bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustained Long‐Term Efficacy of Motivational Counseling and Text Message Reminders on Daily Sitting Time in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Long‐Term Follow‐up of a Randomized, Parallel‐Group Trial
Authors: Thomsen Tanja , Aadahl Mette , Beyer Nina , Hetland Merete L. , Løppenthin Katrine B. , Midtgaard Julie , Christensen Robin , Nielsen Sabrina M. , Østergaard Mikkel , Jennum Poul , Esbensen Bente A.
Published: September 2019

Objective

To evaluate the 18‐month postintervention efficacy following a 4‐month individually tailored behavioral intervention on daily sitting time in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In an observer‐blinded randomized trial, 150 RA patients were included. During 4 months, the intervention group (n = 75) received 3 motivational counseling sessions and tailored text messages aimed at increasing light‐intensity physical activity through reduction of sedentary behavior. The control group (n = 75) maintained their usual lifestyle. The primary outcome was change from baseline to 18 months postintervention in objectively measured daily sitting time (using ActivPAL). Secondary outcomes included changes in clinical patient‐reported outcomes and cardiometabolic biomarkers. A mixed‐effect repeated measures analysis of covariance model in the intent‐to‐treat population was applied.

Results

At 22 months follow‐up from baseline, 12 participants were lost to follow‐up. Compared to baseline, sitting time in the intervention group decreased 1.10 hours/day, whereas it increased by 1.32 hours/day in the control group, a between‐group difference of –2.43 hours/day (95% confidence interval [95% CI] –2.99, –1.86; P < 0.0001) favoring the intervention group. For most secondary outcomes, between‐group differences favored the intervention: visual analog scale (VAS) pain –15.51 mm (95% CI –23.42, –7.60), VAS fatigue –12.30 mm (95% CI –20.71, –3.88), physical function –0.39 Health Assessment Questionnaire units (95% CI –0.53, –0.26), total cholesterol –0.86 mmoles/liter (95% CI –1.03, –0.68), triglycerides –0.26 mmoles/liter (95% CI –0.43, –0.09), and average glucose –1.15 mmoles/liter (95% CI –1.39, –0.91).

Conclusion

The 4‐month postintervention results showed that patients in the intervention reduced their daily sitting time and improved patient‐reported outcomes and total cholesterol levels compared to the control group. Eighteen months after intervention, patients in the intervention group were still significantly less sedentary than controls. Findings suggest that a behavioral approach is beneficial for promoting long‐term physical activity and health in patients with RA.
Time to Lupus Low Disease Activity State in the Hopkins Lupus Cohort: Role of African American Ethnicity
Authors: Babaoğlu Hakan , Li Jessica , Goldman Daniel , Magder Laurence S. , Petri Michelle
Published: September 2019

Objective

Lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) is a potential treat‐to‐target goal in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study determined predictors of time to reach LLDAS in a longitudinal cohort.

Methods

Patients were grouped according to LLDAS status at cohort entry. Those who did not satisfy LLDAS at cohort entry were analyzed prospectively. The Kaplan‐Meier approach was used to estimate the time to LLDAS. Cox regression was used to identify patient characteristics that were associated with time to LLDAS.

Results

The probability of LLDAS attainment within 1 year was 52% for Caucasians, 36% for African Americans, and 33% for SLE patients with renal involvement. The median time to LLDAS was 1.1 years. In multivariable models, African American ethnicity, baseline prednisone >10 mg daily, hypocomplementemia, baseline damage, and baseline renal activity remained significant predictors of longer time to attain LLDAS, while disease duration <1 year and cutaneous activity were associated with earlier attainment.

Conclusion

LLDAS is potentially attainable in the majority of SLE patients. The time to LLDAS was found to be longer in African American patients with SLE. Characteristics of African American patients with SLE, such as renal activity and hypocomplementemia, were also independent predictors of slower attainment of LLDAS. These findings point to the need to include African American patients with SLE in both clinical and pharmaceutical research.
Technological Advances in Multiscale Analysis of Single Cells in Biomedicine
Authors: Loo Jacky Fong‐Chuen , Ho Ho Pui , Kong Siu Kai , Wang Tza‐Huei , Ho Yi‐Ping
Published: September 2019

Single‐cell analysis has recently received significant attention in biomedicine. With the advances in super‐resolution microscopy, fluorescence labeling, and nanoscale biosensing, new information may be obtained for the design of cancer diagnosis and therapeutic interventions. The discovery of cellular heterogeneity further stresses the importance of single‐cell analysis to improve our understanding of disease mechanism and to develop new strategies for disease treatment. To this end, many studies are exploited at the single‐cell level for high throughput, highly parallel, and quantitative analysis. Technically, microfluidics are also designed to facilitate single‐cell isolation and enrichment for downstream detection and manipulation in a robust, sensitive, and automated manner. Further achievements are made possible by consolidating optically label‐free, electrical, and molecular sensing techniques. Moreover, these technologies are coupled with computing algorithms for high throughput and automated quantitative analysis with a short turnaround time. To reflect on how the technological developments have advanced single‐cell analysis, this mini‐review is aimed to offer readers an introduction to single‐cell analysis with a brief historical development and the recent progresses that have enabled multiscale analysis of single‐cells in the last decade. The challenges and future trends are also discussed with the view to inspire forthcoming technical developments.
Thermal Properties of the Binary‐Filler Hybrid Composites with Graphene and Copper Nanoparticles
Authors: Barani Zahra , Mohammadzadeh Amirmahdi , Geremew Adane , Huang Chun‐Yu , Coleman Devin , Mangolini Lorenzo , Kargar Fariborz , Balandin Alexander A.
Published: September 2019

