bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiotic Resistance Profile of Escherichia coli from Urine of Patients with Suspected Urinary Tract Infections in Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, Nigeria
Authors: Nkene I. H. , Ngwai Y. B. , Bassey E. B. , Pennap G. R. I. , Makut M. D. , Abimiku R. H. , Ibrahim T. , Tsaku P. A.
Published: August 2019

Aims: This study investigated the antibiotic resistance profile of Escherichia coli from the urine of patients with suspected urinary tract infections in Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, Nigeria.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample was obtained from the Federal Medical Center, Keffi and analyzed at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nigeria, between January and April 2018.

Methodology: Three hundred and eighty urine samples were collected and E. coli was isolated and identified using standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing for the isolates was carried out and interpreted as described by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute.

Results: The occurrence of the bacterium was 12.9% (49/380). The occurrence in relation to the gender of the patients was higher in the female (15.5%) than the male (9.8%); in relation to age, it was highest at 11-20 years (23.5%) but lowest at > 50 years (2.3%). The isolates were more resistant to ampicillin (81.6%), streptomycin and sulphamethoxazole/ trimethoprime (75.0%) but less resistant to gentamycin (30.6%), and imipenem (22.4%). The occurrences of different classes of resistance were multidrug resistance (MDR) (93.9%) and pan drug resistance (4.2%). Most of the isolates were more resistant to the commonly prescribed antibiotic and were also MDR isolates.

Conclusion: The need to review antibiotic use by the hospital is thus justified.
PENGARUH KARAKTERISTIK SELEBRITI ENDORSER TERHADAP MINAT BELI MELALUI KESADARAN MEREK HOTEL DI INSTAGRAM
Authors: Sampurno Nadya Valentina , Ciakrawinata Christy Pratiwi , Jokom Regina
Published: August 2019

Penggunaan selebriti endorser di Instagram sebagai alat pemasaran hotel menjadi semakin populer. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh karakteristik selebriti endorser di Instagram terhadap minat beli melalui kesadaran merek hotel. Penelitian ini melibatkan sebanyak 304 pengikut dari tiga selebriti endorser. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa karakteristik selebriti endorser memiliki pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan terhadap minat beli melalui kesadaran merek. Akan tetapi, pengaruh langsung dari karakteristik selebriti endorser terhadap minat beli lebih besar dibandingkan jika harus melalui kesadaran merek terlebih dahulu
Quantifying pesticide efficacy from multiple field trials
Authors: Sudo Masaaki , Yamanaka Takehiko , Miyai Shun'ichi
Published: August 2019

Simple corrected density indices (CDIs) have been used to measure reductions in pest density in fields. In the contemporary pesticide registration system, few comprehensive statistical frameworks are available that can integrate multiple datasets to evaluate how pesticidal effects are influenced by the products' properties such as mixing multiple active ingredients and possession of systemic ability. In this study, we provide a statistical framework for evaluating pesticide efficacy from multiple field trials and applying it to contemporary pesticides. In this framework, we extended the conventional CDI to a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM), which we applied to a dataset of the pesticide registration test in Japan (n = 758). The estimated mortality of a single active ingredient in reducing pest density is 88.0%, indicating the registered pesticide satisfies the “effective” criterion (roughly 70–95%) under the current pesticide registration system in Japan. Although systemic ability additionally reduced pest population to 55.5% of the post‐treatment densities, the addition of active ingredients scarcely enhances efficacy (reducing population to 74.6%), suggesting that the pesticide design resulted in broadening the spectrum of target species rather than increasing toxicity.
Violent video games exposure and aggression: The role of moral disengagement, anger, hostility, and disinhibition
Authors: Yao Mengyun , Zhou Yuhong , Li Jiayu , Gao Xuemei
Published: August 2019

Based on the General Aggression Model (GAM), the current study investigated the interactive effect of personal factors (e.g., sensation‐seeking) and situational factors (e.g., violent video games exposure [VVGE]) on the trait aggressive behavior, and the mediating role of individual difference trait (e.g., moral disengagement, anger, and hostility). We recruited 547 undergraduates (48.45% male) from five Chinese universities. The results showed that VVGE was positively associated with moral disengagement, disinhibition, and the four aggressive traits (physical aggression, verbal aggression, anger, and hostility), which were positively associated with each other. Moral disengagement was positively associated with both the disinhibition and the four aggressive traits. Disinhibition was positively associated with the four aggressive traits as well. When controlled for gender, moral disengagement, anger, and hostility wholly mediated the relationship between VVGE and aggression, but the moderation effect of disinhibition was not significant. These findings support the framework of GAM and indicate that moral disengagement, anger, and hostility may be the factors that increase the risk of a higher level of aggression following repeated exposure to violent video games.
Novel model reference adaptive control architecture using semi‐initial excitation‐based switched parameter estimator
Authors: Basu Roy Sayan , Bhasin Shubhendu
Published: August 2019

