bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical characterisation of potential pheromones from the shoulder gland of the Northern yellow-shouldered-bat,Sturnira parvidens(Phyllostomidae: Stenodermatinae)
Authors: Faulkes Chris G. , Elmore J. Stephen , Baines David A. , Fenton Brock , Simmons Nancy B. , Clare Elizabeth L.
Published: September 2019

Bats of the genusSturnira(Family Phyllostomidae) are characterised by shoulder glands that are more developed in reproductively mature adult males. The glands produce a waxy secretion that accumulates on the fur around the gland, dyeing the fur a dark colour and giving off a pungent odour. These shoulder glands are thought to play a role in their reproductive behaviour. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, we analysed solvent extracts of fur surrounding the shoulder gland in the northern-shouldered bat,Sturnira parvidensto (i) characterise the chemical composition of shoulder gland secretions for the first time, and (ii) look for differences in chemical composition among and between adult males, sub-adult/juvenile males and adult females. Fur solvent extracts were analysed as liquids and also further extracted using headspace solid-phase microextraction to identify volatile components in the odour itself. Odour fingerprint analysis using non-metric multidimensional scaling plots and multivariate analysis revealed clear and significant differences (P< 0.001) between adult males vs both juvenile males and adult females. The chemical components of the shoulder gland secretion included terpenes and phenolics, together with alcohols and esters, most likely derived from the frugivorous diet of the bat. Many of the compounds identified were found exclusively or in elevated quantities among adult (reproductive) males compared with adult females and non-reproductive (juvenile) males. This strongly suggests a specific role in male–female attraction although a function in male–male competition and/or species recognition is also possible.
A 3D Microscaffold Cochlear Electrode Array for Steroid Elution
Authors: Jang Jongmoon , Kim Jin‐young , Kim Yeong Cheol , Kim Sangwon , Chou Namsun , Lee Seungmin , Choung Yun‐Hoon , Kim Sohee , Brugger Juergen , Choi Hongsoo , Jang Jeong Hun
Published: September 2019

In cochlear implants, the electrode insertion trauma during surgery can cause damage residual hearing. Preserving the residual hearing is an important challenge and the localized administration of drugs, such as steroids, is one of the most promising ways, but remains a challenge. Here, a microscaffold cochlear electrode array (MiSCEA) consisting of a microfabricated flexible electrode array and a 3D microscaffold for steroid reservoir is reported. The MiSCEA without loaded drug is tested by measuring the electrically evoked auditory brainstem response of the cochlea in guinea pigs (n = 4). The scaffold is then coated with steroid (dexamethasone) encapsulated in polylactic‐co‐glycolic acid and the continuous release of the steroid into artificial perilymph during six weeks is monitored. The steroid‐containing scaffolds are then implanted into guinea pigs (n = 4) and threshold shifts are analyzed for four weeks by measuring the acoustically evoked auditory brainstem response. The threshold shifts tend to be lower in the group implanted with the steroid‐containing MiSCEAs. The feasibility of 3D MiSCEA opens up the development of potential next‐generation cochlear electrode with improved steroid release dynamics into cochlea.
Tumor Antigen Mediated Conformational Changes of Nanoplatform for Activated Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liu Junjie , Zhang Yiwen , Liu Wei , Zhang Kaixiang , Shi Jinjin , Zhang Zhenzhong
Published: September 2019

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a noninvasive powerful tool for tumor treatment. However, phototoxicity seriously limits the clinical application of PDT, and activated PDT specifically response to tumor cell antigen is rarely reported. Herein, a tumor cell specific “switch‐on” PDT nanoplatform, which employs a well‐designed hairpin structure mucl protein (MUC1) aptamer (Apt) as specific linker to conjugate gold nanorod and Chlorin e6 (Ce6) (GNR/Apt‐Ce6) is prepared, and “switch on” via conformational changes of aptamer‐induced fluorescence resonance energy transfer missing between GNR and Ce6 for selective tumor therapy. In the absence of tumor cells, MUC1 Apt keeps a hairpin structure, leading to Ce6 closely adhered to the surface of GNR, PDT is in an “off” state even under the irradiations. On the contrary, in the presence of tumor cells with overexpressed MUC1, Apt specifically recognizes and binds to MUC1, resulting in conformational changes of Apt from regular hairpin to extended chain structure. Thus with an enlarged distance between Ce6 and GNR, PDT is switched‐on. GNR/Apt‐Ce6 shows excellent PDT efficacy in tumor‐bearing mice (55.1% vs 1.3%, tumor apoptosis rate of GNR/Apt‐Ce6 vs GNR/random sequence‐Ce6) due to its high tumor‐targeting and “switch‐on” properties. The strategy of tumor antigen activated PDT is expected to provide a new perspective for clinical application.
Antibacterial Layer‐by‐Layer Films of Poly(acrylic acid)–Gentamicin Complexes with a Combined Burst and Sustainable Release of Gentamicin
Authors: Escobar Ane , Muzzio Nicolás E. , Andreozzi Patrizia , Libertone Sara , Tasca Elisamaria , Azzaroni Omar , Grzelczak Marek , Moya Sergio E.
Published: September 2019