The thermal properties of epoxy‐based binary composites comprised of graphene and copper nanoparticles are reported. It is found that the “synergistic” filler effect, revealed as a strong enhancement of the thermal conductivity of composites with the size‐dissimilar fillers, has a well‐defined filler loading threshold. The thermal conductivity of composites with a moderate graphene concentration of fg = 15 wt% exhibits an abrupt increase as the loading of copper nanoparticles approaches fCu ≈ 40 wt%, followed by saturation. The effect is attributed to intercalation of spherical copper nanoparticles between the large graphene flakes, resulting in formation of the highly thermally conductive percolation network. In contrast, in composites with a high graphene concentration, fg = 40 wt%, the thermal conductivity increases linearly with addition of copper nanoparticles. A thermal conductivity of 13.5 ± 1.6 Wm−1K−1 is achieved in composites with binary fillers of fg = 40 wt% and fCu = 35 wt%. It has also been demonstrated that the thermal percolation can occur prior to electrical percolation even in composites with electrically conductive fillers. The obtained results shed light on the interaction between graphene fillers and copper nanoparticles in the composites and demonstrate potential of such hybrid epoxy composites for practical applications in thermal interface materials and adhesives.
Gram‐Negative Bacteria Targeting Mediated by Carbohydrate–Carbohydrate Interactions Induced by Surface‐Modified Nanoparticles
Authors: Capeletti Larissa Brentano , de Oliveira Jessica Fernanda Affonso , Loiola Lívia Mesquita Dias , Galdino Flávia Elisa , da Silva Santos Denys Ewerton , Soares Thereza Amélia , de Oliveira Freitas Raul , Cardoso Mateus Borba
Published: September 2019

Antibiotic resistant pathogens are a modern threat to the human health. As a worldwide spreading problem, there is an urgency for new strategies to minimize antibiotic resistance, particularly the super‐resistant strains. Here, the efficient design of carbohydrate‐coated silica nanoparticles is reported which specifically target Gram‐negative bacteria cells. The system is functionalized with gluconamide moieties and demonstrates increased binding ability to the bacterial membrane, enabling controlled drug delivery onto the pathogen wall. In addition, the high stability of the nanoparticles in biological media and the lack of non‐specific protein adhesion are engendered by such functionalization, which also demonstrates low cytotoxicity and hemolytic activity prevention. Local interaction between nanoparticles and the bacterium membrane is experimentally accessed at the biomolecular level unveiling a short‐range chemical connection. Atomistic molecular dynamics simulations depict the rapid penetration of gluconamide in the lipopolysaccharide region of the bacterial outer membrane, corroborating the experimental findings. Thus, this novel outer membrane‐targeting platform provides a new strategy to reduce drug intake and, hence, minimize bacterial resistance.
Atmosphere‐Induced Reversible Resistivity Changes in Ca/Y‐Doped Bismuth Iron Garnet Thin Films
Authors: Teurtrie Adrien , Popova Elena , Koita Ibrahim , Chikoidze Ekaterine , Keller Niels , Gloter Alexandre , Bocher Laura
Published: September 2019

Bismuth iron garnet Bi3Fe5O12 (BIG) is a multifunctional insulating oxide exhibiting remarkably the largest known Faraday rotation and linear magnetoelectric coupling. Enhancing the electrical conductivity in BIG while preserving its magnetic properties would further widen its range of potential applications in oxitronic devices. Here, a site‐selective codoping strategy in which Ca2+ and Y3+ substitute for Bi3+ is applied. The resulting p‐ and n‐type doped BIG films combine state‐of‐the‐art magneto‐optical properties and semiconducting behaviors above room temperature with rather low resistivity: 40 Ω cm at 450 K is achieved in an n‐type Y‐doped BIG; this is ten orders of magnitude lower than that of Y3Fe5O12. High‐resolution electron spectromicroscopy unveils the complete dopant solubility and the charge compensation mechanisms at the local scale in p‐ and n‐type systems. Oxygen vacancies as intrinsic donors play a key role in the conduction mechanisms of these doped BIG films. On the other hand, a self‐compensation of Ca2+ with oxygen vacancies tends to limit the conduction in p‐type Ca/Y‐doped BIG. These results highlight the possibility of integrating n‐type and p‐type doped BIG films in spintronic structures as well as their potential use in gas sensing applications.
Parity–Time Symmetry Synthetic Lasers: Physics and Devices
Authors: Qi Bingkun , Chen Hua‐Zhou , Ge Li , Berini Pierre , Ma Ren‐Min
Published: September 2019

