bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First judgment reached in opioid cases; will states make most of opportunity?
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: September 2019

Last month's $572 million judgment in Oklahoma against Johnson & Johnson for opioid marketing practices that contributed to a deadly addiction and overdose crisis has reintensified hopes for what could become an unprecedented infusion of cash to combat this public health epidemic. But if the ruling in Oklahoma's lawsuit against opioid manufacturers becomes a preview of many more judgments or settlements, will the future spending of proceeds end up resembling a true investment in public health, or just piecemeal strategies to fight the opioid problem?
A Single‐Electron Transistor Made of a 3D Topological Insulator Nanoplate
Authors: Jing Yumei , Huang Shaoyun , Wu Jinxiong , Meng Mengmeng , Li Xiaobo , Zhou Yu , Peng Hailin , Xu Hongqi
Published: September 2019

Quantum confined devices of 3D topological insulators are proposed to be promising and of great importance for studies of confined topological states and for applications in low‐energy‐dissipative spintronics and quantum information processing. The absence of energy gap on the topological insulator surface limits the experimental realization of a quantum confined system in 3D topological insulators. Here, the successful realization of single‐electron transistor devices in Bi2Te3 nanoplates using state‐of‐the‐art nanofabrication techniques is reported. Each device consists of a confined central island, two narrow constrictions that connect the central island to the source and drain, and surrounding gates. Low‐temperature transport measurements demonstrate that the two narrow constrictions function as tunneling junctions and the device shows well‐defined Coulomb current oscillations and Coulomb‐diamond‐shaped charge‐stability diagrams. This work provides a controllable and reproducible way to form quantum confined systems in 3D topological insulators, which should greatly stimulate research toward confined topological states, low‐energy‐dissipative devices, and quantum information processing.
Universal Strategy for Efficient Electron Injection into Organic Semiconductors Utilizing Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Fukagawa Hirohiko , Hasegawa Munehiro , Morii Katsuyuki , Suzuki Kazuma , Sasaki Tsubasa , Shimizu Takahisa
Published: September 2019

Molecular n‐dopants that can lower the electron injection barrier between organic semiconductors and electrodes are essential in present‐day organic electronics. However, the development of stable molecular n‐dopants remains difficult owing to their low ionization potential, which generally renders them unstable. It is shown that the stable bases widely used in organic synthesis as catalysts can lower the electron injection barrier similar to that in conventional n‐doping in organic optoelectronic devices. In contrast to conventional n‐doping, which is based on the electron transfer from dopants with low ionization potential, the reduction of the injection barrier caused by adding bases is determined by the formation of hydrogen bonds between the hosts and the bases, providing energy‐level‐independent electron injection. The observation of the efficient electron injection induced by hydrogen bonding affords new perspectives on the method for controlling the behavior of electrons unique to organic semiconductors.
Controlled Design of a Robust Hierarchically Porous and Hollow Carbon Fiber Textile for High‐Performance Freestanding Electrodes
Authors: Li Quanxiang , Wang Jiemin , Liu Chao , Fakhrhoseini Seyed Mousa , Liu Dan , Zhang Liangzhu , Lei Weiwei , Naebe Minoo
Published: September 2019

For most carbon‐based materials, hierarchical porous structure including well‐defined macropores, mesopores, and micropores is commonly seen in 3D aerogels, monoliths, or some carbothermic natural biomass. However, because of the filiform character and long draw ratio, it is difficult to achieve such pore network as well as attain excellent mechanical performance in a 1D single carbon fiber system. To address this issue, an innovative hierarchical porous and hollow carbon textile (HPHCT) is developed via the “dynamic template (KOH, SiO2, and Al2O3) calcination” strategy. Unlike conventional one‐step activated carbonized fiber simply with meso or micropores, the fabricated textile generates honeycomb‐like macropores uniformly spreading on fiber surface. More importantly, the ultra‐lightweight yet flexible HPHCT is mechanically robust, superior to ordinary carbonized one. In addition, it delivers high capacitance of maximum 220 F g−1 as well as keeping long term stability with 100% retention after 10 000 cycles as freestanding electrodes in supercapacitor. Meanwhile, the all‐solid integrated symmetric HPHCT supercapacitors demonstrates its high potential in powering electronics for wearable energy storage application.
Does Applicant Gender Have an Effect on Standardized Letters of Evaluation Obtained During Medical Student Emergency Medicine Rotations?
Authors: Andrusaitis Jessica , Clark Clelia , Saadat Soheil , Billimek John , Paradise Sara , Wray Alisa , Wiechmann Warren , Toohey Shannon , Boysen‐Osborn Megan
Published: September 2019

Background

The standardized letter of evaluation (SLOE) in emergency medicine (EM) is one of the most important items in a student's application to EM residency and replaces narrative letters of recommendation. The SLOE ranks students into quantile categories in comparison to their peers for overall performance during an EM clerkship and for their expected rank list position. Gender differences exist in several assessment methods in undergraduate and graduate medical education. No authors have recently studied whether there are differences in the global assessment of men and women on the SLOE.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine if there is an effect of student gender on the outcome of a SLOE.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study examining SLOEs from applications to a large urban, academic EM residency program from 2015 to 2016. Composite scores (CSs), comparative rank scores (CRSs), and rank list position scores (RLPSs) on the SLOE were compared for female and male applicants using Mann‐Whitney U‐test.

