bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Effects of Solvents on the Structural, Electronic and Thermodynamic Properties of Rosiglitazone Based on Density Functional Theory
Authors: Ismail R. A. , Suleiman A. B. , Gidado A. S. , Lawan A. , Musa A.
Published: March 2019

Rosiglitazone ( C18H19N3O3S ) is an anti-diabetic drug that reduces insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes. The parameters (bond lengths and bond angles), HOMO, LUMO, HOMO-LUMO energy gap, dipole moment, thermodynamic properties, total energy and vibrational frequencies and intensities of the Rosiglitazone molecule in gas phase and in solvents (Water, Ethanol, DMSO and Acetonitrile) were calculated based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) using standard basis sets: B3LYP/6-31G(d,p), B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) and B3LYP/6-31++G(d,p). Windows version of Gaussian 09 was used for all the calculations. From the results obtained, the solvents have little influence on the optimized parameters of the molecule. The highest HOMO value of -5.433 eV was found in gas phase showing that the molecule will best donate electron in the gas phase, followed by ethanol in comparison with other solvents. The values of the HOMO were observed to increase with the decrease in dielectric constants of the solvents across all the basis sets used. The lowest LUMO energy of -1.448 eV was found to be in ethanol which shows that the molecule will best accept electron in ethanol compared to the gas phase and other solvents. The largest HOMO-LUMO gap of 4.285 eV was found in water which shows its higher kinetic stability and less chemical reactivity compared to other solvents and in the gas phase. The chemical softness of the molecule was found to decrease as the dielectric constants of the solvents increased namely from ethanol to water. The chemical hardness was found to slightly increase with the increase in dielectric constants of the solvents. The highest value of the dipole moment of 4.6874 D was found in water indicating that the molecule will have the strongest intermolecular interactions in water compared to other solvents and in the gas phase. The total energy increased as the dielectric constants of the solvents decreased from water to ethanol. The vibrational frequencies and intensities increased as the dielectric constants of the solvents increased from ethanol to water. The results confirmed the effects of solvents on the structural, electronic and thermodynamic properties of the studied molecule and will be useful in the design and development of rosiglitazone as an anti-diabetic drug.
Local Immune‐Triggered Surface‐Modified Stem Cells for Solid Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Kim Kyoung Sub , Lee Joo Young , Han Jieun , Hwang Hee Sook , Lee Jonghwan , Na Kun
Published: March 2019

Here, described are additional treatment strategies that make use of human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC)‐based local immunotherapeutic agents for the treatment of solid tumors. Dibenzocyclooctyne‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐pheophorbide A conjugates are engineered for cell surface conjugation by copper‐free click chemistry and are subsequently conjugated to hMSC (hMSC‐DPP). hMSC‐DPP can recognize and migrate toward cancer lesions, where they secrete pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, and heat shock protein 70 in pursuance of photodynamic therapy‐mediated cell death. The secreted immune factors trigger interferon gamma, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐12, and granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor, resulting in the local accumulation of T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, and antigen presenting cells at the tumor site. Treatment with hMSC‐DPP induces the accumulation of cytokines at the cancer site and minimizes systemic immune‐based side effects. This strategy is expected to increase the vulnerability of cancer cells to immune cells and cytokines, thus aiding in the development of a robust treatment platform for cancer immunotherapy.
Emerging Material Technologies for Haptics
Authors: Biswas Shantonu , Visell Yon
Published: March 2019

The sense of touch is involved in nearly all human activities, but information technologies for displaying tactile sensory information to the skin are rudimentary when compared to state‐of‐the‐art video and audio displays, or to tactile perceptual capabilities. Realizing tactile displays with good perceptual fidelity will require major advances in engineering, design, and fabrication. Research over several decades has highlighted the difficulties of meeting the required performance benchmarks using conventional devices, processes, and techniques. This has highlighted the important role that will be played by new material technologies that can bridge the electronic and mechanical domains. This must occur at the smallest scales, because of the great perceptual spatial and temporal acuity of the sense of touch. The requirements involved also furnish valuable performance benchmarks against which many emerging material technologies are being evaluated. This article highlights recent research and possibilities enabled through new material technologies, ranging from organic electronic materials, to carbon nanomaterials, and a variety of composites. Emerging material technologies are surveyed for the sense of touch, including sensory considerations and requirements, materials, actuation principles, and design and fabrication methods. A conclusion reflects on the main open challenges and future prospects for research in this area.
Iron Single Atoms on Graphene as Nonprecious Metal Catalysts for High‐Temperature Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Cheng Yi , He Shuai , Lu Shanfu , Veder Jean‐Pierre , Johannessen Bernt , Thomsen Lars , Saunders Martin , Becker Thomas , De Marco Roland , Li Qingfeng , Yang Shi‐ze , Jiang San Ping
Published: March 2019

