bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ЗНАЧАЈ НАУЧНИХ ОТКРИЋА У НЕУРОФИЗИОЛОГИЈИ ЗА ПЕДАГОШКИ КОНТЕКСТ РАНОГ УЧЕЊА И РАЗВОЈА
Authors: Цвјетковић Марица
Published: January 2019

Подаци којима располаже савремена наука, захваљујући новимоткрићима у области неурфизиологије, показују да су рано дјетињство и предшколскипериод доба најинтензивнијег сазријевања можданих структура. Посматрано упроцентима, до пете године заврши се око 50% развоја мозга, а чак 70% до седмегодине живота, и управо ће од квалитета стимулација из социјалног и материјалногокружења у ком борави зависити развој биолошког потенцијала сваког дјетета. Ураду је поред познатих чињеница о развоју људског мозга до шесте године, као основнепретпоставке каснијих постигнућа и резултата у животу човјека, посебан акценатстављен на педагошке импликације наведених сазнања као и на потребу преиспитивањаодноса људи у научним али и у ширим друштвеним оквирима према овим сазнањима.
ПРОБЛЕМИ ИНИЦИЈАЛНОГ ОБРАЗОВАЊА НАСТАВНИКА ГЕОГРАФИЈЕ
Authors: Грмуша Милка
Published: January 2019

У раду се анализирају проблеми везани за иницијално(додипломско) образовање наставника географије у Републици Српској и Босни иХерцеговини, који су се јавили као посљедица реформских промјена у високомобразовању. Такође, анализирају се планови и програми студијских програманаставног смјера географије у Босни и Херцеговини. Будући наставници географијетреба да, поред стручних географских знања, стекну и педагошко-психолошка идидактичко-методичка знања у складу са европским стандардима како би билиоспособљени за квалитетан рад у процесу наставе. У току иницијалног образовањанаставника географије посебну пажњу треба посветити дидактичко-методичкојпракси. Из наставних планова видљиво је да то најчешће није случај, јер је број часоваиз ове групе предмета недовољан.
A protocol for a survey of patient perceptions about outpatient joint replacement surgery (The RAAPID survey)
Authors: Woolnough Taylor , Madden Kim , Adili Anthony , Khanna Vickas , deBeer Justin , Winemaker Mitchell , Wood Thomas , Tushinski Daniel
Published: January 2019

Background: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA), are the second and third most common surgical procedures performed in Canada, accounting for more than 600,000 acute care bed days and over $1 billion CAD in healthcare spending. The demand for these procedures, both in Canada and internationally, is only expected to increase. Same-day discharge has been demonstrated to be safe and effective in properly selected patients and has the potential to greatly decrease the cost of THA and TKA, collectively referred to as total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The existing literature focuses on implementing outpatient TJA from the physician’s perspective. However, patient opinions do not always align with physician opinions. To date, only one study has explored patients’ perspectives regarding outpatient TJA; many questions remain unanswered. To effectively implement or expand outpatient joint replacement programs, detailed exploration of the patient perspective is necessary.

Methods: This study is a multicentre cross-sectional survey to primarily determine the proportion of patients who are open to outpatient TJA. Adult patients scheduled for primary TJA surgery or those who have received TJA surgery in the past year will be included in the survey. The secondary objectives of this survey are to determine patient characteristics associated with openness to outpatient TJA, describe patient concerns regarding outpatient TJA, and identify potential methods to increase patient comfort with outpatient TJA.

Discussion: Resource expenditure and clinical practice are increasingly guided by subjective patient outcomes, especially in the area of joint replacement. With the current focus on cost-efficiency in healthcare, there is increasing interest in outpatient TJA. By exploring how patients perceive outpatient TJA, this study may serve to guide the development of educational resources and programs to enhance and support outpatient TJA. Addressing concerns identified by patients in an evidence-based manner has the potential to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes in the growing trend of outpatient TJA.
Comparison of non-magnetic and magnetic beads multiplex assay for assessment of Plasmodium falciparum antibodies
Authors: Ondigo Bartholomew N. , Park Gregory S. , Ayieko Cyrus , Nyangahu Donald D. , Wasswa Ronald , John Chandy C.
Published: January 2019

Background

New reagents have emerged allowing researchers to assess a growing number of vaccine-associated immune parameters. Multiplex immunoassay(s) are emerging as efficient high-throughput assays in malaria serology. Currently, commercial vendors market several bead reagents for cytometric bead assays (CBA) but relative performances are not well published. We have compared two types of bead-based multiplex assays to measure relative antibody levels to malarial antigens.

Methods

Assays for the measurement of antibodies to five Plasmodium falciparum vaccine candidates using non-magnetic and magnetic fluorescent microspheres were compared for their performances with a Bio-Plex200 instrument. Mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was determined from individuals from western Kenya and compared to known positive and negative control plasma samples.

Results

P. falciparum recombinant antigens were successfully coupled to both non-magnetic and magnetic beads in multiplex assays. MFIs between the two bead types were comparable for all antigens tested. Bead recovery was superior with magnetic beads for all antigens. MFI values of stored non-magnetic coupled beads did not differ from freshly coupled beads, though they showed higher levels of bead aggregation.

