bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origami NdFeB Flexible Magnetic Membranes with Enhanced Magnetism and Programmable Sequences of Polarities
Authors: Li Ya , Qi Zhijie , Yang Jingxuan , Zhou Mingxing , Zhang Xin , Ling Wei , Zhang Yingying , Wu Ziyue , Wang Hanjie , Ning Baoan , Xu Hang , Huo Wenxing , Huang Xian
Published: August 2019

Permanent magnets are essential components for many biomedical systems and electromechanical devices, which may be made into flexible formats to achieve wearable monitoring and effective integration with biological tissues. However, the development of high‐performance flexible permanent magnets is challenging due to their ultrathin geometries, which contradict with the thickness‐dependent magnetic properties. In addition, magnetic membranes with controllable sequences of polarities are difficult to achieve. Here, origami techniques to achieve flexible permanent magnetic membranes with enhanced magnetic field strength and programmable sequences of polarities are presented. Linear Halbach arrays, circular Halbach arrays, and concentric magnets with thicknesses ranging from 130 to 500 µm and bending curvatures ranging from 0.039 to 0.0043 µm−1 are achieved through different folding mechanisms. The origami membranes offer a maximum field intensity of 72 mT and extremely strong magnetic force of 0.21 N cm−2, allowing various novel applications demonstrated through electronics interfacing, cell manipulations, and soft robotics. The origami techniques offer large magnetism and complex spatial field distribution, and enable practical use of thin flexible magnetic membranes in constructing miniaturized or even flexible electromechanical systems and biomedical instruments for magnetic resonance imaging, targeted drug delivery, health monitoring, and cancer therapy.
Visible Light Mediated Sulfenylation‐Annulation Cascade of Alkyne Tethered Cyclohexadienones
Authors: Nair Akshay M. , Kumar Shreemoyee , Volla Chandra M. R.
Published: August 2019

A mild and facile method to access sulfenylated dihydrochromenones via a visible light mediated thiol‐yne/conjugate addition cascade of alkyne‐tethered cyclohexadienones, using cheap and readily available organic photoredox catalyst (Eosin Y) is demonstrated. The utility and sustainability of the protocol were further justified by the high yields, excellent diastereoselectivities, broad substrate scope, gram scale synthesis, green chemistry metrics (atom economy and efficiency) and further synthetic transformations of the products.

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Is there hope for domestically produced poultry meat? A choice experiment of consumers in Ghana
Authors: Asante‐Addo Collins , Weible Daniela
Published: August 2019

Over the past few decades, the opening up of trade has often put producers in developing countries under competitive pressure from food imports, particularly in the case of poultry products. Consequently, raising numerous concerns about the continued growth of domestic poultry production, especially in sub‐Saharan Africa. Therefore, this paper assesses consumers’ preferences and willingness to pay for chicken meat of domestic and imported origins and other quality attributes. We used data conducted among 500 consumers in Ghana. Results from both a random parameter logit and a latent class models show that consumers have heterogeneous preferences for chicken meat attributes. Specifically, findings indicate that consumers prefer domestic to imported chicken and are willing to pay a premium for domestic chicken. In addition, antibiotic/hormone‐free, fresh, and cuts are preferred with antibiotic/hormone‐free having a larger impact on choices. Furthermore, consumers’ preferences differ across segments and are largely based on their attitudes towards food. [EconLit citations : C25, D12, Q13].
Classification and identification of gas–liquid dispersion states in a jet bubbling reactor
Authors: Shuai Yun , Zhang Peng , Guo Xiaoyun , Wang Xinyan , Huang Zhengliang , Yang Yao , Sun Jingyuan , Li Meng , Jiang Yan , Ma Jiong , Wang Jingdai , Yang Yongrong
Published: August 2019

Three gas–liquid dispersion states including flooding, loading, and complete dispersion are observed sequentially in a jet bubbling reactor with an increase of the liquid jet velocity at the nozzle outlet (uj). The gas–liquid dispersion states are identified through the slope (k) of the curve of fluctuation distribution index (FI) versus uj as follows: (a) under the flooding, k = 0; (b) under the loading, k > 0; (c) under the complete dispersion, k < 0. In particular, the uj at the transition points from flooding to loading and from loading to complete dispersion are referred to flooding jet velocity (ujf, the transition point between k = 0 and k > 0) and complete dispersion jet velocity (ujcd, the transition point from k > 0 to k < 0), respectively. The average relative deviations of the uj at the transition points obtained through the acoustic emission measurement and visual observation are less than 5%.
Systems Measures of a Trauma‐Informed Approach: A Systematic Review
Authors: Champine Robey B. , Lang Jason M. , Nelson Ashley M. , Hanson Rochelle F. , Tebes Jacob K.
Published: August 2019

Interest in trauma‐informed approaches has grown substantially. These approaches are characterized by integrating understanding of trauma throughout a program, organization, or system to enhance the quality, effectiveness, and delivery of services provided to individuals and groups. However, variation in definitions of trauma‐informed approaches, coupled with underdeveloped research on measurement, poses challenges for evaluating the effectiveness of models designed to support a trauma‐informed approach. This systematic review of peer‐reviewed and gray literature identified 49 systems‐based measures that were created to assess the extent to which relational, organizational, and community/system practices were trauma‐informed. Measures were included if they assessed at least one component of a trauma‐informed approach, were not screening or diagnostic instruments, were standardized, were relevant to practices addressing the psychological impacts of trauma, were printed in English, and were published between 1988 and 2018. Most (77.6%) measures assessed organizational‐level staff and climate characteristics. There remain several challenges to this emerging field, including inconsistently reported psychometric data, redundancy across measures, insufficient evidence of a link to stakeholder outcomes, and limited information about measurement development processes. We discuss these opportunities and challenges and their implications for future research and practice.
Ultrasociality and Intersubjectivity
Authors: Christens Brian D.
Published: August 2019

