bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Simple to Architecturally Complex Hydrogel Scaffolds for Cell and Tissue Engineering Applications: Opportunities Presented by Two‐Photon Polymerization
Authors: Song Jiaxi , Michas Christos , Chen Christopher S. , White Alice E. , Grinstaff Mark W.
Published: November 2019

Direct laser writing via two‐photon polymerization (2PP) is an emerging micro‐ and nanofabrication technique to prepare predetermined and architecturally precise hydrogel scaffolds with high resolution and spatial complexity. As such, these scaffolds are increasingly being evaluated for cell and tissue engineering applications. This article first discusses the basic principles and photoresists employed in 2PP fabrication of hydrogels, followed by an in‐depth introduction of various mechanical and biological characterization techniques used to assess the fabricated structures. The design requirements for cell and tissue related applications are then described to guide the engineering, physicochemical, and biological efforts. Three case studies in bone, cancer, and cardiac tissues are presented that illustrate the need for structured materials in the next generation of clinical applications. This paper concludes by summarizing the progress to date, identifying additional opportunities for 2PP hydrogel scaffolds, and discussing future directions for 2PP research.
Pore Engineering of 2D Mesoporous Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon on Graphene through Block Copolymer Self‐Assembly
Authors: Hou Dan , Zhang Jiacheng , Tian Hao , Li Qian , Li Chen , Mai Yiyong
Published: November 2019

Pore engineering has been recognized as a power methodology to fabricate carbon‐based catalysts with highly efficient electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction. This paper reports an interfacial self‐assembly engineering for the growth of mesoporous N‐doped carbon with spherical or cylindrical pores on graphene nanosheets. The resulting 2D porous nanocomposites templated from Pluronic block copolymers possess similar N doping contents of ≈2.6 wt%, average pore sizes of ≈8 nm in diameter, and specific surface areas of ≈420 m2 g−1. Due to the faster in‐plane ion diffusion offered by the continuous cylindrical channels, the porous carbon nanosheets with cylindrical pores exhibit superior oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalytic performance in 0.1 m KOH, with a half‐wave‐potential (E1/2) of +0.74 V and a limiting current density (JL) of 4.8 mA cm−2, comparable to those of the commercial Pt/C catalysts. This study sheds light on the influence of pore structure on the ORR catalytic performance of 2D carbon materials, and also provides clues for the fabrication of porous materials with tailorable pore structures for high‐performance electrocatalysts.
Functional Mid‐Infrared Polaritonics in van der Waals Crystals
Authors: Kim Seyoon , Menabde Sergey G. , Brar Victor W. , Jang Min Seok
Published: November 2019

Despite high scientific and technological potential, nanophotonics research in the mid‐infrared regime remains relatively less explored compared to other frequency bands, largely because the mid‐infrared requires a totally different set of optical materials. Polaritons in layered 2D materials, or van der Waals (vdW) crystals, provide a new set of building blocks for mid‐infrared nanophotonics. Herein, the recently reported polaritonic properties of various vdW crystals are summarized in the context of their mid‐infrared applications. Both polaritons in vdW crystals with naturally anisotropic atomic structures as well as tunable plasmon polaritons in vdW semimetals are discussed. The extreme field confinement of 2D polaritons (confinement factors ≈100) enhances both their radiative heat transfer as well as the optical coupling to the vibrational modes of molecules, allowing for highly sensitive chemical detection. Their tunable properties, meanwhile, enable dynamic modulation of mid‐infrared light to realize dynamic phase shifters, mid‐infrared modulators, and spectrally tunable thermal emitters. By vertically stacking vdW crystals, it is possible to create a large variety of new effective materials with substantially different polaritonic properties compared to their building blocks.
Angle and Polarization Selective Spontaneous Emission in Dye‐Doped Metal/Insulator/Metal Nanocavities
Authors: Caligiuri Vincenzo , Biffi Giulia , Palei Milan , Martín‐García Beatriz , Pothuraju Renuka Devi , Bretonnière Yann , Krahne Roman
Published: November 2019

Directing and polarizing the emission of a fluorophore is of fundamental importance in the perspective of novel photonic sources based on emerging nanoemitter technologies. These two tasks are usually accomplished by a sophisticated and demanding structuring of the optical environment in which the emitter is immersed, or by nontrivial chemical engineering of its geometry and/or band structure. Here, the wavelength and polarization selective spontaneous emission from a dye‐embedded in a metal/insulator/metal (d‐MIM) nanocavity is demonstrated. A push–pull chromophore with large Stokes shift is embedded in a MIM cavity whose resonances are tuned with the spectral emission band of the chromophore. Angular and polarization resolved spectroscopy experiments reveal that the radiated field is reshaped according to the angular dispersion of the nanocavity, and that its spectrum manifests two bands with different polarization corresponding to the p‐ and s‐polarized resonances of the cavity. The d‐MIM cavities are a highly versatile system for polarization and wavelength division multiplexing applications at the nanoscale, as well as for near‐field focused emission and nanolenses.
Manipulating Nonclassicality via Quantum State Engineering Processes: Vacuum Filtration and Single Photon Addition
Authors: Malpani Priya , Alam Nasir , Thapliyal Kishore , Pathak Anirban , Narayanan Venkatakrishnan , Banerjee Subhashish
Published: November 2019

