bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Generalized Methodology of Designing 3D SERS Probes with Superior Detection Limit and Uniformity by Maximizing Multiple Coupling Effects
Authors: Tian Yi , Wang Hanfu , Yan Lanqin , Zhang Xianfeng , Falak Attia , Guo Yanjun , Chen Peipei , Dong Fengliang , Sun Lianfeng , Chu Weiguo
Published: April 2019

Accurate design of high‐performance 3D surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probes is the desired target, which is possibly implemented with a prerequisite of quantifying formidable multiple coupling effects involved. Herein, by combining theory and experiments on 3D periodic Au/SiO2 nanogrid models, a generalized methodology of accurately designing high performance 3D SERS probes is developed. Structural symmetry, dimensions, Au roughness, and polarization are successfully correlated quantitatively to intrinsic localized electromagnetic field (EMF) enhancements by calculating surface plasmon polariton (SPP), localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), optical standing wave effects, and their couplings theoretically, which is experimentally verified. The hexagonal SERS probes optimized by this methodology realize over two orders of magnitudes (405 times) improvement of detection limit for Rhodamine 6G model molecules (2.17 × 10−11 m) compared to the unoptimized probes with the same number density of hot spots, an enhancement factor of 3.4 × 108, a uniformity of 5.52%, and are successfully applied to the detection of 5 × 10−11 m Hg ions in water. This unambiguously results from the Au roughness‐independent extra 144% contribution of LSPR effects excited by SPP interference waves as secondary sources, which is very unusual to be beyond the conventional recognition.
Second‐line treatments in children with immune thrombocytopenia: Effect on platelet count and patient‐centered outcomes
Authors: Grace Rachael F. , Shimano Kristin A. , Bhat Rukhmi , Neunert Cindy , Bussel James B. , Klaassen Robert J. , Lambert Michele P. , Rothman Jennifer A. , Breakey Vicky R. , Hege Kerry , Bennett Carolyn M. , Rose Melissa J. , Haley Kristina M. , Buchanan George R. , Geddis Amy , Lorenzana Adonis , Jeng Michael , Pastore Yves D. , Crary Shelley E. , Neier Michelle , Neufeld Ellis J. , Neu Nolan , Forbes Peter W. , Despotovic Jenny M.
Published: April 2019

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune bleeding disorder with isolated thrombocytopenia and hemorrhagic risk. While many children with ITP can be safely observed, treatments are often needed for various reasons, including to decrease bleeding, or to improve health related quality of life (HRQoL). There are a number of available second‐line treatments, including rituximab, thrombopoietin‐receptor agonists, oral immunosuppressive agents, and splenectomy, but data comparing treatment outcomes are lacking. ICON1 is a prospective, multi‐center, observational study of 120 children starting second‐line treatments for ITP designed to compare treatment outcomes including platelet count, bleeding, and HRQoL utilizing the Kids ITP Tool (KIT). While all treatments resulted in increased platelet counts, romiplostim had the most pronounced effect at 6 months (P = .04). Only patients on romiplostim and rituximab had a significant reduction in both skin‐related (84% to 48%, P = .01 and 81% to 43%, P = .004) and non‐skin‐related bleeding symptoms (58% to 14%, P = .0001 and 54% to 17%, P = .0006) after 1 month of treatment. HRQoL significantly improved on all treatments. However, only patients treated with eltrombopag had a median improvement in KIT scores at 1 month that met the minimal important difference (MID). Bleeding, platelet count, and HRQoL improved in each treatment group, but the extent and timing of the effect varied among treatments. These results are hypothesis generating and help to improve our understanding of the effect of each treatment on specific patient outcomes. Combined with future randomized trials, these findings will help clinicians select the optimal second‐line treatment for an individual child with ITP.
Optimizing survival outcomes with post‐remission therapy in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Medeiros Bruno C. , Chan Steven M. , Daver Naval G. , Jonas Brian A. , Pollyea Daniel A.
Published: April 2019

Optimization of post‐remission therapies to maintain complete remission and prevent relapse is a major challenge in treating patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Monitoring patients for measurable residual disease (MRD) is helpful to identify those at risk for relapse. Hypomethylating agents are being investigated as post‐remission therapy. Identification of recurrent genetic alterations that drive disease progression has enabled the design of new, personalized approaches to therapy for patients with AML. Emerging data suggest that targeted post‐remission therapy, alone or in combination with chemotherapy, may improve outcomes. Results of ongoing clinical trials will further define potential clinical benefits.
Recurrent de novo MAPK8IP3 variants cause neurological phenotypes
Authors: Iwasawa Shinya , Yanagi Kumiko , Kikuchi Atsuo , Kobayashi Yasuko , Haginoya Kazuhiro , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Kurosawa Kenji , Ochiai Masayuki , Sakai Yasunari , Fujita Atsushi , Miyake Noriko , Niihori Tetsuya , Shirota Matsuyuki , Funayama Ryo , Nonoyama Shigeaki , Ohga Shouichi , Kawame Hiroshi , Nakayama Keiko , Aoki Yoko , Matsumoto Naomichi , Kaname Tadashi , Matsubara Yoichi , Shoji Wataru , Kure Shigeo
Published: April 2019

