bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric observations and emission estimates of ozone-depleting chlorocarbons from India
Authors: Say Daniel , Ganesan Anita L. , Lunt Mark F. , Rigby Matthew , O'Doherty Simon , Harth Chris , Manning Alistair J. , Krummel Paul B. , Bauguitte Stephane
Published: February 2019

Abstract. While the Montreal Protocol has been successful in reducing emissions of many long-lived ozone-depleting substances, growth in the global emission rates of unregulated very short-lived substances (VSLS) poses a potential threat to the recovery of the ozone layer. The sources of these VSLS are not well-constrained, with major source regions poorly monitored by existing measurement networks. Given India's rapidly growing economy, its emissions of both regulated chlorocarbons and unregulated VSLS chlorocarbons are suspected to have global significance. Furthermore, VSLS from the Asian monsoon regions have a greater impact on ozone-depletion than those emitted elsewhere due to the ability of monsoon systems to rapidly transport pollutants to the lower stratosphere. Previous atmospheric measurements of chlorocarbons from the Indian sub-continent are scarce. Here we present a new set of observations, derived from flask samples collected during a 2-month aircraft campaign in India and use these measurements to infer India's chlorocarbon emissions. We show that emissions of carbon tetrachloride from northern and central India (2.3 (1.5–3.4) Gg yr−1), are likely due to inadvertent production and release during the manufacture of chloromethanes (specifically dichloromethane and chloroform) and account for approximately 7 % of the global total. Emissions of methyl chloroform from the same region were estimated to be 0.07 (0.04–0.10) Gg yr−1 which account for less than 5 % of remaining global emissions. We used a population scaling to estimate India's emissions of the very short-lived chlorocarbons dichloromethane, perchloroethene and chloroform, which were estimated to be 69.2 (55.8–82.9) Gg yr−1, 2.9 (2.5–3.3) Gg yr−1 and 25.7 (21.6–29.9) Gg yr−1 respectively. In the case of dichloromethane, our estimate is consistent with a 3-fold increase in emissions since the last estimate derived from atmospheric data in 2008.
Distressed Firms and Dividend Reductions
Authors: Hall Steven C. , Agrawal Vipin K. , Agrawal Pushpa
Published: February 2019

We are interested in the effects of dividend reduction decisions on the firms that make them. We compare financial ratios of distressed dividend-reducing firms to distressed firms that did not reduce dividends, of nondistressed dividend-reducing firms to nondistressed firms that did not reduce dividends, and ratios of distressed dividend- reducing firms to nondistressed dividend-reducing firms. Results indicate benefits of dividend reductions to both distressed and nondistressed firms. We find a cost to nondistressed firms, i.e., a drop in the market value of the firm in the year following the dividend reduction.
The influence of melatonin on apoptosis of human neutrophils
Authors: Mańka Sylwia , Baj Zbigniew , Majewska Ewa
Published: February 2019

Aim: Melatonin (Mel) besides its main role in circadian and seasonal rhythm coordination, plays a role in immunoregulation and inflammatory responses. The melatonin’s ability to modulate apoptosis is one of its important roles related to its effect on immune system but the exact effect of its action and the mechanisms of apoptosis control by melatonin remain still unclear. The goal of our study was to examine the involvement of melatonin in the apoptosis of human neutrophils in vitro and possible mechanisms of this action.
Material/Methods: We measured the effect of melatonin on the spontaneous and TNF-α-induced apoptosis of human neutrophils using propidium iodide and Annexin-V and on caspase-3 activation, apoptosis-related surface antigen expressions, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cytochrome c release using flow cytometry and commercial reagents.
Results: Melatonin does not affect spontaneous apoptosis of human neutrophils and mitochondrial cytochrome c release but protects the cells from the significant rise of TNF-α-induced apoptosis and cytochrome c release. Intracellular ROS generation in PMA-stimulated neutrophils did not change after the influence of melatonin but the significant drop of ROS generation in neutrophils stimulated with TNF- α was upregulated to the control level after preincubation of the neutrophils with melatonin. Melatonin did not change significantly Fas, Fas-L and active caspase-3 expressions in neutrophils.
Conclusions: Melatonin does not affect the spontaneous apoptosis, however, inhibits TNF-α-induced apoptosis of human neutrophils. Our findings suggest that the intrinsic pathway of the process is a result of the melatonin induced mitochondrial alterations.
A new genus and three new species of mangrove slugs from the Indo-West Pacific (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Euthyneura: Onchidiidae)
Authors: Dayrat Benoît , Goulding Tricia C. , Khalil Munawar , Apte Deepak , Bourke Adam J. , Comendador Joseph , Tan Shau Hwai
Published: February 2019

Mangroves of the Indo-West Pacific have remained poorly explored, so even the diversity of the onchidiid slugs, which are some of the most abundant animals in mangroves of the Indo-West Pacific, is not well known. Thanks to several years spent exploring mangroves in the Indo-West Pacific (more than 260 stations), especially in South-East Asia, the diversity of mangrove gastropods can now be addressed through revisions following an integrative taxonomy approach (nomenclature, field observations, comparative anatomy and DNA sequences). A new genus of onchidiid slugs is described, Paromoionchis Dayrat & Goulding gen. nov., which includes five species, three of which are new: Paromoionchis boholensis Dayrat & Goulding gen. et sp. nov., P. daemelii (Semper, 1880) com. nov., P. goslineri Dayrat & Goulding gen. et sp. nov., P. penangensis Dayrat & Goulding gen. et sp. nov. and P. tumidus (Semper, 1880) comb. nov. Paromoionchis gen. nov. is distributed from western India to the subtropical waters of Japan (33° N) and southeastern Australia (33° S). The creation of new taxon names is supported by rigorous nomenclature: the types of all existing species names in the family were examined, the original descriptions carefully studied and nomenclatural issues addressed. The diversity and biogeography of this new genus is discussed in a broader context.
Life History of the Endemic Saddleback Crayfish, Faxonius medius (Faxon, 1884), (Decapoda: Cambaridae) in Missouri, USA
Authors: DiStefano Robert , Westhoff Jacob , Rice Christopher , Rosenberger Amanda
Published: February 2019

