bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can biofuel policies reduce uncertainty and increase agricultural yields through stimulating investments?
Authors: Szabó Zoltán
Published: April 2019

As history shows, the yield gap (the difference between actual and achievable yields) will not necessarily close automatically. Investments in agricultural technologies may be key. Price volatility is fundamental to investment. Price volatility has increased in agriculture in the past decade, leading to higher risks for potential investments. Some of these increased risks may be offset by the certainty offered by credible policies. The US experience indicates that ethanol policy may contribute to yield increases. Analysis suggests that corn use by ethanol plants in the USA may explain a significant part of the observed yield increase. A theoretical framework, centered on downside price‐stabilization effects, is offered here, supported by some US, EU, and Hungarian empirical evidence. The research presented explores whether new ethanol plants resulting from effective biofuel policies could serve as a market mechanism to stimulate investments in farming technologies, triggering increased productivity. A survey of local stakeholders of an ethanol plant in Hungary, the only large‐scale biofuel investment triggered in Europe by the EU's flagship bioenergy policy (the Renewable Energy Directive) suggests that relevant investments may have been stimulated. Over half of the respondent farmers said that the presence of the ethanol plant had stimulated investments in productivity. It is proposed that ethanol or biofuel policies may be effective in closing the yield gap, in effect resulting in additional biomass production and advancing the bioeconomy. With effective cross‐sectoral policies, more biomass for food, feed, bio‐based materials and / or bioenergy purposes can be produced. © 2019 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Durchstanzen von punktgestützten Deckenplatten
Authors: Farwig Kristina , Curbach Manfred
Published: April 2019

Durch die im Bauwesen dringend notwendige Ressourceneinsparung müssen für die Tragwerksplanung neue Bauweisen erforscht werden, die es ermöglichen, den hohen Materialverbrauch zu reduzieren. Dem Ansatz form follows force folgend wurden für den Stützbereich von durchlaufenden Flachdecken ohne Durchstanzbewehrung unterschiedliche Decken‐Stützen‐Anschlüsse entworfen, mittels physikalisch nichtlinearer Finite‐Elemente‐Berechnungen im Rahmen einer Variantenstudie optimiert und durch Traglastversuche überprüft. Dabei wurde an hoch beanspruchten Stellen Material hinzugefügt und an weniger beanspruchten Stellen entfernt. Unter Beibehaltung eines konstanten Volumens erfolgte ein Vergleich der Traglasten.
Morphology‐Tuned Activity of Ru/Nb2O5 Catalysts for Ketone Reductive Amination
Authors: Guo Wanjun , Tong Tao , Liu Xiaohui , Guo Yong , Wang Yanqin
Published: April 2019

Amines are important compounds in natural products and medicines. Specifically, cyclopentylamine is one of the value‐added chemicals widely used in the production of pesticides, cosmetics and medicines. In this work, three Ru/Nb2O5 catalysts with different Nb2O5 morphologies were used in the reductive amination of cyclopentanone under mild reaction conditions (90 °C, 2 MPa H2), among which 1 %Ru/Nb2O5−L catalyst exhibits best performance with the yield of cyclopentylamine reaching 84 %. This catalytic system is stable and has not significant deactivation even after 5 runs in the durability test. In addition, this catalyst can be extended to a series of aldehydes/ketones. Further comprehensive characterizations (XPS analysis and CO‐adsorption DRIFT) reveal that the electronic effect of Ru species can be ruled out; instead, the activity of the catalyst is strongly influenced by the geometric effect. Layered Nb2O5 material possesses the highest surface area, resulting in the highest Ru dispersion, and therefore shows the highest catalytic activity. The in‐situ DRIFT‐MS technique was also used to reveal and understand the reaction mechanism. It is found that Ru species play a key role in activating carbonyl groups. This study illustrates a promising application of Ru/Nb2O5‐Layer catalyst in the synthesis of amine and provides an understanding to the reaction mechanism.
Simulative Approach for Linking Electrode and Electrolyte Properties to Supercapacitor Performance
Authors: Krois Konrad , Hüfner Lucas , Gläsel Jan , Etzold Bastian J. M.
Published: April 2019

Supercapacitors as energy storage devices show distinct advantages like high power density and high cycle stability. While in current applications, mainly the high power density is leveraged, future non‐mobile storage devices could also benefit from the robustness and materials employed, while lower charging/discharging time constants are acceptable. In this study, a simulative approach is employed to investigate the complex interplay of mass transfer, electric losses, double layer capacitance for different electrode thicknesses, electrode and electrolyte conductivities as well as charging/discharging time constants. Within the simulation cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic cycling as also electrochemical impedance spectroscopy experiment could be realized, showing the dependency of achievable maximum capacitance and voltage efficiency on various properties.
Research on Alzheimer's Disease – an interdisciplinary learning concept
Authors: Rößler Tina , Alia‐Matysik Alia , Heimann Rebekka
Published: April 2019

Im Rahmen dieses Beitrags wird eine Unterrichtseinheit zum Thema Alzheimerkrankheit (AD) vorgestellt, die in der Stufe 10 des Gymnasiums erprobt wurde. Außer der Vernetzung von biologischen und chemischen Inhalten soll ein Einblick in aktuelle Forschung ermöglicht werden. In vielen Phasen sind die Schülerinnen und Schüler selbstständig tätig.
CaCoxZr1−xO3−δ Perovskites as Oxygen‐Selective Sorbents for Air Separation
Authors: Zheng Qinghe , Lail Marty , Zhou Shaojun , Chung Ching‐Chang
Published: April 2019

