bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of Risankizumab in Asian Healthy Subjects and Patients With Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis, Generalized Pustular Psoriasis, and Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Authors: Khatri Amit , Eckert Doerthe , Oberoi Rajneet , Suleiman Ahmed , Pang Yinuo , Cheng Ling , Othman Ahmed A.
Published: July 2019

Risankizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin‐23 p19 subunit, was developed for the treatment of psoriasis. This work characterizes risankizumab pharmacokinetics in Japanese and Chinese healthy subjects compared with white healthy subjects and in Japanese patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, generalized pustular psoriasis, or erythrodermic psoriasis. A phase 1, single‐dose study evaluated risankizumab pharmacokinetics and safety/tolerability in healthy white (18 and 300 mg subcutaneous [SC]), Japanese (18, 90, and 300 mg SC and 200, 600, and 1200 mg intravenous [IV]), and Chinese (18, 90, and 300 mg SC) subjects; pharmacokinetic data were analyzed using noncompartmental methods. Risankizumab pharmacokinetic data from phase 2/3 studies in Japanese patients with plaque psoriasis, generalized pustular psoriasis, or erythrodermic psoriasis following multiple SC doses of 75 mg or 150 mg were analyzed using a population pharmacokinetic approach along with data from the phase 1 and global phase 1 to 3 studies. Risankizumab plasma exposures (peak plasma concentration and area under the concentration‐time curve) were approximately dose‐proportional across 18‐ to 300‐mg SC or 200‐ to 1200‐mg IV doses. Risankizumab terminal elimination half‐life (harmonic mean 27–34 days) was comparable across doses and ethnicities. Risankizumab exposures were approximately 20% to 30% higher in Japanese and Chinese healthy subjects compared with white healthy subjects or in Japanese patients compared with non‐Japanese patients. After accounting for body‐weight differences, risankizumab exposures were comparable across ethnicities. Overall, there was no ethnic impact on risankizumab pharmacokinetics, and the small difference in exposure due to body weight has no clinical relevance.
On the method of revealing enamel structure by acid etching. Aspects of optimization and interpretation
Authors: Risnes Steinar , Li Chunfang
Published: July 2019

The study aimed at finding an optimal combination of acid concentration and etching time when nitric acid is used as etchant for the study of the finer details of human dental enamel structure. Four hundred 2–3‐mm‐thick segments of facio‐lingually sectioned human third molar crowns were assigned to 20 groups with 20 specimens in each group, each group differing with respect to acid concentration (0.1, 1, 2.5, and 5%) and etching time (15, 30, 45, 90, and 180 s). After etching and preparation, specimens were observed in the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Surface roughness/topography increased with increasing acid concentration and increasing etching time, but not in a linear fashion; generally, prisms tended to go from flat‐surfaced to cone‐shaped and prism sheaths from fissure‐like to wedge‐shaped. Intragroup variations and intergroup similarities were considerable. The two major enamel factors determining the etch effect are crystal orientation and prism sheath properties. Other factors, such as distribution of porosities and crystal quality, also contribute probably. Slight to moderate topography is best for observing the finer enamel structure, for example, etching with concentrations in the range 0.1–1% and with etching times in the range 15–90 s, the stronger the acid, the shorter the time. The depth effect of nitric acid is judged to be relatively small. Considerable variations in expression of prism cross‐striations were observed. SEM observations of acid‐etched enamel in carefully selected planes are a powerful method for the study of enamel structure, bearing in mind the artifactual aspects of the observed surface.
Plasma FGF‐21 and GDF‐15 are elevated in different inherited metabolic diseases and are not diagnostic for mitochondrial disorders
Authors: Tsygankova Polina G. , Itkis Yulia S. , Krylova Tatiana D. , Kurkina Marina V. , Bychkov Igor O. , Ilyushkina Aleksandra A. , Zabnenkova Viktoria V. , Mikhaylova Svetlana V. , Pechatnikova Natalia L. , Sheremet Natalia L. , Zakharova Ekaterina Y.
Published: July 2019

Recently, the plasma cytokines FGF‐21 and GDF‐15 were described as cellular metabolic regulators. They share an endocrine function and are highly expressed in the liver under stress and during starvation. Several studies found that these markers have high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases, especially those with prominent muscular involvement. In our study, we aimed to determine whether these markers could help distinguish mitochondrial diseases from other groups of inherited diseases. We measured plasma FGF‐21 and GDF‐15 concentrations in 122 patients with genetically confirmed primary mitochondrial disease and 127 patients with non‐mitochondrial inherited diseases. Although GDF‐15 showed better analytical characteristics (sensitivity = 0.66, specificity = 0.64, area under the curve [AUC] = 0.88) compared to FGF‐21 (sensitivity = 0.51, specificity = 0.76, AUC = 0.78) in the pediatric group of mitochondrial diseases, both markers were also elevated in a variety of non‐mitochondrial diseases, especially those with liver involvement (Gaucher disease, galactosemia, glycogenosis types 1a, 1b, 9), organic acidurias and some leukodystrophies. Thus, the overall positive and negative predictive values were not acceptable for these measurements to be used as diagnostic tests for mitochondrial diseases (FGF‐21 positive predictive value [PPV] = 34%, negative predictive value [NPV] = 73%; GDF‐15 PPV = 47%, NPV = 28%). We suggest that FGF‐21 and GDF‐15 increase in patients with metabolic diseases with metabolic or oxidative stress and inflammation.
Construction of homogeneous climatic regions by combining cluster analysis and L‐moment approach on the basis of Reconnaissance Drought Index for Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Hamd , Akbar Muhammad , Khan Firdos
Published: July 2019