The saddleback crayfish, Faxonius medius (Faxon, 1884), is endemic to a single drainage in eastern Missouri, USA, that is affected by heavy metals mining, and adjacent to a rapidly-expanding urban area. We studied populations of F. medius in two small streams for 18 months to describe the annual reproductive cycle and gather information about fecundity, sex ratio, size at maturity, and size-class structure. We also obtained information about the speciesâ€™ density at supplemental sites. The species, though rare in a geographic context, is locally abundant; we captured a monthly average of more than 75 F. medius from each of the two study populations. Densities of F. medius were high relative to several sympatric species of Faxonius Cope, 1872 and Cambarus Erichson, 1846. The species exhibited traits of an r-strategist life history; it was relatively short-lived and early to maturity. Its fecundity and egg size were comparable to Ozark congeners. Breeding season occurred in autumn, perhaps extending into early winter. Egg brooding occurred primarily in April. Young-of-year first appeared in samples in June. We estimated that these populations contained 2 to 3 size-classes, and most individuals became sexually mature in their first year of life. Life history information presented herein will be important for future conservation efforts.
Flood pulse characteristics and physicochemical influences on harvested Procambarus clarkii and Procambarus zonangulus populations in the Atchafalaya River basin, Louisiana
Authors: Kong Lauren , Ballinger Alexa , Bonvillain Christopher
Published: February 2019

The majority of Louisiana’s wild crayfish landings are harvested from the Atchafalaya River Basin (ARB) during floodplain inundation from the annual flood pulse. Spatial and temporal heterogeneity in ARB physicochemical characteristics are associated with flood pulse characteristics and floodplain inundation, and extensive areas of the ARB experience environmental hypoxia (dissolved oxygen [DO] < 2.0 mg·L-1) for several weeks to months during the annual flood pulse. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effects of flood pulse characteristics and physicochemistry on harvested crayfish populations at 14 sites in the ARB that were sampled biweekly during the 2016 and 2017 crayfish seasons. Despite dissimilar 2016 and 2017 flood pulse characteristics, red swamp crawfish Procambarus clarkii and southern white river crawfish P. zonangulus carapace length and CPUE were similar between sample years. Comparisons of P. clarkii populations among physicochemical location groupings indicated that DO concentration, particularly chronically hypoxic water, is the principal abiotic variable influencing P. clarkii population characteristics. Although not significant, normoxic locations produced larger crayfish and yielded higher CPUE values for the majority of both crayfish seasons. Furthermore, hemolymph protein concentrations in P. clarkii from normoxic areas were significantly and consistently higher than individuals from chronically hypoxic locations.
Artes, Moda e Design: projetos de ensino e projetos de vida.
Authors:   Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (núcleo de Design e Comunicação) Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (PPGCDS), Martins Marcelo Machado
Published: February 2019

Entrevista concedida por Eloize Navalon, na qual a professora comenta a sua trajetória na academia e discute sua atuação como coordenadora e docente do curso de bacharelado em Design de Moda na Universidade Anhembi Morumbi (São Paulo – Brasil). Além disso, Eloize reflete sobre as relações entre arte, design e moda, mas também sobre tolerância, diversidade e a grande e necessária paixão por ensinar (e aprender).
Planejamento, execução e registro de entrevistas sobre design de moda: pesquisa junto a empresas no Brasil e na Alemanha
Authors:   UNIVERSIDADE DO ESTADO DE SANTA CATARINA, Campos Amanda Queiroz
Published: February 2019

O presente artigo consiste no relato da experiência de abordagem de empresas de moda para desenvolvimento de entrevistas junto a designers e diretores criativos. A pesquisa em questão teve como o objetivo a coleta de dados para o desenvolvimento de tese doutoral em cotutela no Brasil e na Alemanha. O contato com as empresas e, principalmente, os desafios obtidos na criação e seleção de estratégias e ferramentas para a pesquisa qualitativa e de cunho antropológico levaram à redação deste artigo. Seu objetivo, portanto, consistiu em relatar o ocorrido em prol de servir como referência para futuras investigações qualitativas na área de design junto a empresas de design de moda.
Notas sobre a disciplina história da moda: fontes e fantasmas em uma ficção
Authors:   Universidade da Amazônia, Soares Fernando Augusto Hage , Martins Benedita Afonso
Published: February 2019

Este artigo, fruto de pesquisa no programa de doutorado em Artes da UFPA, pretende analisar a disciplina história da moda através de um olhar sobre a imagem na história da arte, discorrendo sobre três pontos a partir da teoria de Georges Didi-Huberman na obra Diante do Tempo (2015): o uso das fontes visuais; o anacronismo das imagens; e o traço de sobrevivência dos clássicos no campo historiográfico da moda.
Assistive learning technologies for learners with ADHD and ASD
Authors: Andersen Hanne Voldborg , Jensen Rune Hagel Skaarup
Published: February 2019

