bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prisoners with neurodevelopmental difficulties: Vulnerabilities for mental illness and self‐harm
Authors: McCarthy Jane , Chaplin Eddie , Forrester Andrew , Underwood Lisa , Hayward Hannah , Sabet Jess , Young Susan , Mills Richard , Asherson Philip , Murphy Declan
Published: January 2020

Background

Research into neurodevelopmental disorders in adult offenders has tended to be disorder specific, so hindering service planning for a group of offenders with similar vulnerabilities.

Aim

To examine vulnerabilities for mental illness and self‐harming behaviours among male prisoners screening positive for a range of neurodevelopmental difficulties—including but not confined to disorders of intellectual ability, attention deficit hyperactivity, and in the autistic spectrum.

Method

In a cross‐sectional study, prisoners who screened positive for neurodevelopmental difficulties were compared to prisoners who screened negative for the same on indicators of suicide‐related and self‐harm behaviours, mental illness, and substance misuse using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI).

Results

Of 87 prisoners who screened positive for neurodevelopmental difficulties, 69 had full MINI mental health data. In comparison with 69 neurotypical men in the same prison, the neurodevelopmental difficulties group was significantly more likely to have thought about self‐harm and suicide in the last month and to have significantly higher rates of concurrent mental disorders including psychosis, anxiety, depression, personality disorder, and substance dependency disorders.

Conclusions

This is one of the first studies to examine the mental health of adults with neurodevelopmental difficulties in a prison setting. This group, unlike those who meet diagnostic threshold, is not routinely considered by mental health or correctional services. The study found prisoners with neurodevelopmental difficulties showed greater vulnerability to mental disorder and thoughts of suicide and suicide‐related behaviours than other prisoners. Accordingly, we recommend routine early screening across the criminal justice system for any neurodevelopmental difficulties to inform decision‐making on the most appropriate disposal and support.
Gamma‐glutamyl transferase to albumin ratio as a novel predictor of bleeding events and mortality in patients after percutaneous coronary intervention: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zheng Ying‐Ying , Wu Ting‐Ting , Chen You , Hou Xian‐Geng , Yang Yi , Ma Xiang , Ma Yi‐Tong , Zhang Jin‐Ying , Xie Xiang
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To determine whether gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) to albumin ratio (GAR) independently predicts mortality and bleeding events in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Serum GGT and albumin levels have been associated with CAD risk and mortality. However, more analysis is needed to determine their predictive relationship with adverse outcomes.

Methods

In total, 5,638 patients from a large retrospective cohort study were enrolled from January 2008 to December 2016 and divided into two groups (GAR <0.62, n = 2,712 and GAR ≥0.62, n = 2,926). The average follow‐up time was 35.9 ± 22.6 months. Multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to determine the risk of all‐cause mortality and bleeding events associated with GAR.

Results

The low‐GAR group had a significantly higher number of all‐cause mortality (p = .016) and bleeding events (p = .010) than the high‐GAR group. Multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that the risk of all‐cause death and bleeding events decreased by 23.8% (hazard risk [HR] = 0.762 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.601–0.966, p = .025) and 39.4% (HR = 00.616, 95% CI: 0.446–0.852, p = .003), respectively, in the high‐GAR group. In patients with acute coronary syndrome, the risk of bleeding events decreased by 57.3% in the high‐GAR group (HR = 0.427, 95% CI: 0.234–0.781, p = .006). In patients with stable coronary heart disease, the risk of all‐cause death decreased 28.6% (HR = 0.714, 95% CI: 0.540–0.944, p = .018) in the high‐GAR group.

Conclusion

GAR was an independent and novel predictor of mortality and bleeding events in CAD patients who underwent PCI.
Remote ischemic preconditioning reduces the incidence of contrast‐induced nephropathy in patients undergoing coronary angiography/intervention: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Pranata Raymond , Tondas Alexander E. , Vania Rachel , Toruan Mangiring P. L. , Lukito Antonia A. , Siswanto Bambang B.
Published: January 2020

Background

Contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) is associated with increased mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We aimed to assess the latest evidence on the effect of remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) on the incidence of CIN in patients undergoing CAG/PCI.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive search on topics assessing RIPC and CIN in CAG/PCI patients from inception up until July 2019 through several electronic databases.

Results

There were a total of 1,925 subjects from 14 randomized controlled trials. Remote ischemic preconditioning was associated with reduced CIN incidence in patients undergoing CAG/PCI (OR 0.41 [0.30, 0.55], p < .001; I2: 22%). The nephroprotective effect was also demonstrated in those at moderate‐high risk for CIN subgroup (OR 0.41 [0.29, 0.58], p < .001; I2: 26%) and PCI‐only subgroup (OR 0.41 [0.29, 0.58], p < .001; I2: 0%). Time from RIPC to CAG/PCI has similar effectiveness among ≤45, ≤60, and ≤120 min. Mortality, rehospitalization, hemodialysis, and major adverse events were lower in the RIPC group (OR 0.50 [0.33, 0.76], p = .001; I2: 0%). Grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) assessment showed that RIPC has high evidence certainty for reducing CIN in patients undergoing PCI/CAG, moderate‐high risk subgroup, and PCI‐only subgroup with absolute reduction of 97 per 1,000, 129 per 1,000, and 121 per 1,000, respectively. Harbord test showed no evidence for the presence of small‐study effects (p = .157).

