bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of a laser‐guided collimation system to perform direct kilovoltage x‐ray spectra measurements on a linear accelerator onboard imager
Authors: Grelewicz Zachary , Belcher Andrew H. , Wiersma Rodney D.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The increased use of image‐guided radiation therapy (IGRT) has led to increased use of kV on board imaging (OBI) devices. At present, directly measured OBI beam quality data have only been reported in terms of half‐value layers (HVL). However, the HVL metric alone does not give the full OBI energy spectra as needed for accurate beam modeling. Although direct kV spectrometer devices exist they typically suffer from detector pile‐up when used with OBI sources. We therefore present, for the first time, a novel laser‐guided collimation system that allows direct measurement of the full energy spectrum for clinical OBI systems.

Methods

Several clinically relevant spectra (80, 100, and 125 kVp), with and without the half bow‐tie filter, were measured using a thermoelectric cooled cadmium telluride (CdTe) detector paired with a multichannel analyzer. To prevent detector saturation, the photon flux at the detector was reduced by use of an in‐house designed laser‐guided collimation system. After applying energy bin corrections, direct spectroscopic measurements were compared to Monte Carlo (MC) simulated spectra in order to verify accuracy of collected data. Both percent depth dose (PDD) curves and digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRR) were compared using the measured vs MC spectra.

Results

Measured and MC spectra agree with RMSD between 1.96% and 3.29%. PDD curves generated from the measured and MC spectra were found to match except for in the small buildup region, with an overall match for the six beams ranging between 0.3% and 2.7% RMSD. DRRs matched well with a maximum difference in contrast of 1.1% and RMSD of 0.46% contrast for various materials in DRRs.

Conclusions

The use of a laser‐guided collimation system provided a method for quickly obtaining highly accurate kV spectrum data from OBI sources. For kV dose or DRR calculation, it was found that both spectra produced similar results.
Magnetic resonance fingerprinting: a technical review
Authors: Bipin Mehta Bhairav , Coppo Simone , Frances McGivney Debra , Ian Hamilton Jesse , Chen Yong , Jiang Yun , Ma Dan , Seiberlich Nicole , Gulani Vikas , Alan Griswold Mark
Published: September 2018

Multiparametric quantitative imaging is gaining increasing interest due to its widespread advantages in clinical applications. Magnetic resonance fingerprinting is a recently introduced approach of fast multiparametric quantitative imaging. In this article, magnetic resonance fingerprinting acquisition, dictionary generation, reconstruction, and validation are reviewed.
Multiband RF pulse design for realistic gradient performance
Authors: Abo Seada Samy , Price Anthony N. , Schneider Torben , Hajnal Joseph V. , Malik Shaihan J.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Simultaneous multi‐slice techniques are reliant on multiband RF pulses, for which conventional design strategies result in long pulse durations, lengthening echo‐times so lowering SNR for spin‐echo imaging, and lengthening repetition times for gradient echo sequences. Pulse durations can be reduced with advanced RF pulse design methods that use time‐variable selection gradients. However, the ability of gradient systems to reproduce fast switching pulses is often limited and can lead to image artifacts when ignored. We propose a time‐efficient pulse design method that inherently produces gradient waveforms with lower temporal bandwidth.

Methods

Efficient multiband RF pulses with time‐variable gradients were designed using time‐optimal VERSE. Using VERSE directly on multiband pulses leads to gradient waveforms with high temporal bandwidth, whereas VERSE applied first to singleband RF pulses and then modulated to make them multiband, significantly reduces this. The relative performance of these approaches was compared using simulation and experimental measurements.

Results

Applying VERSE before multiband modulation was successful at removing out‐of‐band slice distortion. This effectively removes the need for high frequency modulation in the gradient waveform while preserving the benefit of time‐efficiency inherited from VERSE.

Conclusion

We propose a time‐efficient RF pulse design that produces gradient pulses with lower temporal bandwidth, reducing image artifacts associated with finite temporal bandwidth of gradient systems.
Influence of the extracellular matrix on water mobility in subcortical gray matter
Authors: Georgi Jakob , Metere Riccardo , Jäger Carsten , Morawski Markus , Möller Harald E.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Water mobility in tissues is related to the microstructure that modulates diffusion and spin relaxation. Previous work has shown that the extracellular matrix (ECM) impacts water diffusion in cartilage. To investigate if similar contributions to image contrast exist for brain, which is characterized by a substantially lower ECM content, diffusion and relaxation were studied in fixed samples from goat and human thalamus before and after enzymatic digestion of ECM compounds. Selected experiments in human corpus callosum were included for comparing subcortical gray matter and white matter.

Methods

Digestion of matrix components was achieved by treatment with hyaluronidase. Nonlocalized pulsed field gradient measurements were performed with values between 0.6 and 18,000 s/mm2 at 3T and temperatures between 0°C and 20°C, in addition to T1 and T2 relaxation measurements. The data were fitted to multiexponential models to account for different water compartments. After the measurements, the samples were sliced and stained for ECM‐sensitive markers to verify efficient digestion.

Results

Microstructural alterations associated with hyaluronan digestion did not lead to measurable effects on water diffusion or . However, T1 of the main relaxographic component, attributed to intra‐/extracellular water, decreased by 7%.