ABO3−δ perovskites are ideal for high‐temperature thermochemical air separation for oxygen production because their oxygen nonstoichiometry δ can be varied in response to changes in temperature and oxygen partial pressure [
]. Herein, the outstanding oxygen‐sorption performance of CaCoxZr1−xO3−δ perovskites and their potential application as oxygen‐selective sorbents for air separation is reported. In situ thermal X‐ray diffraction was used to study the materials’ structural changes in response to temperature variations in air and inert atmosphere. Temperature‐programmed reduction was employed to elucidate the relationship between perovskite composition and redox property. O2 sorption performance was evaluated by isothermal analyses at various temperature and
along with long‐term absorption–desorption cycle tests. The high oxygen‐sorption capacity was mainly attributed to Co at B‐site, whereas partial substitution of Co by Zr enhanced the structural crystallinity and thermal stability of the perovskite. A stable oxygen production of 2.87 wt % was observed at 900 °C during 5 min‐sorption cycles for 100 cycles.
Uncovering mechanisms of bird seed dispersal in semiarid environments to help to restore them
Authors: Martínez‐López V. , Zapata V. , De la Rúa P. , Robledano F.
Published: April 2019

Mediterranean semiarid areas are suffering a growing process of agricultural abandonment that represents a challenge for restoration. Limited seed arrival, drought, and scarce suitable microhabitats in oldfields make plant colonization difficult. Restoration through ecological succession can take advantage of increased seed dispersal through animal vectors, but precise knowledge of the factors involved (e.g., seed disperser behavior, rate of effective recruitment of dispersed seeds, and effectiveness of the applied restoration structures) is critical. Otherwise, efforts to foster the processes of interest may be misdirected. We propose and test a methodological approach based on the combination of ecological (bird censuses and camera trapping) and genetic tools (DNA barcoding), to assess seed dispersal of fleshy‐fruited shrub species by birds toward oldfields in one of the driest areas of southeastern Spain. We assisted natural restoration with artificial bird attractors (perches and water troughs) in two abandoned areas with different ages. Furthermore, we provided microenvironments (rocks) and prevented herbivory (by fencing) to enhance plant recruitment. Results revealed strong differences among assessment techniques in the characterization of dispersal interactions. While bird censuses only informed about frugivores occurrence, camera trapping and barcoding enabled the quantification of species responses. Attractors proved to be effective in triggering a quantifiable seed arrival, but no subsequent plant establishment occurred. We highlight the importance of implementing different techniques to characterize and assess avian seed disperser performance. Water provision increased seed arrival, but our design failed to enhance plant recruitment. The next logical step in the restoration of Mediterranean oldfields is the optimization of conditions for seed germination and successful plant establishment.
[FeFe]‐Hydrogenase Mimic Employing κ2‐C,N‐Pyridine Bridgehead Catalyzes Proton Reduction at Mild Overpotential
Authors: Schippers Esther C. F. , Nurttila Sandra S. , Oudsen Jean‐Pierre H. , Tromp Moniek , Dzik Wojciech I. , van der Vlugt Jarl Ivar , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: April 2019

Two novel κ2‐C,N‐pyridine bridged [FeFe]‐H2ase mimics (1 and 2) have been prepared and are shown to function as efficient molecular catalysts for electrocatalytic proton reduction. The elemental and structural composition of the complexes are confirmed by NMR and IR spectroscopy, high‐resolution mass spectrometry and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Electrochemical investigations reveal that the complexes reduce protons at their first reduction potential, resulting in the lowest overpotential (120 mV) ever reported for [FeFe]‐H2ase mimics in proton reduction catalysis when mild acid (phenol) is used as proton source.
Energy capacity and seismic performance of RC waffle‐flat plate structures under two components of far‐field ground motions: Shake table tests
Authors: Benavent‐Climent Amadeo , Galé‐Lamuela David , Donaire‐Avila Jesús
Published: April 2019

The bidirectional response of a portion of a reinforced concrete (RC) waffle‐flat plate (WFP) structure subjected to far‐field ground motions is studied through shake table tests. The test specimen is a scaled portion of a prototype structure designed under current building codes and located in a region of moderate seismicity of the Mediterranean area. The specimen was subjected to a sequence of tests of increasing acceleration amplitude that respectively represented very frequent, frequent, design, and very rare earthquakes at the site. The test structure performed well (basically in the elastic domain) under very frequent and frequent earthquakes, approached the boundary between the performance levels of life safety and near collapse under the design earthquake, and collapsed under the very rare earthquake. Damage concentrated at column bases and at the transverse beams of the exterior plate‐to‐column connection. Columns dissipated about 10% of the total energy that contributes to damage, and the rest was dissipated by the exterior plate‐column connection. The total energy input on the structure until collapse under the bidirectional seismic action was very close to the value obtained in previous studies on a similar specimen tested under unidirectional ground motions. The capacity curve estimated from the experimental base shear vs top displacement relationship suggests it is best to use a behavior factor of at most q = 2 when designing WFP structures with the reduced‐spectrum force‐based approach.
Microplastic–Contaminant Interactions: Influence of Nonlinearity and Coupled Mass Transfer
Authors: Seidensticker Sven , Zarfl Christiane , Cirpka Olaf Arie , Grathwohl Peter
Published: April 2019

