bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ПРОЈЕКТНА НАСТАВА У ОСНОВНОЈ ШКОЛИ
Authors: Алексић Драгана
Published: February 2020

Аутор презентује резултате проучавања и истраживања пројектне наставе у основној школи. Раније примарно образовање се већином сводило на традиционалне моделе рада са ученицима. Пажња се поклања просјечном ученику, а остали ученици су били запостављени у раду. Ученици нису били у могућности да показују своје стваралачко и критичко мишљење, те су на тај начин били спријечени да учествују у наставном процесу. Употребом пројектне наставе, централно мјесто у наставном процесу заузима ученик. а самим тиме он постаје градитељ и креатор нових знања и учења. Наставникова улога се мијења, постаје руководилац, координатор и водитељ, а ученик независни истраживач. Употребом пројектне наставе превазилазе се досадашње потешкоће напредовања и усавршавања наставе, а и саме позиције ученика. Савремена настава захтијева измијењену улогу како наставника, тако и ученика, гдје пројектна настава представља добар пут ка тој измијени, а све у циљу боље, кавлитетније и ефикасније наставе.
Synthetic and genomic regulatory elements reveal aspects of cis-regulatory grammar in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: King Dana M , Hong Clarice Kit Yee , Shepherdson James L , Granas David M , Maricque Brett B , Cohen Barak A
Published: February 2020

In embryonic stem cells (ESCs), a core transcription factor (TF) network establishes the gene expression program necessary for pluripotency. To address how interactions between four key TFs contribute to cis-regulation in mouse ESCs, we assayed two massively parallel reporter assay (MPRA) libraries composed of binding sites for SOX2, POU5F1 (OCT4), KLF4, and ESRRB. Comparisons between synthetic cis-regulatory elements and genomic sequences with comparable binding site configurations revealed some aspects of a regulatory grammar. The expression of synthetic elements is influenced by both the number and arrangement of binding sites. This grammar plays only a small role for genomic sequences, as the relative activities of genomic sequences are best explained by the predicted occupancy of binding sites, regardless of binding site identity and positioning. Our results suggest that the effects of transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) are influenced by the order and orientation of sites, but that in the genome the overall occupancy of TFs is the primary determinant of activity.
Casein kinase 1 dynamics underlie substrate selectivity and the PER2 circadian phosphoswitch
Authors: Philpott Jonathan M , Narasimamurthy Rajesh , Ricci Clarisse G , Freeberg Alfred M , Hunt Sabrina R , Yee Lauren E , Pelofsky Rebecca S , Tripathi Sarvind , Virshup David M , Partch Carrie L
Published: February 2020

Post-translational control of PERIOD stability by Casein Kinase 1δ and ε (CK1) plays a key regulatory role in metazoan circadian rhythms. Despite the deep evolutionary conservation of CK1 in eukaryotes, little is known about its regulation and the factors that influence substrate selectivity on functionally antagonistic sites in PERIOD that directly control circadian period. Here we describe a molecular switch involving a highly conserved anion binding site in CK1. This switch controls conformation of the kinase activation loop and determines which sites on mammalian PER2 are preferentially phosphorylated, thereby directly regulating PER2 stability. Integrated experimental and computational studies shed light on the allosteric linkage between two anion binding sites that dynamically regulate kinase activity. We show that period-altering kinase mutations from humans to Drosophila differentially modulate this activation loop switch to elicit predictable changes in PER2 stability, providing a foundation to understand and further manipulate CK1 regulation of circadian rhythms.
Imaging plant germline differentiation within Arabidopsis flowers by light sheet microscopy
Authors: Valuchova Sona , Mikulkova Pavlina , Pecinkova Jana , Klimova Jana , Krumnikl Michal , Bainar Petr , Heckmann Stefan , Tomancak Pavel , Riha Karel
Published: February 2020

