bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Yield Production of Biohybrid Microalgae for On‐Demand Cargo Delivery
Authors: Akolpoglu Mukrime Birgul , Dogan Nihal Olcay , Bozuyuk Ugur , Ceylan Hakan , Kizilel Seda , Sitti Metin
Published: July 2020

Biohybrid microswimmers exploit the swimming and navigation of a motile microorganism to target and deliver cargo molecules in a wide range of biomedical applications. Medical biohybrid microswimmers suffer from low manufacturing yields, which would significantly limit their potential applications. In the present study, a biohybrid design strategy is reported, where a thin and soft uniform coating layer is noncovalently assembled around a motile microorganism. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (a single‐cell green alga) is used in the design as a biological model microorganism along with polymer–nanoparticle matrix as the synthetic component, reaching a manufacturing efficiency of ≈90%. Natural biopolymer chitosan is used as a binder to efficiently coat the cell wall of the microalgae with nanoparticles. The soft surface coating does not impair the viability and phototactic ability of the microalgae, and allows further engineering to accommodate biomedical cargo molecules. Furthermore, by conjugating the nanoparticles embedded in the thin coating with chemotherapeutic doxorubicin by a photocleavable linker, on‐demand delivery of drugs to tumor cells is reported as a proof‐of‐concept biomedical demonstration. The high‐throughput strategy can pave the way for the next‐generation generation microrobotic swarms for future medical active cargo delivery tasks.
Modeling Previous Trial Effect in Human Manipulation through Iterative Learning Control
Authors: Cenceschi Lorenzo , Della Santina Cosimo , Averta Giuseppe , Garabini Manolo , Fu Qiushi , Santello Marco , Bianchi Matteo , Bicchi Antonio
Published: July 2020

In the execution of repetitive tasks, humans can capitalize on experience to improve their motor performance. Prominent examples of this ability can be recognized in our capacity of grasping and manipulating in uncertain conditions. With the aim of providing a mathematical description for such behavior, experiments are considered where participants are required to lift an object with an unexpected mass distribution. By repeating multiple times the same lifting action, participants can learn the correct motor command for task accomplishment. Three models are proposed that combine reactive terms and a learned anticipatory action to explain experimental data. The models feature intratrial and intertrial memory, and the effect of slowly and fast adaptive sensory receptors. The architectures’ effectiveness in explaining experimental data is compared with a general‐purpose state of the art model. The proposed algorithms conspicuously outperform the state of the art in all the considered validation routines. Global and within‐trial human behavior is predicted with 88% of accuracy in nominal conditions. When the object's center of mass is moved, the accuracy is maintained up to 83%. Finally, convergence properties of proposed algorithms are analytically discussed, and their stability and robustness against measurement noise are evaluated in simulation.
Recent Developments on the Synthesis of Various Sulfur‐Containing Heterocycles via [3+2]‐ and [4+2]‐Cycloaddition Reactions with Thiocarbonyls
Authors: Jaiswal Vandana , Mondal Biplab , Saha Jaideep
Published: July 2020

This minireview summarizes important collection of cycloaddition strategies that were used for the synthesis of sulfur‐containing five‐ and six‐membered heterocycles from thiocarbonyl‐based synthons. Among various stepwise or concerted methods available to prepare thioheterocycles, cycloaddition reactions of thiocarbonyls in particular present an important class of reaction owing to their ability to function as super dipolarophiles and/or superdienophiles. Design and development of various reactions in recent years with thiocarbonyls have certainly superseded the general purview on this reactive synthon that it often leads to side reaction and oligomerization. This article, apart from including the advances in the known reaction manifold of thiocarbonyls, also provide updates on new developments of cycloaddition chemistry, which includes donor‐acceptor (D−A) cyclopropanes and azaoxyallyl cation as 1,3‐dipolar reaction partners. This review should serve the purpose of an important guiding tool for organic and medicinal chemist to design and develop new class of cycloaddition or related transformations with thiocarbonyls for the preparation of novel heterocycles.
Identification of Histone deacetylase (HDAC)‐Associated Proteins with DNA‐Programmed Affinity Labeling
Authors: Zhang Jianfu , Peng Jianzhao , Huang Yiran , Meng Ling , Li Qingrong , Xiong Feng , Li Xiaoyu
Published: July 2020

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) is a major class of deacetylation enzymes. Many HDACs exist in large protein complexes in cells and their functions strongly depend on the complex composition. The identification of HDAC‐associated proteins is highly important in understanding their molecular mechanisms. Although affinity probes have been developed to study HDACs, they were mostly targeting the direct binder HDAC, while other proteins in the complex remain underexplored. We report a DNA‐based affinity labeling method capable of presenting different probe configurations without the need for preparing multiple probes. Using one binding probe, 9 probe configurations were created to profile HDAC complexes. Notably, this method identified indirect HDAC binders that may be inaccessible to traditional affinity probes, and it also revealed new biological implications for HDAC‐associated proteins. This study provided a simple and broadly applicable method for characterizing protein‐protein interactions.
Immobilization of an Iridium Pincer Complex in a Microporous Polymer for Application in Room‐Temperature Gas Phase Catalysis
Authors: König Michaela , Rigo Massimo , Chaoui Nicolas , Tran Ngoc Trung , Epping Jan Dirk , Schmidt Johannes , Pachfule Pradip , Ye Meng‐Yang , Trunk Matthias , Teichert Johannes F. , Drieß Matthias , Thomas Arne
Published: July 2020

