bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large Area Self‐Assembled Ultrathin Polyimine Nanofilms Formed at the Liquid–Liquid Interface Used for Molecular Separation
Authors: Tiwari Karishma , Sarkar Pulak , Modak Solagna , Singh Harwinder , Pramanik Sumit Kumar , Karan Santanu , Das Amitava
Published: January 2020

Separation membranes with higher molecular weight cut‐offs are needed to separate ions and small molecules from a mixed feed. The molecular sieving phenomenon can be utilized to separate smaller species with well‐defined dimensions from a mixture. Here, the formation of freestanding polyimine nanofilms with thicknesses down to ≈14 nm synthesized via self‐assembly of pre‐synthesized imine oligomers is reported. Nanofilms are fabricated at the water–xylene interface followed by reversible condensation of polymerization according to the Pieranski theory. Polyimine nanofilm composite membranes are made via transferring the freestanding nanofilm onto ultrafiltration supports. High water permeance of 49.5 L m‐2 h−1 bar−1 is achieved with a complete rejection of brilliant blue‐R (BBR; molecular weight = 825 g mol−1) and no more than 10% rejection of monovalent and divalent salts. However, for a mixed feed of BBR dye and monovalent salt, the salt rejection is increased to ≈18%. Membranes are also capable of separating small dyes (e.g., methyl orange; MO; molecular weight = 327 g mol−1) from a mixed feed of BBR and MO. Considering a thickness of ≈14 nm and its separation efficiency, the present membrane has significance in separation processes.
Ultrafast Electrochemical Synthesis of Defect‐Free In2Se3 Flakes for Large‐Area Optoelectronics
Authors: Shi Huanhuan , Li Mengmeng , Shaygan Nia Ali , Wang Mingchao , Park SangWook , Zhang Zhen , Lohe Martin R. , Yang Sheng , Feng Xinliang
Published: January 2020

Because of its thickness‐dependent direct bandgap and exceptional optoelectronic properties, indium(III) selenide (In2Se3) has emerged as an important semiconductor for electronics and optoelectronics. However, the scalable synthesis of defect‐free In2Se3 flakes remains a significant barrier for its practical applications. Here, a facile electrochemical strategy is presented for the ultrafast delamination of bulk layered In2Se3 crystals in nonaqueous media, resulting in high‐yield (83%) production of defect‐free In2Se3 flakes with large lateral size (up to 26 µm). The intercalation of tetrahexylammonium (THA+) ions mainly creates stage‐3 intercalated compounds in which every three layers of In2Se3 are occupied by one layer of THA molecules. The subsequent exfoliation leads to a majority of trilayer In2Se3 nanosheets. As a proof of concept, solution‐processed, large‐area (400 µm × 20 µm) thin‐film photodetectors embedded with the exfoliated In2Se3 flakes reveal ultrafast response time with a rise and decay of 41 and 39 ms, respectively, and efficient responsivity (1 mA W−1). Such performance surpasses most of the state‐of‐the‐art thin‐film photodetectors based on transition metal dichalcogenides.
Cutting management of alfalfa‐based mixtures in contrasting agroclimatic regions
Authors: Bélanger Gilles , Tremblay Gaëtan F. , Seguin Philippe , Lajeunesse Julie , Bittman Shabtai , Hunt Derek
Published: January 2020

Cutting schedules affect forage yield, nutritive value, and persistence but few studies have recently assessed the effect of intensive cutting schedules on alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)‐based mixtures. We determined the effects of (a) cutting at early bud vs. early bloom of alfalfa, (b) a fall cut, (c) alfalfa–grass mixture vs. pure alfalfa, (d) one vs. two grasses, and (e) tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinacea [Schreb.] Dumort.) vs. timothy (Phleum pratense L.) in an experiment over four post‐seeding years at four sites with four cutting schedules on four alfalfa‐based mixtures. Cutting alfalfa at early bud rather than early bloom reduced annual forage dry matter (DM) yield by 2.03 Mg ha−1 and alfalfa contribution to DM yield by 17 percentage units, increased forage total digestible nutrient (TDN) concentration by 44 g kg−1 DM but did not increase estimated annual milk production per hectare. A fall cut did not improve annual forage DM yield and estimated annual milk production per hectare but reduced alfalfa contribution to DM yield. Pure alfalfa resulted in 1.09 Mg DM ha−1 less annual forage DM yield than alfalfa grown with one or two grasses. Two forage grasses with alfalfa compared with just one grass had no effect on forage DM yield and estimated annual milk production per hectare. The response of forage DM yield and estimated annual milk production per hectare to timothy or tall fescue with alfalfa varied with site but forage TDN concentration and alfalfa contribution to DM yield were generally greater with timothy than tall fescue.
Amphiphilic Polyphenylene Dendron Conjugates for Surface Remodeling of Adenovirus 5
Authors: Wagner Jessica , Li Longjie , Simon Johanna , Krutzke Lea , Landfester Katharina , Mailänder Volker , Müllen Klaus , Ng David Y. W. , Wu Yuzhou , Weil Tanja
Published: January 2020

