bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why Boron Nitride is such a Selective Catalyst for the Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Propane
Authors: Venegas Juan M. , Zhang Zisheng , Agbi Theodore O. , McDermott William P. , Alexandrova Anastassia , Hermans Ive
Published: June 2020

Boron‐containing materials, and in particular boron nitride, have recently been identified as highly selective catalysts for the oxidative dehydrogenation of alkanes such as propane. To date, no mechanism exists that can explain both the unprecedented selectivity, the observed surface oxyfunctionalization, and the peculiar kinetic features of this reaction. We combine catalytic activity measurements with quantum chemical calculations to put forward a bold new hypothesis. We argue that the remarkable product distribution can be rationalized by a combination of surface‐mediated formation of radicals over metastable sites, and their sequential propagation in the gas phase. Based on known radical propagation steps, we quantitatively describe the oxygen pressure‐dependent relative formation of the main product propylene and by‐product ethylene. Free radical intermediates most likely differentiate this catalytic system from less selective vanadium‐based catalysts.
An Intelligent DNA Nanorobot for Autonomous Anticoagulation
Authors: Yang Linlin , Zhao Yumeng , Xu Xuemei , Xu Kangli , Zhang Mingzhi , Huang Kui , Kang Huaizhi , Lin Hsiao‐chu , Yang Yang , Han Da
Published: June 2020

Artificial nanorobots that can recognize molecular triggers and respond with programable operations provide an inspiring proof‐of‐principle for personalized theragnostic applications. We have constructed an intelligent DNA nanorobot for autonomous blood anticoagulation in human plasma. The DNA nanorobot comprises a barrel‐shaped DNA nanostructure as the framework and molecular reaction cascades embedded as the computing core. This nanorobot can intelligently sense the concentration of thrombin in the local environment and trigger an autonomous anticoagulation when excess thrombin is present. The triggering concentration of thrombin at which the nanorobot responds can be tuned arbitrarily to avoid possible side effects induced by excess thrombin. This makes the nanorobot useful for autonomous anticoagulation in various medical scenarios and inspires a more efficient and safer strategy for future personalized medicine.
Shape memory thin films of polyurethane: Synthesis, characterization, and recovery behavior
Authors: Dehaghani Maryam Zarghami , Kaffashi Babak
Published: June 2020

Polyurethane thin films with inherent two phase segregated characters are exceptional candidates for the development of shape memory materials. However, controlling the phase behavior of such complex structures for decoding their recovery behavior still experiences its early stage of development. In this work, polyurethane thin films were synthesized based on two polyols, ester‐based polyols (ESP), and ether‐based polyols (ETP) together with diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI). The effects of ingredient ratio of PETP (ether‐based prepolymer)/PESP (ester‐based prepolymer) on the chemical structure and final properties of polyurethanes were studied by the Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), a tensiometer, and the atomic force microscopy (AFM). The shape memory behaviors were explored by the thermomechanical cycles applied by a DMTA device in the controlled force mode. The PU films showed various properties compared with the bulk PU since they formed spherulitic textures with different structures. All the PU films except PU‐0 showed high shape recovery ca. 90% in the first cycle with a large glassy storage modulus in the range of 2,800–4,040MPa, and a recovery ratio enhanced by increasing the number of cycle to a maximum of 95%.
Canine cruciate ligament ruptures: Implications for financial costs and human health
Authors: Toth Sharon A. , Siegel Michael I.
Published: June 2020

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in dogs is homologous to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans. Factors that place an individual at‐risk for noncontact ruptures are not clearly defined in humans or dogs. Cyclic variation in human females as well as early spay/neuter in canines has frequently implicated hormonal variation, however these factors do not fully explain the human dimorphic or canine breed rupture rates. The present study examined dogs as a proxy model for humans to better understand the covariance. A random clinical data sample from the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Hospital was obtained on (n= 29) CCL surgical cases and nonsurgical (n= 28) controls. A statistical test for association of spay/neuter with CCL rupture was significant (chi‐square = 21.7,p < .01). Sex balance between the groups was not significantly (p > .01) different. Data on other variables related to morphometric variability such as the tibial plateau angle was not available on the nonsurgical sample and comparisons could only be made to values from the literature. Though there may have been sample bias, this preliminary study found that more large than small dogs were represented in the surgical sample. Our results also support the claim that spayed/neutered dogs are more likely to rupture their CCL than intact dogs. Given the high costs of surgical repair, both for canines and humans, we argue for multivariate studies that investigate the interaction of variables in a larger subject sample which can provide comparable data on all parameters.
Clay‐Based Modeling in the Anatomist's Toolkit: A Systematic Review
Authors: Curlewis Keegan , Leung Brook , Perera Manesha , Bazira Peter J. , Sanders Katherine A.
Published: June 2020