Iron single atom catalysts (Fe SACs) are the best‐known nonprecious metal (NPM) catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), but their practical application has been constrained by the low Fe SACs loading (<2 wt%). Here, a one‐pot pyrolysis method is reported for the synthesis of iron single atoms on graphene (FeSA‐G) with a high Fe SAC loading of ≈7.7 ± 1.3 wt%. The as‐synthesized FeSA‐G shows an onset potential of 0.950 V and a half‐wave potential of 0.804 V in acid electrolyte for the ORR, similar to that of Pt/C catalysts but with a much higher stability and higher phosphate anion tolerance. High temperature SiO2 nanoparticle‐doped phosphoric acid/polybenzimidazole (PA/PBI/SiO2) composite membrane cells utilizing a FeSA‐G cathode with Fe SAC loading of 0.3 mg cm−2 delivers a peak power density of 325 mW cm−2 at 230 °C, better than 313 mW cm−2 obtained on the cell with a Pt/C cathode at a Pt loading of 1 mg cm−2. The cell with FeSA‐G cathode exhibits superior stability at 230 °C, as compared to that with Pt/C cathode. Our results provide a new approach to developing practical NPM catalysts to replace Pt‐based catalysts for fuel cells.
Material Parameter Extraction for Complex AlScN Thin Film Using Dual Mode Resonators in Combination with Advanced Microstructural Analysis and Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Parsapour Fazel , Pashchenko Vladimir , Kurz Nicolas , Sandu Cosmin Silviu , LaGrange Thomas , Yamashita Kaoru , Lebedev Vadim , Muralt Paul
Published: March 2019

Accurate property determination of the piezoelectric thin film material Al(1−x)Sc(x)N is necessary for designing the next generation of radio frequency resonators in mobile communication, and for testing results of ab initio calculations. Sound velocity and piezoelectric coupling of both longitudinal and shear mode are evaluated from a single dual mode resonator. This assures a compatible set of coefficients. It is observed that AlScN thin films grew differently on small, isolated bottom electrodes. The investigated film starts growing with a slightly tilted, c‐textured microstructure, and switches after 200 nm to a polycrystalline film with irregularly oriented grains having c‐axis tilt angles in the range of 35°–70°, as revealed by transmission electron microscope nanodiffraction mapping. Based on this information, a finite element model (FEM) is constructed that properly reproduces the resonance behavior of the resonator. The relevant elastic and piezoelectric constants are derived by curve fitting and yield somewhat lower stiffness and higher piezoelectric coefficients than ab initio calculations published in the literature. The FEM modeling results show that the upper film part with the abnormally oriented grains is overall piezoelectric, i.e., the misoriented grains maintain the polarity projected onto the growth direction from the starting layer.
Dynamics of the Morphological Degradation of Si‐Based Anodes for Li‐Ion Batteries Characterized by In Situ Synchrotron X‐Ray Tomography
Authors: Vanpeene Victor , Villanova Julie , King Andrew , Lestriez Bernard , Maire Eric , Roué Lionel
Published: March 2019

The alloying reaction of silicon with lithium in negative electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries causes brutal morphological changes that severely degrade their cyclability. In this study, the dynamics of their expansion and contraction, of their cracking in the bulk and of their debonding at the interface with the current collector are visualized by in situ synchrotron X‐ray computed tomography and quantified from appropriate 3D imaging analyses. Two electrodes made with same silicon material having reasonable particle size distribution from an applied point of view are compared: one fabricated according to a standard process and the other one prepared with a maturation step, which consists in storing the electrode in a humid atmosphere for a few days before drying and cell assembly. All morphological degradations are significantly restrained for the matured electrode, confirming the great efficiency of this maturation step to produce a more ductile and resilient electrode architecture, which is at the origin of the major improvement in their cyclability.
Gene therapy improves brain white matter in aromatic l‐amino acid decarboxylase deficiency
Authors: Tseng Chih‐Hsien , Chien Yin‐Hsiu , Lee Ni‐Chung , Hsu Yung‐Chin , Peng Shinn‐Forng , Tseng Wen‐Yih I. , Hwu Wuh‐Liang
Published: March 2019

Objective

Children with aromatic l‐amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency suffer from severe motor dysfunction. Restoration of dopamine levels in the putamen by gene therapy has led to significant improvement in motor function. This study explored brain structure changes in patients.

Methods

Brain diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was performed before and 12 months after gene therapy. Whole‐brain tract‐specific analysis was performed to assess white matter microstructural integrity.

Results

In the 8 patients (aged 1.67–8.42 years) enrolled in the study, gene therapy did not affect macroscopic structure. DTI before gene therapy revealed lower total mean fractional anisotropy (FA) values in patients than in the age‐matched pretreatment controls (p = 0.017; median difference = −0.0136; 95% confidence interval [CI] [−0.0319, −0.0126]). After gene therapy, total mean FA increased (p = 0.012, median difference = 0.0211, 95% CI [0.0094, 0.0456]), and the values in the patients were not different from the age‐matched posttreatment controls. Increase in total mean FA after gene therapy in patients was correlated with their increase in motor score (r = 0.846; p = 0.008), but was inversely correlated with their ages at the time of gene therapy (r = −0.754; p = 0.031). Corticospinal tracts, and the thalamic radiation and callosal fibers involving motor function, improved after gene therapy.

