bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneously Dual Modification of Ni‐Rich Layered Oxide Cathode for High‐Energy Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Huiping , Wu Hong‐Hui , Ge Mingyuan , Li Lingjun , Yuan Yifei , Yao Qi , Chen Jie , Xia Lingfeng , Zheng Jiangming , Chen Zhaoyong , Duan Junfei , Kisslinger Kim , Zeng Xiao Cheng , Lee Wah‐Keat , Zhang Qiaobao , Lu Jun
Published: February 2019

A critical challenge in the commercialization of layer‐structured Ni‐rich materials is the fast capacity drop and voltage fading due to the interfacial instability and bulk structural degradation of the cathodes during battery operation. Herein, with the guidance of theoretical calculations of migration energy difference between La and Ti from the surface to the inside of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2, for the first time, Ti‐doped and La4NiLiO8‐coated LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathodes are rationally designed and prepared, via a simple and convenient dual‐modification strategy of synchronous synthesis and in situ modification. Impressively, the dual modified materials show remarkably improved electrochemical performance and largely suppressed voltage fading, even under exertive operational conditions at elevated temperature and under extended cutoff voltage. Further studies reveal that the nanoscale structural degradation on material surfaces and the appearance of intergranular cracks associated with the inconsistent evolution of structural degradation at the particle level can be effectively suppressed by the synergetic effect of the conductive La4NiLiO8 coating layer and the strong TiO bond. The present work demonstrates that our strategy can simultaneously address the two issues with respect to interfacial instability and bulk structural degradation, and it represents a significant progress in the development of advanced cathode materials for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries.
Kerr Nonlinearity in 2D Graphdiyne for Passive Photonic Diodes
Authors: Wu Leiming , Dong Yuze , Zhao Jinlai , Ma Dingtao , Huang Weichun , Zhang Ye , Wang Yunzheng , Jiang Xiantao , Xiang Yuanjiang , Li Jianqing , Feng Yaqing , Xu Jialiang , Zhang Han
Published: February 2019

Graphdiyne is a new carbon allotrope comprising sp‐ and sp2‐hybridized carbon atoms arranged in a 2D layered structure. In this contribution, 2D graphdiyne is demonstrated to exhibit a strong light–matter interaction with high stability to achieve a broadband Kerr nonlinear optical response, which is useful for nonreciprocal light propagation in passive photonic diodes. Furthermore, advantage of the unique Kerr nonlinearity of 2D graphdiyne is taken and a nonreciprocal light propagation device is proposed based on the novel similarity comparison method. Graphdiyne has demonstrated a large nonlinear refractive index in the order of ≈10−5 cm2 W−1, comparing favorably to that of graphene. Based on the strong Kerr nonlinearity of 2D graphdiyne, a nonlinear photonic diode that breaks time‐reversal symmetry is demonstrated to realize the unidirectional excitation of Kerr nonlinearity, which can be regarded as a significant demonstration of a graphdiyne‐based prototypical application in nonlinear photonics and might suggest an important step toward versatile graphdiyne‐based advanced passive photonics devices in the future.
Metal Mesh as a Transparent Omnidirectional Strain Sensor
Authors: Zhou Weixin , Li Yi , Li Pan , Chen Jun , Xu Rongqing , Yao Shanshan , Cui Zheng , Booth Ronald , Mi Baoxiu , Wang Dan , Ma Yanwen , Huang Wei
Published: February 2019

Thin metal films can be engineered to fabricate strain sensors by conquering their stiffness using wavy, buckle, or wrinkle topography. However, these structures usually operate in uniaxial or biaxial stretching directions, limiting their application in the omnidirectional model. Here a strain sensor is constructed by using metal mesh with honeycomb lattices and multiple domains as the sensitive unit, which simultaneously provides good stretchability and direction independence. Besides, the metal mesh structure makes it possible to obtain a transparent sensor with a sheet resistance of 26 Ω sq−1 at a transmittance of 79%. The sensor exhibits a highly sensitive resistance change with tension strain, demonstrated by quick response when monitoring the finger and muscle motion. The sensor also shows promising potential application in detecting periodic oscillation with selected frequency and even complex mechanical oscillation like glass vibration.
Highly Efficient Flexible Polymer Solar Cells with Robust Mechanical Stability
Authors: Tan Licheng , Wang Yilin , Zhang Jingwen , Xiao Shuqin , Zhou Huanyu , Li Yaowen , Chen Yiwang , Li Yongfang
Published: February 2019

Landmark power conversion efficiency (PCE) over 14% has been accomplished for single‐junction polymer solar cells (PSCs). However, the inevitable fracture of inorganic transporting layers and deficient interlayer adhesion are critical challenges to achieving the goal of flexible PSCs. Here, a bendable and thickness‐insensitive Al‐doped ZnO (AZO) modified by polydopamine (PDA) has emerged as a promising electron transporting layer (ETL) in PSCs. It has special ductility and adhesion to the active layer for improving the mechanical durability of the device. Nonfullerenes PSCs based on PBDB‐T‐2F:IT‐4F with AZO:1.5% PDA (80 nm) ETL yield the best PCE of 12.7%. More importantly, a prominent PCE, approaching 11.5%, is reached for the fully flexible device based on Ag‐mesh flexible electrode, and the device retains >91% of its initial PCE after bending for 1500 cycles. Such thickness insensitivity, mechanical durability, and interfacial adhesion properties for the inorganic ETLs are desired for the development of flexible and wearable PSCs with reliable photovoltaic performance and large‐area roll‐to‐roll printing manufacture.
Thermodynamic mechanism of selective cocrystallization explored by MD simulation and phase diagram analysis
Authors: Wang Na , Huang Xin , Gong Hao , Zhou Yanan , Li Xin , Li Fei , Bao Ying , Xie Chuang , Wang Zhao , Yin Qiuxiang , Hao Hongxun
Published: February 2019