An iridium dihydride pincer complex [IrH2(POCOP)] is immobilized in a hydroxy‐functionalized microporous polymer network using the concepts of surface organometallic chemistry. The introduction of this novel, truly innocent support with remote OH‐groups enables the formation of isolated active metal sites embedded in a chemically robust and highly inert environment. The catalyst maintained high porosity and without prior activation exhibited efficacy in the gas phase hydrogenation of ethene and propene at room temperature and low pressure. The catalyst can be recycled for at least four times.
Exerting Spatial Control During Nanoparticle Occlusion within Calcite Crystals
Authors: Ning Yin , Han Yide , Han Lijuan , Derry Matthew J. , Armes Steven P.
Published: July 2020

In principle, nanoparticle occlusion within crystals provides a straightforward and efficient route to make new nanocomposite materials. However, developing a deeper understanding of the design rules underpinning this strategy is highly desirable. In particular, controlling the spatial distribution of the guest nanoparticles within the host crystalline matrix remains a formidable challenge. Herein, we show that the surface chemistry of the guest nanoparticles and the [Ca2+] concentration play critical roles in determining the precise spatial location of the nanoparticles within calcite crystals. Moreover, in situ studies provide important mechanistic insights regarding surface‐confined nanoparticle occlusion. Overall, this study not only provides useful guidelines for efficient nanoparticle occlusion, but also enables the rational design of patterned calcite crystals using model anionic block copolymer vesicles.
A Divergent Enantioselective Total Synthesis of Post‐Iboga Indole Alkaloids
Authors: Zhou Jie , Tan Dong‐Xing , Han Fu‐She
Published: July 2020

Divergent enantioselective total syntheses of five naturally occurring post‐iboga indole alkaloids, dippinine B and C, 10,11‐demethoxychippiine, 3‐O‐methyl‐10,11‐demethoxychippiine, and 3‐hydroxy‐3,4‐secocoronaridine, as well as the two analogues 11‐demethoxydippinine A and D, are presented for the first time. The enantioenriched aza[3.3.1]‐bridged cycle, a common core intermediate to the target molecules, was constructed through an asymmetric phase‐transfer‐catalyzed Michael/aldol cascade reaction. The challenging azepane ring fused around the indole ring and the [3.3.1]‐bridged cycle were installed through an intramolecular SN2′‐type reaction. These cyclization strategies enabled rapid construction of the [6.5.6.6.7]‐pentacyclic core at an early stage. Highlights of the late‐stage synthetic steps include a Pd‐catalyzed Stille coupling and a highly stereoselective catalyst‐controlled hydrogenation to incorporate the side chain at C20 with both R and S configurations in the natural products.
Challenges in monitoring mobile populations: Applying bayesian multi‐site mark–recapture abundance estimation to the monitoring of a highly mobile coastal population of bottlenose dolphins
Authors: Nykänen Milaja , Oudejans Machiel G. , Rogan Emer , Durban John W. , Ingram Simon N.
Published: July 2020

Monitoring the abundance of mobile and wide‐ranging cetacean populations for conservation management is challenging, especially when the management is focused on static protected areas. Where abundance estimates are derived from mark–recapture data, such as photo‐identification of naturally marked individuals, unpredictable movements of animals in and out of the survey area can reduce ‘capture’ probabilities and affect the precision and accuracy of resulting estimates.

A Bayesian hierarchical log–linear model was applied to photo‐identification data collected in summer 2014 to derive a multi‐site abundance estimate for a population of bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, ranging widely throughout the coastal waters of western Ireland. In addition, the effects of varying levels of sampling effort on the minimum detectable decrease in population size were examined.

The abundance (median) of dolphins was estimated as 189 (coefficient of variation (standard deviation/mean), 0.11; 95% highest‐posterior density interval, 162–232). Over 50% of the well‐marked dolphins encountered throughout the study were sighted in more than one distinct coastal area, thus displaying high mobility. In addition, it was found that it would require biennial surveys to detect a 25% decline in abundance within the six‐year reporting period of the EU’s Habitats Directive.

Given that the Special Area of Conservation designated for these dolphins consists of two separate areas covering a substantial portion of the west coast of Ireland, the multisite approach is appropriate for monitoring this population. It produces a more precise estimate and is well suited for sparse recapture data collected opportunistically at multiple sites, when the lack of resources prevents large‐scale surveys or when concentrating surveys on smaller localized areas fails to capture the broad range and unpredictable occurrence of the animals. The Bayesian multi‐site approach could be applied to the management of other wide‐ranging marine or terrestrial taxa.
Introduction to a special issue on kidney development and disease
Authors: Sutherland Megan R.
Published: July 2020

Enriching our understanding of the anatomy of the kidneys, in development, health, and disease, has been the primary focus of Professor John Bertram's distinguished research career to date. Among other notable achievements, his landmark analyses of nephron number in over 400 human kidneys (the Monash Series), and his refinement of stereological techniques for renal structural analyses, have proven him an international leader in renal anatomy research. In this Special Issue, we (some of John's collaborators, colleagues, and former students) celebrate John's career with a series of 20 review and original research articles relevant to his expertise: (a) renal anatomy, physiology, and pathology, (b) kidney development, podocyte biology, and applications of renal stem cells, (c) renal developmental programming, and (d) contemporary methodologies in renal research; his accomplishments as a Head (Chair) of an Anatomy Department are also illustrated. We hope that this collection will serve as both an important resource, and a source of inspiration, to renal anatomy researchers and educators alike.
Recent Advances in the Preparation and Applications of Organo‐functionalized Porous Materials
Authors: Yadav Rekha , Baskaran Thangaraj , Kaiprathu Anjali , Ahmed Maqsood , Bhosale Sheshanath V. , Joseph Stalin , Al‐Muhtaseb Ala'a H. , Singh Gurwinder , Sakthivel Ayyamperumal , Vinu Ajayan
Published: July 2020

