bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Candida rugosa Lipase Immobilization on Nylon-6 Grafted and Aminated (Polyvinyl Benzyl Chloride) Microfibers
Authors: Abd Halin Nur Lilani , Al-Khatib Maan Fahmi Rashid , Mohd. Salleh Hamzah , Nasef Mohamed Mahmoud
Published: May 2019

This paper demonstrates a simplified procedure for the preparation of a nylon-6 microfibers based support for the immobilization of Candida rugosa lipase via covalent attachment to enhance the stability and reusability of lipase. The preparation of the support was done by radiation induced graft copolymerization (RIGC) of vinyl benzyl chloride (VBC) onto nylon-6 microfibers followed by amination with ethanolamine to facilitate the immobilization of lipase. Fourier transfer infra red (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to study the chemical and physical changes following grafting, amination and immobilization. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied for the optimization of lipase immobilization on the aminated microfibers. The optimization parameters were incubation time, pH, and lipase concentration. Moreover, this study investigated the effect of temperature, pH, and storage stability and reusability on the lipase in its immobilized and free forms. The developed model from RSM showed an R2 value of 0.9823 and P-value < 0.001 indicating that the model is significant. The optimum temperatures for both immobilized and free lipases were 45 °C, whereas the best pH values for lipase activity were at pH 8 and pH 7, respectively. This study also identifies values for KM and Vmax for both immobilized and free lipase accordingly. Based on the results, immobilized lipase had significantly improved the stability and reusability of lipase compared to that in free forms.
Valorization of the Phosphate Fertilizers Catalytic Activity in 1-(Benzothiazolylamino) Methyl-2-Naphthol Derivatives Synthesis
Authors: Zimou Omar , Malek Badr , Elhallaoui Achraf , Ghailane Tourya , Ghailane Rachida , Boukhris Said , Habbadi Nouzha , Hassikou Amina , Souizi Abdelaziz
Published: May 2019

The present work focused on developing a new protocol of the 1-(benzothiazolylamino) methyl-2-naphthol derivatives synthesis by condensation of three compounds, i.e. aromatic 2-naphthol, 2-aminobenzothiazole and aldehyde. Furthermore, this reaction was carried out in the presence of three heterogeneous phosphate catalysts: monoammonium phosphates (MAP), diammonium phosphate (DAP), and trisuperphosphate (TSP). Moreover, this method offered many advantages, such as: very high yields, shorter reaction times, and the catalysts, can be easily recovered and reused without any loss of their catalytic activities.
A System of Photocatalysis for NAD+ Regeneration of Product of (S)-1-Pheylethanol by Enzymic Catalysis
Authors: Pu Shujin , Zhang Xuan , Huang Han , Yang Chengli , Li Dali , Yang Junfang , Ouyang Jie , Chen Xing , Naseer Sidra , Shi Ruofu
Published: May 2019

In this study, a system of photocatalysis for NAD+ regeneration of enzymatic catalysis was constructed. The optimal conditions for the coupling reaction of photocatalysis and biocatalysis were explored. Blue light was chosen for the efficient reaction and the optimal concentration of VB2 (vitamin B2, riboflavin) was determined. NAD+-dependent (R)-1-phenylethanol dehydrogenase was used in the reaction for transforming (R)-1-phenylethanol to acetophenone. The byproducts of the reaction were just H2O and O2 by means of catalase. The coupling reaction of catalysis and photocatalysis can be used for obtaining (S)-1-phenylethanol through racemization of 1-phenylethanol.
Insights into the mechanism of nitric oxide reductase from a FeB‐depleted variant
Authors: Kahle Maximilian , Blomberg Margareta R. A. , Jareck Sascha , Ädelroth Pia
Published: May 2019

A key step of denitrification, the reduction of toxic nitric oxide to nitrous oxide, is catalysed by cytochrome c‐dependent NO reductase (cNOR). cNOR contains four redox‐active cofactors: three hemes and a nonheme iron (FeB). Heme b3 and FeB constitute the active site, but the specific mechanism of NO‐binding events and reduction is under debate. Here, we used a recently constructed, fully folded and hemylated cNOR variant that lacks FeB to investigate the role of FeB during catalysis. We show that in the FeB‐less cNOR, binding of both NO and O2 to heme b3 still occurs but further reduction is impaired, although to a lesser degree for O2 than for NO. Implications for the catalytic mechanisms of cNOR are discussed.
The cognitive load of narrative lies
Authors: Bird Lisa , Gretton Matthew , Cockerell Robert , Heathcote Andrew
Published: May 2019

Lying is assumed to increase cognitive load, and it has been shown to slow response times to simple questions. We employed a dual‐task methodology, the detection response task (DRT), to assess cognitive load in telling narrative lies in a live, open‐question interview. The DRT requires participants to press a button in response to a tactile stimulus every 3–5 s while performing a primary task, in this case, recounting either truthful or deceitful narratives. We found weak support for slowing in the time to initiate a narrative response when lying. In contrast, we found strong support for an increase in cognitive load when producing a narrative lie, as measured by both slowed DRT responses and increased response omissions, although this effect decreased with time on task. We advocate dual‐task methodologies such as the DRT for increasing understanding of the assumptions made by theories of deception and for refining lie detection techniques.
Versatile and Enantioselective Total Synthesis of Naturally Active Gnetulin
Authors: Shang Changhui , Kang Yulong , Yang Qingyun , Zhu Qibin , Yao Chunsuo
Published: May 2019

