bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atomic Insights of Iron Doping in Nickel Hydroxide Nanosheets for Enhanced Oxygen Catalysis to Boost Broad Temperature Workable Zinc−Air Batteries
Authors: Yang Rui , An Li , Zhang Yu , Zhang Nan , Dai Tengyuan , Xi Pinxian
Published: October 2019

Exploring robust and low‐cost bifunctional oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts is of great importance for zinc−air batteries (ZABs). Here, we report a controllable Fe‐doping strategy to promote OER/ORR catalytic performance of Ni(OH)2. The results reveal that Ni1‐xFex (x=0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, and 0.25) hydroxide nanosheets (NSs) display a volcano‐like OER performance, with Ni0.8Fe0.2 NSs being the most optimal OER catalyst, showing an overpotential of 250 mV at 20 mA cm−2 and excellent stability in 1 M KOH. Compared with pristine Ni(OH)2 NSs, the enhanced OER/ORR performance of Ni0.8Fe0.2 NSs can be attributed to the much more exposed edge sites and oxygen vacancies. Importantly, the rechargeable ZABs built by Ni0.8Fe0.2 NSs can offer excellent charge‐discharge cycling stability not only under 25 °C, but also both the low temperature (−10 °C) and high temperature (40 °C). The work provide a new way to design highly efficient air‐electrode catalysts with broad working temperature.
Identifying Nanoscale Pinhole Defects in Nitroaryl Layers with Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy
Authors: Payne Nicholas A. , Mauzeroll Janine
Published: October 2019

We are reporting the application of scanning electrochemical cell microscopy to probe and identify nanometric defects in a multilayered aryl film formed by aryldiazonium reduction. We have determined by numerical simulation that, due to pipette geometry restrictions, the best sensitivity towards pinhole size can be obtained when measuring small pinholes (≤10 nm) with moderately large pipette sizes (ca. 500 nm).
Tungsten‐Doped CoP Nanoneedle Arrays Grown on Carbon Cloth as Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Ren Zhiguo , Ren Xiaochuan , Zhang Liao , Fu Cehuang , Li Xiaofang , Zhang Yingxi , Gao Biao , Yang Lijun , Chu Paul K. , Huo Kaifu
Published: October 2019

The development of efficient and inexpensive bifunctional electrocatalysts with high activity and durability for both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are highly desirable but challenging. Herein, we report the design and preparation of tungsten‐doped cobalt phosphide nanoneedle arrays on conductive carbon cloth (W−CoP/CC) as highly efficient and stable HER and OER electrocatalysts for overall water splitting. The nanoneedle array provides enriched active sites and facilitates ion diffusion and the 3D conductive CC skeleton enables fast charge transport. Moreover, tungsten doping improves the water adsorption ability, optimizes the hydrogen adsorption energy, and increases the electrochemical active surface area thereby resulting in much improved HER and OER catalytic activity. The W−CoP/CC composite shows low overpotentials of 32 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 0.5 M H2SO4 electrolyte for HER and 77 and 252 mV in 1 M KOH solution for HER and OER, respectively, outperforming most previously reported metal phosphide electrocatalysts. The electrolyzer for overall water splitting with W−CoP/CC as both the anode and cathode achieves a stable current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a low cell voltage of 1.59 V with no obvious voltage change even after operation for 20 h. The results provide a new strategy to design and prepare high‐performance non‐noble metal phosphides for overall water splitting.
Retracted: Synthesis of 2‐Arylisoindoline Derivatives Catalyzed by Reusable 1,2,4‐Triazole Iridium on Mesoporous Silica through a Cascade Borrowing Hydrogen Strategy
Authors: Yao Wei , Ge Chenyang , Zhang Yilin , Xia Xiao‐Feng , Wang Long , Wang Dawei
Published: October 2019

Covalent attachment of a 1,2,4‐triazole iridium complex to mesoporous MCM‐41 generated a heterogeneous catalyst that was found to be effective in the synthesis of 2‐aryl isoindolines, quinolines, cyclic amines, and symmetrical secondary amines through a cascade borrowing hydrogen strategy. Interestingly, the supported heterogeneous iridium catalyst prepared from the 1,2,4‐triazole iridium complex and mesoporous MCM‐41 exhibited high catalytic activity in the preparation of 2‐aryl isoindoline derivatives and symmetrical secondary amines. The catalyst system is highly recyclable for at least five times. Besides the important effect of the triazole, iridium sites grafted on siliceous supports can act as multifunctional catalytic centers and thus greatly enhance the catalytic activity of the catalysts. Furthermore, mechanistic experiments revealed that the reaction is initiated by an initial alcohol dehydrogenation and promoted by an iridium hydride intermediate. Importantly, the direct detection of a diagnostic iridium hydride signal confirmed that the synthesis of 2‐aryl isoindolines occurs by a borrowing hydrogen process. This work provides an efficient example of isoindolines synthesis through a borrowing hydrogen strategy.
Age‐specific 3‐year cumulative risk of cervical cancer and high‐grade dysplasia on biopsy in 9434 women who underwent HPV cytology cotesting
Authors: Ge Yimin , Christensen Paul A. , Luna Eric , Armylagos Donna , Xu Jiaqiong , Hsu Jim W. , Zhou Haijun , Schwartz Mary R. , Mody Dina R.
Published: October 2019

Background

High‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV)–Papanicolaou (Pap) cotesting is recommended for cervical cancer screening in women aged ≥30 years. The current study analyzed the effectiveness of cotesting on risk management in different age groups.