Interpretation

Improvement in the microstructural integrity of white matter tracts is associated with the improvement in motor function following gene therapy. Ann Neurol 2019;85:644–652
Strategien für kostengünstige und leistungsstarke Dual‐Ionen‐Batterien
Authors: Zhou Xiaolong , Liu Qirong , Jiang Chunlei , Ji Bifa , Ji XiuLei , Tang Yongbing , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: March 2019

Wiederaufladbare Lithiumionen‐Batterien (LIBs) stellen den aktuellen Stand der Technik im Hinblick auf die globalen Probleme sich verknappender und umweltschädlicher fossiler Brennstoffe dar und werden bereits umfassend in elektronischen Geräten und Elektrofahrzeugen (EVs) eingesetzt. Für EVs und große Netzenergiespeicher stehen sie direkt vor einer umfassenden Kommerzialisierung. Während die Nachfrage rasant steigt, werden allerdings die Ressourcen für Lithium und Cobalt knapp. Bei steigenden Kosten entsteht ein erheblicher Anreiz, kostengünstige wiederaufladbare Batteriesysteme zu entwickeln. Bei Dual‐Ionen‐Batterien (DIBs) nehmen sowohl Kationen als auch Anionen an der elektrochemischen Redoxreaktion teil. Diese Akkumulatoren sind gegenüber herkömmlichen Rocking‐Chair‐LIBs außerordentlich sicher und umweltfreundlich und könnten die preislichen Erwartungen für kommerzielle Anwendungen bestens erfüllen. Allerdings muss man sich im Klaren darüber sein, dass sich die DIB‐Technologie noch tief in der Grundlagenforschung befindet. Um höhere Energiedichten und Lebensdauern zu erreichen, müssen noch erhebliche Anstrengungen unternommen werden. In diesem Aufsatz wollen wir die Geschichte und den aktuellen Entwicklungsstand von DIBs erörtern. Die Reaktionskinetik wird erläutert, darunter die verschiedenen anionischen Interkalationsmechanismen an der Kathode sowie die Reaktionen an der Anode wie Interkalierung, Legierungsbildung usw. Ziel ist es, vielversprechende Strategien für kostengünstige DIBs mit hoher Leistung zu finden.
Synthesis of new TCH/Ni‐based nanocomposite supported on SBA‐15 and its catalytic application for preparation of benzimidazole and perimidine derivatives
Authors: Kalhor Mehdi , Rezaee‐Baroonaghi Fahimeh , Dadras Akbar , Zarnegar Zohre
Published: March 2019

A stable nickel‐decorated SBA‐15 nanocomposite (Ni/TCH@SBA‐15) was synthesized through surface modification of silica nanoparticles with 3‐chloropropyltriethoxysilane (CPTES) and thiocarbohydrazide (TCH) followed by metal–ligand coordination with Ni (II). The structure of this organometallic nanocomposite was characterized by Fourier transform‐infrared, field emission‐scanning electron microscopy, EDAX, transmission electron microscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy and N2 adsorption–desorption (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) techniques. The catalytic performance of Ni/TCH@SBA‐15 (NNTS‐15) was determined for the synthesis of 2‐aryl‐substituted benzimidazoles and 2,3‐dihydroperimidines. The excellent yields within shorter reaction times, simplicity of catalytic methods, non‐toxicity and clean reactions, mild reaction conditions and easy work‐up procedure are the important merits of these synthetic protocols. Moreover, the Ni (II) bonded to the SBA‐15 surface was stable under the catalytic reaction conditions resulting in its efficient recycling and reuse.
The progress in insect cross‐resistance among Bacillus thuringiensis toxins
Authors: Wei Jizhen , Zhang Yaling , An Shiheng
Published: March 2019

Bt crop pyramids produce two or more Bt proteins active to broaden the spectrum of action and to delay the development of resistance in exposed insect populations. The cross‐resistance between Bt toxins is a vital restriction factor for Bt crop pyramids, which may reduce the effect of pyramid strategy. In this review, the status of the cross‐resistance among more than 20 Bt toxins that are most commonly used against 13 insect pests was analyzed. The potential mechanisms of cross‐resistance are discussed. The corresponding measures, including pyramid RNA interference and Bt toxin, “high dose/refuge,” and so on are advised to be taken for adopting the pyramided strategy to delay the Bt evolution of resistance and control the target pest insect.
Phosphine Oxide Ligand Based Tetrahedral CoII Complexes with Field‐induced Slow Magnetic Relaxation Behavior Modified by Terminal Ligands
Authors: Yang Rui‐Chong , Wang Dan‐Ru , Liu Jun‐Liang , Wang Yu‐Fei , Lin Wei‐Quan , Leng Ji‐Dong , Zhou Ai‐Ju
Published: March 2019

Two isostructural mononuclear CoII complexes, [Co(xantpo)(NCE)2] (E=S (1) and O (2); xantpo=9,9‐dimethyl‐4,5‐bis(diphenylphosphoryl) xanthene), supported by a bidentate phosphine oxide ligand are reported. The cobalt complexes exhibit characteristic tetrahedral structures coordinated with two oxygen and two nitrogen atoms. Magnetic property measurements show their similar static magnetic behaviours but very different dynamic magnetic behaviours. Both complexes show field‐induced slow magnetic relaxation behaviours, but the relaxation of 2 is much slower than that of 1. Fittings to the magnetic data and ab initio CASSCF calculations reveal significant changes in the zero field splitting (ZFS) parameters (D and E), which can be attributed to the small geometrical changes of the Co ions and the different ligand field strength of the two terminal ligands.
Oral hygiene and the overall survival of head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Chang Chan‐Chi , Lee Wei‐Ting , Hsiao Jenn‐Ren , Ou Chun‐Yen , Huang Cheng‐Chih , Tsai Sen‐Tien , Chen Ken‐Chung , Huang Jehn‐Shyun , Wong Tung‐Yiu , Lai Yu‐Hsuan , Wu Yuan‐Hua , Hsueh Wei‐Ting , Wu Shang‐Yin , Yen Chia‐Jui , Chang Jang‐Yang , Lin Chen‐Lin , Weng Ya‐Ling , Yang Han‐Chien , Chen Yu‐Shan , Chang Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2019

