bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Technological Intervention on Yield of Summer Pearl Millet
Authors: Parmar S. K. , Mungra K. D. , Sorathiya J. S. , Vansjalia H. G.
Published: August 2019

Front line demonstrations (FLDs) were conducted by pearl millet Research Station, JAU, Jamnagar on 313 farmers’ field in 125 hectares of different 98 villages of Gujarat state during summer season of 2015 to 2019. Prevailing farm practices were treated as control for comparison with recommended package i.e. improved variety (GHB 558, GHB 538, GHB 732), seed rate 4 kg/ha, timely sowing (15 Feb to 15 March), line sowing with spacing of 60 cm (R-R) and 10-12 cm (P-P), balanced use of fertilizers (NPK @120:60:0 kg/ha, thinning 15 days after sowing, weed management (pre emergence spray of Atrazin @ 0.5 kg/ha and one hand weeding), proper critical stage apply 8-10 irrigation, two foliar spray of profenophos 0.05 % at 20 and 40 days after germination to control shoot fly and stem borer pests infesting pearl millet, timely harvesting and threshing. The cumulative effect of technological intervention over five years, revealed average grain yield 4362 kg/ha and dry fodder yield 7365 kg/ha which is 6.17% and 12.76% higher over the farmers’ practices. The economics and cost benefit ratio of both farmers’ and improved practices was worked out. On an average net profit was obtained 6837 /ha due to adoption of improved package of practices. The average cost benefit ratio was 2.23 under improved demonstration practices, while it was 2.43 under farmers’ practices. By conducting the Front line demonstrations of proven technologies, yield potential and net income from pearl millet cultivation can be enhanced to a great extent with increase in the income level of the farming community.
Evaluating Efficiency of Sampling Schemes in Tropical Natural Forests: Review and Simulation Experience from Kenya
Authors: Hitimana Joseph , Ole Kiyiapi James Legilisho , Bekuta Balozi Kirongo
Published: August 2019

Forest measurements, especially in natural forests are cumbersome and complex. 100% enumeration is costly and inefficient. This study sought to find out reliable, efficient and cost-effective sampling schemes for use in tropical rain forest (TRF), moist montane forest (MMF) and dry woodland forest (DWF) in Kenya. Forty-eight sampling schemes (each combining sampling intensity (5, 10, 20, 30%), plot size (25, 50, 100, 400 m2) and sampling technique (simple random sampling, systematic sampling along North-South and along East-West orientations) were generated for testing estimates of forest attributes such as regeneration through simulation using R-software. Sampling error and effort were used to measure efficiency of each sampling scheme in relation to actual values. Though forest sites differed in biophysical characteristics, cost of sampling increased with decreasing plot size regardless of the forest type and attribute. Accuracy of inventory increased with decreasing plot size. Plot sizes that captured inherent variability were 5mx5m for regeneration and trees ha-1 across forest types but varied between forest types for basal area. Different sampling schemes were ranked for relative efficiency through simulation techniques, using regeneration as an example. In many instances systematic sampling-based sampling schemes were most effective. Sub-sampling in one-hectare forest unit gave reliable results in TRF (e.g. SSV-5mx5m-30%) and DWF (e.g. SSV-10mx10m-30%) but not in MMF (5mx5m-100%). One-hectare-complete-inventory method was found inevitable for regeneration assessment in montane forest.
A Model for Coronary Heart Disease Prediction Using Data Mining Classification Techniques
Authors: Makumba Dominic Obwogi , Cheruiyot Wilson , Ogada Kennedy
Published: August 2019

Nowadays the guts malady is one amongst the foremost causes of death within the world. Thus it s early prediction and diagnosing is vital in medical field, which might facilitate in on time treatment, decreasing health prices and decreasing death caused by it. The treatment values the disease is not cheap by most of the patients and Clinical choices are usually raised supported by doctors‟ intuition and skill instead of on the knowledge-rich information hidden within the stored data. The model  for prediction of heart disease using a classification techniques in data mining reduce medical errors, decreases unwanted exercise variation, enhance patient well-being and improves patient results. The model has been developed to support decision making in heart disease prediction based on data mining techniques. The experiments were performed using the model, based on the three techniques, and their accuracy in prediction noted. The decision tree, naïve Bayes, KNN (K-Nearest Neighbors) and WEKA API (Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis-application programming interface) were the various data mining methods that were used. The model predicts the likelihood of getting a heart disease using more input medical attributes. 13 attributes that is: blood pressure, sex, age, cholesterol, blood sugar among other factors such as genetic factors, sedentary behavior, socio-economic status and race has been use to predict the likelihood of patient getting a Heart disease until now. This study research added two more attributes that is: Obesity and Smoking.740 Record sets with medical attributes was obtained from a publicly available database for heart disease from machine learning repository with the help of the datasets, and the patterns significant to the heart attack prediction was extracted and divided into two data sets, one was used for training which consisted of 296 records & another for testing consisted of 444 records, and the fraction of accuracy of every data mining classification that was applied was used as standard for performance measure. The performance was compared by calculating the confusion matrix that assists to find the precision recall and accuracy. High performance and accuracy was provided by the complete system model. Comparison between the proposed techniques and the existing one in the prediction capability was presented. The model system assists clinicians in survival rate prediction of an individual patient and future medication is planned for. Consequently, the families, relatives, and their patients can plan for treatment preferences and plan for their budget consequently.
Performance Evaluation of Industrial Brewery Wastewater Biologic Treatment in an UASB Reactor Using Activated Sludge in Republic of Congo
Authors: Mbemba K. M. , Bounkosso H. M. , Kayath A. C. , Ouamba J. M.
Published: August 2019