Multidisciplinary studies of evolution are pointing toward an intersubjective understanding of human cognition, belief, and behavior. Contrary to classical views of reason and knowledge, human mental capacity should not be thought of as an individually based tool for independent judgment and logical problem‐solving. Instead, key aspects of learning and cognition were likely shaped to facilitate our species’ greatest relative advantage from the standpoint of natural selection: large‐scale collaboration. Much of what appears to be faulty reasoning or inaccurate belief when viewed at the level of individuals makes more sense when considered in terms of intersubjectivity and group‐level processes. Yet, distributed cognition also has shortcomings. Among these is, paradoxically, the propensity toward individualistic understandings of human thinking and behavior. Moreover, our intersubjective thought processes tend to be biased in favor of our in‐groups and maintaining existing systems. Taken together, these premises correspond with some of the theoretical underpinnings of community research and social action. Yet, they challenge or complicate others. Further consideration of humans’ intersubjective cognition and learning may yield improved results in a variety of practices, including education and efforts to catalyze social and systemic changes.
A Highly Regioselective and Practical Synthesis of α‐Aryl Ketones under a Cooperative Cascade Effect of an Ionic Liquid and Tetrabutylammonium Fluoride
Authors: Thopate Yogesh , Singh Richa , Rastogi Sumit K. , Sinha Arun K.
Published: August 2019

A metal‐free regioselective synthesis of α‐aryl ketone from corresponding bromohydrin via cooperative cascade effect of [hmim]Br and tetrabutylammonium fluoride under microwave irradiation is reported. Applications of the protocol are illustrated by synthesis of drug intermediates piperonyl‐methyl ketone and 2‐tetralone. Interestingly, direct regioselective transformation of epoxide and 1,2‐diol into α‐aryl ketone under neat [hmim]Br has also been realized. Advantages of this method are demonstrated through the recyclability of [hmim]Br‐tetrabutylammonium fluoride catalytic system and gram scalability.
Towards systematic and evidence‐based conservation planning for western chimpanzees
Authors: Heinicke Stefanie , Mundry Roger , Boesch Christophe , Hockings Kimberley J. , Kormos Rebecca , Ndiaye Papa Ibnou , Tweh Clement G. , Williamson Elizabeth A. , Kühl Hjalmar S.
Published: August 2019

As animal populations continue to decline, frequently driven by large‐scale land‐use change, there is a critical need for improved environmental planning. While data‐driven spatial planning is widely applied in conservation, as of yet it is rarely used for primates. The western chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes verus) declined by 80% within 24 years and was uplisted to Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species in 2016. To support conservation planning for western chimpanzees, we systematically identified geographic areas important for this taxon. We based our analysis on a previously published data set of modeled density distribution and on several scenarios that accounted for different spatial scales and conservation targets. Across all scenarios, typically less than one‐third of areas we identified as important are currently designated as high‐level protected areas (i.e., national park or IUCN category I or II). For example, in the scenario for protecting 50% of all chimpanzees remaining in West Africa (i.e., approximately 26,500 chimpanzees), an area of approximately 60,000 km2 was selected (i.e., approximately 12% of the geographic range), only 24% of which is currently designated as protected areas. The derived maps can be used to inform the geographic prioritization of conservation interventions, including protected area expansion, “no‐go‐zones” for industry and infrastructure, and conservation sites outside the protected area network. Environmental guidelines by major institutions funding infrastructure and resource extraction projects explicitly require corporations to minimize the negative impact on great apes. Therefore, our results can inform avoidance and mitigation measures during the planning phases of such projects. This study was designed to inform future stakeholder consultation processes that could ultimately integrate the conservation of western chimpanzees with national land‐use priorities. Our approach may help in promoting similar work for other primate taxa to inform systematic conservation planning in times of growing threats.
Variation in the fusion sequence of primary and secondary ossification centers in the human skeleton
Authors: Lenover Makenna B. , Šešelj Maja
Published: August 2019

Objectives

One of the biggest challenges for biological anthropologists is determining the minimum number of individuals in commingled skeletal samples in forensic or bioarcheological contexts. The fusion sequence of primary and secondary ossification centers is a promising, yet under‐explored, process to improve identification of associated remains of subadults and young adults, but is limited by the lack of understanding of population variation in this aspect of human development. While prior studies show within‐population variation in fusion sequence, possible geographic variation has not been systematically explored.

Materials and methods

To explore potential variation in fusion sequence in different populations, we analyzed eight skeletal samples of East Asian, North American, African, and European ancestry. Forty‐three epiphyses were cross tabulated to determine the order of beginning and completing fusion for each geographic group. Results were distilled into modal sequence (most common order) trajectories, including the variation around the modal sequence.

Results

Population variation occurs within and across all geographic groups, especially in later fusing sites. Some sites, such as the acromion and sacral elements, consistently exhibit greater variability. Among outliers from the modal sequence, it is more common for early‐fusing sites to fuse late than for later‐fusing sites to fuse early. The completing fusion trajectories vary less than the beginning fusion trajectories.

