐specific protein that is elevated in plasma of CMT1A patients, and may provide a disease marker and a potentially treatment‐responsive biomarker with good disease specificity for clinical trials.
Detecting smugglers: Identifying strategies and behaviours in individuals in possession of illicit objects
Authors: Mann Samantha , Deeb Haneen , Vrij Aldert , Hope Lorraine , Pontigia Lavinia
Published: December 2019

Behaviour detection officers' task is to spot potential criminals in public spaces, but scientific research concerning what to look for is scarce. In two experiments, 52 (Experiment 1A) and 60 (Experiment 2A) participants carried out a mission involving a ferry crossing. Half were asked to smuggle an object; the other half were non‐smugglers. In Experiment 2A, two confederates appeared to approach as if looking for someone on the ferry. Smugglers, more than non‐smugglers, reported afterwards to have felt nervous, self‐conscious, and conspicuous and to attempt behavioural control during the ferry crossing. The secretly videotaped ferry crossings were shown to 104 (Experiment 1B) and 120 (Experiment 2B) observers, tasked to identify the smugglers. Although they reported paying attention mostly to signs of nervousness, lie detection accuracy rate was poor (48% in Experiment 1 and 39.2% in Experiment 2) because their perceptions of nervousness did not match the experiences of nervousness reported by the (non)smugglers.
Cephalopod‐Inspired Swimming Robot Using Dielectric Elastomer Synthetic Jet Actuator
Authors: Tang Chao , Ma Wentao , Li Bo , Jin Mingliang , Chen Hualing
Published: December 2019

Jet propulsion is the main method of locomotion developed by cephalopods to swim through water, either for hunting or escaping from predators. Under this inspiration, diverse underwater robots utilizing jet propulsion‐based locomotion are studied. This article presents a cephalopod‐inspired robot based on a dielectric elastomer actuator, utilizing jet‐propulsion actuation. The actuator is designed and optimized under the guidance of a corresponding electromechanical model. Then, the flow field characteristics of the synthetic jet actuator are simulated and analyzed. Equipped with the actuator, the bioinspired robot can locomote either with a speed of 0.66 body length per second on the surface of the water by jetting air or with a speed of 0.43 body length per second while almost completely submerged underwater by jetting water. The jet actuator presents even more environmental adaptability, which powers dual swimming locomotion by jetting two flow media, and can potentially be applied to the design of underwater robots.
Zwitterionic Osmolyte‐Based Hydrogels with Antifreezing Property, High Conductivity, and Stable Flexibility at Subzero Temperature
Authors: Sui Xiaojie , Guo Hongshuang , Chen Pengguang , Zhu Yingnan , Wen Chiyu , Gao Yihang , Yang Jing , Zhang Xiangyu , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2019

Conductive hydrogels have emerged as fascinating materials applied in flexible electronics because of their integrated conductivity and mechanical flexibility. However, the large amounts of water in conductive hydrogels inevitably freeze at subzero temperature, causing a reduction of their ionic transport ability and elasticity. Herein, the bioinspired antifreezing agents—zwitterionic osmolytes (e.g., betaine, proline) are first proposed to prevent ammonium chloride‐containing Ca‐alginate/polyacrylamide hydrogels from freezing. With a facile one‐pot solvent displacement method, the zwitterionic osmolytes can displace the water molecules inside the hydrogels. Due to the excellent freeze tolerance of zwitterionic osmolytes, the resulting zwitterionic osmolyte‐based hydrogels exhibit outstanding ionic conductivity (up to ≈2.7 S m−1) at −40 °C, which exceeds the conductivities of most reported conductive hydrogels. Meanwhile, they present stable mechanical flexibility over a wide temperature range (−40 to 25 °C). More importantly, two types of the resulting hydrogel‐based flexible electronics, including a capacitive sensor and a resistive sensor, can maintain their response function at −40 °C. This work offers a new solution to fabricate conductive hydrogels with antifreezing ability, which can broaden the working temperature range of flexible electronics.
Ultrafast Melting of Metal–Organic Frameworks for Advanced Nanophotonics
Authors: Kulachenkov Nikita K. , Bruyere Stéphanie , Sapchenko Sergey A. , Mezenov Yuri A. , Sun Dapeng , Krasilin Andrei A. , Nominé Alexandre , Ghanbaja Jaâfar , Belmonte Thierry , Fedin Vladimir P. , Pidko Evgeny A. , Milichko Valentin A.
Published: December 2019