Results

From a total 1,408 applications, 1,038 applicants met inclusion criteria (74%). We analyzed 2,092 SLOEs from these applications. Female applicants were found to have slightly lower and thus better CRSs, RLPSs, and CSs than men. The mean CRS for women was 2.27 and 2.45 for men (p < 0.001); RLPS for women was 2.32 and 2.52 for men (p < 0.001) and CS was 4.59 for women and 4.97 for men (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Female applicants have somewhat better performance on the EM SLOE than their male counterparts.
Understanding how deficit discourses work against implementing participatory approaches in Australian Indigenous policy
Authors: Brown Prudence R.
Published: September 2019

One of the few things that everyone can agree on with respect to Australian Indigenous policy is that repeated government experiments aimed at improving Indigenous well‐being in Australia and particularly in remote Australia have failed. Outcomes remain poor and are, if anything, deteriorating in a number of areas. Critics have characterised the history of Indigenous policy as a series of failed policy experiments. The latest experiment in the quest to improve outcomes involves attempts to move away from the usual rational‐technical approaches, toward participatory approaches or “partnerships”. However, governments are struggling to implement these innovations. Self‐evidently, the Closing the Gap policy is grounded in deficit discourse. This paper examines how this discourse works within the existing Indigenous policy world to create possibly irreconcilable tensions with attempts to introduce participatory approaches. It does this using Logics of Critical Explanation, an interpretive method which allows us to understand how policy actors work within an existing policy world to either replace or augment their norms, values and ideologies to work in the new ways that are asked of them, or to resist innovation and revert to the status quo.
Enantioselective Iridium‐Catalyzed Allylation of Acetylenic Ketones via 2‐Propanol‐Mediated Reductive Coupling of Allyl Acetate: C14‐C23 of Pladienolide D
Authors: Brito Gilmar A. , Jung Woo‐Ok , Yoo Minjin , Krische Michael J.
Published: September 2019

Highly enantioselective catalytic reductive coupling of allyl acetate with acetylenic ketones occurs in a chemoselective manner in the presence of aliphatic or aromatic ketones. This method was used to construct C14‐C23 of pladienolide D in half the steps previously required.
Identifying Multinuclear Organometallic Intermediates in On‐Surface [2+2] Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Zhang Ran , Xia Bowen , Xu Hu , Lin Nian
Published: September 2019

We investigate the on‐surface [2+2] cycloaddition reaction of 2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexabromotriphenylene (HBTP) on Ag(111), Cu(111), Au(111), and Cu‐dosed Au(111) surfaces using STM and DFT simulation focusing on the organometallic intermediates. The fully debrominated HBTP molecules form an organo‐silver framework on Ag(111) and an organo‐copper framework on Cu(111), both incorporating multinuclear metal adatom clusters. The organo‐silver framework is converted into porous covalent networks via [2+2] cycloaddition above 240 °C. In contrast, the organo‐copper framework is very stable and does not undergo [2+2] cycloaddition even at 300 °C. On Au(111), no organo‐gold intermediate of [2+2] cycloaddition is observed. After loading Cu onto Au(111), the partially debrominated HBTP molecules bind to Cu adatom dimers to form multinuclear organo‐copper complexes at 100 °C which undergo [2+2] cycloaddition at 140 °C. This study shows that the choice of surface can direct the reaction pathway.
A High‐Valent Manganese(IV)–Oxo–Cerium(IV) Complex and Its Enhanced Oxidizing Reactivity
Authors: Karmalkar Deepika G. , Sankaralingam Muniyandi , Seo Mi Sook , Ezhov Roman , Lee Yong‐Min , Pushkar Yulia N. , Kim Won‐Suk , Fukuzumi Shunichi , Nam Wonwoo
Published: September 2019

A mononuclear nonheme manganese(IV)–oxo complex binding the Ce4+ ion, [(dpaq)MnIV(O)]+–Ce4+ (1‐Ce4+), was synthesized by reacting [(dpaq)MnIII(OH)]+ (2) with cerium ammonium nitrate (CAN). 1‐Ce4+ was characterized using various spectroscopic techniques, such as UV/Vis, EPR, CSI‐MS, resonance Raman, XANES, and EXAFS, showing an Mn−O bond distance of 1.69 Å with a resonance Raman band at 675 cm−1. Electron‐transfer and oxygen atom transfer reactivities of 1‐Ce4+ were found to be greater than those of MnIV(O) intermediates binding redox‐inactive metal ions (1‐Mn+). This study reports the first example of a redox‐active Ce4+ ion‐bound MnIV‐oxo complex and its spectroscopic characterization and chemical properties.
H2‐Acceptorless Dehydrogenative Boration and Transfer Boration of Alkenes Enabled by Zirconium Catalyst
Authors: Shi Xiaonan , Li Sida , Wu Lipeng
Published: September 2019

The first example of an efficient and direct dehydrogenative boration of alkenes for vinyl boronate ester synthesis was achieved using a zirconium catalyst. Our methodology avoids using precious transition metals, additional hydrogen acceptors, high temperatures, and long reaction times, which were required to overcome the reducing ability of borane, to give alkyl boronate esters. Detailed mechanistic studies revealed a reversible reaction pathway and further suggested applying the zirconium complex as a “shuttle catalyst” for transfer boration, which thus sidesteps the use of relatively sensitive borane.
Lithium–Sulfur Batteries under Lean Electrolyte Conditions: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Zhao Meng , Li Bo‐Quan , Peng Hong‐Jie , Yuan Hong , Wei Jun‐Yu , Huang Jia‐Qi
Published: September 2019