This literature review was a part of a research project investigating how technologies can be utilised to support learners with developmental and attention deficit to be included in mainstream learning contexts.  The review contains research within the field of assistive learning technologies for learners with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder from 2006 to 2016. The review is conducted, by using systematic and qualitative academically acknowledged literature search methods. Seven categories of technology-based interventions are recognised from current research, where technologies have been used to support: 1) memory disabilities and/or brain training, 2) increasing focusing attention, 3) time and task management, 4) communication, 5) reading, writing, language and literacy skills, 6) changing behaviour and 7) group work and collaboration. The results indicate that the overall findings of the rendered studies present mixed conclusions. The review calls for more research in a mainstream learning context with a universal design for learning approach.
Decomposing complete 3-uniform hypergraph K_{n}^{(3)} into 7-cycles
Authors: Meihua Meihua , Guan Meiling , Jirimutu Jirimutu
Published: February 2019

We use the Katona-Kierstead definition of a Hamiltonian cycle in a uniform hypergraph. A decomposition of complete \(k\)-uniform hypergraph \(K^{(k)}_{n}\) into Hamiltonian cycles was studied by Bailey-Stevens and Meszka-Rosa. For \(n\equiv 2,4,5\pmod 6\), we design an algorithm for decomposing the complete 3-uniform hypergraphs into Hamiltonian cycles by using the method of edge-partition. A decomposition of \(K^{(3)}_{n}\) into 5-cycles has been presented for all admissible \(n\leq17\), and for all \(n=4^{m}+1\) when \(m\) is a positive integer. In general, the existence of a decomposition into 5-cycles remains open. In this paper, we show if \(42~|~(n-1)(n-2)\) and if there exist \(\lambda=\frac{(n-1)(n-2)}{42}\) sequences \((k_{i_{0}},k_{i_{1}},\ldots,k_{i_{6}})\) on \(D_{all}(n)\), then \(K^{(3)}_{n}\) can be decomposed into 7-cycles. We use the method of edge-partition and cycle sequence. We find a decomposition of \(K^{(3)}_{37}\) and \(K^{(3)}_{43}\) into 7-cycles.
The impact of pathological high-frequency oscillations on hippocampal network activity in rats with chronic epilepsy
Authors: Ewell Laura A , Fischer Kyle B , Leibold Christian , Leutgeb Stefan , Leutgeb Jill K
Published: February 2019

In epilepsy, brain networks generate pathological high-frequency oscillations (pHFOs) during interictal periods. To understand how pHFOs differ from normal oscillations in overlapping frequency bands and potentially perturb hippocampal processing, we performed high-density single unit and local field potential recordings from hippocampi of behaving rats with and without chronic epilepsy. In epileptic animals, we observed two types of co-occurring fast oscillations, which by comparison to control animals we could classify as ‘ripple-like’ or ‘pHFO’. We compared their spectral characteristics, brain state dependence, and cellular participants. Strikingly, pHFO occurred irrespective of brain state, were associated with interictal spikes, engaged distinct subnetworks of principal neurons compared to ripple-like events, increased the sparsity of network activity, and initiated both general and immediate disruptions in spatial information coding. Taken together, our findings suggest that events that result in pHFOs have an immediate impact on memory processes, corroborating the need for proper classification of pHFOs to facilitate therapeutic interventions that selectively target pathological activity.
Panton–Valentine leucocidin is the key determinant of Staphylococcus aureus pyomyositis in a bacterial GWAS
Authors: Young Bernadette C , Earle Sarah G , Soeng Sona , Sar Poda , Kumar Varun , Hor Songly , Sar Vuthy , Bousfield Rachel , Sanderson Nicholas D , Barker Leanne , Stoesser Nicole , Emary Katherine RW , Parry Christopher M , Nickerson Emma K , Turner Paul , Bowden Rory , Crook Derrick W , Wyllie David H , Day Nicholas PJ , Wilson Daniel J , Moore Catrin E
Published: February 2019

Pyomyositis is a severe bacterial infection of skeletal muscle, commonly affecting children in tropical regions, predominantly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. To understand the contribution of bacterial genomic factors to pyomyositis, we conducted a genome-wide association study of S. aureus cultured from 101 children with pyomyositis and 417 children with asymptomatic nasal carriage attending the Angkor Hospital for Children, Cambodia. We found a strong relationship between bacterial genetic variation and pyomyositis, with estimated heritability 63.8% (95% CI 49.2–78.4%). The presence of the Panton–Valentine leucocidin (PVL) locus increased the odds of pyomyositis 130-fold (p=10-17.9). The signal of association mapped both to the PVL-coding sequence and to the sequence immediately upstream. Together these regions explained over 99.9% of heritability (95% CI 93.5–100%). Our results establish staphylococcal pyomyositis, like tetanus and diphtheria, as critically dependent on a single toxin and demonstrate the potential for association studies to identify specific bacterial genes promoting severe human disease.
Epidemiology and spatial distribution of bluetongue virus in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Ma Jun , Gao Xiang , Liu Boyang , Chen Hao , Xiao Jianhua , Wang Hongbin
Published: February 2019

