bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐organized experimenting with experience boxes
Authors: Wagner Walter
Published: August 2019

Erfahrungskisten sind ein Komplettangebot für einen zeitlich sehr begrenzten Rahmen (20‐40 Minuten). Die Anleitungen dazu enthalten jeweils Problemorientierung, Experimentier‐Angebot auf Stoff‐Ebene, abgestufte Lernhilfen, Erklärungsangebot auf Teilchen‐Ebene, Kontroll‐Aufgaben und die Möglichkeit für Selbsteinschätzung. Die zurzeit verfügbaren 40 Kisten sind nach den Grundsätzen der Montessori‐Materialien (s. u.) konzipiert und an den praktischen Einsatz in chemischen Fachräumen angepasst. Sie sind prinzipiell in allen Jahrgangsstufen von 5–13 einsetzbar. Ihre volle Leistung entfalten sie allerdings bei Wochenplanarbeit im selbstorganisierten Lernen (SOL). Das Material heißt Erfahrungskiste, weil es den Zugang zu chemischen Inhalten nach der induktiven Vorgehensweise durch das Ermöglichen von Erfahrungen stützt. Alle Anleitungen, die zum Bau der Kisten erforderlich sind, sind im Internet in bearbeitbarem Format zugänglich.
Computational modelling of magnesium stent mechanical performance in a remodelling artery: Effects of multiple remodelling stimuli
Authors: Boland Enda L. , Grogan James A. , McHugh Peter E.
Published: August 2019

Significant research has been conducted in the area of coronary stents/scaffolds made from resorbable metallic and polymeric biomaterials. These next‐generation bioabsorbable stents have the potential to completely revolutionise the treatment of coronary artery disease.

The primary advantage of resorbable devices over permanent stents is their temporary presence which, from a theoretical point of view, means only a healed coronary artery will be left behind following degradation of the stent potentially eliminating long‐term clinical problems associated with permanent stents. The healing of the artery following coronary stent/scaffold implantation is crucial for the long‐term safety of these devices.

Computational modelling can be used to evaluate the performance of complex stent devices in silico and assist in the design and development and understanding of the next‐generation resorbable stents. What is lacking in computational modelling literature is the representation of the active response of the arterial tissue in the weeks and months following stent implantation, ie, neointimal remodelling, in particular for the case of biodegradable stents.

In this paper, a computational modelling framework is developed, which accounts for two major physiological stimuli responsible for neointimal remodelling and combined with a magnesium corrosion model that is capable of simulating localised pitting (realistic) stent corrosion. The framework is used to simulate different neointimal growth patterns and to explore the effects the neointimal remodelling has on the mechanical performance (scaffolding support) of the bioabsorbable magnesium stent.
Hydrosilylation of Ketones Catalyzed by Iron Iminobipyridine Complexes and Accelerated by Lewis Bases
Authors: Kobayashi Katsuaki , Izumori Yosuke , Taguchi Daisuke , Nakazawa Hiroshi
Published: August 2019

Fe‐iminobipyridine complexes ((RBPIAr,R′)FeBr2, RBPIAr,R′=iminobipyridine derivatives) were found to exhibit good catalytic activity for hydrosilylation of ketones. The highest TOF (turnover frequency) was obtained for the hydrosilylation of 2‐octanone with phenylsilane (4190 min−1). The reactions of various 4‐substituted acetophenone derivatives revealed that the introduction of an electron‐withdrawing group at the 4‐position retarded the reaction. The TOF of the hydrosilylation of 4‐chloroacetophenone with diphenylsilane was quite low (30 min−1), however the addition of a catalytic amount of Lewis base, especially pyridine, dramatically accelerated this hydrosilylation (980 min−1). Comparison of this additive effect for several N‐donor ligands revealed that the coordination ability of the N‐donor ligand was responsible for the acceleration. The rate determining step in the hydrosilylation of ketones appeared to be the reductive elimination of alkoxy and silyl groups from the iron center, which was facilitated by the coordination of N‐donor ligand to the iron. This coordination ability of the N‐donor ligand, however, inhibited olefin hydrosilylation. Addition of KOtBu instead of N‐donor also showed the same acceleration and inhibition effects on ketone and olefin hydrosilylations, respectively.
Cytotoxicity of orthodontic temporary anchorage devices on human periodontal ligament fibroblasts in vitro
Authors: Chen Zhibin , Patwari Manika , Liu Dawei
Published: August 2019

Objectives

The objective of this study is to test cytotoxicity of four brands of commercially available orthodontic temporary anchorage devices (TADs).

Setting and sample population

Twenty‐four (six for each brand, i.e., Aarhus [AO]; Dual top [RMO]; Vector TAS [ORMCO]; and Unitek TAD [3M UNITEK]) TADs were tested.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐four (six for each brand, i.e., Aarhus [AO]; Dual top [RMO]; Vector TAS [ORMCO]; and Unitek TAD [3M UNITEK]) TADs were individually incubated in complete cell culture medium and shaken at a rate of 1.5 rpm at 37°C for 30 days to extract possible toxic substances in conditioned media (CM). To test cytotoxicity, human periodontal ligament fibroblasts were cultured and exposed to the CM for 24 hr, followed by the examinations of morphological changes, cell viability (MTT assay), and cell damage (lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] assay).

