bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spiders did not repeatedly gain, but repeatedly lost, foraging webs
Authors: Coddington Jonathan A. , Agnarsson Ingi , Hamilton Chris A. , Bond Jason E.
Published: April 2019

Much genomic-scale, especially transcriptomic, data on spider phylogeny has accumulated in the last few years. These data have recently been used to investigate the diverse architectures and the origin of spider webs, concluding that the ancestral spider spun no foraging web, that spider webs evolvedde novo10–14 times, and that the orb web evolved at least three times. These findings in fact result from a particular phylogenetic character coding strategy, specifically coding theabsenceof webs as logically equivalent, and homologous to, 10 other observable (i.e., not absent) web architectures. “Absence” of webs should be regarded as inapplicable data. To be analyzed properly by character optimization algorithms, it should be coded as “?” because these codes—or their equivalent—are handled differently by such algorithms. Additional problems include critical misspellings of taxon names from one analysis to the next (misspellings cause some optimization algorithms to drop terminals, which affects taxon sampling and results), and mistakes in spider natural history. In sum, the method causes character optimization algorithms to produce counter-intuitive results, and does not distinguish absence from secondary loss. Proper treatment of missing entries and corrected data instead imply that foraging webs are primitive for spiders and that webs have been lost ∼5–7 times, not gained 10–14 times. The orb web, specifically, may be homologous (originated only once) although lost 2–6 times.
Investigation of Carbon Dioxide Variations in Selected Points in Nigeria Using Neural Network Model
Authors: Isikwue Bernadette Chidomnso , Ibeh Gabriel Friday
Published: April 2019

Atmospheric pollution due to carbon dioxide emission from different fossil fuels and deforestations are considered as a great and important international challenge to the societies. This study is to investigate carbon dioxide (CO2) distributions in selected points in Nigeria using neural network. Neural network model were used to estimate daily values of carbon dioxide, study spatial temporal variations of carbon dioxide, and study the annual variations of estimated and observed carbon dioxide in Nigeria. The study areas used in this work are thirty six (36) points location over Nigeria. The data used in this work is a satellite carbon dioxide () data were obtained from Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) under the programme of Monitoring Atmospheric Composition And Climate (MACC) www.gmes-atmosphere.eu/data between 2009-2014. The neural network architecture used comprises of three main layers; an input layer, a hidden layer and an output layer. Four input data were considered which include year, day of year (DOY) representing the time, latitude and longitude. Twenty hidden neurons were employed, while the output is the desired data of carbon dioxide. The results show that the increase in trend of CO2 in dry season in every part of the country is on yearly bases. In the wet season, the concentration of CO2 in Nigeria is not as much as in the dry season case, probably due to absorption of the gas by precipitation. The continuous annual increase of CO2 distribution suggests continuous increase of the greenhouse gas in Nigeria. This reveals continuous contribution of CO2 in Nigeria. The similarity in the estimated and observed signatures reveals that neural network model performance were excellent and efficient in determination of spatial distribution of CO2, thereby proving to be useful tool in modeling the greenhouse gases. The results show that neural network model has the capacity of investigating greenhouse gases variations in Nigeria.
Analysis of Knowledge Management Practice Studies among the Plasmodium falciparum Positive Patients Attending out Patient Departments in Awka, South Anambra State
Authors: Obasi Doris O. , Azorji Johnpaul N. , Onyenwe Nathaniel E. , Duru Obianuju O.
Published: April 2019

Aim: To analyze the Knowledge Management Practice Studies among the Plasmodium falciparum positive patients attending outpatient departments in AWKA, South Anambra state.

Study Design: Blood samples were randomly collected from 210 febrile patients attending the OPD and interviewed on malaria knowledge and management practice, using semi-structured questionnaire from three different clinical laboratories, two of which are hospitals.

Place and duration of Study: This study was carried out in Medical Microbiology and Parasitology unit of Anambra State University teaching Hospital, Awka South, South-East Nigeria between February and August, 2013.

Methodology: Thick & thin blood smears were stained and examined under microscope. At least 100 oil immersion fields were examined for diagnosis and parasite count was done against 200 WBC from thick smear. The questionnaire was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences SPSS (P < 0.05).

Results: The national drug policy for malaria treatment during the study period were found to be pyrimethamine, co-trimoxazole, sulphamethaxazole, and in few cases arthemether/lumefantrine. The prevalence rate of P. falciparum was 74.8% (157/210), while those on both sexes were 56.1 % and 43.9 % in females and males respectively. Only 44.3%, 32.4%, 30.5% of the population studied showed good knowledge, attitude and practice respectively towards malaria infections.

