bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic production of xylooligosaccharides from Brazilian Syrah grape pomace flour: a green alternative to conventional methods for adding value to agricultural by‐ products
Authors: Costa Joana R , Tonon Renata V , Gottschalk Leda MF , Santiago Manuela CP de A , Mellinger‐Silva Caroline , Pastrana Lorenzo , Pintado Maria M , Cabral Lourdes MC
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

The aim of this work was to determine the most favorable conditions for the production of xylooligosaccharides (XOS) from Brazilian Syrah grape pomace. Chemical processes were performed using a rotatable central composite design where the concentration of sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide and the grape pomace flour/solvent mass ratio were the dependent variables. Enzymatic production was also evaluated using xylanase produced by Aspergillus niger 3T5B8 and Viscozyme® enzymatic commercial cocktail.

RESULTS

Chemical extraction allowed to recover 21.8–74.6% and 5.2–96.3% of total XOS for acidic and alkaline processes respectively. Enzymatic production extracted up to 88.68 ± 0.12% of total XOS using xylanase and up to 84.09 ± 2.40% with Viscozyme®.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated different feasible methods to produce high‐added‐value molecules, i.e. XOS, from Syrah grape pomace flour, valorizing this major by‐product. The use of enzymatic cocktails demonstrated to be an alternative to the conventional methods, allowing to obtain an eco‐friendly and sustainable grape pomace extract. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Underutilized biogeochemical tracers distinguish invertebrate populations in a complex river system
Authors: Munroe Samantha , Fry Brian , Olley Jon
Published: August 2018

Concentrations of major and trace elements in freshwater fauna are often a reflection of local sediment chemistry. Biogeochemical profiles of freshwater species can be used to provide accurate and affordable assessments of species distribution, movement, and connectivity within river systems. Incorporating additional elements could significantly increase the precision and accuracy of population discrimination and movement analyses. To increase the variety of elements in biogeochemical tracing studies, we compared the concentrations of 38 major, trace, and rare earth elements (REEs) in bulk sediment (< 10 μm) and atyid shrimp from three rivers in South East Queensland, Australia. We determined which elements were correlated between sediment and shrimp samples and if these elements could distinguish different sample populations. This process identified elements that can directly associate shrimp with local sediment geochemical profiles. We found potassium (K), aluminum (Al), yttrium (Y), and the REEs cerium (Ce), lanthanum (La), and samarium (Sm) were spatially correlated between shrimp and sediment samples. Concentration ratios indicated K may be a relatively conservative tracer. Aluminum, REEs, and Y may undergo characteristic fractionation between sediment and shrimp tissue. Multivariate analysis indicated these elements could distinguish shrimp populations between sample sites. Results suggest that this small number of elements can link shrimp with specific rivers in accordance with local geochemistry, and thus may be valuable tracers with which to distinguish freshwater populations. As we measured bulk sediment concentrations, sampling these tracers is a relatively simplistic process that could be applied in a range of field conditions.
Quantum Sensing of Motion in Colloids via Time‐Dependent Purcell Effect
Authors: Kadochkin Alexey S. , Shishkin Ivan I. , Shalin Alexander S. , Ginzburg Pavel
Published: August 2018

Light–matter interaction dynamics is governed by the strength of local coupling constants, tailored by surrounding electromagnetic structures. Characteristic decay times in dipole‐allowed fluorescent transitions are much faster than mechanical conformational changes within an environment and, as a result, the latter can be assumed static during the emission process. However, slow‐decaying compounds can break this commonly accepted approximation and introduce new interaction regimes. Here, slow‐decaying phosphorescent compounds are proposed to perform quantum sensing of the nearby structure's motion via observation of collective velocity‐dependent lifetime distributions. In particular, characteristic decay of an excited dye molecule, being comparable with its passage time next to a resonant particle, is modified via time‐dependent Purcell enhancement, which leaves distinct signatures on properties of emitted light. Velocity mapping of uniformly moving particles within a fluid solution of phosphorescent dyes is demonstrated via the analysis of modified lifetime distributions. The proposed interaction regime enables performing studies of a wide range of phenomena, where time‐dependent light–matter interaction constants can be utilized for extraction of additional information about a process.
Surface‐Enhanced Dual‐Comb Coherent Raman Spectroscopy with Nanoporous Gold Films
Authors: Yan Ming , Zhang Ling , Hao Qiang , Shen Xuling , Qian Xiaowei , Chen Haihong , Ren Xinyi , Zeng Heping
Published: August 2018

With two asynchronous frequency combs beating on a single detector, dual‐comb spectroscopy (DCS) enables rapid, broadband, and precise molecular fingerprinting on a comb tooth‐by‐tooth basis and thus holds much promise in molecular sensing. Sensitivity, however, has been an Achilles’ heel of this technique. Here, an approach for ultrasensitive nonlinear DCS based on plasmon‐enhanced coherent Raman spectroscopy (CRS) with ultrathin (100 nm) nanoporous gold films is presented. A high‐resolution (<8 cm−1) Raman spectrum is obtained within 32.8 µs for characterizing low‐density chemicals. The achieved sensitivity enhancement reaches ≈106–8 relative to nonenhanced dual‐comb CRS of liquid samples. The demonstrated approach may open up a new avenue for fast identification of trace amounts of chemicals.
A Degradable and Antimicrobial Surface‐Attached Polymer Hydrogel
Authors: Erath Roman , Lienkamp Karen
Published: August 2018

