bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controllable 1D and 2D Cobalt Oxide and Cobalt Selenide Nanostructures as Highly Efficient Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Chenyun , Xin Bingwei , Duan Shengfu , Jiang Anning , Zhang Baohua , Li Zhonghao , Hao Jingcheng
Published: July 2018

The relationship between controllable morphology and electrocatalytic activity of Co3O4 and CoSe2 for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) was explored in alkaline medium. Based on the time‐dependent growth process of cobalt precursors, 1D Co3O4 nanorods and 2D Co3O4 nanosheets were successfully synthesized through a facile hydrothermal process at 180 °C under different reaction times, followed by calcination at 300 °C for 2 h. Subsequently, 1D and 2D CoSe2 nanostructures were derived by selenization of Co3O4, which achieved the controllable synthesis of CoSe2 without templating agents. By comparing the electrocatalytic behavior of these cobalt‐based catalysts in 1 m KOH electrolyte toward the OER, both 2D Co3O4 and 2D CoSe2 nanocrystals have lower overpotentials and better electrocatalytic stability than that of 1D nanostructures. The 2D CoSe2 nanosheets require overpotentials of 372 mV to reach a current density of 50 mA cm−2 with a small Tafel slope of 74 mV dec−1. A systematic contrast of the electrocatalytic performances for the OER increase in the order: 1D Co3O4<2D Co3O4<1D CoSe2<2D CoSe2. This work provides fundamental insights into the morphology–performance relationships of both Co3O4 and CoSe2, which were synthesized through the same approach, providing a solid guide for designing OER catalysts.
Modeling Water Treatment Reactor Hydraulics Using Reactor Networks
Authors: Gorzalski Alexander S. , Harrington Gregory W. , Coronell Orlando
Published: July 2018

Reactor hydraulics are integral to water treatment processes such as disinfection and chemical contaminant oxidation. This work uses reactor networks—conceptual reactors arranged in parallel and series combinations—to simplify the accurate modeling of residence time in water treatment reactors. Reactor networks were selected for 14 clearwells, ozone contactors, clarifiers, and filters using tracer data sets from literature. For seven of 14 full‐scale reactors, two parallel tanks‐in‐series reactors best balanced accuracy and simplicity. Reactor networks accurately represented tracer data using between two and eight fitting parameters, while segregated flow analysis required 32–164 inputs (two per tracer data point). The modeling work revealed that tracer data sets may have overestimated baffle factors by >10% in 10 of the 14 full‐scale reactors, potentially as a result of inaccurate measurement of flow rate or volume. Applications of reactor networks include more accurate approaches to disinfection regulation and modeling the degradation of emerging contaminants.
Chlorinated Cyanurates: Review of Water Chemistry and Associated Drinking Water Implications
Authors: Wahman David G.
Published: July 2018

Since 1958, cyanuric acid and two chlorinated cyanurates, commonly referred to as dichlor (anhydrous sodium dichloroisocyanurate or sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate) and trichlor (trichloroisocyanuric acid), have been added to outdoor swimming pools to stabilize chlorine residual by minimizing sunlight‐related degradation. Subsequently, in July 2001, dichlor and trichlor were approved for routine drinking water treatment under the US Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, and manufacturers have achieved NSF 60 certification for dichlor or trichlor addition to drinking water. Currently in the United States, dichlor or trichlor for drinking water use may be approved by states, tribes, or territories. One complicating factor with dichlor or trichlor is that the actual free chlorine concentration in these systems cannot be measured accurately by currently approved methods. This review summarizes the existing water chemistry associated with dichlor and trichlor use as a chlorine source in drinking water, along with the associated implications.
Study on the Isomerization of Maleic Acid to Fumaric Acid without Catalyst
Authors: Gao Zhuo , Chen Wangmi , Chen Xiaoting , Wang Dali , Yi Shouzhi
Published: July 2018

Fumaric acid is an important food additive and industrial intermediate compound. The traditional methods of producing fumaric acid were catalyzed by maleic acid isomerization. In this study, isomerization of maleic acid in water without catalyst was investigated at elevated temperature, which addressed the problem of sewage discharge. HPLC analysis showed maleic acid converted into fumaric acid and small amount of malic acid simultaneously. The effects of concentration of maleic acid, reaction temperature, reaction time, and stirring on the yield of fumaric acid were investigated. The optimum reaction conditions were also explored. The results showed the isomerization of maleic acid reached equilibrium at about 1 h, stirring did not affect the reaction rate, and conversion due to the monomolecular mechanism. In order to achieve “zero emission,” the recycle of filter liquor was also studied. The pH of filter liquor changing signifies the lower pH was in favor of the conversion of maleic acid to fumaric acid. The high yield and recyclability suggested that this process had promising application in fumaric acid production.
Stabilization by Benzannulation: Butterfly Azaacenes
Authors: Müller Matthias , Reiss Hilmar , Tverskoy Olena , Rominger Frank , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: July 2018

Soluble butterfly‐shaped tetraazapentacenes and tetraazaheptacenes were prepared by condensation or Stille coupling with a stannafluorene. The stability of the benzo‐winged tetraazaheptacene is dramatically increased through the fourfold benzannulation, yet its acene character is retained to a significant extent.
Impact of the Acid Treatment on Lignocellulosic Biomass Hard Carbon for Sodium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Dou Xinwei , Hasa Ivana , Saurel Damien , Jauregui Maria , Buchholz Daniel , Rojo Teófilo , Passerini Stefano
Published: July 2018

