bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inducing Axial Chirality in a Supramolecular Catalyst
Authors: Wenz Katharina Marie , Leonhardt‐Lutterbeck Günter , Breit Bernhard
Published: March 2018

A new type of ligand, which is able to form axially chiral, supramolecular complexes was designed using DFT calculations. Two chiral monomers, each featuring a covalently bound chiral auxiliary, form a bidentate phosphine ligand with a twisted, hydrogen‐bonded backbone upon coordination to a transition metal center which results in two diastereomeric, tropos complexes. The ratio of the diastereomers in solution is very temperature‐ and solvent‐dependent. Rhodium and platinum complexes were analyzed through a combination of NMR studies, ESI‐MS measurements, as well as UV‐VIS and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The chiral self‐organized ligands were evaluated in the rhodium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of α‐dehydrogenated amino acids and resulted in good conversion and high enantioselectivity. This research opens the way for new ligand designs based on stereocontrol of supramolecular assemblies through stereodirecting chiral centers.
Metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli to produce succinate from soybean hydrolysate under anaerobic conditions
Authors: Zhu Fayin , Wang Yuanshan , San Ka‐Yiu , Bennett George N.
Published: March 2018

It is of great economic interest to produce succinate from low‐grade carbon sources, which can enhance the competitiveness of the biological route. In this study, succinate producer Escherichia coli CT550/pHL413KF1 was further engineered to efficiently use the mixed sugars from non‐food based soybean hydrolysate to produce succinate under anaerobic conditions. Since many common E. coli strains fail to use galactose anaerobically even if they can use it aerobically, the glucose, and galactose related sugar transporters were deactivated individually and evaluated. The PTS system was found to be important for utilization of mixed sugars, and galactose uptake was activated by deactivating ptsG. In the ptsG− strain, glucose, and galactose were used simultaneously. Glucose was assimilated mainly through the mannose PTS system while galactose was transferred mainly through GalP in a ptsG− strain. A new succinate producing strain, FZ591C which can efficiently produce succinate from the mixed sugars present in soybean hydrolysate was constructed by integration of the high succinate yield producing module and the galactose utilization module into the chromosome of the CT550 ptsG− strain. The succinate yield reached 1.64 mol/mol hexose consumed (95% of maximum theoretical yield) when a mixed sugars feedstock was used as a carbon source. Based on the three monitored sugars, a nominal succinate yield of 1.95 mol/mol was observed as the strain can apparently also use some other minor sugars in the hydrolysate. In this study, we demonstrate that FZ591C can use soybean hydrolysate as an inexpensive carbon source for high yield succinate production under anaerobic conditions, giving it the potential for industrial application.
Improving Electrical Conductivity of PEDOT:PSS with Phase Separation by Applying Electric Fields
Authors: Lim Kyounga , Kang Jisoo , Jung Sunghoon , Lee Seunghun , Park Juyun , Kim Do‐Geun , Kang Yong‐Cheol
Published: March 2018

Phase separation between poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS) induced by vertical electric fields to maximize the conductivity enhancement of the PEDOT:PSS film was introduced in this work. Two different films were prepared to observe the effect of the electric field on phase separation. The first film was a pristine PEDOT:PSS film obtained without the presence of an electric field (PP‐EF0) and the second film was a PEDOT:PSS film obtained by applying an electric field of 3 kV/cm (PP‐EF3). The domains with various sizes were verified on the surface of PP‐EF3 by atomic force microscopy and the oxidation state of PP‐EF3 was different from PP‐EF0 in the UV–Vis spectra. It was revealed that the ratio of the PEDOT/PSS under the surface of PP‐EF3 was higher than that of the PP‐EF0. The conductivities of PP‐EF0 and PP‐EF3 were measured after etching the surfaces of both films with methanol. Two different photovoltaic devices were fabricated to verify the effect in conductivity enhancement by the electric field. One was the device without electric field (d‐PP‐EF0) and the other was the device with an electric field of 3 kV/cm (d‐PP‐EF3). The current density and fill factor of d‐PP‐EF3 improved and therefore, the power conversion efficiency was enhanced up to 13%.
Unexpected delayed complete atrioventricular block after Cardioband implantation
Authors: Sorini Dini Carlotta , Landi Daniele , Meucci Francesco , Di Mario Carlo
Published: March 2018

The Cardioband system is a transcatheter direct annuloplasty device that is implanted in patients with severe symptomatic functional mitral regurgitation (MR) due to annulus dilatation and high surgical risk. This device covers the posterior two‐thirds of the annulus, from the anterolateral to the posteromedial commissure, implanted in close proximity of the left circumflex artery, atrioventricular (AV) conduction system, and coronary sinus. We present the case of an 80‐year‐old‐gentleman with prohibitive surgical risk, treated with Cardioband implantation for functional MR with an evident P1–P2 cleft and P2–P3 indentation, a relative contraindication to MitraClip implantation. We achieved procedural success with significative mitral annulus reduction (30% anteroposterior reduction from 37 to 26 mm) and MR reduction (from grade 4 to grade 1–2). A late onset Mobitz 2 AV block developed after 26 hr and evolved to complete AV block in the following day, requiring definitive biventricular pacemaker (PM). Less than 200 Cardioband implantations have been performed but, to our knowledge, this is the first reported AV block, possibly facilitated by the pre‐existing bifascicular block, suggesting the opportunity of prolonged ECG monitoring after Cardioband like any other mechanical transcatheter structural intervention possibly affecting the AV conduction system.
Patient‐reported outcomes from a phase 3 randomized controlled trial of inotuzumab ozogamicin versus standard therapy for relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Kantarjian Hagop M. , Su Yun , Jabbour Elias J. , Bhattacharyya Helen , Yan Eric , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Marks David I.
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Inotuzumab ozogamicin (InO), an anti‐CD22 antibody‐calicheamicin conjugate, demonstrated superior clinical activity versus standard‐of‐care (SOC) chemotherapies for relapsed/refractory B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in the phase 3 randomized controlled INO‐VATE trial. The authors assessed patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) from that study.