Methods

A retrospective review of a 5‐year cytology database identified 9434 women with HPV‐Pap cotesting and follow‐up cervical biopsy. The 3‐year cumulative risk of developing high‐grade cervical lesions (≥high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [HSIL]) was analyzed using age stratification.

Results

The 3‐year cumulative risk of developing ≥HSIL was found to be significantly different in women with baseline cotesting HPV‐positive and Pap‐positive results (HPV+/Pap+; defined as ≥atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance), HPV+ and Pap‐negative results, and HPV‐negative and Pap+ results at 19.2%, 7.9%, and 3.1%, respectively (P < .001). The risk of ≥HSIL peaked at ages 30 to 39 years and significantly decreased at ages 50 to 59 years (16.6% vs 6.7%; P < .001). Women aged <30 years shared a high risk similar to that of women aged 30 to 39 years (17.3% vs 16.6%; P = .52), and risk stratification by cotesting was found to be equally effective in the younger age group (HPV+ and Pap+: 19.6%; HPV+ and Pap‐negative: 7.2%; and HPV‐negative and Pap+: 4.4% [P < .001]).

Conclusions

High‐risk HPV–Pap cotesting appears to be extremely sensitive for the prediction of the risk of developing ≥HSIL and is an effective tool for risk stratification. In the current study, the 3‐year cumulative risk of developing ≥HSIL varied significantly with age, with the highest risk noted among women aged <40 years and the lowest risk observed in women aged 50 to 59 years. Pap testing significantly impacted risk stratification in the HPV+ positive group, especially in women aged <60 years. Women aged <30 years were found to have a risk profile and cotesting efficacy similar to those of women aged 30 to 39 years. Modification of the current recommendation to offer cotesting to women aged ≥30 years might be considered to include those patients aged <30 years.
A Guide to Brighter Phosphors‐Linking Luminescence Properties to Doping Homogeneity Probed by NMR
Authors: Li Wenyu , Adlung Matthias , Zhang Qianyun , Wickleder Claudia , Schmedt auf der Günne Jörn
Published: October 2019

Crystalline powders of Ln3+ doped LaPO4 (Ln=Nd, Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb) have been synthesized to serve in a case study for linking doping homogeneity as determined by NMR to luminescent properties. Samples obtained via different synthesis methods act as examples of homo‐ and inhomogeneous doping. The sample quality was verified by X‐ray diffraction. The homogeneously doped samples show improved luminescent properties in terms of brightness and lifetime which is consistent with the interpretation that, NMR visibility curves probe the distribution of paramagnetic dopants on a similar length scale as necessary for an efficient energy transfer in crystalline phosphors i. e. between sensitizers and activators, and to killer sites. Thus “NMR homogeneity” as observed by visibility curves may serve as a tool to optimize luminescent materials.
Deer do not affect short‐term rates of vegetation recovery in overwash fans on Fire Island after Hurricane Sandy
Authors: Kilheffer Chellby R. , Underwood H. Brian , Raphael Jordan , Ries Lindsay , Farrell Shannon , Leopold Donald J.
Published: October 2019

Coastal resilience is threatened as storm‐induced disturbances become more frequent and intense with anticipated changes in regional climate. After severe storms, rapid recovery of vegetation, especially that of dune‐stabilizing plants, is a fundamental property of coastal resilience. Herbivores may affect resilience by foraging and trampling in disturbed areas. Consequently, assessing the impacts of herbivores on recovering vegetation is important for coastal land management.

We combined imagery classification, wildlife monitoring, and trend analysis to investigate effects of white‐tailed deer on recovery rates of vegetation four years poststorm in nine overwashed areas. We estimated local deer density with trail cameras, how it relates to an index of primary productivity, and assessed the relationship between deer density and rates of vegetation recovery in overwash fans.

Prestorm vegetation cover consisted of shrubs and sporadic patches of beach grass. Poststorm cover was dominated by beach grass. At current rates, vegetation coverage will return to prestorm conditions within the decade, though community transition from grasses to shrubs will take much longer and will vary by site with dune formation.

The effect of deer on rates of vegetation recovery was negative, but not statistically significant nor biologically compelling. Although effects of deer trampling on beach grass are evident in classified imagery, deer foraging on beach grass had little effect on its rate of spread throughout overwash fans.

