bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of online review videos on gross anatomy course performance among doctor of chiropractic students
Authors: Zipay Nicole M. , Roecker Christopher B. , Derby Dustin C. , Nightingale Lia M.
Published: August 2019

Objective

Technology-enhanced learning is on the rise within healthcare education. This pilot study evaluated the relationship between the use of online review videos and students' performance and satisfaction in gross anatomy.

Methods

For this quasi-experimental study, we developed a series of online gross anatomy review videos, and surveyed students enrolled in a doctor of chiropractic program regarding use of the videos and their attitudes towards using the videos. Ordinal regression was used to evaluate the relationship between students' video use and course performance and the Mann-Whitney U test was used to determine whether there was a difference in course performance between students who did and did not report using the review videos.

Results

We received 143 responses to our survey, resulting in a 73.3% response rate. Most students (71%) had engaged with the online review videos. No significant differences in course performance were detected between students who did and did not report using the videos. Many students (82%) reported the review videos as being “helpful” and 73% perceived them as “an enjoyable way to study.”

Conclusion

While chiropractic students perceived a series of online gross anatomy review videos as being an enjoyable and helpful way to study, engagement with this form of technology-enhanced learning did not have an impact on their overall gross anatomy course performance.
Problems Faced by Sub Assistant Agricultural Officers in Technology Transfer
Authors: Hossain M. M. , Ali M. S. , Afrose R. , Shahinur N. N. , Alam M. S.
Published: August 2019

Technology transfer to farmers is essential for the improvement of agricultural production in a country like Bangladesh. In connection this issue, the study was conducted to assess the extent of problems faced by Sub Assistant Agricultural Officers (SAAOs) in technology transfer as well as explore the relationship between the selected characteristics of Sub Assistant Agricultural Officers and problems faced by them in technology transfer. The study was conducted in five sub-districts of Narayanganj district namely, Narayanganj sadar, Bandar, Sonargaon, Araihazar and Rupganj with a sample size of 129 by questionnaire method through a structured questionnaire. Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient was used to test the relationship between the selected eight characteristics of SAAOs and the problems faced in technology transfer. The findings reveal that 70.50% of the SAAOs encounter high problems while 27.90% and 1.60% respondents were in medium and low problem category respectively. Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient analysis also revealed that training exposure, job satisfaction and use of the internet showed a negative significant relationship with the problems faced in technology transfer. Based on Problem Faced Index (PFI), “lack of required teaching aid” ranked the highest problem followed by “lack of transportation facilities”.
BUILT ENVIRONMENT IMPACT TO MICROCLIMATE (AIR TEMPERATURE)
Authors: Muazir Syaiful , . Lestari
Published: August 2019

In step with economic growth, Pontianak City continues developing its physical development. From an environmental perspective, physical development that does not pay attention to the environment may make air temperature rise and create inconvenience to human. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the tendency in the built/physical environmental aspects that have the possibility of influencing the microclimate in the urban center, regarding the trade area in Pontianak City. Built environmental aspects such as building density, building height, materials, etc. are described and then simulated towards the existing climate elements such as temperature, humidity, solar radiation, cloud cover, and others. The simulations used three-dimensional software ENVI_MET version 4. From findings, it can be seen that the built environment characteristics can affect the microclimate condition. From the simulations, the dominant temperature differences may occur in such built environment conditions such as density, dimensions, location, material, and vegetation closure.
UTILIZATION PATTERN OF RESIDENTIAL TERRACE AS A TRADING PLACE IN KAMPUNG TRIDI JODIPAN MALANG
Authors: Ronarizkia Adita , Yusran Yusfan Adeputera
Published: August 2019

Kampung Tridi, Jodipan Malang, which was initially a slum residential area has transformed now into a colorful area with a concept of colorful order, arranged linearly according to the houses pattern. This setting is positively effective to attract tourist interest to come and success in changing the aspect of social, culture and economy of the residents. The aspect which has been through adequate significant change is the economy, which is indicated from the number of residents who take benefit from their house's terrace that initially used as a conventional family area, now turn into an area of trading. This change is conducted to be economic support in order to fulfill their life needs. This research aims to identify the pattern of terrace utilization as the place where the trading activity takes place in Kampung Tridi Jodipan Malang. This research exerts the method of descriptive qualitative which identifies the pattern of terrace utilization through field survey, interview, and literature studies, while the method of analysis used behavior mapping. This research finding shows that the utilization pattern of the residential terrace as the trading spot is located exactly in the front part of the house, that is the terrace. The houses that using the terrace as the trading spot are mostly located in the front of the main path which leads to the Jembatan Kaca (Glass bridge) that connects Kampung Tridi with Kampung Warna-warni in the south.
In Situ Electrochemical Atomic Force Microscopy and Auger Electro Spectroscopy Study on the Passive Film Structure of 2024‐T3 Aluminum Alloy Combined with a Density Functional Theory Calculation
Authors: Li Ni , Dong Chaofang , Man Chen , Yao Jizheng
Published: August 2019

