bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring short distance dispersal ofAlliaria petiolataand determining potential long distance dispersal mechanisms
Authors: Loebach Christopher A. , Anderson Roger C.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Alliaria petiolata,an herbaceous plant, has invaded woodlands in North America. Its ecology has been thoroughly studied, but an overlooked aspect of its biology is seed dispersal distances and mechanisms. We measured seed dispersal distances in the field and tested if epizoochory is a potential mechanism for long-distance seed dispersal.

Methods

Dispersal distances were measured by placing seed traps in a sector design around three seed point sources, which consisted of 15 second-year plants transplanted within a 0.25 m radius circle. Traps were placed at intervals ranging from 0.25–3.25 m from the point source. Traps remained in the field until a majority of seeds were dispersed. Eight probability density functions were fitted to seed trap counts via maximum likelihood. Epizoochory was tested as a potential seed dispersal mechanism forA. petiolatathrough a combination of field and laboratory experiments. To test if small mammals transportA. petiolataseeds in their fur, experimental blocks were placed around denseA. petiolatapatches. Each block contained a mammal inclusion treatment (MIT) and control. The MIT consisted of a wood-frame (31 × 61× 31 cm) covered in wire mesh, except for the two 31 × 31 cm ends, placed over a germination tray filled with potting soil. A pan filled with bait was placed in the center of the tray. The control frame (11 × 31 × 61 cm) was placed over a germination tray and completely covered in wire mesh to exclude animal activity. Treatments were in the field for peak seed dispersal. In March, trays were moved to a greenhouse andA. petiolataseedlings were counted and then compared between treatments. To determine ifA. petiolataseeds attach to raccoon (Procyon lotor) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) fur, wet and dry seeds were dropped onto wet and dry fur. Furs were rotated 180 degrees and the seeds that remained attached were counted. To measure seed retention, seeds were dropped on furs and rotated as before, then the furs were agitated for one hour. The seeds retained in the fur were counted.

Results

For the seed dispersal experiment, the 2Dt function provided the best fit and was the most biologically meaningful. It predicted that seed density rapidly declined with distance from the point source. Mean dispersal distance was 0.52 m and 95% of seeds dispersed within 1.14 m. The epizoochory field experiment showed increased mammal activity andA. petiolataseedlings in germination trays of the MIT compared to control. Laboratory studies showed 3–26% of seeds were attached and retained by raccoon and deer fur. Retention significantly increased if either seed or fur were wet (57–98%).

Discussion

Without animal seed vectors, most seeds fall within a short distance of the seed source; however, long distance dispersal may be accomplished by epizoochory. Our data are consistent withA. petiolata’s widespread distribution and development of dense clusters of the species in invaded areas.
The right thalamus may play an important role in anesthesia-awakening regulation in frogs
Authors: Fan Yanzhu , Yue Xizi , Xue Fei , Brauth Steven E. , Tang Yezhong , Fang Guangzhan
Published: March 2018

Background

Previous studies have shown that the mammalian thalamus is a key structure for anesthesia-induced unconsciousness and anesthesia-awakening regulation. However, both the dynamic characteristics and probable lateralization of thalamic functioning during anesthesia-awakening regulation are not fully understood, and little is known of the evolutionary basis of the role of the thalamus in anesthesia-awakening regulation.

Methods

An amphibian species, the South African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) was used in the present study. The frogs were immersed in triciane methanesulfonate (MS-222) for general anesthesia. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals were recorded continuously from both sides of the telencephalon, diencephalon (thalamus) and mesencephalon during the pre-anesthesia stage, administration stage, recovery stage and post-anesthesia stage. EEG data was analyzed including calculation of approximate entropy (ApEn) and permutation entropy (PE).

Results

Both ApEn and PE values differed significantly between anesthesia stages, with the highest values occurring during the awakening period and the lowest values during the anesthesia period. There was a significant correlation between the stage durations and ApEn or PE values during anesthesia-awakening cycle primarily for the right diencephalon (right thalamus). ApEn and PE values for females were significantly higher than those for males.

Discussion

ApEn and PE measurements are suitable for estimating depth of anesthesia and complexity of amphibian brain activity. The right thalamus appears physiologically positioned to play an important role in anesthesia-awakening regulation in frogs indicating an early evolutionary origin of the role of the thalamus in arousal and consciousness in land vertebrates. Sex differences exist in the neural regulation of general anesthesia in frogs.
T
hermoflexia
Authors: Dodsworth Jeremy A.
Published: March 2018

Thermoflexia
(Ther.mo.fle'xi.a. N.L. n.
Thermoflexus
type genus of the order; L. suff. ‐
ia
ending to denote a class; N.L. neut. pl. n.
Thermoflexia
the class of the genus
Thermoflexus
).

Chloroflexi / Thermoflexia

Thermophilic. Cells form curved or bent filaments.
16S rRNA
gene sequences are phylogenetically affiliated with members of the order
Thermoflexales
to the exclusion of other classes in the phylum
Chloroflexi
. Found in both terrestrial geothermal and marine hydrothermal environments. Currently, the class is represented by a single isolate,
Thermoflexus hugenholtzii

JAD2
T

.
B
rucellaceae
Authors: Kämpfer Peter , Glaeser Stefanie P.
Published: March 2018

Br.cel.la.ce.ae. N.L. fem. n.
Brucella
type genus of the family; ‐
aceae
ending to denote family; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Brucellaceae
the
Brucella
family.

Proteobacteria / Alphaproteobacteria / Rhizobiales / Brucellaceae

DNA G
+
C content
(
mol%)
: 49.7 and 65.3%.