In higher plants, germline differentiation occurs during a relatively short period within developing flowers. Understanding of the mechanisms that govern germline differentiation lags behind other plant developmental processes. This is largely because the germline is restricted to relatively few cells buried deep within floral tissues, which makes them difficult to study. To overcome this limitation, we have developed a methodology for live imaging of the germ cell lineage within floral organs of Arabidopsis using light sheet fluorescence microscopy. We have established reporter lines, cultivation conditions, and imaging protocols for high-resolution microscopy of developing flowers continuously for up to several days. We used multiview imagining to reconstruct a three-dimensional model of a flower at subcellular resolution. We demonstrate the power of this approach by capturing male and female meiosis, asymmetric pollen division, movement of meiotic chromosomes, and unusual restitution mitosis in tapetum cells. This method will enable new avenues of research into plant sexual reproduction.
A gut bacterial amyloid promotes α-synuclein aggregation and motor impairment in mice
Authors: Sampson Timothy R , Challis Collin , Jain Neha , Moiseyenko Anastasiya , Ladinsky Mark S , Shastri Gauri G , Thron Taren , Needham Brittany D , Horvath Istvan , Debelius Justine W , Janssen Stefan , Knight Rob , Wittung-Stafshede Pernilla , Gradinaru Viviana , Chapman Matthew , Mazmanian Sarkis K
Published: February 2020

Amyloids are a class of protein with unique self-aggregation properties, and their aberrant accumulation can lead to cellular dysfunctions associated with neurodegenerative diseases. While genetic and environmental factors can influence amyloid formation, molecular triggers and/or facilitators are not well defined. Growing evidence suggests that non-identical amyloid proteins may accelerate reciprocal amyloid aggregation in a prion-like fashion. While humans encode ~30 amyloidogenic proteins, the gut microbiome also produces functional amyloids. For example, curli are cell surface amyloid proteins abundantly expressed by certain gut bacteria. In mice overexpressing the human amyloid α-synuclein (αSyn), we reveal that colonization with curli-producing Escherichia coli promotes αSyn pathology in the gut and the brain. Curli expression is required for E. coli to exacerbate αSyn-induced behavioral deficits, including intestinal and motor impairments. Purified curli subunits accelerate αSyn aggregation in biochemical assays, while oral treatment of mice with a gut-restricted amyloid inhibitor prevents curli-mediated acceleration of pathology and behavioral abnormalities. We propose that exposure to microbial amyloids in the gastrointestinal tract can accelerate αSyn aggregation and disease in the gut and the brain.
Patterns of biodiversity response along a gradient of forest use in Eastern Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: Milheiras Sérgio G. , Guedes Marcelino , Augusto Barbosa Silva Fernando , Aparício Perseu , Mace Georgina M.
Published: February 2020

The preservation of tropical forests is increasingly at risk, including forests located within human-modified landscapes that retain high conservation value. People modify and interact with these landscapes through a wide range of uses. However, our knowledge of how different forest uses affect biodiversity is limited. Here, we analyse the responses of different taxa to four distinct categories of forest management, namely old-growth forest, Brazil nut extraction areas, reduced impact logging areas, and eucalyptus plantations. Within six independent replicates of each category, we sampled three taxa (fruit-feeding butterflies, dung beetles, and trees) in eastern Amazonia. Forests under moderate use (Brazil nut extraction and reduced-impact logging) had similar, albeit slightly lower, diversity levels relative to old-growth forests, while communities in plantations were significantly less diverse. Only 4%, 20%, and 17%, of the sampled butterfly, dung beetle, and tree species, respectively, were restricted to old-growth forests. This study provides further empirical evidence of the importance of old-growth forest conservation in the context of human-modified landscapes. It also suggests that landscape matrices integrating forest uses at varying intensities are well positioned to reconcile biodiversity conservation with the production of goods that support local livelihoods.
Development and validation of a predictive model for end-stage renal disease risk in patients with diabetic nephropathy confirmed by renal biopsy
Authors: Sun Lulu , Shang Jin , Xiao Jing , Zhao Zhanzheng
Published: February 2020