This paper is a generalization of the recently developed techniques of initial excitation (IE)–based adaptive control with an introduction to the definition of semi‐initial excitation (semi‐IE), a still more relaxed notion than IE. Classical adaptive controllers typically ensure Lyapunov stability of the extended error dynamics (tracking error + parameter estimation error) and asymptotic tracking, while requiring a stringent condition of persistence of excitation (PE) for parameter convergence. Of late, the authors have proposed a new adaptive control architecture, which guarantees parameter convergence under the online‐verifiable IE condition leading to exponential stability of the extended error dynamics. In earlier works, it has been established that the IE condition is significantly milder than the classical PE condition. The current work further slackens the excitation condition by proposing the concept of semi‐IE. The proposed adaptive controller is proved to ensure convergence of the parameter estimation error to a lower‐dimensional manifold under the weaker semi‐IE condition, while the stronger condition of IE guarantees convergence of the parameter estimation error to zero. The designed algorithm is shown to improve transient response of tracking error sufficiently in contrast to conventional adaptive controllers.
Laser‐Based Additive Manufacturing Technologies for Aerospace Applications
Authors: Tepylo Nick , Huang Xiao , Patnaik Prakash C.
Published: August 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a transformative technology that has rapidly grown over the past decade. AM processes build parts layer by layer and have found applications in the aerospace, biomedical, and automotive fields. The technology holds particular promise for the aerospace industry due to the reduced process time, weight savings of parts, and opportunities for new material development. Herein, a review of laser‐based AM processes, existing AM systems, and aerospace parts being fabricated is presented. It further explores the material properties and microstructure of printed samples with both powder bed fusion and direct energy deposition processes. The benefits and challenges associated with the widespread use of the technology are discussed with emphases on the aerospace sector. Finally, the steps required for parts produced by AM processes to become certified for use in aerospace applications are presented.
Ultrafine‐Grained Plates and Sheets: Processing, Anisotropy and Formability
Authors: Ciemiorek Marta , Orłowska Marta , Lewandowska Małgorzata
Published: August 2019

Herein, the processing, anisotropy and formability of ultrafine‐grained (UFG) plates or sheets processed by various severe plastic deformation (SPD) methods are discussed. The methods capable of processing material in the form of sheets or plates are presented; these include accumulative roll bonding, different kinds of equal channel angular pressing and hybrid methods that combine SPD and conventional techniques. Their impact on microstructural features and mechanical properties, crystallographic textures and formability is discussed. Additionally, some examples of post‐SPD‐shaped materials are presented.
In Operando Characterization and Control over Intermittent Light Emission from Molecular Tunnel Junctions via Molecular Backbone Rigidity
Authors: Wang Tao , Du Wei , Tomczak Nikodem , Wang Lejia , Nijhuis Christian A.
Published: August 2019

In principle, excitation of surface plasmons by molecular tunnel junctions can be controlled at the molecular level. Stable electrical excitation sources of surface plasmons are therefore desirable. Herein, molecular junctions are reported where tunneling charge carriers excite surface plasmons in the gold bottom electrodes via inelastic tunneling and it is shown that the intermittent light emission (blinking) originates from conformational dynamics of the molecules. The blinking rates, in turn, are controlled by changing the rigidity of the molecular backbone. Power spectral density analysis shows that molecular junctions with flexible aliphatic molecules blink, while junctions with rigid aromatic molecules do not.
Likelihood of meeting defined VATER/VACTERL phenotype in infants with esophageal atresia with or without tracheoesophageal fistula
Authors: Guptha Sushma , Shumate Charles , Scheuerle Angela E.
Published: August 2019

Esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a foregut defect that is a major component of the VATER/VACTERL association. The specific diagnostic criteria for the VATER/VACTERL association phenotype have changed over time. The current definition is presence of at least three of the following: Vertebral defects, Anal atresia, Cardiac defects, TE fistula, or Renal and Limb anomalies in the absence of a specific genetic diagnosis. Using the Texas Birth Defect Registry, 1,175 cases of EA+/−TEF (174 EA; 1,001 EA + TEF) were evaluated against strict definitions of VATER/VACTERL. Nine (5.2%) cases of EA alone and 164 (16.3%) cases of EA + TEF met criteria for a diagnosis of VATER; and 20 (11.5%) and 223 (22.2%), respectively, met criteria for VACTERL. Trisomy 21, Trisomy 18, 22q11 deletion, and CHARGE were the most common syndromic diagnoses. About 88.5% (154) cases of EA and 77.8% (778) cases of EA + TEF were likely not to meet the criteria for VACTERL. EA+/−TEF is more likely to be an isolated defect or part of a multiple malformation syndrome in a pattern other than VACTERL, than be part of the defined association. This study reinforces the need to consider broader evaluation for alternate diagnoses in the presence of these defects.
From congenital microcephaly to adult onset cerebellar ataxia: Distinct and overlapping phenotypes in patients with PNKP gene mutations
Authors: Gatti Marta , Magri Stefania , Nanetti Lorenzo , Sarto Elisa , Di Bella Daniela , Salsano Ettore , Pantaleoni Chiara , Mariotti Caterina , Taroni Franco
Published: August 2019

