bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial Community Diversity Dynamics Highlight Degrees of Nestedness and Turnover Patterns
Authors: Liu Zishu , Müller Susann
Published: January 2020

Bacterial communities change their structure rapidly due to short generation times of their members. How bacteria assemble to certain structures provides insight into ecological mechanisms that shape a bacterial community. Microbial community flow cytometry was used to create community fingerprints based on subcommunity distributions and to visualize the dynamic variations of 10 independently grown communities under equal conditions. Inventory diversity values were recorded by α‐ and γ‐diversity whereas the degree of subsistence of subcommunities (nestedness) and the degree of gain or loss of subcommunities (turnover) was calculated as multi‐sites ß‐diversity terms ßNES and ßSIM. Numbers of unique subcommunities of pairwise samples were determined by intra‐ and inter‐community ß‐diversity values. Although all communities were exposed to niche‐differentiating conditions they assembled to disparate structures. In our study, the turnover coefficients were high (> 0.6), while the nestedness coefficients were complementary low in the separate 10 bioreactors. Intra‐ and inter‐community ß‐diversity values indicated fast community shifts. Microbial community flow cytometry straightforwardly identifies the dominance and subsistence of subsets of cells in a community or the degree of their replacement. The calculation of either turnover or nestedness patterns might have implications in medical, biotechnological, or environmental research. © 2020 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Extraordinary long detection window of a synthetic cannabinoid metabolite in human urine – Potential impact on therapeutic decisions
Authors: Franz Florian , Haschimi Belal , King Leslie A. , Auwärter Volker
Published: January 2020

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have become established drugs of abuse. They play an increasing role in drug therapy, where abstinence control testing is required. Differentiation between recent drug uptake and uptake in the distant past is important for drug therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the detection window of a metabolite commonly used as a consumption marker for AB‐FUBINACA and AMB‐FUBINACA (synonym: FUB‐AMB) in urine analysis. The acidic hydrolysis metabolite was quantified in urine samples of a drug user by applying a validated analytical method. The concentration profile of the metabolite was correlated with usage data of the subject. Pharmacokinetic properties of AB‐FUBINACA were collected by analysis of serum and urine samples from a controlled administration study (single oral ingestion of AB‐FUBINACA). Thirteen urine samples were taken without advance notice over 2 years. The metabolite was detected in the first urine sample at 0.77 ng/mg creatinine and subsequently in concentrations ranging from 0.06 to 0.29 ng/mg creatinine. Usage data showed credible abstinence from SCs during this period. The pharmacokinetic properties observed within the controlled self‐administration study supported the hypothesis of distribution into deeper compartments and long‐lasting elimination (serum concentration–time curve showing biphasic kinetics). An elimination phase of over 1 year after the last drug uptake seems plausible in cases of extensive consumption. To avoid misinterpretation of positive findings, we recommend testing patients with known SC use at the beginning of the abstinence program and to re‐test continuously at short time intervals. These data enable the correct interpretation of analytical findings.
Seeing beyond the trees: a comparison of tropical and temperate plant growth forms and their vertical distribution
Authors: Spicer Michelle Elise , Mellor Hannah , Carson Walter P.
Published: January 2020

Forests are the most diverse and productive terrestrial ecosystems on Earth, so sustainably managing them for the future is a major global challenge. Yet, our understanding of forest diversity relies almost exclusively on the study of trees. Here, we demonstrate unequivocally that other growth forms (shrubs, lianas, herbs, epiphytes) make up the majority of vascular plant species in both tropical and temperate forests. By comparing the relative distribution of species richness among plant growth forms for over 3,400 species in 18 forests in the Americas, we construct the first high‐resolution quantification of plant growth form diversity across two ecologically important regions at a near‐continental scale. We also quantify the physical distribution of plant species among forest layers, that is, where among the vertical strata plants ultimately live their adult lives, and show that plants are strongly downshifted in temperate forests vs. tropical forests. Our data illustrate a previously unquantified fundamental difference between tropical and temperate forests: what plant growth forms are most speciose, and where they ultimately live in the forest. Recognizing these differences requires that we re‐focus ecological research and forest management plans to encompass a broader suite of plant growth forms. This more holistic perspective is essential to conserve global biodiversity.
Enantiocomplementary C–H Bond Hydroxylation Combining Photo‐Catalysis and Whole‐Cell Biocatalysis in a One‐Pot Cascade Process
Authors: Peng Yongzhen , Li Danyang , Fan Jiajie , Xu Weihua , Xu Jian , Yu Huilei , Lin Xianfu , Wu Qi
Published: January 2020

Enantiocomplementary hydroxylation of alkyl aromatics through a one‐pot photo‐biocatalytic cascade reaction is described. The photoredox process is implemented in aqueous phase with O2 as oxidant and the subsequent (R)‐ or (S)‐selective bioreduction is performed by whole cell system without the addition of the expensive cofactor (NADPH). This mild, operationally simple protocol transforms a wide variety of readily available aromatic compounds into valuable chiral alcohols with high yield (up to 90 %) and stereoselectivity (up to 99 %), thereby displaying important potentials in organic synthesis.
Linker‐Free Near‐IR Aza‐BODIPY‐Glutamine Conjugates Through Boron Functionalization
Authors: Wang Maodie , Zhang Guanyu , Kaufman Nichole E. M. , Bobadova‐Parvanova Petia , Fronczek Frank R. , Smith Kevin M. , Vicente M. Graça H.
Published: January 2020