This study was performed to develop and validate a predictive model for the risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) inpatients with diabetic nephropathy (DN) confirmed by renal biopsy. We conducted a retrospective study with 968 patients with T2DM who underwentrenal biopsy for the pathological confirmation of DNat the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from February 2012 to January 2015; the patients were followed until December 2018. The outcome was defined as a fatal or nonfatal ESRD event (peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis for ESRD, renal transplantation, or death due to chronic renal failure or ESRD). The dataset was randomly split into development (75%) and validation (25%) cohorts. We used stepwise multivariablelogistic regression to identify baseline predictors for model development. The model’s performance in the two cohorts, including discrimination and calibration, was evaluated by the C-statistic and the P value of the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. During the 3-year follow-up period, there were 225 outcome events (47.1%) during follow-up. Outcomes occurred in 187 patients (52.2%) in the derivation cohort and 38 patients (31.7%) in the validation cohort. The variables selected in the final multivariable logistic regression after backward selection were pathological grade, Log Urinary Albumin-to-creatinine ratio (Log ACR), cystatin C, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP). 4 prediction models were created in a derivation cohort of 478 patients: a clinical model that included cystatin C, eGFR, BNP, Log ACR; a clinical-pathological model and a clinical-medication model, respectively, also contained pathological grade and renin-angiotensin system blocker (RASB) use; and a full model that also contained the pathological grade, RASB use and age. Compared with the clinical model, the clinical-pathological model and the full model had better C statistics (0.865 and 0.866, respectively, vs. 0.864) in the derivation cohort and better C statistics (0.876 and 0.875, respectively, vs. 0.870) in the validation cohort. Among the four models, the clinical-pathological model had the lowest AIC of 332.53 and the best P value of 0.909 of the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. We constructed a nomogram which was a simple calculator to predict the risk ratio of progression to ESRD for patients with DN within 3 years. The clinical-pathological model using routinely available clinical measurements was shown to be accurate and validated method for predicting disease progression in patients with DN. The risk model can be used in clinical practice to improve the quality of risk management and early intervention.
Short-term effects of thinning on the development and communities of understory vegetation of Chinese fir plantations in Southeastern China
Authors: Xu Xuelei , Wang Xinjie , Hu Yang , Wang Ping , Saeed Sajjad , Sun Yujun
Published: February 2020

Background

High-density conditions are global issues that threaten the sustainable management of plantations throughout the world. Monocultures and untimely management practices have identically resulted in the simplex of community structures, decreases in biodiversity, and long-term productivity losses in plantations China. The most popular measure which is commonly used to address these issues is thinning, which potentially results in increases in the development of understory plants in plantations. However, there is limited information currently available regarding the community composition of understory vegetation and the associated environmental factors, which has limited the sustainable management of China’s fir plantation ecosystems.

Method

In the present study, a thinning experiment was implemented which included a control check (CK: no thinning), as well as low intensity thinning (LIT: 20%), moderate intensity thinning (MIT: 33%), and high intensity thinning (HIT: 50%) in Chinese fir plantations located in the Southeastern China. During the investigation process, the understory vegetation examined three years after thinning measures were completed, in order to analyze the impacts of different thinning intensities on the growth and community composition of the understory plants. At the same time, the associated environmental factors in the fir plantations were also investigated.

Results

The species richness, total coverage, and biomass of the understory vegetation were observed to be apparently increased with increasing thinning intensity. In addition, it was found that the thinning measures had prominently influenced the soil nutrients. The community compositions of the understory vegetation were significantly different among the four thinning intensity levels, especially between the CK and the HIT. Furthermore, the development of the understory vegetation was found to be significantly correlated with the soil nutrient contents, and the community compositions of the understory vegetation were prominently driven by the tree densities, slope positions, and soil nutrient contents.
Assessment of the Disparities in the Applications to Higher Education in Nigeria: A Coefficient of Variation Approach
Authors: P. Obite C. , C. Bartholomew D. , U. Ugwuanyim G. , P. Olewuezi N.
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we used the univariate coefficient of variation to estimate the disparities in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) applicants in all the States for both male and female from 2010 to 2018 and the multivariate coefficient of variation to estimate the disparities in the JAMB applicants for the different geopolitical zones for both male and female from 2010 to 2018. For the States, Zamfara State recorded the highest variation for both male and female while Adamawa and Osun States recorded the least variation for male and Edo State, the least for female. For the geopolitical zones, South West had the least variation for male and South-South, the least for the female while the North East had the highest variation for both male and female. The study shows that the Northern States and Zones had a high disparity rate in the study period.
A Fluorescence Probe for Metal Ions Based on Black Phosphorus Quantum Dots
Authors: Xu Zhenyu , Hu Liang , Yuan Jun , Zhang Yiyue , Guo Yujie , Jin Zhengyuan , Long Fangchao , Long Yaojia , Liang Huawei , Ruan Shuangchen , Zeng Yu‐Jia
Published: February 2020