Drought is a natural hazard which has slow onset and assessment of its vulnerability is important for water resources management and sustainable development particularly in the most vulnerable areas to climate change and its worse impacts. Pakistan is facing acute water scarcity and regionalization of drought is a pre‐planning strategy for coping the severe condition of water management in the country. This study is conducted to identify homogenous climatic regions (HCRs) with respect to drought condition based on Reconnaissance Drought Index using climate data of 55 metrological stations across Pakistan. For this purpose two statistical methods, cluster analysis and L‐moments technique were used. First, cluster analysis was performed using site characteristics of the stations which identified five homogenous groups. Second, two statistical measures that is, discordancy measures and heterogeneity measure were implied after some regional adjustments, to satisfy the homogeneity of the homogenous groups developed in step one based on at‐site statistics of the stations using L‐moments technique. These statistical measures established validity of five homogeneous climatic regions for Pakistan. Third, to assess these HCRs several results using site characteristics and climate data of the stations were calculated which show that elevation has key role in the rainfall pattern and aridity of the regions. According to the results, there is high variability among these regions with respect to water recourses. First two regions consists most elevated areas with enough rainfall and glacier. Regions (3) and (4) include most vulnerable and drought‐prone areas of Sindh and Baluchistan provinces while Region (5) has enough rainfall in monsoon season. This study findings will help in adaptation, mitigation and future's planning regarding climate, water resources management, monitoring droughts and its projections etc. in different areas and fill the gaps in existing literature in Pakistan.
Ketalization of 2‐heptanone to prolong its activity as mite repellant for the protection of honey bees
Authors: Borries Frederic A , Kudla Amber M , Kim Seohyun , Allston Thomas D , Eddingsaas Nathan C , Shey Justin , Orts William J , Klamczynski Artur P , Glenn Gregory M , Miri Massoud J
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

2‐Heptanone is a volatile liquid known to be effective in protecting honey bees from parasitic mite infestations in hives. The present study aimed to show that chemical derivatives of 2‐heptanone would release the ketone for a significantly longer time than it takes for the pure ketone to evaporate and preferably for as long as two brood cycles of a honey bee (42 days).

RESULTS

A liquid ketal of 2‐heptanone with glycerol (Glyc‐Ket) and solid ketals of the ketone with polyvinyl alcohol (PVAl‐Ket), containing different amounts of the ketone, were synthesized. The fully resolved 1H and 13C nuclear magenetic resonance (NMR) spectra of the ketals are discussed. In the case of the polymer, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of a ketal was also compared with the unketalized polyvinyl alcohol. The length of time for which 2‐heptanone was released by the ketals was determined by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry of the headspace. In the case of Glyc‐Ket, the concentration of the 2‐heptanone in the liquid phase was also monitored by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The deketalization was pH dependent, ranging between 2.0 and 2.5 for Glyc‐Ket and between 2.0 and 3.5 for PVAl‐Ket.

CONCLUSION

Under bee hive conditions, the release of 55 mmol 2‐heptanone from Glyc‐Ket lasted for 42 days, whereas the release of the ketone from the PVAl‐Ket with a similar amount of the ketone lasted for 23 days, versus a maximum of 17 days for an equivalent amount of the pure ketone. These ketals therefore have the potential to be effective mite repellants for the protection of honey bees. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Bioaccessibility and bioavailability of iron in biofortified germinated cowpea
Authors: Sant' Ana Cíntia Tomaz , Antunes Paula Tavares , Reis Tuane Carrari dos , Váz‐Tostes Maria das Graças , Meira Eduardo Frizzera , Costa Neuza Maria Brunoro
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walph) is predominantly consumed in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, and its biofortification with iron seeks to reduce the high prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in these regions. It is commonly eaten cooked; however, in the germinated form, it can improve nutritional quality by reducing the antinutritional factors and consequently improving the bioavailability of elements. The present study aimed to determine the physico‐chemical characteristics, bioaccessibility and bioavailability of iron in biofortified germinated cowpea.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference between the germinated and cooked beans with regard to centesimal composition. Germinated beans had phytates and tannins similar to cooked beans. The phytate‐iron molar ratio for all groups did not present a statistical difference (cooking 3.58 and 3.41; germinated 3.94 and 3.51), nor did the parameters evaluating in vivo iron bioavailability. Total phenolics was higher in the germinated group (cooking 0.56 and 0.64; Germinated 2.05 and 2.45 mg gallic acid kg−1). In vitro bioaccessibility of iron of germinated beans presented higher values (P ≤ 0.05) compared to cooked beans. There was higher expression of divalent metal transporter‐1 in biofortified and germinated beans.