Discussion

Despite considerable variation within and among different geographic groups, there are shared commonalities across different samples that can facilitate differentiation of multiple individuals. With fewer outliers, the completing fusion trajectories are potentially of greater practical use in forensic and bioarcheological practice.
A Series of High‐nuclear 3d‐4f (FeIII8LnIII2) Complexes: Syntheses, Structures, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Zhao Xiao‐Qing , Wang Yi‐Yan , Bao Dong‐Xu , Zhang Fen‐Hang , Wu Wei , Xu Fu‐Sen , Zhang Qiu‐Hong , Li Yun‐Chun
Published: August 2019

Six novel decanuclear clusters with formula of {[Fe8Ln2(O)4(OH)4(EtO)2(dhbp)4(dhbpH)2(piv)6]·4EtOH} (Ln = Y (1), Gd (2), Tb (3), Dy (4), Ho (5), Er (6), dhbpH2 = 6,6′‐dihydroxyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine, Hpiv = pivalic acid, EtOH = ethanol) have been synthesized and characterized. Single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction analyses reveal that complexes 1–6 are isostructural and show a sandwich‐like FeIII8LnIII2 structure, in which the [Ln2] unit is sandwiched by two planar [Fe4] units. Magnetic properties of complexes 1–6 have been investigated and display dominant antiferromagnetic interactions, thereinto, complexes 4 and 6 display weak ferromagnetic behaviors associated with LnIII ions, while others are antiferromagnetic‐like features. Furthermore, complex 4 (FeIII8DyIII2) shows temperature/frequency‐dependent ac signals with an energy barrier of 4.1 K, indicating that complex 4 should be a single‐molecule magnet (SMM)
Core–sheath nanofibrous membranes based on poly(acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene), polyacrylonitrile, and zinc oxide nanoparticles for photoreduction of Cr(VI) ions in aqueous solutions
Authors: Castro‐Ruíz Andrés , Rodríguez‐Tobías Heriberto , Abraham Gustavo A. , Rivero Guadalupe , Morales Graciela
Published: August 2019

This investigation addresses the design of a series of poly(acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene)/polyacrylonitrile–zinc oxide(ABS/PAN–ZnO) membranes by coaxial electrospinning. In the first instance, an optimization of ABS and PAN electrospinning was performed, thus establishing suitable compositional and processing parameters for obtaining homogenous fibers. Then, coaxial electrospinning of ABS and PAN solutions containing different amount of ZnO nanoparticles was carried out. The coaxial morphology of the nanofibers and ZnO distribution/dispersion were studied by the combination of several techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray energy dispersive analysis, contact angle, and thermogravimetric analysis. The performance of the obtained membranes for chromium (VI) ions removal from aqueous solutions was assessed by photoreduction using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Electrospun mats composed of ABS (core)/PAN (sheath) embedded with 30 wt % of ZnO nanoparticles exhibited the highest chromium photoreduction (about 80%), suggesting the potential use of these membranes as filters for water purification. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2020,137, 48429.
Novel, promising, and broadband microwave‐absorbing nanocomposite based on the graphite‐like carbon nitride/CuS
Authors: Peymanfar Reza , Karimi Javad , Fallahi Reza
Published: August 2019

In this study, a broadband, intense, novel, and promising microwave‐absorbing nanocomposite was prepared using graphite‐like carbon nitride (g‐C3N4)/CuS suspended in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) medium. The g‐C3N4nanosheets were synthesized by heating the urea as well as the CuS nanoparticles, and g‐C3N4/CuS nanocomposites were prepared using a solvothermal method and then were separately molded by a PMMA solution to investigate their microwave‐absorbing characteristics. The Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray powder diffraction were used to characterize the g‐C3N4, CuS, and CuS/g‐C3N4nanostructures, which confirmed that the pure structure of the nanomaterials has been synthesized. The optical properties of the nanostructures were also investigated by diffuse reflection spectroscopy analysis. Accordingly, the Kubelka–Munk theory suggested significant narrow band gap for g‐C3N4/CuS nanocomposite (0.27 eV), facilitating electron jumping and conductive loss. The morphology of the structures was examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy micrographs, illustrating that the uniform hexagonal structures of the CuS nanoplates have been formed and the CuS two‐dimensional structures were uniformly distributed on the g‐C3N4nanosheets. Finally, the microwave‐absorbing properties of the CuS, g‐C3N4, and g‐C3N4/CuS were investigated by PMMA as a host. The microwave‐absorbing properties were evaluated using a vector network analyzer. The results illustrated that the maximum reflection loss of the g‐C3N4/PMMA nanocomposite was −71.05 dB at 14.90 GHz with a thickness of 2.00 mm, demonstrating a 1.70 GHz bandwidth >30 dB, as well as g‐C3N4/CuS/PMMA nanocomposite absorbed 7.30 GHz bandwidth of more than 10 dB with a thickness of 1.80 mm along the x‐ and ku‐band frequency. The obtained results introduced the PMMA as a capable microwave‐absorbing substrate. Besides, the g‐C3N4/CuS/PMMA nanocomposite demonstrated metamaterial property and abundant attenuation constant. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2020,137, 48430.
Chimeric G‐CSF Receptor‐Mediated STAT3 Activation Contributes to Efficient Induction of Cardiomyocytes from Mouse Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Tsukamoto Tasuku , Sogo Takahiro , Ueyama Tomoe , Nakao Shu , Harada Yukihiro , Ihara Dai , Akagi Yuka , Kida Yasuyuki S. , Hasegawa Koji , Nagamune Teruyuki , Kawahara Masahiro , Kawamura Teruhisa
Published: August 2019