Fluorescence method for detecting metal ions has advantages of fast detection speed, simple operation, and low price over the conventional methods. Black phosphorus quantum dots (BP QDs) have high photoluminescence quantum yield and modifiable surface, which have great potential in the field of fluorescent probes. In this study, high quality BP QDs are prepared by pyrolysis method and are first time used as trace metal ion probes in both organic solutions and aqueous solutions. The detection limits of Hg2+ and Cu2+ in the aqueous solution are 5.3 × 10−9 m and 1.6 × 10−6 m, respectively. In addition, the detection limits of Cu2+ in the organic solution are 16 × 10−6 m. The fluorescence quenching mechanism based on the calculation of the electronic structure and adsorption energy of BP QDs after adsorption of metal ions is further explained. The results provide a new promising fluorescence probe for trace metal ions without the help of organic molecules.
Cell Membrane Nanotherapeutics: From Synthesis to Applications Emerging Tools for Personalized Cancer Therapy
Authors: Sevencan Cansu , McCoy Reece Sean Ashley , Ravisankar Priyaharshini , Liu Meng , Govindarajan Suresh , Zhu Jingyi , Bay Boon Huat , Leong David Tai
Published: February 2020

Over the last decade, researchers have focused on developing an ideal cancer nanomedicine with robust biointerfacing, precise tumor targeting, and effective tumor killing ability. While synthetic approaches have been widely investigated, cell membrane nanotechnology has been attracting growing interest in the nanomedicine field since it enables researchers to exploit the various functions of cells. Prior to development of cell membrane nanotechnology, synthetic cell membrane‐like structures had been employed in nanomedicine. In this review, first a brief comparison between cell membrane and cell membrane‐like structures is provided and the generalized structure and functions of cell membrane are summarized. Cell membrane extraction methods and cell membrane‐based nanoparticle synthesis methods are explained. In addition, applications of these nanotechnologies in many biomedical applications are reviewed. Finally, a perspective of the future prospects and limitations of cell membrane nanotechnology is given. As with many new technologies, there are issues, which when overcome, can allow the potential of cell membrane nanotechnology for future personalized cancer nanomedicine.
Artificial Intelligence to Power the Future of Materials Science and Engineering
Authors: Sha Wuxin , Guo Yaqing , Yuan Qing , Tang Shun , Zhang Xinfang , Lu Songfeng , Guo Xin , Cao Yuan-Cheng , Cheng Shijie
Published: February 2020

Artificial intelligence (AI) has received widespread attention over the last few decades due to its potential to increase automation and accelerate productivity. In recent years, a large number of training data, improved computing power, and advanced deep learning algorithms are conducive to the wide application of AI, including material research. The traditional trial‐and‐error method is inefficient and time‐consuming to study materials. Therefore, AI, especially machine learning, can accelerate the process by learning rules from datasets and building models to predict. This is completely different from computational chemistry where a computer is only a calculator, using hard‐coded formulas provided by human experts. Herein, the application of AI in material innovation is reviewed, including material design, performance prediction, and synthesis. The realization details of AI techniques and advantages over conventional methods are emphasized in these applications. Finally, the future development direction of AI is expounded from both algorithm and infrastructure aspects.
Exchange Rate Effects on Agricultural Exports: Transaction‐Level Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Ali Salamat
Published: February 2020

This article examines the effects of domestic currency depreciation on agricultural exports from Pakistan including the responses of price and quantity margins. It uses highly disaggregated firm‐level data that contains the exchange rates of the actual currencies of invoicing at the transaction level. The study finds that the currency depreciation positively affects both intensive and extensive margins. The intensive margin increase in agricultural exports operates mainly through prices, whereas the response of quantities is relatively smaller. Moreover, depreciation improves the extensive margins of firms and products and expands the client base in existing markets. These responses vary widely across firms' exporting experience, trade orientation, sectoral and spatial distribution, exchange rate regimes, and invoicing currencies.
Risk factors for earlier dementia onset in autopsy‐confirmed Alzheimer's disease, mixed Alzheimer's with Lewy bodies, and pure Lewy body disease
Authors: Schaffert Jeff , LoBue Christian , White Charles L. , Wilmoth Kristin , Didehbani Nyaz , Lacritz Laura , Nguyen Trung , Peters Matthew E. , Fields Lindy , Li Chengxi , Cullum C. Munro
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Clinical Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies often have mixed AD and Lewy pathology, making it difficult to delineate risk factors.

