bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oligo Hyaluronan‐Coated Silica/Hydroxyapatite Degradable Nanoparticles for Targeted Cancer Treatment
Authors: Kang Yao , Sun Wen , Li Shuyi , Li Mingle , Fan Jiangli , Du Jianjun , Liang Xing‐Jie , Peng Xiaojun
Published: May 2019

Targeted drug delivery systems (TDDSs) provide a promising approach to overcome the side effect of traditional chemotherapy by specific tumor targeting and drug release. Hyaluronan (HA), as a selective CD44 targeting group, has been widely used in TDDSs for chemotherapy. However, different molecular weight HAs would demonstrate different binding ability to CD44, which may result in different therapeutic effects. Herein, a silica/hydroxyapatite (MSNs/HAP) hybrid carrier loaded with anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) (DOX@MSNs/HAP) is fabricated. HA and oligo HA (oHA) are coated onto the nanoparticles (HA‐DOX@MSNs/HAP, oHA‐DOX@MSNs/HAP), respectively, to investigate their performance in tumor targeting ability. oHA‐DOX@MSNs/HAP shows much higher efficiency cellular uptake and drug release in tumor regions due to more effective CD44 targeting of oHA. Thus, the anticancer effect of oHA‐DOX@MSNs/HAP is significantly enhanced compared to HA‐DOX@MSNs/HAP, as demonstrated in a tumor‐bearing mouse model. This study may enable the rational design of nanodrug systems for future tumor‐targeted chemotherapy.
3D Sidewall Integration of Ultrahigh‐Density Silicon Nanowires for Stacked Channel Electronics
Authors: Wu Xiaoxiang , Ma Haiguang , Yin Han , Pan Danfeng , Wang Junzhuan , Yu Linwei , Xu Jun , Shi Yi , Chen Kunji
Published: May 2019

Building 3D electronics represents a promising method for the integration of more functionalities into a given footprint. To this end, stacked multilevel silicon nanowires (SiNWs) are ideal multilevel channels to construct high‐density 3D electronics. 3D vectorial self‐assembled growth of orderly lateral SiNWs is accomplished directly upon oblique or vertical sidewalls, which are otherwise difficult to address by conventional lithography, led by indium droplets that absorb amorphous silicon thin film coated on the sidewalls to produce SiNW stacks at only 350 °C. With the guidance of sidewall terraces formed by multilayer or alternating etching approaches, ultralong supported or suspended multilevel SiNW stacks can be easily mass produced with tailored geometry and average diameter and spacing down to 50 and 100 nm, respectively. Prototype stacked multi‐SiNW‐channel transistors, with a fin‐gate configuration, are also fabricated and demonstrate an impressive high Ion/Ioff current ratio >107, a hole mobility of 60 cm2/V−1 s−1, and a rather low leakage current. These results highlight the unique potential and versatility of a nanodroplet‐assisted self‐assembled growth in constructing more complex and advanced 3D stacked channel electronics.
Highly Sensitive Polymer Phototransistor Based on the Synergistic Effect of Chemical and Physical Blending in D (Donor)–A (Acceptor) Copolymers
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Zhao Fengsheng , Xue Zhan , Yuan Ye , Huang Ming , Zhang Guobing , Ding Yunsheng , Qiu Longzhen
Published: May 2019

Organic phototransistors (OPTs) based on donor–acceptor copolymers (PBTIDBIBDFs) using chemical blending of different ratios of isoindigo and benzodifurandione units and physical blending with insulating polymers are investigated. The photoresponse of the OPT devices can be synergistically tuned by combining chemical and physical blending. The film morphology and the mobility of the devices can be adjusted using chemical blending, while the photoresponse is greatly enhanced by physical blending with poly(1,4‐butylene adipate) (PBA). The photoresponse of the blending polymer PBTIDBIBDF‐5 with PBA exhibits photo‐/dark current ratio (P) of 3.45 × 104 and responsivity (R) of 128 A W−1. The R value shows a remarkable 4.9 × 104 times increase due to the synergistic effect of chemical and physical blending, with an ultralow detection limit of 0.03 mW cm−2. The highly sensitive OPT performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of chemical and physical blending, which changes the energy level and increases the energy trap density. Furthermore, flexible low‐voltage OPTs are fabricated and the photoresponse parameters P and R of the devices reach 5.7 × 104 and 180 mA W−1, respectively. This process is cost‐effective and provides a novel method for the fabrication of high‐photosensitivity, low‐voltage, and flexible OPTs.
Oligometastases in pancreatic cancer (Synchronous resections of hepatic oligometastatic pancreatic cancer: Disputing a principle in a time of safe pancreatic operations in a retrospective multicenter analysis)
Authors: Voss Nina , Izbicki Jakob R. , Nentwich Michael F.
Published: May 2019

The aim of the present review was to analyze the current data on surgery of synchronous liver metastases in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in curative intent. A review of the literature was carried out to identify the current international concepts regarding surgery of liver metastases of PDAC and, furthermore, we addressed the current challenges of resection of liver metastases of PDAC. Resection of liver metastases in PDAC may provide survival benefit without compromising safety and quality of life in a highly selected group of patients.
Influence of dry season onQuercus suberL. leaf traits in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Prats Kyra A. , Brodersen Craig R. , Ashton Mark S.
Published: May 2019

Premise

Water deficit and drought conditions are increasing in intensity, frequency, and duration in the Iberian Peninsula. We observed natural variation in leaf traits across the range ofQuercus suberL. (cork oak), an ecologically important species within this region. Stomatal traits (e.g., pore length, maximum aperture) and carbon isotope composition (δ13C) provide an opportunity to examine the integrative effects of drought and dry‐season intensity on leaf development, maximum stomatal conductance, and adaptation to precipitation regimes.