The thermodynamic mechanism of selective cocrystallization was investigated by combination of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and phase diagram analysis, using system of urea and cresol isomers as model compounds. Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs) models were utilized to predict miscibility and cocrystal formation. Thermodynamic phase diagrams of cresol isomers and urea were measured with the help of process analysis technology. MD simulations were performed to investigate the intermolecular interactions between m‐ and/or p‐cresol and urea, by calculating the solvation free energies (SFEs) and analysing radial distribution functions (RDFs). The simulation and experimental results indicate that the solubility data of urea are apparently affected by the SFEs, which are linearly related with the concentration of urea. Moreover, it was also found that the type of O‐H···O=C hydrogen bond plays a critical role in the contribution of intermolecular interactions and is also a key factor for selective cocrystallization.
The Claustrum of the Pig: An Immunohistochemical and a Quantitative Golgi Study
Authors: Pirone Andrea , Miragliotta Vincenzo , Cozzi Bruno , Granato Alberto
Published: February 2019

Despite increasing interest in the claustrum (Cl) over the last decades, its function is still a puzzling problem. Among the experimental species of potential use in Cl research, the pig is considered an interesting model, because of the similarities of its brain with the corresponding cortical and subcortical human structures. The swine Cl presents a peculiar morphology, characterized by a wide posterior enlargement, ideal for physiological investigations. There is a wealth of data on general anatomy, cytoarchitecture, and chemo architecture of the Cl, but much less is known about the dendritic morphometry of its neurons. Dendritic length and branching pattern are key features to understand the organization of the microcircuitry, and thus the delineation of the structure–function relationships of the Cl. To this effect, we undertook (a) a quantitative study of the dendrites of the spiny neurons of the swine Cl, employing the Golgi staining; and (b) an immunohistochemical analysis to describe the distribution of the parvalbumin (PV)‐immunoreactive interneurons throughout the same nucleus. Taken together, the results that we report here show that the dendritic architecture and the distribution of the PV expressing interneurons change when the Cl of this species changes its shape along the rostro‐caudal axis, thus suggesting a potentially specific function for the large posterior puddle. Anat Rec, 302:1638–1646, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
In Vitro Analysis of Palatal Shelf Elevation During Secondary Palate Formation
Authors: Yu Kai , Yonemitsu Marisa A.
Published: February 2019

Palatal shelf elevation is an essential morphogenetic process during secondary palate formation. It has been proposed that shelf elevation results from an intrinsic elevating force and is regulated by extrinsic factors that are associated with development of other orofacial structures. Although dynamic palate culture is a common in vitro approach for studying shelf elevation, it requires the tongue or the tongue and mandible to be removed before culture, which prevents any determination of the role of the extrinsic factors in regulating shelf elevation. We showed that ex vivo removal of the tongue and mandible from unfixed embryonic heads led to spontaneous shelf movements that were more pronounced at late E13.5 and early E14.5 than those of E12.5 and early E13.5, suggesting that the strength of the elevating force increases over time during palate development. We further used a suspension culture technique to analyze palatal shelf movement in an intact oral cavity by culturing the orofacial portion of embryonic heads that include the maxilla, palatal shelves, mandible, and tongue (MPMT). MPMT explants were cultured in the serum‐free medium with slow rotation for 24–48 hr. The palatal shelves successfully elevated during culture and displayed intermediate morphologies that closely resemble those of in vivo shelf elevation. We demonstrate that the tongue and mandible facilitate shelf medial movement/growth during shelf elevation and further suggest that the interaction of the palatal shelves and tongue could be one of the extrinsic factors that regulate the elevation process. Anat Rec, 302:1594–1604, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
A New Tool for Digital Alignment in Virtual Anthropology
Authors: Profico Antonio , Buzi Costantino , Davis Christopher , Melchionna Marina , Veneziano Alessio , Raia Pasquale , Manzi Giorgio
Published: February 2019

The study of the fossil record is fundamental to understand the evolution of traits. Because fossil remains are often fragmented and/or deformed by taphonomic processes, a preliminary realignment of their constituent parts is often necessary to properly interpret their shapes. In virtual anthropology, these procedures are carried out using digital models of the remains. We present a new semi‐automatic alignment R software, Digital Tool for Alignment (DTA), which uses the shape information contained in a reference sample to find the best alignment solution for the disarticulated regions. We tested DTA on three different case‐studies: (1) a sample of 14 primate species including both male and female individuals, (2) a simulated, disarticulated skull of Homo sapiens, and (3) a real disarticulated human fossil specimen, Amud 1 (Homo neanderthalensis). In the first case study, we simulated disarticulation directly on digital models of the primate skulls and tested alignment quality as a function of phylogenetic proximity, sex, and body size. In the second, we compared DTA to manual alignments conducted for the same digital models. Finally, we performed DTA on a real‐world case study. We found that phylogenetic proximity provides is the most important factor for alignment efficiency. However, sex and allometric effects might also be important and should therefore be taken into account at selecting reference models for alignments. DTA performs at least as well as manual alignments. Yet, as compared to manual procedures, it is faster, requires no prior anatomical knowledge and expertise and allows indefinite manipulation of the fossil items. Anat Rec, 302:1104–1115, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Model Based Multiscale Analysis of Film Formation in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Röder Fridolin , Laue Vincent , Krewer Ulrike
Published: February 2019

