bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial canopy bridges improve connectivity in fragmented landscapes: The case of Javan slow lorises in an agroforest environment
Authors: Birot Hélène , Campera Marco , Imron Muhammad Ali , Nekaris K.A.I.
Published: December 2019

Canopy bridges are increasingly used to reduce fragmentation in tropical habitats yet monitoring of their impact on the behavior of primates remains limited. The Javan slow loris (Nycticebus javanicus) is endemic to Java, Indonesia, where the species most often occurs in human‐dominated, highly patchy landscapes. Slow lorises cannot leap, are highly arboreally adapted, and are vulnerable on the ground. To increase arboreal connectivity, as part of a long‐term conservation project in Cipaganti, West Java, we built and monitored seven slow lorises bridges of two types—waterline or rubber—and monitored their use by seven adult individuals from 2016 to 2017. Motion triggered camera traps collected data for 195 ± standard deviation (SD) 85 days on each bridge. We collected 341.76 hr (179.67 hr before and 162.09 hr after the installation of bridges) of behavioral and home range data via instantaneous sampling every 5 min, and terrestrial behavior (distance and duration of time spent on the ground) via all occurrences sampling. We found that slow lorises used bridges on average 12.9 ± SD9.7 days after their installment mainly for traveling. Slow lorises showed a trend toward an increase in their home range size (2.57 ha before, 4.11 ha after;p = 0.063) and reduced ground use (5.98 s/hr before, 0.43 s/hr;p = 0.063) after implementation of bridges. Although the number of feeding trees did not change, new feeding trees were included in the home range, and the proportion of data points spent traveling and exploring significantly decreased (p = 0.018). Waterline bridges serve a purpose to irrigate the crops of local farmers who thus help to maintain the bridges, and also ascribe value to the presence of slow lorises. Other endemic mammal species also used the bridges. We advocate the use and monitoring of artificial canopy bridges as an important supplement for habitat connectivity in conservation interventions.
Evaluation of appropriate indications for the use of sivelestat sodium in acute respiratory distress syndrome: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Maki Chika , Inoue Yoshiaki , Ishihara Tadashi , Hirano Yohei , Kondo Yutaka , Sueyoshi Koichiro , Okamoto Ken , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: December 2019

Aim

Sivelestat sodium, a selective neutrophil elastase inhibitor, is the only commercially available, specific therapy for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); however, its clinical efficacy is controversial. We aimed to evaluate appropriate indications for its use in ARDS.

Methods

We studied 66 patients with ARDS who were treated with sivelestat sodium. They were divided into survivors (n = 37) or non‐survivors (n = 29) at 60 days, and clinical characteristics were analyzed.

Results

Patients’ backgrounds evaluated with the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score and the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score were significantly different between both groups (survivors versus non‐survivors: APACHE II score, 14.7 ± 6.7 versus 20.5 ± 4.7, P < 0.01; SOFA, 7.25 ± 2.5 versus 9.82 ± 3.5, P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in other patients’ characteristics. On receiver operator characteristic analysis of APACHE II scores before the use of sivelestat sodium, the estimated cut‐off value for survival was calculated to be 18.5.

On receiver operator characteristic analysis of the PaO2/FIO2 ratio, the area under the curve was the highest 3 days after the treatment, with the optimal cut‐off point at 198.

Conclusion

An APACHE II score ≤18, and a PaO2/FIO2 ratio >198 at 3 days after the use of sivelestat sodium predicted a good outcome.
Photomechanical Luminescence from Through‐Space Conjugated AIEgens
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Fan Jianzhong , Liu Xinzhi , Zhao Zujin , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: December 2019

Transforming molecular motions into the macroscopic scale is a topic of great interest to nanoscience. The photomechanical effect is a promising strategy to achieve this goal. Herein, we report an intriguing photomechanical luminescence driven by the photodimerization of 2‐phenylbenzo[b]thiophene 1,1‐dioxide (P‐BTO) in molecular crystals and elucidate the working mechanism and substituent effect through crystallographic analysis and theoretical calculations. Striking splitting, hopping, and bending mechanical behaviors accompanied by a significant blue fluorescence enhancement are observed for P‐BTO crystals under UV light, which is attributed to the formation of photodimer 2P‐BTO. Although 2P‐BTO is poorly π‐conjugated because of the central cyclobutane ring, it exhibits prominent through‐space conjugation and aggregation‐induced emission (AIE), affording strong solid‐state blue fluorescence at 415 nm with an excellent quantum yield of up to 96.2 %.
UK deep‐sea conservation: Progress, lessons learned, and actions for the future
Authors: Chaniotis Peter D. , Robson Laura M. , Lemasson Anaëlle J. , Cornthwaite Alice L. , Howell Kerry L.
Published: December 2019

Despite a relatively long history of scientific interest fuelled by exploratory research cruises, the UK deep sea has only recently emerged as the subject of targeted and proactive conservation. Enabling legislation over the past 10 years has resulted in the designation of marine protected areas and the implementation of fisheries management areas as spatial conservation tools. This paper reflects on progress and lessons learned, recommending actions for the future.

Increased investment has been made to improve the evidence base for deep‐sea conservation, including collaborative research surveys and use of emerging technologies. New open data portals and developments in marine habitat classification systems have been two notable steps to furthering understanding of deep‐sea biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in support of conservation action.