Producing a sufficient number of cardiomyocytes from pluripotent stem cells has been of great demand for cardiac regeneration therapy. However, it remains challenging to efficiently differentiate cardiomyocytes with low costs. Reportedly, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) receptor (GCSFR) signaling activates signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) signaling and enhances cardiac differentiation from embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). To economically and efficiently produce cardiomyocytes from iPSCs through GCSFR/STAT axis activation, we constructed antibody/receptor chimeras that can respond to an inexpensive small molecule. Single‐chain Fv of anti‐fluorescein (FL) antibody was ligated to transmembrane/cytoplasmic domains of GCSFRs, enabling transduction of GCSFR signaling in response to FL‐conjugated bovine serum albumin (BSA‐FL) as an alternative ligand. Mouse iPSC lines constitutively expressing these chimeric receptors exhibited increased BSA‐FL‐induced STAT3 phosphorylation in a dose‐dependent manner, which was abolished by an inhibitor of Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK). In addition, BSA‐FL stimulation also increased the incidence of beating embryoid bodies and upregulated cardiac‐specific gene expressions after differentiation in these iPSC lines. Therefore, the chimeric GCSFRs activated endogenous GCSFR signaling at least via the JAK/STAT3 pathway, thereby enhancing cardiac differentiation from iPSCs. This approach, as an economical strategy, could contribute to stem cell‐based cardiac regeneration therapy.
Recent Progress in Polyhydroxyalkanoates‐Based Copolymers for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Luo Zheng , Wu Yun‐Long , Li Zibiao , Loh Xian Jun
Published: August 2019

In recent years, naturally biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) monopolymers have become focus of public attentions due to their good biocompatibility. However, due to its poor mechanical properties, high production costs, and limited functionality, its applications in materials, energy, and biomedical applications are greatly limited. In recent years, researchers have found that PHA copolymers have better thermal properties, mechanical processability, and physicochemical properties relative to their homopolymers. This review summarizes the synthesis of PHA copolymers by the latest biosynthetic and chemical modification methods. The modified PHA copolymer could greatly reduce the production cost with elevated mechanical or physicochemical properties, which can further meet the practical needs of various fields. This review further summarizes the broad applications of modified PHA copolymers in biomedical applications, which might shred lights on their commercial applications.
Fast flow rate processes for purification of alkaline xylanase isoforms from Bacillus pumilus AJK and their biochemical characterization for industrial application purposes
Authors: Singh Avtar , Sharma Divya , Varghese Libin M. , Mahajan Ritu
Published: August 2019

This study shows the presence of five isozymic forms of alkaline xylanase from Bacillus pumilus using fast flow rate microfiltration, ultrafiltration, Q‐sepharose, and phenyl sepharose chromatographic techniques. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, high‐performance liquid chromatography, and zymographic studies also revealed the purity of five isoforms of alkaline xylanases. Isoforms—X‐I, X‐III, and X‐V exhibited optimum activity at pH 8.5, whereas X‐II, X‐IV showed maximum activity at pH 9. All isoforms were optimally active at temperature 55°C. Isoforms were found to be stable at pH 7–11, showed 92–100% residual activity after 3 hr, treatment time for most industrial applications. The isoforms retained nearly 80–86% residual activity after incubating at 45°C for 3 hr. Molecular weights of xylanase I–V, were 13.1, 15.3, 18.4, 20.1, and 21.0 kDa, respectively. Mg2+ ions were found to be potent activator for all isozymic forms. The Km and Vmax values of X‐I, X‐II, X‐III, X‐IV, and X‐V were 6.71, 6.66, 7.14, 5.88, 6.25 mg/ml and 2,000, 1,695, 1,666.66, 1,428.57, and 1,408.45 IU/mg protein, respectively. Sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis revealed the monomeric nature of all isoforms. The low‐molecular masses, significantly enhanced activity in the presence of industrially suitable—low cost activator, better stability of all isoforms at pH 7–11 and at higher temperature, also presence of multiple forms of alkaline xylanase, makes this enzyme suitable for textile–paper industries. This is also the first report mentioning the purification of five isozymic forms of alkaline xylanase using fast flow rate techniques.
Risk of cancer in patients with fecal incontinence
Authors: Adelborg Kasper , Veres Katalin , Sundbøll Jens , Gregersen Hans , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: August 2019

Background

Fecal incontinence may be an early symptom of cancer, but its association with cancer remains unclear. We examined the risk of selected cancers, including colorectal cancer, other gastrointestinal cancers, hormone‐related cancers, and lymphoma, in patients with fecal incontinence.

Methods

Using Danish population‐based registries, all patients with hospital‐based diagnoses of fecal incontinence during 1995‐2013 were identified. We calculated cumulative incidences of cancers. As a measure of relative risks, we computed standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), that is, the observed number of cancers relative to the expected number based on national incidence rates by sex, age, and calendar year.

