bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trisomy 13 and 18—Prevalence and mortality—A multi‐registry population based analysis
Authors: Goel Nitin , Morris Joan K. , Tucker David , de Walle Hermien E. K. , Bakker Marian K. , Kancherla Vijaya , Marengo Lisa , Canfield Mark A. , Kallen Karin , Lelong Nathalie , Camelo Jorge L. , Stallings Erin B. , Jones Abbey M. , Nance Amy , Huynh My‐Phuong , Martínez‐Fernández Maria‐Luisa , Sipek Antonin , Pierini Anna , Nembhard Wendy N. , Goetz Dorit , Rissmann Anke , Groisman Boris , Luna‐Muñoz Leonora , Szabova Elena , Lapchenko Serhiy , Zarante Ignacio , Hurtado‐Villa Paula , Martinez Laura E. , Tagliabue Giovanna , Landau Danielle , Gatt Miriam , Dastgiri Saeed , Morgan Margery
Published: October 2019

The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence, outcomes, and survival (among live births [LB]), in pregnancies diagnosed with trisomy 13 (T13) and 18 (T18), by congenital anomaly register and region. Twenty‐four population‐ and hospital‐based birth defects surveillance registers from 18 countries, contributed data on T13 and T18 between 1974 and 2014 using a common data‐reporting protocol. The mean total birth prevalence (i.e., LB, stillbirths, and elective termination of pregnancy for fetal anomalies [ETOPFA]) in the registers with ETOPFA (n= 15) for T13 was 1.68 (95% CI 1.3–2.06), and for T18 was 4.08 (95% CI 3.01–5.15), per 10,000 births. The prevalence varied among the various registers. The mean prevalence among LB in all registers for T13 was 0.55 (95%CI 0.38–0.72), and for T18 was 1.07 (95% CI 0.77–1.38), per 10,000 births. The median mortality in the first week of life was 48% for T13 and 42% for T18, across all registers, half of which occurred on the first day of life. Across 16 registers with complete 1‐year follow‐up, mortality in first year of life was 87% for T13 and 88% for T18. This study provides an international perspective on prevalence and mortality of T13 and T18. Overall outcomes and survival among LB were poor with about half of live born infants not surviving first week of life; nevertheless about 10% survived the first year of life. Prevalence and outcomes varied by country and termination policies. The study highlights the variation in screening, data collection, and reporting practices for these conditions.
Baseline cortisol levels and social behavior differ as a function of handedness in marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Vaughan Emma , Le Annie , Casey Michaela , Workman Kathryn P. , Lacreuse Agnès
Published: October 2019

Population hand preferences are rare in nonhuman primates, but individual hand preferences are consistent over a lifetime and considered to reflect an individual's preference to use a particular hemisphere when engaged in a specific task. Previous findings in marmosets have indicated that left‐handed individuals tend to be more fearful than their right‐handed counterparts. Based on these findings, we tested the hypotheses that left‐handed marmosets are (a) more reactive to a social stressor and (b) are slower than right‐handed marmosets in acquiring a reversal learning task. We examined the hand preference of 27 male and female marmosets (ages of 4–7 years old) previously tested in a social separation task and a reversal learning task. Hand preference was determined via a simple reaching task. In the social separation task, monkeys were separated from their partner and the colony for a single 7‐hr session. Urinary cortisol levels and behavior were assessed at baseline, during the separation and 24 hr postseparation. Hand preferences were equally distributed between left (n = 10), right‐handed (n = 10), and ambidextrous (n = 7) individuals. The separation phase was associated with an increase in cortisol levels and behavioral changes that were similar across handedness groups. However, cortisol levels at baseline were positively correlated with right‐handedness, and this relationship was stronger in females than in males. In addition, the occurrence of social behaviors (pre‐ and postseparation) was positively correlated with right‐handedness in both sexes. Baseline cortisol levels did not correlate significantly with social behavior. Acquisition of the reversals was poorer in females than males but did not differ as a function of handedness. We conclude that (a) both stress reactivity and cognitive flexibility are similar across handedness groups and (b) left‐handers exhibit less social behavior and have lower basal cortisol levels than ambidextrous and right‐handed subjects. The underlying causes for these differences remain to be established.
Multiple Oscillatory Push–Pull Antagonisms Constrain Seizure Propagation
Authors: Jiang Haiteng , Cai Zhengxiang , Worrell Gregory A. , He Bin
Published: October 2019

Objective

Drug‐resistant focal epilepsy is widely recognized as a network disease in which epileptic seizure propagation is likely coordinated by different neuronal oscillations such as low‐frequency activity (LFA), high‐frequency activity (HFA), or low‐to‐high cross‐frequency coupling. However, the mechanism by which different oscillatory networks constrain the propagation of focal seizures remains unclear.

Methods

We studied focal epilepsy patients with invasive electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings and compared multilayer directional network interactions between focal seizures either with or without secondary generalization. Within‐frequency and cross‐frequency directional connectivity were estimated by an adaptive directed transfer function and cross‐frequency directionality, respectively.

Results

In the within‐frequency epileptic network, we found that the seizure onset zone (SOZ) always sent stronger information flow to the surrounding regions, and secondary generalization was accompanied by weaker information flow in the LFA from the surrounding regions to SOZ. In the cross‐frequency epileptic network, secondary generalization was associated with either decreased information flow from surrounding regions’ HFA to SOZ's LFA or increased information flow from SOZ's LFA to surrounding regions’ HFA.