Results

No morphological changes were observed in any of the four brands of TADs compared with the negative control. LDH assay showed that none of the four brands of TADs caused significant cell damage after CM treatment compared with the negative control (P > .05). No significant differences were found between any of the four brands of TADs (P > .05). MTT assay showed similar results as did the LDH assay, except for a statistically significant difference found in the TADs from 3M UNITEK compared with the negative control (P = .047).

Conclusions

According to the International Standard Organization standards, except for the TAD from 3M, none of the other three brands of commercially available TADs (from AO, RMO, and ORMCO) exhibited significant cytotoxicity, suggesting their safe clinical applications.
Association between oral diseases and impact on daily performance among male Saudi schoolchildren
Authors: Alzahrani Abdullah Ali H , Alhassan Eltayeb Mohammed , Albanghali Mohammad Aref
Published: August 2019

Objective

Little is known about exploring the oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) of school children in Saudi Arabia. The importance of examining this topic has centred on its ability to measure associations between the oral symptoms, impacts and clinical measures. This study aims to explore associations between the (OHRQoL) based on the children's Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (Child‐OIDP) index and oral diseases of Saudi school children living in Albaha region.

Materials and methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted between November 2017 to January 2018 using two‐stage randomised sampling technique. The oral diseases and impacts were examined using the World Health Organization's (1997) guidelines and the Child‐OIDP index, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using the SPSS software version 20.0. Chi‐squared, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression tests were used, as appropriate.

Results

In total 349 Saudi male school children, 12 to 15 years old, were recruited. The Child‐OIDPrate was significantly high (75.1%). The participants reported minor, moderate and major (severe) oral impacts (29.4%, 50%, and 20.6% respectively). The overall mean of the Child‐OIDP score was 2.15±1.40.

Conclusions

The high overall Child‐OIDP score was in accordance with the participants' dental status. Further research should focus on improving knowledge and implementing education programmes to advance the community's oral diseases and practices.
Galectin‐3 as a candidate upstream biomarker for quantifying risks of myocardial ageing
Authors: Keng Bryan M.H. , Gao Fei , Ewe See Hooi , Tan Ru San , Teo Louis L.Y. , Xie Bei Qi , Koh Woon‐Puay , Koh Angela S.
Published: August 2019

Aims

Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) is implicated in the pathogenesis of heart failure and is also influenced by ageing. This study aims to determine the extent to which Gal‐3 levels estimate odds of myocardial dysfunction in ageing cohorts, ‘upstream’ prior to clinical disease.

Methods and results

Four hundred seventy‐five asymptomatic subjects underwent simultaneous assessments of cardiovascular structure and function, with measurements of circulating Gal‐3. Myocardial dysfunction was defined as impaired myocardial relaxation (ratio of peak velocity flow in early diastole E (m/s) to peak velocity flow in late diastole by atrial contraction A (m/s) <0.84) (mean E/A ratio 0.84 in the cohort). Of 475 subjects (mean age 68 ± 12 years, 231 women), 222 (47%) had myocardial dysfunction. Subjects with myocardial dysfunction were older (mean age 73 ± 5 vs. 64 ± 14 years, P < 0.0001), and more had hypertension (59 vs. 40%, P < 0.0001), dyslipidaemia (54 vs. 39%, P = 0.001), diabetes mellitus (25 vs. 14%, P = 0.002), higher body mass index (BMI) (24 vs. 23 kg/m2, P = 0.002), and higher heart rate (76 vs. 71 b.p.m., P = 0.0001). Participants with impaired myocardial relaxation had lower peak velocity flow in early diastole E (0.6 ± 0.1 vs. 0.8 ± 0.2 m/s, P < 0.0001), higher peak velocity flow in late diastole by atrial contraction A (0.9 ± 0.1 vs. 0.7 ± 0.2 m/s, P < 0.0001), and higher mitral valve flow deceleration time (224.7 ± 43.2 vs. 204.8 ± 33.1 m/s, P < 0.0001). Participants with impaired myocardial relaxation had higher Gal‐3 levels (17.2 ± 6.2 vs. 15.5 ± 4.1, P = 0.0004) but similar B‐type natriuretic peptide (37 ± 4 vs. 34 ± 29, P = 0.37) and high‐sensitivity troponin I (21 ± 72 vs. 11 ± 41, P = 0.061) levels and urine microalbumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (4.6 ± 8.1 vs. 4.2 ± 10.8, P = 0.75) compared with those without impaired myocardial relaxation. After multivariable adjustments, Gal‐3 [odds ratio (OR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00–1.10, P = 0.039], age (OR 2.60, 95% CI 1.64–4.11, P < 0.0001), BMI (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.44–3.23, P < 0.0001), and heart rate (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02–1.06, P < 0.0001) were associated with impaired myocardial relaxation. Adjusted ORs (95% CI) for myocardial dysfunction were 1.0 (ref), 1.62 (0.92–2.85), 1.92 (1.08–3.41), and 2.01 (1.11–3.66) across consecutive quartiles of Gal‐3 after adjustment for age, BMI, risk factors, and heart rate.