Organo‐functionalized materials with porous structure offer unique adsorption, catalytic and sensing properties. These unique properties make them available for various applications, including catalysis, CO2 capture and utilization, and drug delivery. The properties and the performance of these unique materials can be altered with suitable modifications on their surface. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the preparation and applications of organo‐functionalized porous materials with different structures. Initially, a brief historical overview of functionalized porous materials is presented, and the subsequent sections discuss the recent developments and applications of various functional porous materials. In particular, the focus is given on the various methods used for the preparation of organo‐functionalized materials and their important roles in the heterogenization of homogeneous catalysts. A special emphasis is also given on the applications of these functionalized porous materials for catalysis, CO2 capture and drug delivery.
Sol–Gel‐based Fluorescent Sensor for Measuring pH Values in Acidic Environments
Authors: Min Jae Young , Kim Hyung Jin
Published: July 2020

This article describes the fabrication and pH sensing characteristics of a sol–gel‐derived fluorescent sensor film. A fluorescent pH sensor film operating in an acidic solution was prepared by synthesizing a fluorescent dye having triethoxysilyl pendant group (DPMS) and covalently immobilizing DPMS on a sol–gel porous film. The sensor film shows maximum absorption near 374 nm and a maximum emission near 564 nm when irradiated with ultraviolet light at 374 nm. Both the fluorescence intensity and the absorbance of the sensor film increased with increasing pH. In particular, the fluorescence intensity of the sensor film increased 2.1 times in the pH range of 0.3– 6.5. The sensor film is reproducible, reversible, and stable even after repeated measurements in acidic solution, and it has a long life of more than 1 month without dye leaching.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of (Cl2Ph)Salen‐based Indium Complexes
Authors: Woo Won Hee , Lee Seok Ho , Kwak Sang Woo , Kim Min , Lee Kang Mun , Park Myung Hwan , Kim Youngjo
Published: July 2020

Herein, to elucidate the effect of substituent electronic properties on the photophysical properties of indium‐based organometallic luminophores, we prepare a series of indium complexes (1–5) with salen ligands bridged by an electron‐withdrawing 4,5‐dichlorophenylene (Cl2Ph) unit. The structures of all the complexes are fully confirmed by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy as well as elemental analysis. In particular, the molecular structure of 3, confirmed by X‐ray crystallography, is monomeric and the central indium atom adopts a square‐pyramidal geometry. The UV/Vis and fluorescence spectra of 1–5 show typically salen‐centered intramolecular charge transfer transitions with gradual bathochromic shifts as the electron‐donating ability of the substituents increases. This feature is further supported by electrochimical studies. Furthermore, the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy levels of 1–5 are considerably lower (approximately −3.70 eV) than those of salen‐based indium complexes with other aryl‐bridging units owing to the reduced electron‐donating effect of the (Cl2Ph)salen group.
Functional analysis of mesencephalic astrocyte‐derived neurotrophic factor in retinal ganglion cells under oxidative stress
Authors: Ko Ji‐Ae , Komatsu Kaori , Okumichi Hideaki , Kiuchi Yoshiaki
Published: July 2020

Glaucoma is optic neuropathy that is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration of the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and axons. This condition will lead to visual impairment and bring glaucoma to become the second cause of blindness globally. Neuroprotection in glaucoma is needed to prevent the progression of optic neuropathy. In this study, we examined the effects of the superior colliculus (SC), and mesencephalic astrocyte‐derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) secreted from the SC, on RGC survival after oxidative stress. SC slices and RGCs from rats (3‐day old) were co‐cultured using a 3D‐transwell system. In addition, primary RGCs from 4 to 5‐day‐old rats were cultured and treated with 100 μM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), together with stimulation by MANF. Immunoblot and immunofluorescence analyses indicated down‐regulated expression levels of several survival markers of RGCs. Extension of neurites was decreased in RGCs treated with 100 μM H2O2. Following co‐culture with SC slices, or the addition of MANF, we found that both the down‐regulated expression of neural markers and extension of neurites caused by oxidative stress in RGCs were blocked. Furthermore, we found a decrease in the expression of neural markers and extension of neurites after co‐culture with MANF siRNA‐treated SC slices compared with slices treated with mock siRNA, but, RGCs co‐cultured with SC slices treated with MANF siRNA displayed no‐changed about to apoptosis. These results suggest that MANF secreted from the SC may play an important role in maintenance of function and survival of RGCs. It is also possible that MANF is an important factor in neuroprotection of RGCs.

