bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a teaching and learning curriculum for preceptors and residents
Authors: Pogge Elizabeth K. , Raney Erin , Jackowski Rebekah M. , Larson Suzanne , Storjohann Tara , Davis Lindsay E.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

The role of the pharmacist as a clinician educator requires a developed skill set and dedication as a life‐long learner. The Clinician Educators Program (CEP) at Midwestern University College of Pharmacy‐Glendale in Glendale, Arizona is a 12‐month longitudinal teaching and learning curriculum designed to meet this need. It includes a postgraduate education track for residents and residency preceptors and an experiential education track for university‐affiliated preceptors. The program consists of 26 live seminar hours delivered over four full‐day sessions, two mentored teaching experiences, and creation of a philosophy of teaching statement and electronic teaching portfolio.

Objectives

The objectives of this research are to determine if the CEP enhanced the self‐perceived skills and confidence of residents and preceptors as clinician educators, and if participants and residency program directors valued the program components.

Methods

All participants enrolled in the CEP from 2015‐2018 and affiliated residency program directors were invited to complete an anonymous online survey. The survey asked a series of questions designed to measure the value of program components as well as the skills and confidence gained through program completion.

Results

The survey response rate was 42% (132/317). The number of participants who agreed or strongly agreed that they had proficient skills as a clinician educator (45% before vs 99% after; P < .001) and were confident as a clinician educator significantly improved (48% before vs 100% after; P < .001). The overwhelming majority agreed or strongly agreed that they gained value from attending the live teaching skills seminars, participating in mentored teaching experiences, writing a teaching philosophy, and creating a teaching portfolio. Nearly all participants and residency program directors would recommend the CEP to future residents and/or preceptors.

Conclusion

The CEP was well‐received by participants and residency program directors and provides a model for enhancing confidence in the skills of clinician educators.
Body mass index does not impact hematopoietic progenitor cell mobilization for autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Khouri Jack , Rybicki Lisa , Majhail Navneet S. , Kalaycio Matt , Pohlman Brad , Hill Brian , Jagadeesh Deepa , Dean Robert , Hamilton Betty , Sobecks Ronald , Koo Anna , Liu Hien
Published: August 2019

Background

Obesity has implications for hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) mobilization, chemotherapy administration, and medication dosing. We analyzed the impact of obesity on HPC mobilization as well as key outcomes that are associated with cell dose in autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (AHCT) recipients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study on 556 consecutive eligible AHCT recipients at our institution from 1/2004 to 12/2009. Patients were categorized into four groups based on the body mass index (BMI): underweight (BMI < 18.5), normal (18.5‐24.9), overweight (25.0‐29.9), or obese (≥30.0). Primary endpoints of interest included HPC mobilization, neutrophil and platelet recovery, hospital stay and survival.

Results

The diagnoses were mostly non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and Hodgkin lymphoma. The majority of the patients had received three or less prior chemotherapy regimens and had not received prior radiation therapy. Most patients had chemosensitive disease at time of transplant. For HPC mobilization regimen, 68% received chemotherapy and G‐CSF, 32% received G‐CSF alone. Busuflan/etoposide/cyclophosphamide, melphalan, and busulfan/cyclophosphamide were used for conditioning. Obesity did not correlate with HPC mobilization and had no association with neutrophil or platelet recovery, or length of transplant hospitalization. On multivariable analysis, obese patients demonstrated better survival than those who were not obese.

Conclusion

Obese AHCT recipients had similar rates of HPC mobilization, neutrophil and platelet engraftment and length of transplant hospitalization, and experienced better survival compared with recipients with lower BMI. High BMI by itself should not be considered as a contraindication to AHCT.
Testosterone does not mediate variation in basal metabolic rate and activity in relation to reproductive condition and photoperiod in white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus)
Authors: McDonnell Stephanie P. , Kaseloo Paul A. , Wran Victoria E. , Heideman Paul D.
Published: August 2019

The photoperiodic response of many temperate zone rodents, including white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus), is a heritable life‐history trait with underlying physiological variation. Previous studies of intact male P. leucopus utilized two wild‐derived bidirectional selection lines, a short photoperiod responsive (R) line selected for reproductive suppression in short‐day conditions (SD) and a nonresponsive (NR) line selected for reproductive maturity in SD. NR mice in SD had greater food intake, but also higher levels of locomotor activity, and basal metabolic rate (BMR) than R mice. We hypothesized that testosterone may be a key mediator of this metabolic difference, as it is likely to be significantly reduced in R SD mice. Male P. leucopus from either line in SD were castrated and given either an implant containing testosterone (T) or a sham control (C). They were then tested for variation in metabolic rate and activity in SD, thermoneutral conditions. T mice had significantly higher levels of food intake, testosterone, and seminal vesicle dry weight than C mice. Seminal vesicle dry weight was significantly and positively correlated with average testosterone level, indicating an effect of the T implants. There was no statistically significant difference among treatment groups in BMR and average daily metabolic rate, suggesting that differences in testosterone alone are not the cause of differences in metabolic rate between selection lines.
Inherent forms and the evolution of evolution
Authors: Newman Stuart A.
Published: August 2019

