bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructural and Mechanical Characterization of Square‐Celled TRIP Steel Honeycomb Structures Produced by Electron Beam Melting
Authors: Burkhardt Christina , Wagner Ruben , Baumgart Christine , Günther Johannes , Krüger Lutz , Biermann Horst
Published: April 2020

The powder‐bed additive manufacturing (AM) technology electron beam melting (EBM) is suitable for the production of metallic components with complex geometries. Therefore, it is an appropriate method of generating lightweight structures to save material and energy, which is of high importance for the transport industry. The microstructure of additive manufactured materials is usually characterized by columnar grains shape, oriented along the building direction. Therefore, the mechanical properties are strongly affected by anisotropy. Herein, the synthesis and the microstructure of CrMnNi transformation‐induced plasticity (TRIP) steel by EBM is examined. This steel is well suited for AM due to the formation of fine‐grained microstructure instead of columnar one through multiple‐phase transformations. Square‐celled honeycomb structures are produced and improved to generate damage‐tolerant struts. The removal of slightly sintered powder from the cavities of square‐celled structures is quantified. Out‐of‐plane compression tests at quasistatic loading rates show that the strength of honeycomb structures rises with increasing energy input during EBM due to lower material porosity. Therefore, an enhanced mechanical energy absorption capacity is achieved which is favorable for the production of cellular structures.
Self‐Healing Materials for Energy‐Storage Devices
Authors: Mai Weicong , Yu Qipeng , Han Cuiping , Kang Feiyu , Li Baohua
Published: April 2020

The booming development of electronics, electric vehicles, and grid storage stations has led to a high demand for advanced energy‐storage devices (ESDs) and accompanied attention to their reliability under various circumstances. Self‐healing is the ability of an organism to repair damage and restore function through its own internal vitality. Inspired by this, brilliant designs have emerged in recent years using self‐healing materials to significantly improve the lifespan, durability, and safety of ESDs. Extrinsic and intrinsic self‐healing materials and their working principles are first introduced. Then, the application of self‐healing materials in ESDs according to their self‐healing chemistry, including hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions, and borate ester bonds, are described in detail. Based on these, critical challenges and important future directions of self‐healing ESDs are discussed.
Nanoscale Assembly of 2D Materials for Energy and Environmental Applications
Authors: Jeong Gyoung Hwa , Sasikala Suchithra Padmajan , Yun Taeyeong , Lee Gil Yong , Lee Won Jun , Kim Sang Ouk
Published: April 2020

Rational design of 2D materials is crucial for the realization of their profound implications in energy and environmental fields. The past decade has witnessed significant developments in 2D material research, yet a number of critical challenges remain for real‐world applications. Nanoscale assembly, precise control over the orientational and positional ordering, and complex interfaces among 2D layers are essential for the continued progress of 2D materials, especially for energy storage and conversion and environmental remediation. Herein, recent progress, the status, future prospects, and challenges associated with nanoscopic assembly of 2D materials are highlighted, specifically targeting energy and environmental applications. Geometric dimensional diversity of 2D material assembly is focused on, based on novel assembly mechanisms, including 1D fibers from the colloidal liquid crystalline phase, 2D films by interfacial tension (Marangoni effect), and 3D nanoarchitecture assembly by electrochemical processes. Relevant critical advantages of 2D material assembly are highlighted for application fields, including secondary batteries, supercapacitors, catalysts, gas sensors, desalination, and water decontamination.
Regio‐ and Stereoselective Steroid Hydroxylation at C7 by Cytochrome P450 Monooxygenase Mutants
Authors: Li Aitao , Acevedo‐Rocha Carlos G. , D'Amore Lorenzo , Chen Jinfeng , Peng Yaqin , Garcia‐Borràs Marc , Gao Chenghua , Zhu Jinmei , Rickerby Harry , Osuna Sílvia , Zhou Jiahai , Reetz Manfred T.
Published: April 2020

Steroidal C7β alcohols and their respective esters have shown significant promise as neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory agents to treat chronic neuronal damage like stroke, brain trauma, and cerebral ischemia. Since C7 is spatially far away from any functional groups that could direct C−H activation, these transformations are not readily accessible using modern synthetic organic techniques. Reported here are P450‐BM3 mutants that catalyze the oxidative hydroxylation of six different steroids with pronounced C7 regioselectivities and β stereoselectivities, as well as high activities. These challenging transformations were achieved by a focused mutagenesis strategy and application of a novel technology for protein library construction based on DNA assembly and USER (Uracil‐Specific Excision Reagent) cloning. Upscaling reactions enabled the purification of the respective steroidal alcohols in moderate to excellent yields. The high‐resolution X‐ray structure and molecular dynamics simulations of the best mutant unveil the origin of regio‐ and stereoselectivity.
Physico‐chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties of PLA‐nHA nanocomposites: Effect of glass fiber reinforcement
Authors: Zheng Yitao , Fu Gu , Wang Bin , Pang Chengheng , Hall Philip , Sharmin Nusrat
Published: April 2020