Surface‐attached, degradable polymer hydrogels with potential antimicrobial activity are reported. They are obtained by ring‐opening metathesis copolymerization (ROMP) of a monomer with potential bioactivity and a monomer that carries a benzophenone cross‐linker and a hydrolyzable group. The hydrolyzable group is either an ester or an anhydride group. The copolymers thus obtained are spin‐coated onto silicon wafers and UV‐irradiated to induce C,H cross‐linking of the benzophenone groups and obtain the target polymer networks. Immersion of these networks into aqueous media triggers network degradation. The degradation speed depends on the nature of the intended break points (ester or anhydride groups), the number of cross‐links per polymer chain, and the surrounding medium. By releasing bioactive polymer fragments to the medium (“leaching”) and by regenerating the hydrogel surface during the degradation process, the hydrogels potentially have two ways to prevent biofilm formation on their surface.
Aggregation of group priorities in analytic hierarchy process—When to aggregate and when not to
Authors: Basak Indrani
Published: August 2018

Decision on priorities of alternatives can be made on the basis of judgments from a group of individuals in Analytic Hierarchy Process. Often these groups are of different existing backgrounds (social, geographical, or gender), and it is of interest to see whether these different existing backgrounds create any difference in their prioritization of the alternatives in the decision problem. In this article, we develop a methodology to measure the level of agreement among groups from different existing backgrounds regarding their priorities on a fixed set of alternatives. When these group judgments from different existing backgrounds have significant agreement among them, a common vector of priority weights of the alternatives can be obtained. Otherwise, separate vectors of priority weights should be obtained for groups from different existing backgrounds. A numerical example with the implementation of methodologies proposed in the article is discussed.
Telemedicine to innovate amyotrophic lateral sclerosis multidisciplinary care: The time has come
Authors: Paganoni Sabrina , Simmons Zachary
Published: August 2018

See article on pages 34–39 in this issue.
What is the exact working mechanism of botulinum toxin A and sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of overactive bladder/detrusor overactivity? ICI‐RS 2017
Authors: Malde Sachin , Fry Christopher , Schurch Brigitte , Marcelissen Tom , Averbeck Marcio , Digesu Alex , Sahai Arun
Published: August 2018

Aims

Botulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) and sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) are established treatments for overactive bladder (OAB) and are standard of care in refractory cases in international guidelines. Despite long term use over decades their “exact” working mechanisms are not entirely clear. At the ICI‐RS meeting in Bristol in 2017 a think tank was convened to address the question.

Methods

The think tank conducted a literature review and an expert consensus meeting focusing on current mechanisms and what could be learned from clinical experience and objective urodynamic data.

Results

BTX‐A results suggests effects on both filling and voiding parts of the micturition cycle. The salient data in this regard is presented as well as additional studies related to the urothelium and evidence for central effects. Urodynamics have consistently shown increases in bladder capacity, compliance, and reductions in detrusor pressures during filling, however post void residuals also increase in a dose‐dependent fashion. During SNS activation of somatic afferents inhibits bladder sensory pathways and reflex bladder hyperactivity. Evidence in cats suggest the inhibition of bladder activity occurs primarily in the CNS by inhibition of the ascending or descending pathways of the spinobulbospinal micturition reflex. Urodynamics have suggested improvement in bladder capacity and reduction in detrusor pressures during filling with little observed effects on voiding parameters.

Conclusions

The working mechanism of BTX‐A and SNS is complex. The exact mechanisms are still unknown, although considerable progress has been made in our understanding. Further research proposals are suggested to help further elucidate these mechanisms.
Current controversies in urinary tract infections: ICI‐RS 2017
Authors: Averbeck Marcio A. , Rantell Angela , Ford Abigail , Kirschner‐Hermanns Ruth , Khullar Vik , Wagg Adrian , Cardozo Linda
Published: August 2018

Aims

The current definition of urinary tract infection (UTI) relies on laboratory and clinical findings, which may or may not be relevant, depending upon the patient group under consideration. This report considers the utility of current definitions for UTI in adults with and without underlying neurological conditions in order to identify gaps in current understanding and to recommend directions for research.

Methods

This is a consensus report of the proceedings of Think Tank TT3: “How do we define and when do we treat UTI in neurological and non‐neurological adult patients?” from the annual International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society (ICI‐RS), June 8‐10, 2017 (Bristol, UK).

Results

Evidence considering the definitions of UTI in patients with and without neurological diseases was reviewed and synthesized. We examined research on laboratory methods and clinical definitions, focusing on specific cut‐off values for the quantification of significant bacteriuria, and leucocyturia. Several areas were identified, mostly related to the lack of evidence‐based definitions of significant bacteriuria for different patient groups, as well as uncertainties about the role of inflammatory biomarkers, and non‐specific symptoms and signs.