John Bonner presented a provocative conjecture that the means by which organisms evolve has itself evolved. The elements of his postulated nonuniformitarianism in the essay under discussion—the emergence of sex, the enhanced selection pressures on larger multicellular forms—center on a presumed close mapping of genotypic to phenotypic change. A different view emerges from delving into earlier work of Bonner's in which he proposed the concept of “neutral phenotypes” and “neutral morphologies” allied to D’Arcy Thompson's analysis of physical determinants of form and studied the conditional elicitation of intrinsic organizational properties of cell aggregates in social amoebae. By comparing the shared and disparate mechanistic bases of morphogenesis and developmental outcomes in the embryos of metazoans (animals), closely related nonmetazoan holozoans, more distantly related dictyostelids, and very distantly related volvocine algae, I conclude, in agreement with Bonner's earlier proposals, that understanding the evolution of multicellular evolution requires knowledge of the inherent forms of diversifying lineages, and that the relevant causative factors extend beyond genes and adaptation to the physics of materials.
IL-32 and its splice variants are associated with protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and skewing of Th1/Th17 cytokines
Authors: Koeken Valerie A. C. M. , Verrall Ayesha J. , Ardiansyah Edwin , Apriani Lika , dos Santos Jéssica C. , Kumar Vinod , Alisjahbana Bachti , Hill Philip C. , Joosten Leo A. B. , van Crevel Reinout , van Laarhoven Arjan
Published: August 2019

Studies in IL-32 transgenic mice and in vitro suggest that IL-32 may have protective effects against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but so far there are barely any studies in humans. We studied the role of IL-32 and its splice variants in tuberculosis (TB) in vivo and in vitro. Blood transcriptional analysis showed lower total IL-32 mRNA levels in pulmonary TB patients compared to patients with latent TB infection and healthy controls. Also, among Indonesian household contacts who were heavily exposed to an infectious TB patient, IL-32 mRNA levels were higher among those who remained uninfected compared to those who became infected with M. tuberculosis. In peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors, we found that IL-32γ, the most potent isoform, was down-regulated upon M. tuberculosis stimulation. This decrease in IL-32γ was mirrored by an increase of another splice variant, IL-32β. Also, a higher IL-32γ/IL-32β ratio correlated with IFN-γ production, whereas a lower ratio correlated with production of IL-1Ra, IL-6, and IL-17. These data suggest that IL-32 contributes to protection against M. tuberculosis infection, and that this effect may depend on the relative abundance of different IL-32 isoforms.
Frontline Science: Rev-Erbα links blue light with enhanced bacterial clearance and improved survival in murine Klebsiella pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Griepentrog John E. , Zhang Xianghong , Lewis Anthony J. , Gianfrate Gianmarino , Labiner Hanna E. , Zou Baobo , Xiong Zeyu , Lee Janet S. , Rosengart Matthew R.
Published: August 2019

The wavelength of light is a critical determinant of light's capacity to entrain adaptive biological mechanisms, such as enhanced immune surveillance, that precede and prepare us for the active circadian day, a time when the risk of encountering pathogen is highest. Light rich in the shorter wavelength visible blue spectrum maximally entrains these circadian rhythms. We hypothesized that exposure to blue light during sepsis will augment immunity and improve outcome. Using a clinically relevant Klebsiella pneumoniae acute lower respiratory tract infection model, we show that blue spectrum light shifts autonomic tone toward parasympathetic predominance and enhances immune competence, as characterized by accelerated pathogen clearance that is accompanied by reduced alveolar neutrophil influx, inflammation, and improved survival. Blue light functioned through an optic-cholinergic pathway and expansion of splenic Ccr2+ monocytes to increase control of the infection and improve survival. The “keystone” mediating these effects is the circadian clock protein Rev-Erbα, and biochemical activation with Rev-Erbα agonist SR9009 enhanced mononuclear cell phagocytosis in vitro and recapitulated the enhanced pathogen elimination in vivo observed with blue light. These findings underscore the potential therapeutic value of blue light and modulating Rev-Erbα to enhance host immunity against infection.
Autoradioluminography, a powerful and reliable tool for drug development: Accelera's experience
Authors: Marzorati Simona , Messina Monica , Ghiglieri Alberto
Published: August 2019

A deeper understanding of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of a drug candidate is a pivotal component of drug discovery and development. Autoradiography is an excellent technique allowing exploiting the advantages of the use of radioisotopes in the drug disscovery field. The introduction of phosphor imaging technology has revolutionized the handling of drug distribution studies providing high‐resolution images. Specifically, quantitative whole‐body autoradioluminography is employed for preclinical study where the aim is to obtain information about the route of elimination and tissue distribution of a drug candidate. Autoradioluminography is also the technique of choice pursued to deal with all the issue that it is possible to encounter in all stage of drug development (ie, site‐specific drug localization and retention, drug‐drug interactions, penetration into specific target, specific tissue binding, crossing of brain blood barrier, and placental transfer). The purpose of this review is to give a picture of how autoradiography is employed in our laboratory as a key tool for advances in the assessment of the drug disposition and to validate new experimental models.
Detection, variability, and predictability of monsoon onset and withdrawal dates: A review
Authors: Bombardi Rodrigo J. , Moron Vincent , Goodnight James S.
Published: August 2019