In this study, tri‐layered composites were prepared by reinforcing poly‐lactic acid (PLA) nano‐hydroxyapatite (n‐HA) (1 and 5 wt%) and 20 mol% continuous phosphate glass fibers (PGF). Initially, the effect of addition of 1 and 5% n‐HA on the structural, thermal, mechanical, and thermo‐mechanical properties of 100% PLA was investigated. With 5 wt% n‐HA addition the tensile modulus (TM), flexural modulus (FM), tensile strength (TS), and flexural strength (FS) of 100% PLA was improve by 14.9, 47.4, 6, and 32.9%, respectively. Whereas, the un‐notched impact strength of the nanocomposites suffer 2% deterioration. However, T
g decreased by 0.3°C and T
c increased by 10°C as 5 wt% n‐HA was added to 100% PLA. Afterwards, the 5% n‐HA/PLA composite were reinforced with 20 mol% continuous PGF and the TM, FM, TS, and FS of the tri‐layered composites were 162.6, 412.5, 28.4, and 157.4% higher as compared to 100%PLA. Furthermore, the storage modulus of the 1% n‐HA‐filled composites was 500 MPa lower than 100%PLA, while 5 wt% n‐HA‐filled composites showed similar storage modulus as 100% PLA. 5 wt% n‐HA‐filled composite showed the highest peak of loss modulus which may be attribute to the chain segment of PLA matrix after the incorporation of HA. Thus, n‐HA and PGF reinforcement resulted in improved mechanical properties of the composites and have great potential as biodegradable bone fixation device with enhanced load‐bearing ability.
Endothelial–Stromal Communication in Murine and Human Corneas
Authors: Jeang Lauren , Cha Byeong J. , Birk David E. , Espana Edgar M.
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study is to identify and characterize interactions of corneal endothelial cells with the posterior stroma. Corneal endothelial–stromal interactions were examined in developing postnatal day 3 (P3) and mature postnatal day 30 (P30) C57BL/6 mice and adult human corneas. Flat mounts and cross‐sections were studied using immunofluorescence microscopy. F‐actin was labeled with phalloidin to evaluate cell processes traversing Descemet's membrane (DM). Dynamic cell–cell communication was evaluated with fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) using calcein acetoxymethyl dye. Endothelial–stromal interactions were observed across the whole cornea transversing DM during early postnatal development (P3), while these interactions became restricted to the periphery in the mature murine cornea (P30). In adult human corneas, endothelial extensions through the DM were observed in the peripheral cornea. The pattern of FRAP in both mature mice and human central corneas demonstrated endothelial–endothelial cell communication. In contrast, in the human cornea 2, distinct patterns were observed consistent with endothelial–endothelial and stromal–endothelial communication. Endothelial–stromal interactions were observed in the entire cornea during early postnatal mouse corneas. This evidence of endothelial–posterior stromal contact contradicts the hypothesis that corneal endothelial cells are isolated from the stroma by the DM and provides direct data to support endothelial–stromal comunication that may directly influence posterior corneal structure and function. Anat Rec, 2020. © 2020 American Association for Anatomy
Variational problem containing psi‐RL complex‐order fractional derivatives
Authors: Zhao Jiangbo , Qin Shuo , Wang Junzheng , Liu Shumao
Published: April 2020

The main purpose of this paper is to solve the variational problem containing real‐ and complex‐order fractional derivatives. We define a new version of the complex‐order derivative based on the ψ‐Riemann‐Liouville fractional derivative, and get the Euler–Lagrange equation for the variational problem. By introducing the approximated expansion formula of the complex‐order fractional derivative to the variational problem, we derive the corresponding approximated Euler–Lagrange equation. It is proved that the approximated Euler–Lagrange equation converges to the original one in the weak sense. At the same time, the minimal value of the approximated action integral tends to the minimal value of the original one. We also conduct a stress relaxation experiment and discuss the feasibility of the complex‐order derivative in real problem modeling.
Lower tumorigenesis without life extension in rats receiving lifelong deep ocean minerals
Authors: Saovieng Suchada , Wu Jinfu , Jean Wei‐Horng , Huang Chih‐Yang , Higgins Matthew F. , Alkhatib Ahmad , Korivi Mallikarjuna , Chen Chiao‐Nan , Kuo Chia‐Hua
Published: April 2020

Naturally occurring tumor in animals receiving high minerals from deep oceans (DOM: hardness 600 mg/L) from 6 months of age until natural death was firstly assessed in 200 Sprague Dawley rats, randomized into four groups: Control (C), DOM (D), Fructose (F), and Fructose + DOM (FD). Fructose drink contained 11% fructose. Tumor incidence (necropsy at death) in the D group was ~40% lower than that in the C group (P < .05), together with lower body mass gain and greater locomotive activity during their initial 18 months (P < .05) but not during later life. X‐ray image analysis on abnormal solid tissue among survivors at 18 and 24 months of age confirms a similar trend, exhibiting ~50% and ~65% lower tumor incidence than the C and F groups, respectively. Reduced‐to‐oxidized glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG) declined with age for the first three quarters of life on all groups (P < .05), followed by a resurgence during end‐life among survivors at 24 months. This resurgence is markedly associated with lower tumor expansion but unrelated with DOM supplementation. Our results demonstrate valuable application of minerals and trace elements from deep oceans, as a vastly available natural source, on tumor suppression during normal aging.
Balkans’ Asteraceae Species as a Source of Biologically Active Compounds for the Pharmaceutical and Food Industry
Authors: Kostić Aleksandar Ž. , Janaćković Peđa , Kolašinac Stefan M. , Dajić Stevanović Zora P.
Published: April 2020