Amphiphilic surface groups play an important role in many biological processes. The synthesis of amphiphilic polyphenylene dendrimer branches (dendrons), providing alternating hydrophilic and lipophilic surface groups and one reactive ethynyl group at the core is reported. The amphiphilic surface groups serve as biorecognition units that bind to the surface of adenovirus 5 (Ad5), which is a common vector in gene therapy. The Ad5/dendron complexes showed high gene transduction efficiencies in coxsackie‐adenovirus receptor (CAR)‐negative cells. Moreover, the dendrons offer incorporation of new functions at the dendron core by in situ post‐modifications, even when bound to the Ad5 surface. Surfaces coated with these dendrons were analyzed for their blood‐protein binding capacity, which is essential to predict their performance in the blood stream. A new platform for introducing bioactive groups to the Ad5 surface without chemically modifying the virus particles is provided.
Monolayer Two‐dimensional Molecular Crystals for an Ultrasensitive OFET‐based Chemical Sensor
Authors: Li Haiyang , Shi Yanjun , Han Guangchao , Liu Jie , Zhang Jing , Li Chunlei , Liu Jie , Yi Yuanping , Li Tao , Gao Xike , Di Chongan , Huang Jia , Che Yanke , Wang Dong , Hu Wenping , Liu Yunqi , Jiang Lang
Published: January 2020

The sensitivity of conventional thin‐film OFET‐based sensors is limited by the diffusion of analytes through bulk films and remains the central challenge in sensing technology. Now, for the first time, an ultrasensitive (sub‐ppb level) sensor is reported that exploits n‐type monolayer molecular crystals (MMCs) with porous two‐dimensional structures. Thanks to monolayer crystal structure of NDI3HU‐DTYM2 (NDI) and controlled formation of porous structure, a world‐record detection limit of NH3 (0.1 ppb) was achieved. Moreover, the MMC‐OFETs also enabled direct detection of solid analytes of biological amine derivatives, such as dopamine at an extremely low concentration of 500 ppb. The remarkably improved sensing performances of MMC‐OFETs opens up the possibility of engineering OFETs for ultrasensitive (bio)chemical sensing.
Synthesis and biological screening of some novel 6‐substituted 2‐alkylpyridazin‐3(2H)‐ones as anti‐inflammatory and analgesic agents
Authors: Loksha Yasser M. , Abd‐Alhaseeb Mohammad M.
Published: January 2020

Some novel derivatives of 2‐alkyl 6‐substituted pyridazin‐3(2H)‐ones were synthesized by condensation of 3,6‐dichloropyridazine with the sodium salt of benzyl cyanide, followed by hydrolysis and coupling with alkyl halides. The synthesized compounds were screened as cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1/COX‐2 inhibitors and as analgesic and anti‐inflammatory agents. Among the synthesized compounds, 6‐benzyl‐2‐methylpyridazin‐3(2H)‐one (4a), 6‐benzoyl‐2‐propylpyridazin‐3(2H)‐one (8b), and 6‐(hydroxy(phenyl)methyl)‐2‐methylpyridazin‐3(2H)‐one (9a) displayed the highest COX‐2 selectivity indices of 96, 99, and 98, respectively, and analgesic efficacies of 47%, 46%, and 45% protection, respectively. Also, compounds 4a, 8b, and 9a showed anti‐inflammatory activities of 65%, 60%, and 62% inhibition of edema, respectively, at a dose of 10 mg/kg, which is higher than that of diclofenac (58% inhibition of edema).
Vibrational Energy Transfer in a Water Chain
Authors: Ree Jongbaik , Kim Yoo Hang , Shin Hyung Kyu
Published: January 2020

Vibrational energy transfer through hydrogen bonding in water chains is a fast and efficient process. The chain consisting of 10 water molecules and a ground‐state nitric oxide at the end is collisionally excited by another nitric oxide molecule with an excess vibrational energy corresponding to in the v = 1 state from the other end, where the energy transfer proceeds through the hydrogen bonds. Energy transfer from the impact site to the end of chain occurs in a picosecond time scale, taking a subpicosecond over single hydrogen bond. The energy transfer pathway is a sequence of the initial OH‐stretching excitation on the impact to the OH bending overtone mode and then to the bound nitric oxide through a series of low‐frequency intermolecular vibrational states. More than 80% of the initial OH‐stretching excitation passes through the hydrogen bonds and deposits in the bound nitric oxide at the end of the chain. In the majority of trajectories, energy passing through the N…H bond at the terminal site leads to its subsequent bond rupture, thus producing a vibrationally excited nitric oxide in the region remote from the initial impact site.
Identification of Human IDO1 Enzyme Activity by Using Genetically Encoded Nitrotyrosine
Authors: Zheng Zhaopeng , Guo Xuzhen , Yu Minling , Wang Xiaoyan , Lu Hongguang , Li Fahui , Wang Jiangyun
Published: January 2020