METHODS

Patients were randomized to receive either InO (1.8 mg/m2 per cycle for ≤6 cycles) or SOC (fludarabine/cytarabine [ara‐C]/granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor, or ara‐C plus mitoxantrone, or high‐dose ara‐C for ≤4 cycles) and completed the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire and the EuroQoL 5 Dimensions Questionnaires at baseline, on day 1 of each cycle, and at the end of treatment. Treatment differences in PROs were assessed using longitudinal mixed‐effects models with random intercepts and slopes.

RESULTS

Questionnaire completion rates in the InO (n = 164) and SOC (n = 162) arms were 85% and 65%, respectively. Baseline scores were similar between arms. Patients who received InO reported better quality of life (QoL), functioning, and symptom scores (except for constipation and emotional functioning). Least‐squares mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) differences in physical, role, and social functioning and in appetite loss were significant (6.9 [95% CI, 1.4‐12.3], 11.4 [95% CI, 3.2‐19.5], 8.4 [95% CI, 0.7‐16.1], and −8.7 [95% CI, −16.0 to −1.4], respectively; all P < .05) and had exceeded the minimally important difference of 5. Mean treatment differences in favor of InO on the EuroQoL visual analog scale and the global health status/QoL, dyspnea, and fatigue scales reached or approached the minimally important difference of 5, although without statistical significance. No dimensions were significantly worse with InO versus SOC.

CONCLUSIONS

The current PRO data support the favorable benefit/risk ratio of InO for the treatment of relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with superior clinical efficacy and better QoL. Cancer 2018;124:2151‐60. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Probing the Mechanical Response of Luminescent Dithiol‐Protected Ag29(BDT)12(TPP)4 Cluster Crystals
Authors: Sugi Korath Shivan , Mallikarjunachari Gangapuram , Som Anirban , Ghosh Pijush , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: March 2018

Atomically precise clusters of noble metals are considered to be an important class of advanced materials. Crystals of these clusters composed of inorganic cores and organic ligands are fascinating owing to their tunable and unique properties. Understanding their mechanical properties can give more insight into the design of nanocluster‐based devices. Here, we probe the mechanical response of single crystals of Ag29(BDT)12(TPP)4 cluster (BDT=1,3 benzenedithiol, TPP=triphenylphosphine) under both quasi‐static and dynamic loading conditions. Surprisingly, the measured reduced Young's modulus (Er) and hardness (H) were 4.48 and 0.285 GPa, respectively, similar to those of polymers and much smaller than the values for bulk silver. These observations indicate a significant role of capping ligands on the physical properties of such materials. The observed storage modulus, loss modulus and loss factor were also found to be similar to those of polymers. The magnitude of loss factor suggested the ability of nanocrystals to absorb energy under dynamic loading. These studies of mechanical properties of cluster materials could be useful in developing their applications.
Supplementing non‐target taxa: bird feeding alters the local distribution of mammals
Authors: Reed J. Hunter , Bonter David N.
Published: March 2018

Although the effects of bird feeding on avian species have been extensively examined, few studies evaluate the indirect effects of bird feeding on non‐target taxa. Bird seed could provide direct nourishment to several mammalian species (e.g., Lagomorpha, Rodentia, and Cetartiodactyla), potentially altering their distribution and behavior with possible unintended consequences for some avian populations, particularly those not directly benefiting from the resource. To examine how bird feeders may influence the presence and behavior of mammals, we used camera traps to quantify differences in the distribution and richness of mammal species frequenting sites with bird feeders and control sites (lacking feeders) in Ithaca, New York, USA. We recorded 15,684 images capturing 12 mammal species with gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) and raccoon (Procyon lotor) detected significantly more often at feeder sites than at control sites. Detections of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) marginally increased near feeders whereas detections of several carnivorous species were unrelated to the presence of bird feeders. We recorded larger gray squirrel and raccoon group sizes and greater mammal richness at feeder sites than at nearby control sites. We detected squirrels and raccoons less when snow covered the ground than on snow‐free days. Ambient temperature was not a strong predictor of mammal detections. Camera trapping revealed strong, species‐specific patterns in the timing of daily visitation to areas with feeders. Because many mammals depredate bird nests, the local increases in mammal richness and activity near bird feeders may create an ecological trap for avian species nesting in close proximity to supplemental feeding stations.
Applying a dryland degradation framework for rangelands: the case of Mongolia
Authors: Jamsranjav C. , Reid R. S. , Fernández‐Giménez M. E. , Tsevlee A. , Yadamsuren B. , Heiner M.
Published: March 2018