A versatile and efficient enantioselective total synthesis of natural isorhapontigenin dimers (−)‐gnetulin, (+)‐gnetulin, and (±)‐gentulin was proposed. By using this method, we were able to synthesize the dimers from commercial available achiral materials in 13 steps, and achieve a 7%–9% overall yield with >98% enantiomeric excess. The key features of the method include the stereocontrolled enantioselective conjugate reduction of 3‐arylindenone catalyzed by methyloxazaborolidine (Me‐CBS) and the α‐arylation of 3‐aryl‐1‐indanones. Benzylic sulfide was accessed in excellent yield through the InCl3‐catalyzed thio‐etherification reaction between 2,3‐diarylindanol and bezylic thiol. The method is practical and might thus be useful in the enantioselective synthesis of the optical antipodes of natural indane derivatives with or without methoxy groups at aromatic rings.

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Acromesomelic dysplasia Maroteaux‐type in patients from Vietnam
Authors: Tran Thinh Huy , Cao My Ha , Luong Long Hoang , Le Phuong Thi , Vu Dung Chi , Ta Thanh Dat , Bui The‐Hung , Nguyen Duc Hinh , Van Ta Thanh , Tran Van Khanh
Published: May 2019

Acromesomelic dysplasias are rare skeletal disorders leading to severe short stature and abnormal skeletal morphology. Acromesomelic dysplasia Maroteaux‐type is caused by homozygous or compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in NPR2 that encodes for natriuretic peptide receptor B. Here, we reported the first AMDM case in South East Asia and identified a novel pathogenic variant in NPR2 (c. 152T>C, p. (Leu51Pro)). Further analyses reveal the parents and two other family members were heterozygous for the variant. The clinical report highlights the importance of molecular genetic testing in diagnosing rare hereditable disease affecting skeletal abnormalities.
Properties of a novel inherently flame‐retardant rigid polyurethane foam composite bearing imide and oxazolidinone
Authors: Jia Daikun , Hu Jin , He Jiyu , Yang Rongjie
Published: May 2019

A novel inherently flame‐retardant rigid polyurethane (PU) foam with imide and oxazolidinone was prepared by using 3,3′,4,4′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTDA) and 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐(10‐glycidoxypropylene)‐10‐phosphap‐henanthrene‐10‐oxide (e‐DOPO) as reactive flame retardants. The physical and mechanical properties of the prepared PU foams were investigated. The compressive strength was improved to 0.22 MPa, the thermal conductivity decreased, and the density hardly changed. Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis and TG analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that the PTDA and e‐DOPO showed a small improvement in thermal properties. The fire behaviors were evaluated based on the limited oxygen index (LOI), cone‐calorimetry experiment, and smoke‐density test. The LOI of the PU foam with PTDA and e‐DOPO reached 22.4%. The peak of heat release rate and total heat release decreased to 227.50 kW m−2 and 11.27 MJ m−2 from 281.28 kW m−2 and 14.05 MJ m−2, respectively. The morphologies of the PU foam and residues after the cone‐calorimetry test were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis indicated that PTDA and e‐DOPO lead to an increase in graphite in the residue and the formation of a better barrier to prevent burning by the condensed‐phase mechanism. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47943.
Global village or virtual balkans? evolution and performance of scientific collaboration in the information age
Authors: Yao Xinlin , Zhang Cheng , Qu Zhe , Tan Bernard C.Y.
Published: May 2019

Scientific collaboration is essential and almost imperative in modern science. However, collaboration may be difficult to achieve because of 2 major barriers: geographic distance and social divides. It is predicted that the advancement of information communication technologies (ICTs) will bring a puzzled conclusion for collaboration in the scientific community: the “Global Village” trend with significantly increased physical distance among collaborated scientists and the “Virtual Balkans” trend with significantly increased social stratification among collaborated scientists. The results of this study reveal that the scientific community evolves towards the Global Village generally on both the geographic and social dimension, but with variations in term of collaboration patterns. The influence of such collaboration patterns on research performance (that is, productivity and impact), however, is asymmetric to each side of collaborators. When researchers from top‐tier and general‐tier institutions collaborate, researchers from top‐tier institutions face a decrease in research productivity and impact, whereas researchers from general‐tier institutions increase in research productivity and impact. Furthermore, the development of ICTs plays an important role in shaping the evolving trends and moderating effects of collaboration patterns. Our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of scientific collaboration in the geographic, social, and technological aspect.
Selective Synthesis of Secondary and Tertiary Amines by Reductive N‐Alkylation of Nitriles and N‐Alkylation of Amines and Ammonium Formate Catalyzed by Ruthenium Complex
Authors: Alshakova Iryna D. , Nikonov Georgii I.
Published: May 2019

