bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ableitung von thermischen Materialkennwerten für Beton unter Naturbrandbeanspruchung anhand von experimentellen Untersuchungen
Authors: Lyzwa Jan , Zehfuß Jochen
Published: February 2020

Die brandschutztechnische Bemessung von Beton‐ und Stahlbetonbauteilen wird in Eurocode 2‐1‐2 (EC) geregelt. Die hierin enthaltenen Bemessungsvorschriften und Materialeigenschaften basieren auf Versuchsdaten, die auf Grundlage einer thermischen Beanspruchung gemäß der Einheits‐Temperaturzeitkurve (ETK) ermittelt wurden. Die aktuelle Normengeneration gestattet neben dieser Normbeanspruchung die Anwendung von Naturbrandmodellen. Hierbei besteht der grundlegende Unterschied darin, dass die ETK durch eine stetig ansteigende logarithmische Funktion beschrieben wird, während natürliche Brände durch eine Aufheiz‐ und Abkühlphase gekennzeichnet sind.

In diesem Beitrag wird die experimentelle Ermittlung der thermischen Materialeigenschaften in der Abkühlphase von Normal‐, hochfestem und ultrahochfestem Beton beschrieben. Exemplarisch werden aufbauend auf den Versuchsergebnissen Materialkennwerte für die Abkühlphase von Bränden abgeleitet. Diese dienen wiederum als Eingangsparameter für durchgeführte numerische Berechnungen.
A synthetic biology approach for the fabrication of functional (fluorescent magnetic) bioorganic–inorganic hybrid materials in sponge primmorphs
Authors: Markl Julia S. , Müller Werner E. G. , Sereno Dayane , Elkhooly Tarek A. , Kokkinopoulou Maria , Gardères Johan , Depoix Frank , Wiens Matthias
Published: February 2020

During evolution, sponges (Porifera) have honed the genetic toolbox and biosynthetic mechanisms for the fabrication of siliceous skeletal components (spicules). Spicules carry a protein scaffold embedded within biogenic silica (biosilica) and feature an amazing range of optical, structural, and mechanical properties. Thus, it is tempting to explore the low‐energy synthetic pathways of spiculogenesis for the fabrication of innovative hybrid materials. In this synthetic biology approach, the uptake of multifunctional nonbiogenic nanoparticles (fluorescent, superparamagnetic) by spicule‐forming cells of bioreactor‐cultivated sponge primmorphs provides access to spiculogenesis. The ingested nanoparticles were detected within intracellular vesicles resembling silicasomes (silica‐rich cellular compartments) and as cytosolic clusters where they lent primmorphs fluorescent/magnetic properties. During spiculogenesis, the nanoparticles initially formed an incomplete layer around juvenile, intracellular spicules. In the mature, extracellular spicules the nanoparticles were densely arranged as a surface layer that rendered the resulting composite fluorescent and magnetic. By branching off the conventional route of solid‐state materials synthesis under harsh conditions, a new pathway has been opened to a versatile platform that allows adding functionalities to growing spicules as templates in living cells, using nonbiogenic nanoscale building blocks with multiple functionalities. The magnet‐assisted alignment renders this composite with its fluorescent/magnetic properties potentially suitable for application in biooptoelectronics and microelectronics (e.g., microscale on‐chip waveguides for applications of optical detection and sensing).
LC–QToF–MS method for quantification of ethambutol, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and rifampicin in human plasma and its application
Authors: Fachi Mariana Millan , Vilhena Raquel Oliveira , Boger Beatriz , Domingos Eric Luiz , dos Santos Josiane Marlei Müller Fernandes , Junkert Allan Michael , de Fátima Cobre Alexandre , Momade Danilo Raul Ossufo , Beraldi‐Magalhães Francisco , de Liz Marcus Vinicius , Cordeiro‐Santos Marcelo , Pontarolo Roberto
Published: February 2020

In this research, we developed and validated a liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC–QToF–MS) method for simultaneous quantification of the anti‐tuberculosis drugs ethambutol, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and rifampicin in human plasma. Plasma samples spiked with cimetidine (internal standard) were extracted using protein precipitation with acetonitrile containing 1% formic acid. Separation was performed using a C18 column under flow gradient conditions with water and acetonitrile, both containing 5 mm ammonium formate and 0.1% formic acid. The method was validated according to the ANVISA and US Food and Drug Administration guidelines for bioanalytical method validation. The calibration curve was linear over a concentration range of 0.2–5 μg ml−1 for ethambutol, 0.2–7.5 μg ml−1 for isoniazid, 1–40 μg ml−1 for pyrazinamide and 0.25–2 μg ml−1 for rifampicin, all with adequate precision and accuracy. The method was reproducible, selective and free of carryover and matrix effects. The validated LC–QToF–MS method was successfully applied to real samples and shown to be applicable to future therapeutic and pharmacokinetic monitoring studies.
Identification of the surgical indication line for the Denonvilliers’ fascia and its anatomy in patients with rectal cancer
Authors: Huang Jianglong , Liu Jing , Fang Jiafeng , Zeng Zongheng , Wei Bo , Chen Tufeng , Wei Hongbo
Published: February 2020

Background

The high rate of urogenital dysfunction after traditional total mesorectal excision (TME) has caused doubts among scholars on the standard fashion of dissection. We have proposed the necessity to preserve the Denonvilliers’ fascia in patients with rectal cancer. However, how to accurately locate the Denonvilliers’ fascia is unclear. This study aimed to explore anatomical features of the Denonvilliers’ fascia by comparing autopsy findings and observations of surgical videos so as to propose a dissection method for the preservation of pelvic autonomic nerves during rectal cancer surgery.

