bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Professional Experience in Investigative Interviewing Does Not Guarantee Strong Knowledge about Memory
Authors: Dodier Olivier , Tomas Frédéric , Payoux Mélany , Elissalde Benjamin
Published: May 2019

We examined the knowledge of law enforcement officers regarding memory by conducting two levels of analysis. First, we compared memory-related knowledge and erroneous beliefs of officers (n = 200) and lay people (n = 403) and found similar low scores of knowledge across both groups as well as a greater number of erroneous beliefs among law enforcement officers. Second, we compared knowledge and erroneous beliefs of officers who had undergone training in investigative interviewing (n = 41) with those of their untrained counterparts (n = 159). Similar low scores in knowledge and false beliefs were found. However, when comparing officers who reported conducting five or more interviews per month (n = 82) to officers who reported conducting zero interviews per month (n = 43), we found that the first group expressed more erroneous beliefs. The results are discussed in line with previous research, in particular, studies on investigative interview practices.
Ant colonies maintain social homeostasis in the face of decreased density
Authors: Modlmeier Andreas P , Colman Ewan , Hanks Ephraim M , Bringenberg Ryan , Bansal Shweta , Hughes David P
Published: May 2019

Interactions lie at the heart of social organization, particularly in ant societies. Interaction rates are presumed to increase with density, but there is little empirical evidence for this. We manipulated density within carpenter ant colonies of the species Camponotus pennsylvanicus by quadrupling nest space and by manually tracking 6.9 million ant locations and over 3200 interactions to study the relationship between density, spatial organization and interaction rates. Colonies divided into distinct spatial regions on the basis of their underlying spatial organization and changed their movement patterns accordingly. Despite a reduction in both overall and local density, we did not find the expected concomitant reduction in interaction rates across all colonies. Instead, we found divergent effects across colonies. Our results highlight the remarkable organizational resilience of ant colonies to changes in density, which allows them to sustain two key basic colony life functions, that is food and information exchange, during environmental change.
Impact of seasonal variations in Plasmodium falciparum malaria transmission on the surveillance of pfhrp2 gene deletions
Authors: Watson Oliver John , Verity Robert , Ghani Azra C , Garske Tini , Cunningham Jane , Tshefu Antoinette , Mwandagalirwa Melchior K , Meshnick Steven R , Parr Jonathan B , Slater Hannah C
Published: May 2019

Ten countries have reported pfhrp2/pfhrp3 gene deletions since the first observation of pfhrp2-deleted parasites in 2012. In a previous study (Watson et al., 2017), we characterised the drivers selecting for pfhrp2/3 deletions and mapped the regions in Africa with the greatest selection pressure. In February 2018, the World Health Organization issued guidance on investigating suspected false-negative rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) due to pfhrp2/3 deletions. However, no guidance is provided regarding the timing of investigations. Failure to consider seasonal variation could cause premature decisions to switch to alternative RDTs. In response, we have extended our methods and predict that the prevalence of false-negative RDTs due to pfhrp2/3 deletions is highest when sampling from younger individuals during the beginning of the rainy season. We conclude by producing a map of the regions impacted by seasonal fluctuations in pfhrp2/3 deletions and a database identifying optimum sampling intervals to support malaria control programmes.
The long non-coding RNA Cerox1 is a post transcriptional regulator of mitochondrial complex I catalytic activity
Authors: Sirey Tamara M , Roberts Kenny , Haerty Wilfried , Bedoya-Reina Oscar , Rogatti-Granados Sebastian , Tan Jennifer Y , Li Nick , Heather Lisa C , Carter Roderick N , Cooper Sarah , Finch Andrew J , Wills Jimi , Morton Nicholas M , Marques Ana Claudia , Ponting Chris P
Published: May 2019

To generate energy efficiently, the cell is uniquely challenged to co-ordinate the abundance of electron transport chain protein subunits expressed from both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. How an effective stoichiometry of this many constituent subunits is co-ordinated post-transcriptionally remains poorly understood. Here we show that Cerox1, an unusually abundant cytoplasmic long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), modulates the levels of mitochondrial complex I subunit transcripts in a manner that requires binding to microRNA-488-3p. Increased abundance of Cerox1 cooperatively elevates complex I subunit protein abundance and enzymatic activity, decreases reactive oxygen species production, and protects against the complex I inhibitor rotenone. Cerox1 function is conserved across placental mammals: human and mouse orthologues effectively modulate complex I enzymatic activity in mouse and human cells, respectively. Cerox1 is the first lncRNA demonstrated, to our knowledge, to regulate mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and, with miR-488-3p, represent novel targets for the modulation of complex I activity.
Quem ganha e quem perde? Um ensaio comparativo entre a Região Sul do Brasil e o Canadá sobre a dinâmica do emprego industrial
Authors: Barchet Isabela , Ferrera de Lima Jandir , Alves da Rocha Alberto
Published: May 2019

A partir de uma análise comparativa entre a Região Sul do Brasil e a Província do Québec no Canadá, este artigo procurou identificar os espaços ganhadores e perdedores em termos de emprego industrial. Para tanto, o estudo adota parâmetros estatísticos, do Coeficiente de concentração de Gini, para discutir a dinâmica do emprego no espaço escolhido. Também se verificaram as tendências de ordenamento territorial em espaços com distintos estágios de crescimento e desenvolvimento econômico. Observou-se que a movimentação do emprego industrial, na Região Sul do Brasil, dissolveu a exclusividade das regiões metropolitanas na alocação do emprego, permitindo uma especialização maior do espaço na indústria de transformação e o surgimento de microrregiões industriais de médio porte. No Québec, verificou-se que o emprego industrial continua concentrado nas regiões onde foram observadas as primeiras incidências em relação às concentrações industriais.
Desenvolvimento e acidentes de trabalho no meio rural de Santa Catarina
Authors: Begnini Sergio , Almeida Lirane Eliza Defante Ferreto
Published: May 2019