A series of linker‐free aza‐BODIPY‐glutamine conjugates were synthesized and investigated, both experimentally and computationally. The structures of the aza‐BODIPYs were confirmed spectroscopically, and in the case of 3a an X‐ray structure was obtained. All aza‐BODIPYs show intense absorption bands between 642–667 nm and fluorescence emissions between 691–703 nm. The fluorescence quantum yields of the 2,6‐unsubstituted compounds 1a–4a were found to be Φf ≈ 0.2 in chloroform, while those of the corresponding 2,6‐dibrominated derivatives 1b–4b were less than 0.01. The cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of all aza‐BODIPYs were investigated in human carcinoma HEp2 cells. The most cytotoxic aza‐BODIPYs were found to be 3a and 3b, due to the presence of the cyclic N,O‐bidentate amino acid ring, rather than the presence of the 2,6‐bromine atoms. The results show that the mode of glutamine conjugation to the aza‐BODIPY determines the stability and cytotoxicity of the conjugates.
Bifacial Schottky‐Junction Plasmonic‐Based Solar Cell
Authors: Farhat Mohamed , Baloch Ahmer A. B. , Rashkeev Sergey N. , Tabet Nouar , Kais Sabre , Alharbi Fahhad H.
Published: January 2020

Plasmonically‐enhanced and Schottky‐based devices are very appealing candidates for sunlight energy–harvesting applications. However, this class of structures introduces inherent limitations such as thermionic emission (and the related dark current). This article theoretically proposes using the metal–semiconductor–metal heterojunction under bifacial mode. In this design, plasmonic periodic gratings are introduced in the bifacial configuration to allow collection of light from both faces of the solar junction. This results in improved carrier generation and enhanced device performance of a cell with a 3 μm thick Si absorber. Bifacial gain for short circuit current is found to be 88%, with a bifaciality factor (the ratio of rear to front response of the device) of 84%. By optimizing the filling fractions of the front and rear plasmonic gratings, the obtained normalized output becomes higher than 25%; i.e., it almost doubles the performance in comparison with the monofacial Schottky solar cell.
Molybdenum Disulphide Heterointerfaces as Potential Materials for Solar Cells, Energy Storage, and Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Naik Smita Gajanan , Rabinal Mohammad Hussain K.
Published: January 2020

Molybdenum disulphide (MoS2), an ideal semiconductor, belongs to the group of 40 well‐identified transition metal dichalcogenides. These have unique chemical bonding; in an ideal case they do not feature dangling bonds and hence possess a layered‐like atomic structure, such that strong intraplane and weak interplane bondings exist. Hence, MoS2 can be peeled into a precisely controlled number of layers; the bulk with Eg = 1.2 eV can be reduced to a unit cell‐thick layer (monolayer) with Eg = 1.89 eV. However, in reality, both bulk and monolayers possess many types of atomic defects associated with in‐plane, edge, grain boundaries, etc. As a result, MoS2 exhibits many interesting and tunable optoelectronic properties suitable for a wide range of applications. Interestingly, its basic polyhedral form (MoS6) undergoes a structural change that leads to many polymorphic phases, the three in bulk and the five in monolayer. Theoretical predictions and experimental observations clearly confirm that MoS2 and its interfaces with other materials can be significantly important for energy conversion and storage applications, which are emerging and critically important topics of modern science and society. This Review provides an overview of the past few years of research and developments on these topics.
Key Considerations for Accurate Exposures in Ecotoxicological Assessments of Perfluorinated Carboxylates and Sulfonates
Authors: Rewerts Justin N. , Christie Emerson C. , Robel Alix E. , Anderson Todd A. , McCarthy Christopher , Salice Christopher J. , Field Jennifer A.
Published: January 2020

Toxicity reference values for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) vary even when the same test organism is studied. Although the need to confirm dosing solution concentrations is widely accepted, there are no experimental data to inform best practices when PFAS solutions are prepared. Laboratory data indicate that dissolution time of PFAS solids causes statistically significant deviations between nominal and measured concentrations. Mixing times for select PFAS varied between 2 and 5 h, depending on carbon fluorine chain-length. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:677–688. © 2020 SETAC
Spectrally selective coating of nanoparticles (Co3O4:Cr2O3) incorporated in carbon to captivate solar energy
Authors: Abed Rasheed N. , Abdallh Mustafa , Adnan Rashad Alaa , Al‐Mohammedawi Haidar Ch. , Yousif Emad
Published: January 2020

Innovatory nanocomposite comprising nanomaterials Co3O4:Cr2O3 and carbon (fuel ash) was designed to absorb solar energy. Different concentration ratios of Co3O4 and Cr2O3 nanoparticles were utilized as a dopant for fuel thin films synthesis via spin and casting methods on glass and aluminum substrates. The optical properties of the modified films demonstrated in the range of 250 to 1300 nm. The data were interpreted in terms of a phonon‐assisted theory. Energy gap (Eg) of doped C was calculated with different concentration ratios of Co3O4:Cr2O3 (0.5:2.5, 1:2, 1.5:1.5, 2:1, 2.5:0.5) wt%, and fixed concentration of C in 7wt%. The results showed Eg of the doped samples in the range of 2.9 to 3.9 eV. In addition, the intensity of the solar radiation was measured. The absorptivity was in the range of 88 to 93.6%. The above results are comparable to those of semiconductors and have high absorptivity values when the nanocomposite was utilized on a flat plate collector as a coating to trap and absorb solar energy.
Numerical studies on heat and fluid flow of nanofluid in a partially heated vertical annulus
Authors: Ahmad Khan Suhail , Altamush Siddiqui M.
Published: January 2020