The investigation of phosphoric acid treatment on the performance of hard carbon from a typical lignocellulosic biomass waste (peanut shell) is herein reported. A strong correlation is discovered between the treatment time and the structural properties and electrochemical performance in sodium‐ion batteries. Indeed, a prolonged acid treatment enables the use of lower temperatures, that is, lower energy consumption, for the carbonization step as well as improved high‐rate performance (122 mAh g−1 at 10 C).
HPLC‐MS/MS combined with membrane‐protected molecularly imprinted polymer micro‐solid‐phase extraction for synthetic cathinones monitoring in urine
Authors: Sánchez‐González Juan , Odoardi Sara , Bermejo Ana María , Bermejo–Barrera Pilar , Romolo Francesco Saverio , Moreda–Piñeiro Antonio , Strano‐Rossi Sabina
Published: July 2018

Synthetic cathinones are a type of drug belonging to group of new psychoactive substances (NPSs). The illicit market for these substances is characterized by the continuous introduction to the market of new analogs to evade legislation and to avoid detection. New screening and confirmation assays are therefore needed, mainly in forensic/clinical samples. In the current development, a porous membrane‐protected, micro‐solid‐phase extraction (μ‐SPE) has been developed for the assessment of several cathinones in urine. The μ‐SPE device consisted of a cone‐shaped polypropylene (PP) porous membrane containing the adsorbent (molecularly imprinted polymers, MIPs, synthesized for the first time for this class of drugs). MIPs were prepared using ethylone and 3‐methylmethcathinone (3‐MMC) as templates, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as a functional monomer, divinylbenzene (DVB) as a cross‐linker, and 2,2´‐azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as an initiator. The prepared ethylone‐based MIP and 3‐MMC‐based MIP have been fully characterized and evaluated as new selective adsorbents for μ‐SPE. Cathinones separation/determination was performed by high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS). Optimum loading conditions (pH 5.0, loading for 4.0 minutes under orbital‐horizontal shaking at 200 rpm) and elution conditions [2.0 mL of 75:20:5 heptane/2‐propanol/ammonium hydroxide and ultrasounds assistance (37 kHz, 325 W) for 4.0 minutes] were found for ethylone‐based MIP. Validation (intra‐day and inter‐day precision and analytical recovery) showed RSD values lower than 9 and 10% for intra‐day and inter‐day precision, and within the 88%–101% range for intra‐day and inter‐day analytical recovery.
“A tool doesn't add anything”. The importance of added value: Use of observational pain tools with patients with advanced dementia approaching the end of life—a qualitative study of physician and nurse experiences and perspectives
Authors: De Witt Jansen Bannin , Brazil Kevin , Passmore Peter , Buchanan Hilary , Maxwell Doreen , McIlfatrick Sonja , Morgan Sharon M. , Watson Max , Parsons Carole
Published: July 2018

Background

Observational pain tools (OPTs) are widely recommended in health care policies, clinical guidelines, and recommendations for pain assessment and management. However, it is unclear whether and how these tools are used for patients with advanced dementia approaching the end of life.

Aim

To explore hospice, secondary, and primary care physicians' and nurses' use of OPTs with patients dying with advanced dementia and their perspectives on practice development and training needs.

Methods

Twenty‐three physicians and 24 nurses with experience of caring for people dying with advanced dementia were recruited from primary care surgeries (n = 5), hospitals (n = 6), hospices (n = 4), and nursing homes (n = 10). Semistructured, face‐to‐face interviews were conducted. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis applied to identify core themes.

Results

Three key themes emerged: (1) use of OPTs in this vulnerable patient population, (2) barriers to the use of OPTs and lack of perceived “added value”, and (3) perspectives on practice development and training in pain assessment in advanced dementia at end of life. Just over one‐quarter of participants (n = 13) routinely used OPTs. Reasons for nonuse included perceived limitations of such tools, difficulties with their use and integration with existing practice, and lack of perceived added value. Most participants strongly emphasised a need for ongoing training and development which facilitated transfer of knowledge and multidisciplinary skills across professions and specialties.

Conclusions

Health professionals require ongoing support in developing and integrating change to existing pain assessment protocols and approaches. These findings have important implications for health education, practice, and policy.
Quantifying Wildlife and Navigation Benefits of a Dredging Beneficial-Use Project in the Lower Atchafalaya River: A Demonstration of Engineering with Nature®
Authors: Foran Christy M , Burks-Copes Kelly A , Berkowitz Jacob , Corbino Jeffrey , Suedel Burton C
Published: July 2018

The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) operates and maintains numerous projects in support of its various civil works missions including flood damage risk reduction, navigation, and ecosystem restoration. Originally authorized on an economic basis, these projects may produce a broad array of unaccounted for ecosystem services (ESs) that contribute to overall human, societal, and environmental well-being. Efforts are underway to capture the full array of environmental, economic, and social impacts of these projects. Methods are needed to identify relevant ESs generated by these nature-based projects and to measure their contribution to societal well-being with an emphasis placed on use of readily available data. Performance metrics were collected to capture the benefits of strategic placement of dredged material in river systems to allow formation of islands that produce a wide array of ESs. These performance metrics can be converted to ESs with market value or combined in a decision analytical approach to demonstrate the relative gain in utility. This approach is demonstrated on a riverine island created on the Atchafalaya River, Louisiana, as a result of the strategic placement of dredged material. The outcomes foster integration of ES assessment into project design and management practices and support more comprehensive project evaluation and widespread application. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:759–768. Published 2018. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Key Points