Conclusion: The prevalence of P. falciparum were 22.3% and 21.1% in ages 5- 14 and 45- 54 respectively. Studies revealed that most people have good knowledge of malaria but give less attention to its preventive and control measures, thereby presenting very poor attitude and poor practice even when exposed to the infection. These issues may pose a problem, such as drug resistance when proper intervention measures are not followed.
Panax notoginseng saponins alleviate skeletal muscle insulin resistance by regulating the IRS1–PI3K–AKT signaling pathway and GLUT4 expression
Authors: Guo Xuan , Sun Wen , Luo Guangbin , Wu Lili , Xu Guangyuan , Hou Dan , Hou Yi , Guo Xiangyu , Mu Xiaohong , Qin Lingling , Liu Tonghua
Published: April 2019

Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) are a commonly used traditional medicine to treat diabetes in China. Recent studies have confirmed their anti‐diabetic effects, but the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. The present study was designed to explore whether PNS decrease hyperglycemia by improving insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms. The anti‐diabetic effects of PNS were analyzed in a skeletal myoblast cell line, C2C12, and in high fat diet‐induced diabetic KKAy mice. C2C12 cells were treated with PNS (50, 100, and 200 μg·L−1) and examined for glucose uptake, cell viability and expression of components of the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)–protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway. KKAy mice were intraperitoneally injected with PNS (200 mg·kg−1) for 6 weeks. Body weight, blood glucose, serum insulin, serum lipid, glucose and insulin tolerance were measured to evaluate the anti‐diabetic effects of PNS. Pathological changes, apoptosis and the PI3K–AKT signaling pathway were analyzed in KKAy skeletal muscle. PNS significantly increased insulin‐induced glucose uptake, but did not affect the cell viability of C2C12 cells. In addition, PNS reduced blood glucose and serum insulin levels and improved glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance of KKAy mice. Pathological changes and apoptosis of skeletal muscle were relieved by PNS treatment. Moreover, PNS treatment enhanced expression of mRNA encoding IRS1 and GLUT4, as well as the protein expression of phosphorylated (p) ‐insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1), p‐PI3K, p‐AKT and glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) in C2C12 and KKAy mouse muscle. Collectively, these data indicate that PNS reduces hyperglycemia and insulin resistance through up‐regulating GLUT4 expression and the IRS1–PI3K–AKT signaling pathway. Furthermore, PNS alleviated diabetes skeletal muscle pathological damage. Thus, our data suggest that PNS may be promising anti‐diabetic compounds.
Human leukocyte antigen associations in postural tachycardia syndrome
Authors: Shin Yong‐Won , Moon Jangsup , Kim Tae‐Joon , Kim Do‐Yong , Chang Hyeyeon , Jun Jin‐Sun , Lee Soon‐Tae , Jung Keun‐Hwa , Park Kyung‐Il , Jung Ki‐Young , Kim Manho , Lee Sang Kun , Chu Kon
Published: April 2019

Associations between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) have not been investigated. We included patients diagnosed with POTS and showing orthostatic heart rate increases ≥ 50 during orthostatic vital sign measurement or experiencing syncope/near‐syncope while standing (prominent POTS; n = 17). DQB1*06:09 was present in seven (41%) patients, a significantly higher percentage than in healthy Koreans (7%; odds ratio [OR] 8.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.1–24.3, corrected P = 3.2 × 10−4) and epilepsy controls (8%; OR 7.9, 95% CI 2.7–23.5, corrected P = 3.2 × 10−4). Six (35.3%) carried the A*33:03‐B*58:01‐C*03:02‐DRB1*13:02‐DQB1*06:09 haplotype. The results signify an autoimmune etiology in prominent POTS.
Microfluidic Technology for Nucleic Acid Aptamer Evolution and Application
Authors: Fraser Lewis A. , Cheung Yee‐Wai , Kinghorn Andrew B. , Guo Wei , Shiu Simon Chi‐Chin , Jinata Chandra , Liu Mengping , Bhuyan Soubhagya , Nan Lang , Shum Ho Cheung , Tanner Julian A.
Published: April 2019

The intersection of microfluidics and aptamer technologies holds particular promise for rapid progress in a plethora of applications across biomedical science and other areas. Here, the influence of microfluidics on the field of aptamers, from traditional capillary electrophoresis approaches through innovative modern‐day approaches using micromagnetic beads and emulsion droplets, is reviewed. Miniaturizing aptamer‐based bioassays through microfluidics has the potential to transform diagnostics and embedded biosensing in the coming years.
3D Printed Multifunctional, Hyperelastic Silicone Rubber Foam
Authors: Chen Qiyi , Zhao Jiayu , Ren Jingbo , Rong Lihan , Cao Peng‐Fei , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: April 2019

Highly elastic silicone foams, especially those with tunable properties and multifunctionality, are of great interest in numerous fields. However, the liquid nature of silicone precursors and the complicated foaming process hinder the realization of its three‐dimensional (3D) printability. Herein, a series of silicone foams with outstanding performance with regards to elasticity, wetting and sensing properties, multifunctionality, and tunability is generated by direct ink writing. Viscoelastic inks are achieved from direct dispersion of sodium chloride in a unique silicone precursor solution. The 3D‐architectured silicone rubber exhibits open‐celled trimodal porosity, which offers ultraelasticity with hyper compressibility/cycling endurance (near‐zero stress/strain loss under 90% compression or 1000 compression cycles), excellent stretchability (210% strain), and superhydrophobicity. The resulting foam is demonstrated to be multifunctional, such that it can work as an oil sorbent with super capacity (1320%) and customizable soft sensor after absorption of carbon nanotubes on the foam surface. The strategy enables tunability of mechanical strength, elasticity, stretchability, and absorbing capacity, while printing different materials together offers property gradients as an extra dimension of tunability. The first 3D printed silicone foam, which serves an important step toward its application expansion, is achieved.
Zwitterion Coordination Induced Highly Orientational Order of CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite Film Delivers a High Open Circuit Voltage Exceeding 1.2 V
Authors: Zhou Weiran , Li Dan , Xiao Zhengguo , Wen Zhilin , Zhang Mengmeng , Hu Wanpei , Wu Xiaojun , Wang Mingtai , Zhang Wen‐Hua , Lu Yalin , Yang Shihe , Yang Shangfeng
Published: April 2019

