bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Electrolytes on the Photocurrent of N‐Annulated Perylene‐Sensitized Photoelectrochemical Cells Based on NiO as Photocathode
Authors: Zhang Shicong , Li Xing , Yun Kang , Yu Fengtao , Hua Jianli
Published: August 2018

The new organic dye NPP with N‐annulated perylene (NP) as donor, bithiophene as π bridge and perylenemonoimide (PMI) as acceptor has been synthesized and applied for dye‐sensitized photoelectrochemical cells (DSPEC). Phosphate (PBS), sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) and acetate buffer solution (ABS) have been employed as electrolytes to investigate their effects on the photocurrent of the DSPEC. After 200 s illumination, PBS, ABS and Na2SO4 based cells exhibited a photocurrent of −13, −7 and −7 μA cm−2, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) indicated that the DSPEC device with PBS as electrolyte showed the smallest charge transfer resistance (Rct) and largest hole lifetime, which might best explain the highest photocurrent found for the PBS based device. In addition, incident monochromatic photon‐to‐electron conversion efficiency (IPCE) of the photoelectrochemical cells with PBS, ABS and Na2SO4 aqueous solution as electrolytes was determined. The IPCE of the PBS based device was the highest at 430∼620 nm and the result was consistent with the measured photocurrent. However, under long‐time illumination, the acetate buffer solution based device displayed the highest stability. Hence, the results show that the electrolytes have a significant effect on the photocurrent and stability of DSPECs.
A Molecular Level Approach To Elucidate the Supramolecular Packing of Light‐Harvesting Antenna Systems
Authors: Thomas Brijith , Dubey Rajeev K. , Clabbers Max T. B. , Gupta Karthick Babu Sai Sankar , van Genderen Eric , Jager Wolter F. , Abrahams Jan Pieter , Sudholter Ernst J. R. , de Groot Huub J. M.
Published: August 2018

The molecular geometry and supramolecular packing of two bichromophoric prototypic light harvesting compounds D1A2 and D2A2, consisting of two naphthylimide energy donors that were attached to the 1,7 bay positions of a perylene monoimide diester energy acceptor, have been determined by a hybrid approach using magic angle spinning NMR spectroscopy and electron nano‐crystallography (ENC), followed by modelling. NMR shift constraints, combined with the P
space group obtained from ENC, were used to generate a centrosymmetric dimer of truncated perylene fragments. This racemic packing motif is used in a biased molecular replacement approach to generate a partial 3D electrostatic scattering potential map. Resolving the structure of the bay substituents is guided by the inversion symmetry, and the distance constraints obtained from heteronuclear correlation spectra. The antenna molecules form a pseudocrystalline lattice of antiparallel centrosymmetric dimers with pockets of partially disordered bay substituents. The two molecules in a unit cell form a butterfly‐type arrangement. The hybrid methodology that has been developed is robust and widely applicable for critical structural underpinning of self‐assembling structures of large organic molecules.
A Comparative Study on High Selectivities of Human Telomeric Dimeric G‐Quadruplexes by Dimeric G‐Quadruplex Binders
Authors: Liao Ting‐Cong , Ma Tian‐Zhu , Liang Zhi , Zhang Xin‐Tong , Luo Chun‐Yin , Liu Lihong , Zhou Chun‐Qiong
Published: August 2018

Three new polyether‐tethered bisquinolinium dimers (3 a–c) were synthesized, and their binding affinities, selectivities, and thermal stabilization towards dimeric G‐quadruplex DNA (G2T1) in human telomeric regions were studied. The bisquinolinium dimer with a medium‐length polyether linker (3 b) showed 30–425‐fold higher binding affinity and selectivity towards antiparallel G2T1 than towards monomeric quadruplexes, which included human telomeric monomeric G‐quadruplexes (G1), c‐kit 1, c‐kit 2, and c‐myc. In addition, compound 3 b induced the formation of quadruplexes and displayed the highest level of thermal stabilization (ΔTm>28.1 °C) among all reported multimeric G‐quadruplex binders. Compound 3 b also displayed a higher selectivity towards antiparallel G2T1 than monomer 360 A and bisquinolinium dimers 3 a and c. In contrast with our recent research on the analogous berberine dimer 1 b and dinickel–salphen complex 2 c, polyether linkers and their monomeric G‐quadruplex binders in these dimeric G‐quadruplex binders play a crucial role in regulating the binding affinities, selectivities, and thermal stabilization towards G2T1. More interestingly, these dimeric G‐quadruplex compounds bind through end‐stacking with the two adjacent G‐quadruplex units in G2T1, and they showed high selectivity towards antiparallel G2T1 rather than mixed‐type G2T1. In addition, compound 3 b, which displayed high selectivity towards antiparallel G2T1, showed strong telomerase inhibition and potent anticancer activities against HeLa and MCF‐7 cells.
Assembly and Chiral Memory Effects of Dynamic Macroscopic Supramolecular Helices
Authors: Yuan Tianyu , Sun Zhimin , Mu Anthony U. , Zeng Minxiang , Kalin Alexander J. , Cheng Zhengdong , Olson Mark A. , Fang Lei
Published: August 2018

