bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B Cell Tetherin: A Flow Cytometric Cell‐Specific Assay for Response to Type I Interferon Predicts Clinical Features and Flares in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: El‐Sherbiny Yasser M. , Md Yusof Md Yuzaiful , Psarras Antonios , Hensor Elizabeth M. A. , Kabba Kumba Z. , Dutton Katherine , Mohamed Alaa A. A. , Elewaut Dirk , McGonagle Dennis , Tooze Reuben , Doody Gina , Wittmann Miriam , Emery Paul , Vital Edward M.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Type I interferon (IFN) responses are broadly associated with autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Given the cardinal role of autoantibodies in SLE, this study was undertaken to investigate whether the findings of a B cell–specific IFN assay correlate with SLE activity.

Methods

B cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated with type I IFN and type II IFN. Gene expression was analyzed, and the expression of pathway‐related membrane proteins was determined. A flow cytometry assay for tetherin (CD317), an IFN‐induced protein ubiquitously expressed on leukocytes, was validated in vitro and then clinically against SLE diagnosis, plasmablast expansion, and the British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) 2004 score in a discovery cohort (n = 156 SLE patients, 30 rheumatoid arthritis [RA] patients, and 25 healthy controls). A second, longitudinal validation cohort of 80 SLE patients was also evaluated for flare prediction.

Results

In vitro, a close cell‐specific and dose‐response relationship between type I IFN–responsive genes and cell surface tetherin was observed in all immune cell subsets. Tetherin expression on multiple cell subsets was selectively responsive to stimulation with type I IFN compared to types II and III IFNs. In patient samples from the discovery cohort, memory B cell tetherin showed the strongest associations with diagnosis (SLE:healthy control effect size 0.11 [P = 0.003]; SLE:RA effect size 0.17 [P < 0.001]), plasmablast numbers in rituximab‐treated patients (R = 0.38, P = 0.047), and BILAG 2004. These associations were equivalent to or stronger than those for IFN score or monocyte tetherin. Memory B cell tetherin was found to be predictive of future clinical flares in the validation cohort (hazard ratio 2.29 [95% confidence interval 1.01–4.64]; P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that memory B cell surface tetherin, a B cell–specific IFN assay, is associated with SLE diagnosis and disease activity, and predicts flares better than tetherin on other cell subsets or whole blood assays, as determined in an independent validation cohort.
The association between private tutoring and access to grammar schools: Voices of Year 6 pupils and teachers in south‐east England
Authors: Hajar Anas
Published: December 2019

England has experienced recent growth in the prevalence of private tutoring (PT). The qualitative study reported in this article aims to explore the perceptions of 14 Year 6 pupils and their teachers from three state‐maintained primary schools in East Kent on PT participation and its impact on grammar school admissions. Data were collected through individual and focus group interviews and pupils' drawings. The data revealed that teachers were not totally aware of the scale of PT in their classes and ascribed PT merely to parental decision to prepare their child to pass the 11‐plus, grammar school entrance test. However, some pupils indicated that they shared in the decision to have PT, affirming that it was not only for 11‐plus test familiarisation and practice. PT also contributed to greater pupil confidence, involvement and enthusiasm for learning, together with improvement in social interactive skills (i.e. intangible benefits). Both teachers and pupils also explained the disadvantages of PT, including the psychological and financial burdens on the whole family and changing the playing field level. Teachers proposed some solutions to help Year 6 pupils without PT. From this qualitative study, pedagogical implications as well as areas for ongoing research are suggested.
Rhizobien in der Pflanzenmikrobiota
Authors: Wippel Kathrin , Schulze‐Lefert Paul , Garrido‐Oter Ruben
Published: December 2019

Für das Wachstum und Überleben der Pflanze im Boden ist ihre Mikrobiota von maßgeblicher Bedeutung. Pflanzen‐Mikrobiota‐Interaktionen können unter Laborbedingungen durch definierte Gemeinschaften von Kommensalen nachgestellt und durch Ko‐Kultivierung mit dem keimfreien Pflanzenwirt auf ihre Wirkung auf das Wachstum und die Gesundheit der Pflanzen geprüft werden. Die Ordnung der Rhizobiales gehört zum Kern der Pflanzenmikrobiota und beinhaltet stickstoffbindende Wurzelknöllchenbakterien, die in einer Symbiose mit Leguminosen leben. Nur kompatible Wirt‐Symbionten‐Paare können Symbiosen etablieren, was durch hochspezialisierte und verknüpfte Signalwege zwischen den beiden Partnern gewährleistet wird. Vergleichende Genomanalysen von Symbionten und Rhizobiales‐Wurzelkommensalen aus Nicht‐Leguminosen zeigen, dass der jüngste gemeinsame Vorfahre zwar die Fähigkeit zur Wurzelbesiedelung mit breitem Wirtspektrum besaß, symbiontische Interaktionen sich jedoch erst durch Gentransfer, der in der Evolution mehrfach unabhängig in mehreren Familien der Rhizobiales erfolgt ist, entwickelten.
Nachrichten des Verbandes Biologie, Biowissenschaften & Biomedizin in Deutschland
Authors: Lang Christine
Published: December 2019

Wissenschaft & Gesellschaft

EU‐Kommission und Forschung

Genome Editing

Ausbildung & Karriere

Ars legendi‐Fakultätenpreis Mathematik und Naturwissenschaften

Mitgliederumfrage

Was wünschen unsere individuellen Mitglieder

Landesverbände

Jahrestreffen der Landesverbände
Profiles of resources and body image in health and illness: A comparative study among females with rheumatoid arthritis, females with breast cancer and healthy controls
Authors: Rzeszutek Marcin , Pięta Małgorzata , Huzar Marek
Published: December 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to examine whether or not profiles of resources (i.e., a multifaceted picture that simultaneously includes different types of resources), as described by the conservation of resources (COR) theory, and profiles of body image (i.e., a multidimensional picture that simultaneously includes different aspects of body image) differ between females that represent two clinical samples (rheumatoid arthritis [RA]; breast cancer [BC]) and a healthy control group.