Herbal drugs are a useful source of different bioactive compounds. Asteraceae species, as the most widespread vascular plants, can be used both as food and as medicine due to the great diversity of recorded chemical components – different phenolic compounds, terpenes, carotenoids, vitamins, alkaloids, etc. The Balkan Peninsula is characterized by great diversity of plants from Asteraceae family, including presence of rare and endemic species. In this review, results of the survey of chemical composition and biological activity, mainly focusing on antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer effects of selected Balkans’ Asteraceae species were provided. In addition, information on edible plants from Asteraceae family is presented, due to growing interest for the so‐called ‘healthy diet’ and possible application of Balkans’ Asteraceae species as food of high nutritional value or as a source of functional food ingredients.
A calcified chronic total occlusion preclinical model
Authors: Osherov Azriel B. , Qiang Beiping , Butany Jagdish , Wright Graham A. , Strauss Bradley H.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To create an experimental chronic total occlusion (CTO) model with calcification by dietary modification (cholesterol, calcium carbonate, vitamin D) and local injection of pro‐calcification factors (dipotassium phosphate, calcium chloride, and bone morphogenetic protein‐2 [BMP‐2]).

Background

Percutaneous revascularization of CTOs frequently fails in heavily calcified occlusions. Development of novel approaches requires a reproducible preclinical model of calcified CTO.

Methods

CTOs were created in 18 femoral arteries of 9 New Zealand White rabbits using the thrombin injection model. Dietary interventions included a high cholesterol diet (0.5% or 0.25%), calcium carbonate (150 mg × 3–5 days/week), and vitamin D (50,000 U × 3–5 days/week). In selected animals, BMP‐2 (1–4 μg), dipotassium phosphate, and calcium chloride were injected locally at the time of CTO creation. Animals were sacrificed at 2 weeks (n = 4 arteries), 6 weeks (n = 4 arteries), and 10–12 weeks (n = 14 arteries).

Results

CTOs showed evidence of chronic lipid feeding (foam cells) and chronic inflammation (intimal/medial fibrosis and microvessels, inflammatory cells, internal elastic lamina disruption). In calcium/vitamin D supplemented rabbits, mineralization (calcification and/or ossification) was evident as early as 2 weeks post CTO creation, and in 78% of the overall arteries. Mineralization changes were not present in the absence of calcium/vitamin D dietary supplements. Mineralization occurred in 85% of BMP‐treated arteries and 60% of arteries without BMP.

Conclusions

Complex mineralization occurs in preclinical CTO models with dietary supplementation of cholesterol with vitamin D and calcium.
Magnetic Phase Transitions in a Ni4O4‐Cubane‐Based Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad Arif , Ng Maggie Chai Cin , van Leusen Jan , Kögerler Paul , Stride John Arron
Published: April 2020

An unprecedented spin cluster‐based network architecture {[NiII2(pdaa)(OH)2(H2O)]n (H2pdaa=1,4‐phenylene diacetic acid)}, comprising 1D linear chains of NiII ions crosslinked via Ni4O4 cubanes, forms under hydrothermal conditions; this 3D coordination network exhibits magnetic ordering at 23.9 K as well as a second magnetic ordering process at 2.8 K likely associated with a structural phase transition.
Semihydrogenation of Alkynes Catalyzed by a Pyridone Borane Complex: Frustrated Lewis Pair Reactivity and Boron–Ligand Cooperation in Concert
Authors: Wech Felix , Hasenbeck Max , Gellrich Urs
Published: April 2020

The metal‐free cis selective hydrogenation of alkynes catalyzed by a boroxypyridine is reported. A variety of internal alkynes are hydrogenated at 80 °C under 5 bar H2 with good yields and stereoselectivity. Furthermore, the catalyst described herein enables the first metal‐free semihydrogenation of terminal alkynes. Mechanistic investigations, substantiated by DFT computations, reveal that the mode of action by which the boroxypyridine activates H2 is reminiscent of the reactivity of an intramolecular frustrated Lewis pair. However, it is the change in the coordination mode of the boroxypyridine upon H2 activation that allows the dissociation of the formed pyridone borane complex and subsequent hydroboration of an alkyne. This change in the coordination mode upon bond activation is described by the term boron‐ligand cooperation.
Sublimation Properties of α,ω‐Diamines Revisited from First‐Principles Calculations
Authors: Červinka Ctirad , Štejfa Vojtěch
Published: April 2020