c‐Jun‐amino‐terminal kinase‐interacting protein 3 (JIP3), encoded by MAPK8IP3, is an adaptor protein of the kinesin‐1 complex and essential for axonal transport in neurons. However, an association between MAPK8IP3 variants and human disease has not been established. We identified 5 individuals from four families with recurrent de novo variants c.1732C>T (p.Arg578Cys) and c.3436C>T (p.Arg1146Cys) in MAPK8IP3. The core phenotype includes spastic diplegia, intellectual disability, cerebral atrophy, and corpus callosum hypoplasia. Zebrafish embryos overexpressing human mutant JIP3 showed axon varicosities of the posterior lateral line nerve, suggesting an adverse effect on the developing axons. Our results suggest that MAPK8IP3 variants cause a neurodevelopmental disease. ANN NEUROL 2019;85:927–933.
Ultradeep desulfurization of model oil through the oxidative adsorption process using Dawson‐type polyoxometalates and graphene oxide multifunctional composites
Authors: Dou Shuai‐Yong , Wang Rui
Published: April 2019

Eight Dawson‐type polyoxometalates were successfully prepared and used in an octanal/air oxidative desulfurization (ODS) system for model oil. Among which, the classical 2:18 polyoxometalate K6[α‐P2W18O62]·14H2O exhibited the best catalytic performance with a sulfur removal ratio of 99.63%. Then, K6[α‐P2W18O62]·14H2O was supported on graphene oxide (GO) to afford K6P2W18O62/GO using the hydrothermal method. Due to the in situ adsorption of the supported catalysts in the ODS process, the sulfur removal ratio was 96.10% without extraction treatment. Compared with the octanal/air ODS system using pure GO as an adsorbent for the oxidation products, the sulfur removal ratio increased from 89.21 to 96.10%, and the n‐octanal/S molar ratio decreased from 24 to 4. To facilitate the recycling of the catalyst and avoid catalyst loss, K6[α‐P2W18O62]·14H2O was supported on magnetic graphene oxide (mGO) to afford K6P2W18O62/mGO. The results showed that the supported catalyst could be easily recovered with the aid of an external magnetic field, while maintaining high catalytic activity during five cycles of reuse with little catalyst loss. Furthermore, all the prepared materials were analyzed by a series of characterizations, and the reaction mechanism of the studied system was proposed through contrast tests and GC‐MS characterization analysis.
An investigation of lithium ion conductivity of copolymers based on P(AMPS‐co‐PEGMA)
Authors: Gunday Seyda T. , Kamal Aneeka Z. , Almessiere Munirah A. , Çelik Sevim Ü , Bozkurt Ayhan
Published: April 2019

In this work, a series of novel lithium ion‐conducting copolymer electrolytes based on 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propane sulfonic acid (AMPS) and poly(ethyleneglycol) methacrylate (PEGMA) were produced and characterized. The copolymers were synthesized by free‐radical polymerization of the corresponding monomers with three different feed ratios to form P(AMPS‐co‐PEGMA)‐based electrolytes. After the polymerization, AMPS units of the copolymers were lithiated via ion exchange. The characterization of the electrolytes was done by 1H‐NMR, FTIR, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and impedance analyzer. The copolymers were thermal stable approximately to 200 °C. Single Tg transitions in DSC curves verified the homogeneity as well as amorphous characteristics. SEM further confirmed the homogeneity of the electrolytes. The lithium ion conductivity of these new polymer electrolytes was studied by impedance dielectric impedance analyzer and the effect of PEGMA contents onto the ionic conductivity of these copolymer electrolytes were investigated. It was observed that the temperature dependence of ionic conductivity was interpreted over Vogel Tammann Fulcher model. The Li ion conductivity increased by PEGMA content and S3 has maximum conductivity of 3 × 10−3 mS cm−1 at 100 °C. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47798.
Insights into N‐Heterocyclic Carbene (NHC)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Addition of 2H‐Azirine with Aldehyde
Authors: Liu Qiuli , Sun Ling , Li Shi‐Jun , Li Xue , Qu Ling‐Bo , Lan Yu , Wei Donghui
Published: April 2019

The possible mechanisms and origin of the enantioselectivity of the reaction between 2H‐azirine and an aldehyde catalyzed by an N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) were theoretically studied and predicted at the M06‐2X/6‐31G(d,p)/IEF‐PCMMTBE//M06‐2X‐GD3/6‐311++G(2df, 2pd)/IEF‐PCMMTBE level. The most favorable reaction pathway consists of four steps, i.e., complexation of the NHC and the aldehyde, stepwise [1,2]‐proton transfer, C−C bond formation coupled with another proton transfer, and recycling of the NHC. The computational results indicate that the stereoselectivity‐determining step is also the rate‐determining step, which is the third step (i.e., intermolecular addition). The calculated 99 % ee is very close to the experimentally observed value of 96 % ee, demonstrating that the calculations are reliable. Two important roles of the NHC were identified by global reaction index (GRI) analysis and natural population analysis (NPA), that is, realizing the umpolung reactivity of the aldehyde and facilitating the deprotonation of aldehyde. Moreover, the efficiency of different NHC catalysts can be mainly predicted by computing the nucleophilic index of the corresponding Breslow intermediates. Furthermore, distortion/interaction and noncovalent interaction (NCI) analyses revealed that the π⋅⋅⋅π interactions between the NHC and substrates were the key factor in the reaction enantioselectivity.
The Application of Micro‐ and Nanomotors in Classified Drug Delivery
Authors: Wang Shuanghu , Liu Kun , Wang Fei , Peng Fei , Tu Yingfeng
Published: April 2019