There is an urgent need for the development of effective antibacterial coatings to cope with more and more resistant bacterial strains in medical environments, and particularly to prevent nosocomial infections following bone implant surgery. Polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) based on poly‐l‐lysine (PLL) and complexes of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and gentamicin have been fabricated here applying the layer‐by‐layer (LbL) technique. Complexes are prepared by mixing PAA and gentamicin solutions in 500 × 10−3 m NaCl at pH 4.5. The assembly of PLL and the complexes follows an exponential growth allowing a high loading of gentamicin in a four bilayer PEM. Although PEMs are stable and do not degrade at physiological pH, there is a continuous release of gentamicin at pH 7.4. PEMs show an initial burst release of gentamicin in the first 6 h, which liberates 58% of the total gentamicin released during the experiment, followed by a sustainable release lasting over weeks. This release profile makes the coating appealing for the surface modification of bone implants as a high concentration of antibiotics is necessary during implant surgery while a lower antibiotic concentration is needed until tissue is regenerated. PEMs are effective in preventing the proliferation of the Staphylococcus aureus strain.
Guideline for Optical Optimization of Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Koç Mehmet , Soltanpoor Wiria , Bektaş Gence , Bolink Henk J. , Yerci Selçuk
Published: September 2019

Organometallic halide perovskite solar cells have emerged as a versatile photovoltaic technology with soaring efficiencies. Planar configuration, in particular, has been a structure of choice thanks to its lower temperature processing, compatibility with tandem solar cells, and potential in commercialization. Despite all the breakthroughs in the field, the optical mechanisms leading to highly efficient perovskite solar cells lack profound insight. In this paper, a comprehensive guideline is introduced involving semianalytical equations for thickness optimization of the front and rear transport layers, perovskite, and transparent conductive oxides to improve the antireflection and light trapping properties, and therefore to maximize the photocurrent of perovskite solar cells. It is shown that a photocurrent enhancement above 2 mA cm−2 can be achieved by altering—reducing or increasing—the thicknesses of the layers constituting a CH3NH3PbI3 (MAPI) type perovskite solar cell. The proposed guideline is tested against experiments as well as previously published experimental and simulation results for MAPI. Additionally, the provided guideline for various types of perovskites can be extended to other direct bandgap absorber‐based solar cells in superstrate configuration.
Wafer‐Scale Polymer‐Based Transparent Nanocorals with Excellent Nanoplasmonic Photothermal Stability for High‐Power and Superfast SERS Imaging
Authors: Wu Kaiyu , Nguyen Long Quang , Rindzevicius Tomas , Keller Stephan Sylvest , Boisen Anja
Published: September 2019

Polymer‐based surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates offer distinctive advantages such as low‐cost and high optical transparency which allows direct detection of trace chemicals on target surfaces and easy microfluidic integration. However, incident‐laser‐induced localized surface plasmon resonances can generate heat that deform the polymer and significantly reduce the intensities of recorded SERS signals. Herein, a novel wafer‐scale polymer‐based transparent nanocoral (WTNC) SERS substrate with 3D electromagnetic “hotspots” is presented. Its fabrication is simple and lithography‐free. The novel SERS substrate demonstrates excellent nanoplasmonic heat resistance, high SERS sensitivity, and unmatched SERS signal uniformity with a relative standard deviation of ≈6% across 80 mm. Excellent photothermal stability is achieved by highly crosslinking SU‐8, a negative epoxy photoresist, raising its initial degradation temperature to ≈230 °C, much higher than the glass transition temperature of state‐of‐the‐art thermalplasts used in SERS substrates, including polyethylene terephthalate and poly(methyl methacrylate). The WTNC substrate can withstand very high laser irradiance of up to 300 kW cm−2, enabling superfast SERS imaging of analytes in extremely small quantities. A high resolution SERS image containing 10 201 spectra of ≈44 amol trans‐1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethylene is obtainable in <5 min. The WTNC substrate pushes the state‐of‐the‐art in polymer‐based SERS substrates and has great potential for rapid routine analyses.
Delivery of Nanoparticles and Macromolecules across the Blood–Brain Barrier
Authors: Nowak Maksymilian , Helgeson Matthew E. , Mitragotri Samir
Published: September 2019

Treatment of brain‐related diseases is challenging due to the presence of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), a hurdle that prevents most foreign matter from entering the brain. While macromolecules and nanoparticles represent an increasing fraction of the therapeutic landscape in general, their limited ability to cross the BBB has hindered their clinical impact in treating diseases of the central nervous system. Here, the various routes for entry of macromolecular therapeutics into the brain are discussed, as well as the methods used to enhance their transport. Particular emphasis is placed on highlighting quantitative trends and mechanistic insights into how the macromolecular transport can be improved, discussing novel enhancement strategies, and identifying areas in need of more detailed investigations. Overall, this review shows several promising advances and continued progress toward a more complete understanding of how macromolecule and nanoparticle design and delivery strategy characteristics can be leveraged to improve the treatment of brain diseases.
One‐Step Controllable Synthesis of Catalytic Ni4Mo/MoOx/Cu Nanointerfaces for Highly Efficient Water Reduction
Authors: An Yiming , Long Xia , Ma Ming , Hu Jue , Lin He , Zhou Dan , Xing Zheng , Huang Bolong , Yang Shihe
Published: September 2019