Type genus
:
Brucella
Meyer and Shaw 1920, 173
AL
.
Thermus
Authors: Albuquerque Luciana , Rainey Fred A. , da Costa Milton S.
Published: March 2018

Ther'mus. Gr. adj.thermoshot; N.L. masc. n.Thermusto indicate an organism living in hot places.

“Deinococcus‐Thermus” / Deinococci / Thermales / Thermaceae / Thermus

Straight rods; the cell length is variable, 0.2–1.7 µm in width. Filaments are also formed; some strains have a stable filamentous morphology. Nonmotile; do not possess flagella. Endospores are not observed. Stain Gram‐negative. Most strains form yellow‐pigmented colonies; some strains are nonpigmented. Thermophilic, with an optimum growth temperature of about 65–75°C; most strains have a maximum growth temperature below 80°C, but some strains grow at slightly higher temperatures. The optimum pH for growth is about 7.0–8.5. Growth is chemoorganotrophic; some strains are mixotrophic using arsenic, sulfur or thiosulfate as electron donors. Aerobic with a strictly respiratory type of metabolism; some strains grow anaerobically with nitrate, nitrite, and iron as terminal electron acceptors; some strains can also reduce gold, chromate, and uranium under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Oxidase positive, most strains are catalase positive. Strains generally require yeast extract or cofactors for growth. Sugars, amino acids, organic acids, and polyols are used as sole organic carbon and energy sources. Ornithine is the principal diamino acid of the peptidoglycan. Menaquinone 8 (MK‐8) is the predominant respiratory quinone. One major phospholipid and one major glycolipid dominate the polar lipid pattern on thin‐layer chromatography. Additional phospholipids and glycolipids are minor components. Phospholipids and glycolipids are primarily glycerol based, but some strains also possess 1,2‐long‐chain diol‐based lipids. Fatty acids are predominantlyiso‐andanteiso‐branched; branched‐chain 3‐hydroxy fatty acids are present in some strains. Found in hydrothermal areas with neutral to alkaline pH, also commonly isolated from man‐made thermal environments.

DNA G + C content (mol%): 63–71 (Tm or HPLC).

Type species:Thermus aquaticusBrock and Freeze 1969, 295AL.
L
ongilinea
Authors: Yamada Takeshi , Sekiguchi Yuji
Published: March 2018

Lon.gi.li'ne.a. L. adj.
longus
long; L. fem. n.
linea
line; N.L. fem. n.
Longilinea
long line‐shaped organism.

Chloroflexi / Anaerolineae / Anaerolineales / Anaerolineaceae/ Longilinea

The genus Longilinea are multicellular filaments and are longer than 100 µm and 0.4–0.6 µm in width. Cells are nonspore‐forming, nonmotile, and stain Gram‐negative. Optimal growth occurs at 37°C and pH 7.0. Strains are chemoheterotrophic and grow under strictly anaerobic conditions. Neither phototrophic nor aerobic growth is observed. Yeast extract is required for growth. In the presence of yeast extract, proteinaceous carbon sources and a limited range of sugars are used for growth. Fatty acids, alcohols, and aromatic compounds do not support growth. Nitrate, fumarate, sulfate, sulfite, elemental sulfur, thiosulfate and Fe(III)‐nitrilotriacetate (NTA) are not utilized as electron acceptors. Growth is stimulated in cocultivation with mesophilic hydrogenotrophic methanogens. Rice paddy soil is the known habitat.
Longilinea‐like
16S rRNA gene phylotypes has been also recovered from high molecular weight‐polycyclic aromatic‐degrading hydrocarbon‐contaminated sediment microbial fuel cells and tetrachloroethene‐dechlorinating consortia.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 56.8% (draft genome sequence).

Type species
:
Longilinea arvoryzae
Yamada, Imachi, Ohashi, Hanada, Harada, Kamagata and Sekiguchi 2007, 2304
VP
A
naerolineales
Authors: Yamada Takeshi , Sekiguchi Yuji
Published: March 2018

An.ae.ro.li.ne.a'les. N.L. fem. n.
Anaerolinea
type genus of the order; ‐
ales
ending to denote an order; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Anaerolineales
order of the genus
Anaerolinea
.

Chloroflexi / Anaerolineae / Anaerolineales

Cells are strictly anaerobic chemoheterotrophs that stain Gram‐negative. All described species are nonmotile, nonspore‐forming, and filamentous. The order
Anaerolineales
is circumscribed herein on the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequences. The order forms a phylogenetically coherent cluster and contains the sole family
Anaerolineaceae
. Phylogenetic relevance of the members and detailed description is the same as for the family
Anaerolineaceae
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 42.1–59.9 (HPLC).

Type genus
:
Anaerolinea
Sekiguchi, Yamada, Hanada, Ohashi, Harada and Kamagata 2003, 1848
VP
.
I
gnavibacteriae
Authors: Iino Takao
Published: March 2018

Ig.na.vi.bac.te'ri.ae. N.L. fem. pl. n.
Ignavibacteriales
type order of the phylum; ‐
ae
ending to denote a phylum; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Ignavibacteriae
phylum of the order
Ignavibacteriales
.

Ignavibacteriae

The description of the phylum
Ignavibacteriae
is mainly defined based on the phylogenetic position of the
16S rRNA
gene, 23
rRNA
gene, and
RecA
protein sequences. The description is the same as that for the order
Ignavibacteriales
.

