bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in management and outcomes of vascular emergencies in the	nationwide inpatient sample
Authors: Bath Jonathan , Hartwig Jacob , Dombrovskiy Viktor Y. , Vogel Todd R.
Published: April 2019

Summary: Background: To evaluate trends in frequency, mortality and treatment for non-traumatic vascular emergencies (VE) in the US. Methods: VE in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2005–2014) were identified. ICD-9 CM diagnosis and procedures codes captured six common VE. Results: 228,210,504 emergency admissions with 317,396 procedures for VE were estimated. Mean age was 67.8 years and were primarily men (56.1 %; p < 0.0001). The commonest VE was Acute Limb Ischemia (ALI) (82.4 %) followed by ruptured AAA (10.8 %) and Acute Mesenteric Ischemia (4.71 %). VE increased from 132.8 per 100,000 admissions in 2005 to 153.6 in 2014 (p < 0.001), with mortality decrease for all VE (13.8 % vs. 9.1 %; p < 0.0001). Length of stay decreased (median 8 vs. 7 days; p < 0.0001) but cost of care increased (median $ 25,443 vs. $ 29,353; p < 0.0001). Endovascular treatment increased overall for VE from 23.7 % in 2005 to 37.2 % in 2014 (p < 0.0001). Hospital mortality for VE decreased overall, except ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm with mortality decrease with endovascular treatment (34.3 vs. 11.1; p = 0.04) and mortality increase with open treatment (44.7 vs. 47.6; p = 0.06). ALI overall mortality decreased from 8.1 % to 5.7 % (p < 0.0001) due to reduced open surgical mortality from 9.6 % to 7.4 % (p < 0.0001); endovascular mortality did not improve over time (4.0 % vs. 3.4 %; p = 0.45). Hospital mortality also increased for endovascular treatment of ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm (rTAA) from 14.9 % to 27.4 % (p = 0.0003) during this period. Conclusions: VE frequency increased with a decrease in overall mortality over time. Overall hospital stay has decreased but with an increase in the cost of care. Open surgical mortality for VE has also decreased overall, suggesting perioperative care improvements, with the exception of ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm. Endovascular utilization for VE has significantly increased; associated with lower mortality for most VE, although an increase in hospital mortality after endovascular repair of rTAA was seen. This may be due to an increased implementation of endovascular repair for patients not previously eligible for surgery due to high risk. We recommend careful selection of patients for rTAA treatment as mortality has increased despite endovascular therapy and at an increased cost of care.
Shear Velocity Structure Beneath Saudi Arabia From the Joint Inversion of P and S Wave Receiver Functions, and Rayleigh Wave Group Velocity Dispersion Data
Authors: Tang Zheng , Mai P. Martin , Julià Jordi , Zahran Hani
Published: April 2019

We develop a new 3‐D shear velocity model for the lithosphere and sublithospheric mantle under Saudi Arabia by jointly inverting P wave receiver functions, S wave receiver functions, and fundamental‐mode Rayleigh wave group velocities. P and S receiver functions are calculated from earthquakes recorded between 2012 and 2015 at 156 Saudi National Seismic Network stations operated by the Saudi Geological Survey. Rayleigh wave dispersion data are extracted from independent tomographic studies. Our model reveals significant lateral variations in crustal and upper‐mantle S velocity below Saudi Arabia. Particularly, a low‐velocity zone, with minimum S velocity of ~4.0 km/s in the depth range of 70‐190 km, is observed under the Arabian Shield coinciding with Cenozoic surface volcanism. The low‐velocity zone is found consistent with the presence of partial melts in the mantle and interpreted as a potential deep magma source for the volcanism in western Arabia. We propose that magmas responsible for the Arabian volcanism may be derived from multiple sources. Both lithospheric thinning and the Afar plume trigger magma production beneath southwestern Arabia, while decompression melting caused by the lithospheric thinning may be the main factor in the central and northern portions. Furthermore, we find evidence for localized crustal low shear velocity anomalies (2–4% reductions) that appear spatially correlated to the volcanism; these may be due to fractures caused by magma ascent and small amounts of partial melt in the crust. This spatial distribution of S velocity reductions may indicate the plumbing system for magma ascent underneath western Arabia.
Bringing Clarity to What Drives Auroras
Authors: Zastrow Mark
Published: April 2019

A new classification scheme helps researchers distinguish what accelerates the electrons that create auroras.
Meteorite’s Hidden Treasure: A Comet
Authors: Morton Mary
Published: April 2019

A fragment of a comet found hidden inside a meteorite is offering new insights into the dynamics of our young solar system.
First‐Principles Study of FeO2Hx Solid and Melt System at High Pressures: Implications for Ultralow‐Velocity Zones
Authors: Deng Jie , Karki Bijaya B. , Ghosh Dipta B. , Lee Kanani K. M.
Published: April 2019

Pyrite‐type FeO2Hx (P phase) has recently been suggested as a possible alternative to explain ultralow‐velocity zones due to its low seismic velocity and high density. Here we report the results on the congruent melting temperature and melt properties of P phase at high pressures from first‐principles molecular dynamics simulations. The results show that P phase would likely be melted near the core–mantle boundary. Liquid FeO2Hx has smaller density and smaller bulk sound velocity compared to the isochemical P phase. As such, relatively small amounts of liquid FeO2Hx could account for the observed seismic anomaly of ultralow‐velocity zones. However, to maintain the liquid FeO2Hx within the ultralow‐velocity zones against compaction requires special physical conditions, such as relatively high viscosity of the solid matrix and/or vigorous convection of the overlying mantle.
Transplantation of clinical-grade human neural stem cells reduces neuroinflammation, prolongs survival and delays disease progression in the SOD1 rats
Authors: Zalfa Cristina , Rota Nodari Laura , Vacchi Elena , Gelati Maurizio , Profico Daniela , Boido Marina , Binda Elena , De Filippis Lidia , Copetti Massimiliano , Garlatti Valentina , Daniele Paola , Rosati Jessica , De Luca Alessandro , Pinos Francesca , Cajola Laura , Visioli Alberto , Mazzini Letizia , Vercelli Alessandro , Svelto Maria , Vescovi Angelo Luigi , Ferrari Daniela
Published: April 2019