Conclusions

Remote ischemic preconditioning is an effective procedure to reduce the risk of CIN and should be considered in patients with moderate‐high risk at developing CIN.
Preparation of Water‐in‐Oil‐in‐Water Multiple Emulsions with Potential Use in Food Industry
Authors: Klojdová Iveta , Feldeková Eva , Kumherová Monika , Veselá Kristina , Horáčková Šárka , Štětina Jiří
Published: January 2020

Water‐in‐oil‐in‐water (w/o/w) emulsions were prepared using commonly available raw materials and a two‐step emulsification process. Several combinations of milk proteins and hydrocolloids were tested as internal water phases. Emulsions prepared with milk or colostrum exhibited the highest encapsulation efficiencies. In particular, w/o/w emulsions with internal water phases composed of colostrum, without addition of hydrocolloids, were the most stable. However, the addition of xanthan gum proved to be synergistic in stabilizing w/o/w whey emulsions.
Energy‐Efficient 2‐Ethylhexyl Acetate Synthesis with a Nano‐Sn‐Hydroxyapatite Photocatalyst
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Punam , Chakraborty Rajat
Published: January 2020

A nano‐tin oxide grafted natural‐hydroxyapatite photocatalyst was fabricated using a greener approach involving sequential application of solar‐type and ultrasound‐wave energy (STUWE). The protocol provided 76 % higher surface area, 59 % more surface acidity, and 15 % reduced band gap energy than conventionally prepared photocatalysts (CPPCs). The efficacy of the STUWE‐promoted photocatalyst (STUWEPC) was optimized for maximization of 2‐ethylhexyl acetate yield (97 %) employing an energy‐efficient solar‐type/ultrasound synergistic batch reactor. A considerably lower activation energy, estimated by Langmuir‐Hinshelwood kinetics, and higher reusability characteristics (upto 8 recycles) of the STUWEPC than CPPC highlights the superiority of the STUWE procedure.
Plasma‐Enabled Ternary SnO2@Sn/Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene Aerogel Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Yujie , Wang Qianqian , Liu Li , Yao Shuyue , Wu Wenjie , Wang Zhongyue , Lv Peng , Zheng Jiajin , Yu Kehan , Wei Wei , Ostrikov Kostya Ken
Published: January 2020

SnO2‐based sodium‐ion batteries usually suffer from rapid capacity fading during the sodiation/desodiation caused by aggregation and cracking of Sn and irreversible formation of Na2O. In this respect, we design a ternary SnO2@Sn core‐shell structure decorated on a nitrogen‐doped graphene aerogel (SnO2@Sn/NGA), which is fabricated by using a microwave plasma‐based process. The converted Na2O can prevent agglomeration of Sn, thus stabilizing the structure during the cycles. Close contact between Na2O and Sn ensures Na+ ion diffusion to the Sn core and reversible conversion of Sn
SnO2. Moreover, the deoxygenation effect of the plasma on NGA improves its degree of graphitization and electrical conductivity, which substantially improves the electrode rate performance. As a result, the SnO2@Sn/NGA anode delivers a high initial discharge capacity of 448.5 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1. Importantly, this unique nanohybrid electrode design can be extended to advanced anode materials for both lithium‐ and sodium‐ion batteries.
Spontaneous Chelation‐Driven Reduction of the Neptunyl Cation in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Carter Korey P. , Smith Kurt F. , Tratnjek Toni , Shield Katherine M. , Moreau Liane M. , Rees Julian A. , Booth Corwin H. , Abergel Rebecca J.
Published: January 2020

Octadentate hydroxypyridinone (HOPO) and catecholamide (CAM) siderophore analogues are known to be efficacious chelators of the actinide cations, and these ligands are also capable of facilitating both activation and reduction of actinyl species. Utilizing X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopies, as well as cyclic voltammetry measurements, herein, we elucidate chelation‐based mechanisms for driving reactivity and initiating redox processes in a family of neptunyl–HOPO and CAM complexes. Based on the selected chelator, the ability to control the oxidation state of neptunium and the speed of reduction and concurrent oxo group activation was demonstrated. Most notably, reduction kinetics for the NpVO2+//NpIV redox couple upon chelation by the ligands 3,4,3‐LI(1,2‐HOPO) and 3,4,3‐LI(CAM)2(1,2‐HOPO)2 was observed to be faster than ever reported, and in fact quicker than we could measure using either X‐ray absorption spectroscopy or electrochemical techniques.
Assessing the efficacy‐effectiveness gap for cancer therapies: A comparison of overall survival and toxicity between clinical trial and population‐based, real‐world data for contemporary parenteral cancer therapeutics
Authors: Phillips Cameron M. , Parmar Ambica , Guo Helen , Schwartz Deborah , Isaranuwatchai Wanrudee , Beca Jaclyn , Dai Wei , Arias Jessica , Gavura Scott , Chan Kelvin K. W.
Published: January 2020

Background

Although increasing evidence has suggested that an efficacy‐effectiveness gap exists between clinical trial (CT) and real‐world evidence (RWE), to the authors' knowledge, the magnitude of this difference remains undercharacterized. The objective of the current study was to quantify the magnitude of survival and toxicity differences between CT and RWE for contemporary cancer systemic therapies.

