bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy DNA Strand Displacement: A Strategy to Decrease the Complexity of DNA Network Design
Authors: Wang Zhiyu , Hu Yingxin , Pan Linqiang
Published: May 2020

Toehold‐mediated DNA strand displacement endows DNA nanostructures with dynamic response capability. However, the complexity of sequence design dramatically increases as the size of the DNA network increases. We attribute this problem to the mechanism of toehold‐mediated strand displacement, termed exact strand displacement (ESD), in which one input strand corresponds to one specific substrate. In this work, we propose an alternative to toehold‐mediated DNA strand displacement, termed fuzzy strand displacement (FSD), in which one‐to‐many and many‐to‐one relationships are established between the input strand and the substrate, to reduce the complexity. We have constructed four modules, termed converter, reporter, fuzzy detector, and fuzzy trigger, and demonstrated that a sequence pattern recognition network composed of these modules requires less complex sequence design than an equivalent network based on toehold‐mediated DNA strand displacement.
Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation from CdTe Photoanodes Annealed with CdCl2
Authors: Su Jin , Hisatomi Takashi , Minegishi Tsutomu , Domen Kazunari
Published: May 2020

Most CdTe photoanodes and photocathodes show positive and negative photocurrent onset potentials for water oxidation and reduction, respectively, and are thus unable to drive photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting without external applied biases. Herein, the activity of a CdTe photoanode having an internal p‐n junction during PEC water oxidation was enhanced by applying a CdCl2 annealing treatment together with surface modifications. The resulting CdTe photoanode generated photocurrents of 1.8 and 5.4 mA cm−2 at 0.6 and 1.2 VRHE, respectively, with a photoanodic current onset potential of 0.22 VRHE under simulated sunlight (AM 1.5G). The CdCl2 annealing increased the grain sizes and lowered the density of grain boundaries, allowing more efficient charge separation. Consequently, a two‐electrode tandem PEC cell comprising a CdTe‐based photoanode and photocathode split water without any external bias at a solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency of 0.51 % at the beginning of the reaction.
Exploring Ovarian Cancer Cell Resistance to Rhenium Anticancer Complexes
Authors: Marker Sierra C. , King A. Paden , Swanda Robert V. , Vaughn Brett , Boros Eszter , Qian Shu‐Bing , Wilson Justin J.
Published: May 2020

Rhenium tricarbonyl complexes have been recently investigated as novel anticancer agents. However, little is understood about their mechanisms of action, as well as the means by which cancer cells respond to chronic exposure to these compounds. To gain a deeper mechanistic insight into these rhenium anticancer agents, we developed and characterized an ovarian cancer cell line that is resistant to a previously studied compound [Re(CO)3(dmphen)(ptolICN)]+, where dmphen=2,9‐dimethyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline and ptolICN=para‐tolyl isonitrile, called TRIP. This TRIP‐resistant ovarian cancer cell line, A2780TR, was found to be 9 times less sensitive to TRIP compared to the wild‐type A2780 ovarian cancer cell line. Furthermore, the cytotoxicities of established drugs and other rhenium anticancer agents in the TRIP‐resistant cell line were determined. Notably, the drug taxol was found to exhibit a 184‐fold decrease in activity in the A2780TR cell line, suggesting that mechanisms of resistance towards TRIP and this drug are similar. Accordingly, expression levels of the ATP‐binding cassette transporter P‐glycoprotein, an efflux transporter known to detoxify taxol, were found to be elevated in the A2780TR cell line. Additionally, a gene expression analysis using the National Cancer Institute 60 cell line panel identified the MT1E gene to be overexpressed in cells that are less sensitive to TRIP. Because this gene encodes for metallothioneins, this result suggests that detoxification by this class of proteins is another mechanism for resistance to TRIP. The importance of this gene in the A2780TR cell line was assessed, confirming that its expression is elevated in this cell line as well. As the first study to investigate and identify the cancer cell resistance pathways in response to a rhenium complex, this report highlights important similarities and differences in the resistance responses of ovarian cancer cells to TRIP and conventional drugs.
The distribution of the jejunal arteries in the cat
Authors: Grandis Annamaria , Canova Marco , Tagliavia Claudio , Spiteri Julie , Fagnoli Helen , De Silva Margherita , Mazzoni Maurizio , Diana Alessia , Bombardi Cristiano
Published: May 2020

The arterial supply of the cat jejunum was studied by gross dissection and polyurethane corrosion cast. The results showed that the jejunal arteries, which originate from the cranial mesenteric artery, varied from 5 to 15 in number. Their number was independent of the length of the cranial mesenteric artery as well as of the length of the jejunum. These arteries divided into branches giving rise to a series of orders of division from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 7. The last orders of division terminated in a series of anastomosing arcades which resulted in a marginal artery coursing only a few millimeters from the mesenteric margin of the jejunum. This artery gave rise to straight arteries (vasa recta), whose mean number was 450 ± 60. According to their length, the vasa recta can be differentiated into short (vasa brevia) and long (vasa longa) branches. The vasa brevia ended branching into the mesenteric side of the jejunum whereas the vasa longa coursed beneath the serosa on the lateral jejunal surfaces, and reached the antimesenteric border. During their course, the vasa recta ramified and anastomosed with each other. Numerous antimesenteric anastomoses between opposing vasa longa were also observed. Based on the literature consulted, due to the large number of vasa recta (approximately one vessel per 2.9 mm of jejunal length) and the rich anastomotic network, the cat jejunum might have a better intramural distribution of blood flow and would seem less predisposed to ischemic phenomena than that of other mammals.
Study on adaptive torsional vibration suppression methods for helicopter/turboshaft engine system with variable rotor speed
Authors: Wang Yong , Zheng Qiangang , Fu Dawei , Zhang Haibo
Published: May 2020