Methods

Six risk factors for earlier dementia onset due to autopsy‐confirmed AD (n = 647), mixed AD and Lewy body disease (AD + LBD; n = 221), and LBD (n = 63) were entered into multiple linear regressions using data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center.

Results

In AD and AD + LBD, male sex and apolipoprotein E (APOE) ɛ4 alleles each predicted a 2‐ to 3‐year‐earlier onset and depression predicted a 3‐year‐earlier onset. In LBD, higher education predicted earlier onset and depression predicted a 5.5‐year‐earlier onset.

Discussion

Male sex and APOE ɛ4 alleles increase risk for earlier dementia onset in AD but not LBD. Depression increases risk for earlier dementia onset in AD, LBD, and AD + LBD, but evaluating the course, treatment, and severity is needed in future studies.
Synthese von Carbazolen und Verwandten Heterocyclen aus Sulfiliminen durch Intramolekulare C‐H‐Aminierungen
Authors: Tian Xianhai , Song Lina , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: February 2020

Während sich direkte Nitren‐Insertionen in C‐H‐Bindungen zu einem wichtigen Werkzeug für die C‐N‐Bindungsknüpfung in der modernen organischen Chemie entwickelt haben, erfordert die Generierung von Nitren‐Zwischenstufen meist Übergangsmetall‐Katalysatoren, hohe Temperaturen, UV‐ oder Laserlicht. Wir berichten über eine milde Synthese von Carbazolen und verwandte Bausteine durch eine von sichtbarem Licht induzierte intramolekulare C‐H‐Aminierungs‐Reaktion. Ein wichtiger Vorteil dieser neuen Methode ist die Nutzung der reaktiveren Arylsulfilimine anstelle der korrespondierenden gefährlichen Azide. Verschiedene Katalysatoren und verschiedenste Lichtquellen wurden getestet. Die Reaktion kann breit angewendet werden und die Produktausbeuten sind generell hoch. Eine effiziente Synthese von Clausin C im Gramm‐Maßstab demonstriert die Anwendbarkeit und Skalierbarkeit dieser neuen Methode.
Effect of flue gas components on Hg0 oxidation and adsorption by modified walnut shell coke in O2/CO2 atmosphere
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Duan Yufeng , Wang Hui , Ren Shaojun , Wei Hongqi
Published: February 2020

Walnut shell was pyrolyzed and then impregnated with NH4Br to make sorbent for Hg0 removal. The effect of flue gas components on Hg0 removal performance was studied in O2/CO2 atmosphere, and the results were compared with those in O2/N2 atmosphere. The mercury valence distribution during adsorption was obtained. NH4Br‐modified walnut shell coke promoted Hg0 removal, the Br‐containing chemisorption site was a crucial factor. Although addition of CO2 did not introduce new oxygen‐containing functional groups or change the mercury species, Hg0 removal efficiency increased significantly. This may be because CO2 can increase the active sites on the carbon surface. In O2/N2 atmosphere, O2 promoted formation of active center on the sorbent surface, which made Hg0 more easily adsorbed and then reacted with Br‐functional group to form more HgBr2. In O2/CO2 atmosphere, O2 promoted formation of some reactive carbon–oxygen complexes which acted as catalyst to facilitate Hg0 oxidation and formation of HgO. NO improved removal of Hg0, because the C─O functional group on the sorbent surface could catalyze the conversion of NO to NO2 in the adsorbed state and then formed Hg2(NO3)2. SO2 consumed oxygen on the sorbent surface and inhibited the Hg0 removal.
Quantitative determination of rifampicin in aquatic products by stable isotope‐dilution high liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Qin , Cao Jingyuan , Han Gang , Liu Huan , Yan Jie , Wu Lidong , Li Jincheng
Published: February 2020