Conclusion

Investigations with very strong gradients did not reveal a detectable effect on water diffusion or after hyaluronan removal, indicating that the brain ECM content is too low to produce a detectable effect. The subtle alteration of T1 upon hyaluronidase treatment might reflect a modulation of intercompartmental water exchange properties.
Thoughts for the Future of Aquaculture Nutrition: Realigning Perspectives to Reflect Contemporary Issues Related to Judicious Use of Marine Resources in Aquafeeds
Authors: Turchini Giovanni M , Trushenski Jesse T , Glencross Brett D
Published: September 2018

In recent decades, aquaculture nutrition research has made major strides in identifying alternatives to the use of traditional marine-origin resources. Feed manufacturers worldwide have used this information to replace increasing amounts of fish meal and fish oil in aquafeeds. However, reliance on marine resources remains an ongoing constraint, and the progress yielded by continued unidimensional research into alternative raw materials is becoming increasingly marginal. Feed formulation is not an exercise in identifying “substitutes” or “alternatives” but rather is a process of identifying different combinations of “complementary” raw materials—including fish meal, fish oil, and others—that collectively meet established nutrient requirements and other criteria for the aquafeed in question. Nutrient-based formulation is the day-to-day reality of formulating industrially compounded aquafeeds, but this approach is less formally and explicitly addressed in aquaculture research and training programs. Here, we (re)introduce these topics and explore the reasons that marine-origin ingredients have long been considered the “gold standards” of aquafeed formulation. We highlight a number of ways in which this approach is flawed and constrains innovation before delving into the need to assess raw materials based on their influence on aquafeed manufacturing techniques. We conclude with a brief commentary regarding the future funding and research landscape. Incremental progress may continue through the accumulation of small insights, but a more holistic research strategy—aligned with industry needs and focused on nutrient composition and ingredient complementarity—is what will spur future advancement in aquaculture nutrition.
Help students complete credentials with effective scheduling
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: September 2018

DALLAS — If your institution's goal is to improve the completion rate, the course schedule could be an effective tool for achieving success. Changing how your institution creates the course schedule involves both cultural and technological change. A panel at the American Association of Community Colleges annual convention explained how several colleges have achieved success with schedule changes. Speakers were Janice Taylor Heard, dean of academic affairs at Cuyahoga Community College; Michael Voss, dean of instruction, career and technical programs at Mesa Community College; Matilda Chavez, interim vice president of learning at South Mountain Community College; and James Canniff, provost and vice president of academic and student affairs at Bunker Hill Community College.
Synthesis of prednisolone molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles by precipitation polymerization
Authors: Phungpanya Chalida , Chaipuang Angkana , Machan Theeraphan , Watla‐iad Kanchana , Thongpoon Chalermporn , Suwantong Orawan
Published: September 2018

The prednisolone molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (prednisolone‐MIPs) were prepared via precipitation polymerization. The synthetic conditions were performed by optimizing of functional monomers (acrylamide and methacrylic acid) and crosslinkers (ethylene glycol dimethacrylate and pentaerythritol triacrylate) with defined the synthetic ratio of template molecule:functional monomer:crosslinker as 1:7:30. The acquired MIPs were studied for their binding quantitation by kinetic adsorption analysis. Two of four synthetic conditions reached an equilibrium binding capacity at 960 minutes. In addition, the equilibrium adsorption, kinetic models, adsorption isotherms, and molecular selectivity were also evaluated in this study. The pseudo‐second order was the best fitted kinetic model with good agreement on Langmuir isotherm of both optimum conditions. The molecular recognition of prednisolone‐MIPs was further carried out to demonstrate the selectivity performance and found that prednisolone‐MIPs had a good recognition to target prednisolone rather than structural analogue.
From thrombasthenia to next generation thrombocytopenia: Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia induced by maternal Glanzmann thrombasthenia
Authors: Barg Assaf Arie , Hauschner Hagit , Luboshitz Jacob , Livnat Tami , Straus Tzipi , Levy‐Mendelovich Sarina , Lubetsky Aharon , Rosenberg Nurit , Kenet Gili
Published: September 2018

Background

Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of platelet function caused by mutations in the genes coding for integrin αIIbβ3. The aim of this study was to examine the outcome of newborns of GT mothers, with emphasis on thrombocytopenia and bleeding manifestations and their relation to maternal antiplatelet antibodies.

Procedure

Medical files of all female patients with GT treated in a single tertiary center from 1999 to 2017 were searched for details on pregnancy and birth. The medical files of their newborns were retrieved, and data on the postnatal course were collected.

Results

Nine babies were born to five patients with GT at our center during the study period. Three of the nine newborns had severe thrombocytopenia, and all three were offspring of GT mothers who were positive for antiplatelet antibodies.