Currently, in addition to the electroactive non‐noble metal water‐splitting electrocatalysts, a scalable synthetic route and simple activity enhancement strategy is also urgently needed. In particular, the well‐controlled synthesis of the well‐recognized metal–metal nanointer face in a single step remains a key challenge. Here, the synthesis of Cu‐supported Ni4Mo nanodots on MoOx nanosheets (Ni4Mo/MoOx) with controllable Ni4Mo particle size and d‐band structure is reported via a facile one‐step electrodeposition process. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the active open‐shell effect from Ni‐3d‐band optimizes the electronic configuration. The Cu‐substrate enables the surface Ni–Mo alloy dots to be more electron‐rich, forming a local connected electron‐rich network, which boosts the charge transfer for effective binding of O‐related species and proton–electron charge exchange in the hydrogen evolution reaction. The Cu‐supported Ni4Mo/MoOx shows an ultralow overpotential of 16 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH, demonstrating the smallest overpotential, at loadings as low as 0.27 mg cm−2, among all non‐noble metal catalysts reported to date. Moreover, an overpotential of 105 mV allows it to achieve a current density of 250 mA cm−2 in 70 °C 30% KOH, a remarkable performance for alkaline hydrogen evolution with competitive potential for applications.
Fast Redox Kinetics in Bi‐Heteroatom Doped 3D Porous Carbon Nanosheets for High‐Performance Hybrid Potassium‐Ion Battery Capacitors
Authors: Hu Xiang , Liu Yangjie , Chen Junxiang , Yi Luocai , Zhan Hongbing , Wen Zhenhai
Published: September 2019

Potassium‐ion hybrid capacitors (PIHCs) hold the advantages of high‐energy density of batteries and high‐power output of supercapacitors and thus present great promise for the next generation of electrochemical energy storage devices. One of the most crucial tasks for developing a high‐performance PIHCs is to explore a favorable anode material with capability to balance the kinetics mismatch between battery‐type anodes and capacitor‐type cathode. Herein, a reliable route for fabricating sulfur and nitrogen codoped 3D porous carbon nanosheets (S‐N‐PCNs) is reported. Systematic characterizations coupled with kinetics analysis indicate that the doped heteroatoms of sulfur and nitrogen and the amplified graphite interlayer can provide ample structural defects and redox active sites that are beneficial for improving pseudocapacitive activity, enabling fast kinetics toward efficient potassium‐ion storage. The S‐N‐PCNs are demonstrated to exhibit superior potassium storage capability with a high capacity of 107 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1 and long cycle stability. The as‐developed PIHCs present impressive electrochemical performance with an operating voltage as high as 4.0 V, an energy density of 187 Wh kg−1, a power density of 5136 W kg−1, and a capacity retention of 86.4% after 3000 cycles.
UV‐Inert ZnTiO3 Electron Selective Layer for Photostable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wei Jing , Guo Fengwan , Liu Bing , Sun Xiangyu , Wang Xi , Yang Zijiang , Xu Kun , Lei Ming , Zhao Yicheng , Xu Dongsheng
Published: September 2019

Although planar‐structured perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have power conversion efficiencies exceeding 24%, the poor photostability, especially with ultraviolet irradiance (UV) severely limits commercial application. The most commonly‐used TiO2 electron selective layer has a strong photocatalytic effect on perovskite/TiO2 interface when TiO2 is excited by UV light. Here a UV‐inert ZnTiO3 is reported as the electron selective layer in planar PSCs. ZnTiO3 is a perovskite‐structured semiconductor with excellent chemical stability and poor photocatalysis. Solar cells are fabricated with a structure of indium doped tin oxide (ITO)/ZnTiO3/Cs0.05FA0.81MA0.14PbI2.55Br0.45/Sprio‐MeOTAD/Au. The champion device exhibits a stabilized power conversion efficiency of 19.8% with improved photostability. The device holds 90% of its initial efficiency after 100 h of UV soaking (365 nm, 8 mW cm−2), compared with 55% for TiO2‐based devices. This work provides a new class of electron selective materials with excellent UV stability in perovskite solar cell applications.
A Novel Anion Doping for Stable CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells with an Efficiency of 15.56% and an Open Circuit Voltage of 1.30 V
Authors: Zhao Huan , Han Yu , Xu Zhuo , Duan Chenyang , Yang Shaomin , Yuan Shihao , Yang Zhou , Liu Zhike , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: September 2019

The Cs‐based inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs), such as CsPbI2Br, have made a striking breakthrough with power conversion efficiency (PCE) over 16% and potential to be used as top cells for tandem devices. Herein, I− is partially replaced with the acetate anion (Ac−) in the CsPbI2Br framework, producing multiple benefits. The Ac− doping can change the morphology, electronic properties, and band structure of the host CsPbI2Br film. The obtained CsPbI2−x
Br(Ac)x
perovskite films present lower trap densities, longer carrier lifetimes, and fast charge transportation compared to the host CsPbI2Br films. Interestingly, the CsPbI2−x
Br(Ac)x
PSCs exhibit a maximum PCE of 15.56% and an ultrahigh open circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.30 V without sacrificing photocurrent. Notably, such a remarkable Voc is among the highest values of the previously reported CsPbI2Br PSCs, while the PCE far exceeds all of them. In addition, the obtained CsPbI2−x
Br(Ac)x
PSCs exhibit high reproducibility and good stability. The stable CsPbI2−x
Br(Ac)x
PSCs with high Voc and PCE are desirable for tandem solar cell applications.
Hydroxychloroquine Blood Levels Predict Hydroxychloroquine Retinopathy
Authors: Petri Michelle , Elkhalifa Marwa , Li Jessica , Magder Laurence S. , Goldman Daniel W.
Published: September 2019

Objective

In 2016, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) changed the recommended daily dose of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) from 6.5 mg/kg to <5 mg/kg. However, it is not clear that the lower prescribed dose of HCQ will have the same efficacy for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) activity or the same role in protecting against cardiovascular risk factors and thrombosis. This study was undertaken to address the frequency of HCQ retinopathy and the role of HCQ blood levels in identifying those individuals who are at a greater future risk of retinopathy.