Methods

Gross leaf traits (e.g., area, thickness), stomatal traits (e.g., pore length, size, aperture), and carbon isotope discrimination were measured inQ. suberleaves, and maximum stomatal conductance to water vapor (gwmax) was calculated. Trees were sampled from nine natural populations across a climate gradient in the Iberian Peninsula, including trees from two genetic lineages. Linear mixed models compared total water deficit to leaf traits, accounting for tree and site as random effects.

Results

Quercus subergross leaf morphology remained consistent across the climate gradient, but increasing water deficit was correlated with smaller stomata at the leaf level and low δ13C at the tree level. No traits were significantly different between the two genetic lineages.

Conclusions

While there were no significant differences in gross leaf morphology across the climate gradient or between the genetic lineages, stomatal traits and δ13C responded to climate, suggesting thatQ. subercan inhabit a range of environments in the Iberian Peninsula via micro‐adjustments of the trait that controls water loss into the atmosphere.
Sleep‐disordered breathing in children with mucolipidosis
Authors: Tabone Laurence , Caillaud Catherine , Amaddeo Alessandro , Khirani Sonia , Michot Caroline , Couloigner Vincent , Brassier Anais , Cormier‐Daire Valerie , Baujat Geneviève , Fauroux Brigitte
Published: May 2019

Mucolipidosis (ML) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder with a wide spectrum of disease severity according to the type. Sleep‐disordered breathing is recognized as a characteristic feature of ML but objective data are scarce. The aim of the study was to describe sleep data and medical management in children with ML α/β. All patients with ML α/β followed at a national reference center of ML were included. Five patients had ML II, one patient had ML III and one patient had ML II‐III. One patient was started on noninvasive ventilation (NIV) to allow extubation after prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation. The six other patients underwent sleep study at a median age of 1.8 years (range 4 months–17.4 years). Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was observed in all patients with a median apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) of 36 events/hr (range 5–52) requiring continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or NIV. CPAP/NIV resulted in an improvement of nocturnal gas exchange and was continued in all patients with an excellent compliance. Two patients died. Systematic sleep studies are recommended at time of diagnosis in ML. CPAP or NIV are effective treatments of OSA, well tolerated, and may contribute to improve the quality of life of patients and caregivers.
Development of clinical genetics in Asia
Authors: Chung Brian , Willis Brooke , Lai Poh‐San
Published: May 2019

This Special Issue on Clinical Genetics in Asia highlights a collection of articles showing the growth, development, and current status of clinical genetics in Asia. In this Introduction, the Guest Editors share on the themes of this issue to provide useful insights into the rapid growth of genomics and clinical genetics in this region. The contents of this Issue cover a range of topics from the history and development of clinical genetics in Asia to studies on disorders with clinical significance or phenotype differences in the Asian populations to the status of precision medicine. The goal is to provide a glimpse of how significantly the field of genetics in Asia has developed in recent years with the aspiration that this can serve as a catalyst to increase international collaboration and cooperation in combating genetic diseases. We hope that this issue shows Asia's readiness and willingness to be a part of more international conversations about genetics in future.
Synthesis of 1H‐Inden‐1‐ylidenes via Carboannulation of Internal Alkynes with (E)‐3‐(2‐Bromophenyl) Acrylaldehyde: Potential Precursors for Drug Development
Authors: Dhanorkar Ritesh J. , Gupta Virendra Kumar , Prakash Gocher Chandra
Published: May 2019

1H‐Inden‐1‐ylidene derivatives have been synthesized using a simple and efficient Pd‐catalyzed annulation of functionalized (E)‐3‐(2‐bromophenyl) acrylaldehyde with internal alkynes. The proposed mechanism involves an oxidative addition and carbopalladation of an alkyne to generate a vinyl palladium intermediate followed by β‐hydrogen elimination. These pre‐functionalized indene‐based cyclic precursors can be potential bioactive systems for drug discovery and development.
A three‐dimensional digital microscopic investigation of entheseal changes as skeletal activity markers
Authors: Nikita Efthymia , Xanthopoulou Panagiota , Bertsatos Andreas , Chovalopoulou Maria‐Eleni , Hafez Iosif
Published: May 2019

Objectives

The current article explores the effectiveness of entheseal changes (EC) as skeletal activity markers by testing the correlation between such changes and cross‐sectional geometric (CSG) properties while controlling for the effect of age and body size.

Materials and methods

The originality of the article lies in capturing EC in a continuous quantitative manner using three‐dimensional microscopy. Roughness and bone resorption were recorded on Zones 1 and 2 of three humeral entheses (subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus) in a documented sample of 29 male skeletons.

Results

Our analysis found that merely 5.91% of the partial correlations between EC and CSG properties were statistically significant. In addition, two unexpected patterns were identified, namely a higher number of significant correlations on the left side entheses compared to the right side ones, and a higher number of correlations between minimum roughness and CSG properties compared to mean and maximum roughness.