The conversion of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) into derivatives with a well‐defined shape and composition is considered a reliable way to produce efficient catalysts and energy capacitors at the nanometer scale. Yet, approaches based on conventional melting of MOFs provide the derivatives such as amorphous carbon, metal oxides, or metallic nanoclusters with an appropriate morphology. Here ultrafast melting of MOFs is utilized by femtosecond laser pulses to produce a new generation of derivatives with complex morphology and enhanced nonlinear optical response. It is revealed that such a nonequilibrium process allows conversion of interpenetrated 3D MOFs comprising flexible ligands into well‐organized spheres with a metal oxide dendrite core and amorphous organic shell. The ability to produce such derivatives with a complex morphology is directly dependent on the electronic structure, crystal density, ligand flexibility, and morphology of initial MOFs. An enhanced second harmonic generation and three‐photon luminescence are also demonstrated due to the resonant interaction of 100–1000 nm spherical derivatives with light. The results obtained are in the favor of new approaches for melting special types of MOFs for nonlinear nanophotonics.
Alginate‐Boronic Acid: pH‐Triggered Bioinspired Glue for Hydrogel Assembly
Authors: Hong Sang Hyeon , Shin Mikyung , Park Eunsook , Ryu Ji Hyun , Burdick Jason A. , Lee Haeshin
Published: December 2019

The development of bioadhesives has become an emerging research field for tissue sealants, wound dressings, and hemostatic agents. However, assembling hydrogels using bioadhesive‐mediated attachment remains a challenging task. Significantly high water content (>90%) in hydrogels compared to that of biological tissues is the main cause of failure. Considering that hydrogels are primary testing scaffolds mimicking in vivo environments, developing strategies to assemble hydrogels that exhibit diverse properties is important. Self‐healing gels have been reported, but such gels often lack biocompatibility, and two gel pieces should be identical in chemistry for assembly, thus not allowing co‐existence of diverse biological environments. Herein, a mussel‐mimetic cis‐diol‐based adhesive, alginate‐boronic acid, that exhibits pH‐responsive curing from a viscoelastic solution to soft gels is developed. Associated mechanisms are that 1) polymeric diffusion occurs at interfaces utilizing intrinsic high water content; 2) the conjugated cis‐diols strongly interact/entangle with hydrogel chains; 3) curing processes begin by a slight increase in pH, resulting in robust attachment of diverse types of hydrogel building blocks for assembly. The findings obtained with alginate‐boronic acid glues suggest a rational design principle to attach diverse hydrogel building blocks to provide platforms mimicking in vivo environments.
Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Direct C−H Alkylation of Ferrocenes with Diazo Compounds under Weakly Coordinating Approach
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Zhao Jiakai , Mou Qi , Teng Dawei , Meng Xiangtai , Sun Bo
Published: December 2019

An efficient synthesis of ferrocene derivatives via rhodium(III)‐catalyzed direct C−H alkylation with diazo compounds under weakly coordinating group has been presented. This protocol provides an approach towards access to various ferrocene derivatives using carboxamides, giving alkylated ferrocenes in high yields (up to 87%).

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Scalable Electronic Ratchet with Over 10% Rectification Efficiency
Authors: Andersson Olof , Maas Joris , Gelinck Gerwin , Kemerink Martijn
Published: December 2019

Electronic ratchets use a periodic potential with broken inversion symmetry to rectify undirected (electromagnetic, EM) forces and can in principle be a complement to conventional diode‐based designs. Unfortunately, ratchet devices reported to date have low or undetermined power conversion efficiencies, hampering applicability. Combining experiments and numerical modeling, field‐effect transistor‐based ratchets are investigated in which the driving signal is coupled into the accumulation layer via interdigitated finger electrodes that are capacitively coupled to the field effect transistor channel region. The output current–voltage curves of these ratchets can have a fill factor >> 0.25 which is highly favorable for the power output. Experimentally, a maximum power conversion efficiency well over 10% at 5 MHz, which is the highest reported value for an electronic ratchet, is determined. Device simulations indicate this number can be increased further by increasing the device asymmetry. A scaling analysis shows that the frequency range of optimal performance can be scaled to the THz regime, and possibly beyond, while adhering to technologically realistic parameters. Concomitantly, the power output density increases from ≈4 W m−2 to ≈1 MW m−2. Hence, this type of ratchet device can rectify high‐frequency EM fields at reasonable efficiencies, potentially paving the way for actual use as energy harvester.
3D Cube‐Maze‐Like Li‐Rich Layered Cathodes Assembled from 2D Porous Nanosheets for Enhanced Cycle Stability and Rate Capability of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Yanchen , Wang Jing , Wu Junwei , Ding Zhiyu , Yao Penghui , Zhang Sanli , Chen Yanan
Published: December 2019