Bluetongue (BT) is a non-contagious disease affecting domestic and wild ruminants. Outbreaks of BT can cause serious economic losses. To investigate the distribution characteristics of bluetongue virus (BTV), two large-scale censuses of BTV prevalence in Xinjiang, China were collected. Spatial autocorrelation analysis, including global spatial autocorrelation and local spatial autocorrelation, was performed. Risk areas for BTV occurrence in Xinjiang were detected using the presence-only maximum entropy model. The global spatial autocorrelation of BTV distribution in Xinjiang in 2012 showed a random pattern. In contrast, the spatial distribution of BTV from 2014 to 2015 was significantly clustered. The hotspot areas for BTV infection included Balikun County (p< 0.05), Yiwu County (p< 0.05) and Hami City (p< 0.05) in 2012. These three regions were also hotspot areas during 2014 and 2015. Sheep distribution (25.6% contribution), precipitation seasonality (22.1% contribution) and mean diurnal range (16.2% contribution) were identified as the most important predictors for BTV occurrence in Xinjiang. This study demonstrated the presence of high-risk areas for BTV infection in Xinjiang, which can serve as a tool to aid in the development of preventative countermeasures of BT outbreaks.
Analysis of the fishery and population dynamics of the atlantic thread herring (Opisthonema oglinum) in Yucatán, Mexico
Authors: Mexicano-Cintora G , Salas S , Cabrera MA
Published: February 2019

The artisanal fishery of Atlantic thread herring (Opisthonema oglinum) in the coastal region off Celestún, Yucatán, began in 1991 in response to an increase in the demand. by the Yucatán industrial fishing fleet, to use it as bait in the capture of other demersal species. A characterization of the fishery in terms of fishing methods, fishing grounds and catch composition is made for the 1993-94 period. The estimated mean catch per trip was 344 kg, obtained in nine effective hours of fishing. The variable costs per trip are lower than the incomes, but there is not enough information to make inferences about the economic aspects of the fishery. A preliminary analysis of the population dynamics of this species was carried out. The estimated growth parameters were: L∞ = 227 mm FL and K = 0.68/year. Recruitment patterns showed a long period throughout the year, with a maximum in summer.
HUFA content and DHA/EPA improvements of Brachionus plicatilis for sea bream (Sparus aurata) larvae
Authors: Pousao-Ferreira P , Luís O , Passos A , Narciso L
Published: February 2019

The relative concentration of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids and the DHA/EPA ratio are important factors in the survival and growth of marine larvae. The main objective of the present work was to campare the fatty acid content of one-day post-hatch sea bream larvae with the fatty acid content of severa1 dietary enrichment products (Chlorella sp., Protein Selco and Super Rotifer) and Brachionus plicatilis after enrichment. Generally, enriched B. plicatilis are added to larval culture tanks and they remain the only source of nutrients for up to 12 h. It was therefore decided to also study the fatty acid profile of B. plicatilis 3, 6 and 24 h after enrichment. Some of the enrichment products were found to have a higher HUFA content than the sea bream larvae, but the ratio of DHA/EPA was always inferior. Brachionus plicatilis was rapidly depleted in HUFA 3 and 6 h after enrichment and after 24 h, B. plicatilis could not be considered enriched.
Basic Kirkwood – Buff Theory of Solution Structure and Appropriate Application of Wyman Linkage Equation to Biochemical Phenomena
Authors: Udema Ikechukwu Iloh , Onigbinde Abraham Olalere
Published: February 2019

Background: Researchers who have shown interest in the consequence of introducing dry biomolecules or a solution of it into cosolvents generally known as osmolyte, have applied many models for the elucidation of the scientific basis of the results obtained. The Kirkwood and Buff theory (KBT) or its reverse form has been the basis for the interpretation of the effect of the osmolyte. There seems to be no generally acceptable definition of terms in the basic KBT mathematical formalism. There is also error in stated equations describing solution structure and misapplication of Wyman linkage relation. Therefore, the objectives of this research are 1) to show how the equation of preferential interaction parameter is derived based on KBT, 2) to show the appropriate way in which Wyman linkage relation can be applied, 3) to apply biochemical approach (using generated data) to the equation of preferential interaction parameter (preferential interaction parameter is symbolised as ) for its calculation and calculation of parameters linked to KBT derived equations.

Methods: The research is mainly theoretical and partly experimental. The experiment entails Bernfeld method of enzyme assay for the generation of data.

Results and Discussion: The change in solvation preference upon the ethanol partial denaturation of the enzyme and the corresponding change in preferential interaction parameter were respectively positive and negative in sign. Unexpectedly ethanol was preferentially excluded from the enzyme.

Conclusion: The equations of preferential interaction parameters were derived. The appropriate way is either by calculation or measurement of preferential interaction parameter. Therefore,  or  for the change, cannot be a constant (or slope) and an instrumentation–based measurable parameter at the same time. Based on Wyman linkage relation, purely biochemical thermodynamic parameter is linked to preferential interaction parameters which are therefore, thermodynamic parameters.
Study of Paddy Stem Borers Population Dynamics and Influencing Environmental Factors through Light Trap
Authors: Hussain Mubashar , Ali Muhammad Yasir , Umer Muhammad , Ejaz Numan , Bilal Muhammad , Salim Muhammad Arslan , Noushahi Hamza Armghan , Atta Bilal , Rizwan Muhammad
Published: February 2019