The initial growth of the passive films on the Al2CuMg particle and Al matrix in AA2024‐T3 are investigated by in situ electrochemical atomic force microscopy (ECAFM) and ex situ characterization techniques in citric acid. The passive films are mainly composed of Al2O3 (34%), Al(OH)3 (8.4%), AlOOH (27.2%), CuO (19.4%), and Cu2O (11%). ECAFM images display that the film on the Al2CuMg particle is flawed and loose. Auger electro spectroscopy (AES) results show that the thickness of the passive film on the Al2CuMg particle is 1.4 nm, which is thinner than that on the Al matrix (2.4 nm). The combined ECAFM and AES results demonstrate that the corrosion resistance of the passive film on the Al2CuMg is weaker than that on the Al matrix. According to the density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the average charge transfer and adsorption energy of the adsorbates (O2−/OH−/H2O) on the Al surfaces are larger than that on the Al2CuMg surfaces, meaning that O2 and H2O preferably dissociate and adsorb on the Al surfaces. Moreover, the electronic interactions between the adsorbates and Al surfaces are stronger. This is the reason that the growth rate of the passive film on the Al2CuMg particle is slower at initial stages.
Improvement Estimation Accuracy of Impact Detection Using Metal‐Core Piezoelectric Fiber/Aluminum Composites
Authors: Yanaseko Tetsuro , Sato Hiroshi , Narita Fumio , Kuboki Isao , Asanuma Hiroshi
Published: August 2019

Metal‐core piezoelectric fiber/aluminum composites are promising candidates for use as sensors for structural health monitoring (SHM) systems. These composites exhibit excellent mechanical properties compared with conventional piezoelectric ceramics because the fiber is embedded into the aluminum matrix using the interphase forming/bonding method. Furthermore, it has emerged that the output voltage characteristics of composites show distinct anisotropy. Herein, an impact detection system with more practical estimation accuracy is developed by performing wavelet transformation on the output voltage. To investigate the practicality of the proposed method, the estimation results are compared with the results using the conventional output voltage. By exploiting the anisotropic response, the new system is expected to reduce the number of sensors required compared with conventional systems, while retaining accuracy. The results show that the present system could be applied successfully using models of the output voltage and signals obtained from composites fixed in two different positions. Application of the wavelet transform method to the output voltage reduced the estimation errors in comparison with values estimated directly from the output voltage, with maximum estimation error of 4.38 mm. This accuracy cleared the minimum required accuracy for an SHM system; thus, confirming the validity of this approach.
Injectable, Non‐Diffusible, and Pre‐Filled Bone Paste Composed of α‐Tricalcium Phosphate and Hydrophobically Modified Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)
Authors: Chen Xi , Taguchi Tetsushi
Published: August 2019

Herein, injectable, non‐diffusible, and pre‐filled bone pastes are developed using α‐tricalcium phosphate (α‐TCP) and hydrophobically modified poly(vinyl alcohol)s (hm‐PVAs) with various alkyl chain lengths (3–12). The resulting bone pastes show high injectability (over 90%) when the solid–liquid ratio is lower than 3.5. The non‐diffusion property of α‐TCP/hm‐PVAs bone pastes in water and fresh porcine blood is observed compared with α‐TCP alone, α‐TCP/original PVA (Org‐PVA), and commercial calcium phosphate paste. The compressive strength of α‐TCP/nonanal‐modified PVA (C9‐PVA) bone pastes is 5.4 ± 1.4 MPa within 24 h and reaches 27.5 ± 2.7 MPa after 7 days in water. Young's modulus of α‐TCP/C9‐PVA bone pastes is 0.84 ± 0.02 GPa, which is lower than that of commercial calcium phosphate paste (1.5 ± 0.02 GPa) and poly(methyl methacrylate)‐based bone cement (1.06 ± 0.03 GPa). Furthermore, the surface of α‐TCP/C9‐PVA bone pastes shows excellent cell adhesion of cultured osteoblastic cells. These results demonstrate that α‐TCP/C9‐PVA bone paste is a promising bone filler for percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) surgery.
Engineering a Nanoscale Al‐MOF‐Armored Antigen Carried by a “Trojan Horse”‐Like Platform for Oral Vaccination to Induce Potent and Long‐Lasting Immunity
Authors: Miao Yang‐Bao , Pan Wen‐Yu , Chen Kuan‐Hung , Wei Hao‐Ji , Mi Fwu‐Long , Lu Ming‐Yen , Chang Yen , Sung Hsing‐Wen
Published: August 2019

Vaccination via the oral administration of an antigen faces many challenges, including gastrointestinal (GI) proteolysis and mucosal barriers. To limit GI proteolysis, a biomimetically mineralized aluminum‐based metal–organic framework (Al‐MOF) system that is resistant to ambient temperature and pH and can act synergistically as a delivery vehicle and an adjuvant is synthesized over a model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) to act as armor. To overcome mucosal barriers, a yeast‐derived capsule is used to carry the Al‐MOF‐armored OVA as a “Trojan Horse”‐like transport platform. In vitro experiments reveal that the mineralization of Al‐MOFs forms an armor on OVA that protects against highly acidic and degradative GI conditions. However, the mineralized Al‐MOFs can gradually disintegrate in a phosphate ion‐containing simulated intracellular fluid, slowly releasing their encapsulated OVA. In vivo studies reveal that the “Trojan Horse”‐like transport platform specifically targets intestinal M cells, favoring the transepithelial transport of the Al‐MOF‐armored OVA, followed by subsequent endocytosis in local macrophages, ultimately accumulating in mesenteric lymph nodes, yielding long‐lasting, high‐levels of mucosal S‐IgA and serum IgG antibodies. Such an engineered delivery platform may represent a promising strategy for the oral administration of prophylactic or therapeutic antigens for vaccination.
Osmotic Pumping and Salt Rejection by Polyelectrolyte Hydrogel for Continuous Solar Desalination
Authors: Zeng Jian , Wang Qingyang , Shi Yang , Liu Ping , Chen Renkun
Published: August 2019