Sublimation enthalpies of alkane‐α,ω‐diamines exhibit an odd‐even pattern within their homologous series. First‐principles calculations coupled with the quasi‐harmonic approximation for crystals and with the conformation mixing model for the ideal gas are used to explain this phenomenon from the theoretical point of view. Crystals of the odd and even alkane‐α,ω‐diamines distinctly differ in their packing motifs. However, first‐principles calculations indicate that it is a delicate interplay of the cohesive forces, phonons, molecular vibrations and conformational equilibrium which governs the odd‐even pattern of the sublimation enthalpies within the homologous series. High molecular flexibility of the alkane‐α,ω‐diamines predetermines higher sensitivity of the computational model to the quality of the optimized geometries and relative conformational energies. Performance of high‐throughput computational methods, such as the density functional tight binding (DFTB, GFN2‐xTB) and the explicitly correlated dispersion‐corrected Møller‐Plesset perturbative method (MP2C‐F12), are benchmarked against the consistent state‐of‐the‐art calculations of conformational energies and interaction energies, respectively.
Biomarkers and Precision Therapy for Primary Immunodeficiencies: An In Vitro Study Based on Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells From Patients
Authors: Genova Elena , Cavion Federica , Lucafò Marianna , Pelin Marco , Lanzi Gaetana , Masneri Stefania , Ferraro Rosalba Monica , Fazzi Elisa Maria , Orcesi Simona , Decorti Giuliana , Tommasini Alberto , Giliani Silvia , Stocco Gabriele
Published: April 2020

Ataxia telangiectasia (AT) and Aicardi–Goutières syndrome (AGS) are inherited disorders of immunity with prevalent neurological phenotype. Available treatments are only partially effective, and the prognosis is poor. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are obtained by reprogramming patient somatic cells, preserving the donor individual genetic heritage and creating patient‐specific disease models, useful to investigate pathogenesis and drug effects and to develop precision therapies. The aim is to investigate the cytotoxicity of a panel of immunomodulators using iPSCs of patients with AT or different forms of AGS (AGS1, AGS2, and AGS7). iPSCs were obtained by reprogramming AT and AGS patients’ cells and, as a control, the BJ normal human fibroblast line, using Sendai virus. Cytotoxic effects of two drugs proposed to treat respectively AT and AGS (dexamethasone and mepacrine) were tested by the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay after 72 hours' exposure. Data were obtained also for other immunomodulatory drugs (thioguanine, mercaptopurine, thalidomide, and lenalidomide). Relative expression of genes involved in the tested drug pathways was analyzed. AGS7‐derived iPSCs displayed altered viability when treated with a low dose of mepacrine and higher expression of cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate synthase, which is the main target for mepacrine action. AGS7‐derived iPSCs were also more sensitive to thioguanine, while AGS2 and AT iPSCs were less sensitive to this medication than the BJ‐iPSC. All iPSCs were equally sensitive to mercaptopurine and resistant to dexamethasone, thalidomide, and lenalidomide. This work establishes an innovative in vitro model that is useful to investigate the mechanisms of drugs potentially effective in AT and AGS.
On the MMSE‐based multiuser millimeter wave MIMO hybrid precoding design
Authors: M. Elmagzoub Hisham
Published: April 2020

A hybrid MMSE‐based precoder and combiner design with low complexity is studied in this paper for both the downlink and uplink multiuser millimeter wave MIMO systems. At first, according to the underlying channel knowledge, the phases of the RF precoder and combiner are manipulated by using the MMSE criterion. On the basis of the MMSE‐based analog precoder design, the MMSE‐based digital baseband precoder can be readily derived. Thus, this method combines the advantage of using the MMSE precoding and phase extraction technique to obtain a reasonable solution. The proposed hybrid precoding design will be examined in both the uplink and downlink multiuser MIMO systems. Numerical results are presented to show that the proposed MMSE‐based hybrid precoding design is capable of attaining superior performance in terms of both the spectral efficiency and energy efficiency over the existing designs. Moreover, we will show that the MMSE‐based design can be readily extended to the multiuser millimeter wave MISO systems when only statistical channel state information is available.
Six1 is required for signaling center formation and labial‐lingual asymmetry in developing lower incisors
Authors: Takahashi Masanori , Ikeda Keiko , Ohmuraya Masaki , Nakagawa Yoshiko , Sakuma Tetsushi , Yamamoto Takashi , Kawakami Kiyoshi
Published: April 2020

Background

The structure of the mouse incisor is characterized by its asymmetric accumulation of enamel matrix proteins on the labial side. The asymmetric structure originates from the patterning of the epithelial incisor placode through the interaction with dental mesenchymal cells. However, the molecular basis for the asymmetric patterning of the incisor germ is largely unknown.

Results

A homeobox transcription factor SIX1 was shown to be produced in the mandibular mesenchyme, and its localization patterns changed dynamically during lower incisor development. Six1−/− mice exhibited smaller lower incisor primordia than wild‐type mice. Furthermore, Six1−/− mice showed enamel matrix production on both the lingual and labial sides and disturbed odontoblast maturation. In the earlier stages of development, the formation of signaling centers, the initiation knot and the enamel knot, which are essential for the morphogenesis of tooth germs, were impaired in Six1−/− embryos. Notably, Wnt signaling activity, which shows an anterior‐posterior gradient, and the expression patterns of genes involved in incisor formation were altered in the mesenchyme in Six1−/− embryos.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that Six1 is required for signaling center formation in lower incisor germs and the labial‐lingual asymmetry of the lower incisors by regulating the anterior‐posterior patterning of the mandibular mesenchyme.
Genetic evidence for the mating system and reproductive success of black sea bream (Acanthopagrus schlegelii)
Authors: Wang Xi , Liu Su , Yang Yuqing , Wu Lina , Huang Wenhua , Wu Renxie , Li Guangli , Zhang Haifa , Meng Zining
Published: April 2020