Macroscopic enantiomerically pure helical supramolecular fibers are bottom‐up assembled in aqueous media from a chiral π‐electron donor template and an achiral π‐electron acceptor. The helices can be assembled to the sub‐millimeter scale with controlled handedness. These dynamic supramolecular architectures allow for a quantitative exchange of the chiral donor template with achiral analogues. During this process, a chiral memory effect was observed, affording enantiomerically pure helices composed entirely of achiral components.
An Isolated Molecule of Iron(II) Phthalocyanin Exhibits Quintet Ground‐State: A Nexus between Theory and Experiment
Authors: Nachtigallová Dana , Antalík Andrej , Lo Rabindranath , Sedlák Robert , Manna Debashree , Tuček Jiří , Ugolotti Juri , Veis Libor , Legeza Örs , Pittner Jiří , Zbořil Radek , Hobza Pavel
Published: August 2018

Iron(II) phthalocyanine (FePc) is an important member of the phthalocyanines family with potential applications in the fields of electrocatalysis, magnetic switching, electrochemical sensing, and phototheranostics. Despite the importance of electronic properties of FePc in these applications, a reliable determination of its ground‐state is still challenging. Here we present combined state of the art computational methods and experimental approaches, that is, Mössbauer spectroscopy and Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) magnetic measurements to identify the ground state of FePc. While the nature of the ground state obtained with density functional theory (DFT) depends on the functional, giving mostly the triplet state, multi‐reference complete active space second‐order perturbation theory (CASPT2) and density matrix renormalization group (DMRG) methods assign quintet as the FePc ground‐state in gas‐phase. This has been confirmed by the hyperfine parameters obtained from 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy performed in frozen monochlorobenzene. The use of monochlorobenzene guarantees an isolated nature of the FePc as indicated by a zero Weiss temperature. The results open doors for exploring the ground state of other metal porphyrin molecules and their controlled spin transitions via external stimuli.
Direct Observation of H3–H4 Octasome by High‐Speed AFM
Authors: Zou Tingting , Hashiya Fumitaka , Wei Yulei , Yu Zutao , Pandian Ganesh N. , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: August 2018

Despite evidence that histone H3 and H4 proteins may act as the precursor for orientating the DNA sequence to form nucleosome structures, there is no direct evidence of the formed compact structure. Here, it is demonstrated that a histone H3–H4 octasome could be constructed without the involvement of histone H2A–H2B under in vitro reconstitution conditions. Atomic force microscopy was used to obtain the first direct observation of the octasome structure, which exhibited a similar core‐protein size as that of a nucleosome but with a shorter core histone‐binding DNA region. The octasome also displayed a one‐step histone‐dissociation pattern under heat treatment, distinct micrococcal nuclease and peplomycin accessibility, which suggests a different wrapping pattern to that in nucleosomes.
Sexual dimorphism in visual and olfactory brain centers in the perfume‐collecting orchid beeEuglossa dilemma(Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Authors: Brand Philipp , Larcher Virginie , Couto Antoine , Sandoz Jean‐Christophe , Ramírez Santiago R.
Published: August 2018

Insect mating behavior is controlled by a diverse array of sex‐specific traits and strategies that evolved to maximize mating success. Orchid bees exhibit a unique suite of perfume‐mediated mating behaviors. Male bees collect volatile compounds from their environment to concoct species‐specific perfume mixtures that are presumably used to attract conspecific females. Despite a growing understanding of the ecology and evolution of chemical signaling in orchid bees, many aspects of the functional adaptations involved, in particular regarding sensory systems, remain unknown. Here we investigated male and female brain morphology in the common orchid beeEuglossa dilemmaBembé & Eltz. Males exhibited increased relative volumes of the Medulla, a visual brain region, which correlated with larger compound eye size (area). While the overall volume of olfactory brain regions was similar between sexes, the antennal lobes exhibited several sex‐specific structures including one male‐specific macroglomerulus. These findings reveal sexual dimorphism in both the visual and the olfactory system of orchid bees. It highlights the tendency of an increased investment in the male visual system similar to that observed in other bee lineages, and suggests that visual input may play a more important role in orchid bee male mating behavior than previously thought. Furthermore, our results suggest that the evolution of perfume communication in orchid bees did not involve drastic changes in olfactory brain morphology compared to other bee lineages.
Polycystic ovary syndrome and the risk of cardiometabolic complications in longitudinal studies
Authors: Jacewicz‐Święcka Małgorzata , Kowalska Irina
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this study was to perform a review of the longitudinal studies to determine whether polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with higher prevalence of metabolic complications and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The primary outcomes included body mass index, metabolic syndrome and its components (waist circumference, lipid profile, arterial hypertension, abnormal glucose metabolism (impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, type 2 diabetes), insulin resistance, and cardiovascular diseases like stroke, angina, and coronary heart disease. Complications in pregnant women were beyond the scope of this review. PubMed database (1992‐2018) was searched to identify proper publications. Finally, data from 47 articles were analysed. Studies differed in the design (prospective, retrospective, cohort, observational), research methods, polycystic ovary syndrome diagnostic criteria, studied populations, race, and ethnicity of the participants. Based on the data collected, it appears that women with polycystic ovary syndrome have higher prevalence of obesity, abdominal fat distribution, dyslipidaemia and deterioration of glucose metabolism, but increased prevalence of cardiovascular diseases is not proven.
The neural crest and origin of the neurocranium in vertebrates
Authors: Kuratani Shigeru
Published: August 2018