There are still extensive gaps in fundamental knowledge of deep‐sea ecosystems and of cause and effect. Costs of new technologies and a limited ability to share data in a timely and efficient manner across sectors are barriers to furthering understanding. In addition, whilst the concepts of natural capital and ecosystem services are considered a useful tool to support the achievement of conservation goals, practical application is challenging.

Continued collaborative research efforts and engagement with industry to share knowledge and resources could offer cost‐effective solutions to some of these barriers. Further elaboration of the concepts of natural capital and ecosystem services will aid understanding of the costs and benefits associated with human–environment interactions and support informed decision‐making in conserving the deep sea.

Whilst multiple challenges arise for deep‐sea conservation, it is critical to continue ongoing conservation efforts, including exploration and collaboration, and to adopt new conservation strategies that are implemented in a systematic and holistic way and to ensure that these are adaptive to growing economic interest in this marine area.
A novel hexamerin with an unexpected contribution to the prophenoloxidase activation system of the Chinese oak silkworm, Antheraea pernyi
Authors: Liu Chengbao , Zhu Jinye , Ma Jingjing , Zhang Jinghai , Wang Xialu , Zhang Rong
Published: December 2019

Hexamerin was originally identified as a storage protein but later confirmed to be involved in many physiological processes. In the present study, we cloned and characterized a novel hexamerin complementary DNA sequence from the Chinese oak silkworm, Antheraea pernyi (Ap‐hexamerin), which shows high homology with reported insect methionine‐rich hexamerins. The tissue distribution and time course of expression demonstrated that Ap‐hexamerin was predominantly synthesized in the fat body and the expression level was significantly increased in response to the microbial challenge, suggesting the relevance of Ap‐hexamerin to immune responses. In further immune functional studies, Ap‐hexamerin was confirmed to take part in the upregulation of prophenoloxidase (PPO) activation in A. pernyi haemolymph triggered by pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Additional molecular interaction analysis revealed that Ap‐hexamerin is capable of binding the PAMPs used in the phenoloxidase assay, suggesting hexamerin in A. pernyi may positively regulate haemolymph PPO activation, acting as a pattern recognition protein.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of 4‐methoxy‐3‐arylamido‐N‐(substitutedphenyl)benzamide derivatives as potential antiplatelet agents
Authors: Liu Xiujie , Chen Xin , Qiu Kai , Zhang Zhihao
Published: December 2019

A series of 4‐methoxy‐3‐arylamido‐N‐(substitutedphenyl)benzamides 6a–u were designed according to the splicing principle of structural design in the medicinal chemistry theory and were synthesized in five steps: nitration, acylation, ammoniation, reduction, and secondary ammoniation. The structures of the target compounds were characterized and verified by infrared, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C NMR, and electron spray ionization spectroscopy. Their in vitro antiplatelet aggregation activities induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) or arachidonic acid (AA) were assessed by Born's method. The biological evaluation revealed that all compounds exhibited certain levels of activities in both of the antiplatelet aggregation assays; compounds 6c (IC50 = 3.84 μM) and 6f (IC50 = 3.12 μM) displayed the strongest antiplatelet aggregation activities in the ADP‐induced and AA‐induced assay, separately. Moreover, compounds that had stronger activities were chosen for cell toxicity testing via the cell counting kit‐8 assay. The results indicated that none of the compounds had obvious cell toxicity against L929 cells at the doses of 10 and 20 μM. It is worth pointing out that compound 6c showed the highest antiplatelet activity and the lowest cell toxicity. In general, 4‐methoxy‐3‐arylamido‐N‐(substitutedphenyl)benzamides have the potential to become a kind of safer and more effective antiplatelet agents.
Experiences of compassion focused therapy in eating disorder recovery: A qualitative model
Authors: Mullen Georgina , Dowling Clodagh , Doyle Jillian , O'Reilly Gary
Published: December 2019

Objective

This qualitative study explores participants' patterns of relating to self and others before and after attending a Compassion Focused Therapy for Eating Disorders‐2 (CFT‐E2) group intervention.

Method

Data from semi‐structured interviews conducted before (n = 13) and after (n = 9) the intervention were analysed using thematic and relational analyses.

Results

Pre‐intervention participants described experiencing difficult memories, identity struggles, negative self‐evaluation, powerlessness to the eating disorder, emotional dysregulation and an interest in change. Participants' descriptions of CFT‐E2 were broadly positive with some experiences common to group therapy approaches, such as feeling hope and trust, and some experiences specific to CFT‐E2, such as the flow of compassion and knowledge in the group. Postintervention, the interviews reflect positive changes that participants experienced. Participants reported a more compassionate mentality in their relationship with themselves and others, self‐belief, a sense of responsibility, stronger relationships, experiences of relinquishing control of their eating disorder and feeling less overwhelmed.