Interpretation

Our results suggest that the secondary generalization of focal seizures is regulated by numerous within‐ and cross‐frequency push–pull dynamics, potentially reflecting impaired excitation–inhibition interactions of the epileptic network. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:683–694
[3+2]‐Fragmentierung von Pentaphosphidoliganden durch Cyanid
Authors: Hoidn Christian M. , Maier Thomas M. , Trabitsch Karolina , Weigand Jan J. , Wolf Robert
Published: October 2019

Die Aktivierung von weißem Phosphor (P4) durch Übergangsmetallkomplexe wird seit Jahrzehnten erforscht, allerdings wurde die Funktionalisierung und Freisetzung der hierbei gebildeten Phosphorliganden vergleichsweise selten realisiert. In dieser Arbeit berichten wir über die Bildung von ungewöhnlichen Diphosphan‐1‐idanionen durch die Reaktion von einem P5‐Liganden mit Cyanidanionen. Neue Cobaltkomplexe mit Organopentaphosphidoliganden wurden in zwei Stufen durch die Umsetzung eines α‐Diimincobaltkomplexes mit weißem Phosphor und anschließend mit Diorganochlorphosphanen erhalten. Reaktionen der Diorganopentaphosphidokomplexe mit Tetraalkylammoniumcyanid bzw. Kaliumcyanid führen zu einem anionischen Cyclotriphosphidokomplex5und 1‐Cyano‐diphosphan‐1‐idanionen [R2PPCN]−(6‐R). Die Molekülstruktur eines verwandten Reaktionsproduktes7gibt einen Hinweis auf den möglichen Reaktionsmechanismus. Hierbei verursacht die Koordination des Cyanidanions an Cobalt eine Umlagerung des Pentaphosphidoliganden. Anschließend setzt der nukleophile Angriff eines zweiten Cyanidanions an einem Phosphoratom das [R2PPCN]−‐Anion (6‐R) frei.
Halide Anion Triggered Reactions of Michael Acceptors with Tropylium Ion
Authors: Hussein Mohanad A. , Tran Uyen P. N. , Huynh Vien T. , Ho Junming , Bhadbhade Mohan , Mayr Herbert , Nguyen Thanh V.
Published: October 2019

Tropylium bromide undergoes noncatalyzed, regioselective additions to a large variety of Michael acceptors. In this way, acrylic esters are converted into β‐bromo‐α‐cycloheptatrienylpropionic esters. The reactions are interpreted as nucleophilic attack of bromide ions at the electron‐deficient olefins and the approach of the tropylium ion to the incipient carbanion. Quantum chemical calculations were performed to elucidate the analogy to the amine‐ or phosphine‐catalyzed Rauhut–Currier reactions. Subsequent synthetic transformations of the bromo‐cycloheptatrienylated adducts are reported.
Exploring the Trans‐Cleavage Activity of CRISPR‐Cas12a (cpf1) for the Development of a Universal Electrochemical Biosensor
Authors: Dai Yifan , Somoza Rodrigo A , Wang Liu , Welter Jean F. , Li Yan , Caplan Arnold I , Liu Chung Chiun
Published: October 2019

An accurate, rapid, and cost‐effective biosensor for the quantification of disease biomarkers is vital for the development of early‐diagnostic point‐of‐care systems. The recent discovery of the trans‐cleavage property of CRISPR type V effectors makes CRISPR a potential high‐accuracy bio‐recognition tool. Herein, a CRISPR‐Cas12a (cpf1) based electrochemical biosensor (E‐CRISPR) is reported, which is more cost‐effective and portable than optical‐transduction‐based biosensors. Through optimizing the in vitro trans‐cleavage activity of Cas12a, E‐CRIPSR was used to detect viral nucleic acids, including human papillomavirus 16 (HPV‐16) and parvovirus B19 (PB‐19), with a picomolar sensitivity. An aptamer‐based E‐CRISPR cascade was further designed for the detection of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) protein in clinical samples. As demonstrated, E‐CRISPR could enable the development of portable, accurate, and cost‐effective point‐of‐care diagnostic systems.
A Pyrazine‐Based Polymer for Fast‐Charge Batteries
Authors: Mao Minglei , Luo Chao , Pollard Travis P. , Hou Singyuk , Gao Tao , Fan Xiulin , Cui Chunyu , Yue Jinming , Tong Yuxin , Yang Gaojing , Deng Tao , Zhang Ming , Ma Jianmin , Suo Liumin , Borodin Oleg , Wang Chunsheng
Published: October 2019

The lack of high‐power and stable cathodes prohibits the development of rechargeable metal (Na, Mg, Al) batteries. Herein, poly(hexaazatrinaphthalene) (PHATN), an environmentally benign, abundant and sustainable polymer, is employed as a universal cathode material for these batteries. In Na‐ion batteries (NIBs), PHATN delivers a reversible capacity of 220 mAh g−1at 50 mA g−1, corresponding to the energy density of 440 Wh kg−1, and still retains 100 mAh g−1at 10 Ag−1after 50 000 cycles, which is among the best performances in NIBs. Such an exceptional performance is also observed in more challenging Mg and Al batteries. PHATN retains reversible capacities of 110 mAh g−1after 200 cycles in Mg batteries and 92 mAh g−1after 100 cycles in Al batteries. DFT calculations, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman, and FTIR show that the electron‐deficient pyrazine sites in PHATN are the redox centers to reversibly react with metal ions.
Anisotropic Thermal Expansion as the Source of Macroscopic and Molecular Scale Motion in Phosphorescent Amphidynamic Crystals
Authors: Jin Mingoo , Yamamoto Sho , Seki Tomohiro , Ito Hajime , Garcia‐Garibay Miguel A.
Published: October 2019