Cranium of jawed vertebrates is composed of dorsal moiety that encapsulates the brain, or the neurocranium, and the is called the neurocranium, and the ventral moiety, the viscerocranium, that supports the pharynx. In modern jawed vertebrates (crown gnathostomes), the viscerocranium is predominantly of neural crest origin, and for the neurocranium, the rostral part is derived from neural crest cells, whereas the posterior part from the mesoderm. In the cyclostome cranium, the mesoderm/neural crest boundary of the neurocranium used to be enigmatic, let alone the morphological comparison of neurocranial between two cyclostome groups, lampreys and hagfishes. By examining the hagfish development it has become clear that cyclostomes share a common craniofacial embryonic pattern that is not shared by modern gnathostomes, and cyclostome cranium can be compared among the group as developmental modular units with comparable mesoderm/neural crest boundary within the neuroranium. Also, the dual origin of the jawed vertebrate neurocranium has now turned out to represent a derived condition, and ancestrally, the neurocranium would likely have been predominantly of mesodermal origin. Enlargement of the forebrain and reorganization of the oral apparatus seem to have led to the involvement of the neural crest in the rostral neurocranium.
Neural crest Notch/Rbpj signaling regulates olfactory gliogenesis and neuronal migration
Authors: Miller Sophie R. , Benito Cristina , Mirsky Rhona , Jessen Kristján R. , Baker Clare V. H.
Published: August 2018

The neural crest‐derived ensheathing glial cells of the olfactory nerve (OECs) are unique in spanning both the peripheral and central nervous systems: they ensheathe bundles of axons projecting from olfactory receptor neurons in the nasal epithelium to their targets in the olfactory bulb. OECs are clinically relevant as a promising autologous cell transplantation therapy for promoting central nervous system repair. They are also important for fertility, being required for the migration of embryonic gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons from the olfactory placode along terminal nerve axons to the medial forebrain, which they enter caudal to the olfactory bulbs. Like Schwann cell precursors, OEC precursors associated with the developing olfactory nerve express the glial marker myelin protein zero and the key peripheral glial transcription factor Sox10. The transition from Schwann cell precursors to immature Schwann cells is accelerated by canonical Notch signaling via the Rbpj transcription factor. Here, we aimed to test the role of Notch/Rbpj signaling in developing OECs by blocking the pathway in both chicken and mouse. Our results suggest that Notch/Rbpj signaling prevents the cranial neural crest cells that colonize the olfactory nerve from differentiating as neurons, and at later stages contributes to the guidance of GnRH neurons.
Neural crest and the origin of species‐specific pattern
Authors: Schneider Richard A.
Published: August 2018

For well over half of the 150 years since the discovery of the neural crest, the special ability of these cells to function as a source of species‐specific pattern has been clearly recognized. Initially, this observation arose in association with chimeric transplant experiments among differentially pigmented amphibians, where the neural crest origin for melanocytes had been duly noted. Shortly thereafter, the role of cranial neural crest cells in transmitting species‐specific information on size and shape to the pharyngeal arch skeleton as well as in regulating the timing of its differentiation became readily apparent. Since then, what has emerged is a deeper understanding of how the neural crest accomplishes such a presumably difficult mission, and this includes a more complete picture of the molecular and cellular programs whereby neural crest shapes the face of each species. This review covers studies on a broad range of vertebrates and describes neural‐crest‐mediated mechanisms that endow the craniofacial complex with species‐specific pattern. A major focus is on experiments in quail and duck embryos that reveal a hierarchy of cell‐autonomous and non‐autonomous signaling interactions through which neural crest generates species‐specific pattern in the craniofacial integument, skeleton, and musculature. By controlling size and shape throughout the development of these systems, the neural crest underlies the structural and functional integration of the craniofacial complex during evolution.
Rapamycin rescues BMP mediated midline craniosynostosis phenotype through reduction of mTOR signaling in a mouse model
Authors: Kramer Kaitrin , Yang Jingwen , Swanson W. Benton , Hayano Satoru , Toda Masako , Pan Haichun , Kim Jin Koo , Krebsbach Paul H. , Mishina Yuji
Published: August 2018

Craniosynostosis is defined as congenital premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures. While the genetic basis for about 30% of cases is known, the causative genes for the diverse presentations of the remainder of cases are unknown. The recently discovered cranial suture stem cell population affords an opportunity to identify early signaling pathways that contribute to craniosynostosis. We previously demonstrated that enhanced BMP signaling in neural crest cells (caA3 mutants) leads to premature cranial suture fusion resulting in midline craniosynostosis. Since enhanced mTOR signaling in neural crest cells leads to craniofacial bone lesions, we investigated the extent to which mTOR signaling is involved in the pathogenesis of BMP‐mediated craniosynostosis by affecting the suture stem cell population. Our results demonstrate a loss of suture stem cells in the caA3 mutant mice by the newborn stage. We have found increased activation of mTOR signaling in caA3 mutant mice during embryonic stages, but not at the newborn stage. Our study demonstrated that inhibition of mTOR signaling via rapamycin in a time specific manner partially rescued the loss of the suture stem cell population. This study provides insight into how enhanced BMP signaling regulates suture stem cells via mTOR activation.
ETS1 and PAX5 transcription factors recruit AID to Igh DNA
Authors: Grundström Christine , Kumar Anjani , Priya Anshu , Negi Neema , Grundström Thomas
Published: August 2018