Methods

Patients receiving cancer therapies funded under Cancer Care Ontario's New Drug Funding Program (NDFP) were identified. Landmark CTs with data regarding survival and adverse events (AEs) for each drug indication were identified. RWE for survival and hospitalization rates during treatment were ascertained through Canadian population‐based databases. The efficacy‐effectiveness gap for each drug indication was calculated as the difference between RWE and CT data for median overall survival (OS), 1‐year OS, and generated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs from Kaplan‐Meier OS curves. Toxicity differences were calculated as the difference between RWE of hospitalization rates and CT serious AE rates.

Results

Twenty‐nine indications from 20 systemic therapies were included. Twenty‐eight of 29 indications (97%) demonstrated worse survival in RWE, with a median OS difference of 5.2 months (interquartile range, 3.0‐12.1 months). Lower effectiveness in RWE also was demonstrated through a meta‐analysis of an OS hazard ratio of 1.58 (95% CI, 1.39‐1.80). The median difference between RWE for hospitalization rates and CT serious AEs was 14% (95% CI, 9%‐22%).

Conclusions

An efficacy‐effectiveness gap exists for contemporary cancer systemic therapies, with a 5.2‐month lower median OS observed in RWE compared with CT data. These data supports the use of RWE to better inform real‐world decision making regarding the use of cancer systemic therapies.
A voxel image‐based pulmonary airflow simulation method with an automatic detection algorithm for airway outlets
Authors: Jiang Fei , Hirano Tsunahiko , Ohgi Junji , Chen Xian
Published: January 2020

Investigations of pulmonary airflows in respiratory systems are important for the diagnostics and treatment of pulmonary diseases. For accurate prediction of the flow field in an airway, a numerical simulation must be conducted using the true geometry from computed tomography (CT) data. Flow simulation is still a difficult task because of the mesh generation process and preprocessing setup procedures. In this study, we developed a voxel image‐based simulation method using an automatic detection algorithm for airway outlets to simplify the simulation process and improve its applicability in the medical field. Our approach is based on the lattice Boltzmann method with a topology analysis algorithm, which can preserve all raw information from the original CT images and give an accurate flow field inside the airways. Our method can reproduce the essential flow features inside airways, is highly efficient, and decreases the overall processing time. Thus, it has a great potential for future real‐time airflow analyses to provide airflow information to medical experts.

Highlights

This paper proposed a voxel image‐based simulation method with a novel automatic outlet‐selecting algorithm to calculate the velocity and pressure of physiological flows in multi‐generation–branched airways.

Our approach simplifies the simulation process by automatically applying the boundary conditions to large numbers of outlets and minimizes the time‐consuming mesh generation process.

Our proposed method has considerable potential for real‐time simulations improving the applicability to patient‐specific medical diagnostics and treatments.
Finding new lanes: Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cells for myeloid leukemia
Authors: Pratap Suraj , Zhao Zhizhuang J.
Published: January 2020

Background

Myeloid leukemia represents a heterogeneous group of cancers of blood and bone marrow which arise from clonal expansion of hematopoietic myeloid lineage cells. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has traditionally been treated with multi‐agent chemotherapy, but conventional therapies have not improved the long‐term survival for decades. Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is an indolent disease which requires lifelong treatment, is associated with significant side effects, and carries a risk of progression to potentially lethal blast crises.

Recent Findings

Recent advances in molecular biology, virology, and immunology have enabled researchers to grow and modify T lymphocytes ex‐vivo. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy has been shown to specifically target cells of lymphoid lineage and induce remission in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. While the success of CAR T‐cells against ALL is considered a defining moment in modern oncology, similar efficacy against myeloid leukemia cells remains elusive. Over the past 10 years, numerous CAR T‐cells have been developed that can target novel myeloid antigens, and many clinical trials are finally starting to yield encouraging results. In this review, we present the recent advances in this field and discuss strategies for future development of myeloid targeting CAR T‐cell therapy.

Conclusions

The field of CAR T‐cell therapy has rapidly evolved over the past few years. It represents a radically new approach towards cancers, and with continued refinement it may become a viable therapeutic option for patients of acute and chronic myeloid leukemia.
Revisiting van der Waals Radii: From Comprehensive Structural Analysis to Knowledge‐Based Classification of Interatomic Contacts
Authors: Chernyshov Ivan Yu. , Ananyev Ivan V. , Pidko Evgeny A.
Published: January 2020

Weak noncovalent interactions are responsible for structure and properties of almost all supramolecular systems, such as nucleic acids, enzymes, and pharmaceutical crystals. However, the analysis of their significance and structural role is not straightforward and commonly requires model studies. Herein, we describe an efficient and universal approach for the analysis of noncovalent interactions and determination of van der Waals radii using the line‐of‐sight (LoS) concept. The LoS allows to unambiguously identify and classify the “direct” interatomic contacts in complex molecular systems. This approach not only provides an improved theoretical base to molecular “sizes” but also enables the quantitative analysis of specificity, anisotropy, and steric effects of intermolecular interactions.
Efficient Generation of Large‐Fragment Knock‐In Mouse Models Using 2‐Cell (2C)‐Homologous Recombination (HR)‐CRISPR
Authors: Gu Bin , Posfai Eszter , Gertsenstein Marina , Rossant Janet
Published: January 2020