Li‐rich oxide is a promising candidate for the cathodes of next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries. However, its utilization is restricted by cycling instability and inferior rate capability. To tackle these issues, three‐dimensional (3D), hierarchical, cube‐maze‐like Li‐rich cathodes assembled from two‐dimensional (2D), thin nanosheets with exposed {010} active planes, are developed by a facile hydrothermal approach. Benefiting from their unique architecture, 3D cube‐maze‐like cathodes demonstrate a superior reversible capacity (285.3 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, 133.4 mAh g−1 at 20.0 C) and a great cycle stability (capacity retention of 87.4% after 400 cycles at 2.0 C, 85.2% after 600 cycles and 75.0% after 1200 cycles at 20.0 C). When this material is matched with a graphite anode, the full cell achieves a remarkable discharge capacity (275.2 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C) and stable cycling behavior (capacity retention of 88.7% after 100 cycles at 5.0 C, capacity retention of 84.8% after 100 cycles at 20.0 C). The present work proposes an accessible way to construct 3D hierarchical architecture assembled from 2D nanosheets with exposed high‐energy active {010} planes and verifies its validity for advanced Li‐rich cathodes.
“That's not my job”: A mixed methods study of challenging client behaviors, boundaries, and home care aide occupational safety and health
Authors: Karlsson Nicole D. , Markkanen Pia K. , Kriebel David , Galligan Catherine J. , Quinn Margaret M.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Home care (HC) aide is among the fastest‐growing jobs. Aides often work in long‐term care relationships with elders or people with disabilities in clients’ homes, assisting with daily activities. The purpose of this mixed‐methods paper is to elucidate aides’ experiences around the boundary‐challenging behaviors of clients asking for services beyond aides’ job duties and to identify possible interventions.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of HC aides in Massachusetts (n = 1249) provided quantitative data. Post‐survey qualitative data were collected from nine HC aide focus groups (n = 70) and seven in‐depth interviews with HC industry and labor representatives.

Results

Quantitatively, aides who reported often being asked to do tasks outside their job duties were more likely to report abuse (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.47‐2.52 for verbal, PR = 1.81; 95%CI: 1.13‐2.91 for physical/sexual) and pain/injury with lost work time or medical care (PR = 1.58; 95%CI: 1.11‐2.25). They were also less likely to want to remain in their job (PR = 0.94; 95%CI: 0.89‐1.00) or recommend it to others (PR = 0.94; 95%CI: 0.90‐0.98). Qualitative data showed that clients’ requests for tasks beyond job duties were frequent and can lead to injuries, abuse, and psychosocial stress. Yet, requests often reflected genuine need. Helping clients stay at home, compassion, and feeling appreciated contributed to job satisfaction; therefore, aides can feel conflicted about refusing requests.

Conclusion

Client task requests outside HC services are a complex problem. Employer support, training, care plans, and feeling part of a care team can help aides navigate professional boundaries while delivering high quality care.
Amniotic band sequence in paternal half‐siblings with vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome
Authors: Callaghan Mary B. , Hadden Rob , King Jon S. , Lachlan Katherine , van Dijk Fleur S. , Turnpenny Peter D.
Published: December 2019

Familial amniotic band sequence (ABS) is rare but has been reported in the offspring of mothers with connective tissue disorders. We present a family of two half‐siblings with ABS who share the same biological father. Following a serious vascular event a de novo pathogenic variant in COL3A1 was detected in the father, confirming a diagnosis of vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (vEDS). The same variant was found in both his ABS‐affected children but not in his unaffected child. The amniotic membrane is derived from fetal tissue, type III collagen being a component. As the affected children are paternal half‐siblings, ABS was less likely due to maternal factors. Rather, the amniotic bands may have resulted from decreased type III collagen production as seen in people with vEDS, causing fragility of the amniotic membrane. Consequently, it is important to consider vEDS in patients with ABS.
Homozygous variants in AMPD2 and COL11A1 lead to a complex phenotype of pontocerebellar hypoplasia type 9 and Stickler syndrome type 2
Authors: Abreu Nicolas J. , Koboldt Daniel C. , Gastier‐Foster Julie M. , Dave‐Wala Ashita , Flanigan Kevin M. , Waldrop Megan A.
Published: December 2019

Pontocerebellar hypoplasia type 9 (PCH9) is an autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the AMPD2 gene. We evaluated the son of a consanguineous couple who presented with profound hypotonia and global developmental delay. Other features included sensorineural hearing loss, asymmetric astigmatism, and high myopia. Clinical whole‐exome sequence analysis identified a homozygous missense variant in AMPD2 (NM_001257360.1:c.2201C > T, p.[Pro734Leu]) that has not been previously reported. Given the strong phenotypic overlap with PCH9, including the identification of the typical “Figure 8” appearance of the brainstem on neuroimaging, we suspect this variant was causative of the neurodevelopmental disability in this individual. An additional homozygous nonsense variant in COL11A1 (NM_001854.4:c.1168G > T, p.[Glu390Ter]) was identified. Variants in this alternatively spliced region of COL11A1 have been identified to cause an autosomal recessive form of Stickler syndrome type 2 characterized by sensorineural hearing loss and eye abnormalities, but without musculoskeletal abnormalities. The COL11A1 variant likely also contributed to the individual's phenotype, suggesting two potentially relevant genetic findings. This challenging case highlights the importance of detailed phenotypic characterization when interpreting whole exome data.
Multicenter study on the effect of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs on postoperative pain after endoscopic sinus and nasal surgery
Authors: Wu Arthur W. , Walgama Evan S. , Genç Ege , Ting Jonathan Y. , Illing Elisa A. , Shipchandler Taha Z. , Higgins Thomas S.
Published: December 2019

Background

The taboo of avoiding nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) has been waning. The impetus to reduce opioid prescriptions in view of the opioid epidemic led the authors to change their practices to include NSAIDs after sinus surgery. This study's aim was to analyze the differences between patients before and after we began recommending NSAIDs after FESS.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was performed on patients undergoing FESS or other endoscopic nasal surgeries at 3 institutions, by 5 rhinologists and 1 facial plastic surgeon. Before introducing NSAIDs, all patients were given a prescription for hydrocodone‐acetaminophen 5/325 mg and also recommended preferentially to use acetaminophen 325 mg. After the addition of NSAIDs, ibuprofen 200 mg and acetaminophen 325 mg were recommended preferentially, using the narcotic as a rescue medication. Patients kept a pain diary and medication log, and gave a visual analog scale (VAS) score for overall pain. Demographics, surgical variables, and comorbidities were also analyzed.