Micro and nanomotors (MNMs) are micro/nanoscale devices that are able to convert chemical or external energy into mechanical motion. Based on a multitude of propulsion mechanisms, synthetic MNMs have been developed over the past decades for diverse biomedical applications, particularly drug delivery. Herein, we set out the classification of drugs delivered by MNMs, such as small molecules, nucleic acid, peptides, antibodies, and other proteins, and discuss their current limitations and possibilities in in vivo applications. Challenges and future perspectives are also discussed. With the increasing research enthusiasm in this field and the strengthening of multidisciplinary cooperation, intelligent MNMs will appear in the near future, which will have a profound impact on all related fields.
Ultrasound assisted synthesis of CaF2:Eu3+ phosphor nanoparticles
Authors: Malviya D. , Pawade V.B. , Bhanvase B.A.
Published: April 2019

In this work, the optical and structural properties of ultrasonically prepared CaF2:Eu3+ nanoparticles have been reported. Ultrasonically prepared CaF2:Eu3+ phosphor shows orange, red emission bands at 591 nm and 612 nm, respectively, when it is excited by 394 light‐emitting diode (LED) excitation wavelengths. Further phosphor materials are well characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques to confirm the phase purity, metal oxygen (MO) bonding and crystallites size of the materials. Here synthesized materials show a tube‐like structure under 100 nm resolution and 0.1 mol% is the best doping value of the europium ion (Eu3+) in calcium fluoride (CaF2) that shows highest intensity when prepared with an ultrasound assisted method.
The Promises and the Challenges of Biotransformations in Microflow
Authors: Žnidaršič‐Plazl Polona
Published: April 2019

The challenges of transition toward the postpetroleum world shed light on the biocatalysis as the most sustainable way for the valorization of biobased raw materials. However, its industrial exploitation strongly relies on integration with innovative technologies such as microscale processing. Microflow devices remarkably accelerate biocatalyst screening and engineering, as well as evaluation of process parameters, and intensify biocatalytic processes in multiphase systems. The inherent feature of microfluidic devices to operate in a continuous mode brings additional interest for their use in chemoenzymatic cascade systems and in connection with the downstream processing units. Further steps toward automation and analytics integration, as well as computer‐assisted process development, will significantly affect the industrial implementation of biocatalysis and fulfill the promises of the bioeconomy. This review provides an overview of recent examples on implementation of microfluidic devices into various stages of biocatalytic process development comprising ultrahigh‐throughput biocatalyst screening, highly efficient biocatalytic process design including specific immobilization techniques for long‐term biocatalyst use, integration with other (bio)chemical steps, and/or downstream processing.
Traditional Chinese medicine as a cancer treatment: Modern perspectives of ancient but advanced science
Authors: Xiang Yuening , Guo Zimu , Zhu Pengfei , Chen Jia , Huang Yongye
Published: April 2019

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been practiced for thousands of years and at the present time is widely accepted as an alternative treatment for cancer. In this review, we sought to summarize the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the chemopreventive and therapeutic activity of TCM, especially that of the Chinese herbal medicine‐derived phytochemicals curcumin, resveratrol, and berberine. Numerous genes have been reported to be involved when using TCM treatments and so we have selectively highlighted the role of a number of oncogene and tumor suppressor genes in TCM therapy. In addition, the impact of TCM treatment on DNA methylation, histone modification, and the regulation of noncoding RNAs is discussed. Furthermore, we have highlighted studies of TCM therapy that modulate the tumor microenvironment and eliminate cancer stem cells. The information compiled in this review will serve as a solid foundation to formulate hypotheses for future studies on TCM‐based cancer therapy.
Stabilized Performance of Al‐Decorated and Al/Mg Co‐Decorated Spray‐Dried CaO‐Based CO2 Sorbents
Authors: Sun Jian , Yang Yuandong , Guo Yafei , Zhao Chuanwen , Zhang Jubing , Liu Wenqiang , Lu Ping
Published: April 2019

The sharp loss‐in‐capacity in CO2 capture as a result of sintering is a major drawback for CaO‐based sorbents used in the calcium looping process. The decoration of inert supports effectively stabilizes the cyclic CO2 capture performance of CaO‐based sorbents via sintering mitigation. A range of Al‐decorated and Al/Mg co‐decorated CaO‐based sorbents were synthesized via an easily scaled‐up spray‐drying route. The decoration of Al‐based and Al/Mg‐based supports efficiently enhanced the cyclic CO2 capture capability of CaO‐based sorbents under severe testing conditions. The CO2 capture capacity losses of Al‐decorated and Al/Mg co‐decorated CaO‐based sorbents were alleviated, representing more stable CO2 capture performance. The stabilized CO2 capture performance is mainly attributed to the formation of Ca12Al14O33, MgAl2O4, and MgO that act as the skeleton structures to mitigate the sintering of CaCO3 during carbonation/calcination cycles.
A Prospective Ultrafast Hemithioindigo Molecular Motor
Authors: Schildhauer Monika , Rott Florian , Thumser Stefan , Mayer Peter , de Vivie‐Riedle Regina , Dube Henry
Published: April 2019