CONCLUSION

The iron bioavailability from the biofortified and germinated beans was comparable to ferrous sulfate. Germination can be considered as an alternative and efficient method for consuming cowpea, presenting good iron bioaccessibility and bioavailability. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of ethanol treatment on the quality and volatiles production of blueberries after harvest
Authors: Ji Yaru , Hu Wenzhong , Jiang Aili , Xiu Zhilong , Liao Jia , Yang Xiaozhe , Guan Yuge , Saren Gaowa , Feng Ke
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Blueberries are appreciated by consumers for their rich natural antioxidants and their good nutritional and health functions. However, blueberries are very perishable due to microbial infection and metabolic aging after harvest. Ethanol has been shown to have the effect of controlling postharvest microorganisms and improving storage quality of fruits and vegetables. This study aimed to clarify the effects of ethanol on the appearance quality and flavor attributes of postharvest blueberries. Blueberries were treated with ethanol (250, 500, and 1000 μL L−1) and stored at 0 ± 0.5 °C, 90% relative humidity (RH), for 40 days.

RESULTS

The results indicated that ethanol treatment could slow the decline of blueberry firmness and reduce the decay rate significantly in a dose‐dependent manner. The soluble solids content (SSC) and titratable acidity (TA) of ethanol‐treated blueberries increased significantly (P < 0.05), improving the taste of the blueberries. The activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) were stimulated with the accumulation of ethanol in blueberries, which catalyzed the conversion of ethanol, acetaldehyde, and pyruvate, increasing their levels in blueberries. More volatiles, especially esters, were detected in ethanol‐treated blueberries, e.g. methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, ethyl propanoate, ethyl isobutyrate, ethyl 2‐methylbutanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl 3‐methyl‐2‐butenoate, diethyl sebacate, and isopropyl myristate.

CONCLUSION

The preservative effect of ethanol on blueberry was significantly affected by ethanol concentration. In this study, the effect of 500 μL L−1 ethanol fumigation on blueberry was the best in terms of appearance quality (firmness and decay rate) and flavor attributes (SSC, TA, and volatiles). © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Earlier recovery of lingual dysfunction after middle ear surgery in pediatric versus adult patients
Authors: Nishii Tomoko , Nin Tomomi , Maeda Emi , Fukunaga Akiko , Mishiro Yasuo , Sakagami Masafumi
Published: July 2019

Objectives

It is generally thought that the recovery of damaged chorda tympani nerve (CTN) function after middle ear surgery is different in pediatric patients from that in adult patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes and the progress of taste and somatosensory functions of the tongue after middle ear surgery in pediatric patients compared with those of adult patients.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Methods

Fifty‐nine pediatric patients and 106 adult patients underwent middle ear surgery. Taste and somatosensory functions of the anterior tongue, the so‐called CTN functions, were assessed using electrogustometry (EGM), a 2‐point discriminator, an electrostimulator, and a questionnaire before and 2 weeks and 6 months after surgery.

Results

Two weeks after surgery, there was no significant difference in the incidence of dysgeusia and abnormal EGM thresholds between the patient groups. The incidence of tongue numbness was significantly lower in pediatric patients than in adult patients regardless of CTN manipulation. Although the lingual somatosensory thresholds of adult patients were significantly increased, those of pediatric patients were not increased. Six months after surgery, the incidences of dysgeusia and an abnormal EGM threshold were lower in pediatric patients than in adult patients. Tongue numbness disappeared, and the thresholds of lingual somatosensory tests returned to normal in most pediatric patients.

Conclusion

Not only taste function but also lingual somatosensory function was damaged after middle ear surgery even in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients complained of tongue numbness less frequently and showed earlier recovery than adult patients.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 130:1016–1022, 2020
Rainfall simulation experiments indicate that biochar addition enhances erosion of loess‐derived soils
Authors: Zhang Fengbao , Huang Chihua , Yang Mingyi , Zhang Jiaqiong , Shi Weiyu
Published: July 2019

Biochar addition to soil has increasingly demonstrated the potential to improve soil and mitigate climate change. However, the effects of biochar additions for sloping cropland amendments and soil erosion remain unclear. In this study, experiments with simulated rainfall (25, 50, 75, and 100 mm hr‐1) were conducted on a soil box (0.45‐m length × 0.3‐m width) to assess the effects of different biochar addition rates (2%, 5%, and 8% [wt/wt]) and incubation time (i.e., 140 days) on runoff, soil loss, and interrill erodibility. The soil and biochar were loess‐derived Miami soil and commercial charcoal made from seasoned oak and hickory hardwoods, respectively. Compared with the control soil, biochar addition decreased the total runoff by 2.4–10.8% (p > 0.05) and significantly increased the total soil loss and interrill erodibility (p < .05) by 20.8–50.8% and 20.4–29.2%, respectively. The changes in runoff, soil loss, and interrill erodibility were ruleless with an increase in the rate of biochar addition from 2% to 8%. The differences in runoff, soil loss, and interrill erodibility were nonsignificant among most biochar‐added treatments. After a 140‐day incubation period, total runoff and soil loss increased by 1.5–6.2% and 5.7–10.3%, respectively, and interrill erodibility increased for the 2% biochar addition and decreased for the 5% and 8% biochar additions. However, nonsignificant differences in runoff, soil loss, and interrill erodibility were observed before and after incubation. Our results implied that biochar addition to soil could increase the risk of erosion on sloping croplands, and thus, one should exercise caution when amending soil with biochar on sloping croplands.
Camelina sativa Oil, Fatty Fish, and Lean Fish Do Not Markedly Affect Urinary Prostanoids in Subjects with Impaired Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Erkkilä Arja T. , Lee Jetty C.‐Y. , Lankinen Maria , Manninen Suvi , Leung Ho Hang , Oger Camille , de Mello Vanessa D. , Schwab Ursula S.
Published: July 2019