Human indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) has become an increasingly valuable target for cancer immunotherapy because it promotes immune escape by tumor cells. To date, the function of post‐translational modifications (PTMs) on IDO1 has not been fully elucidated. Among the many forms of PTMs, it has been identified that three tyrosine sites (Y15, Y345, and Y353) on IDO1 are nitrated and play important roles in catalytic function. Herein, by genetically encoding 3‐nitro‐l‐tyrosine into the tyrosine nitration sites of IDO1, the homogeneous and native nitrated IDO1 have been obtained. It is found that the nitration of different tyrosine sites has different effects on the IDO1 structure and enzyme activity. Nitration at position Y15 has a negligible effect, but nitration at Y345 or Y353 decreases the enzyme activity, especially Y353. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that the regulation of the catalytic function caused by tyrosine nitration is related to perturbation of the protein structure and heme‐binding disruption.
Dental management of scleroderma patients using pentoxifylline plus vitamin E with and without TheraBite® to reduce trismus: Two case reports and brief review of literature
Authors: Reed Daniel N. , Hall David L. , Cottle James H. , Frimenko Katherine , Horton Christina K. , Abu Sharkh Farah , Beckett Rachel , Hernandez Brandon , Mabe Hannah , Mansour Shadee T. , Rodriguez Sebastian A. , Weprin Bradley , Yarborough Leigh E.
Published: January 2020

To provide evidence supporting the off label use of pentoxifylline and vitamin E especially by dentists with TheraByte to reduce trismus in scleroderma patients.
Effect of Surface Tension on Hydrodynamics and Mass Transfer Coefficient in Airlift Reactors
Authors: Kumar Nikesh , Gupta Renu , Bansal Ajay
Published: January 2020

The hydrodynamics and volumetric mass transfer coefficient play important roles in the design and scale‐up of airlift reactors. The effect of surface tension on hydrodynamics and volumetric mass transfer coefficient in internal loop airlift reactors was investigated. With reduction of the surface tension of the fluid, the hydrodynamic parameters raised, namely, gas phase holdup, flow regime transition point, and interfacial area, whereas the bubble diameter as well as the liquid velocity decreased and the volumetric mass transfer coefficient increased. Empirical correlations are proposed for gas‐phase holdup and volumetric mass transfer coefficient in terms of dimensionless numbers and can be applied in the design of airlift reactors.
Synthesis and Supramolecular Functional Assemblies of Ratiometric pH Probes
Authors: Méndez‐Ardoy Alejandro , Reina Jose J. , Montenegro Javier
Published: January 2020

Tracking pH with spatiotemporal resolution is a critical challenge for synthetic chemistry, chemical biology and beyond. Over the last decade, different small probes and supramolecular systems have emerged for in cellulo or in vivo pH tracking. However, pH reporting still presents critical limitations, such as background reduction, improved sensor stability, cell targeting, endosomal escape, near‐ and far‐infrared ratiometric pH tracking and adaption to new imaging techniques (i.e., super‐resolution). These challenges will require the combined efforts of synthetic and supramolecular chemistry working together to develop the next generation of smart materials that will resolve current limitations. Herein, recent advances in the synthesis of small fluorescent probes, together with new supramolecular functional systems employed for pH tracking, are described with an emphasis on ratiometric probes. The combination of organic synthesis and stimuli‐responsive supramolecular functional materials will be essential to solve future challenges of pH tracking, such as improved signal to noise ratio, on target activation and microenvironment reporting.
Exciton Interactions, Excimer Formation, and [2π+2π] Photodimerization in Nonconjugated Curcuminoid‐BF2 Dimers
Authors: Catherin Manon , Uranga‐Barandiaran Olatz , Brosseau Arnaud , Métivier Rémi , Canard Gabriel , D'Aléo Anthony , Casanova David , Castet Frédéric , Zaborova Elena , Fages Frédéric
Published: January 2020

We describe the synthesis of a series of covalently linked dimers of quadrupolar curcuminoid‐BF2 dyes and the detailed investigation of their solvent‐dependent spectroscopic and photophysical properties. In solvents of low polarity, intramolecular folding induces the formation of aggregated chromophores, the UV/Vis absorption spectra of which display the optical signature characteristic of weakly‐coupled H‐aggregates. The extent of folding and, in turn, of ground‐state aggregation is strongly dependent on the nature of the flexible linker. Steady‐state and time‐resolved fluorescence emission spectroscopies show that the Frenkel exciton relaxes into a fluorescent symmetrical excimer state with a long lifetime. Furthermore, our in‐depth studies show that a weakly emitting excimer lies on the pathway toward a photocyclomer. Two‐dimensional 1H NMR spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT) allowed the structure of the photoproduct to be established. To our knowledge, this represents the first example of a [2π+2π] photodimerization of the curcuminoid chromophore.
Amino‐Induced 2D Cu‐Based Metal–Organic Framework as an Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for Aerobic Oxidation of Olefins
Authors: Tang Jia , Cai Mengke , Xie Guanqun , Bao Shixiong , Ding Shujiang , Wang Xiaoxia , Tao Jinzhang , Li Guangqin
Published: January 2020

With the assistance of hydrogen bonds of the o‐amino group, we have successfully tuned a coordination structure from a metal–organic polyhedron (MOP) to a two‐dimensional (2D) metal–organic framework (MOF). The amino group forms hydrogen bonds with the two vicinal carboxylic groups, and induces the ligand to coordinate with copper ions to form the 2D structure. The obtained 2D Cu‐based MOF (Cu‐AIA) has been applied as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst in the aerobic epoxidation of olefins by using air as oxygen source. Without the aggregation problem of active sites in MOPs, Cu‐AIA possesses much higher reactivity than MOP‐1. Furthermore, the amino group of the framework has been used as a modifiable site through post‐synthetic metalation (PSMet) to prepare a 2D MOF‐supported Pd single‐site heterogeneous catalyst, which shows excellent catalytic performance for the Suzuki reaction. It indicates that Cu‐AIA can also work as a good 2D MOF carrier for the derivation of other heterogeneous catalysts.
Atropisomers of meso Tetra(N‐Mesyl Pyrrol‐2‐yl) Porphyrins: Synthesis, Isolation and Characterization of All‐Pyrrolic Porphyrins
Authors: Zhu Leiming , Himmel Leonard , Merkes Jean Michél , Kiessling Fabian , Rueping Magnus , Banala Srinivas
Published: January 2020