In order to solve the problem that the low‐order torsional model of the integrated helicopter/turboshaft engine system varies significantly under variable rotor speed, research on adaptive torsional vibration suppression methods is conducted. Meanwhile, two adaptive torsional vibration suppression methods, respectively based on fast Fourier transform (FFT) and the least mean square (LMS), are proposed to suppress the low‐order torsional vibration mixing in power turbine speed. Moreover, these two torsional vibration suppression methods are compared in real‐time performance, suppression effect and robustness of performance. The simulation results show that when and only when the designed frequency of the notch filter is away from the low‐order torsional model, the suppression effect of adaptive torsional vibration filter based on FFT is better than that of constant‐coefficient notch filter, but the real‐time performance is worse. On the contrary, no matter how the low‐order torsional model varies, the adaptive filters based on LMS can suppress the low‐order torsion vibration by more than 82.0% and have more superior real‐time and robustness performance, which can overcome torsional vibration instability of turboshaft engine control system under variable rotor speed effectively with more remarkable adaptive ability.
The great stagnation of upper secondary education in England: A historical and system perspective
Authors: Rogers Lynne , Spours Ken
Published: May 2020

This historical and contemporary assessment of 14–19 attainment and post‐16 participation suggests that for the first time in a generation, overall levels of attainment in the English upper secondary (14–19) phase are plateauing. Time‐series data has been compiled to present four phases of attainment and participation development since the late 1980s, when the education and training system in England transitioned into a full‐time post‐16 participation model. Closer analysis of the fourth phase (2012/13–present) shows several plateauing trends of learner attainment and participation that originate in Key Stage 4, but which are now spreading throughout the upper secondary phase. The analysis proceeds to explore the main dynamics of the plateauing phase—qualifications reform; accountability measures; and institutional behaviours—that form a new ‘attainment and participation equilibrium’. The article concludes by suggesting that the new trend poses particular threats to middle and lower attainers, who could be disproportionately affected by Conservative‐led reform, and to the performance of the English upper secondary system when compared internationally.
Verbundverhalten subtraktiv bearbeiteter CFK‐Stäbe in UHPC
Authors: Suppanz Florian , Kromoser Benjamin
Published: May 2020

Bewehrungsstäbe aus carbonfaserverstärktem Kunststoff (CFK) haben bei bestimmten Anwendungen Vorteile gegenüber den derzeit eingesetzten Stahlbewehrungsstäben. Insbesondere die hohe Zugfestigkeit von CFK‐Bewehrung verspricht bei einem Einsatz als Betonbewehrung potenzielle Materialersparnisse und der Werkstoff weist vergleichsweise gute Eigenschaften in Bezug auf die Korrosion auf. Die Autoren versuchen, CFK‐Bewehrung zur Herstellung von filigranen Betonbauteilen zu verwenden und somit den ökologischen Fußabdruck zu senken. Für die Berechnung des Tragverhaltens solcher Bauteile ist fundamentales Wissen über das Verbundverhalten zwischen Bewehrung und Beton notwendig. Die Autoren untersuchen aktuell das Verbundverhalten von CFK‐Stäben mit unterschiedlichen Betonzusammensetzungen. In einem ersten Schritt wurde das Verbundverhalten von subtraktiv bearbeiteten CFK‐Stäben mit ultrahochfestem Beton (engl. Ultra‐High Performance Concrete – UHPC) adressiert. Eingangs wird im vorliegenden Beitrag eine Übersicht über das Verbundverhalten von Faserverstärkten Kunststoff (FVK)‐Stabbewehrungen in Beton gegeben. Anschließend werden zwei Serien von Ausziehversuchen von helikal eingefrästen CFK‐Stäben in UHPC präsentiert. Die verwendeten Materialien, die Versuchsaufbauten, die Versuchsdurchführung und die Ergebnisse werden vorgestellt und im Detail analysiert.
Entwicklung und erste Anwendung des Brückenklappverfahrens
Authors: Kollegger Johann , Suza Dominik , Proksch‐Weilguni Clemens , Träger Wolfgang
Published: May 2020

In Anlehnung an das bei dem Bau der Argentobelbrücke angewandte Bogenklappverfahren wurde an der TU Wien ein Bauverfahren mit senkrechter Herstellung der Brückenträger entwickelt, um bei geeigneten Projekten Ressourcen, Kosten und Zeit zu sparen. Der Mechanismus zur Rotation der Brückenträger von der senkrechten Startposition in die horizontale Endposition erfordert den Einsatz von Druckstreben. Diese bilden in endgültiger Lage einen integralen Teil des Tragsystems und bewirken eine wesentliche Verkürzung der Spannweiten. Zur Reduktion des Aufwands für die Herstellung der Gelenkskonstruktionen entschied das Projektteam, dass die während des Klappvorgangs bewegten Teile (Brückenträger und Druckstreben) möglichst leicht sein müssen. Deshalb wurden in einem Forschungsprojekt an der TU Wien dünnwandige vorgespannte Fertigteilträger entwickelt. Im Zuge des Baus der Fürstenfelder Schnellstraße im Südosten Österreichs konnte das Brückenklappverfahren für die Brücken über den Lahnbach und die Lafnitz erstmals eingesetzt werden. Die in diesem Beitrag beschriebene Erstanwendung dieses neuen Bauverfahrens bei der Brücke über den Lahnbach konnte dank der guten Zusammenarbeit der Projektbeteiligten erfolgreich abgeschlossen werden. Mit der Erstanwendung konnte auch gezeigt werden, dass die mit dem Brückenklappverfahren errichtete Spannbetonbrücke mit 2,0 m hohen Brückenträgern beträchtliche Einsparungen an Ressourcen und Kosten im Vergleich zur ursprünglich geplanten Stahl‐Beton‐Verbundbrücke mit 4,2 m hohen Brückenträgern ermöglichte.
Personal protective equipment for surgeons during COVID-19 pandemic: systematic review of availability, usage and rationing
Authors: Jessop Z M , Dobbs T D , Ali S R , Combellack E , Clancy R , Ibrahim N , Jovic T H , Kaur A J , Nijran A , O'Neill T B , Whitaker I S
Published: May 2020

