bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Band Structure Engineering by Alloying for Photonics
Authors: Gong Chen , Kaplan Alan , Benson Zackery A. , Baker David R. , McClure Joshua P. , Rocha Alexandre R. , Leite Marina S.
Published: June 2018

Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) enable the deep subwavelength confinement of an electromagnetic field, which can be used in optical devices ranging from sensors to nanoscale lasers. However, the limited number of metals that satisfy the required boundary conditions for SPP propagation in a metal/dielectric interface severely limits its occurrence in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. We introduce the strategy of engineering the band structure of metallic materials by alloying. We experimentally and theoretically establish the control of the dispersion relation in Ag–Au alloys by varying the film chemical composition. Through X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements and partial density‐of‐states calculations we deconvolute the d band contribution of the density‐of‐states from the valence band spectrum, showing that the shift in energy of the d band follows the surface plasmon resonance change of the alloy. Our density functional theory calculations of the alloys band structure predict the same variation of the threshold of the interband transition, which is in very good agreement with our optical and XPS experiments. By elucidating the correlation between the optical behavior and band structure of alloys, we anticipate the fine control of the optical properties of metallic materials beyond pure metals.
From Fundamental toward Applied SERS: Shared Principles and Divergent Approaches
Authors: Balčytis Armandas , Nishijima Yoshiaki , Krishnamoorthy Sivashankar , Kuchmizhak Aleksandr , Stoddart Paul R. , Petruškevičius Raimondas , Juodkazis Saulius
Published: June 2018

Over more than 40 years since its discovery, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering/spectroscopy (SERS) has attracted substantial attention as a tool for fundamental research in surface science and for potential analytical sensing applications. This review aims to concisely summarize the essential principles of both the physical and chemical processes underlying Raman signal enhancement, as well as elements of the broader field of plasmonics that are most relevant to SERS. In order to make sense of the overwhelming variety of SERS platforms that are reported, the fabrication, properties, and operational principles of enhancing substrates are given particular attention here in the context of specific application requirements. While the high spatial precision of lithographic techniques has helped to improve the understanding of plasmonic platforms, their prohibitive cost has encouraged the exploration of more facile fabrication methods for more widespread adoption of SERS. Selected examples are introduced to illustrate common themes that recur in fundamental studies, analytical applications, and efforts to produce stable, affordable, and robust SERS sensing platforms.
Integrated Silicon Photonic Crystals Toward Terahertz Communications
Authors: Withayachumnankul Withawat , Fujita Masayuki , Nagatsuma Tadao
Published: June 2018

The terahertz frequency range locates between 0.1 and 10 THz. This range accommodates atmospheric windows with staggering absolute bandwidth. It holds a potential for point‐to‐point wireless communications with an aggregate capacity reaching terabit per second in a range up to a kilometer. This unique capability is envisaged for backhauls between base stations and for local area networks. To this end, efficiency and compactness of the transceivers are crucial for successful large‐scale adoption. However, state‐of‐the‐art terahertz front ends are based on radio‐frequency or photomixing technologies that are inefficient, bulky, or complicated. In principle, as a neighbor of the microwave and optics domains, the terahertz band can leverage technologies from both sides to overcome those challenges. Recently, low‐loss integrated circuits based on photonic crystal waveguides are developed for routing terahertz waves. Here, a progress report on core components, including waveguides and diplexers, is presented. Additionally, the interfacing of the platform with electronic sources and detectors on one end, and with antennas for free‐space coupling on the other end, is discussed. Currently, the platform can support terahertz communications at a data rate over 10 Gbit s−1. Challenges and opportunities are discussed in the light of future development in this area.
Flexible Photonic Topological Insulator
Authors: Gao Zhen , Gao Fei , Zhang Youming , Luo Yu , Zhang Baile
Published: June 2018

A mechanically flexible photonic topological insulator that supports robust topological photonic states on a curved surface is experimentally demonstrated. Spatial topologies achieved by folding the flexible photonic topological insulator serve as a new freedom to manipulate the propagation of topological photonic states. This work bridges the gap between the emerging field of topological photonics and the technologically promising field of flexible photonics.
Commodity price volatility and U.S. monetary policy: Commodity price overshooting revisited
Authors: Siami‐Namini Sima , Hudson Darren , Trindade Adao Alexandre , Lyford Conrad
Published: June 2018

Commodity price volatility has created concerns for central bank policy‐makers. Recent commodity prices peaked in the consequences of the financial crisis of 2007, and they have remained relatively volatile since. As they are often seen as being connected in a cause and effect relationship with inflation and real output, the driving forces behind commodity price volatility are necessary for the conduct of monetary policy. Using an autoregressive moving average with an exponential generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic (ARMA‐EGARCH) process, we extract the conditional variance series to find volatility spillover between monetary policy and commodity price index. The findings show that the volatility of agricultural commodity price index and other commodities price indices overshoot the long‐run equilibrium price in response to an impulse in monetary policy.
Cerium Catalyzed Transamidation of Secondary Amides under Ultrasound Irradiation: A Breakthrough in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Mishra Ankush , Singh Sundaram , Srivastava Vandana
Published: June 2018