Atropisomerism has been observed in a variety of biaryl compounds and meso‐aryl substituted porphyrins. However, in porphyrins, this phenomenon had been shown only with o‐substituted 6‐membered aromatic groups at the meso‐position. We show herein that a 5‐membered heteroaromatic (N‐mesyl‐pyrrol‐2‐yl) group at the meso‐position leads to atropisomerism. In addition, we report a ‘one‐pot’ synthetic route for the synthesis of ‘all‐pyrrolic’ porphyrin (APP) with several N‐protection groups (Boc, Cbz, Ms and Ts). Among these groups, we found that only the Ms group gave four individually separable atropisomers of meso‐tetra(N‐Ms‐pyrrol‐2‐yl) porphyrin. Furthermore, the reductive removal of Cbz‐ was achieved to obtain meso‐tetra(pyrrol‐2‐yl) porphyrin. Thus, our synthetic procedure provides an easy access to a group of APPs and stable atropisomers, which is expected to expand the application of novel APP‐based materials.
MTF shows increase in teen vaping, especially marijuana vaping
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: January 2020

When the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) released its annual Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey in December, the nationally representative sample of eighth, 10th, and 12th graders in U.S. schools showed an increase in the prevalence of vaping, which has more than doubled in the past two years. .
Diagnostic capability of fine‐needle aspiration cytology in assessment of intraosseous lesions of the jaws: A systematic review
Authors: Pilati Sarah F. M. , dos Santos Natália , Melo Gilberto , Mello Fernanda W. , Rivero Elena R. C.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To systematically review (SR) and critically appraise studies that investigated the diagnostic capability of fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the assessment of intraosseous lesions of the jaws.

Methods

Six main electronic databases and three gray literature databases were searched aiming diagnostic studies, which were selected in a two‐phase process. Risk of bias (RoB) of included studies was assessed using the Revised Tool for the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies.

Results

A total of eight articles were included, of which six evaluated the FNAC smear technique exclusively, one assessed both smear and cell‐block techniques, while one investigated only the cell‐block technique. With regard to the FNAC smear technique, from 134 benign lesions investigated, concordance with the histopathological diagnosis was achieved in 64.17% of cases. In addition, considering the 32 malignant lesions assessed through this technique, concordance with histopathology was achieved in all cases. Regarding the cell‐block technique, only benign lesions (n = 40) were evaluated in the included studies, in which the concordance rate with histopathology was of 77.5%. The overall RoB judgment was “at risk of bias” for seven included studies mostly due to lack of information or reportedly absence of blinding of evaluator.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this SR, FNAC presented modest to satisfactory diagnostic capability for the assessment of intraosseous jaw lesions, showing concordance rates higher than 64% for the smear and 77% for the cell‐block technique. Also, considerably high concordance rates were found for the assessment of malignant lesions regarding FNAC smear technique.
Seed mass, hardness, and phylogeny explain the potential for endozoochory by granivorous waterbirds
Authors: Lovas‐Kiss Ádám , Vincze Orsolya , Kleyheeg Erik , Sramkó Gábor , Laczkó Levente , Fekete Réka , Molnár V. Attila , Green Andy J.
Published: January 2020

Field studies have shown that waterbirds, especially members of the Anatidae family, are major vectors of dispersal by endozoochory for a broad range of plants lacking a fleshy fruit, yet whose propagules can survive gut passage. Widely adopted dispersal syndromes ignore this dispersal mechanism, and we currently have little understanding of what traits determine the potential of angiosperms for endozoochory by waterbirds. Results from previous experimental studies have been inconsistent as to how seed traits affect seed survival and retention time in the gut and have failed to control for the influence of plant phylogeny. Using 13 angiosperm species from aquatic and terrestrial habitats representing nine families, we examined the effects of seed size, shape, and hardness on the proportion of seeds surviving gut passage through mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and their retention time within the gut. We compiled a molecular phylogeny for these species and controlled for the nonindependence of taxa due to common descent in our analyses. Intact seeds from all 13 species were egested, but seed survival was strongly determined by phylogeny and by partial effects of seed mass and hardness (wet load): species with seeds harder than expected from their size, and smaller than expected from their loading, had greater survival. Once phylogeny was controlled for, a positive partial effect of seed roundness on seed survival was also revealed. Species with seeds harder than expected from their size had a longer mean retention time, a result retained after controlling for phylogeny. Our study is the first to demonstrate that seed shape and phylogeny are important predictors of seed survival in the avian gut. Our results demonstrate that the importance of controlling simultaneously for multiple traits and relating single traits (e.g., seed size) alone to seed survival or retention time is not a reliable way to detect important patterns, especially when phylogenetic effects are ignored.
Forecasting stock volatility in the presence of extreme shocks: Short‐term and long‐term effects
Authors: Wang Lu , Ma Feng , Liu Guoshan
Published: January 2020