Stem cells are emerging as a therapeutic option for incurable diseases, such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). However, critical issues are related to their origin as well as to the need to deepen our knowledge of the therapeutic actions exerted by these cells. Here, we investigate the therapeutic potential of clinical-grade human neural stem cells (hNSCs) that have been successfully used in a recently concluded phase I clinical trial for ALS patients (NCT01640067). The hNSCs were transplanted bilaterally into the anterior horns of the lumbar spinal cord (four grafts each, segments L3–L4) of superoxide dismutase 1 G93A transgenic rats (SOD1 rats) at the symptomatic stage. Controls included untreated SOD1 rats (CTRL) and those treated with HBSS (HBSS). Motor symptoms and histological hallmarks of the disease were evaluated at three progressive time points: 15 and 40 days after transplant (DAT), and end stage. Animals were treated by transient immunosuppression (for 15 days, starting at time of transplantation). Under these conditions, hNSCs integrated extensively within the cord, differentiated into neural phenotypes and migrated rostro-caudally, up to 3.77 ± 0.63 cm from the injection site. The transplanted cells delayed decreases in body weight and deterioration of motor performance in the SOD1 rats. At 40DAT, the anterior horns at L3–L4 revealed a higher density of motoneurons and fewer activated astroglial and microglial cells. Accordingly, the overall survival of transplanted rats was significantly enhanced with no rejection of hNSCs observed. We demonstrated that the beneficial effects observed after stem cell transplantation arises from multiple events that counteract several aspects of the disease, a crucial feature for multifactorial diseases, such as ALS. The combination of therapeutic approaches that target different pathogenic mechanisms of the disorder, including pharmacology, molecular therapy and cell transplantation, will increase the chances of a clinically successful therapy for ALS.
Enhanced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells in ankylosing spondylitis: a study based on a three-dimensional biomimetic environment
Authors: Zheng Guan , Xie Zhongyu , Wang Peng , Li Jinteng , Li Ming , Cen Shuizhong , Tang Su’an , Liu Wenjie , Ye Guiwen , Li Yuxi , Wang Shan , Wu Xiaohua , Su Hongjun , Wu Yanfeng , Shen Huiyong
Published: April 2019

The mechanism of pathological osteogenesis in Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is largely unknown. Our previous studies demonstrated that the imbalance between BMP-2 and Noggin secretion induces abnormal osteogenic differentiation of marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from AS patients in a two-dimensional culture environment. In this study, HA/β-TCP scaffolds were further used as a three-dimensional (3D) biomimetic culture system to mimic the bone microenvironment in vivo to determine the abnormal osteogenic differentiation of AS-MSCs. We demonstrated that when cultured in HA/β-TCP scaffolds, AS-MSCs had a stronger osteogenic differentiation capacity than that of MSCs from healthy donors (HD-MSCs) in vitro and in vivo. This dysfunction resulted from BMP2 overexpression in AS-MSCs, which excessively activated the Smad1/5/8 and ERK signalling pathways and finally led to enhanced osteogenic differentiation. Both the signalling pathway inhibitors and siRNAs inhibiting BMP2 expression could rectify the enhanced osteogenic differentiation of AS-MSCs. Furthermore, BMP2 expression in ossifying entheses was significantly higher in AS patients. In summary, our study demonstrated that AS-MSCs possess enhanced osteogenic differentiation in HA/β-TCP scaffolds as a 3D biomimetic microenvironment because of BMP2 overexpression, but not Noggin. These results provide insights into the mechanism of pathological osteogenesis, which can aid in the development of niche-targeting medications for AS.
Addendum: A FRET biosensor for necroptosis uncovers two different modes of the release of DAMPs
Authors: Murai Shin , Yamaguchi Yoshifumi , Shirasaki Yoshitaka , Yamagishi Mai , Shindo Ryodai , Hildebrand Joanne M. , Miura Ryosuke , Nakabayashi Osamu , Totsuka Mamoru , Tomida Taichiro , Adachi-Akahane Satomi , Uemura Sotaro , Silke John , Yagita Hideo , Miura Masayuki , Nakano Hiroyasu
Published: April 2019

The cDNA sequence of human SMART described in this Article was misreported, as described in the accompanying Addendum. This error does not affect the results or any conclusion of the Article.
Testing the influence of habitat experienced during the natal phase on habitat selection later in life in Scandinavian wolves
Authors: Milleret Cyril , Ordiz Andrés , Sanz-Pérez Ana , Uzal Antonio , Carricondo-Sanchez David , Eriksen Ane , Sand Håkan , Wabakken Petter , Wikenros Camilla , Åkesson Mikael , Zimmermann Barbara
Published: April 2019