Results

One hundred sixty‐six total patients were recruited and had data that could be analyzed (65 without NSAIDs, 101 with NSAIDs). Overall, mean pain VAS score was 3.12 ± 1.95 for the non‐NSAID group and 2.33 ± 2.30 for the NSAID group (p value = 0.006). The day with the highest mean pain was the first postoperative day. The mean number of total opioid pills taken was 6.94 ± 6.85 without NSAIDs vs 3.77 ± 4.56 with NSAIDs (p = 0.018). Age and gender were found to be the only consistently significant patient variables to affect pain. There were no bleeding complications.

Conclusion

NSAID use was introduced into the practices of 5 practicing rhinologists and 1 facial plastic surgeon. No bleeding complications were seen. Both pain and overall opioid usage were reduced significantly.
Hard‐Sphere Random Close‐Packed Au47Cd2(TBBT)31 Nanoclusters with a Faradaic Efficiency of Up to 96 % for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to CO
Authors: Zhuang Shengli , Chen Dong , Liao Lingwen , Zhao Yan , Xia Nan , Zhang Wenhao , Wang Chengming , Yang Jun , Wu Zhikun
Published: December 2019

Metal nanoclusters have recently attracted considerable attention, not only because of their special size range but also because of their well‐defined compositions and structures. However, subtly tailoring the compositions and structures of metal nanoclusters for potential applications remains challenging. Now, a two‐phase anti‐galvanic reduction (AGR) method is presented for precisely tailoring Au44(TBBT)28 to produce Au47Cd2(TBBT)31 nanoclusters with a hard‐sphere random close‐packed structure, exhibiting Faradaic efficiencies of up to 96 % at −0.57 V for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO.
Synthese und Reaktivität der ersten isolierten wasserstoffverbrückten Silanol‐Silanolat‐Anionen
Authors: Weitkamp Robin F. , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Hoge Berthold
Published: December 2019

Wir berichten über die ersten Beispiele isolierter Silanol‐Silanolat‐Anionen unter Verwendung schwach koordinierender Phosphazenium‐Gegenionen. Die Silanolat‐Anionen wurden durch die Reaktion des kürzlich veröffentlichten Phosphazenium‐Hydroxid‐Hydrat‐Salzes mit Siloxanen synthetisiert. Die Silanol‐Silanolat‐Anionen sind postulierte Zwischenprodukte bei der Hydroxid‐vermittelten Polymerisation von Aryl‐ und Alkylsiloxanen. Die Silanolat‐Anionen sind wegen des schwach koordinierenden Charakters des Phosphazenium‐Kations starke Nucleophile. Diese Eigenschaft macht sich in ihrer Aktivität bei der Depolymerisation von Polysiloxanen bemerkbar.
Paper‐Based Ratiometric Fluorescence Analytical Devices towards Point‐of‐Care Testing of Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Luo Zijie , Lv Taoyuze , Zhu Kangning , Li Yi , Wang Lei , Gooding J. Justin , Liu Guozhen , Liu Bin
Published: December 2019

Monitoring of human serum albumin (HSA) in a point‐of‐care fashion is urgently needed in particular for elderly or chronically ill patients. Herein, a dual‐state emissive chalcone probe having the feature of aggregation‐induced emission was designed and synthesized. The concentration of HSA can be evaluated by the ratios of emission from probes in aggregated and monomeric state, which gives a visually discernible red‐to‐green color change. A simple, portable paper‐based analytical device have been fabricated by integration of the recognition probe in the detection pad and employed for HSA test using the whole blood samples. This paper‐based assay shows the analytical capability comparable to the standard testing methods but is in a point‐of‐care fashion, providing a promising tool for at‐home HSA detection and HSA‐related disease diagnosis.
The Detection and Reactivity of Silanols and Silanes Using Hyperpolarized 29Si Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Rayner Peter J. , Richardson Peter M. , Duckett Simon B.
Published: December 2019