Conclusion

Pregnant GT patients should be examined for platelet antibodies. Assessment and management protocols (including treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins) for fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia should be considered.
Insulin‐dependent diabetes: A chronic complication to acute pancreatitis in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Wolthers Benjamin Ole , Mogensen Pernille R. , Frandsen Thomas L. , Abrahamsson Jonas , Behrendtz Mikael , Heyman Mats , Lohi Olli , Norén‐Nyström Ulrika , Ruud Ellen , Schmiegelow Kjeld
Published: September 2018

Pancreatitis is a frequent toxicity to acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment, significantly associated with asparaginase use, and may be followed by severe complications such as acute hyperglycaemia, need for mechanical ventilation, pseudocysts, and death. Here, we provide novel data on seven patients diagnosed with diabetes after pancreatitis and still requiring insulin treatment after a median follow‐up of 4.2 years (range: 1.7–9.2). We describe the clinical course of pancreatitis and illustrate the association between pancreatic pseudocysts, older age, and development of insulin‐dependent diabetes. Together, this study documents the persisting burden of pancreatitis in childhood ALL and underlines the need for plasma glucose level monitoring.
Selection of galectin‐3 ligands derived from genetically encoded glycopeptide libraries
Authors: Vinals Daniel Ferrer , Kitov Pavel I. , Tu Zhijay , Zou Chunxia , Cairo Christopher W. , Lin Hans Chun‐Hung , Derda Ratmir
Published: September 2018

In this article, we used genetically encoded fragment‐based discovery (GE‐FBD) approach to identify glycopeptides that bind to the carbohydrate recognition domain of the human galectin‐3 (G3C). We generated 6 chemically identical phage libraries Ser‐[X]4‐Gly‐Gly‐Gly, built on variable combinations of redundant Ser and Gly codons. Oxime ligation of hydroxylamine derivatives of galactose (Gal), glucose (Glu), mannose (Man), rhamnose (Rha), and xylose (Xyl) produced a glycopeptide library in which both peptide and glycan can be decoded via DNA sequencing. Screening of this library against G3C identified 1062 combinations of monosaccharides and peptides that exhibited a significant (P < .05) enrichment on G3C and not control selections. Glycopeptides Gal‐WKPE, Gal‐WHVP, and Gal‐LSMA displayed on phage exhibited up to 63‐fold increase in binding potency to G3C when compared to phage displaying random glycopeptide or nonglycosylated SWKPE, SWHVP, and SLSMA. This work mapped the boundary conditions of the GE‐FBD approach with respect to the affinity of individual fragments. We observed that fragments with no detectable affinity (Glu, Xyl, and Rha) diverted the selection toward ligands that bind to G3C equally well with or without the glycan. Weak fragments (Gal, 10 mM) could effectively steer the selection toward G3C ligands in which glycan and peptide bind synergistically.
Intrinsically Disordered Proteins: The Dark Horse of the Dark Proteome
Authors: Kulkarni Prakash , Uversky Vladimir N.
Published: September 2018

A good portion of the ‘protein universe’ embodies the ‘dark proteome’. The latter comprises proteins not amenable to experimental structure determination by existing means and inaccessible to homology modeling. Hence, the dark proteome has remained largely unappreciated. Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) that lack rigid 3D structure are a major component of this dark proteome across all three kingdoms of life. Despite lack of structure, IDPs play critical roles in numerous important biological processes. Furthermore, IDPs serve as crucial constituents of proteinaceous membrane‐less organelles (PMLOs), where they often serve as drivers and controllers of biological liquid–liquid phase transitions responsible for the PMLO biogenesis. In this perspective, the role of IDPs is discussed in i) the origin of prebiotic life and the evolution of the first independent primordial living unit akin to Tibor Gánti's chemoton, which preceded the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA), ii) role in multicellularity and hence, in major evolutionary transitions, and iii), their role in phenotypic switching, and the emergence of new traits and adaptive opportunities via non‐genetic, protein‐based mechanisms. The emerging picture suggests that despite being major constituents of the dark matter, IDPs may be the dark horse in the protein universe.
Barriers to psychosocial oncology service utilization in patients newly diagnosed with head and neck cancer
Authors: Cohen Alexandra , Ianovski Lola E. , Frenkiel Saul , Hier Michael , Zeitouni Anthony , Kost Karen , Mlynarek Alex , Richardson Keith , Black Martin , MacDonald Christina , Chartier Gabrielle , Rosberger Zeev , Henry Melissa
Published: September 2018

Objectives

While patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) are known to experience higher levels of anxiety and depression, they do not always use psychosocial oncology (PSO) services when available. This study aimed to investigate barriers to PSO service utilization in this patient population, with the goal of appropriately targeting outreach interventions.

Methods

A conceptual model based on the Behavioral Model of Health Services Use was tested in 84 patients newly diagnosed with a first occurrence of HNC followed longitudinally over 1 year, including variables collected through self‐administered questionnaires, Structured Clinical Interviews for DSM (SCID‐I), and medical chart reviews.

Results

Within the first‐year post‐diagnosis, 42.9% of HNC patients experienced clinical levels of psychological distress, with only 50% of these consulting PSO services (29% total). A logistic regression indicated that PSO utilization was increased when patients presented with advanced cancer (P = 0.04) and a SCID‐I diagnosis of major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, or substance use disorder (P = 0.02), while there was an inverse relationship with self‐stigma of seeking help (P = 0.03); these variables together successfully predicted 76.3% of overall PSO utilization, including 90.6% of non‐users.