The development of energy‐storage devices has received increasing attention as a transformative technology to realize a low‐carbon economy and sustainable energy supply. Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are considered to be one of the most promising next‐generation energy‐storage devices due to their ultrahigh energy density. Despite the extraordinary progress in the last few years, the actual energy density of Li–S batteries is still far from satisfactory to meet the demand for practical applications. Considering the sulfur electrochemistry is highly dependent on solid‐liquid‐solid multi‐phase conversion, the electrolyte amount plays a primary role in the practical performances of Li–S cells. Therefore, a lean electrolyte volume with low electrolyte/sulfur ratio is essential for practical Li–S batteries, yet under these conditions it is highly challenging to achieve acceptable electrochemical performances regarding sulfur kinetics, discharge capacity, Coulombic efficiency, and cycling stability especially for high‐sulfur‐loading cathodes. In this Review, the impact of the electrolyte/sulfur ratio on the actual energy density and the economic cost of Li–S batteries is addressed. Challenges and recent progress are presented in terms of the sulfur electrochemical processes: the dissolution–precipitation conversion and the solid–solid multi‐phasic transition. Finally, prospects of future lean‐electrolyte Li–S battery design and engineering are discussed.
Solvent‐Induced Cluster‐to‐Cluster Transformation of Homoleptic Gold(I) Thiolates between Catenane and Ring‐in‐Ring Structures
Authors: Xu Guang‐Tao , Wu Liang‐Liang , Chang Xiao‐Yong , Ang Tim Wai Hung , Wong Wai‐Yeung , Huang Jie‐Sheng , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: September 2019

Supramolecular ensembles adopting ring‐in‐ring structures are less developed compared with catenanes featuring interlocked rings. While catenanes with inter‐ring closed‐shell metallophilic interactions, such as d10–d10 AuI–AuI interactions, have been well‐documented, the ring‐in‐ring complexes featuring such metallophilic interactions remain underdeveloped. Herein is described an unprecedented ring‐in‐ring structure of a AuI‐thiolate Au12 cluster formed by recrystallization of a AuI‐thiolate Au10 [2]catenane from alkane solvents such as hexane, with use of a bulky dibutylfluorene‐2‐thiolate ligand. The ring‐in‐ring AuI‐thiolate Au12 cluster features inter‐ring AuI–AuI interactions and underwent cluster core change to form the thermodynamically more stable Au10 [2]catenane structure upon dissolving in, or recrystallization from, other solvents such as CH2Cl2, CHCl3, and CH2Cl2/MeCN. The cluster‐to‐cluster transformation process was monitored by 1H NMR and ESI‐MS measurements. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to provide insight into the mechanism of the “ring‐in‐ring⇌ [2]catenane” interconversions.
Enzymatic Incorporation of a Coumarin–Guanine Base Pair
Authors: Johnson Aaron , Karimi Ashkan , Luedtke Nathan W.
Published: September 2019

Previous expansions beyond nature's preferred base‐pairing interactions have utilized either nonpolar shape‐fitting interactions or classical hydrogen bonding. Reported here is a hybrid of these systems. By replacing a single N−H with C−H at a Watson–Crick interface, the design space for new drug candidates and fluorescent nucleobase analogues is dramatically expanded, as demonstrated here by the new, highly fluorescent deoxycytidine mimic 3‐glycosyl‐5‐fluoro‐7‐methoxy‐coumarin‐2′‐deoxyribose (dCC). dGTP is selectively incorporated across from a template dCC during enzymatic DNA synthesis. Likewise, dCC is selectively incorporated across from a template guanine when dCC is provided as the triphosphate dCCTP. DNA polymerase I (Klenow fragment) exhibited about a 10‐fold higher affinity for dCCTP than dCTP, allowing selective incorporation of dCC in direct competition experiments. These results demonstrate that a single C−H can replace N−H at a Watson–Crick‐type interface with preservation of functional selectivity and enhanced activity.
Detection of Exhaled Volatile Organic Compounds Improved by Hollow Nanocages of Layered Double Hydroxide on Ag Nanowires
Authors: Qiao Xuezhi , Chen Xiangyu , Huang Chuanhui , Li Ailin , Li Xiao , Lu Zhili , Wang Tie
Published: September 2019

To detect biomarkers from human exhalation, air flow dynamics on the nanoparticle surface were explored by a surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor. A hollow Co‐Ni layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanocage on Ag nanowires (Ag@LDH) was prepared. Ag nanowires provided amplified Raman signals for trace determination; hollow LDH nanocages served as the gaseous confinement cavity to improve capture and adsorption of gaseous analytes. The Raman intensity and logarithmic analyte concentration exhibit an approximately linear relationship; the detection limit of SERS sensors for aldehyde is 1.9×10−9 v/v (1.9 ppb). Various aldehydes in mixed mimetic gas are distinguished by Raman spectra statistical analysis assisted by multivariate methods, including principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis. The information was recorded in a barcode, which can be used for the design and development of a desktop SERS sensor analysis system for large‐scale lung cancer detection.
Construction of lanthanide complexes supported by 2,3‐dimethoxybenzoic acid and 5,5’‐dimethy‐2,2’‐bipyridine: crystal structures, thermoanalysis, magnetic and fluorescence properties
Authors: Li Ying‐Ying , Ren Ning , He Shu‐Mei , Wang Shu‐Ping , Zhang Jian‐Jun
Published: September 2019

