bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promising approaches to improve the performances of hybrid non‐isocyanate polyurethane
Authors: Ke Jiexi , Li Xiaoyun , Jiang Shuai , Liang Chen , Wang Junwei , Kang Maoqing , Li Qifeng , Zhao Yuhua
Published: November 2018

The performances of hybrid non‐isocyanate polyurethane (NIPU) materials were improved by using promising approaches. For the ring‐opening reaction of cyclic carbonate with excess amine, methanol was selected as solvent to increase the molar mass of NH2‐terminated NIPU pre‐polymer but also caused the formation of urea as a result of eliminating hydrogen bonding between NIPU chains. Meanwhile, another approach was carried out to reduce the content of urea by altering the introduction mode of reactants, along with further increasing the molar mass of the NIPU pre‐polymer. The final hybrid materials were prepared by adding bisphenol‐A diglycidyl ether into the pre‐polymer. The results indicated that the introduction of methanol and the change of the introduction mode of reactants could improve the performance of the hybrid materials. The hybrid material derived from the forward method has optimal performance with a tensile strength of 10.8 MPa, elongation at break of 167%, a glass transition temperature of 49.1 °C and a crosslinking density of 450 mol m−3as well as presentable thermodynamic stability, ascribed to the high molar mass of the NIPU pre‐polymer, the low urea content and the dense crosslinking network. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of substituents on the UV spectra of supermolecular system: Silver nanoparticles with bi‐aryl Schiff bases containing hydroxyl
Authors: Cao Chao‐Tun , Cheng Shimao , Zhang Jingyuan , Cao Chenzhong
Published: November 2018

Effect of substituents on the ultraviolet (UV) spectra of supermolecular system involving silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and Schiff bases was investigated. AgNPs and 49 samples of model compounds (MC), bi‐aryl Schiff bases containing hydroxyl (XBAY, involving 4‐OHArCHNArY, 2‐OHArCHNArY, XArCHNAr‐4′‐OH, and XArCHNAr‐2′‐OH), were synthesized. The size of AgNPs was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the UV absorption spectra of AgNPs, XBAYs, and MC‐AgNPs mixed solutions were measured, respectively. The results show that (1) the size of AgNPs is larger in MC‐AgNPs solutions than that in AgNPs solution due to the distribution of MC molecules on the surface of AgNPs; (2) the UV absorption wavelength of XBAYs changes in the action of AgNPs and their wavelength shift exists limitation between XBAY and MC‐AgNPs solutions; and (3) the wavelength shift limit of MC‐AgNPs (λWSL) is influenced by the substituents X and Y and the position of hydroxyl OH. The wavenumber ΔνWSL of λWSL can be quantified by employing the excited‐state substituent constant
and Hammett constant σ of substituents X and Y. Comparing with the 4‐OH, the 4′‐OH makes the ΔνWSL a red shift, whereas the 2′‐OH, comparing with the 2‐OH, makes the ΔνWSL a blue shift.
Critical parameters controlling the properties of monolithic poly(lactic acid) foams prepared by thermally induced phase separation
Authors: Onder Ozgun Can , Yilgor Emel , Yilgor Iskender
Published: November 2018

Monolithic poly(lactic acid) (PLA) foams were produced by thermally induced phase separation. PLA solutions with concentrations 8–22 wt % were prepared in tetrahydrofuran/methanol (THF/MeOH) solvent/nonsolvent mixtures at 55 °C. Homogenous solutions were quenched at −20 °C to induce phase separation and gelation. Resulting gels were mechanically stabilized by solvent exchange. Subsequent supercritical CO2 drying yielded monolithic PLA foams. Crystal structure and degree of crystallinity of the foams were obtained by x‐ray diffractometry and differential scanning calorimetry. Morphologies were determined by scanning electron microscopy. Tuning the PLA concentration and THF/MeOH ratio enabled preparation of monolithic PLA foams. Depending on the experimental conditions various morphologies, such as: interconnected networks, thin platelets, lamellar stacks, axialites, and spherulites were formed. Monoliths obtained were highly crystalline. By changing the PLA concentration monoliths with controlled average pore sizes (170–1440 nm) and porosities (80–90%) were produced. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 98–108
Target oxygen saturation and development of pulmonary hypertension and increased pulmonary vascular resistance in preterm infants
Authors: Laliberté Corinne , Hanna Youstina , Ben Fadel Nadya , Lemyre Brigitte , Bijelic Vid , Barrowman Nicholas , Hoey Lynda , Thébaud Bernard , Katz Sherri L.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Determine whether higher targeted oxygen levels are associated with reduced incidence of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and elevated pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) in extremely premature infants.

Study design

Retrospective chart review of 252 extremely preterm infants (<29 weeks), who underwent echocardiogram prior to discharge. PH rates were compared during periods (June 2012‐May 2015 and June 2015‐April 2016) when lower (88‐92%) or higher (90‐95%) oxygen saturation targets were used. PH was determined on echocardiography. The ratio of pulmonary artery acceleration time to right ventricular ejection time was computed, with values <0.31 indicative of elevated PVR. Survival analysis compared the effects of oxygen saturation group on development/resolution of PH and elevated PVR.