Livestock‐caused rangeland degradation remains a major policy concern globally and the subject of widespread scientific study. This concern persists in part because it is difficult to isolate the effects of livestock from climate and other factors that influence ecosystem conditions. Further, degradation studies seldom use multiple plant and soil indicators linked to a clear definition of and ecologically grounded framework for degradation assessment that distinguishes different levels of degradation. Here, we integrate two globally applicable rangeland degradation frameworks and apply them to a broad‐scale empirical data set for the country of Mongolia. We compare our assessment results with two other recent national rangeland degradation assessments in Mongolia to gauge consistency of findings across assessments and evaluate the utility of our framework. We measured livestock‐use impacts across Mongolia's major ecological zones: mountain and forest steppe, eastern steppe, steppe, and desert steppe. At 143 sites in 36 counties, we measured livestock‐use and degradation indicators at increasing distances from livestock corrals in winter‐grazed pastures. At each site, we measured multiple indicators linked to our degradation framework, including plant cover, standing biomass, palatability, species richness, forage quality, vegetation gaps, and soil surface characteristics. Livestock use had no effect on soils, plant species richness, or standing crop biomass in any ecological zone, but subtly affected plant cover and palatable plant abundance. Livestock effects were strongest in the steppe zone, moderate in the desert steppe, and limited in the mountain/forest and eastern steppes. Our results aligned closely with those of two other recent country‐wide assessments, suggesting that our framework may have widespread application. All three assessments found that very severe and irreversible degradation is rare in Mongolia (1–18% of land area), with most rangelands slightly (33–53%) or moderately (25–40%) degraded. We conclude that very severe livestock‐induced rangeland degradation is overstated in Mongolia. However, targeted rangeland restoration coupled with monitoring, adaptive management and stronger rangeland governance are needed to prevent further degradation where heavy grazing could cause irreversible change. Given the broad applicability of our degradation framework for Mongolia, we suggest it be tested for application in other temperate grasslands throughout Central Asia and North America.
Nonadaptive female pursuit of extrapair copulations can evolve through hitchhiking
Authors: Lyu Nan , Servedio Maria R. , Sun Yue‐Hua
Published: March 2018

Mounting evidence has indicated that engaging in extrapair copulations (EPCs) might be maladaptive or detrimental to females. It is unclear why such nonadaptive female behavior evolves. In this study, we test two hypotheses about the evolution of female EPC behavior using population genetic models. First, we find that both male preference for allocating extra effort to seek EPCs and female pursuit behavior without costs can be maintained and remain polymorphic in a population via frequency‐dependent selection. However, both behaviors cannot evolve when females with pursuit behavior suffer from a decline in male parental care. Second, we present another novel way in which female pursuit behavior can evolve; indirect selection can act on this behavior through a ratchet‐like mechanism involving oscillating linkage disequilibria between the target EPC pursuit locus and two other loci determining male mate choice and a female sexual signal. Although the overall positive force of such indirect selection is relatively weak, our results suggest that it may still play a role in promoting the evolution of female EPC behavior when this behavior is nonadaptive (i.e., it is neutral) or only somewhat maladaptive (e.g., males only occasionally lower parental care when their mates pursue EPCs).
Effect of growth temperature on photosynthetic capacity and respiration in three ecotypes of Eriophorum vaginatum
Authors: Schedlbauer Jessica L. , Fetcher Ned , Hood Katherine , Moody Michael L. , Tang Jianwu
Published: March 2018

Ecotypic differentiation in the tussock‐forming sedge Eriophorum vaginatum has led to the development of populations that are locally adapted to climate in Alaska's moist tussock tundra. As a foundation species, E. vaginatum plays a central role in providing topographic and microclimatic variation essential to these ecosystems, but a changing climate could diminish the importance of this species. As Arctic temperatures have increased, there is evidence of adaptational lag in E. vaginatum, as locally adapted ecotypes now exhibit reduced population growth rates. Whether there is a physiological underpinning to adaptational lag is unknown. Accordingly, this possibility was investigated in reciprocal transplant gardens. Tussocks of E. vaginatum from sites separated by ~1° latitude (Coldfoot: 67°15′N, Toolik Lake: 68°37′, Sagwon: 69°25′) were transplanted into the Toolik Lake and Sagwon sites and exposed to either an ambient or an experimental warming treatment. Five tussocks pertreatment combination were measured at each garden to determine photosynthetic capacity (i.e., Vcmax and Jmax) and dark respiration rate (Rd) at measurement temperatures of 15, 20, and 25°C. Photosynthetic enhancements or homeostasis were observed for all ecotypes at both gardens under increased growth temperature, indicating no negative effect of elevated temperature on photosynthetic capacity. Further, no evidence of thermal acclimation in Rd was observed for any ecotype, and there was little evidence of ecotypic variation in Rd. As such, no physiological contribution to adaptational lag was observed given the increase in growth temperature (up to ~2°C) provided by this study. Despite neutral to positive effects of increased growth temperature on photosynthesis in E. vaginatum, it appears to confer no lasting advantage to the species.
Floatability and a semiempirical model for resuspension thresholds of hydrochorous seeds
Authors: Zhu Xi , Zeng Yuhong , Huai Wenxin
Published: March 2018

