bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Separation and determination of tetracycline hydrochloride in real water samples using binary small molecule alcohol‐salt aqueous two‐phase system coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Guo Dong‐gang , Ni Liang , Wang Liang , Shao Li
Published: July 2019

An environmental and sensitive sample pretreatment method was established and combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for the analysis of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) in feed water and lake water. One element small molecule alcohol‐salt aqueous two‐phase system (ATPS) cannot effectively adjust the polarity of the system, but binary small molecule alcohol‐salt ATPS can adjust the polarity and improve the extraction efficiency of antibiotics. In this work, a binary ATPS based on ethanol +2‐propanol + (NH4)2SO4 system was formed and applied to the separation and purification of TC in real water samples. The influence factors on partition behaviors of TC were discussed, including the types and the concentration of phase salts, the volume ratio of alcohol, the pH value, extraction temperature, and the standing time. The response surface methodology was used to determine the best experimental conditions for multi‐factor experiments. Under this optimal condition, the extraction efficiency of TC reached 95.7%. This new method is considered to have significant application in the divorce of antibiotics.
Theoretical Studies on Novel Gridspiroarenes: Structures, Noncovalent Interactions and Reorganization Energies
Authors: Yang Lei , Yin Cheng‐Zhu , Ali Mohamad Akbar , Dong Chao‐Yang , Xie Xin‐Miao , Wu Xiang‐Ping , Mao Jie , Wang Yong‐Xia , Yu Yang , Xie Ling‐Hai , Bian Lin‐Yi , Bao Jian‐Min , Ran Xue‐Qin , Huang Wei
Published: July 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Organic semiconductor materials with low reorganization energy have various applications such as in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), organic field‐effect transistor (OFETs) and organic solar cells (OSCs). In this work, we have designed a new class of gridspiroarenes (GS‐SFX and GS‐SITF) with #‐shaped structures, which have novel crisscross geometrical structures compared to widely used spirocyclic arenes—SFX and SITF. The structure electronic properties, adiabatic ionization potentials (IPa), adiabatic electron affinities (EAa) and reorganization energies (λ) of GS‐SFX and GS‐SITF have been calculated using density functional theory (DFT) method. The calculated HOMO and LUMO spatial distributions suggest that GS‐SFX and GS‐SITF have better transport properties. The noncovalent interaction analysis shows the weak intramolecular interactions between their arms. The results indicate that the reorganization energies of GS‐SFX and GS‐SITF are significantly reduced compared to the dimer structures—DSFX and DSITF. Furthermore, the GS‐SITF1 which is one of the isomers of GS‐SITF exhibits the lowest values for λ(h) (0.067 eV) and λ(e) (0.153 eV). Therefore, we believe the predicted structure, electronic property, and reorganization energy are good indicator for transport materials. This work has systematically studied the effect of gridization, which provides insights to design organic semiconductor materials with excellent charge transport properties.
Formation of Mixed‐Metal Ceria Nanopeapod Composites within Scrolled Hexaniobate Nanosheets
Authors: Rostamzadeh Taha , Adireddy Shiva , Chin Clare Davis‐Wheeler , Abdallah Mahmoud Hani , Wiley John B.
Published: July 2019

Ceria hexaniobate nanopeapods have been prepared and their formation and assembly studied. Various sized ceria nanocubes (5 to 40 nm) were synthesized via a solvothermal approach with oleic acid and oleylamine capping agents. Utilizing a second solvothermal treatment, the nanoparticles were then captured within scrolling hexaniobate nanosheets to produce ceria@hexaniobate nanopeapods. In some instances, peapods were partially filled with ceria so that in a subsequent step, open sites could be filled with Au nanoparticles via in situ growth methods leading to arrangements of gold and ceria NPs within nanoscrolls. Studies on nanoparticle assembly and encapsulation were also carried out. Size‐selective preassembly of nanoparticles on hexaniobate nanosheet surfaces is observed prior to scrolling, after which smaller ceria NPs (ca. ≤ 10 nm) are efficiently captured inside scrolled nanosheets. Improved understanding and control of this behavior is important for further development of more intricate multicomponent particles assemblies and formations within varieties of tubular structures with different morphological and structural features.
Responsible leadership and employee's proenvironmental behavior: The role of organizational commitment, green shared vision, and internal environmental locus of control
Authors: Afsar Bilal , Maqsoom Ahsen , Shahjehan Asad , Afridi Sajjad Ahmad , Nawaz Adnan , Fazliani Hassan
Published: July 2019

This study develops a research model that elaborates the mechanism through which responsible leadership influences employee's proenvironmental behavior. Little is known, however, about the mechanisms through which this type of leadership affects proenvironmental behavior, and the conditions under which any such effects are enhanced or attenuated. The present research sought to fill this gap by examining a dual process model in which organizational commitment and green shared vision served as two explanatory mechanisms in the impact of responsible leadership on employee's proenvironmental behavior. Furthermore, we differentiated these two mechanisms by proposing employee's internal environmental locus of control as a moderator. Based on multilevel data collected from 329 employees and 88 supervisors in Pakistan, green shared vision mediated the effect of responsible leadership on proenvironmental behavior, and this indirect effect was stronger for employees with high internal environmental locus of control. However, the indirect relation between responsible leadership and proenvironmental behavior via organizational commitment did not occur. Results also supported that internal environmental locus of control moderated the indirect effect of responsible leadership on employee's proenvironmental behavior through organizational commitment, such that the indirect effect was significantly positive when internal environmental locus of control was high but nonsignificant when internal environmental locus of control was low. These findings provided valuable contribution to responsible leadership and employee's proenvironmental behavior, by exploring the relationships between them. Practical implications and directions for future research are also discussed.
Context fear learning and renewal of extinguished fear are dissociated in juvenile female rats
Authors: Park Chun Hui J. , Ganella Despina E. , Kim Jee Hyun
Published: July 2019