Type order
:
Ignavibacteriales
Iino, Mori, Uchino, Nakagawa, Harayama and Suzuki 2010, 1381
VP
.
Effect of Heat Treatment Temperature on the Wettability Transition from Hydrophilic to Superhydrophobic on Laser‐Ablated Metallic Surfaces
Authors: Ngo Chi‐Vinh , Chun Doo‐Man
Published: March 2018

Superhydrophobic metallic surfaces made via pulsed laser ablation have been utilized recently. Immediately after laser ablation, metallic surfaces become hydrophilic. By aging the laser‐ablated surface in ambient air for a relatively long period of time (several weeks to several months) or using a chemical coating post process, this type of surface becomes superhydrophobic. Herein, a facile post‐process heat treatment that does not use any harsh chemicals is introduced to reduce the wettability transition time from hydrophilicity to superhdyrophobicity compared to surfaces treated for extended periods of time in ambient air. Grid patterns are ablated on aluminum, copper, and titanium by a nanosecond pulsed laser. Then, facile post‐process heat treatment is applied at different temperatures. The effect of temperature on the wettability transition time is studied. The transition time is reduced from several weeks/months to a few hours. The wettability transition mechanism for each metal is also explained. Additionally, several potential applications, such as self‐cleaning, water positioning, and water transport, are proposed.
Nanomaterials in Neural‐Stem‐Cell‐Mediated Regenerative Medicine: Imaging and Treatment of Neurological Diseases
Authors: Zhang Bingbo , Yan Wei , Zhu Yanjing , Yang Weitao , Le Wenjun , Chen Bingdi , Zhu Rongrong , Cheng Liming
Published: March 2018

Patients are increasingly being diagnosed with neuropathic diseases, but are rarely cured because of the loss of neurons in damaged tissues. This situation creates an urgent clinical need to develop alternative treatment strategies for effective repair and regeneration of injured or diseased tissues. Neural stem cells (NSCs), highly pluripotent cells with the ability of self‐renewal and potential for multidirectional differentiation, provide a promising solution to meet this demand. However, some serious challenges remaining to be addressed are the regulation of implanted NSCs, tracking their fate, monitoring their interaction with and responsiveness to the tissue environment, and evaluating their treatment efficacy. Nanomaterials have been envisioned as innovative components to further empower the field of NSC‐based regenerative medicine, because their unique physicochemical characteristics provide unparalleled solutions to the imaging and treatment of diseases. By building on the advantages of nanomaterials, tremendous efforts have been devoted to facilitate research into the clinical translation of NSC‐based therapy. Here, recent work on emerging nanomaterials is highlighted and their performance in the imaging and treatment of neurological diseases is evaluated, comparing the strengths and weaknesses of various imaging modalities currently used. The underlying mechanisms of therapeutic efficacy are discussed, and future research directions are suggested.
Toward Superior Capacitive Energy Storage: Recent Advances in Pore Engineering for Dense Electrodes
Authors: Liu Congcong , Yan Xiaojun , Hu Fei , Gao Guohua , Wu Guangming , Yang Xiaowei
Published: March 2018

With the rapid development of mobile electronics and electric vehicles, future electrochemical capacitors (ECs) need to store as much energy as possible in a rather limited space. As the core component of ECs, dense electrodes that have a high volumetric energy density and superior rate capability are the key to achieving improved energy storage. Here, the significance of and recent progress in the high volumetric performance of dense electrodes are presented. Furthermore, dense yet porous electrodes, as the critical precondition for realizing superior electrochemical capacitive energy, have become a scientific challenge and an attractive research focus. From a pore‐engineering perspective, insight into the guidelines of engineering the pore size, connectivity, and wettability is provided to design dense electrodes with different porous architectures toward high‐performance capacitive energy storage. The current challenges and future opportunities toward dense electrodes are discussed and include the construction of an orderly porous structure with an appropriate gradient, the coupling of pore sizes with the solvated cations and anions, and the design of coupled pores with diverse electrolyte ions.
Design and Synthesis of Waterborne Polyurethanes
Authors: Kang Soo‐Young , Ji Zhaoxia , Tseng Ling‐Fang , Turner Sara A. , Villanueva Dinara A. , Johnson Rhiannon , Albano Ariana , Langer Robert
Published: March 2018

Waterborne polyurethanes (WBPUs) have attracted increasing attention in a wide range of industrial applications because of their versatile properties as well as ecofriendly nature. Although extensive research has been carried out on WBPU synthesis, the roles of some of the key synthesis components remain unclear. In this study, through systematically controlling and fine tuning the precursor compositions and reaction conditions, over 300 WBPUs are synthesized. This research enables the roles of several key components that govern WBPU physicochemical properties and ultimately the potential WBPU applications to be identified. Using hair styling as an example, it is demonstrated that only the WBPUs with an optimal range of properties (e.g., Young's modulus >150 MPa, elongation at break: 15–300%, moisture uptake <10%) can achieve strong styling performance. To further improve the natural‐feel sensory benefits in the final styling products, a number of fatty acids with different carbon chain lengths or unsaturation levels are incorporated into WBPUs. Among the ten fatty acids studied, linoleic acid is identified as the most preferred additive. Both in vitro and in vivo testing demonstrate that WBPUs with optimal properties are promising materials for developing strong, long‐lasting styling products with natural feel.
Manipulation and Steering of Hyperbolic Surface Polaritons in Hexagonal Boron Nitride
Authors: Dai Siyuan , Tymchenko Mykhailo , Yang Yafang , Ma Qiong , Pita‐Vidal Marta , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Jarillo‐Herrero Pablo , Fogler Michael M. , Alù Andrea , Basov Dimitri N.
Published: March 2018

Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is a natural hyperbolic material that supports both volume‐confined hyperbolic polaritons and sidewall‐confined hyperbolic surface polaritons (HSPs). In this work, efficient excitation, control, and steering of HSPs are demonstrated in hBN through engineering the geometry and orientation of hBN sidewalls. By combining infrared nanoimaging and numerical simulations, the reflection, transmission, and scattering of HSPs are investigated at the hBN corners with various apex angles. It is also shown that the sidewall‐confined nature of HSPs enables a high degree of control over their propagation by designing the geometry of hBN nanostructures.
Stretchable Triboelectric–Photonic Smart Skin for Tactile and Gesture Sensing
Authors: Bu Tianzhao , Xiao Tianxiao , Yang Zhiwei , Liu Guoxu , Fu Xianpeng , Nie Jinhui , Guo Tong , Pang Yaokun , Zhao Junqing , Xi Fengben , Zhang Chi , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: March 2018

Smart skin is expected to be stretchable and tactile for bionic robots as the medium with the ambient environment. Here, a stretchable triboelectric–photonic smart skin (STPS) is reported that enables multidimensional tactile and gesture sensing for a robotic hand. With a grating‐structured metal film as the bioinspired skin stripe, the STPS exhibits a tunable aggregation‐induced emission in a lateral tensile range of 0–160%. Moreover, the STPS can be used as a triboelectric nanogenerator for vertical pressure sensing with a maximum sensitivity of 34 mV Pa−1. The pressure sensing characteristics can remain stable in different stretching conditions, which demonstrates a synchronous and independent sensing property for external stimuli with great durability. By integrating on a robotic hand as a conformal covering, the STPS shows multidimensional mechanical sensing abilities for external touch and different gestures with joints bending. This work has first demonstrated a triboelectric–photonic coupled multifunctional sensing terminal, which may have great applications in human–machine interaction, soft robots, and artificial intelligence.
Recombination Losses Above and Below the Transport Percolation Threshold in Bulk Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Yazmaciyan Aren , Stolterfoht Martin , Burn Paul L. , Lin Qianqian , Meredith Paul , Armin Ardalan
Published: March 2018

Achieving the highest power conversion efficiencies in bulk heterojunction organic solar cells requires a morphology that delivers electron and hole percolation pathways for optimized transport, plus sufficient donor:acceptor contact area for near unity charge transfer state formation. This is a significant structural challenge, particularly in semiconducting polymer:fullerene systems. This balancing act in the model high efficiency PTB7:PC70BM blend is studied by tuning the donor:acceptor ratio, with a view to understanding the recombination loss mechanisms above and below the fullerene transport percolation threshold. The internal quantum efficiency is found to be strongly correlated to the slower carrier mobility in agreement with other recent studies. Furthermore, second‐order recombination losses dominate the shape of the current density–voltage curve in efficient blend combinations, where the fullerene phase is percolated. However, below the charge transport percolation threshold, there is an electric‐field dependence of first‐order losses, which includes electric‐field‐dependent photogeneration. In the intermediate regime, the fill factor appears to be limited by both first‐ and second‐order losses. These findings provide additional basic understanding of the interplay between the bulk heterojunction morphology and the order of recombination in organic solar cells. They also shed light on the limitations of widely used transport models below the percolation threshold.
Soft, Highly Elastic, and Discharge‐Current‐Controllable Eutectic Gallium–Indium Liquid Metal–Air Battery Operated at Room Temperature
Authors: Liu Guicheng , Kim Ji Young , Wang Manxiang , Woo Jae‐Young , Wang Lei , Zou Dechun , Lee Joong Kee
Published: March 2018

Based on a liquid metal (eutectic alloy with 90 wt% gallium and 10 wt% indium) anode, a soft, highly elastic, discharge‐current‐controllable, cable‐shaped liquid metal–air battery operated at 25 °C, with effective reactions of Ga − 3e− → Ga3+ and O2 + 2H2O + 4e− → 4OH− is presented. In the liquid metal electrode, indium is used not only to inhibit the corrosion of gallium in the alkaline electrolyte but also to maintain the liquid state of the anode at room temperature. Thus, the liquid anode can be easily injected into (or extracted from) the battery cavity, leading to an easily renewable anode. In addition, the cable‐shaped battery shows a pressure‐responsive discharge current, owing to the soft, deformable battery body. Due to the liquid anode and flexible carbon fiber‐based cathode, the battery is highly flexible (bending radius < 1 mm) and easily recovers from any degree of bending without electrochemical performance impairment. With its elastic polyacrylic acid‐based gel electrolyte, the battery shows high elasticity, stretching by up to 100% (from 12 to 24 cm), excellent shape recovery from stretched states, and a discharge performance retention of 98.87%. Moreover, this paper provides the possibility to develop a deformable battery based on the liquid metal material.
Yolk–Shell NiS2 Nanoparticle‐Embedded Carbon Fibers for Flexible Fiber‐Shaped Sodium Battery
Authors: Chen Qi , Sun Shuo , Zhai Teng , Yang Mei , Zhao Xiangyu , Xia Hui
Published: March 2018

Fiber‐shaped rechargeable batteries hold promise as the next‐generation energy storage devices for wearable electronics. However, their application is severely hindered by the difficulty in fabrication of robust fiber‐like electrodes with promising electrochemical performance. Herein, yolk–shell NiS2 nanoparticles embedded in porous carbon fibers (NiS2⊂PCF) are successfully fabricated and developed as high‐performance fiber electrodes for sodium storage. Benefiting from the robust embedded structure, 3D porous and conductive carbon network, and yolk–shell NiS2 nanoparticles, the as‐prepared NiS2⊂PCF fiber electrode achieves a high reversible capacity of about 679 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C, outstanding rate capability (245 mA h g−1 at 10 C), and ultrastable cycle performance with 76% capacity retention over 5000 cycles at 5 C. Notably, a flexible fiber‐shaped sodium battery is assembled, and high reversible capacity is kept at different bending states. This work offers a new electrode‐design paradigm toward novel carbon fiber electrodes embedded with transition metal oxides/sulfides/phosphides for application in flexible energy storage devices.
Neighborhood Concentrated Disadvantage and Dating Violence among Urban Adolescents: The Mediating Role of Neighborhood Social Processes
Authors: Garthe Rachel C. , Gorman‐Smith Deborah , Gregory Joshua , E. Schoeny Michael
Published: March 2018