The brewing industry generates large amounts of wastewater which are released into surface water after treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance of the anaerobic treatment of brewery wastewaters in a UASB bioreactor containing activated sludge. After six-weeks operation, 30 samples were taken. Physicochemical analyzes were carried out on activated sludge (T, pH, VFA) and raw and treated waters (T, pH, AT, CAT, TSS, and COD). These analyzes showed that the conditions of the environment were favorable to an optimal growth of the bacteria:  temperatures and pH were mostly mesophilic. the ionization of VFA was continuous and their concentration increased at the exit of the bioreactor thus revealing a significant conversion of organic materials by bacteria. The average values ​​of the physicochemical parameters of the raw and treated wastewaters respectively increased from 31.5°C to 35°C for the temperature, from 8.9 to 7.5 for the pH, to 5.54 mg/l at 0 for AT, from 12.35 mg/l to 3.45 mg/l for TAC, from 234.08 mg/l to 129.61 mg/l for TSS and from 1637 mg/l to 282, 46 mg/l for COD. The effectiveness of the treatment allowed a COD reduction ranging from 70 to 94%.
Disruption of the RICTOR/mTORC2 complex enhances the response of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells to PI3K inhibition
Authors: Ruicci Kara M. , Plantinga Paul , Pinto Nicole , Khan Mohammed I. , Stecho William , Dhaliwal Sandeep S. , Yoo John , Fung Kevin , MacNeil Danielle , Mymryk Joe S. , Barrett John W. , Howlett Christopher J. , Nichols Anthony C.
Published: August 2019

Phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) is aberrantly activated in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and plays a pivotal role in tumorigenesis by driving Akt signaling, leading to cell survival and proliferation. Phosphorylation of Akt Thr308 by PI3K‐PDK1 and Akt Ser473 by mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) activates Akt. Targeted inhibition of PI3K is a major area of preclinical and clinical investigation as it reduces Akt Thr308 phosphorylation, suppressing downstream mTORC1 activity. However, inhibition of mTORC1 releases feedback inhibition of mTORC2, resulting in a resurgence of Akt activation mediated by mTORC2. While the role of PI3K‐activated Akt signaling is well established in HNSCC, the significance of mTORC2‐driven Akt signaling has not been thoroughly examined. Here we explore the expression and function of mTORC2 and its obligate subunit RICTOR in HNSCC primary tumors and cell lines. We find RICTOR to be overexpressed in a subset of HNSCC tumors, including those with PIK3CA or EGFR gene amplifications. Whereas overexpression of RICTOR reduced susceptibility of HNSCC tumor cells to PI3K inhibition, genetic ablation of RICTOR using CRISPR/Cas9 sensitized cells to PI3K inhibition, as well as to EGFR inhibition and cisplatin treatment. Further, mTORC2 disruption led to reduced viability and colony forming abilities of HNSCC cells relative to their parental lines and induced loss of both activating Akt phosphorylation modifications (Thr308 and Ser473). Taken together, our findings establish RICTOR/mTORC2 as a critical oncogenic complex in HNSCC and rationalize the development of an mTORC2‐specific inhibitor for use in HNSCC, either combined with agents already under investigation, or as an independent therapy.
A robotic neck brace to characterize head‐neck motion and muscle electromyography in subjects with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Zhang Haohan , Chang Biing‐Chwen , Andrews Jinsy , Mitsumoto Hiroshi , Agrawal Sunil
Published: August 2019

Objective

This paper presents the first study where a dynamic neck brace was used to characterize the head motion of ALS patients while concurrently recording the surface electromyography (EMG) of the neck muscles.

Methods

Eleven ALS patients and 10 age‐matched healthy controls consented and participated in an experiment. Each participant was asked to perform three single‐plane motions of the head‐neck that included flexion–extension in the sagittal plane, lateral bending in the coronal plane, and axial rotation in the transverse plane. Each motion was performed in a cycle and was repeated five times at self‐selected speeds.

Results

During single‐plane flexion–extension under gravity, compared to healthy peers, ALS patients showed a shorter duration to reach the maximum flexion and an earlier EMG onset in the neck extensors starting from the neutral. The brace measures in activation of the neck muscles in ALS patients were well correlated with clinically measured scores, such as the ALSFRS‐r and the FVC. The activation duration of sternocleidomastoid, used to rotate the head, correlated well with the ALSFRS‐r and FVC in ALS patients during axial rotation.

Interpretation

The ability to synchronously activate a pair of muscles to execute single‐plane motions in ALS patients seems to have been compromised due to the disease and potentially results in head drop. The neck brace measures can be adapted in the clinic to complement self‐reporting in ALS patients and used to assess the head drop and progress of the disease.
Impaired glycinergic transmission in hyperekplexia: a model of parasomnia overlap disorder
Authors: Lopez Régis , Rivier François , Chelly Jamel , Dauvilliers Yves
Published: August 2019