Anatomical education has suffered from reduced teaching time and poor availability of staff and resources over the past thirty years. Clay‐based modeling (CBM) is an alternative technique for teaching anatomy that can improve student knowledge and experience. This systematic review aimed to summarize and appraise the quality of the literature describing the uses, advantages, and limitations of CBM compared to alternative methods of teaching human gross anatomy to students or qualified healthcare professionals. A systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted, and the Medical Education Research Quality Instrument (MERSQI) was used to assess study quality. Out of the 829 studies identified, 12 papers met the inclusion criteria and were eligible for this review. The studies were of high quality, with a mean MERSQI score of 11.50/18. Clay‐based modeling can be used to teach all gross anatomical regions, and 11 studies demonstrated a significant improvement in short‐term knowledge gain in students who used CBM in comparison to other methods of learning anatomy. Eight studies that included subjective assessment showed that CBM is rated highly. However, some studies showed that students viewed CBM as juvenile and experienced difficulty making the models. Additionally, there is no evidence to suggest that CBM improves long‐term knowledge. Clay‐based modeling is an effective learning method for human gross anatomy and should be incorporated into the anatomists' toolkit. In the future, more randomized controlled studies with transparent study designs investigating the long‐term impact of CBM are needed.
Mouse period1 gene expression recording from olfactory bulb under free moving conditions with a portable optic fibre device
Authors: Ito Ryoga , Hamada Kazuko , Kasahara Shigeru , Kikuchi Yoshihiro , Nakajima Kanako , Sutherland Kenneth , Shirato Hiroki , Ozaki Michitaka , Ishikawa Masayori , Hamada Toshiyuki
Published: June 2020

Because the disruption of circadian clock gene is a risk factor in many diseases such as obesity and cancer, it is important to monitor and analyzed the expression of the rhythm of the clock gene throughout the body over a long period of time. Although we previously reported on a new gene expression analysis system tracking a target position on the body surface of freely moving mice, the experimental apparatus required a large space. We have therefore developed an in vivo recording system using a portable photomultiplier tube (PMT) system attached to an optical fibre. Directly connecting the target area with the device, we could easily measure the photon counts in a very small space. However, little information is known about the characteristics of optical fibres when exposed to twisting/looping in association with a moving mouse and the effect of the surface of optical fibre. In the present study, we report on the characteristics of optical fibres to detect gene expression rhythm in freely moving mice. Using this portable optical device directly connected with a target area, we were able to measure the circadian rhythm of clock gene expression over a prolonged period in freely moving mice in a small space.
The challenges and experiences of psychotherapists working remotely during the coronavirus* pandemic
Authors: McBeath Alistair Graham , du Plock Simon , Bager‐Charleson Sofie
Published: June 2020

The experiences and challenges of psychotherapists working remotely during the coronavirus pandemic were explored using a mixed‐methods approach. An online survey completed by 335 psychotherapists produced both quantitative and qualitative data with the latter being subject to a reflexive thematic analysis. Large numbers of therapists were using video‐link platforms and the telephone to conduct client sessions. A majority of therapists felt challenged by remote working, with reduced interpersonal cues, feelings of isolation and fatigue, and technical issues frequently cited concerns. At the same time, most therapists considered that remote working had been effective and that clients were comfortable with the process. Two‐thirds of therapists indicated that remote working would now become core business for them. The great majority of therapists thought that remote working skills should be part of formal therapy trainings.
High Frequency of Previous Abuse and Missed Diagnoses Prior to Abusive Head Trauma: A Consecutive Case Series of 100 Forensic Examinations
Authors: Laurent‐Vannier Anne , Bernard Jonathan Y. , Chevignard Mathilde
Published: June 2020

This study describes the frequency of signs and symptoms of abuse and missed diagnoses prior to the diagnosis of abusive head trauma (AHT) in infants. Data were from a retrospective observational study of 100 consecutive cases of infants diagnosed with AHT over a seven‐year period. The most frequent symptom leading to the diagnosis was a loss of consciousness (68%) that always occurred inside a home (parents' or nanny's), never outside. Diagnosis was established using criteria based on the child's lesions and the alleged history. Lesions leading to diagnosis were described: 99 per cent had multifocal subdural haematoma (SDH) located in four areas including lateral space, interhemispheric, tentorium cerebelli and vertex; 60 per cent had a rupture of bridging veins. Previous abuse was found in 79 per cent of cases, of whom 75 per cent underwent medical consultations that did not result in a diagnosis of abuse. The main signs and symptoms of previous abuse were repeated vomiting without fever or diarrhoea (62%), abnormal head circumference increase (49%) and bruises (38%). These results suggest a higher frequency of repeated abuse than previous studies and highlight the great challenges most professionals encounter to evoke and set the diagnosis of abuse.

‘This study describes the frequency of signs and symptoms of abuse and missed diagnoses prior to the diagnosis of abusive head trauma (AHT) in infants’

Key Practitioner Messages

Prior signs and symptoms suggestive of abuse are particularly frequent in infants diagnosed with AHT.

Abuse must be detected as early as possible in order to avoid recurrences.

Diagnostic criteria, based on clinical history and lesions including multifocal subdural haematoma, rupture of bridging veins, retinal haemorrhages, and spinal cord injury have been defined to enable diagnosis of AHT.
Tuberculous peritonitis masquerading as carcinomatosis
Authors: Motoa Gabriel , Alvarez Salvador
Published: June 2020

Tuberculous peritonitis may debut with unspecific symptoms that can pose a diagnostic challenge for clinicians. We present a patient with tuberculous peritonitis masquerading as carcinomatosis. High clinical suspicion, appropriate identification of bacterial isolates of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, and susceptibility testing are crucial to select target therapy.
Preparation of High‐Purity Chlorine Dioxide by Combined Reduction
Authors: Qi Minghui , Yi Tan , Mo Qi , Huang Lijie , Zhao Hanyu , Xu Hao , Huang Chongxing , Wang Shuangfei , Liu Yang , Hui Zhao
Published: June 2020