The link between relationship violence and aspects of neighborhood concentrated disadvantage (e.g., percent of unemployed adults, percent of families below poverty level), has been established. However, the literature examining neighborhood social processes, including informal social control and social cohesion, in relation to adolescent dating violence has shown mixed results with a limited theoretical foundation and methodology. Using a social disorganization theoretical framework, this study examined the mediating role of these neighborhood social processes in the relation between concentrated disadvantage and adolescent dating violence within an urban context. Participants included 605 adult residents in 30 census tracts and 203 adolescents from neighborhoods on the West and South sides of Chicago. Neighborhood‐level concentrated disadvantage was measured via Census data, adult residents reported on neighborhood social processes, and youth reported on dating violence. Informal social control was negatively associated with dating violence, and social cohesion was positively associated with dating violence. A multilevel mediation model showed that concentrated disadvantage was related to higher levels of dating violence via lower levels of informal social control. These results extend social disorganization theory to dating violence within an urban context, while also highlighting the important role of neighborhood processes on relationship violence. Implications for research and intervention programming are discussed.
Cardiovascular conditions, hearing difficulty, and occupational noise exposure within US industries and occupations
Authors: Kerns Ellen , Masterson Elizabeth A. , Themann Christa L. , Calvert Geoffrey M.
Published: March 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of occupational noise exposure, hearing difficulty and cardiovascular conditions within US industries and occupations, and to examine any associations of these outcomes with occupational noise exposure.

Methods

National Health Interview Survey data from 2014 were examined. Weighted prevalence and adjusted prevalence ratios of self‐reported hearing difficulty, hypertension, elevated cholesterol, and coronary heart disease or stroke were estimated by level of occupational noise exposure, industry, and occupation.

Results

Twenty‐five percent of current workers had a history of occupational noise exposure (14% exposed in the last year), 12% had hearing difficulty, 24% had hypertension, 28% had elevated cholesterol; 58%, 14%, and 9% of these cases can be attributed to occupational noise exposure, respectively.

Conclusions

Hypertension, elevated cholesterol, and hearing difficulty are more prevalent among noise‐exposed workers. Reducing workplace noise levels is critical. Workplace‐based health and wellness programs should also be considered.
Investigating global trends in paraquat intoxication research from 1962 to 2015 using bibliometric analysis
Authors: Zyoud Sa'ed H.
Published: March 2018

Background

Paraquat is considered to be the main pesticide involved in accidental and intentional poisoning, and is responsible for a high rate of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to present a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of paraquat intoxication‐related research.

Methods

Data was retrieved in March 2017 from the Scopus database. An overview of the research on paraquat intoxication was presented alongside the information related to several bibliometric indicators, such as research trends, countries with their h‐index, collaboration, hot issues, top‐cited publications, journals, and institutions.

Results

There were 1971 publications related to paraquat intoxication in the Scopus database that were published between 1966 and 2015. There was increasing research output in the field of paraquat intoxication during the period 2006‐2015. The USA published the highest number of publications (n = 338), followed by Japan with 228 publications, and China with 159 publications. The USA and the UK achieved the greatest h‐index values (h‐index values of 49 and 31, respectively). The USA also achieved the highest number of publications involving international collaboration, with 55 publications, followed by the UK, with 18 publications. The most prevalent topics in this field were “acute paraquat intoxication,” “toxic effects of paraquat to the lung,” and “mechanism of paraquat toxicity.”

Conclusions

Although a substantial amount of research has been produced on paraquat intoxication for most developed countries, there are research gaps regarding the international research agenda in this research area. The findings could be applied for prioritizing and organizing future research efforts related to paraquat toxicity.
Mitochondrial DNA analyses and ecological niche modeling reveal post‐LGM expansion of the Assam macaque (Macaca assamensis) in the foothills of Nepal Himalaya
Authors: Khanal Laxman , Chalise Mukesh K. , He Kai , Acharya Bipin K. , Kawamoto Yoshi , Jiang Xuelong
Published: March 2018

Genetic diversity of a species is influenced by multiple factors, including the Quaternary glacial‐interglacial cycles and geophysical barriers. Such factors are not yet well documented for fauna from the southern border of the Himalayan region. This study used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences and ecological niche modeling (ENM) to explore how the late Pleistocene climatic fluctuations and complex geography of the Himalayan region have shaped genetic diversity, population genetic structure, and demographic history of the Nepalese population of Assam macaques (Macaca assamensis) in the Himalayan foothills. A total of 277 fecal samples were collected from 39 wild troops over almost the entire distribution of the species in Nepal. The mtDNA fragment encompassing the complete control region (1121 bp) was recovered from 208 samples, thus defining 54 haplotypes. Results showed low nucleotide diversity (0.0075 ± SD 0.0001) but high haplotype diversity (0.965 ± SD 0.004). The mtDNA sequences revealed a shallow population genetic structure with a moderate but statistically significant effect of isolation by distance. Demographic history analyses using mtDNA sequences suggested a post‐pleistocene population expansion. Paleodistribution reconstruction projected that the potential habitat of the Assam macaque was confined to the lower elevations of central Nepal during the Last Glacial Maximum. With the onset of the Holocene climatic optimum, the glacial refugia population experienced eastward range expansion to higher elevations. We conclude that the low genetic diversity and shallow population genetic structure of the Assam macaque population in the Nepal Himalaya region are the consequence of recent demographic and spatial expansion.
Diaphyseal cross‐sectional geometry of the metatarsal bones in the Jomon population
Authors: Hagihara Yasuo , Nara Takashi
Published: March 2018

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate differences in the diaphyseal cross‐sectional geometry (CSG) of the metatarsal bones (MTs) between two populations with different habitual activities: the Jomon hunter‐gatherers and modern Japanese people.