Significance of the Study

Glaucoma is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) and their axons. Neuroprotection is aimed at protecting those neurons that are damaged glaucomatous optic neuropathy. We have now examined the effects of superior colliculus, or msencephalic astrocyte‐derived neutrophic factor (MANF), secreted from superior colliculus, on RGC survival using co‐culture system. Our results suggested that MANF may important key factor in neuroprotection of RGC.
Minisci C−H Alkylation of Heteroarenes Enabled by Dual Photoredox/Bromide Catalysis in Micellar Solutions**
Authors: Santos Marilia S. , Cybularczyk‐Cecotka Martyna , König Burkhard , Giedyk Maciej
Published: July 2020

Aromatic heterocycles are omnipresent structural motifs in various natural products, pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. This work describes a photocatalytic Minisci‐type C−H functionalization of heteroarenes with non‐activated alkyl bromides. The reaction avoids stoichiometric radical‐promoters, oxidants, or acids, and is conducted using blue LEDs as the light source. The reactive carbon‐centered alkyl radicals are generated by merging the photoredox approach with bromide anion co‐catalysis and spatial pre‐aggregation of reacting species in the micellar aqueous solutions. The obtained data highlight the critical importance of microstructuring and organization of the components in the reaction mixture.
Altering Charges on Heterobimetallic Transition‐Metal Carbonyl Clusters
Authors: Unkrig Wiebke , Kloiber Konstantin , Butschke Burkhard , Kratzert Daniel , Krossing Ingo
Published: July 2020

The homoleptic group 5 carbonylates [M(CO)6]− (M=Nb, Ta) serve as ligands in carbonyl‐terminated heterobimetallic AgmMn clusters containing 3 to 11 metal atoms. Based on our serendipitous [Ag6{Nb(CO)6}4]2+ (4 a2+) precedent, we established access to such AgmMn clusters of the composition [Agm{M(CO)6}n]x (M=Nb, Ta; m=1, 2, 6; n=2, 3, 4, 5; x=1−, 1+, 2+). Salts of those molecular cluster ions were synthesized by the reaction of [NEt4][M(CO)6] and Ag[Al(ORF)4] (RF=C(CF3)3) in the correct stoichiometry in 1,2,3,4‐tetrafluorobenzene at −35 °C. The solid‐state structures were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction methods and, owing to the thermal instability of the clusters, a limited scope of spectroscopic methods. In addition, DFT‐based AIM calculations were performed to provide an understanding of the bonding within these clusters. Apparently, the clusters 3+ (m=6, n=5) and 42+ (m=6, n=4) are superatom complexes with trigonal‐prismatic or octahedral Ag6 superatom cores. The [M(CO)6]− ions then bind through three CO units as tridentate chelate ligands to the superatom core, giving overall structures related to tetrahedral AX4 (42+) or trigonal bipyramidal AX5 molecules (3+).
Greatly Enhanced Electrocatalytic N2 Reduction over V2O3/C by P Doping
Authors: Cheng Xin , Wang Jianwei , Xiong Wei , Wang Ting , Wu Tongwei , Lu Siyu , Chen Guang , Gao Shuyan , Shi Xifeng , Jiang Zhenju , Niu Xiaobin , Sun Xuping
Published: July 2020

As a carbon‐neutral alternative technology to the Haber−Bosch process, electrochemical N2 reduction enables eco‐friendly NH3 synthesis under ambient conditions but requires electrocatalysts to drive the N2 reduction reaction (NRR). Here, P doping is proposed as a valid strategy to greatly increase the NRR activity of the V2O3/C shuttle‐like nanostructure. In 0.1 M Na2SO4, the NH3 yield of original V2O3/C is 12.6 μg h−1 mg−1cat. and a Faraday efficiency (FE) of 6.06% at −0.45 V and −0.25 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), respectively. P‐doped V2O3/C (P−V2O3/C), with a mass ratio of P of 6.05%, is capable of achieving a large NH3 yield of 22.4 μg h−1 mg−1cat. at −0.35 V vs. RHE, and a high FE of 13.78% at −0.25 V vs. RHE. It also shows high electrochemical durability and outstanding selectivity for NH3 formation. Combined with density functional theory calculations, the catalytic mechanism was further explored.
Research on kick motion before Sanda based on 3D wireless sensor network image
Authors: Huang Lu , Song Jeho , Lin Xuejiao , Du Yachao , Yang Sidi
Published: July 2020

The biomechanical analysis of the pushing kick in the conventional free combat was aimed at the crowds with different ages and different types of skeletal muscles. The analysis precision was low. Therefore, this article put forward the biomechanical analysis of push‐kick of free combat based on 3D image. Three‐dimensional image technique and Hill equation were used to construct the biomechanical model of muscles of free‐combat athletes and describe the leg mechanics in the kicking process. Pattern system provides an up‐to‐date and authoritative fuzzy model, which is an intelligent recognition algorithm. Then, the image analysis was used to build the motion model of knee joint, so as to determine the dynamic equation of knee joint of pushing kick. Based on the above model, the characteristics such as the strike force of push kick, the peak characteristic of leg joint angular velocity and the joint torque were analyzed to achieve the biomechanical analysis of the pushing kick in free combat. Experimental data show that combined the proposed biomechanical analysis method with the traditional analysis method, the precision has improved by 47.69%. Meanwhile, it is suitable for the biomechanics analysis of different free combat crowds.
Quantitative Imaging of B1 Cyclin Expression Across the Cell Cycle Using Green Fluorescent Protein Tagging and Epifluorescence
Authors: Karuna Arnica , Masia Francesco , Chappell Sally , Errington Rachel , Hartley Andrew M. , Jones Darran Dafydd , Borri Paola , Langbein Wolfgang
Published: July 2020

In this article, we report the number of cyclin B1 proteins tagged with enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) in fixed U‐2 OS cells across the cell cycle. We use a quantitative analysis of epifluorescence to determine the number of eGFP molecules in a nondestructive way, and integrated over the cell we find 104 to 105 molecules. Based on the measured number of eGFP tagged cyclin B1 proteins, knowledge of cyclin B1 dynamics through the cell cycle, and the cell morphology, we identify the stages of cells in the cell cycle. © 2020 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Psychological and nutritional correlates of objectively assessed physical activity in patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Grosser Julia , Hofmann Tobias , Stengel Andreas , Zeeck Almut , Winter Sibylle , Correll Christoph U. , Haas Verena
Published: July 2020

Background

Physical activity (PA) plays a role in the course of anorexia nervosa (AN).