Results

The higher saturation group had significantly lower risk of developing PH (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.50, 95%CI 0.26‐0.95; P = 0.03) or elevated PVR (HR = 0.55, 95%CI 0.38‐0.81; P = 0.002), compared to the lower oxygen saturation group. Median time to PH development was significantly shorter in the lower saturation group than in the higher saturation group (5 days vs 12 days; P = 0.02), as was time to development of elevated PVR (4 days vs 6 days; P < 0.001). Duration of PH (P = 0.12) and elevated PVR (P = 0.86) did not differ significantly between groups. Cumulative incidence of PH (P = 0.04) and elevated PVR (P = 0.01) at 36 weeks post‐menstrual age was significantly lower in the high saturation group compared to the lower saturation group.

Conclusion

Higher targeted oxygen saturation was associated with reduced risk of PH or elevated PVR in extremely preterm infants compared to lower oxygen saturation target.
Repellence of Myzus persicae (Sulzer): evidence of two modes of action of volatiles from selected living aromatic plants
Authors: Dardouri Tarek , Gautier Hélène , Ben Issa Refka , Costagliola Guy , Gomez Laurent
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Intercropping companion plants (CPs) with horticultural crops could be an eco‐friendly strategy to optimize pest management. In this research, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by some CPs were investigated for their repellent properties towards the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae Sulzer). The aim of this study was to understand the modes of action involved: direct effects on the aphid and/or indirect effects via the host plant (pepper, Capsicum annuum L.).

RESULTS

We identified two promising repellent CP species: the volatile blend from basil (Ocimum basilicum, direct repellent effect) and the mixture of (or previously intercropped) C. annuum plants with Tagetes patula cv. Nana (indirect effect). This effect was cultivar‐dependent and linked to the volatile bouquet. For the 16 compounds present in the O. basilicum or T. patula bouquets tested individually, (E)‐β‐farnesene, and eugenol reported good repellent properties against M. persicae. Other compounds were repellent at medium and/or highest concentrations. Thus, the presence of repellent VOCs in a mixture does not mean that it has a repellent propriety.

CONCLUSION

We identified two promising repellent CP species towards M. persicae, with a likely effect of one CP's VOCs on the host plant repellency and highlighted the specific effectiveness of VOC blends. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Curcumin promotes burn wound healing in mice by upregulating caveolin‐1 in epidermal stem cells
Authors: Yang Ronghua , Wang Jingru , Zhou Ziheng , Qi Shaohai , Ruan Shubin , Lin Zepeng , Xin Qi , Lin Yan , Chen Xiaodong , Xie Julin
Published: November 2018

We aimed to explore the effect of curcumin on epidermal stem cells (ESCs) in regulating wound healing and the underlying molecular mechanism. We treated mouse ESCs isolated from skin tissues with curcumin, and then assessed the proliferation ability of cells induced by epidermal growth factor using cell counting kit‐8 assay. The pluripotency of ESCs was evaluated as well through examination of Nanog expression in ESCs. Further, mice with skin burns were treated with ESCs with or without curcumin pretreatments. Histological evaluations were then preformed to determine wound scores, cell proliferation, reepithelialization, and capillary density in wounds. Curcumin treatment promoted the proliferative ability of ESCs and conditioned medium from curcumin‐treated ESCs enhanced human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) tube formation. We also found curcumin treatment elevated caveolin‐1 expression in ESCs, which was required for the beneficial effect of curcumin on ESC proliferation and HUVEC tube formation. Next, using a mouse model of burn wound healing, curcumin‐treated ESCs exhibited enhanced wound closure, which also required caveolin‐1 expression. Our current study demonstrates the beneficial effect of curcumin on burn wound healing in mice, which is mediated by upregulating caveolin‐1 in ESCs, and supports the potential therapeutic role of curcumin in ESC‐based treatment against skin wound healing.
The significance of non‐occupational asbestos exposure in women with mesothelioma
Authors: Tlotleng Nonhlanhla , Sidwell Wilson Kerry , Naicker Nisha , Koegelenberg Coenraad FN , Rees David , Phillips James Ian
Published: November 2018

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive pleural or peritoneal tumour almost always caused by exposure to asbestos fibres. Exposure to asbestos can cause malignant mesothelioma 30–40 years after exposure. A description of sources of exposure is important for prevention and possible financial compensation. Three women with cases of histologically confirmed malignant mesothelioma diagnosed from non‐occupational asbestos exposure are described. Patients were contacted for an interview to assess their exposure history to asbestos. All three cases had mixed exposure histories related to secondary, environmental contamination, and domestic exposure. This case series highlight how ubiquitous asbestos is in the environment and how diverse the exposures may be. It is anticipated that a significant number of cases of non‐occupational mesothelioma will be seen in many countries for several decades given the extent of asbestos containing materials.
Problems of reproductive function in survivors of childhood‐ and adolescent and young adult‐onset cancer revealed in a part of a national survey of Japan
Authors: Furui Tatsuro , Takai Yasushi , Kimura Fuminori , Kitajima Michio , Nakatsuka Mikiya , Morishige Ken‐ichiro , Higuchi Akiko , Shimizu Chikako , Ozawa Miwa , Ohara Akira , Tatara Ryohei , Nakamura Terukazu , Horibe Keizo , Suzuki Nao
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the current status of reproductive disorders as long‐term complications in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients by comparing survivors of childhood‐onset with those of AYA‐onset cancer in Japan.

Methods

We conducted a national survey of AYA cancer survivors and healthy AYAs and analyzed the results from survivors who underwent chemotherapy and reported fertility problems as their current concern.