Conclusions

Among asymptomatic community‐dwelling elderly adults, the highest quartile of Gal‐3 was associated with two‐fold increased odds of myocardial dysfunction compared with the lowest quartile of Gal‐3. Gal‐3 may have a role as an ‘upstream’ biomarker in estimating odds of myocardial ageing prior to clinical disease.
A New Chiral Ni4O4 Distorted Cube: Synthesis, Structure, and Magneto‐Structural Correlation
Authors: Sen Rupam , Lopes Armandina M. L. , Lin Zhi , Brandão Paula , Araújo Joao P.
Published: August 2019

A new chiral tetranuclear Ni4O4 complex has been developed with distorted cubane‐type structure. The structure was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The new tetradentate Schiff‐base ligand in this compound was synthesized via the condensation of 2′‐hydroxyacetophenone and (R)‐3‐amino‐1,2‐propanediol. Temperature dependent magnetization measurements showed a predominant ferromagnetic interaction among the four Ni centers. The best fit of the χT vs. T curve results in a solution with two exchange interaction values, J1=12.7 cm–1, and J2=1.6 cm–1 which are appreciably correlated with the structure. Ac susceptibility data were collected between 2 and 28 K and it is found that the data display a small frequency dependence with the peaks shifting to higher temperatures with increasing frequencies.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Benzylic C‐H Functionalization for the Synthesis of 2‐Arylquinazolines
Authors: Zhang Jingchang , Wang Qibao , Guo Yongen , Ding Lin , Yan Maocai , Gu Yinglin , Shi Jiajia
Published: August 2019

This work reports a mild and efficient approach for the synthesis of substituted quinazolines using 1‐(2‐aminoaryl)ethan‐1‐ones in conjunction with arylmethanamines as starting materials via visible‐light‐induced benzylic C–H functionalization. The reaction proceeded at room temperature with low catalyst loading and the reaction system was clean from beginning to end. Significantly, this method exhibited good tolerance even to free hydroxyl group and amino group contained in substrates.
Sympathetic efferent neurons are less sensitive than nociceptors to 4 Hz sinusoidal stimulation
Authors: Jonas Robin , Namer Barbara , Schnakenberg Mark , Soares Sabrina , Pakalniskis Julius , Carr Richard , Schmelz Martin , Rukwied Roman
Published: August 2019

Background

Sinusoidal current stimuli preferentially activate C‐nociceptors. Sodium channel isoforms NaV1.7 and NaV1.8 have been implicated in this. Sympathetic efferent neurons lack NaV1.8 and were explored upon sinusoidal activation.

Methods

Quantitative Sudomotor Axon Reflex Test (QSART) was performed in hairy (n = 16) and glabrous (n = 12) skin. Responses of sympathetic efferents (n = 10) and nociceptive afferents (n = 21) to sinusoidal current stimulation (4 Hz, 0.05–0.15 mA) were recorded in humans by microneurography (n = 11). Activation of sympathetic units upon supra‐threshold sinusoidal currents (>0.8 mA) was recorded in pigs (n = 8).

Results

Sinusoidal stimuli (4 Hz, 0.4 mA) evoked weak sweat output (30 ml/h/m2) in hairy skin compared to rectangular pulses (4 Hz, 5 mA, 53 ml/h/m2, p < .00001, ANOVA). No change in sweat output was recorded from glabrous skin to sine wave stimuli. Sinusoidal current at intensities ranging from 0.05 to 0.15 mA activated almost all (85%) nociceptors but only 40% of sympathetic units in human. Stimuli lead to a significantly lower activation in sympathetic versus nociceptive fibres as measured by activity‐dependent slowing (ADS) of conduction (sympathetic efferents average ADS 100 ± 0.2% vs. C‐nociceptors average ADS 113 ± 4%, p < .003, ANOVA).

Conclusions

Sympathetic efferent neurons are less apt to convert slow depolarizations into action potentials as compared to nociceptors. Distinctive sodium channel expression patterns between nociceptors and sympathetic efferent neurons may account for this difference. Sinusoidal stimulation therefore provokes weak sweat responses and provides no alternative for clinical assessment of autonomic function.

Significance

C‐nociceptors in hairy skin are activated by 4 Hz sinusoidal current stimulation at lower intensities than myelinated fibres. Sympathetic efferent neurons—albeit also unmyelinated—are less responsive to sinusoidal activation than nociceptors within the same skin area. Cutaneous sympathetic efferent neurons apparently are less apt than nociceptors to convert slow depolarization into action potentials.
Extrapolation Factors for Characterizing Freshwater Ecotoxicity Effects
Authors: Aurisano Nicolò , Albizzati Paola Federica , Hauschild Michael , Fantke Peter
Published: August 2019

Various environmental and chemical assessment frameworks including ecological risk assessment and life cycle impact assessment aim at evaluating long-term ecotoxicity effects. Chronic test data are reported under the European Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation for various chemicals. However, chronic data are missing for a large fraction of marketed chemicals, for which acute test results are often available. Utilizing acute data requires robust extrapolation factors across effect endpoints, exposure durations, and species groups. We propose a decision tree based on strict criteria for curating and selecting high-quality aquatic ecotoxicity information available in REACH for organic chemicals, to derive a consistent set of generic and species group–specific extrapolation factors. Where ecotoxicity effect data are not available at all, we alternatively provide extrapolations from octanol–water partitioning coefficients as suitable predictor for chemicals with nonpolar narcosis as mode of action. Extrapolation factors range from 0.2 to 7 and are higher when simultaneously extrapolating across effect endpoints and exposure durations. Our results are consistent with previously reported values, while considering more endpoints, providing species group–specific factors, and characterizing uncertainty. Our proposed decision tree can be adapted to curate information from additional data sources as well as data for other environments, such as sediment ecotoxicity. Our approach and robust extrapolation factors help to increase the substance coverage for characterizing ecotoxicity effects across chemical and environmental assessment frameworks. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2568–2582. © 2019 SETAC
Food safety policies and practices in public spaces: The urban water, sanitation, and hygiene environment for fresh fish sold from individual vendors in Mzuzu, Malawi
Authors: Lazaro Jazimoni , Kapute Fanuel , Holm Rochelle H.
Published: August 2019