A facile and convenient approach for transamidation of secondary amides using cerium as green catalyst under ultrasonic irradiation has been reported. The method involves initial functionalisation of secondary amide substrates with electron withdrawing COCF3 group to weaken the amide C−N bond, and in second step the activated amide undergoes transamidation with various amines in the presence of cerium catalyst via selective cleavage of CN bond under ultrasonic irradiation to furnish the transamidated products in good to excellent yields. This method shows a broad scope with respect to both amides and amines including sterically hindered amines. Non‐precious, green cerium catalyst and ultrasonication method have been used for the first time to accomplish a challenging secondary amide transamidation under exceptionally mild conditions and short reaction time.
Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Rotaxanes, Including a Hetero‐Hybrid [3]Rotaxane Featuring Two Distinct Heterometallic Rings and a Molecular Shuttle
Authors: Timco Grigore A. , Fernandez Antonio , Kostopoulos Andreas K. , Charlton Jodie F. , Lockyer Selena J. , Hailes Thomas R. , Adams Ralph W. , McInnes Eric J. L. , Tuna Floriana , Vitorica‐Yrezabal Inigo J. , Whitehead George F. S. , Winpenny Richard E. P.
Published: June 2018

[2] and [3] hybrid rotaxanes are reported based on {Ti7M} rings (M is a trivalent metal such as FeIII or GaIII). NMR studies show that [2]rotaxanes can act as molecular shuttles, while EPR studies of [3]rotaxanes show weak interactions between the paramagnetic components of the supramolecular assemblies.
Cell‐ and Tissue‐Based Proteome Profiling and Bioimaging with Probes Derived from a Potent AXL Kinase Inhibitor
Authors: Zheng Binbin , Guo Haijun , Ma Nan , Ni Yun , Xu Jiaqian , Li Lin , Hao Piliang , Ding Ke , Li Zhengqiu
Published: June 2018

AXL has been defined as a novel target for cancer therapeutics. However, only a few potent and selective inhibitors targeting AXL are available to date. Recently, our group has developed a lead compound, 9im, capable of displaying potent and specific inhibition of AXL. To further identify the cellular on/off targets, in this study, competitive affinity‐based proteome profiling was carried out, leading to the discovery of several unknown cellular targets such as BCAP31, LPCAT3, POR, TM9SF3, SCCPDH and CANX. In addition, trans‐cyclooctene (TCO) and acedan‐containing probes were developed to image the binding between 9im and its target proteins inside live cells and tumor tissues. These probes would be useful tools in the detection of AXL in various biosystems.
The safety and feasibility of minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) of the posterior aspect of the humerus: A cadaveric study
Authors: Jiamton C. , Ratreprasatsuk N. , Jarayabhand R. , Kritsaneephaiboon A. , Apivatthakakul T.
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of applying MIPO of the humerus via the posterior approach and to observe the tension of the radial nerve in different elbow positions. Two separate incisions were made on the posterior aspect of the humerus in ten fresh cadavers (20 humeri). The radial nerve was identified at the proximal incision and the distances through which the nerve could be elevated from the bone with the elbow in flexion and extension were measured. A 10‐hole extra‐articular distal humeral locking compression plate was inserted and fixed through the submuscular tunnel. The tunnel was then explored to identify any entrapment of the radial nerve and to observe the anatomical relationship of the radial nerve to the plate and bone. There was no entrapment of the radial nerve or its branches. The distances through which the radial nerve could be elevated were greater with the elbow in extension than in flexion (P < 0.01). The radial nerve crossed the medial and lateral borders of the posterior surface of the humerus at 80.1–132 mm (average 104.7 mm) and 116.6–175.5 mm (average 142.7 mm) of its total length, respectively. The axillary nerve was located at 38.7–61.7 mm (average 47.9 mm) of total humeral length. MIPO of the humerus using the posterior approach is an alternative option for treating distal humeral shaft fracture. The risk of radial nerve injury can be minimized by careful dissection in the proximal incision. Clin. Anat. 32:176–182, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tailoring Catalytic Properties of Copper Manganese Oxide Nanoparticles (Hopcalites‐2G) via Flame Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Wegner Karl , Medicus Maximilian , Schade Elke , Grothe Julia , Kaskel Stefan
Published: June 2018

Humidity tolerant copper manganese oxide catalysts of the second generation (“Hopcalites‐2G”) were produced by flame spray pyrolysis process (FSP) and their catalytic activity for carbon monoxide oxidation under dry and humid conditions was evaluated. The effects of synthesis parameters such as flame specific variables (OFR=oxygen to fuel ratio, sheath gas, reactor) and the precursor specifications (composition, concentration, solvent) were investigated systematically. From the findings of the synthesis variations, it was possible to identify key factors decisive to achieve a high catalytic activity for CO oxidation under humid conditions. The most important characteristics are phase composition, specific surface area and the carbon content to achieve increased long‐term stability of the flame made catalysts under humid conditions. A high productivity in the flame‐based Hopcalite synthesis was achieved with catalysts performances similar or better than that of the commercial Hopcalite catalyst Carulite 300 (CARUS). The most active catalyst showed 50 % higher CO conversion after one hour on stream at 50 °C and humid conditions compared with the reference. The latter is a crucial step towards an improved humidity tolerance of Hopcalite catalysts in respiratory filter applications.
Atom‐Economic Electron Donors for Photobiocatalytic Halogenations
Authors: Seel Catharina Julia , Králík Antonín , Hacker Melanie , Frank Annika , König Burkhard , Gulder Tanja
Published: June 2018