Results

Among all of the childhood‐onset survivors, 27 (35.5%; nine males [28.1%] and 18 females [40.9%]) listed reproduction fertility problems as their current concern. Among all AYA‐onset survivors, 25 (69.5%; 1/4 males [25.0%] and 24/32 females [75.0%]) listed these problems as a current concern. In contrast, 96.3% (26/27) of all childhood‐onset cancer survivors and 68.0% (17/25) of all AYA‐onset cancer survivors who received chemotherapy listed these problems as a current concern.

Conclusions

A considerable number of both childhood‐onset and AYA‐onset cancer survivors, and especially those who had undergone chemotherapy, reported reproductive dysfunction as a delayed complication. It is vitally important to establish a supportive care system both for the patients whose fertility was abolished after the completion of cancer treatment and prophylactically for patients before they begin treatment.
Output‐feedback control strategies of lower‐triangular nonlinear nonholonomic systems in any prescribed finite time
Authors: Chen Xiandong , Zhang Xianfu
Published: November 2018

In this paper, output‐feedback control strategies are proposed for lower‐triangular nonlinear nonholonomic systems in any prescribed finite time. Specifically, by employing the input‐state–scaling technique, the controlled systems are firstly converted into lower‐triangular nonlinear systems, which makes it possible to study such systems using the high‐gain technique. Then, by introducing a scaling of the state by a function that grows unbounded toward the terminal time and proposing a high‐gain observer–prescribed finite time recovering the system states, the output‐feedback regulation control problem in any prescribed finite time is firstly achieved for nonlinear nonholonomic systems with unknown constant incremental rate. Moreover, by designing another time‐varying high gain, the output‐feedback stabilization control problem in any prescribed finite time is then achieved for nonlinear nonholonomic systems with a time‐varying incremental rate. Finally, a numerical example is introduced to show the effectiveness of proposed control strategies.
Security analysis for cyber‐physical systems under undetectable attacks: A geometric approach
Authors: Zhao Zhengen , Yang Ying , Li Yuzhe , Liu Ruijie
Published: November 2018

In this paper, the security issues of cyber‐physical systems under undetectable attacks are studied. The geometric control theory is used to investigate the design, implementation, and impact evaluation of undetectable attacks. First, a feedforward‐feedback structure for undetectable attacks is proposed, which provides a designable form for an attack to be undetectable. The corresponding attack strategy is designed via pole placement in the weakly unobservable subspace of the attacked system. Then, the security analysis of several common undetectable attacks injected from actuators, sensors, and the coordinated of the two is discussed. Finally, the simulations on the quadruple‐tank process demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
One‐sample aggregate data meta‐analysis of medians
Authors: McGrath Sean , Zhao XiaoFei , Qin Zhi Zhen , Steele Russell , Benedetti Andrea
Published: November 2018

An aggregate data meta‐analysis is a statistical method that pools the summary statistics of several selected studies to estimate the outcome of interest. When considering a continuous outcome, typically each study must report the same measure of the outcome variable and its spread (eg, the sample mean and its standard error). However, some studies may instead report the median along with various measures of spread. Recently, the task of incorporating medians in meta‐analysis has been achieved by estimating the sample mean and its standard error from each study that reports a median in order to meta‐analyze the means. In this paper, we propose two alternative approaches to meta‐analyze data that instead rely on medians. We systematically compare these approaches via simulation study to each other and to methods that transform the study‐specific medians and spread into sample means and their standard errors. We demonstrate that the proposed median‐based approaches perform better than the transformation‐based approaches, especially when applied to skewed data and data with high inter‐study variance. Finally, we illustrate these approaches in a meta‐analysis of patient delay in tuberculosis diagnosis.
A new semiparametric transformation approach to disease diagnosis with multiple biomarkers
Authors: Lyu Ting , Ying Zhiliang , Zhang Hong
Published: November 2018

When multiple biomarkers are available for disease diagnosis, it is desirable to efficiently combine them to form a single index. Making use of the Neyman‐Pearson paradigm, we propose a new combination/transformation approach to disease diagnosis that efficiently combines multiple biomarkers. The proposed method does not require that the biomarkers be jointly normally distributed or the covariance matrices for the diseased and the nondiseased are nondifferential. An R package is developed to implement the proposed method. Simulations and two real data examples demonstrate advantages of the new method over existing ones.
Effect of Lithiation Voltage Limit on the Electrochemical Performance of High Surface Area Anatase TiO2 Nanoparticles and Its Application in Full‐Cell Li–Ion Battery
Authors: Gangaja Binitha , Jayasree Silpasree S. , Nair Shantikumar , Santhanagopalan Dhamodaran
Published: November 2018