Conclusions

One of the biggest challenges in clinical practice is to discriminate between asymptomatic bacteriuria and symptomatic UTI. Future research should concentrate on risk factors for developing symptomatic UTI in different patient groups. Targeted investigations for specific populations, such as the frail elderly, and patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction, are still needed.
Do the definitions of the underactive bladder and detrusor underactivity help in managing patients: International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI‐RS) Think Tank 2017?
Authors: Tarcan Tufan , Rademakers Kevin , Arlandis Salvador , von Gontard Alexander , van Koeveringe Gommert A. , Abrams Paul
Published: August 2018

Aims

The Think Tank aimed to discuss the pitfalls and advantages of current definitions in terms of research and management of underactive bladder (UAB). UAB broadly defines a symptom complex of bladder emptying problems and does not indicate a specific pathology. Detrusor underactivity (DU) is a urodynamic diagnosis from pressure‐flow studies. The correlation of UAB with DU remains to be precisely determined.

Methods

The presentations and subsequent discussion, leading to research recommendations during the Think Tank of the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society in Bristol, 2017, are summarized.

Results

To develop more specific individualized management strategies, the Think Tank panel proposed (i) that, since defining a single type of index patient to represent all UAB will not fulfill all clinical research needs, several index patients should be defined by phenotyping of patients with UAB, including, children, young men and women, elderly male and female patients with co‐existing DU and detrusor overactivity, and neurological patients with UAB; (ii) prospective longitudinal studies to assess the natural history of UAB, in the different target populations, based on different UAB phenotypes, should be initiated; (iii) DU should be precisely defined by urodynamic parameters; and (iv) work to develop validated specific questionnaires combined with non‐invasive tests for screening, diagnosis and follow up, needs to be continued.

Conclusions

The precise relationship of UAB to DU remains to be defined. Phenotyping patients with UAB/DU, performing prospective trials of natural history, and developing symptom questionnaires and diagnostic investigations will improve our ability to identify and treat UAB/DU.
Is the microbiome influencing patient care in lower urinary tract dysfunction? Report from the ICI‐RS 2017
Authors: Ford Abigail A. , Veit‐Rubin Nikolaus , Cardozo Linda , Khullar Vik
Published: August 2018

Aims

This report sets out to consider the role of the microbiome within the bladder to provide clinicians with knowledge on this specific area of research and recommend potential topics for further studies.

Methods

This is a report from the Plenary 6: Is the microbiome influencing patient care in lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD)?

Results

There appear to be complex associations between microbial presence in the bladder and lower urinary tract symptoms. There appears to be a greater role of bacteria in the development of overactive bladder symptoms than previously thought with bacteria such as Gardnerella highlighted to be more prevalent in women with urgency urinary incontinence. Some species of Lactobacillus have also been found to play a protective role in both overactive bladder syndrome and bladder pain syndrome.

Conclusions

The bladder is a reservoir for bacterial colonization and what was previously thought to be a sterile environment now seems to be a complex interaction of both multiple protective and pathogenic bacterial species than can give rise to lower urinary tract symptoms. While most clinicians use antibacterial agents as part of treatment regimens, and evidence does suggest a role of antibacterial therapies in treatment of LUTS, this remains a far from an ideal solution.
Fibrosis and the bladder, implications for function ICI‐RS 2017
Authors: Fry Christopher H. , Kitney Darry G. , Paniker Jalesh , Drake Marcus J. , Kanai Anthony , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: August 2018

Aims

Most benign bladder pathologies are associated with an increase of extracellular matrix (ECM—fibrosis) and may progress from formation of stiffer matrix to a more compliant structure. The aims were to summarize current knowledge of the origins of bladder fibrosis and consequences in bladder function.

Methods

A meeting at the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society 2017 congress discussed the above aims and considered paradigms to reduce the extent of fibrosis. Discussants based their arguments on the basis of their own expertise, supplemented by review of the literature through PubMed. Proposals for future work were derived from the discussion.

Results

Altered urodynamic compliance when ECM deposition is increased is mirrored by changes in the elastic modulus of isolated tissue, whether compliance is decreased or increased. No changes to compliance or fibrosis have been reported after botulinum toxin injections. Several paracrine and autocrine agents increase ECM deposition, the role of TGF‐β was particularly emphasized. None of these agents has a net long‐term effect on detrusor contractility and the reduction of contractile performance with increased ECM is due solely to a loss of detrusor mass. Several strategies to reduce fibrosis were described, ranging from potential therapeutic roles for vitamin‐D or endostatin, manipulation of intracellular pathways that mediate myofibroblast differentiation and the potential role of the anti‐fibrotic hormone relaxin. An understanding of epigenetic regulation of ECM deposition was also considered.