Discussion

Compassion Focused Therapy for Eating Disorders‐2 offers a new approach for treating self‐criticism and shame for people with eating disorders. This qualitative study supports the view that this approach offers novel and generic group therapy benefits for clients.
Suicide and nonsuicidal self‐injury among sexual and gender minority adolescents: A stress perspective
Authors: Poon Jennifer A. , Kerr Patrick L. , Kim Kerri L.
Published: December 2019

“I don't want to hurt myself — I want to kill myself.” Alex [not his real name] was an 18‐year‐old trans male I met during his first psychiatric inpatient admission. Alex was raised in a “holler” in West Virginia. While his peers were navigating the stresses of emerging adulthood, Alex carried the additional burden of experiencing gender dysphoria, a deep sense of incongruence between the biological sex he was assigned at birth (female) and his gender identity (male). Though well‐intentioned, his parents made it clear that his desire to be male was sinful and would not be tolerated in their family. He felt hopeless — “repulsive” even. Alex decided he could suppress his female identity interminably, risk coming out and being rejected by his family and community, or end his life.
Demonstrating synchronization of isorhythmic dissociation with stress testing
Authors: Clarke John‐Ross David , Ul Haq Faheem , Ranjan Saurabh , Zarich Stuart
Published: December 2019

There are a variety of causes of atrial and ventricular dyssynchrony. The mechanism underlying the arrhythmia is usually a guide to further management. This case highlights the key distinguishing features of more benign etiologies.
C−N Coupling Reactions on Graphene with Aromatic Macromolecules and the Spatial Conformation of Grafted Macromolecules
Authors: Meng Chenbo , Li Xinkai , Zhang Bingjie , Dai Yu , Cheng Zheng , Luo Longbo , Chen Yue , Liu Xiangyang
Published: December 2019

The fabrication of advanced graphene‐based nanocomposites with high‐performance polymers requires covalent modification of graphene with aromatic macromolecules. Herein, C−N coupling reactions between fluorinated graphene (FG) and aromatic polyamides containing the benzimidazole moiety are successfully achieved. The optimized conditions are presented based on the nucleophilic behavior of the C−N coupling reaction on graphene. Different from the C−N coupling reaction between two small aromatic molecules, the conformation of grafted aromatic polyamide after reaction changes from torsional to paralleled alignment on graphene with the molecular length increment. Non‐covalent interactions between graphene and aromatic polyamides result in this conformational change owing to the extended π systems of graphene and aromatic polyamides, and the synergistic effect of covalent and non‐covalent interactions is put forward. As a consequence, graphene dispersibility is greatly enhanced in the solution of aromatic polyamide.
Highly Efficient Photoreduction of Low‐Concentration CO2to Syngas by Using a Polyoxometalates/RuIIComposite
Authors: Xu Hui , You Siqi , Lang Zhongling , Sun Yue , Sun Chunyi , Zhou Jie , Wang Xinlong , Kang Zhenhui , Su Zhongmin
Published: December 2019

At present, the fixation of CO2always requires it to be extracted from the atmosphere first, which leads to more energy consumption. Thus, direct photoreduction of low‐concentration CO2to useful chemicals (e.g., syngas) under sunlight is significant from an energy‐saving and environmentally friendly perspective. Here, the design and fabrication of a [Ru(bpy)3]/[Co20Mo16P24] composite is demonstrated for visible‐light‐driven syngas production from diluted CO2(3–20 %) gas with a high yield of approximately 1000 TONs (turnover number of syngas). This activity is an order of magnitude higher than the reported system with [Ru(bpy)3]2+participation. With evidence from ultrafast transient absorption, GC‐MS,1H NMR spectroscopy and in situ transient photovoltage tests, a clear and fundamental understanding of the highly efficient photoreduction of CO2by the [Ru(bpy)3]/[Co20Mo16P24] composite is achieved. Making use of the structure and property designable polyoxometalates towards the photo‐fixation of CO2is a conceptually distinct and commercially interesting strategy for making useful chemicals and environmental protection.
Dehydroxylative Trifluoromethylthiolation, Trifluoromethylation, and Difluoromethylation of Alcohols
Authors: Zhang Wei , Lin Jin‐Hong , Wu Wenfeng , Cao Yu‐Cai , Xiao Ji‐Chang
Published: December 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

CF3S, CF3 and HCF2 groups have been identified as valuable functionalities for drug development. Despite significant accomplishments in the trifluoromethylthiolation, trifluoromethylation and difluoromethylation reactions, directly converting common functional groups into CF3S, CF3 or HCF2 groups is still highly desirable. Described here is the dehydroxylative trifluoromethylthiolation, trifluoromethylation and difluoromethylation of alcohols promoted by a R3P/ICH2CH2I system. All of these dehydroxylative reactions were achieved under mild conditions via the activation of the hydroxyl group by the R3P/ICH2CH2I system. A wide substrate scope and good functional group tolerance were observed.
Structural plasticity of GABAergic and glutamatergic networks in the motor thalamus of parkinsonian monkeys
Authors: Swain Ashley J. , Galvan Adriana , Wichmann Thomas , Smith Yoland
Published: December 2019