Floatability and incipient motion of seeds are the key indicators in primary and secondary dispersal during hydrochory, respectively. Floatability could prolong the time for seeds' survival in water and thereby extend the distance of primary dispersal. Seeds that were deposited but did not germinate may be resuspended and transported by currents farther until permanently stranded. This study aimed to describe and predict the dispersal patterns and movements of seeds with these 2 indicators under static and dynamic water conditions that correspond to the 2 aforementioned dispersal phases. The physical properties and hydrodynamic characteristics of seeds from 3 angiosperm species were used to study the floatability and resuspension thresholds of hydrochorous seeds. Floatability quantified by the number of seeds remaining buoyant varies among the 3 species, implicating their differing capabilities of primary dispersal. Resuspension thresholds of settled seeds were quantified by critical currents (shear velocities) that move seeds at rest on the bed sediment. On the basis of a model of nonuniform sand and collected experimental data, we proposed a model suitable for incipient motion of seeds from the bed. This model can be applied in the evaluation of secondary dispersal potential under different flow conditions. The preliminary research on the movements of seeds in water helps elucidate and determine species distribution and establishment. These factors are important in dispersal ecology.
Identifying foundation species in North American forests using long‐term data on ant assemblage structure
Authors: Record Sydne , McCabe Tempest , Baiser Benjamin , Ellison Aaron M.
Published: March 2018

Foundation species are locally abundant and uniquely control associated biodiversity, whereas dominant species are locally abundant but are thought to be replaceable in ecological systems. It is important to distinguish foundation from dominant species to direct conservation efforts. Long‐term studies that remove abundant species while measuring community dynamics have the potential to (1) aid in the identification of foundation vs. dominant species and, (2) once a foundation species is identified, determine how long its effects persist within a community after its loss. Long‐term data on ant assemblages within two canopy‐manipulation experiments—the Harvard Forest Hemlock Removal Experiment (HF‐HeRE) and the Black Rock Future of Oak Forests Experiment (BRF‐FOFE)—provide insights into how ant assemblages change and reassemble following the loss of Tsuga canadensis or Quercus spp. Previous research documented foundation species effects on ants in the HF‐HeRE for up to four years after T. canadensis loss. Six additional years of data at HF‐HeRE presented for the first time here show that removal of T. canadensis resulted in taxonomic and some measures of functional shifts in ant assemblages that persisted for ten years, further supporting the hypothesis that T. canadensis is a foundation species at Harvard Forest. In contrast, ant assemblages at BRF‐FOFE varied little regardless of whether oaks or other tree species were removed from the canopy, suggesting that Quercus species do not act as foundation species at Black Rock Forest. Deer and moose exclosures within each experiment also allowed for comparisons between effects on ants of foundation or dominant tree species relative to effects of large herbivores. At HF‐HeRE, effects of T. canadensis were stronger than effects of large herbivores on taxonomic and functional diversity of ant assemblages. At BRF‐FOFE, in contrast, effects of Quercus species were weaker than effects of large herbivores on ant taxonomic diversity and some measures of ant functional diversity. These findings illustrate the importance of distinguishing between the roles of irreplaceable foundation species and replaceable dominant ones in forested ecosystems along with other drivers of biodiversity (e.g., herbivory).
Structural Optimization of Autonomous Energy Networks by Mathematical Programming Techniques
Authors: SAKAKIBARA KAZUTOSHI , MATSUMOTO TAKUYA , TANIGUCHI ITTETSU , TAMAKI HISASHI
Published: March 2018

The renewal of conventional energy systems is important countermeasures against global warming effects and natural hazards. A self‐sustainable decentralized energy system is one of the promising solutions for future sustainable and resilient societies. In this paper, a mathematical programming model is formulated and design and utilization of the overall energy network is optimized based on the model, where stationary batteries are equipped. Through some numerical simulation results, the effectiveness and the potential, for example, for clarifying the effect of the batteries, of the proposed model are investigated.
Development of Fast Derivation Method of Revenue Distribution for Power Trading Support
Authors: NAKAMURA RYOSUKE , YOKOTA TOSHIMI , TSURUGAI MITSUO , SAWA TOSHIYUKI
Published: March 2018

We are developing the power trading support system for judgment on making contract of negotiation transaction. About this system, fast derivation method of revenue distribution is developed. Calculation amount of deriving revenue is very large, because risk factors take a various value. Revenue is derived using “cost function” which represents the price against the amount of electricity generation. The total number is same as combination of risk factors. So, in developed method, risk factors are considered sequentially in calculation, and temporary cost function is assembled on each step. We evaluated the trade‐off of between effect of acceleration and error amount by example. We got the prospects that cumulative probability error is within 2% and calculation time is within 1 min.
Influence of Water and Temperature on Ionomer in Catalytic Layers and Membranes of Fuel Cells and Electrolyzers Evaluated by AFM
Authors: Morawietz T. , Handl M. , Oldani C. , Friedrich K. A. , Hiesgen R.
Published: March 2018