Dietary fatty acids are suggested to affect oxidative stress; however, results from interventions have been inconclusive. The aim was to examine if fatty fish, lean fish, and Camelina sativa oil (CSO) affect the urinary prostanoid levels in subjects with impaired glucose metabolism. Altogether 79 participants aged 43–72 years completed a randomized controlled study lasting 12 weeks. There were four parallel groups, fatty fish, lean fish (four fish meals/week in both), CSO providing 10 g/day alpha‐linolenic acid (ALA), and control diet with limited fish and ALA containing oil consumption. Urinary prostanoids (prostaglandin F2α, 5‐F2t‐isoprostanes and 15‐F2t‐isoprostane metabolites, isofuran, 8‐F3t‐isoprostanes, and 4‐(RS)‐4‐F4t‐neuroprostane) of 72 participants (age: mean (±SD) 58.9 ± 6.5 years; body mass index: 29.3 ± 2.5 kg/m2) collected over 12‐h were measured using liquid chromatography tandem‐mass spectrometry. Plasma phospholipid fatty acids were determined using gas chromatography. Our study showed that the proportion of ALA in plasma phospholipids increased in the CSO group (overall difference among the groups p‐value <0.001). In the fatty fish group, proportions of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids increased (overall p‐value <0.001 for both). Prostaglandin F2α was higher in the CSO group than in the control group (p < 0.05), however, there were no other significant changes in urinary excretion of other prostanoids among the study groups. At baseline, arachidonic acid in plasma phospholipids was positively (r = 0.247, p < 0.05) and ALA negatively (r = −0.326, p < 0.05) associated with urinary total isoprostanes. In conclusion, CSO, fatty fish, and lean fish consumption do not cause major changes in oxidative stress markers in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance.
Multipolar Conversion Induced Subwavelength High‐Q Kerker Supermodes with Unidirectional Radiations
Authors: Chen Weijin , Chen Yuntian , Liu Wei
Published: July 2019

The two‐mode coupling model, with energy splitting and formation of supermodes with different life times, has been pervasive in almost every discipline of physics. This fundamental model is revisited from a different perspective of multipolar expansions, and a hidden dimension of it is revealed, by establishing a subtle connection between the two seemingly unrelated properties of Q‐factors and far‐field angular radiation patterns. It is discovered that in both regimes of negative and positive couplings, significant Q‐factor enhancement can be attributed to dramatic redistribution of radiation that originates from multipolar conversions from lower to higher orders. Relying on this connection and generalized Kerker effects of interferences among different multipoles, the two outstanding features of high‐Q factor and unidirectional radiation are synchronized into one subwavelength supermode. The implications of this study are not confined to optics and photonics, and can potentially shed new light on coupling between resonances of mechanical, phononic, electronic, or other hybrid natures.
Exponential stability of positive neural networks in bidirectional associative memory model with delays
Authors: Hien Le Van , Hai‐An Le Dao
Published: July 2019

This paper is concerned with the problem of exponential stability of positive neural networks in bidirectional associative memory (BAM) model with multiple time‐varying delays and nonlinear self‐excitation rates. On the basis of a systematic approach involving extended comparison techniques via differential inequalities, we first prove the positivity of state trajectories initializing from a positive cone called the admissible set of initial conditions. In combination with the use of Brouwer's fixed point theorem and M‐matrix theory, we then derive conditions for the existence and global exponential stability of a unique positive equilibrium of the model. An extension to the case of BAM neural networks with proportional delays is also presented. The effectiveness of the obtained results is illustrated by a numerical example with simulations.
Ascorbigen A—NMR identification
Authors: Sychrovský Vladimír , Šaman David , Fiala Radovan , Humpa Otakar , Sýkora Jan , Kessler Pavel , Blechta Vratislav , Dobrev Petre , Schraml Jan
Published: July 2019

The connectivities of all atoms in ascorbigen A, an important metabolite, were determined unambiguously for the first time. The connectivity between carbon atoms was established by 2D INADEQUATE, and one‐bond 13C–13C coupling constants were determined for all pairs of directly connected carbon atoms except for two strongly coupled carbon pairs. The 13C–13C coupling in one of the pairs was proved by a modification of standard INADEQUATE; however, the signals from the other pair were too weak to be observed. The connectivity within the two strongly coupled C–C pairs was confirmed by a combination of COSY and gHSQC; the latter experiment also identified all C–H bonds. The proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectra in dry dimethyl sulfoxide allowed identification and assignment of the signals due to NH and OH protons. The derived structure, 3‐((1H‐indol‐3‐yl)methyl)‐3,3a,6‐trihydroxytetrahydrofuro[3,2‐b]furan‐2(5H)‐one, agrees with the structure suggested for ascorbigen A in 1966.