Evidence for multiscale interaction of processes during surface film growth is provided using a multiscale modeling approach. The model directly couples a continuum pseudo two dimensional (P2D) battery model and a heterogeneous surface film growth model based on the kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) method. Key parameters have been identified at basic electrochemical experiments, i. e., open circuit potential (OCP), C‐rate tests, and potential during filmformation. Simulations are in very good agreement with these experiments. Simulation results are shown for various formation procedures, i. e., for different applied C‐rates. Interaction between macroscopic transport processes on electrode scale and elementary reaction steps on atomistic scale are observed. Results reveal a distinct impact of the applied procedures on the atomistic structure of surface films. It can be seen that locally heterogeneous films are formed with very slow charging rate due to stochasticity of the growth process, while spatially heterogeneous films are formed with very fast charging rate due to the spatial heterogeneous distribution of concentration and potential. Therefore, the author's emphasize that in order to identify charging protocols for optimal film morphology multiscale interactions should be considered.
The use of tools of data mining to decision making in engineering education—A systematic mapping study
Authors: Buenaño‐Fernandez Diego , Villegas‐CH William , Luján‐Mora Sergio
Published: February 2019

In recent years, there has been an increasing amount of theoretical and applied research that has focused on educational data mining. The learning analytics is a discipline that uses techniques, methods, and algorithms that allow the user to discover and extract patterns in stored educational data, with the purpose of improving the teaching‐learning process. However, there are many requirements related to the use of new technologies in teaching‐learning processes that are practically unaddressed from the learning analytics. In an analysis of the literature, the existence of a systematic revision of the application of learning analytics in the field of engineering education is not evident. The study described in this article provides researchers with an overview of the progress made to date and identifies areas in which research is missing. To this end, a systematic mapping study has been carried out, oriented toward the classification of publications that focus on the type of research and the type of contribution. The results show a trend toward case study research that is mainly directed at software and computer science engineering. Furthermore, trends in the application of learning analytics are highlighted in the topics, such as student retention or dropout prediction, analysis of academic student data, student learning assessment and student behavior analysis. Although this systematic mapping study has focused on the application of learning analytics in engineering education, some of the results can also be applied to other educational areas.
Simple eddy current compensation by additional gradient pulses
Authors: Niederländer Benjamin , Blümler Peter
Published: February 2019

A simple compensation concept for eddy currents generated by additional gradient pulses is presented. Similar to other pre‐emphasis schemes, the gradient pulse shape is overemphasized in the opposite way of the effect of the eddy currents to compensate for the deviations from the anticipated (rectangular) shape. In difference to other schemes no extra hardware is required, but eddy currents have been tried to be cancelled simply by a few short extra gradient pulses. The compensation can be done either by cancelling the amplitude of the eddy currents or their effect on the phase of the NMR‐signal. For certain conditions even analytical solutions can be found. The general treatment is validated by simulations and experiments.
Tail queues: A multi‐threaded matching architecture
Authors: Dosanjh Matthew G.F. , Grant Ryan E. , Schonbein Whit , Bridges Patrick G.
Published: February 2019

As we approach exascale, computational parallelism will have to drastically increase in order to meet throughput targets. Many‐core architectures have exacerbated this problem by trading reduced clock speeds, core complexity, and computation throughput for increasing parallelism. This presents two major challenges for communication libraries such as MPI: the library must leverage the performance advantages of thread level parallelism and avoid the scalability problems associated with increasing the number of processes to that scale. Hybrid programming models, such as MPI+X, have been proposed to address these challenges. MPI THREAD MULTIPLE is MPI's thread safe mode. While there has been work to optimize it, it largely remains non‐performant in most implementations. While current applications avoid MPI multithreading due to performance concerns, it is expected to be utilized in future applications. One of the major synchronous data structures required by MPI is the matching engine. In this paper, we present a parallel matching algorithm that can improve MPI matching for multithreaded applications. We then perform a feasibility study to demonstrate the performance benefit of the technique.
A fully soft switched high step‐up SEPIC‐boost DC‐DC converter with one auxiliary switch
Authors: Mirzaei Amin , Rezvanyvardom Mahdi , Najafi Ehsan
Published: February 2019