The effect of two quantum state engineering processes that can be used to burn a hole at vacuum in the photon number distribution of quantum states of radiation field is compared using various witnesses of lower‐ and higher‐order nonclassicality as well as a measure of nonclassicality. Specifically, the modification in nonclassical properties due to vacuum state filtration and a single photon addition on an even coherent state, binomial state, and Kerr state are investigated using the criteria of lower‐ and higher‐order antibunching, squeezing, and sub‐Poissonian photon statistics. Further, the amount of nonclassicality present in these engineered quantum states having enormous applications in continuous variable quantum communication is quantified and analyzed by using an linear entropy‐based entanglement potential. It is observed that all the quantum states studied here are highly nonclassical, and the hole‐burning processes can introduce/enhance nonclassical features. However, it is not true in general. A hole at vacuum implies a maximally nonclassical state (as far as Lee's nonclassical depth is concerned), but a particular process of hole burning at vacuum does not ensure the existence of any particular nonclassical feature. Specifically, lower‐ and higher‐order squeezing are not observed for photon‐added and vacuum filtered even coherent states.
Augmentation of performance properties of maleated SEBS/TPU blends through reactive blending
Authors: Anagha M. G. , Naskar Kinsuk
Published: November 2019

Meticulous investigation of reactive blending of maleic anhydride grafted styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene (SEBS‐g‐MA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is carried out to achieve systems with controllable morphology and superior mechanical properties. Two types of SEBS‐g‐MA (abbreviated as M1, M2) with different maleic anhydride content were used to separately blend with TPU. Formation of imide group from the interaction of isocyanate and maleic anhydride predicted from the plausible reaction scheme was confirmed through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. High tensile strength of the blends along with appreciable elongation at break was witnessed. Morphology analyses using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy exposed a vivid and homogenous droplet morphology in all the blends presumably due to in situ formation of a suitable copolymer at the interface. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to pursue the thermal characteristics of the blends. Melt‐rheological behavior of the blends was examined using a rubber process analyzer. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48727.
HMGA2 gene polymorphisms and Wilms tumor susceptibility in Chinese children: a four‐center case‐control study
Authors: Cheng Jiwen , Zhuo Zhenjian , Yang Liu , Zhao Pu , Zhang Jiao , Zhou Haixia , He Jing , Li Peng
Published: November 2019

Wilms tumor is a kidney malignancy that typically occurs in children. Aberrant expression of HMGA2 gene is commonly seen in many malignant tumors. Yet, HMGA2 gene polymorphisms on Wilms tumor risk are not established. We carried out the first four‐center case‐control study with 355 patients and 1,070 controls to assess the association of HMGA2 polymorphisms (rs6581658 A>G, rs8756 A>C, and rs968697 T>C) with Wilms tumor risk. All of these three polymorphisms in single could not impact Wilms tumor risk. Stratified analysis revealed a contributing Wilms tumor risk role of rs968697 TC/CC in subgroup of male (TC/CC vs. TT: adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03–2.08, P = 0.035). However, we found that presence of 1–3 protective genotypes were less likely to develop tumor in subgroup of female (adjusted OR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.48–0.99, P = 0.045). Our findings suggest that HMGA2 gene polymorphisms might influence Wilms tumor predisposition in a weak manner, under certain circumstances.
Low‐cost recycling production of pectinase to increase the yield and quality of Muzao jujube juice by Aspergillus niger
Authors: Yang Chun , Wang Jiahong , Chio Chonlong , Chen Xuantong , Zhang Ling , Zhang Jiangning , Feng Zhihong , Han Jiming , Ding Weiying , Qin Wensheng
Published: November 2019

A low‐cost recycling system for the production of pectinase was built to improve the yield and quality of Muzao date juice and to reduce production costs. An Aspergillus niger strain, Gyx086, was selected from 20 A. niger strains on potato agar plates containing Muzao date residues, and the strain was used to produce an enzyme cocktail with high pectinase activity using Muzao date residues as the medium. The high pectinase activity level was therefore used in the production of Muzao date juice. Under optimized enzymatic hydrolysis conditions, a date juice yield of 92.88% was obtained, which was 11% higher than the control, and was not significantly different from a commercial preparation. Further storage trials indicated that the clarity, viscosity, storage stability, and soluble solid content could also be greatly improved by enzymatic treatment. These results suggested that the cheap experimental preparation could effectively replace the commercial preparation used for the production of date juice. This is the first systematic report detailing the production of Muzao date juice using a cheap and effective pectinase cocktail, which could promote the development of the date juice industry. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Remediating reduced memory specificity in bipolar disorder: A case study using a Computerized Memory Specificity Training
Authors: Martens Kris , Takano Keisuke , Barry Tom J. , Holmes Emily A. , Wyckaert Sabine , Raes Filip
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Reduced autobiographical memory specificity (rAMS) is a vulnerability factor found across unipolar depression (UD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder (BD). A group delivered psychological therapy training called Memory Specificity Training (MeST) remediates rAMS in UD and PTSD, with additional downstream effects on related psychological processes and symptoms. Its impact in BD is unknown. In this case study, we examined the impact of a computerized version of MeST (c‐MeST) on improving AMS and related symptoms and processes in participant with rapid cycling type I BD.