Extinction is the decrease in emotion to a cue that was previously associated with an emotionally significant event. It involves repeated presentation of the cue without any consequences. In adult animals, extinguished fear to a cue can return if the cue is presented in a different environment/context to where extinction occurred, referred to as renewal. We have previously reported that developing female, but not male, rats show renewal. This study investigates whether the ability of developing female rats to show renewal is related to their ability in fear conditioning to the context. Additionally, facilitation of context conditioning by weaning previously shown in male rats was tested in developing female rats. In experiment 1, postnatal day 25 (P25) and P18 female rats showed renewal. P25 rats show more fear overall, suggesting a weaker extinction recall in this age. Experiment 2 tested context‐ and cue‐elicited fear either immediately or 24 hr following conditioning. At the immediate test, P18 rats showed less context‐fear compared with P25 rats. All rats showed low levels of context‐fear at the 24 hr test. There were no age differences in cued fear. Weaning at P21 did not affect context or cue memory in P25 female rats. These findings suggest that the ability to form contextual fear memory is unrelated to the expression of renewal in juvenile female rats.
Diné kinship as a framework for conserving native tree species in climate change
Authors: Yazzie Jaime O. , Fulé Peter Z. , Kim Yeon‐Su , Sánchez Meador Andrew
Published: July 2019

Climate change affects all ecosystems but despite increasing recognition for the needs to integrate Indigenous knowledge with modern climate science, the epistemological differences between the two make it challenging. In this study, we present how Indigenous belief and knowledge system can frame the application of a modeling tool (Climate‐Forest Vegetation Simulator). We focus on managing forest ecosystem services of the Diné (Navajo) Nation as a case study. Most Diné tribal members depend directly on the land for their livelihoods and cultural traditions. The forest plays a vital role in Diné livelihoods through social, cultural, spiritual, subsistence, and economic factors. We simulated forest dynamics over time under alternative climate change scenarios and management strategies to identify forest management strategies that will maintain future ecosystem services. We initialized the Climate‐Forest Vegetation Simulator model with data from permanent plots and site‐specific growth models under multiple management systems (no‐management, thinning, burning, and assisted migration planting) and different climate scenarios (no‐climate‐change, RCP 4.5, RCP 6.0). Projections of climate change show average losses of basal area by over 65% by 2105, a shift in tree species composition to drier‐adapted species, and a decrease in species diversity. While substantial forest loss was inevitable under the warming climate scenarios, the modeling framework allowed us to evaluate the management treatments, including planting, for conserving multiple tree species in mixed conifer forests, thus providing an anchor for biodiversity. We presented the modeling results and management implications and discuss how they can complement Diné kinship concepts. Our approach is a useful step for framing modern science with Indigenous Knowledge and for developing improved strategies to sustain natural resources and livelihoods.
Eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors among women: Associations with sexual risk
Authors: Fergus Kirkpatrick B. , Copp Hillary L. , Tabler Jennifer L. , Nagata Jason M.
Published: July 2019

Objective

To evaluate the association between eating disorders or disordered eating behaviors and sexual risk in young women.

Method

We used prospective cohort data of young women ages 18–26 years from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (N = 5,899). Exposures of interest (at 18–26 years) included a self‐reported eating disorder diagnosis or disordered eating behaviors including fasting/skipping meals, vomiting, diet pills, or laxative/diuretic use to lose weight and binge eating. Sexual risk outcomes at 7‐year follow‐up included the number of new sexual partners, condom use, and sexually transmitted infections.

Results

Having either an eating disorder or reporting any disordered eating behavior was associated with a greater number of new sexual partners (B = 1.09, 95% CI [0.18, 2.00]) and lower odds of condom use (odds ratio 0.70, 95% CI [0.53, 0.94] among a subsample of sexually active, unmarried women).