This paper proposed a new single‐ended primary inductor converter (SEPIC)‐boost DC‐DC converter that uses only one auxiliary switch to create soft switching condition for all semiconductor devices. The auxiliary circuit comprises one power switch (Sa), one resonant inductor (Lr), one resonant capacitor (Cr), and one diode (Do2). The auxiliary switch (Sa) controls the resonance during switching instants. The converter has simple structure and its control circuit remains pulse width modulation (PWM). Besides, the proposed converter has high voltage gain without using any transformer or coupled inductors. In addition, the auxiliary switch is not located in the main power path. Moreover, using soft switching techniques is the best way for reducing the size, weight, and volume of the converter. Furthermore, reduction of input inrush current and voltage stress for the main switch is obtained by using SEPIC‐boost structure. A laboratory prototype converter is designed and implemented. The experimental results presented confirm the theoretical and features of the proposed converter.
High‐Throughput Automated Single‐Cell Imaging Analysis Reveals Dynamics of Glioblastoma Stem Cell Population During State Transition
Authors: Chumakova Anastasia P. , Hitomi Masahiro , Sulman Erik P. , Lathia Justin D.
Published: February 2019

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a heterogeneous and dynamic self‐renewing population that stands at the top of tumor cellular hierarchy and contribute to tumor recurrence and therapeutic resistance. As methods of CSC isolation and functional interrogation advance, there is a need for a reliable and accessible quantitative approach to assess heterogeneity and state transition dynamics in CSCs. We developed a high‐throughput automated single cell imaging analysis (HASCIA) approach for the quantitative assessment of protein expression with single‐cell resolution and applied the method to investigate spatiotemporal factors that influence CSC state transition using glioblastoma (GBM) CSCs (GSCs) as a model system. We were able to validate the quantitative nature of this approach through comparison of the protein expression levels determined by HASCIA to those determined by immunoblotting. A virtue of HASCIA was exemplified by detection of a subpopulation of SOX2‐low cells, which expanded in fraction size during state transition. HASCIA also revealed that GSCs were committed to loose stem cell state at an earlier time point than the average SOX2 level decreased. Functional assessment of stem cell frequency in combination with the quantification of SOX2 expression by HASCIA defined a stable cutoff of SOX2 expression level for stem cell state. We also developed an approach to assess local cell density and found that denser monolayer areas possess higher average levels of SOX2, higher cell diversity, and a presence of a sub‐population of slowly proliferating SOX2‐low GSCs. HASCIA is an open source software that facilitates understanding the dynamics of heterogeneous cell population such as that of GSCs and their progeny. It is a powerful and easy‐to‐use image analysis and statistical analysis tool available at https://hascia.lerner.ccf.org. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
L‐Selectin Expression is Influenced by Phosphatase Activity in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Beke Debreceni Ildikó , Szász Róbert , Kónya Zoltán , Erdődi Ferenc , Kiss Flóra , Kappelmayer János
Published: February 2019

Background

Adhesion receptors have important role in cellular invasiveness and L‐selectin is a primary determinant in the binding of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells to several glycated proteins on endothelial cells. We investigated L‐selectin expression on CLL cells and explored the mechanisms that lead to their shedding.

Methods

Surface and soluble L‐selectin expression levels were studied by flow cytometry and immunoassay, respectively. Magnetically isolated B‐cells from patients and controls were investigated for total and protein phosphatase‐2A activities. Flow cytometry of permeabilized cells was utilized for the determination of phosphorylated mitogen‐activated protein kinase (pp38MAPK) and surface tumor necrosis factor alpha‐converting enzyme expression (TACE).

Results

In CLL patients elevated absolute lymphocyte cell counts, high soluble and low surface L‐selectin expression were observed. Similarly, TACE surface expression was significantly lower on B‐CLL cells compared to normal B‐cells. Both total phosphatase and protein phosphatase‐2A activities were also significantly lower in B‐CLL cells compared to normal B‐cells and we found a consequently higher level of pp38 MAPK in B‐CLL cells. Based on in vitro experiments a MAPK inhibitor could attenuate the phosphatase inhibitor's effect on L‐selectin shedding.

Conclusions

The lower phosphatase activity detectable in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, results in a downstream signaling cascade with subsequent reduction of surface L‐selectin expression and this effect is mediated by enhanced phosphorylation of p38MAPK and an altered TACE expression. © 2019 The Authors. Cytometry Part B: Clinical Cytometry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Clinical Cytometry Society.
Broad Consent for Future Research: International Perspectives
Authors: Rothstein Mark A. , Harrell Heather L. , Saulnier Katie M. , Dove Edward S. , Fan Chien Te , Hung Tzu-Hsun , Nnamuchi Obiajulu , Obadia Alexandra , Siegal Gil , Knoppers Bartha Maria
Published: February 2019

In the United States, final amendments to the Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects (“the Common Rule”) were published on January 19, 2017, and they will take effect on January 21, 2019. One of the most widely discussed provisions is that for the first time, federal regulations governing research with humans authorize the use of broad consent for future, unspecified research on individually identifiable biospecimens and associated data. Many questions have been raised about broad consent, including what effect it will have on research and whether it adequately protects the interests of research participants.