Microplastic particles are ubiquitously detected in the environment. Despite intensive public and scientific discussions, their potential to transport contaminants in rivers and oceans under environmental conditions is still under assessment. In the present study we measured sorption isotherms and kinetics in batch experiments using phenanthrene (as a typical hydrophobic wastewater contaminant) and microplastic particles of different sizes and materials. We observed a linear sorption isotherm for polyethylene, in contrast to nonlinear sorption of polyamide and polystyrene, which could be best described by the Freundlich and the Polanyi–Dubinin–Manes isotherms, respectively. We modeled sorption kinetics as a combination of external mass transfer governed by diffusion through an aqueous boundary layer and intraparticle diffusion within the plastic. Which of these processes controls the kinetics depends on the sorption strength, particle size, diffusion coefficients, and time. We used semi-analytical and numerical methods to simulate the coupled mass transfer for both linear and nonlinear sorption. We successfully applied the semi-analytical model to polyethylene and the numerical code to polyamide and polystyrene, reproducing the measured kinetics and obtaining reasonable values for mass transfer and intraparticle diffusion coefficients. Subsequently, we used these coefficients to estimate the transport potential and relevant time scales for microplastic-bound contaminants under environmental conditions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:1635–1644. © 2019 SETAC

Abstract

Time scales for 50% desorption under different conditions.
Insulin Resistance Exacerbates Genetic Predisposition to Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Individuals Without Diabetes
Authors: Barata Llilda , Feitosa Mary F. , Bielak Lawrence F. , Halligan Brian , Baldridge Abigail S. , Guo Xiuqing , Yerges‐Armstrong Laura M. , Smith Albert V. , Yao Jie , Palmer Nicholette D. , VanWagner Lisa B. , Carr J. Jeffrey , Chen Yii‐Der I. , Allison Matthew , Budoff Matthew J. , Handelman Samuel K. , Kardia Sharon L.R. , Mosley Thomas H. , Ryan Kathleen , Harris Tamara B. , Launer Lenore J. , Gudnason Vilmundur , Rotter Jerome I. , Fornage Myriam , Rasmussen‐Torvik Laura J. , Borecki Ingrid B. , O’Connell Jeffrey R. , Peyser Patricia A. , Speliotes Elizabeth K. , Province Michael A.
Published: April 2019

The accumulation of excess fat in the liver (hepatic steatosis) in the absence of heavy alcohol consumption causes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which has become a global epidemic. Identifying metabolic risk factors that interact with the genetic risk of NAFLD is important for reducing disease burden. We tested whether serum glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, triglyceride (TG), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, body mass index (BMI), and waist‐to‐hip ratio adjusted for BMI interact with genetic variants in or near the patatin‐like phospholipase domain containing 3 (PNPLA3) gene, the glucokinase regulatory protein (GCKR) gene, the neurocan/transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (NCAN/TM6SF2) gene, and the lysophospholipase‐like 1 (LYPLAL1) gene to exacerbate hepatic steatosis, estimated by liver attenuation. We performed association analyses in 10 population‐based cohorts separately and then meta‐analyzed results in up to 14,751 individuals (11,870 of European ancestry and 2,881 of African ancestry). We found that PNPLA3‐rs738409 significantly interacted with insulin, insulin resistance, BMI, glucose, and TG to increase hepatic steatosis in nondiabetic individuals carrying the G allele. Additionally, GCKR‐rs780094 significantly interacted with insulin, insulin resistance, and TG. Conditional analyses using the two largest European ancestry cohorts in the study showed that insulin levels accounted for most of the interaction of PNPLA3‐rs738409 with BMI, glucose, and TG in nondiabetic individuals. Insulin, PNPLA3‐rs738409, and their interaction accounted for at least 8% of the variance in hepatic steatosis in these two cohorts. Conclusion: Insulin resistance, either directly or through the resultant elevated insulin levels, more than other metabolic traits, appears to amplify the PNPLA3‐rs738409‐G genetic risk for hepatic steatosis. Improving insulin resistance in nondiabetic individuals carrying PNPLA3‐rs738409‐G may preferentially decrease hepatic steatosis.
Research Impact on Emerging Quantum Materials for Electrochromic Applications
Authors: Koo Bon‐Ryul , Ahn Hyo‐Jin
Published: April 2019

Electrochromic devices (ECDs), which can dynamically vary optical properties under applied specific voltage, have been actively studied for use in applications requiring human comfort and energy efficiency (i. e. smart windows and electronic displays). In order to improve the electrochromic (EC) performances, many researchers have been using nanomaterials. In this respect, in the present study, we highlight some of valuable examples using WO3 from unique nanostructures to quantum dots (QDs) and discuss the core relationship between nanostructuring and EC performances. In particular, the present study proposes major impact on the novel approach using QDs to upgrade technical value and application of ECDs.
Annexin A3 depletion overcomes resistance to oxaliplatin in colorectal cancer via the MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Xu Ruisi , Yin Jian , Zhang Ying , Zhang Siqi
Published: April 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common disease with high mortality and morbidity. Annexin A3 (ANXA3) belongs to the structurally homologous family of Ca2+ and phospholipid‐binding proteins. This study aimed to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of ANXA3 on oxaliplatin (Ox) resistance in CRC. We generated two human CRC cell lines (HCT116/Ox and SW480/Ox) with acquired Ox resistance and determined their resistance properties. ANXA3 expression and cell apoptosis, migration and invasion also were evaluated. We found that cell viability of HCT116/Ox and SW480/Ox was higher than that in parental cells in the presence of Ox. ANXA3 was highly expressed in HCT116/Ox and SW480/Ox cells. ANXA3 downregulation diminished cell survival, migration and invasion, while increased the apoptosis of HCT116 and SW480 with or without Ox. Moreover, depletion of ANXA3 reduced cell viability and BrdU incorporation, increased cell apoptosis and c‐caspase 3 expression in HCT116/Ox with or without Ox. A transwell assay determined that knockdown of ANXA3 impeded the migration and invasion of HCT116/Ox and SW480/Ox cells. Additionally, phosphorylation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) decreased upon ANXA3 depletion in HCT116/Ox cells, and ANXA3 silencing suppressed Ox‐induced activation of ERK and JNK signaling pathway. ANXA3 downregulation reduced Ox resistance in CRC, and treatment with the ERK inhibitor PD098059 or JNK inhibitor SP600125 contributed to this process. These results indicate that silencing ANXA3 could overcome Ox resistance in CRC via the mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway.
Potential of stem cell‐derived exosomes to regenerate β islets through Pdx‐1 dependent mechanism in a rat model of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Mahdipour Elahe , Salmasi Zahra , Sabeti Nona
Published: April 2019