This paper introduces a novel generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity–mixed data sampling–extreme shocks (GARCH‐MIDAS‐ES) model for stock volatility to examine whether the importance of extreme shocks changes in different time ranges. Based on different combinations of the short‐ and long‐term effects caused by extreme events, we extend the standard GARCH‐MIDAS model to characterize the different responses of the stock market for short‐ and long‐term horizons, separately or in combination. The unique timespan of nearly 100 years of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) daily returns allows us to understand the stock market volatility under extreme shocks from a historical perspective. The in‐sample empirical results clearly show that the DJIA stock volatility is best fitted to the GARCH‐MIDAS‐SLES model by including the short‐ and long‐term impacts of extreme shocks for all forecasting horizons. The out‐of‐sample results and robustness tests emphasize the significance of decomposing the effect of extreme shocks into short‐ and long‐term effects to improve the accuracy of the DJIA volatility forecasts.
Simulation and statistical modelling approaches to investigate hydrologic regime transformations following Eastern hemlock decline
Authors: Singh Kanishka , Knighton James , Whitmore Mark , Walter M. Todd , Lassoie James P.
Published: January 2020

Ecohydrological processes occurring at or near the Earth's surface are strongly influenced by Eastern hemlock [EH; Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carrière], a foundation tree species of eastern North American forests. EH populations are currently threatened by the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA; Adelges tsugae Annand). HWA HWA populations have been expanding rapidly throughout the EH's range. Catchment‐scale research examining the hydrological consequences of HWA infestation is lacking, and plot‐scale studies remain conflicted in their findings. Given the complex relationships between canopy interception, unsaturated and saturated groundwater storage, and root water uptake, it is not immediately clear how EH loss will affect the hydrologic cycle. We investigated the impact of EH mortality on stream discharge characteristics across a regional sample of catchments utilizing both simulation and statistical modelling approaches. We first examined the relationship between various catchment characteristics, including EH health, and three hydrological variables through regression analysis. We then employed a non‐parametric statistical test to evaluate differences in hydrologic regime trends between non‐infested and infested catchments. Finally, we calibrated a physically based hydrologic model and considered differences in optimal model parameter values and simulated overland runoff between non‐infested and infested catchments. HWA presence modified several ecohydrological characteristics and precipitation partitioning between groundwater flows and surface runoff, potentially driving higher stream flashiness and overland flow, lower baseflow contributions and catchment storage, shorter flow‐path lengths, and variable source area dilation at infested sites. Our results suggest that EH decline will augment flooding potential associated with the increasing frequency and intensity of Atlantic Basin tropical cyclone events. Further, our physically based simulation provides more determinate results than regression analysis, indicating that a purely statistical methodology, commonly utilized in studying the relationship between landcover characteristics and hydrologic regime, neglects dynamic physical ecohydrologic relationships.
Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy and colorectal cancer risk by molecular subtypes and pathways
Authors: Amitay Efrat L. , Carr Prudence R. , Jansen Lina , Alwers Elizabeth , Roth Wilfried , Herpel Esther , Kloor Matthias , Bläker Hendrik , Chang‐Claude Jenny , Brenner Hermann , Hoffmeister Michael
Published: January 2020

Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was found to be associated with lower risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, little is known regarding associations with molecular subtypes of CRC. The current study includes female participants of a large German population‐based case–control study (922 CRC cases and 1,183 controls). Tumor tissue samples were analyzed for microsatellite instability (MSI), CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP), BRAF and KRAS mutation status. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association of HRT use with molecular subtypes and pathways. Postmenopausal HRT use was overall associated with reduced risk of CRC (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50–0.76) and no major differences were observed for molecular subtypes or for tumor marker combinations representing molecular pathways. When stratified by median age (≤/>71 years) potentially stronger risk reductions were observed in the older group for subtypes showing MSI (OR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.17–0.76), BRAF mutation (OR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.30–0.83) and CIMP‐high (OR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.21–0.73) and for CRC suggestive of the sessile serrated pathway (OR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.20–1.01). In conclusion, postmenopausal use of HRT was similarly associated with risk reduction of major molecular tumor subtypes and pathways of CRC. Potentially stronger risk reductions with CRC subtypes diagnosed at higher ages require confirmation and clarification from other studies. The current study extends the limited understanding of the mechanisms of HRT in CRC prevention.
Dual‐hybrid direct random phase approximation and second‐order screened exchange with nonlocal van der Waals correlations for noncovalent interactions
Authors: Yu Feng , Wang Yaoting
Published: January 2020

We have added the nonlocal van der Waals correlation energy functional of Vydrov and Van Voorhis in 2010 (VV10NL) to the dual‐hybrid direct random phase approximation (dRPA75) and second‐order screened exchange (SOSEX75) for noncovalent interactions. The obtained methods are denoted as dRPA75‐NL and SOSEX75‐NL, and the corresponding short‐range attenuation parameters are fitted with the large aug‐cc‐pV5Z basis set against the S66 dataset. Therefore, the dRPA75‐NL method overcomes the error cancellation problem of the dRPA75 method with the relatively small aug‐cc‐pVTZ basis set for noncovalent interactions. Based on our benchmark computations, the dRPA75‐NL and SOSEX75‐NL methods perform very well on evaluating noncovalent interaction energies. Compared with the double‐hybrid density functionals (DHDFs) of DSD‐PBEP86‐NL and DOD‐PBEP86‐NL, the dRPA75‐NL and SOSEX75‐NL methods perform much better on charge transfer interactions. Furthermore, the SOSEX75‐NL method also gives insight into the development of computational methods for both closed‐shell and open‐shell noncovalent interactions. In summary, our computations demonstrate that even the full dRPA and SOSEX correlations still need additional dispersion corrections for noncovalent interactions.
Genetic variation in NRG 1 gene and risk of post‐traumatic stress disorders in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Luo Liumei , Li Li , Guo Min , Chen Xi , Lin Yuzhu , Wu Dingyin
Published: January 2020