The maximum speed of light‐driven molecular motors is an important key‐property governing not only their overall performances but also many advanced functions. Currently, special emphasis lies on increasing the rate of unidirectional rotations to surpass natural systems and harness the full potential of artificial motors. Herein, we report a new molecular setup for a prospective light‐powered three‐step motor based on the hemithioindigo chromophore. Comprehensive quantum chemical treatment predicts a very low energy barrier for the only thermal ratcheting step in the unidirectional 360° rotation. Thus an ultrafast motion in the THz range could be possible with this motor at high light intensities and consequently a precise control of rotation speeds solely by light intensity variations could potentially be achieved. Experimental analyses using X‐ray crystallography and solution spectroscopy deliver first insights into the working mechanism and show that visible‐light photoswitching is feasible in both stable switching states. Additionally, significant alterations of the ground‐state energies can be induced by pH changes without hampering photoswitching capabilities.
Amorphous CoFe Double Hydroxides Decorated with N‐Doped CNTs for Efficient Electrochemical Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Liu Yang , Hu Yiping , Ma Ping , Li Feng , Yuan Fei , Wang Shuo , Luo Yutong , Ma Jiantai
Published: April 2019

The development and design of a highly active and affordable nanostructured material as an efficient electrocatalyst for electrochemical oxygen evolution is a pressing necessity to realize industrial production of hydrogen by water electrolysis. Amorphous nanocomposites have recently attracted interest owing to their superior electrocatalytic activity derived from their unique structure. Herein, amorphous CoFe double hydroxides (Am‐CFDH) decorated with N‐doped carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) is synthesized by a facile and simple one‐pot approach under room temperature. Through electrochemical measurement, the bare Am‐CFDH nanocomposite already exhibits a comparable oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity to the commercial IrO2 catalyst on account of its amorphous nature and the interaction between Co and Fe. The introduced NCNTs can provide better electrical conductivity, more anchoring sites, and functional groups for enhancing the transfer of electrons and reactants, preventing the agglomeration of Am‐CFDH to expose more active sites, and improving the synergistic effect between Am‐CFDH and NCNTs. Thus, the Am‐CFDH/NCNTs hybrid displays favorable durability beyond 20 h and advanced OER activity, owning a small overpotential of 270 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a low Tafel slope of 56.88 mV dec−1 in alkaline medium.
Changes in habitat selection patterns of the gray partridgePerdix perdixin relation to agricultural landscape dynamics over the past two decades
Authors: Harmange Clément , Bretagnolle Vincent , Sarasa Mathieu , Pays Olivier
Published: April 2019

Changes in agricultural practices have reshaped agricultural landscapes and triggered a drastic decline in spatial and temporal heterogeneity leading to changes in habitat quality and food resources for birds. However, the precise relationships between landscape changes, spatial and temporal heterogeneity, and habitat preferences in response to those changes remain poorly known.

We investigated patterns of habitat selection and causes for changes over the years 1997–2017 for the gray partridgePerdix perdix, an iconic farmland species which has experienced a severe decline since the 1950s. Using a long‐term (1997–2017) dataset collected over 435 km2, we modeled relationships between annual land‐cover maps and partridge sightings over 17 5‐year moving windows, assessing the effects of landscape metrics, the strength of the relationships, and the dynamics of habitat suitability.

We detected a shift in gray partridge habitat preferences over time, toward more risky habitats. Avoidance of predator reservoirs (woodlands and buildings) has weakened, and selection of human infrastructure, such as roads and tracks, has increased. Since 1997, the mean size of suitable patches has also decreased by about 26%.

We have interpreted these changes in habitat selection as being the result of decreasing habitat quality and the increasing prevalence of captive‐reared birds, currently released in their thousands in the study site.

Synthesis and applications. The gray partridge has not adjusted well to changes in farming practices, and the low, still decreasing, population density suggests that it is not sustainable, despite local initiatives and the investment in captive‐bird releases. We emphasize that efforts must be redirected toward habitat improvement to restore the density of refuge cover, insects, and seeds in the landscape, hunting management to ensure self‐sustainable populations and massive releases of high‐quality birds. Only integrated local management, involving hunters, farmers, gamekeepers, and scientists can ensure the recovery of this species.
The Montessori Preschool Landscape in the United States: History, Programmatic Inputs, Availability, and Effects
Authors: Ackerman Debra J.
Published: April 2019