Navigational maintenance projects produce a broad array of unaccounted for ecosystem services (ESs) that contribute to overall human, societal, and environmental benefits. On the lower Atchafalaya River, Louisiana, USA, a riverine island self-formed as a result of strategically placing dredged material from an adjacent federal navigation channel and natural hydrodynamic processes of the river. Performance metrics were developed that capture the benefits of strategic dredged-material placement generating habitat, climate regulation, nutrient sequestration, and navigational support benefits. Performance metrics were converted to ecosystem services to determine their market values and to identify their relative contribution to the overall utility of the project.
Reinforcement uncertainty enhances preference for choice in humans
Authors: Rost Kristen A.
Published: July 2018

Under concurrent‐chains schedules of reinforcement, participants often prefer situations that allow selection among alternatives (free choice) to situations that do not (forced choice). The present experiment examined the effects of reinforcement probability on choice preferences. Preferences for free versus forced choice were measured under a condition in which participants' choices were always reinforced (reinforcement probability of 1.0) and a condition in which outcomes were uncertain (reinforcement probability of 0.5). Forty‐four college students participated and preferences were examined under a concurrent‐chains schedule of reinforcement. Participants preferred free choice under uncertain reinforcement, but a bias toward free choice was not observed when reinforcement was certain. These results align with previous findings of preference for free choice under conditions of uncertainty, but suggest that preference may be dependent upon probabilistic reinforcement contingencies in the terminal links of the concurrent‐chains arrangement. Thus, reinforcement probability is an important variable to consider when conducting similar studies on the value of choice.
Establishment of a low‐dosage‐IPTG inducible expression system construction method in Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhao Ming , Tao Xin‐Yi , Wang Feng‐Qing , Ren Yu‐Hong , Wei Dong‐Zhi
Published: July 2018

The lac operon is a delicate inducible gene expression element in bacteria. To efficiently induce gene expression, a sufficient dosage of an inducer, usually that of 500–1000 µM isopropyl β‐D‐1‐thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG), is required to keep repressor LacI from its binding sites, which is a heavy cost burden in low‐value‐added products. So we propose a strategy to reduce the required dosage of IPTG by restricting LacI expression. To test this strategy, we employed a reconstructed IPTG inducible expression system based on lac operon, Promoter(lacO)‐target gene‐PtacL‐lacI, where a modified promoter, Ptac, with a random synthetic library (PtacL) to instead of PlacI to optimize LacI expression in Escherichia coli. Finally, the PtacL mutant, PtacL4, which could maintain the same repression effect as the original PlacI while reducing the required dosage of IPTG from 500 to 20 µM, was selected. This method is simple and efficient and can be of a good reference point for attempts to reduce inducer concentration in the IPTG or similar inducible expression systems.
Potential of cassava clones enriched with β‐carotene and lycopene for zinc biofortification under different soil Zn conditions
Authors: Corguinha Ana Paula B , Carvalho Camila A , de Souza Guilherme A , de Carvalho Teotonio S , Vieira Eduardo A , Fialho Josefino F , Guilherme Luiz Roberto G
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a major human health concern worldwide, and biofortification (genetic and agronomic) is a complementary solution for increasing micronutrient contents, including Zn. Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) has been used for Zn biofortification because it is an important staple crop in most countries affected by malnutrition and Zn deficiency. Thus studies on biofortification of this crop can improve its nutritional quality. Zn content in cassava clones enriched with β‐carotene or lycopene and cultivated under different areas and soil managements was investigated to evaluate the influence of genotypic variation and agronomic management on Zn status in the plant.

RESULTS

A clone‐specific response to total Zn content in the soil was found, with clones 26, 215, and 240 (β‐carotene enriched) and clones 341 and 395 (lycopene enriched) being the most responsive. For both experiments, there was a positive interaction between total soil Zn and Zn content in the roots.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that, by combining plant breeding and agronomic strategies, it is possible to enrich cassava roots with both zinc and β‐carotene or lycopene. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparing square root method of measuring the cardiac output by means of aortic impedance change component to Kubicek's method
Authors: Kuang Ming‐Xing , Kuang Shi‐Jiang , Xiao Qiu‐Jin , Kuang Nan‐Zhen , Zhao Hui , Cheng Xiao‐Ling
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The aim of this study is to explore a calculated method used to measure the cardiac output using the aortic impedance change component of reconstructed impedance cardiography.

Methods

Routine impedance cardiography was measured using Kubicek's method with four ring electrodes. The thoracic mixed impedance changes were measured by six leads, which consisted of 15 electrodes. The aortic impedance change component was separated from six thoracic mixed impedance changes through waveform reconstruction. The square root formula used to calculate the cardiac output was deduced based on the thoracic impedance change equation and the aortic volume change hypothesis during the systole period. The cardiac outputs of 180 normal adults and 72 patients with cardiac insufficiency who could still walk freely were contrastively computed with both Kubicek's formula and the square root formula.