A numerical investigation on natural convective heat transfer of nanofluid (Al2O3+water) inside a partially heated vertical annulus of high aspect ratio (352) has been carried out. The computational fluid dynamics solver Ansys Fluent is used for simulation and results are presented for various volume fraction of nanoparticles (0‐0.04) at different heat flux values (3‐12 kW/m2). Two well‐known correlations for evaluating thermal conductivity and viscosity have been used. Thus different combinations of the available correlations have been set to form four models (I, II, III, and IV). Therefore, a detailed analysis has been executed to identify effects of thermophysical properties on heat transfer and fluid flow of nanofluids using different models. The results show enhancement in heat transfer coefficient with volume fraction of nanoparticles. Highest enhancement achieved is found to be 14.17% based on model III, while the minimum is around 7.27% based on model II. Dispersion of nanoparticles in base fluid declines the Nusselt number and Reynolds number with different rates depending on various models. A generalized correlation is proposed for Nusselt number of nanofluids in the annulus in terms of volume fraction of nanoparticles, Rayleigh number, Reynolds number, and Prandtl number.
Inflammatory potential of the diet and risk of colorectal cancer in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study
Authors: Jakszyn Paula , Cayssials Valerie , Buckland Genevieve , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Weiderpass Elisabete , Boeing Heiner , Bergmann Manuela M. , Vulcan Alexandra , Ohlsson Bodil , Masala Giovanna , Cross Amanda J. , Riboli Elio , Ricceri Fulvio , Dahm Christina C. , Nyvang Dorthe , Katzke Verena A. , Kühn Tilman , Kyrø Cecilie , Tjønneland Anne , Ward Heather A. , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Skeie Guri , Sieri Sabina , Sanchez Maria‐Jose , Huerta Jose M. , Amiano Pilar , Lasheras Cristina , Ardanaz Eva , Mahamat‐Saleh Yahya , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Carbonnel Franck , Panico Salvatore , Peppa Eleni , Trichopoulou Antonia , Karakatsani Anna , Tumino Rosario , Vermeulen Roel , Jenab Mazda , Gunter Marc , Agudo Antonio
Published: January 2020

Proinflammatory diets are associated with risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), however, inconsistencies exist in subsite‐ and sex‐specific associations. The relationship between CRC and combined lifestyle‐related factors that contribute toward a low‐grade inflammatory profile has not yet been explored. We examined the association between the dietary inflammatory potential and an inflammatory profile and CRC risk in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. This cohort included 476,160 participants followed‐up of 14 years and 5,991 incident CRC cases (3,897 colon and 2,094 rectal tumors). Dietary inflammatory potential was estimated using an Inflammatory Score of the Diet (ISD). An Inflammatory Profile Score (IPS) was constructed, incorporating the ISD, physical activity level and abdominal obesity. The associations between the ISD and CRC and IPS and CRC were assessed using multivariable regression models. More proinflammatory diets were related to a higher CRC risk, particularly for colon cancer; hazard ratio (HR) for highest versus lowest ISD quartile was 1.15 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–1.27) for CRC, 1.24 (95% CI 1.09–1.41) for colon cancer and 0.99 (95% CI 0.83–1.17) for rectal cancer. Associations were more pronounced in men and not significant in women. The IPS was associated with CRC risk, particularly colon cancer among men; HRs for the highest versus lowest IPS was 1.62 (95% CI 1.31–2.01) for colon cancer overall and 2.11 (95% CI 1.50–2.97) for colon cancer in men. Our study shows that more proinflammatory diets and a more inflammatory profile are associated with higher risk of CRC, principally colon cancer and in men.
The Effect of Surface Roughness and Composition on Wetting and Corrosion of Al−Si Alloys
Authors: Behera Swaroop K , Suri Shvetashva , Salowitz Nathan P. , Nosonovsky Michael , Rohatgi Pradeep K.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents results of wetting and corrosion of cast Al−Si alloys with composition varying from 7–50 wt% Si in contact with water. The dependency of the wetting angle and corrosion properties on the alloy composition, surface roughness, size of water droplets, and microstructure were studied. An increase in the Silicon content reduced the water contact angle (WCA) while an increase in the roughness and/or droplet size increased the WCA. No systematic variation in corrosion was found due to change in the Silicon content. The results are of interest for the development of lightweight (Al−Si) alloys with non‐wetting and corrosion‐resistant properties.
Race‐specific differences in the phase coherence between blood flow and oxygenation: A simultaneous NIRS, white light spectroscopy and LDF study
Authors: Abdulhameed Yunus A. , McClintock Peter V. E. , Stefanovska Aneta
Published: January 2020