While the rate of spread of the primary dune‐building grass was not deleteriously affected by deer, locally high deer densities will likely affect the future establishment and development of herbs and shrubs, which are generally more palatable to deer than beach grass.
Spatial, interannual, and generational sources of trait variability in a marine population
Authors: Ciannelli Lorenzo , Tolkova Irina , Lauth Robert , Puerta Patricia , Helser Thomas , Gitelman Alix , Thompson Grant
Published: October 2019

Life‐history traits of individuals in marine populations exhibit large sources of variability. In marine fish, variation of individual size at a given age has three main components: (1) spatial, correlated with the location in which individuals are caught, (2) temporal, correlated with the time when individuals are caught, and (3) generational, correlated with the year of birth of the examined individuals. These variations, if present, have practical implications for individual fitness as well as for sampling, survey design, and population assessment. Disentangling these variations and understanding their sources is hard, given the potentially correlated nature of their effects on individual traits. This study examines the size‐at‐age relationship of the Bering Sea Pacific cod, an economically and ecologically important groundfish. We used extensive records spanning 1994 to 2016 (inclusive) of 25,213 observations of both environmental variables and catch, lengths, and ages. We found that the average size of individuals of the same age could differ up to 7 cm. Notably, we found that the cohort composition of the sampled population explained >75% of the year effect and that individuals caught in the northwest and shallower portion of the sampling area were on average 5 cm smaller than individuals caught in the southern and deeper portion. We further found that northwest movement of young cod (age 1–5) as a result of warming places individuals in areas where we predict them to have smaller size at age. Smaller and less conditioned individuals are less fecund and may not be able to perform long migrations to return to their distant spawning grounds. Both the spatial distribution and water temperature experienced by Pacific cod in the Bering Sea are changing, and this study provides a mechanism for how these changes affect Pacific cod life‐history traits and individual fitness.
Transcripto‐based network analysis reveals a model of gene activation in tongue squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Zeng Hao , Li Hui , Zhao Yunuo , Chen Linyan , Ma Xuelei
Published: October 2019

Background

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is the most common malignant tumor derived from the oral cavity, yet its specific molecular mechanisms have not been fully clarified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between potential genes and clinical features through constructing gene co‐expression networks.

Methods

The weighted gene co‐expression network analysis was used to construct gene co‐expression networks and to identify candidate key modules and hub genes. The gene expression profiles of GSE31056 obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to construct co‐expression networks.

Results

Five hub genes (FAP, AGTRAP, PLOD1, POSTN, and TSHZ3) were identified and validated at transcriptional levels. Moreover, the protein levels of these five hub genes were also found significantly higher in tumor tissues. Among them, FAP was most associated with immune infiltration.

Conclusions

These five candidate biomarkers and therapeutic targets are worthy of further investigation and discussion.
Fat Accumulation, Liver Fibrosis, and Metabolic Abnormalities in Chinese Patients With Moderate/Severe Versus Mild Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Huang Rui , Wang Yi , Rao Huiying , Wei Lai , Su Grace L. , Lok Anna S.
Published: October 2019

Several drugs in development for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) aim to decrease the amount of fat in the liver. We compared quantity and quality of fat in subcutaneous, visceral and muscle compartments, liver fibrosis, and prevalence of metabolic abnormalities between Chinese patients with moderate/severe hepatic steatosis versus those with mild hepatic steatosis. NAFLD patients were prospectively recruited from Peking University People's Hospital in Beijing, China. All patients had baseline body composition measurements using computed tomography and analytic morphomics, clinical evaluation, labs and Fibroscan® controlled attenuation parameter and liver stiffness measurement. Moderate/severe hepatic steatosis was defined as computed tomography liver attenuation of 40 Hounsfield units or less. Calorie intake and physical activity were based on self‐report. A total of 160 NAFLD patients were included (46% men, median age 47 years): 50% had normal body mass index (BMI), 24% were diabetic, and 56% had metabolic syndrome (MS). Fifty‐three (33%) had moderate/severe steatosis, of whom 19 (35.8%) had normal BMI, and the rest had mild steatosis. Patients who had moderate/severe steatosis had significantly higher BMI, waist circumference, aminotransferases, controlled attenuation parameter, liver stiffness measurement, and prevalence of MS compared to those with mild steatosis. They also had larger visceral fat area, subcutaneous fat area, and low density dorsal muscle area. In addition, their calorie intake was higher and time spent on recreation activities was shorter. Conclusion: NAFLD patients with moderate/severe steatosis, including those with normal BMI, had higher prevalence of MS and more fat in visceral, subcutaneous, and muscle compartments than those with mild steatosis. They also had more advanced liver disease. Strategies to decrease hepatic fat may benefit both liver and metabolic diseases.
Assessment of Non‐Uniform Sampling Schemes in Solid State NMR of Bacteriophage Viruses
Authors: Porat Gal , Goldbourt Amir
Published: October 2019