Type 1 diabetes, has been recognized as an autoimmune disease. Like other immunological conditions, regulation of immune response is a key strategy to control the autoimmunity in diabetic patients. Mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to have a distinct potential in modulating the immune reactions. However, treatment with stem cells is combined with concerns about safety issues. To overcome these concerns, in this study, we have utilized the regenerative potential of exosomes isolated from menstrual blood‐derived mesenchymal stem cells to restore the β‐cell mass and insulin production in type 1 diabetes. Exosomes are nanovesicles containing various cargos involved in cellular communications. Streptozotocin was used to induce islet destruction and diabetes in male Wistar rats. Then, exosomes were intravenously injected into animals at different time points and in a single or repeated therapeutic doses. After about 6 weeks, animals were euthanized and the pancreas was analyzed for the presence of the regenerated β islets as well as the insulin secretion. The non‐fasting blood glucose and the serum insulin level were also monitored during the study. Our results represented that menstrual blood‐derived mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes enhance the β‐cell mass and insulin production in the pancreas of diabetic animals that received repeated doses of exosomes. Immunohistochemistry analysis also confirmed the presence of insulin in the islets of treated animals. Further investigations proposed that exosomes induce the islet regeneration through pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 pathway. The exosome tracking also revealed the homing of injected exosomes to the pancreas.
The impairment in the NLRP3-induced NO secretion renders astrocytes highly permissive to T. cruzi replication
Authors: Pacheco Aline L , Vicentini Gabriella , Matteucci Kely C , Ribeiro Rafaela Rosa , Weinlich Ricardo , Bortoluci Karina R
Published: April 2019

Trypanossoma cruzi (T. cruzi), the causative protozoan of Chagas disease (CD) invades many cell types, including central nervous system (CNS) cells triggering local lesions and neurological impact. Previous work from our group described NLRP3 inflammasomes as central effectors for the parasite control by macrophages. Recent evidences demonstrate that NLRP3 can be activated in CNS cells with controversial consequences to the control of infections and inflammatory pathologies. However, the relative contribution of NLRP3 in different cell types remains to be elucidated. In this article, we described an effector response mediated by NLRP3 that works on microglia but not on astrocytes to control T. cruzi infection. Despite T. cruzi ability to invade astrocytes and microglia, astrocytes were clearly more permissive to parasite replication. Moreover, the absence of NLRP3 renders microglia but not astrocytes more permissive to T. cruzi replication. In fact, microglia but not astrocytes were able to secrete NLRP3-dependent IL-1β and NO in response to T. cruzi. Importantly, the pharmacological inhibition of iNOS with aminoguanidine resulted in a significant increase in the numbers of amastigotes found in microglia from wild-type but not from NLRP3−/− mice, indicating the importance of NLRP3-mediated NO secretion to the infection control by these cells. Taken together, our findings revealed that T. cruzi differentially activates NLRP3 inflammasomes in astrocytes and microglia and established a role for these platforms in the control of a protozoan infection by glial cells from CNS.
Structural stabilization of soil backfill with quicklime
Authors: Zimmermann Iris , Filser Stefan , Mordhorst Anneka , Fleige Heiner , Horn Rainer
Published: April 2019

The application of quicklime (CaO) to soil backfill for the amelioration of poorly aerated grave soils (sandy loam) was tested in a cemetery in Germany. Two grave simulations (soil pits 9 m × 2 m × 1.6 m, l × w × d) were set up. Variation sans was only excavated and refilled, while in variation qlm, 20 kg quicklime per m3 soil were added to the backfill. Soil matric potential and gas composition were recorded over a period of 24 months in the two refilled pits and in the surrounding undisturbed soil (ref) at the 50 cm and 135 cm depths, respectively. Soil samples were taken in the beginning from ref and in three‐month intervals from the treatments sans and qlm. Soil pH and CaCO3 content, as well as bulk density (ρB), air capacity (AC), air conductivity (kl), and saturated hydraulic conductivity (ks) were measured. Excavation and backfill of the untreated soil (sans) led to an increase in ρB at the 50 and 90 cm depths and decreases in AC, kl, and ks when compared to ref. Quicklime application led to an increase in pH, the formation of CaCO3 in the formerly carbonate‐free soil, consistently reduced ρB, and increased AC, kl and ks. Although the quicklime application did not lead to notably more negative matric potentials, it increased the O2 concentration in the soil air and reduced the CO2 concentration to zero. The results show that the application of quicklime helps the structural amelioration of cemetery soils even at relatively low clay contents.
Seasonal and diel variation in greenhouse gas emissions from an urban pond and its major drivers
Authors: van Bergen Tamara J. H. M. , Barros Nathan , Mendonça Raquel , Aben Ralf C. H. , Althuizen Inge H. J. , Huszar Vera , Lamers Leon P. M. , Lürling Miquel , Roland Fábio , Kosten Sarian
Published: April 2019