This article presents a review of the scientific literature on detection, sources of variability, and predictability of the timing of monsoons. The timing of monsoons is characterized by the beginning (commonly referred to as onset) and end (commonly referred to as demise, cessation, retreat, or withdrawal) dates of the summer monsoons. The main methods used to detect the timing of monsoons are divided into two categories: local‐scale methods and regional to large‐scale methods. The sources of variability of the timing of monsoons are also separated into two categories: local‐scale and large‐scale sources. Finally, the article presents a summary of the literature on the predictability of the timing of monsoons using both dynamical and statistical approaches. We show that all methods are parameterized in some way. A comparison between two different methods shows that while there might be large differences in the definition of onset and demise dates at the local level, spatial aggregation usually reduces the noise and enhances the regional monsoonal signal, which may be predictable.
Downregulation of Linc‐RNA activator of myogenesis lncRNA participates in FGF2‐mediated proliferation of human periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Wu Xiayi , Cao Zeyuan , Chen Huan , Ou Qianmin , Huang Xiaojun , Wang Yan
Published: August 2019

Background

Accelerated proliferation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) is present in periodontitis. It is known that fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) regulates the proliferation of PDLSCs, while the function of FGF2 in myogenic cell differentiation is mediated by Linc‐RNA Activator of Myogenesis (Linc‐RAM) lncRNA. Therefore, Linc‐RAM lncRNA may also participate in periodontitis.

Methods

This study included 28 patients with periodontitis (patient group) and 22 patients without periodontitis but received orthodontic treatment (control group) in the stomatological hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen university. Gingival biopsies were obtained from participants. RT‐qPCR, cell transfection, cell proliferation assay and western blot were carrying out to analyze the samples.

Results

We found that FGF2 mRNA was upregulated, while Linc‐RAM was downregulated in PDLSCs derived from periodontitis‐affected teeth than in healthy teeth. FGF2 mRNA and Linc‐RAM were inversely correlated in both types of PDLSCs. FGF2 overexpression led to inhibited Linc‐RAM expression in PDLSCs derived from periodontitis‐affected teeth and promoted the proliferation of PDLSCs. Linc‐RAM overexpression failed to significantly affect FGF2 expression but attenuated the enhancing effects of FGF2 overexpression on the proliferation of PDLSCs.

Conclusions

Therefore, downregulation of Linc‐RAM lncRNA may participate in FGF‐2 mediated‐ proliferation of human PDLSCs.
Surface Properties and Solubility Enhancement of Anionic/Nonionic Surfactant Mixtures Based on Sulfonate Gemini Surfactants
Authors: Wu Juan , Mei Ping , Chen Wu , Li Zhong‐Bao , Tian Qing , Mei Qi‐Xiang
Published: August 2019

As a class of novel surfactants, Gemini surfactants usually exhibit fairly excellent interfacial properties in aqueous solutions on account of the unique structure. They have significant application and development potential for industrial production. However, the mixing properties of Gemini surfactants with conventional surfactants are the key to their application. The equilibrium surface tension curves of anionic/nonionic surfactant mixtures based on the sulfonate Gemini surfactant (SGS‐12) were measured using the Wilhelmy Plate method. The parameters of surface adsorption, the interaction parameters between anionic and nonionic surfactants, and the thermodynamic parameters of micelle formation were calculated from the corresponding equations. In addition, the dynamic surface tension (DST) curves of anionic/nonionic surfactant mixtures were examined through bubble profile analysis, and the diffusion performance parameters were acquired from empirical formulas. The solubilization of pyrene in micelle solutions was studied using UV–vis absorption spectroscopy. The results show that the interaction parameters of all anionic/nonionic surfactants are negative, indicating that there is a synergistic effect on reducing the surface tension. For the SGS‐12/OP‐10, SGS‐12/Tween 80, SGS‐12/AEO9, and SGS‐12/APG0810 mixtures, the optimum mixing ratios are 6:4, 7:3, 7:3, and 8:2, respectively. The thermodynamic data of micelles show that the formation of mixed micelles for SGS‐12/APG0810 mixtures is an enthalpy‐driven process. The tendency of DST curves of the SGS‐12/APG0810 mixture is similar to that of SGS‐12. In comparison with single‐surfactant solutions, the anionic/nonionic surfactant mixtures show stronger solubilization capacity toward pyrene.
The health utility of mild and severe dysphonia
Authors: DeVore Elliana K. , Shrime Mark G. , Wittenberg Eve , Franco Ramon A. , Song Phillip C. , Naunheim Matthew R.
Published: August 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

The impact of disease states can be measured using health state utilities, which are values that reflect economic preferences for health outcomes. Utilities for dysphonia have not been studied using direct methods. The objective of this project was to establish the baseline health utilities of mild and severe dysphonia from a societal perspective.

Study Design

Direct utility elicitation survey.

Methods

Four health states (monocular blindness, binocular blindness, mild dysphonia, and severe dysphonia) were evaluated by a convenience sample of adults recruited from the general public with three computer‐aided estimation techniques (visual analog scale [VAS], standard gamble [SG], and time trade‐off [TTO]). Standardized descriptions and voice recordings from multiple dysphonic patients were employed. Perfect health was defined as a utility of 1, with death 0. Analysis of variance with post hoc pairwise comparison was used to calculate significant differences between health states.