Methods

Five adult male cadaver specimens were dissected, and surgical videos of 135 patients who underwent TME for mid‐low rectal cancer between January 2009 and February 2019 were reviewed to identify and compare the structure of the Denonvilliers’ fascia.

Results

The monolayer structure of the Denonvilliers’ fascia was observed in 5 male cadaver specimens, and it was located between the rectum, the bottom of the bladder, the seminal vesicles, the vas deferens, and the prostate. The Denonvilliers’ fascia was originated from the rectovesical pouch (or rectum‐uterus pouch), down to fuse caudally with the rectourethral muscle at the apex of the prostate, and fused to the lateral ligaments on both sides. The fascia was thinner on the midline with a thickness of 1.06 ± 0.10 mm. The crown shape of the Denonvilliers’ fascia was slightly triangular, with a height of approximately 5.42 ± 0.16 cm at midline. Nerves were more densely distributed in front of the Denonvilliers’ fascia than behind, especially on both sides of it. Under laparoscopic view, the Denonvilliers’ fascia was originated at the lowest point of the rectovesical pouch (or rectum‐uterus pouch), with a thickened white line which was a good mark for identifying the Denonvilliers’ fascia.

Conclusion

Identification of the surgical indication line for the Denonvilliers’ fascia could help us identify the Denonvilliers’ fascia, and it would improve our ability to protect the pelvic autonomic function of patients undergoing TME for rectal cancer.
Synthesis, Biological Activity and Action Mechanism Study of Novel Chalcone Derivatives Containing Malonate
Authors: Guo Tao , Xia Rongjiao , Liu Tingting , Peng Feng , Tang Xuemei , Zhou Qing , Luo Hui , Xue Wei
Published: February 2020

A series of novel chalcone malonate derivatives were synthesized and their antibacterial and antiviral activities were evaluated. All target compounds were characterized by spectral data. The results of antimicrobial bioassay showed that one compound (diethyl [3‐(naphthalen‐2‐yl)‐1‐(3‐nitrophenyl)‐3‐oxopropyl]propanedioate) showed excellent antibacterial activity against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo), with an EC50 value of 10.2 μg/mL, which is significantly superior to bismerthiazol (71.7 μg/mL) and thiodiazole copper (97.8 μg/mL). At the same time, the mechanism of two compounds was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. In addition, another compound (diethyl [3‐(naphthalen‐2‐yl)‐1‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐3‐oxopropyl]propanedioate) showed significant curative activity to tobacco mosaic virus, with a value of 74.3 %, which was superior to 53.3 % of ningnanmycin. The results of microscale thermophoresis also showed that the Kd value of the combination of two compounds with the coat protein of tobacco mosaic virus was 0.211 and 0.166 μmol/L, which was better than 0.596 μmol/L of ningnanmycin. At the same time, the molecular docking of two compounds with tobacco mosaic virus‐coat protein shows that the compound is well embedded in the pocket between the two subunits of tobacco mosaic virus‐coat protein. These results show that chalcone derivatives containing malonate group can be considered as activators in the design of antibacterial and antiviral agents.
Metal‐Rich Chalcogenides for Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution: Activity of Electrodes and Bulk Materials
Authors: Siegmund Daniel , Blanc Niclas , Smialkowski Mathias , Tschulik Kristina , Apfel Ulf‐Peter
Published: February 2020

Metal‐rich chalcogenides composed of highly abundant elements recently emerged as promising catalysts for the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Many of these materials benefit from a high intrinsic conductivity as compared to their chalcogen‐rich congeners, greatly reducing the necessity for conductive additives or sophisticated nanostructuring. Herein, we showcase the high potential of metal‐rich transition‐metal chalcogenides for the electrocatalytic hydrogen formation by summarizing the recent progress achieved with M9S8 (pentlandite type) and M3S2 (heazlewoodite type) based materials, which represent the most frequently applied compositions for this purpose. By a detailed electrochemical comparison of bulk as well as pellet electrodes of metal‐rich Fe4.5Ni4.5S8, we also aim at raising awareness in the community for the inherent differences in catalytic properties of the materials themselves and those of the fabricated electrodes, a point that is often disregarded in reports on HER‐catalyst systems.
Enzyme‐Encapsulated DNA Hydrogel for Highly Efficient Electrochemical Sensing Glucose
Authors: Zeng Ruijin , Huang Zhenliang , Wang Yankun , Tang Dianping
Published: February 2020

An innovative bioetching photoelectrochemical (PEC) mode was developed by using enzyme‐encapsulated DNA hydrogel for high‐precision quantification of glucose, using In2O3−CdS nanocomposite as a photoactive matrix. In a proof‐of‐concept study, horseradish peroxidase and glucose oxidase were encapsulated in situ in DNA hydrogel to initiate enzymatic bioetching of CdS nanoparticles in the presence of target glucose. The bioetching reaction of CdS inhibits the electron transfer efficiency of In2O3 and CdS, which causes a change in photocurrent intensity and thus provides a powerful bioetching PEC strategy with enzyme‐encapsulated DNA hydrogel.
Evaluation of a Bispidine‐Based Chelator for Gallium‐68 and of the Porphyrin Conjugate as PET/PDT Theranostic Agent
Authors: Price Thomas W. , Yap Steven Y. , Gillet Raphaël , Savoie Huguette , Charbonnière Loïc J. , Boyle Ross W. , Nonat Aline M. , Stasiuk Graeme J.
Published: February 2020