Efficient mass transport and selective salt rejection are highly desirable for solar or thermally driven seawater desalination, but its realization is challenging. Here a new liquid supply mechanism is proposed, i.e., ionic pumping effect, using a polyelectrolyte hydrogel foam (PHF), demonstrated with poly(sodium acrylate) [P(SA)] embedded in a microporous carbon foam (CF). The PHF simultaneously possesses high osmotic pressure for liquid transport and a strong salt‐rejection effect. The PHF is able to sustain high flux of ≈24 L per m2 per hour (LMH), comparable to the evaporative flux under 15 suns, and a salt rejection ratio over 80%. Compared to the porous carbon foam without the polyelectrolyte hydrogel, i.e., with only the capillary pumping effect, the PHF yields a 42.4% higher evaporative flux, at ≈1.6 LMH with DI water and ≈1.3 LMH with simulated seawater under one‐sun condition due to the more efficient ionic liquid pumping. More importantly, thanks to the strong salt‐rejection effect, the PHF shows a continuous and stable solar‐driven desalination flux of ≈1.3 LMH under one‐sun over 72 h, which has not been achieved before. The successful demonstration of both efficient ionic pumping and strong salt rejection effects makes the PHF an attractive platform for sustainable solar‐driven desalination.
Background characteristics and postoperative outcomes of insufficient weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in Japanese patients
Authors: Saiki Atsuhito , Yamaguchi Takashi , Tanaka Sho , Sasaki Akira , Naitoh Takeshi , Seto Yasuyuki , Matsubara Hisahiro , Yokote Koutaro , Okazumi Shinichi , Ugi Satoshi , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Ohta Masayuki , Ishigaki Yasushi , Kasama Kazunori , Seki Yosuke , Irie Junichiro , Kusakabe Toru , Tsujino Motoyoshi , Shimizu Hideharu , Shirai Kohji , Onozaki Akira , Kitahara Aya , Hayashi Karin , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Masaki Takayuki , Nagayama Daiji , Yamamura Shigeo , Tatsuno Ichiro ,   Japanese Survey of Morbid and Treatment‐Resistant Obesity Group (J‐SMART Group)
Published: August 2019

Aim

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is becoming popular in Japan, but insufficient weight loss is often observed in patients after LSG. We investigated the effect of LSG on obesity‐related comorbidities and identified the background characteristics of Japanese patients with insufficient weight loss after LSG.

Methods

In this multi‐institutional retrospective study at 10 certified bariatric institutions, 322 Japanese patients who underwent LSG with a follow‐up period of more than 2 years were analyzed. Anthropometry, obesity‐related comorbidities and psychosocial background data were collected. Weight loss was expressed as 2‐year percent total weight loss (%TWL).

Results

Mean age, body weight, body mass index (BMI) and glycated hemoglobin were 46.9 years, 119.2 kg, 43.7 kg/m2 and 7.1%, respectively. Prevalence of mental disorders was 26.3%. Mean BMI declined to 30.3 kg/m2 at 2 years and %TWL was 29.9%. Improvements in the markers and prevalence of obesity‐related comorbidities were observed. Remission rates of diabetes, dyslipidemia and hypertension were 75.6%, 59.7% and 41.8%, respectively. %TWL at the respective cut‐off level of diabetes remission was 20.8%. Lower remission rates of diabetes in patients with %TWL <20%, and less calorie restriction and higher prevalence of mental disorders (46.9%) in patients with %TWL <15% were observed. Frequencies of %TWL <15% and <20% were 6.5% and 18.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

%TWL 20% was a candidate cut‐off point of insufficient weight loss for diabetes remission after LSG, and mental disorders might be relevant to intractable obesity in Japanese patients.
Branching morphology and biomechanics of ivy (Hedera helix) stem‐branch attachments
Authors: Bunk Katharina , Krassovitski Semjon , Speck Thomas , Masselter Tom
Published: August 2019

Premise

Hedera helix is a striking example of a plant with morphological traits and growth habits that vary between juvenile and adult phases. The present study focuses on its branching morphology and variations with age and change in growth habit, based on conspicuous stem‐branch attachments previously described in related Araliaceae species.

Methods

We decorticated and morphologically analyzed 300 samples of ramifications from prostrate, climbing and self‐supporting axes of H. helix. For bending experiments, 103 specimens with the self‐supporting growth habit were collected.

Results

Ramifications of H. helix exhibited a so‐called “finger‐like” branching morphology with abaxial branch lobes and varying degrees of fusion of woody strands. Three categories of woody strand coalescence were defined. Biomechanical experiments in which the branches of stem‐branch attachments were bent revealed two main modes of failure, breaking failure in (1) the attachment region and (2) the side branch.