Method

The sample comprised 328 females, including 141 women with RA, 102 with a BC diagnosis, and 85 healthy women as a control group, and was collected from the general population. To measure the level of COR resources in each participant, we used the COR evaluation questionnaire (COR‐E). Participants' body image was assessed with the aid of the Multidimensional Body‐Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ).

Results

A discriminant analysis revealed that females from the clinical groups differed with respect to their profiles of some resources and body image when compared to those of the healthy control group. In addition, we found differences in body image evaluations between women with RA and women with BC.

Conclusions

Women with RA or BC differ substantially with respect to their subjectively assessed resources and body image when compared to women with no chronic diseases. Therefore, psychological counselling designed for females with RA or BC should be employed to help them restore the aspects altered by their respective illnesses.
Application of fermentation process control to increase l‐tryptophan production in Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhao Chunguang , Fang Haitian , Wang Jing , Zhang Shasha , Zhao Xiubao , Li Zengliang , Lin Chuwen , Shen Zhiqiang , Cheng Likun
Published: December 2019

In this study, process engineering and process control were applied to increase the production of l‐tryptophan using Escherichia coli Dmtr/pta‐Y. Different dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH control strategies were applied in l‐tryptophan production. DO and pH were maintained at [20% (0–20 hr); 30% (20–40 hr)] and [7.0 (0–20 hr), 6.5 (20–40 hr)], respectively, which increased l‐tryptophan production, glucose conversion percentage [g (l‐tryptophan)/g (glucose)], and transcription levels of key genes for tryptophan biosynthesis and tryptophan biosynthesis flux, and decreased the accumulation of acetate and transcription levels of genes related to acetate synthesis and acetate synthesis flux. Using E. coli Dmtr/pta‐Y with optimized DO [20% (0–20 hr); 30% (20–40 hr)] and pH [7.0 (0–20 hr), 6.5 (20–40 hr)] values, the highest l‐tryptophan production (52.57 g/L) and glucose conversion percentage (20.15%) were obtained. The l‐tryptophan production was increased by 26.58%, the glucose conversion percentage was increased by 22.64%, and the flux of tryptophan biosynthesis was increased to 21.5% compared with different conditions for DO [50% (0–20 hr), 20% (20–40 hr)] and pH [7.0].
New Antiparasitic Bis‐Naphthoquinone Derivatives
Authors: Jentzsch Jana , Koko Waleed S. , Al Nasr Ibrahim S. , Khan Tariq A. , Schobert Rainer , Ersfeld Klaus , Biersack Bernhard
Published: December 2019

A series of bis‐naphthoquinone derivatives prepared by condensation of aryl aldehydes with lawsone were tested for antiparasitic activities against Toxoplasma gondii and Trypanosoma brucei parasites. Monofluorophenyl derivative 1a, 3,4‐difluorophenyl analog 1c and furyl compound 1l exhibited significant activity against T. gondii cells and appear to be new promising drug candidates against this parasite. The 3,4,5‐trifluorophenyl derivative 1g and the isovanillyl derivative 1j displayed selective activity against Leishmania major amastigotes.
Computational Investigations of the Chemical Mechanism of the Enzyme Nitrogenase
Authors: Dance Ian
Published: December 2019

The chemical mechanism of nitrogenase, catalysing N2+8 e+8 H+→2 NH3+H2, occurs at a large multi‐metal cluster (FeMo‐co) with composition CFe7MoS9(homocitrate). More than 20 steps are required. Experimental elucidation of this mechanism is elusive, for various reasons, and computational approaches have a valuable role. This review critically surveys recent density functional calculations of the coordination chemistry and relevant reactions of FeMo‐co within the protein surrounds. Topics covered include the accuracies and validation of the density functionals, the treatment of electronic structure, and the chemical models used. The components of mechanism are described, including the input of N2, proton supply, the egress of NH3, and the roles of surrounding protein. This leads to descriptions and evaluations of the overall mechanistic cycles proposed on the basis of density functional calculations. Finally, I discuss some current issues, and consider the outlook for further work.
Nitrogen‐Containing Carbon Aerogels with High Specific Surface Area for Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhai Zuozhao , Ren Bin , Zheng Yuxuan , Xu Yuelong , Wang Shasha , Zhang Lihui , Liu Zhenfa
Published: December 2019