Discussion

Magnetic and non-magnetic beads performed similarly in P. falciparum antibody assays. Magnetic beads were more expensive, but had higher bead recovery, were more convenient to use, and provided rapid and easy protocol manipulation. Magnetic beads are a suitable alternative to non-magnetic beads in malarial antibody serology.
Toxicity of TiO2, SiO2, ZnO, CuO, Au and Ag engineered nanoparticles on hatching and early nauplii of Artemia sp.
Authors: Rekulapally Rohit , Murthy Chavali Lakshmi Narsimha , Idris Mohammed M. , Singh Shashi
Published: January 2019

The potential of environmental release enhances with increased commercial applications of the nanomaterials. In this work, a simple and efficient test to estimate the acute toxicity of nanoparticles is carried out on Artemia species and their hatching rates. We have tested six different engineered nanoparticles (silver, gold, copper oxide, zinc oxide, TiO2 and SiO2 nanoparticles) and three soluble salts (CuSO4, ZnSO4 and AgNO3) on Artemia sp. The physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles involved in this study were analyzed in normal water and marine water. Hydrated and bleached Artemia cysts were allowed to hatch in continuously aerated, filtered sterile salt water containing nanoparticles; hatching of viable nauplii and total hatchlings have been recorded. In parallel, standard Artemia toxicity test was conducted on the nauplii monitoring the viability. In hatching experiments, a reduction in hatching rate was observed along with mortality of newly hatched nauplii. The results of the hatching experiment and of the standard Artemia test showed a good correlation. The toxicity of the nanoparticles was compared and the order of toxicity was estimated as Ag>CuO>ZnO>Au>TiO2>SiO2. The study thus suggests that the hatching test itself is a reliable assay for determining the toxicity of nanomaterials.
In vivo evidence for pre‐symptomatic neuroinflammation in a MAPT mutation carrier
Authors: Bevan‐Jones W. Richard , Cope Thomas E. , Jones P. Simon , Passamonti Luca , Hong Young T. , Fryer Tim , Arnold Robert , Coles Jonathan P. , Aigbirhio Franklin I. , O'Brien John T. , Rowe James B.
Published: January 2019

Neuroinflammation occurs in frontotemporal dementia, however its timing relative to protein aggregation and neuronal loss is unknown. Using positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging to quantify these processes in a pre‐symptomatic carrier of the 10 + 16 MAPT mutation, we show microglial activation in frontotemporal regions, despite a lack of protein aggregation or atrophy in these areas. The distribution of microglial activation better discriminated the carrier from controls than did protein aggregation at this pre‐symptomatic disease stage. Our findings suggest an early role for microglial activation in frontotemporal dementia. Longitudinal studies are needed to explore the causality of this pathophysiological association.
Integrating PGM‐Free Catalysts into Catalyst Layers and Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Devices
Authors: Banham Dustin , Choi Ja‐Yeon , Kishimoto Takeaki , Ye Siyu
Published: January 2019

While proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) continue to expand into commercial markets, there is still pressure to decrease cost. One of the largest opportunities to reducing cost is to reduce the amount of platinum‐group metal (PGM) catalysts used in the electrodes (particularly the cathode). Over the past decade, exciting advances in the Fe/N/C family of PGM‐free oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts has provided great optimism that not only can PGMs at the cathode be reduced but possibly be completely eliminated. In fact, in September 2017, Ballard Power Systems announced the commercialization of the world's first PEMFC product to utilize a PGM‐free catalyst at the cathode (FCgen‐micro (non‐precious‐metal catalyst, NPMC)). However, for these catalysts to be used in more demanding applications, an improved understanding and new design approaches for PGM‐free catalyst layers will be required. Herein, some of the latest research on both modeling and experimental studies in the field of PGM‐free catalyst layer research are discussed. In addition, a short discussion on Ballard's new NPMC is provided.
High‐Precision Stereolithography of Biomicrofluidic Devices
Authors: Kuo Alexandra P. , Bhattacharjee Nirveek , Lee Yuan‐Sheng , Castro Kurt , Kim Yong Tae , Folch Albert
Published: January 2019

Stereolithography (SL) is emerging as an attractive alternative to soft lithography for fabricating microfluidic devices due to its low cost and high design efficiency. Low molecular weight poly(ethylene glycol)diacrylate (MW = 258) (PEG‐DA‐258) has been used for SL 3D‐printing of biocompatible microdevices at submillimeter resolution. However, 3D‐printing resins that simultaneously feature high transparency, high biocompatibility, and high resolution are still lacking. It is found that photosensitizer isopropyl thioxanthone can, in a concentration‐dependent manner, increase the absorbance of the resin (containing PEG‐DA‐258 and photoinitator Irgacure‐819) by over an order of magnitude. This increase in absorbance allows for SL printing of microdevices at sub pixel resolution with commercially available desktop printers and without compromising transparency or biocompatibility. The assembly‐free, rapid (<15 h) 3D‐printing of a variety of complex 3D microfluidic devices such as a 3D‐fluid router, a passive chaotic micro‐mixer, an active micro‐mixer with pneumatic microvalves, and high‐aspect ratio (37:1) microchannels of single pixel width is demonstrated. These manufacturing capabilities are unavailable in conventional microfluidic rapid prototyping techniques. The low absorption of small hydrophobic molecules and microfluidic labeling of cultured mammalian cells in 3D‐printed PEG‐DA‐258 microdevices is demonstrated, indicating the potential of PEG‐DA‐based fabrication of cell‐based assays, drug discovery, and organ‐on‐chip platforms.
A Simplified Approach for Obtaining Optical Properties of VO2 Thin Films, and Demonstration of Infrared Shape‐Shifting Devices
Authors: Figueroa José , Cao Yunqi , Dsouza Henry , Pastrana Juan , Sepúlveda Nelson
Published: January 2019