Discussion

Young women with eating disorders or who engage in disordered eating behaviors are at higher risk for multiple new sexual partners and unprotected sex. Clinicians caring for young adults with eating disorders may consider screening for sexual risk behaviors.
Laypeople Are Strategic Essentialists, Not Genetic Essentialists
Authors: Condit Celeste M.
Published: July 2019

In the last third of the twentieth century, humanists and social scientists argued that attention to genetics would heighten already‐existing genetic determinism, which in turn would intensify negative social outcomes, especially sexism, racism, ableism, and harshness to criminals. They assumed that laypeople are at risk of becoming genetic essentialists. I will call this the “laypeople are genetic essentialists model.” This model has not accurately predicted psychosocial impacts of findings from genetics research. I will be arguing that the failure of the model can be traced to its inability to recognize the complexity of laypeople’s attitudes; its incorrect theory of how beliefs, attitudes, and discourse function; and its blindness to how academics’ own interests can override the available evidence. More specifically, I suggest that the substantial data about laypeople’s deployment of genetics supports what I will call the “laypeople are strategic essentialists model” better than the “laypeople are genetic essentialists model.” The strategic essentialists model holds that people tend to store multiple categories, including multiple causal forces, that they deploy “strategically” to serve context‐dependent goals. It will be difficult for academics to reorient ourselves to model laypeople as sophisticated strategic essentialists rather than as naïve genetic essentialists. Perhaps a little shift, however, will be of value.
Modulating functional connectivity between medial frontopolar cortex and amygdala by inhibitory and excitatory transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Riedel Philipp , Heil Matthias , Bender Stephan , Dippel Gabriel , Korb Franziska M. , Smolka Michael N. , Marxen Michael
Published: July 2019

The prefrontal‐limbic network in the human brain plays a major role in social cognition, especially cognitive control of emotion. The medial frontopolar cortex (mFP; Brodmann Area 10) and the amygdala are part of this network and display correlated neuronal activity in time, as measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). This functional connectivity is dynamic, sensitive to training, and affected in mental disorders. However, the effects of neurostimulation on functional connectivity within this network have not yet been systematically investigated. Here, we investigate the effects of both low‐ and high‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to the right mFP on functional connectivity between mFP and amygdala, as measured with resting state fMRI (rsfMRI). Three groups of healthy participants received either low‐frequency rTMS (1 Hz; N = 18), sham TMS (1 Hz, subthreshold; N = 18) or high‐frequency rTMS (20 Hz; N = 19). rsfMRI was acquired before and after (separate days). We hypothesized a modulation of functional connectivity in opposite directions compared to sham TMS through adjustment of the stimulation frequency. Groups differed in functional connectivity between mFP and amygdala after stimulation compared to before stimulation (low‐frequency: decrease, high‐frequency: increase). Motion or induced changes in neuronal activity were excluded as confounders. Results show that rTMS is effective for increasing and decreasing functional coherence between prefrontal and limbic regions. This finding is relevant for social and affective neuroscience as well as novel treatment approaches in psychiatry.
Assessing preference for types of social interaction
Authors: Morris Samuel L. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: July 2019

To date, few researchers have evaluated methods for assessing preference for social interactions. Due to concerns that commonly used stimulus preference assessment methods may be inappropriate, or at least cumbersome, for the assessment of social reinforcers, we developed and evaluated a new method of assessing preference for social interactions. A social interaction preference assessment (SIPA) and a concurrent operant reinforcer assessment were conducted with five participants diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. A differentially preferred and reinforcing social interaction was identified for all five participants. The SIPA procedures, results, and the implications of these results are discussed.
A combination of low‐temperature reactive and extractive distillation for methoxy‐2‐propyl acetate synthesis and separation process: simulations and experiments
Authors: Wang Baohe , Cai Xinlei , Lu Liang , Ma Jing
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Esterification of methoxy propanol (MP) and acetic acid (HAC) to methoxy‐2‐propyl acetate (MPA) is a typical reversible reaction. The yield of MPA is low owing to the limitation of chemical equilibrium. In the present study, with the goal of increasing the reaction conversion and preventing the NKC‐9 cation exchange resin catalyst from deactivation at high temperature, a process combining low‐temperature reactive and extractive distillation with cyclohexane (C6H12) as entrainer was investigated by process simulations and experiment methods.

RESULTS

The intrinsic kinetic parameters were obtained by catalyst activity evaluation in a batch reactor. Binary interaction parameters of thermodynamic models were determined by the measurement and fitting of vapor–liquid equilibrium data. The effects of different operating parameters on the reaction conversion and column performance were examined in detail, and a production process of MPA with an annual output of 56 000 tons was suggested. The results showed that the purity of MPA reached nearly 100% after further purification following reactive distillation, and the reaction temperature was controlled in the range 75–80 °C, which allowed long‐term operation thermal stability of the catalyst.

CONCLUSION

The developed low‐temperature reactive distillation method ensured a long life of the ion exchange resin catalyst, which should provide insights into further advances of MPA industrial production. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
A Catalytic Route to Pyrrole Derivatives via Copper‐catalyzed Multicomponent Reaction
Authors: Samzadeh‐Kermani Alireza , Ghasemi Samira
Published: July 2019

A novel approach for the synthesis of pyrrole derivatives has been reported. The reactions starting from terminal alkynes, carbodiimides, and malononitrile using CuI, DBU, and TBPAc in anhydrous MeCN afforded the functionalized pyrroles in acceptable yields. Alkyl‐, aryl‐, and heteroaromatic terminal alkynes were tolerated. Carbodiimides could be symmetrical and unsymmetrical substrates with aryl or alkyl substituents. The reaction exhibited a good regioselectivity when unsymmetrical carbodiimides were employed.
Functional analysis of GALT variants found in classic galactosemia patients using a novel cell‐free translation method
Authors: Canson Daffodil M. , Silao Catherine Lynn T. , Caoili Salvador Eugenio C.
Published: July 2019