Small water systems are important hotspots of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, but estimates are poorly constrained as data are scarce. Small ponds are often constructed in urban areas, where they receive large amounts of nutrients and therefore tend to be highly productive. Here, we investigated GHG emissions, seasonal and diel variation, and net ecosystem production (NEP) from an urban pond. In monthly 24‐h field campaigns during 11 months, diffusive water–atmosphere methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes and CH4 ebullition and oxidation were quantified. With oxygen (O2) measurements, NEP was assessed. The pond was a net GHG source the entire year, with an emission of 3.4 kg CO2 eq m−2 yr−1. The dominant GHG emission pathway was CH4 ebullition (bubble flux, 50%), followed by diffusive emissions of CO2 (38%) and CH4 (12%). Sediment CH4 release was primarily driven by temperature and especially ebullition increased exponentially above a temperature threshold of 15°C. The pond's atmospheric CO2 exchange was not related to NEP or temperature but likely to a high allochthonous carbon (C) input via runoff and anaerobic mineralization of C. We expect urban ponds to show a large increase in GHG emission with increasing temperature, which should be considered carefully when constructing ponds in urban areas. Emissions may partly be counteracted by pond management focusing on a reduction of nutrient and organic matter input.
Surface‐Independent and Oriented Immobilization of Antibody via One‐Step Polydopamine/Protein G Coating: Application to Influenza Virus Immunoassay
Authors: Moon Jeong , Byun Jihyun , Kim Hongki , Jeong Jinyoung , Lim Eun‐Kyung , Jung Juyeon , Cho Soojeong , Cho Woo Kyung , Kang Taejoon
Published: April 2019

For the construction of high‐performance biosensor, it is important to interface bioreceptors with the sensor surface densely and in the optimal orientation. Herein, a simple surface modification method that can optimally immobilize antibodies onto various kinds of surfaces is reported. For the surface modification, a mixture of polydopamine (PDA) and protein G was employed. PDA is a representative mussel‐inspired polymer, and protein G is an immunoglobulin‐binding protein that enables an antibody to have an optimal orientation. The surface characteristics of PDA/Protein G mixture‐coated substrates are analyzed and the PDA/protein G ratio is optimized to maximize the antibody binding efficiency. Moreover, the antibody‐immobilized substrates are applied to the detection of influenza viruses with the naked eye, providing a detection limit of 2.9 × 103pfu mL‐1. Importantly, the several substrates (glass, SiO2, Si, Al2O3, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene, and paper) can be modified by simple incubation with the mixture of PDA/protein G, and then the anti‐influenza A H1N1 antibodies can be immobilized on the substrates successfully. Regardless of the substrate, the influenza viruses are detectable after the sandwich immunoreaction and silver enhancement procedure. It is anticipated that the developed PDA/protein G coating method will extend the range of applicable materials for biosensing.
Numerical solution of multiterm variable‐order fractional differential equations via shifted Legendre polynomials
Authors: El‐Sayed Adel A. , Agarwal Praveen
Published: April 2019

In this paper, shifted Legendre polynomials will be used for constructing the numerical solution for a class of multiterm variable‐order fractional differential equations. In the proposed method, the shifted Legendre operational matrix of the fractional variable‐order derivatives will be investigated. The fundamental problem is reduced to an algebraic system of equations using the constructed matrix and the collocation technique, which can be solved numerically. The error estimate of the proposed method is investigated. Some numerical examples are presented to prove the applicability, generality, and accuracy of the suggested method.
EPR spectroscopy of multicomponent, multispin molecular system obtained by the photolysis of 2,4,6‐triazido‐3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridine in solid argon
Authors: Chapyshev Sergei V. , Korchagin Denis V. , Grote Dirk , Sander Wolfram
Published: April 2019

Complex multicomponent, multispin molecular system, consisting of a septet trinitrene, two quintet dinitrenes, and three triplet mononitrenes, was obtained by the photolysis of 2,4,6‐triazido‐3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridine in solid argon. To identify these paramagnetic products, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy in combination with line‐shape spectral simulations and density functional theory calculations was used. The products of the photolysis was found to be triplet 2,4‐diazido‐3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridyl‐6‐nitrene (DT = 1.000 cm−1, ET = 0), triplet 2,4‐diazido‐3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridyl‐2‐nitrene (DT = 1.043 cm−1, ET = 0), triplet 2,6‐diazido‐3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridyl‐4‐nitrene (DT = 1.128 cm−1, ET = 0 cm−1), quintet 4‐azido‐3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridyl‐2,6‐dinitrene (DQ = 0.211 cm−1, EQ = 0.0532 cm−1), quintet 2‐azido‐3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridyl‐4,6‐dinitrene (DQ = 0.208 cm−1, EQ = 0.0386 cm−1), and septet 3‐cyano‐5‐fluoropyridyl‐2,4,6‐trinitrene (DS = −0.1017 cm−1, ES = −0.0042 cm−1) in a 38:4:7:22:14:4 ratio, respectively.
Feasibility and outcomes: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a home‐based integrated physical exercise and bladder‐training program vs usual care for community‐dwelling older women with urinary incontinence
Authors: Chu Christine M. , Schmitz Kathryn H. , Khanijow Kavita , Stambakio Hanna , Newman Diane K. , Arya Lily A. , Andy Uduak U.
Published: April 2019

Aims

To assess the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial of a home‐based integrated physical exercise and bladder‐training program vs usual care in community‐dwelling women with urinary incontinence (UI).