B lymphocytes optimize antibody responses by class switch recombination (CSR), which changes the expressed constant region exon of the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH), and by somatic hypermutation (SH) that introduces point mutations in the variable regions of the antibody genes. Activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID) is the key mutagenic enzyme that initiates both these antibody diversification processes by deaminating cytosine to uracil. Here we asked the question if transcription factors can mediate the specific targeting of the antibody diversification by recruiting AID. We have recently reported that AID is together with the transcription factors E2A, PAX5 and IRF4 in a complex on key sequences of the Igh locus. Here we report that also ETS1 is together with AID in this complex on key sequences of the Igh locus in splenic B cells of mice. Furthermore, we show that both ETS1 and PAX5 can directly recruit AID to DNA sequences from the Igh locus with the specific binding site for the transcription factor. Taken together, our findings support the notion of a targeting mechanism for the selective diversification of antibody genes with limited genome wide mutagenesis by recruitment of AID by PAX5 and ETS1 in a transcription factor complex.
Axisymmetric lattice Boltzmann method for non‐Newtonian flows
Authors: Li Yong , Zhuo Qiyou , You Wenyu
Published: August 2018

A new axisymmetric lattice Boltzmann model is proposed for non‐Newtonian fluid flows. The model incorporates the additional axisymmetric contributions into the evolution equation by introducing a force term. The precise form of the Navier‐Stokes equations in the cylindrical polar coordinate system is derived through Chapman‐Enskog analysis, and the consistency in dimension with the lattice Boltzmann equation is retained in the introduction of force terms. The model is used to simulate the flows in a straight pipe and an annulus channel for various power‐law indexes and Reynolds number. The velocity profiles in the straight pipe and annulus channel are presented and shown to be in excellent agreement with analytical results. The 4:1 axisymmetric contraction flow was studied as well. The results show that the reattachment length increases as the power‐law indexes for a shear‐thickening fluid. The opening angle increases substantially with the increase of the power‐law index for both a shear‐thinning fluid and a shear‐thickening fluid. The velocity profiles and vortex sizes of contraction flows agree very well with those of the finite element analysis. Results demonstrate that the proposed method is very effective to analyze the axisymmetric flows of a non‐Newtonian fluid.
MEASURING REFLECTIVE SUPERVISION WITHIN HOME VISITING: CHANGES IN SUPERVISORS’ SELF‐PERCEPTION OVER TIME
Authors: Low Christine M. , Newland Rebecca , Silver Rebecca B. , Parade Stephanie , Remington Sara , Aguiar Stacey , Campagna Kristine
Published: August 2018

Despite widespread belief in the early childhood field of the benefits of reflective supervision, there has been limited empirical evidence to support the effectiveness of reflective supervision for home visitors and the children and families they serve. The present study examined the psychometric properties of four adapted self‐report measures assessing supervisors’ reflective supervision capacities; the study also investigated whether these measures captured change in reflective capacity over time as supervisors participated in professional development activities focused on reflective supervision. Results from 33 participants (home visiting supervisors and program managers) suggested that three of the four measures demonstrated acceptable internal consistency, and these three measures were correlated with each other. Two of these measures also captured significant change over time. Finally, there was some evidence that those with less education demonstrated more substantial improvement in their reflective supervision capacities than did those with an advanced degree. Findings provide initial evidence for reliable, efficient, and cost‐effective supervisor self‐report measures that could be used in research and program evaluation to assess change in supervisor reflective capacity over time.
Inside Front Cover: Label‐free bacterial colony detection and viability assessment by continuous‐wave terahertz transmission imaging (J. Biophotonics 8/2018)
Authors: Yang Xiang , Shi Jia , Wang Yuye , Yang Ke , Zhao Xiang , Wang Guiyu , Xu Degang , Wang Yunxia , Yao Jianquan , Fu Weiling
Published: August 2018

A rapid, simple and one‐step method for analyzing bacterial colonies was proposed using a continuous‐wave terahertz (THz) imaging system in this study. The distribution of mixed bacterial colonies has been detected, and the target bacterium could also be easily recognized in mixed samples. The results clearly demonstrate the potential usage of THz imaging for bacterial colony sensing in a label‐free and nondestructive manner. Further details can be found in the article by Xiang Yang, Jia Shi, Yuye Wang et al. (e201700386).

image
Inside Back Cover: Sensitive Leptospira DNA detection using tapered optical fiber sensor (J. Biophotonics 8/2018)
Authors: Zainuddin Nurul H. , Chee Hui Y. , Ahmad Muhammad Z. , Mahdi Mohd A. , Abu Bakar Muhammad H. , Yaacob Mohd H.
Published: August 2018

The background microscopic image shows leptospira interrogans bacteria, the source of Leptospirosis, a deadly disease but with common early flu‐like symptoms and likely leads to under‐diagnosed. Highly sensitive leptospira DNA sensor is developed using tapered optical fiber as shown by the schematic image. Laser transmits in the optical fiber interacts with the functionalized amine and aldehyde coatings (bottom images) to produce wavelength shifts upon DNA exposure around the tapered region.