Method

An experimental case study with an ABA design was used. During baseline (14 days, Phase A), the training phase (nine sessions across 17 days, Phase B), and a 1‐month follow‐up (Phase A), memory specificity, depressive symptoms, and related processes and symptoms were repeatedly measured.

Results

Memory specificity increased significantly after the participant completed c‐MeST. Session‐to‐session scores indicated that AMS improved most from the in‐person baseline assessment to the first online session. All other measures of processes and symptoms deteriorated during the training phase but regressed to baseline during follow‐up.

Conclusion

Memory specificity was improved as indicated by increased AMS from pre‐intervention measurement to 1‐month follow‐up. Other improvements in symptoms were not observed. Rather, some related maladaptive psychological processes and symptoms worsened during the training phase and regressed to baseline during follow‐up.
Smooth muscle of the male pelvic floor: An anatomic study
Authors: Nyangoh Timoh Krystel , Deffon J. , Moszkowicz D. , Lebacle C. , Creze M. , Martinovic J. , Zaitouna M. , Diallo D. , Lavoue V. , Fautrel A. , Benoit G. , Bessede T.
Published: November 2019

Knowledge of the anatomy of the male pelvic floor is important to avoid damaging the pelvic floor muscles during surgery. We set out to explore the structure and innervation of the smooth muscle (SM) of the whole pelvic floor using male fetuses. We removed en‐bloc the entire pelvis of three male fetuses. The specimens were serially sectioned before being stained with Masson's trichrome and hematoxylin and eosin, and immunostained for SMs, and somatic, adrenergic, sensory and nitrergic nerve fibers. Slides were digitized for three‐dimensional reconstruction. We individualized a middle compartment that contains SM cells. This compartment is in close relation with the levator ani muscle (LAM), rectum, and urethra. We describe a posterior part of the middle compartment posterior to the rectal wall and an anterior part anterior to the rectal wall. The anterior part is split into (1) a centro‐levator area of SM cells localized between the right and left LAM, (2) an endo‐levator area that upholsters the internal aspect of the LAM, and (3) an infra‐levator area below the LAM. All these areas are innervated by autonomic nerves coming from the inferior hypogastric plexus. The core and the infra‐levator area receive the cavernous nerve and nerves supplying the urethra. We thus demonstrate that these muscular structures are smooth and under autonomic influence. These findings are relevant for the pelvic surgeon, and especially the urologist, during radical prostatectomy, abdominoperineal resection and intersphincteric resection. Clin. Anat., 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Targetable Tetrazine‐Based Dynamic Nuclear Polarization Agents for Biological Systems
Authors: Lim Byung Joon , Ackermann Bryce E. , Debelouchina Galia T.
Published: November 2019

Dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) has shown great promise as a tool to enhance the nuclear magnetic resonance signals of proteins in the cellular environment. As sensitivity increases, the ability to select and efficiently polarize a specific macromolecule over the cellular background has become desirable. Herein, we address this need and present a tetrazine‐based DNP agent that can be targeted selectively to proteins containing the unnatural amino acid (UAA) norbornene‐lysine. This UAA can be introduced efficiently into the cellular milieu by genetic means. Our approach is bio‐orthogonal and easily adaptable to any protein of interest. We illustrate the scope of our methodology and investigate the DNP transfer mechanisms in several biological systems. Our results shed light on the complex polarization‐transfer pathways in targeted DNP and ultimately pave the way to selective DNP‐enhanced NMR spectroscopy in both bacterial and mammalian cells.
Heterotopic ossification in a 7‐year‐old female patient treated with individualized homeopathy: A case report
Authors: Tsintzas Dionysios , Jaggi Atul , Jaggi Latika , Mahesh Seema , Vithoulkas George
Published: November 2019

Classical homeopathy can be included among the treatment options for congenital heterotopic ossification.
Carbon Nanotube‐Based Non‐Precious Metal Electrode Catalysts for Fuel Cells, Water Splitting and Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Yang Jun , Ganesan Pandian , Ishihara Akimitsu , Nakashima Naotoshi
Published: November 2019

The design and creation of a sustainable green source of energy with a high performance is highly important. There are many approaches for this goal, and one of promising alternative energy technologies should be batteries and fuel cells. Precious metals, such as Pt and Ir, have been used as catalyst materials for fuel cells for cars and stationary power generation, water splitting, etc.; however, such metals are expensive and not earth‐abundant elements. The replacement of such precious metal‐based electrocatalysts with low‐cost materials is crucial for the next generation sustainable energy society. This minireview focuses on nanocarbons, especially carbon nanotubes, for use in the preparation of non‐precious metal catalysts for fuel cells, oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution, hydrogen evolution, water splitting and Zn‐air battery with a high performance.
Rational Construction of V2O5@rGO with Enhanced Pseudocapacitive Storage for High‐Performance Flexible Energy Storage Device
Authors: Hu Bingbing , Guo Chaozhong , Xu Chuanlan , Cen Yuan , Hu Jiahong , Li Yan , Yang Shu , Liu Yuping , Yu Danmei , Chen Changguo
Published: November 2019