Electrode materials have significant influence on the performance of supercapacitors. Hence, the synthesis of electrode materials with a low cost and excellent electrochemical performance has immense value. Herein, sodium alginate and carboxylated chitosan were used as raw materials to synthesize nitrogen‐containing porous carbon aerogels (NPCAs). The effect of carbonization temperature on the structure and property of NPCA was studied. The specific surface area of NPCA can reach 2028 m2 g−1. The electrochemical performance of NPCA was tested by using a three‐electrode system and a two‐electrode system. The specific capacitance of NPCA‐800 (800 represents the carbonization temperature) in the three‐electrode system can reach 213.1 F g−1 and 146.8 F g−1 at current densities of 1.0 A g−1 and 10 A g−1, respectively. Meanwhile, NPCA‐800 exhibits an excellent cycle performance and the specific capacitance can retain 91.77 % after 20 000 cycles. The energy density of NPCA‐800 can reach 28.8 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 0.28 kW kg−1 in the two‐electrode system.
Entropy‐Driven Cooperativity in the Guest Binding of an Octaphosphonate Bis‐cavitand
Authors: Shimoyama Daisuke , Haino Takeharu
Published: December 2019

Uncommon entropy‐driven cooperativity is reported in the guest binding of an octaphosphonate bis‐cavitand. Isothermal titration calorimetry determined the thermodynamic parameters for the 1:2 host–guest binding of bis‐cavitands with ammonium guests in methanol, ethanol, 2‐propanol, and chloroform. Chloroform drove uncommon entropy‐driven cooperative binding, whereas the alcohols resulted in enthalpy‐driven noncooperative binding. 1H NMR studies revealed that each cavity contained six water molecules in chloroform, which were liberated on guest binding. The enthalpy–entropy compensation relationship produced a large positive intrinsic entropy in chloroform, which implies that water desolvation causes a considerable entropic gain by paying an enthalpic penalty due to breaking the hydrogen‐bonding networks of the water clusters.
Atomistic Insight Into the Host–Guest Interaction of a Photoresponsive Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Kolodzeiski Elena , Amirjalayer Saeed
Published: December 2019

Photoresponsive functional materials have gained increasing attention due to their externally tunable properties. Molecular switches embedded in these materials enable the control of phenomena at the atomic level by light. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) provide a versatile platform to immobilize these photoresponsive units within defined molecular environments to optimize the intended functionality. For the application of these photoresponsive MOFs (pho‐MOFs), it is crucial to understand the influence of the switching state on the host–guest interaction. Therefore, we present a detailed insight into the impact of molecular switching on the intermolecular interactions. By performing atomistic simulations, we revealed that due to different interactions of the guest molecules with the two isomeric states of an azobenzene‐functionalized MOF, both the adsorption sites and the orientation of the molecules within the pores are modulated. By shedding light on the host–guest interaction, our study highlights the unique potential of pho‐MOFs to tailor molecular interaction by light.
Catalyst‐Free Decarboxylation of Carboxylic Acids and Deoxygenation of Alcohols by Electro‐Induced Radical Formation
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Luo Xiaosheng , Peng Xiao , Guo Jiaojiao , Zai Jiantao , Wang Ping
Published: December 2019

Electro‐induced reduction of redox active esters and N‐phthalimidoyl oxalates derived from naturally abundant carboxylic acids and alcohols provides a sustainable and inexpensive approach to radical formation via undivided electrochemical cells. The resulting radicals are trapped by an electron‐poor olefin or hydrogen atom source to furnish the Giese reaction or reductive decarboxylation products, respectively. A broad range of carboxylic acid (1°, 2°, and 3°) and alcohol (2° and 3°) derivatives are applicable in this catalyst‐free reaction, which tolerated a diverse range of functional groups. This method features simple operation, is a sustainable platform, and has broad application.
Pyrimidine (6‐4) Pyrimidone Photoproducts in UVA‐Irradiated DNA: Photosensitization or Photoisomerization?
Authors: Douki Thierry
Published: December 2019

Formation of pyrimidine dimers in DNA is a major initiating event in the induction of skin cancer. Model experiments suggest that, upon absorption of UVA, one type of dimers induced by UVB, the pyrimidine (6‐4) pyrimidone photoproducts, photosensitizes the formation of mutagenic cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers by triplet ‐triplet energy transfer (TTET). We investigated whether this photoreaction actually took place when 64PP were located within a DNA duplex rather than added as external sensitizers like in available data. Our results show that this process is not detectable in DNA and double‐stranded oligonucleotides exposed to a combination of UVB and UVA. TTET could only be observed, as a very minor photoreaction, in a short single‐stranded oligonucleotide bearing a 64PP. It may be concluded that 64PP‐mediated TTET does not significantly contribute to UV‐induced DNA damage. In contrast, the photoisomerization of 64PP into their Dewar valence isomers is very efficient.
Microscopic Properties of Na and Li—A First Principle Study of Metal Battery Anode Materials
Authors: Gaissmaier Daniel , van den Borg Matthias , Fantauzzi Donato , Jacob Timo
Published: December 2019

Using density functional theory, we studied the bulk and surface properties of Li and Na electrodes on an atomistic level. To get a better understanding of the initial stages of surface growth phenomena (and thus dendrite formation), various self‐diffusion mechanisms were studied. For this purpose, dedicated diffusion pathways on the surfaces of Na and Li were investigated within the terrace‐step‐kink (TSK) model utilizing nudged elastic band calculations. We were able to prove that the mere investigation of terrace self‐diffusion on the respective low‐index surfaces does not provide a possible descriptor for dendritic growth. Finally, we provide an initial view of the surface growth behavior of both alkali metals as well as provide a basis for experimental investigations and theoretical long‐scale kinetic Monte Carlo simulations.
Dynamic process location management in 5G
Authors: Vakilinia Shahin , Elbiaze Halima , Ebrahimi Dariush
Published: December 2019

5G, as the next generation of wireless networks, promises very high throughput and low latency to mobile users that calls for a substantial innovation in computing management platforms to attend QoS metrics. Thanks to emerging technologies such as software‐defined networking (SDN)/network function virtualization (NFV), many features are available in 5G design to detect and control two types of latency caused by computation and communication.