In vitro cofactor supply and regeneration have been a major obstacle for biocatalytic processes, in particular on a large scale. Peroxidases often suffer from inactivation by their oxidative co‐factor. Combining photocatalysis and biocatalysis offers an innovative solution to this problem, but lacks atom economy due to the sacrificial electron donors needed. Herein, we show that redox‐active buffers or even water alone can serve as efficient, biocompatible electron sources, when combined with photocatalysis. Mechanistic investigations revealed first insights into the possibilities and limitations of this approach and allowed adjusting the reaction conditions to the specific needs of biocatalytic transformations. Proof‐of‐concept for the applicability of this photobiocatalytic reaction setup was given by enzymatic halogenations.
Visible‐Light‐Promoted Intermolecular Oxidative Dearomatization of β‐Naphthols with N‐Hydroxycarbamates
Authors: Cheng Yuan‐Zheng , Zhou Kai , Zhu Min , Li La‐Ao‐Chuan , Zhang Xiao , You Shu‐Li
Published: June 2018

An intermolecular oxidative dearomatization of β‐naphthols with N‐hydroxycarbamates promoted by visible light was realized by means of photogenerated β‐naphthol radical cation intermediates. With a commercially available organic dye, the naphthalenones bearing a fully substituted stereogenic center were obtained with up to 92 % yield under aerobic conditions (26 examples). In addition, the rearrangement of C−O coupling products to C−N coupling compounds could be achieved merely in the presence of Cs2CO3. This transformation simultaneously provides an attractive and synthetically useful approach to access the aminative dearomatization compounds.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Ultrastable Cu@TiO2 Core‐Shell Nanowires with Tunable Diameters via a Redox‐Hydrolysis Synergetic Process
Authors: Liu Deyu , Wu Binghui , Mubeen Syed , Ding Kunlun , Zeng Hongmei , Chuong Tracy T , Moskovits Martin , Stucky Galen D.
Published: June 2018

The nanoscale integration of copper metal, frequently with semiconductor heterostructure interfaces, is a promising route for fabricating new micro‐/nanoelectronic devices. Synthesizing such systems using wet‐chemistry methods requires stabilization of nano‐Cu against corrosion/oxidation, which has proven to be challenging. Here we report a methodology for the facile preparation of Cu@TiO2 core‐shell nanowires (NWs). The synthesis combines redox formation of Cu NWs with kinetically controlled hydrolysis of a titania precursor in a single‐pot microwave reaction. The final core‐shell NWs can be precisely tailored with 20‐nm to 140‐nm Cu core diameters, aspect ratios >250, and a 10‐nm porous titania shell. This metal/semiconductor heterojunction is particularly important for its excellent photocatalytic activity. The rapid microwave‐assisted synthesis provides a potentially generalizable paradigm for the rational design of heterogeneous nanostructures with metals and oxides.
Facile Synthesis of Silver Icosahedral Nanocrystals with Uniform and Controllable Sizes
Authors: Wang Wenxia , Zhou Shan , Shen Min , Hood Zachary D. , Xiao Kaijun , Xia Younan
Published: June 2018

We report a robust route to the one‐pot synthesis of Ag icosahedral nanocrystals with uniform and controllable sizes. Our results indicate that multiply‐twinned seeds are initially formed via homogeneous nucleation, followed by their growth into icosahedral nanocrystals with enlarged sizes. During the growth process, Ostwald ripening plays a key role in enabling the formation of nanocrystals with a narrow size distribution. In addition to the conventional approach involving the variation of reaction time, we are able to control the size of the icosahedral nanocrystals by adjusting the molar ratio of the Ag(I) precursor to the reducing agent, altering the reaction temperature, and/or introducing additional Ag(I) precursor. The Ag icosahedral nanocrystals embrace strong localized surface plasmon resonance, with a tunable peak position depending on the particle size. We believe the availability of Ag icosahedral nanocrystals with uniform, tunable sizes offers a great opportunity to investigate their plasmonic and catalytic properties, as well as related applications.
Structural Design of Conjugated Poly (ferrocene‐phenanthroline) for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution from Water
Authors: Luo Shu‐Ping , Wang Xiao‐Jing , Chen Hao , Yu Zhe‐Jian , Lou Wen‐Ya , Xia Liang‐Min , Lou Bai‐Yang , Liu Xue‐Fen , Kang Peng , Lennox Alastair J. J. , Wu Qing‐An
Published: June 2018