Methods

HCQ blood levels in 537 patients with SLE from a large clinical cohort were repeatedly measured, and patients were tested for HCQ retinopathy. We assessed the risk of retinopathy according to clinical characteristics and blood levels of HCQ.

Results

The overall frequency of retinopathy was 4.3% (23 of 537 patients). There was a 1% risk of retinopathy in the first 5 years of HCQ treatment, 1.8% from 6 to 10 years, 3.3% from 11 to 15 years, 11.5% from 16 to 20 years, and 8.0% after 21 years of use. We found that older age (P < 0.0001), higher body mass index (P for trend = 0.0160), and longer duration of HCQ intake (P = 0.0024 and P for trend = 0.0006) were associated with a higher risk of HCQ toxicity. Higher blood levels of HCQ predicted later HCQ retinopathy (P = 0.0124 and P = 0.0340 for mean and maximum HCQ blood levels, respectively).

Conclusion

Our data prove the utility of assessing blood levels of HCQ in the prediction of retinopathy. This would allow clinicians to either decrease the dose or increase monitoring in those patients with high HCQ blood levels.
Comparative Profiling of Serum Protein Biomarkers in Rheumatoid Arthritis–Associated Interstitial Lung Disease and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Kass Daniel J. , Nouraie Mehdi , Glassberg Marilyn K. , Ramreddy Nitya , Fernandez Karen , Harlow Lisa , Zhang Yingze , Chen Jean , Kerr Gail S. , Reimold Andreas M. , England Bryant R. , Mikuls Ted R. , Gibson Kevin F. , Dellaripa Paul F. , Rosas Ivan O. , Oddis Chester V. , Ascherman Dana P.
Published: September 2019

Objective

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a frequent complication of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), occurring in up to 40% of patients during the course of their disease. Early diagnosis is critical, particularly given the shared clinicoepidemiologic features between advanced rheumatoid arthritis–associatedILD(RA‐ILD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This study was undertaken to define the molecular basis of this overlap through comparative profiling of serum proteins inRA‐ILDandIPF.

Methods

Multiplex enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were used to profile 45 protein biomarkers encompassing cytokines/chemokines, growth factors, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in sera obtained fromRApatients withILDand those without, individuals withIPF, and healthy controls. Levels of selected serum proteins were compared between patient subgroups using adjusted linear regression, principal component analysis (PCA), and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) modeling.

Results

MultiplexELISA‐based assessment of sera from 2 independent cohorts (Veterans Affairs [VA] and Non‐VA) revealed a number of non‐overlapping biomarkers distinguishingRA‐ILDfromRAwithoutILD(RA–noILD) in adjusted regression models. Parallel analysis of sera fromIPFpatients also yielded a discriminatory panel of protein markers in models adjusted for age/sex/smoking, which showed differential overlap with profiles linked toRA‐ILDin theVAcohort versus the Non‐VAcohort.PCArevealed several distinct functional groups ofRA‐ILD–associated markers that, in theVAcohort, encompassed proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines as well as 2 different subsets ofMMPs. Finally,LASSOregression modeling in the Non‐VAandVAcohorts revealed distinct biomarker combinations capable of discriminatingRA‐ILDfromRA–noILD.

Conclusion

Comparative serum protein biomarker profiling represents a viable method for distinguishingRA‐ILDfromRA–noILDand identifying population‐specific mediators shared withIPF.
Synagoge Regensburg – eine Schale aus zweiachsig gekrümmtem Brettsperrholz
Authors: Gollwitzer Thomas , Amorth Andreas , Zausinger Dominik
Published: September 2019

Den Neubau der Synagoge Regensburg überspannt eine filigrane Kuppelschale aus massiven Brettsperrholzelementen, gelagert auf vier Eckstützen. Aus dem massiv gestaffelten Baukörper mit geschlämmten, hochkant verbauten Sichtziegeln erhebt sich ein nach Osten ausgerichteter quadratischer Glaskörper mit 13 m Seitenlänge, dessen oberer Abschluss die Holzschale bildet. Die Schalengeometrie beschreibt den Ausschnitt aus einer Kugel mit dem Radius von 25 m bei einem max. Stich von 1,64 m. Eingerahmt wird die Holzschale von vier kreisförmigen gewalzten Stahlbögen HEB 160, die in den Ecken von eingespannten Rundrohrstützen gehalten werden. Die dünne Schale mit einer Schlankheit von h/L = 100 und flachem Stich ist allein mit auskragenden Stützen nicht zu stabilisieren. Umlaufende Zugstäbe schließen den allseitigen Horizontalschub kurz und verspannen das Gesamtsystem.
SMARTp: A SMART design for nonsurgical treatments of chronic periodontitis with spatially referenced and nonrandomly missing skewed outcomes
Authors: Xu Jing , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar , Salehabadi Sedigheh Mirzaei , Michalowicz Bryan , Chakraborty Bibhas
Published: September 2019