Materials and methods

We evaluated the first through fifth MTs of 117 skeleton samples: 59 (33 men and 26 women) were obtained from Late and Final Jomon period archeological sites and 58 (31 men and 27 women) were from modern Japanese people. CSG properties were calculated at the mid‐shaft of the MTs and the relative values of the polar section modulus (Zp) of each second‐to‐fifth MTs to first MTs were calculated. These variables were compared according to population and sex.

Results

Many of the CSG properties of MTs, except first MTs, were higher in the Jomon population than in the modern Japanese population for both sexes. Additionally, the relative values of the Zp of the MTs were higher in Jomon men and women than in modern Japanese men and women. Moreover, the Jomon population had sex‐based differences in the ratio of the shape of third MTs and fourth MTs and the relative MTs value. Jomon women had elliptical third MTs and fourth MTs, and the relative Zp values of the third‐to‐fifth MTs to first MTs were higher in Jomon women than in Jomon men.

Discussion

Our result suggests that the habitual activity of the Jomon population placed heavy loads on the forefoot. This finding possibly relates to mediolateral forefoot loading that appears to be related to traversing uneven terrain.
New radiocarbon dating and demographic insights into San Juan ante Portam Latinam, a possible Late Neolithic war grave in North‐Central Iberia
Authors: Fernández‐Crespo Teresa , Schulting Rick J. , Ordoño Javier , Duering Andreas , Etxeberria Francisco , Herrasti Lourdes , Armendariz Ángel , Vegas José I. , Bronk Ramsey Christopher
Published: March 2018

Objectives

San Juan ante Portam Latinam is one of a small number of European Neolithic sites meeting many of the archaeological criteria expected for a mass grave, and furthermore presents evidence for violent conflict. This study aims to differentiate between what is potentially a single episode of deposition, versus deposition over some centuries, or, alternatively, that resulting from a combination of catastrophic and attritional mortality. The criteria developed are intended to have wider applicability to other such proposed events.

Material and Methods

Ten new AMS 14C determinations on human bone from the site, together with previously available dates, are analyzed through Bayesian modeling to refine the site's chronology. This is used together with the population's demographic profile as the basis for agent‐based demographic modeling.

Results

The new radiocarbon results, while improving the site's chronology, fail to resolve the question whether the burial represents a single event, or deposition over decades or centuries—primarily because the dates fall within the late fourth millennium BC plateau in the calibration curve. The demographic modeling indicates that the population's age and sex distribution fits neither a single catastrophic event nor a fully attritional mortality profile, but instead may partake of elements of both.

Discussion

It is proposed that San Juan ante Portam Latinam was used as burial place for the mainly adolescent and adult male dead of a particular or multiple violent engagements (e.g., battles), while previously or subsequently seeing use for attritional burial by other members of one or more surrounding communities dead over the course of a few generations. The overall bias towards males, particularly to the extent that many may represent conflict mortality, has implications for the structure of the surviving community, the members of which may have experienced increased vulnerability in the face of neighboring aggressors.
Hereditary angioedema education in otolaryngology residencies: survey of program directors
Authors: Patel Vijay A. , Siddique Laila , Stahl Lauren , Carr Michele M.
Published: March 2018

Background

The objective of this work was to assess resident education regarding contemporary management of hereditary angioedema using a web‐based survey.

Methods

An 11‐item, multiple‐choice, electronic questionnaire was sent to all 106 accredited otolaryngology training programs in November 2016. Questions focused on resident education, management principles, and formalized assessment.

Results

A total of 34 program directors responded, representing 32% of otolaryngology residences. Ninety‐seven percent believed otolaryngology residents should be knowledgeable in the management of hereditary angioedema due to C1 inhibitor deficiency (C1‐INH‐HAE). Specifically, 38% and 26% of program directors felt their residents were comfortable and very comfortable in C1‐INH‐HAE management, respectively. Of those surveyed, 18% have educational simulation activities and a protocol in place for C1‐INH‐HAE management. Forty‐seven percent of respondents felt their training program provided adequate education and exposure to C1‐INH‐HAE. Over the last 5 years, 45% felt residents were exposed to 1 to 5 cases of C1‐INH‐HAE. Sixty‐seven percent of residents were trained in the management of C1‐INH‐HAE through in‐person lectures. Seventy‐one percent of programs had no formal assessment of resident competency in C1‐INH‐HAE management.

Conclusion

This study is the first to offer insight into C1‐INH‐HAE education and management principles in otolaryngology training programs. Surveyed program directors believe residents need a strong knowledge base in the management of C1‐INH‐HAE but less than half feel their trainees acquire the necessary exposure to this emergent disease process. Future research efforts in this area should aim to determine optimal educational activities as well as how to best incorporate this into otolaryngology residency curricula.
The nerve conditioning lesion: A strategy to enhance nerve regeneration
Authors: Senger Jenna‐Lynn B. , Verge Valerie M. K. , Chan K. Ming , Webber Christine A.
Published: March 2018