We report sleep phenotypes and polysomnographic findings in two siblings with a novel homozygous variant of the GLRA1 gene causing hereditary hyperekplexia (HH). Both sisters had startles during wakefulness and sleep, sleep terrors, and one had symptoms of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD). Frequent startles were found in NREM sleep associated with NREM parasomnias in deep sleep. In REM sleep, both had motor behaviors and increased phasic/tonic muscle activities confirming RBD. Clonazepam improved startles, motor behaviors, and muscle activities in REM sleep. Impaired glycinergic transmission in human HH could be involved in the pathophysiology of RBD and NREM parasomnias.
Transport Properties of Se/As2Se3 Nanolayer Superlattice Fabricated Using Rotational Evaporation
Authors: John Joshua D. , Okano Shun , Sharma Apoorva , Selyshchev Oleksandr , Rahaman Mahfujur , Miyachi Noritoshi , Enomoto Kunitaka , Ochiai Jun , Saito Ichitaro , Masuzawa Tomoaki , Yamada Takatoshi , Chua Daniel H. C. , Zahn Dietrich R. T. , Okano Ken
Published: August 2019

Since their proposal by Esaki, superlattices have been observed to have fascinating features such as quantum size effects, negative differential resistance, and sequential resonant tunneling. However, the technology threshold for fabricating superlattices is high, requiring methods like molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and atomic layer deposition (ALD), among others, even for amorphous materials. Thus, the desirable features from superlattices have not been extensively utilized. It is shown that superlattices of Se and As2Se3 (superlattice‐Se), fabricated using rotational evaporation, exhibit sequential tunneling, a typical superlattice feature. From current–voltage measurements of the superlattice deposited on n‐type Si, oscillations in the characteristics are observed. Using models of reverse‐biased Schottky barriers, the observations are explained as tunneling in sequence from superlattice minibands. The superlattice‐Se also shows carrier blocking, with a resistivity of the order of 1012 Ω cm in dark conditions at room temperature, despite the low resistivity (≈10 Ω cm) of the n‐type Si substrate. When the Si is illuminated, the device shows higher detectivity for weaker signals compared to higher illumination. The ease of fabrication, and the blocking and amplifying capabilities make superlattice‐Se an interesting “add‐on” structure to improve conventional photodetector materials such as Si or Ge, which have issues with dark currents at room temperature.
Phthalocyanine–Virus Nanofibers as Heterogeneous Catalysts for Continuous‐Flow Photo‐Oxidation Processes
Authors: Anaya‐Plaza Eduardo , Aljarilla Ana , Beaune Grégory , Nonappa  , Timonen Jaakko V. I. , de la Escosura Andrés , Torres Tomás , Kostiainen Mauri A.
Published: August 2019

The generation of highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) at room temperature for application in organic synthesis and wastewater treatment represents a great challenge of the current chemical industry. In fact, the development of biodegradable scaffolds to support ROS‐generating active sites is an important prerequisite for the production of environmentally benign catalysts. Herein, the electrostatic cocrystallization of a cationic phthalocyanine (Pc) and negatively charged tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) is described, together with the capacity of the resulting crystals to photogenerate ROS. To this end, a novel peripherally crowded zinc Pc (1) is synthesized. With 16 positive charges, this photosensitizer shows no aqueous aggregation, and is able to act as a molecular glue in the unidimensional assembly of TMV. A step‐wise decrease of ionic strength in mixtures of both components results in exceptionally long fibers, constituted by hexagonally bundled viruses thoroughly characterized by electron and confocal microscopy. The fibers are able to produce ROS in a proof‐of‐concept microfluidic device, where they are immobilized and irradiated in several cycles, showing a resilient performance. The bottom‐up approach also enables the light‐triggered disassembly of fibers after use. This work represents an important example of a biohybrid material with projected application in light‐mediated heterogeneous catalysis.
Multilayered PdSe2/Perovskite Schottky Junction for Fast, Self‐Powered, Polarization‐Sensitive, Broadband Photodetectors, and Image Sensor Application
Authors: Zeng Long‐Hui , Chen Qing‐Ming , Zhang Zhi‐Xiang , Wu Di , Yuan Huiyu , Li Yan‐Yong , Qarony Wayesh , Lau Shu Ping , Luo Lin‐Bao , Tsang Yuen Hong
Published: August 2019

Group‐10 transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) with distinct optical and tunable electrical properties have exhibited great potential for various optoelectronic applications. Herein, a self‐powered photodetector is developed with broadband response ranging from deep ultraviolet to near‐infrared by combining FA1−xCsxPbI3 perovskite with PdSe2 layer, a newly discovered TMDs material. Optoelectronic characterization reveals that the as‐assembled PdSe2/perovskite Schottky junction is sensitive to light illumination ranging from 200 to 1550 nm, with the highest sensitivity centered at ≈800 nm. The device also shows a large on/off ratio of ≈104, a high responsivity (R) of 313 mA W−1, a decent specific detectivity (D*) of ≈1013 Jones, and a rapid response speed of 3.5/4 µs. These figures of merit are comparable with or much better than most of the previously reported perovskite detectors. In addition, the PdSe2/perovskite device exhibits obvious sensitivity to polarized light, with a polarization sensitivity of 6.04. Finally, the PdSe2/perovskite detector can readily record five “P,” “O,” “L,” “Y,” and “U” images sequentially produced by 808 nm. These results suggest that the present PdSe2/perovskite Schottky junction photodetectors may be useful for assembly of optoelectronic system applications in near future.
3D Printing of Hot Dog‐Like Biomaterials with Hierarchical Architecture and Distinct Bioactivity
Authors: Li Tian , Zhai Dong , Ma Bing , Xue Jianmin , Zhao Pengyu , Chang Jiang , Gelinsky Michael , Wu Chengtie
Published: August 2019