Methods

We conducted a parallel arm, nonblinded, pilot randomized controlled trial of a home‐based integrated physical exercise and bladder training with urge suppression and fall prevention program (ExerciseUP) vs usual care in women aged 65 and older with UI. Outcomes included feasibility (process, resources, management, and acceptability), urinary symptoms, and falls risk using self‐administered questionnaires. Objective physical activity was measured using accelerometry.

Results

A total of 37 of 38 (97%) eligible women were willing to participate in the study. In the ExerciseUP intervention cohort, 17 of 19 (89%) women completed all 6 weeks of intervention and follow‐up, and 16 of 18 (89%) women in the usual group completed follow‐up. Ten (53%) women in the ExerciseUP group achieved at least 70% adherence to exercise prescription. The improvement in UI severity scores from baseline was greater in the ExerciseUP intervention group than the usual care group (− 6.2 ± 5.8 vs − 2.4 ± 4.2, P = 0.04). Fall‐risk score decreased (improved) in both groups. There were no significant between‐group differences in change in physical activity or sedentary behavior.

Conclusions

We determined that it would be feasible to conduct a home‐based exercise intervention in older women with UI. Our clinical outcomes were modestly favorable for the ExerciseUP intervention group.
Individual Differences in Behavioral Responses to Palatable Food or to Cholecystokinin Predict Subsequent Diet‐Induced Obesity
Authors: Wald Hallie S. , Grill Harvey J.
Published: April 2019

Objective

This study investigated whether individual differences in behavioral responses to palatable food and to the satiation signal cholecystokinin (CCK) in outbred chow‐maintained Sprague‐Dawley rats enabled prediction of individual differences in weight gained after subsequent high‐fat/high‐sugar diet (HFHSD) maintenance.

Methods

Meal size, meal number, and early dark cycle intake during initial HFHSD exposure were measured, as were early dark cycle sucrose solution and chow intake, chow meal size and meal number, the intake‐suppressive effects of 0.5‐µg/kg CCK injection, and CCK‐induced c‐Fos activation in the nucleus tractus solitarius. Subsequently, rats were maintained on an HFHSD for 5 weeks, and weight gain was determined.

Results

Rats that took larger and less frequent meals on the first day of HFHSD exposure, whose early dark cycle intake (HFHSD and sucrose) was larger during initial HFHSD exposure, gained more weight after HFHSD maintenance. Rats with lesser sucrose intake suppression in response to CCK gained more weight after HFHSD maintenance and displayed reduced CCK‐induced c‐Fos activation in the nucleus tractus solitarius.

Conclusions

Together, these data identify individual differences in behavioral responses to palatable food and to CCK as novel predictors of diet‐induced obesity.
Evaluating the Effects of Universal Place‐Based Scholarships on Student Outcomes: The Buffalo “Say Yes to Education” Program
Authors: Bifulco Robert , Rubenstein Ross , Sohn Hosung
Published: April 2019

A growing number of cities and states have been providing large tuition subsidies for residents through initiatives often called “place‐based” or “Promise” scholarship programs. We examine the effects of a prominent last‐dollar, place‐based scholarship program, Say Yes to Education in Buffalo, NY, on college matriculation and persistence. Employing a difference‐in‐differences strategy comparing changes across cohorts of students eligible and ineligible for large college scholarships, we find that scholarship eligibility is associated with an increase of 20 percent in the likelihood of matriculating into college within one year of graduation, and an increase in the likelihood of persistence into a second year of college of nearly 16 percent. Increases in matriculation are largely at four‐year institutions, where most of the additional funding from Say Yes is concentrated, exclusively at in‐state institutions, both public and private, and are largest at colleges with more selective admission rates. Finally, we see the largest increases in matriculation and persistence among students who attend high schools in the middle third of the poverty distribution. These results suggest that the additional aid provided by Say Yes plays an important role in increasing college matriculation and encouraging students to attend more selective schools.
Termination of pregnancy for fetal anomalies: Parents' preferences for psychosocial care
Authors: Dekkers Frederike H.W. , Go Attie T.J.I. , Stapersma Luuk , Eggink Alex J. , Utens Elisabeth M.W.J.
Published: April 2019

Objective

To investigate, from the perspective of women and partners, at what stage of a termination of pregnancy (TOP) for fetal anomalies psychosocial care (PSC) is most meaningful, what topics should be discussed, and who should provide PSC.

Method

A cross‐sectional retrospective cohort study was conducted with a consecutive series of 76 women and 36 partners, who completed a semi‐structured online questionnaire.

Results

Overall, women expressed a greater need for PSC than their partners. Parents expressed a preference for receiving support from a maternal‐fetal medicine specialist to help them understand the severity and consequences of the anomalies found and to counsel them in their decision regarding termination. Parents showed a preference for support from mental healthcare providers to help with their emotional responses. Forty‐one percent of the women visited a psychosocial professional outside of the hospital after the TOP, indicating a clear need for a well‐organised aftercare.