Conclusions

The conclusion that reduced bladder contractile function with increased fibrosis is due largely to the replacement of detrusor with ECM offers a way forward for future research to consider approaches that will restore bladder function by reducing ECM deposition.
Synthesis and characterization of poly (1,6‐hexamethylene oxamide‐co‐m‐xylene oxamide) copolymers
Authors: Yang Tingting , Mutua Fredrick Nzioka , Gao Yuanbo , Li Shuxiu , Dong Hao , Zhu Bo , He Yong
Published: August 2018

To modify the properties of poly (hexamethylene oxamide) (PA62), m‐xylylene diamine (MXD) was introduced into the polyamide main chain. A series of high molecular weight PA62/MXD2 were synthesized via a two‐step method. The chemical structure of polymer was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and the results confirmed the formation of PA62/MXD2. DSC test showed that the Tm of the copolymers were decreased as the molar contents of MXD in the range of 10 to 50 mol %. TGA analysis revealed that the thermal stability of the copolymers compared well with commercial PA6. Wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction studies suggested the copolymers with MXD content of 0 to 10 mol % possessed high crystallinity. The water uptake measurements were monitored, and the saturated water absorptions were found to be lower than 2.5 wt %. These properties gave them a competitive edge for application where precise dimensional stability and high thermal resistance properties are required.
Sarcolemmal loss of active nNOS (Nos1) is an oxidative stress‐dependent, early event driving disuse atrophy
Authors: Lechado i Terradas Anna , Vitadello Maurizio , Traini Leonardo , Namuduri Arvind Venkat , Gastaldello Stefano , Gorza Luisa
Published: August 2018

Skeletal muscle atrophy following unloading or immobilization represents a major invalidating event in bedridden patients. Among mechanisms involved in atrophy development, a controversial role is played by neuronal NOS (nNOS; NOS1), whose dysregulation at the protein level and/or subcellular distribution also characterizes other neuromuscular disorders. This study aimed to investigate unloading‐induced changes in nNOS before any evidence of myofiber atrophy, using vastus lateralis biopsies obtained from young healthy subjects after a short bed‐rest and rat soleus muscles after exposure to short unloading periods. Our results showed that (1) changes in nNOS subcellular distribution using NADPH‐diaphorase histochemistry to detect enzyme activity were observed earlier than using immunofluorescence to visualize the protein; (2) loss of active nNOS from the physiological subsarcolemmal localization occurred before myofiber atrophy, i.e. in 8‐day bed‐rest biopsies and in 6 h‐unloaded rat soleus, and was accompanied by increased nNOS activity in the sarcoplasm; (3) nNOS (Nos1) transcript and protein levels decreased significantly in the rat soleus after 6 h and 1 day unloading, respectively, to return to ambulatory levels after 4 and 7 days of unloading, respectively; (4) unloading‐induced nNOS redistribution appeared dependent on mitochondrial‐derived oxidant species, indirectly measured by tropomyosin disulfide bonds which had increased significantly in the rat soleus already after a 6 h‐unloading bout; (5) activity of displaced nNOS molecules is required for translocation of the FoxO3 transcription factor to myofiber nuclei. FoxO3 nuclear localization in rat soleus increased after 6 h unloading (about four‐fold the ambulatory level), whereas it did not when nNOS expression and activity were inhibited in vivo before and during 6 h unloading. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the redistribution of active nNOS molecules from sarcolemma to sarcoplasm not only is ahead of the atrophy of unloaded myofibers, and is induced by increased production of mitochondrial superoxide anion, but also drives FoxO3 activation to initiate muscle atrophy. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Depolymerization of inulin in the highly reactive gas phase of a non thermal plasma at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Nastase Raluca , Tatibouët Jean‐Michel , Fourré Elodie
Published: August 2018

The interest of fructose production arises from its sweetening character used in application such as food and pharmaceutic industries. Fructose formation is achieved by the short treatment of inulin by non thermal plasma at atmospheric pressure, under air, using a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) configuration. Promising results were observed as a total conversion of inulin was achieved within 10 min of treatment (18 kV, 2 kHz), without the addition of solvent, nor catalyst and at room temperature. Additionally to fructose (32%), fructooligosaccharides of higher degrees of polymerization were produced. The mechanism underlying the depolymerization process appears to start with the oxidation of inulin followed by the cleavage of the β‐glycosidic bond and eventually ring opening of the monomer.
Stacked traits conferring multiple resistance to imazamox and glufosinate in soft wheat
Authors: Domínguez‐Mendez Rafael , Alcántara‐de la Cruz Ricardo , Rojano‐Delgado Antonia M , da Silveira Hellen Martins , Portugal João , Cruz‐Hipolito Hugo Enrique , De Prado Rafael
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Conventional crossing of soft wheat cultivars resistant to imazamox and glufosinate resulted in two (Rados and Helter) lines resistant to both herbicides. Stacked traits conferring this dual herbicide resistance in these lines, compared with a susceptible (S) cultivar, were characterized.

RESULTS

Rados and Helter lines were ∼ 18‐fold more resistant (R) to glufosinate, and between 15.1 and 19.8‐fold more resistant to imazamox than the S cultivar. Resistance to glufosinate and imazamox decreased up to 12% and 50%, respectively, when the herbicides were applied sequentially. The basal activities of the acetolactate and glutamine synthases were similar between R and S plants. Rados and Helter lines were 11.7‐ and 17.7‐fold more resistant to imazamox than the S cultivar, due to the Ser653–Asn mutation in their imi‐ALS genes. R lines, susceptible to glufosinate at the target site level, showed lower ammonia accumulation evidencing the activity of the phosphinothricin acetyl transferase. Absorption and translocation patterns for 14C‐imazamox and 14C‐glufosinate were similar between R and S cultivars and so do not contribute to resistance.