Results

For 180 normal adults, the cardiac index (CI) computed with the square root formula was 3.60 ± 0.45 L/min/m2, with normal values ranging from 2.7 to 4.5 L/min/m2. A total of 163 cases (90.6%) had a CI in the standard range (2.7–4.3 L/min/m2) adopted in clinical applications. The CI computed with Kubicek's formula was 3.61 ± 0.86 L/min/m2, with normal values ranging from 1.9 to 5.3 L/min/m2, and only 115 cases (63.9%) had a CI in the above standard range. Among the 72 patients with cardiac insufficiency, 20 (27.8%) patients had a CI < 2.0 L/min/m2 with Kubicek's formula. Of these 20 cases, 9 cases had a CI < 1.5 L/min/m2, and 4 cases had a CI < 1.1 L/min/m2. In contrast, none of the 72 patients had a CI < 2.0 L/min/m2 with the square root formula. In addition, the influence of the chest circumference on the CI was lower for the square root formula than for Kubicek's formula.

Conclusions

The CI calculated with the square root formula had a better normal value range, was more accurate for the patients with cardiac insufficiency, and was less affected by the chest circumference than the CI calculated with Kubicek's formula.
Modulare Polymere in Farbe
Authors: Pai Sandesh , Munzert Stefanie Martina , Kurth Dirk G.
Published: July 2018

Metallosupramolekulare Koordinationspolyelektrolyte entstehen durch metallioneninduzierte Polymerisation von Bisterpyridinliganden. Über Konzentration der Edukte, pH‐Wert und Dauer der Polymerisation lassen sich die Kettenlängen einstellen. Zudem können Eigenschaften wie Selbstheilung und reversible Farbänderung implementiert werden.
Chemiewirtschaft: Forschen, produzieren, verkaufen
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: July 2018

Die Chemieindustrie hat im Jahr 2017 mehr hergestellt, mehr gebaut und mehr gehandelt als im Jahr davor. Die meisten Unternehmen waren mit dem Ergebnis zufrieden, auch wenn manche – darunter deutsche Pflanzenschutzmittelhersteller – weniger verkauften. Forschung und Entwicklung bleiben Kennzeichen deutscher Chemieunternehmen.
Triclosan unschädlich machen
Authors: Fischböck Kathrin , Rizos Janine , Habekost Achim
Published: July 2018

Alltagsprodukte wie Seifen und Desinfektionsmitteln enthalten oft das Bakterizid Triclosan. So gelangt es zwangsläufig in die Umwelt. Daher sind empfindliche Detektionsmethoden der chlororganischen Verbindung gefragt sowie Reaktionen zur Detoxifizierung. Versuche aus dem Hochschulpraktikum.
Nicht nur Laboranten
Authors: Schulze Markus
Published: July 2018

Ein geringer Teil der Beschäftigten in der chemischen Industrie, 15 Prozent, hat Chemie studiert. Doch es gibt in der Branche eine Reihe weiterer Berufe, die unmittelbar mit dem Fach zu tun haben.
Das macht die GDCh mit Ihrem Geld
Authors: Schmitz Karin
Published: July 2018

In einer losen Serie stellen wir Aktivitäten vor, die teilweise oder vollständig mit den Beiträgen unserer Mitglieder finanziert werden. Wir starten mit den Lehrerfortbildungszentren (LFBZ).
Mittelstand: Daten sind Chefsache
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: July 2018

Mittelständische Chemie‐ und Pharmaunternehmen erheben mehr interne Daten als Mittelstandunternehmen im Durchschnitt.
Chemielogistik: Von A nach B und mehr
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: July 2018

Das Logistikunternehmen Hoyer verzeichnete im vergangen Jahr einen Rekordumsatz. In der Chemielogistik steht Digitalisierung im Vordergrund.
Die vier Neuen: Nihonium, Moscovium, Tenness und Oganesson
Authors: Vetsova Violeta A. , Daumann Lena J.
Published: July 2018

Im Jahr 2010 war es soweit: Physiker und Chemiker synthetisierten das Element 117 und vervollständigten damit die siebte Reihe des Periodensystems. Wie stellt man superschwere Elemente her und wie kommen sie zu ihren Namen?
Jahrestagung der chinesischen Chemiker in Deutschland
Authors: Xu Rui , Cao‐Dolg Xiaoyan
Published: July 2018

Mitte April fand die Jahrestagung der Gemeinschaft Chinesischer Chemiker und Chemieingenieure in Deutschland (Chinese German Chemical Association, CGCA) im Harnack‐Haus der Max‐Planck‐Gesellschaft in Berlin statt. Etwa 100 Wissenschaftler aus der Chemie und angrenzenden Forschungsgebieten nahmen an der zweitägigen Veranstaltung teil, die das Fritz‐Haber‐Institut der Max‐Planck‐Gesellschaft Berlin und das Institut für Theoretische Chemie der Universität Köln mit der CGCA organisiert hatten. Motto der Tagung war „Chemie und nachhaltige Entwicklung“. Die jährliche Zusammenkunft chinesischer Chemiker in Deutschland fand bereits zum 30. Mal statt; 24 Wissenschaftler aus Deutschland, Frankreich und China hielten Vorträge. Finanziell unterstützen Eutech Consulting, Springer, Sinojobs, Uniq10ue und die Feelnow Reiseagentur, das Harbin Institute of Technology, die University of Chinese Academy of Sciences und die deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) sowie die Bildungsabteilung der chinesischen Botschaft in Deutschland. So ließen sich außer den Vortragenden aus Deutschland auch eine Professorin und vier Professoren chinesischer Universitäten zu Hauptvorträgen einladen.
Molekularbiologie und Geld
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: July 2018