Natal habitat preference induction (NHPI) occurs when characteristics of the natal habitat influence the future habitat selection of an animal. However, the influence of NHPI after the dispersal phase has received remarkably little attention. We tested whether exposure to humans in the natal habitat helps understand why some adult wolves Canis lupus may approach human settlements more than other conspecifics, a question of both ecological and management interest. We quantified habitat selection patterns within home ranges using resource selection functions and GPS data from 21 wolf pairs in Scandinavia. We identified the natal territory of each wolf with genetic parental assignment, and we used human-related characteristics within the natal territory to estimate the degree of anthropogenic influence in the early life of each wolf. When the female of the adult wolf pair was born in an area with a high degree of anthropogenic influence, the wolf pair tended to select areas further away from humans, compared to wolf pairs from natal territories with a low degree of anthropogenic influence. Yet the pattern was statistically weak, we suggest that our methodological approach can be useful in other systems to better understand NHPI and to inform management  about human-wildlife interactions.
Chitosan-based hydrogel to support the paracrine activity of mesenchymal stem cells in spinal cord injury treatment
Authors: Boido M. , Ghibaudi M. , Gentile P. , Favaro E. , Fusaro R. , Tonda-Turo C.
Published: April 2019

Advanced therapies which combine cells with biomaterial-based carriers are recognized as an emerging and powerful method to treat challenging diseases, such as spinal cord injury (SCI). By enhancing transplanted cell survival and grafting, biomimetic hydrogels can be properly engineered to encapsulate cells and locate them at the injured site in a minimally invasive way. In this work, chitosan (CS) based hydrogels were developed to host mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), since their paracrine action can therapeutically enhance the SC regeneration, limiting the formation of a glial scar and reducing cell death at the injured site. An injectable and highly permeable CS-based hydrogel was fabricated having a rapid gelation upon temperature increase from 0 to 37 °C. CS was selected as former material both for its high biocompatibility that guarantees the proper environment for MSCs survival and for its ability to provide anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant cues. MSCs were mixed with the hydrogel solution prior to gelation. MSC viability was not affected by the CS hydrogel and encapsulated MSCs were able to release MSC-vesicles as well as to maintain their anti-oxidant features. Finally, preliminaryin vivotests on SCI mice revealed good handling of the CS solution loading MSCs during implantation and high encapsulated MSCs survival after 7 days.
Driven gyrotropic skyrmion motion through steps in magnetic anisotropy
Authors: Zhou Yifan , Mansell Rhodri , van Dijken Sebastiaan
Published: April 2019

The discovery of magnetic skyrmions in ultrathin heterostructures has led to great interest in possible applications in memory and logic devices. The non-trivial topology of magnetic skyrmions gives rise to a gyrotropic motion, where, under an applied energy gradient a skyrmion gains a component of motion perpendicular to the applied force. So far, device proposals have largely neglected this motion or treated it as a barrier to correct operation. Here, we show that skyrmions can be efficiently moved perpendicular to an energy step created by local changes in the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. We propose an experimentally-realizable skyrmion racetrack device which uses voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy to induce a step in magnetic anisotropy and drive a skyrmion unidirectionally using alternating voltage pulses.
The nuclear interactome of DYRK1A reveals a functional role in DNA damage repair
Authors: Guard Steven E. , Poss Zachary C. , Ebmeier Christopher C. , Pagratis Maria , Simpson Helen , Taatjes Dylan J. , Old William M.
Published: April 2019

The chromosome 21 encoded protein kinase DYRK1A is essential for normal human development. Mutations in DYRK1A underlie a spectrum of human developmental disorders, and increased dosage in trisomy 21 is implicated in Down syndrome related pathologies. DYRK1A regulates a diverse array of cellular processes through physical interactions with substrates and binding partners in various subcellular compartments. Despite recent large-scale protein-protein interaction profiling efforts, DYRK1A interactions specific to different subcellular compartments remain largely unknown, impeding progress toward understanding emerging roles for this kinase. Here, we used immunoaffinity purification and quantitative mass spectrometry to identify nuclear interaction partners of endogenous DYRK1A. This interactome was enriched in DNA damage repair factors, transcriptional elongation factors and E3 ubiquitin ligases. We validated an interaction with RNF169, a factor that promotes homology directed repair upon DNA damage, and found that DYRK1A expression and kinase activity are required for maintenance of 53BP1 expression and subsequent recruitment to DNA damage loci. Further, DYRK1A knock out conferred resistance to ionizing radiation in colony formation assays, suggesting that DYRK1A expression decreases cell survival efficiency in response to DNA damage and points to a tumor suppressive role for this kinase.
A Biotransformation Process for Production of Genistein from Sophoricoside by a Strain of Rhizopus oryza
Authors: Mei Jianfeng , Chen Xiang , Liu Jianghua , Yi Yu , Zhang Yanlu , Ying Guoqing
Published: April 2019

Genistein is known to have multiple biological activities and has great potential for use as a preventative medicine and in disease treatment. Genistein can be extracted from plants, but also can be obtained from its glycoside form, sophoricoside, which is more abundant in some plants. Biotransformation by unpurified microbial enzymes has the advantage of low cost and is a preferred method for production of natural compounds. This study isolated a strain of Rhizopus oryzae that could produce β-glucosidase, which efficiently hydrolyzes sophoricoside into genistein, from an enrichment culture of the dried fruits of Sophora japonica. After the composition of enzyme-producing medium and biotransformation conditions were optimized, a genistein yield of 85.6% was obtained after 24 h in a shake-flask biotransformation at pH 7.0 using an initial substrate concentration of 1 g/L. The developed process provides an alternative method for production of genistein, and would be suitable for scale-up production in the pharmaceutical industry.
The risk of selenium deficiency in Malawi is large and varies over multiple spatial scales
Authors: Phiri Felix P. , Ander E. Louise , Bailey Elizabeth H. , Chilima Benson , Chilimba Allan D. C. , Gondwe Jellita , Joy Edward J. M. , Kalimbira Alexander A. , Kumssa Diriba B. , Lark R. Murray , Phuka John C. , Salter Andrew , Suchdev Parminder S. , Watts Michael J. , Young Scott D. , Broadley Martin R.
Published: April 2019