Background

Surgeons need guidance regarding appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic based on scientific evidence rather than availability. The aim of this article is to inform surgeons of appropriate PPE requirements, and to discuss usage, availability, rationing and future solutions.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken in accordance with PRISMA guidelines using MEDLINE, Embase and WHO COVID-19 databases. Newspaper and internet article sources were identified using Nexis. The search was complemented by bibliographic secondary linkage. The findings were analysed alongside guidelines from the WHO, Public Health England, the Royal College of Surgeons and specialty associations.

Results

Of a total 1329 articles identified, 95 studies met the inclusion criteria. Recommendations made by the WHO regarding the use of PPE in the COVID-19 pandemic have evolved alongside emerging evidence. Medical resources including PPE have been rapidly overwhelmed. There has been a global effort to overcome this by combining the most effective use of existing PPE with innovative strategies to produce more. Practical advice on all aspects of PPE is detailed in this systematic review.

Conclusion

Although there is a need to balance limited supplies with staff and patient safety, this should not leave surgeons treating patients with inadequate PPE.
Spleen and thymus metabolomics strategy to explore the immunoregulatory mechanism of total withanolides from the leaves of Datura metel L. on imiquimod‐induced psoriatic skin dermatitis in mice
Authors: Cheng Yangang , Liu Yan , Tan Jinyan , Sun Yanping , Guan Wei , Liu Yuan , Yang Bingyou , Kuang Haixue
Published: May 2020

Our previous work demonstrated that total withanolides of Datura metel L. leaves (TWD) exhibited excellent therapeutic effects on psoriasis. However, current knowledge of its mechanisms is incomplete. In this study, integrated spleen and thymus untargeted metabolomics were used to analyze the changes in endogenous metabolites underlying the immunosuppressive activity of TWD on psoriasis animal models induced by imiquimod. The results suggested that TWD treatment markedly attenuated imiquimod‐induced psoriasis and showed significant immunosuppressive activity as evidenced by decreased elevation index of spleen and thymus. Meanwhile, TWD significantly reversed the elevation of immunoregulatory factors, including IL‐10, IL‐17, IL‐22 and IL‐23. Multivariate trajectory analysis revealed that TWD treatment could restore the psoriasis‐disturbed spleen and thymus metabolite profiles towards the normal metabolic status. A total of 25 and 27 metabolites associated with the immunomodulatory effects for which levels changed markedly upon treatment have been identified in spleen and thymus, respectively. These differential metabolites were mainly involved in amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, fatty acid metabolism and lipid metabolism. Our investigation provided a holistic view of TWD for intervention in psoriasis through immunoregulation and provided further scientific information in vivo about a clinical value of TWD for psoriasis.
Modeling and Control of the Glucose‐Insulin‐Glucagon System in Type I Diabetis Mellitus
Authors: Sangeetha Subramaniam , Sreepradha Chandrasekar , Sobana Subramani , Bidisha Panda , Panda Rames C.
Published: May 2020

Type I diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease characterized by the inability of the pancreas to produce enough insulin. This results in a high glucose concentration in the blood. External administration of insulin is required to maintain normoglycemia. The accurate amount of insulin and the right time of administration can be obtained from monitoring and practicing model‐based control. A model with insulin as a regulatory hormone has already been developed for DM. It has then been extended by considering both insulin and glucagon as regulatory hormones. The model parameters are estimated using non‐linear least‐square techniques on data from frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests (FSIGT) from the literature, thus optimizing the model parameters for type I patients. Using this model, a model‐predictive controller (MPC) has been designed to maintain normoglycemia in subjects with DM when subjected to disturbances. Finally, a comparative performance analysis between the MPC and conventional PID controller has been carried out. In conclusion, the model‐predictive controller is promising for the control of glucose concentration in subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus when subjected to disturbances.
Electronic Structure Evolution of Pd@Co Nanocatalysts Under Oxidation and Reduction Conditions and Preferential CO Oxidation
Authors: Jain Ruchi , Gopinath Chinnakonda S.
Published: May 2020