Silanols and silanes are key precursors and intermediates for the synthesis of silicon‐based materials. While their characterization and quantification by 29Si NMR spectroscopy has received significant attention, it is a technique that is limited by the low natural abundance of 29Si and its low sensitivity. Here, we describe a method using p‐H2 to hyperpolarize 29Si. The observed signal enhancements, approaching 3000‐fold at 11.7 T, would take many days of measurement for comparable results under Boltzmann conditions. The resulting signals were exploited to monitor the rapid reaction of tris(tert‐butoxy)silanol with triflic anhydride in a T1‐corrected process that allows for rapid quantification. These results demonstrate a novel route to quantify dynamic processes and intermediates in the synthesis of silicon materials.
A Neutrophil‐Inspired Supramolecular Nanogel for Magnetocaloric–Enzymatic Tandem Therapy
Authors: Zhang Qi , Wu Jiaojiao , Wang Jingjing , Wang Xia , Wu Chu , Chen Mengwei , Wu Qing , Lesniak Maciej S. , Mi Yongli , Cheng Yu , Wang Qigang
Published: December 2019

Neutrophils can responsively release reactive oxygen species (ROS) to actively combat infections by exogenous stimulus and cascade enzyme catalyzed bio‐oxidation. A supramolecular nanogel is now used as an artificial neutrophil by enzymatic interfacial self‐assembly of peptides (Fmoc‐Tyr(H2PO3)‐OH) with magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and electrostatic loading of chloroperoxidase (CPO). The MNPs within the nanogel can elevate H2O2 levels in cancer cells under programmed alternating magnetic field (AMF) similar to the neutrophil activator, and the loaded CPO within protective peptides nanolayer converts the H2O2 into singlet oxygen (1O2) in a sustained manner for neutrophil‐inspired tumor therapy. As a proof of concept study, both the H2O2 and 1O2 in cancer cells increase stepwise under a programmed alternating magnetic field. An active enzyme dynamic therapy by magnetically stimulated oxygen stress and sustained enzyme bio‐oxidation is thus shown with studies on both cells and animals.
Photodissociation Mechanisms of Major Mercury(II) Species in the Atmospheric Chemical Cycle of Mercury
Authors: Francés‐Monerris Antonio , Carmona‐García Javier , Acuña A. Ulises , Dávalos Juan Z. , Cuevas Carlos A. , Kinnison Douglas E. , Francisco Joseph S. , Saiz‐Lopez Alfonso , Roca‐Sanjuán Daniel
Published: December 2019

Mercury is a contaminant of global concern that is transported throughout the atmosphere as elemental mercury Hg0 and its oxidized forms HgI and HgII. The efficient gas‐phase photolysis of HgII and HgI has recently been reported. However, whether the photolysis of HgII leads to other stable HgII species, to HgI, or to Hg0 and its competition with thermal reactivity remain unknown. Herein, we show that all oxidized forms of mercury rapidly revert directly and indirectly to Hg0 by photolysis. Results are based on non‐adiabatic dynamics simulations, in which the photoproduct ratios were determined with maximum errors of 3%. We construct for the first time a complete quantitative mechanism of the photochemical and thermal conversion between atmospheric HgII, HgI, and Hg0 compounds. These results reveal new fundamental chemistry that has broad implications for the global atmospheric Hg cycle. Thus, photoreduction clearly competes with thermal oxidation, with Hg0 being the main photoproduct of HgII photolysis in the atmosphere, which significantly increases the lifetime of this metal in the environment.
Synthesis and non‐parametric evaluation studies on high performance of catalytic oxidation‐extraction desulfurization of gasoline using the novel TBAPW11Zn@TiO2@PAni nanocomposite
Authors: Khanmohammadi Khorrami Mohammad Reza , Shokri Aghbolagh Zahra
Published: December 2019

In this work, the new catalyst (assigned as TBAPW11Zn@TiO2@PAni) was successfully designed and synthesized on the basis of quaternary ammonium salt of zinc monosubstituted phosphotungstate [(n‐C4H9)4N][PW11ZnO39] (TBAPW11Zn), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and polyaniline (PAni). This study reports the catalytic oxidation‐extraction desulfurization (ECODS) of sulfur‐containing molecules from real and the simulated (Th, BT, and DBT) gasoline using new organic–inorganic hybrid catalyst (TBAPW11Zn@TiO2@PAni). The ECODS results were shown that the concentration of sulfur compounds (SCs) of real gasoline was lowered from 0.4992 to 0.0122 wt.% with 97% efficiency at 35 °C after 1 h. Furthermore, the synthesized heterogeneous nanocatalyst showed high stability and reusability after five times without significant loss of activity. The high performance of TBAPW11Zn@TiO2@PAni/H2O2/CH3CO2H system can be a promising route with a superb potential in the generation of ultra‐low‐sulfur gasoline. Also the Mann–Whitney U‐test results show that there is not a significant difference between the mean of sulfur percentage for DBT & BT, BT & Th and DBT & Th in the presence of the catalyst. Based on the Kruskal–Wallis test results, we can conclude that the temperature, time and amount of catalyst have a significant effect on ECODS efficiency of TBAPW11Zn@TiO2@PAni nanocomposite.
Ultrasonic welding of all‐polypropylene composites
Authors: Kiss Zoltán , Temesi Tamás , Bitay Enikő , Bárány Tamás , Czigány Tibor
Published: December 2019