Conclusions

Future outreach interventions in patients with HNC could address stigma in an attempt to enhance PSO integration into routine clinical care.
Combination Glioma Therapy Mediated by a Dual‐Targeted Delivery System Constructed Using OMCN–PEG–Pep22/DOX
Authors: Qian Wenbo , Qian Min , Wang Yi , Huang Jianfei , Chen Jian , Ni Lanchun , Huang Qingfeng , Liu Qianqian , Gong Peipei , Hou Shiqiang , Zhu Hui , Jia Zhongzheng , Shen Dandan , Zhu Changlai , Jiang Rui , Sun Junlong , Yao Junzhong , Tang Zhongyu , Ji Xiang , Shi Jinlong , Huang Rongqin , Shi Wei
Published: September 2018

Accumulating studies have investigated the efficacy of receptor‐mediated delivery of hydrophobic drugs in glioma chemotherapy. Here, a delivery vehicle comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG) and oxidized nanocrystalline mesoporous carbon particles (OMCN) linked to the Pep22 polypeptide targeting the low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) is designed to generate a novel drug‐loaded system, designated as OMCN–PEG–Pep22/DOX (OPPD). This system effectively targets glioma cells and the blood–brain barrier and exerts therapeutic efficacy through both near‐infrared (NIR) photothermal and chemotherapeutic effects of loaded doxycycline (DOX). Pathological tissue microarrays show an association of LDLR overexpression in human glioma tissue with patient survival.NIR irradiation treatment and magnetic resonance imaging results show that OPPD reaches the effective glioma‐killing temperature in a glioma‐bearing rat with a skull bone removal model and considerably reduces glioma sizes relative to the drug‐loaded system without the Pep22 peptide modification and the control respectively. Thus, OPPD not only effectively targets LDLR‐overexpressing glioma but also exerts a dual therapeutic effect by transporting DOX into the glioma and generating thermal effects with near‐infrared irradiation to kill tumor cells. These collective findings support the utility of the novel OPPD drug‐loaded system as a promising drug delivery vehicle for clinical application in glioma therapy.
The Transformative and Versatile Role of Cellulose Nanomaterials in Templating and Shaping Multiscale Mesostructured Ceramics
Authors: Foster E. Johan , Zahed Nizar , Tallon Carolina
Published: September 2018

The transformative and versatile role of cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) as an enabling technology in the preparation of multiscale mesostructured ceramics, with pore sizes in the meso‐ (2–50 nm) and macroporosity (above 50 nm) range with controlled porous architecture across the structure is explored. CNMs have revolutionized functional advanced materials concepts and technology by using natural resources to derive superb properties. Its unique chemical and physical properties have inspired its exploitation as a reinforcement agent, stimuli responsive tool, and templating agent mostly for biologic and polymeric materials, as well as for metals and ceramics. CNMs can act as a sacrificial filler templating agent, a surface modifier agent, and as an aid for shaping macrostructures into bulk samples. A deep knowledge of the synergistic interaction mechanisms between CNMs and ceramic particles to assemble them in solution and into solid structures is key to advance this technology, and to develop a predictive understanding of synthesis and processing mechanisms that relates morphology evolution, processing, and final physical properties. The potential ease of processing and versatility of CNMs for functional ceramic technology, intimately linked to the CNMs’ nature and properties, will make a significant impact with respect to the current state of the art.
Disordering the Atomic Structure of Co(II) Oxide via B‐Doping: An Efficient Oxygen Vacancy Introduction Approach for High Oxygen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhang Gong , Qu Jiuhui , Liu Huijuan
Published: September 2018

The introduction of oxygen (O) vacancies has been considered to be an important but challenging way to enhance the activity of electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Substitution by heteroatoms with high electron‐donating ability may be a feasible strategy for triggering O‐vacancies to maintain thermodynamic stability. Herein, density functional theory (DFT) calculations predict that the incorporation of boron (B) is favorable to the generation of O‐vacancies in transition metal oxides. Then, CoO nanowires with O‐vacancies are prepared via incorporation of B using a facile pyrolysis strategy. As evidenced by the combined results of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption near edge structure, O‐vacancies in CoO are mainly derived from the disordering of the local structure caused by B doping. DFT calculation results further reveal that the oxidation of *OOH is the rate‐limiting step for O‐vacancies enriched CoO in the OER and that the presence of O‐vacancies can efficiently lower the reaction barrier for breaking CoO bond, contributing to the improvement of OER kinetics. As expected, the O‐vacancies enriched CoO exhibits a low overpotential of 280 mV to reach the current density of 10 mA cm−2 under basic conditions.
Sub‐1.5 nm Ultrathin CoP Nanosheet Aerogel: Efficient Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction at All pH Values
Authors: Li Hui , Zhao Xiaoliang , Liu Hongli , Chen Shuai , Yang Xianfeng , Lv Chunxiao , Zhang Huawei , She Xilin , Yang Dongjiang
Published: September 2018