Hierarchical structure has exhibited an important influence in the fields of supercapacitors, catalytic applications, and tissue engineering. The hot dog, a popular food, is composed of bread and sausage with special structures. In this study, inspired by the structure of a hot dog, the strategy of combining direct ink writing 3D printing with bidirectional freezing is devised to prepare hot dog‐like scaffolds with hierarchical structure. The scaffolds are composed of hollow bioceramic tubes (mimicking the “bread” in hot dogs, pore size: ≈1 mm) embedded by bioceramic rods (mimicking the “sausage” in hot dogs, diameter: ≈500 µm) and the sausage‐like bioceramic rods possess uniformly aligned lamellar micropores (lamellar pore size: ≈30 µm). By mimicking the functions of hierarchical structure of bone tissues for transporting and storing nutrients, the prepared hot dog‐like scaffolds show excellent properties for loading and releasing drugs and proteins as well as for improving the delivery and differentiation of tissue cells. The in vivo study further demonstrates that both the hierarchical structure itself and the controlled drug delivery in hot dog‐like scaffolds significantly contribute to the improved bone‐forming bioactivity. This study suggests that the prepared hot dog‐like scaffolds are a promising biomaterial for drug delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
Paradoxical effects of optogenetic stimulation in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Lévesque Maxime , Chen Li‐Yuan , Etter Guillaume , Shiri Zahra , Wang Siyan , Williams Sylvain , Avoli Massimo
Published: August 2019

Objective

To establish the effects induced by long‐term, unilateral stimulation of parvalbumin (PV)‐positive interneurons on seizures, interictal spikes, and high‐frequency oscillations (80–500Hz) occurring after pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus (SE)—a proven model of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE)—in transgenic mice expressing or not expressing ChR2.

Methods

PV‐ChR2 (n = 6) and PV‐Cre (n = 6) mice were treated with pilocarpine to induce SE. Three hours after SE onset, unilateral optogenetic stimulation (450nm, 25mW, 20‐millisecond pulses delivered at 8Hz for 30 seconds every 2 minutes) of CA3 PV‐positive interneurons was implemented for 14 continuous days in both groups.

Results

Rates of seizures (p < 0.01), interictal spikes (p < 0.001), and interictal spikes with fast ripples (250–500Hz) (p < 0.001) were lower in PV‐ChR2 than in PV‐Cre mice. Ripples (80–200Hz) occurring outside of interictal spikes had higher rates in the PV‐ChR2 group (p < 0.01), whereas isolated fast ripples had lower rates (p < 0.01). However, seizure probability was higher during optogenetic stimulation in PV‐ChR2 compared to PV‐Cre animals (p < 0.05).

Interpretation

Our findings show that the unilateral activation of CA3 PV‐positive interneurons exerts anti‐ictogenic effects associated with decreased rates of interictal spikes and fast ripples in this MTLE model. However, PV‐positive interneuron stimulation can paradoxically trigger seizures in epileptic animals, supporting the notion that γ‐aminobutyric acid type A signaling can also initiate ictogenesis. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:714–728
Connectomic Profiling Identifies Responders to Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Mithani Karim , Mikhail Mirriam , Morgan Benjamin R. , Wong Simeon , Weil Alexander G. , Deschenes Sylvain , Wang Shelly , Bernal Byron , Guillen Magno R. , Ochi Ayako , Otsubo Hiroshi , Yau Ivanna , Lo William , Pang Elizabeth , Holowka Stephanie , Snead O. Carter , Donner Elizabeth , Rutka James T. , Go Cristina , Widjaja Elysa , Ibrahim George M.
Published: August 2019

Objective

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a common treatment for medically intractable epilepsy, but response rates are highly variable, with no preoperative means of identifying good candidates. This study aimed to predict VNS response using structural and functional connectomic profiling.

Methods

Fifty‐six children, comprising discovery (n = 38) and validation (n = 18) cohorts, were recruited from 3 separate institutions. Diffusion tensor imaging was used to identify group differences in white matter microstructure, which in turn informed beamforming of resting‐state magnetoencephalography recordings. The results were used to generate a support vector machine learning classifier, which was independently validated. This algorithm was compared to a second classifier generated using 31 clinical covariates.

Results

Treatment responders demonstrated greater fractional anisotropy in left thalamocortical, limbic, and association fibers, as well as greater connectivity in a functional network encompassing left thalamic, insular, and temporal nodes (p < 0.05). The resulting classifier demonstrated 89.5% accuracy and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.93 on 10‐fold cross‐validation. In the external validation cohort, this model demonstrated an accuracy of 83.3%, with a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 75.0%. This was significantly superior to predictions using clinical covariates alone, which exhibited an area under the ROC curve of 0.57 (p < 0.008).

Interpretation

This study provides the first multi‐institutional, multimodal connectomic prediction algorithm for VNS, and provides new insights into its mechanism of action. Reliable identification of VNS responders is critical to mitigate surgical risks for children who may not benefit, and to ensure cost‐effective allocation of health care resources. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:743–753
Theoretical studies of new Schiff base ligand derived from 1,3‐diaminopropane and 2‐acetyl ferrocene and studying some applications of its metal complexes
Authors: Sayed Fatma N. , Mahmoud Walaa H. , Omar M.M. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: August 2019