In this study, the mechanical properties of ultrasonic welded lap joints of all‐polypropylene composite (APPC) were investigated and compared to the interlaminar properties of the composite sheet itself. The process control parameter was welding time: welded samples were prepared with an ultrasonic welding machine in the 0.1–1.0 second time range. In most cases, the shear strength of the welded samples exceeded that of the unwelded APPC. Although it was found that during the ultrasonic welding process, the reinforcing tapes partially melted in the welding zone (WZ), the seam remained strong enough because the heat released and the pressure applied during the welding process further improved the consolidation of the APPC layers. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Applied Polymer Science published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48799.
One‐step fabrication of superhydrophobic P(VDF‐co‐HFP) nanofibre membranes using electrospinning technique
Authors: Tas Mahmut , Xu Fang , Ahmed Ifty , Hou Xianghui
Published: December 2019

In this study, superhydrophobic electrospun P(VDF‐co‐HFP) membranes were fabricated in a one‐step electrospinning process. The effects of the key parameters of electrospinning (solution concentration, electrical potential, flow rate, and solvent) on the surface roughness, fiber formation, and hydrophobicity of the membranes were evaluated using Taguchi method. A 4 × 3 orthogonal array was utilized, and the results indicated that the solvent played the critical role in producing the superhydrophobic nanofibre membranes. It was demonstrated that it is possible to produce superhydrophobic membranes with P(VDF‐co‐HFP) without additional functionalisation and fillers. The highest water contact angle and the lowest contact angle hysteresis obtained were 156° and 5°, respectively, and the roughness values varied from 0.15 to 5.74 μm for the produced P(VDF‐co‐HFP) nanofibre membranes. The surface superhydrophobicity of the membranes was attributed to the specific structures consisting of a combination of beads and nanofibres. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48817.
Web Browsing Habits of Healthcare Professions Students in Gross Anatomy Laboratory
Authors: Pascoe Michael A.
Published: December 2019

Personal computer use for educational purposes by the healthcare professions students has become ubiquitous. Although the effect of computer‐based dissection instructions has been studied, there is a paucity of information regarding student browsing habits of information available on the Internet. Although current students have favorable attitudes toward accessing anatomical information online, web browsing habits have not yet been investigated specifically in the dissection laboratory setting. The purpose of this study was to describe the browsing habits of the healthcare professions students in the gross anatomy setting using a retrospective analysis. Files containing web browser history were retrieved from desktop computers in the gross anatomy laboratory and custom code was written to parse them into comma separated value files. Each web address was categorized and descriptive statistics was calculated. Browser history for 24 computers was analyzed from June 2013 to January 2015. During this period, students accumulated 100,857 webpage visits. Most often, students performed a Google search for anatomy (22.0% of all visits) and non‐anatomy related (20.6% of all visits) information. Students also used the web browser to access various entertainment (16.4% of all visits) and productivity related services (15.9% of all visits). This analysis revealed a large volume of webpage visits by the healthcare professions students in the gross anatomy laboratory. A wide diversity of anatomy and non‐anatomy related webpages were visited. Future analyses could be directed at examination of when in relation to class time students accessed the information, how browsing habits change over time, and what anatomical structures were most commonly searched for.
The Proportion of Fe‐NX, N Doping Species and Fe3C to Oxygen Catalytic Activity in Core‐Shell Fe‐N/C Electrocatalyst
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Zhu Yihua , Jiang Hongliang , Shen Jianhua , Li Chunzhong
Published: December 2019

A bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst composed of iron carbide (Fe3C) nanoparticles encapsulated by nitrogen doped carbon sheets is reported. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption near edge structure revealed the presence of several kinds of active sites (Fe−Nx sites, N doping sites) and the modulated electron structure of nitrogen doped carbon sheets. Fe3C@N‐CSs shows excellent oxygen evolution and oxygen reduction catalytic activity owing to the modulated electron structure by encapsulated Fe3C core via biphasic interfaces electron interaction, which can lower the free energy of intermediate, strengthen the bonding strength and enhance conductivity. Meanwhile, the contribution of the Fe−Nx sites, N doping sites and the effect of Fe3C core for the electrocatalytic oxygen reaction is originally revealed. The Fe3C@N‐CSs air electrode‐based zinc‐air battery demonstrates a high open circuit potential of 1.47 V, superior charge‐discharge performance and long lifetime, which outperforms the noble metal‐based zinc‐air battery.
Observer‐based compensation control of servo systems with backlash
Authors: Sun Guofa , Zhao Jingbo , Chen Qiang
Published: December 2019