The Day 1 Academies Fund aims to support a network of high‐quality, full‐scholarship, Montessori‐inspired preschools in underserved communities. To provide insight into the fund's pedagogical inspiration, in this report I provide a high‐level overview of the Montessori preschool landscape in the United States. This overview includes 5 key programmatic elements of a traditional Montessori approach to teaching and learning in classrooms serving preschool‐aged children, the reported availability of Montessori programs that enroll 3‐ and 4‐year‐old children, and what is known about enrollees' demographics. To situate this information in the larger, publicly financed, early education policy context, I also provide similar data for state‐funded pre‐K and federally funded Head Start programs for preschoolers. In addition, I review research on children's outcomes after participating in U.S.‐based Montessori preschool and elementary programs. This overview provides some context for understanding how the Day 1 Academies Fund eventually defines the constructs of high quality, Montessori inspired, and underserved. This review also suggests it could be useful for the Fund's stakeholders to undertake short‐term research examining the current early education options of families with low incomes living in low‐access‐to‐Montessori states as well as long‐term research aimed at expanding the research base on the effects of Montessori programs aimed at preschoolers.
Measuring the distress related to delirium in older surgical patients and their relatives
Authors: Partridge Judith S.L. , Crichton Siobhan , Biswell Elizabeth , Harari Danielle , Martin Finbarr C. , Dhesi Jugdeep K.
Published: April 2019

Objectives

Delirium is a common postoperative complication with implications on morbidity and mortality. Less is known about the psychological impact of delirium in patients and relatives. This study aimed to

quantitatively describe distress related to postoperative delirium in older surgical patients and their relatives using the distress thermometer,

examine the association between degree of distress and features of delirium on the Delirium Rating Scale (DRS), and

examine the association between recall of delirium and features of delirium on the DRS.

Methods

This prospective study recruited postoperative patients and their relatives following delirium. The distress thermometer was used to examine the degree of distress pertaining to delirium and was conducted during the hospitalization on resolution of delirium and then at 12‐month follow‐up. Associations between delirium‐related distress in patient and relative participants and severity and features of delirium (DRS) were examined.

Results

One hundred two patients and 49 relatives were recruited. Median scores on the distress thermometer in patients who recalled delirium were 8/10. Relatives also showed distress (median distress thermometer score of 8/10). Associations were observed between severity and phenotypic features of delirium (delusions, labile affect, and agitation). Distress persisted at 12 months in patients and relatives.

Conclusion

Distress related to postoperative delirium can be measured using a distress thermometer. Alongside approaches to reduce delirium incidence, interventions to minimize distress from postoperative delirium should be sought. Such interventions should be developed through robust research and if effective administered to patients, relatives, or carers.
Transcriptional regulation of bovine elongation of very long chain fatty acids protein 6 in lipid metabolism and adipocyte proliferation
Authors: Junjvlieke Zainaguli , Mei Chu‐Gang , Khan Rajwali , Zhang Wen‐Zhen , Hong Jie‐Yun , Wang Li , Li Shi‐Jun , Zan Lin‐Sen
Published: April 2019

The elongation of very long chain fatty acids protein 6 (ELOVL6) gene encodes a key enzyme that plays a role in lipogenesis through the catalytic elongation of both saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. Previous studies have described the high expression of bovine ELOVL6 in adipose tissues. However, transcriptional regulation and the functional role of ELOVL6 in lipid metabolism and adipocyte proliferation remain unexplored. Here, a 1.5 kb fragment of the 5′‐untranslated region promoter region of ELOVL6 was amplified from the genomic DNA of Qinchuan cattle and sequenced. The core promoter region was identified through unidirectional 5′‐end deletion of the promoter plasmid vector. In silico analysis predicted important transcription factors that were then validated through site‐directed mutation and small interfering RNA interference with an electrophoretic mobility shift assay. We found that the binding of KLF6 and PU.1 transcription factors occurred in the region −168/+69. Both perform a vital regulatory function in the transcription of bovine ELOVL6. Overexpression of ELOVL6 significantly upregulated the expression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ), but inhibited the expression of fatty acid‐binding protein 4 (FABP4), while silencing of ELOVL6 negatively regulated the messenger RNA expression level of PPARγ, FABP4, ACSL, and FATP1. In addition, ELOVL6 promotes adipocyte proliferation by regulating the cell‐cycle genes' expression. Taken together, these findings provide useful information about the transcriptional regulation and functional mechanisms of bovine ELOVL6 in lipid metabolism and adipocyte proliferation in Qinchuan cattle.
Novel 13,14‐dimethyl‐5,8‐dioxa‐2,11,13,14‐tetraaza‐1,12‐diphosphabicyclo [10.1.1] tetradecane 1,12‐dioxide ligand and its Ni(II), Co(II), and Cu(II) complexes: Synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial, DNA cleavage, and computational studies
Authors: Alaghaz Abdel‐Nasser M. A. , Aldulmani Sharah A. A.
Published: April 2019