Discussion

These patterns are the inverse of what we would expect if activity had exerted an important effect on EC expression. Therefore, they support the lack of association between EC and habitual activity, even though various factors potentially affecting the above results are discussed.
Social cohesion in rural Australia: Framework for conformity or social justice?
Authors: Moran Anthony , Mallman Mark
Published: May 2019

While social cohesion has become a commonly accepted policy goal and framework in many ethnically diverse societies, there is a general concern in some academic literature that it can be a form of governmentality that constructs manageable subjects and communities, represses diversity and distracts attention from the social, political and economic production of inequalities. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork in two rural Australian towns with ethnically diverse populations, this article engages with these criticisms of social cohesion while simultaneously asserting that social cohesion is viewed by local practitioners as a desirable objective for both strengthening intercultural community and addressing issues of social justice and inequality. We also aim to bring some needed clarity to relevant debates in the literature in distinguishing between social cohesion discourses used for normative and/or homogenising purposes versus frameworks developed in the academic literature with a concern for social justice and equality among diverse populations.
Wrestling with Precedent. Or Ignoring It.
Authors: Samuel Adam
Published: May 2019

The modern pace of legal practice and the gradual assimilation of arbitration into litigation has led to many losses. One of the most notable concerns diminished levels of knowledge about the past.
Phosphazenyl Phosphines: The Most Electron‐Rich Uncharged Phosphorus Brønsted and Lewis Bases
Authors: Ullrich Sebastian , Kovačević Borislav , Xie Xiulan , Sundermeyer Jörg
Published: May 2019

It was discovered that phosphazenyl phosphines (PAPs) can be stronger P‐superbases than the corresponding Schwesinger type phosphazene N‐superbases. A simple synthetic access to this class of PR3 derivatives including their homologization is described. XRD structures, proton affinities (PA), and gas‐phase basicities (GB) as well as calculated and experimental pK
values in THF are presented. In contrast to their N‐basic counterparts, PAPs are also privileged ligands in transition metal chemistry. In fact, they are currently the strongest uncharged P‐donors known, exceeding classical and more recently discovered ligands such as PtBu3 and imidazolin‐2‐ylidenaminophosphines (IAPs) with respect to their low Tolman electronic parameters (TEPs) and large cone angles.
Modification of low‐molecular polylactic acid by CaF2 nanoparticles: A new approach to change its material properties
Authors: Mahn S. , Kemnitz E.
Published: May 2019

Due to environmental problems and the increasing waste of resources, sustainable biodegradable plastics has become a great topic worldwide. In this communique, we present a simple low‐cost synthesis to improve one of these typically used materials, PLA (polylactic acid). CaF2 nanoparticles synthesized according the fluorolytic sol–gel synthesis in lactic acid give access to fine tune the material characteristics of LMPLA (low‐molecular polylactic acid) due to a simply to apply polycondensation reaction of lactic acid monomers. Thus, for the first time, homo dispersed CaF2 up to 15 wt % in PLA is synthesized as cubic nanomaterial improving the characteristics of a subsequently formed thermoplastic in comparison with a polycondensed PLA reference material. A detailed characterization of the synthesized material is provided by using X‐ray imaging, TEM, 19F MAS NMR, (sol) XRD, MALDI‐TOF, and nanoindentation. The results reveal a promising first step of a modification opportunity of LMPLA regarding melting point, elastic modulus, and hardness. This way it is possible to adjust material characteristics in a simple and inexpensive way, which might broaden the field of possible applications and make biodegradable plastics a more competitive alternative to conventional used ones. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47875.
Preparation and characterization of spinnable pitch for general‐purpose carbon fiber from refined pitch
Authors: Zhu Yaming , Zhao Chun‐Lei , Hu Chao‐Shuai , Yuan Ji , Xu Yun‐Liang , Zhao Xue‐Fei
Published: May 2019

Four types of spinnable pitches (MP‐N‐A, MP‐A, MP‐A‐H, and MP‐A‐N) for general‐purpose carbon fiber have been prepared under certain conditions with the refined pitch as the raw materials. Fourier transform infrared spectrum and solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectra combined with curve‐fitting analysis have been used to characterize the average molecular structure (Iar, CH3/CH2, SAR, and SHFG) of spinnable pitches. Thermogravimetric analyses and polarizing microscope have been used to observe the thermal stability and the microstructure of spinnable pitches, respectively. The X‐ray diffraction combined with curve‐fitting analysis have showed that, the stacking heights (Lc) of these four kinds of spinnable pitches were 2.21, 1.78, 1.79, and 1.76 nm, respectively. The parallel layers (N) of each spinnable pitch were 7.30, 6.02, 6.06, and 5.97. What is more, the numbers of aromatic ring in each layer (n) were 17.03, 11.61, 11.75, and 11.41. Finally, the scanning electron microscopy has been used to characterize the surface morphology of carbon fibers which obtained by each spinnable pitches. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47880.
Thermal and mechanical properties of thermoplastic urethanes made from crystalline and amorphous azelate polyols
Authors: Tuan Ismail Tuan Noor Maznee , Ibrahim Nor Azowa , Sendijarevic Vahid , Sendijarevic Ibrahim , Schiffman Christi M. , Hoong Seng Soi , Mohd Noor Mohd Azmil , Poo Palam Kosheela Devi , Yeong Shoot Kian , Idris Zainab , Abd. Malek Emilia , Zainuddin Norhazlin , Sendijarevic Aisa
Published: May 2019