Rice crop is affected by many insect pests like White Stem Borer, Yellow Stem Borer and Pink Stem Borer. Rice stem borers are main pests affecting rice crop from nursery to physiological maturity including them in key pests. These studies had been carried out to discover the encouraging and antagonistic boundaries of weather parameters for the rice stem borers. As per result of studies, the population was recorded higher from mid-March to 1st week of May and then it escalated again from 2nd week of August to a maximum in September in case of Yellow Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulus) and White Stem Borer (Scirpophaga innotata) of rice during the both years 2017-2018; while in case of Pink Stem Borer population recorded from mid-September to the last week of April in 2017 and lasted till 4th week of May 2018. On evaluating the weather conditions specially temperature and relative humidity, it was detected that insect trap catches noted inside a certain range of temperature that varies from 18-35°C in case of White Stem Borer and 17-34°C for Yellow stem borer of rice. Extreme catches were documented in April and September inside a temperature range of 26-32°C considering it ideal series of temperature for insect light trap catches and activity of yellow and white stem borer. However, in case of pink stem borer above 32°C no catch was observed.
Fresh Garlic Extract has a Synergistic Effect with Antibiotics on ESBLs Producing E. coli Urinary Isolates
Authors: Abdelraheem Wedad M.
Published: February 2019

Aim: Extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs)-producing bacteria often exhibit a multidrug- resistant phenotype limiting the therapeutic options available to the clinician. This study was conducted to investigate the antibacterial susceptibility pattern of ESBL producing E. coli isolates and evaluation of the antibacterial activity of Garlic extract against it.

Study Design: The study was carried out using antibiotics powder and Garlic extract.

Place and Duration of Study: At the microbiology lab, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University between January 2017 to August 2018. 

Methods: The study was carried on 55 ESBL producing E. coli isolates isolated from patients with urinary tract infections (UTI). Screening and confirmation for ESBL was done according to clinical and laboratory standard institute guidelines (CLSI) guidelines. The antibacterial sensitivity to a panel of antibiotics and Garlic was performed by tube dilution method.

Results: The results of antibacterial susceptibility testing of ESBLs-producing E. coli isolates in our study showed a higher degree of resistance to the tested antibiotics. In the present study, Garlic showed an inhibitory effect on ESBLs- producing E. coli with concentrations ranging from 10-50 mg/ml and a mean of 30 mg/ml. Garlic extract produce a synergistic effect with all tested antibiotics against all tested ESBL producing E. coli isolates. A Significant decrease in ESBLs genes expression (SHV, TEM and CTX-m) was reported after treatment with Garlic extract (P value: ˂0.001).

Conclusion: The combinations of antibiotics and Garlic may be more useful than individual agents, so we recommended that further researches should be undertaken to evaluate the combination of Garlic with antibiotics towards ESBL producing E. coli.
Metabolomics‐based identification of metabolic alterations in PARK2
Authors: Okuzumi Ayami , Hatano Taku , Ueno Shin‐Ichi , Ogawa Takashi , Saiki Shinji , Mori Akio , Koinuma Takahiro , Oji Yutaka , Ishikawa Kei‐Ichi , Fujimaki Motoki , Sato Shigeto , Ramamoorthy Sivapriya , Mohney Robert P. , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: February 2019

Objective

Parkin is the causative gene for autosomal recessive familial Parkinson's disease (PD), although it remains unclear how parkin dysfunction is involved with the general condition. Recently, serum and/or plasma metabolomics revealed alterations in metabolic pathways that might reflect pathomechanisms of idiopathic PD (iPD). Thus, we hypothesized that serum metabolomics of patients with homozygous or compound heterozygous parkin mutations (namely, PARK2) might reflect metabolic alterations due to parkin dysfunction.

Methods

We enrolled 15 PARK2 patients (52 ± 17.6 years) confirmed with homozygous (seven cases) and compound heterozygous (eight cases) parkin mutations, along with 19 healthy age‐matched controls (51 ± 11.5 years). We analyzed 830 metabolites from participants’ serum using well‐established metabolomics technologies, including ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectroscopy.

Results

Based on metabolic profiles, hierarchical matrix analysis can divide samples between control and PARK2 subjects. Profiles from PARK2 patients showed significantly higher levels of fatty acid (FA) metabolites and oxidized lipids, and significantly lower levels of antioxidant, caffeine, and benzoate‐related metabolites.

Interpretation

Metabolomics can identify specific metabolic alterations in PARK2 patients compared with controls. Alterations in FA metabolites suggest a relationship between parkin function and lipid metabolism. The elevation of oxidized lipids in combination with decreasing antioxidants may reflect general hyperoxidative stress. Decreasing benzoate‐related metabolites might be due to the alteration in gut microbiota. Consequently, caffeine and its metabolites may be decreased due to malabsorption. These findings are similar to metabolic alterations in iPD. Thus, serum/plasma metabolomics may reflect the association between parkin dysfunction and parkinsonism.
Rehearsal partially mediates the negative relations of the fading affect bias with depression, anxiety, and stress
Authors: Gibbons Jeffrey A. , Lee Sherman A.
Published: February 2019

The fading affect bias (FAB) is defined by unpleasant affect fading faster than pleasant affect. The FAB persists across several cultures and event types, and it is positively related to healthy outcomes and negatively related to unhealthy outcomes. Although the notion of the FAB as a healthy process fits well with contemporary theoretical perspectives, such as self‐enhancement theory, few studies have (a) examined and established reliable relations between the FAB and psychological distress variables and (b) established overall rehearsal as a mediator of these relations. We examined and found reliable, negative relations between psychological distress and the FAB for combined data from several studies examining different event types. We also examined and showed that overall rehearsal partially mediated these relations. These findings help legitimize the relation of psychological distress and FAB as a reliable scientific phenomenon, show that the FAB results from cognitive mechanisms, and support therapeutic emotional memory reinterpretation.
High‐Abundance and Low‐Cost Metal‐Based Cathode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Problems, Progress, and Key Technologies
Authors: Chen Mingzhe , Liu Qiannan , Wang Shi‐Wen , Wang Enhui , Guo Xiaodong , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: February 2019