The density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed that among 16 possible stereoisomers, only two complied with the almost zero value of the measured 3J(H6–H6a). Of the two stereoisomers, 3S,3aS,6S,6aR and 3R,3aR,6R,6aS, the latter was excluded on synthetic grounds. The nuclear Overhauser effect measurements unveiled close proximity between H2′ proton of the indole and the H6a proton of the tetrahydrofuro[3,2‐b]furan part. Detailed structural interpretation of the measured NMR parameters by means of DFT NMR was hampered by rotational flexibility of the indole and tetrahydrofuro[3,2‐b]furan parts and inadequacy of Polarizable Continuum Model (PCM) solvent model.
Standardizing the use of fast‐field cycling NMR relaxometry for measuring hydrological connectivity inside the soil
Authors: Conte Pellegrino , Ferro Vito
Published: July 2019

Hydrological connectivity inside the soil (HCS) is applied to study the effects of heterogeneities in complex environmental systems. It refers to both the spatial patterns inside the soil (i.e., structural connectivity [SC]) and the physical–chemical processes at a molecular level (i.e., functional connectivity [FC]). NMR relaxometry has been already applied to assess both SC and FC components of the HCS by defining SC and FC indexes. Here, fast‐field cycling NMR relaxometry has been applied on a water suspended soil and a sediment to optimize the conditions to standardize the technique. Proton Larmor frequencies (ωL) from 0.01 to 25 MHz were used on samples suspended in three different rates of Milli‐Q grade water. The application of different magnetic fields revealed that the T1 values of the sediment sample are always shorter than those measured for the soil sample. This difference was attributed to the soil erosion processes limiting FC by reducing the size of macropores. For the soil sample, analyses showed that both structural and functional connectivity indexes can be assumed ωL independent. For the sediment sample, the connectivity indexes resulted ωL independent only for ωL ≥ 0.1 MHz. This could be due either to instrumental problems for ωL < 0.1 MHz or to a real magnetic field effect when a finer textured sample is examined. Further research is required in this area. Finally, the experiments revealed that the optimal water amount to obtain reliable results was corresponding to the water holding capacity.
Cardiorenal sodium MRI at 7.0 Tesla using a 4/4 channel 1H/23Na radiofrequency antenna array
Authors: Boehmert Laura , Kuehne Andre , Waiczies Helmar , Wenz Daniel , Eigentler Thomas Wilhelm , Funk Stephanie , von Knobelsdorff‐Brenkenhoff Florian , Schulz‐Menger Jeanette , Nagel Armin M. , Seeliger Erdmann , Niendorf Thoralf
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Cardiorenal syndrome describes disorders of the heart and the kidneys in which a dysfunction of 1 organ induces a dysfunction in the other. This work describes the design, evaluation, and application of a 4/4‐channel hydrogen‐1/sodium (1H/23Na) RF array tailored for cardiorenal MRI at 7.0 Tesla (T) for a better physiometabolic understanding of cardiorenal syndrome.

Methods

The dual‐frequency RF array is composed of a planar posterior section and a modestly curved anterior section, each section consisting of 2 loop elements tailored for 23Na MR and 2 loopole‐type elements customized for 1H MR. Numerical electromagnetic field and specific absorption rate simulations were carried out. Transmission field () uniformity was optimized and benchmarked against electromagnetic field simulations. An in vivo feasibility study was performed.

Results

The proposed array exhibits sufficient RF characteristics, homogeneity, and penetration depth to perform 23Na MRI of the heart and kidney at 7.0 T. The mean field for sodium in the heart is 7.7 ± 0.8 µT/√kW and in the kidney is 6.9 ± 2.3 µT/√kW. The suitability of the RF array for 23Na MRI was demonstrated in healthy subjects (acquisition time for 23Na MRI: 18 min; nominal isotropic spatial resolution: 5 mm [kidney] and 6 mm [heart]).

Conclusion

This work provides encouragement for further explorations into densely packed multichannel transceiver arrays tailored for 23Na MRI of the heart and kidney. Equipped with this technology, the ability to probe sodium concentration in the heart and kidney in vivo using 23Na MRI stands to make a critical contribution to deciphering the complex interactions between both organs.
Eine Idee bahnt sich ihren Weg: 150 Jahre Periodensystem
Authors: Reschetilowski Wladimir
Published: July 2019

Das Periodensystem der Elemente war anfänglich umstritten. Es stieß zuerst auf Gleichgültigkeit und Skepsis – und auch später erschütterten neue Entdeckungen, etwa die Edelgase, die Idee der chemischen Periodizität.
Katalyse unter Strom
Authors: Schützenmeister Nina , Assmann Maik
Published: July 2019

Die Elektrochemie führt die Methodenentwicklung der organischen Chemie auf einen neuen Weg. Durch den Einsatz von Elektrizität lässt sich auf stöchiometrisch eingesetzte Redoxmittel verzichten. Das ermöglicht, Reaktionen ökologischer und ökonomischer zu gestalten.
Für den weltweiten Wettbewerb wappnen
Authors: Bug Thorsten
Published: July 2019

Umsätze der deutschen Chemieindustrie stagnieren, fallende Weltmarktanteile der europäischen Chemie scheinen besorgniserregend. Allerdings signalisieren hohe Investitionen in Deutschland Wettbewerbsfähigkeit. Die Basischemie ist überraschenderweise weiterhin wichtig.
E‐learning or lectures to increase knowledge about congenital heart disease in infants: A comparative interventional study
Authors: Hjorth‐Johansen Elin , Hofoss Dag , Kynø Nina Margrethe
Published: July 2019

Aim

This project aimed to create, implement and evaluate an e‐learning course on nursing infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) and to measure its efficacy compared with classroom learning.