Objective

To assess the association between PA, nutritional status and psychological parameters in patients with AN.

Method

Using a wearable activity monitor, PA was assessed in 60 female AN inpatients, by step count and time spent in 4 metabolic equivalent (MET)‐intensity levels: sedentary behaviour, light, moderate and vigorous PA. In addition, BMI, psychological (patient‐reported outcome questionnaires) and nutritional parameters (body fat, energy and macronutrient intake) were assessed.

Results

The study population spent little time in vigorous PA. BMI on admission and discharge was higher when more time was spent in sedentary behaviour, and lower with more time spent in light PA. Relationships between PA and patient‐reported outcomes were weak and limited to an association between vigorous PA and compulsiveness. Low fat mass was associated with more time spent in light PA, while subjects with higher step counts showed less intake of energy, carbohydrates and fat.

Conclusion

The relationship between inadequate food intake and increased PA in patients with AN requires further investigation.
Total titratable acidity and organic acids of wines produced from cactus pear (Opuntia‐ficus‐indica) fruit and Lantana camara (L. Camara) fruit blended fermentation process employed response surface optimization
Authors: Tsegay Zenebe Tadesse
Published: July 2020

Fruits and fermentation methods are important sources of organic acids that determine organoleptic properties, microbiological and biochemical stability of fruit wines. This study is aimed at investigating total titrable acidity and organic acids of fruit wines produced by response surface optimization of cactus pear and Lantana camara fruits blend and cactus pear fruit alone. The predictive mathematical model of the blended fruit wine is well fitted (R2 = 0.9618 and absolute average deviation (AAD) = 2.06%). The optimum values of fermentation temperature, inoculum concentration, and Lantana camara fruitjuice concentration to produce predictive total titrable acidity of 0.8% (w/v citric acid) were 24°C, 10% (v/v), and 10.7% (v/v), respectively. The blended fruit wine was with lower total titrable acidity (w/v citric acid) of 0.83 ± 0.058% compared to wine produced from cactus pear fruit alone 1.06 ± 0.27%. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of both produced wines revealed the difference in concentration of citric (±3.35 mg/ml), L‐tartaric (± 3.71 mg/ml), and L‐ascorbic acid (± 0.07 mg/ml). Citric acid was predominant organic acid in both fruit wines, and its content in the cactus pear is 7.09 ± 0.07 mg/ml and blended fruit wine 4.74 ± 0.07 mg/ml.
Radiation and Hall effects on a 3D flow of MHD Williamson fluid over a stretchable surface
Authors: Ramamoorthy Meenakumari , Pallavarapu Lakshminarayana
Published: July 2020

Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) three‐dimensional flow of an unsteady Williamson fluid on an enlarging surface with Hall current, radiation, heat source/sink, and chemical reaction is investigated in this article. The basic governing equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations by using an appropriate similarity transformation. The system is deciphered using the shooting method. The properties of influential parameters such as parameters of magnetic field, Hall current, radiation, and so forth, on the flow are discussed with the help of graphs and tables. We noticed that the increase in the magnetic field reduces the velocity in x‐direction and the rate of heat and mass transfer. We also acknowledged that the growing values of Hall current parameter boost the velocity in z‐direction but it reduce the temperature and concentration distributions, respectively. The results of this study represent many applications in biomedical engineering and these results are helpful for further study of non‐Newtonian fluids in various circumstances.
Thermophysical properties of fly ash–Cu hybrid nanofluid for heat transfer applications
Authors: Kanti Praveen , Sharma K. V. , Revanasiddappa M. , Ramachandra C. G. , Akilu Suleiman
Published: July 2020

The effect of temperature and concentration on the thermophysical properties of fly ash–copper (80% fly ash and 20% Cu by volume) water‐based stable hybrid nanofluid is studied. The experiments are conducted for the volume concentration range of 0 to 0.5% in the temperature range of 30 to 60°C. The nanoparticles have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering to determine an average nanoparticle diameter of 15 nm. The stability of nanofluid in the presence of surfactant Triton X‐100 is examined with the help of zeta potential. The maximum enhancement in thermal conductivity and viscosity is 19% and 22%, respectively. The outcome of the present study showed that density, thermal conductivity, and viscosity of the hybrid nanofluid increased, whereas specific heat decreased with an increase in the nanofluid concentration. In addition, the specific heat and thermal conductivity increase, there is a decrease in density and viscosity of the hybrid nanofluid with an increase in temperature.
Negative life events and nonsuicidal self‐injury in prisoners: The mediating role of hopelessness and moderating role of belief in a just world
Authors: Gu Honglei , Lu Yujie , Cheng Yufang
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The rate of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) among prisoners is higher than that in the general population. However, less is known about correlates and risk factors during imprisonment. Based on Dear's model of NSSI in prison, our study tested the mediation effect of hopelessness and the moderation effect of belief in a just world in the association between negative life events and NSSI.