For compensating backlash phenomenon in servo systems, the authors propose an observer method in this paper to estimate both system states and vibration torque before controller design. First, a systematic scheme is given to obtain plant parameters, which is very important in observing system states. This is a parameter estimation principle that gives a crude estimation and computes the differences between the crude and true values. As a result, the precise value of the parameters is obtained by adding together the crude value and the difference. Then, based on the precise estimated parameters, an extended state observer (ESO) is designed to obtain feedback and feedforward signals. Consequently, robust compensation control is achieved by designing an output feedback controller, consisting of a feedback term and a feedforward term. Finally, in order to validate the proposed approach, extensive experiments are performed on a practical servo system with backlash nonlinearity.
Tailoring the Charge/Discharge Potentials and Electrochemical Performance of SnO2 Lithium‐Ion Anodes by Transition Metal Co‐Doping
Authors: Birrozzi Adele , Asenbauer Jakob , Ashton Thomas E. , Groves Alexandra R. , Geiger Dorin , Kaiser Ute , Darr Jawwad A. , Bresser Dominic
Published: December 2019

It has been shown that the introduction of several transition metal (TM) dopants into SnO2 lithium‐ion battery anodes can overcome the issues associated with the irreversible capacity loss from the conversion reaction of SnO2 and the aggregation of the metallic Sn particles formed upon lithiation. As the choice of the single dopant, however, plays a decisive role for the achievable energy density – precisely its redox potential – we investigate herein TM co‐doped SnO2, prepared by using a readily scalable continuous hydrothermal flow synthesis (CHFS) process, to tailor the dis‐/charge profile and by this the energy density. It is shown that the judicious choice of different elemental doping combinations in samples made via CHFS simultaneously improves the cycling performance and the full‐cell energy density. To support these findings, we realized a lithium‐ion full‐cell incorporating the best performing co‐doped SnO2 as negative electrode and high‐voltage LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO) as positive electrode–to the best of our knowledge, the first full‐cell based on such anode material in combination with LNMO as cathode active material.
The monster of Ascheraden: A description of syndromic cryptophthalmos by poet Daniel Hermann in “De monstroso partu…” published in Riga, 1596
Authors: Lībiete Ieva
Published: December 2019

In 1596, the Niclas Mollyn (Nicolaus Mollinus; 1550/55–1625) printing house in Riga, published a book in Latin, authored by Prussian poet and humanist Daniel Hermann (1543–1601) with quite an intriguing title “De monstroso partu…” or “About the monstrous birth: on August 18 of the year 1595 in the district of Ascheraden on the other side of the Duna in Livonia and on things that happen against the laws of nature. An ethical, natural and historical discourse.” The “Monstroso partu…” is among the earliest books printed in Riga and the first one dedicated to a medical topic. The book contains what could be seen as the earliest known description of syndromic cryptophthalmos aka Fraser syndrome.
Beyond authorship and accountability? The ethics of doctoral research dissemination in a changing world
Authors: Robinson‐Pant Anna , Singal Nidhi
Published: December 2019

Discussion of ethics in doctoral training courses usually focuses on the initial stages of planning and conducting field research. Shifting attention onto the responsibility of the researcher to share their findings throughout the research process, we set out to consider how doctoral students can conceptualise and engage ethically with research dissemination in the broader context of the globalised knowledge economy. A comparative analysis of the ethical guidelines produced by BERA (British Educational Research Association) and ASA (Association of Social Anthropologists of the UK and Commonwealth) reveals that both are more concerned with the possible benefits or harm of dissemination to those directly involved in or affected by the research, and pay little attention to the ethical implications of multimodal and digital dissemination to unknown audiences. Drawing on the concept of research as a moral endeavour and the problematising of collaboration as an ethical issue within participatory and ethnographic research debates, we explore the implications for doctoral training courses. We argue that engaging students in discussion on dissemination can open a space to explore who benefits most from research undertaken.
Sevoflurane postconditioning improves spatial learning and memory ability involving mitochondrial permeability transition pore in hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation rats
Authors: Zhang Li , Huang Li , Wang Jingxian , Zhang Muchun , Zhang Ye , Hu Xianwen
Published: December 2019

Background

Hemorrhagic shock induces the cognitive deficiency. Sevoflurane postconditioning has been documented to provide neuroprotection against ischemic–reperfusion injury by suppressing apoptosis. Mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) plays an important role in apoptosis, but it is unknown if the protective effect of sevoflurane postconditioning on hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation is associated with the change of mPTP opening. Hence, the aim of the study was to find out the precise mechanism of the sevoflurane postconditioning.

Methods

Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to hemorrhage shock for 60 min and then exposed to 2.4% sevoflurane for 30 min at the instant of reperfusion. Additionally, an opener (atractyloside) or an inhibitor (cyclosporine A) of mPTP was used in the animal model before sevoflurane postconditioning. Rats were randomly assigned into groups of Sham, Shock, Shock+Sevoflurane, Shock+Atractyloside, Shock+Sevoflurane+Atractyloside, Shock+Cyclosporin A, and Shock+Sevoflurane+Cyclosporin A treatment. Rat behavior was assessed for 5 days by Morris water maze 72 hr after surgery, and then hippocampus CA1 region was immunohistochemically stained. Brains were harvested 24 hr after surgery to detect the protein expression levels of Bcl‐2, Bax, and cytochrome C by Western blot, the changes of mPTP opening, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP).