This paper proposes dynamic treatment regimes (DTRs) as effective individualized treatment strategies for managing chronic periodontitis. The proposed DTRs are studied via SMARTp—a two‐stage sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) design. For this design, we propose a statistical analysis plan and a novel cluster‐level sample size calculation method that factors in typical features of periodontal responses such as non‐Gaussianity, spatial clustering, and nonrandom missingness. Here, each patient is viewed as a cluster, and a tooth within a patient's mouth is viewed as an individual unit inside the cluster, with the tooth‐level covariance structure described by a conditionally autoregressive structure. To accommodate possible skewness and tail behavior, the tooth‐level clinical attachment level (CAL) response is assumed to be skew‐t, with the nonrandomly missing structure captured via a shared parameter model corresponding to the missingness indicator. The proposed method considers mean comparison for the regimes with or without sharing an initial treatment, where the expected values and corresponding variances or covariance for the sample means of a pair of DTRs are derived by the inverse probability weighting and method of moments. Simulation studies are conducted to investigate the finite‐sample performance of the proposed sample size formulas under a variety of outcome‐generating scenarios. An R package SMARTp implementing our sample size formula is available at the Comprehensive R Archive Network for free download.
Novel augmented physical simulator for the training of transcatheter cardiovascular interventions
Authors: Zimmermann Jan M. , Steffen Oliver J. , Vicentini Luca , Schmid Daners Marianne , Taramasso Maurizio , Maisano Francesco , Meboldt Mirko
Published: September 2019

Background

Training in transcatheter cardiovascular skills today represents a significant challenge because of the complexity of the interventions and an extensive use of multiple live imaging technologies.

Objectives

We describe the design, the face validation, and content validation of a newly developed physical transseptal puncture (TSP) simulator using additive manufacturing techniques and novel imaging simulation solutions.

Methods

The TSP simulator contains a femoral vein catheterization pad, silicon phantoms of the venous system, a replaceable interatrial septum, and cameras to mimic live fluoroscopic and echocardiographic imaging. A validation study was conducted at the University Hospital of Zurich. A total of 14 interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons assessed the TSP simulator. Participants performed a TSP on the simulator using standard interventional tools. Face and content validity was demonstrated using a 5‐point Likert scale.

Results

The TSP simulator is a new training tool for transcatheter cardiovascular interventions. All interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons completed the training exercise and scoring. Overall impression was rated (out of 5) 4.04 ± 1.03, haptic feedback scored 4.13 ± 0.82, and the realism of fluoroscopy simulation 4.39 ± 0.79. Usability was rated 4.50 ± 0.63 by the participants, indicating that the simulator could be suitable for training.

Conclusion

We demonstrated face and content validity of a new simulator for transcatheter cardiovascular interventions. The TSP simulator's usability, haptic feedback, imaging solutions, and the overall impression of its usage were reported as very realistic. The TSP simulator represents a promising tool for simulation‐based training using real interventional toolkits in a mimicked radiological environment.
Bilateral tonsillar infiltration of T‐cell prolymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Bertaggia Ilaria , De Stefano Sabrina , Di Lella Filippo , Roti Giovanni
Published: September 2019

Tonsillar lymphoma usually presents as unilateral or bilateral infiltration of diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas. We report a case of a 79‐year‐old man with near‐complete obstruction of the upper airways due to T‐cell prolymphocytic leukemia cells. Surgical resection was safely performed to reduce burden of disease.
Cytomegalovirus colitis presented with triserial longitudinal hemorrhage in an autopsy case of adult T‐cell leukemia
Authors: Yorita Kenji , Ishihara Akira , Toyama Takanori
Published: September 2019

Longitudinal mucosal and submucosal hemorrhage along the taeniae coli is a potential colonic manifestation of cytomegalovirus infection in immunocompromised patients. When diagnosing cytomegalovirus colitis in immunocompromised patients, endoscopic biopsy on taeniae coli seems effective for viral detection.
Simultaneous Component Ratio and Particle Size Optimization for High‐Performance and High Tap Density P2/P3 Composite Cathode of Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Dong , Chen Hui , Zheng Xiaomei , Qiu Lang , Qu Jie , Wu Zhenguo , Zhong Yanjun , Xiang Wei , Zhong Benhe , Guo Xiaodong
Published: September 2019

The composite structure materials in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have received increasing attentions due to the synergistic effect. P2/P3 composite cathode with the advantages of high reversible capacity and superior reaction kinetics was regarded as one of the promising cathodes for SIBs. Crystal phase component ratio and particle morphology of hybrid structures are closely related with the electrochemical performance, especially the energy density. Herein, P2/P3 hybrid structure materials Na0.6Mn1‐xNixO2 were synthesized by co‐precipitation method. Furthermore, the component ratio and particle size are tuned and realized via simple Ni2+ content optimization. The targeted sample Na0.6Mn0.75Ni0.25O2 shows high tap density over 1.2 g cm−3 and excellent electrical properties with an initial capacity of 101.36 mA h g−1 at 0.2 C, corresponding to a high volumetric energy density of 512 Wh L−1 based on the cathode active material. Moreover, the long‐term cycling capacity retention can reach 68 % at 1 C after 500 cycles. The present study develops a promising cathode of SIBs that maybe applied in low‐speed electric vehicles. And the simultaneous optimization design represents a potential route for the regulation of composite structures to obtain high performance SIBs.
20 Years of Schnapps in Educating Chemical‐Engineering Students
Authors: Pfennig Andreas
Published: September 2019