Objective

Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) was proved to play an important role in numerous neurodevelopmental processes. In our study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the NRG1 gene polymorphism and the cognitive function of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) complicated with post‐traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) before and after the psychological intervention.

Methods

Mini‐mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA) were used for cognitive function assessment. Serum level of NRG1 was detected by ELISA, and the correlation between NRG1 level and cognitive function was analyzed. The difference of cognitive function score of patients with HCC complicated with PTSD before and after psychological intervention was compared, and the relationship between rs35753505 and rs3924999 polymorphism with the score was analyzed.

Results

Patients with HCC complicated with PTSD showed decreased serum NRG1 level. NRG1 levels of patients in the HCC + PTSD group were positively correlated with MMSE, MoCA, and LOTCA scores. In rs35753505, the CC genotype was a risk factor for the occurrence of PTSD in patients with HCC, while in rs3924999, the GG genotype was a risk factor for the occurrence of PTSD in patients with HCC. After psychological intervention, the CC genotype at rs35753505 and the GG genotype at rs3924999 were susceptible genotypes.

Conclusion

CC genotype at rs35753505 and GG genotype at rs3924999 of NRG1 gene increased the risk of PTSD in patients with HCC. CC and GG genotypes were susceptible after psychological intervention.
INCOME INEQUALITY AND CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS: EVIDENCE FROM LATIN AMERICA
Authors: Mittmann Zenir , de Mattos Ely José
Published: January 2020

The recent literature has explored the ambiguous theoretical links between inequality and environmental impact. However, few studies have investigated those links in developing countries. This paper explores the role of income inequality in the per capita emission of CO2 in Latin America. We estimate the impact of income inequality on carbon dioxide emissions, while simultaneously considering national income levels. The results suggest quadratic relationships between environmental impact and both gross domestic product per capita and inequality. Income inequality influences CO2 emissions, but the direction depends on income level. The complexities of the results are analytically explored in the paper. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dietary flavonoid intake and risk of periodontitis
Authors: Alhassani Ahmed A. , Hu Frank B. , Rimm Eric B. , Li Yanping , Rosner Bernard A. , Willett Walter C. , Joshipura Kaumudi J.
Published: January 2020

Background

The anti‐inflammatory effect associated with flavonoid‐containing foods and beverages could potentially impact the risk of periodontal disease. We prospectively investigate the associations between habitual flavonoid intake and incidence of periodontitis.

Methods

The study population was 34,940 men from the Health Professionals Follow‐Up Study, who were healthy and free of periodontal disease at baseline (1986). Participants in the study provided medical and dental history through mailed questionnaires biennially, and provided dietary data through semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaires every 4 years. We examined the associations between total flavonoids and six flavonoid subclasses (flavonoid polymers, anthocyanins, flavan‐3‐ols, flavanones, flavones, and flavonols) and incidence of periodontitis using Cox proportional hazard models. We adjusted for age, smoking, body mass index, physical activity, alcohol consumption, Alternative Healthy Eating Index, and diabetes.

Results

There was no association between total flavonoids and the risk of periodontitis. The hazard ratio comparing the highest quintile of total flavonoid to the lowest quintile was 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.87 to 1.08, P‐value for trend = 0.61). Similar comparisons for flavonoids subclasses also did not show significant associations.

Conclusion

No association was detected between habitual flavonoid intake and risk of periodontitis in the study population.
Effect of interleukin‐22 on osteogenic differentiation and the osteoclastogenic response of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts in vitro
Authors: Zhao Chuanjiang , Chen Qianying , Yu Shaojie , Xu Chenrong , Li Xiting , Zhang Chi , Gao Li
Published: January 2020

Background

Interleukin‐22 (IL‐22) exerts extensive biological effects, playing both protective and pathological roles in autoimmune and infectious diseases. However, the specific role and mechanism of IL‐22 in the pathogenesis of periodontitis have not been clarified. The aim of this study was to analyze the possible roles of IL‐22 in the osteoclastogenesis and osteogenesis of periodontitis.

Methods

Human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLFs) were treated with IL‐22 and/or lipopolysaccharide from Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg‐LPS), and the mRNA and protein expression of RANKL and OPG were measured by qRT‐PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Western blotting was also used to examine the phosphorylated and total protein expression of MAPK signaling molecules. The role of the MAPK pathway in osteoclastogenesis marker expression was further confirmed by inhibition assays. For osteogenic assays, the mRNA expression of osteoblastic markers was quantified by qRT‐PCR, the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of hPDLFs was measured by an ALP assay, and the mineralized nodules formed by hPDLFs were determined by Alizarin Red S staining.