Polyester polyols from renewable resources have gained significant interest in the field of polyurethane chemistry. Two sets of segmented TPUs were prepared from crystalline and amorphous azelate polyols, 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate), and 1,4‐butanediol as a chain extender at a mole ratio of 1:2:1, respectively. Bio‐1,3‐propanediol (1,3‐PDO) and 1,5‐pentanediol (PTDO) were used to prepare crystalline azelate polyols, while 1,2‐propanediol (1,2‐PDO) and 2,2′‐dimethyl‐1,3‐propanediol (NPG) were used to prepare amorphous azelate polyols. All TPUs displayed clear glass transition temperatures (Tgs) in between −36 and − 24 °C, associated with azelate polyols soft segments, which are decreasing with increasing diols chain lengths in azelate polyols. TPUs based on crystalline azelate polyols exhibited higher mechanical properties and better heat resistance in comparison to their counter parts. Besides, TPU based on 1,3‐PDO azelate showed lower percentage of hysteresis indicating lower heat build‐up. This is essentially good for TPUs that are to be used in dynamic applications such as rollers and wheels. Hence, the study on structure–property correlation of the crystalline and amorphous azelate polyols and their effect on TPUs properties suggest that crystalline azelate polyols are suitable for dynamic application of TPU, and amorphous azelate polyols are suitable for coatings and adhesives applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47890.
Fishing for conservation of freshwater tropical fishes in the Anthropocene
Authors: Phang Sui Chian , Cooperman Michael , Lynch Abigail J. , Steel E. Ashley , Elliott Vittoria , Murchie Karen J. , Cooke Steven J. , Dowd Scott , Cowx Ian G.
Published: May 2019

The ecosystem services provided by freshwater biodiversity are threatened by development and environmental and climate change in the Anthropocene.

Here, case studies are described to show that a focus on the shared dependence on freshwater ecosystem functioning can mutually benefit fisheries and conservation agendas in the Anthropocene.

Meeting the threat to fish biodiversity and fisher livelihood is pertinent in developing regions where there is often a convergence between high biodiversity, high dependency on aquatic biota and rapid economic development (see Kafue River, Logone floodplain, Tonle Sap, and Rio Negro case studies).

These case studies serve as evidence that biodiversity conservation goals can be achieved by emphasizing a sustainable fisheries agenda with partnerships, shared knowledge and innovation in fisheries management (see Kafue River and Kenai River case studies).

In all case studies, aquatic biodiversity conservation and fisheries agendas are better served if efforts focused on creating synergies between fishing activities with ecosystem functioning yield long‐term livelihood and food security narratives.

A unified voice from conservation and fisheries communities has more socio‐economic and political capital to advocate for biodiversity and social interests in freshwater governance decisions.
The OST‐complex as target for RNAi‐based pest control in Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: De Schutter Kristof , Chen Pengyu , Shen Ying , Van Damme Els J. M. , Smagghe Guy
Published: May 2019

RNAi‐based pest control strategies are emerging as environment friendly and species‐specific alternatives for the use of conventional pesticides. Because N‐glycosylation is important for many biological processes, such as growth and development, the early steps of protein N‐glycosylation are promising targets for an RNAi‐based pest control strategy. Through injection of dsRNAs, the expression of the catalytic subunits of the oligosaccharyl transferase complex was efficiently silenced in nymphs of the notorious rice pest insect Nilaparvata lugens. Silencing of both STT3 isoforms resulted in a high mortality of the N. lugens nymphs. However, our data reveals the occurrence of a functional redundancy between the two isoforms when silencing only one of the isoforms. These observations confirm the potential to use the early genes in the N‐glycosylation pathway as targets for an RNAi‐based pest control strategy. In addition, the existence of a functional redundancy between the two STT3 isoforms presents a factor which one must take into account when designing RNAi‐based approaches.
A hybrid observer for localization of mobile vehicles with asynchronous measurements
Authors: Alonge Francesco , D'Ippolito Filippo , Garraffa Giovanni , Sferlazza Antonino
Published: May 2019

The aim of this paper is the design of a hybrid nonlinear observer for mobile vehicles. The main problem is that position and velocity measurements are provided with a very low frequency, and the time between two consecutive measurements could be not constant, but it could vary randomly within a certain interval of time. For this reason the proposed observer has been contextualized in the hybrid systems framework. The convergence analysis of the estimation error has been carried out, and the sensitivity analysis has been performed in order to evaluate the bound of the estimation error when the measurements are biased and/or noisy. Simulation and experimental results, carried out on a mobile vehicle, show the feasibility of the proposed observer and the good behaviors in terms of estimation error that can be achieved.
State feedback controller design for anti‐synchronization of Boolean control networks: An event‐based idea
Authors: Tong Liyun , Liang Jinling , Chen Hongwei
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we investigate the event‐based state feedback control for the anti‐synchronization of Boolean control networks (BCNs) under the configuration of drive‐response coupling. Two equivalence properties for the anti‐synchronization of BCNs are obtained by the algebraic representations of the logical dynamics. Based on the analysis of the event conditions, an algorithm is established to design the event‐based state feedback controller, and a necessary and sufficient condition guaranteeing the anti‐synchronization of the drive‐response coupled BCNs is formulated. An example is finally given to demonstrate the validity of the obtained results.
Multiple tap sets to improve Venturi flowmeters performance characteristics with disturbed flow
Authors: Stauffer Taylor B. , Johnson Michael C. , Sharp Zachary B. , Barfuss Steven L.
Published: May 2019