Understanding the mating system and reproductive success of a species provides evidence for sexual selection. We examined the mating system and the reproductive success of captive adult black sea bream (Acanthopagrus schlegelii), using parentage assignment based on two microsatellites multiplex PCR systems, with 91.5% accuracy in a mixed family (29 sires, 25 dams, and 200 offspring). Based on the parentage result, we found that 93.1% of males and 100% of females participated in reproduction. A total of 79% of males and 92% of females mated with multiple partners (only 1 sire and 1 dam were monogamous), indicating that polygynandry best described the genetic mating system of black sea bream. For males, maximizing the reproductive success by multiple mating was accorded with the sexual selection theory while the material benefits hypothesis may contribute to explain the multiple mating for females. For both sexes, there was a significant correlation between mating success and reproductive success and the variance in reproductive success of males was higher than females. Variation in mating success is the greatest determinant to variation in reproductive success when the relationship is strongly positive. The opportunity for sexual selection of males was twice that of females, as well as the higher slope of the Bateman curve in males suggested that the intensity of intrasexual selection of males was higher than females. Thus, male–male competition would lead to the greater variation of mating success for males, which caused greater variation in reproductive success in males. The effective population number of breeders (Nb) was 33, and the Nb/N ratio was 0.61, slightly higher than the general ratio in polygynandrous fish populations which possibly because most individuals mated and had offspring with a low variance. The relatively high Nb contributes to the maintenance of genetic diversity in farmed black sea bream populations.
A network analysis to identify pathophysiological pathways distinguishing ischaemic from non‐ischaemic heart failure
Authors: Sama Iziah E. , Woolley Rebecca J. , Nauta Jan F. , Romaine Simon P.R. , Tromp Jasper , ter Maaten Jozine M. , van der Meer Peter , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Samani Nilesh J. , Ng Leong L. , Metra Marco , Dickstein Kenneth , Anker Stefan D. , Zannad Faiez , Lang Chim C. , Cleland John G.F. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Hillege Hans L. , Voors Adriaan A.
Published: April 2020

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is frequently caused by an ischaemic event (e.g. myocardial infarction) but might also be caused by a primary disease of the myocardium (cardiomyopathy). In order to identify targeted therapies specific for either ischaemic or non‐ischaemic HF, it is important to better understand differences in underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods and results

We performed a biological physical protein–protein interaction network analysis to identify pathophysiological pathways distinguishing ischaemic from non‐ischaemic HF. First, differentially expressed plasma protein biomarkers were identified in 1160 patients enrolled in the BIOSTAT‐CHF study, 715 of whom had ischaemic HF and 445 had non‐ischaemic HF. Second, we constructed an enriched physical protein–protein interaction network, followed by a pathway over‐representation analysis. Finally, we identified key network proteins. Data were validated in an independent HF cohort comprised of 765 ischaemic and 100 non‐ischaemic HF patients. We found 21/92 proteins to be up‐regulated and 2/92 down‐regulated in ischaemic relative to non‐ischaemic HF patients. An enriched network of 18 proteins that were specific for ischaemic heart disease yielded six pathways, which are related to inflammation, endothelial dysfunction superoxide production, coagulation, and atherosclerosis. We identified five key network proteins: acid phosphatase 5, epidermal growth factor receptor, insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐1, plasminogen activator urokinase receptor, and secreted phosphoprotein 1. Similar results were observed in the independent validation cohort.

Conclusions

Pathophysiological pathways distinguishing patients with ischaemic HF from those with non‐ischaemic HF were related to inflammation, endothelial dysfunction superoxide production, coagulation, and atherosclerosis. The five key pathway proteins identified are potential treatment targets specifically for patients with ischaemic
HF.
The electrocardiogram in the diagnosis and management of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Finocchiaro Gherardo , Merlo Marco , Sheikh Nabeel , De Angelis Giulia , Papadakis Michael , Olivotto Iacopo , Rapezzi Claudio , Carr‐White Gerald , Sharma Sanjay , Mestroni Luisa , Sinagra Gianfranco
Published: April 2020

The term dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) defines a heterogeneous group of cardiac disorders, which are characterized by left ventricular or biventricular dilatation and systolic dysfunction in the absence of abnormal loading conditions or coronary artery disease sufficient to cause global systolic impairment. In approximately one third of cases, DCM is familial with a genetic pathogenesis and various patterns of inheritance. Although the electrocardiogram (ECG) has been considered traditionally non‐specific in DCM, the recently acquired knowledge of the genotype–phenotype correlations provides novel opportunities to identify patterns and abnormalities that may point toward specific DCM subtypes. A learned ECG interpretation in combination with an appropriate use of other ECG‐based techniques including ambulatory ECG monitoring, exercise tolerance test and imaging modalities, such as echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance, may allow the early identification of specific genetic or acquired forms of DCM. Furthermore, ECG abnormalities may reflect the severity of the disease and provide a useful tool in risk stratification and management. In the present review, we discuss the current role of the ECG in the diagnosis and management of DCM. We describe various clinical settings where the appropriate use and interpretation of the ECG can provide invaluable clues, contributing to the important role of this basic tool as cardiovascular medicine evolves.
Organocatalyzed Diastereo‐ and Enantioselective Conjugate Addition of Nitroalkanes to β‐Silylmethylene Malonates: Direct Access to Enantioenriched Organosilanes
Authors: Chowdhury Raghunath , Dubey Akhil K. , Ghosh Sunil K.
Published: April 2020