Results

IL‐22 promoted the expression of RANKL in hPDLFs via the MAPK signaling pathway and further upregulated RANKL expression together with Pg‐LPS via the p38 MAPK pathway. IL‐22 could enhance the ALP activity and mineralized nodule formation of hPDLFs in the early period of osteogenic induction, while exhibiting no profound effect on the expression of osteoblastic markers.

Conclusion

IL‐22 plays regulatory roles in bone homeostasis, and it is likely to contribute to osteoclastogenesis as a proinflammatory cytokine in the pathogenesis of periodontitis.
Diode‐Pumped Laser Operation of Tb3+:LiLuF4 in the Green and Yellow Spectral Range
Authors: Castellano‐Hernández Elena , Kalusniak Sascha , Metz Philip W. , Kränkel Christian
Published: January 2020

Here, a diode‐pumped laser based on trivalent terbium (Tb3+) as the active ion is reported. Optical pumping of a Tb3+‐doped lithium‐lutetium‐fluoride (LiLuF4) crystal with up to 200 mW from a diode laser emitting at a wavelength of 488.2 nm enables continuous‐wave lasing directly in the green and in the yellow. At an emission wavelength of 542 nm, the laser reaches an output power of up to 43.8 mW with a high slope efficiency of 52% with respect to the absorbed pump power. The yellow laser at 587 nm exhibits a slope efficiency of 22% and the output power of 13.8 mW is only limited by the available pump power. Laser thresholds as low as 14 and 27 mW of absorbed pump power are observed for the green and yellow, respectively. The investigations toward further optimization of the laser performance reveal that highly Tb3+‐doped materials are suitable for compact, efficient, and affordable diode‐pumped solid‐state lasers with direct emission in the visible spectral range. These results are of high relevance, as in particular for the yellow spectral range such systems are currently not available.
MYORG Mutation Heterozygosity Is Associated With Brain Calcification
Authors: Chen You , Cen Zhidong , Chen Xinhui , Wang Haotian , Chen Si , Yang Dehao , Fu Feng , Wang Lebo , Liu Peng , Wu Hongwei , Zheng Xiaosheng , Xie Fei , Ouyang Zhiyuan , Zhang Yun , Zhou Yongji , Huang Xuerong , Wang Feng , Huang Guangsu , An Hongwei , Liang Yubing , Hong Weijun , Wang Anli , Huang Shuangling , Chen Wenhai , Yin Lili , Yang Yan , Huang Huayun , Zeng Ruxin , Zhao Na , Jiang Biao , Zhang Baorong , Luo Wei ,   the Chinese PFBC Study Group
Published: January 2020

Background

Biallelic mutations in the MYORG gene were first identified as the cause of recessively inherited primary familial brain calcification. Interestingly, some heterozygous carriers also exhibited brain calcifications.

Objectives

To further investigate the role of single heterozygous MYORG mutations in the development of brain calcifications.

Methods

A nation‐wide cohort of Chinese primary familial brain calcification probands was enrolled from March 2016 through September 2019. Mutational analysis of MYORG was performed in 435 primary familial brain calcification probands who were negative for mutations in the other four known primary familial brain calcification–causative genes (SLC20A2, PDGFRB, PDGFB, and XPR1).

Results

Biallelic MYORG mutations were identified in 14 primary familial brain calcification patients from 10 unrelated families. Interestingly, 12 heterozygous carriers from seven of these families also exhibited mild‐to‐moderate brain calcifications. Moreover, single heterozygous mutations were detected in an additional 9 probands and in 7 of their family members affected with brain calcifications. In our cohort, clinical and imaging penetrance of individuals with biallelic mutations were 100%, whereas among individuals with heterozygous mutations, penetrance of imaging phenotype was reduced to 73.7% (28 of 38) and clinical penetrance was much lower. Most (34 of 38) remained asymptomatic whereas 4 carriers had symptoms of uncertain clinical significance (nonspecific depression, epilepsy and late‐onset parkinsonism). Compared with individuals with biallelic MYORG mutations, individuals with heterozygous mutations had brain calcifications with much lower calcification scores (P < 2e‐16).

Conclusions

Presence of brain calcifications in individuals with heterozygous MYORG mutations suggested a semidominant inheritance pattern with incomplete penetrance. This finding further expanded the genotype‐phenotype correlations of MYORG‐related primary familial brain calcification. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Small fiber neuropathy in unexpected clinical settings: a review
Authors: Ghasemi Majid , Rajabally Yusuf A.
Published: January 2020

Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is being recognized with increasing frequency in neuromuscular practice due to improved diagnostic techniques. Although there are some common etiologies, up to one‐third of cases are considered idiopathic. In recent years, several disorders have unexpectedly been reported in association with SFN, on clinical grounds and complementary investigations, including quantitative sensory testing, intraepidermal nerve fiber density and confocal corneal microscopy. Knowledge of these disorders is important in clinical practice as increased awareness enables prompt diagnosis of SFN in these settings and early optimal therapeutic management of affected patients. Furthermore, these new developments may lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying SFN in these different disorders as well as, in some cases, an expanded spectrum of affected organs and systems. This article reviews these reported associations, their possible pathophysiologic bases, and the potential resulting management implications.
Estimation of near‐surface Q factor under constraint of layered velocity based on uphole survey data
Authors: Zhao Qiufang , Yun Meihou , Li Xiaobin , Li Weina , Dang Pengfei
Published: January 2020