Selenium (Se) is an essential human micronutrient. Deficiency of Se decreases the activity of selenoproteins and can compromise immune and thyroid function and cognitive development, and increase risks from non-communicable diseases. The prevalence of Se deficiency is unknown in many countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Here we report that the risk of Se deficiency in Malawi is large among a nationally representative population of 2,761 people. For example, 62.5% and 29.6% of women of reproductive age (WRA, n = 802) had plasma Se concentrations below the thresholds for the optimal activity of the selenoproteins glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3; <86.9 ng mL−1) and iodothyronine deiodinase (IDI; <64.8 ng mL−1), respectively. This is the first nationally representative evidence of widespread Se deficiency in SSA. Geostatistical modelling shows that Se deficiency risks are influenced by soil type, and also by proximity to Lake Malawi where more fish is likely to be consumed. Selenium deficiency should be quantified more widely in existing national micronutrient surveillance programmes in SSA given the marginal additional cost this would incur.
Association of resting heart rate and its change with incident cardiovascular events in the middle-aged and older Chinese
Authors: Tian Jing , Yuan Yu , Shen Miaoyan , Zhang Xiaomin , He Meian , Guo Huan , Yang Handong , Wu Tangchun
Published: April 2019

Whether heart rate change is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the general population is unclear. We conducted a prospective cohort study to assess the association of resting heart rate and its change with incident CVD in the middle-aged and older Chinese. Resting heart rate was measured during the baseline survey (September 2008 to June 2010) and the resurvey (2013). Incident CVD was followed up until December 31, 2016. Finally, a total of 20,828 participants were included in the analyses of baseline heart rate and 9132 participants were included in the analyses of heart rate change. The associations of baseline heart rate and heart rate change with incident CVD were assessed with multivariable Cox proportional hazards models. Compared with moderate baseline heart rate (65 to 80 bpm), low baseline heart rate (<65 bpm) was associated with higher risk of CVD (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.07–1.32). Compared with stable heart rate (−5 to 15 bpm) in the moderate baseline heart rate group (65 to 80 bpm), an increase of heart rate (>15 bpm) in high baseline heart rate group (>80 bpm) (HR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.02–2.71) or a decrease of heart rate (<−5 bpm) in low baseline heart rate group (<65 bpm) (HR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.27–4.82) was associated with higher risk of CVD. In conclusion, low resting heart rate is associated with higher risk of CVD. Both continuous increase in high baseline heart rate and decrease in low baseline heart rate are associated with higher risk of CVD.
Monte Carlo investigation of the characteristics of radioactive beams for heavy ion therapy
Authors: Chacon Andrew , Safavi-Naeini Mitra , Bolst David , Guatelli Susanna , Franklin Daniel R. , Iwao Yuma , Akamatsu Go , Tashima Hideaki , Yoshida Eiji , Nishikido Fumihiko , Kitagawa Atsushi , Mohammadi Akram , Gregoire Marie-Claude , Yamaya Taiga , Rosenfeld Anatoly B.
Published: April 2019

This work presents a simulation study evaluating relative biological effectiveness at 10% survival fraction (RBE10) of several different positron-emitting radionuclides in heavy ion treatment systems, and comparing these to the RBE10s of their non-radioactive counterparts. RBE10 is evaluated as a function of depth for three positron-emitting radioactive ion beams (10C, 11C and 15O) and two stable ion beams (12C and 16O) using the modified microdosimetric kinetic model (MKM) in a heterogeneous skull phantom subject to a rectangular 50 mm × 50 mm × 60 mm spread out Bragg peak. We demonstrate that the RBE10 of the positron-emitting radioactive beams is almost identical to the corresponding stable isotopes. The potential improvement in PET quality assurance image quality which is obtained when using radioactive beams is evaluated by comparing the signal to background ratios of positron annihilations at different intra- and post-irradiation time points. Finally, the incidental dose to the patient resulting from the use of radioactive beams is also quantified and shown to be negligible.
Sulfenamide and Sulfonamide Derivatives of Metformin – A New Option to Improve Endothelial Function and Plasma Haemostasis
Authors: Markowicz-Piasecka Magdalena , Huttunen Kristiina M. , Broncel Marlena , Sikora Joanna
Published: April 2019

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multi-factorial disease which can cause multiple organ dysfunction, including that of the vascular endothelium. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of metformin, and its sulfenamide and sulfonamide derivatives (compounds 1–8) on the selected markers of endothelial function and blood coagulation. The integrity of endothelial cells(ECs) was examined using the real-time cell electric impedance system. Tissue Factor(TF) production, the release of von Willebrand Factor (vWF) and tissue plasminogen activator(t-PA) from ECs were determined using immunoenzymatic assays, while the process of platelet thrombus formation using the Total Thrombus-Formation Analysis System. Sulfenamide with n-butyl alkyl chain(3) does not interfere with ECs integrity, and viability (nCI(24h) = 1.03 ± 0.03 vs. 1.06 ± 0.11 for control), but possesses anticoagulation properties manifested by prolonged platelet-dependent thrombus formation (Occlusion Time 370.3 ± 77.0 s vs. 286.7 ± 65.5 s for control) in semi-physiological conditions. Both p- and o-nitro-benzenesulfonamides (compounds7,8) exhibit anti-coagulant properties demonstrated by decreased vWF release and prolonged parameters of platelet thrombus formation and total blood thrombogenicity. In conclusion, chemical modification of metformin scaffold into sulfenamides or sulfonamides might be regarded as a good starting point for the design and synthesis of novel biguanide-based compounds with anticoagulant properties and valuable features regarding endothelial function.
High-throughput sequencing reveals the diversity and community structure of rhizosphere fungi of Ferula Sinkiangensis at different soil depths
Authors: Zhang Tao , Wang Zhongke , Lv Xinhua , Li Yang , Zhuang Li
Published: April 2019