The set of tools offered to NMR spectroscopists has been greatly expanded in the last decades with the development of computer processing power. It has facilitated the use of non‐Fourier transform reconstruction algorithms, leading to the ability to acquire data using non‐uniform sampling. Its use in solid‐state NMR, especially for biological systems, emerges as the next leap toward the analysis and structure prediction of large proteins. Here we applied various non‐uniform sampling schemes to assess their performance towards a three‐dimensional N−C−C correlation experiment aimed to assign chemical shifts in the coat protein of an intact filamentous bacteriophage fd virus. We show that using the sparse multidimensional iterative lineshape‐enhanced (SMILE) reconstruction algorithm, biased sampling increases signal‐to‐noise without compromising linewidths and accuracy of chemical shift determination.
The relationship between perceived interpersonal competence and self‐disclosure in an online context: The moderating role of shyness
Authors: Mısır Selin , Demir Ayhan , Koydemir Selda
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study is to examine the reported level of self‐disclosure in online communication and understand the relationship between perceived interpersonal competence and self‐disclosure in an online context, taking into account the moderating role of shyness. The study sample consists of university students (N = 585). Hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses revealed that, controlling for participants' online media use, shyness moderated the relationship between online self‐disclosure and perceived interpersonal competence. Moderation results showed that the relationship between online self‐disclosure and perceived interpersonal competence was weaker for individuals with higher levels of shyness, and stronger for those with moderate or low scores on the shyness measure. The study's implications and contributions to the existing literature are discussed.
Meta‐Analysis of Integrated Primary and Behavioral Health Care Interventions for Treating Substance Use Among Adults
Authors: Balkin Richard S. , Lenz A. Stephen , Dell'Aquila Julia , Gregory Halie M. , Rines Miranda N. , Swinford Katelyn E.
Published: October 2019

This meta‐analysis detected low effects in reducing substance use (Hedges's g = –0.11) in favor of using integrated primary and behavioral health care (IPBH) compared with treatment‐as‐usual approaches for adult patients with substance use. The impact of IPBH was limited.
Integrated purification of a nanobody using ammonium sulfate precipitation and Capto MMC
Authors: Fan Xiying , Liang Yunlong , Li Fei , Yu Jianli , Song Haipeng , Feng Dongxiao , Xian Mo , Liu Wenshuai , Nian Rui
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Currently, nanobodies are undergoing intensive studies due to their characteristics of nanoscale size, high affinity and specificity, and deep tissue penetration. The development of novel and simplified methods to purify nanobodies is required because high purity and high recovery are the limiting factors for the downstream preparation of nanobodies.

RESULTS

In this study, ammonium sulfate precipitation (ASP) and electropositive multimodal chromatography (Capto MMC) were integrated for tag‐free nanobody (2D5) purification. ASP was our first choice for protein purification because the process is simple, easy to operate, and has low cost. ASP achieved a 36% reduction in Escherichia coli host cell proteins (HCPs), a 99.1% reduction in E. coli host cell DNA, and an 85.1% reduction in endotoxins with a recovery of 81.7% and a purity enhancement from 6.2% to 73.9%. Capto MMC was seamlessly integrated for 2D5 purification. The recovery of this step was 83.0%. The entire two‐step purification platform yielded 2D5 with 397 ppm of HCPs, 198 ppb of DNA, 204 EU/mL of endotoxins, and total protein recovery of 67.8%. The purity of 2D5 was 97.5%. The purification method was also used to purify a nanobody against PD‐L1 (KPU) with 97.7% purity, > 95.7% recovery, 223 ppm of HCPs, 634 ppb of DNA and 154 EU/mL of endotoxins.

CONCLUSION

The established method had no effect on the affinity of 2D5. A simple and efficient purification platform that integrates ASP and Capto MMC was established, providing a more promising alternative to the conventional affinity chromatography‐based nanobody purification strategy. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Applicability of multifunctional preprocessing device for simultaneous estimation of spreading of green tea, withering of black tea and shaking of oolong tea
Authors: Ren Guangxin , Fan Qiye , He Xuejun , Li Wencui , Tang Xiaolin
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Preprocessing technologies of fresh tea leaves have a great influence on tea quality. A multifunctional preprocessing device for tea raw materials has been designed and utilized as a novel item of equipment to synchronously meet the process needs of spreading of green tea, withering of black tea and shaking of oolong tea.

RESULTS

The preprocessing parameters of fresh tea leaves for spreading of green tea, withering of black tea and shaking of oolong tea were optimized by orthogonal experiments. Sensory assessment combined with statistical tools was employed as an analytical method to evaluate the pretreatment effect of processing different sorts of tea. The range analysis and variance analysis of tea sensory evaluation combined with chemical components (total polyphenols, free amino acids and soluble sugar) showed that A3B2C3 (70%, 25 °C, 8 h), A1B3C1 (60%, 28 °C, 18 h) and A1B1C3 (5 min, 20 °C, discontinuous leaf turning c) were considered to be the optimum schemes for the best pretreatment conditions of the above three major processing types of tea, respectively. The verification experiment of the proposed schemes was performed with satisfactory performance.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that a multifunctional preprocessing device for fresh tea leaves can be successfully applied to simultaneously estimate spreading of green tea, withering of black tea and shaking of oolong tea. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect of drying on the native tocopherol and phytosterol content of Sinapis alba L. seeds
Authors: Gawrysiak‐Witulska Marzena , Siger Aleksander , Rudzińska Magdalena , Bartkowiak‐Broda Iwona
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Postharvest processing, including drying, has a significant effect on the processability of oil crop seeds. High drying air temperature may significantly affect the levels of bioactive compounds in plant raw materials. We decided to investigate the subject given the lack of data on the drying of mustard seeds. The aim was to determine the effect of drying temperature on free fatty acid, phytosterol and tocopherol levels in the oil obtained from white mustard seeds. Seeds were dried in a thin layer at 40, 60, 80, 100, 120 and 140 °C. Changes in phytosterol levels were assessed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and changes in tocopherol levels by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The analysis showed that, upon completion of air drying at 40–100 °C, losses of sterols did not exceed 5%, while upon completion of drying at 120 °C and 140 °C these losses amounted to 17–50%. Our investigation also showed that during drying of white mustard seed the total tocopherol levels increased, and the higher the drying temperature, the greater the increment. In seeds air‐dried at 120 °C and 140 °C, the increase in tocopherol amounted to 7–9%.