In pulp bleaching, water treatment, and other applications, chlorine dioxide has the advantages of high‐efficiency oxidation. The technology of preparing chlorine dioxide by combination reduction is widely used in domestic papermaking enterprises. However, in the actual production process, the chlorine dioxide solution still contains a small amount of chlorine gas and methanol. Therefore, here, the process of preparing chlorine dioxide by combination reduction was further optimized to improve the utilization rate of raw materials and product purity. In this study, a new production process of chlorine dioxide with lower cost, higher purity, no pollution, and good security and reliability was developed.
Near‐infrared multivariate model transfer for quantification of different hydrogen bonding species in aqueous systems
Authors: Xu Jun‐Li , Dorrepaal Ronan M. , Martinez‐Gonzalez Jose , Tsenkova Roumiana , Gowen Aoife A.
Published: June 2020

It is challenging to achieve consistent quantification of hydrogen‐bonded water species by fitting Gaussian bands on spectra collected from different instruments, especially when the spectral resolution is low. Therefore, this work aims to propose a near‐infrared (NIR) multivariate calibration model transfer method to obtain reliable, consistent, and reproducible results from different spectroscopic instruments. A composite method of Gaussian deconvolution, multivariate curve resolution‐alternating least squares (MCR‐ALS), and partial least squares (PLS) was developed to quantify five water species (labeled as C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5), respectively, assigned to non‐hydrogen‐bonded, singly hydrogen‐bonded, doubly and triply hydrogen‐bonded species, distorted ice‐like structures in the liquid phase, and fully hydrogen‐bonded species showing ice‐like structure. Primary instrument (iS50) was selected due to the highest spectral resolution and spectra (7500–5845 cm−1 with spectral resolution of 0.5 cm−1) were acquired from four types of salt solutions. The developed PLS model yielded a high prediction performance when applied on two independent prediction sets with R2P higher than 0.95 and RMSEP less than 0.009 for prediction of C1‐5. Model built with primary spectra was successfully transferred to spectra of secondary instrument (iN10), producing RMSEP less than 0.010. Transferred model applied on secondary instruments (NIRECO and MPA) showed that fully H‐bonded species in deionized water decreased as temperature increased, while non‐hydrogen‐bonded and singly hydrogen‐bonded demonstrated an opposite temperature dependence. Our results confirmed that it is promising to transfer the calibration model from a sophisticated spectrometer to a simple spectroscopic instrument in terms of quantification of hydrogen‐bonded water species.
Well‐Defined, Molecular Bismuth Compounds: Catalysts in Photochemically Induced Radical Dehydrocoupling Reactions
Authors: Ramler Jacqueline , Krummenacher Ivo , Lichtenberg Crispin
Published: June 2020

A series of diorgano(bismuth)chalcogenides, [Bi(di‐aryl)EPh], has been synthesised and fully characterised (E=S, Se, Te). These molecular bismuth complexes have been exploited in homogeneous photochemically‐induced radical catalysis, using the coupling of silanes with TEMPO as a model reaction (TEMPO=(tetramethyl‐piperidin‐1‐yl)‐oxyl). Their catalytic properties are complementary or superior to those of known catalysts for these coupling reactions. Catalytically competent intermediates of the reaction have been identified. Applied analytical techniques include NMR, UV/Vis, and EPR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis, and (TD)‐DFT calculations.
Synthetic Strategies of Carbon Nanobelts and Related Belt‐Shaped Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Cheung Kwan Yin , Segawa Yasutomo , Itami Kenichiro
Published: June 2020

The development of carbon nanobelts and related belt‐shaped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons has gained momentum in recent years. This Minireview focuses on the synthetic strategies used in constructing these aesthetically appealing molecular nanocarbons. Examples of carbon nanobelts and related belt‐shaped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons reported in recent years as well as some representative synthetic attempts in earlier times are discussed.
A New Phenolate‐Ion‐Type Two‐Photon Near Infrared Fluorophore‐Based Biosensor for High‐Performance Detection of HNO
Authors: He Moyun , Li Chenghui , Pang Zhenguo , Chen Kuan , Tan Yanfei , Huang Yan , Lu Zhiyun
Published: June 2020

Although (E)‐4‐(2‐(4‐(dicyanomethylene)‐4H‐chromen‐2‐yl)vinyl)phenolate anion (DCPO−) has recently emerged as a potential near infrared (NIR) biosensor signaling unit, the pKa value of its conjugate acid is relatively high (∼9); this will lead to relatively low concentrations of DCPO− under physiological conditions and, hence, unsatisfactory sensitivity of DCPO−‐based bio‐probes. By difluoro‐substitution on DCPO−, we have exploited a new fluorophore of o‐FDCPO− whose conjugate acid has a much lower pKa value of 7.42. Meanwhile, o‐FDCPO− is NIR emissive with λem=693 nm and has a 0.76‐fold higher fluorescence efficiency than DCPO−. The significant superiority of o‐FDCPO− over DCPO− in sensitivity for NIR biosensor applications was confirmed by comparative studies on two HNO probes, namely o‐FDCPO‐P and DCPO‐P, which bear signaling units of o‐FDCPO− and DCPO−, respectively. Moreover, o‐FDCPO‐P has been demonstrated to be a high‐performance HNO probe with high selectivity, high sensitivity (detection limit: 50 nm), and a rapid response, together with a two‐photon NIR‐excitation imaging capability.
Four cypermethrin isomers induced stereoselective metabolism in H295R cells
Authors: Ji Chenyang , Yu Chang , Zhu Jianqiang , Cheng Yafei , Tian Tian , Zhou Bingqi , Gu Jinping , Fan Jun , Zhao Meirong
Published: June 2020