CONCLUSION

Stacked traits conferring dual herbicide resistance to the lines Rados and Helter come from the resistant parents. These R lines are potential tools for weed management in wheat production, mainly via herbicide rotation. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Propensity score matched augmented controls in randomized clinical trials: A case study
Authors: Lin Junjing , Gamalo‐Siebers Margaret , Tiwari Ram
Published: August 2018

Existing statutes in the United States and Europe require manufacturers to demonstrate evidence of effectiveness through the conduct of adequate and well‐controlled studies to obtain marketing approval of a therapeutic product. What constitutes adequate and well‐controlled studies is usually interpreted as randomized controlled trials (RCTs). However, these trials are sometimes unfeasible because of their size, duration, cost, patient preference, or in some cases, ethical concerns. For example, RCTs may not be fully powered in rare diseases or in infections caused by multidrug resistant pathogens because of the low number of enrollable patients. In this case, data available from external controls (including historical controls and observational studies or data registries) can complement information provided by RCT. Propensity score matching methods can be used to select or “borrow” additional patients from the external controls, for maintaining a one‐to‐one randomization between the treatment arm and active control, by matching the new treatment and control units based on a set of measured covariates, ie, model‐based pairing of treatment and control units that are similar in terms of their observable pretreatment characteristics. To this end, 2 matching schemes based on propensity scores are explored and applied to a real clinical data example with the objective of using historical or external observations to augment data in a trial where the randomization is disproportionate or asymmetric.
Electronic and optical properties of α‐MoO3/TiO2 heterostructures: A DFT study
Authors: Meng Qiangqiang , Fan Lele , Zhu Lei , Xu Ning , Zhang Qinfang
Published: August 2018

The coupling of metal oxide semiconductors has become an effective method to improve the separation of photon‐generated carriers and light absorption efficiency. In this study, we explored electronic and optical properties of monolayer and bilayer α‐MoO3 on TiO2 (001) surface. It is observed that α‐MoO3/TiO2 heterostructures can form a stable Mo‐O‐Ti bonding mode at the interface. Electrons transfer from TiO2 (001) surface to the α‐MoO3, leading to the enhancement of the valence band and the optical absorption spectrum in visible light region. In addition, this proper charge transfer generates a built‐in electric field between the interface regions of bilayer α‐MoO3/TiO2 heterostructure and forms a favorable type‐II band alignment between the two α‐MoO3 layers. The α‐MoO3/TiO2 heterostructure can prevent the recombination of the electron‐hole pairs; thus, excite electrons can easily move from TiO2 to the inner layer, and then to the outer layer of α‐MoO3. These results demonstrate that the bilayer α‐MoO3/TiO2 heterostructure, especially the outer layer α‐MoO3, has efficient photoelectric performance.
A simple alternative to the pseudo‐π method
Authors: Szczepanik Dariusz W.
Published: August 2018

In this work, we introduce an approximate method for the multicenter index calculation that is very simple in implementation and has the same computational cost as the pseudo‐π approach. In contrast to the latter, however, the newly proposed method does not require additional single‐point calculations and is capable of quantifying multicenter electron sharing in aromatic rings containing heteroatoms and transition metals.
Effect of nitrogen doping on the photocatalytic activity and hydrophobic property of rutile TiO2 nanorods array
Authors: Kongsong Peerawas , Taleb Abdelhafed , Masae Mahamasuhaimi , Jeenarong Ausmee , Hansud Pariyaphan , Khumruean Sakorn
Published: August 2018

Pure titanium dioxide (TiO2) and nitrogen (N)–doped TiO2 nanorods array were prepared using polished Ti substrates and hydrothermal synthesis method. Prepared nanorods films were characterized by different techniques including X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), field‐emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and XPS. The photocatalytic activities of both prepared films were evaluated by their capacity to degrade methylene blue (MB) in solution, and an attempt to associate it with their surface wetting properties is achieved. The XRD results showed that the prepared TiO2 is of rutile phase. Furthermore, the 3%N‐doped TiO2 nanorods films show similar high crystallinity and photocatalytic activity compared with prepared films of TiO2 rutile phase. Additionally, their surface wetting properties were studied and showed hydrophobic behavior with contact angle higher than 120°. The hydrophobicity of 3%N‐doped TiO2 nanorod films is shown to be enhanced because of TiO2 nanorods diameter decreasing. Additionally, the results clearly show that the prepared 3%N‐doped TiO2 nanorods films exhibit both higher hydrophobicity and the best photocatalytic activity toward the degradation of MB under visible light irradiation.
Winning us with trifles: Adverse selection in the use of philanthropy as insurance
Authors: Luo Jiao , Kaul Aseem , Seo Haram
Published: August 2018

Research Summary: We study the use of corporate philanthropy as a form of reputation insurance, developing a formal model of such insurance to examine how the terms of insurance in equilibrium change under different assumptions about the firm and its stakeholders. We then test the predictions from this model in the U.S. petroleum industry and find that philanthropic donations offer insurance‐like benefits, but are also positively associated with subsequent oil spills—firms that give more, spill more—with this association being stronger for spills that are under firms’ control and in states with low civic capacity. These results are consistent with an adverse selection/moral hazard equilibrium and suggest that the use of philanthropy as reputation insurance may benefit firms at the cost of society.