Micrometer‐sized VO2‐based devices with integrated resistive heaters of different configurations are fabricated. Quality of the VO2 films is confirmed by measuring the characteristic drop in transmittance and negative differential emissivity for these films. A two‐interface model for optical transmittance, reflectance, and absorbance is presented. This method and analytic model presents an advantage over most typically used approaches in that it does not require direct measurements of the material's optical constants to estimate transmittance. By combining the substrate and the VO2 film into one layer with a reduced optical admittance, the two‐interface model is reduced to a single‐layer model. Moreover, the present work demonstrates the implementation of the developed VO2‐based devices in adaptive camouflage and shape‐converting applications. Electrical pulses are used to program different emissivity states to convert geometric shapes inside a fully integrated VO2‐based electro‐optical window. This results in the reconfiguring of thermal images to either create new shapes, or shift from one to another.
Impact of Eumelanin–PEDOT Blending: Increased PEDOT Crystalline Order and Packing–Conductivity Relationship in Ternary PEDOT:PSS:Eumelanin Thin Films
Authors: Migliaccio Ludovico , Altamura Davide , Scattarella Francesco , Giannini Cinzia , Manini Paola , Gesuele Felice , Maglione Maria Grazia , Tassini Paolo , Pezzella Alessandro
Published: January 2019

A recently developed protocol allows to prepare high quality thin films integrating eumelanin pigment with standard commercial poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). The new blend combines noteworthy water stability and substrate adhesion with valuable electro‐optical properties, so it can be used as anodic material in indium tin oxide‐free organic light emitting diodes. Starting from these results, the present work systematically addresses the parameters affecting the blend conductivity. In particular, X‐ray scattering analysis discloses that low quantities of eumelanin modifies molecular packing of the ternary blend, mainly in intermolecular distances and possibly in the degree of crystalline order of PEDOT, having anyway very little effect on the decay of the blend conductivity. Because of the synergetic effects observed here between the eumelanin and the PEDOT:PSS, this study provides a promising ground to access multifunctional materials for applications in advanced electronic devices and bioelectronics.
Enhanced Seebeck Effect of a MAPbBr3 Single Crystal by an Organic and a Metal Modified Layer
Authors: Sun Lin , Xu Ling , Xiong Yan , Wu Ping , Xie Guo , Hu Bin
Published: January 2019

The organic–inorganic hybrid lead halide perovskite single crystal has drawn much attention of researchers for excellent characteristics, such as more excellent stability than the polycrystalline film. However, during the crystal preparation process, there are inevitably generated surface defect states, which seriously affect the charge transport properties of the single crystal. In this article, the MAPbBr3 single crystal is prepared by the inverse temperature crystallization method, the semiconductor characteristics of the crystal surface defect states are studied by the Seebeck effect method, and the crystal Seebeck coefficient is enhanced. It is confirmed that there are N‐type defect states on the surface of the MAPbBr3 single crystal. Then the organic semiconductor layer and metal surface modified layer are utilized to reduce the concentration of defects and got the enhancement of the Seebeck coefficient of MAPbBr3 single crystal. At last, the Au/MAPbBr3/PFO/Au structure device is designed and prepared to improve the thermoelectric properties of the MAPbBr3 single crystal. Results show that the thermal voltage keeps increasing, and the Seebeck coefficient is also enhanced.
Natural variation in fetal cortisol exposure is associated with neonatal body mass in captive vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops)
Authors: Petrullo Lauren , Lu Amy
Published: January 2019

Poor maternal condition during gestation is commonly associated with impaired fetal growth in humans and other animals. Although elevated maternal glucocorticoids (GCs) are often implicated as the mechanism of intrauterine growth stunting, the direct contribution of maternal GCs remains unclear because enzymatic conversion of GCs at the placenta may limit the ability of maternal hormones to reach the fetus. Further, because previous studies on gestational stress have often employed synthetic GCs, which cross the placenta unobstructed, it remains unknown whether naturalistic endogenous GC elevations will have similar effects. Here, we use an unmanipulated colony of captive vervet monkeys (N = 18 mother–offspring dyads) to examine how maternal condition predicts maternal gestational hormones, and how these in turn predict neonatal body mass, especially in comparison with total prenatal hormone exposure as measured from neonatal hair. We focused on GCs and dehydroepiandrosterone‐sulfate (DHEAS), an additional steroid suspected to influence growth. We found that measures of poor maternal condition (low body mass and low parity) were not associated with elevations in maternal GCs or DHEAS. Furthermore, only fetal GC exposure predicted neonatal body mass, while neither maternal GCs, nor maternal or fetal DHEAS, had any effect. Surprisingly, neonates exposed to higher gestational GCs were larger, rather than smaller at birth. Taken together, these results suggest that GC concentrations within a more naturalistic range may be positively rather than negatively associated with neonatal body mass. Further, the effect of maternal gestational GCs on neonatal mass may be modulated by placental control of GC exposure.
C−C Bond Formation of Benzyl Alcohols and Alkynes Using a Catalytic Amount of KOtBu: Unusual Regioselectivity through a Radical Mechanism
Authors: Kumar Amit , Janes Trevor , Chakraborty Subrata , Daw Prosenjit , von Wolff Niklas , Carmieli Raanan , Diskin‐Posner Yael , Milstein David
Published: January 2019