In the primate thalamus, the parvocellular ventral anterior nucleus (VApc) and the centromedian nucleus (CM) receive GABAergic projections from the internal globus pallidus (GPi) and glutamatergic inputs from motor cortices. In this study, we used electron microscopy to assess potential structural changes in GABAergic and glutamatergic microcircuits in the VApc and CM of MPTP‐treated parkinsonian monkeys. The intensity of immunostaining for GABAergic markers in VApc and CM did not differ between control and parkinsonian monkeys. In the electron microscope, three major types of terminals were identified in both nuclei: (a) vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (vGluT1)‐positive terminals forming asymmetric synapses (type As), which originate from the cerebral cortex, (b) GABAergic terminals forming single symmetric synapses (type S1), which likely arise from the reticular nucleus and GABAergic interneurons, and (c) GABAergic terminals forming multiple symmetric synapses (type S2), which originate from GPi. The density of As terminals outnumbered that of S1 and S2 terminals in VApc and CM of control and parkinsonian animals. No significant change was found in the abundance and synaptic connectivity of S1 and S2 terminals in VApc or CM of MPTP‐treated monkeys, while the prevalence of “As” terminals in VApc of parkinsonian monkeys was 51.4% lower than in controls. The cross‐sectional area of vGluT1‐positive boutons in both VApc and CM of parkinsonian monkeys was significantly larger than in controls, but their pattern of innervation of thalamic cells was not altered. Our findings suggest that the corticothalamic system undergoes significant synaptic remodeling in the parkinsonian state.
Implant stability in patients treated with platelet‐rich fibrin and bovine bone substitute for alveolar ridge preservation is associated with peripheral blood cells and coagulation factors
Authors: Brouwers Joost E.I.G. , van der Vorm Lisa N. , Buis Sharon , Haumann Rianne , Karanzai Avesta , Konings Joke , de Groot Philip G. , de Laat Bas , Remijn Jasper A.
Published: December 2019

Aims

The aim of the present study was to assess the association between dental implant stability and peripheral blood cell composition and levels of coagulation factors in patients treated with alveolar ridge preservation with platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) and bovine bone substitute.

Materials and methods

Fifty patients were included between 2015 and 2017. PRF was prepared from autologous blood, in which blood cells and coagulation factor levels were measured. PRF and bovine bone were placed in the socket, followed by closure with PRF membrane. Implants were placed 14 (±2.5) weeks postextraction. The implant stability quotient was measured at t = 0, t = 10 days, t = 7 weeks, and t = 17 weeks by resonance frequency analysis.

Results

Erythrocyte count was inversely associated with PRF membrane length, but not with implant stability. Conversely, platelet count did not correlate with membrane size but inversely correlated with implant stability at 7 and 17 weeks. In addition, implant stability was directly correlated with levels FXIII (t = 0, p < .01), active von Willebrand factor (VWF; t = 0 and 7 weeks, p < .05), and total VWF (t = 7 weeks, p = .012).

Conclusion

Implant stability following alveolar ridge preservation with PRF and bovine bone substitute is associated with circulating blood cells and coagulation factors. In particular, fibrin structure, VWF, and FXIII may be important modulators of implant stability.
Precise Quantitative Analysis of Cell Targeting by Particle‐Based Agents Using Imaging Flow Cytometry and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Mochalova Elizaveta N. , Kotov Ivan A. , Rozenberg Julian M. , Nikitin Maxim P.
Published: December 2019

Understanding the intricacies of particle–cell interactions is essential for many applications such as imaging, phototherapy, and drug/gene delivery, because it is the key to accurate control of the particle properties for the improvement of their therapeutic and diagnostic efficiency. Recently, high‐throughput methods have emerged for the detailed investigation of these interactions. For example, imaging flow cytometry (IFC) collects up to 60,000 images of cells per second (in 12 optical channels) and provides information about morphology and organelle localization in combination with fluorescence and side scatter intensity data. However, analysis of IFC data is extremely difficult to perform using conventional methods that calculate integral parameters or use mask‐based object recognition. Here, we show application of a convolutional neural network (CNN) for precise quantitative analysis of particle targeting of cells using IFC data. CNN provides high‐throughput object detection with almost human precision but avoids the subjective choice of image processing parameters that often leads to incorrect data interpretation. The method allows accurate counting of cell‐bound particles with reliable discrimination from the nonbound particles in the field of view. The proposed method expands capabilities of spot counting applications (such as organelle counting, quantification of cell–cell and cell–bacteria interactions) and is going to be useful not only for high‐throughput analysis of IFC data but also for other imaging techniques. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Pheromones can cull an invasive amphibian without releasing survivors from intraspecific competition
Authors: McCann S. , Crossland M. R. , Shine R.
Published: December 2019

Attempts to cull an invasive species often create a paradoxical situation, whereby the consequent reduction in invader densities frees the survivors from intraspecific competition—and hence, increases the viability of those survivors. Our laboratory experiments with invasive cane toads (Rhinella marina) show that this backfire effect can occur with pheromone‐baited trapping. Eliminating most of the tadpoles from a tank accelerates metamorphosis of the survivors and increases the size (and thus quality) of those metamorphs. Thus, trapping is likely to reduce recruitment only if the program catches all, or almost all, of the tadpoles in a waterbody. In contrast, toad control using the suppression pheromone, either alone or alongside trapping, causes similar rates of mortality as via trapping alone, but the survivors exhibit smaller mass at metamorphosis and a longer, not shorter, larval period. Thus, the combination of pheromone‐based suppression and trapping can reduce effective recruitment of cane toads more successfully than can either method when used alone.
Electronic Properties of Poly‐Yne Carbon Chains and Derivatives with Transition Metal End‐Groups
Authors: Gendron Frédéric , Groizard Thomas , Le Guennic Boris , Halet Jean‐François
Published: December 2019