Cypermethrin (CP) is widely used for controlling agricultural and indoor vermin. Previous studies have reported the stereoselective difference of CP in biological activities. However, little is known about their potential mechanisms between metabolic phenotypes and endocrine‐disrupting effects. Herein, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)‐based metabolomics combining metabolite identification and pathway analysis were applied to evaluate the stereoselective metabolic cdisorders induced by CP isomers in human adrenocortical carcinoma cells (H295R) culture medium. Then, gene expression levels related to disturbed metabolic pathways were assessed to verify according to metabolic phenotypes. Metabolomics profiles showed that [(S)‐cyano(3‐phenoxyphenyl)methyl](1R,3R)‐3‐(2,2‐dichloroethenyl)‐2,2‐dimethylcyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate [(1R,3R,αS)‐CP] induced the most significant changes in metabolic phenotypes than did the other stereoisomers. There are 10 differential metabolites (isoleucine, valine, leucine, ethanol, alanine, acetate, aspartate, arginine, lactate, and glucose) as well as two significantly disturbed pathways, including “pyruvate metabolism” and “alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism,” that were confirmed in H295R cells culture medium of (1R,3R,αS)‐CP compared with other stereoisomers. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array also confirmed the results of metabolomics. Our results can help to understand the potential mechanisms between the isomer selectivity in metabolic phenotypes and endocrine‐disrupting effects. Data provided here not only lend authenticity to the cautions issued by the scientists and researchers but also offer a solution for the balance between environment and political regulations.
Outcomes of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection in 107 patients with cancer from Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , Wang Linwei , Chen Yuanyuan , Wu Qiuji , Chen Gaili , Shen Xiaokun , Wang Qun , Yan Youqin , Yu Yi , Zhong Yahua , Wang Xinghuan , Chua Melvin L. K. , Xie Conghua
Published: June 2020

Background

Patients with cancer have a higher risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) than noncancer patients. The authors conducted a multicenter retrospective study to investigate the clinical manifestations and outcomes of patients with cancer who are diagnosed with COVID‐19.

Methods

The authors reviewed the medical records of hospitalized patients who were treated at 5 hospitals in Wuhan City, China, between January 5 and March 18, 2020. Clinical parameters relating to cancer history (type and treatment) and COVID‐19 were collected. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Secondary analyses were the association between clinical factors and severe COVID‐19 and OS.

Results

A total of 107 patients with cancer were diagnosed with COVID‐19, with a median age of 66 years (range, 37‐98 years). Lung (21 patients; 19.6%), gastrointestinal (20 patients; 18.7%), and genitourinary (20 patients; 18.7%) cancers were the most common cancer diagnoses. A total of 37 patients (34.6%) were receiving active anticancer treatment when diagnosed with COVID‐19, whereas 70 patients (65.4%) were on follow‐up. Overall, 52.3% of patients (56 patients) developed severe COVID‐19; this rate was found to be higher among patients receiving anticancer treatment than those on follow‐up (64.9% vs 45.7%), which corresponded to an inferior OS in the former subgroup of patients (hazard ratio, 3.365; 95% CI, 1.455‐7.782 [P = .005]). The detrimental effect of anticancer treatment on OS was found to be independent of exposure to systemic therapy (case fatality rate of 33.3% [systemic therapy] vs 43.8% [nonsystemic therapy]).

Conclusions

The results of the current study demonstrated that >50.0% of infected patients with cancer are susceptible to severe COVID‐19. This risk is aggravated by simultaneous anticancer treatment and portends for a worse survival, despite treatment for COVID‐19.
Interobserver variability between cytopathologists and cytotechnologists upon application and characterization of the indeterminate category in the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology
Authors: Viswanathan Kartik , Patel Ami , Abdelsayed Mary , Rosado Lucelina , Soong Lauren , Margolskee Elizabeth , Heymann Jonas J. , Goyal Abha , Rao Rema A.
Published: June 2020

Background

The indeterminate categories in the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC) are diagnostically challenging because of inherent heterogeneity and complexity, with wide interobserver variability (IOV). Herein, the authors explore the concordance rate (CR) between cytopathologists (CPs) and cytotechnologists (CTs) in interpreting indeterminate salivary gland lesions using the MSRSGC.

Methods

Between 2011 and 2016, 86 indeterminate fine‐needle aspirations had slides available for review, of which 48 had follow‐up. Four CPs and 2 CTs performed an independent, blinded review of these slides and categorized them according to the MSRSGC. The CRs between CTs and CPs with the final sign‐out cytopathologist (FCP) were assessed, and interobserver agreement was categorized into uniform, majority, divided, minimal, or no agreement.