Conclusions

Coalescence of woody strands in H. helix ramifications results from accumulation of secondary xylem with age, influenced by mechanical stimuli causing specific loading situations during different growth habits. Mechanical experiments showed the tendency toward failure in the side branch with increasing fusion of woody strands, affected by the diameter ratio of the side branch to the main axis. Of specific interest is the comparison of H. helix branching with tropical Araliaceae, which do not show the described coalescence of woody strands to this extent. Fracture toughness of self‐supporting H. helix axes with merged stem‐branch attachment regions are comparable to other self‐supporting plant species, despite anatomical and ontogenetic differences.
Greater phylogenetic distance from native oaks predicts escape from insect leaf herbivores by non‐native oak saplings
Authors: Moreira Xoaquín , Vázquez‐González Carla , Encinas‐Valero Manuel , Covelo Felisa , Castagneyrol Bastien , Abdala‐Roberts Luis
Published: August 2019

Premise

Non‐native plant species have been hypothesized to experience lower herbivory in novel environments as a function of their phylogenetic distance from native plant species. Although recent work has found support for this prediction, the plant traits responsible for such patterns have been largely overlooked.

Methods

In a common garden experiment in northwestern Spain, we tested whether oak species (Quercusspp.) not native to this region that are phylogenetically more distantly related to native species exhibit less insect leaf herbivory. In addition, we also investigated plant traits potentially correlated with any such effect of phylogenetic distance.

Results

As expected, phylogenetic distance from native species negatively predicted insect leaf herbivory on non‐native oaks. In addition, we found that the leaf traits, namely phosphorus and condensed tannins, were significantly associated with herbivory, suggesting that they are associated with the effect of phylogenetic distance on leaf herbivory on non‐native oak species.

Conclusions

This study contributes to a better understanding of how evolutionary relationships (relatedness) between native and non‐native plant species determine the latter's success in novel environments via locally shared enemies, and encourages more work investigating the plant traits that mediate the effects of phylogenetic distance on enemy escape.
Fire cues trigger germination and stimulate seedling growth of grass species from Brazilian savannas
Authors: Ramos Desirée M. , Valls José F. M. , Borghetti Fabian , Ooi Mark K. J.
Published: August 2019

Premise

Although fire cues (high temperatures and smoke) influence seed germination in numerous species from fire‐prone environments, their effects on seed germination of species from neotropical savannas are poorly understood.

Methods

We exposed seeds of eight grass species from the Cerrado, the Brazilian savanna to heat‐shock (80°C or 110°C for 5 min) and/or smoke water, and then set them to germinate in light or dark, at either summer (28°C/18°C) or winter (27°C/14°C) temperature regimes in an incubator. In addition, we evaluated the effects of smoke water on seedling root and shoot growth for four of the species.

Results

Smoke interacted with the dark treatment to increase germination from 28% to 93% in Aristida recurvata and 77% to 95% in Aristida riparia. Smoke had no effect on germination of either of these species in the light. Heat‐shock alone also promoted seed germination in A. recurvata. For Digitaria lehmanniana, smoke interacted with heat‐shock to improve germination from 5% to 16%. In contrast, the fire treatments did not have any effect on the seed germination of the remaining five species. Smoke water stimulated root growth for A. riparia, A. recurvata, and Ctenium cirrosum but had no effect on their shoot growth.

Conclusions

The strong promotive effect of smoke on Aristida germination suggests that these species are fire‐adapted. Aristida species have an active awn system, which facilitates seed burial, and the smoke and dark interaction would ensure buried seeds germinated post‐fire. The species that showed no response to fire cues may either have adapted via alternative strategies or require different concentrations of smoke or levels of heat. This study is one of very few examples showing a positive germination and seedling growth response to smoke for species from neotropical savannas.
Preventing Teen Relationship Abuse and Sexual Assault through Bystander Training: Intervention Outcomes for School Personnel
Authors: Edwards Katie M. , Sessarego Stephanie N. , Mitchell Kimberly J. , Chang Hong , Waterman Emily A. , Banyard Victoria L.
Published: August 2019

The purpose of the current study was to examine the impact of exposure to Bringing in the Bystander—High School Curriculum (BITB‐HSC) on school personnel, which included a seven session classroom curriculum for ninth through twelfth graders (student curriculum), a bystander training workshop for school personnel (school personnel workshop), and reading materials (handout). We examined how exposure to these various BITB‐HSC intervention components was associated with school personnel's knowledge and bystander efficacy, intentions, and barriers specific to student relationship abuse (RA) and sexual assault (SA). Participants were 488 school personnel from 12 high schools in upper New England who completed the 4‐month follow‐up survey that assessed for intervention exposure (284 participants completed both the baseline and follow‐up survey). Whereas 53% of participants were exposed to no intervention components, the other half of the sample were exposed to a combination of intervention components. Higher baseline knowledge and reactive bystander intentions were associated with subsequent exposure to both the student curriculum and the handout, and fewer barriers to bystander action predicted exposure to the school personnel workshop. Exposure to the school personnel workshop, student curriculum, and handout was associated with subsequent greater knowledge, exposure to the student curriculum predicted reactive bystander intentions, and exposure to the handout predicted higher reactive bystander intentions and bystander efficacy. Findings suggest that despite challenges with engagement, exposure to the BITB‐HSC components may be a useful tool in improving school personnel's responses to RA and SA among high school students.
Effects of endoscopic sinus surgery on objective and subjective measures of cognitive dysfunction in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Yoo Frederick , Schlosser Rodney J. , Storck Kristina A. , Ganjaei Kimia G. , Rowan Nicholas R. , Soler Zachary M.
Published: August 2019

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common condition that has been associated with cognitive dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) on the subjective and objective measures of cognitive dysfunction and related quality‐of‐life measures in CRS.