Herein we report a crystalline molecular rotor with rotationally modulated triplet emission that displays macroscopic dynamics in the form of crystal moving and/or jumping, also known as salient effects. Molecular rotor 2 with a central 1,4‐diethynyl‐2,3‐difluorophenylene rotator linked to two gold(I) nodes, crystalizes as infinite 1D chains through intermolecular gold(I)–gold(I) interactions. The rotational motion changes the orientation of the central phenylene, changing the electronic communication between adjacent chromophores, and thus the emission intensities. Crystals of 2 showed the large and reversible thermal expansion/compression anisotropy, which accounts for 1) a nonlinear Arrhenius behavior in molecular‐level rotational dynamics, which correlates with 2) changes in emission, and determines 3) the macroscopic crystal motion. A molecular rotor analogue 3 has properties similar to those of 2, suggesting a generalized way to control mechanical properties at molecular and macroscopic scales.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Domino Heck‐Type Reactions Using Methyl Esters as Cross‐Coupling Electrophiles
Authors: Zheng Yan‐Long , Newman Stephen G.
Published: October 2019

While esters are frequently used as traditional electrophiles in substitution chemistry, their application in cross‐coupling chemistry is still in its infancy. This work demonstrates that methyl esters can be used as coupling electrophiles in Ni‐catalyzed Heck‐type reactions through the challenging cleavage of the C(acyl)−O bond under relatively mild reaction conditions at either 80 or 100 °C. With the σ‐NiII intermediate generated from the insertion of acyl NiII species into the tethered C=C bond, carbonyl‐retentive products were formed by domino Heck/Suzuki–Miyaura coupling and Heck/reduction pathways when organoboron and mild hydride nucleophiles are used.
Proto‐Urea‐RNA (Wöhler RNA) Containing Unusually Stable Urea Nucleosides
Authors: Okamura Hidenori , Crisp Antony , Hübner Sarah , Becker Sidney , Rovó Petra , Carell Thomas
Published: October 2019

The RNA world hypothesis assumes that life on Earth began with nucleotides that formed information‐carrying RNA oligomers able to self‐replicate. Prebiotic reactions leading to the contemporary nucleosides are now known, but their execution often requires specific starting materials and lengthy reaction sequences. It was therefore proposed that the RNA world was likely proceeded by a proto‐RNA world constructed from molecules that were likely present on the early Earth in greater abundance. Herein, we show that the prebiotic starting molecules bis‐urea (biuret) and tris‐urea (triuret) are able to directly react with ribose. The urea‐ribosides are remarkably stable because they are held together by a network of intramolecular, bifurcated hydrogen bonds. This even allowed the synthesis of phosphoramidite building blocks and incorporation of the units into RNA. Investigations of the nucleotides’ base‐pairing potential showed that triuret:G RNA base pairs closely resemble U:G wobble base pairs. Based on the probable abundance of urea on the early Earth, we postulate that urea‐containing RNA bases are good candidates for a proto‐RNA world.
Biodegradable Poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) composites reinforced with bio‐based nanochitin: Preparation, enhanced mechanical and thermal properties
Authors: Meng Dan , Xie Jiazhuo , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N. , Zhang Kun , Zhao Qinghua , Wang Shuo , Qiu Shuo , Chen Kaijun , Li Jinxi , Ma Chizhen , Pan Yue , Xu Jing
Published: October 2019

The accumulation of nonbiodegradable petrochemical‐based polymers in the environment motivates the development and use of low‐cost, eco‐friendly, and biodegradable polymers. A series of biodegradable poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) composites reinforced by sustainably sourced nanochitin were successfully prepared using melt blending and compression molding methods. Structural, thermal, and mechanical characterizations of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT)/nanochitin composites were performed. SEM revealed that the nanochitin was uniformly dispersed throughout the PBAT matrix at low contents (<2 wt %), while DSC analyses revealed a corresponding increase in the crystallinity (32.6% enhancement) of the PBAT matrix. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the PBAT/nanochitin composite containing 0.5 wt % nanochitin were higher by 82.5 and 64.2%, respectively, compared with pristine PBAT. The Chitin‐0.5 composite also showed improved thermal stability compared with PBAT (the char yield improved by 8%) due to the uniform dispersion of nanochitin in the PBAT matrix. The enhanced performance of the PBAT/nanochitin composites, prepared without an added compatibilizer, informs the development of improved biodegradable PBAT‐based polymers. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48485.
Toughening of thermoset green zein resin: A comparison between natural rubber‐based additives and plasticizers
Authors: Souzandeh Hamid , Netravali Anil N.
Published: October 2019