The organic–inorganic halide CH3NH3PbI3 (MAPbI3) has been the most commonly used light absorber layer of perovskite solar cells (PSCs); however, solution‐processed MAPbI3 films usually suffer from random crystal orientation and high trap density, resulting in inferior power conversion efficiency (PCE) with open circuit voltage (Voc) being typically below 1.2 V for PSC devices. Herein, for the first time an imidazole sulfonate zwitterion, 4‐(1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium‐3‐yl)butane‐1‐sulfonate (IMS), is applied as a bifunctional additive in regular‐structure planar heterojunction PSC devices to regulate the crystal orientation, yielding highly ordered MAPbI3 film and passivating the trap states of the film. Such a dual effect of IMS is fulfilled via coordination interactions between the sulfonate moiety of IMS with the Pb2+ ion and the electrostatic interaction between the imidazole of IMS with the I– ion of MAPbI3. As a result, under a optimized IMS doping ratio of 0.5 wt%, the PSC device exhibits a significant increase in PCE from 18.77% to 20.84%, with suppressed current–voltage hysteresis and promoted ambient stability. Moreover, a high Voc of 1.208 V is achieved under a higher IMS doping ratio of 1.2 wt%, which is the highest Voc for regular‐structure MAPbI3 planar PSC devices based on TiO2 electron transport layer.
Multifunctional Biomedical Adhesives
Authors: Pinnaratip Rattapol , Bhuiyan Mohammad Saleh Akram , Meyers Kaylee , Rajachar Rupak M. , Lee Bruce P.
Published: April 2019

Currently available biomedical adhesives are mainly engineered to have one function (i.e., providing mechanical support for the repaired tissue). To improve the performance of existing bioadhesives and broaden their applications in medicine, numerous multifunctional bioadhesives are reported in the literature. These adhesives can be categorized as passive or active by design. Passive multifunctional bioadhesives contain inherent compositions and structural designs that can carry out additional functions without added external influences. These adhesives exhibit new functionalities such as antimicrobial properties, self‐healing abilities, the ability to promote cellular ingrowth, and the ability to be reshaped. Conversely, active multifunctional bioadhesives respond to environmental changes (e.g., pH, temperature, electricity, light, and biomolecule concentration), which initiate a change in the adhesive to release encapsulated drugs or to activate or deactivate the bioadhesive for interfacial binding. This review article highlights recent advances in multifunctional bioadhesives.
Long‐Term Implantable, Flexible, and Transparent Neural Interface Based on Ag/Au Core–Shell Nanowires
Authors: Araki Teppei , Yoshida Fumiaki , Uemura Takafumi , Noda Yuki , Yoshimoto Shusuke , Kaiju Taro , Suzuki Takafumi , Hamanaka Hiroki , Baba Kousuke , Hayakawa Hideki , Yabumoto Taiki , Mochizuki Hideki , Kobayashi Shingo , Tanaka Masaru , Hirata Masayuki , Sekitani Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2019

Neural interfaces enabling light transmittance rely on optogenetics to control and monitor specific neural activity, thereby facilitating deeper understanding of intractable diseases. This study reports the material strategy underlying an optogenetic neural interface comprising stretchable and transparent conductive tracks and capable of demonstrating high biocompatibility after long‐term (5‐month) implantation. Ag/Au core–shell nanowires contribute toward improving track performance in terms of stretchability (<60% strain), transparency (<83%), and electrical resistance (15 Ω sq−1). The neural interface integrated with gel‐coated exterior microelectrodes preserves low impedance (1.1–3.2 Ω cm2) in a saline solution over the evaluated 5‐month period. Besides the use of efficient conductive materials, surface treatment using antithrombogenic polymer tends to prevent the growth of granulation tissue, thereby facilitating clear monitoring of electrocorticograms (ECoG) in a rodent during chronic implantation. The flexible and transparent neural interface pathologically exhibits noncytotoxicity and low inflammatory response while efficiently recording evoked ECoG in a nonhuman primate via optogenetic stimulation. The proposed highly reliable interface can be employed in multifaceted approaches for translational research based on chronic implants.
Highly Hydrophilic Carbon Dots' Decoration on NiCo2O4 Nanowires for Greatly Increased Electric Conductivity, Supercapacitance, and Energy Density
Authors: Wang Jingmin , Fang Zhenbin , Li Tian , ur Rehman Sajid , Luo Qinghua , Chen Ping , Hu Lin , Zhang Fapei , Wang Qiyang , Bi Hong
Published: April 2019