Further details can be found in the article by Nurul H. Zainuddin, Hui Y. Chee, Muhammad Z. Ahmad et al. (e201700363).

image
Effect of Exercise Modality During Weight Loss on Bone Health in Older Adults With Obesity and Cardiovascular Disease or Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Beavers Kristen M , Walkup Michael P , Weaver Ashley A , Lenchik Leon , Kritchevsky Stephen B , Nicklas Barbara J , Ambrosius Walter T , Stitzel Joel D , Register Thomas C , Shapses Sue A , Marsh Anthony P , Rejeski W Jack
Published: August 2018

The objective of this study was to determine the ability of either aerobic or resistance training to counter weight-loss-associated bone loss in older adults. There were 187 older adults (67 years, 70% women, 64% white) with obesity (BMI = 34.5 ± 3.7 kg/m2) and cardiovascular disease and/or metabolic syndrome who were randomized to participate in an 18-month, community-based trial, with a follow-up assessment at 30 months. Intervention arms included: weight loss alone (WL; 7% to 10% baseline weight), WL plus aerobic training (WL + AT), and WL plus resistance training (WL + RT), as well as DXA-acquired total hip, femoral neck, and lumbar spine areal bone mineral density (aBMD), and trabecular bone score (TBS). Biomarkers of bone turnover (procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide, C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen) were measured at baseline, 6, 18, and 30 (aBMD and TBS only) months. CT-acquired hip and spine volumetric BMD (vBMD), cortical thickness, and bone strength were measured in a subset at baseline (n = 55) and 18 months. Total hip aBMD was reduced by 2% in all groups at 18 months, with a primary analysis showing no significant treatment effects for any DXA, biomarker, or CT outcome. After adjustment for WL and follow-up at 30 months, secondary analyses revealed that total hip [−0.018 (−0.023 to −0.012) g/cm2 versus −0.025 (−0.031 to −0.019) g/cm2; p = 0.05] and femoral neck [−0.01 (−0.009 to 0.008) g/cm2 versus −0.011 (−0.020 to −0.002) g/cm2; p = 0.06] aBMD estimates were modestly attenuated in the WL + RT group compared with the WL group. Additionally, lumbar spine aBMD was increased in the WL [0.015 (0.007 to 0.024) g/cm2] and the WL + RT [0.009 (0.000 to 0.017) g/cm2] groups compared with the WL + AT [−0.003 (−0.012 to 0.005)g/cm2] group; both p ≤ 0.01. Community-based exercise does not prevent bone loss during active WL in older adults; however, adding RT may help minimize long-term hip bone loss. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Caveolin‐1 contributes to anoikis resistance in human gastric cancer SGC‐7901 cells via regulating Src‐dependent EGFR‐ITGB1 signaling
Authors: Wang Ke , Zhu Xue , Mei Dan , Ding Zhongyang
Published: August 2018

Anoikis resistance is considered to be an essential prerequisite of tumor metastasis and which is an important mechanism in the metastatic process of gastric cancer (GC). Caveolin‐1 (CAV‐1), a protein component of caveolae, has been reported to regulate several cancer cell behaviors including anoikis resistance. However, the role of CAV‐1 in the acquisition of anoikis resistance in GC cells has never been explored. In this study, we investigated the promoting effect of CAV‐1 on anchorage‐independent growth and anoikis resistance, and the involvement of the related signaling pathways in such process in SGC‐7901 cells. The results showed that CAV‐1 could promote anchorage‐independent growth and anoikis resistance in detached SGC‐7901 cells, which was associated with the activation of Src‐dependent epidermal growth factor receptor‐integrin β signaling as well as the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK signaling pathways. The data from this study might contribute to the in‐depth understanding of the metastatic mechanism for GC.
Common mental disorders among US army aviation personnel: Prevalence and return to duty
Authors: Britt Thomas W. , McGhee James S. , Quattlebaum Martin D.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Assess the prevalence of US Army aviation personnel with common mental disorders, the percentage that return to duty following mental health treatment, and predictors of return to duty.

Methods

Examined the prevalence over a 5‐year period. The percentage of personnel who were granted a waiver to return to flying duty following treatment was also determined.

Results

The results revealed a 5‐year prevalence of 0.036 (95% CI = 0.034–0.038) for personnel experiencing one or more of the mental disorders (N = 1,155). Prevalence was highest for adjustment disorders and for nonpilot participants. Overall, personnel were granted a waiver 55.3% of the time and suspended or disqualified 44.7% of the time. Waivers were more likely to be granted for an adjustment disorder and for pilots.

Conclusions

Discussion focuses on the importance of aviation personnel receiving mental health treatment when problems are not severe to maximize the likelihood of returning to duty.
Rash and Pruritus With PD‐1 Inhibitors in Cancer Patients: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Jing , Gu Jian
Published: August 2018

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to fully investigate the rash and pruritus of programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) inhibitors in cancer patients. The relevant studies of the randomized controlled trials in cancer patients treated with PD‐1 inhibitors were retrieved, and a systematic evaluation was conducted. EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed were searched for articles published up to April 2018. Nineteen randomized controlled trials and 11,006 patients were included. The current meta‐analysis suggests that the use of PD‐1 inhibitors significantly increases the risk of developing the all‐grade rash (risk ratio [RR] 1.41; 95%CI 1.14–1.76; P = .002) and pruritus (RR 1.77; 95%CI 1.26–2.49; P = .001), and there was no difference between high‐grade rash and pruritus. The RR of all‐grade rash and pruritus did not vary significantly according to the type of drug, type of cancer, the line of therapy, or the treatment regimen. But both all‐grade rash and pruritus varied significantly according to control therapy. The current meta‐analysis suggests that the use of PD‐1 inhibitors significantly increases the risk of developing all‐grade rash and pruritus. Physicians should be aware of these adverse events and should monitor cancer patients who are receiving PD‐1 inhibitors.
Clinical Pharmacology of the Reversible and Potent P2Y12 Receptor Antagonist ACT‐246475 After Single Subcutaneous Administration in Healthy Male Subjects
Authors: Juif Pierre‐Eric , Boehler Margaux , Dobrow Michael , Ufer Mike , Dingemanse Jasper
Published: August 2018