In this paper, taking features of caching mechanisms and SDN into the account, a platform is proposed to minimize latency in 5G via caching big flows intelligently and avoiding bottlenecks that may cause by virtualized computing components. First, the pioneering idea of compromising between the cloud radio access network (CRAN) and mobile edge computing (MEC)/information‐centric network (ICN) via dynamic processing location management platform is investigated. Accordingly, a mathematical optimization problem to minimize the average latency is formulated. Due to the problem complexity, a heuristic algorithm is proposed to treat the latency via dynamic orchestration of processing functionalities. Through numerical results, the performance of the proposed algorithm is analyzed, and the simulations corroborate our analytical results and illustrate the superior performance of the proposed algorithm with acceptable optimality gap.
Distinct and similar patterns of emotional development in adolescents and young adults
Authors: Bos Dienke J. , Dreyfuss Michael , Tottenham Nim , Hare Todd A. , Galván Adriana , Casey B. J. , Jones Rebecca M.
Published: December 2019

Adolescence is a developmental period of increased sensitivity to social emotional cues, but it is less known whether young adults demonstrate similar social emotional sensitivity. The current study tested variation in reaction times to emotional face cues during different phases of emotional development. Ex‐Gaussian parameters mu, sigma, and tau were computed, in addition to mean, median and standard deviation (SD) in reaction times (RT) during an emotional go/nogo‐paradigm with fearful, happy, and calm facial expressions in 377 participants, 6–30 years of age. Across development, mean RT showed slowing to fearful facial expressions relative to both calm and happy facial cues, but mu revealed that this pattern was specific to adolescence. In young adulthood, increased variability to fearful expressions relative to both happy and calm ones was captured by SD and tau. The findings that adolescents had longer response latencies to fearful faces, whereas young adults demonstrated greater response variability to fearful faces, together reflect how social emotional processing continues to evolve from adolescence into early adulthood. The findings suggest that young adulthood is also a vulnerable period for processing social emotional cues that ultimately may be important to better understand why different psychopathologies emerge in early adulthood.
Syntheses, Characterizations, and Crystal Structures of Dinitrogen‐Divanadium Complexes Bearing Triamidoamine Ligands
Authors: Kokubo Yoshiaki , Wasada‐Tsutsui Yuko , Yomura Shunsuke , Yanagisawa Sachiko , Kubo Minoru , Kugimiya Shinichi , Kajita Yuji , Ozawa Tomohiro , Masuda Hideki
Published: December 2019

We recently reported the syntheses, crystal structures, and protonation reactions of dinitrogen divanadium complexes bearing triamidoamine ligands, ([{V(LR)}2(µ‐N2)] (R = iBu (1), EtBu (2), and iPr2Bn (3)). In this study, we have additionally synthesized two novel dinitrogen‐divanadium complexes with similar derivatives (R = Bn (4) and MeBn (5)), which are characterized spectroscopically and structurally. The X‐ray structures have both revealed a divanadium complex with a bridging N2 ligand. The protonation reactions of the µ‐N2 ligands for 4 and 5 in the presence of M+[C10H8]– (M+ = Na+, K+) and proton source (HOTf or [LutH](OTf)) have given ammonia. Particularly, the NH3 yield from the reaction of 5 with K+[C10H8]– and [LutH](OTf) has been 341 %. Furthermore, mixed valence Na+ adduct of 1, [Na{V(LiBu)}2(µ‐N2)] (6), which is prepared by the reaction of 1 with sodium metal, has been prepared and its crystal structure has also been determined. Compound 6 is electrochemically and spectroscopically characterized, which is also evaluated by DFT calculation method.
Molecular Hydrogen‐Induced Carbon Chain Rearrangement in Cyclopentadienyl‐Tethered Titanium(III) Permethyltitanocene Complexes
Authors: Pinkas Jiří , Kubišta Jiří , Gyepes Róbert , Mach Karel , Horáček Michal
Published: December 2019

Dihydrogen added at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature to cyclopentadienyl‐tethered titanium(III) permethyltitanocene complexes induced the rearrangement of their tether [–CH2–C(Me)=C(R)–Ti], moving the double bond to the lateral position [–CH2–C(=CHR)–CH2–Ti]. The methyl substituent on the β‐carbon from the cyclopentadienyl ring is converted to methylene group binding the rearranged tether to titanium. Subsequent hydrogenation of compounds with [–CH2–C(=CHR)–CH2–Ti] R = Ph or SiMe3 gave saturated rearranged products whereas compound with [–CH2–C(=CMeCMe=CHMe)–CH2–Ti] resisted. Computational studies elucidated the reaction mechanism and established the catalytical role of molecular hydrogen. This type of isomerization can be conceived as a σ‐bond metathetic rearrangement leading to the formation of tethered complexes with decreased steric strain.
High Nuclearity Uranyl Cages Using Rigid Aryl Phosphonate Ligands
Authors: Adelani Pius O. , Sigmon Ginger E. , Szymanowski Jennifer E. S. , Burns Peter C.
Published: December 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue is research led by Pius Adelani at St. Mary's University, San Antonio, Texas, in collaboration with scientists at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, USA. The cover image shows the one‐pot in situ phosphonate ligand condensation reaction and serendipitous self‐assembly of high nuclearity uranyl cages.
5‐endo‐dig Cyclization of O‐Propargyl Mandelic Acid Amides towards 2,5‐Dihydrofurans
Authors: Gaied Lilia Ben , Fincias Nicolas , Garrec Julian , Kaïm Laurent El
Published: December 2019