Conclusion

Different disciplines should work together in a complementary way during the diagnosis, decision making, TOP, and aftercare stages. Parents' need for PSC should be discussed at the beginning of the process. During aftercare, attention should be paid to grief counselling, acknowledgement of the lost baby's existence, and possible future pregnancies.
Impact of heat‐light soaking and heat‐bias soaking on NaF‐treated CIGS thin film solar cells
Authors: Matsuura Junpei , Khatri Ishwor , Lin Tzu‐Ying , Sugiyama Mutsumi , Nakada Tokio
Published: April 2019

The effects of heat‐light soaking (HLS) and heat‐bias soaking (HBS) were investigated on NaF‐treated Cu (In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells. The HLS improved the cell efficiency with increased open‐circuit voltage (VOC) for NaF‐treated CIGS solar cells, whereas the short‐circuit current density (JSC) slightly decreased. The reduced JSC was caused by the significantly high carrier concentration due to the HLS, leading to a fairly narrow space charge region. However, the reduced JSC could be successfully recovered by the subsequent moderate heat soaking (HS) in the dark, thereby improving cell efficiency. On the other hand, no beneficial effect was observed for NaF‐free solar cells. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) measurements revealed that the Na and K ions increased especially near the CIGS surface region after the HLS process. This result suggests that these ions were shifted by the photo‐induced electric field. The thermally and electrically activated alkali ions may eliminate the donor‐like defects in CIGS absorber, resulting in an increased acceptor concentration. Furthermore, we found that an external forward bias without light irradiation (HBS) resulted in the same effect as HLS. Based on these results, a possible mechanism of HLS and HBS effects was proposed on NaF‐treated CIGS solar cells.
Plasma techniques in the production of customized MEMS‐applications
Authors: Bittner Achim , Hochstein David , Rockstroh Jan , Dehnert Jan , Hedrich Frank , Billat Sophie , Dehé Alfons
Published: April 2019

Micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) have found their way into many kinds of applications. Especially sensors are daily used by each of us in products like cars and smartphones. The focus of Hahn‐Schickard is the development and the production of highly specialized MEMS products, ones that especially enable small companies the access to MEMS technology. The portfolio includes specific inertial sensors like gyroscopes for navigation and safety, acceleration sensors for crash‐test dummies, microfluidic devices for biological, and medical applications, and so on. All of these devices are manufactured in the institute's cleanroom in volumes ranging from single devices up to hundreds of thousands of chips. In this article, the multitude of application scenarios will be demonstrated by way of diverse MEMS components.
Differential expression of androgen receptor variants in hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer xenografts, castration‐resistant sublines, and patient specimens according to the treatment sequence
Authors: Honda Mariko , Kimura Takahiro , Kamata Yuko , Tashiro Kojiro , Kimura Shoji , Koike Yusuke , Sato Shun , Yorozu Takashi , Furusato Bungo , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Kiyota Hiroshi , Egawa Shin
Published: April 2019

Background

Androgen receptor variants (AR‐vs), especially AR‐v7 and AR‐v 5, 6, and 7 exon‐skipped (AR‐v567es), are reportedly key players in the development of castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). We previously established a mouse xenograft model (JDCaP) from a metastatic skin lesion from a Japanese patient with CRPC and that was revealed to exhibit androgen sensitivity. In the present study, we established multiple castration‐resistant xenograft models from JDCaP mice to investigate the biological features of CRPC.

Methods

Tissue from JDCaP mice was transplanted into male and female nude mice, and after serial passaging, castration‐resistant sublines (JDCaP‐CR2M and JDCaP‐CR4M in male mice, JDCaP‐CR2F and JDCaP‐CR4F in female mice) were established. We investigated anti‐androgen and testosterone sensitivity and the messenger RNA expression pattern of full‐length AR and AR‐vs. In addition, we compared AR protein levels of patient specimens among primary, local‐recurrent, and two skin‐metastatic tumors.

Results

All JDCaP‐CR sublines showed continuous growth following the administration of bicalutamide, although the effects of testosterone varied among sublines. Parental JDCaP and JDCaP‐CR2M, JDCaP‐CR4M, and JDCaP‐CR4F sublines expressed AR‐v7, whereas JDCaP‐CR2F exhibited elevated AR‐v567es expression resulting from genomic deletion, which was confirmed by DNA sequencing. Moreover, we confirmed AR‐v7 expression in the tumor of the original patient after androgen‐deprivation therapy.

Conclusions

Each JDCaP‐CR subline showed different AR‐v‐expression patterns, with JDCaP‐CR2F expressing AR‐v567es due to genomic deletion. Our results indicated that AR‐vs emerged after androgen‐deprivation therapy and appeared essential for acquisition of castration resistance.
Opioid use in palliative care: new developments and guidelines
Authors: Bemand‐Qureshi Lucy , Gishen Faye , Tookman Adrian
Published: April 2019

The correct use of opioids is the mainstay of effective management of pain in palliative care. This article describes the available analgesic options, reviews recent evidence and guidelines, and explores patients' and doctors' common concerns about opioid use.
Oriented Attachment of Perovskite Cesium Lead Bromide Nanocrystals
Authors: Bhaumik Saikat
Published: April 2019