We report a C−C bond‐forming reaction between benzyl alcohols and alkynes in the presence of a catalytic amount of KOtBu to form α‐alkylated ketones in which the C=O group is located on the side derived from the alcohol. The reaction proceeds under thermal conditions (125 °C) and produces no waste, making the reaction highly atom efficient, environmentally benign, and sustainable. Based on our mechanistic investigations, we propose that the reaction proceeds through radical pathways.
Improved toughness of poly(ether‐block‐amide) via melting blending with thermoplastic polyurethane for biomedical applications
Authors: Xue Yunyun , Tang Zhihong , Qin Minglin , Yu Muhuo , Li Zhaomin
Published: January 2019

Biocompatible polyether‐block‐amide (PEBA) copolymers have been widely applied in invasive medical devices. Due to the high hard segment ratios and poor toughness, PEBAs generally suffer from low fracture extensibility, large brittleness, and low compliance. Modification of PEBA with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomer via melting blending is thus needed to improve the toughness. Mechanical experiments exhibited that when the content of TPU was 3% (w/w), the elongation at break and the notched impact strength of PEBA/TPU composite were improved by 12.4 and 30.5%, respectively. Field emission scanning electron microscopy results illustrated that there existed two toughening mechanisms in PEBA/TPU composites, including the crazing with a shear‐yield mechanism and the single‐layer crack extension mechanism. Moreover, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the intermolecular interaction between PEBA and TPU was enhanced due to hydrogen bonding, leading to the tensile mechanical properties and toughness increased. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47397.
Characterization of 30 microsatellite markers in distylous Primula sinolisteri (Primulaceae) using HiSeq sequencing
Authors: Wang Xinjia , Zhong Li , Wu Zhikun , Sun Huaying , Wang Hong , Li Dezhu , Barrett Spencer C. H. , Zhou Wei
Published: January 2019

Premise of the Study

Microsatellite markers were developed for Primula sinolisteri, a perennial distylous herb belonging to section Obconicolisteri (Primulaceae), to facilitate future investigations of the population genetics and mating patterns of populations in this species.

Methods and Results

We developed 30 microsatellite markers for P. sinolisteri using HiSeq X‐Ten sequencing and measured polymorphism and genetic diversity in a sample of 36 individuals from three natural populations. The markers displayed relatively high polymorphism, with the number of observed alleles per locus ranging from one to 19 (mean = 4.42). The observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0–1.000 and 0.083–0.882, respectively. Twenty‐nine of the loci were also successfully amplified in homostylous P. sinolisteri var. aspera.

Conclusions

The microsatellite markers we have identified in P. sinolisteri provide powerful tools for investigating patterns of population genetic diversity and the evolutionary relationships between heterostyly and homostyly in this species.
Bio‐physical models of marine environments reveal biases in the representation of protected areas
Authors: Roberts Kelsey E. , Duffy Grant A. , Cook Carly N.
Published: January 2019

The significant shortfall in global marine protection targets is likely to continue to drive rapid growth in marine protected areas (MPAs). Systematic conservation planning to fill gaps in marine protection requires sufficient knowledge of both the distribution of biodiversity and the threats to species and ecosystems. Yet such data are lacking for much of the marine environment, creating significant challenges for planning effective marine protection.

In the absence of habitat mapping data, critical environmental variables associated with species' distributions can be used to model the spatial distribution of different environments. Although this approach has been used in some jurisdictions to assist MPA planners, the increased availability and resolution of spatial data now provide an opportunity to improve assessments of MPA representation.

Capitalizing on advances in spatial data, this study uses a range of biological and physical environmental attributes to model the distribution of Australian marine environments. Given many Australian MPAs were implemented without knowledge of the distribution of species and benthic habitats, this Bio‐physical model is used to assess MPA coverage and equality of protection for Australian marine environments.

Results of the Bio‐physical model revealed that Australian MPAs overrepresent warm, offshore waters (such as the Coral Sea) and underrepresent temperate environments. Furthermore, the distribution of protection in Australian MPAs is heavily skewed, with no‐take protection disproportionately targeting tropical environments, leaving major gaps in the protection of both temperate and nearshore habitats.