The invention of the laser has revolutionized modern science and engineering as well as our daily lives. Recently, a new class of lasers based on concepts borrowed from parity–time symmetry in quantum mechanics has emerged. Parity–time symmetry, initially applied to condensed matter systems, extends canonical quantum theory to non‐Hermitian quantum theory. The experimental exploration of parity–time symmetry in electronics is challenging; so by analogy, such concept is introduced in photonics where flexibility exists in realizing non‐Hermitian eigenstates involving optical gain and loss. Lasers intrinsically involve both gain and loss, which makes them the natural candidates to explore and exploit parity–time symmetry in photonics. Recent studies have demonstrated various novel laser devices based on parity–time symmetry, which show unique properties such as single mode lasing, chiral mode lasing, and exceptional point enhanced sensing. In this review, the fundamentals are introduced and recent advances in parity–time symmetric laser devices are discussed, furthermore an outlook on this emergent field is provided.
Role of Anisotropy and Refractive Index in Scattering and Whiteness Optimization
Authors: Jacucci Gianni , Bertolotti Jacopo , Vignolini Silvia
Published: September 2019

The ability to manipulate light–matter interaction to tailor the scattering properties of materials is crucial to many aspects of everyday life, from paints to lighting, and to many fundamental concepts in disordered photonics. Light transport and scattering in a granular disordered medium are dictated by the spatial distribution (structure factor) and the scattering properties (form factor and refractive index) of its building blocks. As yet, however, the importance of anisotropy in such systems has not been considered. Here, a systematic numerical survey that disentangles and quantifies the role of different kinds and degrees of anisotropy in scattering optimization is reported. It is shown that ensembles of uncorrelated, anisotropic particles with nematic ordering enables to increase by 20% the reflectance of low‐refractive index media (n = 1.55), using only three‐quarters of material compared to their isotropic counterpart. Additionally, these systems exhibit a whiteness comparable to conventionally used high‐refractive index media, e.g., TiO2 (n = 2.60). Therefore, the findings not only provide an understanding of the role of anisotropy in scattering optimization, but they also showcase a novel strategy to replace inorganic white enhancers with sustainable and biocompatible products made of biopolymers.
Employing Lactam Copolymerization Strategy to Effectively Achieve Pure Organic Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence in Amorphous State
Authors: Wang Disen , Yan Ziang , Shi Mingyu , Dai Jinghong , Chai Qiongjie , Gui Huiqiang , Zhang Yaopeng , Ma Xiang
Published: September 2019

Pure organic, amorphous room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials have aroused great attention because of their easy preparation and wide applications. Herein, several metal‐free, amorphous, lactam phosphorescent copolymers are prepared. Copolymers ofN‐vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) andN‐vinylcaprolactam (NVCL) with small amounts of monomers exhibit diverse RTP emissions. The rigid polymer matrices of poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) and poly(N‐vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL) effectively help to inhibit nonradiative transition process of phosphors, which enhances the RTP emission. Furthermore, outstanding biocompatibility, low cost, and highly hydrophilic character make these PVP‐ and PNVCL‐based RTP copolymer materials potentially applicable in various fields.
Recovery rheology via rheo‐SANS: Application to step strains under out‐of‐equilibrium conditions
Authors: Lee Johnny C.‐W. , Porcar Lionel , Rogers Simon A.
Published: September 2019

Stress relaxation from a step strain test provides important information about constituent dynamics, but if a material has experienced a complex shear history, the underlying physics is not straightforward to access. We use recovery rheology and rheo‐small‐angle neutron scattering to probe the nonlinear dynamics of an entangled wormlike micelle solution by applying step strains after complex shear histories enforced by large‐amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) flow. We show that a universal relaxation modulus can be obtained from step strain tests with complex shear histories, as long as the modulus is defined in terms of the recoverable strain. The shear and normal stresses, as well as the alignment of micellar Kuhn segments, are shown to be positively correlated with the recoverable strain. We identify re‐entanglement of polymeric chains after cessation of LAOS and show that this process occurs over the same timescales as linear‐regime stress relaxation. This work, therefore, lays the foundation of how to accurately probe out‐of‐equilibrium rheology in a consistent manner.
The association between family members' migration and Epstein‐Barr virus antibody titers among people left behind in rural Fujian, China
Authors: Yazawa Aki , Inoue Yosuke , Cai Guoxi , Tu Raoping , Huang Meng , He Fei , Chen Jie , Yamamoto Taro , Watanabe Chiho
Published: September 2019

Objectives

In contrast to the health of migrants, which has been extensively studied, little attention has been paid to the health of adults left behind by family members who out‐migrated to other locations. This study was performed to investigate the association between being left behind and the Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) antibody titer, which is an indicator of cellular immune functioning previously shown to be associated with psychological stress.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in rural communities in Fujian, China, in 2015. Questionnaire data and dried blood spot samples were collected from 748 adults. A mixed effect regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association.