Results

Three hundred participants were surveyed, and 225 (75.0%) responses met quality thresholds. Severe dysphonia (VAS = 48.3, SG = 0.810, TTO = 0.798) was valued significantly worse than monocular blindness (VAS = 56.2, SG = 0.834, TTO = 0.839) on the VAS (P < .001) and equivalent on SG and TTO; it was preferred over binocular blindness (VAS = 25.7, SG = 0.631, TTO = 0.622;P < .001) with all methods. Mild dysphonia evaluated favorably with all methods to the other health states (VAS = 78.5, SG = 0.902, TTO = 0.908;P < .001).

Conclusions

Voice disorders may have a measurable impact on utility, with severe dysphonia valued equivalently to monocular blindness. Mild dysphonia has a utility decrement from perfect health. These estimates are critical for quality‐of‐life assessment and could be used to assess cost‐effectiveness of treatments for voice disorders.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 130:1256–1262, 2020
Outcomes of Liver Transplantation in Small Infants
Authors: Yamamoto Hidekazu , Khorsandi Shirin E. , Cortes‐Cerisuelo Miriam , Kawano Yoichi , Dhawan Anil , McCall John , Vilca‐Melendez Hector , Rela Mohamed , Heaton Nigel
Published: August 2019

Liver transplantation (LT) for small infants remains challenging because of the demands related to graft selection, surgical technique, and perioperative management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short‐term and longterm outcomes of LT regarding vascular/biliary complications, renal function, growth, and patient/graft survival in infants ≤3 months compared with those of an age between >3 and 6 months at a single transplant center. A total of 64 infants ≤6 months underwent LT and were divided into 2 groups according to age at LT: those of age ≤3 months (range, 6‐118 days; XS group, n = 37) and those of age >3 to ≤6 months (range, 124‐179 days; S group, n = 27) between 1989 and 2014. Acute liver failure was the main indication for LT in the XS group (n = 31, 84%) versus S (n = 7, 26%). The overall incidence of hepatic artery thrombosis and portal vein thrombosis/stricture were 5.4% and 10.8% in the XS group and 7.4% and 11.1% in the S group, respectively (not significant). The overall incidence of biliary stricture and leakage were 5.4% and 2.7% in the XS group and 3.7% and 3.7% in the S group, respectively (not significant). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of renal function. No significant difference was found between the 2 groups for each year after LT in terms of height and weight z score. The 1‐, 5‐, and 10‐year patient survival rates were 70.3%, 70.3%, and 70.3% in the XS group compared with 92.6%, 88.9%, and 88.9% in the S group, respectively (not significant). In conclusion, LT for smaller infants has acceptable outcomes despite the challenges of surgical technique, including vascular reconstruction and graft preparation, and perioperative management.
Prediction model of surface roughness parameters of structural steel created by plasma arc cutting via full factor experiment
Authors: Duplák J. , Hatala M. , Dupláková D. , Botko F.
Published: August 2019

This article is focused on the prediction model of surface roughness parameters of structural steel created by plasma arc cutting. Optimization of the cutting process is very important from both quality and economy point of view. The presented paper shows the carrying out of the experiment with the specification of the design of experiments method. In these experiments, the influence of three factors ‐ the plasma current, the traverse speed, and plasma gas pressure was observed. Experimental material was selected structural steel S355. Along with the influence of controllable process factors was observed the influence of different plasma gasses. Application of different plasma gas significantly changes surface quality. The result of each experiment series is a regression function that can predict the Rz values according to the process parameters at given intervals. Presented equations can be applied in the production process for adjusting the plasma cutting process in order to achieve required surface quality.
The temporary shutdown decision: Lessons from the Great Recession
Authors: Brown James R. , Carpenter Robert E. , Petersen Bruce C.
Published: August 2019

The temporary shutdown condition provides guidance on dealing with a serious transitory downturn in demand. The traditional condition says managers should stop production when revenues fall below avoidable costs. This condition is flawed because it ignores how lost human capital and reputational damage harm future profits. As a consequence, firms may optimally operate with losses far larger than stipulated by the traditional condition. We provide the first broad empirical analysis of the temporary shutdown decision, focusing on the Great Recession. We show that large operating losses were common and temporary shutdowns were exceedingly rare, even among very small public firms.
Risk and diversification of nonprofit revenue portfolios: Applying modern portfolio theory to nonprofit revenue management
Authors: Qu Heng
Published: August 2019

This study uses modern portfolio theory (MPT) to estimate the risk of nonprofit revenue portfolios and examines to what degree the revenue concentration measure based on Herfindahl–Hirschman Index is associated with the portfolio risk measure based on MPT. The findings suggest that nonprofits with greater revenue concentration have lower revenue portfolio risk in the whole sample analysis. However, it is plausible that this result is dominated by organizations reliant on commercial income, which comprise over half of the sample. In fact, when examined separately, the relationship varies by an organization's primary funding structure. While higher revenue concentration is positively associated with portfolio risk for organizations relying on donations or those without a consistent primary funding source, it appears to associate with a lower portfolio risk for commercial organizations and those relying on government grants. This study reflects on the concept of diversification derived from portfolio theory and calls attention to a more nuanced approach to nonprofit revenue strategy.
Paget's disease of bone in two medieval skeletons from Poulton Chapel, Cheshire, UK
Authors: Burrell Carla L. , Emery Michael M. , Gonzalez Silvia
Published: August 2019