The major difference for the durability of the materials in PEM fuel cells and PEM electrolyzers is the exposure to humidified gases and to liquid water, respectively. Aquivion and Nafion ionomer was investigated at surfaces of membranes and cross‐sections of electrodes by material‐sensitive atomic force microscopy. The dimensional behavior of electrodes and membranes in a membrane‐electrode assembly cross section was studied as a function of combined humidity and temperature changes. The observed opposite effects of ionomer dimensional changes in membrane and catalytic layers are important for understanding mechanical stress factors and degradation. For the lamellar polymer phase at moderate humidity, a linear swelling behavior and the enclosure of multiples of 0.8 nm‐thick water layers was observed. Submersed in water, 3 nm‐thick enclosed water layers were found. At the water‐immersed Aquivion membrane derived from alcoholic dispersion larger 30–50 nm sized water‐rich areas were found. In contrast, for membranes derived from water‐based dispersion the water‐rich phase was smaller with 11 nm. The thickness of the ultrathin ionomer layers in the electrode was investigated as a function of humidity and temperature. A linear swelling was found for humidity changes whereas nonlinear behavior with 100% expansion and hysteresis was seen for temperature cycles.
Nonlinear Frequency Response Method for Evaluating Forced Periodic Operations of Chemical Reactors
Authors: Petkovska Menka , Nikolić Daliborka , Seidel‐Morgenstern Andreas
Published: March 2018

Nonlinear Frequency Response (NFR) method is a relatively new method which can be used for fast evaluation of possible process improvements through periodic operations. The method is analytical and approximate. Its main task is to give an answer whether periodic modulation of one or more process inputs can result in improved process performance. The method is explained in brief and an overview of the existing applications is given. The review covers simple reactions performed in isothermal and non‐isothermal stirred tank reactors exposed to different modulated inputs (inlet concentration, flow‐rate, inlet temperature, temperature of the heating/cooling medium). Processes with two simultaneously modulated inputs and different shapes of the periodic input are also considered. The results of the NFR method are compared with the results of numerical simulation and a critical evaluation of the method is given.
The euro area bias and the role of financial centres
Authors: Floreani Vincent Arthur , Habib Maurizio Michael
Published: March 2018

This paper investigates the euro area bias—a stronger preference for euro area securities in the cross‐border portfolio of euro area residents with respect to the prediction of an international finance gravity model. Compared with previous studies, we disentangle different partitions of the euro area and, crucially, isolate euro area financial centres, finding some novel results. First, the euro area bias is not always present and remarkably weak for securities issued by euro area high‐rating economies, those that would be expected to provide better insurance during crisis periods. Second, the extent of the euro area bias could be overstated, because euro area financial centres may conceal round‐tripping flows from euro area low‐rating economies. Finally, in the case of equity, the euro area bias did not decline during the crisis period but, in the case of debt issued by euro area low‐rating economies, unsurprisingly, weakened. The decline in exposure towards euro area debt securities was common among all cross‐border investors, not a specific retrenchment of euro area investors. Overall, our results call for a prudent treatment of cross‐border financial statistics in the presence of a financial centre bias.
Association between induced abortion history and later in vitro fertilization outcomes
Authors: Wang Yao , Sun Yun , Di Wen , Kuang Yan‐ping , Xu Bing
Published: March 2018

Objective

To establish an effective and safe clinical fertility strategy by investigating the relationship between abortion history and pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment.

Methods

In the present retrospective cohort study, data from IVF treatment cycles performed at a reproductive center in China between October 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015, were assessed. Outcomes were compared between women with a history of induced abortion and those without.

Results

There were 1532 IVF treatment cycles included; 454 patients had a history of induced abortion and 1078 did not. The spontaneous abortion rate was significantly higher (30/170 [17.6%] vs 41/420 [9.8%]; P=0.002) and the endometrium was significantly thinner (8.8 ± 1.8 vs 9.7 ± 1.8 cm; P=0.001) among patients with a history of induced abortion compared with those without. In a subgroup analysis of patients with a history of induced abortion, women who had undergone surgical abortions had a lower live delivery rate compared with medical abortions (29/76 [38%] vs 101/378 [27%]; P=0.039). Further, women who had a history of more than two surgical abortions had lower live delivery and clinical pregnancy rates (both P<0.05).

Conclusion

A history of induced abortion was associated with worse IVF outcomes, especially a history of more than two surgical abortions.
Connecting Drip Irrigation Performance to Farmers’ Practices: The Case of Greenhouse Horticulture in the Algerian Sahara
Authors: Laib K. , Hartani T. , Bouarfa S. , Kuper M. , Mailhol J.C.
Published: March 2018

Drip irrigation is widely used in a range of different farming systems. Farmers generally adapt drip irrigation systems to their specific conditions. Irrigation performance is usually related to the hydraulic parameters of drip irrigation, and is usually expressed as a single static value. We developed a comprehensive approach to account for irrigation performance as a dynamic process, which evolves continuously due to changes in the way farmers schedule irrigation and renew irrigation equipment. The performance of drip irrigation systems used for greenhouse horticulture was evaluated in south‐east Algeria in the 2012–2013 growing season. Two indicators were evaluated—distribution uniformity and water stress level. The approach was applied to 25 greenhouses owned by 13 farmers. Results revealed that the performance of drip irrigation systems is a dynamic process. We showed that farmers have integrated certain irrigation performance indicators such as distribution uniformity and water stress levels in their practices, as they have visible effects on crop production. Conversely, the relative irrigation supply does not directly interest the farmers, and was consequently not incorporated in their irrigation practices. We conclude that measuring drip irrigation performance must be accompanied by a broader understanding of the farming systems in which drip irrigation is used. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inside Back Cover: Development of a 3‐dimensional tissue lung phantom of a preterm infant for optical measurements of oxygen—Laser‐detector position considerations (J. Biophotonics 3/2018)
Authors: Larsson Jim , Liao Peilang , Lundin Patrik , Krite Svanberg Emilie , Swartling Johannes , Lewander Xu Märta , Bood Joakim , Andersson‐Engels Stefan
Published: March 2018