In sub‐Saharan Africa, informal markets account for more than 80% of the total food selling. Fish is a major protein source for households in Malawi and is commonly purchased from individual vendors. The aim of this study was to review national acts and policies and local regulations focused on fresh fish sold at open‐air markets or by mobile vendors and to further examine the water, sanitation, and hygiene environment that may impact food safety in Mzuzu City, Malawi. The study used interviews, an observational checklist, and sampling of water and fish skin. In general, there was limited oversight of food safety where fresh fish are sold by vendors, and food safety guidance was inadequate. There was access to water in three of the four markets, but only two markets had safe water (0 cfu/100 ml for Escherichia coli). All vendors stored water in a container for use throughout the day to sprinkle over the fish with their bare hands to keep them from drying out. The mean washing water E. coli level was 700 cfu/100 ml. All fish skin samples (25/25) were positive for the presence of Salmonella spp., and most had high levels of E. coli. Sanitation facilities were available for vendors and customers in two of the four markets, but the use was limited. This research identified three key opportunities: (a) Regulatory framework including informal markets and mobile vendors; (b) Safe water, clean and functional toilets, and handwashing stations with soap at every market; and (c) Foodborne disease education for vendors.
Is the prevalence of psychosis in the very old decreasing? A comparison of 85‐year‐olds born 22 years apart
Authors: Östling Svante , Bäckman Kristoffer , Sigström Robert , Skoog Ingmar
Published: August 2019

Objective

To elucidate whether there is a decrease of psychotic symptoms in 85‐years‐olds without dementia and if factors associated with psychotic symptoms have changed, we studied two birth cohorts of 85‐year‐olds born 22 years apart.

Methods

Every second, 85‐year‐olds in Gothenburg, Sweden was invited to neuropsychiatric examinations in 1986 to 1987 (participation 63.1%, N = 494) and in 2008 to 2010 (60.5%, N = 571). A close informant was interviewed by a psychiatrist or a research psychologist.

Results

The prevalence of psychotic symptoms in 85‐years‐olds without dementia decreased from 10.1% in 1986 to 1987 to 3.2% in 2008 to 2010 (P < .001). Disability in daily life (odds ratio [OR], 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1‐4.5), depressed mood (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 2.1‐7.1), irritability (OR, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.2‐10.5), and suicidal ideation (OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 2.1‐8.0) were associated with psychotic symptoms in both cohorts. Mean mini‐mental state examination (MMSE) score was lower in those with psychotic symptom compared with those with no psychotic symptoms (Cohort 1986‐1987, 26.4 vs 27.8, Cohort 2008‐2009, 26.1 vs 27.7, t value −4.24, Pr > t < 0.001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of psychotic symptoms decreased between 1986 to 1987 and 2008 to 2010 among 85‐years‐olds without dementia. These symptoms were associated with broad psychopathology, worse performance in cognitive testing, and with disability of daily life in both cohorts.
Temporal myofascial segmentation for multilayer reconstruction of middle cranial fossa floor after extradural subtemporal approach to the clival and paraclival region
Authors: Gagliardi Filippo , Piloni Martina , Bailo Michele , Gragnaniello Cristian , Nocera Gianluca , Boari Nicola , Spina Alfio , Caputy Anthony J. , Mortini Pietro
Published: August 2019

Background

Skull‐base reconstruction represents a concern after resection of middle fossa (MF) tumors by the extradural subtemporal transzygomatic approach (ESTZ). Regional pedicled flaps appear to be the best option. This study describes a technique for temporal myofascial segmentation to harvest a multilayered vascularized flap for MF reconstruction, which might preserve temporal muscle (TM) function and its blood supply.

Methods

The technique to harvest a combined segmented temporal myofascial flap (CSTMF) is described. The flap consists in a temporal fascial (TFF) and a muscle flap (TMF), composed by TM anterior‐medial bundle (AMB).

Results

CSTMF provides wide coverage of dural lining, through the TFF, and of dead‐space, through the TMF. The possibility to tailor TMF according to the need, anatomically preserving the blood supply, enables to significantly increase its volume.

Conclusion

CSTMF represents an effective option as regional multilayered pedicled flap for MF reconstruction, potentially preserving TM function and minimizing the cosmetic impact.
Six‐Transmembrane Epithelial Antigen of the Prostate 3 Deficiency in Hepatocytes Protects the Liver Against Ischemia‐Reperfusion Injury by Suppressing Transforming Growth Factor‐β‐Activated Kinase 1
Authors: Guo Wen‐Zhi , Fang Hong‐Bo , Cao Sheng‐Li , Chen San‐Yang , Li Jie , Shi Ji‐Hua , Tang Hong‐Wei , Zhang Yi , Wen Pei‐Hao , Zhang Jia‐Kai , Wang Zhi‐Hui , Shi Xiao‐Yi , Pang Chun , Yang Han , Hu Bo‐Wen , Zhang Shui‐Jun
Published: August 2019

Background and Aims

Hepatic ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury remains a major challenge affecting the morbidity and mortality of liver transplantation. Effective strategies to improve liver function after hepatic I/R injury are limited. Six‐transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate 3 (Steap3), a key regulator of iron uptake, was reported to be involved in immunity and apoptotic processes in various cell types. However, the role of Steap3 in hepatic I/R‐induced liver damage remains largely unclear.