Paget's disease of bone (PDB) is a chronic, metabolic disease disrupting normal bone turnover and is reported as one of the most common bone diseases after osteoporosis. PDB is characterised by excessive bone remodelling resulting in bone enlargement, fragility, deformity and additional complications. Typically, PDB affects one or a few bones of the axial skeleton and is commonly recorded in older individuals (over 55 years of age) affecting more males than females. Although PDB has been reported worldwide, there is a high concentration of reported cases in the UK, with a regionalhotspotin the northwest of England. This study reviews an adult male (SK463) and female (SK750) with skeletal lesions of PDB from Poulton Chapel, Cheshire. Full macroscopic and radiographic analysis has identified the skeletal distribution of PDB, with up to 75% of both skeletons affected. SK463 presents noticeable anterior bowing to both tibiae, likely the result of PDB. AMS radiocarbon dating and stable isotope analysis performed on teeth samples confirmed that both individuals' dates were medieval, had a mixed/varied diet and were local to the northwest of England. This research adds to the emerging paleopathological literature on PDB, while providing additional support for the identification of a geographical hotspot observed in contemporary populations.
Exploring life patterns using entheseal changes in equids: Application of a new method on unworked specimens
Authors: Bindé Marion , Cochard David , Knüsel Christopher J.
Published: August 2019

Understanding changes in the relationships between humans and horses through time and across geographic space is of great interest for researchers due to the fundamental economic, social, and symbolic importance of the horse for human societies. Altered muscular or ligamentous attachments serve as a means to explore this subject. Entheseal changes (ECs) are widely employed in biological anthropology for reconstructions of past activity patterns in human groups. This kind of analysis is far more rare in zooarchaeology, but interest has been increasing over the past decade, particularly for reindeer and equid remains.

This contribution introduces a new recording protocol focused on 23 entheses located on the equine appendicular skeleton. In this contribution, this protocol is applied to unworked equids of various species and from diverse contexts in order to develop a baseline to gauge the extent of such changes for broad archaeological application. Bone formation and erosion of the surface of the attachment and, in some cases, its margins are considered. Intraobserver and interobserver tests reveal a general level of agreement of between 70% and 80% with variations from one enthesis to another. Examination of 27 complete skeletons of captive equids with no history of human use is investigated here to identify possible confounding factors, apart from activity, that influence the development of ECs. This study shows ECs to be age‐related and influenced by sexual dimorphism. Both aetiologies must be considered in future analyses. Some attachments in these specimens appear not to be influenced by sex and/or age at death, and this is promising. It is clear, however, that further studies of equids with documented activities are necessary to achieve a better appreciation of the factors responsible for the appearance of ECs before being applied to archaeological remains.
Litigation Combats Hazards of Aqueous Film‐Forming Foam Products
Authors: Napoli Paul J. , Greene Michelle
Published: August 2019

Aqueous film‐forming foam (AFFF) has been used on hundreds of military bases around the country to put out emergency fires and, more often, for training purposes to prepare for those emergencies. Although AFFF manufacturers voluntarily agreed to phase out the manufacture of firefighting foam with perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) several years ago, legacy contamination continues to be found in drinking water systems, a major source of PFC exposure.
What Makes a Utility Resilient?
Authors: Morley Kevin M.
Published: August 2019

By incorporating resilience into a risk management framework, a utility can improve its response and recovery strategies, thereby mitigating the potential for loss of service.
Effect of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) residue and coupling agent on the mechanical and thermal properties of polyolefin‐based composites
Authors: Bavasso Irene , Bracciale Maria P. , Sbardella Francesca , Tirillò Jacopo , Sarasini Fabrizio , Di Palma Luca
Published: August 2019

In this study, the feasibility of giving added value to spent yerba mate residues by manufacturing thermoplastic composites, and their potential benefits, is investigated. Experimental tests performed on yerba mate residues demonstrated that such residue, after a simple extraction procedure by water/ethanol solution, showed an acceptable level of interfacial compatibility with polyolefins. Biocomposites at different yerba mate residue amount in polypropylene and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) were produced by a two‐stage process, involving extrusion and injection molding, and their mechanical and thermal properties were evaluated through tensile, TGA, and DSC tests, respectively. The addition of yerba mate residues resulted in a significant improvement (up to 23% when 20 wt% of filler was added to HDPE) of tensile properties compared to the neat matrices. This result was obtained without showing a positive effect on their crystallization behavior, as found from DSC results. Composite materials modified with maleic anhydride as coupling agent exhibited an even greater reinforcing efficiency due to enhanced interfacial compatibility. Basing on the results of this study, yerba mate residue/thermoplastic composites appear to be a viable alternative to wood composite materials, with associated environmental benefits related to the valorization of such agro‐food waste.
Fabrication of capacitive yarn torsion sensors based on an electrospinning coating method
Authors: Choi Sejin , Moon Sung Hyeok , Kim Tae Kyun , Kim Han Seong
Published: August 2019