A novel bidentate Schiff base ligand (L) and some d‐transition metal chelates (Cr (III), Mn (II), Fe (III), Co (II), Ni (II), Cu (II), Zn (II) and Cd (II)) were synthesized and characterized using various physicochemical and spectroscopic techniques like elemental analysis, IR, mass, UV–visible and thermal analysis. The spectroscopic data suggested that the parent Schiff base ligand coordinated to the metal ions through both imine nitrogen atoms. The molecular and electronic structure of the free ligand was optimized theoretically, and the quantum chemical parameters were calculated. The molecular structure can be used to investigate the coordination sites and the total charge density around each atom. The free ligand and its complexes were screened for their antimicrobial activities for various pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The anticancer activities of the free ligand, Cr (III), Mn (II) and Fe (III) complexes were screened against MCF‐7 cell line and found that Mn (II) complex has the lowest IC50 (15.90 μg/ml). Molecular docking was used to predict the binding between the free ligand with receptor of mutant human androgen (ARccr) derived from androgen‐independent prostate cancer (1GS4), crystal structure of yeast‐specific serine/threonine protein phosphatase (ppz1) of Candida Albicans (5JPE) and crystal structure of renal tumor suppressor protein, folliculin (3 V42) and to identify the binding mode and the crucial functional groups interacting with the three proteins.
Synthesis of alcohol ester 12 in 1, 8‐diazabicyclo [5.4.0] undec‐7‐ene (DBU)‐based Self‐separation catalytic system
Authors: Lv Zhiguo , Zhang Shuying , Guo Zhenmei , Cheng Xi , Wang Jiaomei , Zhang Chao
Published: August 2019

The synthesis of alcohol ester 12 is one of the valuable industrial processes, but it was impeded by poor separating property and recycling ability of the catalytic systems. Herein, four novel DBU‐based basic ionic liquids (DBILs) of [BDBU]IM, [BDBU]OH, [ODBU]IM, [[ODBU]OH were synthesized successfully by introducing the alkyl chains of 1‐bromobutane or 1‐bromooctane to 1,8‐diazabicyclo [5.4.0] undec‐7‐ene (DBU), and then, employing imidazole (IM−) or hydroxide (OH−) as counter ions. The above obtained four ionic liquids were applied in the synthesis of alcohol ester 12 in isobutyraldehyde (IBD)/aqueous media for the first time. Interestingly, after reaction, production of alcohol ester 12 can be self‐separated from ionic liquids/water (ILs/W) catalytic system automatically. Furthermore, the self‐separated ILs/W can be recycled and used in next catalytic reaction for at least 5 times without obvious loss of catalytic performance. In this work, the structure, purity, thermal stability and alkalinity of DBILs were characterized systematically. [BDBU]IM shows high alkalinity and thus enhances yield of 66.17%. From thermo gravimetric analyzer (TGA), [BDBU]IM also exhibits excellent thermal stability. So [BDBU]IM was chosen for the further studying. Furthermore, quantum chemistry is applied to calculate the interaction forces and electron energies of reactants by DFT, and the calculation results illustrate the feasibility of synthetic process of DBILs. The self‐separation strategy of DBILS in this work may open up a new avenue for the clean synthesis of other industrial products.
Two novel d10 transition metal complexes based on 1H‐benzimidazole‐5,6‐dicarboxylic acid: Synthesis, structure and multifunctional luminescence detection
Authors: Liu Chun‐Hong , Xing Shang‐Hua , Zhou Jun , Bai Feng‐Ying , Xing Yong‐Heng
Published: August 2019

Two new coordination complexes based on benzimidazole dicarboxylic acid, Zn(Hbidc)⋅H2O (1) and Cd(Hbidc)(H2O) (2), have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. The complexes were characterized using elemental analysis, infrared and UV–visible spectroscopies, powder X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetry and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Structural analyses showed that the crystal structures of 1 and 2 are different, due to the various modes of linking of the benzimidazole dicarboxylic acid. Complex 1 has a two‐dimensional network structure and 2 has a three‐dimensional network structure. In addition, we studied the performance of the fluorescence response of two complexes. Results showed that the complexes can be used as chemical sensors for multifunctional testing, such as for UO22+, xanthine and Fe3+ ions. Even if the concentration is very low, they could also be detected, showing that coordination complexes 1 and 2 have very high fluorescence sensitivity. The detection limit for UO22+ is 5.42 nM (1) and 0.02 nM (2), that for xanthine is 1.37 nM (1) and 0.28 nM (2), and that for Fe3+ ions is 0.76 nM (1) and 0.62 nM (2).
Victim body mutilation in sexual homicides: Exploring Chinese sexual homicide cases
Authors: Chan Heng Choon (Oliver) , Li Feng
Published: August 2019

Little exists beyond medicolegal case reports on victim mutilation homicides, much less on those occurring in the context of sexual homicides. As limited information is available on sexual homicides that occurred in China, this study aims to explore the offending characteristics of sexual homicide offenders (SHOs) who mutilated their victims and to compare their modus operandi with non‐mutilation sexual murderers. The offender, victim, and offense characteristics of 82 sexual homicide cases (i.e., 31 mutilation and 47 non‐mutilation cases; 1988–2018), derived from police data of three regions and published case reports, were examined. In addition to the descriptive offender and victim characteristics of Chinese SHOs who performed victim body mutilation, findings indicate that offenders who mutilated their victims were more likely than those who did not mutilate the victim to have a previous sexual offense conviction. They were motivated primarily by sex and least motivated by financial gain. Victim abduction prior to the offense was more frequently reported in non‐mutilation sexual murders. These findings may offer some insights for police who need to prioritize their investigative strategies in cases of sexual homicide with victim mutilation.
A review on transcriptional regulation responses to hypoxia in mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Alijani Najva , Johari Behrooz , Moradi Mohammad , Kadivar Mehdi
Published: August 2019

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are known for having therapeutic applications, reside in stem cell niches where the oxygen concentration is low. At the molecular level, the master regulator of the cellular reaction to hypoxia is hypoxia‐inducible transcription factor (HIF). The transcriptional response of a cell to hypoxia is affected by two major components; first, the structure of hypoxia‐response elements (HREs), which primarily define how much of the HIF signal is integrated into the transcriptional output of individual genes. Second, the availability of other transcriptional factors cooperating with HIF in the context of HRE.