A new ruthenium catalytic system for the syntheses of secondary and tertiary amines via reductive N‐alkylation of nitriles and N‐alkylation of primary amines is proposed. Isomeric complexes 8 catalyze transfer hydrogenation and N‐alkylation of nitriles in ethanol to give secondary amines. Unsymmetrical secondary amines can be produced by N‐alkylation of primary amines with alcohols via the borrowing hydrogen methodology. Aliphatic amines were obtained with excellent yields, while only moderate conversions were observed for anilines. Based on kinetic and mechanistic studies, it is suggested that the rate determining step is the hydrogenation of intermediate imine to amine. Finally, ammonium formate was applied as the amination reagent for alcohols in the presence of ruthenium catalyst 8. Secondary amines were obtained from primary alcohols within 24 hours at 100 °C, and tertiary amines can be produced after prolonged heating. Secondary alcohols can only be converted to secondary amines with moderate yield. Based on mechanistic studies, the process is suggested to proceed through an ammonium alkoxy carbonate intermediate, where carbonate acts as an efficient leaving group.
Selective Hydrogenation of CO2 Dictated by Isomers in Au28(SR)20 Nanoclusters: Which One is Better?
Authors: Xu Jiayu , Chen Mingyang , Zhu Yan
Published: May 2019

It is a challenge to make clear how isomerism in a heterogeneous catalyst induces distinct differences in catalytic properties, as attainment of the structural isomerism in a conventional catalyst is difficult. By successfully identifying the isomerism in the atomically precise Au nanoclusters, an exciting opportunity for unravelling catalysis of isomeric catalysts is opened up. Herein, we report that the isomerism in the Au28(SR)20 nanoclusters with different surface atom arrangements can indeed render different catalytic behaviors in the selective hydrogenation of CO2. We anticipate that our studies will serve as a starting point for fundamental investigations about how to control the catalytic activity and selectivity by the isomerism‐induced catalysis.
5 nm Ordered Structures Self‐Assembled by C2‐Symmetric Hybrids with Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane and Hexa‐peri‐Hexabenzocoronene.
Authors: Zhang Wei , Pan Hongbing , Lyu Xiaolin , Gu Kehua , Xiao Anqi , Shen Zhihao , Fan Xing‐he
Published: May 2019

Hybrids consisting of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronene (HBC) with a dumbbell topology and C2 symmetry were designed and synthesized. They self‐assemble into 5 nm ordered structures. In particular, the increased steric effect with increasing POSS units stabilizes a square columnar phase (Colsqu) which is important in nanotemplating. These hybrids containing discotic liquid crystal HBC and POSS units have an excellent etching contrast and present an approach to obtain 5 nm nanopatterns.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Sulfur and Nitrogen Co‐Functionalized Graphene Material using Deep Eutectic Solvents for Supercapacitors
Authors: Wadekar Pravin H. , Khose Rahul V. , Pethsangave Dattatray A. , Some Surajit
Published: May 2019

A green approach to the synthesis of sulfur and nitrogen co‐functionalized reduced graphene oxide (SN‐rGO) is presented; it involves the reduction of graphene oxide (GO) using a deep eutectic solvent (DES) as chemical reducing agent and dopant. For the first time, a DES of choline chloride and sodium sulfide comprising cheap and safe components is introduced, and is both highly effective and reusable as a reducing agent for the production of SN‐rGO. The DES is utilized as a solvent as well as reducing agent and dopant to generate SN‐rGO. This DES is highly efficient in removing oxygen functionalities from GO and for subsequent sulfur and nitrogen functionalization for high energy‐storage efficiency. The reduction ability of this DES is confirmed with five consecutive cycles, which adds to its sustainability and recyclability in the development of energy‐storage devices. SN‐rGO exhibits a high specific capacitance of 509 F g−1at 1 A g−1, which corresponds to high energy and power densities of 57.3 Wh kg−1and 1804.7 W kg−1, respectively. This simple and green method for direct reduction of GO with sulfur and nitrogen functionalization on the graphene surface can provide cost‐effective bulk production of a nanocarbon template for energy storage applications.
Selecting costimulatory domains for chimeric antigen receptors: functional and clinical considerations
Authors: Weinkove Robert , George Philip , Dasyam Nathaniel , McLellan Alexander D
Published: May 2019

Costimulatory signals are required to achieve robust chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell expansion, function, persistence and antitumor activity. These can be provided by incorporating intracellular signalling domains from one or more T cell costimulatory molecules, such as CD28 or 4‐1BB, into the CAR. The selection and positioning of costimulatory domains within a CAR construct influence CAR T cell function and fate, and clinical experience of autologous anti‐CD19 CAR T cell therapies suggests that costimulatory domains have differential impacts on CAR T cell kinetics, cytotoxic function and potentially safety profile. The clinical impacts of combining costimulatory domains and of alternative costimulatory domains are not yet clearly established, and may be construct‐ and disease‐specific. The aim of this review is to summarise the function and effect of established and emerging costimulatory domains and their combinations within CAR T cells.
Improved detection of influenza A virus from blue‐winged teals by sequencing directly from swab material
Authors: Ferreri Lucas M. , Ortiz Lucia , Geiger Ginger , Barriga Gonzalo P. , Poulson Rebecca , Gonzalez‐Reiche Ana Silvia , Crum Jo Anne , Stallknecht David , Moran David , Cordon‐Rosales Celia , Rajao Daniela , Perez Daniel R.
Published: May 2019