Approach and Results

In the present study, we found that Steap3 expression was significantly up‐regulated in liver tissue from mice subjected to hepatic I/R surgery and primary hepatocytes challenged with hypoxia/reoxygenation insult. Subsequently, global Steap3 knockout (Steap3‐KO) mice, hepatocyte‐specific Steap3 transgenic (Steap3‐HTG) mice, and their corresponding controls were subjected to partial hepatic warm I/R injury. Hepatic histology, the inflammatory response, and apoptosis were monitored to assess liver damage. The molecular mechanisms of Steap3 function were explored in vivo and in vitro. The results demonstrated that, compared with control mice, Steap3‐KO mice exhibited alleviated liver damage after hepatic I/R injury, as shown by smaller necrotic areas, lower serum transaminase levels, decreased apoptosis rates, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, whereas Steap3‐HTG mice had the opposite phenotype. Further molecular experiments showed that Steap3 deficiency could inhibit transforming growth factor‐β–activated kinase 1 (TAK1) activation and downstream c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 signaling during hepatic I/R injury.

Conclusions

Steap3 is a mediator of hepatic I/R injury that functions by regulating inflammatory responses as well as apoptosis through TAK1‐dependent activation of the JNK/p38 pathways. Targeting hepatocytes, Steap3 may be a promising approach to protect the liver against I/R injury.
Entropy analysis for heat transfer in a rectangular channel with suction
Authors: M. Pavan Kumar Reddy , J. V. Ramana Murthy
Published: August 2019

The purpose for this paper is to study heat transfer in a rectangular channel with suction applied at the adjacent two side walls. A two‐dimensional laminar viscous fluid flow is generated due to the application of suction/injection. The other two opposite sides are kept at a constant temperatures, and the walls with suction are maintained at a constant heat flux. The streamlines thus obtained due to the flow and isothermal lines and heat function are analyzed. The regions of high and low frictions are found by drawing contours of the entropy generation number and the Bejan number. The biharmonic equation for stream function is numerically solved by the Finite Difference Method (FDM) using a 13‐point formula, and a five‐point formula is used to solve for all other harmonic equations for temperature, heat function, and pressure. For derivative boundary conditions, the central difference formula with fictitious nodes is used. In the analysis, we note that the corner points are regions of high energy dissipation. The least dissipation of energy is near the wall, where the nondimensional temperature is 1. This paper analyzes heat transfer in the rectangular channel through the heat function and entropy generation number.
Experimental studies on a metal hydride–based single bed sorption cryocooler
Authors: Jaikumar Sagari , Satyameher Raghavarapu , Bhatti Sukhvinder Kaur , Srinivas Vadapalli
Published: August 2019

The present work deals with the development of a MmNi4.5Al0.5‐based single bed sorption precooled Linde‐Hampson cryocooler. The working substance and the precooling refrigerant used in this investigation were hydrogen and liquid nitrogen, respectively. The gaseous hydrogen could be compressed merely in the metal hydride reactor in comparative ease and thus an MmNi4.5Al0.5‐based metal hydride reactor was used to develop a single bed sorption compressor. The hydrogen is allowed to compress at two different supply pressures of 5 and 10 bar at a constant absorption temperature of 20°C. Desorption temperatures were varied at 65°C, 75°C, and 80°C. Maximum discharge pressures were obtained at a desorption temperature of 80°C as 21 and 27 bar, respectively. The entire cryocooler was designed, fabricated, and tested on the sorption cryocooler. Furthermore, compressed high‐pressure gaseous hydrogen was allowed to flow in the cryocooler at a flow rate of 40 standard cubic centimeter per minute. The minimum temperatures obtained in the evaporator at discharge pressures of 21 and 27 bar were 111 K and 107 K, respectively.
The role of maternal emotional states during pregnancy and early infancy on infant cortisol levels: A prospective study
Authors: Hernández‐Martínez Carmen , Voltas Moreso Nuria , Arija Val Victoria , Jardí Piñana Cristina , Bedmar Carretero Cristina , Canals Josefa
Published: August 2019

Cortisol plays an important role in human body functioning, stress response, and reactivity, and altered cortisol levels have been related to psychopathology throughout life. This study investigates several types of clinical and psychosocial prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal factors related to morning cortisol levels in 71 12‐month‐old infants. Several sociodemographic, obstetrical, environmental, and psychological predictors were taken into account. Regression models show that prenatal anxiety, type of birth, depressive symptoms at 6 months, and the mothers' feelings about the relationship with their child explain 32.9% of the variance in morning cortisol levels in 12‐month old infants. When sociodemographic, obstetrical, environmental, and psychological variables are taken into account, maternal emotional status and feelings about the mother–infant bonding are the most important factors that explain infant cortisol levels, which suggests that they should be included in obstetric and paediatric care routines to improve infant health.

Highlights

Cortisol has an important effect on human homeostasis, growth, neurodevelopment, stress response and reactivity; however, altered cortisol levels have been related to psychopathology throughout life. This study aims to investigate, prospectively from pregnancy, several types of clinical and psychosocial prenatal, perinatal and postnatal factors related to infant morning cortisol levels at 12 months.

When several kind of factors are taken into account (prenatal life events, prenatal and postnatal nicotine exposure, gender, gestational age at birth, infant birth weight, parity, socioeconomic status, maternal psychopathology, breastfeeding status and anthropometry), prenatal anxiety, type of birth, postnatal depression and mothers' feelings about the relationship with their infant are the are the variables that better predict infant morning cortisol levels.