Titania based anodes have received considerable interest due to its cycling stability and improved safety. Here, we report the electrochemical performance of high surface area anatase TiO2 nanoparticles synthesized via solvothermal technique. Prepared anatase TiO2 nanoparticles were below 15 nm in average particle size exhibiting high surface area of 251 m2/g and titanium existing in 4+ oxidation state. The electrodes studied by limiting the discharge voltage between 1.0 V and 0.01 V showed significant performance differences. Especially, specific capacity, Coulombic efficiency and storage mechanism of TiO2 depends strongly on lithiation voltage cut‐off limit that is discussed in detail. It was established that discharging to 1.0 V showed better performance hence, subsequent studies the lithiation (discharge) was limited to 1.0 V. High rate capability of the electrodes were tested test up to 60 C and long cycle stability up to 1000 cycles (at 10 C rate). As an energy storage solution, a 2.0 V full‐cell Li‐ion battery was fabricated with the TiO2 nanoparticles as anode against surface modified LiCoO2 as cathode. The full‐cell delivered specific capacities about 165 mAh/g and 105 mAh/g at current densities of 150 mA/g and 3765 mA/g respectively. It also exhibited 126 mAh/g capacity and 85% retention at the end of 100 cycles at a current density of 1000 mA/g. The full‐cell delivered a maximum power density of 5.5 kW/kg and a corresponding energy density of 185 Wh/kg.
Synthesis of Novel Benzothiazolo[3,2‐a]pyridimidin‐4‐ones with Potential Cytotoxic and Pro‐Apoptotic Potential
Authors: Jafari Behzad , Rashid Faisal , Safarov Sayfidin , Ospanov Meirambek , Yelibayeva Nazym , Abilov Zharylkasyn A. , Turmukhanova Mirgul Z. , Kalugin Sergey N. , Ehlers Peter , Umar Muhammad Ihtisham , Zaib Sumera , Iqbal Jamshed , Langer Peter
Published: November 2018

The combination of cyclocondensation with palladium catalysed cross‐coupling reactions, afforded a variety of 8‐functionalized benzothiazolo[3,2‐a]pyridimidin‐4‐ones in good to excellent yields. The anti‐proliferative potential of the synthetic compounds was evaluated in human cervical adenocarcinoma cells (HeLa) and hamster normal fibroblasts (BHK‐21). Three of the test derivatives exhibited the strongest cytotoxicity in HeLa cells with the median inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.93, 1.55 and 1.84 μM, respectively. Moreover, their anti‐proliferative effect was three times less strong in normal fibroblasts, asserting their possible anti‐cancer potential.
Copper Incorporation in Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Halide Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Song Zhen , Jiang Yidong , Liu Jiang , Pan Qifa , Zuo Wentao , Zhang Xu , Liao Cheng , Mei Jun
Published: November 2018

The organic‐inorganic hybrid halide perovskite solar cell with excellent photovoltaic performance has been considered a promising device in photovoltaic field. By element substitution in perovskites, the crystal structure and properties of materials can be altered. Herein, two copper‐based compounds are used as additives in perovskites, which affect the crystallization process of perovskite films, and modify the photoelectric properties of perovskite materials. It is found that an appropriate addition of copper (Cu) ions could not only reduce the perovskite phase transition temperature, promote the formation of black perovskite phase, but also improve the crystallization and absorbance of perovskites. Excessive Cu incorporation leads to significant loss of device performance. The appropriate concentration of Cu ions in perovskite absorber for high efficiency solar cell is considered to be ∼0.1 mol% from a number of experimental results, which contributes to a remarkable stability of the device with only 2% power conversion efficiency loss after 170 h. This study is conducive to the comprehensive understanding of the effect of ions doping in perovskite materials.
Perceived stress mediates the relationship between mindfulness and negative affect variability: A randomized controlled trial among middle‐aged to older adults
Authors: Colgan Dana Dharmakaya , Klee Daniel , Memmott Tab , Proulx Jeffrey , Oken Barry
Published: November 2018

Despite the interest in mindfulness over the past 20 years, studies have only recently begun to examine mindfulness in older adults. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate pretreatment to post‐treatment change in negative affect variability (NAV) following a mindfulness training among 134 mildly stressed, middle‐aged to older adults. The secondary aim was to assess if the effects of mindfulness training on NAV would be partially explained by pretreatment to post‐treatment reductions in perceived stress, a trend that would be congruent with several stress models. In this randomized control trial, participants were assigned to either a 6‐week mindfulness meditation training programme or to a wait list control. Ecological momentary assessment, a data capturing technique that queries about present moment experiences in real time, captured NAV. Mixed‐model ANOVAs and a path analysis were conducted. Participants in the mindfulness meditation training significantly reduced NAV when compared with wait list control participants. Further, there was a significant indirect group effect on reductions in NAV through change in perceived stress. Few studies have tested mechanisms of action, which connect changes that occur during mindfulness training with psychological outcomes in older adults. Understanding the mechanisms by which mindfulness enhances well‐being may optimize interventions.
Single Domain 10 nm Ferromagnetism Imprinted on Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles Using Chiral Molecules
Authors: Koplovitz Guy , Leitus Gregory , Ghosh Supriya , Bloom Brian P. , Yochelis Shira , Rotem Dvir , Vischio Fabio , Striccoli Marinella , Fanizza Elisabetta , Naaman Ron , Waldeck David H. , Porath Danny , Paltiel Yossi
Published: November 2018

The rapid growth in demand for data and the emerging applications of Big Data require the increase of memory capacity. Magnetic memory devices are among the leading technologies for meeting this demand; however, they rely on the use of ferromagnets that creates size reduction limitations and poses complex materials requirements. Usually magnetic memory sizes are limited to 30–50 nm. Reducing the size even further, to the ≈10–20 nm scale, destabilizes the magnetization and its magnetic orientation becomes susceptible to thermal fluctuations and stray magnetic fields. In the present work, it is shown that 10 nm single domain ferromagnetism can be achieved. Using asymmetric adsorption of chiral molecules, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles become ferromagnetic with an average coercive field of ≈80 Oe. The asymmetric adsorption of molecules stabilizes the magnetization direction at room temperature and the orientation is found to depend on the handedness of the chiral molecules. These studies point to a novel method for the miniaturization of ferromagnets (down to ≈10 nm) using established synthetic protocols.
Promoting Nitrogen Electroreduction on Mo2C Nanoparticles Highly Dispersed on N‐Doped Carbon Nanosheets toward Rechargeable Li–N2 Batteries
Authors: Wang Xin‐Gai , Zhang Qinming , Zhang Xin , Wang Chengyi , Xie Zhaojun , Zhou Zhen
Published: November 2018