Cinchona‐alkaloid derived bifunctional thiourea catalyzed conjugate addition reaction of nitroalkanes to β‐silylmethylene malonates is reported for direct access of densely functionalized enantioenriched organosilanes in good yields (up to 86 %) with excellent stereoselectivities (up to 98:2 dr and 90 % ee). Using pseudoenantiomeric catalyst, both the enantiomers of the conjugate addition products were easily accessible. Preparative scale synthesis of two conjugate addition products confirmed the practical applicability of the current methods. Furthermore, the synthetic potential of these organosilanes was demonstrated by employing one of the products in the formal asymmetric synthesis of the nootropic drug (R)‐oxiracetam, the synthesis of sila‐analogue of PAR‐2 agonist AC‐264613, and the synthesis of (R)‐N‐benzyl‐4‐hydroxy‐pyrrolidin‐2‐one, intermediate for the synthesis of several pharmaceuticals.
Expedient Pd‐Catalyzed α‐Arylation towards Dibenzoxepinones: Pivotal Manske's Ketone for the Formal Synthesis of Cularine Alkaloids
Authors: Deichert Julie A. , Mizufune Hideya , Patel Jignesh J. , Hurst Timothy E. , Maheta Ashish , Kitching Matthew O. , Ross Avena C. , Snieckus Victor
Published: April 2020

The general synthesis of diversely substituted dibenzoxepinones by a combined Pd‐catalyzed α‐arylation and SNAr strategy is reported and applied to the synthesis of Manske's ketone, a key intermediate en route to the total synthesis of cularine alkaloids. In the course of this work, an unanticipated ring contraction reaction to a xanthone was observed and serves as a caveat for the conditions of the widely used α‐arylation reaction.
Make America gracious again: Collective nostalgia can increase and decrease support for right‐wing populist rhetoric
Authors: Lammers Joris , Baldwin Matthew
Published: April 2020

Democracies across the globe are shaken by a new class of populist right‐wing politicians. A defining element of right‐wing populism is a preference for antagonistic rhetoric to describe opponents. Three studies connect support for right‐wing populist rhetoric to collective nostalgia for the past. Importantly, the results show that collective nostalgia can both increase and decrease support for right‐wing populist antagonistic rhetoric, depending on how the past is conceptualized. Nostalgia for a past characterized by political incorrectness is associated with increased support, whereas nostalgia for the past's greater decorum is associated with decreased support for right‐wing populism. Studies 1 and 2 show this with vignettes. Study 3 measures support for Trump and the GOP in the 2018 midterm elections. Although right‐wing populism is often seen as the result of a wave of nostalgia, our results show that this link can be disconnected and even reversed.
Enhancing the sensitivity of the thymidine kinase assay by using DNA repair‐deficient human TK6 cells
Authors: Ibrahim Mahmoud Abdelghany , Yasui Manabu , Saha Liton Kumar , Sasanuma Hiroyuki , Honma Masamitsu , Takeda Shunichi
Published: April 2020

The OECD guidelines define the bioassays of identifying mutagenic chemicals, including the thymidine kinase (TK) assay, which specifically detects the mutations that inactivate the TK gene in the human TK6 lymphoid line. However, the sensitivity of this assay is limited because it detects mutations occurring only in the TK gene but not any other genes. Moreover, the limited sensitivity of the conventional TK assay is caused by the usage of DNA repair‐proficient wild‐type cells, which are capable of accurately repairing DNA damage induced by chemicals. Mutagenic chemicals produce a variety of DNA lesions, including base lesions, sugar damage, crosslinks, and strand breaks. Base damage causes point mutations and is repaired by the base excision repair (BER) and nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathways. To increase the sensitivity of TK assay, we simultaneously disrupted two genes encoding XRCC1, an important BER factor, and XPA, which is essential for NER, generating XRCC1
−/−/XPA
−/− cells from TK6 cells. We measured the mutation frequency induced by four typical mutagenic agents, methyl methane sulfonate (MMS), cis‐diamminedichloro‐platinum(II) (cisplatin, CDDP), mitomycin‐C (MMC), and cyclophosphamide (CP) by the conventional TK assay using wild‐type TK6 cells and also by the TK assay using XRCC1
−/−/XPA
−/− cells. The usage of XRCC1
−/−/XPA
−/− cells increased the sensitivity of detecting the mutagenicity by 8.6 times for MMC, 8.5 times for CDDP, and 2.6 times for MMS in comparison with the conventional TK assay. In conclusion, the usage of XRCC1
−/−/XPA
−/− cells will significantly improve TK assay.
From 1D to 3D: Fabrication of CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite Solar Cell Thin Films from (Pyrrolidinium)PbI3 via Organic Cation Exchange Approach
Authors: Miao Yu , Fan Haochen , Wang Pengcheng , Zhang Yue , Gao Caiyan , Yang Lian-Ming , Song YanLin , Yang Chunhe , Liu Cai-Ming , Jiang Ke-jian
Published: April 2020