The discovery of highly efficient photocatalysts for water splitting remains a challenge of high importance. Here, we report a series of novel organic conjugated polymers (OCPs) that contain complexed non‐noble metals for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The conjugated chromophore polymers were synthesized by a Heck coupling between ferrocene and phenantholine derivatives, which absorb broadly, even up to the near‐IR region. The photocatalyst performances were investigated for hydrogen evolution by using Fe3(CO)12 as a water reduction catalyst. H2 evolution rates up to 212.4 μmol h−1, with an apparent quantum yield of 10.3 % at 380 nm, were obtained with a photocatalyst polymer based on alternating ferrocene and 4,7‐bisphenyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline units. The high activity is likely due to favorable electron transfer and coordination of Fe3(CO)12 with phenanthroline in the supramolecular OCPs.
Focus on buy‐in, simplicity to create a concealed‐carry policy
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: June 2018

DALLAS — Concealed carry on campus: It's a hotly contested topic both at colleges and universities and in state legislatures. If your institution doesn't have a policy in place, or needs to revise its policy based on changes in state law, you'll need a process to create the policy that creates buy‐in and lead to a policy that can be enforced.
DNA barcoding herbaceous and woody plant species at a subalpine forest dynamics plot in Southwest China
Authors: Tan Shao‐Lin , Luo Ya‐Huang , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Burgess Kevin S. , Xu Kun , Li De‐Zhu , Gao Lian‐Ming
Published: June 2018

Although DNA barcoding has been widely used to identify plant species composition in temperate and tropical ecosystems, relatively few studies have used DNA barcodes to document both herbaceous and woody components of forest plot. A total of 201 species (72 woody species and 129 herbaceous species) representing 135 genera distributed across 64 families of seed plants were collected in a 25 ha CForBio subalpine forest dynamics plot. In total, 491 specimens were screened for three DNA regions of the chloroplast genome (rbcL, matK, and trnH‐psbA) as well as the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. We quantified species resolution for each barcode separately or in combination using a ML tree‐based method. Amplification and sequencing success were highest for rbcL, followed by trnH‐psbA, which performed better than ITS and matK. The rbcL + ITS barcode had slightly higher species resolution rates (88.60%) compared with rbcL + matK (86.60%) and rbcL + trnH‐psbA (86.01%). The addition of trnH‐psbA or ITS to the rbcL + matK barcode only marginally increased species resolution rates, although in combination the four barcodes had the highest discriminatory power (90.21%). The situations where DNA barcodes did not discriminate among species were typically associated with higher numbers of co‐occurring con‐generic species. In addition, herbaceous species were much better resolved than woody species. Our study represents one of the first applications of DNA barcodes in a subalpine forest dynamics plot and contributes to our understanding of patterns of genetic divergence among woody and herbaceous plant species.
Diel predator activity drives a dynamic landscape of fear
Authors: Kohl Michel T. , Stahler Daniel R. , Metz Matthew C. , Forester James D. , Kauffman Matthew J. , Varley Nathan , White P. J. , Smith Douglas W. , MacNulty Daniel R.
Published: June 2018

A “landscape of fear” (LOF) is a map that describes continuous spatial variation in an animal's perception of predation risk. The relief on this map reflects, for example, places that an animal avoids to minimize risk. Although the LOF concept is a potentially unifying theme in ecology that is often invoked to explain the ecological and conservation significance of fear, little is known about the daily dynamics of an LOF. Despite theory and data to the contrary, investigators often assume, implicitly or explicitly, that an LOF is a static consequence of a predator's mere presence within an ecosystem. We tested the prediction that an LOF in a large‐scale, free‐living system is a highly dynamic map with “peaks” and “valleys” that alternate across the diel (24‐h) cycle in response to daily lulls in predator activity. We did so with extensive data from the case study of Yellowstone elk (Cervus elaphus) and wolves (Canis lupus) that was the original basis for the LOF concept. We quantified the elk LOF, defined here as spatial allocation of time away from risky places and times, across nearly 1,000‐km2of northern Yellowstone National Park and found that it fluctuated with the crepuscular activity pattern of wolves, enabling elk to use risky places during wolf downtimes. This may help explain evidence that wolf predation risk has no effect on elk stress levels, body condition, pregnancy, or herbivory. The ability of free‐living animals to adaptively allocate habitat use across periods of high and low predator activity within the diel cycle is an underappreciated aspect of animal behavior that helps explain why strong antipredator responses may trigger weak ecological effects, and why an LOF may have less conceptual and practical importance than direct killing.
Rationale and design of a multicentre, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of mirabegron, a Beta3‐adrenergic receptor agonist on left ventricular mass and diastolic function in patients with structural heart disease Beta3‐left ventricular hypertrophy (Beta3‐LVH)
Authors: Pouleur Anne‐Catherine , Anker Stefan , Brito Dulce , Brosteanu Oana , Hasenclever Dirk , Casadei Barbara , Edelmann Frank , Filippatos Gerasimos , Gruson Damien , Ikonomidis Ignatios , Lhommel Renaud , Mahmod Masliza , Neubauer Stefan , Persu Alexandre , Gerber Bernhard L. , Piechnik Stefan , Pieske Burkert , Pieske‐Kraigher Elisabeth , Pinto Fausto , Ponikowski Piotr , Senni Michele , Trochu Jean‐Noël , Van Overstraeten Nancy , Wachter Rolf , Balligand Jean‐Luc
Published: June 2018