Pathogenic variants in polynucleotide kinase 3′‐phosphatase (PNKP) gene have been associated with two distinct clinical presentations: autosomal recessive microcephaly, seizures, and developmental delay (MCSZ; MIM 613402) and ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 4 (AOA4; MIM 616267). More than 40 patients have been reported so far, and their clinical presentations revealed a continuum phenotypic spectrum ranging from congenital microcephaly and early‐onset intractable seizures, to adult onset slowly progressive sensory‐motor neuropathy and cerebellar ataxia. We describe three unrelated Italian patients with different phenotypes and novel or recurrent pathogenic variants in PNKP gene. Patient 1, homozygous for the recurrent frameshift variant (p.Thr424Glyfs*49), had an early‐onset MCSZ phenotype. Late in the disease progression, cerebellar ataxia and peripheral neuropathy were recognized. Patient 2, homozygous for a frameshift variant (p.Ala429Thrfs*42), presented a phenotype partially consistent with MCSZ including microcephaly and developmental delay, but without seizures. Patient 3 is one of the oldest patients described to date and presented polyneuropathy, and cerebellar signs. Biochemical tests showed abnormalities of cholesterol, albumin, or alpha‐fetoprotein plasma levels. The clinical presentation of our patients encompassed early‐to‐adult‐onset manifestations. For these cases, the long clinical follow‐up allowed an in‐depth phenotypic characterization and a better delineation of the natural history of patients carrying PNKP pathogenic variants.
Intravenous thrombolysis for suspected ischemic stroke with seizure at onset
Authors: Polymeris Alexandros A. , Curtze Sami , Erdur Hebun , Hametner Christian , Heldner Mirjam R. , Groot Adrien E. , Zini Andrea , Béjot Yannick , Dietrich Annina , Martinez‐Majander Nicolas , von Rennenberg Regina , Gumbinger Christoph , Schaedelin Sabine , De Marchis Gian Marco , Thilemann Sebastian , Traenka Christopher , Lyrer Philippe A. , Bonati Leo H. , Wegener Susanne , Ringleb Peter A. , Tatlisumak Turgut , Nolte Christian H. , Scheitz Jan F. , Arnold Marcel , Strbian Daniel , Nederkoorn Paul J. , Gensicke Henrik , Engelter Stefan T. ,   for the TRISP Collaborators
Published: August 2019

Objective

Seizure at onset (SaO) has been considered a relative contraindication for intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke, although this appraisal is not evidence based. Here, we investigated the prognostic significance of SaO in patients treated with IVT for suspected ischemic stroke.

Methods

In this multicenter, IVT‐registry–based study we assessed the association between SaO and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH, European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II definition), 3‐month mortality, and 3‐month functional outcome on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression, coarsened exact matching, and inverse probability weighted analyses.

Results

Among 10,074 IVT‐treated patients, 146 (1.5%) had SaO. SaO patients had significantly higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score and glucose on admission, and more often female sex, prior stroke, and prior functional dependence than non‐SaO patients. In unadjusted analysis, they had generally less favorable outcomes. After controlling for confounders in adjusted, matched, and weighted analyses, all associations between SaO and any of the outcomes disappeared, including sICH (odds ratio [OR]unadjusted = 1.53 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.74–3.14], ORadjusted = 0.52 [95% CI = 0.13–2.16], ORmatched = 0.68 [95% CI = 0.15–3.03], ORweighted = 0.95 [95% CI = 0.39–2.32]), mortality (ORunadjusted = 1.49 [95% CI = 1.00–2.24], ORadjusted = 0.98 [95% CI = 0.5–1.92], ORmatched = 1.13 [95% CI = 0.55–2.33], ORweighted = 1.17 [95% CI = 0.73–1.88]), and functional outcome (mRS ≥ 3/ordinal mRS: ORunadjusted = 1.33 [95% CI = 0.96–1.84]/1.35 [95% CI = 1.01–1.81], ORadjusted = 0.78 [95% CI = 0.45–1.32]/0.78 [95% CI = 0.52–1.16], ORmatched = 0.75 [95% CI = 0.43–1.32]/0.45 [95% CI = 0.10–2.06], ORweighted = 0.87 [95% CI = 0.57–1.34]/1.00 [95% CI = 0.66–1.52]). These results were consistent regardless of whether patients had an eventual diagnosis of ischemic stroke (89/146) or stroke mimic (57/146 SaO patients).

Interpretation

SaO was not an independent predictor of poor prognosis. Withholding IVT from patients with assumed ischemic stroke presenting with SaO seems unjustified. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:770–779
Elektrochemische In‐situ‐Röntgenbeugung: Eine präzise Methode zur Navigation in Phasendiagrammen enthüllt β‐Fe1+xSe als Supraleiter für alle x
Authors: Rasche Bertold , Yang Minjun , Nikonow Lothar , Cooper Joshaniel F. K. , Murray Claire A. , Day Sarah J. , Kleiner Karin , Clarke Simon J. , Compton Richard G.
Published: August 2019

Die Zusammensetzung von β‐Fe1+xSe wurde postsynthetisch in elektrochemischen Experimenten variiert, mit gleichzeitiger Analyse der strukturellen Veränderungen via In‐situ‐Synchrotron‐Röntgenbeugung. Die gesamte Phasenbreite von 0.01<x<0.04 ist dabei zugänglich und der Phasenübergang zur Supraleitung bei ca. 8 K wird, im Gegensatz zu früheren Berichten, unabhängig von x beobachtet. Andererseits zeigen weitere In‐situ‐Röntgenbeugungsexperimente, dass β‐Fe1+xSe in Gegenwart von Sauerstoff oberhalb von 100 °C eine leicht veränderte, neue Struktur vom anti‐PbO‐Typ bildet, welche bis 1.8 K nicht supraleitend wird. Diese Umwandlung kann elektrochemisch rückgängig gemacht werden, womit der supraleitende Phasenübergang wieder beobachtet wird. Diese Ergebnisse sind nur durch die sensible elektrochemische Methode der Veränderung der Zusammensetzung im Gegensatz zur klassischen Synthese zugänglich.
The Three‐Dimensional Dendrite‐Free Zinc Anode on a Copper Mesh with a Zinc‐Oriented Polyacrylamide Electrolyte Additive
Authors: Zhang Qi , Luan Jingyi , Fu Liang , Wu Shengan , Tang Yougen , Ji Xiaobo , Wang Haiyan
Published: August 2019

Rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries have been considered as a promising candidate for next‐generation batteries. However, the formation of zinc dendrites are the most severe problems limiting their practical applications. To develop stable zinc metal anodes, a synergistic method is presented that combines the Cu‐Zn solid solution interface on a copper mesh skeleton with good zinc affinity and a polyacrylamide electrolyte additive to modify the zinc anode, which can greatly reduce the overpotential of the zinc nucleation and increase the stability of zinc deposition. The as‐prepared zinc anodes show a dendrite‐free plating/stripping behavior over a wide range of current densities. The symmetric cell using this dendrite‐free anode can be cycled for more than 280 h with a very low voltage hysteresis (93.1 mV) at a discharge depth of 80 %. The high capacity retention and low polarization are also realized in Zn/MnO2 full cells.
Base‐free Enantioselective C(1)‐Ammonium Enolate Catalysis Exploiting Aryloxides: A Synthetic and Mechanistic Study
Authors: McLaughlin Calum , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Smith Andrew D.
Published: August 2019

An isothiourea‐catalyzed enantioselective Michael addition of aryl ester pronucleophiles to vinyl bis‐sulfones via C(1)‐ammonium enolate intermediates has been developed. This operationally simple method allows the base‐free functionalization of aryl esters to form α‐functionalized products containing two contiguous tertiary stereogenic centres in excellent yield and stereoselectivity (all ≥99:1 er). Key to the success of this methodology is the multifunctional role of the aryloxide, which operates as a leaving group, Brønsted base, Brønsted acid and Lewis base within the catalytic cycle. Comprehensive mechanistic studies, including variable time normalization analysis (VTNA) and isotopologue competition experiments, have been carried out. These studies have identified (i) orders of all reactants; (ii) a turnover‐limiting Michael addition step, (iii) product inhibition, (iv) the catalyst resting state and (v) catalyst deactivation through protonation.
Investigation of the Support Effect in Atomically Dispersed Pt on WO3−x for Utilization of Pt in the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Park Jinkyu , Lee Seonggyu , Kim Hee‐Eun , Cho Ara , Kim Seongbeen , Ye Youngjin , Han Jeong Woo , Lee Hyunjoo , Jang Jong Hyun , Lee Jinwoo
Published: August 2019

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted growing attention because they maximize the number of active sites, with unpredictable catalytic activity. Despite numerous studies on SACs, there is little research on the support, which is essential to understanding SAC. Herein, we systematically investigated the influence of the support on the performance of the SAC by comparing with single‐atom Pt supported on carbon (Pt SA/C) and Pt nanoparticles supported on WO3−x (Pt NP/WO3−x). The results revealed that the support effect was maximized for atomically dispersed Pt supported on WO3−x (Pt SA/WO3−x). The Pt SA/WO3−x exhibited a higher degree of hydrogen spillover from Pt atoms to WO3−x at the interface, compared with Pt NP/WO3−x, which drastically enhanced Pt mass activity for hydrogen evolution (up to 10 times). This strategy provides a new framework for enhancing catalytic activity for HER, by reducing noble metal usage in the field of SACs.
A Dual‐Surface Amidoximated Halloysite Nanotube for High‐Efficiency Economical Uranium Extraction from Seawater
Authors: Zhao Shilei , Yuan Yihui , Yu Qiuhan , Niu Biye , Liao Jianhe , Guo Zhanhu , Wang Ning
Published: August 2019

By chemical cross‐linking the amidoxime group onto dual‐surfaces of natural ore materials, namely halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), an efficient adsorbent, AO‐HNTs, is developed. AO‐HNTs show high uranium adsorption capacity of 456.24 mg g−1 in 32 ppm uranium‐spiked simulated seawater. In natural seawater, AO‐HNTs reach the high uranium extraction capacity of 9.01 mg g−1 after 30 days’ field test. The dual‐surface amidoximated hollow nanotubular AO‐HNTs exhibit more coordination active sites for uranium adsorption, which is attributed to the high and fast uranium adsorption capacity. Because of the stable natural ore structure, AO‐HNTs also show long service life. Benefiting from the low cost of HNTs, the cost for uranium extraction from seawater is close to the uranium price in the spot uranium market, suggesting that AO‐HNTs could be used for economical extraction of uranium from the oceans.
Ultrafast Relaxation Processes of Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles in the Presence of Au Nanoparticles
Authors: Ghosh Arnab , Ghosh Srijon , Jana Bikash , Patra Amitava
Published: August 2019