A new crystal form of 1D perovskite (pyrrolidinium)PbI3 (orthorhombic phase) is synthesized and characterized. The 1D perovskite has a good film formability by solution spin coating and is in situ transformed to 3D CH3NH3PbI3 via the organic cation exchange approach in CH3NH2 atmosphere, which is dense and uniform. The converted 3D perovskite film is used as a light absorber, and the corresponding perovskite solar cell shows a power conversion efficiency of up to 19.2% under simulated 1 sun AM1.5G illumination (100 mW cm−2).
Environmental and process assessment of a vibratory nanofiltration system for the recovery of water from soluble coffee manufacturing waste
Authors: Wisniewski Christian M. , Laurio Michael Vincent O. , Slater C. Stewart , Savelski Mariano J.
Published: April 2020

A case study has been conducted for the recovery of water from complex wastewater at a soluble coffee manufacturing factory. The study has evaluated separation methods for process intervention based on environmental and economic assessments. A novel vibratory field membrane separation was evaluated at the laboratory scale using actual factory wastewater, and was scaled‐up using appropriate design protocols. The recovery of water from an intermediate waste stream proved the most effective, both environmentally and economically. The proposed full‐scale vibratory membrane process recovers 378,541 L of water per day that meets specifications for reuse in the factory cooling tower. The proposed design reduced the daily well freshwater withdrawn by 21% and the amount of wastewater discharged from the factory by 28.5%. Annual operating costs were reduced by 22.5% and total life cycle emissions were reduced by 27.8%. These reductions are mainly the result of the reduced volume of wastewater discharged from the factory and the reduced energy requirement of the on‐site pretreatment processes. Economic assessment showed a net present value after 10 years is $181,100, while the payback time is under 3 years. Overall, the proposed vibratory membrane process used for water recovery presents favorable economics, and significant environmental emission reduction.
Lingering Taxonomic Challenges Hinder Conservation and Management of Global Bonefishes
Authors: Pickett Brandon D , Wallace Elizabeth M , Ridge Perry G , Kauwe John S K
Published: April 2020

Despite expanding research on the popular recreational fishery, bonefish taxonomy remains murky. The genus Albula, comprising these iconic circumtropical marine sportfishes, has a complex taxonomic history driven by highly conserved morphology. Presently, 12 putative species are spread among 3 species complexes. The cryptic morphology hinders visual identification, requiring genetic species identification in some cases. Unclear nomenclature can have unintended consequences, including exacerbating taxonomic uncertainty and complicating resolution efforts. Further, ignoring this reality in publications may erode management and conservation efforts. In the Indian and Pacific oceans, ranges and areas of overlap are unclear, precluding certainty about which species support the fishery and hindering conservation efforts. Species overlap, at both broad and localized spatial scales, may mask population declines if one is targeted primarily (as demonstrated in the western Atlantic fishery). Additional work is necessary, especially to increase our understanding of spatiotemporal ecology across life history stages and taxa. If combined with increased capacity to discern between cryptic species, population structure may be ascertained, and fisheries stakeholders will be enabled to make informed decisions. To assist in such efforts, we have constructed new range maps for each species and species complex. For bonefishes, conservation genomic approaches may resolve lingering taxonomic uncertainties, supporting effective conservation and management efforts. These methods apply broadly to taxonomic groups with cryptic diversity, aiding species delimitation and taxonomic revisions.
Correspondences among lacustrine fluctuations, climate changes and the Milankovitch cycles in the Paleogene through tracking onlap points and correlating palaeontology in Liaozhong Depression, Bohai Bay Basin, NE China
Authors: Xia Shiqiang , Lin Changsong , Du Xiaofeng , Jia Donghui , Ahmad Nadeem , Zhang Zhenguo , Gao Lianfeng , Zhu Yi
Published: April 2020

The solar radiation or insolation at a specific locality on the Earth's surface is determined by the distance of this point from the sun and by the angle with which the radiation hits the earth's surface. The theory that variations in the earth's orbit determine the amount of radiation and therefore the climate which is the Milankovitch Cycle. In non‐marine lacustrine rift basin, the changes of climate can be recorded by the palaeontology, and it also plays an important role in controlling lacustrine fluctuations. The lacustrine fluctuations are indicated by coastal onlap, which is the landward or lake‐ward onlap of non‐marine coastal deposits. In this paper, based on borehole data, wireline logs, seismic datasets, biostratigraphic data and palaeontology, the lacustrine fluctuation curve can be reconstructed from the onlap of lacustrine deposits in non‐marine sequences. The durations and magnitudes of these changes can be used to construct charts showing cycles of the relative rising and falling of lake level. In addition, the changes of lake level can also be reflected by the palaeontology such as pollen. The living conditions and distributions of pollen can be a good indicator for climate changes and lacustrine fluctuations in an a non‐marine setting. The calculation of the Milankovitch Cycle can be determined by the GR log in the study area which keeps a record of cycle changes. All climatic changes and lacustrine fluctuations are mainly resulted from the Milankovitch Cycles, and therefore, through the reconstruction of lacustrine fluctuations, climate changes and the Milankovitch Cycle, the correspondences among them can be clearly addressed. All the results can contribute a lot in theory research in the study area and lead to a new focus in practical hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation.
Game theoretical mapping of white matter contributions to visuospatial attention in stroke patients with hemineglect
Authors: Toba Monica N. , Zavaglia Melissa , Malherbe Caroline , Moreau Tristan , Rastelli Federica , Kaglik Anna , Valabrègue Romain , Pradat‐Diehl Pascale , Hilgetag Claus C. , Valero‐Cabré Antoni
Published: April 2020