In the so‐called Branntwein AG chemical‐engineering bachelor students first produce wine from a chosen type of fruit, which is then distilled twice to arrive at schnapps as the final product. Before performing the process, the required steps are designed based on an adequate mathematical representation. Besides these engineering skills, soft skills are practiced like team work, project management, and budget planning. During meanwhile 20 Branntwein AGs this course has proven to be an excellent means to inspire chemical‐engineering students and also to promote chemical engineering to the public.
Survival outcomes in patients with gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas treated with perioperative chemotherapy with or without preoperative radiotherapy
Authors: Tian Sibo , Jiang Renjian , Madden Nicholas A. , Ferris Matthew J. , Buchwald Zachary S. , Xu Karen M. , Cardona Kenneth , Maithel Shishir K. , McDonald Mark W. , Lin Jolinta Y. , Curran Walter J. , El‐Rayes Bassel F. , Behera Madhusmita , Patel Pretesh R.
Published: September 2019

Background

Perioperative chemotherapy (POC) is one standard approach for the treatment of resectable cancers of the stomach and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ), whereas there has been growing interest in preoperative therapies. The objective of the current study was to compare survival between patients treated with preoperative chemoradiotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy (PCRT) with those receiving POC using a large database.

Methods

The National Cancer Data Base was queried for patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2013 with American Joint Committee on Cancer clinical group stage IB to stage IIIC (excluding T2N0 disease) adenocarcinoma of the stomach or GEJ. Patients treated with definitive surgery and POC with or without preoperative radiotherapy of 41 to 54 Gy were included. Overall survival (OS) was defined from the date of definitive surgery and estimated using the Kaplan‐Meier method. A total of 14 patient and treatment variables were used for propensity score matching (PSM).

Results

A total of 1048 patients were analyzed: 53.2% received POC and 46.8% received PCRT. The primary tumor site was the GEJ in 69.1% of patients and stomach in 30.9% of patients. The median age of the patients was 60 years, and the median follow‐up was 25.8 months. The use of PCRT was associated with a greater pathologic complete response rate of 13.1% versus 8.2% (P = .01). POC was associated with a decreased risk of death in unmatched groups (hazard ratio [HR], 0.83; P = .043). Using PSM cohorts, POC decreased the risk of death with a median OS of 45.1 months versus 31.4 months (HR, 0.70; P = .016). The 2‐year OS rate was 72.9% versus 62.5% and the 5‐year OS rate was 40.7% versus 33.1% for POC versus PCRT, respectively. Survival favored POC in PSM gastric (HR, 0.41; P = .07) and GEJ (HR, 0.77; P = .08) patient subgroups.

Conclusions

The addition of preoperative radiotherapy to POC appears to be associated with an increased risk of death in patients with resectable gastric and GEJ cancers.
Efficient opportunistic routing with social context awareness for distributed mobile social networks
Authors: Xu Fang , Xiao Nan , Deng Min , Xie Yong , Xiong Zenggang , Xu Qiong
Published: September 2019

Mobile social networks (MSNs) are developed from mobile ad hoc networks. Nodes in such networks usually have social characteristics. In recent years, researchers are trying to use the social characteristics of the network to propose new data forwarding metrics, so as to design more efficient routing algorithms. However, most of the proposed algorithms only consider local context information, which leads to the performance of the routing is not optimized enough. In this paper, we introduce two key metrics, namely, social relationship and social activity. The metrics will be used to search the best data forwarding nodes to improve the probability of data delivery. We propose a prediction‐based social‐aware opportunistic routing (PSOR). In the proposed method, node's social profiles are used to search relay candidates set, and the discrete‐time semi‐Markov prediction model is used to find the probability distribution of node transition between communities. Many simulation experiments based on real traces show that the proposed PSOR algorithm is more efficient to maximize the packet delivery probability than other state‐of‐the‐art algorithms.
REScO3 Substrates—Purveyors of Strain Engineering
Authors: Klimm Detlef , Guguschev Christo , Ganschow Steffen , Bickermann Matthias , Schlom Darrell G.
Published: September 2019

The thermodynamic and crystallographic background for the development of substrate crystals that are suitable for the epitaxial deposition of biaxially strained functional perovskite layers is reviewed. In such strained layers the elastic energy delivers an additional contribution to the Gibbs free energy, which allows the tuning of physical properties and phase transition temperatures to desired values. For some oxide systems metastable phases can even be accessed. Rare‐earth scandates, REScO3, are well suited as substrate crystals because they combine mechanical and chemical stability in the epitaxy process with an adjustable range of pseudo‐cubic lattice parameters in the 3.95 to 4.02 Å range. To further tune the lattice parameters, chemical substitution for the RE or Sc is possible.
Diatom responses to long‐term climate and sea‐level rise at a low‐elevation lake in coastal British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Neil Karen , Lacourse Terri
Published: September 2019