Generating large‐fragment knock‐ins, such as reporters, conditional alleles, or humanized alleles, directly in mouse embryos is still a challenging feat. We have developed 2C‐HR‐CRISPR, a technology that allows highly efficient (10‐50%) and rapid (generating founders in 2 months) targeting of large DNA fragments. Key to this strategy is the delivery of CRISPR reagents into 2‐cell‐stage mouse embryos, taking advantage of the high homologous recombination activity during the long G2 cell cycle phase at this stage. Furthermore, by exploiting a Cas9–monomeric streptavidin (Cas‐mSA) and biotinylated PCR template (BioPCR) system to localize the repair template to specific double strand breaks, the efficiency can be further improved to up to 95%. Here we provide a procedure to generate large‐fragment knock‐in mouse models using 2C‐HR‐CRISPR. We first describe the principles for designing single guide RNAs and repair templates but refer to published manuscripts and protocols for molecular cloning methods or commercial sources for these reagents. We then describe two unique aspects of 2C‐HR‐CRISPR that are critical for success: (1) production of the CRISPR reagents for 2C‐HR‐CRISPR, particularly for applying the Cas9‐mSA/BioPCR method, and (2) microinjection of mouse embryos at the 2‐cell stage. © 2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Single guide RNA and repair template design

Basic Protocol 2: Preparing reagents for 2C‐HR‐CRISPR

Basic Protocol 3: Microinjecting 2‐cell‐stage mouse embryos
Enhancing the storage of mobile nodes through ad hoc storage as a service in MANETs
Authors: Muralidhar K. , Madhavi K.
Published: January 2020

The data generation rate has grown explosively with the widespread use of mobile devices in several critical domains, including health care, education, and disaster recovery. This rapid increase in data volume is hindered by data storage restrictions on mobile devices. State‐of‐the‐art mobile computing platforms such as mobile cloud computing work towards providing indefinite storage space and augment mobile data storage by utilizing infinite cloud storage resources. Time Machine, iCloud, Dropbox, and other cloud‐oriented services facilitate the offloading of content. These services require uninterrupted internet connectivity. Low connectivity may induce system failure. Furthermore, network connectivity cannot always be ensured in rural areas and natural disaster–prone areas. In such cases, it would be more efficient for the originator to store a backup of the data in nearby mobile devices. Hence, users look for a storage/backup system in the vicinity. In this paper, we propose an efficient technique to obtain a temporary storage/backup service in areas with low network connectivity by using an ad hoc storage‐as‐a‐service method for mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs), with the help of nodes that provide temporary storage services to clients. Two types of nodes, namely, storage service providers (SSPs) and storage service requesters (SSRs), form the core of the proposed system. A set of SSRs accesses temporary storage from SSPs. Mobile clients can obtain a reliable storage service from this system. We use simulated experimental modules to analyze our model. We can also use this approach in a network‐disconnected area to demonstrate the practicality of providing a temporary storage service.
Implementation of differential evolution algorithm and its variants for optimal scheduling of distributed generations
Authors: Shilaja C.
Published: January 2020

Modern power systems are being shifted its attention towards distributed generations (DGs). DGs have allured more concern as an auspicious opportunity with considerable economic profits. To minimize the power generation costs of DGs, day‐to‐day operation scheduling is essential. The role of this study is to offer an optimal operation schedule for DG with several energy sources including renewable energy sources (RES), considering economic facets. In order to achieve the cost minimization along with optimal scheduling, an objection function has been formulated and solved using the optimization algorithms. This study aims to present the applications of differential evolution (DE) algorithm and its variants such as opposition‐based differential evolution (ODE), self‐adaptive differential evolution (SaDE), improved differential evolution (IDE), and cultivated differential evolution (CuDE) for scheduling DG optimally. A scheme for optimal scheduling of thermal, wind power, and solar PV generators has been evaluated. The simulations have been carried out on IEEE 14 bus system, IEEE 30 bus system, IEEE 57 bus system, and Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Limited (TANGEDCO), as a real part of 62 bus Indian utility system (IUS). The novelty of this study lies in simulating a real‐time system for solving optimal scheduling problem, in that way helping decision makers to choose the optimal operation points. The results indicate that the SaDE outperformed other DE variants by giving the best fitness value and convergence rate.
Hollow oaks and beetle functional diversity: Significance of surroundings extends beyond taxonomy
Authors: Wetherbee Ross , Birkemoe Tone , Skarpaas Olav , Sverdrup‐Thygeson Anne
Published: January 2020

Veteran hollow oaks (Quercusspp.) are keystone structures hosting high insect diversity but are declining in numbers due to intensification of land use and the abandonment of traditional management. The loss of this vital habitat is resulting in a reduction of biodiversity, and this likely has consequences for ecosystem functioning, especially if functional diversity is reduced. A considerable amount of research has been done on predictors of beetle taxonomic diversity in veteran oaks, but predictors of functional diversity have remained largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to establish whether the features and surroundings of veteran oaks are related to functional diversity within three functional groups of beetles (decomposers, predators, and flower visitors) and determine whether species richness and functional diversity within the groups are dependent on the same predictors. Sampling was carried out intermittently between 2004 and 2011 on 61 veteran oaks in Southern Norway. Of the 876 beetle species that were collected, 359 were determined to be decomposers, 284 were predators, and 85 were flower visitors. Species richness and functional diversity in all groups were consistently higher in traps mounted on veteran oaks in forests than in open landscapes. However, additional predictors differed between groups, and for species richness and functional diversity. Decomposer species richness responded to tree vitality, while functional diversity responded to habitat connectivity, predator species richness responded to regrowth of shrubs while functional diversity responded to tree circumference, and flower visitor richness and functional diversity did not respond to any additional predictors. Previous studies have found that the features and surroundings of veteran oaks are important for conservation of taxonomic diversity, and the results from this study indicate that they are also important for functional diversity within multiple functional groups.
A mesocosm comparison of laboratory‐based and on‐site eDNA solutions for detection and quantification of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) in marine ecosystems
Authors: Skinner Marc , Murdoch Mary , Loeza‐Quintana Tzitziki , Crookes Steve , Hanner Robert
Published: January 2020