Ferula sinkiangesis is a valuable medicinal plant that has become endangered. Improving the soil habitat of Ferula sinkiangesis can alleviate plant damage. Fungi play an important role in the soil, but current information on the fungal community structure in the habitat of Ferula sinkiangesis and the relationship between soil fungi and abiotic factors remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the relative abundance of fungal species in the rhizosphere of Ferula sinkiangesis. Spearman correlation analysis showed that the abiotic factor total potassium (TK) significantly explained the alpha diversity of the fungal community. At altitude, available phosphorus (AP), nitrate nitrogen (NN) and TK were significantly associated with the fungal species. In addition, a two-way ANOVA showed that soil depth had no significant effects on the alpha diversity of rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere fungi. Interestingly, linear discriminant effect size (LEfSe) analysis indicated that different biomarkers were present at varying soil depths. These findings may be related to the growth and medicinal properties of Ferula Sinkiangensis.
Optically coupled engineered upconversion nanoparticles and graphene for a high responsivity broadband photodetector
Authors: Thakur Mukesh Kumar , Gupta Akash , Fakhri Muhammad Yusuf , Chen Ruei San , Wu Chien Ting , Lin Kung Hsuan , Chattopadhyay Surojit
Published: April 2019

Upconversion nanoparticles on graphene based broadband photodetector showing unprecedented values of device parameters is demonstrated with response even for hand held domestic appliances.
Variety identification of oat seeds using hyperspectral imaging: investigating the representation ability of deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Wu Na , Zhang Yu , Na Risu , Mi Chunxiao , Zhu Susu , He Yong , Zhang Chu
Published: April 2019

The excellent representation ability of deep spectral features enables hyperspectral imaging combined with deep convolutional neural network to be a powerful tool for large-scale seeds detection in modern seed industry.
A deep-red emission fluorescent probe for detection of viscosity in living cells and mice
Authors: Gao Shiying , Ma Yanyan , Lin Weiying
Published: April 2019

A deep-red emission fluorescent probe HY for detecting viscosity in living systems was developed. The probe exhibited ideal properties including good selectivity, high stability and low cytotoxicity. Importantly, the probe HY has been successfully utilized for monitoring viscosity variations in cells and living mice.
Oxidative addition of elemental selenium to 1,4,2,5-diazadiborinine
Authors: Goh Gillian Kor Hwee , Li Yongxin , Kinjo Rei
Published: April 2019

A heavier analogue of dibora-peroxide 4 involving a B–Se–Se–B unit has been synthesized and fully characterized.
Cobalt phosphide embedded in a graphene nanosheet network as a high-performance anode for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Yang Yang , Jiang Yufeng , Fu Wenbin , Liao Xiao-Zhen , He Yu-Shi , Tang Wan , Alamgir Faisal M. , Ma Zi-Feng
Published: April 2019

Cobalt phosphide embedded in a graphene nanosheet network can be developed by a versatile strategy for advanced Li-ion battery anodes.
Bioinspired reactivity and coordination chemistry
Authors: Apfel Ulf-Peter , Suntharalingam Kogularamanan
Published: April 2019

Welcome to this issue of Dalton Transactions featuring the themed issue “Bioinspired reactivity and coordination chemistry”.
Spatially isolating salt crystallisation from water evaporation for continuous solar steam generation and salt harvesting
Authors: Xia Yun , Hou Qinfu , Jubaer Hasan , Li Yang , Kang Yuan , Yuan Shi , Liu Huiyuan , Woo Meng Wai , Zhang Lian , Gao Li , Wang Huanting , Zhang Xiwang
Published: April 2019

Efficient solar steam generation and concurrent salt harvesting from saline water were achieved with both continuous operation and long-term stability.
Semiconductor polymeric graphitic carbon nitride photocatalysts: the “holy grail” for the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction under visible light
Authors: Liao Guangfu , Gong Yan , Zhang Li , Gao Haiyang , Yang Guan-Jun , Fang Baizeng
Published: April 2019

Graphitic carbon nitrides and their composites with various morphologies and bandgaps engineered for the hydrogen evolution reaction under visible light are reviewed.
Metabolomics reveals that engineered nanomaterial exposure in soil alters both soil rhizosphere metabolite profiles and maize metabolic pathways
Authors: Zhao Lijuan , Zhang Huiling , White Jason C. , Chen Xiaoqiang , Li Hongbo , Qu Xiaolei , Ji Rong
Published: April 2019

Soil metabolomics enabled a single frame snapshot of plant rhizosphere and soil chemical composition changes upon exposure to engineered nanomaterials.
Leveraging synthetic biology for producing bioactive polyketides and non-ribosomal peptides in bacterial heterologous hosts
Authors: Cook Taylor B. , Pfleger Brian F.
Published: April 2019

A review discussing the role of heterologous expression in the discovery and engineered production of bioactive polyketides and non-ribosomal peptides from bacteria.
Simple and general platform for highly adjustable thermochromic fluorescent materials and multi-feasible applications
Authors: Du Jiahui , Sheng Lan , Chen Qiaonan , Xu Yuan , Li Wen , Wang Xiaojun , Li Minjie , Zhang Sean Xiao-An
Published: April 2019