Boehringer‐Ingelheim‐Stiftung und Universität Mainz legen ihre Kooperationsvereinbarungen offen.
Impacts of sequential acquisition, market competition mode, and confidentiality on information flow
Authors: Hao Zhongyuan , Jiang Li , Wang Wenli
Published: July 2018

We investigate information flow in a setting in which 2 retailers order from a supplier and sell to a market with uncertain demand. Each retailer has access to a signal. The retailers can disclose signals to each other (horizontal information sharing), while the supplier can solicit signals by offering retailers differential payments as incentives for signal disclosure (vertical information acquisition). In the base setting, market competition is in quantity, and a retailer can fully infer the signal that the other retailer discloses to the supplier. We show that the supplier prefers to sequentialize the procedure for information acquisition. Moreover, vertical information acquisition by the supplier is a strategic complement to horizontal information sharing between the retailers to establish information flow. In the equilibrium, the retailers have no incentive to exchange signals, but system wide information transparency can be realized through a combination of information acquisition and inference. We further study the signaling effect, whereby the supplier utilizes wholesale pricing as an instrument to affect the retailers' inference of the shared signals, and price competition to explore their impacts on the supplier's preference for sequential acquisition and the sustainability of information flow.
Direct Access by Mechanochemistry or Sonochemistry to Protonated Merocyanines: Components of a Four‐State Molecular Switch
Authors: Colaço Melwin , Carletta Andrea , Van Gysel Mégane , Robeyns Koen , Tumanov Nikolay , Wouters Johan
Published: July 2018

Direct access to the protonated merocyanine forms of two substituted spiropyrans by mechanosynthesis or sonochemistry was explored. The compounds were formed by the condensation reaction of the methyleneindolium iodide salt with salicylaldehyde derivatives. X‐ray crystallography, 1H NMR spectroscopy, ab initio geometry optimization, and absorption spectroscopy were combined to provide a better understanding of the four‐state molecular switch system in which the newly synthesized protonated merocyanines were found to play a central role. The results of this study suggest that the stability of the protonated merocyanines requires acidic conditions, as treatment with base led to the corresponding unprotonated merocyanines, which in turn spontaneously converted into photochromic closed spiropyrans.
Genetic profile of isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia revealed by targeted next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Kammoun Molka , Souche Erika , Brady Paul , Ding Jia , Cosemans Nele , Gratacos Eduard , Devriendt Koen , Eixarch Elisenda , Deprest Jan , Vermeesch Joris Robert
Published: July 2018

Background

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is characterized by a defective closure of the diaphragm occurring as an isolated defect in 60% of cases. Lung size, liver herniation, and pulmonary circulation are major prognostic indices. Isolated CDH genetics is heterogeneous and poorly understood. Whether genetic lesions are also outcome determinants has never been explored.

Objectives

To identify isolated CDH genetic causes, to fine map the mutational burden, and to search for a correlation between the genotype and the disease severity and outcome.

Methods

Targeted massively parallel sequencing of 143 human and mouse CDH causative and candidate genes in a cohort of 120 fetuses with isolated CDH and detailed outcome measures.

Results

Pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants were identified in 10% of the cohort. These variants affect both known CDH causative genes, namely, ZFPM2, GATA4, and NR2F2, and new genes, namely, TBX1, TBX5, GATA5, and PBX1. In addition, mutation burden analysis identified LBR, CTBP2, NSD1, MMP14, MYOD1, and EYA1 as candidate genes with enrichment in rare but predicted deleterious variants. No obvious correlation between the genotype and the phenotype or short‐term outcome has been found.

Conclusion

Targeted resequencing identifies a genetic cause in 10% of isolated CDH and identifies new candidate genes.
Farbige Sonnentaler in der Kirche
Authors: Schlichting Hans‐Joachim
Published: July 2018

Die Elemente eines Kirchenfensters wirken wie unterschiedlich geformte, eingefärbte Öffnungen. Ihre Projektionen auf dem relativ weit entfernten Kirchenboden nehmen die Form der Lichtquelle an.
Raoul Schrott – Erste Erde
Authors: Laska Alexander
Published: July 2018

Wie schreibt man ein Epos über den großen Bogen der naturwissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse vom Urknall bis zur Entstehung des Lebens auf der Erde, das auch deren Bedeutung für uns Menschen herstellt?
Climatic, geomorphologic and hydrologic perturbations as drivers for mid‐ to late Holocene development of ice‐wedge polygons in the western Canadian Arctic
Authors: Wolter J. , Lantuit H. , Wetterich S. , Rethemeyer J. , Fritz M.
Published: July 2018