Aims

Progressive left ventricular (LV) remodelling with cardiac myocyte hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and endothelial dysfunction plays a key role in the onset and progression of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The Beta3‐LVH trial will test the hypothesis that the β3 adrenergic receptor agonist mirabegron will improve LV hypertrophy and diastolic function in patients with hypertensive structural heart disease at high risk for developing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Methods and results

Beta3‐LVH is a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, two‐armed, multicentre, European, parallel group study. A total of 296 patients will be randomly assigned to receive either mirabegron 50 mg daily or placebo over 12 months. The main inclusion criterion is the presence of LV hypertrophy, that is, increased LV mass index (LVMi) or increased wall thickening by echocardiography. The co‐primary endpoints are a change in LVMi by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and a change in LV diastolic function (assessed by the E/e′ ratio). Secondary endpoints include mirabegron's effects on cardiac fibrosis, left atrial volume index, maximal exercise capacity, and laboratory markers. Two substudies will evaluate mirabegron's effect on endothelial function by pulse amplitude tonometry and brown fat activity by positron emission tomography using 17F‐fluorodeoxyglucose. Morbidity and mortality as well as safety aspects will also be assessed.

Conclusions

Beta3‐LVH is the first large‐scale clinical trial to evaluate the effects of mirabegron on LVMi and diastolic function in patients with LVH. Beta3‐LVH will provide important information about the clinical course of this condition and may have significant impact on treatment strategies and future trials in these patients.
Micropillar‐based microfluidic device to regulate neurite networks of uniform‐sized neurospheres
Authors: Kim Da Eun , Lee Jong Min , Ahrberg Christian D. , Shaker Mohammed R. , Lee Ju‐Hyun , Sun Woong , Chung Bong Geun
Published: June 2018

The inability of neurons to undergo mitosis renders damage to the central or peripheral nervous system. Neural stem cell therapy could provide a path for treating the neurodegenerative diseases. However, reliable and simple tools for the developing and testing neural stem cell therapy are still required. Here, we show the development of a micropillar‐based microfluidic device to trap the uniform‐sized neurospheres. The neurospheres trapped within micropillar arrays were largely differentiated into neuronal cells, and their neurite networks were observed in the microfluidic device. Compared to conventional cultures on glass slides, the neurite networks generated with this method have a higher reproducibility. Furthermore, we demonstrated the effect of thapsigargin on the neurite networks in the microfluidic device, demonstrating that neural networks exposed to thapsigargin were largely diminished and disconnected from each other. Therefore, this micropillar‐based microfluidic device could be a potential tool for screening of neurotoxins.
Plant cell culture as emerging technology for production of active cosmetic ingredients
Authors: Georgiev Vasil , Slavov Anton , Vasileva Ivelina , Pavlov Atanas
Published: June 2018

Plants have always been the main source for active cosmetic ingredients, having proven health beneficial effects on human, such as anti‐aging, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, UV‐protective, anti‐cancer, anti‐wrinkle, skin soothing, whitening, moisturizing, etc. Extracts from herbal, aromatic and/or medicinal plants have been widely used as effective active ingredients in cosmeceuticals or nutricosmetics, especially in products for topical application and skin‐care formulations. However, over the past decade, there has been an increasing interest to plant cell culture – derived active cosmetic ingredients. These are “new generation” of high quality natural products, produced by the modern plan biotechnology methods, which usually showed stronger activities than the plant extracts obtained by the classical methods. In this review, the advantages and the current progress in plant cell culture technology for the production of active cosmetic ingredients have been summarized, and discussed in details within a presented case study for calendula stem cell product development.
Response of hybrid isolation system during a shake table experiment of a full‐scale isolated building
Authors: Ryan Keri L. , Okazaki Taichiro , Coria Camila B. , Sato Eiji , Sasaki Tomohiro
Published: June 2018

A full‐scale 5‐story steel moment frame building was subjected to a series of earthquake excitations using the E‐Defense shake table in August, 2011. For one of the test configurations, the building was seismically isolated by a hybrid system of lead‐rubber bearings and low friction roller bearings known as cross‐linear bearings, and was designed for a very rare 100 000‐year return period earthquake at a Central and Eastern US soil site. The building was subject to 15 trials including sinusoidal input, recorded motions and simulated earthquakes, 2D and 3D input, and a range of intensities including some beyond the design basis level. The experimental program was one of the first system‐level full‐scale validations of seismic isolation and the first known full‐scale experiment of a hybrid isolation system incorporating lead‐rubber and low friction bearings. Stable response of the hybrid isolation system was demonstrated at displacement demands up to 550 mm and shear strain in excess of 200%. Torsional amplifications were within the new factor stipulated by the code provisions. Axial force was observed to transfer from the lead‐rubber bearings to the cross‐linear bearings at large displacements, and the force transfer at large displacements exceeded that predicted by basic calculations. The force transfer occurred primarily because of the flexural rigidity of the base diaphragm and the larger vertical stiffness of the cross‐linear bearings relative to the lead‐rubber bearings.
Different Effects of His‐Au NCs and MES‐Au NCs on the Propagation of Pseudorabies Virus
Authors: Feng Chenchen , Fang Puxian , Zhou Yanrong , Liu Lingzhi , Fang Liurong , Xiao Shaobo , Liang Jiangong
Published: June 2018