5‐endo‐dig cyclization of O‐propargyloxyamides, obtained through a Passerini reaction mediated by boric acid and subsequent propargylation, affords 2,5‐dihydrofurans in the presence of tert‐butylate. The mechanism of the reaction was studied by using DFT calculations and the results were compared with the behavior of analogous N‐propargylamide derivatives.
Scalable Multicomponent Synthesis of (Hetero)aryl‐Substituted Phenyls: Focus on Metal‐Free Halogenated Biaryls, 3‐Arylindoles, and Isourolithine A Synthesis
Authors: Temperini Andrea , Lanari Daniela , Colognese Francesco , Piazzolla Francesca
Published: December 2019

In the context of the growing interest of the scientific community for the development of sustainable synthetic strategies to access aromatic structures, we present a practical and metal‐free approach to (hetero)biaryls which exploits the advantages of multicomponent reactions in sustainable solvents. In situ acid‐catalysed generation of (hetero)aryl acetoxy dienes from the corresponding (hetero)arylidene acetones in a metal vessel, followed by Diels‐Alder reaction using an electron‐poor alkyne as dienophile, delivers the expected aromatic products after final oxidation of the cycloadduct. This protocol has been demonstrated as a convenient alternative to the previously reported synthetic strategies, considering its scalability and environmental sustainability and the low cost of substrates and equipment. Moreover, it has been successfully applied to the metal‐free regioselective synthesis of (hetero)aryl‐substituted‐phenyls, 2‐unsubstituted‐3‐aryl‐indoles, and to the total synthesis of isourolithine A.
Preparation and Catalytic Activity of Novel σ,π‐Dual Gold(I) Acetylide Complexes
Authors: Siah Huey‐San Melanie , Fiksdahl Anne
Published: December 2019

Synthesis, characterisation and catalytic activity of a series of novel σ,π‐dual gold(I) acetylide complexes are presented. σ,π‐Dual gold(I) complexes based on the JohnPhos ligand or the bridging chiral MeO‐BIPHEP ligand were generated from terminal alkynes in the presence of an organic base. The catalytic activity of the complexes was explored in a range of gold(I)‐catalysed reactions of propargylic alcohol derivatives and their catalytic and enantioselective potentials were compared to corresponding monogold(I) phosphane and chiral digold(I) diphosphane species.
Altruistic or selfish? Responses when safety is threatened depend on childhood socioeconomic status
Authors: Li Haihong , Song Yi , Xie Xiaofei
Published: December 2019

Altruism is an effective method of coping with threats. This research explored the relationship between childhood socioeconomic status (SES) and altruism under different situations. The results of five studies provided reliable evidence that safety‐threat conditions moderated the relationship between childhood SES and altruism. Individuals with higher childhood SES exhibited higher altruistic intentions (Studies 1 and 2) and behaviors (Study 3) when they were manipulated to imagine a safety threat scenario (Study 1), when viewing pictures of disasters (Study 2), and when they were manipulated to believe that their health was under threat (Study 3). However, their childhood SES had no significant impact on their altruistic intentions and behaviors in relatively safe environments (Studies 1–3). This effect was again tested in more realistic environmental conditions using a large‐scale survey in Study 4. In Study 5, we explored the underlying mechanism behind the earlier findings (i.e., temporal discounting).
Simplified biaxial column interaction charts
Authors: Al‐Ansari Mohammed Salem , Afzal Muhammad Shekaib
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a novel analytical method to generate interaction diagrams useful for the design of reinforced concrete (RC) biaxial columns. Due to the introduction of new classes in concrete compressive strength (fc') with somewhat different parameters for the steel grades (fy), it has become necessary to develop new interaction diagrams. The interaction diagram of any desired level of gamma (γ) can be generated to find the required axial load capacity (Pc) and moment capacity (Mcx, Mcy) of the columns having different reinforcement ratios (ρ). In addition, this study reports some numerical examples using the proposed interaction charts (Reciprocal as well as the equivalent uniaxial eccentricity method) to find the values of Pc and (Mcx, Mcy) for the columns subjected to biaxial bending. The obtained results are compared with a conventional method (ie, the computer software SP‐Column). The obtained results are promising, as the values obtained by the Interaction Charts and the conventional method appear to be in good agreement.
Evaluation and Improvement of Energy Utilization Efficiency in Typical Iron and Steel Smelting Route Based on Input‐Use‐End Model
Authors: Na Hongming , Du Tao , Sun Wenqiang , Sun Jingchao , He Jianfei
Published: December 2019