There are lessons to be learned for the U.S. and other countries by looking to countries that already have experience with broad consent for biobank collection and with the storage and subsequent use of the biospecimens and data. This article describes how broad consent works in five countries—Canada (in Quebec), Israel, Nigeria, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom—and with different types of biobanks: national biobanks, federated biobanks, and regional biobanks. Evaluating the provisions and challenges of the broad consent approaches in these countries can inform policies for this increasingly used approach to biobank regulation.
Comparing RADseq and microsatellites for estimating genetic diversity and relatedness — Implications for brown trout conservation
Authors: Lemopoulos Alexandre , Prokkola Jenni M. , Uusi‐Heikkilä Silva , Vasemägi Anti , Huusko Ari , Hyvärinen Pekka , Koljonen Marja‐Liisa , Koskiniemi Jarmo , Vainikka Anssi
Published: February 2019

The conservation and management of endangered species requires information on their genetic diversity, relatedness and population structure. The main genetic markers applied for these questions are microsatellites and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the latter of which remain the more resource demanding approach in most cases. Here, we compare the performance of two approaches, SNPs obtained by restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) and 16 DNA microsatellite loci, for estimating genetic diversity, relatedness and genetic differentiation of three, small, geographically close wild brown trout (Salmo trutta) populations and a regionally used hatchery strain. The genetic differentiation, quantified as FST, was similar when measured using 16 microsatellites and 4,876 SNPs. Based on both marker types, each brown trout population represented a distinct gene pool with a low level of interbreeding. Analysis of SNPs identified half‐ and full‐siblings with a higher probability than the analysis based on microsatellites, and SNPs outperformed microsatellites in estimating individual‐level multilocus heterozygosity. Overall, the results indicated that moderately polymorphic microsatellites and SNPs from RADseq agreed on estimates of population genetic structure in moderately diverged, small populations, but RADseq outperformed microsatellites for applications that required individual‐level genotype information, such as quantifying relatedness and individual‐level heterozygosity. The results can be applied to other small populations with low or moderate levels of genetic diversity.
Cover crops and compost prevent weed seed bank buildup in herbicide‐free wheat–potato rotations under conservation tillage
Authors: Schmidt Jan H. , Junge Stephan , Finckh Maria R.
Published: February 2019

Weeds are a major constraint affecting crop yields in organic farming and weed seed bank analysis can be an important tool for predicting weed infestation and assessing farming system sustainability.

We compared the weed seed banks two and four years after transition from conventional to reduced tillage in organically managed winter wheat–potato cropping sequences in two replicated field trials. Experimental factors were either conventional (CT) with moldboard (25 cm) or reduced tillage (RT) with chisel ploughing (5–15 cm). Dead mulch (8–10 cm), consisting of rye–pea or triticale–vetch mixtures, was additionally applied to potatoes in the RT system. In both systems, one‐half of the plots received 5 t (ha/year) dry matter of a commercially sold yard waste compost as an organic amendment. Furthermore, subsidiary crops were grown in both systems, either as legume living mulches undersown in wheat or as cover crops sown after wheat. Prior to sowing the wheat and after potatoes, the soil seed bank from 0 to 12.5 and from 12.5 to 25 cm was sampled and assessed in an unheated glasshouse over nine months.

The initial weed seed bank size in the topsoil was uniform (4,420 seedlings m−2). Two years later, wheat‐associated weeds, such as Galium aparine, Lamium spp., and Myosotis arvensis, were 61% higher on average in RT than in CT. This was independent of subsidiary crops used. In contrast, Chenopodium album, a potato‐associated weed that depends on intensive tillage, was reduced by 15% in the mulched RT system compared to CT. When RT was combined with cover crops and compost application, the seed bank did not differ significantly from the CT system.

We conclude that subsidiary crops, mulches, and potentially compost are important management tools that contribute to the success of RT in herbicide‐free cereal‐based systems in temperate climates.
Composition of Some Apiaceae Seed Oils Includes Phytochemicals, and Mass Spectrometry of Fatty Acid 2‐Methoxyethyl Esters
Authors: Knothe Gerhard , Steidley Kevin R.
Published: February 2019

The seed oils of eight Apiaceae species, angelica (Angelica archangelica), anise (Pimpinella anisum), caraway (Carum carvi), carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus), coriander (cilantro; Coriandrum sativum), cumin (Cuminum cyminum), dill (Anethum graveolens), and parsley (Petroselinum crispum), obtained by hexane extraction, are investigated for their composition. As is known for the Apiaceae family, the major fatty acid in all oils is petroselinic acid (6(Z)‐octadecenoic acid). Quantification of petroselinic and oleic acids is carried out with their 2‐methoxyethyl esters, resolving the overlap occurring for methyl esters. Linoleic acid is the second most prominent fatty acid, followed by oleic acid with lesser amounts of linolenic, palmitic, and stearic acids. Most of these seed oils contain significant amounts of specific phytochemicals, including anethole in anise, carvone in caraway and dill as well as angelica in lesser amounts, cuminaldehyde in cumin, and apiole and myristicin observed only in parsley. Minor amounts of three C16:1 isomers, Δ4, Δ6, and Δ9, are observed in all oils, thus appearing characteristic of these seed oils. The mass spectra of 2‐methoxyethyl esters are reported with a salient feature being the base peak in the mass spectrum of 2‐methoxyethyl petroselinate at m/z 84 compared to the usual m/z 55.

Practical Applications: Knowledge of the composition of seed oils is of utmost significance for their use in all applications, food and non‐food. Typically, these oils are obtained by hexane extraction of the seeds. This work now shows that seed oils from the common Apiaceae family, which includes many food‐related species, contain phytochemicals, which often have physiological significance and are usually associated with other plant parts. Besides this, the mass spectra of the 2‐methoxyethyl esters of fatty acids as found in these seed oils are reported as these esters were shown in the past to be especially suitable for quantification. This information is valuable for verifying the nature of these esters.