Results

Among 16 556 patients with fecal incontinence, the cumulative incidence of colorectal cancers, other gastrointestinal cancers, hormone‐related cancers, and lymphoma each was less than 0.4% after 1 year. It increased to under 3% after 10 years. The SIR for any cancer during 19 years of follow‐up was 1.12 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.06‐1.19]. The SIRs during the first year were 2.31 (95% CI, 1.65‐3.13) for colorectal cancer, 1.56 (95% CI, 0.89‐2.54) for other gastrointestinal cancers, 1.00 (95% CI, 0.72‐1.35) for hormone‐related cancers, and 2.02 (95% CI, 1.01‐3.61) for lymphoma. Beyond 1 year, the SIR reached unity for other gastrointestinal cancers, hormone‐related cancers, and lymphoma, while a reduced risk was observed for colorectal cancer (SIR = 0.77, 95% CI, 0.59‐0.98).

Conclusions

Fecal incontinence was a marker of cancer, especially gastrointestinal cancers and lymphoma within 1 year, which presumably is driven partly by reverse causation. However, the absolute risks were low. Heightened diagnostic efforts may explain in part the increased short‐term risk of colorectal cancers.
Dyspnea—Think outside of the box, a case of subglottic stenosis
Authors: Jia Wei , Porteus Jack , Malik Tass
Published: August 2019

Dyspnea is a common presentation in upper and lower airway obstructive causes. However, biphasic stridor and hoarseness should prompt evaluation of the upper airway. Nasendoscopy carried out by the otolaryngology team is a quick and an effective way of evaluating the upper airway.
Hierarchical Rambutan‐Like CNTs‐Assembled N−Co−C@rGO Composite as Sulfur Immobilizer for High‐Performance Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Junfan , Wang Wenjuan , Zhang Yongguang , Bakenov Zhumabay , Zhao Yan
Published: August 2019

The design of efficient sulfur‐host materials is of great significance to enhance the conductivity of lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) batteries and inhibit the shuttle effect of polysulfides. Hence, a nitrogen and cobalt co‐doped graphitized carbon (N−Co−C)‐coated reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with plenty of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was rationally designed. The composite had abundant multiple adsorptive and electrocatalytic sites to provide strong chemical trapping for polysulfides and simultaneously propel their electrochemical kinetics. The densely grafted small‐diameter CNTs could shorten the ion‐diffusion pathways and maintain the structural stability of the electrode materials. Meanwhile, abundant pore structures could provide enough volume for sulfur impregnation and physical adsorption of polysulfides. Owing to these favorable features, the as‐prepared rambutan‐like S/N−Co−C@rGO‐CNTs (S/NCoC@G‐CNTs) composite demonstrated excellent electrochemical performance with a high initial specific capacity of 1225.8 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and high rate performance of 632.5 mAh g−1 at 5.0 C and possessed decent areal capacity under high raised sulfur loading of up to 5 mg cm−2.
Construction of Ag/WS2 Zero/Two‐Dimensional Hybrid Architectures by Self‐Assembly for High‐Rate Lithium Storage
Authors: Mao Ya‐Chun , Zhu Xiao‐Dong , Fan Xiu‐Hua , Wang Hua‐Guo , Xu Zhi‐Tao , Le Shi‐Ru
Published: August 2019

We propose a self‐assembly strategy to decorate water‐phase exfoliated WS2 nanosheets with a small quantity of Ag nanoparticles. The whole process is facile, green, economic, and energy efficient. The resulting Ag/WS2 zero/two‐dimensional hybrid architectures exhibit a remarkable synergy in high‐rate lithium storage, which shows potentials for the practical applications of high power and energy density anodes of lithium‐ion batteries.
Single Amino Acid Replacement in G‐7039 Leads to a 70‐fold Increase in Binding toward GHS‐R1a
Authors: Lalonde Tyler , Fowkes Milan M. , Hou Jinqiang , Thibeault Pierre E. , Milne Mark , Dhanvantari Savita , Ramachandran Rithwik , Luyt Leonard G.
Published: August 2019

The growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHS‐R1a) is a class A rhodopsin‐like G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) that is expressed in a variety of human tissues and is differentially expressed in benign and malignant prostate cancer. Previously, the peptidomimetic [1‐Nal4,Lys5(4‐fluorobenzoyl)]G‐7039 was designed as a molecular imaging tool for positron emission tomography (PET). However, this candidate was a poor binder (IC50=69 nm), required a lengthy four‐step radiosynthesis, and had a cLogP above 8. To address these challenges, we now report on changes targeted at the 4th position of G‐7039. A 2‐fluoropropionic acid (2‐FPA) group was added on to Lys5 to determine the potential binding affinity of the [18F]‐2‐FP radiolabeled analogue, which could be prepared by simplified radiochemistry. Lead candidate [Tyr4,Lys5(2‐fluoropropionyl)]G‐7039 exhibited an IC50 of 0.28 nm and low picomolar activity toward GHS‐R1a. Molecular docking revealed a molecular basis for this picomolar affinity.
Frequency and outcomes of brain metastases in patients with HER2‐mutant lung cancers
Authors: Offin Michael , Feldman Daniel , Ni Ai , Myers Mackenzie L. , Lai W. Victoria , Pentsova Elena , Boire Adrienne , Daras Mariza , Jordan Emmet J. , Solit David B. , Arcila Maria E. , Jones David R. , Isbell James M. , Beal Kathryn , Young Robert J. , Rudin Charles M. , Riely Gregory J. , Drilon Alexander , Tabar Viviane , DeAngelis Lisa M. , Yu Helena A. , Kris Mark G. , Li Bob T.
Published: August 2019

Background

Mutations in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2; also known as ERBB2) are found in approximately 2% of lung adenocarcinomas. The frequency and clinical course of brain metastases in this oncogenic subset are ill defined.