Managerial Summary: Firms that donate to social causes develop a reputation for being socially responsible, and are often given the benefit of doubt when negative information about them comes to light. But are philanthropic firms truly more responsible? We argue that firms that donate more may be more likely to do harm—those that expect to do harm later are likely to give more now, and those that know their reputation protects them may become less careful. Evidence from the U.S. petroleum industry is consistent with this argument, with firms that give more having more subsequent oil spills, but only the type of spills that are under the firm's control, and only in states where the firm faces weaker scrutiny.
Twisting Ultrathin Au Nanowires into Double Helices
Authors: Lu Yan , Yang Shenghao , Xu Jun , Liu Zhenzhong , Wang Hong , Lin Ming , Wang Yawen , Chen Hongyu
Published: August 2018

Previously, double helix nanowire was reported by coating Pd/Pt/Au onto Au‐Ag alloy nanowire. Here, straight oleylamine‐stabilized ultrathin Au nanowires with single crystalline fcc lattice are surprisingly converted into double helix helices upon reacting with Ag in tetrahydrofuran (THF). The obtained Au‐Ag helical nanowires contain lattice distinctively different from the fcc lattice and are different in many aspects with the previous system. The discovery may expand the scope of nanoscale double helix formation and the understanding of lattice transformation among ultrafine nanostructures.
Low Threshold Fabry–Pérot Mode Lasing from Lead Iodide Trapezoidal Nanoplatelets
Authors: Zhong Yangguang , Wei Qi , Liu Zhen , Shang Qiuyu , Zhao Liyun , Shao Ruiwen , Zhang Zhepeng , Chen Jie , Du Wenna , Shen Chao , Zhang Jun , Zhang Yanfeng , Gao Peng , Xing Guichuan , Liu Xinfeng , Zhang Qing
Published: August 2018

Lead Iodide (PbI2) is a layered semiconductor with direct band gap holding great promises in green light emission and detection devices. Recently, PbI2 planar lasers are demonstrated using hexagonal whispering‐gallery‐mode microcavities, but the lasing threshold is quite high. In this work, lasing from vapor phase deposition derived PbI2 trapezoidal nanoplatelets (NPs) with threshold that is at least an order of magnitude lower than the previous value is reported. The growth mechanism of the trapezoidal NPs is explored and attributed to the synergistic effects of van der Waals interactions and lattice mismatching. The lasing is enabled by the population inversion of n = 1 excitons and the optical feedback is provided by the Fabry–Pérot oscillation between the side facets of trapezoidal NPs. The findings not only advance the understanding of growth and photophysics mechanism of PbI2 nanostructures but also provide ideas to develop low threshold ultrathin lasers.
Intravenous Infusion of Human Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modifies the Host Response to Lipopolysaccharide in Humans: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Parallel Group, Placebo Controlled Trial
Authors: Perlee Desiree , van Vught Lonneke A. , Scicluna Brendon P. , Maag Anja , Lutter René , Kemper Elles M. , van ‘t Veer Cornelis , Punchard Marie A. , González Jesús , Richard Marie Paule , Dalemans Wilfried , Lombardo Eleuterio , de Vos Alex F. , van der Poll Tom
Published: August 2018

In experimental models, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can modulate various immune responses implicated in the pathogenesis of sepsis. Intravenous injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into healthy subjects represents a model with relevance for the host response to sepsis. To explore the use of MSCs in sepsis, we determined their effect on the response to intravenous LPS in a randomized study in 32 healthy subjects with four treatment arms: placebo or allogeneic adipose MSCs (ASCs) intravenously at either 0.25 × 106, 1 × 106, or 4 × 106 cells/kg; all subjects received LPS intravenously (2 ng/kg) one hour after the end of ASC infusion (Trial Register number 2014-002537-63, clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02328612). Infusion of ASCs was well tolerated. The high ASC dose increased the febrile response, exerted mixed pro-inflammatory (enhanced interleukin-8 and nucleosome release) and anti-inflammatory effects (increased interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-β release), and enhanced coagulation activation and reduced the fibrinolytic response. Blood leukocyte transcriptome analyses showed a biphasic effect of ASCs on the LPS response: at 2 hours post LPS, ASC-infused subjects displayed higher expression of genes involved in innate immune pathways, whereas at 4 hours post LPS these subjects had lower expression of innate immune pathway genes. Infusion of ASCs did not modify the “ex vivo” responsiveness of whole blood to various bacterial agonists. These results indicate that intravenous infusion of allogeneic ASCs (4 × 106 cells/kg) has a variety of proinflammatory, anti-inflammatory, and procoagulant effects during human endotoxemia. Further studies are needed to assess the safety and efficacy of ASCs in sepsis patients.
Bending mechanical properties research on prestressed airport concrete pavements
Authors: Weng Xingzhong , Zhu Maojiang , Zhang Jun , Yang Bohan , Liu Junzhong
Published: August 2018