Classic galactosemia is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by deleterious variants in the galactose‐1‐phosphate uridylyltransferase (GALT) gene. GALT enzyme deficiency leads to an increase in the levels of galactose and its metabolites in the blood causing neurodevelopmental and other clinical complications in affected individuals. Two GALT variants NM_000155.3:c.347T>C (p.Leu116Pro) and NM_000155.3:c.533T>G (p.Met178Arg) were previously detected in Filipino patients. Here, we determine their functional effects on the GALT enzyme through in silico analysis and a novel experimental approach using a HeLa‐based cell‐free protein expression system. Enzyme activity was not detected for the p.Leu116Pro protein variant, while only 4.5% of wild‐type activity was detected for the p.Met178Arg protein variant. Computational analysis of the variants revealed destabilizing structural effects and suggested protein misfolding as the potential mechanism of enzymological impairment. Biochemical and computational data support the classification of p.Leu116Pro and p.Met178Arg variants as pathogenic. Moreover, the protein expression method developed has utility for future studies of GALT variants.
Cross‐border tourism: Case study of inbound Russian visitor arrivals to China
Authors: Chow Clement Kong Wing , Tsui Wai Hong Kan
Published: July 2019

Cross‐border tourism between Russia and China has increased over the past two decades, but few studies examine this development. This study uses the gravity model to investigate whether the tourism‐related, political, transport infrastructure‐related, and socio‐economic factors influence Russian visitors to China. The findings show that Russian visitors across the border to visit China are attributed to the Chinese prefectural‐level cities' real gross domestic product and export volumes, as well as transport infrastructure to connect Russian visitors to Chinese destinations. A clear knowledge of these factors allow both governments to formulate policies in facilitating visitor flows and more business activities across the border.
Immobilization Threshold and Fish Conductivity of Two Small Fishes
Authors: Lutnesky Marvin M. F. , Cradock Kenwyn R. , Reynolds James B.
Published: July 2019

Power transfer theory (PTT), a useful paradigm in electrofishing, asserts that the threshold power density (Dt, μW/cm3) transferred from water to fish for immobilization is dependent on the conductivity (μS/cm) of the water (σw) and of the fish (σf). Larger differences between the two conductivities require higher applied power densities and may make capture more difficult. Over a range of water conductivities, Dt as a function of σw will form a U-shaped curve, and the minimum provides an estimate of σf and Dm (the lowest value of Dt that occurs when σw and σf are equal). Studies have demonstrated a narrow range of σf (56–160 μS/cm) relative to the conductivity of natural waters (10–5,000 μS/cm). However, these σf values are for larger species. Electrofishing may also be directed at the capture of smaller species or diverse communities. In an experimental tank, we estimated Dm and σf for a small cyprinid, the Red Shiner Cyprinella lutrensis (TL = 35–64 mm) and a smaller poeciliid, the Western Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis (TL = 23–46 mm). We estimated Dm and σf to be 120 μW/cm3 and 23 μS/cm, respectively, for Red Shiners (n = 72) and 143 μW/cm3 and 23 μS/cm, respectively, for Western Mosquitofish (n = 23). These values for σf are less than half the minimum of previously reported values, and our Dm estimates are less than those that have been reported for game species of similar length (200–300 μW/cm3). Our results serve to explain why smaller species require higher applied power densities and are more difficult to capture from an assemblage of various species and sizes.
Uncertainty quantification of offshore anchoring systems in spatially variable soil using sparse polynomial chaos expansions
Authors: Charlton T. S. , Rouainia M.
Published: July 2019

The trend toward deep water energy production has led to a growing use of plate anchors to moor floating production facilities. The effect on anchor uplift behaviour of the inherent spatial variability of soil deposits has so far been little considered, despite having important implications for anchor design. Spatial variability problems are commonly analysed by Monte Carlo simulation but it is difficult to establish the probabilities of failure that are of interest in practice. In this paper, sparse polynomial chaos expansions (SPCEs) are used for moment and reliability analysis of plate anchors in spatially variable undrained clay. A novel two‐stage methodology is proposed: in the first stage, an SPCE is constructed to meet a target global error, allowing statistical moments of the uplift capacity to be obtained; in the second stage, an active learning method is used to refine the SPCE for reliability analysis. Anchor uplift capacity is obtained by a finite element method, which is coupled with a random field representation of spatial variability. The effect of embedment depth and the soil‐anchor interface is investigated. The failure mechanism of the anchor is shown to have a significant effect on the statistical moments of the uplift capacity and the probability of failure in relation to current design guidelines. To inform future design, factors of safety are presented for a range of failure probabilities.
Prevalence of overweight and obesity among African primary school learners: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Adom T. , Kengne A. P. , De Villiers A. , Puoane T.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

The increasing trend in the global prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity presents a major public health challenge. This study reports the results of a systematic review and meta‐analysis to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity among primary school learners residing in Africa according to the different body mass index criteria and population level characteristics.

Methods

A search of multiple databases was conducted to identify relevant research articles published between January 1980 and February 2017. Random effects models were used to pool prevalence data within and across population level characteristics after variance stabilization through arcsine transformation (PROSPERO registration number CRD42016035248).