Evaluating the energy efficiency of the iron and steel smelting route is of vital significance to achieve energy saving and consumption reduction. By establishing an input‐use‐end model, a new index is put forward herein to evaluate the energy utilization of the iron and steel smelting route—energy utilization efficiency. Furthermore, energy utilization efficiency of a typical iron and steel smelting route is analyzed based on the established network diagram. The results show that 1) the cleaned coal is the largest energy input in the whole route, which is 14 460.4 MJ, followed by injected coal. 2) About 57.6% of primary energy is converted into byproduct gases and 31.7% of that is converted into various waste heats. 3) The energy loss of the whole route is 9583.8 MJ, of which the direct loss, indirect loss, and internal loss are 2630.8, 5366.9, and 1586.1 MJ, respectively, accounting for 14.5%, 29.5%, and 8.7% of the total purchased energy. 4) The energy utilization efficiency of the whole process is 47.6%. 5) Improving energy recovery is the most effective measure to improve energy utilization efficiency instead of degrading energy input and changing product structure.
Four‐Terminal Perovskite on Silicon Tandem Solar Cells Optimal Measurement Schemes
Authors: Dewi Herlina Arianita , Wang Hao , Li Jia , Thway Maung , Lin Fen , Aberle Armin G. , Mathews Nripan , Mhaisalkar Subodh , Bruno Annalisa
Published: December 2019

Semitransparent perovskite solar cells (SCs) and their potential integration with silicon SCs in tandem configurations attract significantly increasing interest in the photovoltaics community. In addition to being highly spectrally complementary, these perovskite and silicon SCs have very different optimal‐performing sizes and consequently ideal measurement schemes for their integration in four‐terminal (4T) tandem configurations need to be investigated in detail. Herein, the effect of different active areas on both perovskite and silicon SCs on their photovoltaic performances is investigated. Furthermore, the commonly used filtering 4T tandem measurement scheme (named as filtered) is systematically compared with the size‐matching scheme (named as masked) demonstrating that when using the same top semitransparent perovskite and bottom silicon SCs in different measurements schemes, the total 4T tandem power conversion efficiency (PCE) can differ by more than 1%. The concepts presented here highlight the importance of optimal measurement schemes to assess 4T tandem PCE and rationalize the effect of compromise between the subcells size matching and the identification of the maximum PCE potential.
Testing an emotion regulation model of physical activity in adolescents with anorexia nervosa: A pilot ecological momentary assessment
Authors: Kolar David R. , Neumayr Christina , Roth Melina , Voderholzer Ulrich , Perthes Karin , Schlegl Sandra
Published: December 2019

Objective

Adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) often show increased levels of exercise and physical activity. Psychological models suggest that physical activity in AN might attenuate momentary negative affect. However, this has not been directly tested in adolescents with AN, and it remains unclear whether this is a distinct mechanism of physical activity in AN compared with healthy controls (HCs).

Method

In a 1‐day ecological momentary assessment, 32 adolescent inpatients with AN and 30 HCs responded to hourly questions on momentary affect while wearing an actigraph to objectively assess physical activity.

Results

Linear mixed models identified that adolescents with AN experienced more aversive tension, more negative affect, and less positive affect throughout the day than HCs. Preliminary evidence for a momentary association of higher levels of physical activity with positive affect were found for both groups, whereas higher levels of physical activity were associated with less negative affect in adolescents with AN only. When correcting for multiple testing, interactions did not hold statistical significance.

Discussion

Our results indicate a down‐regulation effect of physical activity on negative affect for AN and a more general up‐regulation effect of positive affect. However, our sample size was small, and replication of our findings is needed.
Playing with language, creating complexity: Has play contributed to the evolution of complex language?
Authors: Langley Michelle C. , Benítez‐Burraco Antonio , Kempe Vera
Published: December 2019

We argue that enhanced play may have contributed to the emergence of complex language systems in modern humans (Homo sapiens). To support this idea, we first discuss evidence for an expansion of playing behavior connected to the extended childhood of modern human children, and the potential of this period for the transmission of complex cultural traits, including language. We then link two of the most important functions of play—exploration and innovation—to the potential for cumulative cultural evolution in general and for the emergence of complex language in particular. If correct, the shorter childhood of Neanderthals—involving restrictions on time to experiment and innovate—may have restricted their language (and other symbolic) system/s. Consequently, fully investigating the role that play may have had in the transmission of language and the development of symbolic cultures in both modern humans and Neanderthals provides a new avenue of research for Paleolithic archaeology and related disciplines.
The Man‐PTS subunit ⅡC is responsible for the sensitivity of Listeria monocytogenes to durancin GL
Authors: Wu Xueyou , Ju Xingrong , Du Lihui , Wang Lifeng , He Rong , Chen Zhengxing
Published: December 2019

Target cell recognition is an important issue in the realization of bacteriocin's activity. In this report, we provide genetic and biochemical evidence of durancin GL, a new bacteriocin produced by Enterococcus durans 41D, and use ⅡC subunit in the mannose phosphotransferase system (Man‐PTS) of Listeria monocytogenes as target/receptor. First, the L. monocytogenes mutants with Man‐PTS IIC or IID deletion were constructed with the vector pHoss1. Then, the utilization of glucose and mannose and the sensitivity to durancin GL of the mutant strains were investigated. Afterward, the interactions between durancin GL and the subunits of IIC or IID in Man‐PTS of L. monocytogenes were characterized by yeast two‐hybrid system. The results showed that the L. monocytogenes mutants with either IIC or IID deletion were not only resistant to durancin GL, but also their absorption and utilization of glucose and mannose were not disturbed by the presence of durancin GL. Finally, in situ detection of the interaction between durancin GL and Man‐PTS subunits of IIC or IID by yeast two‐hybrid system revealed that there was a strong interaction between durancin GL and Man‐PTS subunit IIC. However, the interaction between durancin GL and Man‐PTS subunit IID was not present or weak. Based on the experimental evidence above, the Man‐PTS subunit IIC is responsible for the sensitivity of L. monocytogenes to bacteriocin durancin GL.
Effect of type and amount of modified corn starches on qualitative properties of low‐protein biscuits for phenylketonuria
Authors: Azaripour Alireza , Abbasi Hajar
Published: December 2019

