bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Robust Inverse Scattering Transform for the Focusing Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Bilman Deniz , Miller Peter D.
Published: March 2019

We propose a modification of the standard inverse scattering transform for the focusing nonlinear Schrödinger equation (also other equations by natural generalization) formulated with nonzero boundary conditions at infinity. The purpose is to deal with arbitrary‐order poles and potentially severe spectral singularities in a simple and unified way. As an application, we use the modified transform to place the Peregrine solution and related higher‐order “rogue wave” solutions in an inverse‐scattering context for the first time. This allows one to directly study properties of these solutions such as their dynamical or structural stability, or their asymptotic behavior in the limit of high order. The modified transform method also allows rogue waves to be generated on top of other structures by elementary Darboux transformations rather than the generalized Darboux transformations in the literature or other related limit processes. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Validation of the Serbian version of the Metacognitions Questionnaire‐30 in nonclinical and clinical samples
Authors: Marković Vuk , Purić Danka , Vukosavljević‐Gvozden Tatjana , Begović Aleksandar
Published: March 2019

The Metacognitions Questionnaire (MCQ‐30) is a brief multidimensional measure used for assessment of metacognitive beliefs in psychopathology. The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of MCQ‐30 in Serbian nonclinical (n = 246) and clinical (n = 171; anxiety and depressive disorders) samples. The reliability of the questionnaire and its subscales was satisfactory. An exploratory factor analysis yielded a five‐factor solution in both groups, whereas a confirmatory factor analysis showed a somewhat weaker fit of the model. The MCQ‐30 showed positive associations with measures of anxiety, pathological worry, depressive, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms in both samples, demonstrating adequate convergent validity. The instrument was sensitive to differences in metacognitive beliefs between nonclinical and clinical samples. MCQ‐30 subscales showed incremental contributions in predicting pathological worry after controlling for the variance in obsessive–compulsive symptoms and vice versa. Our results suggest that the MCQ‐30 is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing metacognitive beliefs in both nonclinical and clinical samples. Moreover, the findings support the use of the MCQ‐30 in Serbian population and extend support for the metacognitive model.
A Robust, Broadly Absorbing Fulgide Derivative as a Universal Chemical Actinometer for the UV to NIR Region
Authors: Reinfelds Matiss , Hermanns Volker , Halbritter Thomas , Wachtveitl Josef , Braun Markus , Slanina Tomáš , Heckel Alexander
Published: March 2019

A fulgide photoswitch is presented as a novel actinometer for a broad range of wavelengths from the UV to the NIR region (340–700 nm). It is easily accessible and has a robust photochemistry and high fatigue resistance. Its photophysics and photochemistry are described in detail. Quantum yields of photoswitching were measured for a series of wavelengths and standardized against known standards (ferrioxalate actinometry, calibrated photodiode). We also present a method for the precise determination of photoswitching quantum yields by global analysis of the whole spectra and an alternative quick and easy method for rapid determination of photon fluxes.
Green human resource management and job pursuit intention: Examining the underlying processes
Authors: Chaudhary Richa
Published: March 2019

The present study was conducted with an objective to illuminate the complex psychological mechanisms underlying the relationship of green human resource management (GHRM) with job pursuit intention (JPI) of potential applicants. Specifically, a sequential mediation model linking GHRM with JPI through organizational prestige (OP) and organizational attractiveness (OA) was proposed using arguments from theories of signaling and social identity. A sample of 172 students enrolled in the final year of a Bachelors in Technology program at one of the leading technology institutes in India was used to empirically validate the hypotheses. Results largely provided support for the proposed hypotheses. OP and OA sequentially mediated the effect of GHRM on JPI. By offering an understanding of complex microlevel processes through which GHRM shapes prospective applicants' JPI, the study advances the understanding on human element of environmental management and provides a foundation for designing effective GHRM systems.
A review of corporate social responsibility in developed and developing nations
Authors: Sharma Eliza
Published: March 2019

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is the gateway for corporations to combine business with ethics and is needed to expand the focus of a corporation beyond merely its own profit line. The present paper is a theoretical discussion on these practices through a critical study of research literature. Researcher seeks to discuss the meaning of CSR, before focusing on the presence and significance of CSR in developed and developing nations. There are similarities between CSR trends in the two distinct fields such as emotion‐oriented CSR programs and use of media for corporate image building. In contrast, major differences can be found in the role of governments among developed and developing countries in relation to CSR activities. Finally, the researcher also presents a look into the impact of CSR in shaping future progress for developing countries. The paper is purely a reflection and comparative review of existing research literature from various countries in the world.
Self‐Enhancing H2 Evolution from TiO2 Nanostructures under Illumination
Authors: Wierzbicka Ewa , Zhou Xuemei , Denisov Nikita , Yoo JeongEun , Fehn Dominik , Liu Ning , Meyer Karsten , Schmuki Patrik
Published: March 2019