Zein‐based brittle thermoset green resin was toughened using sorbitol, natural rubber fibers (NRF), and epoxidized natural rubber fibers (ENRF). NRF and ENRF were electrospun directly into zein slurry. Chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties of zein resin containing NRF (Zein/NRF) and ENRF (Zein/ENRF) were compared with those of sorbitol‐plasticized zein. NRF was found to be immiscible in zein and Zein/NRF resins showed two distinct glass transition temperatures (T
g), whereas Zein/ENRF specimens showed significant increases in both T
g and degradation temperature (T
d) due to crosslinking between zein and epoxidized natural rubber. ENRF was more effective in enhancing fracture toughness of zein than NRF or sorbitol. Increased ENRF loading to 15 wt % showed significant increase in toughness with minimal decreases in strength and Young's modulus. Sorbitol and NRF were unable to improve the toughness of zein resin significantly. Environment‐friendly zein/ENRF resin with higher fracture toughness developed in this study would be suitable in many applications including green composites. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48512.
Improving ultraviolet light photocatalytic activity of polyaniline/silicon carbide composites by Fe‐doping
Authors: Koysuren Ozcan
Published: October 2019

It was aimed to prepare polyaniline (Pani) composites, including silicon carbide (SiC) nanofibers doped with iron (Fe) ions. The Fe‐doping of SiC was performed to enhance the photocatalytic activity of the composites through the separation of photoexcited mobile charge carriers. For comparison purposes, Pani composites were also prepared with undoped SiC nanofibers. The composite samples were characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and UV–Vis spectroscopies. Experiments on photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under ultraviolet light irradiation revealed that Pani/SiC‐Fe composites exhibited higher photocatalytic activity when compared with Pani/SiC composites. Almost 22% dye removal was obtained within 300 min with the Pani composite, containing 15 wt.% SiC‐Fe. FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and UV–Vis spectroscopies demonstrated that SiC nanofibers were successfully doped with iron ions and incorporated into the polyaniline matrix. The original aspect of this study was to research the photocatalytic activity of polyaniline composites containing Fe‐doped SiC nanofibers. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48524.
Poly(vinyl alcohol)/carboxyl graphene mixed matrix membranes: High‐power ultrasonic treatment for enhanced pervaporation performance
Authors: Han Guang Lu , Chen Zhe , Cai Li Fang , Zhang Yong Hui , Tian Jun Feng , Ma Huan Huan , Fang Shao Ming
Published: October 2019

High‐power ultrasonic treatment was conducted during the mixing process to obtain poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/carboxyl graphene (CG) mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). Results from X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer and thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the enhanced esterification reaction. The increased amorphous region and free volume were investigated by wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope measurements suggested that ultrasonic could uniformly disperse CG in PVA polymer matrix. The mechanical properties and hydrophilicity of as‐prepared membrane were enhanced due to ultrasonic treatment. The permeation flux and separation factor of PVA/CG‐US membrane for 90 wt % ethanol aqueous solution were 0.79 kg m−2 h−1 and 860, respectively. For methanol (15 wt %)/methyl tert‐butyl ether mixture, its permeation flux and separation factor were also increased significantly compared with membranes without ultrasonic treatment. Due to the simplicity of the ultrasonic process and the versatility of the inorganic fillers, this method may contribute to the design of various MMMs and extend the application of these membranes in different uses. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48526.
Genome‐wide characterization and transcriptomic analyses of neuropeptides and their receptors in an endoparasitoid wasp, Pteromalus puparum
Authors: Xu Gang , Teng Zi‐Wen , Gu Gui‐Xiang , Qi Yi‐Xiang , Guo Lei , Xiao Shan , Wang Fei , Fang Qi , Wang Fang , Song Qi‐Sheng , Stanley David , Ye Gong‐Yin
Published: October 2019

In insects, neuropeptides constitute a group of signaling molecules that act in regulation of multiple physiological and behavioral processes by binding to their corresponding receptors. On the basis of the bioinformatic approaches, we screened the genomic and transcriptomic data of the parasitoid wasp, Pteromalus puparum, and annotated 36 neuropeptide precursor genes and 33 neuropeptide receptor genes. Compared to the number of precursor genes in Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera), Chilo suppressalis (Lepidoptera), Drosophila melanogaster (Diptera), Nilaparvata lugens (Hemiptera), Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera), and Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera), P. puparum (Hymenoptera) has the lowest number of neuropeptide precursor genes. This lower number may relate to its parasitic life cycle. Transcriptomic data of embryos, larvae, pupae, adults, venom glands, salivary glands, ovaries, and the remaining carcass revealed stage‐, sex‐, and tissue‐specific expression patterns of the neuropeptides, and their receptors. These data provided basic information about the identity and expression profiles of neuropeptides and their receptors that are required to functionally address their biological significance in an endoparasitoid wasp.
Beyond the proportional frailty model: Bayesian estimation of individual heterogeneity on mortality parameters
Authors: Colchero Fernando , Kiyakoglu Burhan Y.
Published: October 2019