In a previous work, gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) are found to inactivate RNA virus, but the effect of surface modification of Au NCs on its proliferation is still largely unknown. Here, the effect of surface modification of Au NCs on the proliferation of pseudorabies virus (PRV) by synthesizing two types of gold clusters with different surface modification, histidine stabilized Au NCs (His‐Au NCs) and mercaptoethane sulfonate and histidine stabilized Au NCs (MES‐Au NCs), is investigated. His‐Au NCs rather than MES‐Au NCs could strongly inhibit the proliferation of PRV, as indicated by the results of plaque assay, confocal microscopic analysis, Western blot assay, and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Further study reveals that His‐Au NCs perform the function via blockage of the viral replication process rather than the processes of attachment, penetration, or release. Additionally, His‐Au NCs are found to be mainly localized to nucleus, while MES‐Au NCs are strictly distributed in cytoplasm, which may explain why His‐Au NCs can suppress the proliferation of PRV, but not MES‐Au NCs. These results demonstrate that surface modification plays a key role in the antiviral effects of Au NCs and a potential antiviral agent can be developed by changing the Au NC surface modification.
Family socioeconomic status and emotional adaptation among rural‐to‐urban migrant adolescents in China: The moderating roles of adolescent's resilience and parental positive emotion
Authors: Huang Silin , Han Mingyue , Sun Ling , Zhang Hongchuan , Li Hui‐Jie
Published: June 2018

Low family socioeconomic status (SES) is closely related to increased risk of emotional maladaptation among adolescents. Although previous studies have found that low family SES is a significant and common experience for most rural‐to‐urban migrant adolescents in China, little research has examined the association between family SES and emotional adaptation or identified the protective factors that may minimise emotional maladaptation among these adolescents. The present study examined the associations between family SES and three indices of emotional adaptation (emotion regulation, life satisfaction and depression) and the moderating effects of adolescents' resilience and parental positive emotion (PE) among 486 Chinese rural‐to‐urban migrant adolescents. The results suggest that family SES was significantly associated with migrant adolescents' emotional outcomes, to varying degrees. Moreover, both adolescents' resilience and PE moderated the associations between family SES and emotional outcomes, although the protective effects of the two moderators differed on the three emotional outcomes. These findings shed light into designing intervention and prevention programs to reduce emotional maladaptation among migrant adolescents.
Prevention paradox: Medical students are less inclined to prescribe HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis for patients in highest need
Authors: Calabrese Sarah K , Earnshaw Valerie A , Underhill Kristen , Krakower Douglas S , Magnus Manya , Hansen Nathan B , Mayer Kenneth H , Betancourt Joseph R , Kershaw Trace S , Dovidio John F
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Despite healthcare providers’ growing awareness of pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), prescription rates remain low. PrEP is an efficacious HIV prevention strategy recommended for use with condoms but still protective in their absence. Concern about the impact of PrEP on condom use and other risk behaviour is, nonetheless, among the barriers to prescription commonly reported. To understand the implications of this concern for PrEP access, we examined how medical students’ willingness to prescribe PrEP varied by patients’ condom use and partnering practices. We also assessed the perceived acceptability of various reasons for condom discontinuation with PrEP.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to 854 medical students in the Northeastern US in 2015. Participants (n = 111) were surveyed about their willingness to prescribe PrEP for each of six male patients who systematically differed in their reported condom use (sustained use, sustained nonuse, or discontinuation with PrEP) and partnering practices (single male partner with untreated HIV or multiple male partners of unknown HIV status). Participants also reported perceived acceptability of four reasons for condom discontinuation: pleasure, sexual functioning, intimacy, and conception.

Results

Willingness to prescribe PrEP was inconsistent with patient risk: When the patient used condoms and planned to sustain condom use, most participants were willing to prescribe PrEP – 93% if the patient had a single partner and 86% if the patient had multiple partners. Fewer were willing to prescribe if the patient did not use condoms and planned to sustain nonuse (53% and 45%, respectively) or used condoms but planned to discontinue use (27% and 28%). Significantly fewer participants were willing to prescribe for a patient with multiple partners versus a single partner when the patient reported sustained condom use or sustained condom nonuse. The number of participants who were willing to prescribe was similarly low for a patient with multiple partners versus a single partner when the patient reported that he planned to discontinue condom use. More participants accepted a patient discontinuing condoms for conception (69%) than for intimacy (23%), pleasure (14%), or sexual functioning (13%).