Illumination of anatase in an aqueous methanolic solution leads to the formation of Ti3+ sites that are catalytically active for the generation of dihydrogen (H2). With increasing illumination time, a light‐induced self‐amplification of the photocatalytic H2 production rate can be observed. The effect is characterized by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, reflectivity, and photoelectrochemical techniques. Combined measurements of H2 generation rates and in situ EPR spectroscopic observation over the illumination time with AM 1.5G or UV light establish that the activation is accompanied by the formation of Ti3+ states, which is validated through their characteristic EPR resonance at g=1.93. This self‐activation and amplification behavior can be observed for anatase nanoparticles and nanotubes.
How Clinical Flow Cytometry Rebooted Sepsis Immunology
Authors: Monneret Guillaume , Gossez Morgane , Aghaeepour Nima , Gaudilliere Brice , Venet Fabienne
Published: March 2019

On May 2017, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized sepsis as a global health priority by adopting a resolution to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and management of this deadly disease. While it has long been known that sepsis deeply perturbs immune homeostasis by inducing a tremendous systemic inflammatory response, pivotal observations based on clinical flow cytometry indicate that sepsis indeed initiates a more complex immune response that varies over time, with the concomitant occurrence of both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory mechanisms. As a resultant, some septic patients enter a stage of protracted immunosuppression. This paved the way for immunostimulation approaches in sepsis. Clinical flow cytometry permitted this evolution by drawing a new picture of pathophysiology and reshaping immune trajectories in patients. Additional information from cytometry by time of flight mass cytometry and other high‐dimensional flow cytometry platform should rapidly enrich our understanding of this complex disease. This review reports on landmarks of clinical flow cytometry in sepsis and how this single‐cell analysis technique permitted to breach the wall of decades of unfruitful anti‐inflammatory‐based clinical trials in sepsis. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
8‐Hydroxyquinolines are bactericidal against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Odingo Joshua O. , Early Julie V. , Smith Jake , Johnson James , Bailey Mai A. , Files Megan , Guzman Junitta , Ollinger Juliane , Korkegian Aaron , Kumar Anuradha , Ovechkina Yulia , Parish Tanya
Published: March 2019

There is an urgent need for new treatments effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis. The 8‐hydroxyquinoline series is a privileged scaffold with anticancer, antifungal, and antibacterial activities. We conducted a structure–activity relationship study of the series regarding its antitubercular activity using 26 analogs. The 8‐hydroxyquinolines showed good activity against M. tuberculosis, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC90) of <5 μM for some analogs. Small substitutions at C5 resulted in the most potent activity. Substitutions at C2 generally decreased potency, although a sub‐family of 2‐styryl‐substituted analogs retained activity. Representative compounds demonstrated bactericidal activity against replicating M. tuberculosis with >4 log kill at 10× MIC over 14 days. The majority of the compounds demonstrated cytotoxicity (IC50 of <100 μM). Further development of this series as antitubercular agents should address the cytotoxicity liability. However, the 8‐hydroxyquinoline series represents a useful tool for chemical genomics to identify novel targets in M. tuberculosis.
Diabetic kidney disease: A systematic review on the role of epigenetics as diagnostic and prognostic marker
Authors: Singh Sangeeta , Sonkar Satyendra Kumar , Sonkar Gyanendra Kumar , Mahdi Abbas Ali
Published: March 2019

Diabetic kidney disease is one of the most serious microvascular complications and among the leading causes of end stage renal disease. Persistently increasing albuminuria has been considered to be the central hallmark of nephropathy. However, albuminuria can indicate kidney damage for clinicians; it is not a specific biomarker for prediction of diabetic kidney disease prior to the onset of this devastating complication, and in fact all individuals with microalbuminuria do not progress to overt nephropathy. Controlled glycemia is unable to prevent nephropathy in all diabetic individuals indicating the role of other factors in progression of diabetic kidney disease.

There are numerous cellular and molecular defects persisting prior to appearance of clinical symptoms. So, there is an urgent need to look for easy, novel, and accurate way to detect diabetic kidney disease prior to its beginning or at the infancy stage so that its progression can be slowed or arrested.

It is now accepted that initiation and progression of diabetic kidney disease are a result of complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Environmental signals can alter the intracellular pathways by chromatin modifiers and regulate gene expression patterns leading to diabetes and its complications. In the present review, we have discussed a possible link between aberrant DNA methylation and altered gene expression in diabetic kidney disease. Drugs targeting to reverse epigenetic alteration can retard or stop the development of this devastating disease, just by breaking the chain of events occurring prior to the development of this microvascular complication in patients with diabetes.
Independent markers of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in a gentrifying population‐based Chinese cohort
Authors: Zhou Xianghai , Li Yufeng , Zhang Xiuying , Guan Ying Ying , Puentes Yindra , Zhang Fang , Speliotes Elizabeth K. , Ji Linong
Published: March 2019

Background

Prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing in developing countries, but its causes are not known. We aimed to ascertain the prevalence and determinants of NAFLD in a new largely unmedicated population‐based cohort from the rapidly gentrifying region of Pinggu, China.

Methods

We randomized cluster sampled 4002 Pinggu residents aged 26 to 76 years. Data from 1238 men and 1928 women without significant alcohol drinking or hepatitis virus B or C infection were analysed. NAFLD was defined using a liver‐spleen ratio (L/S ratio) ≤1.1 on unenhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) scanning.