Methods

Thirty‐five adults with CRS refractory to medical therapy were prospectively enrolled. Preoperatively and postoperatively (≥4 months), subjects completed objective neurocognitive evaluation with the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) platform and multiple questionnaires, including the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ), a modified World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire (ctHPQ), 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcomes Test (SNOT‐22), Sinus Control Test (SCT), Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD), Beck Depression Inventory―second edition (BDI‐II), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS).

Results

Thirty‐three of 35 patients satisfactorily completed the study. Postsurgical improvement in the CFQ was 46.7 ± 18.4 to 31.9 ± 17.8 (p < 0.001). Neurocognitive testing revealed significant improvements in mathematical processing (p = 0.003) and matching to sample (p = 0.023), as well as a significant decline in simple reaction time (p = 0.026). In addition, improvements were noted for SNOT‐22 (54.8 ± 21.4 to 24.8 ± 21.1, p < 0.001), SCT (9.3 ± 2.6 to 3.9 ± 3.8, p < 0.001), PSQI (10.7 ± 4.5 to 6.9 ± 4.0, p < 0.001), BDI‐II (14.0 ± 9.9 to 8.9 ± 9.0, p < 0.001), QOD (17.6 ± 13.4 to 9.9 ± 12.3, p = 0.001), and FSS (4.6 ± 1.4 to 3.1 ± 1.5, p < 0.001). There was significant improvement in overall presenteeism (7.3 ± 1.4 to 8.4 ± 1.3, p = 0.029). Analysis by polyp status revealed significant improvement in mathematical processing and matching to sample in only CRS patients without polyps.

Conclusion

ESS is associated with improvement in subjective and some aspects of objective cognition.
Spontaneous pancreatic undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma in a laboratory rat: A case report
Authors: Ypsilantis Petros , Meditskou Soultana , Lambropoulou Maria , Papamitsou Theodora , Simopoulos Constantinos
Published: August 2019

We present a case of spontaneous undifferentiated/unclassified sarcoma, of a pleomorphic subtype formerly known as malignant fibrous histiocytoma (UPS/MFH), arising from the pancreas of a laboratory rat. The mass was excised after laparotomy from a 6‐month‐old female laboratory Wistar rat. It presented a giant multilobulated mass of irregular shape, which had arisen from the pancreas and occupied almost the entire peritoneal cavity. Histologically the tumor was characterized by a highly variable morphological pattern, with frequent transitions from storiform to pleomorphic areas. An extensive immunohistochemical examination revealed no specific lines of differentiation. Immunohistochemical positivity was observed only to MIB‐1 (high Ki‐67 proliferation index), vimentin and CD68 antibodies. The diagnosis was compatible with UPS/MFH. To the best of our knowledge, the present case is the first report of a spontaneous primary UPS/MFH arising from the pancreas of a laboratory rat.
Intrinsic Self‐Trapped Emission in 0D Lead‐Free (C4H14N2)2In2Br10 Single Crystal
Authors: Zhou Lei , Liao Jin‐Feng , Huang Zeng‐Guang , Wei Jun‐Hua , Wang Xu‐Dong , Chen Hong‐Yan , Kuang Dai‐Bin
Published: August 2019

Low‐dimensional lead halide perovskite materials recently have drawn much attention owing to the intriguing broadband emissions; however, the toxicity of lead will hinder their future development. Now, a lead‐free (C4H14N2)2In2Br10 single crystal with a unique zero‐dimensional (0D) structure constituted by [InBr6]3− octahedral and [InBr4]− tetrahedral units is described. The single crystal exhibits broadband photoluminescence (PL) that spans almost the whole visible spectrum with a lifetime of 3.2 μs. Computational and experimental studies unveil that an excited‐state structural distortion in [InBr6]3− octahedral units enables the formation of intrinsic self‐trapped excitons (STEs) and thus contributing the broad emission. Furthermore, femtosecond transient absorption (fs‐TA) measurement reveals that the ultrafast STEs formation together with an efficient intersystem crossing has made a significant contribution to the long‐lived and broad STE‐based emission behavior.
Observation and Kinetic Characterization of Transient Schiff Base Intermediates by CEST NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ramanujam Venkatraman , Charlier Cyril , Bax Ad
Published: August 2019

In aqueous solution, many biochemical reaction pathways involve reaction of an aldehyde with an amine, which progresses through generally unstable, hydrated and dehydrated, Schiff base intermediates that often are unobservable by conventional NMR. There are 4 states in the relevant equilibrium: 1) gem‐diol, 2) aldehyde, 3) hemiaminal, and 4) Schiff base. For the reaction between protein amino groups and DOPAL, a highly toxic metabolite of dopamine, the 1H resonances of both the hemiaminal and the dehydrated Schiff base can be observed by CEST NMR, even when their populations fall below 0.1 %. CEST NMR reveals the quantitative exchange kinetics between reactants and Schiff base intermediates, explaining why the Schiff base NMR signals are rarely observed. The reactivity of DOPAL with Nα‐amino groups is greater than with lysine Nϵ‐amines and, in the presence of O2, both types of Schiff base DOPAL–peptide intermediates rapidly react with free DOPAL to irreversibly form dicatechol pyrrole adducts.
Molybdenum Alkylidyne Complexes with Tripodal Silanolate Ligands: The Next Generation of Alkyne Metathesis Catalysts
Authors: Hillenbrand Julius , Leutzsch Markus , Fürstner Alois
Published: August 2019