A yarn‐based capacitive torsion sensor was produced using a simple electrospinning coating method. It was expected that nonwoven nanofiber mats, as a coating layer, would exhibit excellent performance owing to their high surface area and porous three‐dimensional nonwoven structure, which is more deformable than that of films. The electrospinning process was investigated by image analysis to generate a suitable structure of the nanofiber coating layer. The thickness of the layer was controlled by varying the electrospinning coating time (10, 20 and 30 min). Yarn sensors with coating layers of different thicknesses were manufactured by twisting two coated fibers, while simultaneously measuring the capacitance. The best sensitivity was observed with the 10 min coated yarn, due to the largest valid twist level range. It is proposed that the distance between the electrodes and the dielectric constant of the material play an important and complex role in the capacitive response of the twisted yarn, caused by the porous three‐dimensional nonwoven structure of the coated layer and the molecular mobility of the polymer. This simple coating method is expected to be useful in a wide range of applications, such as wearable devices, by facilitating convenient fabrication and repair of the flexible sensors. Moreover, high performance of the sensor could be realized due to the structural advantage of the sensing layer. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
A tetraspanin gene regulating auxin response and affecting orchid perianth size and various plant developmental processes
Authors: Chen Wei‐Hao , Hsu Wei‐Han , Hsu Hsing‐Fun , Yang Chang‐Hsien
Published: August 2019

The competition between L (lip) and SP (sepal/petal) complexes in P‐code model determines the identity of complex perianth patterns in orchids. Orchid tetraspanin gene Auxin Activation Factor (AAF) orthologs, whose expression strongly correlated with the expansion and size of the perianth after P code established, were identified. Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) of OAGL6‐2 in L complex resulted in smaller lips and the down‐regulation of Oncidium OnAAF. VIGS of PeMADS9 in L complex resulted in the enlarged lips and up‐regulation of Phalaenopsis PaAAF. Furthermore, the larger size of Phalaenopsis variety flowers was associated with higher PaAAF expression, larger and more cells in the perianth. Thus, a rule is established that whenever bigger perianth organs are made in orchids, higher OnAAF/PaAAF expression is observed after their identities are determined by P‐code complexes. Ectopic expression Arabidopsis AtAAF significantly increased the size of flower organs by promoting cell expansion in transgenic Arabidopsis due to the enhancement of the efficiency of the auxin response and the subsequent suppression of the jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis genes (DAD1/OPR3) and BIGPETAL gene during late flower development. In addition, auxin‐controlled phenotypes, such as indehiscent anthers, enhanced drought tolerance, and increased lateral root formation, were also observed in 35S::AtAAF plants. Furthermore, 35S::AtAAF root tips maintained gravitropism during auxin treatment. In contrast, the opposite phenotype was observed in palmitoylation‐deficient AtAAF mutants. Our data demonstrate an interaction between the tetraspanin AAF and auxin/JA that regulates the size of flower organs and impacts various developmental processes.
Contextual Integrity and its Discontents: A Critique of Helen Nissenbaum's Normative Arguments
Authors: Rule James B.
Published: August 2019

Helen Nissenbaum's doctrine of contextual integrity has won extraordinary attention as a standard for acceptability in the flow of personal information. It promises to distinguish between forms of disclosure that are ethically justified and others, based on the social relationships and purposes of the settings in which they occur. The attraction of any analytical system that could accomplish such results is obvious, but this article holds that Nissenbaum's claims are not fulfilled. Notions that norms underlying any given domain of human conduct are unambiguous or uncontested simply do not withstand close examination. Indeed, most social norms, particularly in rapidly changing domains of human conduct like privacy practices, are volatile and highly contested. Many different interpretations of the “correct” norms are possible for any given context, and thinkers are always inclined to embrace those interpretations that most closely fit their pre‐existing mind‐sets and value positions. This flexibility has helped make the doctrine enormously attractive to policymakers seeking to defuse conflicts between proponents of new uses of personal information and privacy advocates. But it has hardly yielded unambiguous policy prescriptions that all parties could agree on.
Cell Mass Increase Associated with Formation of Glucose-Controlling β-Cell Mass in Device-Encapsulated Implants of hiPS-Derived Pancreatic Endoderm
Authors: Robert Thomas , De Mesmaeker Ines , Van Hulle Freya O. , Suenens Krista G. , Stangé Geert M. , Ling Zhidong , Haller Corinne , Bouche Nicolas , Keymeulen Bart , Kraus Marine R.C. , Pipeleers Daniel G.
Published: August 2019

Device-encapsulated human stem cell-derived pancreatic endoderm (PE) can generate functional β-cell implants in the subcutis of mice, which has led to the start of clinical studies in type 1 diabetes. Assessment of the formed functional β-cell mass (FBM) and its correlation with in vivo metabolic markers can guide clinical translation. We recently reported ex vivo characteristics of device-encapsulated human embryonic stem cell-derived (hES)-PE implants in mice that had established a metabolically adequate FBM during 50-week follow-up. Cell suspensions from retrieved implants indicated a correlation with the number of formed β cells and their maturation to a functional state comparable to human pancreatic β cells. Variability in metabolic outcome was attributed to differences in number of PE-generated β cells. This variability hinders studies on processes involved in FBM-formation. This study reports modifications that reduce variability. It is undertaken with device-encapsulated human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived-PE subcutaneously implanted in mice. Cell mass of each cell type was determined on intact tissue inside the device to obtain more precise data than following isolation and dispersion. Implants in a preformed pouch generated a glucose-controlling β-cell mass within 20 weeks in over 60% of recipients versus less than 20% in the absence of a pouch, whether the same or threefold higher cell dose had been inserted. In situ analysis of implants indicated a role for pancreatic progenitor cell expansion and endocrine differentiation in achieving the size of β- and α-cell mass that correlated with in vivo markers of metabolic control. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:1296&1305
Electrospinning Preparation and Formation Mechanism of BiVO4/α, β‐Bi2O3 Nanofibers with Enhanced Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Yang Fan , Yu Xiaojiao , Yao Binghua , Zhang Jie , Li Jv
Published: August 2019