Results

Of men and women, 26.5% and 20.1%, respectively, had NAFLD. NAFLD prevalence was highest in younger men and older women. In multivariate logistic regression models, higher body mass index, waist circumference, serum triglyceride, alanine transaminase, and haemoglobin A1c independently increased the odds of NAFLD in both men and women separately. Higher annual household income and systolic blood pressure for men and higher serum uric acid and red meat intake and lower physical activity levels for women also independently associated with higher odds of NAFLD. Individuals with L/S ratio ≤1.1 had linearly increasing rates of obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome that paralleled fatty liver increase.

Conclusions

NAFLD is common in a gentrifying Chinese population particularly in younger men of high socioeconomic status and older women with sedentary behaviour who eat red meat. Demographic factors add independent risk of NAFLD above traditional metabolic risk factors. A CT L/S ratio of ≤1.1 identifies individuals at high risk of metabolic disease.
The novel gene apnoia regulates Drosophila tracheal tube size
Authors: Scholl Aaron , O'Brien Michael J. , Chandran Rachana R. , Jiang Lan
Published: March 2019

Background

Distinct tube size is critical for the function of human tubular organs such as the lung, vascular system, and kidney. Aberrant tube sizes can lead to devastating human illnesses, including polycystic kidney disease. The Drosophila trachea provides a premier genetic system to investigate the fundamental mechanisms that regulate tube size.

Results

Here we describe the function of a novel gene, apnoia, in tube‐size regulation. apn encodes an apical membrane protein, Apnoia (Apn), with three helical transmembrane domains. Loss‐of‐function apn mutants show shorter‐tube and air‐filling defects in larval trachea, whereas there are no obvious defects in embryonic trachea. Conversely, overexpression of apn in trachea leads to significant tube over‐elongation. We analyzed apical luminal matrix and cell polarity in these longer tubes. It is interesting to note that we observed normal establishment of cell polarity, whereas all luminal matrix components are significantly reduced. In addition, we observed that some matrix components are localized in cytoplasmic vesicles, suggesting secretion defects in apn overexpressing trachea.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results strongly suggest the possibility that apn is directly or indirectly involved in vesicular trafficking to regulate tube size.
Regulation of position effect variegation at pericentric heterochromatin by Drosophila Keap1‐Nrf2 xenobiotic response factors
Authors: Carlson Jennifer , Swisse Thane , Smith Charles , Deng Huai
Published: March 2019

The Keap1‐Nrf2 signaling pathway plays a central role in the regulation of transcriptional responses to oxidative species and xenobiotic stimuli. The complete range of molecular mechanisms and biological functions of Keap1 and Nrf2 remain to be fully elucidated. To determine the potential roles of Keap1 and Nrf2 in chromatin architecture, we examined the effects of their Drosophila homologs (dKeap1 and CncC) on position effect variegation (PEV), which is a transcriptional reporter for heterochromatin formation and spreading. Loss of function mutations in cncC, dKeap1, and cncC/dKeap1 double mutants all suppressed the variegation of wm4 and SbV PEV alleles, indicating that reduction of CncC or dKeap1 causes a decrease of heterochromatic silencing at pericentric region. Depletion of CncC or dKeap1 in embryos reduced the level of the H3K9me2 heterochromatin marker, but had no effect on the transcription of the genes encoding Su(var)3‐9 and HP1. These results support a potential role of dKeap1 and CncC in the establishment and/or maintenance of pericentric heterochromatin. Our study provides preliminary evidence for a novel epigenetic function of Keap1‐Nrf2 oxidative/xenobiotic response factors in chromatin remodeling.
Multi‐scalar drivers of biodiversity: local management mediates wild bee community response to regional urbanization
Authors: Ballare Kimberly M. , Neff John L. , Ruppel Rebecca , Jha Shalene
Published: March 2019

It is critical to understand the specific drivers of biodiversity across multiple spatial scales, especially within rapidly urbanizing areas, given the distinct management recommendations that may result at each scale. However, drivers of biodiversity patterns and interactions between drivers are often only measured and modeled at a single scale. In this study, we assessed bee community composition at three time periods in 20 grassland and 20 agriculture sites located across two major metroplexes. We examined how local environmental variables and surrounding landscape composition impact bee abundance, richness, and evenness, including comparisons between groups with different nesting strategies and body sizes. We collected nearly 13,000 specimens and identified 172 species. We found that levels of regional land use differentially impacted bee abundance and diversity depending on local habitat management. Specifically, within agriculture sites, bee richness was greater with increasing landscape‐level seminatural habitat, while in grassland sites, bee richness was similar across landscapes regardless of seminatural habitat cover. Bee evenness at both site types declined with increasing landscape‐level habitat heterogeneity, due to an increase of rare species at the grassland sites, but not in the agricultural sites, further indicating that diversity is driven by the interaction of local habitat quality and landscape‐level habitat composition. We additionally found that agriculture sites supported higher abundances, but not richness, of small‐bodied and below‐ground nesting bees, while grassland sites supported higher abundances of aboveground nesting bees, and higher richness of large‐bodied species. Increased levels of local bare ground were significantly related to multiple metrics of bee diversity, including greater belowground nesting bee abundance and richness. Local floral richness was also significantly related to increases of overall bee abundance, as well as the abundance and richness of small bees. Overall, we suggest that local land managers can support bee abundance and diversity by conserving areas of bare soil and promoting native floral diversity, the latter especially critical in highly urban agricultural spaces. Our results provide the first documentation of significant interactions between local habitat management and landscape composition impacting insect communities in urban systems, indicating that bee conservation practices depend critically on land use interactions across multiple spatial scales.
Do precipitation extremes drive growth and migration timing of a Pacific salmonid fish in Mediterranean‐climate streams?
Authors: Kelson Suzanne J. , Carlson Stephanie M.
Published: March 2019