By altering the intrinsic metabolism of the cell, including the upregulation of regeneration‐associated genes (RAGs) and the production of structural proteins for axonal outgrowth, the conditioning lesion sets up an environment highly conducive to regeneration. In this review, we assess 40 years of research to provide a comprehensive overview of the conditioning lesion literature, directed at (1) discussing the mechanisms of and barriers to nerve regeneration that can be mitigated by the conditioning lesion, (2) describing the cellular and molecular pathways implicated in the conditioning lesion effect, and (3) deliberating on how these insights might be applied clinically. The consequential impact on regeneration is profound, with a conditioned nerve demonstrating longer neurite extensions in vitro, enhanced expression of RAGs within the dorsal root ganglia, early assembly and transportation of cytoskeletal elements, accelerated axonal growth, and improved functional recovery in vivo. Although this promising technique is not yet feasible to be performed in humans, there are potential strategies, such as conditioning electrical stimulation that may be explored to allow nerve conditioning in a clinically safe and well‐tolerated manner. Ann Neurol 2018;83:691–702
Epileptiform activity in traumatic brain injury predicts post‐traumatic epilepsy
Authors: Kim Jennifer A. , Boyle Emily J. , Wu Alexander C. , Cole Andrew J. , Staley Kevin J. , Zafar Sahar , Cash Sydney S. , Westover M. Brandon
Published: March 2018

We hypothesize that epileptiform abnormalities (EAs) in the electroencephalogram (EEG) during the acute period following traumatic brain injury (TBI) independently predict first‐year post‐traumatic epilepsy (PTE1). We analyze PTE1 risk factors in two cohorts matched for TBI severity and age (n = 50). EAs independently predict risk for PTE1 (odds ratio [OR], 3.16 [0.99, 11.68]); subdural hematoma is another independent risk factor (OR, 4.13 [1.18, 39.33]). Differences in EA rates are apparent within 5 days following TBI. Our results suggest that increased EA prevalence identifies patients at increased risk for PTE1, and that EAs acutely post‐TBI can identify patients most likely to benefit from antiepileptogenesis drug trials. Ann Neurol 2018;83:858–862
Erfassung der Humanexposition mit organischen Verbindungen in Innenraumumgebungen
Authors: Salthammer Tunga , Zhang Yinping , Mo Jinhan , Koch Holger M. , Weschler Charles J.
Published: March 2018

Die Rolle von Chemikalien in Innenraumumgebungen ist seit langem Gegenstand der Forschung. Die meisten der potenziellen Zielsubstanzen sind leichtflüchtige, flüchtige und schwerflüchtige organische Verbindungen (VVOCs, VOCs und SVOCs). In Abhängigkeit von ihren physikalischen Eigenschaften und Stoffübergangsbedingungen verteilen sie sich in oder zwischen der Gasphase, der Partikelphase, dem Hausstaub, Oberflächenfilmen, der Kleidung und anderen Textilien sowie Haut und Haaren der Bewohner. Demzufolge müssen Inhalation, Ingestion und dermale Aufnahme als relevante Wege für die Expositions‐Charakterisierung im Wohnbereich berücksichtigt werden. Die Exposition mit VVOCs, VOCs und SVOCs kann durch Messung ihrer Konzentrationen in den jeweiligen Innenraumkompartimenten oder durch Bestimmung der Zielverbindungen und/oder ihrer Metaboliten im Urin oder Blut erfasst werden. Die verschiedenen Expositionswege erfordern oft die Kombination eines komplexen und interdisziplinären theoretischen Hintergrunds mit experimentellen Methoden. Demzufolge bedarf es einer engen Kommunikation und Zusammenarbeit zwischen Chemikern und Expositionsforschern, um ein besseres Verständnis der Humanexposition mit chemischen Substanzen in verschiedenen Innenraumumgebungen zu erlangen. Eingebettet in den toxikologischen Kontext ist dies die Grundlage für die Erfassung von Gesundheitsrisiken und die Bestimmung von Kontrollstrategien oder ‐ansätzen zur Begrenzung solcher Risiken.
Tuning the Size of Nanoassembles: A Hierarchical Transfer of Information from Dendrimers to Polyion Complexes
Authors: Amaral Sandra P. , Tawara Maun H. , Fernandez‐Villamarin Marcos , Borrajo Erea , Martínez‐Costas José , Vidal Anxo , Riguera Ricardo , Fernandez‐Megia Eduardo
Published: March 2018

The generation of dendrimers is a powerful tool in the control of the size and biodistribution of polyion complexes (PIC). Using a combinatorial screening of six dendrimers (18–243 terminal groups) and five oppositely charged PEGylated copolymers, a dendrimer‐to‐PIC hierarchical transfer of structural information was revealed with PIC diameters that increased from 80 to 500 nm on decreasing the dendrimer generation. This rise in size, which was also accompanied by a micelle‐to‐vesicle transition, is interpreted according to a cone‐ to rod‐shaped progression in the architecture of the unit PIC (uPIC). This precise size tuning enabled dendritic PICs to act as nanorulers for controlled biodistribution. Overall, a domino‐like control of the size and biological properties of PIC that is not attainable with linear polymers is feasible through dendrimer generation.
[1+1+3] Annulation of Diazoenals and Vinyl Azides: Direct Synthesis of Functionalized 1‐Pyrrolines through Olefination
Authors: Kanchupalli Vinaykumar , Katukojvala Sreenivas
Published: March 2018

A dirhodium carboxylate catalyzed [1+1+3] annulation reaction of diazoenals and vinyl azides that gives synthetically important enal‐functionalized 1‐pyrroline derivatives was developed. The reaction involves a novel rhodium‐catalyzed olefination of diazoenals with vinyl azides via electrophilic enal carbenoids, resulting in a new class of enal acrylates. The annulation reaction was used for the direct synthesis of valuable deuterated 1‐pyrrolines. Structural diversification of the enal‐functionalized 1‐pyrrolines resulted in the biologically important pyrrolidine‐fused oxaziridine, amino acid derivatives, and a 6‐azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane motif present in polycyclic alkaloids.
Silyl‐Phosphino‐Carbene Complexes of Uranium(IV)
Authors: Lu Erli , Boronski Josef T. , Gregson Matthew , Wooles Ashley J. , Liddle Stephen T.
Published: March 2018