Herein, the BiVO4/α, β‐Bi2O3 nanofibers with moderate amounts of BiVO4 nanoparticles (1‐5 wt%) were successfully fabricated by combining electrospinning and hydrothermal method. The microstructure and properties of the prepared samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared spectrometer, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, ultraviolet‐visible diffuse reflection, and photocurrent measurement. The results show that BiVO4 had a substantial effect on the formation of β‐Bi2O3 and the structure of the nanofibers. From the photocatalytic test results, it can be inferred that the RhB degradation efficiencies of pure BiVO4 and α‐Bi2O3 were lower than those of the composites considered in this study. The samples with a BiVO4 content of 3 wt% displayed the best photocatalytic activity for RhB (the degradation efficiency of RhB and Tc was 96.1% and 77.1%, respectively) compared to that of other samples considered in this study. The reactive species in the photocatalytic process were also studied, and it was found that the O2•− play a leading role in this process. In addition, the two‐step formation mechanism and the carries transmission mechanism of the composite nanofibers were constructed. This work provides a valuable reference for future research and design of high‐performance photocatalysts.
SiOx‐Modified Biocarbon Materials Derived from Shaddock Peel for Li–Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Feng , Deng Chaohua , Liu Xing , Ding Yanhuai , Peng Jinfeng
Published: August 2019

SiOx‐modified porous biocarbon (C/SiOx), derived from shaddock peel through pyrolysis reaction, has been explored as an anode in rechargeable lithium batteries. The hierarchical structure endows the C/SiOx composites ultrahigh specific capacity and high electronic conductivity. After 100 cycles, a reversible capacity over 740 mAh⋅g−1 can be obtained at a current density of 0.358 A⋅g−1. An acceptable capacity of 82 mAh⋅g−1 can also be exhibited by withstanding a current density of 17.9 A⋅g−1. The study demonstrates that C/SiOx composites can be employed as a potential anode for advanced Li‐ion batteries.
A Practical Method for the Preparation of Sulfonyl Chlorides and Sulfonamides from Thiols using H2O2‐TAPC Reagent System
Authors: Parnian Rouhallah , Soleimani Ebrahim , Bahrami Kiumars
Published: August 2019

H2O2 in the presence of TAPC (1,3,5‐triazo‐2,4,6‐triphosphorine‐2,2,4,4,6,6‐chloride) as an effective and chemoselective reagent system is described for the direct conversion of thiols to sulfonyl chlorides. Upon reaction with amines, the desired sulfonamides were produced in excellent yields and in short reaction times. Mild conditions, metal‐free process, and excellent selectivity are some of the advantages of this method.
Selective Synthesis of Dimethyl Carbonate via Transesterification of Propylene Carbonate with Methanol Catalyzed by Bifunctional Li‐Al Nano‐composite
Authors: Nivangune Nayana , Kelkar Ashutosh
Published: August 2019

A series of binary mixed metal oxides (MMOs) were synthesized by combination of Mn+/Al3+ (Mn+= Li, Mg, Co, Ni, Zn) via co‐precipitation method and screened for transesterification of propylene carbonate (PC) with methanol. The aim of this study was to understand the role of acid‐base properties of MMOs on the activity and selectivity towards dimethyl carbonate (DMC) synthesis. The MMOs were characterized in detail by XRD, BET, TEM, NH3 and CO2‐TPD techniques. Catalysts synthesized by various combination of Mn+/Al3+ showed different textural and surface properties and the strength of acid‐base sites were also found to be significantly altered. These changes in physicochemical properties significantly affected the PC conversion and selectivity to DMC. Li+ incorporated in Al3+ showed the formation of octahedral α‐LiAlO2 phase having more amounts of active sites (O2−) present on the edges and corner of the structure. This resulted in easy accessibility of active sites and higher activity compared to other catalysts screened. Furthermore the catalyst retained high activity and selectivity for six consecutive recycle experiments; which is highly desirable for large‐scale application.
Acid‐Catalyzed Four‐Component Tandem Double Cyclization: Access to Dihydroindolizino[8,7‐b]indoles
Authors: Shirsat Prashishkumar K. , Narasimhulu Valipenta , Kumbhare Ravindra M.
Published: August 2019

The novel one pot four‐component reaction for the construction of dihydroindolizino[8,7‐b]indoles and their derivatives have been developed from ninhydrine, tryptamine, dimetylene acetylene dicarboxylate and aliphatic alcohol. This reaction produces to go through via Pictet‐Spengler cyclization reaction and construction of C−C and C−N bond readily achieved under transition metal free condition. Meanwhile, advantageous of tandem double cyclization are not only reducing reaction steps but also waste production.
New Benzamide Analogues of Metronidazole‐tethered Triazoles as Non‐sugar Based Inhibitors of β‐Glucuronidase
Authors: Batool Farhana , Khan Maria A. , Shaikh Nimra N. , Iqbal Shazia , Akbar Shahida , Fazal‐ur‐rehman Saba , Choudhary Muhammad Iqbal , Basha Fatima Z.
Published: August 2019