Race‐specific differences in the level of glycated hemoglobin are well known. However, these differences were detected by invasive measurement of mean oxygenation, and their understanding remains far from complete. Given that oxygen is delivered to the cells by hemoglobin through the cardiovascular system, a possible approach is to investigate the phase coherence between blood flow and oxygen transportation. Here we introduce a noninvasive optical method based on simultaneous recordings using NIRS, white light spectroscopy and LDF, combined with wavelet‐based phase coherence analysis. Signals were recorded simultaneously for individuals in two groups of healthy subjects, 16 from Sub‐Saharan Africa (BA group) and 16 Europeans (CA group). It was found that the power of myogenic oscillations in oxygenated and de‐oxygenated hemoglobin is higher in the BA group, but that the phase coherence between blood flow and oxygen saturation, or blood flow and hemoglobin concentrations is higher in the CA group
Short‐Term Glucocorticoid Treatment Reduces Circulating Sclerostin Concentrations in Healthy Young Men: A Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled, Double‐Blind Study
Authors: Jacobsson Merel , van Raalte Daniël H , Heijboer Annemieke C , den Heijer Martin , de Jongh Renate T
Published: January 2020

Glucocorticoid use is the most common cause of osteoporosis in young individuals. In the current study, we investigated the effects of glucocorticoid treatment on circulating sclerostin concentrations and serum bone turnover markers in healthy young men. We performed additional measurements in two combined randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, dose–response intervention studies: 64 healthy men (age: 22 ± 2 years; BMI: 22.1 ± 1.7 kg/m2) were allocated to receive placebo (n = 16), prednisolone 7.5 mg once daily (n = 24), or prednisolone 30 mg once daily (n = 24) for 2 weeks using block randomization. Primary outcome variables were serum sclerostin and serum bone turnover markers (CTx and P1NP), before and after the intervention. Baseline characteristics and variables did not differ between intervention groups. Compared with placebo, prednisolone high‐dose decreased serum sclerostin concentrations (−8.5 [−28.0 to 7.3] versus 1.5 [−6.5 to 20.0] pg/mL, p = 0.048), decreased P1NP concentrations (−28.0 [−39.3 to −18.3] versus –1.5 [−15.3 to 11.3] μg/L, p < 0.001) and increased CTx concentrations (108.0 [55.0 to 177.0] versus 64.0 [−24.3 to 120.0] ng/L, p = 0.038). Compared with placebo, prednisolone low‐dose did not alter sclerostin concentrations (p = 0.5) or CTx concentrations (p = 0.7), but tended to decrease P1NP concentrations (−9.0 [−24.0 to −1.3] versus –1.5 [−15.3 to 11.3] μg/L, p = 0.095). At baseline concentrations of sclerostin were positively correlated with concentrations of CTx (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient ρ = +0.409, p = 0.001), but not with P1NP. No significant correlations were observed between changes in outcome variables during the interventions. Short‐term high‐dose, but not low‐dose, prednisolone treatment reduces serum sclerostin concentrations in healthy young men. Whether this reflects a counter regulatory mechanism to compensate glucocorticoid‐induced negative effects through other mechanisms remains to be elucidated. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Establishment of electrochemical methods to examine the adsorption of flotation surfactants onto a mineral surface
Authors: Guo Bao , Lin Xiaohui , Fu Weng , Ku Jiangang
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Significant efforts have been devoted to examine the adsorption of flotation surfactants in both mechanistic studies and process implementations. However, quantitative electrochemical methods for flotation surfactant adsorption examination have not been well‐established, despite of their low‐cost, accurate, in‐situ nature.

RESULTS

In this paper, voltametric measurement was proven to quantitatively examine the adsorption of activating copper and lead ions onto a pyrite surface. The activation was achieved by abrading minerals in a heavy‐metal‐bearing solution and the measurements were performed by transferring the minerals to a solution free of those heavy metals. This provided a simple but realistic simulation of the mineral grinding process and simplified the adsorption quantification by excluding any other irrelevant electrochemical reactions near the surface. Reliable electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) upon adsorption with convincing physical models for interpreting the interfacial structures also were obtained in this paper. The additional pseudocapacitive behaviour of the copper sulfide surface layer led to an increased capacitance of the measured EIS. A resistive but ion‐permeable xanthate adsorption layer exhibited its own relaxation process. Voltammetry and impedance studies showed that cyanide competed with both copper and lead for their adsorption, whereas lead activation showed greater tolerance to cyanide than copper did.

CONCLUSION

Electrochemical methods have been established to examine the adsorption of copper, lead and xanthate onto pyrite surface, in relation to various flotation conditions, which exhibited significant implication to the flotation of pyritic gold ore using cyanide‐bearing water. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A method to assess primary stability of acetabular components in association with bone defects
Authors: Schierjott Ronja A. , Hettich Georg , Ringkamp Alexandra , Baxmann Marc , Morosato Federico , Damm Philipp , Grupp Thomas M.
Published: January 2020