Herein, we present the surface electronic structure and morphological evolution under reduction and oxidation conditions for Pd@Co (PC) core‐shell nanoparticles with different Pd : Co ratio (PC=2 : 1, 1 : 1 and 1 : 2). Extensive measurements have been made with NAPXPS (near ambient pressure x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy) under oxidising and reducing conditions, and ex‐situ HRTEM. It has been demonstrated that PC catalysts are thermally stable towards morphological changes, at least up to 575 K. Nonetheless, it shows a significant surface electronic structure changes under reaction environments, which are highly relevant to heterogeneous catalysis. As expected, high (low) population of metallic (oxidised) Co was observed, while retaining core shell structure under reduction (H2 and vacuum annealing) environment. Interestingly, the Pd−Co metallic interface helps to overcome the pyrophoric nature of cobalt and stabilised a significant amount of metallic Co at Pd−Co interface even in the presence of 0.1 mbar O2 up to 575 K. The presence of Pd−Co and Pd−Co@Co3O4 interfaces in reaction environment makes the catalyst dual functional. The proof of concept has been explored in terms of oxidation of CO in the presence of H2 or O2.
Towards a High‐Performance Lithium‐Metal Battery with Glyme Solution and an Olivine Cathode
Authors: Wei Shuangying , Inoue Shoichi , Di Lecce Daniele , Li Zhenguang , Tominaga Yoichi , Hassoun Jusef
Published: May 2020

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. Jusef Hassoun at University of Ferrara (Italy) and Prof. Yoichi Tominaga at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (Japan). The cover picture shows that a suitable electrolyte solution based on glyme and LiNO3 allows high‐energy metallic lithium to be employed in a compact rechargeable battery. The system may be efficiently used to store power from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, as well as in new‐generation electric vehicles. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202000272.
Financial hardship in Chinese cancer survivors
Authors: Su Mingzhu , Lao Jiahui , Zhang Nan , Wang Jialin , Anderson Roger T. , Sun Xiaojie , Yao Nengliang
Published: May 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to estimate the proportion of Chinese cancer survivors experiencing financial hardship and then examine the relationship between material and behavioral financial hardship.

Methods

This study surveyed 964 cancer survivors who were 30 to 64 years old and 644 survivors who were 65 years old or older during 2015‐2016 (1608 survivors in all). Material financial hardship was measured by whether they had borrowed money because of cancer, its treatment, or the lasting effects of treatment, and behavioral financial hardship was measured by whether they had forgone some cancer‐related medical care because of cost. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine factors associated with material financial hardship by age group.

Results

Approximately 44% of the cancer survivors who were 65 years old or older borrowed money or went into debt because of cancer, and 54% of younger patients (P < .01) reported cancer‐related debts. Among these survivors with cancer care debt, survivors aged 65 years old or older had a lower proportion of borrowing more than 50,000 Chinese yuan (CNY; approximately US $7700) than survivors aged 30 to 64 years (14% vs 20%). In both age groups, approximately 10% of cancer survivors reported that they had experienced behavioral financial hardship. After adjustments for covariates, cancer survivors who reported material financial problems were more likely to report behavioral financial hardship (odds ratio [OR] for those aged 30‐64 years, 3.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.13‐6.50; OR for those aged 65 years or older, 5.48; 95% CI, 2.69‐11.15).

Conclusions

Older cancer survivors in China experience significant material financial hardship, but it is not as noticeable as younger patients' hardship. The results highlight the importance of identifying cancer survivors who are more likely to experience financial hardship and improving the affordability of cancer care in China.
Selective Lithium Deposition on 3D Porous Heterogeneous Lithiophilic Skeleton for Ultrastable Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Liu Tiancun , Chen Xiudong , Zhan Changchao , Cao Xiaohua , Wang Yawei , Liu Jin‐Hang
Published: May 2020

Lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) have been deemed as the next promising high‐energy battery systems for ultrahigh energy densities. However, serious Li dendrites and low Coulombic efficiency issues still impede the practical application of LMBs. Herein, a common three‐dimensional (3D) copper foam partially decorated by a thin lithiophilic tin (Sn) layer (CF@Sn) has been constructed as the current collector of a Li metal anode. The large Li ions prefer to be induced by a Sn layer to produce Li−Sn alloy and selectively deposit on the alloy layers of the composite matrix. Due to the excellent confinement of the growth of metallic Li, the 3D porous heterogeneous lithiophilic skeleton can effectively improve uniform Li deposition, inhibit Li dendrite formation, reduce electrolyte consumption and enhance the electrochemical performance. The composite matrix leads to a high Coulombic efficiency (98.5%) over 400 cycles and ultrastable Li charging/discharging behavior for 1000 h for the symmetric cell at 1 mA cm−2. For the low energy barrier of alloy layer, small potential polarization (20 mV in symmetric cell) and nucleation overpotential (10.5 mV) can be obtained as expected. Especially, full cells paired with LiFePO4 cathodes and CF@Sn@Li anodes deliver an enhanced rate capability and a great discharging capacity of 140 mAh g−1 with high capacity retention of 95.2% after 300 cycles at 0.5 C. The proposed 3D lithiophilic skeleton demonstrates an effective strategy to realize stable and practical Li metal anodes.
Combined Pediatric and Adult Trials Submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration 2012–2018
Authors: Tanaudommongkon Irin , John Miyagi Shogo , Green Dionna J. , Burnham Janelle M. , van den Anker John N. , Park Kyunghun , Wu Johanna , McCune Susan K. , Yao Lynne , Burckart Gilbert J.
Published: May 2020