Methods

A total of 1,042 Chinese male prisoners completed questionnaires concerning negative life events, hopelessness, and belief in a just world. Their NSSI was assessed in structured interviews.

Results

The results showed that negative life events were positively associated with prisoners' hopelessness, which in turn was positively associated with their NSSI. Belief in a just world weakened the mediation effect.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the need to consider environmental and personal factors simultaneously when evaluating risks associated with prisoners' NSSI, and they have important implications for prevention and intervention.
Measuring objective knowledge of potable recycled water
Authors: Mahmoud‐Elhaj Dana , Tanner Braden , Sabatini David , Feltz Adam
Published: July 2020

Reliable clean drinking water is becoming increasingly scarce. One potential additional source of drinking water is recycled water. However, public acceptance of potable recycled drinking water is low. One likely factor involved in the acceptance of recycled drinking water is objective knowledge about recycled water. In three studies (N = 229,  590, and 200), we developed a 34‐item measure of objective knowledge of recycled drinking water. The objective knowledge measure was often a strong and unique predictor of intentions to accept and use recycled drinking water compared to other prominent factors including disgust and subjective knowledge of recycled water. Measuring knowledge of recycled drinking water holds the potential to estimate how and whether educational interventions aimed at increasing acceptance of recycled drinking water programs work.
A ratio scale for social distance
Authors: Safin Vasiliy , Rachlin Howard
Published: July 2020

Choosing a larger–later reward over a smaller–sooner reward may be thought of as altruism toward one's future self. A question that arises in this connection is: What is the relation between delay and social discounting? To begin to answer this question, social and delay discount functions need to be comparable. Delay is ordinarily measured on a ratio scale (time), which allows for meaningful division and addition. Social distance is ordinarily measured on an ordinal scale (rank order of social closeness). To convert social distance to a ratio scale we use a psychophysical distance function obtained via magnitude estimation (Stevens, 1956). The distance functions obtained are well described by a power function (median exponent = 1.9); we show how they may be used to rescale ordinal to ratio social discount functions.
Speleothem and glacier records of latest Pleistocene–early Holocene climate change in the western North American interior
Authors: Quirk Brendon J. , Mackey Glen N. , Fernandez Diego P. , Armstrong Andy , Moore Jeffrey R.
Published: July 2020

Rapid and high‐magnitude North Atlantic climate oscillations following the Last Glacial Maximum have been correlated to climate change events in western North America. However, the strength of teleconnections between the North Atlantic and the interior of western North America remains poorly understood. We present a U‐series calibrated speleothem record from Timpanogos Cave National Monument, located at 2040 m asl in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, spanning 13.5–10.6 ka. Additionally, we carried out a climate reconstruction for a coeval glacier advance in the Wind River Range of Wyoming. Our results indicate that between 13.5 and 12.8 ka, the Wasatch was probably first cool and dry and then warmed. After 12.8 ka, our record suggests cool and/or wetter conditions followed by reduced moisture until 11.8 ka, followed by an early Holocene wet period. The Timpanogos record exhibits few similarities with those from the North Atlantic. Climate reconstructions of the Titcomb Basin glacier suggest modest temperature depressions relative to modern (<−3 °C) were necessary to sustain the glacier with a moderate increase in precipitation (>150%). The high‐altitude speleothem record presented here provides a valuable basis for understanding latest Pleistocene–early Holocene glacial episodes in western North America.
Coastal carbon cycle changes following mangrove loss
Authors: Sippo James Z. , Sanders Christian J. , Santos Isaac R. , Jeffrey Luke C. , Call Mitchell , Harada Yota , Maguire Kylie , Brown Dylan , Conrad Stephen R. , Maher Damien T.
Published: July 2020

Global mangrove loss is occurring from deforestation and extreme climatic events, but changes to the coastal carbon cycle following mangrove mortality and/or loss are not well understood. In 2015/2016, a massive climate‐driven mangrove dieback event occurred over ~ 1000 km of Australian coastline. To assess carbon loss following mortality, carbon fluxes in adjacent living and dead forest areas were compared 8 and 20 months postforest dieback. Dead areas experienced an increase in soil CO2 efflux by ~ 189%, and a decrease in oceanic dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) outwelling of ~ 50% relative to living areas. DIC outwelling (predominantly carbonate alkalinity) and soil CO2 efflux accounted for 81% and 16% of losses from the living forest, in comparison to 51% and 47%, respectively, from the dead forest. The dieback drove a shift from a dominance of oceanic carbon outwelling to increased atmospheric CO2 emissions and decreased alkalinity exports. This shift was likely driven by increased oxygen sediment permeation and the loss of mangrove net primary productivity. Combining our new observations with literature data, we found a logarithmic relationship between soil carbon loss and time since mangrove loss. Using this relationship, we estimate ongoing global carbon losses from historical mangrove deforestation and dieback could be 13.7 ± 9.4 Tg C yr−1, which is eightfold higher than previous estimates and offsets global mangrove carbon burial by ~ 60%. Even if no future deforestation occurred, we estimate ongoing carbon losses to the atmosphere and ocean from current global mangrove losses of 27 Tg C over the next 30 yr.
pH‐Controlled Hierarchical Assembly/Disassembly of Multicompartment Micelles in Water
Authors: Nghiem Tai‐Lam , Chakroun Ramzi , Janoszka Nicole , Chen Chen , Klein Kai , Wong Chin Ken , Gröschel André H.
Published: July 2020