The objectives of this study were to develop a simplified acetabular bone defect model based on a representative clinical case, derive four bone defect increments from the simplified defect to establish a step‐wise testing procedure, and analyze the impact of bone defect and bone defect filling on primary stability of a press‐fit cup in the smallest defined bone defect increment. The original bone defect was approximated with nine reaming procedures and by exclusion of specific procedures, four defect increments were derived. The smallest increment was used in an artificial acetabular test model to test primary stability of a press‐fit cup in combination with bone graft substitute (BGS). A primary acetabular test model and a defect model without filling were used as reference. Load was applied in direction of level walking in sinusoidal waveform with an incrementally increasing maximum load (300 N/1000 cycles from 600 to 3000 N). Relative motions (inducible displacement, migration, and total motion) between cup and test model were assessed with an optical measurement system. Original and simplified bone defect volume showed a conformity of 99%. Maximum total motion in the primary setup at 600 N (45.7 ± 5.6 µm) was in a range comparable to tests in human donor specimens (36.0 ± 16.8 µm). Primary stability was reduced by the bone defect, but could mostly be reestablished by BGS‐filling. The presented method could be used as platform to test and compare different treatment strategies for increasing bone defect severity in a standardized way.
Understanding the expression dynamics of symbiont rhizobial nifH and nitrogen assimilatory NR and GS genes in dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes at various growth stages
Authors: Sanyal Debankur , Solanki Shyam , Ameen Gazala , Brueggeman Robert S. , Chatterjee Amitava
Published: January 2020

Selection of dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars based on their symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) could reduce the fertilizer N requirement. The nifH gene in the bacterial symbiont facilitates the organic N assimilation by N‐assimilatory enzymes, nitrate reductase (NR), and glutamine synthetase (GS). Fertilizer‐N recommendation of legumes could be adjusted with the relative potential of bacterial nifH gene expression. We hypothesized that quantification of bacterial and plant marker gene expression could predict the amount of total N‐assimilation. We studied the expression dynamics of dry bean NR and GS along with the Rhizobium phaseoli nifH gene in four dry bean commercial cultivars La Paz, Lariat, Windbreaker, and ND‐307 at the third trifoliate (V3) and late flowering (R2) stages using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Association between gene expression and the amount of SNF using 15N stable isotope dilution was determined. At V3 stage, Lariat had a highest nifH expression, followed by ND‐307, La Paz, and Windbreaker. At R2 stage, ND‐307 had the highest nifH expression followed by Windbreaker, La Paz, and Lariat. At R2 stage, the nifH gene expression was upregulated, whereas NR and GS gene expressions were downregulated compared with the V3 stage, indicating dry bean might be benefitted from late‐season N application. Thus, cultivar dependent nifH, NR, and GS gene expression varied depending on the growth stage. The amount of SNF was significantly correlated (r2 = 0.82) with the relative normalized nifH gene expression in experimental cultivars, validating this molecular assay as a tool to screen SNF potential of dry bean cultivars.
Sex and Depot Differences in Palmitoleic Acid Content of Human Blood and Fat
Authors: Ramos Paola , Bush Nikki C. , Jensen Michael D.
Published: January 2020

Palmitoleic acid has been classified as an insulin‐sensitizing lipokine, but evidence for this from human studies has been inconsistent. We hypothesized that this is related to either the types of samples or conditions under which samples are collected. We measured plasma palmitoleic acid and total free fatty acids (FFA) using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography in blood samples collected from 34 adults under a variety of conditions. We collected duplicate samples of adipose (n = 10), FFA (n = 9), and very low density lipoprotein triacylglycerol (VLDL‐TAG) (n = 7) to measure the palmitoleic acid as a percentage of total fatty acids. We tested whether the percentage of palmitoleic acid was correlated with insulin resistance, as measured by homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR). Adipose stearoyl‐coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD‐1) protein was measured by capillary Western blotting. FFA‐palmitoleic acid percentage increased as a function of total FFA and was greater (p < 0.005) in females than males. Adipose palmitoleic acid percentage was greater in females than males (p < 0.001), as was adipose SCD‐1. Palmitoleic acid was greater in femoral fat than in abdominal fat in both females and males (p < 0.001), and correlated positively with HOMA‐IR only in females. The test–retest reliability values for percentage palmitoleic acid were 7 ± 10% for adipose, 24 ± 26% for VLDL, and 53 ± 31% for FFA. Because FFA‐palmitoleic acid percentage varies as a function of total FFA, investigators should re‐evaluate how palmitoleic acid data is presented. The positive relationship between adipose palmitoleic acid and HOMA‐IR in females suggests that it is not a potent insulin‐sensitizing lipokine in humans.
On freshwater fluxes and the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation
Authors: Cael B. B. , Jansen Malte F.
Published: January 2020