Results

The overall CR with the FCP ranged from 48.8% to 60.5% for CPs and from 22.1% to 36% for CTs. IOV κ scores for the entire group were 0.314 and, with the FCP as the reference, ranged from 0.403 to 0.539 for CPs and from 0.091 to 0.254 for CTs. Uniform, majority, divided, minimal, and no agreement was noted in 12.8%, 31.4%, 38.4%, 10.5%, and 6.9%, respectively, of all cases and in 16.7%, 35.4%, 31.3%, 8.3%, and 6.3%, respectively, of the cases with follow‐up. Diagnostic challenges included distinguishing lymphoma from a reactive process and distinguishing mucin from mucin‐like material.

Conclusions

CPs had modestly higher CRs compared with CTs; and, although the variable CRs highlight indeterminate IOV, the MSRSGC enables reproducibility. Characterizing larger cohorts in the indeterminate categories will further improve MSRSGC criteria. Moreover, education on the MSRSGC should include CTs and CPs to improve overall diagnostic accuracy.
Optical Properties of Various Strontium Bismuthates: Luminescence and UV‐induced Photocoloration
Authors: Shtarev Dmitry S. , Shtareva Anna V. , Selivanov Nikita I. , Ryabchuk Vladimir K. , Rudakova Aida V. , Serpone Nick
Published: June 2020

The low‐temperature photoluminescence (T<300 K) and UV‐induced formation of color centers of recently synthesized Sr2Bi2O5, Sr3Bi2O6 and Sr6Bi2O11 bismuthates are examined. The estimated Mott‐Seitz activation energies, ranging from 88 to 167 meV, correspond to various emission bands. Comparison of the response of all three bismuthates when exposed to UV‐illumination indicates that photoluminescence and formation of color centers are two processes that compete with photocatalytic activity. The most photoactive Sr6Bi2O11 bismuthate exhibits neither luminescence nor the ability toward photocoloration. By contrast, Sr2Bi2O5, which exhibits no photocatalytic activity, displays an intense photoluminescence; UV irradiation causes significant changes of its color. The bismuthate Sr3Bi2O6 occupies an intermediate position as it exhibits some photocatalytic activity, as well as the ability to photoluminesce and to undergo photocoloration. Simple models are described to systematize the experimental results, which place these bismuthates into a new class of photoactive materials.
Wireless information and power transfer using single and multiple path relays
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Kumar Rahul , Singh Abhilash , Singh Jitendra
Published: June 2020

A relay‐based wireless communication model can relay information along with the power bidirectionally using the amplify‐and‐forward scheme. This paper studies such model extensively. Three information and power relaying protocols, that is, time‐based switching relaying, power‐based splitting relaying, and hybrid time switching‐based and power splitting‐based relaying (HTPSR) are used to carry forward bidirectional information and power transfer. First, a solo relay model is studied, for which, we derived a throughput expression for end‐to‐end information transfer, and this is done for all the three relaying protocols. The paper indicates that the system throughput depends upon the time switching and the power splitting ratio.

Further, to make the system more reliable and robust, multiple relays are used in the path. Various relay selection schemes are used for path selection in each transmission, thereby yielding different throughput performances. The results show that an optimal throughput is obtained for a given relay location at an optimal set of values of splitting and switching ratio. Moreover, the HTPSR outperforms both the power splitting and time switching protocol in system throughput performance for a single as well as a multiple‐relay model. Whereas, in relay selection schemes, the best SNR selection scheme outperforms in all the schemes used. The simulated results confirm that the system throughput is an active function of relay placement.
Early and current life adversity: Past and present influences on maternal diurnal cortisol rhythms during pregnancy
Authors: Stephens Jacquelyn E. , Kessler Courtenay L. , Buss Claudia , Miller Gregory E. , Grobman William A. , Keenan‐Devlin Lauren , Borders Ann E. , Adam Emma K.
Published: June 2020

Stress during pregnancy affects maternal health and well‐being, as well as the health and well‐being of the next generation, in part through the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis. Although most studies have focused solely on proximal experiences (i.e., during the pregnancy) as sources of prenatal stress, there has been a recent surge in studies that examine maternal early life adversity as a source of stress system dysregulation during pregnancy. The current study of 178 pregnant women examined the association of economic and life stress experienced during two time periods (i.e., childhood and pregnancy) with maternal HPA axis activity during the third trimester of pregnancy. Findings indicated that a current annual income of less than $15,000 and greater childhood disadvantage were associated with a flatter diurnal cortisol slope. Childhood maltreatment, particularly sexual abuse, was associated with a higher cortisol awakening response (CAR), even when controlling for recent adversity. We found some evidence that past adversity moderates the relationship between current adversity and diurnal cortisol, specifically for economic adversity and waking cortisol. Overall, our findings indicate that early life stressors play an important and underappreciated role in shaping stress biology during pregnancy.
Invasive mammalian predators habituate to and generalize avian prey cues: a mechanism for conserving native prey
Authors: Price Catherine J. , Banks Peter B. , Brown Samantha , Latham M. Cecilia , Latham A. David M. , Pech Roger P. , Norbury Grant L.
Published: June 2020