A simple and general platform for thermochromic fluorescent materials with excellent performance and multiple feasible applications.
Magnetically driven piezoelectric soft microswimmers for neuron-like cell delivery and neuronal differentiation
Authors: Chen Xiang-Zhong , Liu Jia-Hao , Dong Mei , Müller Lucas , Chatzipirpiridis George , Hu Chengzhi , Terzopoulou Anastasia , Torlakcik Harun , Wang Xiaopu , Mushtaq Fajer , Puigmartí-Luis Josep , Shen Qun-Dong , Nelson Bradley J. , Pané Salvador
Published: April 2019

Wireless piezoelectric microrobots are biomedical devices with a potential use in high-precision minimally invasive therapies.
Constructing metal–organic framework nanodots as bio-inspired artificial superoxide dismutase for alleviating endotoxemia
Authors: Zhang Lu , Zhang Yan , Wang Zhenzhen , Cao Fangfang , Sang Yanjuan , Dong Kai , Pu Fang , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: April 2019

Cu-TCPP MOF nanodots with the ability of renal clearance are fabricated to functionally and structurally mimic the antioxidant SOD for alleviating endotoxemia.
Six state molecular revolver mounted on a rigid platform
Authors: Homberg Jan , Lindner Marcin , Gerhard Lukas , Edelmann Kevin , Frauhammer Timo , Nahas Yasmine , Valášek Michal , Mayor Marcel , Wulfhekel Wulf
Published: April 2019

The tip of an STM induces transitions between six rotational states in tripodal sulfur-anchored stands with rotational axes.
Synthesis of (difluoromethyl)naphthalenes using the ring construction strategy: C–C bond formation on the central carbon of 1,1-difluoroallenes via Pd-catalyzed insertion
Authors: Fuchibe Kohei , Watanabe Shumpei , Takao Go , Ichikawa Junji
Published: April 2019

1,1-Difluoroallenes underwent β-selective C–C bond formation (insertion) via π-allylpalladium(ii) to facilitate aromatic ring construction, leading to biologically promising (difluoromethyl)naphthalenes.
Significant influence of halogenation on the energy levels and molecular configurations of polymers in DTBDT-based polymer solar cells
Authors: Huang Jiaming , Xie Lingchao , Hong Ling , Wu Lirong , Han Yufang , Yan Tingting , Zhang Jianqi , Zhu Liqiang , Wei Zhixiang , Ge Ziyi
Published: April 2019

The impact of the halogenation of DTBDT-based polymers PDBT-X (X = F, Cl, 2F, and 2Cl) was systematically studied.
Detection of miRNA cancer biomarkers using light activated Molecular Beacons
Authors: Gonçalves Odete Sofia Lopes , Wheeler Guy , Dalmay Tamas , Dai Houquan , Castro Miguel , Castro Patrick , García-Rupérez Jaime , Ruiz-Tórtola Ángela , Griol Amadeu , Hurtado Juan , Bellieres Laurent , Bañuls María José , González Daniel , López-Guerrero José Antonio , Neves-Petersen Maria Teresa
Published: April 2019

Photonic based detection strategies of cancer miRNA biomarkers after Light Assisted Molecular Immobilization (LAMI) of peptide-MB biosensor constructs.
Engineering the mechanical properties of CNT/PEEK nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang Ke , Zhou Caihua , Ren Mingfa , Gu Yuantong , Li Tong
Published: April 2019

The mechanical properties of the CNT/PEEK composite can be modulated by the functionalization of CNT reinforcements.
Phosphorescent immunosensor for simple and sensitive detection of microcystin-LR in water
Authors: Qin Jin , Sun Xiaojie , Li Dongxia , Yan Guiqin
Published: April 2019

A simple and sensitive Mn–ZnS quantum dot room-temperature phosphorescent immunosensor for detecting microcystin-LR was developed.
Convenient and efficient synthesis of novel 11H-benzo[5,6][1,4]thiazino[3,4-a]isoindol-11-ones derived from 2-bromo-(2/3-substitutedphenyl)-1H-indene-1,3(2H)-diones
Authors: Mor Satbir , Sindhu Suchita
Published: April 2019

A metal-free and convenient approach to the synthesis of novel 11H-benzo[5,6][1,4]thiazino[3,4-a]isoindol-11-ones (5) is described.
Continuous flow synthesis of amine oxides by oxidation of tertiary amines
Authors: Baumeister Tobias , Zikeli Stefan , Kitzler Hannes , Aigner Paul , Wieczorek Piotr P. , Röder Thorsten
Published: April 2019

An efficient, safe and scalable continuous flow process for the synthesis of amine oxides with hydrogen peroxide is described.
The antioxidant activity of polysulfides: it's radical!
Authors: Chauvin Jean-Philippe R. , Griesser Markus , Pratt Derek A.
Published: April 2019

Sulfurized olefins (polysulfides) containing four (or more) sulfur atoms react efficiently with peroxyl radicals by homolytic substitution, accounting for their primary antioxidant activity.
Synergetic interaction between neighboring platinum and ruthenium monomers boosts CO oxidation
Authors: Zhou Peng , Hou Xingang , Chao Yuguang , Yang Wenxiu , Zhang Weiyu , Mu Zijie , Lai Jianping , Lv Fan , Yang Kuan , Liu Yuxi , Li Jiong , Ma Jingyuan , Luo Jun , Guo Shaojun
Published: April 2019