Despite legislation incentivizing and requiring drug companies to conduct pediatric clinical trials, there still is a 9‐year delay in drug approval for pediatric labeling after the initial adult drug approval. The aim of this study was to review the experience of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with combined pediatric and adult trials as a means for expediting pediatric approval and labeling. Combined pediatric and adult trials submitted to the FDA from 2012 to 2018 were reviewed. Only the publicly available labels and reviews were utilized for this analysis. Combined trials were identified for 72 products, with a total of 156 combined adult and pediatric trials. The therapeutic areas with the largest number of combined trials were in pulmonology for products reviewed under the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act (BPCA) and/or the Pediatric Research Equity Act (PREA), and hematology reviewed under the Orphan Drug Act (ODA). All drugs that utilized combined pediatric and adult clinical trials were approved simultaneously for both the adults and that part of the pediatric population. A separate pediatric subgroup efficacy analysis was reported in 57% and 48% of products under BPCA/PREA and the ODA, respectively, with a separate safety analysis in 48% and 38% of these products. When considering both BPCA/PREA and orphan drug studies, all the combined pediatric and adult trials allowed concurrent approval and labeling for part of the pediatric population at the time of the adult approval.
Maternal Betamethasone for Prevention of Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Neonates: Population Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Approach
Authors: Foissac Frantz , Zheng Yi , Hirt Déborah , Lui Gabrielle , Bouazza Naïm , Ville Yves , Goffinet François , Rozenberg Patrick , Kayem Gilles , Mandelbrot Laurent , Benaboud Sihem , Jarreau Pierre‐Henri , Tréluyer Jean‐Marc
Published: May 2020

Despite antenatal corticosteroids therapy, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is still a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in premature newborns. To date, the relationship between in utero fetal drug exposure and occurrence of RDS remains poorly evaluated. This study aims to describe the pharmacokinetics of betamethasone in pregnant women and to evaluate the transplacental drug transfer and administration scheme for the prevention of RDS. Pregnant women > 27 weeks’ gestation and who received at least a single dose of betamethasone for prevention of RDS were enrolled. Maternal, cord blood, and amniotic fluid betamethasone time‐courses were analyzed using the Monolix software. A total of 220 maternal blood, 56 cord blood, and 26 amniotic fluid samples were described by a two‐compartment model with two effect compartments linked by rate transfer constants. Apparent clearances and volumes of distribution parameters were allometrically scaled for a 70 kg third trimester pregnant woman. The impact of a twin pregnancy was found to increase maternal clearance by 28%. Using a fetal‐to‐mother exposure ratio, the median (95% confidence interval (CI)) transplacental transfer of betamethasone was estimated to 35% (95% CI 0.11–0.67). After adjustment for gestational age and twin pregnancy, RDS was found to be associated to the time spent in utero below quantifiable concentrations (i.e., < 1 ng/mL): odds ratio of 1.10 (95% CI 1.01–1.19) per day increase (P < 0.05). Trying to take into account both efficacy and safety, we simulated different dosing schemes in order to maintain a maximum of fetuses above 1 ng/mL without exceeding the total standard dose.
Rationally Designed Furocarbazoles as Multifunctional Aggregation Induced Emissive Luminogens for the Sensing of Trinitrophenol (TNP) and Cell Imaging
Authors: Jejurkar Valmik P. , Yashwantrao Gauravi , Reddy B. Pradeep K. , Ware Anuja P. , Pingale Subhash S. , Srivastava Rohit , Saha Satyajit
Published: May 2020

Two structurally unique aggregation induced emission (AIE)‐active luminogens have been designed and synthesized based on the furocarbazole skeleton. Such small molecule AIEgens were designed based on forbidden planarity and engineering a twist into the scaffold to realize induction of emission in the aggregated states. The structures were fully characterized and their thermal stabilities, electronic properties, photophysical and electrochemical properties were systematically investigated. The unique twist in the molecules as evident from their X‐ray crystal structure along with the short intermolecular interactions enhances the structural rigidification and restricts detrimental π–π stacking interactions, restricting the internal rotations (RIR) accompanied by a curb of the ICT process, resulting in enhanced emission in the aggregated state. This intriguing luminescent property enabled one of the luminogens to selectively detect trinitrophenol (TNP) over other nitroaromatics in both aqueous and organic media at nanomolar concentrations. Moreover, the good photostabilities and biocompatibilities empowered both luminogens to function as fluorescent bioprobes for cancer cell imaging.
An Overview of Bacterial Cellulose in Flexible Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Lei Wen , Jin Dou , Liu Haipeng , Tong Zhaoming , Zhang Haijun
Published: May 2020

The emerging generation of flexible energy storage devices has accelerated the research pace in terms of new materials, new processing techniques, and new designs that can meet the demands of mechanical stability upon bending or stretching at an acceptable cost, without compromising their electrochemical performance. Among the materials currently explored, biomass‐derived materials have received extensive attention, because they are renewable, low in cost, earth‐abundant and structurally diverse. This review is focused on fundamentals and applications of the bio‐derived material bacterial cellulose (BC) in flexible electrochemical energy storage systems. Specifically, recent advances are summarized in the utilization of BC in stretchable substrates, carbonaceous species, and scaffolds for flexible core component construction. Finally, several perspectives related to BC‐based materials for flexible electrochemical energy storages are proposed, aiming to provide possible future research directions in these fields.
Dyfodol llwyddiannus, cwricwlwm llwyddiannus: Beth all Cymru ei ddysgu o ddiwygio cwricwla mewn gwledydd eraill?
Authors: Sinnema Claire , Nieveen Nienke , Priestley Mark
Published: May 2020