Without comprehensive habitat mapping, the representativeness and adequacy of an MPA system cannot be accurately evaluated, nor can the required expansion of MPAs be planned effectively. In the interim, the biological and physical attributes chosen for this model provide useful proxies to assist in efforts to better target current and future protection based on the most up‐to‐date knowledge.
Fighting Aggregation‐Caused Quenching and Leakage of Dyes in Fluorescent Polymer Nanoparticles: Universal Role of Counterion
Authors: Andreiuk Bohdan , Reisch Andreas , Bernhardt Eduard , Klymchenko Andrey S.
Published: January 2019

Dye‐loaded polymer nanoparticles (NPs) emerge as a powerful tool for bioimaging applications, owing to their exceptional brightness and controlled small size. However, aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) and leakage of dyes at high loading remain important challenges of these nanomaterials. The use of bulky hydrophobic counterions has been recently proposed as an effective approach to minimize ACQ and dye leakage, but the role of counterion structure is still poorly understood. Here, a systematic study based on ten counterions, ranging from small hydrophilic perchlorate up to large hydrophobic tetraphenylborate derivatives, reveals how counterion nature can control encapsulation and emission of a cationic dye (rhodamine B octadecyl ester) in NPs prepared by nanoprecipitation of a biodegradable polymer, poly‐lactide‐co‐glycolide (PLGA). We found that increase in counterion hydrophobicity enhances dye encapsulation efficiency and prevents dye adsorption at the particle surface. Cellular imaging studies revealed that ≥95 % encapsulation efficiency, achieved with most hydrophobic counterions (fluorinated tetraphenylborates), is absolutely required because non‐encapsulated dye species at the surface of NPs are the origin of dye leakage and strong fluorescence background in cells. The size of counterions is found to be essential to prevent ACQ, where the largest species, serving as effective spacer between dyes, provide the highest fluorescence quantum yield. Moreover, we found that the most hydrophobic counterions favor dye–dye coupling inside NPs, leading to ON/OFF fluorescence switching of single particles. By contrast, less hydrophobic counterions tend to disperse dyes in the polymer matrix favoring stable emission of NPs. The obtained structure‐property relationships validate the counterion‐based approach as a mature concept to fight ACQ and dye leakage in the development of advanced polymeric nanomaterials with controlled optical properties.
Predictive validity and interrater reliability of the FACE‐CARAS toolkit in a CAMHS setting
Authors: Evans Stephen A. , Young David , Tiffin Paul A.
Published: January 2019

Background

The FACE‐CARAS (Functional Analysis in Care Environments‐Child and Adolescent Risk‐Assessment Suite) toolkit has been developed to support practitioners in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in performing a structured risk assessment. It covers a number of risk domains including violence, suicide, self‐harm, experienced abuse, and exploitation. Interrater and internal reliability has already been established but not predictive validity.

Aims/Hypothesis

Our aim was to establish the predictive validity of the FACE‐CARAS in a CAMHS population.

Methods

Records from 123 young people with FACE‐CARAS ratings completed by clinicians were examined in a retrospective file review to extract data on a relevant list of adverse outcomes at three and at 6 months following the assessment. Although this was not a prospective longitudinal study, researchers were blind to the clinicians' ratings, allowing valid testing of predictive power. Cases were drawn from across generic and specialist CAMHS teams in approximately equal proportions. Data were analysed using receiver operator characteristic statistics.

Results

Areas under the curve values in five of the seven risk areas approached or were greater than 0.8 indicated that the FACE‐CARAS profile score was a good potential predictor of risks of self‐harm, suicidal behaviours, serious self‐neglect, abuse or exploitation by others, and violence to others at both 3 and 6 months. It was weakly “predictive” of accidental self‐harm and no better than chance at signalling physical ill health.

Conclusions

Findings support the use of the “profile summary” section of the tool as likely to generate clinically useful risk predictions. We were concerned that clinical use of the scale did not conform to research standards and often left subscales incompletely rated; however, the fact that the tool nonetheless proved a good predictor of most key adversities under scrutiny may add weight to its value in clinical practice. Further work with the FACE‐CARAS subscales is recommended.
In‐hospital outcome differences between transradial and transfemoral coronary approaches: Data from the Korean percutaneous coronary intervention registry
Authors: Ahn Sung Gyun , Lee Jun‐Won , Youn Young Jin , Lee Seung‐Hwan , Cho Jang Hyun , Kang Woong Chol , Park Jong‐Pil , Shin Won‐Yong , Lim Seong‐Hoon , Choi Yu Jeong , Kim Kyungsoo , Lim Do‐Sun , Chun Woojung , Kim Ju Han , Yoon Junghan
Published: January 2019

Objectives

We aimed to investigate specific subgroups in which the benefit of transradial coronary interventions (TRIs) would be enhanced.

Background

The advantage of TRIs over transfemoral coronary interventions (TFIs) might differ according to a given clinical condition, urgency of the procedure, and operator volume pattern.

Methods

Using a cohort from the 2014 Korean Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Registry, in‐hospital outcomes of the TRI group (n = 22,993) were matched to those of the TFI group (n = 15,581). After propensity score matching, the composite endpoints between the groups and subgroups for all‐cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarctions (MIs), or transfusions were analyzed.

Results

The composite endpoints occurred less frequently in the TRI group than the TFI group [2.1% vs. 5.5%, OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.55–0.72]. The TRI group had a lower rate of death (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.33–0.60) and nonfatal MI (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.54–0.81) than the TFI group. The TRI group required fewer transfusions than the TFI group (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.59–0.88). TRI benefits were consistent across subgroups except patients with chronic kidney disease and those treated in low tertile PCI volume centers. The favorable outcome of TRI was greater in the elderly (≥75 years), patients with ST‐elevation MI, those who underwent emergent PCI, and those treated in high tertile PCI volume hospitals (P for the interaction <0.001 for all).