ACT‐246475 is a selective and reversible P2Y12 receptor antagonist inducing inhibition of platelet aggregation (IPA). A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐design study was performed to investigate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of escalating single subcutaneous doses of ACT‐246475 (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, or 32 mg) in healthy male subjects (N = 8 per dose, 3:1 active:placebo ratio). Pharmacodynamic effects were assessed based on maximum platelet aggregation and P2Y12 reaction units using light transmission aggregometry and VerifyNow® assays, respectively. ACT‐246475 was safe and well tolerated up to 32 mg based on adverse event data and absence of clinically relevant changes in hematology, biochemistry, vital signs, and electrocardiogram variables. Median time to reach maximum plasma concentration was 0.5–0.75 hours, and geometric mean terminal half‐life ranged from 1.3 to 9.2 hours across the tested dose range. Exposure to ACT‐246475 was dose proportional across all dose groups. The maximal %IPA was reached within 30 minutes after subcutaneous administration of ACT‐246475. A dose‐dependent duration and extent of effect were observed based on area under the effect curve and maximum effect data. Similar results were observed for maximum platelet aggregation and P2Y12 reaction units. The %IPA was ≥85% at doses ≥2 mg. This level of %IPA was extended to at least 12 hours in the 32‐mg dose group. The safety and pharmacokinetic/pharmacokinetic profile with quick onset and adequate duration of IPA support further investigation in patients with coronary artery disease.
Obituary: Dr. Thomas Ray Jerrells
Authors: Choudhry Mashkoor A
Published: August 2018

Obituary for Dr. Thomas R. Jerrells
Impact of high k spacer on RF stability performance of double gate junctionless transistor
Authors: Raju Veerati , Sivasankaran K.
Published: August 2018

In this paper, radio frequency (RF) stability performance of double gate junctionless transistor for different spacer material, the width of spacer, and bias conditions is reported. The impact of gate oxide thickness and gate work function on RF performance of double gate junctionless transistor is also presented. The analog and RF figure of merit, namely, intrinsic gain, unity gain cut‐off frequency, stern's stability factor, critical frequency, maximum attainable gain, and maximum stable gain, are investigated with the help of numerical simulation. The result shows that the fringing fields of high k spacers have a major impact on the gate to source and gate to drain capacitance. The device design guideline along with bias and geometrical parameters are reported for the optimized structure. The optimized device structure exhibits better RF stability.
Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency with SMOFlipid Reduction in an Infant with Intestinal Failure–Associated Liver Disease
Authors: Memon Naureen , Hussein Karen , Hegyi Thomas , Herdt Aimee , Griffin Ian J.
Published: August 2018

Multicomponent lipid emulsions, such as SMOFlipid, contain intermediate amounts of essential fatty acids (EFAs) compared with traditional soybean–oil based lipid emulsions and 100% fish–oil lipid emulsions. We describe the development of moderate EFA deficiency (EFAD) and slow weight gain in an infant with intestinal failure–associated liver disease managed with SMOFlipid reduction (1 g/kg/d). Once SMOFlipid dosage was increased (2–3 g/kg/d), EFA levels normalized, adequate growth resumed, and the infant's cholestasis resolved. We recommend avoiding lipid reduction of SMOFlipid, which not only increases the risk for EFAD, but also is unnecessary given that cholestasis can be reversed on conventional doses of SMOFlipid.
Preparation and application of a magnetic plasticizer as a molecularly imprinted polymer adsorbing material for the determination of phthalic acid esters in aqueous samples
Authors: Wei Shou‐Lian , Liu Wan‐Ting , Huang Xiao‐Chen , Ma Jin‐Kui
Published: August 2018

A novel magnetic plasticizer molecularly imprinted polymer adsorbing material (MIP@mSiO2‐β‐CD@Fe3O4) was successfully synthesized for the determination of six phthalic acid esters in water, milk, and wine samples. The molecularly imprinted polymers were prepared via precipitation polymerization and a surface molecular imprinting technique, using a cyclodextrin‐modified magnetic meso‐porous material (mSiO2‐β‐CD@Fe3O4) as a magnetic supporter, dibutyl phthalate and butyl benzyl phthalate as the dual template molecules, methacrylic acid as the functional monomer, and ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate as the cross‐linking agent. The polymers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, IR spectroscopy, and X‐ray powder diffraction. Thermogravimetric analysis and static and dynamic adsorption experiments were carried out to assay its stability and selectivity. Under optimal experimental conditions, a magnetic solid‐phase extraction with MIP@mSiO2‐β‐CD@Fe3O4 coupled to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry method was successfully developed for the determination of phthalic acid esters. The established method achieved a good linear range of 0.10∼8.00 μg/mL (R > 0.99) and a low detection limit within the range of 1.0∼5.0 μg/L. An average recovery rate of 80.2∼103% with relative standard deviation < 6.7% was obtained upon the application of the developed method to detect phthalic acid esters in actual aqueous samples.
Covalent triazine‐based frameworks/iron oxide for highly sensitive magnetic solid‐phase extraction of phenolic pollutants in water samples
Authors: Ma Jin‐Qing , Ren Ji‐Yun , Wang Lei‐Lei , Wang Xia , Lin Jin‐Ming , Zhao Ru‐Song
Published: August 2018