The design and exploration of the transition metal oxides (TMOs)–carbon composite are greatly desired for enhanced supercapacitor application due to the low hydrophilicity and electrical conductivity of the prime TMOs. In this work, the highly hydrophilic carbon dots (CDs) with an average size of 2.56 nm are synthesized by a microwave thermolysis method, and then used as a decoration agent on the surface of NiCo2O4 nanowires. The CDs‐decorated NiCo2O4 (CDs/NiCo2O4) with a high surface area of 120.0 m2 g−1 is prepared via a one‐pot hydrothermal method and subsequent annealing. Only a small amount of CDs' decoration not only makes the surface more hydrophilic and easier for aqueous electrolyte infiltration into electrode, but can also promote the electrical conductivity of the as‐synthesized CDs/NiCo2O4 to 30‐fold higher than the prime NiCo2O4, and greatly decrease the internal resistance of the electrode material. Therefore, the CDs/NiCo2O4‐based three‐electrode system shows an extremely high specific capacitance (2202 F g−1) while a symmetrical CDs/NiCo2O4 supercapacitor offers a desirable energy density up to 73.5 Wh kg−1. This work provides a new strategy to improve supercapacitance as well as energy density of TMO‐based electrodes via a convenient surface decoration method by using carbon nanomaterials.
Capturing Reversible Cation Migration in Layered Structure Materials for Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Guo Shaohua , Liu Pan , Li Qi , Xu Sheng , Liu Yijie , Jiang Kezhu , He Ping , Chen Mingwei , Wang Peng , Zhou Haoshen
Published: April 2019

Na‐ion batteries are promising for large‐scale energy storage due to the low cost and earth abundance of the sodium resource. Despite tremendous efforts being made to improve the battery performance, some fundamental mechanism issues still are not sufficiently understood. One such issue in the most popularized layered structure materials is the potential cation migration into sodium layers, which would highly affect the energy efficiency thus hindering its widespread use in the future. Here a systematic study of the cation migration in layered structure materials is presented and its relationship with voltage hysteresis is disclosed. Using the high‐angle annular dark field‐scanning transmission electron microscopy and in operando X‐ray diffraction as implements, for the first time, the reversible migration of the transition metal between transition metal layers and sodium layers is captured. The research inspires a novel insight into the cation migration related layered materials, which should be considered for future battery design toward conventional use.
Incidence of postoperative complications in transabdominal preperitoneal repair for groin hernia is influenced by poor performance status rather than by old age
Authors: Egawa Noriyuki , Nakamura Jun , Manabe Tatsuya , Iwasaki Hironori , Noshiro Hirokazu
Published: April 2019

Aim

The present study was designed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair for very old patients with groin hernia and to identify the risk factors predicting perioperative complications.

Methods

A total of 140 patients treated by TAPP were reviewed retrospectively. They were divided into two groups: patients ≥80 years of age (≥80 years group; n = 26) and those <80 years of age (<80 years group; n = 114). Patient characteristics and surgical outcomes were then statistically compared between the two groups.

Results

Number of patients with any comorbidities was significantly higher in the ≥80 years group than in the <80 years group (96.2% vs 61.4%, P = 0.003). There were no significant differences in surgical outcomes between the two groups. In the univariate analysis of perioperative complications, poor performance status (PS) (P = 0.014), lower hemoglobin level (P = 0.038) and lower albumin level (P = 0.016) were significantly associated with the occurrence of postoperative complications, and multivariate analysis showed that only poor PS was an independent factor (PS 0‐2 vs 3‐4: P = 0.034, OR 5.192 [95% CI; 1.137 to 23.71]).

Conclusions

This is the first report to show that the incidence of postoperative complications in TAPP repair for groin hernia is influenced by poor PS rather than old age. TAPP can be a safe surgical procedure for very old patients with a good PS, with benefits that are equal to those in young patients.
Prognostic value of minimal residual disease and polyclonal plasma cells in myeloma patients achieving a complete response to therapy
Authors: Tschautscher Marcella A. , Jevremovic Dragan , Rajkumar Vincent , Dispenzieri Angela , Lacy Martha Q. , Gertz Morie A. , Buadi Francis K. , Dingli David , Hwa Yi L. , Fonder Amie L. , Hobbs Miriam A. , Hayman Suzanne R. , Zeldenrust Steven R. , Lust John A. , Russell Stephen J. , Leung Nelson , Kapoor Prashant , Go Ronald S. , Lin Yi , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Kourelis Taxiarchis , Warsame Rahma , Kyle Robert A. , Kumar Shaji K.
Published: April 2019

Achievement of a complete response has been associated with improved outcomes in patients with multiple myeloma. Recently, increasing application of minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment has shown that MRD negativity is a powerful prognostic factor for survival outcomes. We wanted to examine the impact of the polyclonal plasma cell (pPC) compartment among patients in complete response (CR) but are MRD positive. This is a retrospective cohort study where 460 myeloma patients were identified who met criteria for CR and had multicolor flow cytometry performed on the bone marrow (BM). Monoclonal and pPCs were estimated during MRD testing. Final outcomes including overall survival (OS) and time to next treatment (TTNT) were compared among the groups. The median OS for the entire cohort was not reached (95% CI; 63 mos, NR) and the median TTNT was 31 months (95% CI; 27,36). Among the MRDneg group, median TTNT was 37.6 months vs 23 months for MRDpos patients (P < .001); the median OS was not reached for either group, but there was a trend toward better survival for MRDneg patients. Among the MRDpos group, median percentage of pPCs was 65% (2.5–98.5), and those with >95% pPCs had a significantly better TTNT (NR vs 23 months; P = .02) and a trend toward better OS. We conclude that achievement of MRD negativity predicts for better response durability and trend toward improved OS and an increased proportion of pPC predicts for better outcomes within those who have residual tumor cells highlighting the importance of marrow normalization.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Difluoroacetylation of O‐(Allyloxy)Aryl‐Aldehydes: Access to Difluoroacetylated Chroman‐4‐ones
Authors: Zhou Nengneng , Wu Meixia , Zhang Man , Zhou Xiaoqiang
Published: April 2019