A new type of molybdenum alkylidyne catalysts for alkyne metathesis is described, which is distinguished by an unconventional podand topology. These structurally well‐defined complexes are easy to make on scale and proved to be tolerant toward numerous functional groups; even certain protic substituents were found to be compatible. The new catalysts were characterized by X‐ray crystallography and by spectroscopic means, including 95Mo NMR.
Modification of Enzyme Activity by Vibrational Strong Coupling of Water
Authors: Vergauwe Robrecht M. A. , Thomas Anoop , Nagarajan Kalaivanan , Shalabney Atef , George Jino , Chervy Thibault , Seidel Marcus , Devaux Eloïse , Torbeev Vladimir , Ebbesen Thomas W.
Published: August 2019

Vibrational strong coupling (VSC) has recently emerged as a completely new tool for influencing chemical reactivity. It harnesses electromagnetic vacuum fluctuations through the creation of hybrid states of light and matter, called polaritonic states, in an optical cavity resonant to a molecular absorption band. Here, we investigate the effect of vibrational strong coupling of water on the enzymatic activity of pepsin, where a water molecule is directly involved in the enzyme's chemical mechanism. We observe an approximately 4.5‐fold decrease of the apparent second‐order rate constant kcat/Km when coupling the water stretching vibration, whereas no effect was detected for the strong coupling of the bending vibration. The possibility of modifying enzymatic activity by coupling water demonstrates the potential of VSC as a new tool to study biochemical reactivity.
A Diruthenium‐Based Mixed Spin Complex Ru25+(S=1/2)‐CN‐Ru25+(S=3/2)
Authors: Su Shao‐Dong , Zhu Xiao‐Quan , Wen Yue‐Hong , Zhang Lin‐Tao , Yang Yu‐Ying , Lin Chen‐Sheng , Wu Xin‐Tao , Sheng Tian‐Lu
Published: August 2019

An unusual tetra‐nuclear linear cyanido‐bridged complex [Ru2(μ‐ap)4‐CN‐Ru2(μ‐ap)4](BPh4) (1) (ap=2‐anilinopyridinate) has been synthesized and well characterized. The crystallographic data, magnetic measurement, IR, EPR and theoretical calculation results demonstrate that complex 1 is the first example of mixed spin Ru25+‐based complex with uncommon electronic configurations of S=1/2 for the cyanido‐C bound Ru25+ and S=3/2 for the cyanido‐N bound Ru25+. This phenomenon can be understood by the theoretical calculation results that from the precursor Ru2(μ‐ap)4(CN) (S=3/2) to complex 1 the energy gap between π* and δ* orbitals of the cyanido‐C bound Ru25+ core increases from 0.57 to 1.61 eV due to the enhancement of asymmetrical π back‐bonding effect, but that of the cyanido‐N bound Ru25+ core is essential identical (0.56 eV). Besides, the analysis of UV/Vis‐NIR spectra suggests that there exists metal to metal charge transfer (MMCT) from the cyanido‐N bound Ru25+ (S=3/2) to the cyanido‐C bound Ru25+ (S=1/2), supported by the TDDFT calculations.
Safe, Low‐Cost, Fast‐Kinetics and Low‐Strain Inorganic‐Open‐Framework Anode for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Ruding , Huang Jiajia , Deng Wenzhuo , Bao Jingze , Pan Yilong , Huang Shuping , Sun Chuan‐Fu
Published: August 2019

A key challenge for potassium‐ion batteries is to explore low‐cost electrode materials that allow fast and reversible insertion of large‐ionic‐size K+. Here, we report an inorganic‐open‐framework anode (KTiOPO4), which achieves a reversible capacity of up to 102 mAh g−1 (307 mAh cm−3), flat voltage plateaus at a safe average potential of 0.82 V (vs. K/K+), a long lifespan of over 200 cycles, and K+‐transport kinetics ≈10 times faster than those of Na‐superionic conductors. Combined experimental analysis and first‐principles calculations reveal a charge storage mechanism involving biphasic and solid solution reactions and a cell volume change (9.5 %) even smaller than that for Li+‐insertion into graphite (≈10 %). KTiOPO4 exhibits quasi‐3D lattice expansion on K+ intercalation, enabling the disintegration of small lattice strain and thus high structural stability. The inorganic open‐frameworks may open a new avenue for exploring low‐cost, stable and fast‐kinetic battery chemistry.
Synthesis, molecular docking studies, and biological evaluation of novel alkyl bis(4‐amino‐5‐cyanopyrimidine) derivatives
Authors: Boualia Imen , Derabli Chamseddine , Boulcina Raouf , Bensouici Chawki , Yildirim Muhammet , Birinci Yildirim Arzu , Mokrani El Hassen , Debache Abdelmadjid
Published: August 2019