Climate change is expected to increase weather extremes and variability, including more frequent weather whiplashes or extreme swings between severe drought and extraordinarily wet years. Shifts in precipitation patterns will alter stream flow regimes, affecting critical life history stages of sensitive aquatic organisms. Understanding how threatened fish species, such as steelhead/rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), are affected by stream flows in years with contrasting environmental conditions is important for their conservation. Here, we report how extreme wet and dry years, from 2015 to 2018, affected stream flow patterns in two tributaries to the South Fork Eel River, California, USA, and aspects of O. mykiss ecology, including over‐summer fish growth and body condition as well as spring out‐migration timing. We found that stream flow patterns differed across years in the timing and magnitude of large winter–spring flow events and in summer low‐flow levels. We were surprised to find that differences in stream flows did not impact growth, body condition, or timing of out‐migration of O. mykiss. Fish growth was limited in the late summer in these streams (average of 0.02 ± 0.05 mm/d), but was similar across dry and wet years, and so was end‐of‐summer body condition and pool‐specific biomass loss from the beginning to the end of the summer. Similarly, O. mykiss migrated out of tributaries during the last week of March/first week of April regardless of the timing of spring flow events. We suggest that the muted response to inter‐annual hydrologic variability is due to the high quality of habitat provided by these unimpaired, groundwater‐fed tributaries. Similar streams that are likely to maintain cool temperatures and sufficient base flows, even in the driest years, should be a high priority for conservation and restoration efforts.
Rationale and design of the DIGIT‐HF trial (DIGitoxin to Improve ouTcomes in patients with advanced chronic Heart Failure): a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Bavendiek Udo , Berliner Dominik , Dávila Lukas Aguirre , Schwab Johannes , Maier Lars , Philipp Sebastian A. , Rieth Andreas , Westenfeld Ralf , Piorkowski Christopher , Weber Kristina , Hänselmann Anja , Oldhafer Maximiliane , Schallhorn Sven , von der Leyen Heiko , Schröder Christoph , Veltmann Christian , Störk Stefan , Böhm Michael , Koch Armin , Bauersachs Johann ,   on behalf of the DIGIT‐HF Investigators and Committees (see Appendix)
Published: March 2019

Aims

Despite recent advances in the treatment of chronic heart failure (HF), mortality and hospitalizations still remain high. Additional therapies to improve mortality and morbidity are urgently needed. The efficacy of cardiac glycosides – although regularly used for HF treatment – remains unclear. DIGIT‐HF was designed to demonstrate that digitoxin on top of standard of care treatment improves mortality and morbidity in patients with HF and a reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods

Patients with chronic HF, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III–IV and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40%, or patients in NYHA functional class II and LVEF ≤ 30% are randomized 1:1 in a double‐blind fashion to treatment with digitoxin (target serum concentration 8–18 ng/mL) or matching placebo. Randomization is stratified by centre, sex, NYHA functional class (II, III, or IV), atrial fibrillation, and treatment with cardiac glycosides at baseline. A total of 2190 eligible patients will be included in this clinical trial (1095 per group). All patients receive standard of care treatment recommended by expert guidelines upon discretion of the treating physician. The primary outcome is a composite of all‐cause mortality or hospital admission for worsening HF (whatever occurs first). Key secondary endpoints are all‐cause mortality, hospital admission for worsening HF, and recurrent hospital admission for worsening HF.

Conclusion

The DIGIT‐HF trial will provide important evidence, whether the cardiac glycoside digitoxin reduces the risk for all‐cause mortality and/or hospital admission for worsening HF in patients with advanced chronic HFrEF on top of standard of care treatment.
Expression of c‐Kit discriminates between two functionally distinct subsets of human type 2 innate lymphoid cells
Authors: Hochdörfer Thomas , Winkler Carla , Pardali Katerina , Mjösberg Jenny
Published: March 2019

Human type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are the only ILC subset that shows heterogeneous expression of the SCF receptor c‐Kit (CD117). Despite its use as surface marker to distinguish ILC populations, its influence on ILC2 biology has not been investigated. Here, we show that c‐Kit expression of peripheral blood ILC distinguishes two functionally distinct ILC2 subsets (c‐Kithi and c‐Kitlo). When examined for their potential for functional plasticity we found that c‐Kitlo ILC2 displayed greater potential to produce type 2 cytokines, possibly representing fully mature and lineage committed ILC2. On the other hand, c‐Kithi ILC2 coexpressed the ILC3‐marker and chemokine receptor CCR6 and were able to mount a significant IL‐17A response under ILC3‐promoting conditions. In addition, c‐Kithi ILC2 produced higher levels of IFN‐γ than c‐Kitlo ILC2 under ILC1‐conditions. Although costimulation with SCF did not further influence ILC2 plasticity, it augmented type 2 cytokine production. We conclude that c‐Kit marks distinct subpopulations of ILC2, which has therapeutic implications for conditions in which ILC2 are involved, such as allergy and asthma.
Rituximab/Bendamustine treatment of chronic lymphatic leukemia leads to sustained remission of antiphospholipid antibodies
Authors: Ames Paul RJ , Merashli Mira , Gentile Fabrizio
Published: March 2019