Methods

Baseline and subsequent development of brain metastases was evaluated in consecutive patients with HER2‐mutant (n = 98), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–mutant (n = 200), and KRAS‐mutant lung cancers (n = 200).

Results

At metastatic diagnosis, the odds ratio (ORs) for brain metastases was similar for patients whose tumors harbored HER2 mutations (19%) in comparison with patients with KRAS mutations (24%; OR for HER2 vs KRAS, 0.7; P = .33) but lower compared to patients with EGFR mutations (31%; OR for HER2 vs EGFR, 0.5; P = .03). Patients with lung cancer and HER2 mutations developed more brain metastases on treatment than patients with KRAS mutations (28% vs 8%; hazard ratio [HR], 5.2; P < .001) and trended more than patients with EGFR mutations (28% vs 16%; HR, 1.7; P = .06). Patients with HER2 YVMA mutations also developed more brain metastases on treatment than patients with KRAS mutations (HR, 5.9; P < .001). The median overall survival (OS) was shorter for patients with HER2‐mutant (1.6 years; P < .001) or KRAS‐mutant lung cancers (1.1 years; P < .001) than patients with EGFR‐mutant lung cancers (3.0 years). Brain metastases occurred in 47% of patients with HER2‐mutant lung cancers, which imparted shorter OS (HR, 2.7; P < .001).

Conclusions

These data provide a framework for brain imaging surveillance in patients with HER2‐mutant lung cancers and underpin the need to develop HER2‐targeted agents with central nervous system activity.
Risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma surviving blood or marrow transplantation
Authors: Gangaraju Radhika , Chen Yanjun , Hageman Lindsey , Wu Jessica , Francisco Liton , Kung Michelle , Ness Emily , Parman Mariel , Weisdorf Daniel J. , Forman Stephen J. , Arora Mukta , Armenian Saro H. , Bhatia Smita
Published: August 2019

Background

Patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), particularly when they are receiving treatment. Blood or marrow transplantation (BMT) is recommended for relapsed/refractory NHL, and the risk of VTE after these patients undergo BMT is uncertain.

Methods

Patients with NHL who survived 2 years or longer after BMT were surveyed for long‐term health outcomes, including VTE. The median follow‐up was 8.1 years (interquartile range, 5.6‐12.9 years). The risk of VTE in 734 patients with NHL versus 897 siblings without a history of cancer and the risk factors associated with VTE were analyzed.

Results

BMT survivors of NHL were at increased risk for VTE in comparison with siblings (odds ratio for allogeneic BMT survivors, 4.61;P < .0001; odds ratio for autologous BMT survivors, 1.75;P = .035). The cumulative incidence of VTE was 6.3% ± 0.9% at 5 years after BMT and 8.1% ± 1.1% at 10 years after BMT. In allogeneic BMT recipients, an increased body mass index (BMI; hazard ratio [HR] for BMI of 25‐30 kg/m2, 3.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43‐8.64;P = .006; HR for BMI > 30 kg/m2, 3.44; 95% CI, 1.15‐10.23;P = .027) and a history of chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (HR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.59‐6.97;P = .001) were associated with an increased risk of VTE. Among autologous BMT recipients, a diagnosis of coronary artery disease (HR, 5.94; 95% CI, 1.7‐20.71;P = .005) and prior treatment with carmustine (HR, 4.91; 95% CI, 1.66‐14.51;P = .004) were associated with increased VTE risk.

Conclusions

Patients with NHL who survive BMT are at risk for developing late occurring VTE, and ongoing vigilance for this complication is required. Future studies assessing the role of thromboprophylaxis in high‐risk patients with NHL are needed.
Galanin immunoreactivity is sexually polymorphic in neuroendocrine and vocal‐acoustic systems in a teleost fish
Authors: Tripp Joel A. , Bass Andrew H.
Published: August 2019

Galanin is a peptide that regulates pituitary hormone release, feeding, and reproductive and parental care behaviors. In teleost fish, increased galanin expression is associated with territorial, reproductively active males. Prior transcriptome studies of the plainfin midshipman (Porichthys notatus), a highly vocal teleost fish with two male morphs that follow alternative reproductive tactics, show that galanin is upregulated in the preoptic area‐anterior hypothalamus (POA‐AH) of nest‐holding, courting type I males during spawning compared to cuckolding type II males. Here, we investigate possible differences in galanin immunoreactivity in the brain of both male morphs and females with a focus on vocal‐acoustic and neuroendocrine networks. We find that females differ dramatically from both male morphs in the number of galanin‐expressing somata and in the distribution of fibers, especially in brainstem vocal‐acoustic nuclei and other sensory integration sites that also differ, though less extensively, between the male morphs. Double labeling shows that primarily separate populations of POA‐AH neurons express galanin and the nonapeptides arginine‐vasotocin or isotocin, homologues of mammalian arginine vasopressin and oxytocin that are broadly implicated in neural mechanisms of vertebrate social behavior including morph‐specific actions on vocal neurophysiology in midshipman. Finally, we report a small population of POA‐AH neurons that coexpress galanin and the neurotransmitter γ‐aminobutyric acid. Together, the results indicate that galanin neurons in midshipman fish likely modulate brain activity at a broad scale, including targeted effects on vocal motor, sensory and neuroendocrine systems; are unique from nonapeptide‐expressing populations; and play a role in male‐specific behaviors.
Performance enhancement of UWA‐OFDM communication systems based on FWHT
Authors: El‐Mahallawy Mohamed , Eldien Adly Tag
Published: August 2019