Results

Results indicated that the EBV antibody titers were higher among people who had been left behind compared with those who had not.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that, in rural Fujian, China, family separation following the out‐migration of family members is an important determinant of psychological stress.
“I can be a mum or a professional, but not both”: What women say about their experiences of juggling paid employment with motherhood
Authors: Coombe Jacqueline , Loxton Deb , Tooth Leigh , Byles Julie
Published: September 2019

Past research has identified the salience of the notion of “good motherhood” in countries such as Australia, where women are expected to invest significant time and energy, often through self‐sacrifice, to raise their children. We analysed free‐text comments provided in response to an open‐ended question from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) to examine whether the discourse of “good motherhood” played any role in how women articulate their experiences of juggling paid employment with motherhood. Eighty women from the cohort born 1973–78 were included, providing 223 comments. “Good motherhood” underpinned many of the accounts about combining motherhood with paid employment. Women reported life as stressful and hectic as they attempted to juggle the demands of childcare with paid employment and domestic chores. Although some identified “good motherhood” as an unachievable ideal, most were largely unable to disengage with this discourse. Broader social structures, such as inflexible working conditions, were found to reinforce and support this ideal, contributing to the strength of the discourse.
Nitrogen Dioxide Catalyzed Aerobic Oxidative Cleavage of C(OH)–C Bonds of Secondary Alcohols to Produce Acids
Authors: Liu Mingyang , Zhang Zhanrong , Song Jinliang , Liu Shuaishuai , Liu Huizhen , Han Buxing
Published: September 2019

Stable organic nitroxyl radicals are an important class of catalysts for oxidation reactions, but their wide applications are hindered by their steric hinderance, high cost, complex operation, and separation procedures. Herein, NO2 in DMSO is shown to effectively catalyze the aerobic oxidative cleavage of C(OH)−C bonds to form a carboxylic group, and NO2 was generated in situ by decomposition of nitrates. A diverse range of secondary alcohols were selectively converted into acids in excellent yields in this transition‐metal‐free system without any additives. Preliminary results also indicate its applicability to depolymerize recalcitrant macromolecular lignin. Detail studies revealed that NO2 from nitrates promoted the reaction, and NO2 served as hydrogen acceptor and radical initiator for the tandem oxidative reaction.
Impregnated copper ferrite on mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride: An efficient and reusable catalyst for promoting ligand‐free click synthesis of diverse 1,2,3‐triazoles and tetrazoles
Authors: Khalili Dariush , Rezaee Meysam
Published: September 2019

Magnetic CuFe2O4/g‐C3N4 hybrids were synthesized through a facile method and their catalytic performances were evaluated in click chemistry for the first time. The structural and morphological characterization of prepared materials was carried out by different techniques such as X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, thermogravimetric analysis, and N2 adsorption–desorption analysis (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area). The utilization of magnetic CuFe2O4/g‐C3N4 enabled superior performance in the one‐pot azide–alkyne cycloaddition reaction in water using alkyl halides and epoxides as azide precursors without the need of any additional agents. The present system is broad in scope and especially practical for the synthesis of macrocyclic triazoles and also tetrazoles. In addition, the catalytic system highly fulfills the demands of “green click chemistry” with its convenient conditions, especially easy access to a variety of significant products in low catalyst loading and simple work‐up and isolation procedure.
Facile preparation and properties of polyvinylidene fluoride dielectric nanocomposites via phase morphology control and incorporation of multiwalled carbon nanotubes conductive fillers
Authors: Chen Lin , Liu Hongcai , Bian Jun , Yan Lei , Guo Yi , Lin Hong , Lin Hailan , Ma Sude , Zhao Xinwei
Published: September 2019

A novel PVDF dielectric nanocomposite was achieved by controlling phase morphology and incorporating conductive fillers simultaneously, and the mechanical, thermal, dielectric properties of the resultant dielectric nanocomposites were investigated. Mechanical analysis showed that incorporation of modified MWCNTs (MWCNTs‐COOH) in the PVDF nanocomposites resulted in significant improvements on the tensile strength (Ts) and elasticity modulus (Em). When the filler content was 12 wt%, the Ts of MWCNTs‐COOH/PVDF could reach 64.6 MPa. XRD test showed that the addition of MWCNTs‐COOH and MWCNTs promoted the formation of β‐phase of PVDF. DMA analysis showed that the glass‐transition temperature of the PVDF nanocomposites slightly increases on loading of original MWCNTs and this effect was more pronounced on loading MWCNTs‐COOH. The dielectric property analysis showed that the original MWCNTs were more likely to form local conductive networks in the PVDF matrix, promoting the electron displacement polarization, and improving the dielectric constant. When the contents of MWCNTs was 12 wt%, the percolation threshold was obtained and the dielectric constant (ε′) reached 286, which was 36 times of pure PVDF. Our work provides a simple way to fabricate polymer blends with excellent dielectric performances, good mechanical properties as well as good processing capability but low cost. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48463.
Design and characterization of PNVCL‐based nanofibers and evaluation of their potential applications as scaffolds for surface drug delivery of hydrophobic drugs
Authors: Sta Marwa , Aguiar Graziele , Forni Abilio A. J. , Medeiros Simone F. , Santos Amilton M. , Demarquette Nicole R.
Published: September 2019