To prevent airport pavements from suffering fatigue failure before the end of designed life and to construct high‐grade airport concrete pavements quickly, this study has developed a method which applies the prestressed concrete to airport pavements. A three‐point bending loading scheme has been designed to conduct the bending, flexural strength, and fatigue tests on 96 concrete beams. The results showed that, compared with ordinary concrete beams, the resistance of prestressed concrete beam to bending deformation was greatly enhanced. For the beams subjected to the vertical load with increasing prestressing force, however, the deflection of the beams was decreased by a minor degree while both of their tensile stress and tensile stress area showed a sharp decrease. Moreover, the flexural strength of the concrete showed an evident increased with verified degrees while both the numbers and the width of cracks generated at the bottom of specimens decreased significantly. The average fatigue life of the prestressed concrete beams was extended 3 to 6 times longer than that of the ordinary concrete beams depending on the increasing levels of prestressing force. In general, the bending fatigue life of the prestressed concrete beams follows the two‐parameter Weibull distribution with a correlation coefficient greater than 0.96. Based on this Weibull distribution, a double‐logarithmic fatigue equation among three parameters, that is, the survival rate P, the stress level S, and the fatigue life N has been developed.
Altered connectivity between striatal and extrastriatal regions in patients with schizophrenia on maintenance antipsychotics: an [18F]fallypride PET and functional MRI study
Authors: Kim Jeong‐Hee , Cumming Paul , Son Young‐Don , Kim Hang‐Keun , Joo Yo‐Han , Kim Jong‐Hoon
Published: August 2018

In addition to probing regional differences in receptor availability, molecular positron emission tomography (PET) is proving useful for investigating perturbations in neurotransmitter networks using interregional correlation analyses. In a multi‐modal imaging study, we examined interregional correlations of dopamine D2/3 receptor availability between striatal and extrastriatal regions using [18F]fallypride high‐resolution PET in 11 patients with schizophrenia receiving low‐dose maintenance atypical antipsychotics and 14 healthy control subjects, and investigated resting‐state functional connectivity in the same subjects using seed‐based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis. In the healthy control group, there were no significant correlations of [18F]fallypride binding potential (BPND) between striatal regions and any cortical areas, whereas the patient group showed significant and widespread inter‐correlations. Correlations between BPND in striatum, amygdala and insula with cortex were significantly higher in patients than in controls. In seed‐based resting‐state fMRI analysis, the healthy controls revealed positive and negative functional connectivity patterns, while patients exhibited a pattern of exclusively positive connectivity. Functional connectivity was significantly higher between striatal regions and extrastriatal areas including cortical regions in patients compared to controls. In this first such report, molecular and functional connectivity between striatal and extrastriatal regions was primarily characterized by increased interregional relationships in treated patients with schizophrenia. The results suggest that the spatial organization of D2/3 receptor availability and related functional connectivity are significantly perturbed in stable outpatients on maintenance antipsychotics. Future studies should include antipsychotic‐naïve patients to determine if these relationships are illness‐related characteristics, or arising due to chronic antipsychotic treatment.
Do Judgements about Risk Track Modal Ordering?
Authors: Bricker Adam Michael ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: August 2018

On the standard conception of risk, the degree to which an event is risky is the function of the probability of that event. Recently, Duncan Pritchard has challenged this view, proposing instead a modal account on which risk is conceived of in terms of modal ordering (2015). On this account, the degree of risk for any given event is a function of its modal distance from the actual world, not its likelihood. Pritchard’s main motivation for this is that the probabilistic account cannot always explain our judgements about risk. In certain cases, equally probable events are not judged to be equally risky. Here I will argue that Pritchard’s account succumbs to a similar problem. Put simply, there are cases inwhich judgements about risk decouple fromboth probability andmodal ordering. Thus, if we want a theory of risk that can explain our judgements about risk, neither the probabilistic nor modal account is successful.
Ontology ABox Comparison
Authors: Keil Jan Martin
Published: August 2018

Correctness and completeness of facts are relevant criteria for the evaluation and selection of ontologies. They can be determined through the comparison with a gold standard. But a gold standard is usually not available. Hence, we propose to determine these criteria through the comparison of ontology ABoxes. However, the comparison of ontology ABoxes is only rarely addressed in the literature. We aim to identify appropriate methods and criteria for the semi-automatic comparison of the ABox of ontologies. They will be integrated into an ontology comparison framework. This framework will provide novel opportunities to assess and improve the correctness and completeness of ontologies.
Rotating kinky braneworlds
Authors: Niedermann Florian , Saffin Paul M.
Published: August 2018

Abstract

Cylindrical braneworlds have been used in the literature as a convenient way to resolve co-dimension-two branes. They are prevented from collapsing by a massless worldvolume field with non-trivial winding, but here we discuss another way of preventing collapse, which is to rotate the brane. We use a simple microscopic field theory model of a domain wall with a condensate for which rotation is a necessity, not just a nice added extra. This is due to a splitting instability, whereby the effective potential trapping the condensate is not strong enough to hold it on the defect in the presence of winding without charge.