Transition metal phosphides (TMPs) are certified high performance electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The ultrathin 2D structure of TMPs can offer abundant adsorption sites to boost HER performance. Herein, an ice‐templating strategy is developed to prepare CoP aerogels composed of 2D ultrathin CoP nanosheets (<1.5 nm) using sustainable alginate biomass (seaweed extract) as the precursor. The highly porous aerogel structure can not only deliver facile mass transfer, but also prevent aggregation of the nanosheets into layered structures. As expected, the obtained CoP nanosheet aerogels exhibit remarkable stability and excellent electrocatalytic HER performance at all pH values. For instance, the sample CoP‐400 presents a low overpotential of 113, 154, and 161 mV versus RHE at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 0.5 m H2SO4, 1 m KOH, and 1 m phosphate buffer solution, respectively. In addition, CoP‐400 displays low Tafel slopes at all pH values due to the interconnected highly porous structure of the aerogel, indicating that the sample can provide low‐resistance channels for mass transport. Density functional theory calculations reveal that P‐top and Co bridge on (011) facet of CoP are more favorable sites during the process of HER in acid and alkaline solutions, respectively.
Millerite Core–Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Hollow Shell Structure for Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Tiruneh Sintayehu Nibret , Kang Bong Kyun , Choi Hyung Wook , Kwon Seok Bin , Kim Min Seob , Yoon Dae Ho
Published: September 2018

Nickel sulfides have drawn much attention with the benefits of a high redox activity, high electrical conductivity, low cost, and fabrication ease; however, these metal sulfides are susceptible to mechanical degradation regarding their cycling performance. Conversely, hollow carbon shells exhibit a substantial electrochemical steadiness in energy storage applications. Here, the design and development of a novel millerite core–nitrogen‐doped carbon hollow shell (NiS–NC HS) structure for electrochemical energy storage is presented. The nitrogen‐doped carbon hollow shell (NC HS) protects against the degradation and the millerite‐core aggregation, giving rise to an excellent rate capability and stability during the electrochemical charging–discharging processes, in addition to improving the NiS–NC HS conductivity. The NiS–NC HS/18h supercapacitor electrode displays an outstanding specific capacitance of 1170.72 F g−1 (at 0.5 A g−1) and maintains 90.71% (at 6 A g−1) of its initial capacitance after 4000 charge–discharge cycles, owing to the unique core–shell structure. An asymmetric‐supercapacitor device using NiS–NC HS and activated‐carbon electrodes exhibits a high power and energy density with a remarkable cycling stability, maintaining 89.2% of its initial capacitance after 5000 cycles.
Microsphere‐Based Nanoindentation for the Monitoring of Cellular Cortical Stiffness Regulated by MT1‐MMP
Authors: Ku Minhee , Kim Hyun‐Joon , Yau Su Yee , Yoon Nara , Kim Nam Hee , Yook Jong In , Suh Jin‐Suck , Kim Dae‐Eun , Yang Jaemoon
Published: September 2018

Biophysical properties are intimately connected to metastatic functions and aggressiveness in cancers. Especially, cellular stiffness is regarded as a biomarker for the understanding of metastatic potential and drug sensitivity. Here, protease‐mediated changes of cortical stiffness are identified due to the deformation of cytoskeleton alignment at a cortex. For the past few decades, membrane type 1‐matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP) has been well known as a kernel protease enriched in podosomes during metastasis for extracellular matrix degradation. However, the biophysical significance of MT1‐MMP expressing cancer cells is still unknown. Therefore, the nanomechanics of cancer cells is analyzed by a nanoindentation using a microsphere‐attached cantilever of atomic force microscopy (AFM). In conclusion, the results suggest that MT1‐MMP has contributed as a key regulator in cytoskeletal deformation related with cancer metastasis. Particularly, the AFM‐based nanoindentation system for the monitoring of cortical nanomechanics will be crucial to understand molecular networks in cancers.
Ultrasmall Ru/Cu‐doped RuO2 Complex Embedded in Amorphous Carbon Skeleton as Highly Active Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Yang Kang , Xu Pengping , Lin Zhiyu , Yang Yang , Jiang Peng , Wang Changlai , Liu Shuai , Gong Shipeng , Hu Lin , Chen Qianwang
Published: September 2018

Developing highly active electrocatalysts with superior durability for both the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in the same electrolyte is a grand challenge to realize the practical application of electrolysis water for producing hydrogen. In this work, an ultrasmall Ru/Cu‐doped RuO2 complex embedded in an amorphous carbon skeleton is synthesized, through thermolysis of Ru‐modified Cu‐1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylic acid (BTC), as a highly efficient bifunctional catalyst for overall water splitting electrocatalysis. The ultrasmall Ru nanoparticles in the complex expose more activity sites for hydrogen evolution and outperform the commercial Pt/C. Meanwhile, the ultrasmall RuO2 nanoparticles exhibit superior oxygen evolution performance over commercial RuO2, and the doping of Cu into the ultrasmall RuO2 nanoparticles further enhances the oxygen evolution performance of the catalyst. The outstanding OER and decent HER catalytic activity endow the complex with impressive overall water splitting performance superior to that of the state‐of‐the‐art electrocatalysts, which just require 1.47 and 1.67 V to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and 100 mA cm−2. The density functional theory calculations reveal that a Cu dopant could effectively tailor the d‐band center, thereby tuning electronic structure of Ru activity sites on the RuO2 (110) plane and ultimately improving the OER performance of RuO2.
Hierarchical Hollow Prussian Blue Rods Synthesized via Self‐Sacrifice Template as Cathode for High Performance Sodium Ion Battery
Authors: Feng Fan , Chen Suli , Liao Xiao‐Zhen , Ma Zi‐Feng
Published: September 2018