A series of bis(4‐amino‐5‐cyano‐pyrimidines) was synthesized and evaluated as dual inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). To further explore the multifunctional properties of the new derivatives, their antioxidant and antibacterial activities were also tested. The results showed that most of these compounds could effectively inhibit AChE and BChE. Particularly, compound 7c exhibited the best AChE inhibitory activity (IC50 = 5.72 ± 1.53 μM), whereas compound 7h was identified as the most potent BChE inhibitor (IC50 = 12.19 ± 0.57 μM). Molecular modeling study revealed that compounds 7c, 7f, and 7b showed a higher inhibitory activity than that of galantamine against both AChE and BChE. Anticholinesterase activity of compounds 7h, 7b, and 7c was significant in vitro and in silico for both enzymes, since these compounds have hydrophobic rings (Br‐phenyl, dimethyl, and methoxyphenyl), which bind very well in both sites. In addition to cholinesterase inhibitory activities, these compounds showed different levels of antioxidant activities. Indeed, in the superoxide–dimethyl sulfoxide alkaline assay, compound 7j showed very high inhibition (IC50 = 0.37 ± 0.28 μM). Also, compound 7l exhibited strong and good antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. Taking into account the results of biological evaluation, further modifications will be designed to increase potency on different targets. In this study, the obtained results can be a new starting point for further development of multifunctional agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Statistically Estimated Free Energies of Chromosome Aberration Production from Frequency Data
Authors: Schaeffer D. J. , Janardan K. G. , Kerster H. W. , Clarke A. C. M.
Published: August 2019

Janardan and Schaeffer (1977) suggested that the Lagrangian Poisson Distribution (LPD) could be used to estimate the net free energy for the production of induced chromosome aberrations. Using a Markov‐chain model, a formal link between the LPD and the thermodynamic free energy is now provided. It is estimated that the free energy required to produce isochromatid breaks or dicentrics is about 3.67 KJ/mole/aberration and 18.4 KJ/mole, in good agreement with free energy estimates on the formation of DNA.
Multivariate Non‐parametric Tolerance Regions: A New Construction Technique
Authors: Ackermann H.
Published: August 2019

In continuation of the work by Abt (1977, 1982) and Ackermann (1980) a new construction technique is proposed to construct multivariate non‐parametric tolerance regions based on the higher‐dimensional correlations among the N variables under consideration. The scale‐independency of the method is shown and a decision function is described to decide whether a given point lies within such a tolerance region or not. The method is discussed using the data of a clinical example.
An Approximate Analysis of Incomplete Ranked Data
Authors: Pettitt A. N.
Published: August 2019

An approximation for the probability of the rank order of k independent random variables is used to analyze incomplete ranked data, consisting of rankings of objects by judges. The approximation allows linear models to be fitted to the data so that differences amongst groups of judges can be investigated, and factorial models applied to investigate differences amongst the objects.
Class of Estimators of Mean and Variance Using Auxiliary Information when Correlation Coefficient is also Known
Authors: Srivastava S. K. , Jhajj H. Singh
Published: August 2019

For estimating the mean of a finite population using information on an auxiliary variable, a class of estimators which also uses the value of the correlation coefficient between the two variables which is assumed known, is defined. Expression for its asymptotic mean squared error and its minimum value is obtained. An expression by which the minimum mean squared error of this class is smaller than those which use only the sample mean and the sample variance of the auxiliary variable is obtained. A similar class of estimators is considered for the estimation of the population variance. The gain in efficiency is illustrated for six populations considered in literature.
The General Age‐Dependent Endemic with Age‐Specific Contact Rate
Authors: Knolle H.
Published: August 2019

The time‐independent (i.e. endemic) case of the general deterministic age‐dependent epidemic is treated. The “force of infection” (Muench, 1959) depends on the age density of the infectious via an integral operator whose kernel n(a, α) is related to the frequency of contact between different age groups. Endemic threshold conditions are derived. For a special case of n(a, α) suited for the situation of school children, a differential equation is derived and solved numerically. Its parameters are estimated for two sets of rubella data.
Nonparametric Analysis of Cyclic Curves with an Application in the Psychiatry
Authors: Läuter H. , Läuter E.
Published: August 2019

A nonparametric procedure is described which can be used to distinguish certain types of very irregular curves. The lengths of some waves of the curves resp. their frequencies are estimated unbiasedly. An example of such curves are the so called arterypulse‐waves which can be used to diagnose some psychiatric deseases.
On the Applicability of Multidimensional Classification Procedures
Authors: Werneckk K.‐D. , Bäumler H. , Kalb G.
Published: August 2019

An example from the EEG‐analysis shows that particularly in using the R‐error estimation the variance analysis and discrimination might indicate contradictory results. Therefore the use of results of MANOVA for a subsequent discrimination appears not to be advisable as a rule. If the number of test persons per class does not amount to at least the five‐fold of the number of characters, the error estimation according to the R‐method is not applicable. Since the feature selection by the methods investigated in this paper only pretend an improvement of the classification, producing even misleading results in single cases, it should not be used, at least not with smaller random samples.
Conditional Markov Chain Design for Accrual Clinical Trials
Authors: Matts J. P. , McHugh R. B.
Published: August 2019

Randomization in a comparative experiment has, as one aim, the control of bias in the initial selection of experimental units. When the experiment is a clinical trial employing the accrual of patients, two additional aims are the control of admission bias and control of chronologic bias. This can be accomplished by using a method of randomization, such as the “biased coin design” of Efron, which sequentially forces balance.

As an extension of Efron's design, this paper develops a class of conditional Markov chain designs. The detailed randomization employed utilizes the sequential imbalances in the treatment allocation as states in a Markov process. Through the use of appropriate transition probabilities, a range of possible designs can be attained.