All‐inorganic cesium lead halide (CsPbX3; X=Cl, Br, I) perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have been appeared as a promising material for various opto‐electronic applications. These perovskite NCs show high absorption co‐efficient, high photoluminescence quantum yield (upto 90%), narrow photoluminescence full width half maxima, color tunable over entire visible range (400‐700 nm) and more stable compared to bulk counterparts. The photo‐physical properties of these NCs strongly depend on the interaction between the outermost atoms and corresponding surface bound organic passivating ligands. Some capping ligands are loosely connected to the perovskite NCs surface and can separate out very easily in presence of polar solvents. Our experimental observations reveal that in present of polar solvents CsPbBr3 NCs agglomerate among themselves via oriented attachment process and create big crystals by an Ostwald ripening process. While highly concentrated spherical CsPbBr3 NCs purified with excess acetonitrile, most of the NCs tends to attach and fuse together in (110) crystal plane to form micrometer sized nanorods. As far as I know, this is the first report on formation of micrometer sized 1‐D CsPbBr3 nanorods from spherical NCs via oriented attachment process at room temperature.
A Facile Direct Synthesis of 3‐Methyleneisoindolin‐1‐ones by Annulation of Methyl 2‐Acylbenzoates with Amines
Authors: Dai Xing‐Jie , Liu Min , Zhang Jia‐Yan , Xu Xiao‐Ying , Yuan Wei‐Cheng , Zhang Xiao‐Mei
Published: April 2019

A wide variety of 3‐methyleneisoindolin‐1‐ones have been prepared by annulation of methyl 2‐acylbenzoates with amines or ammonium acetate. The reactions proceeded smoothly to afford the desired products in up to quantitative yields.
Sensitive and Selective Electrochemical Resolution of Tyrosine with Ascorbic Acid through the Development of Electropolymerized Alizarin Sodium Sulfonate Modified Carbon Nanotube Paste Electrodes
Authors: Hareesha N. , Manjunatha J. G. , Raril C. , Tigari Girish
Published: April 2019

An approachable and a selective electrocatalytic investigation of tyrosine (TR) with ascorbic acid (AA) in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) was done using a sensitive Poly Alizarin sodium sulfonate modified Carbon nanotube paste electrode (PASSMCNTPE). The morphological and elemental studies on PASSMCNTPE and bare carbon nanotube paste electrode (BCNTPE) were resolute through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). The PASSMCNTPE shows excellent sensitivity, selectivity, stability, repeatability, and reproducibility for the electrochemical characterization of TR through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The prepared sensor provides an elevated current response towards TR as compared to the BCNTPE. A plot of the anodic peak current of TR and the concentration of TR was obtained linearly in the range 1.4×10−4 M to 2×10−4 M with the limit of detection (LOD) 7.8×10−7 M and the limit of quantification (LOQ) 26×10−7 M respectively. The equipped sensor was also helpful for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of TR moiety in a pharmaceutical drug as a real sample.
Building Carbon‐Based Versatile Scaffolds on the Electrode Surface to Boost Capacitive Performance for Fiber Pseudocapacitors
Authors: Liang Jiachen , Li Huifang , Li Huan , Dong Ximan , Zheng Xiaoyu , Tao Ying , Weng Zhe , Huang Zheng‐Hong , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: April 2019

In order to fabricate high performance fiber pseudocapacitors, the trade‐off between high mass loading and high utilization efficiency of pseudocapacitive materials should be carefully addressed. Here, a solution that is to construct a carbon‐based versatile scaffold is reported for loading pseudocapacitive materials on carbonaceous fibers. The scaffold can be easily built by conformally coating commercial pen ink on the fibers without any destruction to the fiber skeleton. Due to the high electrical conductivity and abundant macropore structure, it can provide sufficient loading room and a high ion/electron conductive network for pseudocapacitive materials. Therefore, their loading mass and utilization efficiency can be increased simultaneously, and thus the as‐designed fibrous electrode displays a high areal capacitance of 649 mF cm−2 (or 122 mF cm−1 based on length), which is higher than most of the reported fiber pseudocapacitors. The simple and low‐cost strategy opens up a new way to prepare high performance portable/wearable energy storage devices.
Architecting a portfolio of systems
Authors: Maier Mark W.
Published: April 2019

A “portfolio‐of‐systems” is a collection of systems related by common management and budgeting, and at least some relationship to mission or missions. A portfolio‐of‐systems describes the not uncommon situation where an office is responsible for multiple systems in multiple phases of development but those systems are not related by common design, common manufacturing, or necessarily interconnected operationally. The relationship is fundamentally one of management, although other linkages might be present or designed if such additional linkages are deemed beneficial. The portfolio‐of‐systems concept differs from systems‐of‐systems and product‐line or family‐of‐systems constructs. This paper describes generalizations of architecting techniques for portfolio situations, particularly recognizing the presence of many largely independent components in multiple stages of development with an ongoing or episodic process. The paper presents two case studies of actual portfolios: One a portfolio of operational demonstration systems and the other a portfolio of weather satellites.
Towards experiments with highly charged ions at HESR
Authors: Sánchez Rodolfo , Braeuning‐Demian Angela , Glorius Jan , Hagmann Siegbert , Hillenbrand Pierre‐Michel , Kalinin Anton , Köhler Thomas , Litvinov Yuri A. , Petridis Nikolaos , Sanjari Shahab , Spillmann Uwe , Stöhlker Thomas
Published: April 2019

The atomic physics collaboration SPARC is a part of the APPA pillar at the future Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research. It aims at atomic‐physics research across virtually the full range of atomic matter. An emphasis of this contribution are the atomic physics experiments addressing the collision dynamics in strong electro‐magnetic fields as well as the fundamental interactions between electrons and heavy nuclei at the HESR. Here we give a short overview about the central instruments for SPARC experiments at this storage ring.