The seed oils of Apiaceae species contain a variety of specific phytochemicals. The most common fatty acid is petroselinic acid, with 2‐methoxyethyl esters known to allow quantification of this acid. The mass spectra of fatty 2‐methoxyethyl esters are reported.
Experimental Assessment of Combustion, Performance and Emission Characteristics of a CI Engine Fueled with Biodiesel and Hybrid Fuel Derived from Waste Cooking Oil
Authors: Singh Deepak , Deep Akash , Sandhu S. S. , Sarma A. K.
Published: February 2019

Akin to biodiesel, hybrid fuels are gaining attention as a substitute to petro‐diesel, because of low processing cost of fuel production, having comparable engine performance, and significantly lower amount of emissions. This study presents experimental investigations on production of biodiesel and hybrid fuels from waste cooking oil and analyzes its behavior in an existing CI engine without the alteration of fuel injection settings. The biodiesel was produced by transesterification process and hybrid fuels were prepared by 3‐phase titration method. The physico‐chemical properties of fuels were evaluated as per ASTM/EN standards and compared with petro‐diesel. Biodiesel, blends of biodiesel and hybrid fuels were then analyzed for engine performance, emission, and combustion characteristics at constant speed and variable loading conditions. Biodiesel blend B30 showed higher brake thermal efficiency, lower brake specific energy consumption, and lower exhaust emissions (except NOx level), whereas, hybrid fuels showed a significant reduction in NOx level and comparable other exhaust emissions (except unburnt hydrocarbon) at the cost of lower brake thermal efficiency when compared with diesel. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13112, 2019
Effects of feeding hyperlipidemia rats with symbiotic oat‐based frozen yogurt on serum triglycerides and cholesterol
Authors: Yang Ruishu , Wang Cuina , Ye Haiqing , Gao Feng , Cheng Jianjun , Zhang Tiehua , Guo Mingruo
Published: February 2019

Ice cream is one of the most popular dairy foods in the world. But it has long been recognized as a high‐calorie food and may not be suitable for certain segments of the population. Oat‐based food products are considered as functional foods due to its rich β‐glucan. A symbiotic oat‐based frozen yogurt (SOFY) containing fermented oat, probiotics, and inulin (prebiotic) was developed, and its effects on serum lipids in rats were evaluated. The new product had 4.10% protein, 8.50% fat, and 2.10% fiber, respectively. Bifidobacterium remained 106 CFU/ml up to 8 weeks. Triglycerides levels of the rats fed with 30% or 35% SOFY were significantly lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05). Serum total cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein levels of experimental rat groups decreased with increased SOFY, and the difference was very significant between group with 35% SOFY and control groups (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in high‐density lipoprotein between each two groups (p > 0.05). Hepatic cell cords of rats after administration of SOFY showed orderly manner and normal hepatocyte morphology compared with those of rats in control group. Results indicated that consumption of oat‐based frozen yogurt could lower serum lipids levels in rats.
A gene regulatory architecture that controls region‐independent dynamics of oligodendrocyte differentiation
Authors: Cantone Martina , Küspert Melanie , Reiprich Simone , Lai Xin , Eberhardt Martin , Göttle Peter , Beyer Felix , Azim Kasum , Küry Patrick , Wegner Michael , Vera Julio
Published: February 2019

Oligodendrocytes (OLs) facilitate information processing in the vertebrate central nervous system via axonal ensheathment. The structure and dynamics of the regulatory network that mediates oligodendrogenesis are poorly understood. We employed bioinformatics and meta‐analysis of high‐throughput datasets to reconstruct a regulatory network underpinning OL differentiation. From this network, we identified families of feedforward loops comprising the transcription factors (TFs) Olig2, Sox10, and Tcf7l2 and their targets. Among the targets, we found eight other TFs related to OL differentiation, suggesting a hierarchical architecture in which some TFs (Olig2, Sox10, and Tcf7l2) regulate via feedforward loops the expression of others (Sox2, Sox6, Sox11, Nkx2‐2, Nkx6‐2, Hes5, Myt1, and Myrf). Model simulations with a kinetic model reproduced the mechanisms of OL differentiation only when in the model, Sox10‐mediated repression of Tcf7l2 by miR‐338/miR‐155 was introduced, a prediction confirmed in genetic functional experiments. Additional model simulations suggested that OLs from dorsal regions emerge through BMP/Sox9 signaling.
Caregiver burden and quality of life 2 years after attendance at a memory clinic
Authors: Park Min Hae , Smith Sarah C. , Hendriks A.A. Jolijn , Black Nick
Published: February 2019

Objectives

We aimed to describe (1) the burden and health‐related quality of life (HRQL) of informal caregivers of new patients attending a memory assessment service (MAS), (2) changes in these outcomes over 2 years, and (3) satisfaction with services.

Methods

Informal caregivers of patients attending one of 73 MASs throughout England completed questionnaires at the patient's first appointment, and 6 and 12 months later. Participants from 30 of these MASs were also followed up at 24 months. Questionnaires covered caregivers' sociodemographic characteristics, Zarit Burden Interview, EQ‐5D‐3L, and satisfaction with services. We used multivariable linear regression to assess relationships between burden, HRQL, and caregiver and patient characteristics.