To improve the resolution of seismic data, it is important to accurately estimate the near‐surface quality factor, Q, which provides a measure of seismic wave attenuation. In view of the unique advantages provided by uphole surveys when investigating near‐surface structures, they are widely employed to estimate the near‐surface Q factor. However, the Q factor estimated using the traditional spectral ratio method is not always precise and provides larger oscillations in the estimated Q factors due to errors associated with first‐break picking and velocity estimation. Following on the traditional logarithmic spectral ratio method, a new method called the logarithmic spectral ratio integral method was proposed to estimate the layer Q factor using uphole survey data. It calculates first the weighted integral of the logarithmic spectral ratio in an effective frequency interval between non‐adjacent traces, then makes a linear regression between the inter‐trace travel moveout and the weighted integral of logarithmic spectral ratio under the constraint of velocity stratification. The result of model analysis shows that under an ideal condition (without first‐break picking errors), the layer Q values estimated by the logarithmic spectral ratio integral method are fairly consistent with the true layer‐specific Q values in the model. In addition, the Q values estimated from field‐measured data and data from forward modelling with 10% random noise added, both have smaller mean relative errors than the results using traditional spectral ratio method and the double‐linear regression method. A case study is employed and the results show that the layer Q factor estimated using the new method correlates well with the velocity stratification and is thus applicable for use with various uphole survey observation systems. Furthermore, all results indicate that the logarithmic spectral ratio integral method delivers a more precise and stable estimation of the layered Q than the other methods, and the anti‐noise characteristics are stronger.
Holocene Khoesan health: a biocultural analysis of cranial pathology and trauma
Authors: Gibbon Victoria E. , Davies Bronte
Published: January 2020

A bioarchaeological assessment of human skeletons provides an objective opportunity to study and understand past peoples. Crania were analysed to evaluate health and well‐being of a past Khoesan sample in southern Africa. These data were analysed temporally and spatially (coastal vs inland), and by sex and age. Cranial and dental pathology of 150 adult individuals from the Human Skeletal Collection at the University of Cape Town were assessed. Most individuals were of coastal origin, equally distributed between pre‐ and post‐2000 bp. The sample was nearly equally distributed by sex and consisted primarily of middle‐aged adults (35–50 years at time‐of‐death). Physiological stress was indicated by evidence of nutrient deficiencies and signs of metabolic stress, without significant differences by sex. Cribra orbitalia was more frequent post‐2 000 bp, and linear enamel hypoposlasias were common in those who died at younger ages. Signs of infection were observed in dental tissues as carious lesions, abscess and antemortem tooth loss. Trauma was found in 52% of the sample, 19% was antemortem, with a significant increase post‐2000 bp, 39% were caused perimortem and was significantly higher in women. Significant distributions of pathology indicate an increased stress load from 2000 bp onwards and it was higher among coastal individuals, indicating a critical period with an influx of people migrating into the region causing population displacement, forced internal migration and increased conflict at this time. Despite the seemingly high pathogen load, these individuals were resilient and living through health problems. Across this broad time‐period, the southern African Khoesan lifestyle proves to be adequate to maintain good health and longevity in their social and environmental context.
Polarization study of poly(vinylidene fluoride) films under cyclic electric fields
Authors: Qin Shuang , Zhang Xu , Yu Zheng , Zhao Feng
Published: January 2020

Poly(vinylidene) fluoride (PVDF) is a prototypical piezoelectric polymer, which exhibits a strong piezoelectricity after a poling treatment. In this work, we investigate the polarization behaviors of PVDF film under cyclic electric fields by measuring polarized currents. A compensation method is used to distinguish the polarized current from the capacitive and resistive currents. The PVDF samples with a thickness of 20 or 30 μm and an electrode area of 3 × 3 or 4 × 4 mm2 are employed, respectively. From the observations, we find that the electrode area does not affect the current density, but a thicker film has a higher residual polarization due to its larger fraction of effective switchable dipoles. The amplitude of the applied field primarily determines the residual polarization. Impressively, an α‐ to β‐phase transformation occurs above 225 MV · m−1 and the polarized current reaches the maximum and becomes converges at 350 MV · m−1. Moreover, a high degree and reproducible residual polarization is obtained through gradually increasing applied field from 50 to 350 MV · m−1, and the relative standard deviation is 3.74% for 20 available samples. Furthermore, a dipole switching model is used to describe the polarization behaviors of PVDF with a form of
f(E) = Ae−B|E + C| and the fitting parameters give a further illustration of polarization behaviors in PVDF. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:645–656, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
Figures of the global: Mobility journeys of international school pupils
Authors: Cranston Sophie
Published: January 2020

Existing accounts of global youth mobility frame this as an experience that is out of ordinary, through which young people acquire social and cultural capital. This paper focuses instead on how young people in international schools in England understand their experiences of global mobility. It utilises an innovative methodology where participants were asked to design cartoons about global citizenship. Bringing together literatures on journeys and becomings, the paper examines how the global is represented by young people in the cartoons through scenes and characters. By looking at how the characters interact with scenes and other characters, the paper argues that these act as representations of space–time in international school pupils' global mobility journeys. Through this, the paper demonstrates how this group of mobile young people represent global mobility as a normal experience, which raises wider geographical questions about the intersections between youth and mobility.