Environmental effects monitoring in marine ecosystems are challenging, particularly in dynamic macrotidal settings like the Bay of Fundy. Environmental DNA provides a useful tool for determining species presence in such challenging places to access and sample. Moreover, recent studies showing a link between eDNA concentration and fish density/biomass reveal the great promise for eDNA tools to improve biodiversity assessments in marine environments. Three mesocosm experiments were conducted to assess the accuracy and precision of a handheld point‐of‐need (PoN) tool for quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay for eDNA detection of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) versus conventional laboratory‐based eDNA techniques. The first of these experiments determined that striped bass eDNA was reliably detected using either of the laboratory‐based or PoN platforms, with some variation observed in the estimates of eDNA concentrations derived from each. Next, a time series experiment established that eDNA in water samples collected within a 24‐hrs period of exposure to striped bass was reliably and consistently detectable with either platform. Our final experiment found that the relationship between eDNA concentrations and manipulated striped bass stocking densities was significant and positive based on results from each of the laboratory‐based or PoN platforms. Our results validate and advance eDNA approaches toward environmental monitoring efforts and demonstrate the potential for real‐time eDNA tools to quantify and identify the spatial and temporal distribution of species‐at‐risk in an open ocean environment.
Highly Efficient Extraction of Trivalent f‐Cations Using Several N‐Pivot Tripodal Diglycolamide Ligands in an Ionic Liquid: The Role of Ligand Structure on Metal Ion Complexation
Authors: Ansari Seraj A. , Mohapatra Prasanta K. , Verma Parveen K. , Leoncini Andrea , Yadav Ashok K. , Jha Shambhu N. , Bhattacharyya Dibyendu , Huskens Jurriaan , Verboom Willem
Published: January 2020

Complexation of trivalent lanthanides and actinides was studied in a room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) using five N‐pivot tripodal diglycolamide ligands (LI–LV) having different structural features, viz. spacer lengths and substituents. The nature of the metal/Ligand complex changed with the substitution of N atom near the tripodal platform from ML with LIII and LIV to ML2 with LI, LII and LV (where M = Eu3+/Nd3+/Am3+). With 0.2 mmol/L ligands, the distribution ratio of Am3+ at 1 m HNO3 followed the order: LI (210) > LII (42) > LIII (2.1) > LV (0.7) > LIV (0.2). The formation constants between Nd3+ and the ligands (log βML,ML2) followed an identical order, viz. LI > LII > LIII > LV > LIV. The extraction of Am3+ or Eu3+ with all the ligands followed a cation‐exchange extraction mechanism, which is in sharp contrast to the results obtained in a molecular solvent (n‐dodecane), where a solvation extraction mechanism prevalied. Luminescence studies on the Eu3+ extract in RTIL confimed the absence of water molecules in the inner coordination sphere of the complex. EXAFS studies indicated that all three DGA arms were binding to the Eu3+ cation.
Homopolyatomic Chalcogen Radical Cations of Selenium and Tellurium
Authors: Jenne Carsten , Nierstenhöfer Marc C.
Published: January 2020

The stability of selenium and tellurium homopolyatomic radical cations in the gas phase and liquid sulfur dioxide solution was estimated using density functional theory (DFT). First of all, the structures of the neutral, cationic, and dicationic homopolyatomic chalcogen clusters [Chx]y+ (Ch = Se, Te; x = 3–10, y = 0–2) were optimized in the gas phase. The stability of the currently unknown radical cations [Chx]+ against various decomposition reactions (e.g. disproportionation, dimerization) was predicted by estimating the reaction enthalpies and free energies in the gas phase and in liquid sulfur dioxide solution applying a solvation model. The solvent SO2 was chosen, because homopolyatomic chalcogen cations react immediately with most common organic solvents but are known to be stable in liquid sulfur dioxide. A significant stability in solution was predicted only for the radical cations [Se5]+ and [Se8]+, while [Te8]+ is a borderline case. In the course of our investigations the previously unknown dications [Ch5]2+ were calculated as well, which have a triplet rather than a singlet ground state similar to the three‐atomic [S3]2+ dication.
Bimetallic Ag‐Au Nanoparticles Inside Mesoporous Titania Thin Films: Synthesis by Photoreduction and Galvanic Replacement, and Catalytic Activity
Authors: Rodríguez Rusbel Coneo , Troiani Horacio , Moya Sergio E. , Bruno Mariano M. , Angelomé Paula C.
Published: January 2020