A novel diazadiphosphetidine ligand derived from the reaction of 2,4‐dichloro‐1,3‐dimethyl‐1,3,2,4‐diazadiphosphetidine‐2,4‐dioxide and 2,2′‐(ethane‐1,2‐diylbis[oxy])bis(ethan‐1‐amine) and its Ni(II), Cu(II), and Co(II) complexes have been synthesized, characterized by spectroscopic, elemental analyses, magnetic susceptibility, and conductivity methods, and screened for antimicrobial, DNA binding, and cleavage properties. Spectroscopic analysis and elemental analyses indicate the formula [M(H2L)Cl2] for the Cu(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) complexes and octahedral geometry for all the complexes. The non‐electrolytic nature of the complexes in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was confirmed by their molar conductance values, which are in the range 12.32–6.73 Ω−1 cm2 mol−1. Computational studies have been carried out at the density functional theory (DFT)‐B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level of theory on the structural and spectroscopic properties of diazadiphosphetidine H2L and its binuclear Cu(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) complexes. Six tautomers and geometrical isomers of the diazadiphosphetidine ligand were confirmed using semiempirical AM1 and DFT method from DMOL3 calculations. The copper complex had the best antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213). DNA cleavage activities of the compounds, evaluated on pBR322 DNA by agarose gel electrophoresis in the presence and absence of an oxidant (H2O2) and a free‐radical scavenger (DMSO), indicated no activity for the ligand and moderate activity for the complexes, with the copper complex cleaving pBR322 DNA more efficiently in the presence of H2O2.
Uncommon hepatic macrophagic foamy‐cell nodules in Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei Steindachner, 1864) from the Vizela River (Portugal)
Authors: Carrola João S. , Fontainhas‐Fernandes António , Rocha Eduardo
Published: April 2019

The main intent of this work (after the by chance finding, in archived histological slides) is to characterize one previously non‐described liver lesion of the Iberian barbel from the Vizela River (Portugal). This ran through a textile and dyeing industrial region. The lesion type was made of groups of foamy cells (presumptive macrophages), which appear either as a “smaller non‐nodular form,” without a connective tissue capsule and displaying an irregular profile, or as a “bigger nodular form,” presenting a thin capsule and a circular profile. The nodular forms could appear multi‐layered, resembling “cross‐sectioned onions”. The lesions number, dimension, and structural complexity were greater in bigger fish, appearing only after a history of poor water quality. In extreme cases, the lesions slightly protruded the liver surface. Special histological staining proved the connective tissue nature of the capsule (and its eventual septa), the presence of proteins, glycoproteins, lipofuscin, melanin, iron (putative hemosiderin), and copper, in a variable number of foamy cells within the lesions. At times, degenerating hepatocytes appeared at the border of the lesions. It is proposed that this lesion type incorporates both macrophages and degenerating hepatocytes, looking as one (unpublished) form of a macrophage aggregate. The term “foamy‐cell nodules” was advanced for this abnormality. The lesion could have been induced by pollution, because: no parasites were ever associated with the lesion; there was co‐existence of the lesion with a water quality status scored as “bad”; such lesion neither existed in fish sampled after mitigation and remediation measures nor in reference fish.
Ovarian transcriptomic signatures of zebrafish females resistant to different environmental perturbations
Authors: Valdivieso Alejandro , Ribas Laia , Piferrer Francesc
Published: April 2019

Sex is remarkably plastic in fish and can be easily influenced by environmental cues, in which temperature has been the most studied abiotic factor. However, it has been shown that elevated population densities can increase the number of males in several species but little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms and whether general patterns exist. Here, we studied the long‐term effects of population density on the gene expression program in zebrafish gonads. The ovarian transcriptome of females exposed to high versus low population densities contained 4,634 differentially expressed genes. Among them, a set of promale genes (amh, sypc3, spata6, and sox3) were upregulated in the high‐population density group. Next, we compared the transcriptomes of ovaries of female zebrafish resistant to the masculinizing effects of either high density or elevated temperature. Results showed a set of 131 and 242 common upregulated and downregulated genes, respectively, including the upregulation of known male‐related genes (e.g., amh and sycp3) but also genes involved in other functions (e.g., faima, ccm21, and ankrd6b) and a downregulation of cyp19a1a together with other genes (e.g., lgals9l1 and ubxn2a). We identified the common Gene Ontology terms involved in the reproduction and sexual development that were consistently affected in both environmental factors. These results show that regardless of the environmental perturbation there are common genes and cellular functions involved in the resistance to masculinization. These altered gene‐expression profiles can be used as markers indicative of previous exposure to environmental stress independent of conspicuous alterations in sex ratios or gonadal morphology.
Limited applicability of cathepsin D for the diagnosis and monitoring of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Kamarajah Sivesh K , Khoo Stanley , Chan Wah‐Kheong , Sthaneshwar Pavai , Nik Mustapha Nik Raihan , Mahadeva Sanjiv
Published: April 2019

Background and Aim

To date, there are limited data on the applicability of cathepsin D for the diagnosis and monitoring of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Methods

This study included patients with biopsy‐proven non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) diagnosed between November 2012 and October 2015. Serum cathepsin D levels were measured using the CatD enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (USCN Life Science, Wuhan, China) using stored samples collected on the same day of the liver biopsy procedure. The performance of cathepsin D in the diagnosis and monitoring of NASH was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