The greatest diversity of influenza A virus (IAV) is found in wild aquatic birds of the orders Anseriformes and Charadriiformes. In these birds, IAV replication occurs mostly in the intestinal tract. Fecal, cloacal, and/or tracheal swabs are typically collected and tested by real‐time RT‐PCR (rRT‐PCR) and/or by virus isolation in embryonated chicken eggs in order to determine the presence of IAV. Virus isolation may impose bottlenecks that select variant populations that are different from those circulating in nature, and such bottlenecks may result in artifactual representation of subtype diversity and/or underrepresented mixed infections. The advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technologies provides an opportunity to explore to what extent IAV subtype diversity is affected by virus isolation in eggs. In the present work, we evaluated the advantage of sequencing by NGS directly from swab material of IAV rRT‐PCR‐positive swabs collected during the 2013–14 surveillance season in Guatemala and compared to results from NGS after virus isolation. The results highlight the benefit of sequencing IAV genomes directly from swabs to better understand subtype diversity and detection of alternative amino acid motifs that could otherwise escape detection using traditional methods of virus isolation. In addition, NGS sequencing data from swabs revealed reduced presence of defective interfering particles compared to virus isolates. We propose an alternative workflow in which original swab samples positive for IAV by rRT‐PCR are first subjected to NGS before attempting viral isolation. This approach should speed the processing of samples and better capture natural IAV diversity.

OPEN RESEARCH BADGES

This article has earned an Open Data Badge for making publicly available the digitally‐shareable data necessary to reproduce the reported results. The data is available at https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.3h2n106.
Evaluating definitions of salmonid thermal refugia using in situ measurements in the Eel River, Northern California
Authors: Greer George , Carlson Stephanie , Thompson Sally
Published: May 2019

Thermal microrefugia, sites within a landscape which are relatively protected from temperature extremes and warming trends, may be necessary for the conservation of animal species as climates warm. In freshwater environments, cold water fish species such as Pacific salmonids already rely on thermal microrefugia to persist in the southern extent of their range. Identifying sites that can provide such thermal microrefugia is essential to inform conservation and management decisions. At present, however, there is no consensus on appropriate ways to identify such sites, and multiple approaches are presented in the literature. Here, we use high resolution thermal data from two cold‐water zones created at the confluence of tributaries with a warm main channel of the South Fork Eel River in Northern California to demonstrate that the characteristics of cold zones identified as thermal microrefugia are not robust to the choice of microrefugium definition. Common definitions disagree on the existence, volume, seasonal temporal trends, and diurnal variations in microrefugia at the two confluences. The disagreements arise from the complex interaction between the confluence mixing regime with diurnal/seasonal warming patterns and how this shapes the distribution of water temperature at the confluences, and how it is classified by each definition. The disagreements cannot be resolved by simple bias correction approaches. Given that all existing definitions rely on simplifications that negate the nuanced way fish use cold water zones and respond to thermal stress, alternative observation and classification approaches may be needed to characterize cold zones in rivers as thermal microrefugia.
Discriminating between neurofibromatosis‐1 and typically developing children by means of multimodal MRI and multivariate analyses
Authors: Nemmi Federico , Cignetti Fabien , Assaiante Christine , Maziero Stephanie , Audic Fredrique , Péran Patrice , Chaix Yves
Published: May 2019

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 leads to brain anomalies involving both gray and white matter. The extent and granularity of these anomalies, together with their possible impact on brain activity, is still unknown. In this multicentric cross‐sectional study we submitted a sample of 42 typically developing and 38 neurofibromatosis‐1 children to a multimodal MRI assessment including T1, diffusion weighted and resting state functional sequences. We used a pipeline involving several features selection steps coupled with multivariate statistical analysis (supporting vector machine) to discriminate between the two groups while having interpretable models. We used MRI indexes measuring macro (gray matter volume) and microstructural (fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity) characteristics of the brain, as well as indexes of brain activity (fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuations) and connectivity (local and global correlation) at rest. We found that structural indexes could discriminate between the two groups, with the mean diffusivity leading to performance as high as the combination of all structural indexes combined (accuracy = 0.86), while functional indexes had worse performances. The MRI signature of NF1 brain pathology is a combination of gray and white matter abnormalities, as measured with gray matter volume, fractional anisotropy, and mean diffusivity.
Dependency of Cholangiocarcinoma on Cyclin D–Dependent Kinase Activity
Authors: Sittithumcharee Gunya , Suppramote Orawan , Vaeteewoottacharn Kulthida , Sirisuksakun Chumphon , Jamnongsong Supawan , Laphanuwat Phatthamon , Suntiparpluacha Monthira , Matha Arriya , Chusorn Porncheera , Buraphat Pongsakorn , Kakanaporn Chumpot , Charngkaew Komgrid , Silsirivanit Atit , Korphaisarn Krittiya , Limsrichamrern Somchai , Tripatara Pinpat , Pairojkul Chawalit , Wongkham Sopit , Sampattavanich Somponnat , Okada Seiji , Jirawatnotai Siwanon
Published: May 2019