Results

Data from 45 studies across 15 African countries, and comprising 92,379 and 89,468 participants for overweight and obesity estimates were included. Estimated overweight and obesity prevalence differed significantly across criteria: 10.5% [95% confidence interval, CI: 7.1–14.3] and 6.1% [3.4–9.7] by World Health Organization; 9.5% [6.5–13.0] and 4.0% [2.5–5.9] by International Obesity Task Force; and 11.5% [9.6–13.4] and 6.9% [5.0–9.0] by Centre for Diseases Control, respectively (p = 0.0027 for overweight; p < 0.0001 for obesity). Estimates were mostly higher in urban, and private schools, but generally similar by gender, major geographic regions, publication year and sample size. Substantial heterogeneity in the estimates across and within criteria were not always explained by major study characteristics.

Conclusion

Overweight and obesity are prevalent among African primary school learners, particularly those attending urban, and private schools. The results from this meta‐analysis could be helpful in making informed decisions on childhood obesity prevention efforts in African countries.
The Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of Two‐Dimensional BiOX–YO3 (X = Cl, Br, and I; Y = Mo, W) Heterostructures
Authors: Tang Zhen‐Kun , Luo Lin‐Tao , Deng Xiao‐Hui , Zhang Deng‐Yu , Chen Mingyang
Published: July 2019

Semiconductor photocatalysts have received a lot of attention because of their wide range of applications in solving energy and environmental problems. In this work, the electronic structure and optical properties of two‐dimensional (2D) heterostructures of bismuth oxyhalides (BiOX, X = Cl, Br, I) and transition‐metal oxides (YO3, Y = Mo, W) are studied by density functional theory. The results reveal that the 2D BiOX–YO3 heterostructures are semiconductors with band gaps of 0–1.41 eV. Electronic structure analyses indicate that the valence band maximum (VBM) and conduction band minimum (CBM) of BiOX–YO3 are spatially separated and reside in the BiOX and YO3 layers, respectively. The electron effective masses of BiOI–YO3 (Y = Mo, W) heterostructures, especially BiOI–WO3, are significantly lower than those of BiOI and YO3. BiOI–YO3 (Y = Mo, W) heterostructures exhibit a good absorption in the visible light region. The enhanced optoelectronic properties of BiOI–YO3 are found to be related to the comparably large lattice mismatches between BiOI and YO3. The ultra‐low electron effective mass and good visible absorption of the BiOI–WO3 heterostructure make it a promising candidate for the high‐efficient photocatalyts for water‐splitting.
Rapid paper spray mass spectrometry characterization of uranium and exemplar molecular species
Authors: Coopersmith Kaitlin , Cody Robert B. , Mannion Joseph M. , Hewitt Joshua T. , Koby Samuel B. , Wellons Matthew S.
Published: July 2019

Rationale

The ability to detect and quantify the presence of specific inorganic elements and complexes is essential for environmental monitoring and nuclear safeguards applications. In this work, paper spray ionization mass spectrometry was used for the rapid chemical and isotopic characterization of trace inorganic species collected on cotton swipe substrates. The direct analysis of cotton swipes using this ambient ionization technique led to fast sample analysis that retained original chemical information of the source material with minimal sample preparation.

Methods

Mass spectra were collected with an atmospheric pressure ionization, high‐resolution mass spectrometer for solutions containing uranyl acetate, uranyl chloride, uranyl nitrate, and uranyl tri‐n‐butylphosphate complexes. Gadolinium nitrate was used as an internal standard for the quantitative analysis of uranium. To demonstrate the ability to characterize inorganic contaminants in the presence of uranium, a multi‐element inorganic standard containing U, Bi, Pb, Cd, Fe, and Zn was deposited onto cotton substrates and directly analyzed without purification.

Results

All elements doped on the cotton substrate were detected with strong signal‐to‐noise ratios (ca 1000 for UO2+ on multi‐element doped swipes) and high integrated intensities (>105 counts) from collection periods of approximately 1 min. Limits of detection were determined to be approximately 94 ng for UO2+ and uranyl acetate through the measurement of ppb level solutions.

Conclusions

The rapid analysis of uranium and other inorganic‐containing samples while still retaining original chemical information (e.g. uranyl complexation) was demonstrated. Qualitative detection and speciation were achieved in less than 1 min of analysis. For uranium isotopic quantitation, longer accumulations (>15 min) can be sustained to improve the accuracy of minor 235U isotopic abundance measurements to approximately 1% error.
Development of fetal and adult Leydig cells
Authors: Shima Yuichi
Published: July 2019

Background

In mammals, two distinct Leydig cell populations, fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) and adult Leydig cells (ALCs), appear in the prenatal and postnatal testis, respectively. Although the functional differences between these cell types have been well described, the developmental relationship between FLCs and ALCs has not been fully understood. In this review, I focus on the cellular origins of FLCs and ALCs as well as the developmental and functional links between them.

Methods

I surveyed previous reports about FLC and/or ALC development and summarized the findings.

Main findings

Fetal Leydig cells and ALCs were identified to have separate origins in the fetal and neonatal testis, respectively. However, several studies suggested that FLCs and ALCs share a common progenitor pool. Moreover, perturbation of FLC development at the fetal stage induces ALC dysfunction in adults, suggesting a functional link between FLCs and ALCs. Although the lineage relationship between FLCs and ALCs remains controversial, a recent study suggested that some FLCs dedifferentiate at the fetal stage, and that these cells serve as ALC stem cells.