Results

Of 1020 caregivers at baseline, 569 were followed up at 6 months, 452 at 12 months, and 187 at 24 months. There was a small increase in caregiver burden over 2 years (effect size 0.30 SD). These changes were not associated with most caregiver or patient characteristics, except socio‐economic deprivation, which was associated with larger increases in burden at 2 years. Caregivers' HRQL was weakly associated with burden and showed a small reduction over time (0.2 SD). Most caregivers were satisfied with services, but caregivers who were not satisfied with the services they received reported greater increases in burden.

Conclusions

Increases in caregiver burden and reductions in HRQL appear to be small over the first 2 years after attending a MAS. However, the longer term impact on caregivers and those they care for needs investigating, as do strategies to reduce their burden.
Free posterior tibial artery perforator flap for 2‐stage tracheal reconstruction in patients after resection of well‐differentiated thyroid carcinoma invading the trachea
Authors: Liu Jun , Lu Dan , Deng Di , Wang Ji , Gan Weigang , Zou Jian , Chen Fei , Yang Hui
Published: February 2019

Background

The present study was conducted to explore the efficacy of using a free posterior tibial artery perforator flap (FPTAPF) for trachea reconstruction after resection of well‐differentiated thyroid carcinoma (WDTC) invading the trachea.

Methods

We retrospectively collected and analyzed clinical and surgical data from 14 patients who underwent tracheal reconstruction using a FPTAPF after resection of WDTC invading the trachea between August 2014 and July 2017.

Results

Satisfactory tracheal structure and functional recovery were obtained in 11 of the 14 patients. One patient had breathing difficulties after tracheostomy closure tests because of bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve damage caused by disease invasion. Tracheostomy incision was not closed in 2 patients because they received postoperative adjuvant radioactive iodine 131 treatment.

Conclusion

Satisfactory tracheal reconstruction results were achieved in patients with resection of WDTC invading the trachea, indicating that a FPTAPF is a safe and reliable choice for management.
Early effect of the fear of terrorism on a hospital's emergency department use and on the incidence of cardiovascular events: A Turkish multicenter study
Authors: Hursitoglu Mehmet , Erdal Gulcin Sahingoz , Akdeniz Esra , Kocoglu Hakan , Kocamaz Nursel , Tevetoglu Isil Ozbas , Yucel Haluk , Harmankaya Ozlem , Guven Aytekin , Akarsu Murat , Tukek Tufan , Ozturk Guzin , Dogan Halil , Yilmaz Banu Karakus , Gunes Mehmet Emin , Kumbasar A. Baki
Published: February 2019

Background

To our knowledge, the early effect of the fear caused by terrorism on human health, especially its effect on the number of visits to medical emergency departments (EDs), has not yet been studied.

Objectives

To observe the effect of fear from terrorist alerts on the use of EDs and on the rate of cardiovascular (CV) and/or cerebrovascular events.

Setting

In Istanbul, Turkey, there was a terror alert on the weekend of 19 and 20 March 2016. In this multicenter retrospective study, we compared the data of patients from that weekend with those from the preceding and following weekends.

Patients

A total of 12 324 adult patients' records were included in this study: 4562 patients in the first weekend, 3627 patients in the second, terror alert weekend, and 4135 patients in the third weekend.

Measurements

The ED, CV, and cerebrovascular incidence rates of the above three groups were compared.

Results

The rate of ED use was the least in the weekend of the terror alert; the highest rate occurred during the weekend prior to it (female applications decreased more [P = 0.03]). The medical center that was the farthest from the crowded central places of the city and from the place where suicide bombing occurred was less affected by the decrease in use.

Conclusions

Fear associated with terrorism may affect human health indirectly by preventing patients from reaching the necessary emergency healthcare facilities. This finding may be a pathfinder to decision‐makers in such extraordinary emergency conditions. Further studies are needed in this field.
Like mother, like child? Maternal determinants of children's early social‐emotional development
Authors: Behrendt Hannah F. , Scharke Wolfgang , Herpertz‐Dahlmann Beate , Konrad Kerstin , Firk Christine
Published: February 2019

Social‐Emotional competencies evolve early in life. For example, early emotion regulation is learned primarily in the context of mother–child interaction, which may allow for maternal influences to shape children's social‐emotional development. The aim of the current study was to longitudinally examine maternal determinants of children's early social‐emotional development in a community‐based sample of first‐time mothers (N = 61, aged 22–39 years). Specifically, we used structural equation modeling to examine how maternal emotion regulation difficulties and subclinical depression directly and indirectly, through sensitivity and postnatal bonding, assessed at 6 to 8 months predicted child outcomes at 12 to 16 months. We found that mothers’ sensitivity predicted fewer social‐emotional and behavioral problems and that stronger bonding predicted fewer problems and more social‐emotional competencies. Emotion regulation difficulties were significantly associated with depressive symptoms; yet, when accounting for shared variances, both factors differentially predicted less positive child outcomes such that more difficulties indirectly, through poorer bonding, predicted greater delay in competencies, and more symptoms indirectly, through less sensitivity, predicted more problems. Current findings underline the significance of maternal factors impacting the quality of mother–child interaction for children's positive development. Potential implications for early prevention programs to support children who are otherwise at risk for negative emotional outcomes due to mothers’ emotional state postpartum are discussed.
Low Serum Levels of DKK2 Predict Incident Low‐Impact Fracture in Older Women
Authors: Rodrigues Ana M , Eusébio Mónica , Rodrigues Ana B , Caetano‐Lopes Joana , Lopes Inês P , Lopes Ana , Mendes Jorge M , Coelho Pedro Simões , Fonseca João Eurico , Branco Jaime C , Canhão Helena
Published: February 2019