O objetivo deste estudo foi calcular a correlação entre o grau de desenvolvimento rural e o número de acidentes em trabalho rural nas microrregiões de Chapecó, Concórdia e Xanxerê, no estado de Santa Catarina, no período de 2008 a 2013. Trata-se de um estudo exploratório, com abordagem quantitativa, e natureza aplicada. Para cada município, por meio da análise fatorial, elaborou-se o grau de desenvolvimento rural e, através da média aritmética simples, foi calculada a média de acidentes rurais. Com os dados dessas duas variáveis, por meio do coeficiente linear de Pearson, calculou-se a correlação. O coeficiente de Pearson foi de 0,286, podendo inferir-se que há correlação positiva baixa. Entende-se que a ocorrência de acidentes de trabalho influencia negativamente o desenvolvimento, havendo a necessidade de melhorar as condições de trabalho no meio rural.
Programas de inclusão social e redução da pobreza: o caso “Próspera” (México) e o “Grameen Bank” (Bangladesch)
Authors: Lopes Indaia Dias , Mueller Airton Adelar , Grzybovski Denize , Manjabosco Hubner Dedilhana Lamare , Basso David
Published: May 2019

O objetivo deste artigo é compreender a contribuição de programas de inclusão social para a redução da vulnerabilidade social e o incremento de renda da população, com base na análise dos programas Próspera (México) e Grameen Bank (Bangladesh). Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória e descritiva, com abordagem qualitativa dos dados coletados por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Pela literatura e documentação pesquisadas, foi possível identificar fortes evidências de que tanto o programa de inclusão social Próspera quanto o Grameen Bank têm contribuído para a redução da vulnerabilidade social e o incremento da renda dos beneficiados. Contudo, os seus resultados estão condicionados às questões de contexto e dependem de ações integradas e programas complementares.
Evaluation of Uniformity Coefficient and Soil Moisture Distribution under Drip Irrigation System
Authors: Selvaperumal A. , Sujitha E. , Muthuchamy I.
Published: May 2019

Drip irrigation system uniformity can preserve a higher crop yield and deplete the initial investment of cost. The experiment was conducted at precision farming development centre research farm, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, to evaluate the uniformity coefficient and soil moisture distribution under drip irrigation system. The experiment was designed under Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) which included three fertigation levels 80%, 100% and 120% of Recommended Dose of fertilizers which were replicated thrice. The Coefficient of Variation (CV) was obtained as 0.0207 per cent kept at a constant pressure of 50.66 kPa, Statistical Uniformity (SU) as 97 per cent and Coefficient of Uniformity (CU) as 0.9518. As the elapsed time increased, the rate of increase of wetted zone diameter decreased. A high R2 value of 0.97 shows the goodness of fit for the horizontal movement. The mean soil moisture distribution 39.2 per cent was observed below the emitter at the depth of 10 cm immediately after irrigation.
Construction and Standardization of Knowledge Test to Measure the Level of Knowledge of Tribal Farmers on Seed Banking
Authors: Srinivas A. , Rani V. Sudha , Rao I. Sreenivasa
Published: May 2019

Intense knowledge on seed banks is prerequisite for ensuring seed banking and the associated traditional knowledge in tribal areas. Hence, it was thought necessary to construct a test for the purpose and an attempt has been made to develop a test for measuring knowledge of tribal farmers on seed banking. Pertinent items were collected covering all aspects of seed banking. The knowledge test was developed following step by procedures which included preliminary screening of the items based on Likert’s method through calculation of t-statistics and mean score, followed by the item analyses through derivation of difficulty index, discrimination index and point biserial correlation coefficient. The final knowledge test contained 45 items which were retained from 60 items. Each item can be measured through two-point scale. The test was found to be highly stable and reliable which was indicated by highly significant value of reliability co-efficient (0.78). The social science researchers can use this to measure knowledge of tribal farmers on seed banking. It can help the extension personnel to formulate sound strategy to exploit the strong areas of knowledge and develop the weak areas of knowledge of the farmers regarding seed banking.
Design and Implementation of a Fuzzy Expert System for Diagnosing Breast Cancer
Authors: Okikiola F. M. , Aigbokhan E. E. , Mustapha A. M. , Onadokun I. O. , Akinade O. A.
Published: May 2019

The death rate is caused by breast cancer in women is increasingly high and growing. A number of people are getting to lose this part of their body due to late diagnosis of this disease. This therefore requires the development of an efficient and accurate diagnosis approach that will aid providing the knowledge of the type of breast cancer type and severity in order to reduce the mortality rate through the disease. This need serves as the major motivation for this work. In this paper, we proposed a fuzzy expert system for diagnosis of and treatment recommendation of breast cancer problems which provide physicians and patients with information of the cancer type and treatment recommendation. The application was designed using JAVA programming language, MATLAB and SQLite database engine. This application permits update of new information as a means of knowledge. The evaluation showed that the inclusion of the fuzzy inference system improved the accuracy and precision of the system from 0.8 to 0.9. The system is user-friendly and has high level of acceptability from the validation conducted at the end of the research.
The Effect of Graded Doses of Caffeine on Intraocular Pressure in Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Fidelma Nwosu, , Sydney Ejimadu, Chibuike
Published: May 2019

Aim: To determine the effect of graded doses of caffeine on intraocular pressure in a Nigerian population.

Methods: This was a prospective, observer‐masked, cross‐over study carried out in the Eye clinic of the Ahoada General Hospital.

A total One hundred subjects comprising 46 males and 54females aged 20 – 76 years were chosen. Graded doses of caffeine were administered to the subjects in four groups. The fourth group was the control and subjects here were given water only without caffeine.

Intra Ocular Pressure of each subject was determined at different times after oral ingestion of coffee.

Data was analysed using SPSS program for windows (statistical package for the social sciences Inc., version 16).

Results: The group which consumed 3.5 mg/kg body weight of caffeine had the maximum mean increase in IOP (5.20±0.08 mmHg) after 60 minutes, the pressure remained the same after 90 minutes and then reduced to 4.28±0.13mmHg after the 120 minutes while Group A which consumed 0.7mg/kg body weight of caffeine had the minimum mean increase in intraocular pressure (2.32± 0.82 mmHg) after 60 minutes, 2.2± 0.65mmHg after 90 minutes and then reduced to 1.4± 0.81 mmHg after the 120 minutes (p<0.005).

Maximum effect was observed after 60 minutes of ingesting caffeine and gradually returned to baseline values after 120 minutes. There was no significant change in IOP of subjects who ingested only water.

Conclusion: This study revealed a significant rise in intraocular pressure in normotensive human eyes and this increase was dose-dependent. Moderation in caffeine consumption remains very vital and calls for more public awareness platforms. Therefore we recommend that caffeine be consumed with caution especially in patients with glaucoma. Future studies relating to caffeine’s effects via inhalation and monitoring of caffeine’s effect on IOP beyond 120minutes is equally important.
IFRS Adoption and Bank Performance in Nigeria and Canada Banks
Authors: Ayodeji T. Ajibade, , Phoebe Nyikyaa, Terdoo , Miriam Nyikyaa, Nguavese
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of adopted International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption on the financial performance of banks in Nigeria and Canada. The study made use of cross sectional data obtained for a period of 10 years from 2006 to 2017, while the regression analysis was used to examine the impact of IFRS adoption on the earnings of 5 banks in Nigeria and Canada. The study found a significant and positive relationship between IFRS adoption and the banks in Nigeria and Canada. The study concludes that IFRS adoption has improved the decision making capability of the various stakeholders, thus, increasing investor confidence. The study suggests that, in order to safeguard the suitable adoption of IFRS in Nigeria and Canada, competent Accountants and Auditors in IFRS are required in large number and that the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and Canada must intensify it efforts in organizing IFRS based training programs for its members and other parties connected with corporate reporting.
Impact of patient centering in CT on organ dose and the effect of using a positioning compensation system: Evidence from OSLD measurements in postmortem subjects
Authors: Barreto Izabella , Lamoureux Rebecca , Olguin Catherine , Quails Nathan , Correa Nathalie , Rill Lynn , Arreola Manuel
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the frequency and impact of vertical mis‐centering on organ doses in computed tomography (CT) exams and evaluate the effect of a commercially available positioning compensation system (PCS). Mis‐centering frequency and magnitude was retrospectively measured in 300 patients examined with chest‐abdomen‐pelvis CT. Organ doses were measured in three postmortem subjects scanned on a CT scanner at nine different vertical table positions (maximum shift ± 4 cm). Organ doses were measured with optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters inserted within organs. Regression analysis was performed to determine the correlation between organ doses and mis‐centering. Methods were repeated using a PCS that automatically detects the table offset to adjust tube current output accordingly. Clinical mis‐centering was >1 cm in 53% and 21% of patients in the vertical and lateral directions, respectively. The 1‐cm table shifts resulted in organ dose differences up to 8%, while 4‐cm shifts resulted in organ dose differences up to 35%. Organ doses increased linearly with superior table shifts for the lung, colon, uterus, ovaries, and skin (R2 = 0.73–0.99, P < 0.005). When the PCS was utilized, organ doses decreased with superior table shifts and dose differences were lower (average 5%, maximum 18%) than scans performed without PCS (average 9%, maximum 35%) at all table shifts. Mis‐centering occurs frequently in the clinic and has a significant effect on patient dose. While accurate patient positioning remains important for maintaining optimal imaging conditions, a PCS has been shown to reduce the effects of patient mis‐centering.
Phenotype–genotype discrepancies in the prospective Huntington at‐risk observational study
Authors: Shoulson Ira , Eberly Shirley , Oakes David , Kayson Elise , Young Anne B. ,   the PHAROS Investigators
Published: May 2019

Objective

To examine phenotype–genotype discrepancies (PGDs) wherein genotype‐concealed and prospective judgments of the motor onset of Huntington disease (HD) occurred among at‐risk adults who had nonexpanded (<37) cytosine–adenine–guanine (CAG) trinucleotide DNA repeats.

Methods

We examined the prospective clinical assessments of investigators who were kept unaware of individual CAG lengths in the Prospective Huntington At‐Risk Observational Study (PHAROS) who enrolled and followed undiagnosed adults at risk for HD who chose not to learn their gene status. Subjects (n = 1001) at 43 Huntington Study Group research sites in the US and Canada were evaluated prospectively and systematically between 1999 and 2009. At each site, an investigator was designated to perform comprehensive clinic assessments and another investigator to rate only the motor examination. Phenoconversion from a “premanifest” status to a confidently “manifest” status was based on investigator judgment (diagnostic confidence level) of the extrapyramidal motor features of HD.

Results

There were 20 PGDs that over time had less severe motor scores than the 101 phenoconversions with CAG ≥37, but more severe motor scores than nonconversions. Following conversion, subjects with CAG ≥37 expansions worsened more motorically and cognitively than PGD subjects in the < 37 group. PGDs were concentrated among three sites and a few investigators, especially raters who only assessed the motor examination.

Interpretation

The ability to detect the clinical onset of HD in a timely and reliable fashion remains the key for developing experimental treatments aimed at postponing the clinical onset of HD. Comprehensive clinical evaluation is a more accurate and reliable basis for determining HD clinical onset than sole reliance on judging the extrapyramidal features of HD.
An output‐feedback adaptive control architecture for mitigating actuator attacks in cyber‐physical systems
Authors: Yadegar Meysam , Meskin Nader , Haddad Wassim M.
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we present a control design framework wherein an adaptive‐based corrective signal is augmented to the output of the nominal controller in order to suppress or counteract the effect of malicious actuator attacks. Due to the unavailability of full‐state measurements, a nonminimal controllable realization of the nominal closed‐loop system is used to design the corrective signal predicated on partial state information. Two illustrative numerical examples are given to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed adaptive control architecture.
Nanoparticles Surmounting Blood–Brain Tumor Barrier Through Both Transcellular and Paracellular Pathways to Target Brain Metastases
Authors: Miao Tongtong , Ju Xiufeng , Zhu Qiuning , Wang Yamei , Guo Qian , Sun Tao , Lu Chunzhu , Han Liang
Published: May 2019

Brain metastases are one of the most difficult malignancies to treat owing to their location and mostly multifocal and infiltrative growth. Chemotherapy, which is often effective against tumors outside the brain, offers some hope for brain metastases. However, the efficacy of systemic drug delivery to brain metastases is extremely limited due largely to the blood–brain tumor barrier (BTB). Herein, it is reported that minoxidil‐loaded hyaluronic acid–tethered nanoparticles (M@H‐NPs) can efficiently and specially surmount the BTB through both transcellular and paracellular pathways and target brain metastases through coordination of hyaluronic acid with CD44 target. The transcellular endocytosis, paracellular claudin‐5 expression, and BTB crossing are evaluated to confirm that the developed M@H‐NPs can be endued with minoxidil's ability to boost transcytosis and downregulate tight junction protein in BTB endothelial cells at brain metastases for promoted BTB penetration. M@H‐NPs selectively deliver doxorubicin (DOX) to brain metastatic lesions, while sparing normal brain cells from harm. Treatment with M@H‐NPs/DOX significantly prolongs median survival of mice bearing brain metastases. Due to the fruitful BTB penetration and brain metastasis homing, and improved therapeutic outcome, the minoxidil‐based systemic drug delivery strategy may serve as a potential approach for clinical management of brain metastases.
Zero‐Field Nernst Effect in a Ferromagnetic Kagome‐Lattice Weyl‐Semimetal Co3Sn2S2
Authors: Guin Satya N. , Vir Praveen , Zhang Yang , Kumar Nitesh , Watzman Sarah J. , Fu Chenguang , Liu Enke , Manna Kaustuv , Schnelle Walter , Gooth Johannes , Shekhar Chandra , Sun Yan , Felser Claudia
Published: May 2019

The discovery of magnetic topological semimetals has recently attracted significant attention in the field of topology and thermoelectrics. In a thermoelectric device based on the Nernst geometry, an external magnet is required as an integral part. Reported is a zero‐field Nernst effect in a newly discovered hard‐ferromagnetic kagome‐lattice Weyl‐semimetal Co3Sn2S2. A maximum Nernst thermopower of ≈3 µV K−1 at 80 K in zero field is achieved in this magnetic Weyl‐semimetal. The results demonstrate the possibility of application of topological hard magnetic semimetals for low‐power thermoelectric devices based on the Nernst effect and are thus valuable for the comprehensive understanding of transport properties in this class of materials.
Magnetoelectrically Driven Catalytic Degradation of Organics
Authors: Mushtaq Fajer , Chen Xiangzhong , Torlakcik Harun , Steuer Christian , Hoop Marcus , Siringil Erdem Can , Marti Xavi , Limburg Gregory , Stipp Patrick , Nelson Bradley J. , Pané Salvador
Published: May 2019

Here, the catalytic degradation of organic compounds is reported by exploiting the magnetoelectric nature of cobalt ferrite–bismuth ferrite (CFO–BFO) core–shell nanoparticles. The combination of magnetostrictive CFO with multiferroic BFO gives rise to a magnetoelectric engine that purifies water under wireless magnetic fields via advanced oxidation processes, without involvement of any sacrificial molecules or cocatalysts. Magnetostrictive CoFe2O4 nanoparticles are fabricated using hydrothermal synthesis, followed by sol–gel synthesis to create the multiferroic BiFeO3 shell. Theoretical modeling is performed to study the magnetic‐field‐induced polarization on the surface of magnetoelectric nanoparticles. The results obtained from these simulations are consistent with experimental findings of the piezoforce microscopy analysis, where changes in piezoresponse of the nanoparticles under magnetic fields are observed. Next, the magnetoelectric‐effect‐induced catalytic degradation of organic pollutants is investigated under AC magnetic fields, and 97% removal efficiency for synthetic dyes and over 85% removal efficiency for routinely used pharmaceuticals are obtained. Additionally, trapping experiments are performed to elucidate the mechanism behind the magnetic‐field‐induced catalytic degradation of organic pollutants by using scavengers for each of the reactive species. The results indicate that hydroxyl and superoxide radicals are the main reactive species in the magnetoelectrically induced catalytic degradation of organic compounds.
Biological Photonic Crystal‐Enhanced Plasmonic Mesocapsules: Approaching Single‐Molecule Optofluidic‐SERS Sensing
Authors: Sivashanmugan Kundan , Squire Kenneth , Kraai Joseph A. , Tan Ailing , Zhao Yong , Rorrer Gregory L. , Wang Alan X.
Published: May 2019

Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensing in microfluidic devices, namely optofluidic‐SERS, suffers an intrinsic tradeoff between mass transport and hot spot density, both of which are required for ultrasensitive detection. To overcome this compromise, photonic crystal‐enhanced plasmonic mesocapsules are synthesized, utilizing diatom biosilica decorated with in‐situ growth silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). In the optofluidic‐SERS testing of this study, 100× higher enhancement factors and more than 1,000× better detection limit are achieved compared with traditional colloidal Ag NPs, the improvement of which is attributed to unique properties of the mesocapsules. First, the porous diatom biosilica frustules serve as carrier capsules for high density Ag NPs that form high density plasmonic hot‐spots. Second, the submicron‐pores embedded in the frustule walls not only create a large surface‐to‐volume ratio allowing for effective analyte capture, but also enhance the local optical field through the photonic crystal effect. Last, the mesocapsules provide effective mixing with analytes as they are flowing inside the microfluidic channel. The reported mesocapsules achieve single molecule detection of Rhodamine 6G in microfluidic devices and are further utilized to detect 1 × 10−9 m of benzene and chlorobenzene compounds in tap water with near real‐time response, which successfully overcomes the constraint of traditional optofluidic sensing.
Glass Hardness Modification by Means of Ion Implantation: Electronic Doping versus Surface Composition Effect
Authors: Idé Julien , Cornil David , Jacques Amory , Navet Benjamine , Boulanger Pierre , Ventelon Lionel , Lazzaroni Roberto , Beljonne David , Cornil Jérôme
Published: May 2019

Critical load measurements point to an improvement in the hardness of a soda–lime glass upon nitrogen implantation. In order to determine whether this improvement originates from electronic doping or surface composition changes induced by ion implantation, a theoretical approach using quantum‐chemical and force‐field methods combined with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy is performed. The results indicate that neither an electronic effect nor a lattice distortion appear to be the primary cause of the hardness improvement. It is rather a change in the surface composition leading to a more densely cross‐linked and stiffer silica network at the top surface of the glass which is at the origin of this improvement.
Experimental Observation of van Hove Singularities in Quasi‐1D MoO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Zhang Yin , Qi Dongxia , Li Jianing , Han Liu , Tian Fanghua , Gu Songlin , Gao Lumei , Zhou Chao , Song Xiaoping , Zeng Hao , Yang Sen
Published: May 2019

Currently, a major challenge of investigating nanostructured materials lies in demonstrating exotic properties and outstanding performance through control of the structure and morphology. In particular, the density of states of each sub‐band diverges when solid semiconductors transit into 1D materials, which results in a special distribution know as a van Hove singularity (VH). However, there are no reports on the existence of VHs in 1D materials other than carbon nanotubes. Quasi‐1D MoO2 nanotubes with large aspect ratio are synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method. The VHs in the density of states are demonstrated by characterizing the multiple peaks in absorbance and fluorescence spectra, which is the first time that the existence of VHs in oxide nanotubes has been experimentally demonstrated. Detailed analysis indicates that the bandgap energies in the VH structure are strongly correlated with the nanotube diameter. It is believed that this work will be significant for further understanding of electronic structures in 1D materials, which will also promote their potential applications in related fields, particularly optoelectronics.
Eine rezeptorgeleitete Designstrategie zur Identifikation von Clickmeren
Authors: Rosenthal Malte , Pfeiffer Franziska , Mayer Günter
Published: May 2019

Die Biomedizin benötigt effektive Werkzeuge um biologische Phänomene zu manipulieren, detektieren und studieren. Oligo(deoxy)nukleotid‐basierte Liganden stellen solche Werkzeuge dar, aber die momentanen Strategien für ihre Selektion sind eingeschränkt. Ihre eingeschränkte Verfügbarkeit genügt nicht, das breite Spektrum an Zielmolekülen abzudecken, das für die Biomedizin von Bedeutung ist. Anhand des hydrophoben Moleküls (−)‐Δ9‐Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) stellen wir eine rezeptorgeleitete Designstrategie (RGD) vor, die die Generierung modular anpassbarer, chemisch modifizierter Oligodeoxynukleotidbibliotheken zur Selektion von Clickmeren ermöglicht.
Elektrochemischer Durchlaufgenerator für hypervalente Iodreagenzien: Synthetische Anwendungen
Authors: Elsherbini Mohamed , Winterson Bethan , Alharbi Haifa , Folgueiras‐Amador Ana A. , Génot Célina , Wirth Thomas
Published: May 2019

Es wurde ein effizienter und zuverlässiger elektrochemischer Generator für hypervalente Iodreagenzien entwickelt. Bei der anodischen Oxidation von Iodaromaten zu hypervalenten Iodreagenzien unter Flussbedingungen ersetzt der Einsatz von Elektrizität gefährliche und teure chemische Oxidationsmittel. Instabile hypervalente Iodreagenzien können leicht hergestellt und mit verschiedenen Substraten zur Reaktion gebracht werden, um oxidative Funktionalisierungen mit hohen Ausbeuten zu erreichen. Die instabilen elektrochemisch erzeugten Reagenzien können auch leicht durch Ligandenaustausch in klassische, stabile hypervalente Iodreagenzien umgewandelt werden. Die Kombination aus elektrochemischen und Flow‐chemischen Vorteilen verbessert die ökologische Bilanz des Prozesses im Vergleich zu herkömmlichen Ansätzen erheblich.
Synthesis of Hypervalent Iodine(III) Reagents Containing a Transferable (Diarylmethylene)amino Group and Their Use in the Oxidative Amination of Silyl Ketene Acetals
Authors: Kiyokawa Kensuke , Okumatsu Daichi , Minakata Satoshi
Published: May 2019

The preparation of some hypervalent iodine reagents containing a transferable amino group derived from benzophenone imine derivatives is reported. The reagents can be readily prepared and stored as a bench‐stable solid, and were successfully used in the transition‐metal‐free oxidative amination of silyl ketene acetals to afford the corresponding α‐amino esters, the benzophenone imine moieties of which could be easily hydrolyzed, thereby leading to the formation of primary amines.
Semi‐heterogeneous Dual Nickel/Photocatalysis using Carbon Nitrides: Esterification of Carboxylic Acids with Aryl Halides
Authors: Pieber Bartholomäus , Malik Jamal A. , Cavedon Cristian , Gisbertz Sebastian , Savateev Aleksandr , Cruz Daniel , Heil Tobias , Zhang Guigang , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: May 2019

Cross‐coupling reactions mediated by dual nickel/photocatalysis are synthetically attractive but rely mainly on expensive, non‐recyclable noble‐metal complexes as photocatalysts. Heterogeneous semiconductors, which are commonly used for artificial photosynthesis and wastewater treatment, are a sustainable alternative. Graphitic carbon nitrides, a class of metal‐free polymers that can be easily prepared from bulk chemicals, are heterogeneous semiconductors with high potential for photocatalytic organic transformations. Here, we demonstrate that graphitic carbon nitrides in combination with nickel catalysis can induce selective C−O cross‐couplings of carboxylic acids with aryl halides, yielding the respective aryl esters in excellent yield and selectivity. The heterogeneous organic photocatalyst exhibits a broad substrate scope, is able to harvest green light, and can be recycled multiple times. In situ FTIR was used to track the reaction progress to study this transformation at different irradiation wavelengths and reaction scales.
A Receptor‐Guided Design Strategy for Ligand Identification
Authors: Rosenthal Malte , Pfeiffer Franziska , Mayer Günter
Published: May 2019

Biomedical sciences require effective tools to manipulate, detect, and study biological phenomena. Oligo(deoxy)nucleotide ligands represent such tools, but the current strategies to generate them are restricted. Their limited availability is insufficient to address the broad range of targets related to biomedical research. Exemplified by targeting the hydrophobic molecule (−)‐Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), we report a receptor‐guided design (RGD) strategy to generate chemically modified oligodeoxynucleotide libraries for the tailored selection of clickmers.
From Crystalline to Amorphous Germania Bilayer Films at the Atomic Scale: Preparation and Characterization
Authors: Lewandowski Adrián L. , Tosoni Sergio , Gura Leonard , Schlexer Philomena , Marschalik Patrik , Schneider Wolf‐Dieter , Heyde Markus , Pacchioni Gianfranco , Freund Hans‐Joachim
Published: May 2019

A new two‐dimensional (2D) germanium dioxide film has been prepared. The film consists of interconnected germania tetrahedral units forming a bilayer structure, weakly coupled to the supporting Pt(111) metal‐substrate. Density functional theory calculations predict a stable structure of 558‐membered rings for germania films, while for silica films 6‐membered rings are preferred. By varying the preparation conditions the degree of order in the germania films is tuned. Crystalline, intermediate ordered and purely amorphous film structures are resolved by analysing scanning tunnelling microscopy images.
Design Strategies for Vanadium‐based Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wan Fang , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: May 2019

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are considered promising energy storage devices for large‐scale energy storage systems as a consequence of their safety benefits and low cost. In recent years, various vanadium‐based compounds have been widely developed to serve as the cathodes of aqueous ZIBs because of their low cost and high theoretical capacity. Furthermore, different energy storage mechanisms are observed in ZIBs based on vanadium‐based cathodes. In this Minireview, we present a comprehensive overview of the energy storage mechanisms and structural features of various vanadium‐based cathodes in ZIBs. Furthermore, we discuss strategies for improving the electrochemical performance of vanadium‐based cathodes; including, insertion of metal ions, adjustment of structural water, selection of conductive additives, and optimization of electrolytes. Finally, this Minireview offers insight into potential future directions in the design of innovative vanadium‐based electrode materials.
Electropolymerization of Molecular‐Sieving Polythiophene Membranes for H2 Separation
Authors: Zhang Mengxi , Jing Xuechun , Zhao Shuang , Shao Pengpeng , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yuan Shuai , Li Yanshuo , Gu Cheng , Wang Xiaoqi , Ye Yanchun , Feng Xiao , Wang Bo
Published: May 2019

