bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viral Infections of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Chávez‐Pavoni Juliana H
Published: October 2018

Viral infections of the central nervous system (CNS) represent a significant burden to human health worldwide. Many viruses are able to cause neurologic disease such as herpes virus (HSV), varicella zoster virus (VZV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), human enterovirus (HEV), rabies virus (RV) and arboviruses. Viral access to CNS is defined by two main routes, the haematogenous or peripheral nerve pathway. During a viral infection in the CNS, inflammation and damage can arise in distinct anatomical regions, such as the meninges, brain and spinal cord or even simultaneously in multiple regions (meningoencephalitis, encephalomyelitis). Diagnosis of these infections is crucial in order to establish adequate management and prevent sequelae.

Key Concepts

Viral infection of the central nervous system may present different viruses as causative agents.

Central nervous system is protected by a highly complex barrier system represented by blood–brain and blood–cerebrospinal fluid barriers.

Neurotropic viruses dribble blood–brain barriers through different ways.

Once established in the central nervous system, viral infection results in inflammation and damage, which can affect distinct anatomical areas.

Viral meningitis or aseptic meningitis includes inflammation restricted to the leptomeninges, the tissue which covers and protect the brain.

Viral encephalitis refers to inflammation and damage comprising the brain parenchyma.

Viral myelitis is defined by the inflammation that affects exclusively the spinal cord.

Some viruses cause extended neurologic involvement which result in meningoencephalitis or encephalomyelitis.

Diagnosis of infections of central nervous system is based on clinical picture, laboratorial findings and imaging techniques.

Adequate management of viral infections of central nervous system are crucial in order to prevent sequelae.
From Foe to Friend: Therapeutic and Commercial Applications of Engineered Viruses
Authors: DeHart Jason L , Kamrud Kurt I
Published: October 2018

Viruses were first discovered over 120 years ago as filterable pathogens. Since then, our understanding of virus biology has moved from filterable agents capable of causing disease to an in‐depth mechanistic understanding of both viral replication and the diseases they cause. They have served as road maps and tools leading to the discovery of RNA splicing, oncogenes and tumour suppressors as well as unlocked our understanding of basic cell biology, tumourigenesis and the complexities of the immune system. Although there is still much to learn, the information we have gleaned over the past century highlights the efficiency, adaptability and power contained within these small packages. However, until recently, the techniques used to manipulate and engineer viral genomes were limited and cumbersome. They frequently relied on a combination of traditional molecular biology and virology techniques and could take weeks to months to introduce single mutations. Recent advances in molecular biology along with tools to synthesise DNA have reduced the time to engineer viral genomes from months to days, and in some cases hours. As a result, engineered and synthetic viruses have begun to move from mere pathogens to powerful machines that can be applied in a wide array of therapeutic and commercial applications.

Key Concepts

Advances in DNA synthesis and molecular biology are facilitating our ability to engineer and synthesise viral genomes.

Modern molecular biology can improve the safety of virus‐based therapeutics.

Synthetic virology provides an opportunity to improve and accelerate the existing vaccine development.

Synthetic and engineered viruses can be used in a wide range of therapeutic and nontherapeutic applications.

Synthetic viruses can be used as tools to understand both viral replication and cell biology.
Dual‐Specificity
R
as/
R
ap
GTPase
Activating Proteins
Authors: Sot Begoña
Published: October 2018

The small GTP‐binding proteins Ras and Rap regulate important cellular events switching between an activated GTP‐bound form and an inactivated GDP‐bound state. Guanine exchange factors (GEFs) control the GDP to GTP‐bound cycle, while the conversion, through hydrolysis, of GTP to GDP is catalysed by GTPase‐activating proteins (GAPs). The GAPs complete Ras and Rap catalytic site for efficient GTP hydrolysis. Although Ras and Rap are highly homologous, they possess different residues in the catalytic site. In consequence, Ras and Rap GTPase‐activating proteins (RasGAPs and RapGAPs) are structurally unrelated and use different mechanisms. Surprisingly, there are several RasGAPs with dual Ras/Rap specificity: SynGAP; GAP1 family members GAP1
IP4BP
, Rasal and Capri; and Plexins. This characteristic was an intriguing issue for years, but today structural and biochemical studies have enlightened the overall general mechanism of these dual GAPs.

Key Concepts

Small GTP‐binding proteins Rap and Ras control different cellular signalling switching between inactive GDP and active GTP‐bound states.

Ras and Rap GTPase‐activating proteins (RasGAPs and RapGAPs) inactivate their downstream signalling catalysing the GTP hydrolysis, using RasGAP and RapGAP domains.

RasGAPs–Ras‐GTP interaction positions Ras Gln61, situated in switch II loop, for nucleophilic attack, while the GAP contributes an Arg (arginine finger) to neutralise unfavourable negative charges of the reaction intermediate.

Rap has a Thr in position 61, and RapGAPs catalyse GTP hydrolysis, contributing an Asn (Asn thumb) for nucleophilic attack.

There are five RasGAPs with dual Rap/Ras specificity: SynGAP, Rasal, GAP1
IP4BP
, Capri and Plexin.

Dual GAPs need extra‐GAP domains to act as RapGAPs.

Dual GAPs promote a specific orientation of Rap switch II, locating Gln63 as the catalytic residue.

Plexin‐Rap X‐ray structure showed that residues of GAP domain and an extra‐GAP motif (juxtamembrane segment) are responsible for Gln63 correct orientation.