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a bile duct cancer with a very poor prognosis. Currently, there is no effective pharmacological treatment available for it. We showed that CCA ubiquitously relies on cyclin‐dependent kinases 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) activity to proliferate. Primary CCA tissues express high levels of cyclin D1 and the specific marker of CDK4/6 activity, phospho‐RB Ser780. Treatment of a 15‐CCA cell line collection by pharmacological CDK4/6 inhibitors leads to reduced numbers of cells in the S‐phase and senescence in most of the CCA cell lines. We found that expression of retinoblastoma protein (pRB) is required for activity of the CDK4/6 inhibitor, and that loss of pRB conferred CDK4/6 inhibitor‐drug resistance. We also identified that sensitivity of CCA to CDK4/6 inhibition is associated with the activated KRAS signature. Effectiveness of CDK4/6 inhibition for CCA was confirmed in the three‐dimensional spheroid‐, xenograft‐, and patient‐derived xenograft models. Last, we identified a list of genes whose expressions can be used to predict response to the CDK4/6 inhibitor. Conclusion: We investigated a ubiquitous dependency of CCA on CDK4/6 activity and the universal response to CDK4/6 inhibition. We propose that the CDK4/6‐pRB pathway is a suitable therapeutic target for CCA treatment.
CD8+ T Cells Promote Maturation of Liver‐Resident NK Cells Through the CD70‐CD27 axis
Authors: Bai Lu , Peng Hui , Hao Xiaolei , Tang Ling , Sun Cheng , Zheng Meijuan , Liu Fubao , Lian Zhexiong , Bai Li , Wei Haiming , Sun Rui , Tian Zhigang
Published: May 2019

Liver‐resident natural killer (LrNK) cells are a unique subset of NK cells that are distinct from conventional NK cells. However, little is known about the mechanisms by which LrNK cells mature. In this study, we discovered that LrNK cells exhibit a relatively immature phenotype and impaired cytotoxic capacity in the absence of CD8+ T cells. The provision of CD8+ T cells to Cd8‐/‐
or Rag1‐/‐
mice led to the restoration of LrNK cell maturation. Furthermore, co‐culture with CD8+ T cells induced immature CD27+ LrNK cells to convert into mature CD27‐ LrNK cells, whereas blocking the interaction of CD70 and CD27 abrogated the ability of CD8+ T cells to promote the maturation of LrNK cells. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that CD8+ T cells promote the maturation of LrNK cells through the CD70‐CD27 axis, and therefore highlight a previously unknown mechanism responsible for the mediation of LrNK cell maturation.
Computer‐Aided Diagnosis of Solid Breast Lesions With Ultrasound: Factors Associated With False‐negative and False‐positive Results
Authors: Wu Jia‐yi , Zhao Zi‐zhuo , Zhang Wen‐yue , Liang Ming , Ou Bing , Yang Hai‐yun , Luo Bao‐ming
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To investigate factors that may lead to false‐positive or false‐negative results in a computer‐aided diagnostic system (S‐Detect; Samsung Medison Co, Ltd, Seoul, Korea) for ultrasound (US) examinations of solid breast lesions.

Methods

This prospective study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Sun Yat‐sen Memorial Hospital. All patients signed and provided written informed consent before biopsy or surgery. From September 2017 to May 2018, 269 consecutive women with 338 solid breast lesions were included. All lesions were examined with US and S‐Detect before biopsy or surgical excision. The final US assessments made by radiologists and S‐Detect were matched to the pathologic results. Patient and lesion factors in the “true” and “false” S‐Detect groups were compared, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the factors associated with false S‐Detect results.

Results

The mean age of the patients ± SD was 42.6 ± 12.9 years (range, 18–77 years). Of the 338 lesions, 209 (61.8%) were benign, and 129 (38.2%) were malignant. Larger lesions, the presence of lesion calcifications detected by B‐mode US, and grades of 2 and 3 according to Adler et al (Ultrasound Med Biol 1990; 16:553–559) were significantly associated with false‐positive S‐Detect results (odds ratio [OR], 1.071; P = .006; OR, 5.851; P = .001; OR, 1.726; P = .009, respectively). Smaller lesions and the absence of calcifications detected by B‐mode US in malignant solid breast lesions were significantly associated with false‐negative S‐Detect results (OR, 1.141; P = .015; OR, 7.434; P = .016).

Conclusions

Larger benign lesions, the presence of lesion calcifications, and high degrees of vascularity are likely to show false‐positive S‐Detect results. Smaller malignant lesions and the absence of calcifications are likely to show false‐negative S‐Detect results.
Changes in soil phosphorus and its influencing factors following afforestation in Northern China
Authors: Li Xiankun , Li Yanan , Peng Shouzhang , Chen Yunming , Cao Yang
Published: May 2019

Changes in soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) stocks following afforestation have been widely studied at different scales. However, soil phosphorus (P) dynamics following afforestation are poorly understood, especially at the regional scale. This paper studied the effects of prior land use (cropland, grassland, and barren land), tree species (conifer, broadleaf, shrub, and mixed), plantation age (young, middle, and old), and climate on soil total phosphorus and available phosphorus stocks change in the top 20 cm following afforestation based on a synthesis of 50 recent publications in northern China. We also considered possible confounding effects between these factors. The results showed that, overall, soil total phosphorus and available phosphorus stocks significantly decreased by 7.3% and significantly increased by 8.8%, respectively, following afforestation. Prior land use was found to be the most important driver in determining changes in soil P stocks. Compared with a significant decrease in P of afforestation of former cropland and grassland, afforestation of barren land caused no clear decrease in P. Tree species was found to have a limited effect on changes in soil P after afforestation, and broadleaf afforestation has a lower P demand than coniferous forests in the studied region. Plantation age did not affect the dynamics of P stocks. Our results showed confounding effects of precipitation, prior land use, and tree species, which impacted the estimates of the drivers of changes in P stocks. These results highlighted the importance of tree species selection and replication across sites that receive different amounts of precipitation.
Structural connectivity‐based topography of the human globus pallidus: Implications for therapeutic targeting in movement disorders
Authors: Cacciola Alberto , Milardi Demetrio , Bertino Salvatore , Basile Gianpaolo Antonio , Calamuneri Alessandro , Chillemi Gaetana , Rizzo Giuseppina , Anastasi Giuseppe , Quartarone Angelo
Published: May 2019

Background

Understanding the topographical organization of the cortico‐basal ganglia circuitry is of pivotal importance because of the spreading of techniques such as DBS and, more recently, MR‐guided focused ultrasound for the treatment of movement disorders. A growing body of evidence has described both direct cortico‐ and dento‐pallidal connections, although the topographical organization in vivo of these pathways in the human brain has never been reported.