Mae’r Cwricwlwm i Gymru 2022 arfaethedig yn cynnig gweledigaeth newydd fentrus ar gyfer cwricwlwm, addysgu a dysgu. Yn ogystal â’r pwys y mae’n ei roi ar bedwar diben allweddol, mae’n darparu hyblygrwydd ac ymreolaeth fwy o lawer i athrawon ac ysgolion, yn rhoi lle canolog i ddysgwyr mewn penderfyniadau ar y cwricwlwm, yn hyrwyddo mathau gweithredol o addysgeg a sgiliau’r unfed ganrif ar hugain ac yn lleihau manylebu ar gynnwys y cwricwlwm. Yn debyg i enghreifftiau eraill o ‘gwricwla newydd’ o gwmpas y byd, mae’n dod law yn llaw â set gymhleth o elfennau cwricwlar rhyngweithiol, a heriau sy’n cynnwys medrusrwydd wrth ddylunio’r cwricwlwm a’r galluedd sydd ei angen gan y rheini sy’n gweithio gyda’r cwricwlwm. Yn yr erthygl hon, rydym yn trafod heriau a chyfleoedd sy’n codi wrth ddiwygio’r cwricwlwm yn yr achos hwn yng ngoleuni’r profiad o ddiwygio cwricwla mewn gwledydd eraill. Yn benodol, rydym yn tynnu sylw at yr angen am roi sylw i’r atebolrwydd, y dysgu proffesiynol a’r cyd‐destun mewn rhwydweithiau cymdeithasol sydd eu hangen i wireddu dyheadau o ran y cwricwlwm cenedlaethol yng Nghymru.
Pwysigrwydd y cyd‐destun: ymreolaeth a diwygio’r cwricwlwm mewn ysgolion gwledig
Authors: Chapman Susan
Published: May 2020

Yn y swm mawr o ymchwil ar ddiwygio cwricwla, prin iawn yw’r sylw a roddwyd i oblygiadau lleoliad daearyddol, er y gall hyn fod yn ffactor pwysig. Mae’r broses bresennol ar gyfer diwygio’r cwricwlwm yng Nghymru yn cynnig cyfle i ysgolion newid eu hymarfer mewn ffordd sylfaenol. Er bod ysgolion gwledig wedi croesawu’r cyfle hwn, maent yn wynebu heriau sydd heb eu cydnabod gan y sefydliad addysgol ehangach. Mae’r erthygl hon yn cynnig golwg ar y broses diwygio o lefel yr ysgol, gan ddefnyddio data o gyfweliadau lled‐strwythuredig ag athrawon sy’n gweithio ar ddiwygio’r cwricwlwm. Mae’r dadansoddiad thematig yn dangos ymatebion brwdfrydig i’r diwygio ac i’r ymreolaeth gynyddol y mae’n ei haddo. Er hynny, mae heriau i’w hwynebu, yn cynnwys pryderon am staffio, mynediad at ddysgu proffesiynol a mynediad gan ddysgwyr at ddysgu allgwricwlar. Er bod ysgolion gwledig yn wynebu heriau unigryw sy’n ymwneud â’u lleoliad, mae’r ymchwil yn dangos bod eu hymateb i’r broses diwygio yn amlygu’r gallu i weithredu’n annibynnol yn unol â dyheadau’r cwricwlwm newydd.
Safety during crisis: Rapid on‐site evaluation at the time of COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Asiry Saeed , Fatyan Alaaeddin , Matloob Ammar , Khader Samer N.
Published: May 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic is posing a worldwide challenge to control and contain. SARS‐CoV‐2 is a highly infectious virus. Health care providers at the front lines are at high risk of getting the infection and the risk applies also to laboratory personnel as they deal with specimens that might be contaminated with infectious materiel. Cytopathology teams specifically are at high risk of dealing with contaminated material because of patients encounter during fine‐needle aspiration biopsies or Rapid On‐Site Evaluation (ROSE) for adequacy. In our article, we discuss alternative safer staining methods to the widely used Diff–Quick stain that can be utilized for ROSE to decrease the risk of viral exposure during the current COVID‐19 pandemic.
Adolescents at risk of anxiety in interaction with their fathers: Studying non‐verbal and physiological synchrony
Authors: Roman‐Juan Josep , Fiol‐Veny Aina , Zuzama Neus , Caimari‐Ferragut Margalida , Bornas Xavier , Balle Maria
Published: May 2020

Adolescence is a vulnerable period in terms of the onset of anxiety disorders, and dyadic parent–adolescent interactions may play a key role in either increasing or reducing the risk of psychopathologies. This study examines the presence of physiological synchrony (specifically, linkage in interbeat interval series) and non‐verbal synchrony in positive and negative interactions between adolescents (aged 13–16) and their fathers. Non‐verbal synchrony was quantified through the coordination of the interactants’ body movements, using an automated video‐analysis algorithm (motion energy analysis). Participants were made up of 53 parent–adolescent dyads, the latter at either low (n = 28) or high (n = 25) risk of anxiety. Adolescents at low risk of anxiety displayed statistically significant levels of non‐verbal synchrony with their fathers during positive interactions. Non‐verbal synchrony was not found in the father–adolescent dyads featuring adolescents at high risk of anxiety. Physiological synchrony was not significantly present above chance level in either of the groups of adolescents. Overall, the results suggest that adolescents at high risk of anxiety may have difficulties in managing non‐distressing interactions with their fathers. The results also suggest that physiological synchrony is not a straightforward phenomenon.
Do traits of plant species predict the efficacy of species distribution models for finding new occurrences?
Authors: McCune Jenny L. , Rosner‐Katz Hanna , Bennett Joseph R. , Schuster Richard , Kharouba Heather M.
Published: May 2020