Multicompartment micelles (MCMs) have become attractive drug delivery systems as they allow the separate storage of two or more incompatible cargos in their core compartments (e.g., drugs and dyes for imaging). A recent hierarchical self‐assembly process for hydrophobic terpolymers in organic solvents showed the ability to form very homogeneous MCM populations, yet the transfer of this process into water requires a better understanding of the formation mechanism and influence of chain mobility during assembly. Here, the synthesis of a linear poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate)‐block‐poly(benzyl acrylate)‐block‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (POEGMA‐b‐PBzA‐b‐P4VP) triblock terpolymer by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization is reported as well as its step‐wise assembly into MCMs in water with POEGMA corona, PBzA patches, and P4VP core. Reversible assembly/disassembly of the MCMs is investigated through protonation/deprotonation of the P4VP core. Interestingly, the low glass transition temperature (Tg) of the hydrophobic PBzA middle block causes MCMs to directly disassemble into molecularly dissolved chains instead of patchy micelles due to mechanical stress from electrosteric repulsion of the protonated P4VP corona chains. In addition, pH resistant MCMs are created by core‐crosslinking and fluorescent properties are added by covalent anchoring of fluorescent dyes via straightforward click chemistry.
Technical Note: Plan‐delivery‐time constrained inverse optimization method with minimum‐MU‐per‐energy‐layer (MMPEL) for efficient pencil beam scanning proton therapy
Authors: Gao Hao , Clasie Benjamin , McDonald Mark , Langen Katja M. , Liu Tian , Lin Yuting
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This work aims to reduce dose delivery time of pencil beam scanning (PBS) proton plans, which is the dominant factor of total plan delivery time. A proton PBS system, such as Varian ProBeam proton therapy system, can be equipped with the proton dose rate that is linearly proportional to the minimum monitor unit (MU) (i.e., number of protons) of PBS spots before saturation. Thus dose delivery time can be potentially reduced by increasing the MU threshold. However, commercially available treatment planning systems and current methods only allow for a single MU threshold globally for all PBS spots (i.e., all energy layers), and consequently the room to increase this minimum‐MU for reducing dose delivery time is very limited since higher minimum‐MU can greatly degrade treatment plan quality.

Methods

Two major innovations of this work are the proposal of using variable MU thresholds locally adaptive to each energy layer, that is, minimum‐MU‐per‐energy‐layer (MMPEL), for reducing dose delivery time, and the joint optimization of plan delivery time and plan quality. Minimum‐MU‐per‐energy‐layer is formulated as a constrained optimization problem with objectives of dose‐volume‐histogram based planning constraints and plan delivery time, and minimum‐MU constraints per energy layer for deliverable PBS spots. Minimum‐MU‐per‐energy‐layer is solved by iterative convex relaxations via alternating direction method of multipliers.

Results

Representative prostate, lung, brain, head‐and‐neck, breast, liver and pancreas cases were used to validate MMPEL. Minimum‐MU‐per‐energy‐layer reduced dose delivery time to 53%, 67%, 67%, 53%, 54%, 32%, and 14% respectively while maintaining a similar plan quality. Accepting a slightly degraded plan quality that still met all physician planning constraints, the treatment time could be further reduced to 26%, 35%, 41%, 34%, 32%, 16%, and 11% respectively, or in another word MMPEL accelerated the PBS plan delivery by 2–10 fold.

Conclusions

A new proton PBS treatment planning method MMPEL with variable energy‐adaptive MU thresholds is developed to optimize dose delivery time jointly with plan quality. The preliminary results suggest that MMPEL could substantially reduce dose delivery time.
Processing‐structure‐property relationships of biopolyester/zinc oxide fibrous scaffolds engineered by centrifugal spinning
Authors: Padilla‐Gainza Victoria , Rodríguez‐Tobías Heriberto , Morales Graciela , Ledezma‐Pérez Antonio , Alvarado‐Canché Carmen , Rodríguez Cristóbal , Gilkerson Robert , Lozano Karen
Published: July 2020

This study addresses the processing of nonwoven fibrous materials obtained by centrifugal spinning method, namely Forcespinning; a high yield and low production cost technique little explored in this field. Poly(D, L‐lactic acid) (PDLLA) and poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) were used as matrices and reinforced with zinc oxide nanoparticles (n‐ZnO). The morphology, mechanical, and thermal performance of the developed composites were analyzed as well as the antibacterial effect of n‐ZnO. Fibrous materials with n‐ZnO concentrations of 1, 3, and 5 wt. % for PDLLA and 1 and 3 wt. % for PHB were evaluated. The results showed that the incorporation of n‐ZnO produces an increase in the viscosity of the precursor solutions for both polymeric systems, which caused an increase in the average fiber diameter, though the morphology was not affected, obtaining mostly long, continuous, and homogenous fibers. In addition, a decrease in thermal stability was observed to a greater extent in PDLLA systems. Regarding the mechanical performance, optimal properties were obtained at a concentration of 3 and 1 wt. % of n‐ZnO for PDLLA and PHB, respectively. Antibacterial studies showed that PHB with 1 and 3 wt. % of n‐ZnO effectively combat strains of E. coli and S. aureus, presenting 100% of strain growth inhibition. In the case of PDLLA, a higher n‐ZnO concentration (5 wt. %) was required to reach a strain growth inhibition above 97%. Finally, cell viability tests demonstrated that the designed fibrous mats support cell proliferation, indicating their potential for use as scaffolds in bone tissue regeneration.
Overexpression of chitinase‐3‐like protein 1 is associated with structural recurrence in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Cheng Shih‐Ping , Lee Jie‐Jen , Chang Yuan‐Ching , Lin Chi‐Hsin , Li Ying‐Syuan , Liu Chien‐Liang
Published: July 2020