Diatom assemblages from Lake Stowell, a low‐elevation lake in coastal British Columbia, were used to assess limnological responses associated with changes in relative sea level (RSL) and climate over the past 14,500 yr. Marine diatom taxa dominated the early record and disappeared abruptly by 14,000 cal yr BP in response to glacio‐isostatic uplift and an ensuing decrease in RSL. A brackish‐freshwater phase from 14,200 to 13,400 cal yr BP was marked by increases in several diatom taxa with tolerance for low‐to‐moderate salinity, after which assemblages became strictly freshwater. Biostratigraphic changes in both diatom and chironomid assemblages from Lake Stowell occurred more or less simultaneously throughout the record in response to long‐term changes in climate forcings, such as temperature. Increases in cold‐adapted diatom (Staurosirella pinnata, Staurosira construens, Staurosirella dubia) and chironomid (Sergentia) taxa between 12,900 and 11,700 cal yr BP coincided with Younger Dryas cooling, suggesting a direct link with summer temperature. Shifts in aquatic biota also reflected indirect mechanisms through which climate affected the Lake Stowell ecosystem, for example, by altering thermal stratification, disturbance regimes, and nutrient concentrations. For instance, high summer insolation and warm summer temperatures from 11,700 to 8500 cal yr BP were associated with greater abundances of Stephanodiscus hantzschii and especially Aulacoseira subarctica. A concurrent opening of the forest canopy triggered by warming would have exposed the lake to strong winds and enhanced mixing, favoring these more heavily silicified taxa as an indirect consequence of climatic changes. Diatom assemblages appear to have been impacted by the deposition of Mount Mazama tephra at 7600 cal yr BP; a notable increase in Aulacoseira tenella suggests a response to increased silica availability in association with tephra deposition.
Trees of Amazonian Ecuador: a taxonomically verified species list with data on abundance and distribution
Authors: Guevara Andino Juan Ernesto , Pitman Nigel C. A. , Ulloa Ulloa Carmen , Romoleroux Katya , Fernández‐Fernández Diana , Ceron Carlos , Palacios Walter , Neill David A. , Oleas Nora , Altamirano Paola , Rivas Torres Gonzalo , ter Steege Hans
Published: September 2019

We compiled a data set for all tree species collected to date in lowland Amazonian Ecuador in order to determine the number of tree species in the region. This data set has been extensively verified by taxonomists and is the most comprehensive attempt to evaluate the tree diversity in one of the richest species regions of the Amazon. We used four main sources of data: mounted specimens deposited in Ecuadorian herbaria only, specimen records of a large‐scale 1‐hectare‐plot network (60 plots in total), data from the Missouri Botanical Garden Tropicos® database (MO), and literature sources. The list of 2,296 tree species names we provide in this data set is based on 47,486 herbarium records deposited in the following herbaria: Alfredo Paredes Herbarium (QAP), Catholic University Herbarium (QCA), Herbario Nacional del Ecuador (QCNE), Missouri Botanical Garden (MO), and records from an extensive sampling of 29,768 individuals with diameter at breast height (dbh) ≥10 cm recorded in our plot network. We also provide data for the relative abundance of species, geographic coordinates of specimens deposited in major herbaria around the world, whether the species is native or endemic, current hypothesis of geographic distribution, representative collections, and IUCN threat category for every species recorded to date in Amazonian Ecuador. These data are described in Metadata S1 and can be used for macroecological, evolutionary, or taxonomic studies. There are no copyright restrictions; data are freely available for noncommercial scientific use (CC BY 3.0). Please see Metadata S1 (Class III, Section B.1: Proprietary restrictions) for additional information on usage.
Vertebrate diversity revealed by metabarcoding of bulk arthropod samples from tropical forests
Authors: Lynggaard Christina , Nielsen Martin , Santos‐Bay Luisa , Gastauer Markus , Oliveira Guilherme , Bohmann Kristine
Published: September 2019

Background

Thousands of bulk arthropod samples are collected globally every year for monitoring programs, conservation efforts, and ecosystem assessments. The taxonomic contents of these samples can be assessed either morphologically or molecularly using DNA metabarcoding coupled with high‐throughput sequencing, the latter of which has gained popularity in recent years. In a related field, only vertebrateingesting invertebrates, such as carrion flies and blood‐feeding leeches, are targeted for collection, and metabarcoding is carried out on the vertebrate DNA in their gut contents to provide information on vertebrate diversity (invertebrate‐derived DNA, iDNA).

Aims

Here, we show that the two approaches can be combined, that is, that vertebrate DNA can be detected through metabarcoding of bulk arthropod samples. Materials and Methods: Two metabarcoding primer sets were used to PCR amplify mammal and vertebrate DNA in DNA extracted from bulk arthropod samples collected with pitfall and Malaise traps in tropical forests in Brazil and Tanzania.

Results

In total, 32 vertebrate taxa were detected representing mammals, amphibians, and birds. Detected taxa were within, or close to, their known geographical distributions.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that with a relatively small additional investment, information on vertebrate diversity can be obtained from bulk arthropod samples. This is of particular interest in projects where bulk arthropod samples are collected and extracted with the aim to use metabarcoding to assess arthropod taxa. In such studies, the additional information on vertebrates can further inform ecological assessments and monitoring programs and function as a supplement to traditional survey methods of vertebrates.
Optimization of butter, xylitol, and high‐amylose maize flour on developing a low‐sugar cookie
Authors: Song Yunxian , Li Xu , Zhong Yuyue
Published: September 2019