We use analytic defect solutions in the field theory (kinky vortons) to construct a thin-wall braneworld model by including gravitational dynamics, and we allow for the rotation required by the microscopic theory. We then discuss the impact rotation has on the bulk and brane geometry, thereby providing an anchor for further cosmological investigations. Our setup naturally leads to worldvolume fields living at slightly different radii, and we speculate on the consequences of this in regard to the fermion mass-hierarchy.
Real-World Safety of Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Ranibizumab Treatments for Retinal Diseases in Thailand: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Sangroongruangsri Sermsiri , Chaikledkaew Usa , Kumluang Suthasinee , Wu Olivia , Geue Claudia , Ratanapakorn Tanapat , Leelahavarong Pattara , Ingsrisawang Lily , Ruamviboonsuk Paisan , Taweebanjongsin Wongsiri , Choovuthayakorn Janejit , Singalavanija Apichart , Hanutsaha Prut , Kulvichit Kittisak , Ratanapojnard Thitiporn , Wongsawad Warapat , Teerawattananon Yot
Published: August 2018

Background

There is very limited evidence examining serious systemic adverse events (SSAEs) and post-injection endophthalmitis of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) and intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) treatments in Thailand and low- and middle-income countries. Moreover, findings from the existing trials might have limited generalizability to certain populations and rare SSAEs.

Objectives

This prospective observational study aimed to assess and compare the safety profiles of IVB and IVR in patients with retinal diseases in Thailand.

Methods

Between 2013 and 2015, 6354 patients eligible for IVB or IVR were recruited from eight hospitals. Main outcomes measures were prevalence and risk of SSAEs, mortality, and endophthalmitis during the 6-month follow-up period.

Results

In the IVB and IVR groups, 94 and 6% of patients participated, respectively. The rates of outcomes in the IVB group were slightly greater than in the IVR group. All-cause mortality rates in the IVB and IVR groups were 1.10 and 0.53%, respectively. Prevalence rates of endophthalmitis and non-fatal strokes in the IVB group were 0.04% of 16,421 injections and 0.27% of 5975 patients, respectively, whereas none of these events were identified in the IVR group. There were no differences between the two groups in the risks of mortality, arteriothrombotic events (ATE), and non-fatal heart failure (HF). Adjustment for potential confounding factors and selection bias using multivariable models for time-to-event outcomes and propensity scores did not alter the results.

Conclusions

The rates of SAEs in both groups were low. The IVB and IVR treatments were not associated with significant risks of mortality, ATE, and non-fatal HF.

Trial Registration

Thai Clinical Trial Registry identifier TCTR20141002001.
Avoiding antisocial behavior among adolescents: The positive influence of classmates’ prosocial behavior
Authors: Hofmann Verena , Müller Christoph Michael
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Prior research has shown that classmates' behavior serves as a descriptive norm for adolescents' individual behavior. While earlier studies primarily focused on negative peer influence, classmates' prosocial behavior might be associated with positive individual development. We hypothesized more classroom‐level prosocial behavior predicts a lower likelihood of future antisocial behavior of individual students over and above the effect of classmates' antisocial behavior. We further assumed this effect is mediated by adolescents’ attitudes toward antisocial behavior.

Methods

To test our hypotheses, we used three data collection points from a longitudinal study among lower secondary school students in Switzerland (N = 864; mean age at T1: 13.81 years; male gender: 52%). Participants completed self‐reported assessments on prosocial behavior, antisocial behavior, and antisocial attitudes. Data were analyzed using multilevel models.

Results

Results indicated higher levels of prosocial behavior among classmates predict lower levels of individual students' future antisocial behavior. However, the effect of classmates’ prosocial behavior was not mediated by individual attitudes toward antisocial behavior.

Conclusions

While in the context of antisocial behavior the peer group is often assumed a risk, our results indicate that school peers can also exert positive influence. Hereby our finding of an effect of prosocial peer norms over and above antisocial peer norms suggests that building up prosocial behaviors in the classroom may be a promising approach for the prevention of antisocial behavior.
Connecting the dots
Authors: Nickels Liz
Published: August 2018

A US company has developed new software which could help address the need for end-to-end additive manufacturing (AM) and thus improve the whole process.
Don’t Ask, Do(n’t) Tell: Homeschooling in Hong Kong
Authors: ERLINGS Esther
Published: August 2018

Hong Kong’s history of compulsory schooling (as opposed to education) commenced under colonial rule and has been maintained by the local government following the 1997 Handover. Beyond the exception of “reasonable cause,” homeschooling, or elective home education, is in principle prohibited under the laws of Hong Kong. However, there is evidence of a growing homeschooling community in Hong Kong that relies on loopholes in the law and an apparent de facto government policy to operate. This article sets out the background, legal framework, and homeschooling practice in Hong Kong. It criticizes the current situation from the perspectives of legal certainty and children’s rights. The author suggests that the government should take action to devise clear laws and public policy in relation to elective home education.