Poor oral hygiene is an established risk factor of head and neck cancer (HNC); however, its role in the survival of HNC patients is unclear. This study evaluated the association between oral hygiene habits, including regular dental visits, frequency of tooth brushing, and use of dental floss, and the overall survival (OS) of HNC patients using interview data collected from 740 HNC patients. In addition, the interactions between oral hygiene and the polymorphisms of TLR2 and TLR4 on the OS of HNC patients were assessed. The analysis indicated that poor oral hygiene was significantly associated with poorer OS of HNC patients (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03‐1.86). This association was modified by a single nucleotide polymorphism, rs11536889, of TLR4. A significant association between poor oral hygiene and worse survival of HNC was observed among those with the CG or CC genotype (HR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.41‐3.82) but not among those with the GG genotype (HR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.65‐1.40). Our results suggested that poor oral hygiene is not only a risk factor but may also be a prognostic factor of HNC.
Build, support your team for an effective unit
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: March 2019

By any objective measure, Mike Ragan has been very successful in his role as director and chief of police at Texas A&M University. He was recently awarded the Bill G. Daniels Award for Outstanding Police Administrator, and his department was the first in higher education to be chosen for the Destination Zero General Officer Safety Award. He's also on the board of directors for the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators.
Don't get caught in the crossfire: Prep for controversial speakers on campus
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2019

ATLANTA — “A marketplace of ideas can't be free and truly empowered if not all voices are welcomed,” said Adeline Lee, program coordinator for the campus free speech initiative at PEN America. But facilitating conversations and finding the right spaces for difficult dialogues on your campus isn't always easy.
Catheter‐based retrograde coronary sinus infusion is a practical delivery technique for introducing biological molecules into the cardiac system
Authors: Rodenberg Eric J. , Patel Dimki S. , Shirley Brad , Young Brandt W. , Taylor Amanda F. , Steidinger Hayley R. , Fisher Scott J. , Patel Amit N.
Published: March 2019

Objectives

To demonstrate coronary sinus (CS) retrograde catheterization as a practicable technique for delivering biologics into the heart.

Background

There are many options to deliver biologics into the heart. However, there is no single optimal technique when considering safety, biologic retention, and reproducibility. Retrograde delivery has the potential to address many of these concerns. This study evaluated retrograde CS infusion of luciferase‐expressing plasmid in a porcine model using the Advance® CS Coronary Sinus Infusion Catheter and bioluminescence imaging to track the expression of the infused biological markers.

Methods

Plasmid was delivered retrograde into the CS in one of three infusion volumes. Twenty‐four hours post‐infusion, hearts were excised and underwent bioluminescence imaging to characterize the expression of the infusates. Heart and lung biopsies were also assessed for luciferase expression using RT‐qPCR.

Results

Retrograde infusion was safe and successful in all nine test subjects. Luciferase detection was inconsistent in the low volume group. Bioluminescence was confined predominantly along the posterolateral left ventricle for medium volume infusions and was more broadly dispersed along the anterior side of the heart for high volume infusions. Tissue mRNA analysis corroborated the bioluminescence results, with the highest concentration of luciferase expression localized in the left ventricle.

Conclusions

Retrograde CS infusion is a promising technique for delivering biological molecules to the heart. Specifically, this study demonstrated that the low pressure coronary venous system accommodates a wide range of infusion volumes and that biological infusates can be maintained in situ following the resumption of coronary venous flow.
Core‐Shell Structured LiTi2(PO4)3/C Anode for Aqueous Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Leilei , Wen Yuehua , Zhang Hao , Ming Hai , Pang Jie , Zhao Pengcheng , Cao Gaoping
Published: March 2019

A simple high‐temperature solid‐state reaction route incorporating a polymerization‐coating method is developed to prepare a core‐shell structured LiTi2(PO4)3/C composite (PDA‐cLTP), using polydopamine(PDA) as the carbon and nitrogen source. The PDA‐cLTP shows an excellent discharge capacity of 117 mAh g−1 at 1 C with a high retention of 91.4 % for 200 cycles. Cycled at 10 C, a capacity of 80 mAh g−1 and a retention of 76.0 % for 1000 cycles are preserved. The high rate capability and cycling stability of PDA‐cLTP are ascribed to the more homogeneous nitrogen‐doped carbon coating on the surface of LiTi2(PO4)3/C composite compared to PAN‐cLTP using polyacrylonitrile(PAN) as carbon and nitrogen sources. The reported PDA‐cLTP synthesis and coating design strategies offer effective approaches to develop high electrochemical performance and long‐life aqueous lithium‐ion batteries for utility‐scale/bulk‐storage energy storage applications.
Thermo‐Photocatalysis: Environmental and Energy Applications
Authors: Nair Vaishakh , Muñoz‐Batista Mario J. , Fernández‐García Marcos , Luque Rafael , Colmenares Juan Carlos
Published: March 2019