Venturi flowmeters are commonly used to accurately measure fluid flows in piped systems. The performance of a Venturi flowmeter can be affected when the flowmeter is installed in close proximity to a flow disturbance such as a valve, elbow, or pipe fitting. The presence of an upstream flow disturbance causes a non‐uniform velocity profile to enter the flowmeter and may adversely influence the pressure differential measure at the meter's pressure taps. This study investigated how hydraulically averaging pressure measurements from multiple inlet and throat tap sets would improve or stabilize the Venturi performance. Laboratory experiments and computational fluid dynamics were tested with several flow disturbances and a wide range of sizes and flow rates. Multiple tap sets on 2‐in. and 12‐in. diameter Venturi flowmeters were tested. The results of the study showed that the variation in the flow measurement was significantly decreased when the number of pressure taps was increased.
Determination of parvovirus antibodies in canine serum using magnetic bead‐based chemiluminescence immunoassay
Authors: Chen Cuicui , Guo Xiaoxiao , Liang Huankun , Ning Bo , Li Jiexing , Zhong Shuhai , Liu Xipan , Li Laiqing
Published: May 2019

Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV‐2), as a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease of dogs and many other carnivores, usually causes severe gastroenteritis and myocarditis. Therefore, it is very necessary and urgent to have an accurate method to determine the CPV‐2 antibodies (CPV‐2‐Ab) in canine samples. Here, a magnetic bead–based chemiluminescence immunoassay was established and optimized to detect the concentration of CPV‐2‐Ab in serum. And a commercial assay was also used to evaluate the consistency with our method. After optimization of the detective system, the CPV‐2‐Ab was captured by CPV‐antigen‐magnetic bead (8.3 µg/mL); then combined with the conjugation of anti‐canine IgG antibody‐acridinium ester (0.36 µg/mL). Finally, collected the signal (read the luminosity) after 1 H reaction time. The linear correlation coefficient (R2) is 0.9924. The limit of detection (sensitivity) is 0.36 ng/mL (the linear dynamic range: 1.32–93.75 ng/mL), and the average recovery is 100.89% without cross‐reactions with other canine viral antibodies. The results’ correlation between commercial assays and this method is 0.9888. This immunoassay establishes that it has high sensitivity, accuracy, and specificity in clinical analysis, indicating that this method could be suitable for quantitative detection of CPV‐2‐Ab and evaluation of vaccination effect.
Using equivalence‐based instruction to teach the visual analysis of graphs
Authors: Blair Bryan J. , Tarbox Jonathan , Albright Leif , MacDonald Jacquelyn M. , Shawler Lesley A. , Russo Samantha R. , Dorsey Michael F.
Published: May 2019

Previous research has demonstrated low rater agreement when visually inspecting trends in single‐subject design graphs (see Wolfe, Seaman, & Drasgow, 2016). Didactic instruction of visual analysis of practicing behavior analysts has resulted in generally poor and unreliable performances (Danov & Symons, 2008; Diller, Barry, & Gelino, 2016). Therefore, a refined instructional technology to improve the reliability among behavior analysts is warranted. Developing research has focused on the application of equivalence‐based instruction (Brodsky & Fienup, 2018; Rehfeldt, 2011) for a variety of complex human behaviors. In the current study, equivalence‐based instruction was used to train four participants to identify functional relations displayed in five different classes of graphs. Training resulted in the formation of five equivalence classes by all participants consisting of three members (graph, functional relation rule, and functional relation statement). In addition, the skills were maintained for up to 2 weeks and generalized to novel graphs.
In silico strategies to couple production of bioethanol with growth in cyanobacteria
Authors: Lasry Testa Romina , Delpino Claudio , Estrada Vanina , Diaz Soledad M.
Published: May 2019

Cyanobacteria have been considered as promising candidates for sustainable bioproduction from inexpensive raw materials, as they grow on light, carbon dioxide, and minimal inorganic nutrients. In this study, we present a genome‐scale metabolic network model for Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 and study the optimal design of the strain for ethanol production by using a mixed integer linear problem reformulation of a bilevel programming problem that identifies gene knockouts which lead to coupling between growth and product synthesis. Five mutants were found, where the in silico model predicts coupling between biomass growth and ethanol production in photoautotrophic conditions. The best mutant gives an in silico ethanol production of 1.054 mmol·gDW
−1·h
−1.
Mo/CIGS/CdS Structures by E‐ALD
Authors: Ramasamy Mukunthan , Jung Chan‐Yong , Yeon Yu‐Beom , Lee Chi‐Woo
Published: May 2019

The chalcopyrite CuIn(1‐x)GaxSe2 (CIGS) thin films and their cadmium sulfide (CdS) window layer structures (CIGS/CdS) were grown on Mo foil substrate in layer‐by‐layer fashion by electrochemical atomic layer deposition (E‐ALD) and were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and photoelectrochemical (PEC) activity. XRD shows distinct pattern changes from chalcopyrite to chalcopyrite plus CdS structures upon adding E‐ALD CdS layer to CIGS layers on Mo substrate. SEM shows that uniform and homogeneously distributed nanoparticles of CdS formed on top of CIGS layers, and EDS shows the successful preparation of CIGS/CdS structures with good atomic ratios in each layer. PEC performance reveals that bare CIGS films were of p‐type conductivity but that CIGS/CdS structures n‐type with p‐type response near null.
Nanocellulose‐modified Nafion 212 Membrane for Improving Performance of Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Kim Moonsu , Ha Dongheun , Choi Jinsub
Published: May 2019