Conclusions

Compared to TFI, TRI had favorable composite in‐hospital outcomes. TRI benefits were pronounced in high‐risk clinical settings and in high PCI volume centers.
Procedure failure of chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention in an algorithm driven contemporary Asia‐Pacific Chronic Total Occlusion Club (APCTO Club) multicenter registry
Authors: Chan Chi Yuen , Wu Eugene B. , Yan Bryan P. , Tsuchikane Etsuo
Published: January 2019

Objective

With the evolution of chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) technique and equipment, the success rate of CTO PCI has improved over the years. We examined the failed cases in this expert registry and looked at the mode of failure.

Methods

In 2016, consecutive CTO PCI performed by eight high volume CTO with an agreed CTO algorithm were examined in a registry.

Results

There was a total of 485 patients with 497 CTOs were treated with technical and procedural success rates of 93.8% and 89.9%, respectively. The mean J‐CTO score was 2.9 ± 1.2. The main mode of failure in cases with only antegrade attempt was inability to wire to true lumen despite advanced antegrade wiring technique for example, parallel wiring or IVUS guided wiring (10 out of 11 cases). The mode of failure in retrograde attempt was: 30% was due to inability to wire the collateral channel; 30% was due to failed reverse controlled antegrade and retrograde subintimal tracking (CART); 30% was due to inability to cross CTO by retrograde microcatheter. Four cases were terminated prematurely due to procedure complications.

Conclusion

Similar to previous reported studies, primary failure mode of only antegrade attempt was inability to wire to true lumen. However, contrary to other registries where failure to cross the retrograde channel with wire was the predominant failure mode, the retrograde failure mode was equally divided between failure to cross the channel with wire, failure to do reverse CART, and failure to cross the CTO with the microcatheter.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma: Is reconstruction of the diaphragm necessary in left pleurectomy/decortication? A case report
Authors: Testori Alberto , De Simone Matilde , Bottoni Edoardo , Alloisio Marco , Voulaz Emanuele , Cioffi Ugo
Published: January 2019

Key Clinical Message

We describe a case of complete intrathoracic stomach and intestinal herniation after pleurectomy/decortication due to diaphragm reconstruction without mesh. Is reconstruction with mesh always necessary? Can lung sparing obviate the tension on residual diaphragm? These are the questions not well described to which we try to give an answer.
V4P6.98/VO(PO3)2 as an Efficient Non‐Noble Metal Catalyst for Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline Electrolyte
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Cong Meiyu , Wang Yong , Ding Xin , Liu Aihua , Gao Yan
Published: January 2019

Electrocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production shows great potential for developing hydrogen as an energy source, owing to its low energy consumption and high‐purity products. Developing non‐noble metal hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts with a high activity for water splitting in alkaline media is urgent and challenging. Herein, we synthesized a flower‐like V4P6.98/VO(PO3)2 catalyst on a nickel foam substrate as an efficient non‐noble metal catalyst for electrochemical hydrogen evolution in alkaline electrolyte. The catalyst showed high catalytic performance for HER, requiring an overpotential of 159 mV to achieve 10 mA/cm2, and displayed long‐term stability in alkaline medium. We report a low‐cost and high‐efficiency non‐noble metal HER catalyst beyond the commonly used transition metals (Ni, Co, Mo, Cu, and Fe), which expands the scope of non‐noble‐metal phosphide catalysts for water splitting.
8‐Aminoquinolines with an Aminoxyalkyl Side Chain Exert in vitro Dual‐Stage Antiplasmodial Activity
Authors: Leven Michael , Held Jana , Duffy Sandra , Alves Avelar Leandro A. , Meister Stephan , Delves Michael , Plouffe David , Kuna Krystina , Tschan Serena , Avery Vicky M. , Winzeler Elizabeth A. , Mordmüller Benjamin , Kurz Thomas
Published: January 2019

A series of novel 8‐aminoquinolines (8‐AQs) with an aminoxyalkyl side chain were synthesized and evaluated for in vitro antiplasmodial properties against asexual blood stages, liver stages, and sexual stages of Plasmodium falciparum. 8‐AQs bearing 2‐alkoxy and 5‐phenoxy substituents on the quinoline ring system were found to be the most promising compounds under study, exhibiting potent blood schizontocidal and moderate tissue schizontocidal in vitro activity.
Reduced Graphene Oxide–Refined Cu Matrix Composites: An Experimental and First‐Principles Study
Authors: Yan Shaojiu , Hong Qihu , Chen Xiang , Li Xiuhui , Nan Wenzhen , Peng Ping
Published: January 2019