Ice‐wedge polygons are widespread periglacial features and influence landscape hydrology and carbon storage. The influence of climate and topography on polygon development is not entirely clear, however, giving high uncertainties to projections of permafrost development. We studied the mid‐ to late Holocene development of modern ice‐wedge polygon sites to explore drivers of change and reasons for long‐term stability. We analyzed organic carbon, total nitrogen, stable carbon isotopes, grain size composition and plant macrofossils in six cores from three polygons. We found that all sites developed from aquatic to wetland conditions. In the mid‐Holocene, shallow lakes and partly submerged ice‐wedge polygons existed at the studied sites. An erosional hiatus of ca 5000 years followed, and ice‐wedge polygons re‐initiated within the last millennium. Ice‐wedge melt and surface drying during the last century were linked to climatic warming. The influence of climate on ice‐wedge polygon development was outweighed by geomorphology during most of the late Holocene. Recent warming, however, caused ice‐wedge degradation at all sites. Our study showed that where waterlogged ground was maintained, low‐centered polygons persisted for millennia. Ice‐wedge melt and increased drainage through geomorphic disturbance, however, triggered conversion into high‐centered polygons and may lead to self‐enhancing degradation under continued warming.
Forensic analysis of water‐based lubricants using liquid extraction surface analysis high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Hood Shiona , Peter Tony , Blanksby Stephen J. , Marshall David L.
Published: July 2018

Rationale

Analysis of water‐based personal lubricants can provide pivotal information to law enforcement regarding sexual assault allegations, particularly in the absence of biological evidence. Traditional methodology for the extraction and analysis of water‐based lubricants is cumbersome, time‐consuming, and often not sufficiently selective or sensitive to fully characterise the wide range of chemical components present within complex formulations.

Methods

Liquid extraction surface analysis (LESA) was deployed in combination with high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) to screen a range of water‐based lubricants directly from contaminated cotton fabric. Rehydration of the fabric was the only sample preparation required.

Results

Analysis of ten different water‐based lubricants by nano‐electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry in negative ion mode enabled discrimination based on the presence or absence of nine compounds, which were identified by comparison of their MS/MS spectra with those of available standards. Lubricants were successfully detected by LESA from stained fabric surfaces; even following extended periods of time between deposition and sampling.

Conclusions

A library encompassing the common components of water‐based lubricants has been established using HRMS and MS/MS to enable identification of personal lubricant formulations and differentiation between suppliers.
Development of a method for the determination of 8‐iso‐PGF2α in sheep and goat plasma using solid‐phase microextraction and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Rodríguez Patiño Gabriela , Castillo Rodríguez Miriam Aide , Ramírez Bribiesca Jacinto Efren , Ramírez Noguera Patricia , Gonsebatt Bonaparte María Eugenia , López‐Arellano Raquel
Published: July 2018

Rationale

Isoprostane 8‐iso‐PGF2α is a biomarker of lipid peroxidation in cell membranes. The method developed to measure plasma total levels (esterified + free) of 8‐iso‐PGF2α must be reproducible and be able to reduce the use of solvents in solid phase extraction. It should be useful to evaluate oxidative stress due to the excess of free radicals that are generated by some disorder or disease.

Methods

The method was developed using solid‐phase microextraction with Oasis®MAX μElution plates and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS). Electrospray ionization was performed in the negative mode (ESI−); the multiple reaction monitoring mode (MRM) was used. The development of the method included the optimization of the chromatographic conditions to achieve the separation of PGF2α and 8‐iso‐PGF2α as well as the optimization of the microextraction conditions of the analyte of interest in ovine and goat plasma.

Results

The developed method was validated with a calibration curve of plasma samples fortified with standards at five concentration levels in the range 49–639 pg/mL. The average recovery was 89% with a standard deviation of 10.73%. The inter‐day precision was evaluated, obtaining a coefficient of variance (CV) less than 15%. The limit of quantification was 20 pg/mL and the limit of detection was 10 pg/mL. 8‐iso‐PGF2a was determined in the plasma of 14 sheep and 20 goats of 5 months of age and 6 goats of 24 months of age. The concentrations found were 50–300 pg/mL.

Conclusions

The method developed is precise, accurate and reliable with low reagent consumption compared with conventional solid‐phase extraction. The analysis time was decreased because, with the use of the microextraction plate, the step of the evaporation and reconstitution of the analyte was avoided. The method is applicable to quantify the plasma total levels (esterified + free) of 8‐iso‐PGF2α.
A copula model for joint modeling of longitudinal and time‐invariant mixed outcomes
Authors: Kürüm Esra , Jeske Daniel R. , Behrendt Carolyn E. , Lee Peter
Published: July 2018

Motivated by a preclinical study in a mouse model of breast cancer, we suggest a joint modeling framework for outcomes of mixed type and measurement structures (longitudinal versus single time/time‐invariant). We present an approach based on the time‐varying copula models, which is used to jointly model longitudinal outcomes of mixed types via a time‐varying copula, and extend the scope of these models to handle outcomes with mixed measurement structures. Our framework allows the parameters corresponding to the longitudinal outcome to be time varying and thereby enabling researchers to investigate how the response‐predictor relationships change with time. We investigate the finite sample performance of this new approach via a Monte Carlo simulation study and illustrate its usefulness by an empirical analysis of the motivating preclinical study, comparing the effect of various treatments on tumor volume (longitudinal continuous response) and the number of days until tumor volume triples (time‐invariant count response). Through the real‐life application and the simulation study, we demonstrate that, compared with marginal modeling, the joint modeling framework offers more precision in the estimation of model parameters.
Immobilization of Photo‐Immunoconjugates on Nanoparticles Leads to Enhanced Light‐Activated Biological Effects
Authors: Huang Huang‐Chiao , Pigula Michael , Fang Yanyan , Hasan Tayyaba
Published: July 2018