A visible‐light photoredox‐catalyzed radical cascade cyclization for the synthesis of various difluoroacetylated chroman‐4‐ones is described in this communication. This reaction features high functional‐group tolerance, mild reaction conditions, and excellent functional‐group compatibility.
Cord injury after spinal anaesthesia in a patient with previously undiagnosed Klippel–Feil syndrome
Authors: Stevens E. , Williams B. , Kock N. , Kitching M. , Simpson M. P.
Published: April 2019

This report presents an obstetric patient with no significant past medical history who underwent spinal anaesthesia for a category‐three caesarean section. On examination, she had asymmetrical scapular alignment and a mild scoliosis of the lumbar spine with no functional limitation. Postoperatively the patient developed neuropathic pain symptoms in the right leg which failed to resolve with conventional analgesia. Cervical and lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging was performed resulting in a diagnosis of a low‐lying tethered spinal cord terminating at the level of L5 and congenital fusion of the C7/T1 vertebrae. A tethered spinal cord is a rare condition, which in this case had been completely asymptomatic. However, we suggest that the patient displayed musculoskeletal signs not previously widely reported, which could have indicated the presence of a potential underlying neural tube defect. Based on the imaging findings and the presence of Sprengel's deformity, the patient was diagnosed with Klippel–Feil syndrome.
Crosslinked quaternized poly(arylene ether sulfone) copolymer membrane applied in an electric double‐layer capacitor for high energy density
Authors: Huo Pengfei , Xun Zhiyu , Ni Shoupeng , Liu Yang , Wang Guibin , Gu Jiyou
Published: April 2019

The low energy density of supercapacitors, especially supercapacitors based on aqueous electrolytes, is the main factor limiting their application, and the energy density is closely related to the operating potential window of the supercapacitor. The polymer electrolyte is the main contributor to the safe operation and good ion conductivity of the supercapacitor. In this study, a crosslinked quaternized poly(arylene ether sulfone) (PAES) membrane was prepared via crosslinking during membrane formation with a thermal‐only treatment and applied in an electric double‐layer capacitor (EDLC). The pre‐prepared PAES membrane formed a polymer electrolyte with 1 mol/L Li2SO4and was then fabricated into an EDLC single cell. The properties of both the membrane and ELDC were investigated. The preferred cPAES‐N‐0.2 polymer electrolyte showed an ionic conductivity of 1.18 mS/cm. The optimized EDLC exhibited a single‐electrode gravimetric capacitance of 104.92 F/g at a current density of 1.0 A/g and a high operating potential window (1.5 V); it, thereby, achieved a high energy density of 8.20 W h/kg. The EDLC also exhibited excellent cycling properties over 3000 charge–discharge cycles. The crosslinked structures promoted the tensile strength and thermal stability of the PAES membranes; this was accompanied by a slight decrease in the ionic conductivity. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47759.
Prediction of the Quantity and Purity of an Antibody Capture Process in Real Time
Authors: Walch Nicole , Scharl Theresa , Felföldi Edit , Sauer Dominik G. , Melcher Michael , Leisch Friedrich , Dürauer Astrid , Jungbauer Alois
Published: April 2019

Regulatory recommendations for quality by design instead of quality by testing raise increasing interest in new sensor technologies. An online monitoring system for downstream processes is developed, which is based on an array of online detectors. Besides standard detectors (UV, pH, and conductivity), our chromatographic workstation is equipped with a fluorescence and a mid‐infrared spectrometer, a light scattering, and a refractive index detector. The combination of these sensors enables the prediction of specific protein concentration and various purity attributes, such as high molecular weight impurities, DNA and host cell protein content during the elution phase of a chromatographic antibody capture process. Prediction models solely based on online signals are set up providing real‐time predictions. No mechanistic models or information about the chromatographic runs is used. These predictions allow online pooling decisions replacing time‐ and labor‐intensive laboratory measurements. Different process variations, such as changes in the column load or elution buffer, are introduced to test the predictive power of the models. Extrapolation of the models worked well when the column load is changed, whereas model adjustment is necessary when the elution conditions are changed considerably.
Do variants of the intercondylar notch predispose children to the injury of the anterior cruciate ligament?
Authors: Pękala Łukasz , Podgórski Michał , Shukla Abhinav , Winnicka Monika , Biernacka Katarzyna , Grzelak Piotr
Published: April 2019

Differences in knee development result in morphological variations observed among individuals. Some of them predispose to significant knee injuries. Although the anatomical risk factors are well established in adults, there is still a need for further research in this area in the group of children. This work aims to determine the morphological variations of the intercondylar notch of the femur predisposing to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in the pediatric population. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the knee were retrospectively analyzed in 74 patients aged 4–18 years. Examinations were performed due to pain complaints after trauma. The completely torn ACL was found in 35 patients. The diagnosis was confirmed intraoperatively. The remaining patients, with no signs of injuries, were qualified as a reference group. The intercondylar notch width was evaluated by calculating the Notch Width Index. Additionally, the morphology of the intercondylar eminence was assessed. Finally, a statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed.Patients with a torn ACL had a narrower intercondylar notch (a lower Notch Width Index, P = 0.0007) as well as a broader and more sharply ended intercondylar eminence (P = 0.0267 and 0.0188, respectively). The narrowed intercondylar notch, expressed by the low Notch Width Index, and the increased size of the intercondylar eminence were identified as the risk factors for the ACL rupture in children. Clin. Anat. 32:706–709, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of the Particle Clustering Phenomenon in the Fluid Catalytic Cracking of Gasoil in a Downer Reactor
Authors: Gomez Noel , Molina Alejandro
Published: April 2019

A large eddy simulation (LES)‐discrete element method (DEM) investigation was carried out to study particle clusters in a canonical downer reactor during the fluid catalytic cracking of gasoil. The analysis considered two cases: with and without chemical reactions. The results of the system under cold‐flow conditions for the frequency and mean lifetime of clusters were in good agreement with experimental data. The changes in the hydrodynamic conditions generated by the cracking reactions led to clusters with shorter mean lifetime but higher frequency compared to the system without chemical reactions. Additionally, the frequency and mean lifetime of clusters were successfully correlated to an empirical expression as a function of the particle Reynolds number and the Stokes number, which summarize the hydrodynamic conditions of the downer.
Fabrication of Bone Scaffolds from Cockle Shell Waste
Authors: Saharudin Siti Hajar , Shariffuddin Jun Haslinda , Nordin Noor Ida Amalina Ahamad
Published: April 2019

Bone scaffold is a three‐dimensional structure composed of materials that could enhance bone regeneration. Bone scaffolds were prepared using freeze‐drying by varying the cockle shell powder concentration where sodium alginate acted as matrix. The scaffolds were then characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, texture analyzer, and liquid displacement method. The bioactivity of the scaffolds was evaluated by immersion into a simulated body fluid solution. Cockle shell powder concentrations affected the bone scaffold characteristics. The increment of the powder concentrations improved the physicochemical properties and bioactivity of the scaffolds.
Silver Nanoparticle/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Hybrid as an Efficient Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Medium
Authors: Guo Lulu , Xiang Li , Li Fujie , Liu Xiaoteng , Xing Lei , Li Degui , Luo Zhihong , Luo Kun
Published: April 2019

A straightforward approach is employed to synthesize silver nanoparticle/multiwalled carbon nanotube (Ag/MWNTs) hybrids through the direct reduction of silver nitrate in the presence of MWNTs, where Ag nanoparticles capped with tris(hydroxymethyl)phosphine oxide (d=2.9 nm) are uniformly deposited on MWNTs. The as‐synthesized Ag/MWNTs hybrids exhibit high catalytic activity toward the oxygen reduction, which increases with the loading amount of Ag nanoparticles. Rotating disk electrode and rotating ring‐disk electrode analyses further indicate that the Ag/MWNTs hybrids follow the same four‐electron pathway towards the oxygen reduction reaction as the Pt/C catalyst, and the Ag/MWNTs hybrid (22.8 wt.%) manifests comparable catalytic activity to the 20 % Pt/C catalyst, together with superior long‐term stability and methanol tolerance, demonstrating the potential application on direct methanol fuel cells as an effective oxygen reduction catalyst.
Low‐Cost Layered K0.45Mn0.9Mg0.1O2 as a High‐Performance Cathode Material for K‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Cai‐ling , Luo Shao‐hua , Huang Hong‐bo , Zhai Yu‐chun , Wang Zhao‐wen
Published: April 2019

Novel, potassium‐deficient, layered P3‐K0.45Mn0.9Mg0.1O2 is successfully prepared through a simple solid‐state reaction method; its electrochemical performance as a cathode material for K‐ion batteries is explored for the first time. The as‐prepared K0.45Mn0.9Mg0.1O2 delivers a high reversible capacity of 108 mAh g−1 at a current density of 20 mA g−1 in the potential region from 1.5 to 4.0 V. Moreover, the cyclability is enhanced by Mg substitution. After 100 cycles, the capacity of K0.45Mn0.9Mg0.1O2 can remain at about 80.8 mAh g−1 at 20 mA g−1. It also presents an excellent rate performance of 69.8 mAh g−1 even at a high current density of 200 mA g−1. Furthermore, the potassium storage mechanism is studied by using the ex situ XRD technique. These results contribute to the development of rechargeable K‐ion batteries based on earth‐abundant elements.
Chemical Validation of DegS As a Target for the Development of Antibiotics with a Novel Mode of Action
Authors: Bongard Jens , Schmitz Anna Laura , Wolf Alex , Zischinsky Gunther , Pieren Michel , Schellhorn Birgit , Bravo‐Rodriguez Kenny , Schillinger Jasmin , Koch Uwe , Nussbaumer Peter , Klebl Bert , Steinmann Jörg , Buer Jan , Sanchez‐Garcia Elsa , Ehrmann Michael , Kaiser Markus
Published: April 2019

Despite the availability of hundreds of antibiotic drugs, infectious diseases continue to remain one of the most notorious health issues. In addition, the disparity between the spread of multidrug‐resistant pathogens and the development of novel classes of antibiotics exemplify an important unmet medical need that can only be addressed by identifying novel targets. Herein we demonstrate, by the development of the first in vivo active DegS inhibitors based on a pyrazolo[1,5‐a]‐1,3,5‐triazine scaffold, that the serine protease DegS and the cell envelope stress‐response pathway σE represent a target for generating antibiotics with a novel mode of action. Moreover, DegS inhibition is synergistic with well‐established membrane‐perturbing antibiotics, thereby opening promising avenues for rational antibiotic drug design.
Characterization of the relaxin family peptide receptor 3 system in the mouse bed nucleus of the stria terminalis
Authors: Ch'ng Sarah S. , Fu Jingjing , Brown Robyn M. , Smith Craig M. , Hossain Mohammed Akhter , McDougall Stuart J. , Lawrence Andrew J.
Published: April 2019