Enormous efforts have recently been devoted to exploiting high Faradaic redox active materials with ultrahigh energy density in new generation energy storage systems. In this study, a facile and cost‐effective solvothermal method was employed to synthesize high capacitance of rGO in situ encapsulating V2O5 microspheres (note as VrG). Benefiting from its unique hierarchical structure, large number of Faradaic redox active sites, and excellent electronic conductivity of rGO, the VrG composites can provide excellent pseudocapacitive performance with fast charge transfer and reaction kinetics between electrolyte and electrode material. Especially, the post‐optimized VrG‐5 demonstrates a remarkable discharge specific capacitance of 575 C g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 and an outstanding rate capability (48 % capacitance retention with the rate increasing 20 times), which is far better than the precursor component V2O5 under identical conditions. More importantly, the flexible VrG‐5//rGO asymmetric supercapacitors device can not only deliver excellent specific capacitance of 237 C g−1 and a high energy density of 46 Wh Kg−1, but also exhibit a superior mechanical flexibility under various bending angles and even 83 % capacitance retention after 5000 cycles under mechanical bending 180°, indicating its great potential application in the future flexible energy storage devices.
A novel dissolution‐precipitation method for high‐efficiency separation of oil‐wetted oil sands
Authors: Hu Pengcheng , Chai Ruimin , Liu Quanyou , Wang Junlin , Zhou Shu‐Feng
Published: November 2019

Dissolution‐precipitation is a novel high‐efficiency method for separating oil‐wetted oil sands. Four dissolving agents and three precipitating agents were studied to select the optimal combination. Results showed that N,N‐dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) and methanol were the optimal dissolving and precipitating agents, respectively. The chemical group compositions, element content, and H/C atom ratio of bitumen separated by DMCHA‐methanol were analyzed, and the optimal conditions for oil sands separation were determined, under which the bitumen recovery reached 96.4%. After six separation cycles with DMCHA‐methanol, the bitumen recovery remained above 93%.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric [4+3]‐Cyclization Reaction of Fused 1‐Azadienes with Amino‐trimethylenemethanes: Highly Stereoselective Construction of Chiral Fused Azepines
Authors: Kumari Prathibha , Liu Weiwei , Wang Cheng‐Jie , Dai Jun , Wang Mei‐Xin , Yang Qi‐Qiong , Deng Yu‐Hua , Shao Zhihui
Published: November 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

A Pd‐catalyzed asymmetric aromative [4+3]‐cyclization reaction of amino‐trimethylenemethanes (TMM, 1,3‐dipoles) with fused 1‐azadienes has been developed. This method enables access to the synthetically importance and biologically active benzofuran fused azepines and indeno‐azepines in excellent efficiency and stereoselectivity (up to 95% yield, 99% ee, >19 : 1 dr).
An Octacationic [2]Catenane Formed by Oxime Condensation: A Bistable Molecular Switch
Authors: Wang Cai‐Yun , Wu Guangcheng , Zhu Jiaqi , Jiao Tianyu , Zhang Yang , Li Hao
Published: November 2019

Oxime condensation as well as template‐directed synthesis based on radical‐pairing interactions were used in the synthesis of an octacationic [2]catenane in 20 % yield. The [2]catenane consists of two identical mechanically interlocked tetracationic macrocyclic components. Each of the ring components contains two dicationic bipyridinium (BIPY2+) functions. The structure of the [2]catenane was fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, as well as X‐ray crystallography. In the oxidized state, the [2]catenane exists in a co‐conformation where its four BIPY2+ units are located as far as possible from each other. Upon reduction of BIPY2+ into the radical state, namely BIPY+., we propose that the [2]catenane undergoes mechanical movement, driven by radical pairing interactions between these radical building blocks. The redox‐stimulated switching behavior of this [2]catenane was confirmed by electrochemistry, UV‐Vis‐NIR absorption spectroscopy, and 1H NMR spectroscopy.
Preparation and Characterization of the Triflate Complex [Cp*(dppe)FeOSO2CF3]: A Convenient Access to Labile Five‐ and Six‐Coordinate Iron(I) and Iron(II) Complexes
Authors: Hamon Paul , Toupet Loic , Roisnel Thierry , Hamon Jean‐René , Lapinte Claude
Published: November 2019