This study demonstrates for the first time the enrichment potential of covalent triazine‐based frameworks/iron oxide for the magnetic solid‐phase extraction of seven typical polar phenolic pollutants. Important parameters, such as the eluant and its volume, adsorbent amounts, sample pH, extraction time, and ionic strength, were optimized in detail. Under the optimal conditions, low limits of detection (0.09–0.53 ng/mL), wide linear range (25–2000 ng/mL), good repeatability (1.2–8.3%) and reproducibility (1.5–9.9%) were achieved. The developed method was successfully applied to analyze the target phenols at trace levels in environmental water samples.
Denudation variability of the Sila Massif upland (Italy) from decades to millennia using 10Be and 239+240Pu
Authors: Raab Gerald , Scarciglia Fabio , Norton Kevin , Dahms Dennis , Brandová Dagmar , de Castro Portes Raquel , Christl Marcus , Ketterer Michael E. , Ruppli Annina , Egli Markus
Published: August 2018

Landscapes and soils evolve in non‐linear ways over millennia. Current knowledge is incomplete as only average denudation (or erosion) rates are normally estimated, neglecting the temporal discontinuities of these processes. The determination of regressive and progressive phases of soil evolution is important to our understanding of how soils and landscapes respond to environmental changes. The Sila Massif (Italy) provides a well‐defined geomorphological and geological setting to unravel temporal variations in soil redistribution rates. We used a combination of in situ cosmogenic radionuclide measurements (10Be) along tor (residual rock) height profiles, coupled with fallout radionuclides (239+240Pu) in soils, to model soil denudation rates over the last 100 ka. We measured rates prior to the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) of ≤30 t km−2 yr−1 (~0.036 mm yr−1). Following the LGM, during the transition from the Pleistocene to the Holocene, these rates increased to ~150–200 t km−2 yr−1 and appeared to be above soil production rates, causing regressive soil evolution. For the last ~50 years, we even describe erosion rates of ≥1,000 t km−2 yr−1 (~1.23 mm yr−1) and consider human impact as the decisive factor for this development. Consequently, the natural soil production rates cannot cope with the current erosion rates. Thus, a distinct regressive phase of soil formation exists, which will give rise to shallowing of soils over time. Overall, our multimethod approach traced denudation and erosion histories over geologic and human timescales and made a new archive to soil science and geomorphology accessible.
Stability, reliability, and validity of the THINC‐it screening tool for cognitive impairment in depression: A psychometric exploration in healthy volunteers
Authors: Harrison John E. , Barry Harry , Baune Bernhard T. , Best Michael W. , Bowie Christopher R. , Cha Danielle S. , Culpepper Larry , Fossati Philippe , Greer Tracy L. , Harmer Catherine , Klag Esther , Lam Raymond W. , Lee Yena , Mansur Rodrigo B. , Wittchen Hans‐Ulrich , McIntyre Roger S.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

There is a need for a brief, reliable, valid, and sensitive assessment tool for screening cognitive deficits in patients with Major Depressive Disorders. This paper examines the psychometric characteristics of THINC‐it, a cognitive assessment tool composed of four objective measures of cognition and a self‐rated assessment, in subjects without mental disorders.

Methods

N = 100 healthy controls with no current or past history of depression were tested on four sequential assessments to examine temporal stability, reliability, and convergent validity of the THINC‐it tests. We examined temporal reliability across 1 week and stability via three consecutive assessments. Consistency of assessment by the study rater (intrarater reliability) was calculated using the data from the second and third of these consecutive assessments.

Results

Test–retest reliability correlations varied between Pearson's r = 0.75 and 0.8. Intrarater reliability between 0.7 and 0.93. Stability for the primary measure for each test yielded within‐subject standard deviation values between 5.9 and 11.23 for accuracy measures and 0.735 and 17.3 seconds for latency measures. Convergent validity for three tasks was in the acceptable range, but low for the Symbol Check task.

Conclusions

Analysis shows high levels of reliability and stability. Levels of convergent validity were modest but acceptable in the case of all but one test.
Menthol ameliorates voiding dysfunction in types I and II diabetic mouse model
Authors: de Oliveira Mariana G. , Nascimento Daniel M. , Alexandre Eduardo C. , Bonilla‐Becerra Sandra M. , Zapparoli Adriana , Mónica Fabiola Z. , Antunes Edson
Published: August 2018

Aims

Overactive bladder (OAB) is one of the most common complications of both type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In healthy conditions, menthol infused intravesically reduces the threshold for initiating micturition reflex, but no study evaluated its effects in diabetic conditions. Therefore, we have used mouse models of T1DM and T2DM to evaluate the effects of menthol on cystometric alterations and increased bladder contractility in vitro.

Methods

For T1DM induction, male C57BL6 mice were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) and evaluated after 4 weeks. For T2DM induction, mice were fed with high‐fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks to induce obesity. Urodynamic profiles were assessed by filling cystometry through the infusion of menthol (100 µM for 30 min) or vehicle (DMSO 0.1%). Contractile responses to carbachol, potassium chloride (KCl), and electrical‐field stimulation (EFS) were measured in isolated bladders after 20 min incubation with menthol (100 µM) or vehicle.

Results

Filling cystometry showed that STZ‐injected mice exhibited higher bladder capacity, threshold pressure, and non‐voiding contractions (NVCs), which were significantly reduced by menthol infusion. The increased voiding frequency in STZ group were unaffected by menthol. In HFD‐fed obese mice menthol significantly attenuated the increased threshold pressure and NVC frequency, but unaffected the changes of voiding frequency. In both STZ‐injected and HFD‐fed mice, incubation of isolated bladders with menthol normalized the enhanced contractile responses to carbachol, KCl, and EFS stimulation.