During the last three decades, experimental chemists have forged a plethora of bimetallic molecular wires in which two redox‐active metal termini are linked by a carbon‐rich bridge. Their extensive redox chemistry with multiple, stepwise, one‐electron oxidation processes provide them with some interesting electronic and/or magnetic properties for potential applications. The nature of both the metal end‐groups and the carbon bridge has a significant effect on the redox process, which is of paramount importance for the design of these systems. Indeed, examples of mono‐oxidized complexes range from weakly coupled mixed‐valence species through more strongly coupled systems in which the bridging ligand can be intimately involved in electron transfer processes. Similarly, di‐oxidized species can encompass difference in magnetic behavior depending upon not only the nature of the framework of the systems but also the torsion angle between the terminal spin carriers, which allows the inversion of the singlet vs. triplet ground states. Theoretical quantum chemical computations have greatly assisted the development of this field of research. This review illustrates how, in synergy with experiments, computational results can provide additional valuable information on the nature of the localized vs. delocalized electronic communication in the mono‐oxidized mixed‐valence species, or the magnetic coupling differences and characteristics of the di‐oxidized complexes.
Molecular Engineering of β‐Substituted Oxoporphyrinogens for Hydrogen‐Bond Donor Catalysis
Authors: Chahal Mandeep K. , Payne Daniel T. , Matsushita Yoshitaka , Labuta Jan , Ariga Katsuhiko , Hill Jonathan P.
Published: December 2019

A new class of bifunctional hydrogen‐bond donor organocatalyst using oxoporphyrinogens having increased intramolecular hydrogen‐bond donor distances is reported. Oxoporphyrinogens are highly non‐planar rigid macrocycles containing a multiple hydrogen bond‐forming binding site. In this work, we describe the first example of non‐planar OxPs as hydrogen‐bond donor catalysts prepared using a molecular engineering approach of the binding site for dual activation of substrates. The introduction of β‐substituents is key to the catalytic activity and the catalysts are able to catalyze 1,4‐conjugate additions and sulfa‐Michael additions, as well as, Henry and aza‐Henry reactions at low catalyst loadings (≤ 1 mol‐%) under mild conditions. Preliminary mechanistic studies have been carried out and a possible reaction mechanism has been proposed based on the bi‐functional activation of both substrates through hydrogen‐bonding interactions.
Design, modeling, and experimental validation of a concave‐shape pectoral fin of labriform‐mode swimming robot
Authors: Naser Farah A. , Rashid Mofeed T.
Published: December 2019

The pectoral fin shape, size, and speed are the three main parameters for the proposed design. The influence of the geometrical shape of pectoral fin in labriform‐mode swimming mechanism is evaluated with the aid of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, which could be considered as a first step before building the complete robot prototype. The simulated results obtained are then validated experimentally. Two concave‐shape fins were designed with high precision, and each one of them is attached to a servomotor arm, which is, in turn, connected to a servomotor that is sliding on a pair of parallel shafts fixed at the center of a pool. The mathematical model of the proposed design is derived and then simulated by SolidWorks software. A different number of fin oscillating angles are tested with different power‐to‐recovery ratios. The generated thrust and drag force components under different working conditions are investigated, and hence, the drag coefficient is obtained experimentally. Body velocity and motor torque are calculated and compared with theoretical analysis. The results indicate that for each angle of rotation, there exists an optimal ratio that produces a maximum thrust during power stroke and maintains a minimum drag during recovery stroke.
Biomass Carbon Materials for Efficient Solar Steam Generation Prepared from Carbonized Enteromorpha Prolifera
Authors: Zhu Mengmeng , Xia Aidong , Feng Qingqing , Wu Xingshun , Zhang Canying , Wu Daxiong , Zhu Haitao
Published: December 2019

Solar steam generation is a promising technique using solar energy to obtain fresh water from seawater, industrial waste water, or sewage. In the current work, a green‐tide waste, enteromorpha prolifera (EP), is used as raw material to prepare efficient absorbers and light‐to‐heat converters for solar steam generation. The EP waste is treated by a one‐step carbonization process to produce carbonaceous EP foam that exhibits strong absorption in a wide spectrum from ultraviolet to near‐infrared regions. The carbonaceous EP foam shows a solar steam generation efficiency of 89% under 5‐sun irradiation. The hydrophilic surface characteristics, highly porous structure, and long‐range continuous channels of the carbonaceous EP foam enable fast water transport and sufficient water supply for solar evaporation. Fresh water recovered from seawater and dye wastewater completely meets with the standards of drinking water. The strategy can not only reduce the cost of solar steam generation materials but also enable large‐scale application.
Intraday time‐series momentum: Evidence from China
Authors: Jin Muzhao , Kearney Fearghal , Li Youwei , Yang Yung Chiang
Published: December 2019

This study conducts an investigation of intraday time‐series momentum across four Chinese commodity futures contracts: copper, steel, soybean, and soybean meal. Our results indicate that the first half‐hour return positively predicts the last half‐hour return across all four futures. Furthermore, in metals markets, we find that first trading sessions with high volume or volatility are associated with the strongest intraday time‐series momentum dynamics. Based on this, we propose an intraday momentum informed trading strategy that earns a return in excess of standard always long and buy‐and‐hold benchmarks.
3D‐engineered GelMA conduit filled with ECM promotes regeneration of peripheral nerve
Authors: Gong Hui , Fei Haosheng , Xu Qifan , Gou Maling , Chen Harry H.
Published: December 2019