CONCLUSION

We also showed that the temperature of the drying agent significantly affects the tocopherol and phytosterol levels. It was found that a maximum temperature of 100 °C provides optimal drying conditions for mustard seeds. Principal component analysis identified two subgroups of oils obtained from seeds dried at 120 °C and 140 °C, which differed considerably from the other samples in terms of their bioactive component contents. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Gender Differences in Threat Biases: Trauma Type Matters in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Cowden Hindash Alexandra H. , Lujan Callan , Howard Meghan , O'Donovan Aoife , Richards Anne , Neylan Thomas C. , Inslicht Sabra S.
Published: October 2019

Women are diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at twice the rate of men. This gender difference may be related to differences in PTSD experiences (e.g., more hypervigilance in women) or types of trauma experienced (e.g., interpersonal trauma). We examined whether attentional threat biases were associated with gender, PTSD diagnosis, and/or trauma type. Participants were 70 civilians and veterans (38 women, 32 men; 41 with PTSD, 29 without PTSD) assessed with the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM‐IV who completed a facial dot‐probe attention bias task and self‐report measures of psychiatric symptoms and trauma history. Factorial ANOVA and regression models examined associations between gender, PTSD diagnosis, index trauma type, lifetime traumatic experiences, and attentional threat biases. Results revealed that compared to women without PTSD and men both with and without PTSD, women with PTSD demonstrated attentional biases toward threatening facial expressions, d = 1.19, particularly fearful expressions, d = 0.74. Psychiatric symptoms or early/lifetime trauma did not account for these attentional biases. Biases were related to interpersonal assault index traumas, ηp2 = .13, especially sexual assault, d = 1.19. Trauma type may be an important factor in the development of attentional threat biases, which theoretically interfere with trauma recovery. Women may be more likely to demonstrate attentional threat biases due to higher likelihood of interpersonal trauma victimization rather than due to gender‐specific psychobiological pathways. Future research is necessary to clarify if sexual assault alone or in combination with gender puts individuals at higher risk of developing PTSD.
Finite‐Dimensional Bistable Topological Insulators: From Small to Large
Authors: Zhang Weifeng , Chen Xianfeng , Kartashov Yaroslav V. , Skryabin Dmitry V. , Ye Fangwei
Published: October 2019

Photonic topological insulators supporting unidirectional topologically protected edge states represent an attractive platform for the realization of disorder‐ and backscattering‐immune transport of edge excitations in both linear and nonlinear regimes. While the properties of the edge states at unclosed interfaces of two bulk media with different topologies are known, the existence of edge states in practical finite‐dimensional topological insulators fully immersed in a nontopological environment remains largely unexplored. In this work, using realistic polariton topological insulators built from small‐size honeycomb arrays of microcavity pillars as an example, it is shown how topological properties of the system build up upon gradual increase of its dimensionality. To account for the dissipative nature of the polariton condensate forming in the array of microcavity pillars, the impact of losses and resonant pump leading to rich bistability effects in this system is considered. The mechanism is described in accordance with which trivial‐phase pump “selects” and excites specific nonlinear topological edge states circulating along the periphery of the structure in the azimuthal direction, dictated by the direction of the external applied magnetic field. The possibility of utilization of vortex pump with different topological charges for selective excitation of different edge currents is also shown.
Machine learning assistance for electrochemical curve simulation of corrosion and its application
Authors: Gong Xiaoyu , Dong Chaofang , Xu Jiajin , Wang Li , Li Xiaogang
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we used machine learning algorithms such as k‐nearest neighbour, decision tree, gradient boosting decision tree, random forest, and support vector machine in a scikit‐learn module of Python to construct polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectra. After application of this method to a high‐level nuclear waste disposal tank material of pure copper, the polarization curves, and electrochemical impedance spectra of pure copper under different chloride ion concentrations, sulfide concentrations, and temperature environments were used as training sets. The combination of the cross‐validation and experimental validation results revealed that the RF algorithm had the best effect on predicting the polarization curve and EIS. Through the input weight analysis, it was found that the sulfide concentration had the greatest influence on the polarization curve, followed by the chloride ion concentration, and the temperature influence was the smallest. For electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, sulfide and temperature had a large effect, while chloride ions had little effect. The result of the weight analysis was consistent with traditional electrochemical results.
Screening of antagonistic strains of respiratory origin and analysis of their bacteriostatic effects on pathogens
Authors: Li Xinming , Yang Biao , Sun Ye , Li Shuyin , Liu Defeng , Zou Yang , Xiao Chunling
Published: October 2019

Objective

To find antagonistic strains in the respiratory tract having bacteriostatic properties against common pathogens.