Conclusions

Menthol may be a potential pharmacological option for the treatment of OAB as a consequence of T1DM and T2DM.
A nine‐node corotational curved quadrilateral shell element for smooth, folded, and multishell structures
Authors: Li Z. X. , Li T. Z. , Vu‐Quoc L. , Izzuddin B. A. , Zhuo X. , Fang Q.
Published: August 2018

A nine‐node corotational curved quadrilateral shell element with novel treatment for rotation at intersection of folded and multishell structures is presented. The element's corotational reference frame is defined by the two bisectors of the diagonal vectors generated using the four corner nodes and their cross product. In reference frame, the element rigid‐body rotations are excluded in calculating the local nodal variables from the global nodal variables. Rotations are not represented by axial (pseudo) vectors but by components of polar (proper) vectors, of which additivity and commutativity lead to symmetry of the tangent stiffness matrix. In the global coordinate system, the two smallest components of the midsurface normal vector at each node of a smooth shell or at nodes away from the intersection of nonsmooth shells are defined as rotational variables. In addition, of the two nodal orientation vectors at intersections of folded and multishell structures, two smallest components of one vector, together with one smaller component of another vector, are employed as rotational variables, leading to the desired additive property for all nodal variables in a nonlinear incremental solution procedure. In the local coordinate system, the two smallest components of the midsurface normal vector(s) at any node of a smooth shell or in each smooth patch of nonsmooth shell are defined as rotational variables. Different from other existing corotational finite‐element formulations, the resulting element tangent stiffness matrix is symmetric owing to the commutativity of the local nodal variables in calculating the second derivative of strain energy with respect to these nodal variables. To alleviate membrane and shear locking phenomena, the membrane strains and the out‐of‐plane shear strains are replaced with assumed strains, using the Mixed Interpolation of Tensorial Components approach, for obtaining the element tangent stiffness matrices and the internal force vector. Finally, a series of benchmark, challenging smooth, folded, and multishell structures undergoing large displacements and large rotations are analyzed to demonstrate the reliability and computational accuracy of the proposed formulation.
Preparation of water‐insoluble and biochemically stable RNA hybrid material
Authors: Yamada Masanori , Tohyama Chika , Yamada Tetsuya
Published: August 2018

RNA, which plays an important role in the transcription and translation of genetic processes, has novel functional material abilities, such as the complementary interaction with nucleic acid bases, intercalation, and the binding with metal ions. However, because the RNA is a water‐soluble and biochemically unstable biopolymer, RNA cannot be used as a polymer material. Therefore, we prepared a water‐insoluble RNA‐inorganic hybrid material by mixing the RNA and a silane coupling reagent, bis(3‐trimethoxysilylpropyl)amine. The RNA‐inorganic hybrid material did not show complete hydrolysis in spite of the incubation with the RNA hydrolysis enzyme Ribonuclease A for 72 hours. In addition, RNA‐inorganic composite material effectively accumulated various metal ions, such as heavy and rare‐earth metal ions. Furthermore, when the Cu(II) ion‐accumulated RNA‐inorganic hybrid material was incubated in an aqueous ascorbic acid solution, dehydroascorbic acid was produced by the oxidative effect of Cu(II) ions in RNA‐inorganic hybrid material.
Measuring pressure pain threshold in the cervical region of dizzy patients—The reliability of a pressure algometer
Authors: Knapstad Mari Kalland , Nordahl Stein Helge Glad , Naterstad Ingvill Fjell , Ask Tove , Skouen Jan Sture , Goplen Frederik Kragerud
Published: August 2018

Objectives

A tool for measuring neck pain in patients with dizziness is needed to further investigate the relationship between the two symptoms. The objective of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of a hand‐held pressure algometer in measuring pressure pain threshold (PPT) in different cervical regions of dizzy patients.

Methods

PPT was measured at two bilateral standardized sites of the neck by a trained physiotherapist in 50 patients with dizziness. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated for intrarater and test–retest reliability. Concurrent validity was assessed by measuring the association between PPT and the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) tender points at each site and with the numeric pain rating scale (NPRS).

Results

Almost perfect intrarater (ICC = 0.815–0.940) and within‐session test–retest (ICC = 0.854–0.906) reliability was found between the measures. On each site, a low PPT predicted a positive ACR tender point at each site (OR = 0.864–0.922). Last, we found a statistical inverse relationship between the PPT and the NPRS (R = −0.52 to −0.66).

Conclusion

The study shows that a pressure algometer is a reliable tool for measuring PPT in the neck of dizzy patients. Further, the PPT correlates significantly with other subjective measures of pain indicating that it may be a useful tool for further research.
Lagrangian Formulation, Generalizations and Quantization of Null Maxwell's Knots
Authors: Nastase Horatiu , Sonnenschein Jacob
Published: August 2018

Knotted solutions to electromagnetism are investigated as an independent subsector of the theory. We write down a Lagrangian and a Hamiltonian formulation of Bateman's construction for the knotted electromagnetic solutions. We introduce a general definition of the null condition and generalize the construction of Maxwell's theory to massless free complex scalar, its dual two form field, and to a massless DBI scalar. We set up the framework for quantizing the theory both in a path integral approach, as well as the canonical Dirac method for a constrained system. We make several observations about the semi‐classical quantization of systems of null configurations.