A series of novel trivalent lanthanide complexes, [Ln(2,3‐DMOBA)3(5,5′‐DM‐2,2′‐bipy)]2·C2H5OH (Ln = Eu(1), Sm(2), Gd(3), Ho(4) Er(5), Pr(6), Nd(7)) (2,3‐DMOBA = 2,3‐dimethoxybenzoate, 5,5′‐DM‐2,2′‐bipy = 5,5′‐dimethy‐2,2′‐bipyridine), have been successfully synthesized and structurally validated by single crystal diffraction. All complexes discussed herein feature a binuclear structure, and contain only one free ethanol molecule, which is interesting in the lanthanide complexes. The coordination number of center Ln3+ ions is nine, showing a distorted monocapped square anti‐prismatic coordination geometry. Through a pair of alternating identical C‐H···O hydrogen bonding interactions between two 2,3‐DMOBA ligands on the same lanthanum binuclear unit with 5,5′‐DM‐2,2′‐bipy ligands on two neighboring units, the binuclear complexes can form one‐ The thermal analysis of these complexes are investigated by TG‐DSC/FTIR, the result show that the decomposition process of complexes are mainly divided into four stages with the formation of the respective oxides. The visible light emission experiment of complex 1 is carried out, and the characteristic luminescence behavior of intense red light is exhibited. What'more, fluorescence lifetimes as well as the fluorescent quantum yield of complex 1 is calculated. And the magnetic properties of complexes 3–5 are also studied.
Effects of biomass diatom frustule on structure and properties of polyurethane elastomer
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhao Dan , Liu Zhiqiang , Chen Hongxiang , Zhou Yu , Zhou Yang , Zhu Bailin
Published: September 2019

Inorganic particles can dramatically promote the mechanical and thermal properties of polymer materials. However, the study on the effects of inorganic particles on the structure and properties of polymers, as well as the structure–property relationship, is still challengeable. Biomass diatom frustule can be applied to modify polyurethane (PU) elastomer due to its unique network structure, outstanding thermal stability, and wide availability. The PU/modified diatom (MD) frustule composites were prepared by bulk polymerization using PU as substrate and MD frustule as reinforcing phase. The effects of MD frustule on the structure and properties of PU elastomers and the structure–property relationship of composites were investigated. The results reveal that the composites have a certain degree of improvement in the mechanical properties and thermal stability as compared with pristine PU elastomer. It is ascribed to a relatively strong interaction between the MD frustule and PU, so the addition of MD frustule can change the interaction between hard segments and soft segments of PU as well as microphase separation structure. This research provides an experimental basis for the potential application of biomass diatom frustule. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48452.
Lightweight silver@carbon microsphere@graphene (Ag@CMS@GR) composite materials for highly efficiency electromagnetic interference shielding properties
Authors: Zhang Han , Zhang Junhua
Published: September 2019

In this article, lightweight silver@carbon microsphere@graphene (Ag@CMS@GR) composite materials were fabricated. First, carbon microsphere (CMS) was prepared by redox hydrothermal method in the presence of FeCl3 and polyvinyl alcohol. Next, on the surface, silver was deposited to form Ag@CMS particles. And finally, the graphene sheets were added to connect Ag@CMS particles to obtain Ag@CMS@GR composites. Because of the silver nanoparticle may form a conductive pathway, Ag@CMS with relative high content of silver nanoparticles show superior EMI shielding properties. Next, graphene was introduced into Ag@CMS with relative low content of silver particles to form Ag@CMS@GR composites, which is helpful for decreasing the apparent density of composites to around 1.01 g·cm−3. And the composites also show good EMI shielding properties. The highest SE and specific SE values of Ag@CMS@GR reached 39.26 dB and 38.87 dB·cm3·g−1 with 5 wt % graphene content. The EMI shielding mechanism of Ag@CMS@GR composites was discussed. It can be potentially used for lightweight EMI shielding applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48459.
Improvement of performance and fouling resistance of polyamide reverse osmosis membranes using acrylamide and TiO2 nanoparticles under UV irradiation for water desalination
Authors: Asadollahi Mahdieh , Bastani Dariush , Mousavi Seyyed Abbas , Heydari Hamid , Mousavi Danial Vaghar
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this research is to explain the surface modification of fabricated polyamide reverse osmosis (RO) membranes using UV‐initiated graft polymerization at different irradiation times (15, 30, 60, and 90 s) and various acrylamide concentrations (10, 20, and 30 g L−1). Also, coating of membranes surface with various concentrations of TiO2 nanoparticles (10, 20, 30, and 50 ppm) followed by the same UV irradiation times was investigated. After that, the membranes modification was done by grafting of acrylamide blended with TiO2 nanoparticles via UV irradiation. The characterization of membranes surface properties and their performance were systematically carried out. The results demonstrated the enhanced hydrophilicity of modified membranes and confirmed the presence of acrylamide and nanoparticles on the membranes surface. Acrylamide‐grafted membranes could reach to higher water flux than pristine membrane with little reduction in salt rejection. Moreover, TiO2‐coated membranes indicated enhancement of water flux continuously with increase in nanoparticles concentration and irradiation time and rejection of membranes was slightly decreased at low irradiation times. Also, RO membranes modified simultaneously with acrylamide and TiO2 nanoparticles under UV irradiation exhibited improved water flux up to 18%, slightly higher rejection, and considerable better fouling resistance compared with pristine one. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48461.

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Aromatic polyamide thin film composite reverse osmosis (RO) membranes fabricated through interfacial polymerization process between m‐phenylenediamine and trimesoyl chloride on the porous polysulfone support.

The desirable UV irradiation time for surface modification of RO membranes was up to 90 s.