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB) have been widely used as grid‐scale energy storage systems because of their many advantages, such as moderate operating conditions, large‐scale capacity, long cycle life, and relative safety. Despite these advantages, VRFBs suffer from the critical problem of electrolyte contamination due to vanadium ion crossover through the separator (Nafion 212), with consequent capacity decay during cycling. In this study, to reduce the crossover of vanadium ions, Nafion 212 was modified with polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDDA) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) via a layer‐by‐layer process. Nafion‐[PDDA/CNC]
n was stacked to a thickness of 8.92 nm per layer (n = 1). As the stacking number, n, increased, the area resistance increased exponentially, indicative of degradation of the cell performance due to an increase in the mass transfer resistance. Nevertheless, the resistance against self‐discharge, which is measured in terms of the change in the open circuit voltage (OCV), was dramatically enhanced as a function of the number of stacking layers; the OCV was maintained for up to 150 h due to restriction of vanadium ion crossover. Thus, the optimum stacking number for maximizing the cell performance is twenty (Nafion‐[PDDA/CNC]20) based on the trade‐off effect between degradation of the membrane permeability and increased resistance.
Improving Cell Selectivity of Fowlicidin‐1 by Swapping Residues between Pro‐7 and Tyr‐20
Authors: Rajasekaran Ganesan , Kumar S. Dinesh , Yang Sungtae , Shin Song Yub
Published: May 2019

Fowlicidin‐1 (Fowl‐1) is a cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide from chicken that has potent antimicrobial activity and considerable cytotoxicity for human erythrocytes and mammalian cells. To improve the selectivity for bacterial cells, a Fowl‐1 analog ([Y7,P20]‐Fowl‐1) was designed by swapping the amino acids between Pro‐7 and Tyr‐20 in Fowl‐1. [Y7,P20]‐Fowl‐1 maintained relatively good antimicrobial activity (MIC 4 to 8 μM) but was much less toxic to human erythrocytes and RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells, as compared to Fowl‐1. Tryptophan fluorescence quenching suggested that the bacterial selectivity of [Y7, P20]‐Fowl‐1 is associated with a preferential interaction with anionic phospholipids. The three‐dimensional structure of the peptides predicted by the ITASSER server and reverse phase‐high performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) retention time revealed that the significant reduction in cytotoxicity of [Y7,P20]‐Fowl‐1 was correlated with increased structural flexibility and decreased hydrophobicity. The data increase the understanding of the antimicrobial activity of Fowl‐1 and the factors that influence bacterial selectivity.
Bioanalytical method to detect midazolam in plasma
Authors: Dalla Costa Bádila Regina , Anzolin Ana Paula , Rossato‐Grando Luciana Grazziotin , Bertol Charise Dallazem
Published: May 2019

Midazolam (MDZ) is the first choice in palliative sedation, and commonly used in sleep induction in anesthesia, with rapid onset of action. However, monitoring of the level of sedation in patients is not accurate. We developed and validated a bioanalytical method to detect MDZ in plasma using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to a photodiode array detector (PDA) for future monitoring of sedation. MDZ was extracted by solid‐phase extraction (SPE). Analyses were performed on a C18 column, using 0.05% triethylamine and acetonitrile as mobile phase, analyzing at 220 nm. Recovery was evaluated by comparing extracted and nonextracted solutions. Precision, accuracy, linearity, limits of detection (LD) and quantification (LQ), specificity and selectivity were determined. The mean recovery obtained by SPE was 101.03%. The method was linear in the range 1.0–50.0 μg/mL. The LD and LQ were, respectively, 0.43 and 1.43 μg/mL. The specificity of the MDZ peak was adequate. The method was able to detect MDZ among other drugs. Plasma anticoagulants showed no interference with the drug detection. The bioanalytical method using HPLC–PDA and SPE was successfully validated and showed linearity, precision, accuracy, specificity and high sensitivity for detection of MDZ in human plasma.
SB203580, a p38MAPK inhibitor, attenuates olfactory dysfunction by inhibiting OSN apoptosis in AR mice (activation and involvement of the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase in olfactory sensory neuronal apoptosis of OVA‐induced allergic rhinitis)
Authors: Gao Xian , Li Na , Zhang Jisheng
Published: May 2019

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) signaling pathway on olfactory mucosa function and apoptosis of olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) in an allergic rhinitis (AR) mouse model.

Method

Fifty‐five BALB/c mice were used to establish AR models by ovalbumin, and their olfactory function was confirmed by the buried food pellet test. Then, 28 mice with hyposmia were selected. SB203580, a p38MAPK inhibitor, and normal saline (NS) were injected into mice with olfactory defects. The olfactory function, apoptosis of OSNs in olfactory mucosa, and the expression of the olfaction marker protein (OMP), p38MAPK, and p‐p38MAPK were detected after the intervention.

Result

SB203580 treatment significantly upregulated OMP expression and significantly improved the olfactory function of AR mice by reducing the percentage of apoptotic OSNs. In addition, SB203580 attenuated the activation of the p38MAPK signaling pathway.

Conclusion

SB203580 protected olfactory function in an AR mouse model. This protective effect may be associated with the antiapoptotic effects of SB203580 via the p38MAPK signaling pathway.
Genetic variants in a long noncoding RNA related to Sunitinib Resistance predict risk and survival of patients with renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Xing Qianwei , Li Ran , Xu Aiming , Qin Zhiqiang , Tang Jinyuan , Zhang Lei , Tang Min , Han Peng , Wang Wei , Qin Chao , Du Mulong , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2019

Objective

LncARSR (lncRNA Activated in RCC with Sunitinib Resistance, ENST00000424980) is a newly identified lncRNA to promote the sunitinib resistance of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which may contribute to tumorigenesis and progression. This study aimed to explore the association of lncARSR tagSNPs with the risk and prognosis of RCC.