Methods

The oropharyngeal microbiota of five healthy children aged 4–6 years were collected and α‐hemolytic bacteria screened on 15% sheep blood agar. Bacteriostatic effects of the isolated α‐hemolytic bacteria on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pyogenes were evaluated by the Oxford cup method. Antagonistic strains were identified by mass spectrometry, and the16S rDNAs were sequenced, and their best bacteriostatic concentrations and antagonistic spectra for Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Enterobacter cloacae, Acinetobacter Baumanii, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pyogenes were evaluated.

Results

Of 300 isolated α‐hemolytic bacterial clones, four exhibited bacteriostatic activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Mass spectrometric analyses revealed that two of them were Streptococcus mitis and two others were Streptococcus parasanguinis strains. Further tests showed that all 4 antagonistic strains also had bacteriostatic effects on Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Enterobacter cloacae, and Acinetobacter Baumanii, and the mode of action was not mediated by lactic acid production.

Conclusion

Four antagonistic Streptococcus strains derived from oropharyngeal microbiotas showed bacteriostatic effects on pathogens and may be involved in pharyngeal microbiome homeostasis.
Dietary Protein Sources Differentially Affect the Growth of Akkermansia muciniphila and Maintenance of the Gut Mucus Barrier in Mice
Authors: Zhao Fan , Zhou Guanghong , Liu Xinyue , Song Shangxin , Xu Xinglian , Hooiveld Guido , Müller Michael , Liu Li , Kristiansen Karsten , Li Chunbao
Published: October 2019

Scope

The gut microbiota plays an essential role in linking diet to host health. The specific role of different dietary proteins on the gut microbiota and health is less understood. Here, the impact of proteins derived from chicken and soy on the gut microbiota and host gut barrier in C57BL/6 mice is investigated.

Methods and results

Specific‐pathogen‐free and germ‐free mice are assigned to either a chicken‐ or a soy protein‐based diet for 4 weeks. Compared with a chicken‐protein‐based diet, intake of a soy‐protein‐based diet reduces the abundance of A. muciniphila and the number of goblet cells, lowers the level of Muc2 mRNA, and decreases the thickness of the mucus layer in the colon of specific‐pathogen‐free mice. In germ‐free mice, colonization with A. muciniphila combined with intake of a chicken‐protein‐based diet results in a higher expression of the Muc2 mRNA in colon, and surprisingly, an increased potential for oxidative phosphorylation in A. muciniphila compared with colonized mice fed a soy‐protein‐based diet.

Conclusion

These findings suggest possible mutually beneficial interactions between the growth and function of A. muciniphila and host mucus barrier in response to intake of a chicken‐protein‐based diet contrasting the intake of a soy‐protein‐based diet.
Clinical myopathy in patients with nephropathic cystinosis
Authors: Sadjadi Reza , Sullivan Stacey , Grant Natalie , Thomas Susan E. , Doyle Maya , Hammond Colleen , Duong Rachel , Corre Camille , David William , Eichler Florian
Published: October 2019

Background

Nephropathic cystinosis is a lysosomal storage disorder. Patient survival years after renal transplantation has revealed systemic complications including distal myopathy and dysphagia.

Methods

We evaluated 20 adult patients with nephropathic cystinosis using patient‐reported and clinical outcome measures. Standard motor measures, video fluoroscopy swallow studies, and tests of respiratory function were performed. We also used Rasch analysis of an initial survey to design a 16‐item survey focused on upper and lower extremity function, which was completed by 31 additional patients.

Results

Distal myopathy and dysphagia were common in patients with nephropathic cystinosis. Muscle weakness ranges from mild involvement of intrinsic hand muscles to prominent distal greater than proximal weakness and contractures.

Conclusions

In addition to further characterization of underlying dysphagia and muscle weakness, we propose a new psychometrically devised, disease specific, functional outcome measures for distal myopathy in patients with nephropathic cystinosis.
Thigh muscle MRI findings in myopathy associated with anti‐mitochondrial antibody
Authors: Minamiyama Sumio , Ueda Sakiho , Nakashima Ran , Yamakado Hodaka , Sakato Yusuke , Yamashita Hirofumi , Sawamoto Nobukatsu , Fujimoto Ryota , Nishino Ichizo , Urushitani Makoto , Mimori Tsuneyo , Takahashi Ryosuke
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Myopathy associated with anti‐mitochondrial antibody (AMA) has recently been characterized as a distinct type of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the pattern of involvement in thigh muscles in AMA myopathy using MRI.

Methods

Six patients with AMA myopathy were identified and their muscle MRI findings evaluated.