Autologous transplantation remains the golden standard for peripheral nerve repair. However, many drawbacks, such as the risk of reoperation or nerve injury remain associated with this method. To date, commercially available artificial nerve conduits comprise hollow tubes. By providing physical guiding and biological cues, tissue engineered conduits are promising for bridging peripheral nerve defects. The present study focuses on the preparation of artificial composite nerve conduits by 3D bio‐printing. 3D‐printed molds with a tubular cavity were filled with an Engelbreth‐Holm‐Swarm (EHS) Hydrogel mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) basement membrane. Chemically cross‐linked gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) was used to form the conduit backbone, while EHS Hydrogels improved nerve fiber growth while shortening repair time. Statistical significant difference had been found between the blank conduit and the composite conduit group on compound muscle action potential after 4 months. On the other hand, results between the composite conduit group and the autograft group were of no statistical differences. All results above showed that the composite conduit filled with EHS Hydrogel can promote the repair of peripheral nerve and may become a promising way to treat peripheral nerve defects.
Synthesis of a novel bifunctional oxyammonium‐based ionic liquid: Application for the synthesis of pyrano[4,3‐b]pyrans and tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans
Authors: Zarei Azra , Yarie Meysam , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Niknam Khodabakhsh
Published: December 2019

In the present investigation, a novel bifunctional oxyammonium‐based ionic liquid, namely, 2,2′‐(ethane‐1,2‐diylbis[oxy])bis(ethan‐1‐aminium)‐2,2,2‐trifluoroacetate, was designed and synthesized. The structure of the titled ionic liquid was characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR), carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (13CNMR), fluorine nuclear magnetic resonance (19FNMR), homonuclear COSY nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), thermogravimetry (TG), derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) analysis, X‐ray diffraction patterns (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The described ionic liquid demonstrated robust catalytic performance in the synthesis of pyrano[4,3‐b]pyrans and tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyran derivatives. The ionic liquid presents a high potential of recycling and reusing capability in both types of model reactions.
Liver disease referrals to an urban, hospital‐based hepatology outpatient clinic over the past 25 years
Authors: Grubert Van Iderstine Micah , Iluz‐Freundlich Daniel , Dolovich Casandra , Villarin Eurielle , Minuk Gerald Y
Published: December 2019

Background

Additional hepatologists are required to manage the rapidly increasing number of patients with liver disease. One disincentive to trainees considering a career in hepatology is the longstanding perception that outpatient hepatology consists largely of managing patients with alcohol‐induced liver disease (ALD).

Objectives

To document the types of liver diseases and changes in liver disease referrals to an urban outpatient liver disease clinic over the past 25 years.

Methods

The nature of the liver disorder, age, gender, and socioeconomic status of patients referred to an urban, hospital‐based, liver diseases outpatient program were documented from 1992 to 2017. Joinpoint analysis was performed to identify significant trends in referral prevalence rates of various disorders.

Results

In 1992/1993, hepatitis C virus (HCV), followed by hepatitis B virus (HBV), “other”, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) were the most common underlying liver diseases in referred patients (39, 36, 12, 4.5, and 3.5% respectively), whereas in 2016/2017, NAFLD, HBV, HCV, “other,” and ALD were most common (60, 15, 12, 8.7, and 3.3%, respectively). Aside from NAFLD referrals, which consistently increased over the 25‐year period, the prevalence of all other liver disease referrals fluctuated but generally declined. Recently referred patients were significantly older (38 ± 13 years in 1992/1993 and 49 ± 15 years in 2016/2017, P < 0.0001), while gender and socioeconomic status have not changed.

Conclusions

Hepatology is a diverse, dynamic subspecialty where ALD continues to constitute less than 5% of all patient referrals.
Multiparametric MRI‐Based Radiomics for Prostate Cancer Screening With PSA in 4–10 ng/mL to Reduce Unnecessary Biopsies
Authors: Qi Yafei , Zhang Shuaitong , Wei Jingwei , Zhang Gumuyang , Lei Jing , Yan Weigang , Xiao Yu , Yan Shuang , Xue Huadan , Feng Feng , Sun Hao , Tian Jie , Jin Zhengyu
Published: December 2019

Background

Whether men with a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level of 4–10 ng/mL should be recommended for a biopsy is clinically challenging.

Purpose

To develop and validate a radiomics model based on multiparametric MRI (mp‐MRI) in patients with PSA levels of 4–10 ng/mL to predict prostate cancer (PCa) preoperatively and reduce unnecessary biopsies.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

In all, 199 patients with PSA levels of 4–10 ng/mL.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T, T2‐weighted, diffusion‐weighted, and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI.

Assessment

Lesion regions of interest (ROIs) from T2‐weighted, diffusion‐weighted, and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI were annotated by two radiologists. A total of 2104 radiomic features were extracted from the ROI of each patient. A random forest classifier was used to build the radiomics model for PCa in the primary cohort. A combined model was constructed using multivariate logistic regression by incorporating the radiomics signature and clinical‐radiological risk factors.

Statistical Tests

For continuous variables, variance equality was assessed by Levene's test and Student's t‐test, and Welch's t‐test was used to assess between‐group differences. For categorical variables, Pearson's chi‐square test, Fisher's exact test, or the approximate chi‐square test was used to assess between‐group differences. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The combined model incorporating the multi‐imaging fusion model, age, PSA density (PSAD), and the PI‐RADS v2 score yielded area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.956 and 0.933 on the primary (n = 133) and validation (n = 66) cohorts, respectively. Compared with the clinical‐radiological model, the combined model performed better on both the primary and validation cohorts (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the use of the combined model to predict PCa could identify more negative PCa patients than the use of the clinical‐radiological model by 18.4%.