In MSCs, the expression of a single gene by hypoxia depends on elements such as factors influencing the HIF activity, metabolic pathways, the real oxygen concentration in the cellular microenvironment, and duration of culture. In addition, specific growth factors and pro‐infection cytokines, hormones, oncogenic signaling, as well as ultrasound are potent regulators of HIF in MSCs. Altogether, the response of MSCs to hypoxia is complex and mediated by several genes and molecular agents. Regarding the influence of hypoxia on MSCs, oxygen concentration must be taken into consideration based on the cell type and the aim of culture before a particular MSCs culture.
MicroRNA‐140‐5p inhibits the tumorigenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma by targeting p21‐activated kinase 4
Authors: Peng Min , Pang Chunyan
Published: August 2019

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a serious global health problem. Recently, accumulating microRNA (miRNA) has emerged as crucial players in the development and progression of carcinomas including OSCC. Our study aimed to further investigate the roles of miR‐140‐5p in OSCC tumorigenesis and related molecular basis. In this study, OSCC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were isolated from 34 OSCC patients who suffered from surgical resection at our hospital. MiR‐140‐5p level was measured by reverse‐transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay. p21‐activated kinase 4 (PAK4) protein level was determined by western blot assay in OSCC cells at 48 h posttransfection or OSCC xenograft tumors at day 35 after OSCC cell injection. The cell proliferative ability was assessed by cell counting kit‐8 assay in OSCC cells at 0, 24, 48, 72 h after transfection. Cell apoptosis and cell‐cycle analysis was conducted using a flow cytometry in OSCC cells at 48 h after transfection. The interaction between miR‐140‐5p and PAK4 3′‐untranslated region was tested by bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay in OSCC cells at 48 h after transfection. Mouse xenograft models of OSCC were established to examine the influence of miR‐140‐5p on OSCC tumorigenesis in vivo during 35 days after OSCC cell injection. Our data showed that miR‐140‐5p expression was notably downregulated in OSCC tissues and cell lines. MiR‐140‐5p inhibited the expression of PAK4 by direct interaction in OSCC cells. Functional analysis disclosed that miR‐140‐5p overexpression or PAK4 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis, and induced cell‐cycle arrest in OSCC. Moreover, PAK4 upregulation rescued the detrimental effects of miR‐140‐5p on cell proliferation and cell‐cycle progression and hampered cell apoptosis induced by miR‐140‐5p in OSCC. In vivo experiments demonstrated that miR‐140‐5p overexpression suppressed the growth of OSCC xenograft tumors by downregulating PAK4. In conclusion, our data revealed miR‐140‐5p suppressed OSCC tumorigenesis by targeting PAK4 in vitro and in vivo, deepening our understanding on the function and molecular basis of miR‐140‐5p in the development of OSCC.
A case of severe hypothyroidism due to lenalidomide
Authors: Blair Rachel A. , Leaf Rebecca Karp , Leaf David E.
Published: August 2019

Lenalidomide, an immunomodulatory drug often used to treat multiple myeloma, can cause hypo‐ or hyperthyroidism. We present a patient being treated with lenalidomide for 2 years who developed severe hypothyroidism that was complicated by rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury. Thyroid function tests should be serially monitored in patients taking lenalidomide.
Large cyst of the vaginal wall in pregnancy
Authors: Papapanagiotou Ioannis K. , Chatzipapas Ioannis , Koutroumanis Pelopidas , Marinopoulos Spyridon , Thomakos Nikolaos , Brozou Maria , Ntzeros Konstantinos , Petrakis Evangelos , Diakosavvas Michalis , Fasoulakis Zacharias , Morphopoulos George , Loutradis Dimitrios
Published: August 2019

Large vaginal cysts during pregnancy are rare and can mislead Obstetricians to a false diagnosis, that of “Protruding membranes”. Aspiration of the cyst can be easily performed, resulting in the collapsing of the cyst and an uneventful vaginal delivery can be conducted.
A Guanidyl‐Based Bivalent Peptidomimetic Inhibits K‐Ras Prenylation and Association with c‐Raf
Authors: Tsubamoto Mai , Le Toan Khanh , Li Minghua , Watanabe Taku , Matsumi Chiemi , Parvatkar Prakash , Fujii Hiroshi , Kato Nobuo , Sun Jiazhi , Ohkanda Junko
Published: August 2019

Unusual lipid modification of K‐Ras makes Ras‐directed cancer therapy a challenging task. Aiming to disrupt electrostatic‐driven protein–protein interactions (PPIs) of K‐Ras with FTase and GGTase I, a series of bivalent dual inhibitors that recognize the active pocket and the common acidic surface of FTase and GGTase I were designed. The structure‐activity‐relationship study resulted in 8 b, in which a biphenyl‐based peptidomimetic FTI‐277 was attached to a guanidyl‐containing gallate moiety through an alkyl linker. Cell‐based evaluation demonstrated that 8 b exhibited substantial inhibition of K‐Ras processing without apparent interference with Rap‐1A processing. Fluorescent imaging showed that 8 b disrupts localization of K‐Ras to the plasma membrane and impairs interaction with c‐Raf, whereas only FTI‐277 was found to be inactive. These results suggest that targeting the PPI interface of K‐Ras may provide an alternative method of inhibiting K‐Ras.
Chiral superstructures from homochiral Zn2+, Co2+, Fe2+‐2,6‐bis (aryl ethylimine)pyridine complexes
Authors: Dumitru Florina , van der Lee Arie , Barboiu Mihail
Published: August 2019