Recently, room‐temperature stationary sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have received extensive investigations for large‐scale energy storage systems (EESs) and smart grids due to the huge natural abundance and low cost of sodium. The SIBs share a similar “rocking‐chair” sodium storage mechanism with lithium‐ion batteries; thus, selecting appropriate electrodes with a low cost, satisfactory electrochemical performance, and high reliability is the key point for the development for SIBs. On the other hand, the carefully chosen elements in the electrodes also largely determine the cost of SIBs. Therefore, earth‐abundant‐metal‐based compounds are ideal candidates for reducing the cost of electrodes. Among all the high‐abundance and low‐cost metal elements, cathodes containing iron and/or manganese are the most representative ones that have attracted numerous studies up till now. Herein, recent advances on both iron‐ and manganese‐based cathodes of various types, such as polyanionic, layered oxide, MXene, and spinel, are highlighted. The structure–function property for the iron‐ and manganese‐based compounds is summarized and analyzed in detail. With the participation of iron and manganese in sodium‐based cathode materials, real applications of room‐temperature SIBs in large‐scale EESs will be greatly promoted and accelerated in the near future.
EED and EZH2 constitutive variants: A study to expand the Cohen‐Gibson syndrome phenotype and contrast it with Weaver syndrome
Authors: Griffiths Sara , Loveday Chey , Zachariou Anna , Behan Lucy‐Ann , Chandler Kate , Cole Trevor , D'Arrigo Stefano , Dieckmann Andrea , Foster Alison , Gibney James , Hunter Matthew , Milani Donatella , Pantaleoni Chiara , Roche Edna , Sherlock Mark , Springer Amanda , White Susan M. ,   Childhood Overgrowth Collaboration, Tatton‐Brown Katrina
Published: February 2019

Overgrowth‐intellectual disability (OGID) syndromes are characterized by increased growth (height and/or head circumference ≥+2 SD) in association with an intellectual disability. Constitutive EED variants have previously been reported in five individuals with an OGID syndrome, eponymously designated Cohen‐Gibson syndrome and resembling Weaver syndrome. Here, we report three additional individuals with constitutive EED variants, identified through exome sequencing of an OGID patient series. We compare the EED phenotype with that of Weaver syndrome (56 individuals), caused by constitutive EZH2 variants. We conclude that while there is considerable overlap between the EED and EZH2 phenotypes with both characteristically associated with increased growth and an intellectual disability, individuals with EED variants more frequently have cardiac problems and cervical spine abnormalities, boys have cryptorchidism and the facial gestalts can usually be distinguished.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Methylation of Nitroarenes with Methanol
Authors: Wang Lin , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias
Published: February 2019

A procedure for the synthesis of N‐methyl‐arylamines directly from nitroarenes using methanol as green methylating agent was developed. The key to success is the use of a specific catalyst system consisting of palladium acetate and the ligand 1‐[2,6‐bis(isopropyl)phenyl]‐2‐[tert‐butyl(2‐pyridinyl)phosphino]‐1H‐Imidazole (L1). The generality of this protocol is demonstrated in the synthesis of more than 20 N‐methyl‐arylamines under comparably mild conditions. Combining this novel methodology with subsequent coupling processes using the same catalyst allows for efficient diversification of aromatic nitro compounds to a broad variety of amines including drug molecules.
A Semiconducting Polymer Nano‐prodrug for Hypoxia‐Activated Photodynamic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Cui Dong , Huang Jiaguo , Zhen Xu , Li Jingchao , Jiang Yuyan , Pu Kanyi
Published: February 2019

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) holds great promise for cancer therapy; however, its efficacy is often compromised by tumor hypoxia. Herein, we report the synthesis of a semiconducting polymer nanoprodrug (SPNpd) that not only efficiently generates singlet oxygen (1O2) under NIR photoirradiation but also specifically activates its chemotherapeutic action in hypoxic tumor microenvironment. SPNpd is self‐assembled from a amphiphilic polymer brush, which comprises a light‐responsive photodynamic backbone grafted with poly(ethylene glycol) and conjugated with a chemodrug through hypoxia‐cleavable linkers. The well‐defined and compact nanostructure of SPNpd (30 nm) enables accumulation in the tumor of living mice. Owing to these features, SPNpd exerts synergistic photodynamic and chemo‐therapy, and effectively inhibits tumor growth in a xenograft tumor mouse model. This study represents the first hypoxia‐activatable phototherapeutic polymeric prodrug system with a high potential for cancer therapy.
Converting Thioether Waste into Organic Semiconductors by Carbon–Sulfur Bond Activation
Authors: Zhu Ting , Jiang Longfeng , Li Ying , Xie Zengqi , Li Zijie , Lv Lei , Chen Hao , Zhao Zhiyuan , Jiang Lang , Tang Benzhong , Huang Hui
Published: February 2019