White matter bundles linking gray matter nodes are key anatomical players to fully characterize associations between brain systems and cognitive functions. Here we used a multivariate lesion inference approach grounded in coalitional game theory (multiperturbation Shapley value analysis, MSA) to infer causal contributions of white matter bundles to visuospatial orienting of attention. Our work is based on the characterization of the lesion patterns of 25 right hemisphere stroke patients and the causal analysis of their impact on three neuropsychological tasks: line bisection, letter cancellation, and bells cancellation. We report that, out of the 11 white matter bundles included in our MSA coalitions, the optic radiations, the inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus and the anterior cingulum were the only tracts to display task‐invariant contributions (positive, positive, and negative, respectively) to the tasks. We also report task‐dependent influences for the branches of the superior longitudinal fasciculus and the posterior cingulum. By extending prior findings to white matter tracts linking key gray matter nodes, we further characterize from a network perspective the anatomical basis of visual and attentional orienting processes. The knowledge about interactions patterns mediated by white matter tracts linking cortical nodes of attention orienting networks, consolidated by further studies, may help develop and customize brain stimulation approaches for the rehabilitation of visuospatial neglect.
Increasing parenting self‐efficacy: The Fussy Baby Network® intervention
Authors: Gilkerson Linda , Burkhardt Tiffany , Katch Leslie E. , Hans Sydney L.
Published: April 2020

High levels of infant crying place families at risk for disrupted relationships, parenting stress, and even for child maltreatment. We conducted an evaluation of the Fussy Baby Network® (FBN), a program supporting families struggling with infant crying and related concerns. The study contrasted 29 families who sought help from FBN with 27 families with excessively crying infants who did not seek services. Researchers measured parenting self‐efficacy, depression, and stress in each group before and after the intervention. Results from hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated greater improvements over time in parenting self‐efficacy for parents receiving FBN services. Furthermore, the greater improvements in parenting self‐efficacy in the intervention group were not directly attributable to reductions in infant crying. These findings provide preliminary evidence that the FBN approach may be effective at boosting the confidence of parents struggling with caring for their infants. Future research with larger samples with baseline equivalence and stronger research designs should explore this intervention further. This study also suggests that interventions for families with excessively crying infants should move beyond the focus of reducing infant crying to a broader strategy of supporting parents and strengthening relationships between parents and their infants to build parenting capacity.
Mothering very young children after wartime deployment: A case report
Authors: Acker Michelle L. , Nicholson Juliann , DeVoe Ellen R.
Published: April 2020

Parenting very young children in the context of military service, deployment separations, and war‐related trauma can be challenging for many families. Female active duty personnel represent one of the fastest growing segments of the military, and recent policy changes have led women to pursue serving in combat positions at much higher rates. While not much is known about service member mothers, some studies have shown that they experience significant symptoms of distress, depression, and anxiety during the deployment cycle, feelings of disconnection from family during reintegration, and higher rates of childhood trauma histories than their male counterparts. Service member mothers who experience the combined stressors of deployment separation, combat exposure, and adverse childhood experiences—a triple threat—may be at serious risk of posttraumatic stress and depressive symptomatology, which can negatively influence the quality and nature of their parenting and parent–child relationships. This case report describes the participation of a young single service member mother and her preschool‐aged daughter in a home‐based, reintegration program designed for military families with very young children (ages 0–5). The paper illustrates how this relationship‐based, reflective parenting intervention was effective in increasing the mother's sense of competence in her parenting and strengthening the parent–child relationship.
Infant mental health home visiting therapists’ fidelity to the Michigan IMH‐HV model in community practice settings
Authors: Huth‐Bocks Alissa C. , Jester Jennifer M. , Stacks Ann M. , Muzik Maria , Rosenblum Katherine L. ,   the Michigan Collaborative for Infant Mental Health Research
Published: April 2020

Implementation research suggests that fidelity to a therapeutic model is important for enhancing outcomes, yet can be difficult to achieve in community practice settings. Furthermore, few published studies have reported on characteristics of treatment fidelity. The present study examined fidelity to the Infant Mental Health Home Visiting (IMH‐HV) model among 51 therapists with a range of experience practicing in community settings across the state of Michigan. IMH therapists completed fidelity checklists after every session with participating families to track use of 15 treatment strategies central to the IMH‐HV model across the 12‐month study period. Results indicated that the most commonly endorsed components utilized in home visits were developmental guidance and infant–parent psychotherapy, followed by the provision of emotional support. Use of IMH‐HV components did not vary over time for the entire sample; however, patterns of strategies used showed somewhat more variability among more experienced therapists and when serving higher risk families. Findings demonstrate that IMH‐HV therapists report a range of adherence to the model in community settings, with greatest fidelity to several model core components. Ongoing training in the flexible use of all core strategies may further enhance fidelity and contribute to positive outcomes for caregivers and their children receiving IMH‐HV services.