Treatment of the iron hydride [Cp*(dppe)FeH] (1) with methyl triflate (CH3OSO2CF3) yielded the iron triflate adduct [Cp*(dppe)FeOSO2CF3] (4, 85 %). In the solid state, the triflate is coordinated at the iron center as shown by XRD (dFe–O = 2.118(4) Å) and IR spectroscopy (νSO = 1305 cm–1). In solution, 4 is in equilibrium with the 16‐electron species [Cp*(dppe)Fe]OSO2CF3 (5(OSO2CF3)), 4/5(OSO2CF3) = 2:1). The CV of 4 displays two waves (E1 = –0.74 V, E2 = 0.24 V vs. SCE) assigned to the [Cp*(dppe)Fe(I)]/[Cp*(dppe)Fe(II)]+ and [Cp*(dppe)Fe(II)]+/[Cp*(dppe)Fe(III)]2+ redox couples. Reduction of 4 with Cp2Co provided the complex [Cp*(dppe)Fe(I)] (6, 95 %) and oxidation of 6 with [Cp2Fe]PF6 gave [Cp*(dppe)Fe]PF6 (5(PF6), 98 %). XRD established the pseudo‐trigonal bipyramidal geometry for the five‐coordinated cation 5+. The reactivity of 5(PF6) and 6 toward small molecules (CH2Cl2, H2O, CO, H2, N2) is reported.
Structural Diversity Ranging from Oligonuclear Complexes to 1‐D and 2‐D Coordination Polymers Generated by Tetrasubstituted Adamantane and Spirobifluorene Derivatives
Authors: Mocanu Teodora , Pop Lidia , Hădade Niculina D. , Shova Sergiu , Sorace Lorenzo , Grosu Ion , Andruh Marius
Published: November 2019

Using tetrahedral and tetragonal spacers, seven new complexes have been obtained: [Co(hfac)2(L1)0.5] 1, [Cu2(hfac)4L2] 2, [Co(hfac)2L2] 3, [Co(hfac)2(L2)0.5]·8H2O 4, [AgL2](SbF6)·CH3COOC2H5 5, [Mn(hfac)2(L3)0.5] 6, [Zn(OAc)2(L3)0.5] 7, {L1 = 1,3,5,7‐tetrakis(4‐cyanophenyl)adamantane, L2 = 2,2′,7,7′‐tetracyano‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene and L3 = 2,2′,7,7′‐tetra(4‐pyridyl)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene, Hhfac = hexafluoroacetylacetone}. Compound 1 exhibits a 2‐D grid‐like structure with the tetradentate spacer acting as a 4‐connecting ligand. The 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrasubstituted‐spirobifluorene derivatives connect the {MII(hfac)2} entities into a binuclear complex (2), a linear chain (3) and diamond chains (4, 6). The cis or trans configuration of the metal nodes influences the overall topology (MII = CuII, CoII, MnII). Similarly, a 1‐D double chain topological motif results by linking zinc ions and L3 in compound 7. Compound 5 is a 2‐D coordination polymer featuring a layered framework with square cavities. Compound 5 undergoes a reversible single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal process, with removal of the solvent molecules (ethyl acetate). The luminescence properties of compounds 5, 7 have been investigated and reveal blue emission with maxima at 402 and 483 nm, respectively. The dynamic magnetic properties and EPR spectrum of 1 have been investigated, revealing the occurrence of slow relaxation of the magnetization that most likely involves a Raman process.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): Anglers May Be Exposed to Harmful Chemicals in Their Catch
Authors: Fraley Kevin M , Fraley Heather N , Arthur Donald , Walther Eric J
Published: November 2019

In this review, we focus on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), synthetic compounds used for a variety of applications, including firefighting foam and manufacturing. Recently, researchers have linked human exposure to PFAS to negative health effects. Hundreds of communities are affected by PFAS contamination, which has raised awareness about the toxicity of these chemicals. Most work has focused on characterizing dangers to humans, and the effects of PFAS on the environment are under-studied. PFAS contamination of surface water can result in bioaccumulation and biomagnification in fishes. Studies have linked PFAS to lower fitness in fishes, and anglers who consume wild fish can have higher exposure to PFAS compared to the general population. These chemicals remain largely unregulated and the public has been unaware of the extent of contamination and their risk to human health until recently. We review known PFAS contamination of wild-caught fish, and their possible health risk through angler exposure in the Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska. The conclusions and recommendations from the case study can be applied to and are useful for PFAS-contaminated communities nationwide.
Clay source and firing temperatures of Roman ceramics: A case study from Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Authors: Lesigyarski Deyan , Jordanova Neli , Kostadinova‐Avramova Maria , Bozhinova Elena
Published: November 2019

During urgent archaeological excavations in the city of Plovdiv (South Bulgaria), a Roman pottery workshop was found, including several dome kilns, ceramic sherds, and a large clay deposit incorporating yellow and gray clay layers. A set of the ceramic specimens (kitchenwares and tablewares) and raw clay samples were investigated using a portable device for X‐ray fluorescence and laboratory equipment for magnetic measurements, aiming to provide specific information about the origin and firing technology of the pottery. Despite significant difference in calcium content between local raw clay and pottery samples, we conclude that local natural clay sources were used and the initial stages of production involved clay purification, although we cannot rule out the procurement of more distant clay sources. Magnetic susceptibility testing allowed for determination of the maximum firing temperatures, showing that the pottery were fired predominantly at 780°C, with some samples being fired at temperatures up to 860°C. Magnetic analyses show that kitchenwares were fired under more uniform conditions than the tablewares, which undoubtedly reflected in the quality of the vessels produced.
Parcellation influence on the connectivity‐based structure–function relationship in the human brain
Authors: Messé Arnaud
Published: November 2019