No abstract.
Transition Metal‐Free C5 Tosyloxylation of 8‐Aminoquinolines with Phenyliodine Bistrifluoroacetate and Substituted 1,2‐Disulfonyl Hydrazides
Authors: Liang Tingting , He Xin , Ji Dezhong , Wu Huanhuan , Xu Yizhu , Li Yuyan , Wang Zhibin , Xu Yungen , Zhu Qihua
Published: March 2019

A novel and efficient method for direct tosyloxylation at C5 position of 8‐aminoquinolines has been accomplished by nonmetal‐catalyzed C–H functionalization at mild conditions. It is shown, for the first time, that the radical RSO3· could be generated by the reaction of phenyliodine bistrifluoroacetate with substituted 1,2‐disulfonyl hydrazides. This reaction reveals excellent reactivity, good functional group tolerance, and moderate to good yield.
Synthesis of 6,7‐Dihydropyrrolo[2,1‐c][1,3]thiazino[3,2‐a]pyrazine‐4(11bH)‐(thi)ones from 1,2‐Dithiolo‐3‐(thi)ones
Authors: Ogurtsov Vladimir A. , Karpychev Yury V. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Primakov Petr V. , Koutentis Panayiotis A. , Rakitin Oleg A.
Published: March 2019

An efficient synthesis of 6,7‐dihydropyrrolo[2,1‐c][1,3]thi‐azino[3,2‐a]pyrazine‐4(11bH)‐(thi)ones from readily available 1,2‐di‐thiolo‐3‐(thi)ones and 3,4‐dihydropyrrolo[1,2‐a]pyrazine is reported. The S2 atom in both monocyclic and fused 1,2‐dithioles is selectively replaced by aminomethylene to afford fused, rigid six‐membered 1,3‐thiazines. The scope of this two‐step one‐pot reaction was investigated: 1,2‐dithiolo‐3‐ones were more reactive than the corresponding 1,2‐dithiole‐3‐thiones. Optimized reaction conditions and a mechanistic rationale for the ring transformation are presented.
Regioselective Lithiation and Electrophilic Quenching of N‐Boc‐3‐phenyltetrahydroisoquinoline
Authors: Talk Ruaa A. , El‐Tunsi Ashraf , Robertson Craig C. , Coldham Iain
Published: March 2019

Tetrahydroisoquinolines are found in many natural products and drug compounds and a convenient method to access 1‐substituted derivatives is to carry out the lithiation at C‐1 followed by trapping with an electrophile. Here we explore the feasibility of lithiation at C‐3 by using a substrate with a benzylic proton on both sides of the nitrogen atom such that lithiation with nBuLi could occur at either C‐1 or C‐3 of the tetrahydroisoquinoline. The regioselectivity in the lithiation was determined using the substrate N‐tert‐butoxycarbonyl (Boc)‐3‐phenyltetrahydroisoquinoline. The lithiation could be followed by in situ ReactIR spectroscopy and the rate of rotation of the carbamate group was determined (barrier to rotation was approximately ΔG‡ 58 kJ/mol at –50 °C). Subsequent trapping of the organolithium species with an electrophile gave a mixture of two regioisomeric products with a preference for reaction at C‐1. This led to the isolation of 1,3‐disubstituted tetrahydroisoquinolines with trans relative stereochemistry. Removal of the Boc group from the nitrogen atom gave secondary and tertiary amine products.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Protected Peptides Containing an anti β‐Hydroxy Tyrosine
Authors: Fernández‐Valparis Javier , Romea Pedro , Urpí Fèlix
Published: March 2019

Protected peptides containing an anti β‐hydroxy tyrosine are synthesized in a straightforward and highly efficient manner through the direct and stereoselective addition of N‐azidoacetyl‐4‐isopropyl‐1,3‐thiazolidine‐2‐thione to dialkyl acetals catalyzed by a nickel(II) complex, the forging of an amide bond by removal of the chiral auxiliary with an amino ester, and final coupling with a third amino acid.
Stereotype content of refugee subgroups in Germany
Authors: Kotzur Patrick F. , Friehs Maria‐Therese , Asbrock Frank , van Zalk Maarten H. W.
Published: March 2019

Stereotypes of refugee subgroups are still understudied. We contribute to this body of research by investigating differences in stereotype content, meaning warmth and competence ratings, of refugee subgroups in Germany (N = 264). Most extant Stereotype Content Model research is based on observed warmth and competence mean values. We applied latent variable modelling using the alignment optimisation to ensure meaningful and reliable mean value comparisons. Generic refugees were rated as lacking warmth and competence. Warmth assessments of refugee subgroups varied depending on flight motives, geographical origin, and religious affiliation, implying that perceptions of threat and competition differed between these subgroups. Fewer differences emerged in competence assessments, indicating that refugee groups are generally regarded as lacking status. Our results enhance knowledge of the stereotype content of refugee subgroups and make a methodological contribution to stereotype content research.
Simultaneous isolation and label‐free identification of bacteria using contactless dielectrophoresis and Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Hanson Cynthia , Barney Jacob T. , Bishop Morgan M. , Vargis Elizabeth
Published: March 2019