We report the hierarchical supramolecular organization of metallosupramolecular homochiral complexes 1‐Λ‐(S,S,S,S)‐M2+/1‐∆‐(R,R,R,R)‐M2+ and 2‐ Λ‐(S,S,S,S)‐M2+/2‐∆‐ (R,R,R,R)‐M2+ of M2+ = Co2+, Fe2+, Zn2+ metal ions with chiral pseudo‐terpyridine‐type ligands: 1‐(S,S) or 1‐(R,R) = 2,6‐bis (naphthyl ethylimine)pyridine and 2‐(S,S) or 2‐(R,R) = 2,6‐bis (phenyl‐ethylimine)pyridine. Circular dichroism measurements in solution were used to confirm the enantiomeric nature of all twelve complexes. For crystal structures of 1‐ Λ‐ (S,S,S,S)‐M2+ or 1‐∆‐ (R,R,R,R)‐M2+ complexes, absolute configurations {∆ (or P), Λ (or M)} were confirmed by refinement of the Flack parameter x: −0.007 ≤ x ≤ 0.11 for the single crystals of 1‐Λ‐(S,S,S,S)‐M2+/1‐∆‐ (R,R,R,R)‐M2+, 2‐ Λ‐ (S,S,S,S)‐Fe2+, and 2‐∆‐ (R,R,R,R)‐Co2+.
Practical method for increasing optical purity of cis‐verbenol
Authors: Kovalenko Vitaly , Krauchanka Aliaksei , Prokhorevich Konstantin
Published: August 2019

R/S mixture of monoterpene alcohol cis‐verbenol can be separated in preparative scale by its conversion into phthalic mono‐ester and subsequent crystallization of its diastereomeric salts with (R)‐α‐methylbenzylamine and (S)‐α‐methylbenzylamine. Finally, basic methanolysis of the resolved phthalic mono‐esters results (S)‐cis‐verbenol and (R)‐cis‐verbenol in high enantiomeric and diastereomeric purity.
Single Droplet Mass Transfer Experiments for Acetic Acid Extraction with Triisooctylamine‐Based Solvents
Authors: Siebenhofer Matthäus , Grafschafter Annika
Published: August 2019

Single droplet mass transfer of acetic acid from aqueous phase into triisooctylamine‐based solvents modified with the Lewis basic modifier tributyl phosphate and the diluent Shellsol T was investigated for applicability in solvent design. Solvent composition of triisooctylamine‐based solvent mixtures has a decisive effect on liquid‐liquid partition of acetic acid. The modifier is needed to correct acid association of the ammonium salt, while the diluent mainly affects the viscosity, the density, and the interfacial tension of the solvent. The results show that single droplet mass transfer is controlled by solvent viscosity.
Industrial Water Desalination by Vacuum Multi‐Effect Membrane Distillation
Authors: Braun Gerhard , Kleffner Christine
Published: August 2019

Water shortage and a rising water demand are prevalent issues on the political agenda worldwide. Available water resources must not only be provided to ensure a domestic and drinking water supply for a steadily increasing population but also for the growing industrial and agricultural sectors. This work outlines how the use of the innovative vacuum multi‐effect membrane distillation contributes to improve the water management efficiency in the following key industry sectors: desalination, drinking water and beverage industry, pharmaceutical, agro and chemical as well as oil and gas industry.
Lignin for polymer and nanoparticle production: Current status and challenges
Authors: Gao Weijue , Fatehi Pedram
Published: August 2019

In pulp production processes, lignin is generated in large quantities as a by‐product. It is often burned to generate heat and electricity. Despite the large‐scale production of lignin, its utilization in high‐value applications has remained a challenge. Recently, the production of lignin nanoparticles (LNP) and lignin polymers has gathered attention. The potential to use LNPs as reinforcement filler, UV absorbent, antioxidant, and drug carrier has been reported, while lignin polymers might be suitable for the production of composites, hydrogels, flocculants, and coagulants. This review paper provides insights into the production and application of LNP and lignin polymers. In addition, the challenges associated with the characterization and use of these products are comprehensively reviewed.
Bis‐Thioether‐Containing Lipid Chains in Cationic Amphiphiles: Physicochemical Properties and Applications in Gene Delivery
Authors: Bouraoui Amal , Ghanem Rosy , Berchel Mathieu , Vié Véronique , Le Guen Yann , Paboeuf Gilles , Deschamps Laure , Le Gall Tony , Montier Tristan , Jaffrès Paul‐Alain
Published: August 2019