The past three decades have witnessed notable advances in establishing photosensitizer–antibody photo‐immunoconjugates for photo‐immunotherapy and imaging of tumors. Photo‐immunotherapy minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue when using a cancer‐selective photo‐immunoconjugate, but requires a threshold intracellular photosensitizer concentration to be effective. Delivery of immunoconjugates to the target cells is often hindered by I) the low photosensitizer‐to‐antibody ratio of photo‐immunoconjugates and II) the limited amount of target molecule presented on the cell surface. Here, a nanoengineering approach is introduced to overcome these obstacles and improve the effectiveness of photo‐immunotherapy and imaging. Click chemistry coupling of benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD)–Cetuximab photo‐immunoconjugates onto FKR560 dye‐containing poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles markedly enhances intracellular photo‐immunoconjugate accumulation and potentiates light‐activated photo‐immunotoxicity in ovarian cancer and glioblastoma. It is further demonstrated that co‐delivery and light activation of BPD and FKR560 allow longitudinal fluorescence tracking of photoimmunoconjugate and nanoparticle in cells. Using xenograft mouse models of epithelial ovarian cancer, intravenous injection of photo‐immunoconjugated nanoparticles doubles intratumoral accumulation of photo‐immunoconjugates, resulting in an enhanced photoimmunotherapy‐mediated tumor volume reduction, compared to “standard” immunoconjugates. This generalizable “carrier effect” phenomenon is attributed to the successful incorporation of photo‐immunoconjugates onto a nanoplatform, which modulates immunoconjugate delivery and improves treatment outcomes.
Materials Nanoarchitectonics Using 2D Layered Materials: Recent Developments in the Intercalation Process
Authors: Sangian Danial , Ide Yusuke , Bando Yoshio , Rowan Alan E. , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: July 2018

Layered inorganic solids as an attractive classification of 2D materials offer material diversity and a wide range of interesting properties. Layered inorganic solids provide an expandable 2D nanospace between each individual layer, the so called interlayer space, to accommodate/arrange guest species such as molecules, nanoparticles, and polymer chains and design unique nanoarchitectures, resulting in the production of intercalation compounds showing different properties in comparison to those of virgin layered materials and guest species. Layered inorganic solids can also be exfoliated to result in nanosheet production. Further ordering of exfoliated nanosheets is also possible via different methods and normally leads to creating soft materials presenting properties and applications different from that of relatively rigid intercalation compounds. Here, the latest studies and up‐to‐date developments on the possible techniques of designing novel types of materials using layered inorganic solids are specifically highlighted.
A Natural Biopolymer Film as a Robust Protective Layer to Effectively Stabilize Lithium‐Metal Anodes
Authors: Zhang Shao‐Jian , Gao Zhen‐Guang , Wang Wei‐Wei , Lu Yan‐Qiu , Deng Ya‐Ping , You Jin‐Hai , Li Jun‐Tao , Zhou Yao , Huang Ling , Zhou Xiao‐Dong , Sun Shi‐Gang
Published: July 2018

Li metal is considered as an ideal anode for Li‐based batteries. Unfortunately, the growth of Li dendrites during cycling leads to an unstable interface, a low coulombic efficiency, and a limited cycling life. Here, a novel approach is proposed to protect the Li‐metal anode by using a uniform agarose film. This natural biopolymer film exhibits a high ionic conductivity, high elasticity, and chemical stability. These properties enable a fast Li‐ion transfer and feasiblity to accomodate the volume change of Li metal, resulting in a dendrite‐free anode and a stable interface. Morphology characterization shows that Li ions migrate through the agarose film and then deposit underneath it. A full cell with the cathode of LiFPO4 and an anode contaning the agarose film exhibits a capacity retention of 87.1% after 500 cycles, much better than that with Li foil anode (70.9%) and Li‐deposited Cu anode (5%). This study provides a promising strategy to eliminate dendrites and enhance the cycling ability of lithium‐metal batteries through coating a robust artificial film of natural biopolymer on lithium‐metal anode.
Movement Patterns of Juvenile Sablefish within a Nursery Area in Southeast Alaska
Authors: Ehresmann Rhea K. , Beaudreau Anne H. , Green Kristen M.
Published: July 2018

The Sablefish Anoplopoma fimbria is a commercially important species that inhabits waters of the Pacific Ocean from Baja California, Mexico, to the Bering Sea, Alaska. Most studies have focused on the larval, neustonic (near‐surface) juvenile, or adult stage of the Sablefish life cycle, while much less is known about the postsettlement juvenile stage (ages 0–2) in nearshore nursery areas, even though survival of postsettlement juveniles is thought to be important for determining year‐class strength. We used acoustic telemetry to monitor movement of postsettlement juvenile Sablefish in a nursery area in Alaska to better describe their period of nearshore residency. Forty juvenile Sablefish received surgically implanted acoustic transmitters and were monitored using eight fixed receivers throughout the summer and fall of 2015 and 2016 in a small bay (St. John Baptist Bay) in Southeast Alaska. We quantified movement patterns in terms of displacement from the head of the bay, distance traveled, and duration of time spent within the bay for 28 individuals. Sablefish showed fidelity to the bay during the summer, with relatively high rates of movement within the bay. Juvenile Sablefish traveled 9.4 km/d and spent 20.2 h/d within the bay on average in 2015 and traveled 13.0 km/d and spent 17.9 h/d within the bay on average in 2016. Tagged Sablefish showed the greatest affinity for a region near the head of the bay, perhaps indicating an area of preferred habitat, prey resources, or environmental conditions. In addition, we assessed variation in horizontal movements among individuals and identified three distinct movement types. This study fills a gap in knowledge of Sablefish early life history by characterizing movement during nearshore residency before out‐migration into deeper waters. Our results reinforce the importance of nearshore habitats like St. John Baptist Bay for juvenile Sablefish prior to recruitment into fisheries.
Environmental sustainability and decent work
Authors: Montt Guillermo , Maitre Nicolas
Published: July 2018