An additional objective of physical randomization is to provide a model for data analysis. Such a randomization theoretic analysis is presented for the current designs. In addition, Monte Carlo sampling results are given to support the proposed normal theory approximation to the exact randomization distribution.
A Clustering Method for the States of a Markov Chain with an Application to Primate Communication
Authors: Pruscha H.
Published: August 2019

In some applications clustering problems in stochastic processes arise when the experimenter wants to improve the insight into the structure of the observed system by lumping its states into clusters. As measure of goodness of a cluster solution we choose the rate of predictability of the forthcoming events which can be quantified by means of the entropy of the lumped process. The entropy in turn can be estimated by making use of a Shannon‐McMillan‐type theorem. We will establish some asymptotic results for the estimate of entropy in the case where the underlying stochastic process is a Markov chain. Our main tool will be a representation of functions of Markov chains which is due to Blackwell (1957).

The method proposed here is applied to data on communication processes in monkeys. The object of our analysis will be to find a subgroup structure in the animal group.
Measures of Stability (Trait) and Mutability (State) of Binary Responses in Pre‐post‐treatment Fourfold Tables
Authors: Hüsler J. , Lienert G. A.
Published: August 2019

For the discussion of binary responses in pre‐post‐treatment we define new, simple measures for the stability (Trait) and mutability (State) of the responses, which have very nice and simple properties. We show the important fact that under certain conditions these two measures are uncorrelated. Because of the simplicity of the measures we derive the exact and limit distributions for testing the one respectively the two sample case.
A Unifying, Analytic Model for Certain Linear Rank Tests. Part II: Exact Distribution Algorithms
Authors: Kannemann K.
Published: August 2019

On the basic of the analytic properties of the unifying model developed in the earlier Part I of this presentation, exact distribution algorithms are developed for the Wilcoxon 2‐sample sum‐of‐rank test, the Freund‐Ansari scale test, and the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. For the signed‐rank test, provisions are made for zero‐differences.
On Stereological Estimation of Second‐order Characteristics and of the Hard‐core Distance of Systems of Sphere Centres
Authors: Hanisch K. H.
Published: August 2019

For planar and thin sections of sphere systems integral equations are given which connect second‐order quantities of the point process of sphere centres with second‐order quantities of the point process of intersection circle centres. For special point process models, which serve as sphere centres, the planar second‐order quantities are calculated and discussed. Some simple stereo‐logical formulae for the estimation of the hard‐core distance are given when the sphere centres form a hard‐core process.
Conditionally in Bivariate Generalized Poisson Distributions
Authors: Papageorgiou H. , Kemp C. D.
Published: August 2019

Three types of bivariate generalized Poisson distributions are defined and the structure of their conditional distributions is examined by using the Faa Di Bruno's formula. The resulting expressions involve Bell polynomials and can be interpreted in terms of convoluted random variables with one of the convolutes having the form of the marginal distribution. The three types of bivariate Neyman A distributions are used to illustrate the procedure.
The Planning of Sample Sizes for Maximum Likelihood Estimation of the Parameters of the Weibull Distribution
Authors: Schulz W.
Published: August 2019

Based on maximum likelihood estimators the problem of setting confidence limits for the scale and shape parameters of the Weibull distribution with two parameters is considered. Approximation formulae for the determination of sample sizes for the parameter estimation are given for complete and type II censored samples.
t‐Tests for Single Means of Autocorrelated Data — A Simulation Study —
Authors: von Eye A.
Published: August 2019

A simulation study is reported in which the effect of positive and negative autocorrelation on the quantiles of Student's t‐test variable is investigated. It is shown that negative autocorrelations lead to smaller quantiles. Positive autocorrelations lead to larger quantiles.
Pilot randomised controlled trial of counselling in a community mental health setting: Pitfalls and learnings
Authors: Farr Joanna , Di Malta Gina , Cooper Mick
Published: August 2019

The establishment of counselling and psychotherapy as “evidence‐based” interventions is contingent on the effective implementation of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in real‐world clinical settings. This paper identifies some of the pitfalls that led to the termination of a practical RCT in a community mental health setting. It reflects upon the significance of the lessons learned by drawing on similar challenges that are documented in the wider literature. Issues surrounding staff turnover, counsellor engagement and procedural clarity are discussed, as is the conflict between the time required for research procedures and counsellors’ clinical time constraints. In our recommendations, we recognise the decisive role of collaboration and counsellor motivation in research partnerships, and the significance of clinical relevance, communication, training and research co‐production in achieving them. Time commitment is identified as the pivotal challenge in the formation and maintenance of collaborative research, but one that also must be overcome for the advancement of the counselling and psychotherapy field.
Chemoenzymatic Total Synthesis of Sorbicatechol Structural Analogues and Evaluation of Their Antiviral Potential
Authors: Sib Anna , Milzarek Tobias M. , Herrmann Alexander , Oubraham Lila , Müller Jonas I. , Pichlmair Andreas , Brack‐Werner Ruth , Gulder Tobias A. M.
Published: August 2019

Sorbicillinoids are fungal polyketides characterized by highly complex and diverse molecular structures, with considerable stereochemical intricacy combined with a high degree of oxygenation. Many sorbicillinoids possess promising biological activities. An interesting member of this natural product family is sorbicatechol A, which is reported to have antiviral activity, particularly against influenza A virus (H1N1). Through a straightforward, one‐pot chemoenzymatic approach with recently developed oxidoreductase SorbC, the characteristic bicyclo[2.2.2]octane core of sorbicatechol is structurally diversified by variation of its natural 2‐methoxyphenol substituent. This facilitates the preparation of a focused library of structural analogues bearing substituted aromatic systems, alkanes, heterocycles, and ethers. Fast access to this structural diversity provides an opportunity to explore the antiviral potential of the sorbicatechol family.