In this study a bispidine ligand has been applied to the complexation of gallium(III) and radiolabelled with gallium‐68 for the first time. Despite its 5‐coordinate nature, the resulting complex is stable in serum for over two hours, demonstrating a ligand system well matched to the imaging window of gallium‐68 positron emission tomography (PET). To show the versatility of the bispidine ligand and its potential use in PET, the bifunctional chelator was conjugated to a porphyrin, producing a PET/PDT‐theranostic, which showed the same level of stability to serum as the non‐conjugated gallium‐68 complex. The PET/PDT complex killed >90 % of HT‐29 cells upon light irradiation at 50 μm. This study shows bispidines have the versatility to be used as a ligand system for gallium‐68 in PET.
A Chemical History of Polycyclic Musks
Authors: David Olivier R. P.
Published: February 2020

Musk odorants are ubiquitous in fine perfumery as well as household products, and are divided into four main families, the nitromusks, the macrocyclic musks, the polycyclic aromatic musks, and the alicyclic musks, following their order of appearance on the perfumery market. This article presents the scientific and industrial adventures during the discovery of the seven commercial polycyclic musks, which invigorated the aroma chemistry corporations during the second half of the 20th century, resulting in relentless competition. Research and development strategies are exposed, and reactivity, analytical, mechanistic, and structure–activity relationships aspects are discussed as well as some biographical elements of the main scientific actors, and some fine perfumery examples are given as illustrations of their use.
Desymmetrization of C2‐Symmetric Bis(Boronic Esters) by Zweifel Olefinations
Authors: Linne Yannick , Schönwald Axel , Weißbach Sebastian , Kalesse Markus
Published: February 2020

anti‐Configured 1,3‐dimethyl deoxypropionate motifs are important sub structures in natural products. Herein, we describe a bidirectional approach for the rapid construction of natural products featuring such motifs by using C2‐symmetrical 1,3‐bis(boronic esters). As for its application in convergent syntheses it was important to establish a selective mono‐Zweifel olefination we describe the scope and limitations by using different 1,3‐bis(boronic esters) and nucleophiles. This protocol takes advantage of the combination of the Hoppe–Matteson–Zweifel chemistry, which was elegantly put into practice by Aggarwal et al. In order to show its applicability the total syntheses of two natural products, serricornin and (+)‐invictolide, were performed.
Sustainable development: Predictors of green consumerism in Slovenia
Authors: Hojnik Jana , Ruzzier Mitja , Manolova Tatiana S.
Published: February 2020

Motivated by the growing worldwide concern for sustainable development, in this study, we explore the antecedents of green consumerism in an economy driven by environmental sustainability concerns. Drawing on a survey of 705 Slovenian consumers, we find that consumers' environmental commitment, perception of eco‐products, and perception of barriers to be green all positively affect the green purchase intention, which in turn positively and significantly affects consumers' purchase of eco‐products. The findings further show that consumers' environmental commitment and perception of eco‐products are the strongest determinants of the green purchase intention. In addition, consumers' demographics determine their perceptions of eco‐products, environmental commitment, and green purchase intention. Implications for marketing practice are provided.
Intrinsic Effect of Carbon Supports on the Activity and Stability of Precious Metal Based Catalysts for Electrocatalytic Alcohol Oxidation in Fuel Cells: A Review
Authors: Zhang Jin , Lu Shanfu , Xiang Yan , Jiang San Ping
Published: February 2020

Electrocatalyst supports, in particular carbonaceous materials, play critical roles in the electrocatalytic activity and stability of precious metal group (PMG)‐based catalysts such as Pt, Pd, and Au for the electrochemical alcohol oxidation reaction (AOR) of fuels such as methanol and ethanol in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Carbonaceous supports such as high surface area carbon provide electronic contact throughout the catalyst layer, isolate PMG nanoparticles (NPs) to maintain high electrochemical surface area, and provide hydrophobic properties to avoid flooding of the catalyst layer by liquid water produced. Compared to high surface area carbon, PMG catalysts supported on 1D and 2D carbon materials such as graphene and carbon nanotubes show enhanced activity and durability due to the intrinsic effect of the underlying carbonaceous supports on the electronic states of PMG NPs. The modification of the electronic environment, in particular the d‐band centers of PMG NPs, weakens the adsorption of AOR intermediates, facilitates breaking of the C−C bonds, and thus enhances the electrocatalytic activity of PMG catalysts. The doping of heteroatoms further facilitates the electrocatalytic activity for the AOR through the structural, bifunctional, and electronic effects, in addition to the enhanced dispersion of PMG NPs in the carbon support. The prospects for the development of effective PMG‐based catalysts for high‐performance alcohol‐fuel‐based PEMFCs is discussed.
Auto‐tuning charge balance control for improving transient response on buck converter
Authors: Liu Chih‐Wei , Chen Hung‐Yu , Chang‐Chien Le‐Ren
Published: February 2020

Load transient and dynamic voltage scaling (DVS) are commonly seen in the operation of the system processor. These two functions usually encounter large output voltage transient, which is hard to be quickly settled. Charge balance control is one of the prior choices that enables the converter to operate at its optimal charge/discharge slew rate so as to achieve fast transient response. The effectiveness of the optimal performance generally requires precise knowledge of the circuit parameters for charge balance computation. However, parameter drifting due to the manufacturing process may affect the performance, which is hard to implement a power integrated circuit (IC) for wide range applications. Different from the original approaches, this paper proposes an auto‐tuning charge balance control (AT‐CBC) to optimize load transient response and DVS of the buck converter. The auto‐tuning mechanism can save the preknowledge of the output filter and avoid complex calculation in digital control. The function of AT‐CBC is validated by a field‐programmable gate array (FPGA) controlled buck converter. Experimental result shows that the output voltage can be settled within 3 μs for the 750‐mA load step transient. For the 0.3‐V DVS transient, the output voltage can be settled within 4 μs.
Prevention of false peak detection of Brillouin gain spectrum by using peak tracking and trend analysis
Authors: Furukawa Osamu
Published: February 2020