SynGAP, Rasal, GAP1
IP4BP
, Plexin and Capri do not share the same residues, and thus they still need to be found.
Subtypes of aggression and their relation to anxiety in Barbary macaques
Authors: Paschek Nicole , Müller Nadine , Heistermann Michael , Ostner Julia , Schülke Oliver
Published: October 2018

Human aggression can be differentiated into reactive aggression (RA), displayed in face of a real or perceived threat and associated with high levels of anxiety, and proactive aggression (PA), displayed to achieve a certain goal and linked to lower anxiety levels. To study the origins of these aggression subtypes and their relation to anxiety, we tested if both subtypes can be distinguished in a nonhuman primate species, characterized their occurrence within the study group, and examined the link between aggression subtype and anxiety. Data were collected on 29 individuals of a semi‐free ranging group of Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus) at Affenberg Salem, Germany, via focal animal (303 hr) and event sampling (1,222 agonistic events). Using a priori definitions, each aggressive event was classified as either reactive or proactive. We found both aggression types in our study population as well as individual differences in the proportion at which they occurred. The predominant use of one subtype of aggression was linked to the individual's dominance rank, age and sex, but not related to standard behavioral and physiological measures of anxiety. Our results suggest that reactive and proactive subtypes of aggression also exist in Barbary macaques, indicating a deeper evolutionary history of these aggression types observed in humans.
Cervical skin denervation associates with alpha‐synuclein aggregates in Parkinson disease
Authors: Melli Giorgia , Vacchi Elena , Biemmi Vanessa , Galati Salvatore , Staedler Claudio , Ambrosini Roberto , Kaelin‐Lang Alain
Published: October 2018

Objective

Autonomic nervous system is involved at the onset of Parkinson disease (PD), and alpha‐synuclein (α‐Syn) and its phosphorylated form (p‐αSyn) have been detected in dermal autonomic nerve fibers of PD. We assessed disease specific conformation variant of α‐Syn immunoreactivity in cutaneous nerves and characterized skin denervation patterns in PD and atypical parkinsonism (AP).

Methods

We enrolled 49 subjects, 19 with PD, 17 age‐matched healthy controls, and 13 with AP. The manifestations of disease were rated on clinical scales. Skin biopsies from ankle, thigh, and neck were analyzed by immunofluorescence for p‐αSyn, 5G4 as a conformation specific antibody to pathogenic α‐Syn and PGP9.5 as axonal marker. Intraepidermal nerve fiber density was measured in all anatomical sites as marker of neurodegeneration. Thirteen of the 19 PD underwent a 1 year follow‐up visit plus skin biopsies.

Results

PD subjects displayed more severe cervical skin denervation (P < 0.03), which correlated to disease duration and worsened between initial and follow‐up examination (P < 0.001). p‐αSyn and 5G4 were equally sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of PD (area under the ROC was 0.839 for p‐αSyn and 0.886 for 5G4). PD and AP with possible alpha‐synucleinopathies share the features of marked cervical denervation and the presence of 5G4. In contrast AP with possible tauopathies were normal.

Interpretation

Conformational specific forms of α‐Syn are detectable in skin biopsy by immunofluorescence in PD, with a promising diagnostic efficiency similar to p‐αSyn. Cervical cutaneous denervation correlates with disease duration and increases over time standing out as a potential biomarker of PD progression.
Long‐Term Impact of Belimumab on Health‐Related Quality of Life and Fatigue in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Six Years of Treatment
Authors: Strand Vibeke , Berry Pamela , Lin Xiwu , Asukai Yumi , Punwaney Rajesh , Ramachandran Sulabha
Published: October 2018

Objective

To report long‐term health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and fatigue outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) receiving belimumab.

Methods

Patients with SLE who completed the Study of Belimumab in Subjects with SLE 76‐week trial (BLISS‐76) were enrolled in this continuation study (BEL112233 [ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00724867]). The belimumab groups continued to receive the same dose (1 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg) intravenously. After March 2011, all patients received belimumab 10 mg/kg every 28 days plus standard therapy. The placebo group switched to belimumab 10 mg/kg. HRQoL and fatigue assessments included the Short Form 36 (SF‐36) health survey and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT)–Fatigue subscale. Post hoc subgroup analyses (BEL206350) assessed clinical characteristics associated with improved HRQoL and fatigue.

Results

Of the 268 patients enrolled, 140 completed the study. Patients receiving long‐term belimumab treatment reported continued improvements in HRQoL and fatigue. At study year 6, the mean ± SD SF‐36 physical component summary (PCS) score and the mental component summary (MCS) score increased from 37.0 ± 9.9 at baseline to 41.7 ± 10.0 (mean ± SD change 4.8 ± 9.4) and from 44.3 ± 11.3 to 47.0 ± 11.6 (mean ± SD change 2.7 ± 11.3) for the PCS and MCS, respectively, exceeding the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for improvement (2.5 units). The mean ± SD FACIT–Fatigue score exceeded the MCID of 4 at study years 1–5; at study year 6, the mean ± SD change was 3.7 ± 11.8. Statistically significant associations were observed between parent trial treatment groups and change from baseline in PCS, MCS, and FACIT–Fatigue scores (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Long‐term control of SLE disease activity with belimumab plus standard therapy translates into meaningful improvements in patient‐reported fatigue and HRQoL.
Opioid bill passes Senate, goes to White House for signing
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: October 2018

After months of work, H.R. 6 (the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act) passed the Senate by a 98–1 vote on Oct. 3. It passed the House of Representatives the week before by a 393–8 vote.
Delaware initiative seeks to improve engagement in extended care, support
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: October 2018

Individuals with opioid use disorders can become identifiable to service systems at a variety of entry points, so a newly launched initiative in Delaware will seek to do a better job of connecting the dots and ensuring that people receive access to longer‐term support.
Report: After 10 years, still no real parity
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: October 2018

In “Evaluating the Promise and Potential of the Parity Act on Its Tenth Anniversary,” Lindsey Vuolo and Robyn Oster of the Center on Addiction (formerly CASA), along with Ellen Weber of the Legal Action Center, wrote, “Insurance is complicated, but parity is simple.” Their blog post, published in the current issue of Health Affairs, shows that enforcement is necessary for parity to be a reality, and enforcement is far from happening. Insurance companies are still calling the shots.
Incipient Metals: Functional Materials with a Unique Bonding Mechanism
Authors: Wuttig Matthias , Deringer Volker L. , Gonze Xavier , Bichara Christophe , Raty Jean‐Yves
Published: October 2018

While solid‐state materials are commonly classified as covalent, ionic, or metallic, there are cases that defy these iconic bonding mechanisms. Phase‐change materials (PCMs) for data storage are a prominent example: they have been claimed to show “resonant bonding,” but a clear definition of this mechanism has been lacking. Here, it is shown that these solids are fundamentally different from resonant bonding in the π‐orbital systems of benzene and graphene, based on first‐principles data for vibrational, optical, and polarizability properties. It is shown that PCMs and related materials exhibit a unique mechanism between covalent and metallic bonding. It is suggested that these materials be called “incipient metals,” and their bonding nature “metavalent”. Data for a diverse set of 58 materials show that metavalent bonding is not just a superposition of covalent and metallic cases, but instead gives rise to a unique and anomalous set of physical properties. This allows the derivation of a characteristic fingerprint of metavalent bonding, composed of five individual components and firmly rooted in physical properties. These findings are expected to accelerate the discovery and design of functional materials with attractive properties and applications, including nonvolatile memories, thermoelectrics, photonics, and quantum materials.
Chiral Upconversion Heterodimers for Quantitative Analysis and Bioimaging of Antibiotic‐Resistant Bacteria In Vivo
Authors: Sun Maozhong , Qu Aihua , Hao Changlong , Wu Xiaoling , Xu Liguang , Xu Chuanlai , Kuang Hua
Published: October 2018

Heterodimers of upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and gold yolk–shell nanoparticles are fabricated for the quantification of polymyxin‐B‐resistant Escherichia coli. They produce two signals, circular dichroism (CD) and upconversion luminescence (UCL). Interestingly, due to the different affinity of polymyxin B for sensitive and resistant strain, as the concentration of polymyxin B increases, the amount of UCNPs in sensitive bacteria increases sharply, increasing the intracellular UCL signal at a low polymyxin B concentration immobilized on the UCNP. The CD intensity is correspondingly reduced as the amount of UCNPs in solution decreased. Meanwhile, for polymyxin‐B‐resistant strain, the intracellular UCL increases slowly even in a high polymyxin B concentration, and the CD intensity in solution is also enhanced because of the inefficient entering of UCNP. Therefore, based on the concentration of polymyxin B coupled to the UCNPs, the levels of polymyxin‐B‐resistant bacteria can be detected with dual signals. Importantly, with 980 nm irradiation, both polymyxin‐B‐sensitive strains and polymyxin‐resistant bacteria used to induce infection in mice are detected with UCL imaging in vivo and treated well with photodynamic therapy. This novel dual‐mode heterodimer has potential utility for the advanced surveillance and control of drug‐resistant bacteria.
A Wheeled Robot Driven by a Liquid‐Metal Droplet
Authors: Wu Jian , Tang Shi‐Yang , Fang Tao , Li Weihua , Li Xiangpeng , Zhang Shiwu
Published: October 2018

The controlled actuation of gallium liquid‐metal (LM) alloys has presented new and exciting opportunities for constructing mobile robots with structural flexibility. However, the locomotion of current LM‐based actuators often relies on inducing a gradient of interfacial tension on the LM surface within electrolytes, which limits their application outside a liquid environment. In this work, a wheeled robot using a LM droplet as the core of the driving system is developed that enables it to move outside liquid environment. The LM droplet inside the robot is actuated using a voltage to alter the robot's center of gravity, which in turn generates a rolling torque and induces continuous locomotion at a steady speed. A series of experiments is carried out to examine the robot's performance and then to develop a dynamic model using the Lagrange method to understand the locomotion. An untethered and self‐powered wheeled robot that utilizes mini‐lithium‐batteries is also demonstrated. This study is envisaged to have the potential to expand current research on LM‐based actuators to realize future complex robotic systems.
Direct Laser Writing of Crystallized TiO2 and TiO2/Carbon Microstructures with Tunable Conductive Properties
Authors: Yu Shang‐Yu , Schrodj Gautier , Mougin Karine , Dentzer Joseph , Malval Jean‐Pierre , Zan Hsiao‐Wen , Soppera Olivier , Spangenberg Arnaud
Published: October 2018

Metal oxides are an important class of materials for optoelectronic applications. In this context, developing simple and versatile processes for integrating these materials at the microscale and nanoscale has become increasingly important. One of the major remaining challenges is to control the microstructuration and electro‐optical properties in a single step. It is shown here that near‐infrared femtosecond laser irradiation can be successfully used to prepare amorphous or crystallized TiO2 microstructures in a single step using a direct laser writing (DLW) approach from a TiO2 precursor thin film doped with a suitable dye. When laser writing is conducted under a nitrogen atmosphere, simultaneous to the crosslinking of the Ti‐oxide precursor, the graphitization of the organic species embedded in the initial film is observed. In this case, a carbon network is generated within the TiO2 matrix, which significantly increases the conductivity. Moreover, the TiO2/C nanocomposite exhibits piezoresistive behavior that is used in a pressure sensor device. Using this route, it is possible to use DLW to fabricate microsized pressure sensors.
Progress in Rechargeable Aqueous Zinc‐ and Aluminum‐Ion Battery Electrodes: Challenges and Outlook
Authors: Verma Vivek , Kumar Sonal , Manalastas William , Satish Rohit , Srinivasan Madhavi
Published: October 2018

Modern cities demand a reliable supply of electricity when and where it is needed, therefore a key design for power generators feeding on noncontinuous, nonfuel renewables is installing auxiliary battery‐type energy storage systems (BESS). Batteries using Zn ions or Al ions in aqueous electrolytes are highly attractive due to low cost and elemental abundance considerations, but attaining reversibility at a high energy density and long‐life operation is challenging. Here, the authors review recent reports of reversible aqueous‐electrolyte batteries, focusing on how mechanisms of electrochemical activation, insertion, and conversion occur. Further, key issues related to cation mobility, electrode stability, the formation of electrode–electrolyte interface, and electrolyte decomposition, along with possible solutions or research directions for enabling superior performance of aqueous Zn‐ion batteries and Al‐ion batteries are explored.
MOFs‐Based Heterogeneous Catalysts: New Opportunities for Energy‐Related CO2 Conversion
Authors: Lei Zhendong , Xue Yuancheng , Chen Wenqian , Qiu Wenhui , Zhang Yong , Horike Satoshi , Tang Liang
Published: October 2018

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with high surface area and tunable chemical structures have attracted tremendous attention. Recently, the utilization of solar energy for CO2 conversion to produce valuable chemicals or fuels has become extremely appealing. The interior of MOFs can be designed to have defects, heteroatoms and embedded nanoscale metal catalysts for the development of CO2 conversion. In this review, the recent development of MOFs‐based catalysts for CO2 conversion reactions, including photocatalysis and electrocatalysis are summarized. In particular, the preparation and mechanism of CO2 conversion‐based MOFs are discussed. The examples are expected to provide deeper understanding in preparing highly active and stable MOFs‐based CO2 conversion materials.
Trimetallic Sulfide Mesoporous Nanospheres as Superior Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Yang Haozhou , Wang Bin , Li Haoyi , Ni Bing , Wang Kai , Zhang Qiang , Wang Xun
Published: October 2018

Highly active and durable electrocatalysts are of great significance to accelerate the sluggish oxygen evolution and oxygen reduction reaction (OER and ORR) which are indispensable processes in practical devices such as metal–air batteries. Herein, the authors integrate morphological design with compositional manipulation, and successfully achieve well‐defined CoNiFe sulfide mesoporous nanospheres (CoNiFe‐S MNs). The as‐prepared CoNiFe‐S MNs exhibit superior OER and ORR catalytic activity, delivering a low overpotential of only 199 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH solution and a half‐wave potential of 0.78 V in 0.1 m KOH solution toward OER and ORR, respectively. The CoNiFe‐S MNs involved Zn–air battery exhibits remarkable charge–discharge performance (voltage gap of 0.76 V at 2 mA cm−2) and high power density (over 140 mW cm−3). Extended‐time durability tests validate the structural recoverability of the mesoporous morphology, and the remarkable performance can be attributed to the intrinsic synergistic effect of heterometallic ions. It is believed that the method could pave the way for the design of novel electrocatalysts for Zn–air batteries.
A Geologic Architecture System‐Inspired Micro‐/Nano‐Heterostructure Design for High‐Performance Energy Storage
Authors: Wan Caichao , Jiao Yue , Liang Daxin , Wu Yiqiang , Li Jian
Published: October 2018

Nature‐inspired strategies are extensively proposed as novel and effective routines to address challenges for eco‐friendly and high‐performance energy storage devices with high energy/power density and long cycling life. Inspired by synergistic functions and integrated form of a geologic architecture system (i.e., ground–mountain–vegetation), here a novel and hierarchical cellulose‐supported Co@Co(OH)2 heterostructure based on a facile combined method of magnetron sputtering and electrooxidation is created. Thanks to the synergistic effects of this multiscale structure (i.e., the storage capacity of cellulose substrate (ground) for electrolyte ions, electron superhighway supplied by interlayered metallic Co (mountain), and ultrahigh electrochemical activity and mechanical stability of in situ grown and quasi‐honeycomb Co(OH)2 (vegetation) with large surface area), the composite displays a high specific capacitance (642 mF cm−2/958 F g−1 at 2 mA cm−2), excellent rate performance, and outstanding cycling stability (only 2.1% loss after 10 000 cycles), which are significantly superior to those of other microstructure designs of Co(OH)2‐based electrodes. Also, the assembled asymmetric supercapacitor exhibits highly competitive energy/power density (166  µW h cm−2 at 1.5 mW cm−2) and excellent cycling stability. Combined with the outstanding electrochemical properties, facile synthesis technology, environmental friendliness, and low cost, this ingenious nature‐inspired composite holds great promise for green high‐performance energy storage devices.
Hybrid Photothermal Pyroelectric and Thermogalvanic Generator for Multisituation Low Grade Heat Harvesting
Authors: Ding Tianpeng , Zhu Liangliang , Wang Xiao‐Qiao , Chan Kwok Hoe , Lu Xin , Cheng Yin , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: October 2018

Harvesting of prevalent low grade solar heat from otherwise wasted energy has received tremendous attention. However, extensive and continuous conversion remains challenging due to distributed nature of heat, limited temperature difference with the surroundings, ambient solar heat fluctuation, and night time period of darkness. Herein, a hybrid thermogalvanic and pyroelectric generator for multisituation structured/unstructured, static/dynamic, and day/night waste heat harnessing for continuous operation is reported. Powered by versatile thermal energy harvesting strategies, the hybrid photothermal generator is able to provide a more resilient and adaptive energy system to meet diversified energy demand, irrespective of unpredictable conditions. Taking advantage of the superior photothermal properties and electrical conductivity of carbon nanotubes/cellulose nanocrystals nanocomposite, together with the heat localization effect induced by sponge‐confined electrolyte, simultaneous high thermogalvanic and pyroelectric performance is achieved with maximum outputs of 1.86 and 0.9 mW m−2, respectively. Moreover, a scaled‐up hybrid photothermal generator is successfully deployed on both land and water surfaces under natural sunlight, and also the feasibility of nighttime operation is verified. Such hybrid photothermal generators presented here offer an all‐day clean energy solution as well as a feasible and cost‐effective alternative to capitalize on solar energy and blue energy.
Surface Tuning of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Cathode by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Choi Hyung Jong , Bae Kiho , Grieshammer Steffen , Han Gwon Deok , Park Suk Won , Kim Jun Woo , Jang Dong Young , Koo Junmo , Son Ji‐Won , Martin Manfred , Shim Joon Hyung
Published: October 2018

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is a powerful tool for nanoscale film deposition. It can uniformly deposit films at a monolayer level even in complex 3D structures, while the deposition temperature is relatively low with its potential scalability. In this work, surface tuning of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cathodes is successfully demonstrated by modifying the surface of La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF) with nanoscale lanthanum strontium cobaltite (LSC) using ALD. The ALD‐LSC surface‐tuning layer can enhance the charge transfer kinetics at the cathode surface, while the backbone LSCF cathode provides a means for ionic and electronic transport. Microstructural analysis shows that the ALD‐LSC on LSCF has excellent step coverage, which is enabled by the conformal characteristic of the ALD process. It is found that the electrochemical performance of SOFCs can be enhanced enormously by surface tuning of the cathodes with nanoscale LSC film corresponding to 1–12 nm. Using density functional theory calculations, the enhanced catalytic activity of the surface‐tuned SOFC cathode using ALD‐LSC could be confirmed. This result demonstrates the possibility of nanoscale surface tuning of SOFC cathodes by using the ALD process to improve the surface activity.
DMSO‐Promoted Metal‐Free Aerobic Oxidation of Heterobenzylic Methylene to Prepare N‐Heterocyclic Ketones
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Yue Yuanyuan , Wang Xiaopei , Wang Ke , Lou Yixiao , Yao Meihuan , Zhuo Kelei , Lv Qingzhang , Liu Jianming
Published: October 2018

Using O2 as the terminal oxidant, the direct oxygenation of heterobenzylic C−H bonds can be achieved in DMSO. Various N‐heteroaryl ketones were provided with good yields through the protocol. It can also be conducted on a gram scale with good reaction efficiency. DMSO plays an important role in this selective oxygenation reaction of heterobenzylic methylenes.
Flexible Lithium–Air Battery in Ambient Air with an In Situ Formed Gel Electrolyte
Authors: Lei Xiaofeng , Liu Xizheng , Ma Wenqing , Cao Zhen , Wang Yonggang , Ding Yi
Published: October 2018

Flexible Li‐air batteries (LABs) have been considered as promising power sources for wearable electronics owing to its higher energy density. However, when operated in ambient air, problems arise, such as Li anode passivation, poor cycle life as well as leakage of liquid electrolyte. Herein, we present a LAB with a tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TEGDME, G4) gel electrolyte, in which the gel is formed in situ through a cross‐linking reaction between the liquid G4 and the lithium ethylenediamine (LiEDA) grown on the surface of Li anode. We demonstrate that the gel can efficiently alleviate the corrosion of the Li anode, and thus the LAB shows a cycle performance over 1175 hours (humidity: 10 % to 40 %), which is much superior to previous reports. Furthermore, the in situ formed gel enhances the electrode/electrolyte interfacial contact, which thus enables the cable‐type LAB to exhibit a great flexibility.
Developing a Teddy Bear Therapy Training Program for Family Therapists
Authors: Beyers Leandri , Phipps Warwick D. , Vorster Charl
Published: October 2018

Teddy bear therapy (TBT) represents an innovative application of family therapy within the context of child, and specifically play, psychotherapy. Drawing on play and storytelling, it entails the therapist and the (referred) child telling a story about a teddy bear that is facing difficulties similar to the child's. Together, therapist and child explore how changes to the teddy, and the teddy's relationships in the family system, bring about resolution of the teddy's problem. TBT is, however, a relatively new therapeutic development and thus lacks comprehensive and systematic training. The objective of this article is to provide a blueprint for a TBT training program in family therapy. The investigation examined what content should be included and how it should be applied and includes a limited field study. This involved three therapists in South Africa who are experienced in the practice of TBT and who provided insight into content and training methods. The article identifies various principles for developing a comprehensive TBT training program for family therapists, both in terms of content and training procedures. It makes available the application and practice of child and play therapy within a family systems approach.
Modeling Bromide River Transport and Bromide Impacts on Disinfection Byproducts
Authors: Cornwell David A. , Sidhu Baljit K. , Brown Richard , McTigue Nancy E.
Published: October 2018

Disinfection byproducts (DBPs) formed during potable water treatment can be affected by bromide (Br)‐containing discharges into receiving streams from coal‐fired power plants as well as other sources that increase the bromide content of the source water. This research focused on two aspects related to bromide increases in receiving streams. First, a bromide river transport model was adapted to track bromide concentrations in the river following a point discharge. In this work, the point discharges modeled were coal‐fired power plants. The model tracked the bromide concentrations at river segments after the point of discharge daily and, therefore, at water intakes as a function of time. In this article, the application of the model is illustrated for two rivers: the Ohio River along the Indiana and Kentucky borders and the Dan River in Virginia and North Carolina. Second, models to predict DBP formation due to increased bromide in source waters were developed. The source waters used in the DBP models were obtained from 13 states across the United States. Good model fits were found for predicting trihalomethane as bromide varies, as well as for predicting the unregulated sum of four haloacetic acids (HAA4). A method was also developed to predict the sum of nine HAAs (HAA9) based on measured sum of five HAAs (HAA5; the currently regulated HAAs) and modeled HAA4. The DBP formation models developed using the specific criteria evaluated in this research would have applications beyond only bromide discharges from coal‐fired power plants and would apply to any cause of a bromide increase in the source water.
Harnessing the potential of bio‐ethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass in Nigeria – a review
Authors: Awoyale Adeolu A. , Lokhat David
Published: October 2018

The need to diversify energy sources and to change from the present non‐renewable hydrocarbon sources to renewable energy sources has prompted huge investments in research activities to produce bioethanol from carbohydrate‐rich foodstuffs such as cassava tuber, sugarcane molasses, yam tubers, rice grains, corn grains, and a host of others. In recent times, however, more attention has been given to producing bioethanol from the non‐edible parts of carbohydrate‐rich foodstuffs, which are obtained mainly as waste products from food‐crop processing. Such non‐edible components include peels, bagasse, straw, stalk, and cobs. The most important component of the biomass is lignocellulose, which is broken down into carbohydrates and then fermented. The major challenge in deploying biomass as feedstock for bioethanol production is the fact that lignocellulosic biomass is highly recalcitrant and therefore requires more vigorous pretreatment prior to saccharification and fermentation. The main techniques used for pretreating lignocellulosic materials are physical and thermal as well as chemical and biological methods. In Nigeria, lignocellulosic bioethanol production potential from agricultural residues amounts to about 7.556 × 109 L per annum with more than 62% generated from process residues. Cassava biomass alone can produce more than 114 L of bioethanol for every ton of cassava peels after processing. Nigeria has more than enough agricultural residues for bioethanol production to meet its sustainable bioethanol‐blending demands. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Change in teacher–student relationships and parent involvement after implementation of the Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management programme in a regular Norwegian school setting
Authors: Aasheim Merete , Drugli May‐Britt , Reedtz Charlotte , Handegård Bjørn Helge , Martinussen Monica
Published: October 2018

This quasi‐experimental pre–post comparison group design examined if the Incredible Years (IY) Teacher Classroom Management (TCM) programme implemented as a school‐wide universal preventive intervention to students aged 6–8 years at the lower primary level in a regular school setting had an effect on teacher–student relationships and teacher–parent involvement. The IY‐TCM training was delivered simultaneously to the entire group of school staff in first to third grade. Teacher reports in 21 intervention schools were compared to teacher reports in 23 control schools. A total of 241 teachers and 1,518 students took part in the trial. Linear mixed model analyses suggest modest positive effects on change in teacher–student closeness (dw = 0.22) and conflict (dw = 0.15), where a moderator analysis showed a significantly higher treatment effect for high‐risk students on change in teacher–student conflict. A positive effect was found on change in teacher‐reported parent involvement in school (dw = 0.40), however, not on change in teacher‐reported bonding with parents. Results suggest a potential preventive impact of the IY‐TCM programme on change in teacher–student relationships and teacher–parent involvement when implemented as a universal preventive intervention in a regular school setting.
Divalent Eu2+ ion – an effective inorganic mediator of energy transfer from the primary chemiluminescence emitter 3Me2CHC(H)=O* on Tb3+ and Ru(bpy)32+ ions
Authors: Galimov D.I. , Yakupova S.M. , Bulgakov R.G.
Published: October 2018

This study demonstrated for the first time that chemiluminescence (CL) from oxidation of Bui2AlH (Bu = C4H9) using oxygen from tetrahydrofuran (THF) was significantly enhanced by the addition of Ru(bpy)32+. A quantitative comparison of the enhancement efficiency of this CL was performed by addition of ionic phosphors Eu2+, Tb3+ and Ru(bpy)32+. CL enhancement was caused by energy transfer from the primary CL emitter (3Me2CHC(H)=O* aldehyde) to these ionic phosphors. The CL efficiency enhancement was in the order: Eu2+ (8.9 × 106) > Tb3+ (100) > Ru(bpy)32+ (50). The enhanced CL emitters were excited ions: Eu2+*, λmax = 465 nm; Tb3+*, λmax = 485, 542, 625 nm; and Ru(bpy)32+*, λmax = 567 nm. When two ions Eu2+–Tb3+ or Eu2+–Ru(bpy)32+ were present in the reaction solution, the efficiency of CL enhancement by Tb3+ or Ru(bpy)32+ ions was much higher, being 1.2 × 106 and 4.2 × 104, respectively. In this case, two excited ions were simultaneously registered as CL emitters: Eu2+* and Tb3+* or Eu2+* and Ru(bpy)32+*. Emission intensity of the Eu2+* ion in these emitter doublets is much lower than when only one Eu2+ ion is present in solution.
Smoking is associated with increased risk of myeloproliferative neoplasms: A general population‐based cohort study
Authors: Pedersen Kasper M. , Bak Marie , Sørensen Anders L. , Zwisler Ann‐Dorthe , Ellervik Christina , Larsen Morten K. , Hasselbalch Hans C. , Tolstrup Janne S.
Published: October 2018

Background

Former studies on smoking as a risk factor for Philadelphia‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) have mainly been carried out in women's cohorts and studies with various definitions of MPNs. Herein, we conducted a cohort study with register‐based follow‐up of a general population from Denmark, to validate and substantiate prior observations.

Methods

In the Danish Health Examination Survey cohort, we used the Cox proportional‐hazards model adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and level of education, to calculate hazard ratios (HRs), to investigate, whether daily smokers or occasional/ex‐smokers had an increased risk of MPNs compared to never‐smokers.

Results

From the time of data collection (September 2007 to October 2008) until 1 January 2015, 70 individuals were diagnosed with MPNs among 75 896 study participants. Similar results were observed in both the age and sex adjusted analysis and the multivariable analysis. The multivariable HR of any MPN diagnosis for daily smokers was 2.5 (95% CI: 1.3‐5.0). For essential thrombocytosis, polycythemia vera, myelofibrosis, and MPN‐unclassified, the HRs were 1.8 (95% CI: 0.5‐5.8), 1.7 (95% CI: 0.5‐5.8), 4.3 (95% CI: 0.9‐19), and 6.2 (95% CI: 1.5‐25), respectively. Among occasional/ex‐smokers the corresponding HRs were 1.9 (95% CI: 1.1‐3.3), 1.5 (95% CI: 0.6‐3.7), 0.8 (95% CI: 0.3‐2.4), 0.9 (95% CI: 0.2‐4.4), and 6.2 (95% CI: 1.8‐21). Participants, who smoked >15 g/day, had an overall HR of 3.4 (95% CI: 1.4‐8.2) for any MPN diagnosis, while participants who smoked ≤15 g/day, had an overall HR of 2.1 (95% CI: 0.9‐4.7).

Conclusion

Smoking was associated with MPN development when comparing smokers and never‐smokers. Further studies investigating smoking in MPNs are warranted to substantiate our findings.
Synthesis of Tungsten Trioxide/Hematite Core‐Shell Nanoarrays for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Fan Xiaoli , Wang Tao , Xue Hairong , Gao Bin , Zhang Songtao , Gong Hao , Guo Hu , Song Li , Xia Wei , He Jianping
Published: October 2018

Hematite, with a band gap of 2.0∼2.2 eV suitable for visible light absorption, has emerged to be a promising photoanode material for photoelectrochemical (PEC) catalysis of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, we proposed the design and fabrication of a WO3/α‐Fe2O3 core‐shell heterojunction structure, aiming at alleviating the severe mismatch between the relatively long light penetration depth and the extremely short holes diffusion length in α‐Fe2O3. The WO3 nanoarray underlayer is grown directly on the FTO substrate, serving as an effective electron transfer layer and additional light absorber. The α‐Fe2O3 layer is further prepared via spin‐coating and a subsequent calcination process as a thin and uniform shell. The loading amount was regulated with different spin coating times of the precursor. The optimized WO3/α‐Fe2O3 core‐shell nanoarrays display an excellent performance with lower onset potential of 0.65 V vs. RHE and increased photocurrent response of 1.29 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE, much superior than the pristine α‐Fe2O3 or WO3 photoanode. Characterizations demonstrate that both improved light absorption and formation of heterojunction account for the excellent performance. After coating a NiFe‐LDH co‐catalyst layer, the oxygen evolution reaction is further enhanced, and high stability is achieved, benefiting from the efficient charge carrier generation, promoted charge separation in the semiconductor and the rapid consumption of holes for surface reaction.
Hollow Bimetallic Zinc Cobalt Phosphosulfides for Efficient Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Liang Zuozhong , Yang Zhiyuan , Dang Jingshuang , Qi Jing , Yuan Haitao , Gao Jinpeng , Zhang Wei , Zheng Haoquan , Cao Rui
Published: October 2018

Bimetallic sulfides with earth‐abundant transition‐metal elements are proposed to enhance the electrocatalytic activities. Further replacement of S atom by less electronegative P atom improves the electrocatalytic performance of OER and HER. Herein, hollow bimetallic zinc cobalt phosphosulfides (Zn0.3Co2.7S3P) are synthesized by a two‐step process. The optimal catalyst of Zn0.3Co2.7S3P with particle size of 50 nm displays an excellent electroactivity and long‐term durability toward efficient overall water splitting process in alkaline medium. The excellent bifunctional electrocatalytic performance may be ascribed to the synergistic effect of hollow structure, anion substitution tuning and unique size control.
Extraction Technology Convinces at ACHEMA
Authors: Steinhoff Jan
Published: October 2018

Als ein wichtiges Teilgebiet der Verfahrenstechnik war die Extraktionstechnik auf der diesjährigen ACHEMA wieder mit zahlreichen Neuerungen und Innovation vertreten. Neben bekannten Firmen präsentierten auch Universitäten und Hochschulen ihre neuen Konzepte zur Stofftrennung. Eine Auswahl der gezeigten Innovationen wird hier vorgestellt.
Synergistic Runoff Particulate‐Bound Phosphorus Extraction by Oxalate and Citrate Ligands in a Mixed Aqueous Extractant System
Authors: Gaviglio Katie , Shields Shaun , Mondala Andro
Published: October 2018

Recovering nonpoint phosphorus (P) losses in particulate runoff is considered a significant step toward closing the P loop for nutrient and water sustainability. The objectives of this study are to examine how process conditions affect P extraction efficiency using an abiotic 2:1 mM oxalate/citrate extractant mixture and investigate the sediment P extraction kinetics in this system in comparison to a pure citrate extraction process. High P removal and solubilization are favored at low sediment loading (5 g/100 mL), low initial pH (3), and high initial organic acid loading (75 mM), with P recovery efficiencies up to 99.6% achieved under these conditions, similar to a pure citrate system. Initial and equilibrium extractant pH levels near oxalate and citrate pKa2s (4.19 and 4.74, respectively) appear conducive for optimal and/or synergistic oxalate ligand exchange and citrate ligand‐induced particulate P release. P solubilization kinetics and P speciation dynamics analysis indicate better performance by the oxalate/citrate mixture through a higher initial P solubilization rate by rapidly extracting Fe‐P from the sediments within the first 30 min of extraction, indicating potential synergism between the oxalate and citrate ligands. From a process development standpoint, the results suggest that operating the extraction under fed‐batch or semi‐continuous modes with pH control may maximize runoff particulate P recovery efficiency using a mixed low molecular weight organic acid (LMWOA) extractant.
Gram‐Positive and Gram‐Negative Antibiotic Activity of Asymmetric and Monomeric Robenidine Analogues
Authors: Russell Cecilia C. , Stevens Andrew , Pi Hongfei , Khazandi Manouchehr , Ogunniyi Abiodun D. , Young Kelly A. , Baker Jennifer R. , McCluskey Siobhann N. , Page Stephen W. , Trott Darren J. , McCluskey Adam
Published: October 2018

Desymmetrisation of robenidine (1: N′,2‐bis((E)‐4‐chlorobenzylidene)hydrazine‐1‐carboximidhydrazide) and the introduction of imine alkyl substituents gave good antibiotic activity. Of note was the increased potency of two analogues against vancomycin‐resistant Enterococci (VRE), one of which returned a MIC of 0.5 μg mL−1. Five analogues were found to be equipotent or more potent than the lead 1. Introduction of an indole moiety resulted in the most active robenidine analogue against methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA), with a MIC of 1.0 μg mL−1. Imine C=NH isosteres (C=O/C=S) were inactive. Monomeric analogues were 16–64 μg mL−1 active against MRSA and VRE. An analogue that lacks the terminal hydrazide NH moiety showed modest Gram‐negative activity at 64 μg mL−1. A 4‐tert‐butyl analogue was shown to be active against both Gram‐positive and ‐negative strains at 16–64 μg mL−1. In general, additional modifications with aromatic moieties was poorly tolerated, except with concomitant introduction of an imine C‐alkyl group. The activity of these analogues against MRSA and VRE ranged from 8 μg mL−1 to inactive (MIC>128 μg mL−1) with the naphthyl and indole analogues. Gram‐negative activity was most promising with two compounds at 16 μg mL−1 against E. coli. Against P. aeruginosa, the highest activity observed was with MIC values of 32 μg mL−1 with another two analogues. Combined, these findings support the further development of the (E)‐2‐benzylidenehydrazine‐1‐carboximidamide scaffold as a promising scaffold for the development of antibiotics against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative strains.
Bone marrow core biopsy in 508 consecutive patients with chronic myeloid leukemia: Assessment of potential value
Authors: Hidalgo‐Lόpez Juliana E. , Kanagal‐Shamanna Rashmi , Quesada Andrés E. , Gong Zimu , Wang Wei , Hu Shimin , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Bassett Roland L. , d’Orcy Elizabeth , Yin C. Cameron , Cortes Jorge , Jabbour Elias J. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Bueso‐Ramos Carlos E.
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is based on characteristic clinical and laboratory findings and the presence of BCR/ABL1 in the blood and/or bone marrow (BM). The utility of BM core biopsy in the workup of patients with CML has been questioned.

METHODS

The potential added value of BM biopsy versus aspiration in the workup of a single‐institution series of 508 patients with CML at their initial presentation was systematically assessed. BM biopsy was considered essential when it was needed to establish the disease phase, often because blast counts derived from aspirate smears were misleading because the biopsy specimen was more representative of the disease. BM biopsy was considered helpful if it was needed for other nonessential reasons.

RESULTS

In 127 patients (25%), BM biopsy was either essential (109 patients) or helpful (18 patients). Patients with accelerated‐phase (AP) or blast‐phase (BP) disease often required a biopsy related to essential reasons. High‐grade myelofibrosis (MF) was more frequent in patients with AP/BP disease than patients with chronic‐phase disease (P = .0005), and the identification of BP disease required a BM biopsy assessment in 75% of the patients (P = .001). A follow‐up BM evaluation more often yielded inadequate aspirates in patients with inadequate BM aspirates at the time of their initial diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

BM core biopsy remains valuable in the workup of 25% of patients with CML because it facilitates identification of the disease phase or MF. The initial grade of MF is associated with the disease stage and outcome after therapy. BM biopsy is, therefore, indicated for patients with CML who have AP/BP disease or other findings suggestive of progressive disease.