In this work, the synthesis and catalytic activity of bimetallic Ag–Au nanoparticles (NPs) supported in TiO2 mesoporous thin films (MTFs) are presented. The composite materials were obtained through a two‐step procedure, performed at room conditions. In the first step, Ag NPs were grown inside the MTFs by photoreduction. Then, a galvanic replacement reaction with Au was carried out, yielding the bimetallic NPs. The composites were characterized by UV/Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐ray reflectometry (XRR), which show that the alloyed Ag–Au NPs are present inside the mesopores. Moreover, Ag and Au composition relationship can be controlled by adjusting the reaction times of the photoreduction and galvanic replacement reactions, respectively. Pores remain accessible after NPs synthesis, a feature that ensures their possible applications in any device that requires the contact between the NPs and the medium. Catalytic activity of the composites towards 4‐nitrophenol reduction by sodium borohydride was evaluated. Although all the bimetallic systems exhibit improved catalytic properties in comparison with the monometallic Ag composite, the sample with lower Au/Ag relationship is the most effective. For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, bimetallic Au–Ag NPs are encapsulated inside mesoporous TiO2 films, paving the way towards a wide variety of applications.
The Facile Synthesis of Lithium 2‐R‐Hydroquinolinide Complexes and Their High Activity toward ROP of ε‐Caprolactone
Authors: Fan Ziyao , Wang Peng , Wu Chen , Liu Zhimin , Chen Xia
Published: January 2020

Four lithium 2‐R‐hydroquinolinide complexes [1‐(2‐(R)‐C9H7)NLi·THF2]2 (1 R = Me, 2 R = nBu) and [1‐(8‐(Me)‐2‐(Bun)‐C9H6)NLi·X]2 (3 X = THF, 4 X = Et2O) were prepared by the nucleophilic addition reaction of quinoline and 8‐methylquinoline with MeLi or BunLi, respectively. All complexes have been characterized through NMR spectroscopy. Complexes 2–4 were determined by X‐ray crystallography. Interestingly, Li atom in 1 and 2 is tetracoordinate, whereas Li atom in 3 and 4 is three‐coordinate. All these complexes showed super‐high activity for the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of ε‐caprolactone in both the absence and presence of BnOH at 35 °C in CH2Cl2. By the 1–4 catalytic systems with or without BnOH as a co‐initiator, the ROP of ε‐CL proceeded well in a living manner as evidenced by the predictable molecular weights, narrow molecular weight distributions, and kinetic studies. MALDI‐TOF MS analysis revealed that the resultant PCL showed a cyclic structure in the absence of BnOH and a BnO– capped linear structure was observed in the presence of BnOH.
A Stereoselective Formal Synthesis of Quinolizidine (–)‐217A
Authors: Choi Hosam , Hong Jiyong , Lee Kiyoun
Published: January 2020

The stereoselective formal synthesis of quinolizidine alkaloid (–)‐217A was achieved by utilizing a combination of the dithiane coupling reaction and the organocatalytic aza‐conjugate addition reaction promoted by the gem‐disubstituent effect to provide the functionalized 2,6‐cis‐piperidine ring system in a stereoselective manner.
Thermo‐economic feasibility of a hybrid wind turbine/PV/gas generator energy system for application in a residential complex in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Abbaszadeh Mohammad Amin , Ghourichaei Masoud Jedari , Mohammadkhani Farzad
Published: January 2020

The randomness of generated power by renewable energy resources has led experts in this field to provide sustained and permanent load supply with hybrid renewable energy systems (HRESs). This study investigates the modeling of an off‐grid HRES based on the wind turbine/photovoltaic/gas generator for supplying the consumption of a residential complex in Tehran (capital of Iran). To this end, the HOMER software has been implemented. After calculations, the capital cost and cost of energy of each component are estimated in different HRES models. In addition, parameters such as power generation, emissions, and thermo‐economic analysis of different models of the hybrid system have been investigated. Two models of optimum HRES (based on the lowest net present cost [NPC]), with and without wind turbines, were compared. According to the results, the fuel consumption and emissions caused by the operation of the gas generator will decrease by 53% as a result of using a wind turbine despite an 8% increase in NPC. This is an important achievement regarding high air pollution in Tehran. Based on the results, using a gas generator instead of a diesel generator leads to an 18% decrease in NPC. Additionally, in comparison to using a gas generator only, using the hybrid system leads to a 43% reduction in NPC.
Scaling of constant‐ductility residual displacement spectrum
Authors: Madhu Girija Harikrishnan , Gupta Vinay Kumar
Published: January 2020

Structures undergoing inelastic displacements during earthquake ground motions are known to sustain some amount of residual displacements, which may make those unusable or unsafe. In this study an attempt is made to estimate residual displacements for elastic‐perfectly‐plastic single‐degree‐of‐freedom oscillators with a given ductility ratio. Such oscillators belong to the class of bilinear hysteresis models applicable to steel structures, with post‐yield‐stiffness ratio taken as zero, and may be used for the conservative estimates of residual displacements when the post‐yield‐stiffness ratio is unlikely to become negative. Statistical estimation of residual displacement spectrum via normalization with respect to inelastic or elastic spectral displacements is considered and expressions are proposed for both types of normalizations. The statistical dependence of residual displacement on the seismological and site parameters and strong motion duration is also studied and a simple scaling model is proposed in terms of earthquake magnitude, epicentral distance, and geologic site condition parameter for the seismic region of western U.S.A. According to this model, the variation of residual displacement with period primarily depends on the site conditions, and the residual displacements are more sensitive to ductility ratio at low ductility ratios.
Analysis in big data of satellite communication network based on machine learning algorithms
Authors: Liu Xiangjuan
Published: January 2020