The picture depicts the different 3d‐printed organs, thorax, lungs, heart and bone. Assembled it is used as an optical phantom of a preterm infant for performing percutaneous optical measurements of the gas content in the lungs. In order to simulate the optical properties of the tissue, the heart and thorax can be filled with liquid phantoms, a mixture of Intralipid and Indian Ink.

Further details can be found in the article by Jim Larsson et al. (e201700097).

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Synthesis of trans‐dihydrofurans using bis (1(3‐trimethoxysilylpropyl)‐3‐methyl‐imidazolium) nickel tetrachloride tethered to colloidal silica nanoparticles
Authors: Shahbazi‐Alavi Hossein , Nazemzadeh Seyed Hadi , Safaei‐Ghomi Javad , Basharnavaz Hadi
Published: March 2018

An efficient multicomponent synthesis of dihydrofurans is described by a one‐pot condensation reaction of 4‐bromophenacyl bromide, aromatic aldehydes, and dimedone using an ionic liquid tethered to colloidal silica nanoparticles under reflux conditions in acetonitrile. The ionic liquid tethered to colloidal silica nanoparticles is characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic light scattering. Atom economy, a wide range of products, high catalytic activity, excellent yields in short reaction times, diastereoselective synthesis, reusability of the catalyst, and low catalyst loading are some of the important features of this protocol.
A molecular structure and crystallization correlation study of pyromellitic diimide‐based conjugated copolymers
Authors: Tsai Ming‐Chia , Liu Ja‐Wei , Huang Ping‐Tsung
Published: March 2018

Three pyromellitic diimide(PMDI)‐based polymers—poly(pyromellitic diimide‐co‐bithiophene) [poly(PMDI‐BTh)], poly(pyromellitic diimide‐co‐tetrathiophene) [poly(PMDI‐TTh)], and poly(pyromellitic diimide‐co‐benzodithio‐ phene) [poly(PMDI‐BDTTh)]—are synthesized to study the influence of different thiophene‐containing electron‐donating groups on the crystallizability of PMDI‐based conjugated polymers. Computer simulation using Density Functional Theory (DFT) [Gaussian B3LYP/6–31 + G(d,p)] indicates that poly(PMDI‐BDTTh) has a more planar molecular structure than the other two copolymers. Powder XRD diffraction experiment of the poly(PMDI‐BDTTh) shows a diffraction peak at about 2θ = 6.0°, but no diffraction peak occurs for poly(PMDI‐BTh) and poly(PMDI‐TTh). Although PMDI is a planar structure that is favorable for the molecular aggregation, a comonomer with planar structure seems to be very crucial in order to synthesize a crystallizable push–pull‐type PMDI‐based conjugated copolymer.
Nano‐layered TiO2 for effective bacterial disintegration of waste activated sludge and biogas production
Authors: Godvin Sharmila Vincent , Rajesh Banu Jeyakumar , Gunasekaran Muniappan , Angappane Subramanian , Yeom Ick Tae
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Proper management of the huge amount of waste activated sludge generated during the conventional treatment of wastewater is nowadays a major environmental issue. Proper treatment of sludge needs huge investment and proper handling. To address this issue, the immobilized photocatalyst (TiO2) mediated exocellular fractionation of bacterial pretreatment for anaerobic digestion was utilized as a sludge treatment technique.

RESULT

Ti was deposited on glass substrate by a DC spluttering technique, and a TiO2 layer was formed by annealing in oxygen atmosphere. This immobilized TiO2 efficiently extricated the extracellular components after 45 min by removing 99% of the total extractable extracellular polymeric substances. The exocellular fractionated bacterial pretreatment induced 20% of COD solubilization with methane generation of about 0.0217 g COD g‐1 COD d‐1, which was higher than the sludge without any treatment and sludge with bacterial pretreatment only.

CONCLUSION

An 8% increase in COD solubilization was achieved, which generated high quantities of methane. With the advantage of methane generation, the maximum profitable sludge reduction was obtained. Thin film deposition of TiO2 enables easy recovery of TiO2. The cost, energy, and solid balance analysis confirmed that this treatment method is field applicable. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
A tale of two countries: progress towards UNAIDS 90‐90‐90 targets in Botswana and Australia
Authors: Marukutira Tafireyi , Stoové Mark , Lockman Shahin , Mills Lisa A , Gaolathe Tendani , Lebelonyane Refeletswe , Jarvis Joseph N , Kelly Sherrie L , Wilson David P , Luchters Stanley , Crowe Suzanne M , Hellard Margaret
Published: March 2018

Introduction

UNAIDS 90‐90‐90 targets and Fast‐Track commitments are presented as precursors to ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030, through effecting a 90% reduction in new HIV infections and AIDS‐related deaths from 2010 levels (HIV epidemic control). Botswana, a low to middle‐income country with the third‐highest HIV prevalence, and Australia, a low‐prevalence high‐income country with an epidemic concentrated among men who have sex with men (MSM), have made significant strides towards achieving the UNAIDS 90‐90‐90 targets. These two countries provide lessons for different epidemic settings. This paper discusses the lessons that can be drawn from Botswana and Australia with respect to their success in HIV testing, treatment, viral suppression and other HIV prevention strategies for HIV epidemic control.