There are currently no robust noninvasive markers of fragility fractures. Secreted frizzled related protein‐1 (sFRP‐1), dickkopf‐related protein 1 (DKK1) and DKK2, and sclerostin (SOST) inhibit Wnt signaling and interfere with osteoblast‐mediated bone formation. We evaluated associations of serum levels of sFRP‐1, DKK1, DKK2, and SOST with incident low‐impact fracture and BMD in 828 women aged ≥65 years from EpiDoC, a longitudinal population‐based cohort. A structured questionnaire during a baseline clinical appointment assessed prevalent fragility fractures and clinical risk factors (CRFs) for fracture. Blood was collected to measure serum levels of bone turnover markers and Wnt regulators. Lumbar spine and hip BMD were determined by DXA scanning. Follow‐up assessment was performed through a phone interview; incident fragility fracture was defined by any new self‐reported low‐impact fracture. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to analyze fracture risk adjusted for CRFs and BMD. During a mean follow‐up of 2.3 ± 1.0 years, 62 low‐impact fractures were sustained in 58 women. A low serum DKK2 level (per 1 SD decrease) was associated with a 1.5‐fold increase in fracture risk independently of BMD and CRFs. Women in the two lowest DKK2 quartiles had a fracture incidence rate of 32 per 1000 person‐years, whereas women in the two highest quartiles had 14 fragility fractures per 1000 person‐years. A high serum sFRP1 level was associated with a 1.6‐fold increase in fracture risk adjusted for CRFs, but not independently of BMD. Serum levels of SOST (r = 0.191; p = 0.0025) and DKK1(r = −0.1725; p = 0.011) were correlated with hip BMD, but not with incident fragility fracture. These results indicate that serum DKK2 and sFRP1 may predict low‐impact fracture. The low number of incident fractures recorded is a limitation and serum levels of Wnt regulators should be further studied in other populations as potential noninvasive markers of fragility fractures. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Effect of Reciproc blue, XP‐endo shaper, and WaveOne gold instruments on dentinal microcrack formation: A micro‐computed tomographic evaluation
Authors: Uğur Aydın Zeliha , Keskin Neslihan Büşra , Özyürek Taha
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of Reciproc Blue (RPCB), XP‐endo Shaper (XPS), and WaveOne Gold (WOG) single‐files on dentinal microcrack formation using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT). Twenty‐four mesial roots (24 mesio‐buccal and 24 mesio‐lingual canals) of mandibular molar teeth were prepared using RPCB, XPS, and WOG files (n = 8/each group). The samples were scanned with micro‐CT in the pre‐ and post‐preparation. Then, before preparation and after preparation cross‐sectional images of the teeth were evaluated to detect the presence of microcracks. For each group, the number of microcracks was calculated as a percentage rate. The data were statistically analyzed using McNemar at 5% significance level (p < .05). Dentinal microcracks were observed in 25.99% (2,103 of 7,813), 31.99% (2,482 of 7,758), and 36.66% (2,836 of 7,731) of cross‐sectional images of the XPS, WOG, and RPCB groups, respectively. In all the groups, all the dentinal microcracks seen in the post‐treatment cross‐sectional images were present in the corresponding pre‐treatment images. Within the limitations of this study, the XPS, WOG, and RPCB files did not cause new dentinal microcrack formation or propagation of existing dentinal microcracks.
Effect of heat‐ and freeze‐drying treatments on phytochemical content and fatty acid profile of alfalfa and flax sprouts
Authors: Mattioli Simona , Dal Bosco Alessandro , Castellini Cesare , Falcinelli Beatrice , Sileoni Valeria , Marconi Ombretta , Mancinelli Alice Cartoni , Cotozzolo Elisa , Benincasa Paolo
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Fresh sprouts are healthy foods, low in fats and high in phytochemicals, but have a short shelf‐life, hence the need for processing methods that preserve their nutritional value. This work was aimed at evaluating the effect of heat‐drying (HD) and freeze‐drying (FD) on the phytochemical and fatty acid profiles of alfalfa and flax sprouts, as compared to fresh material.

RESULTS

Both FD and HD reduced the phytochemical contents compared to fresh sprouts. FD better preserved phytoestrogens, phytosterols and total tocols compared to HD. However, phytoestrogen and tocol content remained quite high also in HD. The fatty acid profile was affected only by sprouts species, with higher amounts of α‐linolenic acid in flax and linoleic acid in alfalfa sprouts.

CONCLUSIONS

This work demonstrates that drying does not severely compromise the nutritional value of sprouts and provides a valid support for the choice of the drying method depending on the compound to be preserved, and taking into consideration the different cost of the methods. In addition, sprout powder is easy to handle and, due to its low volume, does not imply a decrease of feed consumption and energy intake, which is relevant in its use as a supplement in human and animal feeding. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry