bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cross‐sectional Study on the Relationship Between Homocysteine and Lipid Profiles Among Chinese Population from Hunan
Authors: Niu Xiaona , Chen Jian , Wang Jia , Li Jing , Zeng Dan , Wang Shuling , Hong Xiuqin
Published: September 2020

Previous studies have explored the relationship between homocystein (Hcy) and lipid profiles. However, the results from these studies have been inconsistent. The current study investigated the correlation between Hcy and lipid profiles in Chinese community‐based population. The participants were composed of 4012 Chinese people aged 30–92 years old, who were recruited from rural and urban communities in the Hunan Province. Non‐parametric test and logistic regression were used to examine the distribution of Hcy and lipid profiles (triglyceride [TG], total cholesterol [TC], low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL‐C], high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL‐C]) and the relationship between them. The median age of subjects was 54.50 years old, and 40.98% were male. Median Hcy was 13.20 μmol/L, and 35.39% had hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy). Median TG was 1.51 mmol/L, TC was 4.77 mmol/L, LDL‐C was 2.62 mmol/L, and HDL‐C was 1.27 mmol/L. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, HHcy was associated with high levels of TG (ORmale = 2.240, p < 0.001; ORfemale = 2.539, p < 0.001), TC (ORmale = 2.237, p < 0.001; ORfemale = 2.202, p < 0.001), and LDL‐C (ORmale = 1.413, p = 0.010; ORfemale = 1.617, p < 0.001) in the different sexes population and low level of HDL‐C in females (OR = 1.326, p = 0.023) after adjusting for confounders. HHcy was independently associated with an increasing risk of low HDL‐C among females. The regression analysis showed that HHcy was also associated with hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, and high level of LDL‐C in males and females from Chinese community‐based population, which provides a basis for the treatment and prevention of abnormal lipid metabolism.
Changing circumpolar distributions and isoscapes of Antarctic krill: Indo‐Pacific habitat refuges counter long‐term degradation of the Atlantic sector
Authors: Yang Guang , Atkinson Angus , Hill Simeon L. , Guglielmo Letterio , Granata Antonia , Li Chaolun
Published: September 2020

The Southern Ocean provides strong contrasts in rates and directions of change in temperature and sea ice between its sectors, but it is unknown how these affect plankton species that are distributed right around Antarctica. Here, we quantify the changing circumpolar distributions of Antarctic krill, based on the CHINARE 2013/14 circum‐Antarctic expedition, plus independent analyses of compiled abundance data (KRILLBASE: 1926–2016). In the 1920s–1930s, average krill densities in the Atlantic‐Bellingshausen sector were eight times those in the other sectors. More recently, however, the concentration factor has dropped to only about twofold. This reflects a rebalancing broadly commensurate with climatic forcing: krill densities declined in the Atlantic‐Bellingshausen sector which has warmed and lost sea ice, densities may have increased in the Ross‐Pacific sector which showed the opposite climatic trend, while densities showed no significant changes in the more stable Lazarev‐Indian sectors. Such changes would impact circumpolar food webs, so to better define these we examined circumpolar trends of isotopic values in krill and other zooplankton based on the CHINARE cruise and a literature meta‐analysis. Krill δ15N values ranged significantly between sectors from 2.21‰ (Indian) to 3.59‰ (Ross‐Pacific), about half a trophic level lower than another key euphausiid, Thysanoessa macrura. These isoscapes form a baseline for interpreting the reliance of predators on euphausiids, within the varying food webs around the continent. Overall, we suggest that the Indo‐Pacific sector has acted as a refuge for the circumpolar krill stock while conditions for them deteriorated rapidly in the Atlantic sector.
Chelating Polymers for Hereditary Hemochromatosis Treatment
Authors: Groborz Ondřej , Poláková Lenka , Kolouchová Kristýna , Švec Pavel , Loukotová Lenka , Miriyala Vijay Madhav , Francová Pavla , Kučka Jan , Krijt Jan , Páral Petr , Báječný Martin , Heizer Tomáš , Pohl Radek , Dunlop David , Czernek Jiří , Šefc Luděk , Beneš Jiří , Štěpánek Petr , Hobza Pavel , Hrubý Martin
Published: September 2020

Hemochromatosis (iron overload) encompasses a group of diseases that are characterized by a toxic hyperaccumulation of iron in parenchymal organs. Currently, only few treatments for this disease have been approved; however, all these treatments possess severe side effects. In this study, a paradigm for hemochromatosis maintenance/preventive therapy is investigated: polymers with negligible systemic biological availability form stable complexes with iron ions in the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the biological availability of iron. Macroporous polymer beads are synthesized with three different iron‐chelating moieties (benzene‐1,2‐diol, benzene‐1,2,3‐triol, and 1,10‐phenanthroline). The polymers rapidly chelate iron ions from aqueous solutions in vitro in the course of minutes, and are noncytotoxic and nonprooxidant. Moreover, the in vivo biodistribution and pharmacokinetics show a negligible uptake from the gastrointestinal tract (using 125I‐labeled polymer and single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography), which generally prevents them from having systemic side effects. The therapeutic efficacy of the prepared polymers is successfully tested in vivo, and exhibits a significant inhibition of iron uptake from the gastrointestinal tract without any noticeable signs of toxicity. Furthermore, an in silico method is developed for the prediction of chelator selectivity. Therefore, this paradigm can be applied to the next‐generation maintenance/preventive treatment for hemochromatosis and/or other diseases of similar pathophysiology.
Critical point equation and closed conformal vector fields
Authors: da Silva Filho J. F.
Published: September 2020

In this article, we study the critical points of the total scalar curvature functional restricted to the space of metrics with constant scalar curvature of unitary volume, for simplicity, CPE metrics. Here, we prove that a CPE metric admitting a non‐trivial closed conformal vector field must be isometric to a round sphere metric, which provides a partial answer to the CPE conjecture.
The Adapted Resistance Training with Instability Randomized Controlled Trial for Gait Automaticity
Authors: Vieira‐Yano Bianca , Martini Douglas N. , Horak Fay B. , de Lima‐Pardini Andrea , Almeida Filipe , Santana Vagner P. , Lima Daniel , Batista Alana X. , Marquesini Raquel , Lira Jumes , Barbosa Egberto R. , Corcos Daniel M. , Ugrinowitsch Carlos , Silva‐Batista Carla
Published: September 2020

Background

Deficits in the cerebellar locomotor region (CLR) have been associated with loss of gait automaticity in individuals with freezing of gait in Parkinson's disease (freezers); however, exercise interventions that restore gait automaticity in freezers are lacking. We evaluated the effects of the adapted resistance training with instability ([ARTI] complex exercises) compared with traditional motor rehabilitation (without complex exercises) on gait automaticity and attentional set‐shifting. We also verified associations between gait automaticity change and CLR activation change previously published.

Methods

Freezers were randomized either to the experimental group (ARTI, n = 17) or to the active control group (traditional motor rehabilitation, n = 15). Both training groups performed exercises 3 times a week for 12 weeks. Gait automaticity (dual‐task and dual‐task cost [DTC] on gait speed and stride length), single‐task gait speed and stride length, attentional set‐shifting (time between Trail Making Test parts B and A), and CLR activation during a functional magnetic resonance imaging protocol of simulated step initiation task were evaluated before and after interventions.

Results

Both training groups improved gait parameters in single task (P < 0.05), but ARTI was more effective than traditional motor rehabilitation in improving DTC on gait speed, DTC on stride length, dual‐task stride length, and CLR activation (P < 0.05). Changes in CLR activation were associated with changes in DTC on stride length (r = 0.68, P = 0.002) following ARTI. Only ARTI improved attentional set‐shifting at posttraining (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

ARTI restores gait automaticity and improves attentional set‐shifting in freezers attributed to the usage of exercises with high motor complexity. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Peptidomimetics in Silico
Authors: Tomasella Cristina , Floris Matteo , Guccione Salvatore , Pappalardo Matteo , Basile Livia
Published: September 2020

Endogenous peptides as part of physiological processes are targets of interest when it comes to finding desirable therapeutics which are able to modulate molecular interactions. The major limits presented by peptides when they are used as drugs have motivated the research of the synthesis of peptidomimetics obtained through chemical modification and the use of in silico approaches. Here recent works on the discovery of peptidomimetics by computational methods are reported. Together with molecular dynamic simulations, the use of pharmacophore research simulations helps to gain insight into and understand the molecular determinants underlying the physiological processes.
A feasibility study of a real‐time visualization method for electromagnetic fields
Authors: Ishii Masanori , Kinoshita Moto
Published: September 2020

We present a feasibility study of a real‐time visualization method for electromagnetic fields. When a resonant laser is used to irradiate gaseous atoms enclosed in a glass cell, the atoms absorb the light and immediately radiate as fluorescence. If a resonant laser and electromagnetic field are used to irradiate the gaseous atoms simultaneously, fluorescence of the light is stronger. The difference between the strength values of fluorescence of light can be used for electromagnetic field visualization. We succeeded in demonstrating a real‐time visualization of electromagnetic fields radiated from a horn antenna and an aperture of a waveguide in free space.
Effects of Water Filtration and Temperature on Microbial Colonization and Survival of Lake Sturgeon Eggs
Authors: Fujimoto Masanori , Marsh Terence L. , Scribner Kim T.
Published: September 2020

Physical and biotic factors that affect development and survival during the embryonic period of fish are major concerns in aquaculture, particularly when individuals are produced using natural surface water sources. We quantified the effects of bacterial community taxonomic composition and abundance, water filtration treatment, and incubation temperature on the development and survival of embryos from Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens, a threatened Great Lakes fish species. Eggs were fertilized and incubated using a two-by-two treatment design by manipulating water treatments (treated [filtered and UV treated] and untreated stream water) and temperature (12°C and 18°C) during incubation. Egg samples from five full-sibling families were exposed to each rearing treatment. At different stages during development, eggs were analyzed for egg surface microbial community composition and abundance using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism methods based on the 16S rRNA gene and quantitative PCR, respectively. Sanger sequencing identified egg-associated microbial taxa. Microbial community composition derived from terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism was visualized using principal component analysis. Permutational multivariate analysis of variance revealed that the composition of microbial communities that developed on egg surfaces varied as a function of water filtration and temperature. Quantitative PCR analysis revealed that significantly higher microbial abundance was present on surfaces of eggs reared in untreated stream water than on those reared in treated stream water. Temperature did not affect egg surface microbial abundance. Significantly higher egg mortality was documented for eggs reared in unfiltered stream water (mean ± SD = 77.4 ± 17.6%) than for eggs reared in treated stream water (50.3 ± 14.7%). Temperature during incubation did not affect levels of egg mortality. Sequence analysis revealed that certain microbial taxa were associated with eggs characterized by higher survival, including Acidovorax spp. and Massilia spp., suggesting that they may be candidates for natural probiotics. Filtration and UV treatment of surface water was an effective method for modification of egg microbial community composition and quantity and significantly reduced egg mortality.
Alkalinized lidocaine solution as a first‐line local anesthesia protocol for intradetrusor injection of onabotulinum toxin A: Results from a double‐blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pereira e Silva Ricardo , Ponte Carolina , Lopes Filipe , Palma dos Reis José
Published: September 2020

Aims

Local anesthesia protocols for intradetrusor onabotulinum toxin A (BoNTA) injection lack standardization. We aimed to determine if an alkalinized lidocaine solution is more effective than lidocaine only.

Methods

Patients of both genders aged 18 or above enlisted for intradetrusor BoNTA injection (idiopathic, neurogenic, and bladder pain syndrome) were included in a double‐blinded randomized controlled trial after obtaining their informed consent. All participants filled a bladder diary and a urine culture was performed. Subjects were randomized 1:1 to Protocol A (20 ml 2% lidocaine + 10 ml 8.4% sodium bicarbonate) or Protocol B (20 ml 2% lidocaine + 10 ml 0.9% saline solution). A Numeric Rating Scale (0–10) was used to assess the level of pain immediately after the procedure (primary endpoint). Secondary endpoints included pain after 1 h, urinary tract infection, acute urinary retention, and hematuria related to the procedure.

Results

A total of 116 patients were randomized. Baseline characteristics (age, sex, indication, and bladder diary parameters) of patients in Group A and B were similar. Pain scores at the end of the procedure were significantly lower with the alkalinized solution (Protocol A and B, respectively, 2.37 ± 0.31 vs. 4.44 ± 0.36, p < .01). No differences were observed 1 h after treatment (Protocol A and B, respectively, 0.54 ± 0.17 vs. 0.69 ± 0.19, p = .487). The only adverse event reported was mild‐to‐moderate self‐limited hematuria in 15.4% of patients.

Conclusions

The use of an alkalinized lidocaine solution has proven to be significantly superior to lidocaine only as local anesthesia before intradetrusor BoNTA injection, suggesting that this may be considered a first‐line option.
A Lagrangian meshfree mesoscale simulation of powder bed fusion additive manufacturing of metals
Authors: Fan Zongyue , Wang Hao , Huang Zhida , Liao Huming , Fan Jiang , Lu Jian , Liu Chong , Li Bo
Published: September 2020

We present a powder‐scale computational framework to predict the microstructure evolution of metals in powder bed fusion additive manufacturing (PBF AM) processes based on the hot optimal transportation meshfree (HOTM) method. The powder bed is modeled as discrete and deformable three‐dimensional bodies by integrating statistic information from experiments, including particle size and shape, and powder packing density. Tractions in Lagrangian framework are developed to model the recoil pressure and surface tension. The laser beam is applied to surfaces of particles and substrate dynamically as a heat flux with user‐specified beam size, power, scanning speed, and path. The linear momentum and energy conservation equations are formulated in the Lagrangian configuration and solved simultaneously in a monolithic way by the HOTM method to predict the deformation, temperature, contact mechanisms, and fluid‐structure interactions in the powder bed. The numerical results are validated against single track experiments. Various powder bed configurations, laser powers, and speed are investigated to understand the influence of dynamic contact and inelastic material behavior on the deformation, heat transfer, and phase transition of the powder bed. The formation of defects in the microstructure of 3D printed metals, including pores, partially, and unmelted particles, is predicted by the proposed computational scheme.
Create admissions marketing materials that are inclusive, authentic
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: September 2020

Wanting to feel a bond with the people we're speaking with — that's why Tony Sarda thinks taking an inclusive approach when creating admissions marketing materials is important.
Phase I/II Study of Cisplatin plus Nab-Paclitaxel with Concurrent Thoracic Radiotherapy for Patients with Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hayashi Hidetoshi , Ogura Masakazu , Niwa Takashi , Yokoyama Toshihide , Tanizaki Junko , Ozaki Tomohiro , Yoshioka Hiroshige , Kurata Takayasu , Tamura Yosuke , Fujisaka Yasuhito , Tanaka Kaoru , Hasegawa Yoshikazu , Kudo Keita , Chiba Yasutaka , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: September 2020

Lessons Learned

The combination of cisplatin plus nab-paclitaxel with concurrent thoracic radiotherapy in unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer is a promising therapeutic strategy. Further investigation is warranted.

Background

We conducted a phase I/II trial of cisplatin plus nab-paclitaxel with concurrent thoracic radiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to determine the recommended dose (RD) of nab-paclitaxel and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this regimen.

Methods

In the phase I study, escalating doses of weekly nab-paclitaxel were administered together with cisplatin at 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks and concurrent radiotherapy. In the phase II study, nab-paclitaxel was administered at the RD.

Results

In the phase I study, whereas no dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) was observed with nab-paclitaxel at 50 or 60 mg/m2, one of six patients experienced DLT (esophagitis of grade 3) at 70 mg/m2, determined as the RD. Twenty-four patients at RD were evaluable for safety and efficacy in phase II. Common toxicities included esophagitis (87.5%) and leukopenia (79.2%). Pneumonitis and treatment-related deaths were not observed, but 20 patients (83.3%) experienced radiation pneumonitis, with one case of grade 3 and four of grade 2, after completion of concurrent chemoradiotherapy. The 2-year overall survival and progression-free survival rates were 73.9% and 56.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 34.3%–74.7%), respectively.

Conclusion

Concurrent chemoradiation with nab-paclitaxel at 70 mg/m2 and cisplatin at 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks showed encouraging feasibility and activity for locally advanced NSCLC.
Management of Abemaciclib-Associated Adverse Events in Patients with Hormone Receptor-Positive, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Negative Advanced Breast Cancer: Safety Analysis of MONARCH 2 and MONARCH 3
Authors: Rugo Hope S. , Huober Jens , García-Sáenz José A. , Masuda Norikazu , Sohn Joo Hyuk , Andre Valerie A.M. , Barriga Susana , Cox Joanne , Goetz Matthew
Published: September 2020

Background

Abemaciclib demonstrated efficacy in hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative advanced breast cancer. Here we provide a comprehensive summary of the most common adverse events (AEs), their management, and whether AEs or dose reductions influenced progression-free survival (PFS), in the MONARCH 2 and 3 trials.

Materials and Methods

Incidence of the most clinically relevant AEs, management, and outcomes were summarized. Time-dependent covariate analyses examined the impact of dose reductions on PFS. PFS was estimated for patients with and without early onset of diarrhea or neutropenia.

Results

The most frequently reported AE was diarrhea, with clinically significant diarrhea (grade ≥2) reported for 42.8% of patients taking abemaciclib. Median time to onset was 1 week, and duration ranged from 6 to 12 days, depending on grade and study. Diarrhea was adequately managed by antidiarrheal medication (72.8%), dose omissions (17.3%), and reductions (16.7%). The highest rates of grade ≥2 diarrhea were observed in the first cycles and decreased in subsequent cycles. Neutropenia (grade ≥3) occurred in 25.4% of abemaciclib-treated patients. Neutropenia resolved with dose omissions (16.8%) and/or dose reductions (11.2%). Incidence of febrile neutropenia (0.7%) or other relevant grade ≥3 hematological events (<9%) was low. Venous thromboembolic events (5.3%) were primarily treated with anticoagulants. Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis (3.4%) was treated with corticosteroids and/or antibiotics. PFS benefit of abemaciclib was not impacted by dose reductions or early onset of toxicities.

Conclusion

Abemaciclib was generally well tolerated. The most common AEs were effectively managed by supportive medications, and/or dose adjustments, with no detriment to PFS.

Implications for Practice

Treatment with abemaciclib plus fulvestrant or nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors is generally well tolerated in patients with hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative advanced breast cancer. In MONARCH 2 and MONARCH 3, any-grade diarrhea and grade ≥3 neutropenia were effectively managed with supportive medication and/or dose adjustment. Venous thromboembolic events were treated with anticoagulants and did not often require treatment discontinuation. Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis was infrequent and treated with corticosteroids and/or antibiotics. Clinicians should be aware of and implement management strategies, including dose adjustments according to local labels, for commonly occurring and serious adverse events to ensure continued treatment and optimize clinical benefit/risk ratio.
Isolation of nanocellulose from hemp (Cannabis sativa) fibers by chemo‐mechanical method and its characterization
Authors: Rana S. S. , Gupta M. K.
Published: September 2020

Nanocellulose of hemp fibers was obtained by employing the chemo‐mechanical technique, which included three stages of chemical treatments followed by mechanical grinding. Morphological analysis of untreated, treated, and nanocellulose of hemp fibers was performed by field emission scanning electron microscopy. Further, the crystalline behavior of these fibers was also measured by X‐ray diffraction and observed a higher crystallinity (80.95%) for the nanocellulose. Furthermore, change in chemical structure of fibers after chemical treatments and mechanical grinding was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and elimination of hemicelluloses and lignin was confirmed. Higher thermal stability of nanocellulose was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry analysis. The antibacterial analysis was also performed using Escherichia coli (E. coli) and bacillus bacteria. An excellent antibacterial property was offered by the isolated nanocellulose, which makes it a suitable reinforcement to be used in polymeric films and composites for the packaging applications.
Trends in HbA1c thresholds for initiation of hypoglycemic agents: Impact of changed recommendations for older and frail patients
Authors: Ambrož Martina , de Vries Sieta T. , Hoogenberg Klaas , Denig Petra
Published: September 2020

Aims

Less strict glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) thresholds have been recommended in older and/or frail type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients than in younger and less frail patients for initiating hypoglycemic agents since 2011. We aimed to assess trends in HbA1c thresholds at initiation of a first hypoglycemic agent(s) in T2D patients and the influence of age and frailty on these trends.

Materials and methods

The groningen initiative to analyze type 2 diabetes treatment (GIANTT) database was used, which includes primary care T2D patients from the north of the Netherlands. Patients initiating a first non‐insulin hypoglycemic agent(s) between 2008 and 2014 with an HbA1c measurement within 120 days before initiation were included. The influence of calendar year, age, or frailty and the interaction between calendar year and age or frailty were assessed using multilevel regression analyses adjusted for confounders.

Results

We included 4588 patients. The mean HbA1c threshold at treatment initiation was 7.4% up to 2010, decreasing to 7.1% in 2011 and increasing to 7.4% in 2014. This quadratic change over the years was significant (P < 0.001). Patients aged 60 to 79 initiated treatments at lower HbA1c and patients of different frailty at similar HbA1c levels. The interaction between year and age or frailty was not significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

HbA1c thresholds at initiation of a first hypoglycemic agent(s) changed significantly over time, showing a decrease after 2010 and an increase after 2012. The HbA1c threshold at initiation was not influenced by age or frailty, which is in contrast with recommendations for more personalized treatment.
Using Big Data and Machine Learning in Personality Measurement: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Alexander Leo , Mulfinger Evan , Oswald Frederick L.
Published: September 2020

This conceptual paper examines the promises and critical challenges posed by contemporary personality measurement using big data. More specifically, the paper provides (i) an introduction to the type of technologies that give rise to big data, (ii) an overview of how big data is used in personality research and how it might be used in the future, (iii) a framework for approaching big data in personality science, (iv) an exploration of ideas that connect psychometric reliability and validity, as well as principles of fairness and privacy, to measures of personality that use big data, (v) a discussion emphasizing the importance of collaboration with other disciplines for personality psychologists seeking to adopt big data methods, and finally, (vi) a list of practical considerations for researchers seeking to move forward with big data personality measurement and research. It is expected that this paper will provide insights, guidance, and inspiration that helps personality researchers navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by using big data methods in personality measurement. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology
Temporal evolution of OH density in a pulse‐modulated surface microdischarge
Authors: Wang Zhiwei , Feng Chunlei , Gao Liang , Ding Hongbin
Published: September 2020

Laser‐induced fluorescence was used to determine the absolute OH density in a pulse‐modulated atmospheric‐pressure surface microdischarge in helium. Measurements were carried out during the discharge and post‐discharge in both plasma layer and downstream region. Experimental findings show that dissipated power, modulation on‐time duration, and the distance from the dielectric surface have more significant effects on the OH(X) lifetime than OH(X) density. The lifetime dependence on power is more pronounced as compared with the modulation duration. Moreover, a dielectric barrier discharge model was presented to estimate the density evolution and loss mechanisms of OH radicals. The results indicate that the decay of OH density is mainly due to the transport process and recombination reactions.
Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
Authors: Mandell Erica , Kinsella John P. , Abman Steven H.
Published: September 2020

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is a significant clinical problem characterized by refractory and severe hypoxemia secondary to elevated pulmonary vascular resistance resulting in right‐to‐left extrapulmonary shunting of deoxygenated blood. PPHN is associated with diverse cardiopulmonary disorders and a high early mortality rate for infants with severe PPHN. Surviving infants with PPHN have an increased risk of long‐term morbidities. PPHN physiology can be categorized by (1) maladaptation: pulmonary vessels have normal structure and number but have abnormal vasoreactivity; (2) excessive muscularization: increased smooth muscle cell thickness and increased distal extension of muscle to vessels that are usually not muscularized; and (3) underdevelopment: lung hypoplasia associated with decreased pulmonary artery number. Treatment involves adequate lung recruitment, optimization of cardiac output and left ventricular function, and pulmonary vasodilators such as inhaled nitric oxide. Infants who fail to respond to conventional therapy should be evaluated for lethal lung disorders including alveolar‐capillary dysplasia, T‐box transcription factor 4 gene, thyroid transcription factor‐1, ATP‐binding cassette A3 gene, and surfactant protein diseases.
Biochar changes the bioavailability and bioefficacy of the allelochemical coumarin in agricultural soils
Authors: Gámiz Beatriz , López‐Cabeza Rocío , Velarde Pilar , Spokas Kurt A , Cox Lucía
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Allelochemicals can act as biopesticides or enhance the action of synthetic pesticides. In this work, we assessed the bioavailability of the allelochemical coumarin in soils amended with fresh or field‐aged biochars (BCs). The fresh BC from oak wood (Fresh BC) was prepared at 550 °C and was buried for aging in two different places: in a sandy loam soil in Spain for 15 months (Aged BC_1) and a sandy loam soil in USA for six months (Aged BC_2).

RESULTS

Sorption experiments showed that all BCs were able to increase the affinity of soil towards coumarin, with the distribution coefficient following the order: unamended soil < Aged BC_2‐amended soil < Aged BC_1‐amended soil < Fresh BC‐amended soil. All biochars ensure greater persistence of coumarin and the effect was more pronounced at high chemical dose (10 mg kg–1). Conversely, leaching studies in soil columns revealed that BCs were able to maintain coumarin within the first 5 cm of top‐soil with total amount extracted ranging between 17% and 22% for BC‐amended soil and <1% for unamended soil. Leaching was only observed when coumarin was added at the highest rate. Likewise, the bioefficacy of coumarin against lettuce was enhanced only at 10 kg ha–1 with BC‐amended soil.

CONCLUSIONS

Biochar application to agricultural soils is a promising tool for the management of natural compounds with potential use as biopesticides, such as coumarin, because it increases sorption, persistence and, in some cases, bioefficacy. The results reveal that this effect still persists with aging of BC in soils.
Dicamba resistance in kochia from Kansas and Nebraska evolved independently
Authors: Ou Junjun , Gaines Todd A , Fritz Allan K , Stahlman Phillip W , Jugulam Mithila
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Evolution and spread of resistance to glyphosate in kochia [Bassia scoparia (L.) A.J. Scott] is a major challenge for the sustainability of glyphosate‐resistant crop technology in this region. Dicamba offers a viable option to manage glyphosate‐resistant kochia. However, the recent and rapid evolution of dicamba resistance in glyphosate‐resistant kochia populations in Kansas (KS), and other states in the USA is a threat to the management of this weed. Our previous research suggests that two distinct mechanisms confer dicamba resistance in KS (KSUR) and NE (CSUR) kochia. CSUR kochia is dicamba‐resistant due to a double mutation in an auxin and dicamba coreceptor gene (Aux/IAA16), and CSUR kochia plants show reduced dicamba translocation. However, the mechanism of dicamba resistance in KSUR is not known. The objective of this research was to determine if dicamba resistance in KSUR is due to a different mechanism and therefore evolved independently from CSUR by measuring whether the resistance traits are chromosomally linked.

RESULTS

The F1 and F2 progenies from KSUR × CSUR were generated. Single dicamba rate tests were conducted using the F1 and F2 progeny. The results indicate that two different genes confer dicamba resistance in KSUR and CSUR; importantly, these two genes are not linked.

CONCLUSION

This research provides evidence that different populations of kochia have independently evolved resistance to dicamba by different mechanisms, and we confirmed that the genes conferring resistance to the same herbicide in different populations are not chromosomally linked.
Piperine: A review of its biological effects
Authors: Haq Iahtisham‐Ul , Imran Muhammad , Nadeem Muhammad , Tufail Tabussam , Gondal Tanweer A. , Mubarak Mohammad S.
Published: September 2020

Medicinal plants have been used for years as a source of food, spices, and, in traditional medicine, as a remedy to numerous diseases.Piper nigrum, belonging to the familyPiperaceaeis one of the most widely used spices all over the world. It has a distinct sharp flavor attributed to the presence of the phytochemical, piperine. Apart from its use as a spice,P.nigrumis frequently used for medicinal, preservation, and perfumery purposes. Black pepper contains 2–7.4% of piperine, varying in content is associated with the pepper plant. Piperine displays numerous pharmacological effects such as antiproliferative, antitumor, antiangiogenesis, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti‐obesity, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, antiaging, and immunomodulatory effects in various in vitro and in vivo experimental trials. Furthermore, piperine has also been documented for its hepatoprotective, anti‐allergic, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This review highlights and discusses the medicinal and health‐promoting effects of piperine, along with possible mechanisms of its action in health promotion and disease prevention. In addition, the present review summarizes the recent literature related to piperine as a therapeutic agent against several diseases.
Research on multiple‐state industrial robot system with epistemic uncertainty reliability allocation method
Authors: Bai Bin , Li Ze , Zhang Jun‐yi , Zhang De‐quan , Fei Cheng‐wei
Published: September 2020

Reliability allocation of industrial robot (IR) system is one of the important means to improve its whole life cycle, reduce maintenance cost, and characterize weak subsystems. The IR system is not only very complex but also has strong customization; meanwhile, its sample data are small, resulting in unclear degeneration and failure. Based on the above two epistemic uncertainties, a new methodology called multiple‐state IR system reliability allocation method with epistemic uncertainty (MIRS‐RAM‐EU) is proposed. First, the Dempster‐Shafer (D‐S) evidence theory is used to quantify the epistemic uncertainty. Then, the Kolmogorov differential equations of MIR's subsystems are calculated. The reliability index of MIRS is allocated based on Birnbaum importance degree theory, and the reliability allocation coefficient of each IR subsystem is clearly expressed by this method. Finally, compared with traditional importance allocation method, the MIRS‐RAM‐EU is more efficient and accurate. This method is usefully directive for reliability evaluation of IR.
Lifetimes and Quantum Efficiencies of Quantum Dots Deterministically Positioned in Photonic‐Crystal Waveguides
Authors: Chu Xiao‐Liu , Pregnolato Tommaso , Schott Rüdiger , Wieck Andreas D. , Ludwig Arne , Rotenberg Nir , Lodahl Peter
Published: September 2020

Interfacing single emitters and photonic nanostructures enables modifying their emission properties, such as enhancing individual decay rates or controlling the emission direction. To achieve full control, the single emitter must be positioned in the nanostructures deterministically. Here, spectroscopy is used to gain spectral and spatial information about individual quantum dots (QD) in order to position each emitter in a predetermined location in a unit cell of a photonic‐crystal waveguide (PhCW). Depending on the spatial and spectral positioning within the structured nanophotonic mode, the quantum dot emission is observed to either be suppressed or enhanced. These results represent an important step towards unlocking the full potential of nanophotonic systems and will be crucial to the creation of complex multi‐emitter quantum photonic circuits.
Robust model predictive control for nonlinear parameter varying systems without computational delay
Authors: Lan Jianglin , Zhao Dezong
Published: September 2020

This article proposes a one‐step ahead robust model predictive control (MPC) for discrete‐time Lipschitz nonlinear parameter varying (NLPV) systems subject to disturbances. Within the proposed design framework, the optimization that generates the MPC policy to be implemented at next time instant is executed in advance during the current sampling period based on future state prediction. This new feature allows avoidance of the online computational delay existing in the traditional MPC settings and improves the control performance. The proposed MPC is proved to be recursively feasible with the guarantee for robust closed‐loop system stability and satisfaction of input and output constraints. A tractable linear matrix inequality (LMI) optimization problem is formulated to compute the control gains at each time instant. The computational complexity of the obtained LMI problem is also analyzed. The one‐step ahead robust MPC is further developed to cover discrete‐time Lipschitz NLPV systems with disturbance compensation. Efficacy and performance improvement of the design are demonstrated through a numerical example and an application to adaptive cooperative cruise control for automated vehicles under variable road geometry.
2D Near‐Infrared Luminescence Ln–Coordination‐Polymers as an Assistor for Biomedicine
Authors: Liu Yan , Xie Xuedan , Xu Cong , Jiang Huie , Liu Weisheng
Published: September 2020

Constructing Near‐Infrared (NIR) lanthanide coordination polymers (Ln‐CPs) is of great importance for biomedicial application, due to low toxicity and high‐resolution transparency of biological tissues. Yb3+ coordination polymer is researched widely because of its sharp emission at 980 nm could being identified and penetrate tissue easily. In our work, a rigid and highly symmetrical carboxylic acid H3L (2,2′‐((5‐carboxy‐1,3‐phenylene)bis(oxy))diacetic acid) was synthesised to build Ln‐CPs. The two‐dimensional (2D) lanthanide coordination polymers (Ln‐CPs)[Ln(L)(Dimethylacetamide)⋅H2O]n (Ln=Er, Yb) were obtained by the reaction of Ln(NO3)3 ⋅ 6H2O and H3L under 140 °C. Single Crystal X‐ray Diﬀraction (SCXRD) analysis indicates that all the Ln‐CPs present a 2D layer structure formed by lanthanide ions and linkers COO−. The structure of bulk samples were characterized by Powder X‐ray Diffraction (PXRD). The patterns indicate that Yb‐CP and Er‐CP are of excellent phase purity. We also explored the near‐infrared luminescence properties of these coordination polymers at solid‐state. Yb‐CP shows NIR emission at around 980 nm, which can be assigned to the 2F5/2→2F7/2 transition of the Yb3+ ion.
Tragacanth Hydrogel Integrated CeO2@rGO Nanocomposite as Reusable Photocatalysts for Organic Dye Degradation
Authors: Garg Deepa , Matai Ishita , Garg Anjali , Sachdev Abhay
Published: September 2020

Sunlight‐driven photocatalytic degradation has attracted great attention to tackle the issue of water contaminating organic dyes. As a proof of concept, we propose that nanoceria (CeO2) decorated on the surface of reduced graphene oxide (rGO), could effectively degrade pollutant organic dyes namely methylene blue (MB) and congo red (CR), when exposed to sunlight. The formation of as‐synthesized nanocomposite (CeO2@rGO) was monitored using UV‐visible, Fourier transfer infrared (FTIR) and RAMAN spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Photoluminescence (PL), and Field emission scanning electronic microscopy (FESEM). Time‐dependent dye degradation was observed for up to 5 h and followed Langmuir‐Hinshelwood first‐order kinetics. Notably, at equivalent concentrations (2 mg), CeO2@rGO exhibited enhanced degradation of MB (∼92 %) and CR (∼83 %) dyes when compared to bare CeO2. The photocatalytic efficiency of CeO2@rGO was further enhanced by integrating in a polymer hydrogel fabricated using tragacanth (TG), a natural gum. The hydrogel photocatalyst (CeO2@rGO‐TG) exhibited ∼91 % MB degradation, at half the amount of CeO2@rGO in free form. More importantly, CeO2@rGO‐TG could be easily separated from the dye solution and re‐employed for multiple cycles of degradation.
A Unique Thiosemicarbazide‐Based Colorimetric Chemosensor for Fe2+ in Pure Aqueous Solution with the Lowest Detection Limit
Authors: So Haeri , Lee Minji , Kim Cheal
Published: September 2020

A unique colorimetric chemosensor Hy‐bp based on thiosemicarbazide was prepared. Hy‐bp showed an obvious red‐shifted spectrum and unique color change from colorless to deep green only for Fe2+. Detection limit for Fe2+ was 0.34 μM, which is the lowest among those of colorimetric chemosensors previously reported for Fe2+ in pure aqueous solution. Hy‐bp can be utilized in paper strips and water samples as a colorimetric sensor for detecting Fe2+. The sensing mechanism of Hy‐bp for Fe2+ was demonstrated by UV‐vis spectroscopy, Job plot, FT‐IR and 1H NMR titrations.
Comparative Study of the Effect of Water on Cu/SiO2 Catalysts Prepared by Different Methods: Structure, Hydrogenation Performance and the Promotion of Reduction Cu+ to Cu0
Authors: Chen Zheng , Chen Jiangang
Published: September 2020

The effect of water on the performance of Cu/SiO2 catalysts prepared by four different methods was investigated by ethyl acetate (AcOEt) hydrogenation to ethanol (EtOH). The catalysts were characterized using XRD, FT‐IR, TPR, N2O titration, TEM and XPS to understand the structure‐catalytic efficiency relationships. The results showed high copper species dispersion and strong interaction between copper and silica were responsible for water‐tolerant hydrogenation performance of catalysts. Interestingly, although water oxidized slightly Cu0 or Cu+ to Cu2+ in the reaction, it maybe promote the reduction of Cu+ to Cu0. Notably, the Cu+ content of spent catalysts at condition with water decreased in comparison with that of spent catalysts at condition without water. This might be because that water formed film on Cu2O surface by adsorbing, which enhanced the spillover of dissociated H from Cu0 to Cu+ sites and then promoted its reduction.
Organocatalytic Reduction of Nitroarenes with Phenyl(2‐quinolyl)methanol
Authors: Giomi Donatella , Ceccarelli Jacopo , Salvini Antonella , Brandi Alberto
Published: September 2020

The transition metal free reduction of aromatic/heteroaromatic nitro compounds to amines has been improved employing phenyl(2‐quinolyl)methanol (PQM) as organocatalyst in the presence of NaBH4 or NaCNBH3 as stoichiometric reducing agent. The procedure is chemoselective for NO2 group reduction with high tolerance of many functionalities. The reaction pathway strongly depends on the substituents present on the nitroarene ring. However, a careful choice of the reaction conditions allows to address the reduction process towards the corresponding anilines (isolated in 17–91 % yields). The use of substoichiometric amounts of PQM allows more sustainable processes: reaction products are easily isolated and PQM can be directly recovered at the end of the reaction and recycled.
Understanding the Early Stages of Nickel Sulfide Nanocluster Growth: Isolation of Ni3, Ni4, Ni5, and Ni8 Intermediates
Authors: Touchton Alexander J. , Wu Guang , Hayton Trevor W.
Published: September 2020

Addition of sub‐stoichiometric quantities of PEt3 and diphenyl disulfide to a solution of [Ni(1,5‐cod)2] generates a mixture of [Ni3(SPh)4(PEt3)3] (1), unreacted [Ni(1,5‐cod)2], and [(1,5‐cod)Ni(PEt3)2], according to 1H and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopic monitoring of the in situ reaction mixture. On standing, complex 1 converts into [Ni4(S)(Ph)(SPh)3(PEt3)3] (2), via formal addition of a “Ni(0)” equivalent, coupled with a CS oxidative addition step, which simultaneously generates the Ni‐bound phenyl ligand and the μ3‐sulfide ligand. Upon gentle heating, complex 2 converts into a mixture of [Ni5(S)2(SPh)2(PEt3)5] (3) and [Ni8(S)5(PEt3)7] (4), via further addition of “Ni(0)” equivalents, in combination with a series of C–S oxidative addition and CC reductive elimination steps, which serve to convert thiophenolate ligands into sulfide ligands and biphenyl. The presence of 1–4 in the reaction mixture is confirmed by their independent syntheses and subsequent spectroscopic characterization. Overall, this work provides an unprecedented level of detail of the early stages of Ni nanocluster growth and highlights the fundamental reaction steps (i.e., metal atom addition, CS oxidative addition, and CC reductive elimination) that are required to grow an individual cluster.
Constructing Chemical Interaction between Hematite and Carbon Nanosheets with Single Active Sites for Efficient Photo‐Electrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Yang Gaoliang , Li Yunxiang , Lin Huiwen , Ren Xiaohui , Philo Davin , Wang Qi , He Yu , Ichihara Fumihiko , Luo Shunqin , Wang Shengyao , Ye Jinhua
Published: September 2020

Addressing the intrinsic charge recombination of hematite (α‐Fe2O3) is significantly important for achieving highly efficient photo‐electrochemical water oxidation but still remains challenging. Herein, this challenge is tackled by constructing chemical interaction at the interface of α‐Fe2O3 and carbon nanosheets with single‐nickel sites (Ni‐NC), which can accelerate the reaction kinetics by providing additional charge transport channels and abundant active sites. The interfacial carrier path induced by the chemical coupling and the efficient single‐nickel sites work collaboratively, achieving an impressive photocurrent density of 1.85 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), up to 2.2 times higher than that of pure α‐Fe2O3. These findings shed light on an interface modulation strategy and provide an alternative toward utilizing unique single active sites for efficient photo‐electrochemical water splitting.
Air‐Processed Perovskite Films with Inner‐to‐Outside Passivation for High‐Efficiency Solar Cells
Authors: Zhao Jingcheng , Yang Dezhi , Chen Rugang , Yang Liqing , Qiao Xianfeng , Hou Lintao , Chen Jiangshan , Ma Dongge
Published: September 2020

Metallic halide perovskite films are usually fabricated in inert environment due to their high sensitivity to moisture and oxygen. However, the fabrication process in the strictly controlled environment is not economical for mass production. Therefore, the fabrication of high‐quality perovskite films in ambient air is more practical for optoelectronic devices. Herein, a spinning–bathing–spinning (SBS) method is demonstrated to deposit pinhole‐free perovskite films with large grains in ambient air for solar cells. The effect of moisture on the rapid crystallization and grain coarsening can be suppressed using this SBS method. Furthermore, the moisture is found to encourage the halogen separation in the perovskite films when using PbI2–PbCl2 as the lead halide precursor, resulting in the formation of I‐dominant perovskite grains and Cl‐enriched boundaries and surface in the films. The Cl‐enriched grain boundaries and film surface, which mainly originate from the confined methylammonium chloride (MACl), can passivate defects and prevent further damage from moisture and oxygen. This spontaneous inner‐to‐outside passivation enables the air‐processed perovskite solar cells with the high power conversion efficiencies of more than 20% and improved stability.