Discussion

Botswana and Australia are on target to achieving the 90‐90‐90 targets for HIV epidemic control, made possible by comprehensive HIV testing and treatment programmes in the two countries. As of 2015, 70% of all people assumed to be living with HIV had viral suppression in Botswana and Australia. However, HIV incidence remains above one per cent in the general population in Botswana and in MSM in Australia. The two countries have demonstrated that rapid HIV testing that is accessible and targeted at key and vulnerable populations is required in order to continue identifying new HIV infections. All citizens living with HIV in both countries are eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) and viral load monitoring through government‐funded programmes. Notwithstanding their success in reducing HIV transmission to date, programmes in both countries must continue to be supported at current levels to maintain epidemic suppression. Scaled HIV testing, linkage to care, universal ART, monitoring patients on treatment over and above strengthened HIV prevention strategies (e.g. male circumcision and pre‐exposure prophylaxis) will all continue to require funding.

Conclusions

The progress that Botswana and Australia have made towards meeting the 90‐90‐90 targets is commendable. However, in order to reduce HIV incidence significantly towards 2030, there is a need for sustained HIV testing, linkage to care and high treatment coverage. Botswana and Australia provide useful lessons for developing countries with generalized epidemics and high‐income countries with concentrated epidemics.
Comparison of statistical downscaling methods with respect to extreme events over Europe: Validation results from the perfect predictor experiment of the COST Action VALUE
Authors: Hertig Elke , Maraun Douglas , Bartholy Judit , Pongracz Rita , Vrac Mathieu , Mares Ileana , Gutiérrez José M. , Wibig Joanna , Casanueva Ana , Soares Pedro M. M.
Published: March 2018

Credible information about the properties and changes of extreme events on the regional and local scales is of prime importance in the context of future climate change. Within the EU‐COST Action VALUE a comprehensive validation framework for downscaling methods has been developed. Here we present validation results for extremes of temperature and precipitation from the perfect predictor experiment that uses reanalysis‐based predictors to isolate downscaling skill.

The raw reanalysis output reveals that there is mostly a large bias with respect to the extreme index values at the considered stations across Europe, clearly pointing to the necessity of downscaling. The performance of the downscaling methods is closely linked to their specific structure and setup. All methods using parametric distributions require non‐standard distributions to correctly represent marginal aspects of extremes. Also, the performance is much improved by explicitly including a seasonal component, particularly in case of precipitation.

With respect to the marginal aspects of extremes the best performance is found for model output statistics (MOS), weather generators (WGs) as well as perfect prognosis (PP) methods using analogues. Spell‐length‐related extremes of temperature are best assessed by MOS and WGs, spell‐length‐related extremes of precipitation by MOS and PP methods using analogues. The skill of PP methods with transfer functions varies strongly across the methods and depends on the extreme index, region and season considered.
Effect of the paste–anode interface under impressed current cathodic protection in concrete structures
Authors: Zhang Emma Q. , Tang Luping , Bernin Diana , Jansson Helén
Published: March 2018

Impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) is a powerful method to prevent and stop corrosion of steel in concrete structures. To evaluate the long‐term effect of ICCP, accelerated tests have been adopted using high current densities. A carbon fiber reinforced polymer mesh was introduced as anode. The presented research focused on the changes at the paste–anode interface as a consequence of applying current. The treated samples were characterized by various techniques. Calcium dissolution was found with an average thickness of 0.34 mm around the anode after charges of 6 × 106 C/m2 were applied, equivalent to applying 4 mA/m2 of anode surface for 30 years. Calcium dissolution resulted in a white zone around the anode, where the calcium silica ratio was lowered and almost no crystal phase was observed. NMR results show clear and peaks in the white zone, which contained extended branched and networked structures of hardened cement paste. An increased resistance caused by the formation of the white zone may eventually make the system fail because of insufficient current densities. CFRP has been proven suitable for ICCP application even at a current density of 4 A/m2 of anode surface.
Negative ion laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometric analysis of small molecules by using nanostructured substrate as matrices
Authors: Lin Zian , Cai Zongwei
Published: March 2018