Objective

To investigate the topographical organization of cortico‐ and dento‐pallidal pathways by means of diffusion MRI tractography and connectivity based parcellation.

Methods

High‐quality data from 100 healthy subjects from the Human Connectome Project repository were utilized. Constrained spherical deconvolution–based tractography was used to reconstruct structural cortico‐ and dento‐pallidal connectivity. Connectivity‐based parcellation was performed with a hypothesis‐driven approach at three different levels: functional regions (limbic, associative, sensorimotor, and other), lobes, and gyral subareas.

Results

External globus pallidus segregated into a ventral associative cluster, a dorsal sensorimotor cluster, and a caudal “other” cluster on the base of its cortical connectivity. Dento‐pallidal connections clustered only in the internal globus pallidus, where also associative and sensorimotor clusters were identified. Lobar parcellation revealed the presence in the external globus pallidus of dissociable clusters for each cortical lobe (frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital), whereas in internal globus pallidus only frontal and parietal clusters were found out.

Conclusion

We mapped the topographical organization of both internal and external globus pallidus according to cortical and cerebellar connections. These anatomical data could be useful in DBS, radiosurgery and MR‐guided focused ultrasound targeting for treating motor and nonmotor symptoms in movement disorders. © 2019 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Quad‐polarization reconfigurable antenna with wideband operation
Authors: Wu Hsing‐Fu , Wei You‐Heng , Chen Tsair‐Rong , Row Jeen‐Sheen
Published: May 2019

A design for quad‐polarization‐agile antenna is described. A multiport crossed dipole that can provide dual orthogonal linear polarizations is used as the radiating element of the design. When the crossed dipole is fed with a tunable power divider, the two linear polarization radiations can be simultaneously excited with same amplitudes and difference phases. The resultant polarization modes include ±45° linear polarizations, right‐handed circular polarization, and left‐handed circular polarization. The overlapped operation bandwidth of the four polarization modes is about 49%, and the antenna operating in each polarization mode has almost the same radiation patterns. These patterns are also stable against frequency. Moreover, the occupied area of the polarization reconfigurable antenna is about 0.43λ0 × 0.43λ0.
MicroRNA changes in maternal serum from pregnancies complicated by twin‐twin transfusion syndrome: A discovery study
Authors: Mackie Fiona L. , Baker Bernadette C. , Beggs Andrew D. , Stodolna Agata , Morris Rachel Katie , Kilby Mark D.
Published: May 2019

Objective

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are used as biomarkers in cardiovascular disease and cancer. miRNAs are involved in placental development but have not previously been investigated in twin‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Our aim is to explore the miRNA profile of TTTS pregnancies.

Method

Initial miRNA profiling was performed using a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) panel on maternal serum samples taken from five women prior to fetoscopic laser ablation for TTTS and compared with serum samples from five women with uncomplicated monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies. Validation RT‐PCR was performed in an additional cohort of eight TTTS pregnancies and eight uncomplicated pregnancies.

Results

Median gestational age at sampling in the TTTS and control groups was 20+0 weeks (interquartile range [IQR], 19+4‐20+0) and 20+2 weeks (IQR, 20+0‐20+2), respectively. All samples passed quality control. One control sample was excluded as a biological outlier. Thirty‐one of 752 miRNAs were significantly different: 17 were upregulated and 14 downregulated in the TTTS group, although they did not remain significant following Benjamini‐Hochberg correction for multiple testing. The six miRNAs chosen for validation demonstrated no significant difference.

Conclusion

This is the first study to investigate miRNA changes in TTTS pregnancies. We did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference in miRNAs in TTTS pregnancies, but further investigation is required.
Thermal and pH dual‐responsive hydrogels based on semi‐interpenetrating network of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and collagen nanofibrils
Authors: Ding Cuicui , Zhang Min , Ma Miao , Zheng Jiaojiao , Yang Qili , Feng Ren
Published: May 2019

Hydrogels with environment‐sensitive properties have great potential applications in the controlled drug release field. In this paper, hybrid hydrogels with semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks (semi‐IPNs), composed of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) as the thermo‐sensitive component by in situ polymerization and self‐assembled collagen nanofibrils as the pH‐sensitive framework, were prepared for controlled release of methyl violet as a model drug. From Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, it was indicated that the crosslinking of PNIPAM in the presence of collagen nanofibrils led to the formation of semi‐IPNs with homogeneous porous structure, and the semi‐IPNs showed improved thermal stability and elastic properties compared with the native collagen as determined using differential scanning calorimetry and rheologic measurements. Furthermore, the semi‐IPNs possessed swelling behaviors quite different from those of neat collagen or PNIPAM hydrogel under various pH values and temperatures. Correspondingly, as expected, the drug release behavior in vitro for semi‐IPNs performed variously compared with that for single‐component semi‐IPNs, which revealed the tunable performance of semi‐IPNs for release ability. Finally the thermo‐ and pH‐responsive mechanism of the semi‐IPNs was illuminated to provide guidance for the application of the thermo‐ and pH‐sensitive collagen‐based hybrid hydrogels in controlled drug delivery systems. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Microphase segregation and selective chain scission of poly(2‐methyl‐2‐oxazoline)‐block‐polystyrene
Authors: Tran Helen , Bergman Harrison M. , de la Rosa Victor R. , Maji Samarendra , Parenti Kaia R. , Hoogenboom Richard , Campos Luis M.
Published: May 2019

Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a block copolymer (BCP) with a high Flory–Huggins interaction parameter to access 10 nm feature sizes for potential lithographic applications. The investigated BCP is poly[(2‐methyl‐2‐oxazoline)‐block‐styrene] (PMeOx‐b‐PS), where the PMeOx segment functions as a hydrophilic segment. Two BCPs with different molecular weights were prepared using PMeOx as macroinitiator for copper(0) mediated controlled radical polymerization. The thin film self‐assembly of the obtained PMeOx‐b‐PS was performed by solvent annealing and investigated by atomic force microscopy. Both polymers formed PMeOx cylinders in a PS matrix with an average cylinder diameter of 10.5 nm. Additionally, the ability of the PMeOx domains to selectively degrade under ultraviolet irradiation was explored. It was shown that scission of the PMeOx block does occur selectively, and furthermore that the degraded domains can be removed while leaving the PS matrix intact. By combining synthetic accessibility, small feature sizes, and a selectively cleavable domain, this new BCP system holds significant promise as a lithographic mask for patterning surfaces with high precision. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1349–1357
Investigation of the sensitivity of Plasmopara viticola to amisulbrom and ametoctradin in French vineyards using bioassays and molecular tools
Authors: Fontaine Séverine , Remuson Florent , Caddoux Laëtitia , Barrès Benoit
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Complex III inhibitors are key compounds in the control of Plasmopara viticola. They are prone to the development of resistance, as demonstrated by the emergence of resistance to quinone‐outside inhibitors. By using a combination of bioassays and molecular methods, we monitored sensitivity to amisulbrom and ametoctradin in P. viticola populations in French vineyards from 2012 to 2017.

RESULTS

We found that the alternative oxidase (AOX)‐related resistance mechanism was common in French P. viticola populations. Target‐site resistance to ametoctradin was first detected in 2015 and is likely caused by a single point mutation in the cytochrome b gene, leading to the S34L substitution. The role of this substitution in resistance to ametoctradin was corroborated by another study using an experimental model. A molecular biology method has been developed to detect the mutant allele. To date, the frequency of this mutation is low in French P. viticola populations and it is often co‐detected with the wild‐type allele.

CONCLUSION

Populations of P. viticola displaying evidence of AOX‐related resistance were detected for every surveyed year, and their occurrence in French vineyards seems to be increasing over time. This resistance mechanism is currently threatening the efficacy of complex III inhibitors in the field. The low frequency of the S34L allele conferring resistance to ametoctradin, and the instability of resistant phenotypes in some populations, suggest that a fitness cost may be associated with the mutation. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Using cerium chloride to control soluble orthophosphate concentration and improve the dewaterability of sludge: Part I. Mechanistic understanding
Authors: Zhang Dian , Angelotti Bob , Schlosser Erick , Novak John T. , Wang Zhi‐Wu
Published: May 2019

Cerium chloride (CeCl3), being a superior orthophosphate (OP) precipitant, was found to be able to significantly improve sludge dewaterability in terms of sludge cake dryness and capillary suction time. In order to offer insights into the mechanism behind OP removal associated dewaterability improvement, the change in sludge specific resistance to filtration (SRF), compressibility (K), and bound water contents (Ub) in response to CeCl3 and CePO4 addition at the two cationic polymer doses was mathematically simulated. Results showed that 29.8 g/kg dry solid CePO4 addition was able to decrease the SRF by 52%, decrease the Ub by 42%, and reduce the K by 18%. Importantly, CeCl3 addition of equal cerium molarity showed even higher SRF and Ub reductions by 67% and 54%, respectively, but the same K reduction. A new theory depicting how the OP has outcompeted negatively charged sludge particles for cationic polymers is put forward in this study to interpret the effect of OP removal on sludge dewaterability improvement.

Practitioner points

Efficient orthophosphate (OP) removal and sludge dewaterability improvement were achieved with CeCl3 addition.

Both CePO4 precipitate and OP removal contributed to the improved dewaterability.