Considering the importance of conjugated polymer nanoparticles, major emphasis has been given for designing and understanding the energy transfer and charge transfer processes of organic‐inorganic hybrids for light harvesting applications. In the present study, we have designed an aqueous solution‐based light harvesting system using conjugated polymer nanoparticles (poly[2‐methoxy‐5‐(2‐ethylhexyloxy)‐1,4‐phenylenevinylene], MEH‐PPV) and Au nanoparticles. The change in photo‐induced processes in the presence of metal nanoparticles are studied by steady‐state absorption, time‐resolved emission, time‐resolved fluorescence up‐conversion, ultrafast anisotropy and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. Global and target analysis of transient absorption data validate the creation of a collective delocalized state in polymer nanoparticles, and the time scale for excitation energy funnelling from S1 state to low lying collective delocalized state (CLs) is 18 ps. Then, the electron transfer from the CLs state to Au NP occurs with a time constant of 150 ps. The 815 ps long lived charge transfer (CT) state signifies the charge transfer from the CLs state of polymer nanoparticles to Au NP. Such basic understanding of relaxation processes in hybrid systems is very important for designing inorganic‐organic hybrid light‐harvesting systems.
Synthesis of Colloidal Molecules: Recent Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Mérindol Rémi , Duguet Etienne , Ravaine Serge
Published: August 2019

The synthesis and study of colloidal molecules, that is to say clusters of a small number of colloidal entities that resemble the configuration of atoms in molecules both in constituent size and angular arrangement to that of valence shell electron pair repulsion model‐related space‐filling geometries, are of continued and significant interest. The rapid development in this research area has attracted intense interest from researchers with diverse expertise, and numerous methods towards the synthesis of colloidal molecules have been reported. In this Minireview, we attempt to give an overview of these latest developments, classifying them in processes based on controlled phase separation phenomena, on controlled surface nucleation and growth, and on controlled clustering. We also discuss the potential use of colloidal molecules as building blocks to fabricate new hierarchically organized superstructures and functional materials.
A case of primary aldosteronism with resistant hypertension successfully treated by unilateral adrenalectomy after unsuccessful classification of subtype in adrenal venous sampling
Authors: Nakamaru Ryo , Yamamoto Koichi , Nozato Satoko , Hongyo Kazuhiro , Nagasawa Motonori , Hagiya Hideharu , Nakagami Futoshi , Akasaka Hiroshi , Kurinami Hitomi , Takami Yoichi , Takeya Yasushi , Sugimoto Ken , Ujike Takeshi , Uemura Motohide , Nonomura Norio , Rakugi Hiromi
Published: August 2019

Despite being an established method to identify the unilateral subtype of primary aldosteronism with an indication of adrenalectomy, adrenal venous sampling sometimes fails primarily due to unsuccessful cannulation to adrenal veins. In such cases, the analysis of clinical findings might help to identify the indication of surgery.
The Role of the Oxygen Vacancies in the Synthesis of 1, 3‐Butadiene from Ethanol
Authors: Chagas Luciano H. , Zonetti Priscila C. , Matheus Caio R. V. , Rabello Carlos R. K. , Alves Odivaldo C. , Appel Lucia G.
Published: August 2019

The t‐ZrO2 doped with Zn catalyst and t‐ZrO2 as reference were employed in the butadiene synthesis from ethanol. Both catalysts were characterized by NH3‐TPD, CO2‐TPD, TPSR, the MPV model reaction, ICP, BET and EPR. Adding 0.2 wt% Zn to t‐ZrO2, the selectivity to butadiene increases three fold whereas the one to ethylene decreases. When ZrO2 is doped, the number of basic sites increases and the number of acid sites decreases. The TPSR spectra indicate that the acetaldehyde generation is the rate limiting step of the butadiene synthesis. The slowest step of the acetaldehyde generation is the H abstraction by a strong basic site. The EPR spectra show the replacement of Zr4+ by Zn2+ in the lattice of the t‐ZrO2 oxide. This phenomenon forms pairs of oxygen vacancies and coordinatively unsaturated Zr4+ ions (cus), which are strong basic sites and acid sites, respectively. Doping ZrO2 with Zn, the ethanol dehydrogenation and the butadiene synthesis are promoted not only due to the changes in the acidity and basicity of the catalyst but mainly because of the generation of oxygen vacancies and cus pairs during the reaction. These oxygen vacancies seem to behave as strong Brønsted basic sites.
Zeolite Surface Methoxy Groups as Key Intermediates in the Stepwise Conversion of Methane to Methanol
Authors: Dyballa Michael , Thorshaug Knut , Pappas Dimitrios K. , Borfecchia Elisa , Kvande Karoline , Bordiga Silvia , Berlier Gloria , Lazzarini Andrea , Olsbye Unni , Beato Pablo , Svelle Stian , Arstad Bjørnar
Published: August 2019

This contribution clarifies the overoxidation‐preventing key step in the methane‐to‐methanol (MTM) conversion over copper mordenite zeolites. We followed the methane‐to‐methanol conversion over copper mordenite zeolites by NMR spectroscopy supported by DRIFTS to show that surface methoxy groups (SMGs) located at zeolite Brønsted sites are the key intermediates. The SMGs with chemical shift of 59 ppm are identical to those formed on a copper‐free reference zeolite after reaction with methanol and react with water, methanol, or carbon monoxide to yield methanol, dimethyl ether, and acetate. This reactivity corroborates the location of SMGs at Brønsted sites. We find no evidence for stable SMGs directly at copper sites and explain mechanistically why H‐form mordenites outperform their Na‐form analogues. This finding is of interest for any future process that tries to trap the intermediate methane oxidation product towards methanol.
Dynamic Behaviour in Microcompartments
Authors: Lin Youping , Wang Lei , Huang Xin
Published: August 2019