Today, we know that demographic rates can be greatly influenced by differences among individuals in their capacity to survive and reproduce. These intrinsic differences, commonly known as individual heterogeneity, can rarely be measured and are thus treated as latent variables when modeling mortality. Finite mixture models and mixed effects models have been proposed as alternative approaches for inference on individual heterogeneity in mortality. However, in general models assume that individual heterogeneity influences mortality proportionally, which limits the possibility to test hypotheses on the effect of individual heterogeneity on other aspects of mortality such as ageing rates. Here, we propose a Bayesian model that builds upon the mixture models previously developed, but that facilitates making inferences on the effect of individual heterogeneity on mortality parameters other than the baseline mortality. As an illustration, we apply this framework to the Gompertz–Makeham mortality model, commonly used in human and wildlife studies, by assuming that the Gompertz rate parameter is affected by individual heterogeneity. We provide results of a simulation study where we show that the model appropriately retrieves the parameters used for simulation, even for low variances in the heterogeneous parameter. We then apply the model to a dataset on captive chimpanzees and on a cohort life table of 1751 Swedish men, and show how model selection against a null model (i.e., without heterogeneity) can be carried out.
Calcium imaging of primary canine sensory neurons: Small‐diameter neurons responsive to pruritogens and algogens
Authors: Ganchingco Joy Rachel C. , Fukuyama Tomoki , Yoder Jeffrey A. , Bäumer Wolfgang
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Rodent primary sensory neurons are commonly used for studying itch and pain neurophysiology, but translation from rodents to larger mammals and humans is not direct and requires further validation to make correlations.

Methods

This study developed a primary canine sensory neuron culture from dorsal root ganglia (DRG) excised from cadaver dogs. Additionally, the canine DRG cell cultures developed were used for single‐cell ratiometric calcium imaging, with the activation of neurons to the following pruritogenic and algogenic substances: histamine, chloroquine, canine protease‐activated receptor 2 (PAR2) activating peptide (SLIGKT), compound 48/80, 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor agonist (5‐HT), bovine adrenal medulla peptide (BAM8‐22), substance P, allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), and capsaicin.

Results

This study demonstrates a simple dissection and rapid processing of DRG collected from canine cadavers used to create viable primary sensory neuron cultures to measure responses to pruritogens and algogens.

Conclusion

Ratiometric calcium imaging demonstrated that small‐diameter canine sensory neurons can be activated by multiple stimuli, and a single neuron can react to both a pruritogenic stimulation and an algogenic stimulation.
E‐learning engineers based on constructive and multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Pecanin Emir , Spalevic Petar , Mekic Edis , Jovic Srdjan , Milovanovic Ivan
Published: October 2019

In this study, we applied constructive approach to education supplemented with the innovation cycle approach. The main goal is to develop the innovative ideas from a clear start up to the implementation phase. Since multiple ideas tackle multidisciplinary problems, to properly present all needed concepts we used teachers from different fields of science. This was implemented through a pilot project and all results were assessed using a quasi experimental approach and constructive qualitative methodology to show the increase of interest with students in the areas of innovation, constructivism, and multidisciplinary on the cognitive, behavioral, and the affective level.
Plant system simulation for engineering training workshops
Authors: Ji Zuzhen , Pons D. J. , Pearse J.
Published: October 2019

Plant system engineering (PSE) is a method of efficiently integrating machinery and human labor. Studies in PSE have been mainly concerned with production facilities rather than teaching facilities. Conventional simulation methods assume that the product moves through the workstations. In the more complex situation of the training workshop, both the student and the artifact being produced move through the workstations. Hence a training workshop requires a fundamentally different way of approaching the simulation. Also, the waiting time experience of the students needs consideration, from a teaching perspective. We adapted the system simulation methodology by including multiple work‐streams through the workshop, and by adding decision stages into the model. The method was applied to a training workshop. The results identified specific changes in the way the students were assigned to machines, and the number of different types of machines, that would improve the operation of the facility. The improvement measures were reduction in waiting time by students, and greater machine utilization. Multiple different class sizes were explored. The approach is broadly applicable to other situations where the people move through a facility along with a partially completed physical product. This work develops an approach to optimize the performance of a manufacturing system, for the unusual class situations where the product moving through the simulation is not merely a physical product as in conventional simulation approaches, but rather the combination of people (students) and their partially completed physical product.
Fecal occult blood test screening uptake among immigrants from Muslim majority countries: A retrospective cohort study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Vahabi Mandana , Lofters Aisha , Wong Josephine Pui‐Hing , Ellison Lisa , Graves Erin , Damba Cynthia , Glazier Richard H.
Published: October 2019

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second and third highest cause of cancer deaths among Canadian men and women, respectively. Population‐based screening through fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) has been proven to be effective in reducing CRC morbidity and mortality. Although participation in Ontario's organized CRC screening program has been increasing steadily since 2008, its uptake remains low among recent immigrant populations despite the known benefits of screening. To promote participation in CRC screening, it is imperative to understand both individual and system level barriers and enablers. Although a number of immigrant and nonimmigrant factors have been associated with low participation, there is a dearth of knowledge related to the religious affiliation in CRC screening uptake. Our study is among the first to examine this issue in Ontario, one of the most ethnically diverse Canadian provinces and preferred settlement destinations for immigrants.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based retrospective cohort study using linked health care administrative databases. Our cohort included Ontario residents, age 50‐74 who were eligible for FOBT from 1 April 2013 to 31 March 2015.

Results

We found that immigrants from the Middle East and North Africa and Eastern Europe and Central Asia had the lowest rates of screening. Furthermore, being born in a Muslim‐majority country was associated with lower FOBT screening even after controlling for other confounders including world region and income (ie, overall adjusted relative risk (ARR) of screening 0.92 [95% CI 0.90‐0.93]). Moreover, being enrolled in a primary care model, having a female primary care provider and having an internationally trained physician were associated with increased screening among immigrants from Muslim‐majority countries.