N2 fixation is a challenging and rewarding issue. However, the traditional Haber–Bosch process consumes a large amount of fossil fuels, resulting in serious environmental pollution. Instead, N2 electroreduction is a promising way to convert and utilize N2. Among various N2 electroreduction methods, combining N2 reduction with batteries is simple and efficient. Here, a composite of ultrasmall Mo2C particles highly dispersed on N‐doped carbon nanosheets is prepared, and it is applied as the air cathode for Li–N2 batteries. Li–N2 batteries show high discharge capacity and superior reversibility, demonstrating that the Li–N2 battery is a promising platform for N2 electroreduction and electrochemical energy storage.
Determination of Ethofumesate‐2‐hydroxy Stereolability by Dynamic HPLC
Authors: Perovani Icaro Salgado , de Oliveira Anderson Rodrigo Moraes
Published: November 2018

Evaluating stereolability of target chiral chemical is pivotal when developing enantioselective studies. Ethofumesate‐2‐hydroxy is one of the main metabolites of ethofumesate, a chiral herbicide currently marketed as racemate. In order to perform enantioselective pharmacokinetic and metabolism studies, the stereolability of susceptible molecules should be evaluated. Based on that, dynamic high‐performance liquid chromatography experiments were performed to evaluate ethofumesate‐2‐hydroxy enantiomerization process on‐column. The thermodynamic results helped understand that ethofumesate‐2‐hydroxy enantiomerization is a bimolecular process assisted by acid and base catalysis. The enantiomerization barrier determined suggested that ethofumesate‐2‐hydroxy single enantiomers may undergo extensive racemization at ambient temperature turning ethofumesate‐2‐hydroxy enantioselective studies into an unfeasible task.
Emissive Iridium(III) Complexes with Phosphorous‐Containing Ancillary
Authors: Chi Yun , Wang Sheng Fu , Ganesan Paramaguru
Published: November 2018

Ir(III) metal complexes and related emitters bearing all kind of cyclometalated chromophoric chelates and non‐chromophoric ancillary are extensively studied during the past three decades. Many of them have been found to display bright room temperature phosphorescence from triplet excited states in both solution and solid states, offering a possible application in contemporary optoelectronic technologies, including organic light emitting diodes, electrochemiluminescence, biological imaging and chemical sensing. Among reported materials, there are Ir(III) complexes with at least one phosphorus (P)‐containing ligand and/or ancillary chelate, together with cyclometalates or equivalents that are in control of the actual emission energy. Particularly, possession of P‐based donor can lead to divergent structural and photophysical properties compared to the traditional designs. This review aims to provide a literature overview as well as the authors’ personal account to the development of relevant Ir(III) based phosphors bearing these P‐donors. To the readers’ convenience, the contents are subdivided into six sessions, according to whether or not they are charge natural, or with mono‐ or dianionic electronic character, and in accordance to their divergent bonding modes, i. e. monodentate, bidentate and tripodal coordination. In many cases, the P‐based ancillaries offer an easy accessible route to the formation of efficient sky‐blue and true‐blue emitters due to their π‐accepting property, together with enlarged emission energy gap and destabilized upper lying quenching state.
Para‐tertiary butyl catechol (PTBC), an industrial antioxidant induces human platelet apoptosis
Authors: Vishalakshi Gopalapura J. , NaveenKumar Somanathapura K. , Hemshekhar Mahadevappa , Mahendra Madegowda , Kemparaju Kempaiah , Girish Kesturu S.
Published: November 2018

The catecholic derivative para‐tertiary butyl catechol (PTBC) is a conventional antioxidant and polymerization inhibitor, which exhibits melanocytotoxic effects and contact dermatitis often leading to occupational leucoderma or vitiligo. Although numerous industrial workers will be in constant exposure to PTBC and its chances of getting entry into blood are most expected, its effect on blood components is still undisclosed. As platelets play a prominent role in dermatitis, inflammation, and immunity, in this study we have evaluated the effect of PTBC on human platelets in vitro. Exposure of platelets to PTBC showed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), intracellular calcium, cardiolipin oxidation, mitochondrial permeability transition pore(MPTP) formation, activation of caspases, phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, there was a significant decrease in cellular glutathione level, increased γ‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity and cell death. These findings demonstrate that PTBC could induce toxic effects on blood components, which is often ignored field of research. Since dermal exposure of humans to toxic chemicals covers an important issue in various industries, there is a need of such work to understand and update the long‐term toxicities induced by PTBC usage in industrial sectors and public domain.
Deep learning enables automatic quantitative assessment of puborectalis muscle and urogenital hiatus in plane of minimal hiatal dimensions
Authors: van den Noort F. , van der Vaart C. H. , Grob A. T. M. , van de Waarsenburg M. K. , Slump C. H. , van Stralen M.
Published: November 2018

Objectives

To measure the length, width and area of the urogenital hiatus (UH), and the length and mean echogenicity (MEP) of the puborectalis muscle (PRM), automatically and observer‐independently, in the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions on transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) images, by automatic segmentation of the UH and the PRM using deep learning.