Catalysis is an integral part of a majority of chemical operations focused on the generation of value‐added chemicals or fuels. Similarly, the extensive use of fossil‐derived fuels and chemicals has led to deterioration of the environment. Catalysis currently plays a key role in mitigating such effects. Thermal catalysis and photocatalysis are two well‐known catalytic approaches that were applied in both energy and environmental fields. Thermo‐photocatalysis can be understood as a synergistic effect of the two catalytic processes with key importance in the use of solar energy as thermal and light source. This Review provides an update on relevant contributions about thermo‐photocatalytic systems for environmental and energy applications. The reported activity data are compared with the conventional photocatalytic approach and the base of the photothermal effect is analyzed. Some of the systems based on the positive aspects of thermo‐ and photocatalysis could be the answer to the energy and environmental crisis when taking into account the outstanding results with regard to chemical efficiency and energy saving.
Trends in prevalence of gestational diabetes and perinatal outcomes in Catalonia, Spain, 2006 to 2015: the Diagestcat Study
Authors: Gortazar Lucía , Flores‐Le Roux Juana A. , Benaiges David , Sarsanedas Eugènia , Payà Antonio , Mañé Laura , Pedro‐Botet Juan , Goday Alberto
Published: March 2019

Background

No recent epidemiologic studies on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have been conducted in Spain. The present study aimed to explore trends in the prevalence of GDM and ascertain whether the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes changed between 2006 and 2015 in Catalonia.

Methods

In this population‐based study, all hospital admissions for singleton births in Catalonia for the period 2006 to 2015 were collected from the Spanish Minimum Basic Data Set. Cases of GDM were identified from hospital delivery discharge reports using ICD‐9‐CM codes. Data regarding maternal characteristics and perinatal outcomes were analysed. Crude and age‐adjusted annual prevalences were calculated. The Poisson regression model was used to assess trends in prevalence and perinatal outcomes, adjusted for age and smoking habit; however, they could not be adjusted for body mass index (BMI) and ethnicity.

Results

Data from 743 762 deliveries were collected. GDM prevalence over the study period was 4.80% (95% CI 4.75‐4.85%). Crude GDM prevalence rose from 3.81% (95% CI 3.67‐3.95%) in 2006 to 6.53% (95% CI 6.33‐6.72%) in 2015 (P < 0.001). Women with GDM showed a stable trend in rates of preeclampsia (2.56%), prematurity (15.7%), and large‐for‐gestational age (LGA) newborns (18.3%), whereas a lower rate of macrosomia was observed during the study period (from 9.16% to 7.84%). Caesarean deliveries rose from 28% to 31%; however, significance was lost after adjustment.

Conclusions

The prevalence of GDM in Catalonia almost doubled between 2006 and 2015. During the study period, the frequency of macrosomia decreased whereas pre‐eclampsia, prematurity, LGA, and age‐adjusted Caesarean rates remained stable.
Risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment among older adults in same‐sex relationships
Authors: Perales‐Puchalt Jaime , Gauthreaux Kathryn , Flatt Jason , Teylan Merilee Ann , Resendez Jason , Kukull Walter A. , Chan Kwun C.G. , Burns Jeffrey , Vidoni Eric D.
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Sexual minority discrimination might lead to a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of MCI and dementia between older adults in same‐sex relationships (SSR) and opposite‐sex relationships (OSR).

Methods

We analyzed longitudinal data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center up to September 2017. Analyses included cognitively normal individuals 55+ at baseline who had a spouse, partner, or companion as study partner at any assessment. Associations were calculated using survival analysis adjusting for demographics and APOE‐e4 carrier status.

Results

Hazard ratios of MCI and dementia did not differ statistically between SSR and OSR individuals in the total sample nor stratified by sex.

Conclusion

The lack of association between SSR and MCI and dementia warrants future research into their potential resilience mechanisms and the inclusion of sexual minority status questions in research and surveillance studies. The potential recruitment bias caused by nonprobabilistic sampling of the cohort and the reporting and ascertainment bias caused by using SSR to infer sexual minority status may have influenced our findings.
Moisture transport and seasonal variations in the stable isotopic composition of rainfall in Central American and Andean Páramo during El Niño conditions (2015–2016)
Authors: Esquivel‐Hernández Germain , Mosquera Giovanny M. , Sánchez‐Murillo Ricardo , Quesada‐Román Adolfo , Birkel Christian , Crespo Patricio , Célleri Rolando , Windhorst David , Breuer Lutz , Boll Jan
Published: March 2019