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) is an excellent analytical technique for rapid and sensitive analysis of macromolecules such as polymers and proteins. However, the main drawback of MALDI‐TOF MS is its difficulty to detect small molecules with mass below 700 Da because of the intensive interference from MALDI matrix in the low mass region. In recent years there has been considerable interest in developing matrix‐free laser desorption/ionization by using nanostructured substrates to substitute the conventional organic matrices, which is often referred as surface‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (SALDI‐TOF MS). Despite these attractive features, most of the current SALDI‐TOF MS for the analysis of small molecules employ positive ion mode, which is subjected to produce multiple alkali metal adducts, and thus increases the complexity of the analysis. Different from the complicated adducts produced in positive ion mode, mass spectra obtained in negative ion mode are featured by deprotonated ion peaks without matrix interference, which simplifies the interpretation of mass spectra and detection of unknown. In this review, we critically survey recent advances in nanostructured substrates for negative ion LDI‐TOF MS analysis of small molecules in the last 5 years. Special emphasis is placed on the preparation of the nanostructured substrates and the results achieved in negative ion SALDI‐MS. In addition, a variety of promising applications including environmental, biological, and clinical analysis are introduced. The ionization mechanism of negative ionization is briefly discussed.
Vitamin B12 and Homocysteine Levels Predict Different Outcomes in Early Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Christine Chadwick W. , Auinger Peggy , Joslin Amelia , Yelpaala Yuora , Green Ralph ,   on behalf of the Parkinson Study Group—DATATOP Investigators
Published: March 2018

Background: In moderately advanced Parkinson's disease (PD), low serum vitamin B12 levels are common and are associated with neuropathy and cognitive impairment. However, little is known about B12 in early PD.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of low vitamin B12 status in early PD and whether it is associated with clinical progression.

Methods: We measured vitamin B12 and other B12 status determinants (methylmalonic acid, homocysteine, and holotranscobalamin) in 680 baseline and 456 follow‐up serum samples collected from DATATOP participants with early, untreated PD. Borderline low B12 status was defined as serum B12 <184 pmol/L (250 pg/mL), and elevated homocysteine was defined as >15 µmol/L. Outcomes included the UPDRS, ambulatory capacity score (sum of UPDRS items 13‐15, 29&30), and MMSE, calculated as annualized rates of change.

Results: At baseline, 13% had borderline low B12 levels, 7% had elevated homocysteine, whereas 2% had both. Elevated homocysteine at baseline was associated with worse scores on the baseline MMSE. Analysis of study outcomes showed that compared with the other tertiles, participants in the low B12 tertile (<234 pmol/L; 317 pg/mL) developed greater morbidity as assessed by greater annualized worsening of the ambulatory capacity score. Elevated homocysteine was associated with greater annualized decline in MMSE (−1.96 vs. 0.06; P = 0001). Blood count indices were not associated with B12 or homocysteine status.

Conclusions: In this study of early PD, low B12 status was common. Low B12 at baseline predicted greater worsening of mobility whereas elevated homocysteine predicted greater cognitive decline. Given that low B12 and elevated homocysteine can improve with vitamin supplementation, future studies should test whether prevention or early correction of these nutritionally modifiable conditions slows development of disability. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Sugary Kefir Strain Lactobacillus mali APS1 Ameliorated Hepatic Steatosis by Regulation of SIRT‐1/Nrf‐2 and Gut Microbiota in Rats
Authors: Chen Yung‐Tsung , Lin Yu‐Chun , Lin Jin‐Seng , Yang Ning‐Sun , Chen Ming‐Ju
Published: March 2018

Scope

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common disease that is concomitant with obesity, resulting in increased mortality. To date, the efficiency of NAFLD treatment still needs to be improved. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effect of Lactobacillus mali APS1, which was isolated from sugary kefir, on hepatic steatosis in rats fed a high‐fat diet (HFD).

Methods and results

Sprague Dawley rats were fed a control diet, a HFD with saline, and a HFD with APS1 intervention by gavage daily for 12 weeks. The results showed that APS1 significantly reduced body weight and body weight gain in HFD‐fed rats. APS1 reduced hepatic lipid accumulation by regulating SIRT‐1/PGC‐1α/SREBP‐1 expression. Moreover, APS1 increased hepatic antioxidant activity by modulating Nrf‐2/HO‐1 expression. Notably, APS1 manipulated the gut microbiota, resulting in increasing proportions of the phylum Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes and reducing the abundance of specific NAFLD‐associated bacteria.

Conclusion

These results suggested that APS1 ameliorated hepatic steatosis by modulating lipid metabolism and antioxidant activity via manipulating specific NAFLD‐associated gut microbiota in vivo.
Needle electromyography practice patterns in patients taking novel oral anticoagulants: A survey‐based study
Authors: Lee Ikjae , Kushlaf Hani
Published: March 2018

Introduction: This study sought to evaluate needle electromyography (EMG) practice patterns among electromyographers with patients taking novel oral anticoagulants (NOAC). Methods: A survey questionnaire was sent to members of the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM) via email web link. Anonymous survey responses were collected through an online website. Results: Fifty‐eight AANEM members responded, 28 (48%) of whom worked at a teaching hospital and 30 (52%) of whom worked in a private setting. Fifty‐four (93%) responders perform needle EMG on patients taking NOACs. Twenty‐nine (50%) responders examine paraspinal muscles, and 20 (40%) responders examine facial muscles. Among 14 responders who perform single‐fiber EMG (SFEMG), 8 examine patients taking NOACs. Discussion: Although most of the electromyographers perform needle EMG on patients taking NOACs, they reported variable practice patterns in examination of the paraspinal and facial muscles and in performing SFEMG. A prospective risk–benefit study is required. Muscle Nerve 58: 307–309, 2018