Methods

In 1318 three‐ and four‐dimensional (3D/4D) TPUS volume datasets from 253 nulliparae at 12 and 36 weeks' gestation, two‐dimensional (2D) images in the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions with the PRM at rest, on maximum contraction and on maximum Valsalva maneuver, were obtained manually and the UH and PRM were segmented manually. In total, 713 of the images were used to train a convolutional neural network (CNN) to segment automatically the UH and PRM in the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions. In the remainder of the dataset (test set 1 (TS1); 601 images, four having been excluded), the performance of the CNN was evaluated by comparing automatic and manual segmentations. The performance of the CNN was also tested on 117 images from an independent dataset (test set 2 (TS2); two images having been excluded) from 40 nulliparae at 12 weeks' gestation, which were acquired and segmented manually by a different observer. The success of automatic segmentation was assessed visually. Based on the CNN segmentations, the following clinically relevant parameters were measured: the length, width and area of the UH, the length of the PRM and MEP. The overlap (Dice similarity index (DSI)) and surface distance (mean absolute distance (MAD) and Hausdorff distance (HDD)) between manual and CNN segmentations were measured to investigate their similarity. For the measured clinically relevant parameters, the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) between manual and CNN results were determined.

Results

Fully automatic CNN segmentation was successful in 99.0% and 93.2% of images in TS1 and TS2, respectively. DSI, MAD and HDD showed good overlap and distance between manual and CNN segmentations in both test sets. This was reflected in the respective ICC values in TS1 and TS2 for the length (0.96 and 0.95), width (0.77 and 0.87) and area (0.96 and 0.91) of the UH, the length of the PRM (0.87 and 0.73) and MEP (0.95 and 0.97), which showed good to very good agreement.

Conclusion

Deep learning can be used to segment automatically and reliably the PRM and UH on 2D ultrasound images of the nulliparous pelvic floor in the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions. These segmentations can be used to measure reliably UH dimensions as well as PRM length and MEP. © 2018 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Roboter im Gesundheitsbereich
Authors: Bendel Oliver
Published: November 2018

Der vorliegende Beitrag geht auf unterschiedliche Roboter im Gesundheitsbereich ein, auf Operations-, Therapie- und Pflegeroboter. Es werden die Ziele, Aufgaben und Merkmale geklärt, und es findet eine Diskussion aus ethischer Sicht statt, wobei teilweise im doppelten Sinne vergleichbare Fragen gestellt (und teilweise unterschiedliche Antworten gegeben) werden. Am Ende soll deutlich werden, wie sich das Gesundheitswesen durch den Einsatz der neuen Assistenten und Akteure verändert, welche Implikationen und Konsequenzen dieser hat, für den Einzelnen, für die Gesellschaft und für einschlägige Einrichtungen, und welche Möglichkeiten für einen Betroffenen bestehen, sich für die eine oder andere Option zu entscheiden.
Umsorgen, überwachen, unterhalten – sind Pflegeroboter ethisch vertretbar?
Authors: Kreis Jeanne
Published: November 2018

Von einer Maschine hochgehoben, gewaschen, bedient, überwacht und unterhalten werden? Ein Roboter, der Menschen daran erinnert, Tabletten zu schlucken, genügend Flüssigkeit aufzunehmen oder mit ihnen über einen Monitor Gedächtnisspiele spielt? Der Gedanke, im Alter von einem Pflegeroboter betreut zu werden oder Nahestehende maschinell umsorgen zu lassen, ist für viele befremdlich. Dennoch ist die Entwicklung von Pflegerobotern in vollem Gange. Der vorliegende Beitrag behandelt den Einsatz von Pflegerobotern aus ethischer Perspektive und weist dabei anhand konkreter Robotertypen auf Hürden der Pflegerobotik hin. Neben Einwänden wie dem Kontaktverlust thematisiert das Papier unter anderem den Einsatz von Pflegerobotern hinsichtlich der bewussten Täuschung älterer pflegebedürftiger Personen sowie der Menschenwürde. Anhand der vorgebrachten Argumente wird dargelegt, welchen moralischen Ansprüchen Pflegeroboter gerecht werden müssen und wie der Einsatz künstlicher Systeme in einem menschzentrierten Bereich wie der Pflege trotz ethischer Bedenken legitimiert werden kann.
Robotik in der Gesundheitsversorgung: Hoffnungen, Befürchtungen und Akzeptanz aus Sicht der Nutzerinnen und Nutzer
Authors: Becker Heidrun
Published: November 2018