Reduced graphene oxide/copper matrix composites (RGO/Cu) are successfully fabricated via powder metallurgy methods. Composite powders of electrolytic Cu and 0.5 or 1.0 wt% graphene oxide (GO) are prepared by high‐energy ball milling. The composites are then consolidated using hot‐press sintering with a pressure of 22 MPa at 800 °C under a vacuum of 2 × 10−2 Pa. Microstructural observations of the RGO formed from GO show that it is located along the Cu grain boundaries and CuO nanoparticles distributed inside the Cu grain. The average grain sizes are 30.11 (pure Cu), 24.75 (0.5 wt% RGO/Cu composites), and 19.66 µm (1.0 wt% RGO/Cu composites). The Vickers hardness and tensile strengths of the RGO/Cu composites are higher than those of pure Cu. Theoretical research based on first‐principles calculations shows that oxygen atoms from the decomposition of GO react with Cu to form CuO nanoparticles. This secondary phase behaves as a pin that hinders the growth of copper grains. The covalent bonding between RGO and Cu slightly limits the movement of neighboring Cu atoms. More importantly, the grain refinement mechanism is related to the RGO retarding the diffusion of Cu atoms along the interface of copper grains due to its large activation energy.
Quantum Chemical Study of the Mechanism of Water Oxidation Catalyzed by a Heterotrinuclear Ru2Mn Complex
Authors: Li Ying‐Ying , Gimbert Carolina , Llobet Antoni , Siegbahn Per E. M. , Liao Rong‐Zhen
Published: January 2019

The heterotrinuclear complex A {[RuII(H2O)(tpy)]2(μ‐[MnII(H2O)2(bpp)2])}4+ [tpy=2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine, bpp=3,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)pyrazolate] was found to catalyze water oxidation both electrochemically and photochemically with [Ru(bpy)3]3+ (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine) as the photosensitizer and Na2S2O8 as the electron acceptor in neutral phosphate buffer. The mechanism of water oxidation catalyzed by this unprecedented trinuclear complex was studied by density functional calculations. The calculations showed that a series of oxidation and deprotonation events take place from A, leading to the formation of complex 1 (formal oxidation state of Ru1IVMnIIIRu2III), which is the starting species for the catalytic cycle. Three sequential oxidations of 1 result in the generation of the catalytically competing species 4 (formal oxidation state of Ru1IVMnVRu2IV), which triggers the O−O bond formation. The direct coupling of two adjacent oxo ligands bound to Ru and Mn leads to the production of a superoxide intermediate Int1. This step was calculated to have a barrier of 7.2 kcal mol−1 at the B3LYP*‐D3 level. Subsequent O2 release from Int1 turns out to be quite facile. Other possible pathways were found to be much less favorable, including water nucleophilic attack, the coupling of an oxo and a hydroxide, and the direct coupling pathway at a lower oxidation state (RuIVMnIVRuIV).
A Late Quaternary record of highstand shedding from an isolated carbonate platform (Juan de Nova, southern Indian Ocean)
Authors: Counts John W. , Jorry Stephan J. , Vazquez Riveiros Natalia , Jouet Gwenael , Giraudeau Jacques , Cheron Sandrine , Boissier Audrey , Miramontes Elda
Published: January 2019

A 27 m core collected on the sea floor near Juan de Nova island at 1,909 m depth in the SW Indian Ocean preserves a high‐resolution record of carbonate sediment export to the deep sea over the past 1 Myr. Core chronology was established using calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy and benthic foraminiferal δ18O. Throughout the core, preserved highstand intervals (MIS 1, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23 and 25) are marked by an increase in the aragonite content within the sediment. Aragonite is likely sourced from the nearby Juan de Nova carbonate platform ca 10 km to the south, and is interpreted as resulting from flooding of the platform top. Platform inundation allows carbonate muds to be winnowed from their original shallow‐water environment of deposition, suspended in the water column, and redeposited onto the proximal slopes and within the basin. Sharp increases in aragonite content at the beginning of each highstand interval can be used to estimate the approximate sea‐level range when platform flooding occurred; results show that the depth of the platform top has likely changed little over the past 1 Myr due to balanced aggradation and subsidence. Previously hypothesized large‐scale aragonite dissolution cycles are evidenced by a disproportionally low aragonite increase during MIS 11. This study provides a new, exceptionally long record of highstand shedding, expanding the known occurrences of the process to the southern Indian Ocean and supporting its importance as a globally significant depositional mechanism that impacts deep‐sea stratigraphic records.
Experimental study of loess disintegration characteristics
Authors: Wang Jiading , Gu Tianfeng , Zhang Maosheng , Xu Yuanjun , Kong Jiaxu
Published: January 2019

Loess structures with large joints and fissures often undergo natural disintegration when subjected to contact with water. The slaking of loess results in the formation of loess gullies, caves, and landslides. To study the disintegration properties and the factors influencing them, we carried out field and laboratory tests. First, we carried out an in situ disintegration test using different sample shapes obtained from Heifangtai and analysed the effect of soil sample shape on loess disintegration. We then developed an improved disintegrator and tested the effect of different factors on the disintegration of loess. The effects of water content, salinity, and composition on disintegration are discussed. The results show that the loess disintegration process can be divided into three broad stages – wetting, softening, and subsidence – the disintegration is mainly concentrated in the third stage, while the first two stages are short and show very weak disintegration. The main factors influencing the disintegration of loess samples are shape, size, and clay mineral content. During the in situ disintegration test, the edge angles of soil samples are disintegrated, to soften all their edges. Disintegration duration increases with increasing sample size, but the extent of disintegration was found to decrease. Disintegration duration is inversely proportional to the loess disintegration rate. The loess disintegration rate is positively correlated with water temperature within a certain range; however, the reverse is observed with soil sample size and initial water content, and salinity was found to have little effect on the disintegration rate. Higher clay content of cohesive soil and weaker permeability leads to a slower disintegration rate. Additionally, lower cementation may easily cause loess disintegration. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A “masked” source for the phosphaalkene MesP=CH2: Trapping, rearrangement, and oligomerization
Authors: Chen Leixing , Wang Shuai , Werz Patrick , Han Zeyu , Gates Derek P.
Published: January 2019