Invasive mammalian predators can cause the decline and extinction of vulnerable native species. Many invasive mammalian predators are dietary generalists that hunt a variety of prey. These predators often rely upon olfaction when foraging, particularly at night. Little is understood about how prey odor cues are used to inform foraging decisions. Prey cues can vary spatially and temporally in their association with prey and can either reveal the location of prey or lead to unsuccessful foraging. Here we examine how two wild‐caught invasive mammalian bird predator species (European hedgehogs Erinaceus europaeus and ferrets Mustela putorius furo) respond to unrewarded bird odors over successive exposures, first demonstrating that the odors are perceptually different using house mice (Mus musculus) as a biological olfactometer. We aim to test if introduced predators categorize odor cues of similar prey together, a tactic that could increase foraging efficiency. We exposed house mice to the odors using a standard habituation/dishabituation test in a laboratory setting, and wild‐caught European hedgehogs and ferrets in an outdoor enclosure using a similar procedure. Mice discriminated among all bird odors presented, showing more interest in chicken odor than quail or gull odor. Both predator species showed a decline in interest toward unrewarded prey odor (i.e., habituation), but only ferrets generalized their response from one unrewarded bird odor to another bird odor. Hedgehog responses to unrewarded bird odors were highly variable between individuals. Taken together, our results reveal interspecific and intraspecific differences in response to prey odors, which we argue are a consequence of different diet breadth, life and evolutionary histories, and the conditions in each experiment. Generalization of prey odors may have enabled some species of invasive predators to efficiently hunt a range of intraguild prey species, for example, ground‐nesting shorebirds. Olfactory manipulation of predators may be a useful conservation tool for threatened prey if it reduces the conspicuousness of vulnerable prey.
Feeding preferences and nutritional niche of wild water buffalo (Bubalus arnee) in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Tej Kumar , Hecker Lee J. , Aryal Achyut , Coogan Sean C. P.
Published: June 2020

The nutritional characteristics of food resources play an important role in the foraging behavior of animals and can provide information valuable to their conservation and management. We examined the nutritional ecology of wild water buffalo (Bubalus arnee; hereafter “buffalo”) in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve of Nepal during autumn using a multidimensional nutritional niche framework. We identified 54 plant species as being foraged by buffalo. We found that buffalo consumed graminoids and forbs 2–3 times more frequently than browse items. Proximate analyses of the 16 most frequently foraged plants indicated that buffalo diets were highest in carbohydrate (40.41% ± 1.82%) followed by crude protein (10.52% ± 0.93%) and crude fat (1.68% ± 0.23%). The estimated macronutrient balance (i.e., realized nutrient niche) of the buffalo diet (20.5% protein: 72.8% carbohydrate: 6.7% lipid) was not significantly different than the average balance of all analyzed food items based on 95% confidence regions. Our study suggests that buffalo are likely macronutrient specialists, yet may be generalists in the sense that they feed on a wide range of food items to achieve a nutrient balance similar to that available in forage items. However, the four most frequently consumed items tended to be higher in protein energy than less frequently consumed foods, suggesting some preference for higher protein forage relative to relatively abundant carbohydrates. Although limited in scope, our study provides important information on the nutritional ecology of buffalo, which may be useful for the conservation and management of this endangered species.
Advancing biodiversity assessments with environmental DNA: Long‐read technologies help reveal the drivers of Amazonian fungal diversity
Authors: Ritter Camila D. , Dunthorn Micah , Anslan Sten , de Lima Vitor Xavier , Tedersoo Leho , Nilsson Rolf Henrik , Antonelli Alexandre
Published: June 2020

Fungi are a key component of tropical biodiversity. However, due to their inconspicuous and largely subterranean nature, they are usually neglected in biodiversity inventories. The goal of this study was to identify the key determinants of fungal richness, community composition, and turnover in tropical rainforests. We tested specifically for the effect of soil properties, habitat, and locality in Amazonia. For these analyses, we used high‐throughput sequencing data of short and long reads of fungal DNA present in soil and organic litter samples, combining existing and novel genomic data. Habitat type (phytophysiognomy) emerges as the strongest factor explaining fungal community composition. Naturally open areas—campinas—are the richest habitat overall. Soil properties have different effects depending on the soil layer (litter or mineral soil) and the choice of genetic marker. We suggest that campinas could be a neglected hotspot of fungal diversity. An underlying cause for their rich diversity may be the overall low soil fertility, which increases the reliance on biotic interactions essential for nutrient absorption in these environments, notably ectomycorrhizal fungi–plant associations. Our results highlight the advantages of using both short and long DNA reads produced through high‐throughput sequencing to characterize fungal diversity. While short reads can suffice for diversity and community comparison, long reads add taxonomic precision and have the potential to reveal population diversity.
One‐Pot Intercalation Strategy for the Encapsulation of a CO‐Releasing Organometallic Molecule in a Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Calhau Isabel B. , Gomes Ana C. , Bruno Sofia M. , Coelho Ana C. , Magalhães Clara I. R. , Romão Carlos C. , Valente Anabela A. , Gonçalves Isabel S. , Pillinger Martyn
Published: June 2020