Compartmentalisation is recognised to be a primary step for the assembly of non‐living matter towards the construction of life‐like microensembles. To date, a host of hollow microcompartments with various functionalities have been widely developed. Within this respect, given that dynamic behaviour is one of the fundamental features to distinguish living ensembles from those that are non‐living, the design and construction of microcompartments with various dynamic behaviours are attracting considerable interest from a wide range of research communities. Significantly, the created dynamic microcompartments could also be widely used as chassis for further bottom‐up design towards building protocell models by integrating and booting up necessary biological information. Herein, strategies to install the various motility behaviours into microcompartments, including haptotaxis, chemotaxis and gravitaxis, are summarized in the anticipation of inspiring more designs towards creating various advanced active microcompartments, and contributing new techniques to the ultimate goal of constructing a basic living unit entirely from non‐living components.
DNL104, a Centrally Penetrant RIPK1 Inhibitor, Inhibits RIP1 Kinase Phosphorylation in a Randomized Phase I Ascending Dose Study in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Grievink Hendrika W. , Heuberger Jules A.A.C. , Huang Fen , Chaudhary Rinkal , Birkhoff Willem A.J. , Tonn George R. , Mosesova Sofia , Erickson Rebecca , Moerland Matthijs , Haddick Patrick C.G. , Scearce‐Levie Kimberly , Ho Carole , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: August 2019

Receptor‐interacting serine/threonine‐protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) regulates inflammation, cytokine release, and necroptotic cell death and is implicated in pathogenic cellular pathways in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and multiple sclerosis. Inhibition of RIPK1 activity protects against inflammation and cell death in multiple animal models. DNL104 is a selective, brain‐penetrant inhibitor of RIPK1 phosphorylation in clinical development for AD and ALS. DNL104 was tested in 68 healthy volunteers to investigate safety and tolerability, pharmacokinetic profile in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid, and pharmacodynamic effects of RIPK1 inhibition in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in a first‐in‐human, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, randomized single‐ascending dose (SAD) and multiple‐ascending dose (MAD) study. DNL104 was well‐tolerated in the SAD group and during the dosing period of the MAD group. However, postdose liver toxicity in 37.5% of subjects was observed in the MAD, and assessed to be drug related. We demonstrate that DNL104 leads to RIP1 kinase inhibition, and this is not associated with central nervous system (CNS) toxicities, supporting future development of CNS penetrant RIPK1 inhibitors.
Surveying students in record numbers fueled collegewide success initiatives
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: August 2019

Miami Dade College traditionally had maintained numerous programs on campus to promote student success, but until about six years ago these efforts largely took place on a department‐by‐department basis. “We hadn't taken a collegewide look at what works well for students,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Lenore Rodicio.
TED‐style event offers a voice to students with disabilities
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: August 2019

The University of Michigan held its sixth annual SpeakABLE event last spring, offering students with disabilities a platform for expression in a TED‐style format. Megan Marshall, who works as a coordinator in the university's Services for Students with Disabilities, discussed how the event has empowered a student population that often can feel marginalized.
Direct anti Glycolate Aldol Reaction of Protected Chiral N‐Hydroxyacetyl Thiazolidinethiones with Acetals Catalyzed by a Nickel(II) Complex
Authors: Romo Juan Manuel , Romea Pedro , Urpí Fèlix
Published: August 2019

The direct and stereocontrolled addition of (S)‐4‐isopropyl‐N‐(2‐pivaloyloxyacetyl)‐1,3‐thiazolidine‐2‐thione to dialkyl acetals of aromatic and α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes catalyzed by 2.5–5 mol‐% of a nickel(II) complex permits the synthesis of diastereomerically pure and fully protected anti aldol adducts in good to high yields. The catalytic species is formed in situ from commercially available and easy to handle (Me3P)2NiCl2, which makes this reaction a direct, catalytic, and experimentally simple approach to the asymmetric anti glycolate aldol reaction.
An Effective Porous Activated Carbon Derived from Puffed Corn Employed as the Separator Coating in a Lithium–Sulfur Battery
Authors: Zhu Lin , Jiang Haitao , Yang Qiuyue , Yao Shanshan , Shen Xiangqian , Tu Feiyue
Published: August 2019

Lithium–sulfur batteries are recognized as novel energy storage systems because of their high theoretical specific capacity and energy density. Nevertheless, they also have technical bottlenecks such as the “shuttle effect”, poor conductivity of sulfur, and volume change. Herein, an effective porous activated carbon derived from puffed corn is coated on a polypropylene (PP) separator to improve the properties of lithium–sulfur batteries. Puffed corn carbon (PCC) and activated puffed corn carbon (APCC) are prepared by carbonization without and with KOH activation. Combined utilization of Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), Raman, N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technologies demonstrates that the APCC sample has an amorphous carbon structure and it has high specific surface area of 2543.8 m2 g−1 and a large pore volume of 2.14 cm3 g−1. The cell with an APCC‐coated separator exhibit an initial discharge capacity of 1045 mAh g−1 at 1 C, and convert to 471.6 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles. Overall, APCC provides an extensive prospect for high‐performance lithium–sulfur batteries.
The response of vegetation cover and dune activity to rainfall, drought and fire observed by multitemporal satellite imagery
Authors: Fisher Adrian , Hesse Paul P.
Published: August 2019