The present study describes the synthesis, and evaluation of β‐glucuronidase inhibitory potential of metronidazole analogues. Twenty‐four metronidazole‐tethered benzamide triazoles (28‐51) were synthesized using copper‐catalyzed Huisgen alkyne‐azide cycloaddition reaction, and characterized by using different spectroscopic techniques. All of them were identified as new compounds. Compounds 28–51 demonstrated weak to excellent in vitro β‐glucuronidase inhibitory activity with no toxicity against 3T3 mouse fibroblast cell lines. Compound 51 (IC50=12.41 ± 0.58 μM) was found to be the most active β‐glucuronidase inhibitor among the series, with an activity ∼4 times higher than the standard inhibitor, D‐saccharic acid‐1,4‐lactone (IC50=45.75 ± 2.16 μM).
S8‐Mediated Cyclization of 2‐Hydroxy/Amino anilines with Arylacetylene: Approach to Benzoxazoles and Benzimidazoles
Authors: Gan Haifeng
Published: August 2019

A metal‐free cyclization to obtain 2‐arylmethyl benzoxazoles/benzimidazoles from three‐component reaction: 2‐hydroxy/amino anilines, sulfur and arylacetylene in DMF has been described. The reactions proceeded with good functional application and needed 2 equivalent of anilines, and gram‐scale is also obtained. DMF was efficient in this transformation, which is a complementary procedure to the known approach.
pH Dependent Self‐Assembly of Single‐Pyrene‐Armed Calix[4]arene: Modulation and Complexation with p‐Sulfonatocalix[6]arene
Authors: Kalyani Vrashali S. , Gawhale Sharadchandra T. , Rathod Nilesh V. , Singh Prabhat K. , Malkhede Dipalee D.
Published: August 2019

The photophysical behaviour of a single pyrene substituted calix[4]arene derivative (MPCX4) has been investigated, as a function of pH, using steady state fluorescence and time‐resolved emission spectroscopic techniques. An interesting dimer emission band has been observed exclusively in the alkaline solution (pH > 8) which has been attributed to the hydrophobic and stacking interaction between the pyrene moieties of the adjacent MPCX4 molecule. The self‐assembled MPCX4 is disrupted by the introduction of another calixarene based host, p‐sulfonatocalix[6]arene (SCX6), which eventually leads to the 1:1 complex formation between MPCX4 and SCX6, which is further characterised by 1H NMR, FT‐IR and HR‐MS techniques. This complexation between MPCX4 and SCX6 also leads to the modulation of the prototropic equilibrium of MPCX4.
Progress in miRNA Detection Using Graphene Material–Based Biosensors
Authors: Zhang Congcong , Miao Pei , Sun Mingyuan , Yan Mei , Liu Hong
Published: August 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, endogenous, noncoding RNAs that play critical roles in physiologic and pathologic processes and are vital biomarkers for several disease diagnostics and therapeutics. Therefore, rapid, low‐cost, sensitive, and selective detection of miRNAs is of paramount importance and has aroused increasing attention in the field of medical research. Among the various reported miRNA sensors, devices based on graphene and its derivatives, which form functional supramolecular nanoassemblies of π‐conjugated molecules, have been revealed to have great potential due to their extraordinary electrical, chemical, optical, mechanical, and structural properties. This Review critically and comprehensively summarizes the recent progress in miRNA detection based on graphene and its derivative materials, with an emphasis on i) the underlying working principles of these types of sensors, and the unique roles and advantages of graphene materials; ii) state‐of‐the‐art protocols recently developed for high‐performance miRNA sensing, including representative examples; and iii) perspectives and current challenges for graphene sensors. This Review intends to provide readers with a deep understanding of the design and future of miRNA detection devices.
Crystallization of Small Organic Molecules in a Polymer Matrix: Multistep Mechanism Enables Structural Control
Authors: Bronshtein Ilya , Weissman Haim , Kaplan‐Ashiri Ifat , Rybtchinski Boris
Published: August 2019

The widely employed crystallization of organic molecules in solution is not well understood and is difficult to control. Employing polymers as crystallization media may allow enhanced control via temperature‐induced regulation of polymer dynamics. Crystallization of a small organic molecule (perylene diimide) is investigated in polymer matrices (polystyrene) that enable the mechanistic study and control over order evolution. The crystallization is induced by heating above the glass transition temperature of the polymer, and quenched by cooling, leading to stabilization of crystallization intermediates. The mechanistic studies include direct imaging by electron microscopy, revealing a complex self‐assembly process starting from amorphous aggregates that densify and transform into an unstable crystalline phase of
N
,N′‐bis(2,6‐dimethylphenyl)perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic diimide (DMP‐PDI), followed by a conversion into a more stable crystalline form. Stabilization of crystallization intermediates at room temperature provides diverse structures based on a single molecular component. These findings have implications for the rational design of organic crystalline materials.