Results

We found that sevoflurane postconditioning significantly improved rats' spatial learning and memory ability, down‐regulated the expression of Bax, cytochrome C, and caspase‐3, up‐regulated the expression of Bcl‐2, decreased the mPTP opening, and increased the MMP. The neuroprotective effect of sevoflurane postconditioning was abolished by atractyloside, but cyclosporin A played the similar protective role as sevoflurane postconditioning.

Conclusion

These findings proved that sevoflurane postconditioning improved spatial learning and memory ability in hemorrhage shock and resuscitation rats, the mechanism of which may be related to block mPTP opening, increase MMP, and reduce neuron apoptosis in the hippocampus.
Facile Fabrication of Amorphous Molybdenum Oxide as a Sensitive and Stable SERS Substrate under Redox Treatment
Authors: Ma Jiayu , Tan Xianjun , Ma Yunfei , Yao Xinyun , Zhang Jinlong , Wang Lingzhi
Published: December 2019

Amorphous MoO3−x nanosheets were fabricated by the room‐temperature oxidation of molybdenum powder with H2O2, followed by light‐irradiation reduction in methanol. When applied as a substrate for surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), these nanosheets exhibit higher sensitivity than the crystalline counterpart for a wide range of analytes. Moreover, the SERS activity remains stable on repeated oxygen insertion/extraction. In contrast, the performance of crystalline MoO3−x continuously deteriorates on successive redox treatments. This unique SERS activity allows the recycling of the substrate through an H2O2‐based Fenton‐like reaction. More importantly, the non‐invasive SERS was unprecedentedly used for the self‐diagnosis of amorphous MoO3−x as a more selective photocatalyst than its crystalline counterpart.
Electrochemical Crystallization Concept for Succinic Acid Reduces Waste Salt Production
Authors: Kocks Christian , Görtz Jonas , Holtz Arne , Gausmann Marcel , Jupke Andreas
Published: December 2019

Bio‐based carboxylic acids are promising platform chemicals. State‐of‐the‐art fermentations produce salts of carboxylic acids at neutral pH. Downstream processing of these fermentation broths traditionally involves a pH shift producing waste salts. These waste salts reduce the sustainability and economics of bio‐cased carboxylic acid production. Waste salt production can be avoided by inducing the pH shift electrochemically. Experimental feasibility studies of an electrochemical downstream process and investigations of electrochemically induced nucleation and crystal growth are given. The presented electrochemical downstream concept enables in situ production of succinic acid and simultaneous pH management of pH neutral fermentations without the side production of waste salts.
S‐(4‐Methoxyphenyl)‐4‐methoxybenzenesulfonothioate as a Promising Lead Compound for the Development of a Renal Carcinoma Agent
Authors: Nantes Camilla I. , Pereira Ingrid D. , Bai Ruoli , Hamel Ernest , Burnett James C. , de Oliveira Rodrigo J. , de F. C. Matos Maria , Beatriz Adilson , Yonekawa Murilo K. A. , Perdomo Renata T. , de Lima Dênis P. , Bogo Danielle , dos A. dos Santos Edson
Published: December 2019

Organosulfur compounds show cytotoxic potential towards many tumor cell lines. Disulfides and thiosulfonates act through apoptotic processes, inducing proteins associated with apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and the unfolded protein response. Three p‐substituted symmetric diaryl disulfides and three diaryl thiosulfonates were synthesized and analyzed for inhibition of tubulin polymerization and for human cancer cell cytotoxic activity against seven tumor cell lines and a non‐tumor cell line. S‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐4‐methoxybenzenesulfonothioate (6) exhibited inhibition of tubulin polymerization and showed the best antiproliferative potential, especially against the 786‐0 cell line, being six times more selective as compared with the non‐tumor cell line. In addition, compound 6 was able to activate caspase‐3 after 24 and 48 h treatments of the 786‐0 cell line and induced cell‐cycle arrest in the G2/M stage at the highest concentration evaluated at 24 and 48 h. Compound 6 was able to cause complete inhibition of proliferation, inducing the death of 786‐0 cells, by increasing the number of cells at G2/M and greater activation of caspase‐3.
Refractory congestive heart failure: when the solution is outside the heart
Authors: Pernias Vicente , González Miguel , Miñana Gema , Górriz Jose Luis , Juan Isabel , Chorro Francisco J. , Sanchis Juan , Núñez Julio
Published: December 2019

Refractory congestive heart failure is associated with an ominous prognosis in which the treatments strategies remain scarce and not well validated. In the last years, continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) has emerged as a therapeutic alternative in this subset of patients. So far, it has been associated with a significant improvement in functional capacity and quality of life, together with a striking reduction in the risk of readmissions. We present the case of an elderly patient with severe left ventricular dysfunction and severe mitral and tricuspid regurgitation who presents recurrent admissions for anasarca. After its inclusion in a CAPD programme, the patient experienced a marked clinical and biochemical improvement despite the persistence of cardiac abnormalities. CAPD onset translates into greater sodium removal. We want to emphasize the usefulness of this therapy in the management of volume excess in patients with refractory heart failure and renal failure promoting a greater sodium removal compared with traditional diuretic strategies.