The effect of corn starches (natural, pregelatinized, and cross‐linked) in four levels on quality of low‐protein biscuit was evaluated. First, the microscopic structure, thermal properties, and low‐branched chains content of them were evaluated. Water absorption capacity (WAC) and gelatinization properties of combined starches and physicochemical properties of products were assessed. Cross‐linked starch had the highest glass transition temperature (Tg). The maximum and minimum WAC was observed in samples containing 100% pregelatinized and 100% cross‐linked starches, respectively. An increase in the amount of pregelatinized starch was accompanied by a decrease in the maximum viscosity and gelatinization temperature. Pregelatinized starch improved sensory and textural characteristics of samples, while cross‐linked starch affected baking properties of the product. The best sample containing 30% of pregelatinized and 70% cross‐linked starch with 1.27 g protein and 12 mg phenylalanine in 100 g biscuit is introduced as the low protein and safe product for Phenylketonuria.
Calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy of the External Dinarides flysch (Vrčić‐Staravasa Pag Island, Croatia): A key to an Eocene tectono‐stratigraphic and paleoenvironmental interpretation
Authors: Persico Davide , Succo Andrea , Mittempergher Silvia , Storti Fabrizio , Piccinini Emma , Villa Giuliana
Published: December 2019

It is largely accepted that in the Dinaric shallow foredeep basin, the onset of Cenozoic synorogenic sedimentation is diachronous along strike and shows orogen‐parallel southward younging, creating a large uncertainty in the age of the Dalmatian flysch. Calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy was studied to investigate a turbiditic succession exposed in Pag Island (Croatia) with the main purpose of constraining its age, which is still a matter of debate. The age assignment for the turbiditic deposition bears important implications for better understanding of the geodynamic and paleoenvironmental evolution of the External Dinarides. We logged a well‐exposed sedimentary section in the south‐western limb of the Pag anticline and performed calcareous nannofossil quantitative analyses revealing a high species diversity and abundant assemblage. The age diagnostic species indicate CNE14‐CNE15 biozones, suggesting that flysch deposition occurred in the Lutetian–Bartonian. This age can be further restricted to the CNE14 (42.37–40.51 Ma) by means of the lowest occurrence ofReticulofenestra reticulataand the highest occurrence ofSphenolithus furcatolithoides. Vertical facies variation and paleoecological indications suggest an increase in paleobathymetric depth during deposition. Our data support a post‐Lutetian age of folding and thrusting for the Pag Island region and suggest a relatively short time span during the middle‐late Eocene period for the main contractional stage in this sector of the External Dinarides. This result has important implications for the evolution of the Dinaride foreland basin system in Cenozoic times.
Polygonal faults in Eocene carbonate reservoir, Abu El‐Gharadig Basin, Egypt
Authors: Elmahdy Munir , Tarabees Elhamy , Bakr Ali , Farag Ali E.
Published: December 2019

Interpretations of high resolution three‐dimensional (3D) seismic data and well logs indicate that the fine‐grained carbonates of the middle Eocene Apollonia Formation in the Abu El‐Gharadig Basin (Western Desert, Egypt) is deformed by the polygonal fault system. The 3D seismic data cover an area of about 1,100 km2 including the JDT gas field, where the Apollonia Formation includes gas‐bearing reservoir intervals with high porosity and low permeability. The results show that the polygonal faults have no preferred dip or strike directions. They have lengths ranging from 123 to 3,800 m, fault throws up to 100 m and dips of 27°–88°. Fault traces are approximately linear in vertical cross‐section producing a series of horsts and grabens. We used this data to interpret and geometrically characterize the polygonal faults in a fine‐grained carbonate reservoir unit, and we show the faults influence the fluids flow in the reservoir. The increase in the formation pore pressure mechanism is the proposed mechanism for the initiation of the polygonal fault system in the Abu El‐Gharadig Basin.
Smoking, life expectancy, and chronic disease in South Korea, Singapore, and the United States: A microsimulation model
Authors: Kim Daejung , Chen Cynthia , Tysinger Bryan , Park Sungchul , Chong Ming Zhe , Wang Lijia , Zhao Michelle , Yuan Jian‐Min , Koh Woon‐Puay , Yoong Joanne , Bhattacharya Jay , Eggleston Karen
Published: December 2019