The traditional bacterial identification method of growing colonies on agar plates can take several days to weeks to complete depending on the growth rate of the bacteria. Successfully decreasing this analysis time requires cell isolation followed by identification. One way to decrease analysis time is by combining dielectrophoresis (DEP), a common technique used for cell sorting and isolation, and Raman spectroscopy for cell identification. DEP‐Raman devices have been used for bacterial analysis, however, these devices have a number of drawbacks including sample heating, cell‐to‐electrode proximity that limits throughput and separation efficiency, electrode fouling, or inability to address sample debris. Presented here is a contactless DEP‐Raman device to simultaneously isolate and identify particles from a mixed sample while avoiding common drawbacks associated with other DEP designs. Using the device, a mixed sample of bacteria and 3 μm polystyrene spheres were isolated from each other and a Raman spectrum of the trapped bacteria was acquired, indicating the potential for cDEP‐Raman devices to decrease the analysis time of bacteria.
Distinct and independent dielectrophoretic behavior of the head and tail of sperm and its potential for the safe sorting and isolation of rare spermatozoa
Authors: Shuchat Sholom , Park Sinwook , Kol Shahar , Yossifon Gilad
Published: March 2019

Often, in semen samples with minute amounts of sperm, even the single spermatozoon required to fertilize an oocyte cannot be found in the ejaculate. This is primarily because currently, sperm is generally searched for manually under a microscope. In this study, dielectrophoresis (DEP) was investigated as an alternative automated technique for sorting sperm cells. Using a quadrupolar electrode array it was shown that the head and tail of the sperm had independent and unique crossover frequencies corresponding to the transition of the DEP force from repulsive (negative) to attractive (positive). These surprising results were further analyzed, showing that the head and tail have their own distinct electrical properties. This significant result allows for the sperm's head, which contains the DNA, to be distanced from potentially damaging high electric fields using negative DEP while simultaneously manipulating and sorting the sperm using the positive DEP response of the tail. A proof of concept sorting chip was designed and tested. The low crossover frequency of the tail also allows for the use of a higher conductivity, and thus more physiological, medium than the conventional DEP solutions. Although more research is required to design and optimize an efficient, user‐friendly, and high‐throughput device, this research is a proof of concept that DEP has the potential to automate and improve the processing of semen samples, especially those containing only rare spermatozoa.
Synthesis of the chiral selector heptakis(6‐O‐methyl)‐β‐cyclodextrin by phase‐transfer catalysis and hydrazine‐mediated transfer‐hydrogenation
Authors: Bálint Mihály , Darcsi András , Benkovics Gábor , Varga Erzsébet , Malanga Milo , Béni Szabolcs
Published: March 2019

The exhaustive primary‐side alkylation of cyclodextrins has never been achieved directly. The undesired and simultaneous derivatization of the secondary hydroxyl moieties generates intricate isomeric mixtures that are challenging to purify, analyse and characterize. The aim of this study was to develop a chromatography‐free and up‐scalable strategy towards the preparation of per‐6‐O‐methylated cyclodextrin and to test the compound as potential chiral selector. The target molecule was prepared according to a five‐step synthesis by using methyltriphenylphosphonium bromide as catalyst under heterogeneous conditions. The removal of benzyl moieties, used as temporary secondary‐side protecting groups, was attained by applying hydrazine‐carbonate in the presence of Pd/C. All the intermediates were obtained in high yields, thoroughly characterized and their purity was assessed by ad‐hoc developed HPLC methods. The per‐6‐O‐methylated β‐cyclodextrin showed promising chiral recognition ability as background electrolyte additive in cyclodextrin‐modified capillary electrophoresis using the recreational drug methylene‐dioxypyrovalerone as model compound. Additionally, a model for the inclusion geometry between the single isomer host and the selected drug was developed based on the extensive 2D NMR analysis. The versatility of the proposed synthetic strategy opens the way to the industrial production of homogeneously primary‐alkylated cyclodextrins and to their wide application in chiral separation of various drugs.
Effective course registration, add/drop policies key to four‐year graduation rates
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2019

ATLANTA — In 2018, San Diego State University had the number‐one six‐year graduation rate for actual versus predictive graduation rates, which was determined by comparing the university's actual graduation rate to the rate analysts would expect, given such factors as financial resources, admissions data, proportion of economically disadvantaged students, social mobility, and STEM orientation. The actual number of students who graduate from SDSU over the course of six years is more than 75 percent.
Integrate different generational needs for a strong adult learner experience
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2019

CLEVELAND — Working with adult learners comes with a particular challenge in that adult learners at your institution can, and will, cross generational lines. When recruiting adult learners, you might be speaking to members of several different generations — everyone from baby boomers to Generation X to millennials, all with different needs, expectations, and sources of motivation.
1,5‐Diaza‐3,7‐Diphosphacyclooctane Bis‐Ligand Nickel(II) Complexes as Oxygen Reduction Catalysts for Proton‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Kadirov Marsil , Karasik Andrey , Nizameev Irek , Spiridonova Yulia , Khrizanforov Mikhail , Kadirov Danis , Nizameeva Guliya , Khrizanforova Vera , Mukhametzyanova Dina , Budnikova Yulia , Sinyashin Oleg
Published: March 2019

Membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) with 1,5‐diaza‐3,7‐diphosphacyclootane organometallic bis‐ligand nickel(II) complexes [Ni(PPh2NPh2)2]2+2.[BF4]− [1(Ph‐Ph)] and [Ni(PPh2NBn2)2]2+2.[BF4]− [2(Ph‐Bn)] as a part of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts for proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are built and tested. The complexes are characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), electron spin resonance (ESR), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and differential scanning calorimetry‐thermogravimetric analysis (DSC‐TGA). Electrochemical activity toward ORR and catalytic stability of compounds is tested by chronoamperometry (CA). The electrochemical activity of catalysts and ORR mechanisms is studied by rotating disk electrode (RDE). A performance analysis of the PEMFC is carried out. A peak power density of about 11.84 mW cm−2 and a current density of 80 mA cm−2 are measured for 2(Ph‐Bn)/C cathode and Pt/C anode catalysts, respectively. Chronoamperometric tests in 0.5 m H2SO4 for 3 h show an excellent stability for the compound 2(Ph‐Bn). The performance of 1(Ph‐Ph)/C catalyst and the chronoamperometric stability of 1(Ph‐Ph) are worse. A possible relationship between the catalysts’ performance and basicity of pendant amines on the base of the proposed ORR mechanism with two metal centers is discussed.
Mechanisms and moderators in mindfulness‐ and acceptance‐based treatments for binge eating spectrum disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Barney Jennifer L. , Murray Helen B. , Manasse Stephanie M. , Dochat Cara , Juarascio Adrienne S.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Increasing evidence suggests that mindfulness‐ and acceptance‐based psychotherapies (MABTs) for bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED) may be efficacious; however, little is known about their active treatment components or for whom they may be most effective.

Methods

We systematically identified clinical trials testing MABTs for BN or BED through PsychINFO and Google Scholar. Publications were categorized according to analyses of mechanisms of action and moderators of treatment outcome.

Results

Thirty‐nine publications met inclusion criteria. Twenty‐seven included analyses of therapeutic mechanisms, and five examined moderators of treatment outcome. Changes were largely consistent with hypothesized mechanisms of MABTs, but substandard mediation analyses, inconsistent measurement tools, and infrequent use of mid‐treatment assessment points limited our ability to make strong inferences.

Discussion

Analyses of mechanisms of action and moderators of outcome in MABTs for BN and BED appear promising, but the use of more sophisticated statistical analyses and adequate replication is necessary.
Reduction of elevated lipids and low‐density lipoprotein oxidation in serum of individuals with subclinical hypoxia and oxidative stress supplemented with lycosome formulation of docosahexaenoic acid
Authors: Petyaev Ivan M. , Dovgalevsky Pavel Y. , Chalyk Natalia E. , Klochkov Victor A. , Kyle Nigel H.
Published: March 2019

Thirty two individuals aged 40–65 years old with a moderate hyperlipidemia (serum triglycerides > 150 mg/dl and LDL from 130 to 160 mg/dl) were supplemented once daily for 30 days with a 250 mg conventional formulation of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) without lycopene (CF‐DHA) or 250 mg of lycosome‐formulated DHA containing 7 mg of lycopene (LF‐DHA). It was shown that ingestion of CF‐DHA led to a transient increase in serum DHA level after 2 weeks of the trial, whereas LF‐DHA did not cause significant changes in serum DHA. However, there was a noticeable increase in serum eicosapentaenoic acid levels exceeding the pretreatment value by 42.8% and 39.1% after the 2nd and 4th weeks of LF‐DHA ingestion. Patients supplemented with LF‐DHA showed a significant (19.5 mg/dl, p < 0.05) decline in LDL, which was accompanied by a corresponding decrease in total serum cholesterol and a much stronger reduction in serum triglyceride levels (reduction of medians by 27.5 mg/dl). No changes in HDL were observed. LF‐DHA caused a significant decline in the serum level of malonic dialdehyde (MDA), whereas the components of LF‐DHA, lycopene and DHA, ingested as two separate formulations had a less significant effect on serum MDA. Moreover, LF‐DHA increased both the plasma oxygen transport and tissue oxygen saturation by the end of the observational period, while lycopene or DHA taken alone, or both of them co‐ingested separately had none or a much less effect on the oxygen turnover parameters.
Stress‐induced structural and functional modifications of astrocytes—Further implicating glia in the central response to stress
Authors: Murphy‐Royal Ciaran , Gordon Grant R. , Bains Jaideep S.
Published: March 2019

An organism's response to stress requires activation of multiple brain regions. This can have long‐lasting effects on synaptic transmission and plasticity that likely provide adaptive benefits. Recent evidence implicates not only neurones, but also glial cells in the regulation of the central response to stress. Intense, repeated or uncontrolled stress has been implicated in the emergence of multiple neuropsychiatric conditions. Human studies have consistently observed glial dysfunction in mood and stress disorders such as major depression. Interestingly animal models of stress have recapitulated glial abnormalities that are comparable to the human condition, validating the use of rodent models for the study of stress disorders. In this review we will focus upon one family of glia, the astrocytes, and describe the evidence to date that links astrocytes to possible stress‐related disorders.
Proprioception and motor performance after stroke: An examination of diffusion properties in sensory and motor pathways
Authors: Findlater Sonja E. , Mazerolle Erin L. , Pike G. Bruce , Dukelow Sean P.
Published: March 2019