Conclusion

Findings obtained from animal studies might provide clues to the causative mechanisms of male reproductive dysfunctions such as testicular dysgenesis syndrome in humans.
A Co‐Doped MnO2 Catalyst for Li‐CO2 Batteries with Low Overpotential and Ultrahigh Cyclability
Authors: Ge Bingcheng , Sun Yong , Guo Jianxin , Yan Xiaobin , Fernandez Carlos , Peng Qiuming
Published: July 2019

Li‐CO2 batteries can not only capture CO2 to solve the greenhouse effect but also serve as next‐generation energy storage devices on the merits of economical, environmentally‐friendly, and sustainable aspects. However, these batteries are suffering from two main drawbacks: high overpotential and poor cyclability, severely postponing the acceleration of their applications. Herein, a new Co‐doped alpha‐MnO2 nanowire catalyst is prepared for rechargeable Li‐CO2 batteries, which exhibits a high capacity (8160 mA h g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1), a low overpotential (≈0.73 V), and an ultrahigh cyclability (over 500 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g−1), exceeding those of Li‐CO2 batteries reported so far. The reaction mechanisms are interpreted depending on in situ experimental observations in combination with density functional theory calculations. The outstanding electrochemical properties are mostly associated with a high conductivity, a large fraction of hierarchical channels, and a unique Co interstitial doping, which might be of benefit for the diffusion of CO2, the reversibility of Li2CO3 products, and the prohibition of side reactions between electrolyte and electrode. These results shed light on both CO2 fixation and new Li‐CO2 batteries for energy storage.
Finely Tuned Cores in Star‐Shaped Zwitterionic Molecules for Interface Engineering of High‐Performance Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Wenyan , Guo Jie , Sun Rui , Yang Jianmin , Shi Mumin , Bao Qinye , Min Jie
Published: July 2019

Developing stable and cheap organic cathode interlayers (OCIs; to replace metal cathode and expensive OCIs for enhancing the device stability and reducing the manufacturing cost) is an important topic for commercial applications of polymer solar cells (PSCs). Herein, four one‐step synthesized organic electron transport layers (G‐Series electron‐transport layers [ETLs]) with a novel star‐shaped molecular structure consisting of a series of different heteroatom atoms as cores and sulfobetaine ions as a terminal substituent are explored. The energy levels can be finely tuned by applying different heteroatom atoms as cores. With the conventional device structure with poly[[2,6′‐4,8‐di(5‐ethylhexylthienyl)benzo[1,2‐b;3,3‐b]dithiophene][3‐fluoro‐2[(2‐ethylhexyl) carbonyl]thieno[3,4‐b]thiophenediyl]] (PTB7‐Th) as a donor and [6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric‐acid‐methyl‐ester (PC70BM) as an acceptor, the G‐C2‐based devices exhibit a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.90% with Al as the top electrode, much higher than that of the corresponding Ca/Al‐based device (7.43%). Furthermore, G‐Series‐based solar cells are also more stable than the reference device based on Ca. In addition, these easy‐to‐get ETLs can be widely suitable for other PSCs based on different active layer systems. This work not only shows a new strategy for fine‐tuning energy levels of nonconjugated zwitterionic molecules but also provides simple and stable ETLs for low‐cost and high‐performance PSCs.
Effects of P‐gp and Bcrp as brain efflux transporters on the uptake of [18F]FPEB in the murine brain
Authors: Jung Ki‐Hye , Oh Se Jong , Kang Kyung Jun , Han Sang Jin , Nam Kyung Rok , Park Ji Ae , Lee Kyo Chul , Lee Yong Jin , Choi Jae Yong
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the brain uptake of [18F]FPEB is influenced by P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (Bcrp) as efflux transporters in rodents. To assess this possible modulation, positron emission tomography studies were performed in animal models of pharmacological or genetic ablation of these transporters. Compared with the control conditions, when P‐gp was blocked with tariquidar, there was an 8%–12% increase in the brain uptake of [18F]FPEB. In P‐gp knockout mice, such as Mdr1a/b(−/−) and Mdr1a/b(−/−)Bcrp1(−/−), genetic ablation models, there was an increment of 8%–53% in [18F]FPEB uptake compared with that in the wild‐type mice. In contrast, Bcrp knockout mice showed a decrement of 5%–12% uptake and P‐gp/Bcrp knockout group displayed an increment of 5%–17% compared with wild type. These results indicate that [18F]FPEB is possibly a weak substrate for P‐gp.
Multiscalar genetic pathway modeling with hybrid Bayesian networks
Authors: Ziebarth Jesse D. , Cui Yan
Published: July 2019

Bayesian network modeling of real world datasets is often complicated by the fact that they are hybrid datasets that contain both discrete and continuous variables. For example, recent advances in high throughput biotechnologies have made it possible to generate large‐scale data across multiple biological scales—from discrete variables such as DNA variations to continuous variables such as omics traits and disease phenotypes. Such large heterogeneous and multiscalar datasets present a great challenge for biological knowledge discovery. Here we discuss the Bayesian Network Webserver (http://compbio.uthsc.edu/BNW), a web‐based platform for creating hybrid Bayesian network models, and its use in discovering causal relationships from heterogeneous and multiscalar system genetics datasets.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Analysis of High Dimensional Data