We report the attempted synthesis of a “masked” phosphaalkene by treating MgA·3THF (A = anthracenide) with MesPCl(CH2Cl). Although the desired “masked” phosphaalkene could not be isolated, indirect evidence for its formation was obtained. The product of trapping MesP=CH2 with 1,3‐cyclohexadiene was detected. In addition, the oxide MesPO(Me)A was isolated and crystallographically characterized from the MgA·3THF and MesPCl(CH2Cl) experiment described above. Finally, the attempted isolation of “masked” phoshaalkene afforded P‐containing oligomers with a trimodal molecular weight distribution [Mn = 640, 1.7 × 103 and 7.4 × 103 Da].
Immunometabolism and innate immunity in the context of immunological maturation and respiratory pathogens in young children
Authors: Verhoeven David
Published: January 2019

Although children growing from birth into young adulthood undergo rapid physiological maturation, their immune systems are also undergoing significant changes that may affect how they respond to microbes and especially respiratory pathogens. A key component of control over microbes is the innate immune system that sustains pathogen suppression/elimination until the adaptive immune system can instigate clearance. Here, this review will summarize key characteristics of the developing innate immune system of neonates, infants, and toddlers. In addition, a brief summary of how immunometabolism affects the innate immune system, and its ramifications on the developing innate immune cells will also be covered. Given the key differences between innate immunity of young children and older children/adults and the generally higher levels of morbidity associated with respiratory viral infections of the former, not many studies have examined how metabolic or mitochondrial differences may be influencing their generally limited responses. Further studies in immunometabolism in the young could elucidate keys mechanisms causing the typical diminished responses observed in this population.
Potential of a statistical approach for the standardization of multicenter diffusion tensor data: A phantom study
Authors: Timmermans Charlotte , Smeets Dirk , Verheyden Jan , Terzopoulos Vasilis , Anania Vincenzo , Parizel Paul M. , Maas Andrew
Published: January 2019

Background

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters, such as fractional anisotropy (FA), allow examining the structural integrity of the brain. However, the true value of these parameters may be confounded by variability in MR hardware, acquisition parameters, and image quality.

Purpose

To examine the effects of confounding factors on FA and to evaluate the feasibility of statistical methods to model and reduce multicenter variability.

Study Type

Longitudinal multicenter study.

Phantom

DTI single strand phantom (HQ imaging).

Field Strength/Sequence

3T diffusion tensor imaging.

Assessments

Thirteen European imaging centers participated. DTI scans were acquired every 6 months and whenever maintenance or upgrades to the system were performed. A total of 64 scans were acquired in 2 years, obtained by three scanner vendors, using six individual head coils, and 12 software versions.

Statistical Tests

The variability in FA was assessed by the coefficients of variation (CoV). Several linear mixed effects models (LMEM) were developed and compared by means of the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC).

Results

The CoV was 2.22% for mean FA and 18.40% for standard deviation of FA. The variables “site” (P = 9.26 × 10−5), “vendor” (P = 2.18 × 10−5), “head coil” (P = 9.00 × 10−4), “scanner drift,” “bandwidth” (P = 0.033), “TE” (P = 8.20 × 10−6), “SNR” (P = 0.029) and “mean residuals” (P = 6.50 × 10−4) had a significant effect on the variability in mean FA. The variables “site” (P = 4.00 × 10−4), “head coil” (P = 2.00 × 10−4), “software” (P = 0.014), and “mean voxel outlier intensity count” (P = 1.10 × 10−4) had a significant effect on the variability in standard deviation of FA. The mean FA was best predicted by an LMEM that included “vendor” and the interaction term of “SNR” and “head coil” as model factors (AIC –347.98). In contrast, the standard deviation of FA was best predicted by an LMEM that included “vendor,” “bandwidth,” “TE,” and the interaction term between “SNR” and “head coil” (AIC –399.81).

Data Conclusion

Our findings suggest that perhaps statistical models seem promising to model the variability in quantitative DTI biomarkers for clinical routine and multicenter studies.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:955–965.
Symmetries of modes in Ni3V2O8: Polarized Raman spectroscopy and ab initio phonon calculations
Authors: Kesari Swayam , Rao Rekha , Gupta Mayanak K. , Mittal R. , Balakrishnan Geetha
Published: January 2019

Knowledge of symmetries of vibrational modes is essential for understanding the mechanism of structural transitions and spin‐phonon coupling in multiferroics where phonons play a vital role. Using polarized Raman spectroscopy, we have identified and assigned symmetries of 30 out of the 36 expected Raman active modes in Ni3V2O8. The zone‐centred phonon mode wavenumbers are calculated using ab initio calculations. The gerade mode wavenumbers are compared with our polarized Raman data whereas ungerade mode wavenumbers are compared with the reported infrared measurements and a good agreement was observed between the experimentally measured wavenumbers and the calculated wavenumbers. The displacements of different types of vibrations calculated and visualized using ab initio phonon calculation are presented. These assignments will be useful for visualization of Raman modes that may be sensitive to different magnetic states and to explore spin–lattice coupling across magnetic transitions.