Species distribution models (SDMs) are used to test ecological theory and to direct targeted surveys for species of conservation concern. Several studies have tested for an influence of species traits on the predictive accuracy of SDMs. However, most used the same set of environmental predictors for all species and/or did not use truly independent data to test SDM accuracy. We built eight SDMs for each of 24 plant species of conservation concern, varying the environmental predictors included in each SDM version. We then measured the accuracy of each SDM using independent presence and absence data to calculate area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and true positive rate (TPR). We used generalized linear mixed models to test for a relationship between species traits and SDM accuracy, while accounting for variation in SDM performance that might be introduced by different predictor sets. All traits affected one or both SDM accuracy measures. Species with lighter seeds, animal‐dispersed seeds, and a higher density of occurrences had higher AUC and TPR than other species, all else being equal. Long‐lived woody species had higher AUC than herbaceous species, but lower TPR. These results support the hypothesis that the strength of species–environment correlations is affected by characteristics of species or their geographic distributions. However, because each species has multiple traits, and because AUC and TPR can be affected differently, there is no straightforward way to determine a priori which species will yield useful SDMs based on their traits. Most species yielded at least one useful SDM. Therefore, it is worthwhile to build and test SDMs for the purpose of finding new populations of plant species of conservation concern, regardless of these species’ traits.
Highly Strained Unsaturated Carbocycles
Authors: Zanda Matteo , Bucci Raffaella , Sloan Nikki L. , Topping Lydia
Published: May 2020

Highly strained unsaturated carbocyclic rings are high‐energy compounds which are attracting increasing interest – not just for their peculiar structural and reactivity features – but also as modern chemical tools for bioorthogonal and in vivo chemistry, especially via inverse‐electron demand Diels–Alder (iEDDA) and strain‐promoted azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (SPAAC) reactions. This mini‐review covers two main classes of compounds: 3 to 10 membered‐ring cycloalkynes and trans‐cycloalkenes, including some examples of cyclic enynes, dienes and bridgehead alkenes. Their molecular properties, synthesis and reactivity are presented and discussed, with an emphasis on their functionalization and reactivity.
A Concise Synthesis of the Key Tetrahydrofuran Moieties of Caruifolin A and EBC‐342
Authors: Fernandes Rodney A. , Bethi Venkati
Published: May 2020

A common strategy for the concise synthesis of the key tetrahydrofuran moieties of caruifolin A and EBC‐342 is presented. Asymmetric dihydroxylation and intramolecular SN2‐cyclization are key strategic reactions for the synthesis of the furan fragments.
Neural network structure identification in inflation forecasting
Authors: Šestanović Tea , Arnerić Josip
Published: May 2020

Neural networks (NNs) are appropriate to use in time series analysis under conditions of unfulfilled assumptions, i.e., non‐normality and nonlinearity. The aim of this paper is to propose means of addressing identified shortcomings with the objective of identifying the NN structure for inflation forecasting. The research is based on a theoretical model that includes the characteristics of demand‐pull and cost‐push inflation; i.e., it uses the labor market, financial and external factors, and lagged inflation variables. It is conducted at the aggregate level of euro area countries from January 1999 to January 2017. Based on the estimated 90 feedforward NNs (FNNs) and 450 Jordan NNs (JNNs), which differ in variable parameters (number of iterations, learning rate, initial weight value intervals, number of hidden neurons, and weight value of the context unit), the mean square error (MSE), and the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) are calculated for two periods: in‐the‐sample and out‐of‐sample. Ranking NNs simultaneously on both periods according to either MSE or AIC does not lead to the selection of the ‘best’ NN because the optimal NN in‐the‐sample, based on MSE and/or AIC criteria, often has high out‐of‐sample values of both indicators. To achieve the best compromise solution, i.e., to select an optimal NN, the preference ranking organization method for enrichment of evaluations (PROMETHEE) is used. Comparing the optimal FNN and JNN, i.e., FNN(4,5,1) and JNN(4,3,1), it is concluded that under approximately equal conditions, fewer hidden layer neurons are required in JNN than in FNN, confirming that JNN is parsimonious compared to FNN. Moreover, JNN has a better forecasting performance than FNN.
Evaluation of interaction between Piriformospora indica, animal manure and NPK fertilizer on quantitative and qualitative yield and absorption of elements in sunflower
Authors: Eliaspour Siamak , Seyed Sharifi Raouf , Shirkhani Ali
Published: May 2020

Microbial endophytes are considered as one of the most important soil microorganisms which increase their yield per unit area by generating genetic, physiological, and ecological changes in their host plants. We conducted an experiment as factorial in a completely randomized manner with three replications at the Ghasre Shirin greenhouse of Kermanshah province in order to evaluate the interaction of Piriformospora indica (inoculation–noninoculation) with manure (25% of the flowerpot volume—without using manure as a control) and NPK chemical fertilizer (10 g per flowerpot—without the use of fertilizer as a control), the quantitative and qualitative yield and absorption of elements in sunflower. The results showed that the interaction of P. indica, manure, and chemical fertilizer on the colonization percentage, seed oil percentage, nitrogen concentration, phosphorus concentration, and the 1000‐seed weight was significant at 1% probability level, and on yield index, growth, plant height, and concentration of potassium element it was at 5% probability level. Bilateral effects of P. indica with chemical fertilizer and the manure treated with chemical fertilizer on the budding time were significant at the probability level of 1% and 5%, respectively. It seems that the coexistence between sunflower root and P. indica increases the growth of the root system of the plant; thereby it increases the height of plant because of the absorption of essential elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium by the root, and increases the quantitative and qualitative yield of sunflower.
Identification of antibacterial substances of Lactobacillus plantarum DY‐6 for bacteriostatic action
Authors: Mao Yin , Zhang Xiaojuan , Xu Zhenghong
Published: May 2020