Distributed optical fiber sensor based on a peak‐frequency change of a spectrum of Brillouin scattering light has been extensively studied since it can measure strain and/or temperature in various applications. The distributed optical fiber sensor observes the spectrum of backscattered light from the specified section according to a spatial resolution and determines strain and/or temperature based on the peak‐frequency change of the spectrum. However, the observed spectrum may have two maximum peaks that correspond to strain and/or temperature included in the specified section of the optical fiber. Overlapped noise by the interrogator system to two peaks on the Brillouin gain spectrum causes false detection of the maximum peak‐frequency. Although this false detection may occur, no workarounds has been discussed yet. This article proposes a workaround by method of “peak tracking and trend analysis” that considers the change of peak intensity to determine peak frequency of the spectrum and confirms its effect of preventing false peak detection of Brillouin gain spectrum.
Assessing the likelihood of the soil surface to condense vapour: The Negev experience
Authors: Kidron Giora J. , Kronenfeld Rafael
Published: February 2020

The likelihood of dew to provide water to cyanobacteria (CB) and crustose lichens (CL) on soil is a matter of great controversy. Although vapour condensation takes place on cobbles of the Negev Highlands, facilitating lush cover of CL, controversy exists regarding the possible contribution of dew to CB and CL inhabiting the loessial soil of the Negev Highlands. To evaluate this matter, temperature, and measurements of the nonrainfall water (NRW) were conducted during the dewy season (August–November 2019). They included periodical NRW measurements using cloths attached to the (a) soil surface, (b) on top of 10 × 10 × 5‐ to 6‐cm cobbles, and (c) on 10 × 10 × 0.2‐cm glass plates (the cloth‐plate method, CPM). Additionally, temperature measurements took place at the soil and the cobble surfaces and in the air at 10‐cm height above ground. Air temperature and the relative humidity measured by an adjacent meteorological station facilitated the calculation of the dew‐point temperature (Td). Taking the CPM as reference, 24 mornings with NRW ≥0.03 mm (the threshold of lichen metabolism) were recorded. Vapour condensation, that is, NRW ≥0.1 mm were recorded during 16 mornings on the cobbles (with a maximum of 0.21 mm) but never on the soil, where maximum NRW reached only 0.023 mm. Surface temperature never reached Td. We therefore conclude that unlike lithic lichens that inhabit bedrocks and cobbles in the Negev Highlands, dew cannot be regarded as a meaningful direct source of water for CB or CL biocrusts on soil.
Phenyl‐Bridged Ferrocene/Ruthenium Alkynyl Heterobimetallic Complexes: Syntheses, Characterization, and Electrochemical, Spectroscopic, and Computational Investigation
Authors: Ou Ya‐Ping , Wang Aihui , Yuan Ande , Yin Chuang , Hu Fang
Published: February 2020

Two isomeric phenyl‐bridged ferrocenyl and ruthenium alkynyl complexes 1 and 2 are synthesized and characterized through NMR, elemental analysis, and X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction. The electronic properties of the complexes are investigated via electrochemical studies, UV/Vis‐NIR and IR spectroelectrochemistry, and theoretical calculations. Cyclic voltammetry and square‐wave voltammetry technologies show two successive redox behaviors from Ru(II) and ferrocenyl centers in 1 and 2, respectively. These behaviors are supported by the dominant spin–spin density distribution in RuCp*(dppe) terminals. The large potential difference (ΔE1/2) and comproportionation constants (Kc) observed in complex 1 suggest that 1+ has better chemical stability than 2+. Strong electronic communication from 1+ are detected through the observed NIR absorption band in 1+ and large Δν(C≡C) value of 1→1+. The broad NIR absorption in 1+ is reproduced and assigned to ferrocenyl to the Ru(III) center charge transfer transition with major contributions from the β‐HOSO→β‐LUSO transition.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed meta‐CAr–H Bond Difluoroalkylation of 2‐Phenoxypyridines
Authors: Jia Chunqi , Wang Shichong , Lv Xulu , Li Gang , Zhong Lei , Zou Lei , Cui Xiuling
Published: February 2020

A ruthenium‐catalyzed meta‐selective CAr–H bond difluoroalkylation of 2‐phenoxypyridine using 2‐bromo‐2,2‐difluoroacetate has been developed. Mechanistic studies indicated that this difluoroalkylation might involve a radical process. Furthermore, a new method is reported for the synthesis of 2‐(meta‐difluoroalkylphenoxy)pyridine derivatives, which are present in many pharmaceuticals and other functional compounds.
Hans Jonas and the Ethics of Human Subjects Research
Authors: Diekema Douglas S.
Published: February 2020