In this work, nanofiber scaffolds for surface drug delivery applications were obtained by electrospinning poly(N‐vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL) and its blends with poly(ε‐caprolactone) and poly(N‐vinylcaprolactam)‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone). The process parameters to obtain smooth and beadless PNVCL fibers were optimized. The average fibers diameter was less than 1 μm, and it was determined by scanning electron microscopy analyses. Their affinity toward water was evaluated by measuring the contact angle with water. The ketoprofen release behavior from the fibers was analyzed using independent and model‐dependent approaches. The low values of the release exponent (n< 0.5) obtained for 20 and 42 °C, indicating a Fickian diffusion mechanism for all formulations. Dissolution efficiencies (DEs) revealed the effect of polymer composition, methodology used in the electrospinning process, and temperature on the release rate of ketoprofen. PNVCL/poly(N‐vinylcaprolactam)‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐based nanofibers showed greater ability to control thein vitrorelease of ketoprofen, in view of reduced kinetic constant and DE, making this material promising system for controlling release of hydrophobic drugs. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2020,137, 48472.
Bite Force and Masticatory Muscle Architecture Adaptations in the Dietarily Diverse Musteloidea (Carnivora)
Authors: Hartstone‐Rose Adam , Hertzig Isabella , Dickinson Edwin
Published: September 2019

Dietary ecology and its relationship with both muscle architecture and bite force potential has been studied in many mammalian (and non‐mammalian) taxa. However, despite the diversity of dietary niches that characterizes the superfamily Musteloidea, the masticatory muscle fiber architecture of its members has yet to be investigated anatomically. In this study, we present myological data from the jaw adductors in combination with biomechanical data derived from craniomandibular measurements for 17 species representing all four families (Ailuridae, Mephitidae, Mustelidae, and Procyonidae) of Musteloid. These data are combined to calculate bite force potential at each of three bite points along the dental row. Across our sample as a whole, masticatory muscle mass scaled with isometry or slight positive allometry against both body mass and skull size (measured via a cranial geometric mean). Total jaw adductor physiological cross‐sectional area scaled with positive allometry against both body mass and skull size, while weighted fiber length scaled with negative allometry. From a dietary perspective, fiber length is strongly correlated with dietary size such that taxa that exploit larger foods demonstrated myological adaptations toward gape maximization. However, no consistent relationship between bite force potential and dietary mechanical resistance was observed. These trends confirm previous findings observed within the carnivoran family Felidae (as well as within primates), suggesting that the mechanisms by which masticatory anatomy adapts to dietary ecology may be more universally consistent than previously recognized. Anat Rec, 302:2287–2299, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
The Claustrum in the Squirrel Monkey
Authors: Baizer Joan S. , Webster Charles J. , Baker James F.
Published: September 2019

The claustrum (CLA) is a subcortical structure that is reciprocally and topographically connected with the cerebral cortex. The complexity of the cerebral cortex varies dramatically across mammals, raising the question of whether there might also be differences in CLA organization, circuitry, and function. Species variations in the shape of the CLA are well documented. Studies in multiple species have identified subsets of neurochemically distinct interneurons; some data suggest species variations in the nature, distribution, and numbers of different neurochemically identified neuronal types. We have studied the CLA in a smooth‐brained primate, the squirrel monkey, using Nissl‐stained sections and immunohistochemistry. We found that the shape of the CLA is different from that in other primates. We found several different neurochemically defined populations of neurons equally distributed throughout the CLA. Immunoreactivity to GAD65/67and GABAAreceptors suggest that GABAergic interneurons provide widespread inhibitory input to CLA neurons. Immunoreactivity to glutamate transporters suggests widespread and overlapping excitatory input from cortical and possibly subcortical sources. Comparison of CLA organization in different species suggests that there may be major species differences both in the organization and in the functions of the CLA. Anat Rec, 303:1439–1454, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Vertebromedullary Topography of the Red‐Rumped Agouti (Dasyprocta leporina Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Araújo Júnior Hélio N. , Oliveira Gleidson B. , Costa Herson S. , Oliveira Radan E.M. , Lopes Igor R.G. , Klem Marcius A.P. , Paula Valéria V. , Oliveira Moacir F.
Published: September 2019

The agouti is a wild rodent located almost throughout the Brazilian territory, with great scientific importance and high reproductive potential when farmed. In the clinical routine, clinical and surgical procedures are performed on the nervous system of these animals, such as epidural anesthesia and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection; however, data available are limited in literature on the main points of these procedures in this species. In this aspect, the objective was to describe the vertebromedullary topography of the agouti in order to identify and quantify it, with the intention of expanding the information regarding the clinical‐surgical procedures in this system. Ten animals were incised longitudinally in the dorsal median line, removing the skin, the musculature, and dorsal fascia of the vertebral column; then, removed the vertebral arches and consequent exposure of the spinal cord and meninges. The morphometry of the animals was done by obtaining the total length, body length, and crown‐rump length, as well as the total length of the spinal cord and its segments. The cervical intumescence in the agouti is located between C4‐T1 and measures 2.45 cm. The lumbar intumescence is between L5‐L7 and is 2.52 cm long. The cauda equina arises from S2 and the filum terminale from S3. As for the medullary cone, it is located between L7‐S1 and is 2.52 cm long. The suggested localization for epidural anesthesia or CSF puncture for laboratory tests in agoutis is the lumbosacral space, with the insertion of the needle to be carried out at angle of 90° in the sphinx position. Anat Rec, 303:1472–1477, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
The Forearm Musculature of the Gray Mouse Lemur (Microcebus murinus): An Ontogenetic Study
Authors: Boettcher Marissa L. , Leonard Kaitlyn C. , Dickinson Edwin , Aujard Fabienne , Herrel Anthony , Hartstone‐Rose Adam
Published: September 2019