Conclusion

Medical students’ clinical judgments were misaligned with patient risk and suggest misconceptions or personal values may undermine provision of optimal HIV prevention services.
A multifaceted approach to harness probiotics as antagonists on plant based foods, for enhanced benefits to be reaped at a global level
Authors: Karunaratne Anjani M
Published: June 2018

Investigations into probiotics have focused on their health benefits thus far, with some of the findings finally reaching the food and pharmaceutical industries, which have used them for commercial purposes. In biocontrol research some microbes, mainly isolated from plants, have shown antagonism towards both enteric and plant pathogens, and some of them represent probiotic species. Fresh fruits and vegetables are regarded as health‐promoting dietary constituents, and if probiotics could be used to control the pathogens on them then they could turn out to be even healthier. The fresh produce industry still depends on agrochemicals and the increase in the demand for high‐priced organically grown produce indicates consumer concerns regarding the use of agrochemicals. If the potential of probiotic organisms to serve as biocontrol agents for fresh produce is exploited, all fresh produce can be made as safe as organically grown produce, and much more wholesome. This review appraises the feasibility of such a move by evaluating how research has progressed in both disciplines (probiotic and biocontrol) and suggests sharing results from research via information technology, efficient collaboration, and the use of novel molecular biological tools to achieve the objective of probiotic antagonists. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparison of three different dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction modes performed on their most usual configurations for the extraction of phenolic, neutral aromatic, and amino compounds from waters
Authors: Saraji Mohammad , Ghambari Hoda
Published: June 2018

In this work we seek clues to select the appropriate dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction mode for extracting three categories of compounds. For this purpose, three common dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction modes were compared under optimized conditions. Traditional dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, in situ ionic liquid dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, and conventional ionic liquid dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction using chloroform, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, and 1‐hexyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate as the extraction solvent, respectively, were considered in this work. Phenolic, neutral aromatic, and amino compounds (each category included six members) were studied as analytes. The analytes in the extracts were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. For the analytes with polar functionalities, the in situ ionic liquid dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction mode mostly led to better results. In contrast, for neutral hydrocarbons without polar functionalities, traditional dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction using chloroform produced better results. In this case, where dispersion forces were the dominant interactions in the extraction, the refractive index of solvent and analyte predicted the extraction performance better than the octanol/water partition coefficient. It was also revealed that none of the methods were successful in extracting hydrophilic analytes (compounds with the log octanol/water partition coefficient <2). The results of this study could be helpful in selecting a dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction mode for the extraction of various groups of compounds.
Decellularized Periosteum‐Covered Chitosan Globule Composite for Bone Regeneration in Rabbit Femur Condyle Bone Defects
Authors: Ye Yiheng , Pang Yichuan , Zhang Zeng , Wu Congcong , Jin Jianfeng , Su Mingzhen , Pan Junle , Liu Yangbo , Chen Lei , Jin Keke
Published: June 2018

Critical‐sized bone defects are incapable of self‐healing and are commonly seen in clinical practice. The authors explore a new treatment for this, decellularized periosteum is applied to chitosan globules (chitosan‐DP globules) as a hybrid material. The efficacy of chitosan‐DP globules on rabbit femoral condyle bone defects is assessed with biocompatibility, biomechanics, and osteogenic efficiency measurements, and compared with the results of chitosan globules and empty control. No difference in cytotoxicity is observed among chitosan‐DP globules, chitosan globules, and the empty control. Chitosan‐DP globules possesse a better surface for cell adhesion than did chitosan globules. Chitosan‐DP globules demonstrate superior efficiency for osteogenesis in the defect area compared to chitosan globules as per microcomputed tomography examination and push‐out testing, with relatively minor histological differences. Both chitosan globule groups show more satisfactory results than those for the empty control. The results implicate chitosan‐DP globules as a promising solution for bone defects.
Influence of agro‐environmental pollutants on a biocontrol strain of Bacillus velezensis
Authors: Vörös Mónika , Manczinger László , Kredics László , Szekeres András , Shine Kadaikunnan , Alharbi Naiyf S. , Khaled Jamal M. , Vágvölgyi Csaba
Published: June 2018

Metal‐ and pesticide‐tolerant biocontrol agents are preferred in integrated pest management, as such strains can be applied in combination with different pesticides. The Bacillus velezensis strain SZMC 6161J proved to be sensitive to copper, nickel, zinc, and cadmium, while manganese elevated its growth. At concentrations higher than 1 mmol L−1, zinc and iron inhibited the chymotrypsin‐like activity of this strain. In addition, trypsin‐like protease and palmitoyl esterase activities were insensitive to all tested heavy metals in the applied concentration range. We studied the effects of some widely used herbicides and fungicides on the growth of this strain. The presence of sulfonylurea herbicides, like bensulfuron‐methyl, cinosulfuron, chlorsulfuron, ethoxysulfuron, triasulfuron, and primisulfuron‐methyl strongly inhibited the biomass production of the strain even at the concentration of 6.25 mg L−1. Glyphosate also inhibited the growth above 30 mg L−1. Similarly, contact fungicides like captan, maneb, mancozeb, and thiram resulted in total inhibition at the concentration as low as 6.25 mg L−1. Interestingly, the sterol‐biosynthesis‐inhibiting fungicides imazalil, fenarimol, penconazole, and tebuconazole also proved to be potent inhibitors. Heavy metal‐ and fungicide‐tolerant strains were isolated from the parental strain and their antagonistic abilities were evaluated. There was no substantial difference between the antagonism capability of wild‐type strain and the resistant mutants.
Identification of Comprehensive Metabotypes Associated with Cardiometabolic Diseases in the Population‐Based KORA Study
Authors: Riedl Anna , Wawro Nina , Gieger Christian , Meisinger Christa , Peters Annette , Roden Michael , Kronenberg Florian , Herder Christian , Rathmann Wolfgang , Völzke Henry , Reincke Martin , Koenig Wolfgang , Wallaschofski Henri , Hauner Hans , Daniel Hannelore , Linseisen Jakob
Published: June 2018

Scope

“Metabotyping” describes the grouping of metabolically similar individuals. We aimed to identify valid metabotypes in a large cohort for targeted dietary intervention, for example, for disease prevention.