In the 1960s, human experimentation and public funding of research increased significantly, and with the rise of the modern teaching hospital, the distinction between clinical care and experimentation became more and more blurred. Yet little in the way of meaningful government regulation existed in the United States prior to 1970. In 1966, Paul Freund, the president of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, appointed an interdisciplinary working group to consult on the issues being raised by human experimentation. Contributions from the group were published in a 1969 issue of Daedalus titled Ethical Aspects of Experimentation with Human Subjects. In the lead essay, Hans Jonas challenged then‐conventional understandings of the moral problems posed by research involving humans and argued for an alternative moral framework. To Jonas, it mattered whether the physician was trying to make the patient well rather than trying to find out how to improve the health of future patients.
Longitudinal patterns of cortical thinning in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tsagkas Charidimos , Chakravarty M. Mallar , Gaetano Laura , Naegelin Yvonne , Amann Michael , Parmar Katrin , Papadopoulou Athina , Wuerfel Jens , Kappos Ludwig , Sprenger Till , Magon Stefano
Published: February 2020

In multiple sclerosis (MS), cortical atrophy is correlated with clinical and neuropsychological measures. We aimed to examine the differences in the temporospatial evolution of cortical thickness (CTh) between MS‐subtypes and to study the association of CTh with T2‐weighted white matter lesions (T2LV) and clinical progression. Two hundred and forty‐three MS patients (180 relapsing–remitting [RRMS], 51 secondary‐progressive [SPMS], and 12 primary‐progressive [PPMS]) underwent annual clinical (incl. expanded disability status scale [EDSS]) and MRI‐examinations over 6 years. T2LV and CTh were measured. CTh did not differ between MS‐subgroups. Higher total T2LV was associated with extended bilateral CTh‐reduction on average, but did not correlate with CTh‐changes over time. In RRMS, CTh‐ and EDSS‐changes over time were negatively correlated in large bilateral prefrontal, frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital areas. In SPMS, CTh was not associated with the EDSS. In PPMS, CTh‐ and EDSS‐changes over time were correlated in small clusters predominantly in left parietal areas. Increase of brain lesion load does not lead to an immediate CTh‐reduction. Although CTh did not differ between MS‐subtypes, a dissociation in the correlation between CTh‐ and EDSS‐changes over time between RRMS and progressive‐MS was shown, possibly underlining the contribution of subcortical pathology to clinical progression in progressive‐MS.
Characterization of endogenous fluorescence in nonsmall lung cancerous cells: A comparison with nonmalignant lung normal cells
Authors: Awasthi Kamlesh , Chang Feng‐Lin , Hsieh Pei‐Ying , Hsu Hsin‐Yun , Ohta Nobuhiro
Published: February 2020

Monitoring fluorescence properties of endogenous fluorophores such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) in normal and cancerous cells provide substantial information noninvasively on biochemical and biophysical aspects of metabolic dysfunction of cancerous cells. Time‐resolved spectral profiles and fluorescence lifetime images of NADH and FAD were obtained in human lung nonsmall carcinomas (H661 and A549) and normal lung cells (MRC‐5). Both fluorophores show the fast and slowly decaying emission components upon pulsed excitation, and fluorescence spectra of NADH and FAD show blue‐ and red‐shifts, respectively, during their decay. All identified lifetime components of NADH and FAD were found to be shorter in cancerous cells than in normal cells, no matter how they were measured under different extra‐cellular conditions (cells suspended in cuvette and cells attached on glass substrate), indicating that the changes in metabolism likely altered the subcellular milieu and potentially also affected the interaction of NADH and FAD with enzymes to which these cofactors were bound. The intensity ratio of NADH and FAD of cancerous cells was also shown to be larger than that of normal cells.
Noninvasive detection of nanoscale structural changes in cornea associated with cross‐linking treatment
Authors: Zhou Yi , Alexandrov Sergey , Nolan Andrew , Das Nandan , Dey Rajib , Leahy Martin
Published: February 2020

Corneal cross‐linking (CXL) using ultraviolet‐A (UVA) irradiation with a riboflavin photosensitizer has grown from an interesting concept to a practical clinical treatment for corneal ectatic diseases globally, such as keratoconus. To characterize the corneal structural changes, existing methods such as X‐ray microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, histology and optical coherence tomography (OCT) have been used. However, these methods have various drawbacks such as invasive detection, the impossibility for in vivo measurement, or limited resolution and sensitivity to structural alterations. Here, we report the application of oversampling nanosensitive OCT for probing the corneal structural alterations. The results indicate that the spatial period increases slightly after 30 minutes riboflavin instillation but decreases significantly after 30 minutes UVA irradiation following the Dresden protocol. The proposed noninvasive method can be implemented using existing OCT systems, without any additional components, for detecting nanoscale changes with the potential to assist diagnostic assessment during CXL treatment, and possibly to be a real‐time monitoring tool in clinics.
Study of adsorption properties of synthesized mesoporous silica doped with dysprosium and modified with nickel
Authors: Filippova Elena O. , Shafigulin Roman V. , Tokranov Alexander A. , Shmelev Alexander А. , Bulanova Andzhela V. , Pimerzin Andrey А. , Karaev Alexander A.
Published: February 2020

Mesoporous silica (MPS) modified with nickel and MPS doped with dysprosium and modified with nickel have been synthesized by the template method. The adsorbents are characterized by various techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy, and X‐ray fluorescence analyses. The adsorption properties of the synthesized samples have been investigated by inverse gas chromatography. Furthermore, thermodynamic characteristics of the adsorption of test compound belonging to different classes of organic compounds were obtained. In addition, the contributions of the energy of specific interactions to the total adsorption energy were calculated. It is also shown that entropy plays the determining role in the adsorption of test compounds on synthesized mesoporous materials.
Design, synthesis, molecular docking, and spectral studies of new class of carbazolyl polyhydroquinoline derivatives as promising antibacterial agents with noncytotoxicity towards human mononuclear cells from peripheral blood
Authors: Venkatapathy Karuppan , Magesh Chinnaiyan J. , Lavanya Gnanamani , Perumal Paramasivam T. , Prema Sekar
Published: February 2020