Although studies have sought to characterize variation in forearm muscular anatomy across the primate order, none have attempted to quantify ontogenetic changes in forearm myology within a single taxon. Herein, we present muscle architecture data for the forearm musculature (flexors and extensors of the wrist and digits) of Microcebus murinus, a small Lemuroid that has been the focus of several developmental studies. A quadratic curvilinear model described ontogenetic changes in muscle mass and fascicle length; however, fascicle lengths reached peak levels at an earlier age and showed a stronger decline during senescence. Conversely, physiological cross‐sectional area followed a more linear trend, increasing steadily throughout life. As previous studies into the functional role of the primate forelimb emphasize the importance of long muscle fascicles within arboreal taxa in order to maximize mobility and flexibility, the early attainment of peak fascicle lengths may consequently reflect the importance of agility within this mobile and highly arboreal species. Similarly, observed myological trends in forearm strength are supported by previous in vivo data on grip strength within M. murinus in which senescent individuals showed no decline in forearm force relative to prime age individuals. This trend is interpreted to reflect compensation for the previously reported decline in hind limb grip strength in the hind limb with age, such that older individuals are able to maintain arboreal stability. Interestingly, the ontogenetic trajectory of each architectural variable mirrored previous observations of the masticatory musculature in M. murinus, suggesting that ontogenetic trends are relatively conserved between anatomical regions. Anat Rec, 303:1354–1363, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Spontaneous Pulmonary Hypertension Associated With Systemic Sclerosis in P‐Selectin Glycoprotein Ligand 1–Deficient Mice
Authors: González‐Tajuelo Rafael , de la Fuente‐Fernández María , Morales‐Cano Daniel , Muñoz‐Callejas Antonio , González‐Sánchez Elena , Silván Javier , Serrador Juan Manuel , Cadenas Susana , Barreira Bianca , Espartero‐Santos Marina , Gamallo Carlos , Vicente‐Rabaneda Esther F. , Castañeda Santos , Pérez‐Vizcaíno Francisco , Cogolludo Ángel , Jiménez‐Borreguero Luis Jesús , Urzainqui Ana
Published: September 2019

Objective

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), one of the major complications of systemic sclerosis (SSc), is a rare disease with unknown etiopathogenesis and noncurative treatments. As mice deficient in P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL‐1) develop a spontaneous SSc‐like syndrome, we undertook this study to analyze whether they develop PAH and to examine the molecular mechanisms involved.

Methods

Doppler echocardiography was used to estimate pulmonary pressure, immunohistochemistry was used to assess vascular remodeling, and myography of dissected pulmonary artery rings was used to analyze vascular reactivity. Angiotensin II (Ang II) levels were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting was used to measure Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R), AT2R, endothelial cell nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and phosphorylated eNOS expression in lung lysates. Flow cytometry allowed us to determine cytokine production by immune cells and NO production by endothelial cells. In all cases, there were 4–8 mice per experimental group.

Results

PSGL‐1−/− mice showed lung vessel wall remodeling and a reduced mean ± SD expression of pulmonary AT2R (expression ratio [relative to β‐actin] in female mice age >18 months: wild‐type mice 0.799 ± 0.508 versus knockout mice 0.346 ± 0.229). With aging, female PSGL‐1−/− mice had impaired up‐regulation of estrogen receptor α (ERα) and developed lung vascular endothelial dysfunction coinciding with an increase in mean ± SEM pulmonary Ang II levels (wild‐type 48.70 ± 5.13 pg/gm lung tissue versus knockout 78.02 ± 28.09 pg/gm lung tissue) and a decrease in eNOS phosphorylation, leading to reduced endothelial NO production. These events led to a reduction in the pulmonary artery acceleration time:ejection time ratio in 33% of aged female PSGL‐1−/− mice, indicating pulmonary hypertension. Importantly, we found expanded populations of interferon‐γ–producing PSGL‐1−/− T cells and B cells and a reduced presence of regulatory T cells.

Conclusion

The absence of PSGL‐1 induces a reduction in Treg cells, NO production, and ERα expression and causes an increase in Ang II in the lungs of female mice, favoring the development of PAH.
Adaptive fault‐tolerant control of an axially moving system with time‐varying constraints
Authors: Yue Xinling
Published: September 2019

In this paper, for an axially moving system, with the purpose of suppressing vibration, an adaptive fault‐tolerant control method with time‐varying constraints is investigated. The dynamics of the system are comprised of an ordinary differential equation coupled with a partial differential equation. The method used in our study is known as fault‐tolerant control to process affairs of actuator failures occur. Actual control substitutes for ideal control to regulate the vibration when the actuator occurs undesired failures. Time‐varying constraints are appropriate to cope with the variation range of the performance. Lyapunov function has proven that the adaptive control law is feasible, as well as verifying the exponential stability of the system. Eventually, simulations we have done suggest that the effectiveness of the designed control is feasible.
Model reduction based on limited‐time interval impulse response Gramians
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Jazlan Ahmad , Sreeram Victor
Published: September 2019