Maternal emotional characteristics are the central axis for influencing the development of HPA axis.

Healthcare professionals may pay more attention to the mother feelings and emotions along prenatal and postnatal infant development to promote infant mental health.
One‐pot facile synthesis of silk sericin‐capped gold nanoparticles by UVC radiation: Investigation of stability, biocompatibility, and antibacterial activity
Authors: Akturk Omer , Gun Gok Zehra , Erdemli Ozge , Yigitoglu Mustafa
Published: August 2019

Herein, an easy one‐pot synthesis method for gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), involving only gold salt and sericin extracted from silkworm cocoon in the presence of ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation, was developed. Nanoparticle formation was confirmed by characteristic surface plasmon resonance peaks at 520–540 nm wavelengths, and the influence of silk sericin on enhancing the colloidal stability of AuNPs was confirmed. Transmission electron microscopy examination showed the average size (<10 nm) and size distribution decreased significantly with higher sericin concentration. No antibacterial activity was observed on Gram‐positive Bacillus subtilis or Gram‐negative Escherichia coli for sole AuNPs (0.065–0.26 mg/ml), but the conjugation of AuNPs with streptomycin antibiotic decreased significantly the required minimum inhibitory concentration doses, as also confirmed with agar plating, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy analyses. Furthermore, sericin‐capped AuNPs showed high cell viabilities (>100%) and no sign of any detectable apoptosis or necrosis in 1‐day incubation. Also, high real‐time cell proliferation results of AuNPs competitive with positive control groups implied excellent in vitro biocompatibility. These results evidenced that sericin enhanced the colloidal stability of AuNPs and the biological activities of sericin‐capped AuNPs reported here could render them suitable nanoscale vehicles for biomedical applications.
Iron(III) and nickel(II) complexes of tetradentate thiosemicarbazones: Synthesis, structure, cytotoxicity, and lipophilicity
Authors: Süleymanoğlu Mediha , Kaya Büşra , Erdem‐Kuruca Serap , Ülküseven Bahri
Published: August 2019

Eighteen of the iron(III) and nickel(II) complexes with tetradentate thiosemicarbazidato ligands were synthesized and described, by analytical and spectroscopic methods. Two complexes as an example to the iron and nickel centered ones were crystallographically analyzed to confirm the molecular structures. Cytotoxic effects of the complexes on K562 chronic myeloid leukemia cells were determined by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. For comparison, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was used as a noncancerous cell line. While four of the iron(III) complexes exhibited the antileukemic effect with 50% inhibition of cell growth (IC50) values in the 3.4 to 6.9 μg/mL range on K562 cell line, the nickel(II) complexes showed no significant effect on both cell lines. The complexes Fe4, Fe5, and Fe6, bearing 4‐methoxy substituent exhibited relatively high antiproliferative activity on both cell lines. Complex Fe3 with 3‐methoxy and S‐allyl groups exhibited a selectivity between K562 and HUVEC cells by IC50 values of 6.9 and >10 μg/mL, respectively. Lipophilicity, a key parameter for bioavailability and oral administration, was found in the range of −0.3 and +1.3 that desired for drug active ingredients. The results were discussed in the context of a structure‐activity relationship.
Genomic analysis reveals association of specific SNPs with athletic performance and susceptibility to injuries in professional soccer players
Authors: La Montagna Raffaele , Canonico Raffaele , Alfano Luigi , Bucci Enrico , Boffo Silvia , Staiano Leopoldo , Fulco Beniamino , D'Andrea Enrico , De Nicola Antonio , Maiorano Patrizia , D'Angelo Costantino , Chirico Andrea , De Nicola Alfonso , Giordano Antonio
Published: August 2019

The development of specific and individualized training programs is a possible way to improve athletic performance and minimize injuries in professional athletes. The information regarding the sport's physical demands and the athletes’ physical profile have been, so far, considered as exhaustive for the design of effective training programs. However, it is currently emerging that the genetic profile has to be also taken into consideration. By merging medical and genetic data, it is thus possible to identify the athlete's specific attitude to respond to training, diet, and physical stress. In this context, we performed a study in which 30 professional soccer players, subjected to standard sport medical evaluation and practices, were also screened for genetic polymorphism in five key genes (ACTN3, COL5A1, MCT1, VEGF, and HFE). This genetic analysis represents the central point of a multidisciplinary method that can be adopted by elite soccer teams to obtain an improvement in athletic performance and a concomitant reduction of injuries by tailoring training and nutritional programs. The genetic fingerprinting of single athletes led to the identification of two performance‐enhancing polymorphisms (ACTN3 18705C>T, VEGF‐634C>G) significantly enriched. Moreover, we derived a genetic model based on the gene set analyzed, which was tentatively used to reduce athletes’ predisposition to injuries, by dictating a personalized nutrition and training program. The potential usefulness of this approach is concordant with data showing that this team has been classified as the healthiest and least injured team in Europe while covering the highest distance/match with the highest number of high‐intensity actions/match.
Population Pharmacokinetic Model to Assess the Impact of Disease State on Thalidomide Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Gaudy Allison , Hwang Renfang , Palmisano Maria , Chen Nianhang
Published: August 2019