Conclusions

These findings can inform future efforts to improve screening uptake like: enhancing access to primary care providers and enrollment in primary care models, targeted FOBT education for male providers and providers not in a primary care model, development of culturally sensitive and appropriate educational materials, and use of interactive approaches for communication of cancer screening information.
Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Distillates Purified by Means of Molecular Distillation from Ginger Extract Obtained with Supercritical CO2 Fluid
Authors: Wang Li‐Xia , Zhao Wen‐Hua , Lu Yi‐Fei , Wang Chen‐Xu
Published: October 2019

The ginger extract obtained with supercritical CO2 fluid was purified by molecular distillation (MD), and the chemical compositions, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of ginger extract and its distillates were investigated. Analysis revealed that the ginger extract was rich in terpene hydrocarbons, along with oxygenated terpenes and other non‐volatile compounds. The MD distillates were prepared in a series of stages and the active compounds like terpenes and gingerols could be separated by MD. The major compounds of the distillates purified by MD at 40 °C, 80 Pa and 60 °C, 80 Pa were terpene hydrocarbons. Additional distillates obtained by MD at 80 °C, 80 Pa and 100 °C, 60 Pa were predominated by terpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated terpenes. Until the operating conditions of MD reached 150 °C and 2 Pa, some non‐volatile compounds were concentrated in the final distillate. Moreover, antioxidant activities and the cytotoxic effects on three human cancer cells in final MD distillate were superior to other extracts, and this phenomenon could be mainly supported by the phenols. The MD could be used to prepare ginger distillates with better antioxidant and cytotoxic activities.
Developing a competency‐based education training programme for university tutors
Authors: Betts Lucy R. , Huntington Bethany , Iao Lai‐Sang , Dillon Gayle V. , Baguley Thom , Banyard Phil
Published: October 2019

Recently, there has been an increase in the adoption of competency‐based approaches (CBA) in higher education and, for some practitioners, this involves modifying existing provision. This case study describes the development, delivery, and evaluation of a transnational training program that was developed for Chinese university tutors who planned to implement CBA into their teaching. The 25‐hr training program was designed to be experiential in nature, so practitioners learnt about and experienced CBA simultaneously. Although the participants rated the program favorably, we identified two main challenges associated with the training course: anxiety around the CBA and the need to be aware of the learners’ cultural climate. Recommendations for others who are developing similar training programs that model a CBA are discussed.
Performance of the TRUE dilatation balloon valvuloplasty catheter beyond rated burst pressure: A bench study
Authors: Sathananthan Janarthanan , Hensey Mark , Sellers Stephanie , Barlow Aaron M. , Chhatriwalla Adnan K. , Allen Keith B. , Cheung Anson , Søndergaard Lars , Blanke Philipp , Ye Jian , Leipsic Jonathan , Wood David , Webb John
Published: October 2019

Objectives

We undertook an independent bench test assessing the performance of the TRUE dilatation (TD) balloon valvuloplasty catheter (Bard Vascular Inc., Tempe, AZ) beyond its rated burst pressure (RBP).

Background

The TD balloon has a RBP of six atmospheres (atm), and its performance beyond this RBP is poorly understood. Techniques such as bioprosthetic valve fracture require inflation pressures beyond manufacturer recommendations.

Methods

A 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28 mm TD balloon were inflated to increasing pressures in increments of 3 atm until balloon failure. Measurements were performed at the proximal, middle, and distal balloon segments with scientific digital calipers. Z‐MED balloons (Braun Interventional Systems Inc., Bethlehem, PA) were used as a comparator.

Results

The mean diameter at the middle of the 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28 mm TD balloon at nominal pressure (3 atm) was 20.02 ± 0.09, 21.77 ± 0.07, 23.9 ± 0.06, 25.82 ± 0.08, and 27.62 ± 0.08 mm, respectively. The maximal mean diameter at the middle of the 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28 mm TD balloon was 20.39 ± 0.03 mm (15 atm), 22.35 ± 0.03 mm (15 atm), 24.55 ± 0.02 mm (15 atm), 26.48 ± 0.02 mm (12 atm), and 28.39 ± 0.03 mm (12 atm), respectively. The 20/22/24 and 26/28 mm balloon failed when inflated beyond 15 atm and 12 atm, respectively. Failure was due to either leakage or longitudinal balloon rupture. TD balloons were more likely to maintain dimensions similar to their labeled size and less likely to fail at higher pressures as compared to Z‐MED balloons.

Conclusion

The TD balloon catheter maintains a similar diameter to its labeled size, when inflated beyond its RBP. When inflated beyond 12 atm, the TD balloon can fail due to either leakage or rupture. This has implications for percutaneous structural heart interventions.
Assessment by miRNA microarray of an autologous cancer antigen‐pulsed adoptive immune ensemble cell therapy (AC‐ACT) approach; demonstrated induction of anti‐oncogenic and anti‐PD‐L1 miRNAs
Authors: Chinami Masanobu , Iwabuchi Kaoru , Muto Yoshiteru , Uchida Yasuhiko , Arita Ryu , Shuraim Rana A. , Adra Chaker N.
Published: October 2019

A 60‐year‐old woman with stage IV rectal cancer received adoptive cell therapy with autologous cancer antigen (AC‐ACT) causing induction of anti‐oncogenic and anti‐PD‐L1 miRNAs as assessed by miRNA microarray. More than 1 year after AC‐ACT, metastases have been arrested, and the patient reports good quality of life.
Interactions of Plasmonic Silver Nanoparticles with High Energy Sites on Multi‐Faceted Rutile TiO2 Photoanodes
Authors: Ballestas‐Barrientos Alfonso , Li Xiaobo , Yick Samuel , Yuen Alexander , Masters Anthony F. , Maschmeyer Thomas
Published: October 2019