Methods

In this study, a 2‐stage case‐control study was performed to evaluate the association between 2 tagging SNPs (rs1417080 and rs7859384) and RCC susceptibility. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were obtained by unconditional logistic regression analyses. Different survival time was estimated by the Kaplan‐Meier method and compared by the Log‐rank test. Hazard ratios (HRs) and their 95% CIs were calculated to determine predictive factors by Cox proportion hazards model.

Results

When combing discovery and validation sets together, rs7859384 was determined to be significantly associated with the decreased RCC risk with all P < 0.05 in 4 models (co‐dominant model, additive model, dominant model and recessive model). stratified analyses showed prominent risk effect of SNP rs7859384 GA/GG genotypes was found in clinical subgroups of stage I and stage II (P = 0.009, OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.64‐0.94) and individuals with clear cell RCC (P = 0.014, OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.65‐0.95). A protective effect of SNP rs7859384 GA/GG genotypes was observed among individuals with BMI > 24 (P = 0.025, OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.56‐0.96), without hypertension (P = 0.037, OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.63‐0.99), without family history of cancer (P = 0.048, OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.68‐1.00). Survival analyses revealed individuals with GA/GG genotypes had higher survival rate compared with the corresponding AA wild genotypes in the dominant model (log‐rank P = 0.005, adjusted HR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.16‐0.73).

Conclusion

This study suggests that rs7859384 of lncARSR was associated with RCC susceptibility and may act as a prognostic biomarker for patients with RCC.
Hierarchical planning‐based crowd formation
Authors: Liu Na , Wang Xingce , Liu Shaolong , Wu Zhongke , He Jiale , Cheng Peng , Miao Chunyan , Magnenat Thalmann Nadia
Published: May 2019

Team formation with realistic crowd simulation behavior is a challenge in computer graphics, multiagent control, and social simulation. In this study, we propose a framework of crowd formation via hierarchical planning, which includes cooperative‐task, coordinated‐behavior, and action‐control planning. In cooperative‐task planning, we improve the grid potential field to achieve global path planning for a team. In coordinated‐behavior planning, we propose a time–space table to arrange behavior scheduling for a movement. In action‐control planning, we combine the gaze‐movement angle model and fuzzy logic control to achieve agent action. Our method has several advantages. (1) The hierarchical architecture is guaranteed to match the human decision process from high to low intelligence. (2) The agent plans his behavior only with the local information of his neighbor; the global intelligence of the group emerges from these local interactions. (3) The time–space table fully utilizes three‐dimensional information. Our method is verified using crowds of various densities, from sparse to dense, employing quantitative performance measures. The approach is independent of the simulation model and can be extended to other crowd simulation tasks.
Transcatheter aortic valve‐in‐valve implantation for failed surgical bioprosthetic valves. A minimalist approach without contrast aortography or echocardiographic guidance
Authors: Attinger‐Toller Adrian , Htun Nay M. , Murdoch Dale , Perlman Gidon Y. , Alenezi Abdullah , Sathananthan Janarthanan , Blanke Philipp , Leipsic Jonathon , Thompson Christopher , Ye Jian , Cheung Anson , Wood David , Webb John G.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To demonstrate safety, feasibility and short‐term clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve‐in‐valve (ViV) implantation under local anesthesia without contrast aortography or echocardiographic guidance.

Background

Transcatheter ViV implantation is an emerging treatment modality for patients with degenerative surgical bioprostheses. Given the radiopaque properties of the surgical aortic valve (SAV) frame, ViV procedures can often be performed with fluoroscopic guidance alone.

Methods

ViV implantation was performed in 37 patients with SAV failure under local anesthesia without contrast aortography. Clinical and echocardiographic data were obtained at baseline, discharge, and 30 days.

Results

Mean age was 74 ± 10 years and STS predicted risk of mortality was 5.6 ± 2.4%. Mean transaortic gradient decreased from 39.4 ± 15.5 mmHg to 13 ± 6.3 mmHg at discharge (p < .001), and 20 ± 7.5 mmHg at 30 days (p < .001 compared to baseline), aortic valve area increased from 0.9 ± 0.3 cm2 to 1.2 ± 0.4 cm2 at 30 days (p = .007). No patient had more than mild aortic regurgitation. Hospital discharge occurred at a median of 2.6 ± 4.4 days. At 30‐day follow‐up there were no deaths, myocardial infarctions, strokes, repeat hospital admissions for heart failure, or renal failure. One patient (2.7%) required a new pacemaker. 93% of the patients were in New York Heart Association functional class I or II.

Conclusions

Transcatheter aortic ViV implantation for selected patients with degenerative surgical bioprostheses under local anesthesia without aortography or echocardiographic guidance is feasible and safe.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection and its association with takotsubo syndrome: Novel insights from a tertiary center registry
Authors: Duran Jessica M. , Naderi Sahar , Vidula Mahesh , Michalak Nathan , Chi Gerald , Lindsay Mark , Ghoshhajra Brian , Gibson C. Michael , Wood Malissa J.
Published: May 2019

Background

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a relatively rare cause of acute coronary syndrome historically thought to primarily affect young, healthy women. The lack of multicenter collaborative research efforts has made it challenging to identify the precise etiology and pathological mechanisms underlying SCAD. However, there are many similarities in the patient demographics, clinical presentations, and predisposing stressors between SCAD and takotsubo syndrome (TTS).