In the present study, we report the design and eco‐benign synthesis of new class of carbazolyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridine (1,4‐CDHP) and carbazolyl‐1,8‐dioxodecahydroacridine (CAD) derivatives via a three‐component coupling reaction of substituted carbazole aldehydes, ethyl acetoacetate/dimedone, and ammonium acetate under solvent‐free conditions at 112°C to 115°C. We also report an efficient one‐pot synthesis of new class of carbazolyl polyhydroquinoline (CPQ) derivatives via a four‐component coupling reaction of substituted ethyl acetoacetate, dimedone, ammonium acetate, and carbazole aldehydes in acetonitrile/water medium (3:1) at 73°C to 75°C in moderate yields. All the products were thoroughly characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), mass spectral, and CHN analysis. The synthesized heterocyclic compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antibacterial activity against pathogenic strains of both Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the active compounds was evaluated by macrodilution method. The CPQ derivative (8a) displayed superior antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella typhi with the MIC values of 16.0 to 32.0 μg/mL in comparison with the reference drug. The mechanism of antibacterial action of the CPQ derivatives was investigated via scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies. The molecular docking studies indicate that the CPQ derivative (8a) binds to the cell wall protein of E coli and P aeruginosa by formation of hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues (TYR328 and GLU249) of the bacterial cell wall protein. The 1,4‐CDHP, CAD, and CPQ derivatives were either noncytotoxic or exhibited minimal cytotoxicity towards human mononuclear cells from peripheral blood. All the products were evaluated for Lipinski rule of five (RO5) and were found to have good oral bioavailability.
TiCl4‐Et3N‐mediated one‐step synthesis of γ‐alkylidenebutenolides from ketones: Application to natural product synthesis
Authors: Li Xingyi , Wang Yanhong , Fu Kai , Hu Zhiyong , Li Zhichun , Ma Wenbing , Xun Miao‐Miao , Yuan Changchun
Published: February 2020

TiCl4‐Et3N‐mediated condensation of ketones with methyl pyruvate afforded γ‐alkylidene butenolides via a tandem cross‐aldol addition/dehydroxylation/intramolecular lactonization process in one‐pot. The application of the methodology to the straightforward synthesis of elem‐1,3,7,8‐tetraen‐8,12‐olide, chloranthalactone A, and dehydromenthofurolactone, is demonstrated.
Altered Functional Connectivity of Hypothalamus in Lifelong Premature Ejaculation Patients
Authors: Gao Ming , Feng Nana , Wu Jiayu , Sun Jianhua , Zhang Lei , Guo Xinlong , Yuan Jianlin , Guo Jun , Liu Peng
Published: February 2020

Background

As one of the most prevalent sexual dysfunctions in men, lifelong premature ejaculation (PE) often leads to patient distress. The hypothalamus is implicated in the ejaculatory control of healthy males. However, we do not know whether the hypothalamus‐related intrinsic connectivity is altered in lifelong PE patients.

Purpose

To investigate abnormal intrinsic connectivity of the hypothalamus in lifelong PE patients compared with healthy controls (HCs).

Study Type

Prospective pilot study using cross‐sectional data of patients and HCs.

Subjects

Forty‐seven lifelong PE patients and 30 HCs were included in this study.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T MRI scanner for T1‐weighted imaging using spoiled gradient recalled echo sequence and functional imaging using a single‐shot gradient recalled echo sequence.

Assessment

Preprocessing of MRI data and hypothalamus‐seeded functional connectivity (FC) computation were performed using DPABI4.1.

Statistical Tests

The two‐sample t‐test within SPM12 was adopted to examine possible alterations of intrinsic connectivity of hypothalamus in lifelong PE patients compared with HCs including anxiety and depression scores as covariates (false discovery rate‐corrected, P < 0.05). The correlation analysis was then used to assess possible associations between the imaging findings and clinical features in the patient group (Bonferroni‐corrected, P < 0.05).

Results

Compared with HCs, lifelong PE patients had decreased hypothalamus‐seeded FC in the left orbitofrontal cortex, bilateral insula, superior temporal cortex, superior temporal pole, middle temporal cortex, left fusiform, right parahippocampal gyrus, and right cerebellum. The intravaginal ejaculatory latency time positively correlated with the mean z‐score from the hypothalamus‐insula (r = 0.45) and hypothalamus‐cerebellum (r = 0.48) intrinsic connectivity, separately.