The plasmonic interactions between silver nanoparticles and various rutile TiO2 facets are studied by correlating Advanced Electron Microscopy and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) to help design a route towards an optimised polycrystalline film fabrication. By using an Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) detector, it was determined that using HF as directing agent during the hydrothermal growth of TiO2 promotes the formation of high‐angle grain boundaries. Silver photodeposition occurs preferentially at these boundaries, consistent with the presence of high energy sites on the (100)‐oriented rutile TiO2 nanorods. Further EIS study showed an increase in the photoelectrochemical activity in the visible range of the solar spectrum for the samples consisting of silver nanoparticles deposited on these grain boundaries.
Cobalt Phosphide Ultrathin and Freestanding Sheets Prepared through Microwave Chemical Vapor Deposition: A Highly Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction Catalyst
Authors: Rafai Souleymen , Qiao Chen , Wang Zhitao , Cao Chuanbao , Mahmood Tariq , Naveed Muhammad , Younas Waqar , Khalid Syed
Published: October 2019

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is the prime barrier for many appealing energy conversion and storage technologies, including water electrolysis, metal–air batteries, and fuel cells. Therefore, developing a cost‐effective, efficient, and robust OER catalyst is still a challenge. Herein, we report a fast, low‐cost, and gram‐scale approach to overcome the synthesis of freestanding, ultrathin (ca. 1.3 nm), and mesoporous CoP sheets through the microwave‐assisted growth of a cobalt‐layered double hydroxide (Co‐LDH) precursor coupled with chemical vapor deposition. The present 2D nanostructure not only guarantees a rich surface of active sites, but also promotes the charge and mass transfers due to the ultrathin and mesoporous features that allow it to efficiently perform the OER. It was found that the surface of the CoP sheets was oxidized in situ under the catalytic conditions, suggesting that Co3O4/CoP is effectively the active form of the catalyst, thereby modulating the electronic structure of Co atoms (active centers). This was embodied by the lowering of the Co‐LDH's required overpotential to achieve 10 mA cm−2 (η10) from 296 to 265 mV and the Tafel slope decrease from 75 to 63 mV dec−1 upon phosphorization. Such performances of CoP nanosheets are remarkably superior to those of commercial RuO2 and compare favorably to the best values reported for noble‐metal‐free OER electrocatalysts.
Isotope and Hydrogen‐Bond Effects on the Self‐Assembly of Macroions in Dilute Solution
Authors: Li Hui , Shen Yidan , Yang Peng , Szymanowski Jennifer E. S. , Chen Jiahui , Gao Yunyi , Burns Peter C. , Kortz Ulrich , Liu Tianbo
Published: October 2019

We report on the disparity in the assembly behavior of four types of nano‐sized macroions induced by isotopic substitution of protium (H) to deuterium (D) in solvents. Macroions with modest charge density can self‐assemble into single‐layer, hollow, spherical “blackberry”‐type structures, with larger assembly sizes representing stronger attractions among the macroions. Kinetically, all assembly processes become slower in D2O than in H2O. Thermodynamically, the polyoxometalate {SrPd12}, the uranium cage {U60} with alkali metal counterions, and the metal–organic cationic cage {Pd12L24} demonstrate similar assembly sizes in both H2O and D2O, whereas the metal oxide cluster {Mo72Fe30} as a weak acid shows an unusually large assembly size in H2O—suggesting a stronger contribution from the hydrogen bonding in the last case.
Investigation of Molecular Alkali Tetrafluorido Aurates by Matrix‐Isolation Spectroscopy
Authors: Redeker Frenio A. , Ellwanger Mathias A. , Beckers Helmut , Riedel Sebastian
Published: October 2019

Molecular alkali tetrafluorido aurate ion pairs M[AuF4] (M=K, Rb, Cs) are produced by co‐deposition of IR laser‐ablated AuF3 and MF in solid neon under cryogenic conditions. This method also yields molecular AuF3 and its dimer Au2F6. The products are characterized by their Au–F stretching bands and high‐level quantum‐chemical calculations at the CCSD(T)/triple‐ζ level of theory. Structural changes in AuF4− associated with the coordination of the anion to different alkali cations are proven spectroscopically and discussed.
Metal‐Carbene‐Templated Photochemistry in Solution: A Universal Route towards Cyclobutane Derivatives
Authors: Li Yang , Jin Guang‐Feng , An Yuan‐Yuan , Das Rajorshi , Han Ying‐Feng
Published: October 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