The photoactivatable CO‐releasing molecule (photoCORM) [Mo(CO)3(CNCH2COOH)3] (ALF795) has been incorporated into a Zn,Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) host by a coprecipitation synthesis strategy. Powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) of the resultant material Zn,Al‐ALF795 showed that the ALF795 guest molecules assembled into a monolayer to give a basal spacing of 16.0 Å. FTIR and 13C{1H} CP MAS NMR spectroscopy confirmed that the molecular structure of the tricarbonyl complex was retained upon intercalation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and elemental analyses confirmed the phase‐purity of Zn,Al‐ALF795. The myoglobin assay was used to demonstrate that intercalated ALF795 retains the photoactive behavior of the free CORM, with a substantial fraction (42 %) of the high CO payload (2.46 mmol g–1) being released after exposure to UV light for 3 h under simulated physiological conditions. In addition, gas chromatography was used to track sequential light‐ and H2O2‐triggered decarbonylation of free and intercalated ALF795. In biological buffer solution (HEPES), less than 2 % Mo leaching from Zn,Al‐ALF795 took place after 5 h, showing the strong capacity of the LDH host to retain the unaltered complex and decarbonylation fragments.
Oxygen Transfer from Trimethylamine N‐Oxide to CuI Complexes Supported by Pentanitrogen Ligands
Authors: Ramírez Erick , Hossain Md. Kamal , Flores‐Alamo Marcos , Haukka Matti , Nordlander Ebbe , Castillo Ivan
Published: June 2020

[N,N‐bis(1‐methyl‐2‐benzimidazolyl)methyl‐N‐(bis‐2‐pyridylmethyl)amine] (L1) and [N,N‐bis(2‐quinolylmethyl)‐N‐bis(2‐pyridyl)methylamine] (L2) were employed to prepare CuII and CuI complexes for spectroscopic and structural characterization. [L1CuII(H2O)](NO3)2 and [L2CuII(NO3)]NO3 have Jahn–Teller distorted octahedral geometries and give rise to isotropic EPR spectra in frozen solution. [L1CuI(CH3CN)]OTf and [L2CuI(CH3CN)]OTf have distorted trigonal bipyramidal and tetrahedral solid‐state structures, respectively. The N‐donors display labile behavior in solution, based on variable‐temperature 1H NMR studies. Addition of trimethylamine N‐oxide (Me3NO) to solutions of [L1CuI(CH3CN)]OTf and [L2CuI(CH3CN)]OTf resulted in diamagnetic species tentatively assigned as the corresponding adducts upon replacement of coordinated acetonitrile, based on 1H NMR spectroscopy. Heating [L1CuI(CH3CN)]OTf to 50–60 °C in the presence of Me3NO resulted in its cupric analogue [L1CuII(CH3CN)]2+, as well as a small amount of 2‐dipyridylketone, along with other oxidation by‐products. In the case of [L2CuI(CH3CN)]OTf, the reaction with Me3NO resulted in the cupric complex bis(2‐quinolinecarboxamidato)copper(II), along with 2‐dipyridylketone as oxidation products.
Synthesis and Glycosylation Properties of C6‐Silylated Ido‐ and Gluco‐Pyranosyl Donors
Authors: Álvarez‐Martínez Ignacio , Pedersen Christian Marcus
Published: June 2020

Silyl groups are widely used as alcohol protecting groups and their study has provided insight on some very remarkable structure and reactivity features within carbohydrate chemistry. However, not much work has been put into the effect on the reactivity of silyl groups directly attached to the sugar carbon chain. In this work, we have developed a synthetic methodology to obtain both d‐glucosyl and l‐idosyl donors containing a dimethylphenylsilyl group directly attached to C6. Glycosylation and competition experiments with different glycosyl acceptors have shown that this group is completely stable under glycosylation conditions and enhances reactivity beyond what a benzyl group attached to the sugar oxygen would do. Finally, we found adequate conditions for the protodesilylation of Si‐containing glycosides to yield the 6‐deoxy sugar analog.
Being tolerated and being discriminated against: Links to psychological well‐being through threatened social identity needs
Authors: Bagci Sabahat Cigdem , Verkuyten Maykel , Koc Yasin , Turnuklu Abbas , Piyale Zeynep Ecem , Bekmezci Eyup
Published: June 2020

We investigated whether and how the experience of being tolerated and of being discriminated against are associated with psychological well‐being in three correlational studies among three stigmatized groups in Turkey (LGBTI group members, people with disabilities, and ethnic Kurds, total N = 862). Perceived threat to social identity needs (esteem, meaning, belonging, efficacy, and continuity) was examined as a mediator in these associations. Structural equation models showed evidence for the detrimental role of both toleration and discrimination experiences on positive and negative psychological well‐being through higher levels of threatened social identity needs. A mini‐meta analysis showed small to moderate effect sizes and toleration was associated with lower positive well‐being through threatened needs among all three stigmatized groups.
Human blood PIG‐A mutation and micronucleated reticulocyte flow cytometric assays: Method optimization and evaluation of intra‐ and inter‐subject variation
Authors: Torous Dorothea K. , Avlasevich Svetlana L. , Khattab Mona G. , Baig Ayesha , Saubermann Lawrence J. , Chen Yuhchyau , Bemis Jeffrey C. , Lovell David P. , Walker Vernon E. , MacGregor James T. , Dertinger Stephen D.
Published: June 2020