Data Conclusion

The combined model was developed and validated to provide potential preoperative prediction of PCa in men with PSA levels of 4–10 ng/mL and might aid in treatment decision‐making and reduce unnecessary biopsies.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1890–1899.
Changes in flavonoid and carotenoid profiles alter volatile organic compounds in purple and orange cherry tomatoes obtained by allele introgression
Authors: da Silva Souza Mayara A , Peres Lázaro EP , Freschi Jonata R , Purgatto Eduardo , Lajolo Franco M , Hassimotto Neuza MA
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Tomatoes are an important source of human health‐promoting compounds, and efforts have been made to enhance their nutritional quality through conventional plant breeding or biotechnology. This study assessed the composition of volatile compounds, phenolics and carotenoids in two allele‐introgressed tomato lines, an anthocyanin‐rich purple tomato and a β‐carotene‐rich orange tomato, as well as a red tomato.

RESULTS

The purple tomato peel accumulated a high amount of anthocyanins, mainly petunidin 3‐(p‐coumaroyl)‐rutinoside‐5‐glucoside, responsible for the purple color, and other flavonoids such as rutin and kaempferol. The orange tomato did not undergo changes in the flavonoid profile but accumulated a high amount of β‐carotene, with impairment on lycopene. A total of 27 volatile compounds were detected in purple tomato, 38 in orange tomato and 39 in red tomato. They comprise terpenes, carbonyls, alcohols, esters and hydrocarbons. The difference in the volatile compound profiles of ripe fruits can be related to differences in some precursor contents in the introgression lines. Orange tomato accumulates volatiles from β‐carotene cleavage, not detected in the red fruits. Otherwise, volatiles from lycopene were absent in orange tomato as a result of the inhibition on lycopene accumulation. Phenolic volatiles were higher in the purple tomato, which has the highest total phenolic content.

CONCLUSION

The introgessed alleles seem to have a positive effect on the enrichment of ripe tomato in bioactive compounds such as anthocyanins and β‐carotene, improving nutritional quality. However, the allele introgression resulted in marked changes in volatile compound profiles, whose impact on tomato flavor and consumer acceptability needs to be evaluated. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Pure Laparoscopic Versus Open Left Hepatectomy Including the Middle Hepatic Vein for Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Hong Suk Kyun , Suh Kyung‐Suk , Kim Kyung Ae , Lee Jeong‐Moo , Cho Jae‐Hyung , Yi Nam‐Joon , Lee Kwang‐Woong
Published: December 2019

Pure laparoscopic donor hepatectomy (PLDH) has become increasingly accepted in the era of minimally invasive surgeries. However, the outcomes of pure laparoscopic donor left hepatectomy (PLDLH) are relatively less known than for left lateral sectionectomy or right hepatectomy. This study aimed to report our experience with and the outcomes of PLDLH including the middle hepatic vein (MHV) and to compare these outcomes with conventional donor left hepatectomy (CDLH). The medical records of living liver donors between January 2010 and January 2018 at Seoul National University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Donors who underwent left hepatectomy including the MHV were included. To minimize selection bias, donors who underwent CDLH after the initiation of the PLDH program were excluded. Finally, there were 18 donors who underwent CDLH and 8 who underwent PLDLH. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) warm ischemia time (11 [10‐16] minutes versus 4 [2‐7] minutes; P = 0.001) was longer in the PLDLH group than the CDLH group. The total operation time (333 [281‐376] minutes versus 265 [255‐308] minutes; P = 0.09) and time to remove the liver (245 [196‐276] minutes versus 182 [172‐205] minutes; P = 0.08) were also longer in PLDLH although not statistically significant. The length of postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the PLDLH group (7 [7‐8] days versus 9 [8‐10] days; P = 0.01). There were no postoperative complications in the PLDLH group. The rate of complications in recipients was similar in both groups. In conclusion, PLDLH including the MHV appears to be safe and feasible. Further analysis including longterm outcomes is needed.
Intrasexual female competition and female trust in gay male sales associates’ recommendations
Authors: Russell Eric M. , Bradshaw Hannah K. , Rosenbaum Mark S. , Hill Sarah E. , Russell‐Bennett Rebekah
Published: December 2019

These studies draw on evolutionary psychology and intrasexual female competition to examine why female shoppers often prefer working with gay male (GM) sales associates over heterosexual female (HF) sales associates. Study 1 finds that female shoppers often attribute trustworthiness to GM sales associates. Study 2 draws on theories of intrasexual competition and shows that female shoppers are more likely to trust product recommendations from a GM sales associate than an HF sales associate when they feel a sense of competitiveness with the female associate. Study 3 reveals that female shoppers’ trust in GM sales associates is limited to situations in which they are intending to purchase products that are meant to enhance their physical appearance. Study 4 extends these findings by showing that women are more likely to trust GM sales associates (vs. HF sales associates) when the objective of their purchase is to attract a desirable mate. The findings suggest that retailers should hire a diverse workforce and consider the role of e‐commerce in helping some female shoppers avoid potentially uncomfortable situations.
Millimeter‐wave slow‐wave Si‐benzocyclobutene transmission line: modeling and a coupler application
Authors: Shi Li‐Yun , Li Tao‐Tao , Chen Yu , Zhou Liang , Gao Jian‐Jun
Published: December 2019