The antimicrobial activity of lactic acid bacteria is closely related to its metabolites. Our results showed that Lactobacillus plantarum DY‐6 had the highest antibacterial activities among the seven bacteria tested in this study. To fully understand the active antimicrobial substances in L. plantarum DY‐6, the cell‐free supernatant (CFS) were analyzed. Our data indicated that the antibacterial effect of the CFS was positively correlated with the growth of the bacteria, and the main antibacterial substances were lactic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, caprylic acid, and decyl acid. Finally, this study demonstrated that the antibacterial active substance produced by the lactic acid bacteria could destroy the cell membrane structure of the bacteria, causing bacteria to fail to grow and reproduce normally, thereby exerting a bacteriostatic action. Taken together, our current findings would provide an effective method for rapid screening of antimicrobial substances.
When trading options is not the only option: The effects of single‐stock futures trading on options market quality
Authors: Jiang George J. , Shimizu Yoshiki , Strong Cuyler
Published: May 2020

We use the 2008 short‐selling ban to examine the impact of single‐stock futures (SSFs) trading on options market quality. We show that there is a substitution effect between options trading and SSFs trading during the ban period. In addition, our results show that SSFs trading had a significant effect in narrowing the bid‐ask spreads of options contracts. Moreover, compared to stocks without SSFs, stocks with SSFs were less likely to violate put‐call parity during the ban period. Our results suggest that SSFs trading helps mitigate the negative effect of the short‐selling ban on options market quality documented in the literature.
Samuelson hypothesis, arbitrage activity, and futures term premiums
Authors: Brooks Robert , Teterin Pavel
Published: May 2020

The Samuelson hypothesis asserts that futures volatility increases as maturity decreases. On the basis of 10 US commodity futures and by capturing the dynamics of the futures volatility terms structure with three factors, we show that in most markets the slope factor is strongly negative in certain periods and at best only weakly negative in other periods. High inventory levels are found to correspond to flatter volatility term structures in seven futures. This finding is consistent with the linkage between carry arbitrage and the Samuelson hypothesis. We also find that a flatter volatility term structure corresponds to lower absolute futures term premiums.
Key to Understanding Pipeline Regulation: Respecting Differences Between Oil and Gas
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: May 2020

In the current chaos of dealing with very low oil and natural gas prices, and amid concerns about supply and amounts to be produced and be available at decent market prices, reliable infrastructure to transport these supplies has emerged as a key element. Natural gas and oil pipelines span the nation and have many similarities in their purpose—to transport energy from where it is produced to where it is needed, balancing production markets with consuming and export markets. Both are regulated by the same agency, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). But the similarity ends there.
Describing adverse events in Swiss hospitalized oncology patients using the Global Trigger Tool
Authors: Gerber Anne , Da Silva Lopes André , Szüts Natacha , Simon Michael , Ribordy‐Baudat Viviane , Ebneter Andreas , Perrinjaquet Claire , Gaignard Marie‐Estelle , Nicodet Delphine , Betticher Daniel , Bula Grégoire , Cote Maxime , Duchosal Michel André , Berret Pierre‐André , Dietrich Pierre‐Yves , Brennan Caitlin , Decosterd Sandy , Ferreira Nobre Sandrina , Peters Solange , Koelliker Reto , Ninane Françoise , Jeitziner Marie‐Madlen , Colomer‐Lahiguera Sara , Eicher Manuela
Published: May 2020

Background and aims

The occurrence rate of adverse events (AEs) related to care among hospitalized oncology patients in Switzerland remains unknown. The primary objective of this study was to describe, for the first time, the occurrence rate, type, severity of harm, and preventability of AEs related to care, reported in health records of hospitalized hematological and solid‐tumor cancer patients in three Swiss hospitals.

Methods

Using an adapted version of the validated Global Trigger Tool (GTT) from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, we conducted a retrospective record review of patients discharged from oncology units over a 6‐week period during 2018. Our convenience sample included all records from adult patients (≥18 years of age), diagnosed with cancer, and hospitalized (>24 hours). Per the GTT method, two trained nurses independently assessed patient records to identify AEs using triggers, and physicians from the included units analyzed the consensus of the two nurses. Together, they assessed the severity and preventability of each AE.

Results

From the sample of 224 reviewed records, we identified 661 triggers and 169 AEs in 94 of them (42%). Pain related to care was the most frequent AE (n = 29), followed by constipation (n = 17). AEs rates were 75.4 per 100 admissions and 106.6 per 1000 patient days. Most of the identified AEs (78%) caused temporary harm to the patient and required an intervention. Among AEs during hospitalization (n = 125), 76 (61%) were considered not preventable, 28 (22%) preventable, and 21 (17%) undetermined.

Conclusion

About half of the hospitalized oncology patients suffered from at least one AE related to care during their hospitalization. Pain, constipation, and nosocomial infections were the most frequent AEs. It is, therefore, essential to identify AEs to guide future clinical practice initiatives to ensure patient safety.