High‐elevation tropical grassland systems, called Páramo, provide essential ecosystem services such as water storage and supply for surrounding and lowland areas. Páramo systems are threatened by climate and land use changes. Rainfall generation processes and moisture transport pathways influencing precipitation in the Páramo are poorly understood but needed to estimate the impact of these changes, particularly during El Niño conditions, which largely affect hydrometeorological conditions in tropical regions. To fill this knowledge gap, we present a stable isotope analysis of rainfall samples collected on a daily to weekly basis between January 2015 and May 2016 during the strongest El Niño event recorded in history (2014–2016) in two Páramo regions of Central America (Chirripó, Costa Rica) and the northern Andes (Cajas, south Ecuador). Isotopic compositions were used to identify how rainfall generation processes (convective and orographic) change seasonally at each study site. Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model (HYSPLIT) air mass back trajectory analysis was used to identify preferential moisture transport pathways to each Páramo site. Our results show the strong influence of north‐east trade winds to transport moisture from the Caribbean Sea to Chirripó and the South American low‐level jet to transport moisture from the Amazon forest to Cajas. These moisture contributions were also related to the formation of convective rainfall associated with the passage of the Intertropical Convergence Zone over Costa Rica and Ecuador during the wetter seasons and to orographic precipitation during the transition and drier seasons. Our findings provide essential baseline information for further research applications of water stable isotopes as tracers of rainfall generation processes and transport in the Páramo and other montane ecosystems in the tropics.
In vivo label‐free functional photoacoustic monitoring of ischemic reperfusion
Authors: Bi Renzhe , Dinish U.S. , Goh Chi Ching , Imai Toru , Moothanchery Mohesh , Li Xiuting , Kim Jin Young , Jeon Seungwan , Pu Yang , Kim Chulhong , Ng Lai Guan , Wang Lihong V. , Olivo Malini
Published: March 2019

Pressure ulcer formation is a common problem among patients confined to bed or restricted to wheelchairs. The ulcer forms when the affected skin and underlying tissues go through repeated cycles of ischemia and reperfusion, leading to inflammation. This theory is evident by intravital imaging studies performed in immune cell–specific, fluorescent reporter mouse skin with induced ischemia‐reperfusion (I‐R) injuries. However, traditional confocal or multiphoton microscopy cannot accurately monitor the progression of vascular reperfusion by contrast agents, which leaks into the interstitium under inflammatory conditions. Here, we develop a dual‐wavelength micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) scanning–based optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy (OR‐PAM) system for continuous label‐free functional imaging of vascular reperfusion in an IR mouse model. This MEMS‐OR‐PAM system provides fast scanning speed for concurrent dual‐wavelength imaging, which enables continuous monitoring of the reperfusion process. During reperfusion, the revascularization of blood vessels and the oxygen saturation (sO2) changes in both arteries and veins are recorded, from which the local oxygen extraction ratios of the ischemic tissue and the unaffected tissue can be quantified. Our MEMS‐OR‐PAM system provides novel perspectives to understand the I‐R injuries. It solves the problem of dynamic label‐free functional monitoring of the vascular reperfusion at high spatial resolution.
Transient upregulation of TASK‐1 expression in the hypoglossal nucleus during chronic intermittent hypoxia is reduced by serotonin 2A receptor antagonist
Authors: Li Wen‐Yang , Wang Aidi , Jin Hongyu , Zou Ying , Wang Zanfeng , Wang Wei , Kang Jian
Published: March 2019

Hypoglossal motoneurons innervate genioglossus muscle, the contraction of which is critical in the maintenance of upper airway patency in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. As a potassium channel distributed in hypoglossal motoneurons, TWIK‐related acid‐sensitive K+ channel‐1 (TASK‐1) could be inhibited by 5‐HT. This study aimed to investigate if TASK‐1 expression in hypoglossal nucleus could be influenced by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) and 5‐HT2A receptors antagonist. Two hundred twenty‐eight rats were exposed to CIH or normoxia (NO) in the presence and absence of 5‐HT
2A receptor antagonist (MDL‐100907) microinjected into the hypoglossal nucleus. The expression of 5‐HT and TASK‐1 in the hypoglossal nucleus were detected by immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction on the 1st, 3rd, 7th, 14th and 21st day of CIH exposure. The mean optical density (MOD) of 5‐HT in the XII nucleus was significantly increased in the CIH and CIH + MDL group than the NO group on the 7th and 21st day (
p < 0.05). Compared with the NO group, the MOD and gene expression of TASK‐1 in the CIH group was significantly increased on the 7th and 14th day (
p < 0.05), then normalized on the 21st day. The TASK‐1 expression in the CIH + MDL group was significantly lower than the CIH + PBS and CIH group on the 7th and 14th day (
p < 0.05). The CIH‐induced transiently upregulation of the TASK‐1 expression in the hypoglossal nucleus could be reversed by 5‐HT
2A receptor antagonist, indicating that the modulation of the TASK‐1 expression in response to CIH involves 5‐HT and 5‐HT
2A receptors, and this CIH effect might be 5‐HT
2A receptor‐dependent.
Comparison of microtensile bond strength and resin–dentin interfaces of two self‐adhesive flowable composite resins by using different universal adhesives: Scanning electron microscope study
Authors: Cengiz Tuba , Ünal Murat
Published: March 2019