The world of work is intrinsically related to the environment. 1.2 billion jobs depend on services provided by the environment. Some countries have seen their economies grow and their emissions decline. Hours of work will decline by 2 percent by 2030 due to heat stress. 23 million working life years have been lost to disasters every year since 2000. Environmental degradation enhances inequality.
Perspectives on Genetic Testing and Return of Results from the First Cohort of Presymptomatically Tested Individuals At Risk of Huntington Disease
Authors: Stuttgen K. M. , Bollinger J. M. , Dvoskin R. L. , McCague A. , Shpritz B. , Brandt J. , Mathews Debra J. H.
Published: July 2018

This qualitative study gathered opinions about genetic testing from people who received presymptomatic testing for Huntington's disease (HD) 20–30 years ago and have lived with the implications of that testing for decades. During the last section of a semi‐structured interview, participants were asked open‐ended questions about their opinions on the importance of autonomy in the decision to be tested for HD, whether a formal HD testing protocol is necessary, whether physician ordering for HD is acceptable without a formal protocol, whether online direct‐to‐consumer (DTC) genetic testing for HD is acceptable, and whether incidental/secondary findings should be returned in the context of whole exome/genome sequencing. Most—but not all—participants were in favor of an individual's right to decide whether and when to pursue HD testing, use of a formal HD testing protocol, and returning medically actionable secondary findings. However, the majority of participants were opposed not only to physician ordering and DTC HD testing in the absence of a formal protocol but also to returning a secondary finding of an expanded HD allele. This study presents the opinions of a unique and extremely well‐informed cohort on issues that need to be taken into careful consideration by genetic counselors and other medical professionals who are developing genetic testing protocols, making decisions about the availability of genetic tests, and making decisions about whether and how to return incidental findings.
Developmental trajectories of math anxiety during adolescence: Associations with STEM career choice
Authors: Ahmed Wondimu
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine if there were distinct developmental trajectories of math anxiety during adolescence and if these trajectories predicted later STEM career choice. The study also evaluated whether the trajectories varied in relation to gender and race/ethnicity. Data were drawn from Longitudinal Study of American Youth‐younger cohort that consisted of 3116 nationally representative sample of 7th grade students (48% Female, 70% European American) that were followed for 7 years. The results revealed four heterogeneous math anxiety trajectory groups: consistently low (34.68%), decreasing (23.72%), increasing (21.90%), and consistently high (20.12%). Trajectories varied with regard to race/ethnicity but not gender. Membership in consistently low or decreasing trajectory predicted later STEM career choice. The findings suggest that preventive interventions may benefit from targeting math anxiety during adolescence.
Self-Esteem and Optimism as Mediators in the Relationship Between Test Anxiety and Life Satisfaction Among a School-Based Sample of Adolescents
Authors: Çikrıkci Özkan , Erzen Evren , Yeniçeri İlknur Akistanbullu
Published: July 2018

The aim of this research was to assess the mediating role of self-esteem and optimism in the correlation between test anxiety and life satisfaction. The study group comprised 201 females (50.6%), 185 males (46.6%) and 11 students without stated gender (2.8%) for a total of 397 high school students. The ages of adolescents included in the study group varied from 14 to 19, with a mean age of 16.09 (SD = 1.09). The research used the Test Anxiety Inventory, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Self-Esteem Scale, Life Orientation Test and a personal information form developed by the researchers as data collection tools. According to the results of correlation analysis, there were significant correlations between test anxiety, self-esteem, optimism and life satisfaction. According to the mediation test results, self-esteem and optimism have full mediating roles in the correlation between test anxiety and life satisfaction. The results obtained are discussed with reference to the literature.
Random Flutter of Multi-Stable Airfoils Excited Parametrically in Steady Flows
Authors: Hao Y. , Wu Z. Q.
Published: July 2018

In this article, random flutter of multi-stable airfoils in steady flow is investigated by means of the analytical method for stochastic P-bifurcation, where the effect of the stochastic disturbance in the generalized flow speed on the airfoils is considered. The results show that under constant stochastic disturbance intensity, the coherence resonance could be induced by the variation of generalized flow speed. In addition, if the generalized flow speed keeps unchanged and its stochastic disturbance is sufficiently large, the response of the system will tend to be a stable equilibrium. It indicates that the parametric stochastic disturbance is effective to maintain system stability. Moreover, it is shown in this paper that the analytical method for stochastic P-bifurcation can be extended to study stochastic P-bifurcations in other high-dimensional systems.