The synergetic effect between neighboring Pt and Ru monomers supported on N vacancy-rich g-C3N4 promotes the catalytic CO oxidation.
Catalase-like metal–organic framework nanoparticles to enhance radiotherapy in hypoxic cancer and prevent cancer recurrence
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Zhong Hui , Wang Jianbo , Wan Xiuyan , Li Yanhua , Pan Wei , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: April 2019

Tumor hypoxia typically occurs inside a solid tumor with an inadequate oxygen supply, sharply reducing the therapeutic efficiency of radiotherapy and significantly increasing the risk of local tumor recurrence.
Biomimetic mitochondrial nanostructures boost the battery performance
Authors: Yasmin Aqsa , Shehzad Muhammad A. , Ding Xiang , Deng Miaomiao , Liao Jiaying , Hu Qiao , He Xiaodong , Wang Shuo , Chen Chunhua
Published: April 2019

Dually carbon-bound biomimetic mitochondrial-shaped LiFePO4 nanostructures accelerated electrochemical transformations that boosted the lithium-ion battery performance and augmented the cycling life.
Efficient, hysteresis free, inverted planar flexible perovskite solar cellsviaperovskite engineering and stability in cylindrical encapsulation
Authors: Pandey Manish , Kapil Gaurav , Sakamoto Kazuhiko , Hirotani Daisuke , Kamrudin Muhammad Akmal , Wang Zhen , Hamada Kengo , Nomura Daishiro , Kang Hyo-Gyoung , Nagayoshi Hideaki , Nakamura Masaki , Hayashi Masahiro , Nomura Takatoshi , Hayase Shuzi
Published: April 2019

Efficient flexible perovskite solar cells were obtained by compositional engineering. Cylindrically encapsulated devices retained 90% of the device efficiency after 6000 h.
Physiological and pathological impact of AQP1 knockout in mice
Authors: Hua Ying , Ying Xinxin , Qian Yiyu , Liu Haibin , Lan Yehui , Xie Ailan , Zhu Xueqiong
Published: April 2019

Aquaporin 1 (AQP1) is a glycoprotein responsible for water passive transport quickly across biological membrane. Here, we reviewed the structural and functional impacts of AQP1 knockout (AQP1-KO) in animal or cell culture models. AQP1 gene deletion can cause a large number of abnormalities including the disturbance in epithelial fluid secretion, polyhydramnios, deficiency of urinary concentrating function, and impairment of pain perception. AQP1-KO mice also displayed aberrations of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary, and kidney functions as well as placenta and embryo development. Moreover, AQP1-KO perturbed tumor angiogenesis and led to reduced brain injury upon trauma. On the cellular level, AQP1-KO caused neuroinflammation, aberrant cell proliferation and migration, and macrophages infiltration. Mechanistic studies confirmed that AQP1 gene products regulate the secretory function and participated in balancing the osmotic water flux across the peritoneal membrane. The available data indicated that AQP1 might serve as a potential target for developing novel therapeutic approaches against diverse human diseases.
Reliability and Validity of a Korean Version of the Tinnitus Primary Function Questionnaire
Authors: Shin Jinbae , Heo Sohee , Lee Ho-Ki , Tyler Richard , Jin In-Ki
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of a Korean version of the Tinnitus Primary Function Questionnaire (K-TPFQ).

Method

A total of 79 subjects participated in the study. All participants completed the K-TPFQ, and the Korean versions of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (
Buysse, Reynolds, Monk, Berman, & Kupfer, 1989
;
Sohn, Kim, Lee, & Cho, 2012
), the Beck Depression Inventory (
Beck, Ward, Mendelson, Mock, & Erbaugh, 1961
;
Jo, Park, Jo, Ryu, & Han, 2007
), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaire (
Cho & Choi, 1989
;
Spielberger & Gorsuch, 1983
), and the Tinnitus Handicap Questionnaire (
Kuk, Tyler, Russell, & Jordan, 1990
).

Results

The K-TPFQ exhibited good or high internal consistency and reliability (Cronbach's alpha range: .91–.95, item-total correlation range: .50–.82). The total score derived from the items of the K-TPFQ and its subcategories was moderately correlated with that of questionnaires that measure similar parameters (Pearson correlation coefficient range: .50–.79).

Conclusions

Overall, the results of this study indicate that the K-TPFQ is reliable and valid. Therefore, the current translated version of the K-TPFQ is applicable to subjects with Korean as their 1st language and proves to be a useful tinnitus questionnaire.
Differentiating Beyond Name Agreement for Picture Naming: Insight From Age-Related Selection Deficits
Authors: Madden Daniel L. , Sale Martin V. , Robinson Gail A.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Pictures consistently referred to by the same name (high agreement) are named faster than pictures that elicit inconsistent responses across individuals (low agreement). Although this effect is more pronounced in older adults apparently due to slower lexical selection, it is unclear whether this is consistent for different types of low agreement pictures. We investigated whether pictures with different sources of disagreement have differing selection requirements, as indexed by naming latencies.

Method

Picture naming latencies were compared for 20 young (ages 18–35 years) and 20 older adults (ages 60–80 years) across 3 object naming conditions: high name agreement, low name agreement due to multiple correct names, and low agreement due to abbreviations and elaborations.

Results

Compared to high agreement items, responses were slower specifically for low agreement items with multiple names, and to a lesser extent, items with abbreviations and elaborations (
p
< .001). Older adults were slower than younger adults, especially for low agreement items with abbreviations and elaborations (
p
= .031).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate differential lexical selection requirements for low agreement pictures, depending on the reason for agreement being low. This demonstrates the importance of differentiating the source of disagreement in any experimental or clinical assessment of picture naming.
Diurnal Cortisol Dynamics, Perceived Stress, and Language Production in Aphasia
Authors: Laures-Gore Jacqueline , Cahana-Amitay Dalia , Buchanan Tony W.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The current study investigated diurnal cortisol dynamics in adults with and without aphasia, along with subjective reports of stress and measures of language production. Dysregulation of cortisol, a common biomarker of stress, is associated with cognitive dysfunction in different clinical populations. However, little is known about the consequences of stress-induced cortisol disturbances for stroke survivors, including those with aphasia.