Results

On thigh muscle MRI, all six patients showed high signal intensity with short‐tau inversion recovery that reflected disease activity mostly in the adductor magnus, called a “cuneiform sign.” Fatty degeneration was also prominent in the adductor magnus, as well as the semimembranosus muscles.

Discussion

These characteristic changes on MRI contrast with those of other inflammatory myopathies. From these observations, we concluded that the localization pattern of the inflammatory changes in muscle MRI can contribute to the diagnosis of AMA myopathy.
Position of the Ibero‐American Society of Neurourology and Urogynecology in relation to the use of synthetic suburethral meshes for the surgical treatment of female stress incontinence
Authors: Müller‐Arteaga Carlos , Martín Martinez Alicia , Padilla‐Fernández Bárbara , Blasco Hernández Pedro , Espuña Pons Montserrat , Cruz Francisco , Errando‐Smet Carlos , Martínez‐García Roberto , Vicente Palacio Eduardo , Castro Díaz David , López‐Fando Luis , Madurga Patuel Blanca , Ros Cerro Cristina , Arlandis Guzmán Salvador
Published: October 2019

Aims

The aim of this paper is to stablish de position of the Ibero‐American Society of Neurourology and Urogynecology (SINUG) in relation to the use of suburethral meshes for the surgical treatment of female stress incontinence.

Methods

Tension‐free mid‐urethral slings (MUS) have become the most popular procedure for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). In July 2018, the British government announced a pause in the use of meshes for both pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary incontinence (UI) treatment without differentiating whether the meshes were used for treating UI or POP. The decision was taken to stop their use until the publication of the updated UI and POP guidelines of the British National Health Service, which is available from April 2019.

SINUG has reviewed the evidence and official position of different societies in relation to the safety and efficacy of MUS in the surgical treatment of incontinence differentiating them from meshes used to repair POP.

Results

Data from synthetic mesh manufacturers indicate that in 2010, 300 000 women underwent surgical procedures to repair POP and approximately 260 000 were operated on for SUI. According to these estimates, approximately more than 80% of the surgical techniques for UI treatment were performed transvaginally with meshes.

Conclusions

Once reviewed evidence and position of different societies, the SINUG presents its vision in this communication, which is a summary of the document analysing the state of topic prepared by the society.
Learning Gaps and Family Experience, Nurse‐Facilitated Home Parenteral Nutrition Simulation‐Based Discharge Training: Proof‐of‐Concept Study
Authors: Raphael Bram P. , Takvorian‐Bené Melissa , Gallotto Mary , Tascione Christina , McClelland Jennifer , Rosa Carolyn , Dinan Jessica , O'Connell Brianna , Weinstock Peter
Published: October 2019

Background

Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is a life‐sustaining therapy for children and adults suffering with severe digestive diseases, yet complications are commonplace, and predischarge trainings are variable. High‐fidelity simulation training provides participants with an immersive experience using realistic equipment, supplies, and scenarios. Simulation training is rapidly becoming a potential gold standard for healthcare but is currently underutilized for families and caregivers.

Methods

We prospectively collected data on pediatric patients managed at a single HPN program from September 1, 2016, to September 30, 2018. Participants in a pilot simulation‐based training program (orientation, high‐fidelity mannequin, realistic homelike space, standardized clinical scenarios, and structured debriefing) were compared with historical controls. We excluded patients with short‐term HPN use and strictly palliative goals of care.

Results

Nineteen (90%) families participated in the pilot initiative with a median (interquartile range) age of 0.9 (3.7) years and diagnosis of short‐bowel syndrome in 14 (74%). During teaching scenarios, learning gaps were identified for aseptic needleless changes (53%), HPN equipment setup (84%) with specific difficulty adding multivitamin (32%), and dressing changes (63%). Thirty‐day readmission rates in simulation‐based training group vs historical cases were 42% vs 63% (P = not significant). There was no difference in length of stay between groups. All (100%) simulation‐based training group participants would recommend this learning experience to others.

Conclusion

HPN discharge training is a novel use for high‐fidelity simulation to address family/caregiver satisfaction and to identify learning gaps. Further studies are needed to refine predischarge training materials and examine the impact on postdischarge outcomes.
Influence of smectite and salinity on the imaginary and surface conductivity of volcanic rocks
Authors: Lévy Léa , Weller Andreas , Gibert Benoit
Published: October 2019