With the development of satellite communication network technology, the amount of data generated every day and the rate of data growth are amazing. These different types of data (not necessarily structured) contain rich information. Based on this, a satellite for machine learning is proposed. First, a correlation analysis model is established, and a machine learning method is applied to the data prediction analysis of the satellite communication network. The basic idea and application process of the AdaBoost‐BP algorithm are introduced in detail. Second, combined with the data features after dimensionality reduction processing, an efficient big data analysis model is trained. Third, in order to quickly locate the abnormal behavior of users under large‐scale data, an algorithm for quantifying abnormal behaviors of users based on satellite communication network log information and quickly detecting and analyzing big data is proposed. Finally, experimental verification is performed. The experimental results verify that the method can improve the big data analysis capability of satellite communication networks.
Volatility impulse response analysis for DCC‐GARCH models: The role of volatility transmission mechanisms
Authors: Gabauer David
Published: January 2020

This study introduces volatility impulse response functions (VIRF) for dynamic conditional correlation–generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (DCC‐GARCH) models. In addition, the implications with respect to network analysis—using the connectedness approach of Diebold and Y
lmaz (Journal of Econometrics, 2014, 182(1), 119–134)—is discussed. The main advantages of this framework are (i) that the time‐varying dynamics do not underlie a rolling‐window approach and (ii) that it allows us to test whether the propagation mechanism is time varying or not. An empirical analysis on the volatility transmission mechanism across foreign exchange rate returns is illustrated. The results indicate that the Swiss franc and the euro are net transmitters of shocks, whereas the British pound and the Japanese yen are net volatility receivers of shocks. Finally, the findings suggest a high degree of comovement across European currencies, which has important portfolio and risk management implications.
Fatty acid and mineral contents of Lycium ruthenicum Murr. and antioxidant activity against isoproterenol‐induced acute myocardial ischemia in mice
Authors: Yossa Nzeuwa Irma Belinda , Xia Hui , Shi Yuanyuan , Yang Chao , Shah Muhammad Waseem , Guo Baofu , Wang Liya , Sun Guiju
Published: January 2020

Dried fruits of black goji were investigated for their fatty acid, mineral contents, and antioxidant activity against isoproterenol‐induced acute myocardial ischemia in mice was revealed. It was observed that the key fatty acids from Lycium ruthenicum Murr. (LRM) oil studied included linoleic (59.38%), oleic (20.85%), palmitic (7.07%), linolenic (2.98%), and stearic acids (5.31%), which together comprised 95.59% of the total fatty acids. The key mineral nutrients studied were potassium (17,631.15 mg/kg), calcium (2004.4 mg/kg), and magnesium (1,274.6 mg/kg), while copper, iron, manganese, and zinc were found in trace. Moreover, oral administration of water extraction of LRM exhibited significant reduction of enzyme activities, and MDA level triggered by ISO to be near normal level, while exhibited a significant increase of SOD and GSH activities. Our results provide deep insight on LRM as a potential source of high‐value phytochemicals for the development of new functional food and beverage products.
MOF@PEDOT Composite Films for Impedimetric Pesticide Sensors
Authors: Sappia Luciano D. , Tuninetti Jimena S. , Ceolín Marcelo , Knoll Wolfgang , Rafti Matías , Azzaroni Omar
Published: January 2020

Due to its deleterious effects on health, development of new methods for detection and removal of pesticide residues in primary and derived agricultural products is a research topic of great importance. Among them, imazalil (IMZ) is a widely used post‐harvest fungicide with good performances in general, and is particularly applied to prevent green mold in citrus fruits. In this work, a composite film for the impedimetric sensing of IMZ built from metal‐organic framework nanocrystallites homogeneously distributed on a conductive poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene) (PEDOT) layer is presented. The as‐synthetized thin films are produced via spin‐coating over poly(ethylene terephtalate (PET) substrate following a straightforward, cost‐effective, single‐step procedure. By means of impedance spectroscopy, electric transport properties of the films are studied, and high sensitivity towards IMZ concentration in the range of 15 ppb to 1 ppm is demonstrated (featuring 1.6 and 4.2 ppb limit of detection, when using signal modulus and phase, respectively). The sensing platform hereby presented could be used for the construction of portable, miniaturized, and ultrasensitive devices, suitable for pesticide detection in food, wastewater effluents, or the assessment of drinking‐water quality.
Similarities and differences across countries in the development of executive functions in children: A systematic review
Authors: Schirmbeck Katharina , Rao Nirmala , Maehler Claudia
Published: January 2020

A systematic review was conducted to gain a more nuanced understanding of similarities and distinctions across countries in the development of executive functions (EF). The review includes 26 studies, with child and adolescent participants, that were published between 2006 and 2018. Both similarities and differences within developmental patterns of EF are identified across different countries. Across countries, bilingual children are shown to outperform their monolingual peers. Task improvement with age is not consistently reported in all studies, with no linear effects apparent in children from developing countries or regions. Gender differences on EF measures also vary between countries. Girls perform better than boys on EF tasks and parent and teacher ratings of EF in both Western and East Asian samples. Yet, in Iran and Tanzania, boys receive higher EF scores. From preschool age through adolescence, East Asians outperform Western counterparts on direct assessment measures of EF. However, strong discrepancies can be found between measures of direct EF assessment and parent and teacher ratings of children's EF. Chinese parents rate their children's EF as lower compared with parents from other countries. The role of contextual factors explaining differences in EF development is discussed.