A population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model to describe the pharmacokinetics of thalidomide in different patient populations was developed using data pooled from healthy subjects and patients with Hansen's disease, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and multiple myeloma (MM). The analysis data set had a total of 164 evaluable subjects who received various doses (50 to 400 mg) of oral thalidomide in single‐ and/or multiple‐dose regimens. The plasma thalidomide concentrations were adequately described by a linear 1‐compartment PPK model with first‐order absorption and first‐order elimination. Inclusion of MM as a covariate on apparent clearance (CL/F) accounted for 4.4% of the interindividual variability (IIV) of CL/F. Body weight as a covariate on CL/F and apparent volume of distribution (V/F) also improved model fitting slightly, accounting for 7.2% and 20% of IIV, respectively. Although inclusion of body weight and MM as covariates of CL/F and body weight on V/F improved the goodness of fit of the model in a statistically significant manner, the impact of this difference in CL/F is not considered clinically relevant. Other factors such as age, sex, race, creatinine clearance, and alanine transaminase had no effect on thalidomide pharmacokinetics. MM, HIV, and Hansen's disease have no clinically relevant effect on thalidomide disposition relative to healthy volunteers.
A facilely synthesized polyanionic gel adsorbent with high adaptability and new adsorption effects for purification of Cu(II)‐containing wastewater
Authors: Li Hongyan , Song Chunli , Bai Yu , Yu Yikai
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Cu(II)‐containing wastewater causes serious pollution of the water environment. Adsorption is one of the most commonly used water purification methods, with the selection of suitable adsorbents being the key factor. This motivates the development of new efficient adsorbents to purify Cu(II)‐containing wastewater.

RESULTS

A highly adaptable polyanionic gel (PAG) was synthesized by the facile crosslinking copolymerization of acrylic acid (AA) and triallylmethylammonium chloride (TAMAC) at 65 °C for 0.5 h, followed by a simple neutralization treatment, avoiding the inconvenience of the complex and expensive preparation process required to prepare existing adsorbents. When first used as an adsorbent material, PAG achieved highly efficient purification of a wide concentration range of 10–2000 mg L−1 Cu(II)‐containing wastewater. The PAG adsorption capacity for Cu(II) was 222.2 mg g−1, which was higher than the values of selected existing adsorbent materials (9.50–214 mg g−1), and PAG had the advantages of being eco‐friendly, facilely obtained and regenerable. Also, PAG maintained stable adsorption ability even when the adsorption temperature varied from 30 to 50 °C. Moreover, a series of new adsorption effects were first observed as the key factors for PAG adsorption to achieve high adaptability.

CONCLUSION

Generally, considering the comprehensive performances, PAG would have higher adaptability in the efficient purification of different concentrations and different temperatures of Cu(II)‐containing wastewater. It would thus have better application in different water environments and be regarded as a better adsorbent alternative. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Conversion of monosaccharides into levulinic acid/esters: impacts of metal sulfate addition and the reaction medium
Authors: Sun Kai , Zhang Lijun , Shao Yuewen , Li Qingyin , Fan Huailin , Gao Guanggang , Zhang Shu , Liu Qing , Wang Yi , Hu Xun
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Inorganic salts could be used as catalysts for the effective conversion of sugars. In this study, the impacts of various metal sulfates (Na2SO4, K2SO4, MnSO4, CoSO4, NiSO4, ZnSO4, CuSO4, Fe2(SO4)3, La2(SO4)3 and Ce(SO4)2) on the conversion of glucose/fructose to levulinic acid in varied reaction media were evaluated.

RESULTS

The sulfates strongly chelated with the sugars, preventing their dehydration reactions in the presence of sulfuric acid and leading to polymerization of the sugars. The sulfates themselves showed varied activity and selectivity for the conversion of the sugars to levulinic acid/esters or 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), depending on the coordination with the reaction medium. K2SO4 or Na2SO4 could catalyze the production of HMF from glucose/fructose in water, while in DMSO the yield of HMF was substantially higher. In THF, nevertheless, almost no HMF was formed, while other sulfates such as NiSO4 in THF could effectively catalyze the conversion of fructose to HMF. In alcohols, Fe2(SO4)3 was the most effective sulfate for the conversion of the sugars to levulinic acid/esters, and the alcohols could effectively suppress the polymerization of the sugars.

CONCLUSION

The distinct catalytic performances of the sulfates in the varied reaction media originated from their different coordination or chelation with the sugars and the reaction medium. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis and Characterization of Some BODIPY‐based Substituted Salicylaldimine Schiff Bases
Authors: Kushwah Nisha , Mula Soumyaditya , Wadawale Amey P. , Joshi Meenakshi , Gotluru Kedarnath , Kumar Mukesh , Ghanty Tapan K. , Nayak Sandip K. , Jain Vimal K.
Published: August 2019

Salicylaldimine Schiff bases represent an important class of hetero‐polydentate ligands capable of forming mononuclear, binuclear, and polynuclear complexes with transition and non‐transition metals. In this report, we developed an easy synthesis of BODIPY‐based salicylaldimine Schiff bases and synthesized five new derivatives. These were characterized by elemental analysis, infrared, UV‐Vis, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X‐ray crystallography. Finally, one of the Schiff bases was reacted with BF3·OEt2 to synthesize corresponding bis‐BF2 boron complex. The photophysical and electrochemical properties of the Schiff bases and the boron complex were evaluated and rationalized by theoretical calculations. The bis‐BF2 boron complex showed excited state charge redistribution, thus could be useful as sensitizers for designing new dye‐sensitized solar cells.
Complementary and alternative therapy use in a regional radiation oncology treatment centre: Can staff knowledge, views, confidence and documentation be improved?
Authors: Delaney Lisa J. , Manley Stephen J.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) are widely used by cancer patients but are infrequently disclosed and documented. This study aimed to improve radiation therapy staff knowledge, confidence, views and documentation of radiation oncology patients' use of CATs.