The substantial social and economic burden attributable to smoking is well‐known, with heavy smokers at higher risk of chronic disease and premature mortality than light smokers and nonsmokers. In aging societies with high rates of male smoking such as in East Asia, smoking is a leading preventable risk factor for extending lives (including work‐lives) and healthy aging. However, little is known about whether smoking interventions targeted at heavy smokers relative to light smokers lead to disproportionately larger improvements in life expectancy and prevalence of chronic diseases and how the effects vary across populations. Using a microsimulation model, we examined the health effects of smoking reduction by simulating an elimination of smoking among subgroups of smokers in South Korea, Singapore, and the United States. We found that life expectancy would increase by 0.2 to 1.5 years among light smokers and 2.5 to 3.7 years among heavy smokers. Whereas both interventions led to an increased life expectancy and decreased the prevalence of chronic diseases in all three countries, the life‐extension benefits were greatest for those who would otherwise have been heavy smokers. Our findings illustrate how smoking interventions may have significant economic and social benefits, especially for life extension, that vary across countries.
Economic and Health Care Burdens of Hepatitis Delta: A Study of Commercially Insured Adults in the United States
Authors: Elsaid Mohamed I. , Li You , John Tina , Narayanan Navaneeth , Catalano Carolyn , Rustgi Vinod K.
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

The paucity of data regarding the extent of hepatitis delta virus (HDV) associated health care burden in the United States is an important obstacle to assessing the cost‐effectiveness of potential intervention strategies. In this study, we characterized the health care use and cost burdens of HDV in the United States using real‐world claims data.

Approach and Results

We conducted a case‐control study using the Truven Health MarketScan Commercial Claims databases from 2011‐2014. A total of 2,727 HDV cases were matched 1:1 by sociodemographic characteristics and comorbidities to chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) controls using propensity scores. The HDV group had significantly higher prevalence of substance abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, decompensated cirrhosis, cirrhosis, and hepatitis C virus compared to patients with chronic HBV. First HDV diagnosis was associated with significant increases in the total number of health care claims (25.61 vs. 28.99; P < 0.0001) and total annual health care costs ($19,476 vs. $23,605; P < 0.0001) compared with pre‐HDV baseline. The case‐control analysis similarly indicated higher total claims (28.99 vs. 25.19; P < 0.0001) and health care costs ($23,605 vs. $18,228; P < 0.0001) in HDV compared with HBV alone. Compared with HBV controls, HDV cases had an adjusted incident rate ratio of 1.16 (95% confidence interval: 1.10, 1.22) times the total number of annual claims and an adjusted incident rate ratio 1.32 (95% confidence interval 1.17, 1.48) times the total annual health care cost.

Conclusions

HDV is associated with higher health care use and cost burden than HBV alone, underscoring the need for improved screening and treatment.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of an Integrated Alcohol Reduction Intervention in Patients With Hepatitis C Infection
Authors: Proeschold‐Bell Rae Jean , Evon Donna M. , Yao Jia , Niedzwiecki Donna , Makarushka Christina , Keefe Kelly A. , Patkar Ashwin A. , Mannelli Paolo , Garbutt James C. , Wong John B. , Wilder Julius M. , Datta Santanu K. , Hodge Terra , Naggie Susanna , Fried Michael W. , Muir Andrew J.
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and alcohol use are patient risk factors for accelerated fibrosis progression, yet few randomized controlled trials have tested clinic‐based alcohol interventions.

Approach and Results

A total of 181 patients with HCV and qualifying alcohol screener scores at three liver center settings were randomly assigned to the following: (1) medical provider–delivered Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), including motivational interviewing counseling and referral out for alcohol treatment (SBIRT‐only), or (2) SBIRT plus 6 months of integrated colocated alcohol therapy (SBIRT + Alcohol Treatment). The timeline followback method was used to assess alcohol use at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months. Coprimary outcomes were alcohol abstinence at 6 months and heavy drinking days between 6 and 12 months. Secondary outcomes included grams of alcohol consumed per week at 6 months. Mean therapy hours across 6 months were 8.8 for SBIRT‐only and 10.1 for SBIRT + Alcohol Treatment participants. The proportion of participants exhibiting full alcohol abstinence increased from baseline to 3, 6, and 12 months in both treatment arms, but no significant differences were found between arms (baseline to 6 months, 7.1% to 20.5% for SBIRT‐only; 4.2% to 23.3% for SBIRT + Alcohol Treatment; P = 0.70). Proportions of participants with any heavy drinking days decreased in both groups at 6 months but did not significantly differ between the SBIRT‐only (87.5% to 26.7%) and SBIRT + Alcohol Treatment (85.7% to 42.1%) arms (P = 0.30). Although both arms reduced average grams of alcohol consumed per week from baseline to 6 and 12 months, between‐treatment effects were not significant.

Conclusions

Patients with current or prior HCV infection will engage in alcohol treatment when encouraged by liver medical providers. Liver clinics should consider implementing provider‐delivered SBIRT and tailored alcohol treatment referrals as part of the standard of care.
Promoting financial literacy through a digital platform: A pilot study in Luxembourg
Authors: Li Jian , Meyer‐Cirkel Alexis
Published: December 2019

This paper investigates the dynamics of individual portfolios in a unique innovation test conducted through a digital financial literacy platform—saalt. We conduct the test at the University of Luxembourg and ask students to construct their own financial portfolios, choosing from among 500+ financial assets; students could adjust their portfolio weights at any time using their registered accounts. Moreover, we stimulate the sharing of portfolio information among students through class presentations and Facebook postings. We find relatively sophisticated diversification strategies and clear momentum‐chasing behaviour for winning stocks; we also discover rapid convergence of individual portfolios to the provided benchmark portfolios. Finally, we find significant peer influences in the test. In general, financial literacy spreads rapidly among students.