Data Conclusion

We have shown that hypothalamus‐seeded FC alterations and the correlations between the aforementioned abnormal FC alterations and intravaginal ejaculatory latency time. The current findings may promote the understanding of the hypothalamus‐related neural mechanisms involved in the abnormal ejaculatory information processing in lifelong PE patients.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:778–784.
Risk factors for the development of bronchiolitis obliterans in children with severe adenovirus pneumonia: A retrospective study with dose‐response analysis
Authors: Zhong Linping , Lin Jilei , Dai Jihong
Published: February 2020

To investigate and analyze the relevant risk factors for bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) in children with severe adenovirus pneumonia, a retrospective study of children with severe adenovirus pneumonia was performed in 34 cases that developing BO and 105 cases not developing BO in Children's hospital of Chongqing Medical University from January 2015 to February 2019. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors which were significantly associated with development of BO after the univariate analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to find out the cut‐off value for the significant relevant factors. A nonlinear dose‐response relationship between risk factors and the risk of BO was assessed by restricted cubic spline model. Three factors were independently associated with development of BO, which were length of fever (OR 1.129, 95% CI 1.033‐1.234), dyspnea (OR 3.922, 95% CI 1.060‐14.514) and invasive mechanical ventilation (OR 6.861, 95% CI 1.854‐25.387). The cut‐off value of length of fever were 10.5 days. A linear dose‐response relationship between length of fever and occurrence of BO was observed (P = .57 for nonlinearity). Children with severe adenovirus pneumonia who have a longer duration of fever (especially more than 10.5 days), have dyspnea or require invasive mechanical ventilation in the acute phase are more likely to develop BO.
A weak cation exchanger by encapsulating silica with maleic anhydride–modified polyvinyl alcohol
Authors: Liu Xuefang , Yang Chen , Zhang Feifang , Geng Huiliang , Yang Bingcheng
Published: February 2020

A novel weak cation exchanger is described by encapsulating silica with a (or multiple) layer(s) of maleic anhydride–modified polyvinyl alcohol coating(s). The preparation method is facile and fast, which is simply performed by dipping silica particles into maleic anhydride–modified polyvinyl alcohol solution as‐synthesized, then filtering and curing thermally, and finally generating a thin coating onto silica particles. Multiple layers of maleic anhydride–modified polyvinyl alcohol coatings can be generated by repeating above steps, offering an easy way to manipulate the capacity. The obtained weak cation exchanger demonstrated high separation efficiency and good selectivity toward common inorganic cations, for example, high plate count of 81 000 per meter was obtained for NH4+. Simultaneous separation of alkali and alkaline earth metals could be achieved within 14 min under isocratic conditions.
Effectiveness of a Home‐based Head and Neck Lymphedema Management Program: A Pilot Study
Authors: Yao Theresa , Beadle Beth , Holsinger C. Floyd , Starmer Heather M.
Published: February 2020

Objective

This study aimed to compare outcomes in patients with head and neck lymphedema receiving either a home‐based lymphedema treatment program or a hybrid approach including both home‐based treatment and regular clinical visits.

Methods

Outcomes were assessed in patients receiving head and neck lymphedema rehabilitation. Baseline measures of neck, submental, and facial edema were obtained and repeated following treatment. A home program was recommended for all patients, and those receiving hybrid care received the same recommendations as well as a visit with the lymphedema therapist for additional treatment. Their outcomes were compared using standard statistical analysis.

Results

Fifty consecutive individuals were included, 25 in each group. Adherence to at least 50% of recommended treatment was reported in 68% of those receiving home‐based treatment and 84% of those receiving hybrid care. Significant improvement was demonstrated for 66% of patients. There was no statistically significant difference between treatment groups with regard to clinically significant improvement (P = .15). Patients receiving hybrid therapy demonstrated treatment advantages regarding facial edema (P = .037). Adherence to treatment was associated with clinical improvement (P = .047).

Conclusions

Comparable benefits were observed regardless of whether patients had a home‐based or hybrid lymphedema treatment approach. These data suggest a home‐based treatment approach may be appropriate for patients unable to participate in clinical sessions. However, for patients with significant facial edema, a hybrid approach may be preferable. Adherence was associated with better outcomes. Given these findings, future investigations should consider strategies to improve adherence to optimize the outcomes lymphedema treatment.

Level of Evidence

3b Laryngoscope, 2020
Composites with AIEgens for Temperature Sensing and Strain Measurement
Authors: Meng Biwei , Zhang Yurong , Ma Peng‐Cheng
Published: February 2020

Traditional fluorescent molecules are easily quenched in most solid applications. Materials with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics offer a new way to solve this problem. In this paper, polymer composites consisting of tetraphenylethene (TPE) with AIE properties and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) are developed by a simple blending method. The prepared material shows a variable fluorescent emission with different TPE concentrations in the polymer matrix. Such a unique phenomenon arises mainly from the transition of the AIEgen from the crystal to the amorphous state. Interestingly, the fluorescent emission of composites is strongly affected by external factors, such as temperature and mechanical conditions, thus giving the material a stimuli‐sensitive fluorescence property. Specifically, the fluorescence intensity of composites decreases with an increasing temperature, and the same response exhibits when the mechanical force is applied to the material. The excellent response of composites to the temperature and mechanical deformation guarantees the sensory applications of the developed material.
Efficient Polymer Solar Cells Employing Solution‐Processed Conjugated Polyelectrolytes with Differently Charged Side Chains
Authors: Shi Yueqin , Yu Zhanyang , Lu Xiaoxiao , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2020