A series of dicarbene‐bridged metallacycles [Ag2(1)2](PF6)2, [Ag2(2)2](BF4)2, [Ag2(3)2](PF6)2, [Ag2(7)2](BF4)2, [Ag2(8)2](BF4)2 and [Ag2(11)2](PF6)2 were obtained in high yields via the reactions of 1,2,4‐triazole‐, 1,2,3‐triazole‐ and imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine‐based ligands with Ag2O in CH3CN. The C=C double bonds in all of the newly synthesized metallacycles went through [2 + 2] photodimerization under UV irradiation condition (λ = 365 nm, T = 298 K) yielding the dinuclear rctt‐cyclobutane‐silver(I) complexes [Ag2(4)](PF6)2, [Ag2(5)](BF4)2, [Ag2(6)](PF6)2, [Ag2(9)](BF4)2, [Ag2(10)](BF4)2 and [Ag2(12)](PF6)2, respectively with quantitative yields. Treatment of the these cyclobutane‐bridged silver(I) complexes with NH4Cl resulted in the exclusive formation of cyclobutane derivatives after removal of the silver(I) metal ions.
Incentives for climate mitigation in the land use sector—the effects of payment for environmental services on environmental and socioeconomic outcomes in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A mixed‐methods systematic review
Authors: Snilsveit Birte , Stevenson Jennifer , Langer Laurenz , Tannous Natalie , Ravat Zafeer , Nduku Promise , Polanin Joshua , Shemilt Ian , Eyers John , Ferraro Paul J.
Published: October 2019

Unsustainable practices in the land use sector contribute to climate change through the release of greenhouse gases. Payment for environmental services (PESs) provide economic incentives to reduce the negative environmental impacts of land use and are a popular approach to mitigate climate change in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Some PES programmes also aim to improve socioeconomic outcomes and reduce poverty. This systematic review examines the effect of programmes on environmental and socioeconomic outcomes. We identified 44 quantitative impact evaluations and 60 qualitative studies of PES programmes for inclusion in the review, to assess both the effects of PES and identify context, design and implementation features that may influence PES effectiveness. The studies covered 18 programmes from 12 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, East Asia and Pacific, South Asia and Sub‐Saharan Africa. The review finds that PES may increase household income, reduce deforestation and improve forest cover, but the findings are, however, based on low and very low quality evidence from a small number of programmes and should be treated with caution. Qualitative evidence indicates that several factors influence whether PES programmes are likely to be effective in different contexts and suggests that the inclusion of strong governance structures and the effective targeting of both locations and participants may improve intervention effectiveness. Funders, implementing agencies and researchers should collaborate to develop a coordinated programme of rigorous, mixed‐methods impact evaluation implemented across contexts. Until such evidence is available, PES programmes remain a high‐risk strategy for climate change mitigation.
A De Giorgi–Type Conjecture for Minimal Solutions to a Nonlinear Stokes Equation
Authors: Ignat Radu , Monteil Antonin
Published: October 2019

We study the one‐dimensional symmetry of solutions to the nonlinear Stokes equation

urn:x-wiley:00103640:media:cpa21867:cpa21867-math-0001

which are periodic in the d − 1 last variables (living on the torus 𝕋d−1) and globally minimize the corresponding energy in Ω = ℝ × 𝕋d−1, i.e.,

urn:x-wiley:00103640:media:cpa21867:cpa21867-math-0002

Namely, we find a class of nonlinear potentials W ≥ 0 such that any global minimizer u of E connecting two zeros of W as x1 →  ± ∞ is one‐dimensional; i.e., u depends only on the x1‐variable.

In particular, this class includes in dimension d = 2 the nonlinearities with w being a harmonic function or a solution to the wave equation, while in dimension d ≥ 3, this class contains a perturbation of the Ginzburg‐Landau potential as well as potentials W having d + 1 wells with prescribed transition cost between the wells. For that, we develop a theory of calibrations relying on the notion of entropy (coming from scalar conservation laws). We also study the problem of the existence of global minimizers of E for general potentials W providing in particular compactness results for uniformly finite energy maps u in Ω connecting two wells of W as x1 →  ± ∞. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Behavior predictability and consistency of mobile users' traffic usage between different years based on entropy theory
Authors: Tao Yu , Cui Hongyan , Nian Yilong , Hong Yuchen , Wang Jilong , Zhang Honggang
Published: October 2019

Predicting mobile users' future traffic usage plays an important role for mobile operators to optimize their services. Although a variety of prediction methods have been proposed and applied to this issue, none of them could answer whether the users' traffic behaviors can be predicted. By employing the entropy theory, this paper analyzes the predictability of users' behaviors on traffic types and accounts. Moreover, the mobile network traffic data collected from a major city in China is utilized to test the entropy theory and reveal the accuracy levels. Furthermore, by comparing the prediction results between the years 2012 and 2014, a conclusion is drawn that a large portion of users' behaviors can be predicted, but their traffic usage habits become more difficult to predict in 2014 than in 2012. The results also imply that different entropies achieve more similar predictability in 2014 than in 2012, which indicates the consistency of users' behaviors. Overall, this study reveals the predictability and consistency of users' behavior, which is of great significance for mobile operators.
Creation of zebrafish knock‐in reporter lines in the nefma gene by Cas9‐mediated homologous recombination
Authors: Eschstruth Alexis , Schneider‐Maunoury Sylvie , Giudicelli François
Published: October 2019

CRISPR/Cas9‐based strategies are widely used for genome editing in many organisms, including zebrafish. Although most applications consist in introducing double strand break (DSB)‐induced mutations, it is also possible to use CRISPR/Cas9 to enhance homology directed repair (HDR) at a chosen genomic location to create knock‐ins with optimally controlled precision. Here, we describe the use of CRISPR/Cas9‐targeted DSB followed by HDR to generate zebrafish transgenic lines where exogenous coding sequences are added in the nefma gene, in frame with the endogenous coding sequence. The resulting knock‐in embryos express the added gene (fluorescent reporter or KalTA4 transactivator) specifically in the populations of neurons that express nefma, making them convenient tools for research on these populations.