The available bandwidth of underwater environment tends to several kilohertz, which considers the main challenges of communications under sea water. On the other hand, the bit‐error‐rate (BER) performance degrades because of several reasons such as multipath propagation, time variabilities of the channel, attenuation, and water temperature. In this paper, we aim to improve the underwater acoustic (UWA) BER system performance by using orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) based on fast Walsh‐Hadamard transform (FWHT) instead off fast Fourier transform (FFT). We proposed a low‐complexity equalization and carrier frequency offset (CFO) compensation for UWA‐OFDM–based FWHT using banded‐matrix approximation concept. Simulation results show that the UWA‐OFDM–based FWHT with low‐density parity check (LDPC) codes give a good improvement performance compared with traditional OFDM in UWA system especially in case of estimation errors.
Efficient data management and control over WSNs using SDN‐enabled aerial networks
Authors: Sayeed Mohd Abuzar , Kumar Rajesh , Sharma Vishal
Published: August 2019

The recent developments in collaborative search, acquisition, and tracking have hoisted the geographical barrier. The network between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is one such collaboration, which comprises battery‐powered static sensor nodes that act as sources and sinks and UAVs that act as relays. This collaborative network presents with opportunities and advantages, but at the same time, configuration of such networks is an arduous task. The WSN nodes are characterized by constant depleting power. Their network itself requires constant management and reconfiguration. These requisites can be slaked through the formation of an efficient data dissemination algorithm, which acclimates according to the network state. Considering this, a data dissemination approach is presented in this paper, which constructs a virtual topology predicated on the charge of WSN nodes utilizing software‐defined networks (SDNs) through UAVs. The topology is constantly monitored and reconfigured when required. The aerial nodes are equipped with multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) antennas in order to facilitate simultaneous communication with the ground nodes, the base station, and the SDN controller. An efficient sleep timer and backoff counter strategies are also utilized by the proposed approach. The SDN controller facilitates the topology formation and maintenance of a sleep timer and a backoff counter. The proposed model is compared with clustered hierarchical layouts and hexagonal cell layouts through the network simulations. The results suggest significant improvements in the proposed model for various metrics, such as lifetime, delay, latency, delivery ratio, and throughput in comparison with the existing solutions.
Functional response of wolves to human development across boreal North America
Authors: Muhly Tyler B. , Johnson Cheryl A. , Hebblewhite Mark , Neilson Eric W. , Fortin Daniel , Fryxell John M. , Latham Andrew David M. , Latham Maria C. , McLoughlin Philip D. , Merrill Evelyn , Paquet Paul C. , Patterson Brent R. , Schmiegelow Fiona , Scurrah Fiona , Musiani Marco
Published: August 2019

Aim

The influence of humans on large carnivores, including wolves, is a worldwide conservation concern. In addition, human‐caused changes in carnivore density and distribution might have impacts on prey and, indirectly, on vegetation. We therefore tested wolf responses to infrastructure related to natural resource development (i.e., human footprint).

Location

Our study provides one of the most extensive assessments of how predators like wolves select habitat in response to various degrees of footprint across boreal ecosystems encompassing over a million square kilometers of Canada.

Methods

We deployed GPS‐collars on 172 wolves, monitored movements and used a generalized functional response (GFR) model of resource selection. A functional response in habitat selection occurs when selection varies as a function of the availability of that habitat. GFRs can clarify how human‐induced habitat changes are influencing wildlife across large, diverse landscapes.

Results

Wolves displayed a functional response to footprint. Wolves were more likely to select forest harvest cutblocks in regions with higher cutblock density (i.e., a positive functional response to high‐quality habitats for ungulate prey) and to select for higher road density in regions where road density was high (i.e., a positive functional response to human‐created travel routes). Wolves were more likely to use cutblocks in habitats with low road densities, and more likely to use roads in habitats with low cutblock densities, except in winter when wolves were more likely to use roads regardless of cutblock density.

Main conclusions

These interactions suggest that wolves trade‐off among human‐impacted habitats, and adaptively switch from using roads to facilitate movement (while also risking encounters with humans), to using cutblocks that may have higher ungulate densities. We recommend that conservation managers consider the contextual and interacting effects of footprints when assessing impacts on carnivores. These effects likely have indirect impacts on ecosystems too, including on prey species.
The first complete mitochondrial genome of the Indian Tent Turtle, Pangshura tentoria (Testudines: Geoemydidae): Characterization and comparative analysis
Authors: Kundu Shantanu , Kumar Vikas , Tyagi Kaomud , Chakraborty Rajasree , Chandra Kailash
Published: August 2019