A goal for human society is to convert organic waste into valuable materials. Herein, 2‐(methylthio)‐bezothiazole (MTBT), an important organic waste in urban runoff, was catalytically converted into a series of organic semiconductors through carbon–sulfur bond activation. The efficient conversion of various substrates with different aromatic moieties and reacting functional groups (tin and boron) proved the generality of this novel diarylation Liebeskind–Srogl methodology. Moreover, the resulting organic semiconductors showed excellent performance in field effect transistors and cell imaging. This contribution presents an excellent example of converting organic waste into valuable materials and may open a new avenue to utilizing widely available aromatic thioethers.
The Role of Polarization in Photocatalysis
Authors: Chen Fang , Huang Hongwei , Guo Lin , Zhang Yihe , Ma Tianyi
Published: February 2019

Semiconductor photocatalysis as a desirable technology shows great potential in environmental remediation and renewable energy generation, but its efficiency is severely restricted by the rapid recombination of charge carriers in the bulk phase and on the surface of photocatalysts. Polarization has emerged as one of the most effective strategies for addressing the above‐mentioned issues, thus effectively promoting photocatalysis. This review summarizes the recent advances on improvements of photocatalytic activity by polarization‐promoted bulk and surface charge separation. Highlighted is the recent progress in charge separation advanced by different types of polarization, such as macroscopic polarization, piezoelectric polarization, ferroelectric polarization, and surface polarization, and the related mechanisms. Finally, the strategies and challenges for polarization enhancement to further enhance charge separation and photocatalysis are discussed.
High Uptake of ReO4− and CO2 Conversion by a Radiation‐Resistant Thorium–Nickle [Th48Ni6] Nanocage‐Based Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Xu Hang , Cao Chun‐Shuai , Hu Han‐Shi , Wang Shi‐Bin , Liu Jin‐Cheng , Cheng Peng , Kaltsoyannis Nikolas , Li Jun , Zhao Bin
Published: February 2019

Assembled from [Th48Ni6] nanocages, the first transition‐metal (TM)‐thorium metal–organic framework (MOF, 1) has been synthesized and structurally characterized. 1 exhibits high solvent and acid/base stability, and resistance to 400 kGy β irradiation. Notably, 1 captures ReO4− (an analogue of radioactive 99TcO4−, a key species in nuclear wastes) with a maximum capacity of 807 mg g−1, falling among the largest values known to date. Furthermore, 1 can enrich methylene blue (MB) and can also serve as an effective and recyclable catalyst for CO2 fixation with epoxides; there is no significant loss of catalytic activity after 10 cycles. Theoretical studies with nucleus‐independent chemical shifts and natural bond orbital analysis reveal that the [Th6O8] clusters in 1 have a unique stable electronic structure with (d–p)π aromaticity, partially rationalising 1′s stability.
Application of cobalt phthalocyanine as a nanostructured catalyst in the synthesis of biological henna‐based compounds
Authors: Dashteh Mohammad , Safaiee Maliheh , Baghery Saeed , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2019

The present investigation describes synthesis of a good range of henna‐based compounds in the presence of novel nano cobalt phthalocyanine like molten salt (tetra‐2,3‐pyridiniumporphyrazinato cobalt tribromomethanide) [Co (TPPABr)]CBr3 as an efficient, recyclable and thermally stable heterogeneous catalyst.
Structurally diverse coordination compounds of zinc as effective precursors of zinc oxide nanoparticles with various morphologies
Authors: Swiatkowski Marcin , Kruszynski Rafal
Published: February 2019

The structurally diverse coordination compounds of zinc were designed and synthesized using two types of building blocks: short‐chain carboxylate ions and hexamethylenetetraamine. They were characterized by X‐ray crystallography, infrared spectroscopy and thermal analysis. The studied compounds were used as precursors for production (via controlled thermal conversion) of zinc oxide nanoparticles. The conversion process was optimized in terms of two parameters (heating rate and maximum temperature). Such an approach, combined with proper design of the precursor structure, allows fabrication of various zinc oxide micro‐ and nanoparticles. The influence of a precursor structure and modifications of conversion parameters on size and morphology of ZnO particles were studied and discussed.
Modification of Phenolic Compounds and Volatile Profiles of Chemlali Variety Olive Oil in Response to Foliar Biofertilization
Authors: Dabbaghi Olfa , Tekaya Meriem , Flamini Guido , Zouari Imen , El‐Gharbi Sinda , M'barki Naouraz , Laabidi Foued , Cheheb Hechmi , Attia Faouzi , Aïachi Mezghani Mouna , Hammami Mohamed , Mechri Beligh
Published: February 2019

The main objective of this work was to study the effects of foliar biofertilizers on individual volatile profiles and phenolic compounds of olive oil (Olea europaea L. cv. Chemlali). Three foliar biofertilizers were used in two successive application seasons: T1 (rich in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium); T2 (rich in calcium); and T3 (application of both T1 and T2). Results showed that foliar fertilization with T2 increased the phenolic compound contents (e.g., oleuropein aglycone and decarboxymethyl ligstroside aglycone) of Chemlali olive oil. It also enhanced the levels of many volatile compounds responsible for the good flavor of olive oil such as hexanal. However, T1‐tested fertilizer led to a significant decrease in the content of phenolic compounds, although they seemed to improve significantly the levels of the majority of volatile compounds, especially hexanal. Based on these results, a significant relationship between plant nutrition and quality of oil was observed. Our results demonstrated a potential positive influence on the concentration of sensory quality compounds under T2 (Ca2+‐based fertilizer). This result should be considered in the design of foliar nutrient application management strategies for olive trees.
Effect of ultraviolet‐A radiation on surface structure, thermal, and mechanical and electrical properties of liquid silicone rubber
Authors: Lin Ying , Yin Fanghui , Liu Yuhao , Wang Liming , Zhao Yunfeng , Farzaneh Masoud
Published: February 2019

Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) products outdoors are often subjected to high intensity of ultraviolet (UV)‐A radiation. However, the influence of UV‐A radiation on LSR is rarely studied. To study the influence of UV‐A radiation on LSR, the surface of LSR with UV‐A aging time was characterized by tests at different detection depths [X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)]. The operation properties (thermal stability and mechanical and electrical properties) for outdoor insulators were also analyzed. It was found that the porous surface and the loose layer of LSR increased, but the growth rate of them decreased as UV‐A aging time increased. SiO2 fillers were lost in the surface. CH bonds in CH3 and CH3 in SiCH3 increased with aging time. The increased crosslinking density increased the thermal stability, hardness, dielectric loss tangent, relative dielectric constant, and volume resistivity and decreased elongation‐at‐break. The mechanical strength initially increased and then decreased. Based on the proposed aging mechanism, the UV‐A resistance of LSR can be improved by reducing the amount of hydrogen‐containing silicone oil and by increasing the molecular weight of raw rubber. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47652.
Stochastic distribution synchronization and pinning control for complex heterogeneous dynamical networks
Authors: Wang Guoqiang , Ji Jinchen , Zhou Jin
Published: February 2019

This paper investigates the stochastic synchronization and pinning control in the sense of probability distribution for a general model of complex heterogeneous dynamical networks subjected to stochastic disturbances. Some generic stochastic synchronization criteria are established for both cases of undirected and directed topology by using the ergodic theory on stochastic dynamical systems. Compared with most existing studies on the stochastic synchronization in the sense of mean square, it is demonstrated that the concept of stochastic distribution synchronization can well characterize the realistic structure and essential nature of complex practical stochastic systems. Subsequently, two representative examples of complex heterogeneous dynamical networks, namely coupled stochastic Duffing oscillators and coupled FitzHugh‐Nagumo neuron oscillators, are given to illustrate and numerically verify the theoretical results.
Cell Fate and Developmental Regulation Dynamics by Polycomb Proteins and 3D Genome Architecture
Authors: Loubiere Vincent , Martinez Anne‐Marie , Cavalli Giacomo
Published: February 2019

Targeted transitions in chromatin states at thousands of genes are essential drivers of eukaryotic development. Therefore, understanding the in vivo dynamics of epigenetic regulators is crucial for deciphering the mechanisms underpinning cell fate decisions. This review illustrates how, in addition to its cell memory function, the Polycomb group of transcriptional regulators orchestrates temporal, cell and tissue‐specific expression of master genes during development. These highly sophisticated developmental transitions are dependent on the context‐ and tissue‐specific assembly of the different types of Polycomb Group (PcG) complexes, which regulates their targeting and/or activities on chromatin. Here, an overview is provided of how PcG complexes function at multiple scales to regulate transcription, local chromatin environment, and higher order structures that support normal differentiation and are perturbed in tumorigenesis.
Implementation of a Fully Automated Microbial Cultivation Platform for Strain and Process Screening
Authors: Janzen Nils H. , Striedner Gerald , Jarmer Johanna , Voigtmann Martin , Abad Sandra , Reinisch Daniela
Published: February 2019

Advances in molecular biotechnology have resulted in the generation of numerous potential production strains. Because every strain can be screened under various process conditions, the number of potential cultivations is multiplied. Exploiting this potential without increasing the associated timelines requires a cultivation platform that offers increased throughput and flexibility to perform various bioprocess screening protocols. Currently, there is no commercially available fully automated cultivation platform that can operate multiple microbial fed‐batch processes, including at‐line sampling, deep freezer off‐line sample storage, and complete data handling. To enable scalable high‐throughput early‐stage microbial bioprocess development, a commercially available microbioreactor system and a laboratory robot are combined to develop a fully automated cultivation platform. By making numerous modifications, as well as supplementation with custom‐built hardware and software, fully automated milliliter‐scale microbial fed‐batch cultivation, sample handling, and data storage are realized. The initial results of cultivations with two different expression systems and three different process conditions are compared using 5 L scale benchmark cultivations, which provide identical rankings of expression systems and process conditions. Thus, fully automated high‐throughput cultivation, including automated centralized data storage to significantly accelerate the identification of the optimal expression systems and process conditions, offers the potential for automated early‐stage bioprocess development.
Interaction of Bovine Serum Albumin with Propyl Gallate and Methyl Gallate Investigated by Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Lee Seong‐June , Cho Han‐Gook , Cheong Byeong‐Seo
Published: February 2019

The interaction of antioxidant ligands, propyl gallate (PG) and methyl gallate (MG) with bovine serum albumin (BSA) was studied by means of fluorescence spectroscopy. Intrinsic fluorescence of BSA was monitored as a function of ligand concentrations, and fluorescence quenching assays were used to characterize the interaction between BSA and the ligands and to determine various quenching and binding constants. The quenching constants obtained for both PG and MG suggest a static quenching mechanism, and complex formation between BSA and PG or MG was confirmed by UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy. The site marker displacement experiments were performed to identify the binding site of BSA using warfarin and ibuprofen as site markers. The temperature dependence of the BSA‐ligand binding interaction was investigated, and ΔH and ΔS for the binding process were determined using the van't Hoff equation. The results indicate that the binding interaction between BSA and PG are distinctively different in nature from that between BSA and MG.