Um den steigenden Versorgungsbedarf im Gesundheitsbereich bei gleichzeitigem Mangel an Fachkräften zu sichern, wird zunehmend auch auf den Einsatz von Robotik gesetzt. Eine breite Vielfalt an Geräten wird dabei für verschiedene Nutzergruppen und Anwendungssituationen entwickelt. Die Geräte wecken einerseits Hoffnungen, aber auch Befürchtungen bei nichtprofessionellen und professionellen Nutzergruppen. Ob ein Roboter von Nutzenden tatsächlich akzeptiert wird, hängt von zahlreichen Faktoren ab. Die Aussagen in diesem Beitrag beruhen auf Literatur, eigenen Befragungen im Rahmen der Studie zur Technologiefolgenabschätzung für TA-SWISS in 2011–2012 (Becker et al., Robotik in Betreuung und Gesundheitsversorgung. vdf Hochschulverlag, Zürich, 2013) und verschiedenen Diskussionen mit Gesundheitspersonal, Expertinnen und Experten und Betroffenen im Rahmen von Vorträgen und Podiumsdiskussionen.
Erfahrungen aus dem Einsatz von Pflegerobotern für Menschen im Alter
Authors: Früh Michael , Gasser Alina
Published: November 2018

Dieser Beitrag beschreibt die Erfahrungen bei der Entwicklung, Erprobung und Kommerzialisierung von Pflegerobotern aus Sicht der Firma F&P Robotics AG. Vorbehalte gegenüber dem Einsatz von Robotik in der Pflege sind noch immer weit verbreitet. Die Haltung von F&P ist es, dass nicht das Ersetzen von Mitarbeitern, sondern die sinnvolle Zusammenarbeit von Mensch und Roboter gefördert werden soll. F&P ist ein Pionier in den Bereichen Personal- und Pflegerobotik und testet derzeit den Einsatz von Robotern in Alten- und Pflegeheimen. Im ersten Teil des Beitrags werden verschiedene Serviceroboter von F&P beschrieben und deren Einsatzbereiche und Nutzen erläutert. Im Rahmen einer Masterarbeit der Universität Basel wurde eine Studie bezüglich der Akzeptanz älterer Menschen gegenüber Pflegerobotern durchgeführt. Die Resultate werden im zweiten Teil präsentiert.
Renormalization of mixing angles
Authors: Denner Ansgar , Dittmaier Stefan , Lang Jean-Nicolas
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We discuss the renormalization of mixing angles for theories with extended scalar sectors. Motivated by shortcomings of existing schemes for mixing angles, we review existing renormalization schemes and introduce new ones based on on-shell conditions or symmetry requirements such as rigid or background-field gauge invariance. Considering in particular the renormalization of the mixing angles in the Two-Higgs-Doublet Model and the Higgs-Singlet Extension of the Standard Model, we compare electroweak corrections within these models for a selection of renormalization schemes. As specific examples, we present next-to-leading-order results on the four-fermion decays of heavy and light CP-even Higgs bosons, H1/H2 → WW/ZZ → 4f , and on electroweak Higgs-boson production processes, i.e. Higgs-strahlung and vector-boson fusion. We find that our new proposals for on-shell and symmetry-based renormalization conditions are well-behaved for the considered benchmark scenarios in both models.
Exact quantization conditions for the elliptic Ruijsenaars-Schneider model
Authors: Hatsuda Yasuyuki , Sciarappa Antonio , Zakany Szabolcs
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We propose and test exact quantization conditions for the N-particle quantum elliptic Ruijsenaars-Schneider integrable system, as well as its Calogero-Moser limit, based on the conjectural correspondence to the five-dimensional

$$ \mathcal{N}={1}^{\ast } $$

N
=

1
∗

SU(N) gauge theory in the Nekrasov-Shatashvili limit. We discuss two natural sets of quantization conditions, related by the electro-magnetic duality, and the importance of non-perturbative corrections in the Planck constant. We also comment on the eigenfunction problem, by reinterpreting the Separation of Variables approach in gauge theory terms.
Topologically twisted indices in five dimensions and holography
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Morteza , Yaakov Itamar , Zaffaroni Alberto
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We provide a formula for the partition function of five-dimensional$$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$N=1gauge theories on ℳ4×S1, topologically twisted along ℳ4in the presence of general background magnetic fluxes, where ℳ4is a toric Kähler manifold. The result can be expressed as a contour integral of the product of copies of the K-theoretic Nekrasov’s partition function, summed over gauge magnetic fluxes. The formula generalizes to five dimensions the topologically twisted index of three- and four-dimensional field theories. We analyze the largeNlimit of the partition function and some related quantities for two theories:$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 SYM and the USp(2N) theory withNfflavors and an antisymmetric matter field. For ℙ1×ℙ1×S1, which can be easily generalized to$$ {\varSigma}_{{\mathfrak{g}}_2}\times {\varSigma}_{{\mathfrak{g}}_1}\times {S}^1 $$Σg2×Σg1×S1, we conjecture the form of the relevant saddle point at largeN. The resulting partition function for$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 SYM scales asN3and is in perfect agreement with the holographic results for domain walls in AdS7×S4. The largeNpartition function for the USp(2N) theory scales asN5/2and gives a prediction for the entropy of a class of magnetically charged black holes in massive type IIA supergravity.
Critical Kaluza-Klein black holes and black strings in D = 10
Authors: Cardona Biel , Figueras Pau
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We construct static vacuum localized black holes and non-uniform black strings in ten spacetime dimensions, where one of the dimension is compactified on a circle. We study the phase diagram of black objects with these boundary conditions, especially near the critical point where localized black holes and non-uniform black strings merge. Remarkably, we find that the merger happens at a cusp in the phase diagram. We verify that the critical geometry is controlled by a Ricci-flat double-cone as previously predicted. However, unlike the lower dimensional cases, we find that physical quantities approach to their critical values according to a power law plus a logarithmic correction. We extract the critical exponents and find very good agreement with the predictions from the double-cone geometry. According to holography, localized black holes and black strings are dual to thermal states of (1 + 1)-dimensional SU(N) maximal Super-Yang Mills theory compactified on a circle; we recover and extend the details of the (recently found) 1st order phase transition in this system from the gravity side.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Female Migration to ISIS
Authors: Viano Emilio C.
Published: November 2018