We address the role of freshwater forcing in the modern day ocean. Specifically, we ask the question of whether an amplification of the global freshwater forcing pattern leads to a strengthening or weakening of the steady‐state Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). While the role of freshwater forcing in the AMOC has received much attention, this question remains unresolved, in part because past studies have primarily investigated idealized models, large regime shifts away from the modern ocean state, or coupled atmosphere–ocean simulations on shorter timescales than required for the deep ocean to equilibrate. Here we study the AMOC's sensitivity at equilibrium to small perturbations in the magnitude of the global freshwater fluxes in simulations performed with a realistically configured ocean circulation model. Our results robustly suggest that for the equilibrium state of the modern ocean, freshwater fluxes strengthen the AMOC, in the sense that an amplification of the existing freshwater flux‐forcing pattern leads to a strengthening of the AMOC and vice versa. A simple physical argument explains these results: the North Atlantic is anomalously salty at depth and increased freshwater fluxes act to amplify that salinity pattern, resulting in enhanced AMOC transport.
A standardized commissioning framework of Monte Carlo dose calculation algorithms for proton pencil beam scanning treatment planning systems
Authors: Chang Chih‐Wei , Huang Sheng , Harms Joseph , Zhou Jun , Zhang Rongxiao , Dhabaan Anees , Slopsema Roelf , Kang Minglei , Liu Tian , McDonald Mark , Langen Katja , Lin Liyong
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Treatment planning systems (TPSs) from different vendors can involve different implementations of Monte Carlo dose calculation (MCDC) algorithms for pencil beam scanning (PBS) proton therapy. There are currently no guidelines for validating non‐water materials in TPSs. Furthermore, PBS‐specific parameters can vary by 1–2 orders of magnitude among different treatment delivery systems (TDSs). This paper proposes a standardized framework on the use of commissioning data and steps to validate TDS‐specific parameters and TPS‐specific heterogeneity modeling to potentially reduce these uncertainties.

Methods

A standardized commissioning framework was developed to commission the MCDC algorithms of RayStation 8A and Eclipse AcurosPT v13.7.20 using water and non‐water materials. Measurements included Bragg peak depth‐dose and lateral spot profiles and scanning field outputs for Varian ProBeam. The phase‐space parameters were obtained from in‐air measurements and the number of protons per MU from output measurements of 10 × 10 cm2 square fields at a 2 cm depth. Spot profiles and various PBS field measurements at additional depths were used to validate TPS. Human tissues in TPS, Gammex phantom materials, and artificial materials were used for the TPS benchmark and validation.

Results

The maximum differences of phase parameters, spot sigma, and divergence between MCDC algorithms are below 4.5 µm and 0.26 mrad in air, respectively. Comparing TPS to measurements at depths, both MC algorithms predict the spot sigma within 0.5 mm uncertainty intervals, the resolution of the measurement device. Beam Configuration in AcurosPT is found to underestimate number of protons per MU by ~2.5% and requires user adjustment to match measured data, while RayStation is within 1% of measurements using Auto model. A solid water phantom was used to validate the range accuracy of non‐water materials within 1% in AcurosPT.

Conclusions

The proposed standardized commissioning framework can detect potential issues during PBS TPS MCDC commissioning processes, and potentially can shorten commissioning time and improve dosimetric accuracies. Secondary MCDC can be used to identify the root sources of disagreement between primary MCDC and measurement.
Adhesion molecules in gamete transport, fertilization, early embryonic development, and implantation—role in establishing a pregnancy in cattle: A review
Authors: D'Occhio Michael J. , Campanile Giuseppe , Zicarelli Luigi , Visintin José A. , Baruselli Pietro S.
Published: January 2020

Cell–cell adhesion molecules have critically important roles in the early events of reproduction including gamete transport, sperm–oocyte interaction, embryonic development, and implantation. Major adhesion molecules involved in reproduction include cadherins, integrins, and disintegrin and metalloprotease domain‐containing (ADAM) proteins. ADAMs on the surface of sperm adhere to integrins on the oocyte in the initial stages of sperm–oocyte interaction and fusion. Cadherins act in early embryos to organize the inner cell mass and trophectoderm. The trophoblast and uterine endometrial epithelium variously express cadherins, integrins, trophinin, and selectin, which achieve apposition and attachment between the elongating conceptus and uterine epithelium before implantation. An overview of the major cell–cell adhesion molecules is presented and this is followed by examples of how adhesion molecules help shape early reproductive events. The argument is made that a deeper understanding of adhesion molecules and reproduction will inform new strategies that improve embryo survival and increase the efficiency of natural mating and assisted breeding in cattle.
Design and Evaluation of General Purpose, Barrier, and Multichannel Plasticating Extrusion Screws
Authors: Kazmer David O. , Grosskopf Clemens M. , Rondeau David , Venoor Varun
Published: January 2020

Extrusion screw designs and validation are presented for three multiple channel, fractal screws for comparison with common general purpose, and barrier screws using an instrumented single screw extruder with high impact polystyrene (HIPS) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) at varying screw speeds. The fractal screws are designed with multiple channels and pressure–volume–temperature relations to control shear heating with cooling by adiabatic decompression. The general‐purpose design had the highest throughput but did not provide sufficient mixing and so resulted in excessive variation in the melt temperature and pressure at screw speeds above 40 RPM. The barrier screw was a capable design with good performance for LDPE and HIPS with screw speeds from 20 to 60 RPM. However, it tended to provide excessive shear heating at higher screw speeds due to the large surface area of the barrier and mixing sections. The first fractal screw design was a multichannel variant of the general‐purpose design and exhibited good consistency but excessive heating due to the large bearing area between the flights and barrel. The second fractal screw design provided decompression in the feed zone and metering zone to improve throughput but was limited by a poor transition section design. The third fractal screw design remedied these deficiencies with an improved transition section and intermittent clearances for dispersive mixing. Its performance rivaled that of the barrier screw with respect to volumetric output and energy efficiency but provided better melt pressure consistency. Cold screw freezing experiments were performed for all five screws with 5% black, blue, and violet colorants serially added to neat HIPS. The cold screw pulls showed that the general purpose and barrier screws exhibited significant racing of the materials within their screw channels and, thus, broad residence time distributions. Examination of the material cross sections indicated persistent coiled sheet morphologies, which were best dispersed with the third fractal screw. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:752–764, 2020. © 2020 The Authors. Polymer Engineering & Science published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Plastics Engineers.
Silicon heterojunction solar cells toward higher fill factor
Authors: Martini Luca , Serenelli Luca , Menchini Francesca , Izzi Massimo , Tucci Mario
Published: January 2020