Poly(6‐(4,7‐dimethyl‐2H‐benzo[d][1,2,3]triazol‐2‐yl)‐N,N,N‐trimethylhexan‐1 aminium iodide) (PBTz‐TMAI) and poly(sodium 4‐(4,7‐dimethyl‐2H‐benzo[d] [1,2,3]triazol‐2‐yl)butane‐1‐sulfonate) (PBTz‐SO3Na) based on the same benzotriazole‐conjugated backbone but with ammonium and sulfonated side chains are designed and synthesized through side‐chain functionalization and Yamamoto polymerization, respectively, and are used as the cathode interlayers in fullerene‐ and non‐fullerene‐based polymer solar cells. The interfacial modification of PBTz‐TMAI and PBTz‐SO3Na onto the active layer achieves good energy alignment at cathode electrodes and optimized exciton‐dissociation efficiency from the active layer. Consequently, the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 7.8% and 9.6% are obtained for the fullerene PTB7:PC71BM‐based and non‐fullerene PBDB‐T:ITIC‐based polymer solar cells (PSCs) with PBTz‐SO3Na interlayer. The PCS devices based on PTB7:PC71BM and PBDB‐T:ITIC active layers with PBTz‐TMAI interlayer achieved a remarkably improved performance with PCEs of 8.2% and 10.2%, respectively.
The Most Bothersome Aspects of Off Periods Reported by Individuals with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Chahine Lana M. , Edison Briana , Daeschler Margaret , Mantri Sneha , Kahl Steven , Rapoport Robyn , Goyle Arina , Precht Chelle , Kopil Catherine , Marras Connie
Published: February 2020

Introduction

The off periods in Parkinson's disease have a significantly negative impact on quality of life. What the most bothersome aspects of off periods are from the patient's perspective are not well studied, nor is the degree to which screening tools for wearing off such as the Wearing Off Questionnaires (WOQs) capture what bothers patients most.

Methods

A questionnaire was deployed to eligible participants of Fox Insight, an online study of individuals with self‐reported Parkinson's disease. Inclusion criteria were the use of ≥1 dopaminergic medications and an affirmative response to a question on experiencing off periods. Participants provided free‐text responses regarding the top 3 most bothersome symptoms they experience when off. A determination was made regarding whether each response would have been captured by the 32‐item, 19‐item, and 9‐item WOQs.

Results

The final sample had 2106 participants, a mean age of 66.6 years, 52.3% were men, and had a disease duration of 4.9 years. The WOQ‐32 items covered all of the most bothersome symptoms for 53.2% of respondents. Among bothersome aspects of off not captured by the WOQs, 597 (66.2%) were specific symptoms, with freezing of gait, apathy, and memory problems being the most common. The functional consequences of off periods were most bothersome to 232 (25.7%), with walking problems being the most common. The emotional response to off periods was the most bothersome aspect to 169 respondents (18.7%).

Discussion

This study emphasizes the value of narrative data in understanding patient experiences, and what bothers patients most about off periods. The WOQs, although of established utility in the screening for wearing off, may not capture those symptoms most bothersome to patients.
The role of urbanization in the international trade of services
Authors: Surec Yenal , Katircioğlu Salih
Published: February 2020

The article examines the effects of urbanization on the international trade of services, mainly exports and imports. A supply‐side growth model is used to analyze this nexus. Panel data are constructed consisting of 64 countries for a period between 1980 and 2017. The system generalized method of moments approach is used to forecast the role of urban development on exports and imports of services. Results show that urban development generally has significant and positive effects both in exports and in imports of services, whereas in some income and population groups, the signs of coefficients are negatively significant.
Assessing and ranking the innovation ability and business performance of global companies in the aerospace and defense industry
Authors: Hsieh H. Pierre , Wu Yueh‐Cheng , Lu Wen‐Min , Chen Yao‐Chieh
Published: February 2020

This study examined the innovation ability and business performance of global companies in the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry by using dynamic data envelopment analysis and ranking methods with the DuPont model. Results indicated that compared with business performance, A&D companies exhibit lower scores and higher standard deviations in the innovation ability, which signified that they should first work on reducing the gap in the level of innovation ability. DuPont analysis indicated that typical A&D companies exhibit the highest ROE. Finally, this study offers managers and policymakers detailed insights into potential areas of improvements in innovations, business performance, and profitability.
Investigation of intermediate CAG alleles of the HTT in the general population of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in comparison with a sample of Huntington disease‐affected families
Authors: Apolinário Thays A. , da Silva Iane dos Santos , Agostinho Luciana de Andrade , Paiva Carmen L. A.
Published: February 2020

Background

Huntington disease (HD) (MIM: 143100) is a severe autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease caused by the expansion of CAG trinucleotides (>35) in the HTT.

Objective

To investigate the frequency of intermediate CAG alleles (IAs) in individuals residing in Rio de Janeiro city with no familial history of HD (general population, GP) in comparison with a sample of individuals from families presenting with HD who were previously investigated by our group (affected sample, AS).

Results

The frequency of normal CAG alleles was 96.2%, while that of IAs was 3.6%, and that of reduced penetrance alleles was 0.2% in the GP (n = 470 chromosomes); 7.2% (17/235 individuals) of the GP presented an IA in heterozygosis with a normal allele. There was no statistically significant difference between the frequencies of the IAs in the GP and in the AS (p = .9). The most frequent haplotype per normal allele was (CAG)17‐(CCG)7 (101/461) and per IA was (CAG)27‐(CCG)7 (6/17) in the GP. These haplotypes were also the most frequent in the normal and IA chromosomes of the AS, respectively.

Conclusion

The genetic profiles of the IAs obtained from GP and AS were rather similar. It is important to investigate the frequencies of the IAs because expansions arise from a step‐by‐step mechanism in which, during intergenerational transmission, large normal alleles can generate IAs, which are then responsible for generating de novo HD mutations. The genetic investigation of IAs in the GP was also important because it was focused on the population of Rio de Janeiro, an understudied group. CCG7 was the most frequent CCG allele in linkage disequilibrium with normal, intermediate, and expanded CAG alleles, similar to the Western Europe population. However, a more robust investigation, in conjunction with haplogroup determination (A, B, or C), will be required to elucidate the ancestral origin of the HTT mutations in Brazilians.