Design

This is a comparative interventional study with two groups.

Methods

The study involved 15 postgraduate students and 13 newly employed nurses. The learning outcome was computed as the difference between pre‐test and post‐test knowledge scores and analysed using t tests and multiple regression.

Results

Both learning groups scored significantly higher 1 week after training. The improvement did not differ significantly between the groups when controlling for the years of experience in CHD nursing and the baseline knowledge score. Participants with higher baseline knowledge scores improved their scores less. Neither learning method was proven more effective than the other. Participants reported experiencing traditional classroom teaching as more positive, but e‐learning was more time effective.
Safety for older adults using telecare: Perceptions of homecare professionals
Authors: Johannessen Torunn Beate , Storm Marianne , Holm Anne Lise
Published: July 2019

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore homecare professionals' perceptions of safety related to the use of telecare by older adults.

Design

An exploratory qualitative design was employed.

Methods

Two focus group interviews with ten female homecare professionals (nine Registered Nurses and one occupational therapist) were carried out between June–December 2017. The participants were recruited from six community homecare services in two Norwegian municipalities. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

The participants perceived that the use of telecare protects older adults against injury and insecurity by preventing harm and giving them a feeling of safety. However, they also stated that the use of telecare involves challenges that could lead to harm to older adults due to technological limitations and difficulties managing and understanding the technology. Although telecare can enhance safety, it is necessary to develop reliable technology and adapt it to the user's abilities, skills and resources.
Influence of leadership style on job satisfaction of NGO employee: The mediating role of psychological empowerment
Authors: Mufti Mishal , Xiaobao Peng , Shah Syed Jamal , Sarwar Asma , Zhenqing Yuan
Published: July 2019

The objective of this investigation is to analyze the impact of leadership styles on frontline employee psychological empowerment, and thereby, improving the job satisfaction level of employees. A questionnaire‐based survey was conducted in nongovernmental organization (NGO) functioning in two major cities (Islamabad and Peshawar) of Pakistan, analyzing a total sample size of 319. Structural equation modeling results revealed that transformational leadership style has a significant association with job satisfaction, and the effect is partially mediated by the psychological empowerment. Conversely, findings showed that the relationship between transactional leadership and psychological empowerment was insignificant. Though, there existed a direct positive relationship between transactional leadership and job satisfaction. This research makes an important contribution in the area of leadership, which can be useful for NGOs to recognize the importance of leadership and encourage psychological empowerment of frontline employees. The findings also provide significant implications for organizations to understand better the importance of leadership, which will be helpful to enhance organizational success.
Autophagy contributes to BMP type 2 receptor degradation and development of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Gomez‐Puerto Maria Catalina , van Zuijen Iris , Huang Christopher JZ , Szulcek Robert , Pan Xiaoke , van Dinther Maarten AH , Kurakula Kondababu , Wiesmeijer Catharina C , Goumans Marie‐Jose , Bogaard Harm‐Jan , Morrell Nicholas W , Rana Amer Ahmed , ten Dijke Peter
Published: July 2019

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterised by an increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure which almost invariably leads to right heart failure and premature death. More than 70% of familial PAH and 20% of idiopathic PAH patients carry heterozygous mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) type 2 receptor (BMPR2). However, the incomplete penetrance of BMPR2 mutations suggests that other genetic and environmental factors contribute to the disease. In the current study, we investigate the contribution of autophagy in the degradation of BMPR2 in pulmonary vascular cells. We demonstrate that endogenous BMPR2 is degraded through the lysosome in primary human pulmonary artery endothelial (PAECs) and smooth muscle cells (PASMCs): two cell types that play a key role in the pathology of the disease. By means of an elegant HaloTag system, we show that a block in lysosomal degradation leads to increased levels of BMPR2 at the plasma membrane. In addition, pharmacological or genetic manipulations of autophagy allow us to conclude that autophagy activation contributes to BMPR2 degradation. It has to be further investigated whether the role of autophagy in the degradation of BMPR2 is direct or through the modulation of the endocytic pathway. Interestingly, using an iPSC‐derived endothelial cell model, our findings indicate that BMPR2 heterozygosity alone is sufficient to cause an increased autophagic flux. Besides BMPR2 heterozygosity, pro‐inflammatory cytokines also contribute to an augmented autophagy in lung vascular cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate an increase in microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta (MAP1LC3B) levels in lung sections from PAH induced in rats. Accordingly, pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs) from end‐stage idiopathic PAH patients present an elevated autophagic flux. Our findings support a model in which an increased autophagic flux in PAH patients contributes to a greater decrease in BMPR2 levels. Altogether, this study sheds light on the basic mechanisms of BMPR2 degradation and highlights a crucial role for autophagy in PAH. © 2019 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Anionic copolymerization of nylon 6/12: A comprehensive review
Authors: Mohammadi Mohammad , Ahmadi Shervin , Ghasemi Ismail , Rahnama Mohammadreza
Published: July 2019