Data for 216 liver biopsies and 34 healthy controls were analyzed. The mean cathepsin D level was not significantly different between NAFLD patients and controls; between NASH and non‐NASH patients; and across the different steatosis, lobular inflammation, and hepatocyte ballooning grades. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of cathepsin D for the diagnosis of NAFLD and NASH was 0.62 and 0.52, respectively. The AUROC of cathepsin D for the diagnosis of the different steatosis, lobular inflammation, and hepatocyte ballooning grades ranged from 0.51 to 0.58. Of the 216 liver biopsies, 152 were paired liver biopsies from 76 patients who had a repeat liver biopsy after 48 weeks. There was no significant change in the cathepsin D level at follow‐up compared to baseline in patients who had histological improvement or worsening for steatosis, lobular inflammation, and hepatocyte ballooning grades. Cathepsin D was poor for predicting improvement or worsening of steatosis and hepatocyte ballooning, with AUROC ranging from 0.47 to 0.54. It was fair for predicting worsening (AUROC 0.73) but poor for predicting improvement (AUROC 0.54) of lobular inflammation.

Conclusion

Cathepsin D was a poor biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of NASH in our cohort of Asian patients, somewhat inconsistent with previous observations in Caucasian patients. Further studies in different cohorts are needed to verify our observation.
Seriously misleading results using inverse of Freeman‐Tukey double arcsine transformation in meta‐analysis of single proportions
Authors: Schwarzer Guido , Chemaitelly Hiam , Abu‐Raddad Laith J. , Rücker Gerta
Published: April 2019

Standard generic inverse variance methods for the combination of single proportions are based on transformed proportions using the logit, arcsine, and Freeman‐Tukey double arcsine transformations. Generalized linear mixed models are another more elaborate approach. Irrespective of the approach, meta‐analysis results are typically back‐transformed to the original scale in order to ease interpretation. Whereas the back‐transformation of meta‐analysis results is straightforward for most transformations, this is not the case for the Freeman‐Tukey double arcsine transformation, albeit possible.

In this case study with five studies, we demonstrate how seriously misleading the back‐transformation of the Freeman‐Tukey double arcsine transformation can be. We conclude that this transformation should only be used with special caution for the meta‐analysis of single proportions due to potential problems with the back‐transformation. Generalized linear mixed models seem to be a promising alternative.
Defining and Measuring Moral Injury: Rationale, Design, and Preliminary Findings From the Moral Injury Outcome Scale Consortium
Authors: Yeterian Julie D. , Berke Danielle S. , Carney Jessica R. , McIntyre‐Smith Alexandra , St. Cyr Katherine , King Lisa , Kline Nora K. , Phelps Andrea , Litz Brett T. ,   Members of the Moral Injury Outcomes Project Consortium
Published: April 2019

In the current paper, we first describe the rationale for and methodology employed by an international research consortium, the Moral Injury Outcome Scale (MIOS) Consortium, the aim of which is to develop and validate a content‐valid measure of moral injury as a multidimensional outcome. The MIOS Consortium comprises researchers and clinicians who work with active duty military service members and veterans in the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Australia, and Canada. We describe the multiphase psychometric development process being conducted by the Consortium, which will gather phenomenological data from service members, veterans, and clinicians to operationalize subdomains of impact and to generate content for a new measure of moral injury. Second, to illustrate the methodology being employed by the Consortium in the first phase of measure development, we present a small subset of preliminary results from semistructured interviews and questionnaires conducted with care providers (N = 26) at three of the 10 study sites. The themes derived from these initial preliminary clinician interviews suggest that exposure to potentially morally injurious events is associated with broad psychological/behavioral, social, and spiritual/existential impacts. The early findings also suggest that the outcomes associated with acts of commission or omission and events involving others’ transgressions may overlap. These results will be combined with data derived from other clinicians, service members, and veterans to generate the MIOS.
Kinetics of carbon steel dissolution in ammonium chloride solution containing sodium thiosulfate
Authors: Baranwal Prince Kumar , Rajaraman Prasanna Venkatesh
Published: April 2019

The dissolution behavior of carbon steel in ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) solution containing sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) of various concentrations (0.01 and 0.1 M) was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and other nonelectrochemical techniques. The weight loss and polarization measurements indicate a significant increase in the NH4Cl corrosion rate of carbon steel on addition of Na2S2O3. The EIS measurements exhibited two capacitive loops at multiple direct current (dc) potentials for both the concentrations. Electrical equivalent circuit (EEC) and reaction mechanism analysis (RMA) were employed to analyze the impedance data. A four‐step mechanism with two intermediate adsorbate species of same charge was proposed to explain the dissolution behavior of carbon steel in the given system. The surface coverage values enumerated that the surface was entirely covered with adsorbed species unlike in the pure NH4Cl system. Charge transfer resistance and polarization resistance values estimated from RMA parameters indicate the increase in a dissolution rate with dc potential. The surface morphology was inspected via field emission scanning electron microscopy, and the corrosion products including surface state of carbon steel electrode were analyzed using energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Ultraviolet Metasurfaces of ≈80% Efficiency with Antiferromagnetic Resonances for Optical Vectorial Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Huang Kun , Deng Jie , Leong Hai Sheng , Yap Sherry Lee Koon , Yang Ren Bin , Teng Jinghua , Liu Hong
Published: April 2019