Methods and results

We grouped 1729 adults aged 32–77 years of the German population‐based KORA F4 study (2006–2008) using k‐means cluster analysis based on 34 biochemical and anthropometric parameters. We identified three metabolically distinct clusters showing significantly different biochemical parameter concentrations. Cardiometabolic disease status was determined at baseline in the F4 study and at the 7 year follow‐up termed FF4 (2013/2014) to compare disease prevalence and incidence between clusters. Cluster 3 showed the most unfavorable marker profile with the highest prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases. Also, disease incidence was higher in cluster 3 compared to clusters 2 and 1, respectively, for hypertension (41.2%/25.3%/18.2%), type 2 diabetes (28.3%/5.1%/2.0%), hyperuricemia/gout (10.8%/2.3%/0.7%), dyslipidemia (19.2%/18.3%/5.6%), all metabolic (54.5%/36.8%/19.7%), and all cardiovascular (6.3%/5.5%/2.3%) diseases together.

Conclusion

Cluster analysis based on an extensive set of biochemical and anthropometric parameters allows the identification of comprehensive metabotypes that were distinctly different in cardiometabolic disease occurrence. As a next step, targeted dietary strategies should be developed with the goal of preventing diseases, especially in cluster 3.
Overexpression of a glutathione S‐transferase (Mdgst) and a galactosyltransferase‐like gene (Mdgt1) is responsible for imidacloprid resistance in house flies
Authors: Reid William R , Sun Haina , Becnel James J , Clark Andrew G , Scott Jeffrey G
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Neonicotinoids are the largest class of insecticides and are used for control of house fly populations at animal production facilities throughout the world. There have been several reports of neonicotinoid resistance in house fly populations, but identification of the factors involved in resistance has proven challenging. The KS8S3 population of house flies is highly resistant to the neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid due to two factors: one on chromosome 3 and one on chromosome 4.

RESULTS

A comparative transcriptomic approach was used, followed by validation using transgenic Drosophila melanogaster to investigate the genes responsible for resistance in the KS8S3 strain. Overexpression of a microsomal glutathione S‐transferase (Mdgst) was identified as the factor likely responsible for resistance on chromosome 3. Resistance on chromosome 4 appears to be due to an unidentified trans‐regulatory gene which causes overexpression of a galactosyltransferase‐like gene (Mdgt1). No single nucleotide polymorphisms were found that could be associated with imidacloprid resistance.

CONCLUSION

Identification of the underlying processes that cause imidacloprid resistance is an important first step towards the development of novel and sensitive resistance monitoring techniques. It will be valuable to investigate if overexpression of Mdgst and Mdgt1 are found in other imidacloprid resistant populations. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Cu2O QDs‐Apoferritin as a Sensor Media for Neurotransmitters
Authors: Lee Ho Kyung , Kim Ji Hyeon , Lee Dal Ho , Park Sang Joon
Published: June 2018

Quantum dots (QDs) are considered lucrative especially in the area of biosensors because of their peculiar optical properties. Although II–VI semiconductor QDs such as CdSe are the most studied QDs, their inherent toxicity may hinder safe use in in vivo applications, such as biolabeling procedures. In the present work, non‐toxic Cu2O QDs‐apoferritin are efficiently synthesized in the cavity of cage‐shaped apoferritin. The Cu2O QDs are crystalline with an average size of 3 nm. To utilize the Cu2O QDs‐apoferritin as a biosensor, the change in photoluminescence (PL) spectrum is investigated by accompanying its conjugation reaction with neurotransmitters. When the Cu2O QDs‐apoferritin are conjugated with dopamine, significant fluorescence quenching occurred, and the PL intensity exhibited a linear relationship with dopamine concentration in the range of 0.25–10 × 10–6 m with an R2 of 0.9842. Moreover, the results show that Cu2O QDs‐apoferritin have good selectivity for dopamine over gamma‐aminobutyric acid, histamine, and ascorbic acid.
Establish efficient partnership between counseling, student affairs
Authors: Dougher M. Kirk , King Corey
Published: June 2018

As indicated by the inclusion of university counseling and psychological services centers in several national conversations, such services are critical to the course and direction of student affairs. What's more, results of national studies indicate that many of our students struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, and an assortment of other mental health issues. To best serve those students, increase the probability of their happiness, and escalate their likelihood of graduating on time and on target, student affairs should aim for great collaborative efforts with counseling centers.
Improve interactions with millennials on your campus by considering research‐based insight into trends, myths
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2018

When it comes to perceptions and expectations about interacting with the millennial generation, there's no shortage of stereotypes, myths, and misunderstandings. Gaining a more accurate perspective can help improve your interactions with millennials on your campus.