This review aims to provide a concise insight into the rapidly growing anionic ring‐opening copolymerization of nylon 6/12 and its related structures. This study analyzes the relationship between the structures of polymerization components and the relevant properties to achieve optimum copolymerization formulation. Specific emphasis is placed on how the catalyst type and temperature influence the final copolymer structure. The present work reviews available literature about nylon 6/12 synthesis published between 1960 and 2017 and investigates structures linked to polymerization mechanisms behind them. Moreover, experimental results derived from direct/indirect identification methods of structures are presented. The crystalline morphology of different structures was also evaluated. The thermal behaviors of synthesized copolymers are explored comprehensively. Finally, mechanical properties alteration and enhanced water absorption results are reported. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1529–1543 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Bacterial nanocelullose in biomedical applications: a review
Authors: Sionkowska Alina , Mężykowska Oliwia , Piątek Jacek
Published: July 2019

This review reports recent advances in the application of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) in biomedical fields. BNC has attracted both academic and industrial attention as it shows interesting properties for both biomedical and cosmetic applications. Herein, the structure, properties and selected applications of BNC in the preparation of wound dressings and artificial skin are discussed in general, and detailed examples are also drawn from the scientific literature. In this review the most common applications are presented in detail together with issues related to regenerative medicine and biomedicine, skin tissue engineering, auricular cartilage reconstruction, bone regeneration and the treatment of traumatic tympanic membrane perforation. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparing multimethod assessment of approaches to learning among preschool children: Direct measure, teacher report, and parent report
Authors: Li Li , Fan Jieqiong , Jin Zheng
Published: July 2019

A multi‐informant or multimethod approach has been suggested for use in educational evaluation and children's development assessment. However, in the study field of approaches to learning, most previous studies used one method to measure approaches to learning. In addition, compared with kindergarten and elementary children, younger children have received little attention. This study was dedicated to determining whether a multimethod approach (direct measure, teacher report, and parent report) was needed to assess preschool children's approaches to learning. A total of 713 preschool children were enrolled in this study. Correlations and multiple regressions were conducted to analyze the correlation among the three methods as well as their criterion validity based upon comparisons with an assessment of children's early childhood development. The results revealed significant but weak correlations among the three assessment methods. The direct measure of approaches to learning was more relevant to children's early childhood development than the teacher report and the parent report. The criterion validity of using the direct measure to assess preschool children's approaches to learning was also better than that of the teacher report and the parent report. Therefore, the direct measure was recommended for use in assessing preschool children's approaches to learning, and teacher report can be used as a supplement.
Effect of polydispersity on the bulk‐heterojunction morphology of P3HT:PCBM solar cells
Authors: Munshi Joydeep , Ghumman Umar Farooq , Iyer Akshay , Dulal Rabindra , Chen Wei , Chien TeYu , Balasubramanian Ganesh
Published: July 2019

Bulk heterojunctions (BHJs) based on semiconducting electron–donor polymer and electron–acceptor fullerene have been extensively investigated as potential photoactive layers for organic solar cells (OSCs). In the experimental studies, poly‐(3‐hexyl‐thiophene) (P3HT) polymers are hardly monodisperse as the synthesis of highly monodisperse polymer mixture is a near impossible task to achieve. However, the majority of the computational efforts on P3HT: phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM)‐based OSCs, a monodisperse P3HT is usually considered. Here, results from coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulations of solvent evaporation and thermal annealing process of the BHJ are shared describing the effect of variability in molecular weight (also known as polydispersity) on the morphology of the active layer. Results affirm that polydispersity is beneficial for charge separation as the interfacial area is observed to increase with higher dispersity. Calculations of percolation and orientation tensors, on the other hand, reveal that a certain polydispersity index ranging between 1.05 and 1.10 should be maintained for optimal charge transport. Most importantly, these results point out that the consideration of polydispersity should be considered in computational studies of polymer‐based OSCs. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 895–903
Relict periglacial soils on Quaternary terraces in the Central Ebro Basin (NE Spain)
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ochoa Rafael , Olarieta José R. , Santana Asier , Castañeda Carmen , Calle Mikel , Rhodes Ed , Bartolomé Miguel , Peña‐Monné José L. , Sancho Carlos
Published: July 2019

Pedofeatures associated with ancient cold climatic conditions have been recognized in soils on terraces in the Monegros area (central Ebro Basin, Spain), at a latitude of 41°49′N and an altitude of 300 m a.s.l. Eleven soil profiles were described on fluvial deposits corresponding to the most extensive terrace (T5) of the Alcanadre River, Middle Pleistocene in age (MIS8–MIS7). Each soil horizon was sampled for physical, chemical, mineralogical and micromorphological analyses. Macromorphological features related to pedocryogenic processes were described: involutions, jacked stones, shattered stones, detached and vertically oriented carbonatic pendents, fragmented carbonatic crusts, laminar microstructures, succitic fabric, silt cappings on rock fragments and aggregates, and irregular, broken, discontinuous and deformed gravel and sandy pockets. Accumulations of Fe–Mn oxides, dissolution features on the surface of carbonatic stones, and calcitic accumulations were identified related to vadose–phreatic conditions. The observed periglacial features developed under cold environmental conditions in exceptional geomorphic and hydrological conditions. This soil information may have potential implications in studies of paleoclimate in the Ebro Valley as well as in other Mediterranean areas.
Determination of the Velocity of Detonation of Primary Explosives Using Genetically Optimized Support Vector Regression
Authors: Owolabi Taoreed O.
Published: July 2019