Statistical Models > Bayesian Models

Statistical Models > Graphical Models

Applications of Computational Statistics > Computational and Molecular Biology
Cyber Industry Networks as an environment of the Industry 4.0 implementation
Authors: Saniuk Sebastian , Saniuk Anna , Cagáňová Dagmar
Published: July 2019

The fourth industrial (r)evolution called Industry 4.0 transfers production to a different dimension of productivity, flexibility and also mobility. Enterprises using advanced technologies such as Mobile Technologies, Big Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Internet of Things, etc. and using intelligent resources (e.g. mobile devices, mechatronic machines, means of transport) communicating with each other via the Internet in real time can produce customized products quickly and at low cost. On the one hand the Industry 4.0 concept creates great benefits for the client, and on the other hand raises challenges for industrial enterprises. There is a need to improve existing and create new business models that will combine the potential of many enterprises and together create innovative, very modern production networks based on mobile technologies and the Internet of Things. The article presents the results of research about the creation of innovative production networks operating in the environment of advanced technologies within the Industry 4.0. The aim of the research is to develop the concept of creating temporary Cyber Industry Networks based on e-business platforms that integrate dispersed enterprise resources through mobile devices and mobile software, creating a temporary network in the situation of emerging business opportunities. The main benefit of such networks is the ability to manufacture products through geographically dispersed corporate resources. The Cyber Industry Network allows business processes through the integration of mobile technologies in real time to be managed, and enables to reduce costs, improve flexibility, and as a result increase the competitiveness of manufacturing enterprises.
Accounting for success: The Big Four as allies of finance in post crisis regulatory reform
Authors: Kalaitzake Manolis
Published: July 2019

This paper argues that the Big Four accountancy firms—PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG—operate as key political allies of the financial sector within financial regulatory battles. Leveraging the theoretical notion of “actor plurality” within the policymaking process, I demonstrate how, in the case of the European Union Financial Transaction Tax (FTT) initiative, accountancy professionals offered crucial support for the financial sector. They did so by disseminating key oppositional claims against the FTT proposal, developing tax mitigation and relocation strategies, preparing negative impact assessments, and advising on lobbying tactics. This allied stance of the Big Four is primarily a consequence of the ways in which their commercial priorities have been fundamentally transformed by the provision of consultancy services within the modern global economy. Moreover, the paper shows how accountancy experts are deeply embedded within a network of professional relationships that fosters substantive policy alignment between the Big Four and prominent financial lobbying groups. By highlighting the overlooked role of the major accountancy firms within post crisis regulatory reform, the study illuminates the unequal power relations that permeate financialized societies and contributes to a deeper understanding of how financial preferences continue to prevail within the policymaking process.
The Predictive Value of Endpoint Quaking-Induced Conversion in Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
Authors: Budhram Adrian , Taylor Ryan G. , Fuller Jeff , Burneo Jorge G. , Knox J. David , Pasternak Stephen H.
Published: July 2019

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a fatal neurological illness for which accurate diagnosis is paramount. Real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) is a prion-specific assay with high sensitivity and specificity for CJD. The Canadian endpoint quaking-induced conversion (EP-QuIC) test is similar, but unlike RT-QuIC there is little data regarding its diagnostic utility in clinical practice. In this exploratory predictive value analysis of EP-QuIC in CJD, the negative predictive value (NPV) and positive predictive value (PPV) was 100% and 83%, respectively, with one false-positive result identified. Re-testing this sample with an optimized EP-QuIC protocol eliminated this false-positive result, leading to a PPV of 100%.
Advanced fuel layering in line-moving, high-gain direct-drive cryogenic targets
Authors: Aleksandrova I. V. , Koresheva E. R.
Published: July 2019

In inertial fusion energy (IFE) research, a number of technological issues have focused on the ability to inexpensively fabricate large quantities of free-standing targets (FSTs) by developing a specialized layering module with repeatable operation. Of central importance for the progress towards plasma generation with intense thermonuclear reactions is the fuel structure, which must be isotropic to ensure that fusion will take place. In this report, the results of modeling the FST layering time,$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{\text{Form}}$, are presented for targets which are shells of${\sim}4~\text{mm}$in diameter with a wall made from compact and porous polymers. The layer thickness is${\sim}200~\unicode[STIX]{x03BC}\text{m}$for pure solid fuel and${\sim}250~\unicode[STIX]{x03BC}\text{m}$for in-porous solid fuel. Computation shows$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{\text{Form}}<23$ s for$\text{D}_{2}$fuel and$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{\text{Form}}<30$ s for D–T fuel. This is an excellent result in terms of minimizing the tritium inventory, producing IFE targets in massive numbers (${\sim}$1 million each day) and obtaining the fuel as isotropic ultrafine layers. It is shown experimentally that such small layering time can be realized by the FST layering method in line-moving, high-gain direct-drive cryogenic targets using$n$-fold-spiral layering channels at$n=2,3$.
Between Jerusalem and Gaza: Why Unilateralism Will Not Work
Authors: Rapoport Meron
Published: July 2019

The moving of the American embassy to Jerusalem coincided with the bloodiest day of the Great March of Return demonstrations. Each of these events had its own history and motivation but they tell the same story: as stable solution could be based only on reciprocal recognition of the attachment of both Israeli and Palestinians to the whole of historic Palestine/Eretz Israel
PERIODS OF DUCCI SEQUENCES AND ODD SOLUTIONS TO A PELLIAN EQUATION
Authors: BREUER FLORIAN
Published: July 2019

A Ducci sequence is a sequence of integer $n$-tuples generated by iterating the map $$\begin{eqnarray}D:(a_{1},a_{2},\ldots ,a_{n})\mapsto (|a_{1}-a_{2}|,|a_{2}-a_{3}|,\ldots ,|a_{n}-a_{1}|).\end{eqnarray}$$ Such a sequence is eventually periodic and we denote by $P(n)$ the maximal period of such sequences for given $n$. We prove a new upper bound in the case where $n$ is a power of a prime $p\equiv 5\hspace{0.6em}({\rm mod}\hspace{0.2em}8)$ for which $2$ is a primitive root and the Pellian equation $x^{2}-py^{2}=-4$ has no solutions in odd integers $x$ and $y$.
The long-chain monounsaturated cetoleic acid improves the efficiency of the n-3 fatty acid metabolic pathway in Atlantic salmon and human HepG2 cells
Authors: Østbye Tone-Kari Knutsdatter , Berge Gerd Marit , Nilsson Astrid , Romarheim Odd Helge , Bou Marta , Ruyter Bente
Published: July 2019

The present study aimed to determine if the long-chain MUFA cetoleic acid (22 : 1n-11) can improve the capacity to synthesise the health-promotingn-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in human and fish models. Human hepatocytes (HepG2) and salmon primary hepatocytes were first enriched with cetoleic acid, and thereafter their capacities to convert radio-labelled 18 : 3n-3 (α-linolenic acid, ALA) to EPA and DHA were measured. Increased endogenous levels of cetoleic acid led to increased production of radio-labelled EPA + DHA in HepG2 by 40 % and EPA in salmon hepatocytes by 12 %. In order to verify if dietary intake of a fish oil rich in cetoleic acid would have the same beneficial effects on then-3 fatty acid metabolic pathwayin vivoas foundin vitro, Atlantic salmon were fed four diets supplemented with either sardine oil low in cetoleic acid or herring oil high in cetoleic acid at two inclusion levels (Low or High). The diets were balanced for EPA + DHA content within the Low and within the High groups. The salmon were fed these diets from 110 to 242 g. The level of EPA + DHA in liver and whole-body retention of docosapentaenoic acid and EPA + DHA relative to what was eaten, increased with increased dietary cetoleic acid levels. Thus, it is concluded that cetoleic acid stimulated the synthesis of EPA and DHA from ALA in human HepG2 and of EPA in salmon hepatocytesin vitroand increased whole-body retention of EPA + DHA in salmon by 15 % points after dietary intake of cetoleic acid.
Dietary fibre and cardiovascular health: a review of current evidence and policy
Authors: Evans Charlotte Elizabeth Louise
Published: July 2019

Dietary fibre comprises many different, mainly plant-based, compounds that are not fully digested in the human gut. Insoluble fibres include cellulose, hemi-celluloses and lignin and soluble fibres include pectins, β-glucan and hydro-colloids. In the UK, the daily recommended amount has increased to 30 g but only 13 % of men and 4 % of women meet this recommendation. Currently the mean intake for adults is 21 g for men and 17 g for women. There is a wealth of epidemiological evidence based on systematic reviews of trials and cohorts to support the higher fibre recommendation. This includes evidence of reductions in the risk for CVD (both heart disease and stroke) and lower risk of type 2 diabetes, lower blood pressure, lower LDL-cholesterol, as well as some cancers. Beneficial effects of fibre operate via a diverse range of mechanisms throughout the digestive system including the mouth, stomach and small and large intestine; some of which are still not completely understood. The updated recommendation for fibre is a long way from a typical British diet and requires several daily portions of fruit and vegetables and wholegrain foods. Improving dietary fibre intakes will require a variety of actions and policies from stakeholders; however, there is currently more of a focus on reducing sugar than increasing fibre. In order to increase the number of adults meeting the fibre recommendation, social marketing and labelling of high-fibre foods are warranted as well as reformulation and wider availability of wholegrain versions of popular foods.
Growing East Asian words in English
Authors: You Zixi , Kiaer Jieun , Ahn Hyejeong
Published: July 2019

With the change of linguistic, cultural and ethnic landscapes, multilingual, multicultural and multi-ethnic realities are increasing globally. In the case of the UK, the 2011 Census showed that the Asian or Asian British ethnic group category had one of the largest increases since 2001, with a third of the foreign-born population of the UK (2.4 million) now identifying as Asian British (Office for National Statistics, 2013). It is not surprising then, given the aforementioned demographic situation, to see many Asian-origin words in the English language. East Asian words are now entering into the English lexicon with unprecedented speed as a consequence of increased contact between East Asia and the English-speaking world.