One of the fundamental questions in neuroscience is how brain structure and function are intertwined. MRI‐based studies have demonstrated a close relationship between the physical wiring of the brain (structural connectivity) and the associated patterns of synchronization (functional connectivity). However, little is known about the spatial consistency of such a relationship and notably its potential dependence on brain parcellations. In the present study, we performed a comparison of a set of state‐of‐the‐art group‐wise brain atlases, with various spatial resolutions, to relate structural and functional connectivity derived from high quality MRI data. We aim to investigate if the definition of brain areas influences the relationship between structural and functional connectivity. We observed that there is a significant effect of brain parcellations, which is mainly driven by the number of areas; there are mixed differences in the SC–FC relationship when compared to purely random parcellations; the influence of the number of areas cannot be attributed solely to the reliability of the connectivity estimates; and beyond the influence of the number of regions, the spatial embedding of the brain (distance effect) can explain a large portion of the observed relationship. As such the choice of a brain parcellation for connectivity analyses remains most likely a matter of convenience.
The heterogeneous causal effects of neonatal care: a model of endogenous demand for multiple treatment options based on geographical access to care
Authors: Mújica‐Mota Rubén E. , Landa Paolo , Pitt Martin , Allen Mike , Spencer Anne
Published: November 2019

Neonatal units in the UK are organised into three levels, from highest Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), to Local Neonatal Unit (LNU) to lowest Special Care Unit (SCU). We model the endogenous treatment selection of neonatal care unit of birth to estimate the average and marginal treatment effects of different neonatal designations on infant mortality, length of stay and hospital costs. We use prognostic factors, survival and hospital care use data on all preterm births in England for 2014–2015, supplemented by national reimbursement tariffs and instrumental variables of travel time from a geographic information system. The data were consistent with a model of demand for preterm birth care driven by physical access. In‐hospital mortality of infants born before 32 weeks was 8.5% overall, and 1.2 (95% CI: −0.7, 3.2) percentage points lower for live births in hospitals with NICU or SCU compared to those with an LNU according to instrumental variable estimates. We find imprecise differences in average total hospital costs by unit designation, with positive unobserved selection of those with higher unexplained absolute and incremental costs into NICU. Our results suggest a limited scope for improvement in infant mortality by increasing in‐utero transfers based on unit designation alone.
Ensuring Taiwan patient safety culture survey is free from differential item functioning
Authors: Lee Wui‐Chiang , Han Su‐Ha , Jeong Heon‐Jae
Published: November 2019

Background

Differential item functioning (DIF) means the interference of some demographic characteristic or grouping of the tight relationship between trait levels. DIF threatens precise interpretations of survey results and makes them unreliable. The aim of this study was to examine whether the succinct version of Taiwan Patient Safety Culture (TPSC‐S) survey is free from DIF and to mitigate its impact if needed.

Methods

The TPSC‐S survey results of 2964 respondents in a public hospital in Taiwan were analyzed. The existence, type, and effect size of DIF were examined for each TPSC‐S item using a proportional‐odds logistic regression method between characteristic groups, including gender, work experience, job types, management roles, employment status, and safety reporting experiences.

Results

The study results revealed that several items of TPSC‐S showed statistically significant DIF between characteristic groups. Nevertheless, the magnitude of these DIF was small, and their influence to TPSC‐S survey was not significant. The domain‐level DIF impact was completely insignificant for all characteristic groups.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the 24‐item TPSC‐S survey was free from DIF in six characteristic groups. The difference in survey scores between groups stems from the real difference that hospital safety managers want to measure.
Questionable research practices among Brazilian psychological researchers: Results from a replication study and an international comparison
Authors: Rabelo André L. A. , Farias Jéssica E. M. , Sarmet Maurício M. , Joaquim Teresa C. R. , Hoersting Raquel C. , Victorino Luiz , Modesto João G. N. , Pilati Ronaldo
Published: November 2019

Research on scientific integrity is growing in psychology, and questionable research practices (QRPs) have received more attention due to its harmful effect on science. By replicating the procedures of previous research, the present study aimed at describing the use of QRPs among Brazilian psychological researchers and to make an international comparison with previous studies in other countries—the US and Italy. Two hundred and thirty‐two Brazilian researchers in the field of psychology answered questions related to 10 different QRPs. Brazilian researchers indicated a lower tendency to engage in two QRPs (failing to report all of a study's dependent measures; deciding whether to collect more data after looking to see whether the results were significant) when compared to their Italian and North American counterparts, but indicated a higher tendency to engage in two other QRPs (selectively reporting studies that “worked”; not reporting all of a study's conditions). Most of the sample did not admit integrity conflicts in their own research but indicated that others have integrity problems, as observed in previous studies. Those discrepancies could be attributed to contextual and systemic factors regarding different publication demands among the different nations. Further studies should focus on identifying the antecedents of QRPs.
A generalization of Heffter arrays
Authors: Costa Simone , Morini Fiorenza , Pasotti Anita , Pellegrini Marco Antonio
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we define a new class of partially filled arrays, called relative Heffter arrays, that are a generalization of the Heffter arrays introduced by Archdeacon in 2015. Let be a positive integer, where divides , and let be the subgroup of of order . A Heffter array over relative to is an partially filled array with elements in such that (a) each row contains filled cells and each column contains filled cells; (b) for every , either or appears in the array; and (c) the elements in every row and column sum to . Here we study the existence of square integer (i.e., with entries chosen in and where the sums are zero in ) relative Heffter arrays for , denoted by . In particular, we prove that for , with , there exists an integer if and only if one of the following holds: (a) is odd and ; (b) and is even; (c) . Also, we show how these arrays give rise to cyclic cycle decompositions of the complete multipartite graph.
Ectopic expression of CYP24A1 circular RNA hsa_circ_0060927 in uterine leiomyomas
Authors: Fazeli Elnaz , Piltan Samira , Sadeghi Hossein , Gholami Milad , Azizi‐Tabesh Ghasem , Yassaee Fakhrolmolook , Mirfakhraie Reza
Published: November 2019