Cationic amphiphiles featuring two thioether functions in each lipid chain of bicatenar cationic amphiphiles are reported here for the first time. The physicochemical properties and transfection abilities of these new amphiphiles were compared with those of already reported analogues featuring either (i) saturated, (ii) unsaturated or (iii) mono‐thioether containing lipid chains. The homogeneity of the series of new compounds allowed to clearly underscore the effect of bis‐thioether containing lipid chains. This study shows that besides previous strategies based on unsaturation or ramification, the incorporation of two thioether functions per lipid chain constitutes an original complementary alternative to tune the supramolecular properties of amphiphilic compounds. The potential of this strategy was evaluated in the context of gene delivery and report that two cationic amphiphiles (i. e. 4 a and 4 b) can be proposed as new efficient transfection reagents.
RuPd Alloy Nanoparticles Supported on Plasmonic HxMoO3–y for Efficient Photocatalytic Reduction of p‐Nitrophenol
Authors: Yin Haibo , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Mori Kohsuke , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: August 2019

p‐Nitrophenol (PNP) has aroused much concern due to its high toxicity in industrial wastewater and drinking water. Herein, we designed a new plasmonic RuPd/HxMoO3–y catalyst synthesized by a simple impregnation method, followed by H2 atmosphere reduction. The synthesized RuPd/HxMoO3–y hybrid, having RuPd alloy nanoparticles (NPs) anchored on HxMoO3–y, namely hydrogen‐doped molybdenum oxide support, shows a strong localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) absorption peak at around 639 nm. Photocatalytic activity of Ru/HxMoO3–y hybrid for the reduction of PNP to p‐aminophenol (PAP) under visible light irradiation can be dramatically improved by alloying with Pd atoms. More importantly, a reasonable mechanism for PNP reduction is proposed. We find that synergetic effect between HxMoO3–y and RuPd alloy NPs of RuPd/HxMoO3–y plays a vital role in photocatalytic reduction, in which RuPd alloy NPs act as the active species and plasmonic HxMoO3–y acts as electron‐donation centre.
Synthesis and Reactivity of Tris(pentafluoroethyl)gallium Compounds
Authors: Niemann Mark , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Hoge Berthold
Published: August 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Berthold Hoge from Universität Bielefeld, Germany. The cover image shows a Gallic village besieged by Roman legions, which is protected by the weakly coordinating anion [Ga(C2F5)4]– obtained from a magic potion.
Understanding the impact of the Hajj: Explaining experiences of self‐change at a religious mass gathering
Authors: Alnabulsi Hani , Drury John , Vignoles Vivian L. , Oogink Sander
Published: August 2019

Previous research has shown that participation in the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca can lead to both more positive outgroup attitudes and increased commitment to Muslim identity. We describe a survey of pilgrims (N = 1,176) carried out at Mecca, during the Hajj, which tested explanations for these experiences of self‐change at the time of their occurrence. In line with contact theory, perceived cooperation among pilgrims indirectly predicted more positive outgroup attitudes (as well as enhanced Muslim identification), via identification with the crowd. In line with social identity and identity congruence explanations, positive emotional experience and the perception that the crowd embodied the Muslim value of unity predicted self‐change variables through identification with the crowd. The finding that participation in an all‐Muslim gathering increases positive views of other groups (including non‐Muslims) through identification with the crowd offers an alternative perspective to suggestions that such gatherings might encourage intolerance.
Season influence on rapid thermal sensation assessment by young adults
Authors: Coelho Denis A. , Silva Pedro D.
Published: August 2019

Thermal comfort is one of the most important ergonomic aspects of building occupancy. In this research, laboratory experiments are performed in a climatic chamber and described in detail. Experiments are carried out under two scenarios: with two different college students cohorts and with five different but comparable experimental conditions in each cohort. Three hundred twenty‐two individual assessments under specific controlled thermal environment conditions are collected. The actual thermal sensation assessments obtained in the experiments are compared to the results obtained by a predicted mean vote (PMV) model. The correlation analysis shows that statistically significant differences are meaningful between the spring‐summer and the autumn‐winter experiments but not between genders. This paper discusses the plausible factors contributing to the different correlations experienced in the autumn‐winter and spring‐summer experiments. A correction factor between PMV according to Fanger's comfort equation and the actual thermal sensation values reported by the participants is also sought with a focus on the seasonal effects. The predicted results are in good agreement with the experimental results. This allows for further considerations about the influence of the season on the initial thermal sensations experienced by young adults.
The impact of inter‐flood duration on non‐cohesive sediment bed stability
Authors: Ockelford Annie , Woodcock Stephen , Haynes Heather
Published: August 2019

Limited field and flume data suggests that both uniform and graded beds appear to progressively stabilize when subjected to inter‐flood flows as characterized by the absence of active bedload transport. Previous work has shown that the degree of bed stabilization scales with duration of inter‐flood flow, however, the sensitivity of this response to bed surface grain size distribution has not been explored. This article presents the first detailed comparison of the dependence of graded bed stability on inter‐flood flow duration. Sixty discrete experiments, including repetitions, were undertaken using three grain size distributions of identical D50 (4.8 mm); near‐uniform (σg = 1.13), unimodal (σg = 1.63) and bimodal (σg = 2.08). Each bed was conditioned for between 0 (benchmark) and 960 minutes by an antecedent shear stress below the entrainment threshold of the bed (τ*c50). The degree of bed stabilization was determined by measuring changes to critical entrainment thresholds and bedload flux characteristics.

Results show that (i) increasing inter‐flood duration from 0 to 960 minutes increases the average threshold shear stress of the D50 by up to 18%; (ii) bedload transport rates were reduced by up to 90% as inter‐flood duration increased from 0 to 960 minutes; (iii) the rate of response to changes in inter‐flood duration in both critical shear stress and bedload transport rate is non‐linear and is inversely proportional to antecedent duration; (iv) there is a grade dependent response to changes in critical shear stress where the magnitude of response in uniform beds is up to twice that of the graded beds; and (v) there is a grade dependent response to changes in bedload transport rate where the bimodal bed is most responsive in terms of the magnitude of change. These advances underpin the development of more accurate predictions of both entrainment thresholds and bedload flux timing and magnitude, as well as having implications for the management of environmental flow design. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.