Chemical explosives are among the available high energy‐dense storage materials with transferable energy to surroundings or adjacent materials during detonation. The effectiveness, ignition energy as well as spark sensitivity of these explosives are governed by the velocity of detonation which needs to be determined before energetic material synthesis purposely to enhance safety and lessen the cost as well as the difficulties associated with material synthesis and evaluation. This present research work proposes hybridization of support vector regression (SVR) and genetic algorithm (GA) for estimation of the velocities of primary explosives for the first time. The performance of the proposed hybrid SVR‐GA is compared with the existing Mohammad Jafari et al. model as well as the results of EXPLO5Code's prediction using four parameters for measuring model's performance. The proposed SVR‐GA model shows superior performance compared with two existing models in the literature. The performance of the proposed SVR‐GA model for explosive velocity estimation strengthens its practical application, circumvents the experimental challenges and minimizes the associated potential risk.
Origin of resistance to pyrethroids in the redlegged earth mite (Halotydeus destructor) in Australia: repeated local evolution and migration
Authors: Yang Qiong , Umina Paul A , Rašić Gordana , Bell Nicholas , Fang Jichao , Lord Alan , Hoffmann Ary A
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Halotydeus destructor is a major pest of crops and pastures across southern parts of Australia. This invasive mite has been chemically controlled for over 50 years, but resistance to synthetic pyrethroids and organophosphates is developing. Understanding processes behind the emerging resistance is important for effective management efforts. We undertook a ddRAD pool‐sequencing approach to analyse genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism variation in H. destructor population samples at two scales: local resistance across a set of fields, and regional resistance across their Australian range, along with toxicology bioassays to screen for pyrethroid resistance.

RESULTS

Spatial patterns of genomic variation and resistance at a local scale indicated that genetic similarity among samples was more closely correlated with distance along roads and fence‐lines than with straight‐line geographic distance. This pattern was particularly strong in resistant samples, which were also more related than susceptible samples, suggesting local spread of resistance within an area after it emerged. By contrast, regional data suggest resistance has emerged repeatedly within parts of Australia. Our de novo annotation of the H. destructor draft genome sequence and Bayesian analysis identified several candidate loci strongly associated with population‐level resistance to pyrethroids, located in genomic regions that code for transmembrane transport and signalling proteins that have previously been linked to insecticide resistance in other arthropods.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight multiple independent evolutionary events leading to resistance in H. destructor, and demonstrate the utility and cost‐effectiveness of a cross‐population, genome‐wide association study to reveal processes underlying adaptive evolution in a non‐model invasive species. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Formation of Zero‐Field Magnetic Bubbles and Magnetic Phase Transitions in PbFe12O19 via In Situ Lorentz Microscopy
Authors: Wang Hong , Li Zi‐An , Zhang Ming , Tian Huanfang , Zhu Chunhui , Zhang Ying , Yang Huaixin , Li Jianqi
Published: July 2019

Understanding the magnetic transitions between different noncollinear spin textures under external stimuli is an important topic in modern magnetism. Here, the stripe‐to‐bubble transition is investigated in hexaferrite PbFe12O19 (001) thin plates with a magnetocrystalline anisotropy constant of Ku = 22 × 105 erg cm−3 at room temperature by in situ Lorentz transmission electron microscopy (LTEM) with varying specimen temperature and magnetic field. The LTEM observations reveal that the application and subsequent reduction of a parallel field to the specimen plane at room temperature results in the formation of zero‐field metastable magnetic bubbles. However, the application of an external field perpendicular to the specimen plane did not transform magnetic stripes to bubbles. This is in stark contrast to most perpendicularly magnetized materials that host magnetic bubbles. It is also found that the presence of Bloch lines in stripes induced by the parallel field is crucial for bubble formation. Moreover, in situ heating and cooling experiments for different initial states of magnetic stripes revealed a facilitating role of Bloch lines in the stripe‐to‐bubble transition and the metastable nature of zero‐field bubbles in PbFe12O19 thin films.
Charge Density Waves and Magnetism in Topological Semimetal Candidates GdSbxTe2−x−δ
Authors: Lei Shiming , Duppel Viola , Lippmann Judith M. , Nuss Jürgen , Lotsch Bettina V. , Schoop Leslie M.
Published: July 2019

Many topological semimetals are known to exhibit exceptional electronic properties, which are the fundamental basis for design of novel devices and further applications. Materials containing the structural motif of a square net are known to frequently be topological semimetals. In this work, the synthesis and structural characterization of the square‐net‐based magnetic topological semimetal candidates GdSbxTe2−x−δ (0, δ indicating the vacancy level) are reported. The structural evolution of the series with Sb substitution is studied, finding a transition between a simple tetragonal square‐net structure to complex superstructure formations due to the presence of charge density waves. The structural modulations coincide with a significant modification of the magnetic order. This work thus establishes GdSbxTe2−x−δ as a platform to study the interplay between crystal symmetry, band filling, charge density wave, and magnetism in a topological semimetal candidate.