Membrane technologies that do not rely on heat for industrial gas separation would lower global energy cost. While polymeric, inorganic, and mixed‐matrix separation membranes have been rapidly developed, the bottleneck is balancing the processability, selectivity, and permeability. Reported here is a softness adjustment of rigid networks (SARs) strategy to produce flexible, stand‐alone, and molecular‐sieving membranes by electropolymerization. Here, 14 membranes were rationally designed and synthesized and their gas separation ability and mechanical performance were studied. The separation performance of the membranes for H2/CO2, H2/N2, and H2/CH4 can exceed the Robeson upper bound, among which, H2/CO2 separation selectivity reaches 50 with 626 Barrer of H2 permeability. The long‐term and chemical stability tests demonstrate their potential for industrial applications. This simple, scalable, and cost‐effective strategy holds promise for the design other polymers for key energy‐intensive separations.
Clinician Perspectives on the Circle of Security‐Parenting (COS‐P) Program: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Reay Rebecca E. , Palfrey Nicola , Bragg Judith , Kelly Matthew , Ringland Cathy , Bungbrakearti Melynda
Published: May 2019

This study examined the perspectives of clinicians who facilitate Circle of Security‐Parenting (COS‐P) groups in community health settings. The therapists were from two services: a specialist perinatal and infant mental health consultation service and a child at risk health service. In particular, we were interested in their perceptions of the strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and possible improvements to the model as applied to their clinical settings. Two focus group interviews, involving eight clinicians and clinical supervisors from a diverse range of professional backgrounds, were conducted by an independent interviewer. A discussion guide consisted of a series of open‐ended questions related to the participants’ experiences of delivering COS‐P. Therapists found COS‐P to be effective, feasible to deliver, user‐friendly, flexible, and generalisable to diverse client subgroups. The compassionate and non‐judgmental therapeutic stance was considered a strength of the model. Clinicians highlighted their adoption of the model across their professional and personal lives and the critical importance of supervision. In conclusion, COS‐P is a popular and promising intervention which targets the parent–child relationship that can be successfully delivered to mothers affected by moderate to severe mental health problems.
New azo‐azomethine‐based transition metal complexes: Synthesis, spectroscopy, solid‐state structure, density functional theory calculations and anticancer studies
Authors: Sahan Fatma , Kose Muhammet , Hepokur Ceylan , Karakas Duran , Kurtoglu Mukerrem
Published: May 2019

A novel tetradentate azo‐Schiff base ligand (H2L) was synthesized by 2:1 molar condensation of an azo‐aldehyde and ethylenediamine. Its mononuclear Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II) and Zn(II) complexes were prepared and their structures were confirmed using elemental analysis, NMR, infrared and UV–visible spectroscopies and molar conductivity measurements. The results suggest that the metal ion is bonded to the tetradentate ligand through phenolic oxygens and imine nitrogens of the ligand. The solid‐state structures of the azo‐Schiff base ligand and its Cu(II) complex were determined using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. The azo‐Schiff base ligand lies on a crystallographic inversion centre and thus the asymmetric unit contains half of the molecule. X‐ray data revealed that keto–amine tautomer is favoured in the solid‐state structure of the ligand. In the structure of the Cu(II) complex, the Cu(II) ion is coordinated to two phenolate oxygen atoms and two imine nitrogen atoms of the azo‐Schiff base ligand with approximate square planar geometry. The anticancer activity of the synthesized complexes was investigated for human cancer cell line (MCF‐7) and cytotoxicity of the synthesized compounds was determined against mouse fibroblast cells (L929). The ligand and its complexes were found to show antitumor activity. The synthesized metal complexes were optimized at the B3LYP/LANL2DZ level and a new theoretical formula for MCF‐7 cells was also derived.
Study on microstructure and mechanical properties of polydiacetylene composite biosensors
Authors: Hassan Faqrul , Gentry‐Weeks Claudia , Reynolds Melissa , Li Yan Vivian
Published: May 2019

10,12‐Pentacosadiynoic acid (PCDA) monomers were mixed with polyurethane (PU) or poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and the mixtures were electrospun to obtain composite nanofibers that were then photopolymerized via ultraviolet radiation, resulting polydiacetylene (PDA) in the nanofibers. The PDA demonstrated color‐changing properties in the presence of Escherichia coli, which exhibited potential for developing flexible colorimetric biosensors for medical textiles. Phase separation was found in the PEO–PDA fibers, resulting in amorphous PEO accumulation at the fiber surface. In contrast, the PU–PDA fibers demonstrated a homogeneous microstructure throughout the fibers. Tensile test results suggested a molecular orientation in the PU–PDA fibers that significantly improved the mechanical properties of the fibers. The presence of PDA in the matrix polymer reduced the overall strength and breaking elongation of both composite nanofibers in comparison to 100% PEO and PU fibers. A single PU–PDA fiber showed significantly higher stiffness and modulus than a single PEO–PDA fiber. Force–distance curve analysis suggested that the PU–PDA fibers exhibited an elastic deformation. In a comparison, the PEO–PDA fibers were brittle and showed low modulus. The results of structural and mechanical properties suggest that the PU–PDA nanofibers are a promising composite for developing nonadherent, durable, and flexible colorimetric biosensors used in medical textiles. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47877.
Ultrasonography‐guided anterior approach for axillary nerve blockade: An anatomical study
Authors: González‐Arnay Emilio , Jiménez‐Sánchez Lorena , García‐Simón Diego , Valdés‐Vilches Luis , Salazar‐Zamorano Carlos H. , Boada‐Pié Sergi , Aguirre José Alejandro , Eichenberger Urs , Fajardo‐Pérez Mario
Published: May 2019