The characterization of a complete mitogenome is widely used in genomics studies for systematics and evolutionary research. However, the sequences and structural motifs contained within the mitogenome of Testudines taxa have rarely been examined. The present study decodes the first complete mitochondrial genome of the Indian Tent Turtle, Pangshura tentoria (16,657 bp) by using next‐generation sequencing. This denovo assembly encodes 37 genes: 13 protein‐coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNA, and one control region (CR). Most of the genes were encoded on majority strand, except for one PCG (NADH dehydrogenase subunit 6) and eight tRNAs. Most of the PCGs were started with an ATG initiation codon, except for Cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 with “GTG” and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5 with “ATA.” The termination codons, “TAA” and “AGA” were observed in two subunits of NADH dehydrogenase gene. The relative synonymous codon usage analysis revealed the maximum abundance of alanine, isoleucine, leucine, and threonine. The nonsynonymous/synonymous ratios were <1 in all PCGs, which indicates strong negative selection among all Geoemydid species. The study also found the typical cloverleaf secondary structure in most of the tRNA genes, except for serine with the lack of the conventional DHU arm. The comparative study of Geoemydid mitogenomes revealed the occurrence of tandem repeats was frequent in the 3′ end of CR. Further, two copies of a unique tandem repeat “TTCTCTTT” were identified in P. tentoria. The Bayesian and maximum‐likelihood phylogenetic trees using concatenation of 13 PCGs revealed the close relationships of P. tentoria with Batagur trivittata in the studied dataset. All the Geoemydid species showed distinct clustering with high bootstrap support congruent with previous evolutionary hypotheses. We suggest that the generations of more mitogenomes of Geoemydid species are required, to improve our understanding of their in‐depth phylogenetic and evolutionary relationships.
Miniaturized systems for evaluating enzyme activity in polymeric membrane bioreactors
Authors: Islam Mohammad S. , Harnett Cindy K.
Published: August 2019

Enzyme‐coated polymeric membranes are versatile catalysts for biofuel production and other chemical production from feedstock, like plant biomass. Such bioreactors are more energy efficient than high temperature methods because enzymes catalyze chemical reactions near room temperature. A major challenge in processing plant biomass is the presence of lignin, a complex aromatic polymer that resists chemical breakdown. Therefore, membranes coated with enzymes such as laccase that can degrade lignin are sought for energy extraction systems. We present an experimental study on optimizing an enzyme‐based membrane bioreactor and investigate the tradeoff between high flow rate and short dwell time in the active region. In this work, zero flow rate voltammetry experiments confirm the electrochemical activity of Trametes versicolor laccase on conductive polymer electrodes, and a flow‐through spectroscopy device with laccase‐coated porous nylon membranes is used with a colorimetric laccase activity indicator to measure the catalysis rate and percent conversion as a function of reactant flow rate. Membrane porosity before and after laccase coating is verified with electron microscopy.
Effect of H2S and HCl on solid oxide fuel cells fed with simulated biosyngas containing primary tar
Authors: Cavalli Alessandro , Bernardini Roberta , Del Carlo Tommaso , Aravind Purushothaman Vellayani
Published: August 2019

Integrated biomass gasifier solid oxide fuel cell systems are an alternative to fossil‐fuel‐based combined heat and power generators. However, biosyngas contaminants represent a bottleneck for small‐scale systems. In this work, we present the results of experiments on the effects of H2S, HCl, and acetic acid as model primary tar on Ni‐GDC SOFC. First, the effects of 17‐128 g/Nm3 dry basis acetic acid were studied. On a second cell, 0.8 and 1.3 ppm(v) H2S were added to the simulated biosyngas anode flow. After a full recovery, the cell was exposed to 42 g/Nm3 acetic acid and 0.8 ppm(v) H2S. On a third cell, 3.4, 20, and 50 ppm(v) HCl were tested and, after a recovery period, 42 g/Nm3 acetic acid and HCl were added. Even 0.8 ppm(v) H2S caused an immediate voltage drop. H2S affected CH4 reforming and water‐gas shift reaction. Differently, even 50 ppm(v) HCl appeared not to significantly affect these reactions. Acetic acid increased the cell voltage but caused carbon deposition at the cell inlet. The voltage increase seemed not to be affected by H2S or HCl, and no acetic acid was measured at the cell outlet, indicating that these contaminants do not affect the primary tar conversion.
Economic analysis of heating for an enhanced geothermal system based on a simplified model in Yitong Basin, China
Authors: Huang Yibin , Zhang Yanjun , Hu Zhongjun , Lei Honglei , Wang Chen , Ma Jingchen
Published: August 2019

Yitong Basin is located in subfrigid zone, and it has a good prospect to use geothermal clean heating. The evaluation of economic efficiency for heating with enhanced geothermal system (EGS) is indispensable. A simplified single‐fracture hydrothermal coupling model with laboratory test is developed in the EGS project to calculate temperature and pressure based on Yitong Basin data. The effects of four factors (K, q, D, and T) on heat production and reservoir characteristics are discussed. The parameters and results of H‐T coupling were applied to economic analysis for heating with EGS from private and social perspectives considering costs and revenues. The results indicate that the combination of laboratory tests (rock physical properties) makes the numerical simulation results more suitable for the study area. The production temperature and heating power will decrease with continuous injection of cold water, and the injection pressure and flow impedance will increase due to the increase in μ/ρ. Four factors (K, q, D, and T) will affect difficulty of fluid injection and reservoir thermal breakthrough, and the high injection rate q may trigger secondary fracturing of reservoir. Heating with EGS in single‐fracture model was uneconomical due to expensive drilling costs. However, heating with EGS can be considered from social perspective based on environment, which can provide advice for decision‐making of the government and business.