Method

Participants completed a baseline questionnaire regarding their knowledge, confidence, views and documentation relating to patients' CAT use. An intervention was undertaken whereby participants attended an educational session and a CAT screening tool was implemented simultaneously. Participants immediately completed a post‐intervention questionnaire and later a 6‐month follow‐up questionnaire. A patient record audit was conducted to measure the documentation of CAT use pre‐ and post‐intervention.

Results

From baseline to post‐intervention, there was a statistically significant shift in staff knowledge and confidence (P = 0.001–0.01). The observed shift was sustained over a 6‐month period, (P = 0.453–1.00). Participants' perceived views of CATs did not change as a result of the intervention (P = 0.261–1.000). The post‐intervention audit compared to the baseline audit yielded a statistically significant increase in documentation. There was an increase in CAT use mentioned in patient records from 14% (15/108) to 40% (35/88) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The implementation of a screening tool and staff education increased radiation therapy staff knowledge of CATs and increased staff confidence when discussing CAT use with patients. Documentation of CATs in the patient record increased post‐intervention. These changes positively affected radiation therapy staff understanding the use of CATs by cancer patients.
Dementia associated with disorders of the basal ganglia
Authors: Vitanova Karina S. , Stringer Katie M. , Benitez Diana P. , Brenton Jonathan , Cummings Damian M.
Published: August 2019

Dementia is now the leading cause of death in the United Kingdom, accounting for over 12% of all deaths and is the fifth most common cause of death worldwide. As treatments for heart disease and cancers improve and the population ages, the number of sufferers will only increase, with the chance of developing dementia doubling every 5 years after the age of 65. Finding an effective treatment is ever more critical to avert this pandemic health (and economic) crisis. To date, most dementia‐related research has focused on the cortex and the hippocampus; however, with dementia becoming more fully recognized as aspects of diseases historically categorized as motor disorders (e.g., Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases), the role of the basal ganglia in dementia is coming to the fore. Conversely, it is highly likely that neuronal pathways in these structures traditionally considered as spared in Alzheimer's disease are also affected, particularly in later stages of the disease. In this review, we examine some of the limited evidence linking the basal ganglia to dementia.
Influence of cumulus convection schemes on winter North Pacific storm tracks in the regional climate model RegCM4.5
Authors: Yang Minghao , Tan Yanke , Li Xin , Chen Xiong , Zhang Chao , Yu Peilong
Published: August 2019

Based on the regional climate model RegCM4.5 driven by National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) reanalysis, the influence of cumulus convection schemes (CCSs) on the winter North Pacific storm track (WNPST) is investigated. It is found that the climatology, interannual variation, spatial modes and characteristic indices of the WNPST are extremely sensitive to the choice of CCS. Among the selected CCSs, WNPST climatology and interannual variation in the Kuo scheme are better than in other CCSs, with a smaller root mean square error. The WNPST spatial modes and strength indices in the Kuo and Grell schemes are more consistent with NCEP reanalysis. The Kuo scheme has a stronger ability to simulate the WNPST latitude index and the interannual variation of winter characteristic indices. In addition, we attempt to reveal the possible reasons for the different performances of CCSs from the viewpoint of baroclinic energy conversion (BCEC). It is found that the energy conversion from the mean available potential energy to the eddy available potential energy (BCEC1) has no significant difference among the Kuo, Grell and Emanuel schemes, while energy conversion from the eddy available potential energy to eddy kinetic energy (BCEC2) in the Kuo scheme is obviously better than other CCSs, which means that the differences in BCEC2 among these CCSs may be one of the key reasons affecting the simulation results of the WNPST.
Technological influence on sensory stability and antioxidant activity of beers measured by ORAC and FRAP
Authors: Wannenmacher Julia , Cotterchio Christina , Schlumberger Maximilian , Reuber Valentin , Gastl Martina , Becker Thomas
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Many studies have confirmed a wide variation in the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of beers. However, when commercial beers are studied, there is usually no information available on the brewing technology applied. In this study, technological parameters were varied systematically to influence the antioxidant content of beer with a view to improving its flavor stability. High‐throughput assays, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) were investigated as fast analytical methods to evaluate the influence of brewing technology on antioxidant activity.

RESULTS

Beers (n = 12) were brewed with systematic technological variations (malt modification, hopping regime) to influence the antioxidant potential. A late hop addition resulted in significantly higher phenolic content (high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode‐array detection – HPLC‐DAD) and antioxidant activity. Raw protein content and malt modification significantly influenced phenolic content and the antioxidant activity of beers hopped at the beginning of wort boiling. Samples were stored under forced and natural conditions and were evaluated by a sensory panel. The decline of bitter iso‐α‐acids as an analytical marker for oxidative aging was significantly lower in beers brewed from malts with high raw protein content. These samples also had higher antioxidant activity values. Panelists gave higher ratings for beer quality to aged beers with a late hop addition. However, late hopping resulted in enhanced hoppy aroma attributes and therefore an altered aroma profile.

CONCLUSIONS

Both antioxidant capacity methods were well suited as fast methods to evaluate brewing raw material and technological influence on antioxidant activity. The appropriate choice of barley malt and the malting regime could be promising tools to enhance the antioxidant activity of traditionally hopped beers. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.