Metasurfaces enable the full control of electromagnetic waves over a wide spectrum. High‐efficiency transmissive metasurfaces have been demonstrated up to the visible frequencies by using dielectrics. However, extending the operating spectrum to the ultraviolet range is challenging. This is due to the strong absorption in typical dielectric materials and the inexhaustive understanding of the magnetic resonances in dielectric nanostructures. Here, a large‐bandgap material—niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5)—is introduced to engineer the ultraviolet geometric meta‐holograms to achieve a total efficiency of 79.6% at 355 nm wavelength. The employed orientation‐varying nanobricks, operating as miniaturized half‐waveplates (HWPs), are elaborately designed to excite the antiferromagnetic modes that maintain Ex component of the incident light via even antiparallel magnetic dipoles (AMDs) but reverse Ey component via odd AMDs, thereby unveiling the underlying mechanism of dielectric nano‐HWPs. By adding the polarization degree of freedom, an ultra‐channel meta‐hologram, multiplexing two orthogonal spin channels while exhibiting three outputs, is demonstrated experimentally for ultraviolet vectorial anti‐counterfeiting. This work might open the door toward high‐performance ultraviolet nanophotonics and meta‐optics.
Attitudes of Liver Transplant Candidates Toward Organs From Increased‐Risk Donors
Authors: Humar Sapna S. , Liu Jingqian , Pinzon Natalia , Kumar Deepali , Bhat Mamatha , Lilly Les , Selzner Nazia
Published: April 2019

Increased‐risk donor (IRD) organs make up a significant proportion of the deceased organ donor pool but may be declined by patients on the waiting list for various reasons. We conducted a survey of patients awaiting a liver transplant to determine the factors leading to the acceptance of an IRD organ as well as what strategies could increase the rate of acceptance. Adult liver transplant candidates who were outpatients completed a survey of 51 questions on a 5‐point Likert scale with categories related to demographics, knowledge of IRDs, and likelihood of acceptance. A total of 150 transplant candidates completed the survey (age 19‐80 years). Male patients constituted 67.3%. Many patients (58.7%) had postsecondary education. Only 23.3% of patients had a potential living donor, and 58/144 (40.3%) were not optimistic about receiving an organ in the next 3 months. The overall IRD organ acceptance rate was 41.1%, whereas 26.2% said they would decline an IRD organ. Women were more likely to accept an IRD organ (54.3% versus 34.7%; P = 0.02). Those who had a college education or higher tended to have lower IRD organ acceptability (28.3% versus 47.4%; P = 0.07). Acceptability also increased as the specified transmission risk of human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis C virus decreased (P < 0.001). Patients were also more likely to accept an IRD organ if they were educated on the benefits of IRD organs (eg, knowledge that an IRD organ was of better quality increased overall acceptance from 41.1% to 63.3%; P < 0.001). Our survey provides insight into liver transplant candidates who would benefit from greater education on IRD organs. Strategies targeting specific educational points are likely to increase acceptability.
On the fractional derivatives of radial basis functions: Theories and applications
Authors: Saberi Zafarghandi Fahimeh , Mohammadi Maryam , Schaback Robert
Published: April 2019

The paper provides the fractional integrals and derivatives of the Riemann‐Liouville and Caputo type for the five kinds of radial basis functions, including the Powers, Gaussian, Multiquadric, Matérn, and Thin‐plate splines, in one dimension. It allows to use high‐order numerical methods for solving fractional differential equations. The results are tested by solving two test problems. The first test case focuses on the discretization of the fractional differential operator while the second considers the solution of a fractional order differential equation.
Convergence analysis of Anderson‐type acceleration of Richardson's iteration
Authors: Lupo Pasini Massimiliano
Published: April 2019

We consider Anderson extrapolation to accelerate the (stationary) Richardson iterative method for sparse linear systems. Using an Anderson mixing at periodic intervals, we assess how this benefits convergence to a prescribed accuracy. The method, named alternating Anderson–Richardson, has appealing properties for high‐performance computing, such as the potential to reduce communication and storage in comparison to more conventional linear solvers. We establish sufficient conditions for convergence, and we evaluate the performance of this technique in combination with various preconditioners through numerical examples. Furthermore, we propose an augmented version of this technique.
Do identity and status matter? A social identity theory perspective on the adaptability of low‐status expatriates
Authors: Sunguh Kenneth Khavwandiza , Abbas Asad , Olabode Alabi Charles , Xuehe Zhang
Published: April 2019

The study aims to investigate the effect of identify and status in the field of global mobility and expatriate management. It conceptualizes perceived prejudice towards low‐status expatriates (LSE) though the social identity theory (SIT) lens and examines the effect it has on two state self‐esteem domains, that is, performance self‐esteem and social self‐esteem. The study also highlights that the moderation roles education level and age of expatriates play towards their adaptability. In doing so, it seeks to expand the expatriate management domain by investigating the negative side associated with expatriation. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to analyze responses from 373 LSE working in China. The results provide evidence indicating the significance attached to status and identity, thus indicating that perceived prejudice significantly affects expatriate's self‐esteem negatively and that age and education level mitigate these effects by moderating the relationship. Age and education level attained by the expatriates are found to be significant moderators in this relationship. The study therefore proposes the use of SIT as a powerful theoretical lens for understanding LSE.