Modification of RO membranes surface was carried out by UV‐initiated grafting of acrylamide, coating of membranes surface with TiO2 nanoparticles followed by the UV irradiation, and grafting of acrylamide blended with TiO2 nanoparticles via UV irradiation.

ATR‐FTIR, SEM, EDX, and AFM confirmed modification of membranes surface with acrylamide, TiO2 nanoparticles, and both of them.

All modified membranes had lower contact angle than unmodified one indicating enhanced surface hydrophilicity.

Acrylamide‐grafted membranes could result in higher water flux than unmodified membrane with little reduction in salt rejection.

TiO2‐coated membranes indicated improvement of water flux with increase in nanoparticles concentration and irradiation time and rejection of membranes was decreased slightly at low UV irradiation times.

RO membranes modified simultaneously with acrylamide and TiO2 nanoparticles under UV irradiation had improved water flux, slightly higher rejection, and considerable enhanced antifouling property compared with unmodified one.
The effects of electron beam radiation on material properties and degradation of commercial PBAT/PLA blend
Authors: Iuliano A. , Nowacka M. , Rybak K. , Rzepna M.
Published: September 2019

This work investigates the potential application of e‐beam radiation for sterilization of food packaging made of commercial polyester blend of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) and polylactide known under the trade name Ecovio 23B1. Ecovio film was irradiated at doses of 5, 13, and 26 kGy and the effect of sterilization on the microorganism inactivation ability was performed. The influence of radiation doses on structural and packaging properties such as tensile strength, barrier, and migration properties was also studied. 1H NMR and FTIR analysis revealed no significant changes in the polymer structure, however, the molar mass of irradiated samples decreased with increasing radiation dose. This result indicated the occurrence of degradation process during radiation, which was confirmed by the thermal analysis and accelerated enzymatic degradation. The packaging properties did not changed significantly and the overall migration for 10% ethanol, isooctane, and MPPO was below the limit for all of the studied samples. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48462.
Colony‐specific differences in decadal longitudinal body composition of a capital‐breeding marine top predator
Authors: Hanson Nora , Smout Sophie , Moss Simon , Pomeroy Patrick
Published: September 2019

Capital breeding animals such as true seals (Phocidae) rely on accumulated body reserves to rear offspring. A mother's body composition at the start of a breeding episode may depend on recent environmental conditions and sets the resources available for the reproductive episode.

At two grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) breeding colonies with contrasting demographic characteristics, factors influencing individual variation and temporal trends in the body composition (expressed as the lipid‐to‐protein mass ratio) of females were examined.

Maternal reproductive expenditure, and the consequences for mothers and their pups, were investigated.

Individual variation in postpartum maternal body composition was considerable. Mean values of 27% (±5%) lipid and 18% (±1%) protein were estimated by hydrogen isotope dilution. No evidence of age effects was detected.

Mothers with a high lipid‐to‐protein mass ratio expended a higher proportion of lipid resources, conserved protein and returned with more protein the following year.

Average maternal postpartum body composition was similar between the two colonies, but temporal patterns differed at one colony where pup production was decreasing from another where pup production was increasing. Mothers at the declining colony consistently weaned larger pups than mothers at the increasing colony across the range of mother sizes, but measures of maternal body composition did not predict pup weaning masses.
Automated detection and tracking of marine mammals: A novel sonar tool for monitoring effects of marine industry
Authors: Hastie Gordon D. , Wu Gi‐Mick , Moss Simon , Jepp Pauline , MacAulay Jamie , Lee Arthur , Sparling Carol E. , Evers Clair , Gillespie Douglas
Published: September 2019

Many marine industries may pose acute risks to marine wildlife. For example, tidal turbines have the potential to injure or kill marine mammals through collisions with turbine blades. However, the quantification of collision risk is currently limited by a lack of suitable technologies to collect long‐term data on marine mammal behaviour around tidal turbines.

Sonar provides a potential means of tracking marine mammals around tidal turbines. However, its effectiveness for long‐term data collection is hindered by the large data volumes and the need for manual validation of detections. Therefore, the aim here was to develop and test automated classification algorithms for marine mammals in sonar data.

Data on the movements of harbour seals were collected in a tidally energetic environment using a high‐frequency multibeam sonar on a custom designed seabed‐mounted platform. The study area was monitored by observers to provide visual validation of seals and other targets detected by the sonar.

Sixty‐five confirmed seals and 96 other targets were detected by the sonar. Movement and shape parameters associated with each target were extracted and used to develop a series of classification algorithms. Kernel support vector machines were used to classify targets (seal vs. nonseal) and cross‐validation analyses were carried out to quantify classifier efficiency.

The best‐fit kernel support vector machine correctly classified all the confirmed seals but misclassified a small percentage of non‐seal targets (~8%) as seals. Shape and non‐spectral movement parameters were considered to be the most important in achieving successful classification.

Results indicate that sonar is an effective method for detecting and tracking seals in tidal environments, and the automated classification approach developed here provides a key tool that could be applied to collecting long‐term behavioural data around anthropogenic activities such as tidal turbines.
The status of harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) in the UK
Authors: Thompson Dave , Duck Callan D. , Morris Chris D. , Russell Debbie J. F.
Published: September 2019

Estimates of population size and trends are essential for effective conservation and management of wildlife populations. For harbour seals (Phoca vitulina), these data are required to fulfil statutory reporting obligations under national and international regulations.

Aerial survey counts of harbour seals hauled out during their annual moult were used to estimate population sizes and trends at UK, regional (seal management unit, SMU) and local (Special Area of Conservation, SAC) scales.