The stable longitudinal dunes in the northern Simpson Desert, Australia, were observed in satellite imagery to become more active after vegetation cover was reduced by fire and drought. Subsequent rainfall events also resulted in significant vegetation regrowth and dune stabilization. These switches between more active and stable conditions have not been previously described in the largely vegetated dune fields of central Australia. The observations, made on 12 dune sites, relied on high spatial resolution satellite imagery to observe dune crest activity, and seasonal Landsat fractional cover imagery to observe vegetation cover changes. The non‐photosynthetic vegetation (NPV) component of the fractional vegetation cover images revealed significant changes in hummock grass cover on the dunes between 1988 and 2018, with a positive relationship with the three‐year cumulative rainfall, disrupted by two periods of patchy burning. Only those sites that had burnt became active, and only after vegetation cover had remained low (NPV < 16%) during the ‘Millennium Drought’. There is no threshold in vegetation cover, below which dune crests become active, but active dune features require four‐years of low NPV cover (< 16%) to develop. The large rainfall event that ended the drought increased NPV cover, stabilizing the dunes. Similar hummock grass covered dunes are present across large areas of the arid zone, and are likely to respond in similar ways, given that fire and drought are common occurrences in Australia. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dose‐dependent effects of kefir on colitis induced by trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid in rats
Authors: Sevencan Nurhayat Ozkan , Isler Mehmet , Kapucuoglu Fatma Nilgun , Senol Altug , Kayhan Burcak , Kiztanir Sefa , Kockar Muhammed Cem
Published: August 2019

Evidence suggests that gut microbiota dysbiosis plays a critical role in the initiation and promotion of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Kefir is a fermented dairy product including yeast and bacterial species. We aimed to investigate the effect of kefir on trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)‐induced colitis in rats using two different doses. Fifty‐four Wistar rats were divided into six groups. For 14 days, the normal control and colitis control groups were given tap water, kefir10 control, kefir10 colitis, and kefir30 control, and the kefir30 colitis groups were given phosphate‐buffered saline containing 10% or 30% kefir, respectively, instead of tap water. Colitis was induced by intracolonically administrating TNBS in the colitis control, kefir10 colitis, and kefir30 colitis groups. On the 14th day, the rats were sacrificed. The weights and lengths of the colons were measured and macroscopically evaluated, and the distal 10 cm segments were subjected to a histopathological examination. The incidence of bloody stool and diarrhea in the kefir10 colitis group was found to be less than the colitis control and kefir30 colitis groups. The colonic weight/length ratio in the kefir10 colitis group was lower than that in the colitis control and kefir30 colitis groups. We detected that the 10% kefir treatment reduced TNBS‐induced macroscopic colonic damage, while it was exacerbated by the 30% kefir treatment. No significant difference was observed between the colitis groups in terms of microscopic colonic damage scoring. These results indicate that kefir, with a careful dose selection, may be a useful agent in the treatment of IBD.
Effect of extruded adzuki bean flour on the quality and α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity of Chinese steamed bread
Authors: Chen Yinhuan , Yang Xiushi , Guo Huimin , Li Jincai , Ren Guixing
Published: August 2019

In order to improve the commercial and nutritional quality of Chinese steamed bread (CSB), effect of extruded adzuki bean flour (EABF) substitution (10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%) for wheat flour on the quality properties of blended flour and CSB was studied. Results showed that the development time, stability time, and farinograph quality number of blended flours were decreased with EABF addition, although water absorption and softening degree were increased. Pasting properties of them were also degraded with the addition. EABF substitution lowered the lightness and strengthened the hardness of CSB. The sensory evaluation total scores of CSB were both improved with 10% and 20% EABF addition, because slight red color of them was favored by the panelist. Nutritional analysis showed that CSB with 10% and 20% EABF ranked higher protein and essential amino acids content than that of WF‐CSB, especially lysine and threonine. Addition of EABF contributed to the superior α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity of protein isolated from CSBs. α‐Glucosidase inhibition rate of CSB made from EABF (39.88%) was improved nearly five times compared with that of WF. It might be concluded that CSB with addition of 10% and 20% EABF could be used as a nutritional and healthy staple food.
Physical activity and loneliness among adults aged 50 years or older in six low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Vancampfort Davy , Lara Elvira , Smith Lee , Rosenbaum Simon , Firth Joseph , Stubbs Brendon , Hallgren Mats , Koyanagi Ai
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Loneliness is widespread and associated with deleterious outcomes in middle‐aged and older age people in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Physical activity is one potential psychosocial strategy with the potential to reduce loneliness in this population. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore associations between physical activity (PA) and loneliness in middle‐aged and older people from six LMICs.

Materials and methods

Data from the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) were analyzed. Self‐reported data on loneliness and PA (as assessed by the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire) were collected. Participants were dichotomized into those who do and do not meet the international recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous PA per week. Associations between loneliness and PA were examined using logistic regressions.

Results

Among 34 129 individuals aged 50 years or older, the prevalence of loneliness was higher among those not meeting the PA guidelines in all countries, although this difference was not significant in Mexico and South Africa. After full adjustment, not meeting PA guidelines was positively associated with loneliness in the meta‐analysis based on country‐wise estimates, with a moderate level of between‐country heterogeneity being observed (OR = 1.31; 95% CI, 1.07‐1.61; I2 = 48.7%). At an individual country level, statistical significance was only reached in Ghana (OR = 1.89; 95% CI = 1.44‐2.49).