In this paper, three new Gramians are introduced namely ‐ limited‐time interval impulse response Gramians (LTIRG), generalized limited‐time Gramians (GLTG) and generalized limited‐time impulse response Gramians (GLTIRG). GLTG and GLTIRG are applicable to both unstable systems and also to systems which have eigenvalues of opposite polarities and equal magnitude. The concept of these Gramians is utilized to develop model reduction algorithms for linear time‐invariant continuous‐time single‐input single‐output (SISO) systems. In the cases of GLTIRG and GLTG based model reduction, the standard time‐limited Gramians are generalized to be applied to unstable systems by transforming the original system into a new system which requires the solution of two Riccati equations. Two numerical examples are included to illustrate the proposed methods. The results are also compared with standard techniques.
Visual and Proprioceptive Influences on Tactile Spatial Processing in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Hense Marlene , Badde Stephanie , Köhne Svenja , Dziobek Isabel , Röder Brigitte
Published: September 2019

Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) often exhibit altered representations of the external world. Consistently, when localizing touch, children with ASDs were less influenced than their peers by changes of the stimulated limb's location in external space [Wada et al., Scientific Reports 2015, 4(1), 5985]. However, given the protracted development of an external‐spatial dominance in tactile processing in typically developing children, this difference might reflect a developmental delay rather than a set suppression of external space in ASDs. Here, adults with ASDs and matched control‐participants completed (a) the tactile temporal order judgment (TOJ) task previously used to test external‐spatial representation of touch in children with ASDs and (b) a tactile‐visual cross‐modal congruency (CC) task which assesses benefits of task‐irrelevant visual stimuli on tactile localization in external space. In both experiments, participants localized tactile stimuli to the fingers of each hand, while holding their hands either crossed or uncrossed. Performance differences between hand postures reflect the influence of external‐spatial codes. In both groups, tactile TOJ‐performance markedly decreased when participants crossed their hands and CC‐effects were especially large if the visual stimulus was presented at the same side of external space as the task‐relevant touch. The absence of group differences was statistically confirmed using Bayesian statistical modeling: adults with ASDs weighted external‐spatial codes comparable to typically developed adults during tactile and visual‐tactile spatio‐temporal tasks. Thus, atypicalities in the spatial coding of touch for children with ASDs appear to reflect a developmental delay rather than a stable characteristic of ASD. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1745–1757. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

A touched limb's location can be described twofold, with respect to the body (right hand) or the external world (right side). Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reportedly rely less than their peers on the external world. Here, adults with and without ASDs completed two tactile localization tasks. Both groups relied to the same degree on external world locations. This opens the possibility that the tendency to relate touch to the external world is typical in individuals with ASDs but emerges with a delay.
A highly selective aggregation‐induced emission fluorogen for sensitive detection of Al3+ in living cells
Authors: Xie Ya , Li Xueming , Yan Liqiang , Li Jianping
Published: September 2019

A Schiff's base derivative was synthesized using a condensation reaction between 8‐formyl‐7‐hydroxy‐4‐methylcoumarin and furan‐2‐carbohydrazide that produced marked aggregation‐induced emission and had excellent ability to specifically recognize aluminium ions (Al3+). This compound displayed faint fluorescence in the benign solvent dimethyl formamide, and exhibited obvious green fluorescence following addition of specific amounts of water. Moreover, it exhibited strong blue fluorescence after combination with Al3+ even in the presence of other interfering ions. These experimental results demonstrated that this derivative could be used as a fluorescence probe for Al3+. The advantages, including significant fluorescence change, high selectivity and sensitivity, and fast response, meant that this probe could be used both to detect Al3+ in water samples and for fluorescence imaging in living cells.
Health care disparities, provider bias, and provider burnout
Authors: Lauer‐Arnold Ingrid
Published: September 2019

Access to mental health care is a major problem for children worldwide. Based on data from 2016, an estimated 7.7 million children in the United States have at least one mental health disorder. Nearly 50% of these children do not receive any kind of mental health treatment (Whitney & Peterson, 2019).
Confidentiality and adolescent abortion
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2019

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says adolescents should be encouraged to involve their parents in decisions regarding pregnancy termination, but at the same time asserts that the rights of adolescents to adolescent care should be protected.
Beneficial Effect of a Secondary Ligand on the Catalytic Difunctionalization of Vinyl Arenes with Boron and CO2
Authors: Perrone Trina M. , Gregory Amy S. , Knowlden Steven W. , Ziemer Natalie R. , Alsulami Rabah N. , Petersen Jeffrey L. , Popp Brian V.
Published: September 2019