The aim of this in‐vitro study was to evaluate microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of two different self‐adhesive composites (SACs) on the permanent dentin by applying five different universal adhesive systems. In this study, two different SACs [Vertise Flow (VF), Fusio Liquid Dentin (FLD)] and five different bonding systems [Clearfil Universal Bond Quick (CUB), Single Bond Universal (SBU), All Bond Universal (ABU), Prime Bond Universal (PBU), Futurabond U (FBU)] were used. A total of 22 groups were created in which SACs were applied without adhesive and with five different universal bonding agents in total‐etch (TE) and self‐etch (SE) modes. Two hundred and forty test sticks were obtained using 48 healthy human molar teeth in total with groups having 10 samples each. The μTBS test was applied to each sample in the Universal test device and the data obtained were analyzed statistically by variance analysis and Tukey HSD test. In addition, the resin–dentin interface and fractures modes in the groups were examined by SEM. Upon examining the μTBS results, the highest values were seen in the use of SBU adhesive in TE mode in VF group, while the lowest values were seen in the FLD control group. The difference between the control and experimental groups was found statistically significant (p < .05). Upon comparing the control groups with each other, it was seen that VF group had higher μTBS values than FLD group and the difference between the groups was found statistically significant (p < .05). The μTBS results and SEM images of the study showed that the use of SACs with universal adhesive systems provides a more effective bond strength.
Sophorolipid Biosurfactants Activate Taste Receptor Type 1 Member 3‐Mediated Taste Responses and Block Responses to Bitter Taste In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Ozdener Mehmet Hakan , Ashby Richard D. , Jyotaki Masafumi , Elkaddi Nadia , Spielman Andrew I. , Bachmanov Alexander A. , Solaiman Daniel K. Y.
Published: March 2019

Sophorolipids (SL) are typically produced and secreted by select nonpathogenic yeast species (i.e., Candida) from renewable substrates. They are currently being used by industry on a limited basis in formulations for cleaning solutions as well as laundry and dishwashing detergents. Due to the nature of their chemical structure, it was hypothesized that SL would demonstrate taste‐sensory properties. In this study, SL were produced via fermentation on a mixed substrate platform with glucose and either palmitic acid, stearic acid, or oleic acid using Candida (currently reclassified as Starmerella) bombicola ATCC 22214. The taste properties of SL were determined using a single‐cell manual calcium imaging technique on cultured human fungiform taste papillae (HBO) cells. The results of those studies demonstrated that sweetener‐responsive HBO cells also respond to SL, and these responses are mediated by the type 1 taste receptors 3 (T1R3), because they were blocked by lactisole (a T1R3 receptor‐specific blocker). The involvement of the T1R3 receptor in SL recognition was confirmed via the chorda tympani nerve recording (CTNR) study in a (−/−) T1R3 knockout (KO) mouse model. We further demonstrated that SL are capable of blocking the bitter stimuli‐elicited responses both in HBO cells and in the CTNR study. This is the first report demonstrating that SL have taste‐sensory properties, which opens up numerous possibilities for practical applications of SL to ameliorate bitter tastes in foods and drugs and understand the potential source of dysgeusia in some patients.
Zinc application in conjunction with urea as a fertilization strategy for improving both nitrogen use efficiency and the zinc biofortification of barley
Authors: Gonzalez Demetrio , Almendros Patricia , Obrador Ana , Alvarez Jose M
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Intensive cropping systems have caused widespread Zn deficiency, low nutritional quality of cereals and environmental problems. The aim of the microplot field experiment reported in this paper was to assess the option of using Zn in conjunction with urea fertilization in order to reduce N rate and to maintain the yield level and grain quality but minimizing environmental risks. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was cultivated in a calcareous soil under semi‐realistic conditions. Combinations of four Zn levels, applied by spraying aqueous solutions of ZnSO4, and three N levels, applied by spreading granular urea, were tested.

RESULTS

Zn and N showed a synergistic effect, increasing yield and Zn content in all plant parts and protein content in grain. A low Zn dosage of 5 kg ha−1 was sufficient to significantly increase the amount of bioavailable Zn in soil and significantly raise its concentration in plant material and also the protein content in grain. The remobilization of Zn from leaf tissue to grain was dependent on the availability of Zn and was only crucial when its bioavailability was low.

CONCLUSIONS

A Zn dosage of 5 kg ha−1 enhanced the agronomic efficiency of N by 15.5 kg grain kg−1 N. The Zn applied to the soil permitted a reduction in the rate of N with only a small decrease in barley grain yield and nutritional value. However, due to the interannual variability in rainfall, which is characteristic of Mediterranean climates, further studies will be necessary to confirm and extend these results. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation of magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers for the rapid detection of diethylstilbestrol in milk samples
Authors: Huang YuXia , Zhao Tao , He Jinxing
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Diethylstilbestrol (DES) residues are harmful to human health because of their potential carcinogenic properties. Therefore, it is important to develop a fast and efficient pretreatment method to prevent their harmful effects on human health and the environment.

RESULTS

In this paper, two types of magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers (MMIPs) of DES were prepared by bulk polymerization and the sol–gel method, respectively. The synthetic materials were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Adsorption capacities of the bulk and sol–gel MMIPs were investigated. A rapid detection method was developed using the two types of MMIPs as sorbents, coupled to high‐performance liquid chromatography, for the determination of DES residues in milk samples. Under optimized conditions, the limit of detection (S/N = 3) of both methods for DES was 2.0 μg L−1; and the linear response range to DES was 0.1–500 mg L−1. The milk samples were analyzed according to this method with good recoveries of 88.3–97.6 and 90.5–103.5% for the two types of MMIPs, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The method described had high sensitivity and high selectivity, and could prove to be a new method for the rapid determination of DES residues in milk samples. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Distinct gelatinous zooplankton communities across a dynamic shelf sea
Authors: Haberlin Damien , Raine Robin , McAllen Rob , Doyle Thomas K.
Published: March 2019