We investigate the complex conductivity behaviour of natural volcanic rocks containing variable amounts of smectite in multi‐salinity experiments. We compare the results with relationships established for sandstones. Considering only samples with little volume of metallic particles, we observe similar and small phase‐angles at low frequency for all samples at all salinities (less than 25 mrad at 1 Hz). Yet, a wide range of cation exchange capacity, porosity and formation factor is covered by the sample set: 0.5–50 meq/100 g, 4–40% and 18–780, respectively. Our results show that, in the absence of metallic particles, the ratio between imaginary conductivity and surface conductivity is significantly lower for altered volcanic rocks than for sandstones and decreases with the smectite content. These observations indicate that an increased smectite content causes more conduction and less polarization, which could be explained by the onset of a continuous conduction pathway throughout connected interfoliar spaces of smectite. Due to this pathway, cations from the pore fluid may penetrate the solid lattice, for example through connected smectite aggregates clogging the fracture network, thus preventing polarization. We also observe that the relationship between imaginary conductivity and surface conductivity, at one salinity or over the whole salinity range, is not more significant than the relationship between the imaginary conductivity and the total real conductivity. Therefore, we suggest that the imaginary conductivity cannot be used to discriminate the contributions from smectite and pore water to the total conductivity of altered volcanic rocks.
Molecular Bottle Brushes with Positioned Selenols: Extending the Toolbox of Oxidative Single Polymer Chain Folding with Conformation Analysis by Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Schué Emmanuelle , Kopyshev Alexey , Lutz Jean‐François , Börner Hans G.
Published: October 2019

A synthesis route to controlled and dynamic single polymer chain folding is reported. Sequence‐controlled macromolecules containing precisely located selenol moieties within a polymer chain are synthesized. Oxidation of selenol functionalities lead to diselenide bridges and induces controlled intramolecular crosslinking to generate single chain collapse. The cyclization process is successfully characterized by SEC as well as by 1H NMR and 2D HSQC NMR spectroscopies. In order to gain insight on the molecular level to reveal the degree of structural control, the folded polymers are transformed into folded molecular brushes that are known to be visualizable as single molecule structures by AFM. The “grafting onto” approach is performed by using triazolinedione−diene reaction to graft the side chain polymers. A series of folded molecular brushes as well as the corresponding linear controls are synthesized. AFM visualization is proving the cyclization of the folded backbone by showing globular objects, where non‐folded brushes show typical worm‐like structures. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. 2020, 58, 154–162
Predictors for plication performance following diaphragmatic paralysis in children
Authors: Goldberg Lior , Krauthammer Alexander , Ashkenazi Moshe , Soudack Michal , Tokatly Latzer Itay , Vardi Amir , Paret Gideon
Published: October 2019

Introduction and Objectives

Diaphragmatic paralysis (DP) in children can result from various etiologies. Guidelines for patient selection for diaphragmatic plication (DPL) are lacking. Our objectives were to describe the etiologies of DP and to determine the risk factors and predictors for DPL in the pediatric population.

Methods

Retrospective data were retrieved from departmental databases on patients with DP from the pediatric, cardiac, and neonatal intensive care departments of Safra Children's Hospital from 2010 to 2017.

Results

DP was diagnosed in 88 patients, 29 with noncardiac surgery‐related etiologies, for example, congenital, surgery, trauma, and shock and 59 with cardiac surgery‐related etiologies. In total, 27 (31%) patients underwent DPL, and they had significant comorbidities involving respiratory, central nervous, and cardiovascular systems, higher lung injury scores, and lower weight compared with the patients who did not undergo DPL (P = .002, P = .002, P < .001, P = .012, and P = .013, respectively). A multivariate regression model revealed significant independent predictors for DPL, including morbidities of central nervous (odds ratio [OR = 9.651, P = .005), respiratory (OR = 4.875, P = .039), and cardiovascular systems (OR = 23.938, P = .001).

Conclusions

Etiologies of DP are very diverse in the pediatric population. Comorbidities of respiratory, central nervous, and cardiovascular systems are risk factors for plication requirement in respiratory support‐dependent pediatric patients with DP. Early DPL should be considered in these patients.
Critical assessment of methods of protein structure prediction (CASP)—Round XIII
Authors: Kryshtafovych Andriy , Schwede Torsten , Topf Maya , Fidelis Krzysztof , Moult John
Published: October 2019

CASP (critical assessment of structure prediction) assesses the state of the art in modeling protein structure from amino acid sequence. The most recent experiment (CASP13 held in 2018) saw dramatic progress in structure modeling without use of structural templates (historically “ab initio” modeling). Progress was driven by the successful application of deep learning techniques to predict inter‐residue distances. In turn, these results drove dramatic improvements in three‐dimensional structure accuracy: With the proviso that there are an adequate number of sequences known for the protein family, the new methods essentially solve the long‐standing problem of predicting the fold topology of monomeric proteins. Further, the number of sequences required in the alignment has fallen substantially. There is also substantial improvement in the accuracy of template‐based models. Other areas—model refinement, accuracy estimation, and the structure of protein assemblies—have again yielded interesting results. CASP13 placed increased emphasis on the use of sparse data together with modeling and chemical crosslinking, SAXS, and NMR all yielded more mature results. This paper summarizes the key outcomes of CASP13. The special issue of PROTEINS contains papers describing the CASP13 assessments in each modeling category and contributions from the participants.
Comparing antipsychotics: A rose by any other name?
Authors: Price Lawrence H.
Published: October 2019

Are all antipsychotics pretty much alike? Sure, there are differences in side effects, and big differences in costs, and then there's clozapine. But at the end of the day, they all do basically the same thing, which is to alter dopamine neurotransmission. So, if you discount the claims of their respective manufacturers, is there anything that really sets them apart from one another?