In this work, a facile strategy is proposed to synthesize hierarchical hollow rod‐like Mn‐doped Prussian blue (R‐PB) using MnO2 nanosheets as a self‐sacrifice template. The as prepared R‐PB with low contents of vacancies and coordinated water, and high content of sodium, exhibits appealing electrochemical performance as a cathode for sodium ion batteries (SIBs) achieving a high discharge capacity of 117.3 mAh g−1 and a capacity retention of 98.5% after 200 cycles at 1 C. Moreover, the specific capacity reaches 111.5 mAh g−1 at 5 C with a Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 93.8%. The high capacity, superior cycling stability, and enhanced kinetics of Na+ migration of R‐PB are attributed to the positive effect of doped Mn ions and the hierarchical hollow rod‐like structure. The doped Mn ions in R‐PB activate the redox of FeLS(C) in the high voltage region to reach a high capacity. The unique hierarchical hollow rod‐like structure provides a buffer space for the volume change during the insertion/extraction of sodium ions, enlarges the contact area between the electrode materials and electrolyte, and enhances the apparent diffusion coefficient of sodium ions in electrode materials.
Infrastructure disarray in the clean Ganga and clean India campaigns
Authors: Alley Kelly D. , Barr Jennifer , Mehta Tarini
Published: September 2018

The notion of the infrastructure gap is widely articulated in development studies to denote lacunae and areas of need in infrastructure functioning and connectivity across regions and nations. Sanitation infrastructure is one of the clearest areas in which to examine this gap. To close the gap, government and multilateral agencies are espousing citywide inclusive sanitation. This means comprehensive sanitation services for all through a combination of centralized and decentralized projects and a variety of techniques and services. However, this diversity of projects, techniques, and services will create additional challenges for infrastructure connectivity and functionality that need to be addressed through empirical research. We explore the gaps in wastewater and fecal sludge management infrastructure in India by approaching the problem from the activities and perspectives of three nonstate leaders and their associates. We argue that the notion of infrastructure disarray is an appropriate orienting idea as it points to an emerging field of experimentation and innovative activity while also showing how conditions of dysfunction and disconnection are sustained and reproduced. Taking disarray as a condition of infrastructure confusion among overlapping and disconnected segments of the sewage services chain, the cases show how nonstate actors and their communities are confronting disarray, reproducing these conditions of disarray, or grappling with ways to overcome this disarray.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water

Engineering Water > Planning Water

Human Water > Water Governance
Wave disturbance rejection for monopile offshore wind turbines
Authors: Smilden Emil , Bachynski Erin E. , Sørensen Asgeir J. , Amdahl Jørgen
Published: September 2018

The dimensions of offshore wind turbine (OWT) support structures are governed by fatigue considerations. For 6‐ to 10‐MW OWTs, wave loads are often dominating in terms of fatigue utilization. The present work proposes a control scheme to reduce the wave‐induced fatigue loads in OWT support structures. The control scheme applies collective pitch control to increase both the damping and stiffness of the fore‐aft vibration modes. With conventional active tower damping, efficient wave disturbance rejection is restricted to a narrow frequency range around the first fore‐aft modal frequency. The proposed control scheme achieves efficient wave disturbance rejection across a broader frequency range. Here, tower feedback control is implemented via an auxiliary control loop. Based on a low‐fidelity model, the effect of the tower feedback loop on the stability margins of the basic controller is analysed. The results show that, within certain boundaries, the stability margins are improved by the stiffness term in the tower feedback loop. Consequently, the need to reduce the bandwidth of the basic controller to accommodate tower feedback control is relaxed. Based on time‐domain simulations carried out in an aero‐hydro‐servo‐elastic simulation tool, the lifetime effects of the proposed control scheme are analysed. Compared with conventional active tower damping, a more favourable trade‐off between adverse side effects and the support structure's fatigue damage is achieved with the proposed control scheme.
Environmental influences on RNA processing: Biochemical, molecular and genetic regulators of cellular response
Authors: Pai Athma A. , Luca Francesca
Published: September 2018

RNA processing has emerged as a key mechanistic step in the regulation of the cellular response to environmental perturbation. Recent work has uncovered extensive remodeling of transcriptome composition upon environmental perturbation and linked the impacts of this molecular plasticity to health and disease outcomes. These isoform changes and their underlying mechanisms are varied—involving alternative sites of transcription initiation, alternative splicing, and alternative cleavage at the 3′ end of the mRNA. The mechanisms and consequences of differential RNA processing have been characterized across a range of common environmental insults, including chemical stimuli, immune stimuli, heat stress, and cancer pathogenesis. In each case, there are perturbation‐specific contributions of local (cis) regulatory elements or global (trans) factors and downstream consequences. Overall, it is clear that choices in isoform usage involve a balance between the usage of specific genetic elements (i.e., splice sites, polyadenylation sites) and the timing at which certain decisions are made (i.e., transcription elongation rate). Fine‐tuned cellular responses to environmental perturbation are often dependent on the genetic makeup of the cell. Genetic analyses of interindividual variation in splicing have identified genetic effects on splicing that contribute to variation in complex traits. Finally, the increase in the number of tissue types and environmental conditions analyzed for RNA processing is paralleled by the need to develop appropriate analytical tools. The combination of large datasets, novel methods and conditions explored promises to provide a much greater understanding of the role of RNA processing response in human phenotypic variation.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA

RNA Processing > Splicing Mechanisms

RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing
Singlet scalar and 2HDM extensions of the Standard Model: CP-violation and constraints from (g − 2)μ and eEDM
Authors: Keus Venus , Koivunen Niko , Tuominen Kimmo
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We study popular scalar extensions of the Standard Model, namely the singlet extension, the 2-Higgs doublet model (2HDM) and its extension by a singlet scalar. We focus on the contributions of the added scalars to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, (g − 2)
μ
in the presence of CP-violation, and the electric dipole moment of the electron (eEDM) in these models. In the absence of CP-violation, CP-even and CP-odd scalars contribute with an opposite sign to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon and as a result these models generally require very light scalars to explain the observed discrepancy in (g − 2)
μ
. We study the effect of CP-violation on the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon and its compatibility with the eEDM constraints. We show that given the current status of the global set of constraints applied on all values of cot β, in the CP-violating scalar extensions, there exist no viable parameter space in agreement with both a

μ
and eEDM bounds.
Phase transitions and conductivities of Floquet fluids
Authors: Baumgartner Andrew , Spillane Michael
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We investigate the phase structure and conductivity of a relativistic fluid in a circulating electric field with a transverse magnetic field. This system exhibits behavior similar to other driven systems such as strongly coupled driven CFTs [1] or a simple anharmonic oscillator. We identify distinct regions of fluid behavior as a function of driving frequency, and argue that a “phase” transition will occur. Such a transition could be measurable in graphene, and may be characterized by sudden discontinuous increase in the Hall conductivity. The presence of the discontinuity depends on how the boundary is approached as the frequency or amplitude is dialed. In the region where two solution exists the measured conductivity will depend on how the system is prepared.
Holographic charged fluid with chiral electric separation effect
Authors: Bu Yanyan , Cai Rong-Gen , Yang Qing , Zhang Yun-Long
Published: September 2018

Abstract

Hydrodynamics with both vector and axial currents is under study within a holographic model, consisting of canonical U(1)V× U(1)Agauge fields in an asymptotically AdS5black brane. When gravitational back-reaction is taken into account, the chiral electric separation effect (CESE), namely the generation of an axial current as the response to an external electric field, is realized naturally. Via fluid/gravity correspondence, all the first order transport coefficients in the hydrodynamic constitutive relations are evaluated analytically: they are functions of vector chemical potentialμ, axial chemical potentialμ5and the fluid’s temperatureT. Apart from the proportionality factorμμ5, the CESE conductivity is found to be dependent on the dimensionless quantitiesμ/Tandμ5/Tnontrivially. As a complementary study, frequency-dependent transport phenomena are revealed through linear response analysis, demonstrating perfect agreement with the results obtained from fluid/gravity correspondence.
Evolving Decisions: Perspectives of Active and Athletic Individuals with Inherited Heart Disease Who Exercise Against Recommendations
Authors: Subas Trishna , Luiten Rebecca , Hanson‐Kahn Andrea , Wheeler Matthew , Caleshu Colleen
Published: September 2018

Individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and long QT syndrome (LQTS) are advised to avoid certain forms of exercise to reduce their risk of sudden death. Cardiovascular genetic counselors facilitate both adaptation to, and decision‐making about, these exercise recommendations. This study describes decision‐making and experiences of active adults who exercise above physicians’ recommendations. Purposive sampling was used to select adults with HCM and LQTS who self‐identified as exercising above recommendations. Semi‐structured interviews explored participants’ decision‐making and the psychological impact of exercise recommendations. Fifteen individuals were interviewed (HCM: 10; LQTS: 5; mean age: 40). Transcripts were coded and analyzed for underlying themes. Despite exercising above recommendations, nearly all participants made some modifications to their prior exercise regimen. Often these decisions changed over time, underscoring the importance of shared decision‐making conversations beyond the initial evaluation. The importance of exercise was frequently cited as a reason for continued exercise, as were perceptions of sudden death risk as low, acceptable, or modifiable. Many participants reported that family and friends supported their exercise decisions, with a minority having family or friends that expressed significant reservations. Genetic counselors, cardiologists, and nurses can use these data to inform their counseling regarding exercise recommendations.
Time attitudes profile stability and transitions: An exploratory study of adolescent health behaviours among high school students
Authors: McKay Michael T. , Andretta James R. , Cole Jon C. , Konowalczyk Svenja , Wells Kevin E. , Worrell Frank C.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Time attitudes refer to individuals' feelings about the past, present, and future, and an increasing number of cross‐sectional studies have demonstrated that positive time attitudes are significantly related to better health and well‐being. We investigated time attitude profile membership and associated transitions longitudinally in United Kingdom‐based adolescents, and assessed the relationship between time attitude profile development on health behaviours at + 21 months after the data collection involving time attitudes.