Combined ultrasound (US)‐guided blockade of the suprascapular and axillary nerves (ANs) has been proposed as an alternative to interscalene blockade for pain control in shoulder joint pathology or postsurgical care. This technique could help avoid respiratory complications and/or almost total upper limb palsy. Nowadays, the AN blockade is mostly performed using an in‐plane caudal‐to‐cephalic approach from the posterior surface of the shoulder, reaching the nerve immediately after it exits the neurovascular quadrangular space (part of the spatium axillare). Despite precluding most respiratory complications, this approach has not made postsurgical pain relief any better than an interscalene blockade, probably because articular branches of the AN are not blocked.Cephalic‐to‐caudal methylene blue injections were placed in the first segment of the AN of six Thiel‐embalmed cadavers using an US‐guided anterior approach in order to compare the distribution with that produced by a posterior approach to the contralateral AN in the same cadaver. Another 21 formalin‐fixed cadavers were bilaterally dissected to identify the articular branches of the AN.We found a good spread of the dye on the AN and a constant relationship of this nerve with the subscapularis muscle. The dye reached the musculocutaneous nerve, which also contributes to shoulder joint innervation. We describe the anatomical landmarks for an ultrasonography‐guided anterior AN blockade and hypothesize that this anterior approach will provide better pain control than the posterior approach owing to complete blocking of the joint nerve. Clin. Anat. 33:488–499, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The clinical study on treatment of CD19‐directed chimeric antigen receptor‐modified T cells in a case of refractory Richter syndrome
Authors: Xia Leiming , Wang Yi , Li Tan , Hu Xueying , Chen Qian , Liu Liu , Jiang Beilei , Li Caixin , Wang Hua , Wang Siying , Yang Guanghua , Bao Yangyi
Published: May 2019

Richter syndrome (RS) indicates the transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) into an aggressive lymphoma (mostly DLBCL). Richter syndrome is a rare complication with an aggressive clinical course, bearing an unfavorable prognosis. Currently, there is no effective treatment for it. As a novel cellular‐based immune therapy, chimeric antigen receptor‐modified T (CART) cells treatment is gradually used in treating hematological malignancies, especially in CD19+ B‐cell malignancy. Therefore, CD19‐directed chimeric antigen receptor‐modified T cells (CART‐19) treatment is promising to be used as a new method for RS patients. In our study, one RS patient expressing high level of CD19 molecule was enrolled in clinical trial; he has received a series of treatments but did not achieve a satisfactory therapeutic effect. The patient totally received 3.55 × 108 autologous CART‐19 cells infusion. After CART‐19 infusion, the mainly clinical side effect was repeated fever. The maximal duration period was 24 days and the highest temperature was 40.1°C. Pancytopenia and significantly serum cytokines level rise were observed, including IFN‐γ, IL‐6, and IL‐10. Before discharge, the level of cytokines reduced to normal levels. In addition, we detected the serum biochemical indices as like K+, Ca2+, creatinine, and glutamic‐pyruvic transaminase, all of these indices were normal. This showed that there was no tumor necrosis syndrome after treatment. The proportion of B cells in patient's peripheral blood decreased from 72% to 40.2% after infusion, co‐occurring with reduction in lymph nodes and hematopoietic reconstitution. Based on the recent revolution in the therapeutic landscape for hematological malignancies including B‐cell lymphomas, CART‐CD19 cell therapy as a new therapeutic option for RS might be available in the coming years. It aims to reduce patient's tumor burden, prolong their survival time, and provide opportunities for other sequential therapy such as chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation.
The mRVG‐9R peptide as a potential therapeutic vector to the central nervous system cells
Authors: Villa‐Cedillo Sheila A , Soto‐Domínguez Adolfo , Rodríguez‐Rocha Humberto , García‐García Aracely , de Jesús Loera‐Arias María , Rivera‐Chávez Luis F , Acosta‐Espinoza Esrom J , Valdés Jesús , Zavala‐Flores Laura M , Montes‐de‐Oca‐Luna Roberto , Saucedo‐Cárdenas Odila
Published: May 2019

Our research group has developed a cell‐penetrating peptide‐based delivery system that includes the Asn194Lys mutation in the rabies virus glycoprotein‐9R peptide (mRVG‐9R). This system has the capacity to deliver DNA in astrocytes and SH‐SY5Y cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of the mRVG‐9R peptide to deliver DNA molecules to murine brain cells. The mRVG‐9R peptide, a karyophilic peptide (KP) and a plasmid encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP) were bound by electrostatic charges to form the mRVG‐9R complex. mRVG‐9R complex was injected into the cerebral cortex, striatum and hippocampus of C57BL/6 mice by stereotactic surgery. After 2, 4, and 20 days, the animals were sacrificed and their brains were prepared for quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and histological analysis. We detected the GFP expression in neurons and glial cells in the cerebral cortex, striatum, and hippocampus of the murine brain. The results suggest that the mRVG‐9R peptide has the ability to deliver DNA molecules to murine brain cells. Also, the expression of the reporter gene is maintained at least up to 20 days after injection in neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia cells. Thus, the in vivo transfection ability of the mRVG‐9R peptide, makes it a promising candidate as a therapeutic gene delivery vector to the central nervous system cells.