Proprioceptive and motor impairments commonly occur after stroke. Relationships between corticospinal tract (CST) fractional anisotropy (FA) and motor recovery have been identified. However, the relationship between sensory tract microstructure and proprioceptive recovery remains unexplored. Using probabilistic tractography, we examined the relationship between diffusion metrics in three tracts known to contain proprioceptive information (a) dorsal‐column medial‐lemniscal (DCML), (b) postcentral gyrus to supramarginal gyrus (POCG‐SMG), (c) postcentral gyrus to Heschl's gyrus (POCG‐HG) and proprioception at 1 (n= 26) and 6 months (n= 19) poststroke. Proprioception was assessed using two robotic tasks. Motor performance was also assessed robotically and compared to CST diffusion metrics. At 1‐month poststroke, a nonsignificant relationship (r= −0.43,p= 0.05) was observed between DCML‐FA and proprioceptive impairment. A moderate relationship was identified between POCG‐SMG FA and POCG‐HG FA and proprioceptive impairment (r= −0.47,p= 0.001 andr= −0.51,p= 0.008, respectively). No relationships were significant at 6 months poststroke. Similar to previous studies, lower CST‐FA correlated with motor impairment at 1 month poststroke (r= −0.58,p= 0.002). While CST‐FA is considered a predictor of motor impairment, our findings suggest that the relationship between FA and tracts containing proprioceptive information is not as straightforward and highlights the importance of sensory association areas in proprioception.
Prediction of follicular thyroid carcinoma associated with distant metastasis in the preoperative and postoperative model
Authors: Kim Hankyul , Shin Jung Hee , Hahn Soo Yeon , Oh Young Lyun , Kim Sun Wook , Park Ko Woon , Lim Yaeji
Published: March 2019

Background

Only clinicopathological findings are reported for predicting follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) associated with distant metastasis, and preoperative ultrasound (US) findings are unknown.

Methods

Associations between distant metastases of FTC and predicting factors were evaluated by using logistic regression analysis in the preoperative and postoperative models.

Results

Distant metastasis was present in 37 (11.5%) of the 321 patients with FTC. In the preoperative model, independent predictors of distant metastasis were age, marked hypoechogenicity, nodule‐in‐nodule appearance, and rim calcification on US. Postoperative predictors were marked hypoechogenicity, rim calcification, and widely invasive histology. Sensitivities, specificities, and the area under the curves for predicting distant metastasis were 86.5%, 80.3%, and 0.889 on preoperative status and 86.5%, 78.5%, and 0.908 on postoperative status. Although not statistically significant, all four patients with gross extrathyroidal extension had metastasis.

Conclusion

Age, ultrasound features, and widely invasive histology allow preoperative and postoperative prediction of FTC associated with distant metastasis.
Evaluation of DFT Methods and Implicit Solvation Models for Anion‐Binding Host‐Guest Systems
Authors: Young Lee Ga , Bay Katherine L. , Houk Kendall N.
Published: March 2019

Although supramolecular chemistry is traditionally an experimental discipline, computations have emerged as important tools for the understanding of supramolecules. We have explored how well commonly used density functional theory quantum mechanics and polarizable continuum solvation models can calculate binding affinities of host‐guest systems. We report the calculation of binding affinities for eight host–guest complexes and compare our results to experimentally measured binding free energies that span the range from −2.3 to −6.1 kcal mol−1. These systems consist of four hosts (biotin[6]uril, triphenoxymethane, cryptand, and bis‐thiourea) with different halide ions (F−, Cl−, Br−) in various media including organic and aqueous. The mean average deviation (MAD) of calculated from measured ΔGa is 2.5 kcal mol−1 when using B3LYP‐D3 with either CPCM or PCM. This MAD value lowers even more by eliminating two outliers: 1.1 kcal mol−1 for CPCM and 1.2 kcal mol−1 for PCM. The best DFT and implicit solvation model combination that we have studied is B3LYP−D3 with either CPCM or PCM.
Controlled Growth of Porphyrin Wires at a Solid‐Liquid Interface
Authors: Kahlfuss Christophe , Kikkawa Yoshihiro , Wytko Jennifer A. , Weiss Jean
Published: March 2019

Bis(zinc porphyrin) scaffolds bearing C8 or C18 alkyl chains and imidazole end groups self‐assembled in a head‐to‐tail fashion into multi‐porphyrin assemblies on both HOPG and mica. Due to weaker molecule surface‐interactions, longer arrays formed on mica than on HOPG. In both cases, it was essential first to generate monomers that were drop casted on the surface, then to allow time for the bis(zinc porphyrins) to assemble. Although thicker fibrous assemblies were observed with the C8 alkyl substituents than with the longer chains, noncovalent assemblies up to 1 μm long were observed for each molecule. These investigations provide a reproducible, noncovalent method to grow porphyrin arrays that may be of interest in molecular electronics for charge transport.