The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a critical node involved in stress and reward‐related behaviors. Relaxin family peptide receptor 3 (RXFP3) signaling in the BNST has been implicated in stress‐induced alcohol seeking behavior. However, the neurochemical phenotype and connectivity of BNST RXFP3‐expressing (RXFP3+) cells have yet to be elucidated. We interrogated the molecular signature and electrophysiological properties of BNST RXFP3+ neurons using a RXFP3‐Cre reporter mouse line. BNST RXFP3+ cells are circumscribed to the dorsal BNST (dBNST) and are neurochemically heterogeneous, comprising a mix of inhibitory and excitatory neurons. Immunohistochemistry revealed that ~48% of BNST RXFP3+ neurons are GABAergic, and a quarter of these co‐express the calcium‐binding protein, calbindin. A subset of BNST RXFP3+ cells (~41%) co‐express CaMKIIα, suggesting this subpopulation of BNST RXFP3+ neurons are excitatory. Corroborating this, RNAscope® revealed that ~35% of BNST RXFP3+ cells express vVGluT2 mRNA, indicating a subpopulation of RXFP3+ neurons are glutamatergic. RXFP3+ neurons show direct hyperpolarization to bath application of a selective RXFP3 agonist, RXFP3‐A2, while around 50% of cells were depolarised by exogenous corticotrophin releasing factor. In behaviorally naive mice the majority of RXFP3+ neurons were Type II cells exhibiting Ih and T type calcium mediated currents. However, chronic swim stress caused persistent plasticity, decreasing the proportion of neurons that express these channels. These studies are the first to characterize the BNST RXFP3 system in mouse and lay the foundation for future functional studies appraising the role of the murine BNST RXFP3 system in more complex behaviors.
Corporate social responsibility and employee performance: Mediation role of job satisfaction and affective commitment
Authors: Story Joana S. P. , Castanheira Filipa
Published: April 2019

The positive impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices has been recognized over the past years. Recently, research has looked into the impact of CSR practices on employee behavior demonstrating positive results. Drawing from a sample of 190 supervisor‐subordinate dyads, we studied the relationship between perceived CSR practices (external and internal) and employee performance (supervisor‐rated) and two mechanisms that explain this relationship. Specifically, we studied if this relationship was mediated by employees' job satisfaction and affective commitment. Results indicate that there is a direct link between perceptions of external CSR and performance and that job satisfaction partially mediates this relationship. Also, perceptions of internal CSR are related to higher performance via job satisfaction, supporting full mediation. On the other hand, although both internal and external CSR were related to affective commitment, affective commitment did not act as a mediator for the CSR‐performance relationship. Implications for practice and limitations of this study conclude the article.
Oxidative Coupling of 3‐Oxindoles with Indoles and Arenes
Authors: Kang Houng , Jemison Adriana L. , Nigro Erin , Kozlowski Marisa C.
Published: April 2019

A highly efficient method for the oxidative coupling of 2‐substituted 3‐oxindoles with aromatic compounds to form 2,2‐disubstituted indolin‐3‐ones with broad scope is described. This work utilized oxygen as the terminal oxidant and a base‐metal catalyst under mild conditions instead of toxic/precious‐metal reagents and higher‐molecular‐weight oxidants. Quaternary structures were produced in modest‐to‐excellent yields (up to 96 %) without prefunctionalization.
Production and use of biogas from vinasse: Implications for the energy balance and GHG emissions of sugar cane ethanol in the brazilian context
Authors: da Silva Neto Jorge Vinicius , Gallo Waldyr L. R. , Nour Edson Aparecido Abdul
Published: April 2019

Indicators, such as the energy balance (EB) and greenhouse gases emissions avoided (GHGEA), are frequently used to evaluate the benefits and sustainability of biofuels. Many important papers and reports have been published in recent years to demonstrate the environmental and energetic benefits of biofuels, such as ethanol from sugar cane. EB and GHGEA often include other sugar cane products, such as electricity and bagasse. The anaerobic digestion of vinasse can generate considerable amounts of biogas but is not a common practice in Brazil. This study evaluates the potential benefits to the EB and GHGEA of ethanol by the production of biogas from vinasse and its use to produce electricity or biomethane. Biomethane can be injected on the Natural Gas Grid or used as a fossil diesel oil replacement in the mill operations of harvesting and transportation of sugar cane. The results show that biogas from vinasse can represent improvement in both indicators, which ranges from 3.5% improvement in EB by electricity generation with biogas to 27.5% improvement in GHGEA by replacing diesel in the mill operations. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog,39:e13226, 2020
Effects of Soil Properties on the Toxicity and Bioaccumulation of Lead in Soil Invertebrates
Authors: Lanno Roman P. , Oorts Koen , Smolders Erik , Albanese Katie , Chowdhury M. Jasim
Published: April 2019