Unprecedented silyl‐phosphino‐carbene complexes of uranium(IV) are presented, where before all covalent actinide–carbon double bonds were stabilised by phosphorus(V) substituents or restricted to matrix isolation experiments. Conversion of [U(BIPMTMS)(Cl)(μ‐Cl)2Li(THF)2] (1, BIPMTMS=C(PPh2NSiMe3)2) into [U(BIPMTMS)(Cl){CH(Ph)(SiMe3)}] (2), and addition of [Li{CH(SiMe3)(PPh2)}(THF)]/Me2NCH2CH2NMe2 (TMEDA) gave [U{C(SiMe3)(PPh2)}(BIPMTMS)(μ‐Cl)Li(TMEDA)(μ‐TMEDA)0.5]2 (3) by α‐hydrogen abstraction. Addition of 2,2,2‐cryptand or two equivalents of 4‐N,N‐dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) to 3 gave [U{C(SiMe3)(PPh2)}(BIPMTMS)(Cl)][Li(2,2,2‐cryptand)] (4) or [U{C(SiMe3)(PPh2)}(BIPMTMS)(DMAP)2] (5). The characterisation data for 3–5 suggest that whilst there is evidence for 3‐centre P−C−U π‐bonding character, the U=C double bond component is dominant in each case. These U=C bonds are the closest to a true uranium alkylidene yet outside of matrix isolation experiments.
Photo‐biocatalytic One‐Pot Cascades for the Enantioselective Synthesis of 1,3‐Mercaptoalkanol Volatile Sulfur Compounds
Authors: Lauder Kate , Toscani Anita , Qi Yuyin , Lim Jesmine , Charnock Simon J. , Korah Krupa , Castagnolo Daniele
Published: March 2018

The synthesis of enantiomerically pure 1,3‐mercaptoalkanol volatile sulfur compounds through a one‐pot photo‐biocatalytic cascade reaction is described. Two new KRED biocatalysts with opposite enantioselectivity were discovered and proved to be efficient on a wide range of substrates. The one‐pot cascade reaction combining photocatalytic thio‐Michael addition with biocatalytic ketoreduction in an aqueous medium provides a green and sustainable approach to enantiomerically pure 1,3‐mercaptoalkanols in high yields with excellent enantioselectivity.
Elektrochemische Oxidation von Lithiumcarbonat generiert Singulett‐Sauerstoff
Authors: Mahne Nika , Renfrew Sara E. , McCloskey Bryan D. , Freunberger Stefan A.
Published: March 2018

Feste Alkalicarbonate sind universelle Bestandteile von Passivierungsschichten an Materialien für Interkalationsbatterien, übliche Nebenprodukte in Metall‐O2‐Batterien, und es wird angenommen, dass sie sich reversibel in Metall‐O2 /CO2‐Zellen bilden und zersetzen. In all diesen Kathoden zersetzt sich Li2CO3 zu CO2, sobald es Spannungen >3.8 V vs. Li/Li+ ausgesetzt wird. Beachtenswert ist, dass keine O2‐Entwicklung detektiert wird, wie gemäß der Zersetzungsreaktion 2 Li2CO3 → 4 Li+ + 4 e− + 2 CO2 + O2 zu erwarten wäre. Deswegen war der Verbleib eines der O‐Atome ungeklärt und wurde nicht identifizierten parasitären Reaktionen zugerechnet. Hier zeigen wir, dass hochreaktiver Singulett‐Sauerstoff (1O2) bei der Oxidation von Li2CO3 in einem aprotischen Elektrolyten gebildet und daher nicht als O2 freigesetzt wird. Diese Ergebnisse haben weitreichende Auswirkungen auf die langfristige Zyklisierbarkeit von Batterien: sie untermauern die Wichtigkeit, 1O2 in Metall‐O2‐Batterien zu verhindern, stellen die Möglichkeit einer reversiblen Metall‐O2 /CO2‐Batterie basierend auf einem Carbonat‐Entladeprodukt in Frage und helfen, Grenzflächenreaktivität von Übergangsmetallkathoden mit Li2CO3‐Resten zu erklären.
The Interaction of Guest Molecules with Co‐MOF‐74: A Vis/NIR and Raman Approach
Authors: Strauss Ina , Mundstock Alexander , Hinrichs Dominik , Himstedt Rasmus , Knebel Alexander , Reinhardt Carsten , Dorfs Dirk , Caro Jürgen
Published: March 2018

Co‐MOF‐74 rod like crystals with a length of several hundred micrometers are synthesized by a solvothermal procedure and their interaction with different gases is evaluated for selective gas sensing. We show strongly anisotropic absorption behavior of the Co‐MOF‐74 crystals when illuminated with polarized light. The interactions of guests (CO2, propane, propene, Ar, MeOH, H2O) with Co‐MOF‐74, is studied by various spectroscopic techniques. Vis/NIR shows peak shifts of Co‐MOF‐74 depending on the interaction with the guest. In the visible and the NIR the maximum absorbance is shifted selectively corresponding to the intensity of the CoII–guest interaction. Even propene and propane could be distinguished at room temperature by their different interactions with Co‐MOF‐74. Raman spectroscopy was used to detect a modified vibrational behavior of Co‐MOF‐74 upon gas adsorption. We show that the adsorption of H2O leads to a characteristic shift of the peak maxima in the Raman spectra.