Results indicate that the current UK harbour seal population is similar to estimates from the late 1990s, but there were significant declines in some subpopulations and increases in others.

Fitted trends suggest that the UK harbour seal population can be divided into three geographically coherent groups: South‐east populations (South‐East and North‐East England SMUs) have shown continuous increases punctuated by phocine distemper virus epidemics in 1988 and 2002; north‐east populations (East Scotland, Moray Firth, North Coast and Orkney, and Shetland SMUs) have declined since the late 1990s; north‐west populations (West Scotland, Western Isles, and South‐West Scotland SMUs) have remained stable or increased. Similar geographical population substructure is evident in recent population genetics results.

Trends within SACs generally match SMU trends since 2002. Of the nine SACs designated for harbour seals, four declined (in East Scotland, Moray Firth, and North Coast and Orkney SMUs), four remained stable (in Shetland and West Scotland SMUs), and one increased (in South‐East England SMU).

Large changes in relative abundance have resulted from differences in regional trends. For example, in 1996–1997 the West Scotland and North Coast and Orkney SMUs each held ~27% of the Great Britain population but now hold ~50% and ~4% respectively; in 1980, the South‐East England SMU population was ~50% that of the Wadden Sea population, but by 2016 it was equivalent to <20% of the Wadden Sea count.
Investigating decadal changes in persistent organic pollutants in Scottish grey seal pups
Authors: Robinson Kelly J. , Hall Ailsa J. , Scholl Georges , Debier Cathy , Thomé Jean‐Pierre , Eppe Gauthier , Adam Catherine , Bennett Kimberley A.
Published: September 2019

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) remain a risk to marine ecosystem health. POPs accumulate in fat tissue and are biomagnified up through food webs, generating high concentrations in apex predators, including marine mammals. Seals are thus often cited as sentinels of marine environment POP levels. Measuring changes across decadal timescales in these animals is key to understanding the effectiveness of regulations controlling POPs, predicting health, population, and ecosystem level impacts, and informing conservation and management strategies. Information on recent changes in legacy POPs in seals is relatively sparse, however, and datasets are not always continuous in the absence of dedicated POP monitoring programmes.

Here, POP concentrations in the blubber of weaned grey seal pups from the Isle of May, Scotland, were compared between studies investigating POP impacts on survival and energy balance in 2002, and in 2015–17. By 2017, the total dioxin‐like polychlorinated biphenyls (ΣDL‐CBs) and the total non‐dioxin‐like polychlorinated biphenyls (ΣNDL‐CBs) had decreased to ~75% of 2002 levels.

The organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), dichlorodiphenyltrichoroethane (ΣDDT), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and dichlorodiphenyldichoroethane (DDD), and some CB congeners, did not fall over the 15‐year period; however, the power to detect small changes at low concentrations was limited.

High DDE and a lack of change in DDD are likely to reflect the low excretion of DDT metabolites, rather than recent exposure.

The limited change in many POPs over 15 years suggest that risks remain for energy balance, endocrine status, and immune function in grey seal pups, with contingent effects on conservation and management objectives for this species.

These data highlight the need for long‐term datasets and parity in sampling and analytical methods to evaluate continuing impacts of POPs in grey seals and on marine ecosystems more widely.
Modifizierung des RCM‐Tests zur Optimierung der Messpräzision, Versuchsdauer und Wirtschaftlichkeit
Authors: Stengel Thorsten , Schießl‐Pecka Angelika , Feuerecker Josef , Himsel Katharina
Published: September 2019

Im Rahmen der Veröffentlichung des neuen BAW‐Merkblatts MDCC [1] wurde zur Sicherstellung der Dauerhaftigkeit ein semiprobabilistisches Nachweiskonzept eingeführt, welches für die Bundeswasserstraßen verbindlich anzuwenden ist. Es ist davon auszugehen, dass sich diese Entwicklung auch in den nationalen und internationalen Regelwerken fortsetzen wird. Was allerdings fehlt, sind praxistaugliche und gleichzeitig wirtschaftliche Prüfmethoden zur Bestimmung des Materialwiderstands, die im Rahmen von Eignungs‐, Konformitäts‐ und Identitätsprüfungen durchgeführt werden können. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden daher zunächst die aktuell vorliegenden Prüfmethoden zur Ermittlung des Materialwiderstands gegenüber Chlorideindringen beleuchtet (Schnellpenetrationstest RCP‐Test, Schnellmigrationstest RCM‐Test, Prüfung des Elektrolytwiderstands) und hinsichtlich Prüfgenauigkeit, Zeitaufwand und Praxistauglichkeit kritisch hinterfragt. Aufbauend auf diesen Erkenntnissen wird eine neue Prüfmethode auf Basis der bestehenden RCM‐Versuchseinrichtung entwickelt, die im Rahmen von Eignungsprüfungen verwendet werden kann und als Modified Chloride Migration Test (MCM‐Test) bezeichnet wird. Bei diesem Test wird bei variabler Anfangsspannung während einer festgelegten Prüfdauer der Ladungsfluss bestimmt; der resultierende Materialwert wird als SCFR (Specific Charge Flow Rate)‐Wert bezeichnet. Im Rahmen von 32 Versuchsserien mit 17 verschiedenen Betonen konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Korrelation zwischen dem SCFR‐Wert und dem Chloridmigrationskoeffizient DRCM(RCM‐Test) bzw. den Ergebnissen des RCP‐Tests sehr gut ist. Für die Durchführung von Konformitäts‐ und Identitätsprüfungen wird die Messung des spezifischen Elektrolytwiderstands vorgeschlagen, der unabhängig von der Bindemittelkombination ebenfalls eine gute Korrelation mit dem DRCM‐Wert zeigt.
Prognostic value of Kinesin‐4 family genes mRNA expression in early‐stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Han Quanfa , Han Chuangye , Liao Xiwen , Huang Ketuan , Wang Xiangkun , Yu Tingdong , Yang Chengkun , Li Guanghui , Han Bowen , Zhu Guangzhi , Liu Zhengqian , Zhou Xin , Liu Junqi , Su Hao , Shang Liming , Peng Tao , Ye Xinping
Published: September 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential prognostic value of Kinesin‐4 family genes mRNA expression in early‐stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Methods

Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis method with log‐rank test and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were performed to figure out the association between Kinesin‐4 family genes expression and PDAC patients overall survival time. Joint‐effect survival analysis and stratified survival analysis were carried out to assess the prognosis prediction value of prognosis‐related gene. Nomogram was constructed for the individualized prognosis prediction. In addition, we had used the gene set enrichment analysis and genome‐wide co‐expression analysis to further explore the potential mechanism.

Results

KIF21A expression level was significantly associated with PDAC patient clinical prognosis outcome and patient with a high expression of KIF21A would have a shorter overall survival time. The prognosis prediction significance of KIF21A was well validated by the joint‐effect survival analysis, stratified survival analysis, and nomogram. Meanwhile, the gene set enrichment analysis and genome‐wide co‐expression analysis revealed that KIF21A might involve in DNA damage and repair, transcription and translation process, post‐translation protein modification, cell cycle, carcinogensis genes and pathways.

Conclusions

Our current research demonstrated that KIF21A could serve as a potential prognostic biomarker for patient with early‐stage PDAC after pancreaticoduodenectomy.
Homicides and Maltreatment‐related Deaths of Disabled Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Frederick John , Devaney John , Alisic Eva
Published: September 2019

This article aims to systematically review the empirical literature in relation to the homicides and maltreatment‐related deaths of disabled children in order to better understand the risk factors and to assess support for the explanatory theories posited. These theories include: (1) the stress of caregiving; (2) altruistic intent; (3) lack of bonding with the child; (4) the challenging behaviours the child; (5) cultural beliefs about disabled children; and (6) evolutionary imperatives. Systematic searching techniques were used to retrieve relevant research articles in six electronic databases: AMED, CINAHL, Criminal Justice Abstracts, Medline (PubMed), PsycINFO and SCOPUS. The issue of a child being disabled was identified as a risk factor in most reviewed articles, however the definition of the term ‘disability’ was not consistent nor was there a consistent approach to recording children's disability. A range of potential risk factors were found, relating to the child, the perpetrator and the environment, with the pathway to harming the child involving an interactive process between each of these. The stress of caregiving and altruistic theories were the two most common explanations for homicides and maltreatment‐related deaths of disabled children, although a combination of theories may provide a more comprehensive explanation of these complex events.

‘This article aims to systematically review the empirical literature in relation to the homicides and maltreatment‐related deaths of disabled children’

Key Practitioner Messages

Coordination of clear care pathways for families with disabled children, including the provision of support and counselling.

Improved professional awareness of the needs of disabled children and understanding that these needs may not coincide with those of their parents or carers.

Provision of opportunities for respite to enable parents of disabled children to continue their task of caring.

Need for consistent data on disabled children to be collected through existing child death review processes and the criminal justice system.
Cornusglucosides A and B, Two New Iridoid Glucosides from the Fruit of Cornus officinalis
Authors: He Jun , Xu Yuan , Xu Jie‐Kun , Ye Xian‐Sheng , Zhang Xiao‐Xiao , Zhang Wei‐Ku
Published: September 2019

Phytochemical study on the fruit of Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc. yielded two new iridoid glucosides, named cornusglucoside A (1) and cornusglucoside B (2). The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated via comprehensive NMR and HR‐ESI‐MS data analysis. Additionally, their inhibitory effects on IL‐6‐induced STAT3 activation were assessed.
Serving the Whole Student: Addressing Nonacademic Barriers Facing Rural Community College Students
Authors: Waters‐Bailey Stacy , McGraw Matthew S. , Barr Jason
Published: September 2019

This chapter offers strategies for creating support resources for students who face nonacademic barriers such as housing insecurity, food insecurity, lack of transportation and dependable childcare, and the need for mental health care and illness. These strategies should be viewed as ideas to help retain students and create lasting partnerships between rural community colleges and community organizations.
The REMEDEE trial: 5‐Year results on a novel combined sirolimus‐eluting and endothelial progenitor cells capturing stent
Authors: Haude Michael , Lee Stephen W. L. , Worthley Stephen G. , Silber Sigmund , Verheye Stefan , Rosli Mohd A. , Botelho Roberto , Sim Kui H. , Abizaid Alexandre , Mehran Roxana ,   for the REMEDEE Trial Investigators
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of the novel combined sirolimus‐eluting endothelial progenitor cell capture Combo stent (OrbusNeich, Fort Lauderdale, FL) at 5 years in the REMEDEE (Randomized study to Evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an abluMinal sirolimus coated bio‐Engineered stEnt) trial.

Background

Drug–eluting stents have limited restenosis and reintervention but are complicated by late and very late thrombosis and accelerated neoatherosclerosis. Alternative or adjunctive technologies are needed to address these limitations.