Method

Nineteen participants with aphasia and 14 age-matched neurotypical adults were tested. Saliva samples were collected from participants to assess the cortisol awakening response, a marker of the integrity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Participants also completed 2 subjective stress questionnaires. Language was evaluated using 3 short, picture description narratives, analyzed for discourse (dys)fluency and productivity markers.

Results

In contrast to neurotypical participants, adults with aphasia did not show the predictable cortisol awakening response. Participants with aphasia also showed an unusual heightened level of cortisol upon awakening. Additionally, neurotypical participants demonstrated an association between intact language performance and the cortisol awakening response, whereas the participants with aphasia did not, although they did perceive the language tasks as stressful.

Conclusion

This study indicates that the functionality of the HPA axis, as indexed by cortisol, contributes to optimal language performance in healthy adults. The absence of an awakening response among participants with aphasia suggests that stroke leads to dysregulation of the HPA axis, although the degree to which this impairment affects language deficits in this population requires further investigation.
Readability of Individuals With Disabilities Education Act Part B Procedural Safeguards: An Update
Authors: Gray Sara A. , Zraick Richard I. , Atcherson Samuel R.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to analyze the readability of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B procedural safeguard documents, as distributed by each of the 50 U.S. states. Results were compared to the 5th- to 6th-grade readability guideline for documents recommended by experts in health literacy and health communication.

Method

A commercially available readability software, Readability Studio (Oleander Software, 2009), was used to assess document readability. Text-based files of each IDEA Part B procedural safeguard document were analyzed using four readability formulas: Flesch-Kincaid (Flesch, 1965), Gunning fog index (Gunning, 1952), Flesch Reading Ease (Flesch, 1948), and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (McLaughlin, 1969).

Results

No procedural safeguard document scored below an 11th-grade reading level. Seventy-four percent of these documents were found to be written at a graduate reading level—meaning these documents are written for a reader who is currently enrolled in a master's degree or higher education program.

Conclusion

In an effort to decrease barriers to parent participation in the Individualized Education Planning process, those who administer IDEA Part B procedural safeguards should be sensitive to the potential mismatch between the literacy skills of the parent/guardian and the literacy skills needed to comprehend these documents. Developers of IDEA Part B procedural safeguards should account for estimated literacy skills of the general public as ongoing revisions to these safeguards are made.
SUGAR (Sampling Utterances and Grammatical Analysis Revised): Breaking Tradition
Authors: Pavelko Stacey L. , Owens Robert E.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

In this letter, the authors respond to
Guo, Eisenberg, Ratner, and MacWhinney's (2018)
letter to the editor, which expressed concerns regarding the clinical applicability of the Sampling Utterances and Grammatical Analysis Revised (SUGAR;
Pavelko & Owens, 2017
) language sample analysis (LSA) method.

Method

The authors respond to concerns regarding transcription and morpheme segmentation and language sample elicitation contexts. The results of two published research studies are described, which detail the impact of this new LSA method.

Results

Published research studies have documented that the SUGAR method of LSA can accurately distinguish between children developing language typically and children with language impairment and can also aid clinicians in developing intervention goals.

Conclusion

SUGAR is a clinically applicable method of LSA that clinicians can use as one part of a comprehensive evaluation to efficiently and accurately identify children with language impairment. Further, clinicians can complete subanalysis of a language sample to identify appropriate therapy targets.
Dynamic voltage‐sharing among series‐connected IGBTs during turning‐on process
Authors: Zhu Jianxin , Xing Yan , Ding Shun , Hu Haibing
Published: April 2019

An active clamping circuit for voltage sharing among series‐connected insulated gate bipolar translators (IGBTs) during turning‐on process is proposed at first, which detects the C–E voltage of the leading IGBT and generates gate pumping current to slow down the turning‐on speed, and thus reduces the voltage difference between the IGBTs. Then, a turn‐on edge regulation algorithm for the driving signal is proposed, which further reduces the voltage spike and turn‐on power loss, and optimises the regulation speed. A time detection circuit is introduced to detect the pulse signal indicating the working time of the active clamping circuit for driving signal regulation. The turn‐on edge regulation for each IGBT is determined by the feature that the rising edge of the detected pulse signal coincides with the corresponding IGBT turn‐on edge delay. The experimental results prove the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Iron loss and start‐up ability of a 6/2 switched reluctance machine with different magnetic polarity of windings
Authors: Cui Xiupeng , Sun Jianbo , Gu Chenglin
Published: April 2019

This study presents an investigation on iron loss and start‐up ability of a 1.5 kW output power with rated speed 5850 r/min 6/2 switched reluctance machine (SRM), which is used as a prime motor to directly drive centrifugal blower. Two winding connection types of the SRM are investigated, including the symmetrical magnetic topology (SyMT) and asymmetrical magnetic topology (ASyMT). The two types are proposed to settle poor self‐start ability of the 6/2 SRM and high iron loss density of high‐speed SRM. According to the simulation results, the SyMT has merit of self‐start ability, i.e. no risk of start‐up failure, whereas the ASyMT has advantage of low iron loss, i.e. low iron loss density on stator and rotor. Prototypes are manufactured to confirm and verify the predicted results and the test results prove the correctness of the analyses.