Background

As a novel class of non‐coding RNAs, the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in tumor biogenesis and progression has been proved in a number of human tumors; however, up to now, the relation between circRNAs and uterine leiomyomas (ULM) remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, we have estimated the expression level of CYP24A1 hsa_circ_0060927 in uterine leiomyoma and adjacent tissues considering the mediator complex subunit 12 gene (MED12) mutation profile by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCRs).

Results

Using Sanger sequencing method, somatic mutations in the MED12 exon 2 were detected in 14 (35.90%) ULM samples, including 10 (71.43%) missense mutations and 4 (28.57%) in‐frame deletions. Our results revealed that hsa_circ_0060927 was ectopically expressed in 33.33% of ULM tissues; although, this expression was independent of the MED12 mutation profile in the ULM samples.

Conclusions

Present results provide primary evidence for the role of circular RNAs in the leiomyoma development; however, further studies are essential to confirm the importance of these molecules as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and/or prognosis in ULM.
Effect of cavosurface angle beveling on the exposure angle of enamel prisms in different cavity sizes
Authors: Meurer José C. , Rizzante Fabio A. P. , Maenossono Rafael M. , França Fabiana M. G. , Bombonatti Juliana F. S. , Ishikiriama Sérgio K.
Published: November 2019

The quality of the micromechanical retention between the enamel prisms exposed through acid etching and adhesive system can be influenced by the relationship between the angle of the exposed enamel prisms and the external surface/restorative material. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine the influence of the enamel cavosurface beveling in different cavity sizes on the angle relation between enamel prisms and the restorative material. For this research, 30 human permanent molars were used and divided into three groups according the isthmus aperture of class I cavities (1/4, 1/3, and 1/2 of the intercuspal distance). Cavosurface angle beveling was performed in each tooth buccal or palatal/lingual side, and a resin composite restoration was placed. Each restored tooth was sectioned in buccal/palatal direction followed by analysis in scanning electron microscope. Means of the angles observed between enamel prisms and the restorative material were registered and statistically analyzed by Kruskal‐Wallis test. Results showed higher mean angle values for beveled groups when comparing with the values observed in the unbeveled margins (p < .05) regardless of the isthmus aperture, being 1/4 (beveled = 48.36°; unbeveled = 20.71°), 1/3 (beveled = 39.75°; unbeveled = 29.15°), and 1/2 (beveled = 37.02°; unbeveled = 26.34°). It was also observed that in some unbeveled cavities, there were the presence of laterally exposed enamel prisms (0°), mainly in more conservative cavities. It was concluded that the presence of higher angles values occurred in the samples with beveled margins, without presence of laterally exposed enamel prisms.
Hydrophobically Modified Alkali Soluble Emulsion Polymers: Literature Review
Authors: Vitiello Rosa , Rossano Carmelina , Russo Krauss Irene , D'Errico Gerardino , Di Serio Martino
Published: November 2019

In recent years, interest in the class of water‐soluble polymers—hydrophobically modified alkali soluble emulsion (HASE)—has increased on a surprising scale. With respect to other associative polymers, they have several advantages in terms of cost and ease of handling and utilization. In addition, unlike the solvent‐based formulations, these water‐soluble systems do not contain volatile solvents and hence do not contribute to environmental problems. In solutions, HASE polymers form a transient network through molecular associations between the hydrophobic groups. Due to these hydrophobic interactions, they have been increasingly used as rheology modifiers for various applications, such as paints, cosmetics, and personal care and paper coating products. These associative polymers have an architectural richness that allows the fine tuning of several physicochemical properties, and their optimal use requires controlling polymer concentration, molecular weight, size of the hydrophobic groups, and characteristics of the polymeric backbone. We give an overview of several studies on HASE polymers reported in the literature, focusing on the molecular structure, the synthetic methodologies, and—more specifically—on the factors that affect the rheology of their aqueous mixtures. As a general rule for the optimal HASE design and formulative exploitation, we highlight that the hydrophobic hanging groups are responsible for the rheological changes in the liquid phase, while the steric hindrance of the polymeric backbone and of the hydrophobic groups causes the stiffness.
Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging and Intravoxel Incoherent Motion in Differentiating Nasal Malignancies
Authors: Xiao Zebin , Tang Zuohua , Zheng Chunquan , Luo Jianfeng , Zhao Keqing , Zhang Zhongshuai
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the usefulness of diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) in the differentiation of sinonasal malignant tumors (SNMTs) with different histological types.

Study Design

Retrospective observational and diagnostic study.