Objectives

The aim of this observational study was to examine the coronary and left ventriculographic features of patients with angiographically confirmed SCAD and determine the prevalence of concomitant TTS.

Methods

In this observational study, patients with angiographically confirmed SCAD were identified from the Massachusetts General Hospital SCAD registry. The coronary angiograms with simultaneous left ventriculograms (LVG) were carefully analyzed by an independent and blinded angiographic core laboratory.

Results

From our analysis of patients with SCAD who also underwent a LVG at time of coronary angiography, we identified a high prevalence of SCAD and concomitant TTS.

Conclusions

Therefore, we present TTS as a plausible mechanistic etiology for SCAD in some patients. In light of this finding as well as the many similarities between SCAD and TTS, clinicians should be vigilant about the potential concomitant presence of these two entities. Additional future investigations further exploring the clinical implications of the association between SCAD and TTS are warranted.
Effect of the Pt Precursor and Loading on the Structural Parameters and Catalytic Properties of Pt/Al2O3
Authors: Borges Lais R. , Lopez‐Castillo Alejandro , Meira Debora M. , Gallo Jean Marcel R. , Zanchet Daniela , Bueno José Maria C.
Published: May 2019

The effects of promoters and additives on the electronic properties and structural properties of Pt catalysts still need to be understood. The present work investigates the effects of the Pt loading and the use of chloride additive on the structural properties of Pt/Al2O3 and its catalytic activity towards the WGS reaction. The presence of Cl affected the morphology and oxygen coverage of the Pt nanoparticles. However, these parameters did not affect the surface electronic properties, due to a compensation effect between the size of the Pt0 core and oxygen coordinated on the shell (NPt‐O). Despite the structural differences, the catalytic activity for the WGS reaction was similar for the chloride‐free sample and the catalyst containing chloride. The effect of the Pt loading was also studied, with the “apparent” catalytic activity per site of Pt (TOF) decreasing with increasing metal loading. Increasing the Pt loading led to an increase of the low‐coordination Pt0 sites at the surface of the NPs, resulting in stronger Pt‐CO integration and consequent poisoning of the active sites.
Rh Doping in Pd Nanocubes Optimizes the Adsorption of 3‐Nitrostyrene towards Selective Hydrogenation of Vinyl Group
Authors: Wu Wenlong , Zhao Songtao , Cui Yi Eason , Chen Wenze , Liu Yulin , Wang Haoyuan , Li Jiawei , Li Zhenyu , Zeng Jie
Published: May 2019

For selective hydrogenation, the improvement in selectivity is often accompanied with the sacrifice of activity. Herein, we achieved the optimization of both activity and selectivity towards selective hydrogenation reaction of 3‐nitrostyrene over Rh‐doped Pd nanocubes. Specially, the Rh‐doped Pd nanocubes with 6 atm % of Rh (denoted as Pd94Rh6) achieved a remarkable high selectivity (99.5 %) for product 3‐ethylnitrobenzene with almost 100 % conversion. Mechanistic studies revealed that the introduction of Rh dopant into Pd nanocubes strengthened the adsorption of 3‐nitrostyrene relative Pd nanocubes, accounting for the enhanced activity. Moreover, the ensemble composed of Rh dopant and nearby Pd atoms in Rh‐doped Pd nanocubes induced the unique adsorption configuration of 3‐nitroethylbenzene that inhibited the hydrogenation of NO2, responsible for the high C=C selectivity.
The Origin of Metal Loading Heterogeneities in Pt/Zeolite Y Bifunctional Catalysts
Authors: van der Wal Lars I. , de Jong Krijn P. , Zečević Jovana
Published: May 2019

Preparing catalysts with highly dispersed metal nanoparticles and narrow particle size distribution has been in the focus of numerous studies. Besides size and size distribution, the location of metal nanoparticles within and local metal loading of the support can have significant impact on catalytic performance. This study revealed that great variations in Pt loading between individual Pt/zeolite Y crystals occurred irrespective of the metal deposition method, namely ion‐exchange (IE) or incipient wetness impregnation (IWI). The variation in Pt loading was found to be directly related to different Si/Al ratios of individual zeolite crystals. Results indicate that this Si/Al variation was likely induced by post‐synthesis treatments, commonly performed to introduce mesoporosity. In view of the great importance of zeolite‐based catalysts for oil refining, understanding the origin of such metal loading heterogeneities may lead to further improvement of zeolite‐based catalytic performance.
Organic Additives to Improve Catalyst Performance for High‐Temperature Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Delikaya Öznur , Zeyat Mohammad , Lentz Dieter , Roth Christina
Published: May 2019

High‐temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells are promising alternatives to low temperature fuel cells, owing to their higher operating temperatures, which allow for easier water management and enhanced catalytic activity. However, their performance suffers from low oxygen solubility in the electrolyte and phosphoric acid poisoning of catalytically active Pt sites. In this work, we developed new organic additives that provide π‐π stacking of the commercially applied carbon support materials as well as variable substitutable functionalities to interact with the Pt nanoparticles. Different electrochemical methods, such as cyclic voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry, were performed to test the effect of these organic additives on the onset potential, limiting current, and the number of transferred electrons. It is observed that the limiting currents increase for the additive‐modified Pt/C samples, whereas the onset potential for significant oxygen reduction reaction activity remains unchanged. We conclude that enhanced oxygen solubility at the electrode/electrolyte interface is the reason for the observed behavior.