Methods

A total of 183 patients with de novo lesions in native coronary arteries were randomized 2:1 to Combo (n = 124) or Taxus Liberté (n = 59). Primary endpoint was 9 month angiographic in‐stent late lumen loss and the secondary endpoint was the occurrence of major adverse events (MACE) through 5‐year follow‐up.

Results

Compared with Taxus, after 5 years the Combo stent was associated with similar rates of MACE (18.3% vs. 16.9%, p = .89), cardiac death (0.8% vs. 5.1%, p = .07), myocardial infarction (4.1% vs. 3.4%, p = .81), target lesion (9.4% vs. 10.2%, p = .78), and target vessel revascularization (14.4% vs. 11.9%, p = .73). No cases of definite stent thrombosis were reported in the Combo group. The follow‐up rate at 5 years was 97.7%.

Conclusion

At 5‐year follow‐up, the Combo stent remained clinically safe and effective with an overall low rate of MACE comparable to Taxus.
Flexible Nanoporous Gold Electrodes for Electroanalysis in Complex Matrices
Authors: Khan Rezaul K. , Yadavalli Vamsi K. , Collinson Maryanne M
Published: September 2019

Flexible, three‐dimensional nanoporous gold (NPG) electrodes were fabricated on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) surfaces without any functionalization, and their electrochemical properties examined in the absence and presence of common biofouling agents using cyclic voltammetry and redox potentiometry. In this work, potassium ferricyanide and fibrinogen were used as a model redox probe and denaturing agent, respectively, to demonstrate that flexible NPG electrodes behave ideally and can make electrochemical measurements in biofouling solutions. Using cyclic voltammetry, the non‐faradaic capacitive current was shown to be directly proportional to the scan rate, while the redox chemistry of potassium ferricyanide in the presence and absence of fibrinogen demonstrated reversible voltammetry. Using redox potentiometry, Nernst plots for the potassium ferri‐/ferrocyanide redox system gave rise to an expected Nernstian slope of 60 mV. These flexible electrodes could be particularly beneficial in electrochemical sensing in complex environments. Proof of concept was demonstrated through the measurement of uric acid in red blood cell packets using cyclic voltammetry.
Optimizing interfacial electronic coupling with metal oxide to activate inert polyaniline for superior electrocatalytic hydrogen generation
Authors: Huang Zhen‐Feng , Song Jiajia , Du Yonghua , Dou Shuo , Sun Libo , Chen Wei , Yuan Kaidi , Dai Zhengfei , Wang Xin
Published: September 2019

Tuning and optimization of electronic structures and related reaction energetics are critical toward the rational design of efficient electrocatalysts. Herein, experimental and theoretical calculation demonstrate the originally inert N site within polyaniline (PANI) can be activated for hydrogen evolution by proper d‐π interfacial electronic coupling with metal oxide. As a result, the as‐synthesized WO3 assemblies@PANI via a facile redox‐induced assembly and in situ polymerization, exhibits the electrocatalytic production of hydrogen better than other control samples including W18O49@PANI and most of the reported nobel‐metal‐free electrocatalysts, with low overpotential of 74 mV at 10 mA·cm−2 and small Tafel slope of 46 mV·dec−1 in 0.5M H2SO4 (comparable to commercial Pt/C). The general efficacy of this methodology is also validated by extension to other metal oxides such as MoO3 with similar improvements.
Lewis Base/Brønsted Acid Co‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Thiolation of Alkenes with Acid‐Controlled Divergent Regioselectivity
Authors: Luo Hui‐Yun , Dong Jia‐Wei , Xie Yu‐Yang , Song Xu‐Feng , Zhu Deng , Ding Tongmei , Liu Yuanyuan , Chen Zhi‐Min
Published: September 2019

A divergent strategy for the facile preparation of various enantioenriched phenylthio‐substituted lactones was developed based on Lewis base/Brønsted acid co‐catalyzed thiolation of homoallylic acids. The acid‐controlled regiodivergent cyclization (6‐endo vs. 5‐exo) and acid‐mediated stereoselective rearrangement of phenylthio‐substituted lactones were explored. Experimental and computational studies were performed to clarify the origins of the regioselectivity and enantioselectivity. The calculation results suggest that C−O and C−S bond formation might occur simultaneously, without formation of a commonly supposed catalyst‐coordinated thiiranium ion intermediate and the potential π–π stacking between substrate and SPh as an important factor in the enantio‐determining step. Finally, this methodology was applied in the rapid syntheses of the bioactive natural products (+)‐ricciocarpin A and (R)‐dodecan‐4‐olide.
Modified carbon nitride as an efficient adsorbent for ammonia nitrogen with low concentration
Authors: Sun Hui , Wang Wenzhong , Wang Kefu , Zhang Ling
Published: September 2019

The adverse effects of excessive ammonia on aquatic ecosystem have provoked the development of efficient methods for its removal. Here, we present a thermal copolymerization of melamine and sodium hydrogen carbonate and successfully introduce oxygen groups into the structure of g‐C3N4, which is applied to low‐concentration ammonia removal. Oxygen groups are introduced into g‐C3N4 and increase its surface electron negativity. When the initial concentration of ammonia nitrogen is 18.74 mg L−1, the lowest concentration of it after adsorption is 1.43 mg L−1, and the ammonia nitrogen removal efficiency is 92.3%. The main reason for our material high performance on adsorption ammonium may be ascribed to deprotonated carboxylic acid, which has the ability to adsorb positively charged ammonium ions.