Understanding how gelatinous zooplankton communities are structured by local hydrography and physical forcing has important implications for fisheries and higher trophic predators. Although a large body of research has described how fronts, hydrographic boundaries, and different water masses (e.g., mixed vs. stratified) influence phytoplankton and zooplankton communities, comparatively few studies have investigated their influence on gelatinous zooplankton communities. In July 2015, 49 plankton samples were collected from 50 m depth to the surface, across five transects in the Celtic Sea, of which, four crossed the Celtic Sea Front. Two distinct gelatinous communities were found in this dynamic shelf sea: a cold water community in the cooler mixed water that mainly contained neritic taxa and a warm water community in the warmer stratified water that contained a mixture of neritic and oceanic taxa. The gelatinous biomass was 40% greater in the warm water community (∼ 2 mg C m−3) compared with the cold water community (∼ 1.3 mg C m−3). The warm water community was dominated byAglantha digitale, Lizzia blondina, andNanomia bijuga, whereas the cold water community was dominated byClytia hemisphaericaand ctenophores. Physonect siphonophores contributed > 36% to the gelatinous biomass in the warm water community, and their widespread distribution suggests they are ecologically more important than previously thought. A distinct oceanic influence was also recorded in the wider warm water zooplankton community, accounting for a ∼ 20 mg C m−3increase in biomass in that region.
Centralization of strategic decisions during the Great Recession
Authors: Bakonyi Zoltán , Muraközy Balázs
Published: March 2019

We use a survey dataset of more than 14,000 manufacturing firms from seven European countries in order to examine changes in the degree of centralization that followed the Great Recession in 2009. We document three findings. First, we find that a larger fall in sales is associated with a tendency to centralize. The finding is consistent with a theoretical prediction that organizations facing substantial demand shocks are more likely to centralize. Second, we show that the change in the level of centralization during the crisis was accompanied by other decisions characteristic of short‐term optimization. Third, we show that increased centralization has led to slower postcrisis growth even when controlling for the size of the shock and other decisions taken during the crisis.
Resolving degeneracy in diffusion MRI biophysical model parameter estimation using double diffusion encoding
Authors: Coelho Santiago , Pozo Jose M. , Jespersen Sune N. , Jones Derek K. , Frangi Alejandro F.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Biophysical tissue models are increasingly used in the interpretation of diffusion MRI (dMRI) data, with the potential to provide specific biomarkers of brain microstructural changes. However, it has been shown recently that, in the general Standard Model, parameter estimation from dMRI data is ill‐conditioned even when very high b‐values are applied. We analyze this issue for the Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging with Diffusivity Assessment (NODDIDA) model and demonstrate that its extension from single diffusion encoding (SDE) to double diffusion encoding (DDE) resolves the ill‐posedness for intermediate diffusion weightings, producing an increase in accuracy and precision of the parameter estimation.

Methods

We analyze theoretically the cumulant expansion up to fourth order in b of SDE and DDE signals. Additionally, we perform in silico experiments to compare SDE and DDE capabilities under similar noise conditions.

Results

We prove analytically that DDE provides invariant information non‐accessible from SDE, which makes the NODDIDA parameter estimation injective. The in silico experiments show that DDE reduces the bias and mean square error of the estimation along the whole feasible region of 5D model parameter space.

Conclusions

DDE adds additional information for estimating the model parameters, unexplored by SDE. We show, as an example, that this is sufficient to solve the previously reported degeneracies in the NODDIDA model parameter estimation.
A second‐order reduced asymptotic homogenization approach for nonlinear periodic heterogeneous materials
Authors: Fish Jacob , Yang Zhiqiang , Yuan Zifeng
Published: March 2019

An efficient second‐order reduced asymptotic homogenization approach is developed for nonlinear heterogeneous media with large periodic microstructure. The two salient features of the proposed approach are (i) an asymptotic higher‐order nonlinear homogenization that does not require higher‐order continuity of the coarse‐scale solution and (ii) an efficient model reduction scheme for solving higher‐order nonlinear unit cell problems at a fraction of computational cost in comparison to the direct computational homogenization. The former is a consequence of a sequential solution of increasing order solutions, which permits evaluation of higher‐order coarse‐scale derivatives by postprocessing from the zeroth‐order solution. The efficiency and accuracy of the formulation in comparison to the classical zeroth‐order homogenization and direct numerical simulations are assessed on hyperelastic and elastoplastic periodic structures.
Robust topology optimization of compliant mechanisms with uncertainties in output stiffness
Authors: Cardoso E. L. , da Silva G. A. , Beck A. T.
Published: March 2019

This work addresses the topology optimization approach to design robust compliant mechanisms with respect to uncertainties in the output stiffness, when compared to the traditional deterministic approach. To this end, two formulations are proposed: probabilistic and nonprobabilistic. The probabilistic formulation minimizes a joint objective function of expected output displacement plus a measure of its standard deviations, for given statistical distribution of the output stiffness. The nonprobabilistic formulation is written as minimization of a joint function of the median of output displacements, plus the width of the intervals that contains the extreme values of the output displacements, for a given interval of output stiffness. The Monte Carlo simulation method is used to evaluate expected values and standard deviations of output displacements in the probabilistic formulation and to assess results obtained with the deterministic approach. It is shown that both formulations lead to designs where output displacements are less sensitive to variations of output stiffness when compared to the traditional deterministic approach. Furthermore, as an additional benefit, it is observed that large variations of output stiffness can hinder the appearance of one‐node connected hinges, usually found in the deterministic design of compliant mechanisms.