The present study examined the effects of soil physical and chemical properties on the toxicity of lead (Pb) to earthworms (Eisenia fetida) and collembolans (Folsomia candida), and on bioaccumulation of Pb by earthworms, in soils amended with Pb salts. Toxicity tests were conducted in 7 soils varying in soil properties (pH 4.7–7.4, effective cation exchange capacity [eCEC] 4–42 cmolc/kg, organic carbon 10–50 g C/kg) that were leached and pH corrected after spiking with PbCl2. The median effect concentrations (EC50s) based on total soil Pb concentrations ranged from 35 to 5080 mg Pb/kg for earthworms and 389 to >7190 mg/kg for Collembola. Significant positive correlations were observed between log (EC50) for earthworm reproduction and log (eCEC, total C, exchangeable Ca and Mg, or clay content), but no significant correlations were observed between Pb toxicity to Collembola and soil properties. Expressing Pb dose as either the free ion (Pb2+) activity in porewater or as the measured dissolved porewater concentration of Pb did not explain differences in toxicity among soils. The bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) for Pb in earthworms ranged up to >10-fold across 6 soil treatments, with a median of 0.16, and the BAF was significantly correlated with eCEC (p = 0.038, r = –0.84), but not with any other soil properties. Soil properties related to eCEC (total C, exchangeable Ca and Mg, clay content) had a significant effect on Pb toxicity and bioaccumulation in earthworms, but no relationship was found for Collembola. As a major soil property affecting the bioavailability of Pb, CEC should be incorporated into any soil hazard assessment of Pb as a modifying factor of toxicity and bioaccumulation for earthworms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:1486–1494. © 2019 SETAC
Cystic masses of the lateral neck: Diagnostic value comparison between fine‐needle aspiration, core‐needle biopsy, and frozen section
Authors: Tabet Paul , Saydy Nadim , Letourneau‐Guillon Laurent , Gologan Olga , Bissada Éric , Ayad Tareck , Tabet Jean‐Claude , Guertin Louis , Nguyen‐Tan Phuc Félix , Christopoulos Apostolos
Published: April 2019

Background

The usefulness of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA), core‐needle biopsy (CNB), and frozen section (FS) for assessing lateral cystic neck masses (LCNM) remains unclear.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients presenting with a LCNM was undertaken.

Results

In total, 135 patients were included. FNA had a lower sensitivity then CNB (59% vs 83%; P = .036) and FS (59% vs 93%; P = .01). FS had a better negative predictive value (NPV) when compared to FNA (92% vs 40%; P < .001) and CNB (92% vs 50%; P = .062). Positive predictive values (PPV) and sensitivities were similar among all groups.

Conclusion

Given its adequate PPV (92%), FNA should be used initially on LCNM. Because of its high sensitivity, CNB should be considered if FNA is not diagnostic of malignancy. FS should always follow a CNB indicative of malignancy, because of low NPV. A diagnosis of malignancy on FNA, CNB, or FS strongly indicates presence of malignancy.
Repositioning traditional birth attendants to provide improved maternal healthcare services in rural Ghana
Authors: Haruna Umar , Kansanga Moses M. , Bagah Daniel A.
Published: April 2019

Following the World Health Organization's recommendation for developing countries to discontinue the use of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) in rural areas, the government of Ghana banned TBAs from offering maternal health care services. Since this ban, community‐level conflicts have intensified between TBAs, (who still see themselves as legitimate culturally mandated traditional midwives) and nurses. In this articles, we propose a partnership model for a sustainable resolution of these conflicts. This article emanates from the apparent ideological discontent between people from mainstream medical practice who advocate for the complete elimination of TBAs in the maternal health service space and individuals who argue for the inclusion of TBAs in the health sector given the shortage of skilled birth attendants and continued patronage of their services by rural women even in context where nurses are available. In the context of the longstanding manpower deficit in the health sector in Ghana, improving maternal healthcare in rural communities will require harnessing all locally available human resources. This cannot be achieved by “throwing out” a critical group of actors who have been involved in health‐care provision for many decades. We propose a win‐win approach that involve retraining of TBAs, partnership with health practitioners, and task shifting.
Assessment of nationwide emergency systems in Thailand, a middle‐income country setting with UHC
Authors: Suriyawongpaisal Paibul , Atiksawedparit Pongsakorn , Srithamrongsawad Samrit , Thongtan Thanita
Published: April 2019

Background

Evidence has been limited regarding broader emergency systems assessment in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The aim of the present study was to provide the empirical evidence of Thai emergency department (ED) workforce vis‐à‐vis workload on a national scale, the availability of services for selected high‐priority health burdens, and the governance obstacles in addressing the workforce management.

Method

One hundred thirty public Thai EDs that provide 24‐hour emergency medical care were identified across Thailand as meeting the inclusion criteria. The mailed questionnaires were administered to collect data related to the objectives of the research study.

Result

Responses were received from 91 of 130 (70%) hospitals. The median number of patients visiting hospital EDs was 51 221 per year with 32.8% considered nonurgent (ESI levels 4‐5). University hospital EDs were staffed with a higher number of ER professionals than EDs of service‐based secondary care and tertiary care hospitals under Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). Almost all hospitals expressed concerns about the deficiency of doctors and nurses especially emergency physician (EP) and emergency nurses. The percentage of hospitals reporting the availability of coronary artery catheterization (34%) and thrombolytic infusion for acute thrombotic stroke (24%) was limited. The governance obstacles to manage emergency systems were considered.

Conclusion

ED staffing seems to positively correlate with workloads except university hospitals, in our study, which may suggest the influence of teaching status on the allocation of the human resource. Among the governance obstacles in ED management, a better response to nonurgent patients requires flexibility for hospitals to set financial disincentives or mobilization and management of human resources.