One of the most limiting factors in the record conversion efficiency of amorphous/crystalline silicon heterojunction solar cells is the not impressive fill factor value. In this work, with the aid of a numerical model, the ways to enhance the cell fill factor up to 85% are investigated in detail, considering the properties of conventional amorphous‐doped films, wider Energy gap layers, and transparent conductive oxide films. The band alignment among the various materials composing the heterojunction is the key to high efficiency but becomes an issue for the solar cell fill factor, if not well addressed. One of the most interesting outcomes of this work is the evidence of hidden barriers arising between the transparent conductive oxide and both selective contacts, due to the mismatch between their work functions. The measurement of light current‐voltage characteristics performed at low temperature is proposed as a way to identify the presence of these barriers in efficient solar cells that do not possess high fill factor values. Experimental J‐V characteristics compared with numerical simulations demonstrated that the sometimes neglected cell base contact needs instead a more careful consideration. To this aim, a model to predict the presence of a hidden barrier at the base contact that limits the cell fill factor is proposed.
Phosphazene/Lewis Acids as Highly Efficient Cooperative Catalyst for Synthesis of High‐Molecular‐Weight Polyesters by Ring‐Opening Alternating Copolymerization of Epoxide and Anhydride
Authors: Zhang Jinbo , Wang Lebin , Liu Shaofeng , Li Zhibo
Published: January 2020

The synthesis of high‐molecular‐weight polyesters via the ring‐opening alternating copolymerization (ROAC) of cyclic anhydrides and epoxides using organocatalysts remains a major challenge. In this context, the organic cyclic trimeric phosphazene base (CTPB) was used as an efficient catalyst for the ROAC of phthalic anhydride (PA) with epoxides. It was found that the activity and PA conversion dramatically increased with the addition of triethyl borane (TEB) as a cocatalyst, even a small amount of TEB, for example, 5 mol % relative to CTPB. The molecular structures of obtained polyesters were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR, 13C NMR) and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI TOF), which demonstrated the formation of perfectly alternating polyesters with unimodal and narrow molecular weight distributions. Different molecular weight polyesters (up to 118.5 kg mol−1) were facilely prepared by reducing the loading of CTPB and TEB, while the polymerizations were fast (turnover frequency, TOF up to 500 h−1). Thermal analysis of the resulting polymers indicated that the alternating polyesters were amorphous, and their Tgs increased with the increment of molecular weights. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. 2020, 58, 803–810
Contemporary consumer perspectives on prostate cancer survivorship: Fifty voices
Authors: Dunn Jeff , Ralph Nicholas , Green Anna , Frydenberg Mark , Chambers Suzanne K.
Published: January 2020

Objective

To describe contemporary consumer experiences and priorities of prostate cancer survivorship to inform the development of survivorship guidelines.

Method

In a cross‐sectional qualitative design, semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with fifty prostate cancer support group leaders (50% response) across urban and rural/regional Australia. An interpretative phenomenological approach was used to identify participants' experiences and priorities of survivorship.

Results

Three themes were identified for informing the development of prostate cancer survivorship guidelines: (a) the Experience of Diagnosis and Treatment, (b) Priorities for Survivorship and (c) Mechanisms for Support. Four priorities for prostate cancer survivorship were: delivering person and men‐centred care; improving communication; improving care coordination; and facilitating access to care. Mechanisms for support were as follows: advocacy; peer support; prostate cancer specialist nurses; and communication training for health professionals.

Conclusions

The lack of progress in changing prostate cancer survivorship outcomes for men will become increasingly problematic as this patient population group grows. Co‐production provides a way forward to ensure relevance and accessibility for future survivorship initiatives.
Chemistry in nanosecond plasmas in water
Authors: Chauvet Laura , Nenbangkaeo Chaiyasit , Grosse Katharina , von Keudell Achim
Published: January 2020

Discharges in liquids are the basis of a range of applications in electrochemistry, wastewater treatment, or plasma medicine. One advantage of discharges in water is their ability to produce radicals and molecules directly inside liquid with a high conversion efficiency. In this study, H2O2 production in a 10 ns pulsed discharge in water is investigated. The dynamic of these discharges is based on plasma ignition directly inside liquid followed by the formation of a bubble that expands in time before it eventually collapses. This sequence can be well described by cavitation theory. H2O2 is produced using different plasma conditions varying the treatment time, the pulse frequency between 1 and 100 Hz, and the applied voltage in a range from 15–30 kV. The resulting H2O2 concentration is measured using absorption spectroscopy ex situ based on a colorimetry method. The results indicate that the main parameter controlling the H2O2 production constitutes the applied voltage. The measured concentrations are compared with a global chemistry model simulating the chemistry involved during a single pulse using pressures and temperatures from the cavitation model. In addition, a global chemical equilibrium model for H2O2 creation is evaluated as well. The models show a good agreement with the data. The energy efficiency for the production of H2O2 reaches values up to 2 g/kWh.
Interfacial region effect on thermal conductivity of silicon nanocrystal and polystyrene nanocomposites
Authors: Juangsa Firman Bagja , Ryu Meguya , Morikawa Junko , Nozaki Tomohiro
Published: January 2020