Highlights

This paper presents the first systematic review on the topic of cross‐national variation in children's EF development.

A clearly defined conceptual framework regarding EF facets and analysis of a wide age span underpin this review.

From preschool age through adolescence, East‐Asian children outperform their Western counterparts on direct assessment measures of EF.
Self‐esteem, motivation and school attendance among sub‐Saharan African girls: A self‐determination theory perspective
Authors: van Egmond Marieke Christina , Hanke Katja , Omarshah Tariq Tobias , Navarrete Berges Andrés , Zango Valerio , Sieu Celine
Published: January 2020

Sub‐Saharan samples are severely under‐represented in the psychological literature. Taking an ecological approach, the current study examines key propositions derived from self‐determination theory in a sample of adolescent girls in Mozambique. As a framework theory, self‐determination theory consists of six sub‐theories. We test the main premises of two of these theories: organismic integration theory and basic psychological need theory. In line with organismic integration theory, we assess the role of intrinsic, extrinsic, introjected and identified motivation for school attendance. We also test the possible moderating role of the ecological variable resource scarcity. The second part of the study focuses on the main premise of the basic psychological need sub‐theory, which states that satisfaction of the needs for relatedness, competence and autonomy underlies intrinsic motivation, goal‐directed behaviour (school attendance) and well‐being (self‐esteem). The study also assesses the moderation of resource scarcity in these relationships. Results provide support for both sub‐theories of self‐determination theory. Resource scarcity is not found to moderate the relationships between motivation and attendance or between need satisfaction and well‐being, motivation and attendance. Implications for the universality claim of self‐determination theory, as well as for the field of international development aid, are discussed.
BMP9 Reduces Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Mice by Dual Regulation of Bone Remodeling
Authors: Zhou Yan-Man , Yang Yu-Ying , Jing Yi-Xuan , Yuan Tian-Jiao , Sun Li-Hao , Tao Bei , Liu Jian-Min , Zhao Hong-Yan
Published: January 2020

Bone remodeling is dynamic and is tightly regulated through bone resorption dominated by osteoclasts and bone formation dominated by osteoblasts. Imbalances in this process can cause various pathological conditions, such as osteoporosis. Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9), a biomolecule produced and secreted by the liver, has many pharmacological effects, including anti-liver fibrosis, antitumor, anti-heart failure, and antidiabetic activities. However, the effects of BMP9 on the regulation of osteoblast and osteoclast functions and the underlying molecular mechanism(s) have not yet been investigated. In this study, BMP9 increased the expression of osteoblastogenic gene markers, such as ALP, Cola1, OCN, RUNX2, and OSX, and ALP activity in MC3T3-E1 cells by upregulating LGR6 and activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. BMP9 also suppressed receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation of bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) by inhibiting the Akt-NF-κB-NFATc1 pathway. More importantly, in an ovariectomy (OVX) mouse model, BMP9 attenuated bone loss and improved bone biomechanical properties in vivo by increasing bone-forming activity and suppressing bone resorption activity. Accordingly, our current work highlights the dual regulatory effects that BMP9 exerts on bone remodeling by promoting bone anabolic activity and inhibiting osteoclast differentiation in OVX mice. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Cytokine characteristic of cerebrospinal fluid from children with enteroviral meningitis compared to bacterial meningitis
Authors: Xu Jialu , Jiang Jingjing , Zhang Yi , Li Wei
Published: January 2020

Background

Enteroviruses are the most common etiological agent for viral encephalitis, but it is uncertain whether the cytokines have the ability to differentiate enteroviral meningitis (EVM) from bacterial meningitis (BM).

Methods

A retrospective study was performed at the Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine from August 2016 and August 2019. CSF and/or blood specimens were collected for microbiological culture, viruses, and cytokine detection.

Results

Forty‐three patients were confirmed with meningitis, 27 patients with EVM, and 16 with BM. Children with EVM were older compared with BM and Control group (P < .001). The most common presenting symptom in children with EVM was fever (96.3%) followed by headache (88.9%) and vomiting (66.7%). The occurrence of seizure was lower in both EVM and BM groups (P < .001). Serum IL‐6 and serum IL‐10 were lower in EVM group than BM (P = .02) and control group (IL‐6, P = .01; IL‐10, P < .001). IL‐6, IL‐10, and IFN‐γ levels showed obviously increase in CSF (P < .001, respectively) in EVM group, while only IL‐6 increased in CSF (P < .001) in BM group. CSF concentrations of cytokines IL‐6, IL‐10, TNF, and IFN‐γ in children with EVM and BM were both higher than Control group (P < .001). But compared EVM group to BM group, CSF IL‐2 (P = .13), IL‐6 (P = .37), IL‐10 (P = .98), TNF (P = .54), and IFN‐γ (P = .53) showed no difference between two groups.

Conclusions

CSF cytokines elevated in both virus and bacterial meningitis, while serum elevation only occurred in bacterial infection. Still, we could not distinguish enteroviral meningitis from bacterial meningitis with the parameters of CSF cytokines IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐10, TNF, and IFN‐γ.