Competition between OP and sludge particles for cationic polymers was explained.
The dynamical diquark model: first numerical results
Authors: Giron Jesse F. , Lebed Richard F. , Peterson Curtis T.
Published: May 2019

Abstract

We produce the first numerical predictions of the dynamical diquark model of multiquark exotic hadrons. Using Born-Oppenheimer potentials calculated numerically on the lattice, we solve coupled and uncoupled systems of Schrödinger equations to obtain mass eigenvalues for multiplets of states that are, at this stage, degenerate in spin and isospin. Assuming reasonable values for these fine-structure splittings, we obtain a series of bands of exotic states with a common parity eigenvalue that agree well with the experimentally observed charmoniumlike states, and we predict a number of other unobserved states. In particular, the most suitable fit to known pentaquark states predicts states below the charmonium-plus-nucleon threshold. Finally, we examine the strictest form of Born-Oppenheimer decay selection rules for exotics and, finding them to fail badly, we propose a resolution by relaxing the constraint that exotics must occur as heavy-quark spin-symmetry eigenstates.
Generalized supergravity equations and generalized Fradkin-Tseytlin counterterm
Authors: Mück Wolfgang
Published: May 2019

Abstract

The generalized Fradkin-Tseytlin counterterm for the (type I) Green-Schwarz superstring is determined for background fields satisfying the generalized supergravity equations (GSE). For this purpose, we revisit the derivation of the GSE based upon the requirement of kappa-symmetry of the superstring action. Lifting the constraint of vanishing bosonic torsion components, we are able to make contact to several different torsion constraints used in the literature. It is argued that a natural geometric interpretation of the GSE vector field that generalizes the dilaton is as the torsion vector, which can combine with the dilatino spinor into the torsion supervector. To find the counterterm, we use old results for the one-loop effective action of the heterotic sigma model. The counterterm is covariant and involves the worldsheet torsion for vanishing curvature, but cannot be constructed as a local functional in terms of the worldsheet metric. It is shown that the Weyl anomaly cancels without imposing any further constraints on the background fields. In the case of ordinary supergravity, it reduces to the Fradkin-Tseytlin counterterm modulo an additional constraint.
Income inequality and level of corruption in post-communist European countries between 1995 and 2014
Authors: Bašná Kristýna
Published: May 2019

This paper analyses the relationships between income inequality and corruption in Europe and looks specifically at post-communist European countries. The scientific community agrees that there is important relationship between income inequality and corruption and many authors believe that low income inequality is connected to low corruption. According to empirical papers, this is true not only on the European scale, but also on a global scale. In this paper, I test this claim by conducting a multilevel analysis on 39 European countries in the period of 1995–2014. This model ascertains that there are immense differences between post-communist countries and the rest of European countries. The effects of income inequality on the level of corruption are discussed.
Dietary compensation in response to covert imposition of negative energy balance by removal of fat or carbohydrate
Authors: Goldberg Gail R. , Murgatroyd Peter R. , McKenna Aideen P. M. , Heavey Patricia M. , Prentice Andrew M.
Published: May 2019

Compensatory changes in energy intake (EI) and macronutrient metabolism in response to modest covert underfeeding were tested by whole-body calorimetry in eight lean men. Each was studied on three occasions comprising a controlled stabilization day followed by manipulation and outcome days in a whole-body calorimeter. On the manipulation day EI was fixed, and calculated to maintain energy balance (CONTROL) or to provide 85% of CONTROL by removing energy as carbohydrate (CHOred) or as fat (FATred). On the outcome day, ad libitum EI was allowed at fixed mealtimes. CHOred and FATred manipulations generated significantly different energy balances (-1.10 (SE 0.13) MJ, P=0.000; -1.10 (SE 0.12) MJ, P=0.000) and fat balances (-0.61(SE 0.23) MJ, P=0.03; -1.09 (SE 0.20) MJ, P=0.000), but not carbohydrate balances (-0.39 (SE 0.22) MJ, NS; 0.11 (SE 0.23) MJ, NS) by the end of the manipulation day compared with CONTROL. On the outcome day, EI was significantly higher than CONTROL after CHOred (+1.58 (SE 0.33) MJ, P=0.004) and FATred (+1.21 (SE 0.49) MJ, P=0.022) with no differences between treatments. Overall 48 h energy balances averaged close to zero at -0.14, +0.34, +0.04 MJ on CONTROL, CHOred and FATred respectively. Total 48 h energy intakes on CHOred and FATred averaged 101 (SE 1.7)% and 99 (SE 2.5)% of CONTROL, thus demonstrating accurate detection of a mild energy deficit and efficient next-day compensation. Despite significant differences in macronutrient oxidation rates, the energy homeostatic mechanism appeared to be independent of specific macronutrient deficits.
Replacement of linoleic acid with α-linolenic acid does not alter blood lipids in normolipidaemic men
Authors: Pang D. , Allman-Farinelli M. A. , Wong T. , Barnes R. , Kingham K. M.
Published: May 2019

The effect of partial dietary replacement of linoleic acid (18:2n-6; linoleic acid-rich diet) with α-linolenic acid (18:3n-3; α-linolenic acid-rich diet) on plasma lipids was investigated in twenty-nine healthy young men. After a 2-week stabilization period subjects were randomly assigned to either the α-linolenic acid-rich diet group (n15), receiving a mean of 10.1 g of α-linolenic acid and 12.1 g of linoleic acid/d, or the linoleic acid-rich diet group (n14), receiving a mean of 1.0 g of α-linolenic acid and 21.0 g of linoleic acid/d, for a 6-week test period. Blood samples were taken at the commencement of the stabilization period and at the start (week 0), midpoint (week 3) and endpoint (week 6) of the test period and plasma lipids analysed. The changes occurring on the linoleic acid-rich diet and α-linolenic acid-rich diet were compared but no significant differences in the changes in plasma total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, the subfractions HDL2and HDL3or triacylglycerols were found. These results indicate that dietary replacement of linoleic acid with α-linolenic acid in the diet of healthy male subjects offers similar cardioprotective benefits with respect to lipid metabolism.