We previously identified that the expression of chitinase‐3‐like protein 1 (CHI3L1) was upregulated during thyroid cancer progression. Here, we investigated the prognostic significance of CHI3L1 expression in thyroid neoplasms and examined the potential oncogenic roles. CHI3L1 immunochemical staining was performed on tissue microarrays of benign and malignant thyroid tumours. Compared with normal thyroid tissue and benign thyroid lesions that had low or no detectable CHI3L1 expression, CHI3L1 was overexpressed in both differentiated and undifferentiated thyroid cancer. High CHI3L1 expression was associated with extrathyroidal extension, lymph node metastasis, and shorter recurrence‐free survival in differentiated thyroid cancer. The biological roles of CHI3L1 were further investigated by gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays. CHI3L1 silencing suppressed clonogenicity, migration, invasion, anoikis resistance, and angiogenesis in thyroid cancer cells, although exogenous CHI3L1 treatment promoted these malignant phenotypes. Cysteine‐rich angiogenic inducer 61 (CYR61) was identified as a downstream target of CHI3L1 by RNA‐seq analysis. CYR61 silencing or treatment reversed the alterations induced by CHI3L1 modulation. Our results demonstrate that CHI3L1 is overexpressed in thyroid cancer and is associated with an increased risk of disease recurrence. Additionally, CYR61 may participate in CHI3L1‐mediated tumour progression. © 2020 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nutritional traditional and complementary medicine strategies in pediatric cancer: A narrative review
Authors: Diorio Caroline , Kelly Kara M. , Afungchwi Glenn M. , Ladas Elena J. , Marjerrison Stacey
Published: July 2020

Traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) strategies are commonly used by pediatric cancer patients. Nutritional approaches to T&CM include bioactive compounds, supplements, and herbs as well as dietary approaches. Pediatric cancer patients and their families commonly request and use nutritional T&CM strategies. We review the potential risks and benefits of nutritional T&CM use in pediatric cancer care and provide an overview of some commonly used and requested supplements, including probiotics, antioxidants, cannabinoids, vitamins, turmeric, mistletoe, Carica papaya, and others. We also discuss the role of specific diets such as the ketogenic diet, caloric restriction diets, whole‐food diets, and immune modulating diets. There is a growing body of evidence to support the use of some T&CM agents for the supportive care of children with cancer. However, further study is needed into these agents and approaches. Open communication with families about T&CM use is critical.
Disparities in the use of antineoplastic immunotherapy in pediatric malignant adrenal tumors
Authors: Shoag Jamie M. , Podda Antonello , Kobetz Erin N.
Published: July 2020

Dinutuximab is a costly life‐prolonging immunotherapy for high‐risk neuroblastoma. We used a large pediatric inpatient database to analyze the use of antineoplastic immunotherapy in patients with malignant adrenal tumors 1 year after Food and Drug Administration approval of dinutuximab for high‐risk neuroblastoma. On multivariate modeling, children of Black race (odds ratio [OR] 0.62, P = .04; referent non‐Black) and the lowest ZIP code income quartile (OR 0.74, P = .03; referent wealthier 3 quartiles) were significantly less like to receive antineoplastic immunotherapy. These results suggest substantial disparities in the distribution of a vital therapy in children with advanced cancer.
Enhancing electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness for radiation vulcanized natural rubber latex composites containing multiwalled carbon nanotubes and silk textile
Authors: Moonlek Budsaraphorn , Wimolmala Ekachai , Markpin Teerasak , Sombatsompop Narongrit , Saenboonruang Kiadtisak
Published: July 2020

This work investigated the electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE), electrical conductivity (σ), and mechanical properties of radiation vulcanized natural rubber latex (RVNRL) with varying amounts of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) and silk textiles for use as flexible EMI shielding materials. The results indicated that 14‐kGy gamma irradiation on NRL successfully initiated crosslinking between NR chains. The results also indicated the increases in MWCNT content increased σ, EMI SE, and hardness, but decreased tensile strength and elongation at break of the composites. Furthermore, silk textile inserted in MWCNT/RVNRL composites could further enhance both σ and EMI SE, while maintaining the strength of the materials at higher MWCNT contents, which previously tended to decrease with increasing MWCNTs. Specifically, the maximum EMI SE in this work was obtained by using 6‐phr MWCNT content and the insertion of silk textile in RVNRL composites (~8 [19] dB for a 2‐mm [8‐mm] thickness at 300 MHz).
CP‐Verletzung bei Neutrinos
Authors: Hamacher‐Baumann Philip , Radermacher Thomas , Roth Stefan , Steinmann Jochen
Published: July 2020

Warum haben sich Materie und Antimaterie nach dem Urknall nicht vollständig vernichtet? Warum gibt es etwas in der Welt und nicht nichts? Um dieses Rätsel zu lösen, wird seit langem nach einem Prozess gesucht, in dem die Symmetrie zwischen Materie und Antimaterie verletzt ist. Dies könnte erklären, warum im Urknall etwas mehr Materie als Antimaterie entstanden ist. Aktuelle Messdaten des T2K‐Experiments in Japan deuten nun an, dass die gesuchte Symmetrieverletzung im System der Neutrinos und Antineutrinos zu finden sein könnte.