We previously described flow cytometry‐based methods for scoring the incidence of micronucleated reticulocytes (MN‐RET) and PIG‐A mutant phenotype reticulocytes (MUT RET) in rodent and human blood samples. The current report describes important methodological improvements for human blood analyses, including immunomagnetic enrichment of CD71‐positive reticulocytes prior to MN‐RET scoring, and procedures for storing frozen blood for later PIG‐A analysis. Technical replicate variability in MN‐RET and MUT RET frequencies based on blood specimens from 14 subjects, intra‐subject variability based on serial blood draws from 6 subjects, and inter‐subject variation based on up to 344 subjects age 0 to 73 years were quantified. Inter‐subject variation explained most of the variability observed for both endpoints (≥77%), with much lower intra‐subject and technical replicate variability. The relatively large degree of inter‐subject variation is apparent from mean and standard deviation values for MN‐RET (0.15 ± 0.10%) and MUT RET (4.7 ± 5.0 per million, after omission of two extreme outliers). The influences of age and sex on inter‐subject variation were investigated, and neither factor affected MN‐RET whereas both influenced MUT RET frequency. The lowest MUT RET values were observed for subjects <11 years old, and males had moderately higher frequencies than females. These results indicate that MN‐RET and MUT RET are automation‐compatible biomarkers of genotoxicity that bridge species of toxicological interest to include human populations. These data will be useful for appropriately designing future human studies that include these biomarkers of genotoxicity, and highlight the need for additional work aimed at identifying the sources of inter‐individual variability reported herein.
A joint Bayesian space–time model to integrate spatially misaligned air pollution data in R‐INLA
Authors: Forlani C. , Bhatt S. , Cameletti M. , Krainski E. , Blangiardo M.
Published: June 2020

In air pollution studies, dispersion models provide estimates of concentration at grid level covering the entire spatial domain and are then calibrated against measurements from monitoring stations. However, these different data sources are misaligned in space and time. If misalignment is not considered, it can bias the predictions. We aim at demonstrating how the combination of multiple data sources, such as dispersion model outputs, ground observations, and covariates, leads to more accurate predictions of air pollution at grid level. We consider nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentration in Greater London and surroundings for the years 2007–2011 and combine two different dispersion models. Different sets of spatial and temporal effects are included in order to obtain the best predictive capability. Our proposed model is framed in between calibration and Bayesian melding techniques for data fusion. Unlike other examples, we jointly model the response (concentration level at monitoring stations) and the dispersion model outputs on different scales, accounting for the different sources of uncertainty. Our spatiotemporal model allows us to reconstruct the latent fields of each model component, and to predict daily pollution concentrations. We compare the predictive capability of our proposed model with other established methods to account for misalignment (e.g., bilinear interpolation), showing that in our case study the joint model is a better alternative.
Evaluation of the room smoke filling time for fire plumes: Influence of the room geometry
Authors: Haouari‐Harrak S. , Mehaddi R. , Boulet P. , Koutaiba E.M.
Published: June 2020

The article examines numerically and theoretically the effects of room aspect ratio on the fire smoke filling process. It aims to evaluate the two‐zone models used in fire safety engineering to predict the smoke filling times. Using Fire Dynamics Simulator, numerical simulations are performed and compared to a simplified zone model. The results show that the two‐zone model overestimates the smoke filling time in the case of a compartment with a large surface area. To improve the predictions of two‐zone models, simple correlations are established for the duration of the phenomena occurring before the formation of a two‐layer stratification in a fire compartment. These new correlations allow the zone model to be significantly improved.
European approach to assess the fire performance of façades
Authors: Anderson Johan , Boström Lars , Chiva Roman , Guillaume Eric , Colwell Sarah , Hofmann Anja , Tóth Péter
Published: June 2020

Several attempts have been made in the past to develop a European harmonized testing and assessment method for façades before the European commission decided to publish a call for tender on the topic. A project consortium from five countries (Sweden, UK, France, Germany and Hungary) applied to the call for tender and was contracted to develop a European approach to assess the fire performance of façades. 24 sub‐contractors and 14 stakeholder entities were part of the project. The objective of the European project was to address a request from the Standing Committee of Construction (SCC) to provide EC Member States regulators with a means to regulate the fire performance of façade systems based on a European approach agreed by SCC. The initial stages of this project were focused on establishing a register of the regulatory requirements in all Member States in relation to the fire performance of façade systems, and to identify those Member States who have regulatory requirements for the fire performance façade systems which go beyond the current EN 13501 (reaction to fire and fire resistance) classification systems and to collate the details of these additional requirements. After having confirmed the regulatory needs a testing and classification methodology based on BS 8414 and DIN 4102‐20 was developed to address the identified key performance and classification characteristics. This paper is a short overview of results the two‐year development work, which Final Report published by the European Commission in 2018.
The associations of the BDNF and APOE polymorphisms, hippocampal subfield volumes, and episodic memory performance across the lifespan
Authors: Malykhin Nikolai V. , Travis Scott , Fujiwara Esther , Huang Yushan , Camicioli Richard , Olsen Fraser
Published: June 2020

In this study, we explored the associations between the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the apolipoprotein E (APOE) polymorphisms and hippocampal subfields in 127 healthy participants (18–85 years). MRI datasets were collected on a 4.7 T system. Participants were administered the Wechsler Memory Scale to evaluate episodic memory function. Significant associations of both polymorphisms were present only in older adults (≥50 years). BDNF polymorphism was associated with larger dentate gyrus volumes within the anterior hippocampus (head) in Met‐carriers compared to Val/Val homozygotes. We found that in Met‐carriers total hippocampal volume predicted performance on visuospatial memory tasks. APOE polymorphism was associated with larger total hippocampal volume, especially in cornu ammonis 1–3 and subiculum in APOE ɛ2 carriers compared to both ɛ4 and ɛ3 carriers, while APOE ɛ3 and ɛ4 carriers did not differ from each other. APOE polymorphism was associated with better performance on visuospatial memory tasks in APOE ε2 carriers in comparison to ε4 carriers.