Terrorism, while not new in the history of humanity, has become a major issue and
challenge for contemporary society worldwide. Recently it has become embodied and symbolized
by the “Islamic State in Iraq and Syria” (ISIS) in its many permutations in the Middle East,
the focus of massive military intervention on the part of major world powers and of study,
analysis, strategy and planning. One aspect that has distinguished ISIS from previous
terrorist movements is a major migration of women, especially but not limited to Western
Europe, joining the jihad proclaimed by the religious leaders of ISIS. This
introduction to the special issue on Female Migration to ISIS surveys and identifies the
known possible roots of the phenomenon and related issues, summarizes major known points
relative to it, and outlines the future agenda of work, not only academic but also practical
and strategic, to be followed. Balanced recommendations on how to build a promising
intervention strategy not only based on military force are put forth for consideration and
discussion. While based on research, this article should be considered more of an editorial,
generally introducing the field, summarizing existing work, especially the content of this
special issue, and pointing out work needed in the future.
2023 Relationship power imbalance and history of male partner HIV testing among pregnant women in central Uganda
Authors: Vrana Caroline , Korte Jeffrey , Malek Angela , Buregyeya Esther , Matovu Joseph , Chemusto Harriet , Musoke William , Wanyenze Rhoda
Published: November 2018

OBJECTIVES/SPECIFIC AIMS: We investigated the association between relationship power imbalance (which can have a negative impact on HIV prevention) and male partner HIV testing, using baseline data from a HIV self-testing trial in 3 antenatal clinics in central Uganda. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Pregnant women with HIV-male partners were recruited and randomized by day into standard of care or intervention (HIV self-testing kits). Analyses were performed in SAS 9.4, with χ2 tests and p<0.05 for significance. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: In total, 1514 women were recruited (737 standard of care, 777 intervention). Overall, 39.6% of male partners had previously tested for HIV. Among women <26, contributions to expenses differed by partner testing (overall p<0.001, 47.6% of women whose partners tested made no contribution vs. 63.2% of women whose partners did not test). Relationship status differed by partner testing (overall p=0.02, 12.4% of women whose partners tested showed a sometimes difficult relationship vs. 5.7% of women whose partners did not test). Among women 26+, decision making for family visits differed by partner testing (overall p=0.005, 52.9% of women made joint decisions with partners who tested vs. 36.5% whose partners did not test). DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT: Higher relationship power balance was associated with higher HIV testing among male partners when measured by contribution to expenses and decision making for family visits, but not relationship status. Relationship power balance should be considered when counseling women and men to increase HIV testing.
2297 The direct effect of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) on cardiac muscle contractile mechanics
Authors: Oakley Carlee I. , Sanborn David , Rafie Nikita , Hendrix Matt , Grillo Michael , Vallejo Julian , Stubbs Jason R. , Shawgo Tilitha , Daon Emmanuel , Zorn George , Wacker Michael J.
Published: November 2018

OBJECTIVES/SPECIFIC AIMS: The objective of this study was to determine if trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) alone could acutely alter cardiac contractile function on a beat-to-beat basis. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: CD1 adult mouse hearts were extracted, attached to a force transducer, oxygenated, and paced within an organ bath. Changes in contractility were measured after pipetting or reverse perfusing TMAO through the aorta via a modified Langendorff apparatus to facilitate TMAO delivery into the myocardium. To determine if our findings translated to the human heart, we performed contractility experiments using human right atrial appendage biopsy tissue retrieved during cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. To investigate whether TMAO alters contractile rate, in a separate series of experiments, the atria and sinoatrial node of isolated hearts were kept intact to allow for spontaneous beating without artificial pacing and were treated with TMAO or vehicle. In addition, intracellular calcium measurements were performed on spontaneously beating embryonic rat cardiomyocytes after TMAO or vehicle treatment. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: We found acute exposure to TMAO, diluted into the organ bath, increased average contraction amplitude 20% and 41% at 300 µM and 3000 µM, respectively (p<0.05, n=6). Langendorff reverse perfusion of mouse hearts ex vivo with 300 µM TMAO generated an even greater response than nonperfusion peripheral exposure and increased isometric force 32% (p<0.05, n=3). Consistent with what we observed in mouse hearts, incubation of human atrial muscle tissue with TMAO at 3000 µM increased isometric tension 31% compared with vehicle (p<0.05, n=4). TMAO treatment (3000 µM) also increased average beating frequency of ex vivo mouse hearts by 27% compared with vehicle (p<0.05, n=3) and increased the spontaneous beating frequency of primary rat cardiomyocytes by 13% compared with vehicle treatment (p<0.05, n=4). DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT: TMAO, at pathological concentrations, directly increases the force and rate of cardiac contractility. Initially, these inotropic and chronotropic effects may be adaptive during CKD; however, chronic increases in isometric tension and beating frequency can promote cardiac remodeling and heart failure. Further translational studies are needed to understand the intricate relationship between the microbiome, kidneys, and heart and to examine if TMAO represents a therapeutic target for reducing cardiovascular mortality in CKD patients.