A millimeter‐wave slow‐wave transmission line (T‐line) implemented with Si‐benzocyclobutene (Si‐BCB) technology is modeled in this paper. An artificial neural network (ANN) is applied to map the numerical relationship between the geometric parameters of the slow‐wave T‐line and its S‐parameters. The Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm and Gradient Descent Back‐Propagation optimization method are used during ANN training process. A 30‐GHz coupler based on the proposed slow‐wave structure is fabricated and measured. The ANN results, electromagnetic (EM)‐simulated results, and measured results are consistent with one another.
A sigmoid stabilizing function for fast sparse 3D inversion of magnetic data
Authors: Rezaie Mohammad
Published: December 2019

An interesting geological objective of quantitative interpretation of magnetic data is to find inverse models which can determine sharp geological interfaces below the surface. The stabilizing function in the Tikhonov parametric functional governs sparseness constraint in the recovered model. This paper introduces a novel stabilizer based on a sigmoid function which can provide non‐smooth models in the inversion of magnetic data efficiently. An inversion algorithm is developed based on the reweighted regularized conjugate gradient to get the solution of the inverse problem using this stabilizing function. The performance of the proposed algorithm is checked on two synthetic data sets and real aeromagnetic data from McFaulds Lake in Ontario, Canada, in comparison with the results of the minimum support stabilizing function. The inverse problem converges to the solution faster when the sigmoid stabilizing function is used instead of the minimum support stabilizing function.
Preparation, oil adsorption behavior, and mechanism of micro/nanofibrous polycaprolactone membrane prepared through solution blow spinning
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Yang Ruiting , Zhang Xiaohui , Yin Xueqiong , Tian Hua , Zhu Li
Published: December 2019

In this paper, biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) was used as the raw material to prepare micro/nanofibrous polycaprolactone membrane (PCLM) through solution blow spinning (SBS) technology. The effects of spinning conditions (distance, gas pressure, and spinning solution concentration) on PCLM structures were investigated. The obtained membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, water contact angle, and thermogravimetric analysis instrument. The oil adsorbency and reusability of PCLM were measured. The oil adsorption capacity of PCLM for motor oil, peanut oil, and diesel oil was 15.93, 14.81, and 12.86 g·g−1, respectively. After 10 times of reuse, the adsorption capacity for motor oil, peanut oil, and diesel oil could still remain at about 80% of the first cycle. The kinetic and thermodynamic studies showed that the adsorption conformed to the first‐order kinetic model and Freundlich model. Thermodynamic parameters for oil adsorption ΔGθ, ΔHθ, and ΔSθ indicated the oil adsorption of PCLM was a spontaneous and physisorption process.
Estimation of an Appropriate Dose of Trazodone for Pediatric Insomnia and the Potential for a Trazodone–Atomoxetine Interaction
Authors: Oggianu Laura , Ke Alice B. , Chetty Manoranjenni , Picollo Rossella , Petrucci Vanessa , Calisti Fabrizio , Garofolo Fabio , Tongiani Serena
Published: December 2019

There is a paucity of clinical trials for the treatment of pediatric insomnia. This study was designed to predict the doses of trazodone to guide dosing in a clinical trial for pediatric insomnia using physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling. Data on the pharmacokinetics of trazodone in children are currently lacking. The interaction potential between trazodone and atomoxetine was also predicted. Doses predicted in the following age groups, with exposures corresponding to adult dosages of 30, 75, and 150 mg once a day (q.d.), respectively, were: (i) 2‐ to 6‐year‐old group, doses of 0.35, 0.8, and 1.6 mg/kg q.d.; (ii) >6‐ to 12‐year‐old group, doses of 0.4, 1.0, and 1.9 mg/kg q.d.; (iii) >12‐ to 17‐year‐old group, doses of 0.4, 1.1, and 2.1 mg/kg q.d. An interaction between trazodone and atomoxetine was predicted to be unlikely. Clinical trials based on the aforementioned predicted dosing are currently in progress, and pharmacokinetic data obtained will enable further refinement of the PBPK models.
Fabrication of CH3NH3PbBr3‐Based Perovskite Single‐Crystal Arrays by Spin‐Coating Method Using Hydrophobic Patterned Substrate
Authors: Abe Ryogo , Suzuki Asuka , Watanabe Kosuke , Kikuchi Akihiko
Published: December 2019

A simple and low‐cost fabrication technique is proposed for CH3NH3PbBr3‐based perovskite single‐crystal arrays by combining spin coating and a hydrophobic/hydrophilic patterned substrate. By optimizing the substrate surface treatment, the mixing ratio of the precursor solution, and the spin conditions, the precursor solution is uniformly aligned on the hydrophilic area, and the perovskite single crystal is precipitated at the center of the pattern area. The average lateral diameter of the precipitated plate‐like crystals is controlled from 5 to 30 μm by changing the precursor concentration. The emission color of the precipitated crystals varies in the whole visible light region from violet (404 nm) to red (776 nm) by controlling the halogen composition of CH3NH3PbBr3–nXn (X = Cl, I) crystals via optimization of the solvent composition.