Thermal transport has been widely studied in nanosize materials owing to their unique properties, including size‐dependent thermal transport properties. Bulk‐size nanostructures are often used for thermal property investigation as well as device applications. The nanocomposite structure of silicon nanocrystals (SiNCs) and polystyrene (PS) has been reported to have a significant thermal transport suppression attributed to the thermal resistance at material interfaces. Although the theoretical effective medium approximation (EMA) model for nanocomposites considers the thermal boundary resistance, a constant deviation is observed between the model and measurement results. In this study, the thermal transport of a polymer, which is known to be morphology dependent, is investigated in a region near the interfacial boundary. Nanocomposites were fabricated from SiNCs with significantly different diameters (6 and 60 nm), and their thermal conductivity was measured to analyze the effect of particle size on the effective thermal conductivity and its deviation. The results showed that the interfacial region of the PS matrix significantly affects the thermal transport, and the EMA model can be enhanced by modifying the thermal conductivity of the matrix owing to the confinement effect at the interfacial region; and the model and measurement results are in good agreement. This study shows that the interaction at material interfaces and its effect on the interfacial region play an important role in determining the thermal transport, opening up the possibility of controlling the thermal transport properties for wide applications of polymer‐based nanocomposite devices.
Chest CT scoring for evaluation of lung sequelae in congenital diaphragmatic hernia survivors
Authors: Beel Emma , Aukland Stein M. , Boon Mieke , Vermeulen François , Debeer Anne , Proesmans Marijke
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Data on long‐term structural lung abnormalities in survivors of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is scarce. The purpose of this study was to develop a chest computed tomography (CT) score to assess the structural lung sequelae in CDH survivors and to study the correlation between the CT scoring and clinical parameters in the neonatal period and at 1 year of follow‐up.

Methods

A prospective, clinical follow‐up program is organised for CDH survivors at the University Hospital of Leuven including a chest CT at the age of 1 year. The CT scoring used and evaluated, named CDH‐CT score, was adapted from the revised Aukland score for chronic lung disease of prematurity.

Results

Thirty‐five patients were included. All CT scans showed some pulmonary abnormalities, ranging from very mild to severe. The mean total CT score was 16 (IQR: 9‐23), with the greatest contribution from the subscores for decreased attenuation (5; IQR: 2‐8), subpleural linear and triangular opacities (4; IQR: 3‐5), and atelectasis/consolidation (2; IQR: 1‐3). Interobserver and intraobserver agreement was very good for the total score (ICC coefficient > 0.9). Total CT score correlated with number of neonatal days ventilated/on oxygen as well as with respiratory symptoms and feeding problems at 1 year of age.

Conclusion

The CDH‐CT scoring tool has a good intraobserver and interobserver repeatability and correlates with relevant clinical parameters. This holds promise for its use in clinical follow‐up and as outcome parameter in clinical interventional studies.
Spatial variation in fertility across Europe: Patterns and determinants
Authors: Campisi Nicholas , Kulu Hill , Mikolai Julia , Klüsener Sebastian , Myrskylä Mikko
Published: January 2020

This study investigates spatial variation in fertility in Europe. We analyse spatial variation in total fertility rates using small‐scale geographical data from 21 European countries for 2010 and investigate the role economic, sociocultural, and spatial factors play in regional fertility levels. We compare the performance of conventional ordinary least squares regression and multilevel modelling with that of different spatial regression models and show that the spatial approach is superior for modelling regional fertility variation. The analysis shows that fertility levels in a region are strongly related to gross domestic product per capita and the share of divorced individuals in the region, and fertility levels in neighbouring regions, supporting that all three realms of fertility determinants—economic, sociocultural, and spatial—are relevant for understanding modern fertility variation.
Effects of Cu–K Co‐Doping on the Morphological, Optical, and Electrical Properties of NiO Films Deposited by Spin‐Coating Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Song Meng-Si , Liu Chao-Qian , Wang Nan , Lun Ting-Ting , Zhai Xiao-Na , Ge Qing , Zhang Xiao-Yang
Published: January 2020

Cu–K co‐doped NiO films (Ni1–2xCuxKxO and x = 0–0.05) are deposited on common glass substrates by the spin‐coating sol–gel method. The phase and the morphological, optical, and electrical properties of NiO films as a function of the Cu–K co‐doping concentration are explored by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer and Hall effect measurement systems, respectively. All the films are pure phases of the cubic rock‐salt structure. As the doping concentration increases, the preferred orientation of the Ni1–2xCuxKxO films changes from (200) to (111). Moreover, the surface morphologies of the films are obviously affected by the Cu–K co‐doping concentration. The absorption coefficients of the Cu–K co‐doped NiO films are relatively higher than that of the undoped film on the whole in the visible region except x = 0.02. With the increase in doping concentration, the resistivity of the films decreases on the whole. Finally, the figures of merit (FOM) of the films are considered, and the maximum FOM of the films is achieved at x = 0.02.