The boracarboxylation of vinyl arenes catalyzed by copper(I) is an alkene difunctionalization reaction that provides synthetically useful β‐boryl‐α‐aryl propanoic acid derivatives. Drawbacks of the original reaction methodology are high catalyst loading and vinyl arene scope limited largely to electron‐rich systems. Herein, we demonstrate that catalytic additives, specifically triphenylphosphine or electron‐rich styrene, leads to improved catalyst efficiency and broadening of substrate scope. With the addition of PPh3, comparable yields of previously reported boracarboxylated substrates as well as two novel β‐boronated non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (bora‐fenoprofen and bora‐flurbiprofen) were achieved at lower catalyst loading. Boracarboxylation of electron‐deficient substrates could be achieved through superstoichiometric addition of vinyl arene or addition of secondary phosphine ligand. Reactivity optimization and competition experiments have provided preliminary insights into the ability of PPh3 to aid in the catalytic cycle, specifically carboxylation of electron‐rich benzyl‐copper(I) intermediate. Additional competition studies revealed that a catalytic amount of an electron‐rich vinyl arene could be used in addition to the copper(I) catalyst to promote boracarboxylation of an electron‐deficient styrene derivative.
Electrochemical Evaluation for Multiple Functions of Pt‐loaded TiO2 Nanoparticles Deposited on a Photocathode
Authors: Kageshima Yosuke , Fujita Takumi , Takagi Fumiaki , Minegishi Tsutomu , Teshima Katsuya , Domen Kazunari , Amao Yutaka , Nishikiori Hiromasa
Published: September 2019

Pt‐loaded TiO2 nanoparticles (Pt/TiO2) were deposited on a near‐infrared responsive photocathode as a reaction field for the photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen evolution from water. The multiple functions of the Pt/TiO2 layer for improving the PEC performances were evaluated by electrochemical methods. Considering the electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) of Pt, the Pt/TiO2 surface modification was revealed to increase the number of active sites (Pt), resulting in a decreased current density per active site. Consequently, the potential of the Pt/TiO2‐modified photocathode surface during the PEC reaction was expected to be located around 38–46 mV vs. a reversible hydrogen electrode (mVRHE), while that of the unmodified one was negatively shifted to around 13 mVRHE. In addition, the TiO2 layer also functioned to block the migration of holes to the photocathode‐electrolyte interface due to its deep valence band position, as well as to improve the wettability of the photocathode surface during light irradiation. These combined effects of the TiO2, as a transparent and conductive support, enhanced the photocurrent, and stability of the photocathode.
Synthesis of Highly Monodisperse Cu2O Nanocrystals and Their Applications as Hole‐Transporting Layers in Solution‐Processed Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Chen Desui , Li Yifei , Dai Xingliang , Du Hui , Lin Jian , Jin Yizheng
Published: September 2019

The synthesis of phase‐pure, narrow‐size‐distributed and highly stable Cu2O nanocrystals is reported, which can be processed as hole‐transporting layers (HTLs) in solution‐processed optoelectronic devices. The synthesis is based on a thermal decomposition process with a ligand protection strategy. The reactivity of precursor can be tuned by simply modulating the concentration of oleylamine in non‐coordinated solvent, resulting in effectively controlling the size and size distribution of Cu2O nanocrystals. Combined with ligand protection strategy of using lithium stearate and moderate reaction temperature of 170 °C, in situ aggregation of Cu2O nanocrystals could be inhibited, exhibiting excellent stability in hexane for several months. The resulting phase‐pure colloidal Cu2O particles (after ozone‐treatment) were applied as HTLs in polymer light‐emitting diodes, the performance of which are comparable to that of the poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) based devices.
A Design Criteria to Achieve Giant Ising‐Type Anisotropy in CoII‐Encapsulated Metallofullerenes
Authors: Singh Mukesh Kumar , Shukla Pratima , Khatua Munmun , Rajaraman Gopalan
Published: September 2019

Discovery of permanent magnetisation in molecules just like in hard magnets decades ago led to the proposal of utilising these molecules for information storage devices and also as Q‐bits in quantum computing. A significant breakthrough with a blocking temperature as high as 80 K has been recently reported for lanthanocene complexes. While enhancing the blocking temperature further remains one of the primary challenges, obtaining molecules that are suitable for the fabrication of the devices sets the bar very high in this area. Encouraged by the fact that our earlier predictions of potential single‐molecule magnets (SMMs) in lanthanide‐containing endohedral fullerenes have been verified, here we set out to undertake a comprehensive study on CoII‐ion‐encapsulated fullerene as potential SMMs. To study this class of molecules, we have utilised an array of theoretical methods ranging from density functional to ab initio CASSCF/NEVPT2 methods for obtaining reliable estimate of zero‐field splitting parameters D and E. Additionally, we have also employed, for the first time a combination of molecular dynamics based on DFT methods coupled with CASSCF/NEVPT2 methods to seek the role of conformational isomers in the relaxation of magnetisation. Particularly, we have studied, Co@C28, Co@C38 and Co@C48 cages and their isomers as potential target molecules that could yield substantial magnetic anisotropy. Our calculations categorically reveal a very large Ising anisotropy in this class of molecules, with Co@C48 cages predicted to yield D values as high as −127 cm−1. Our calculations on the smaller cages reveal the free movement of CoII ion inside the cage, leading to the likely scenario of faster relaxation of magnetisation. However, larger fullerene cages were found to solve this issue. Further models with incorporating units such as {CoOZn}, {CoScZnN} inside larger fullerenes yield axial zero‐field splitting values as high as −200 cm−1 with negligible E/D values. As these units represent a strong axiality coupled with a viable way to obtain air‐stable low‐coordinate CoII complexes, this opens up a new paradigm in the search of SMMs in this class of molecules.