Methods

Sixty‐five patients with SNMTs who underwent DKI and IVIM were enrolled in this retrospective study, including 27 squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), 13 olfactory neuroblastomas (ONBs), 14 malignant melanomas (MMs) and 11 lymphomas. The kurtosis (K) and diffusion coefficient (Dk) from DKI and the pure diffusion coefficient (D), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D*), perfusion fraction (f), and the product ofD*andf(f∙D*) from IVIM were measured. Kruskal‐Wallis and Dunn multiple comparison tests with Bonferroni correction, receiver operating characteristic curve, and logistic regression analyses were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Lymphomas demonstrated the highest K values but lowest Dk,D,D*,f, andf∙D*values among these four malignant tumors. ONBs exhibited high K values and MMs had highestD*,f, andf∙D*values. The cutoff value of ≤0.887 × 10−3mm2/sec forf∙D*provided a sensitivity, specificity, and an accuracy of 100%, 98.1%, and 98.5%, respectively, for differentiating lymphomas from the other three entities. The combination off∙D*andDvalues showed a sensitivity of 92.9% and a specificity of 92.5% for the discrimination of MMs from ONBs and SCCs. The K value was useful for differentiating ONBs from SCCs, with a threshold value of 0.942 (sensitivity, 84.6%; specificity, 63.0%).

Conclusions

The combined use of DKI and IVIM is helpful for differentiating among four histological types of SNMTs.

Level of Evidence

3Laryngoscope, 2019
Exploring temperature and precipitation impacts on harmful algal blooms across continental U.S. lakes
Authors: Ho Jeff C. , Michalak Anna M.
Published: November 2019

Climate change is expected to impact the severity of harmful algal blooms in lakes and reservoirs through a number of mechanisms related to the influence of warming temperatures and changes to precipitation patterns. Evidence on the prevalence of individual mechanisms is lacking, however, with knowledge of many mechanisms restricted to studies of individual or small subsets of lakes. Here, we leverage over twelve hundred summertime lake observations from across the continental U.S. to explore evidence for the hypothesized risks from climate change attributable to specific mechanisms. Using a statistical model selection approach, we examine associations between temperature and precipitation variables and indicators of total phytoplankton abundance, species dominance, and toxicity. We find evidence in support of the hypotheses that summer temperatures drive total abundance, that the length of the summer drives cyanobacterial abundance, and that increased temperatures may reduce the observed toxicity of blooms in some cases. We find that nutrient concentrations are also likely to be impacted by lake warming, as increased temperatures are robustly associated with increased total phosphorus concentrations. Evidence for the impact of precipitation is mixed, however, as there is evidence to support that increased nutrient runoff from precipitation could support blooms but also that nutrient concentrations could be reduced through greater flushing due to precipitation. While statistical associations are not definitive evidence of formal mechanistic links, the geographic scale of the results is useful for identifying hypothesized mechanisms that are widespread across the continental U.S., and therefore for informing understanding of the influence of climate change.
Linking metagenomics to aquatic microbial ecology and biogeochemical cycles
Authors: Grossart Hans‐Peter , Massana Ramon , McMahon Katherine D. , Walsh David A.
Published: November 2019

Microbial communities are essential components of aquatic ecosystems through their contribution to food web dynamics and biogeochemical processes. Aquatic microbial diversity is immense and a general challenge is to understand how metabolism and interactions of single organisms shape microbial community dynamics and ecosystem‐scale biogeochemical transformations. Metagenomic approaches have developed rapidly, and proven to be powerful in linking microbial community dynamics to biogeochemical processes. In this review, we provide an overview of metagenomic approaches, followed by a discussion on some recent insights they have provided, including those in this special issue. These include the discovery of new taxa and metabolisms in aquatic microbiomes, insights into community assembly and functional ecology as well as evolutionary processes shaping microbial genomes and microbiomes, and the influence of human activities on aquatic microbiomes. Given that metagenomics can now be considered a mature technology where data generation and descriptive analyses are relatively routine and informative, we then discuss metagenomic‐enabled research avenues to further link microbial dynamics to biogeochemical processes. These include the integration of metagenomics into well‐designed ecological experiments, the use of metagenomics to inform and validate metabolic and biogeochemical models, and the pressing need for ecologically relevant model organisms and simple microbial systems to better interpret the taxonomic and functional information integrated in metagenomes. These research avenues will contribute to a more mechanistic and predictive understanding of links between microbial dynamics and biogeochemical cycles. Owing to rapid climate change and human impacts on aquatic ecosystems, the urgency of such an understanding has never been greater.
Which series are Hilbert series of graded modules over standard multigraded polynomial rings?
Authors: Katthän Lukas , Moyano‐Fernández Julio José , Uliczka Jan
Published: November 2019

Consider a polynomial ring R with the ‐grading where the degree of each variable is a standard basis vector. In other words, R is the homogeneous coordinate ring of a product of n projective spaces. In this setting, we characterize the formal Laurent series which arise as Hilbert series of finitely generated R‐modules. We also provide necessary conditions for a formal Laurent series to be the Hilbert series of a finitely generated module with a given depth. In the bigraded case (corresponding to the product of two projective spaces), we completely classify the Hilbert series of finitely generated modules of positive depth.