There is a huge interest to develop low‐sugar baked products for reducing risks of some diseases, such as adiposis, diabetes, and high blood pressure. A low‐sugar cookie was prepared with butter, xylitol, and high‐amylose maize flour (HAMF) through response surface methodology. ANOVA of models for sensory profiles, texture, and digestibility showed the models for sensory attributes, hardness, and resistant starch were significant (p < .05), indicating the reliability of these models. Sensory profiles of cookie were mainly affected by butter and xylitol, while HAMF was not significant. Hardness was negatively related to butter and HAMF. Resistant starch (RS) content was positively correlated with butter, xylitol, and HAMF. The improvement of RS was attributed to high proportions of long amylopectin and amylose chains of starch in HAMF and interactions of starch with butter and xylitol. The predicted model showed the optimal combination of a cookie with the highest sensory and resistant starch and the lowest hardness was intermediate butter, high xylitol, and high HAMF contents.
Learning, Remembering and Forgetting
Authors: Unterstell Rembert
Published: September 2019

Neurobiologist Martin Korte studies the basic cellular mechanisms involved in memory processes, combining ambitious research with varied science communication. An interview at the Zoological Institute at TU Braunschweig
The Urban Beekeeper
Authors: Fenske Michaela
Published: September 2019

Beekeeping is growing in popularity in urban areas with more and more city dwellers in Europe and North America keeping bees in their spare time. In Berlin, for example, we can observe new ways of thinking and behaving that straddle ecological concerns, human‐animal interaction and a new perception of the self and the environment.
Above the Clouds
Authors: Schmidt Jörg , Wendisch Manfred , Curtius Joachim , Scheinert Mirko , Sinnhuber Björn‐Martin
Published: September 2019

Taking to the skies to study the atmosphere, climate and planet: Funded by a consortium of major German research institutes, HALO has quickly become the most advanced research aircraft in Europe. With an array of modern and variable equipment, it can be used for demanding measurement campaigns from aerosol particles to air pollutants and clouds.
The Right Signature for Every Process
Authors: Brinksmeier Ekkard , Reese Stefanie , Sölter Jens
Published: September 2019

The hardness, residual stress and other properties of a component's surface layers are crucial to its functionality and durability. To achieve specific improvements to the component's “skin”, engineers need a more detailed understanding of the physical and chemical processes at work during manufacturing processes and how these can be exploited to modify the material properties.
Ketamine effects on default mode network activity and vigilance: A randomized, placebo‐controlled crossover simultaneous fMRI/EEG study
Authors: Zacharias Norman , Musso Francesco , Müller Felix , Lammers Florian , Saleh Andreas , London Markus , de Boer Peter , Winterer Georg
Published: September 2019

In resting‐state functional connectivity experiments, a steady state (of consciousness) is commonly supposed. However, recent research has shown that the resting state is a rather dynamic than a steady state. In particular, changes of vigilance appear to play a prominent role. Accordingly, it is critical to assess the state of vigilance when conducting pharmacodynamic studies with resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) using drugs that are known to affect vigilance such as (subanesthetic) ketamine. In this study, we sought to clarify whether the previously described ketamine‐induced prefrontal decrease of functional connectivity is related to diminished vigilance as assessed by electroencephalography (EEG). We conducted a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover study with subanesthetic S‐Ketamine in N = 24 healthy, young subjects by simultaneous acquisition of resting‐state fMRI and EEG data. We conducted seed‐based default mode network functional connectivity and EEG power spectrum analyses. After ketamine administration, decreased functional connectivity was found in medial prefrontal cortex whereas increased connectivities were observed in intraparietal cortices. In EEG, a shift of energy to slow (delta, theta) and fast (gamma) wave frequencies was seen in the ketamine condition. Frontal connectivity is negatively related to EEG gamma and theta activity while a positive relationship is found for parietal connectivity and EEG delta power. Our results suggest a direct relationship between ketamine‐induced functional connectivity changes and the concomitant decrease of vigilance in EEG. The observed functional changes after ketamine administration may serve as surrogate end points and provide a neurophysiological framework, for example, for the antidepressant action of ketamine (trial name: 29JN1556, EudraCT Number: 2009‐012399‐28).
“Let's make a place where giants live!”: Children's communication during play with siblings and friends from early to middle childhood
Authors: Leach Jamie , Howe Nina , DeHart Ganie
Published: September 2019

The present study examined children's co‐construction of shared meanings and internal state language during play with their sibling and friend from early to middle childhood. Sixty‐five 4‐year‐old children (T1) and 46 7‐year‐old children (T2) were observed in the home during two free play sessions with a sibling and with a friend at both time points. Shared meaning strategies during social play (e.g., extensions and positive responses) and during pretend enactment were coded. Shared meaning strategies were associated with relationship context; children used more positive shared meaning strategies with friends compared to siblings and more introductions with siblings than friends. Moreover, developmental differences were evident; specifically, children employed more simple strategies, semantic tying (e.g., building on to one's ideas) and prosocial strategies at T2 than T1. Differences were also evident during pretend enactment where children used simple strategies more at T2 than T1 and clarifications more at T1 than T2. Findings highlight children's sophisticated and flexible communication strategies used in the process of co‐constructing a shared understanding during play.

Highlights

The present study investigated children's shared meaning strategies used during play with their sibling and friend from early to middle childhood.

Children were observed in separate play sessions and both relationship and developmental differences were found.

The patterns of findings highlight important similarities and differences in children's co‐;construction of shared meanings with siblings and friends over time.