Discussion

Our data suggest that physical inactivity and loneliness commonly co‐occur in adults aged 50 years or older in LMICs overall but that this association differs by country. Longitudinal studies are required to confirm these findings and investigate potential mechanisms that may inform future interventions.
Structural connectivity profile supports laterality of the salience network
Authors: Zhang Yaodan , Suo Xinjun , Ding Hao , Liang Meng , Yu Chunshui , Qin Wen
Published: August 2019

The salience network (SN) is mainly involved in detecting and filtering multimodal salient stimuli, and mediating the switch between the default mode network and central executive network. Early studies have indicated a right‐sided dominance in the functional organization of the SN; however, the anatomical basis of the functional lateralization remains unclear. Here, we hypothesized that the structural connectivity profile between the frontoinsular cortex (FIC) and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), which are two core hubs of the SN, is also dominant in the right hemisphere. Based on diffusion and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rfMRI) of adult healthy volunteers in independent datasets, we found a stable right‐sided laterality of both the FIC‐dACC structural and functional connectivity in both the human connectome project cohort and a local Chinese cohort. Furthermore, a significant effect of aging on the integrity of the right FIC‐dACC structural connectivity was also identified. The right‐sided laterality of the structural organization of the SN may help us to better understand the functional roles of the SN in the normal human brain.
Towards energy efficiency and green network infrastructure deployment in Nepal using software defined IPv6 network paradigm
Authors: Dawadi Babu R. , Rawat Danda B. , Joshi Shashidhar R. , Keitsch Martina M.
Published: August 2019

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) has resulted in significant impacts on social welfare, economic growth, transparency, and good governance in developing countries like Nepal. Due to the diverse geographic and economic situations, ICT network and service expansions throughout Nepal have been becoming quite challenging. Private network operators mostly have confined their services to urban areas. Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) collects 2% royalty form Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Telecom Operators as Rural Telecommunications Disbursement Fund (RTDF) to enhance ICT services to rural Nepal. Broadband expansion projects initiated by utilizing RTDF to expand ICT infrastructure throughout Nepal are expected to have considerable societal and economical transformations in the rural communities of Nepal. This paper not only presents the current ICT deployment scenario of Nepal but also studies design, analysis, and evaluation of green networking that leverages both software defined networking (SDN), and Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6)—aka Software Defined IPv6 (SoDIP6)—for energy efficient networking, robust services, and sustainable ICT ecosystem for developing nations like Nepal. We evaluate the SoDIP6 network by considering a typical ISP with end access networks and present benefits and recommendations. Experimental results show that the proposed SoDIP6 network help significantly reduce the energy consumption and carbon footprint leading to overall economic benefits to service providers and the society. Furthermore, energy‐saving practices through SoDIP6 networks and some policy directions to the government to focus on green networking considering sensitivity of climate change and global warming impact in the mountainous and developing countries like Nepal are presented.
Iron deficiency anemia associated with extracorporeal photopheresis: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Kuhn Alexis K. , Bartoo Gabriel T. , Dierkhising Ross A. , Mara Kristin C. , Winters Jeffrey L. , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Gastineau Dennis A. , Adamski Jill , Merten Julianna A.
Published: August 2019

Background

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is associated with few adverse effects. We have anecdotally noted patients treated with long‐term ECP develop iron deficiency anemia (IDA).

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of adult patients who received ECP for any indication at Mayo Clinic Rochester and Mayo Clinic Arizona. The primary objective was to describe the cumulative incidence of IDA at 1 year of ECP therapy.

Results

A total of 123 patients were eligible for analysis. Graft‐vs‐host disease was the most common indication for ECP (n = 76, 61.8%). At 1 year of ECP therapy, the cumulative incidence of IDA was 24.1% (95% CI, 14.2%‐32.9%). At 5 years, the cumulative incidence of IDA was 68.3% (95% CI, 38%‐83.8%). Risk factors for the development of IDA included: cumulative number of ECP sessions (HR 1.34, 95% CI, 1.05‐1.73 per 10 additional sessions, P = .022), an indication for ECP of solid organ transplant rejection (compared to cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma, HR 5.46, 95% CI, 2.06‐14.49, P < .001), and proton pump inhibitor use at baseline (HR 2.15, 95% CI, 1.1‐4.21, P = .03). Iron supplementation was initiated in 29 of 37 evaluable patients who developed IDA, with a cumulative incidence of supplementation in 77.2% patients within 3 months of recognition of IDA (95% CI, 55.8%‐88.3%). Hemoglobin normalized in 50.1% of patients started on iron supplementation for IDA within 7 months (95% CI, 25.2%‐66.7%).

Conclusions

Iron deficiency anemia is common in patients receiving long‐term ECP and occurs throughout ECP therapy. IDA resolved with iron supplementation in half of patients.
Ring graphs and Goldberg's bound on chromatic index
Authors: Cao Yan , Chen Guantao , He Shushan , Jing Guangming
Published: August 2019

Let be a multigraph with maximum degree and chromatic index . If is bipartite then . Otherwise, by a theorem of Goldberg, , where denotes the odd girth of . Stiebitz, Scheide, Toft, and Favrholdt in their book conjectured that if then contains as a subgraph a ring graph with the same chromatic index. Vizing's characterization of graphs with chromatic index attaining the Shannon's bound showed the above conjecture holds for . Stiebitz et al verified the conjecture for graphs with and . McDonald proved the conjecture when is divisible by . In this paper, we show that the chromatic index condition alone is not sufficient to give the conclusion in the conjecture. On the positive side, we show that the conjecture holds for every with , and the maximum degree condition is best possible. This positive result leans on the positive resolution of the Goldberg‐Seymour conjecture.