Methods

Participants were high school students (N = 1306; 41.8% female, Mage 12.5–14.5 years [waves 1–3]). The Adolescent and Adult Time Inventory – Time Attitudes Scale was employed to identify profiles, and a mover‐stayer latent transition analysis was employed to examine developmental changes. Data were also gathered on sensation seeking, and a range of health indicators were assessed: Past week frequency of physical exercise, self‐rated health, subjective life expectancy, lifetime cannabis and smoking, and dental attendance.

Results

Staying in a positive time attitude profile was related to higher subjective life expectancy, and less frequent use of cannabis and cigarettes (1.00 ≤ d ≤ 4.00). Further, moving to a positive profile predicted healthier outcomes for most health measures used.

Conclusions

Notwithstanding the limitation that health outcomes in the present study were distal, the present study bolstered a developing cross‐sectional literature supporting the association between positive time attitudes and better health and well‐being outcomes. Future longitudinal studies which assess measures concurrently are required.
TSNAdb: A Database for Tumor-Specific Neoantigens from Immunogenomics Data Analysis
Authors: Wu Jingcheng , Zhao Wenyi , Zhou Binbin , Su Zhixi , Gu Xun , Zhou Zhan , Chen Shuqing
Published: September 2018

Tumor-specific neoantigens have attracted much attention since they can be used as biomarkers to predict therapeutic effects of immune checkpoint blockade therapy and as potential targets for cancer immunotherapy. In this study, we developed a comprehensive tumor-specific neoantigen database (TSNAdb v1.0), based on pan-cancer immunogenomic analyses of somatic mutation data and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele information for 16 tumor types with 7748 tumor samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and The Cancer Immunome Atlas (TCIA). We predicted binding affinities between mutant/wild-type peptides and HLA class I molecules by NetMHCpan v2.8/v4.0, and presented detailed information of 3,707,562/1,146,961 potential neoantigens generated by somatic mutations of all tumor samples. Moreover, we employed recurrent mutations in combination with highly frequent HLA alleles to predict potential shared neoantigens across tumor patients, which would facilitate the discovery of putative targets for neoantigen-based cancer immunotherapy. TSNAdb is freely available at http://biopharm.zju.edu.cn/tsnadb.
Why Is Impaired Sexual Function Distressing to Men? Consequences of Impaired Male Sexual Function and Their Associations With Sexual Well-Being
Authors: Stephenson Kyle R. , Truong Lina , Shimazu Lyndsey
Published: September 2018

Introduction

According to theoretical models of sexual dysfunction, the complex association between male sexual function and subjective sexual well-being (ie, sexual satisfaction and distress) may be partially mediated by specific “consequences” of impaired function, but little research has assessed the frequency of specific consequences or their association with well-being.

Aim

To pilot a scale assessing consequences of impaired male sexual function, and test whether specific consequences (eg, disruption of sexual activity, negative partner responses) mediated the association between sexual function and well-being.

Methods

166 men in sexually active heterosexual relationships completed self-report measures. A majority of men self-identified as experiencing impaired sexual function in the past month.

Main Outcome Measure

Sexual Satisfaction Scale, International Index of Erectile Function, and Measure of Sexual Consequences.

Results

17 specific consequences were reported with at least moderate frequency and were rated at least somewhat distressing. A factor analysis suggested 3 distinct categories of consequences: barrier to sex and pleasure, negative partner emotional responses, and impaired partner sexual function. These factors and the overall scale exhibited acceptable internal and test-retest reliability and each was significantly associated with multiple facets of sexual function and well-being. Frequency of sexual consequences significantly mediated the association between sexual function and well-being, with the strongest and most consistent indirect effects being found for the barrier to sex and pleasure factor.

Clinical Implications

Consequences of impaired sexual function on one’s sexual experiences may be an important maintaining factor of sexual dysfunction and reduction in these consequences may represent a mechanism of action for psychological treatments.

Strength and Limitations

Strengths included a relatively large sample with a diverse range of sexual function and well-being, as well as modern statistical analyses to assess factor structure and mediation effects. Limitations included the use of self-report scales with limited independent evidence of validity and reliability for use with male samples, as well as the cross-sectional methods that preclude strong conclusions regarding causal relationships.

Conclusion

Sexual consequences represent potential maintaining factors of male sexual dysfunction and may represent key targets of cognitive behavioral treatments.
The Unity of the West and Free Trade: A Report From Washington
Authors: Gelber Lionel
Published: September 2018

When the United States fostered the recovery and underwrote the security of Western Europe she had more than sentiment to impel her. That salient zone is a pivotal sector of the world balance, and while she may station fewer of her own troops upon its soil, she can entertain no total disengagement from it. But there is another West European item, the future of the Common Market, which calls for a fresh American scrutiny. The West will be better off if Western Europe acquires more of an ability to stand on its own feet. Gaullism, however, revealed a less modest goal, one that was not confined to France and did not vanish with the departure of General de Gaulle. On the contrary, it may have gained new leverage from his downfall.