Rifampicin is a semi‐synthetic broad‐spectrum antibiotic obtained from rifamycin B. It is one of the most effective first‐line antituberculosis drugs and is widely used in clinical practice. In the present study, we describe a rapid and sensitive method for the determination of rifampin in aquatic products by stable isotope‐dilution high liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS). Samples were extracted with the acetonitrile, degreased by hexane, and then concentrated by nitrogen blowing. After separation using a C18 column with a mixture of acetonitrile and water as mobile phase, it was determined by HPLC–MS/MS using the stable isotope‐dilution calibration method. The performance of our method was validated. The limit of detection was 0.25 μg kg−1 and the limit of quantification was 0.5 μg kg−1. At the three spiked levels of 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 μg kg−1, the average recoveries of rifampicin in different aquatic products were between 75.28 and 107.6%, and the relative standard deviation ranged from 0.81 to 13.23%. This method was successfully applied for the determination of rifampin in different kinds of aquatic products and rifampicin residue was found in aquatic products obtained from markets in Beijing, China.
Recombinant Peptide Fusion Protein‐Templated Palladium Nanoparticles for Suzuki‐Miyaura and Stille Coupling Reactions
Authors: Mosleh Imann , Shahsavari Hamid R. , Beitle Robert , Beyzavi M. Hassan
Published: February 2020

This study examined the use of nanoparticles created with recombinant 45‐amino acid long peptides fused to green fluorescent protein (GFPuv) to catalyze twelve representative Suzuki‐Miyaura and Stille coupling reactions. A method was developed to prepare powders (Pd@GFP) containing protein and synthesized nanoparticles. Next, coupling reactions were performed in a green solvent without nanoparticle purification. Pd@GFP had high turnover frequencies for the synthesis of model compounds including lapatinib (Tykerb®) and could be recycled. This study establishes a potentially cost‐effective approach to prepare heterogeneous catalysts containing well‐defined nanoparticles enabling key C−C bond formation leading to synthetically and pharmaceutically interesting compounds.
Asymmetric Michael Reaction of Aldehydes and α‐Cyano α,β‐Unsaturated Esters Catalyzed by Diphenylprolinol Silyl Ether; a Facile Asymmetric Route to 3,4,5‐Trisubstituted Piperidines
Authors: Hayashi Yujiro , Odoh Amaechi Shedrack , Kranidiotis‐Hisatomi Nektarios
Published: February 2020

A highly enantioselective diphenylprolinol silyl ether‐mediated asymmetric Michael reaction of a variety of aldehydes and β‐substituted α‐cyano α,β‐unsaturated esters was developed. The organocatalytic conjugate addition provided synthetically useful chiral adducts possessing three consecutive stereocenters and suitably oriented functional handles that were readily transformed via a sequence of reductive‐cyclization and subsequent epimerization to furnish single isomers of 3,4,5‐trisubstituted piperidines with high levels of yield and excellent enantiopurity.
Combining Cost‐Efficient Cellulose and Short‐Chain Carboxylic Acid Production: The Polyoxometalate (POM)‐Ionosolv Concept
Authors: Bukowski Anna , Esau Daniel , Rafat Said Aida Abouelela , Brandt‐Talbot Agnieszka , Albert Jakob
Published: February 2020

Full cost‐effective exploitation of all wood components is key to growing a commercially successful biorefining industry. An innovative process is reported that combines fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass using a low‐cost ionic liquid (Ionosolv) and production of bio‐derived formic acid using polyoxometalates and molecular oxygen (OxFA process). We show that the hemicellulose and part of the lignin were selectively dissolved into the ionic liquid triethylammonium hydrogen sulfate and oxidised in situ to short‐chain, distillable carboxylic acids by a Keggin‐type polyoxometalate with high yields and selectivities. Characterization by several techniques, including ICP‐OES, FTIR, GC, HPLC and NMR spectroscopy confirmed stability of the catalyst over three consecutive POM‐Ionosolv recycles and stable formic acid yields.High formic acid yields of 26 % (pine chips), 23 % (beech chips), and 18 % (Miscanthus) were obtained with respect to the initial carbon content of the biomass, with unprecedented oxidation selectivities for formic acid of 54–62 % depending on vanadium substitution in the polyoxometalate, the processing temperature and the water content in the reaction mixture.. We also demonstrate that the cellulose rich pulp is a suitable source of glucose via enzymatic saccharification. We report cellulose yields of 37% for Miscanthus (from originally 48% glucan content), 33% for pine (from originally 49%) and 31% for beech (from originally 41%) were achieved, and a saccharification yield of up to 25% without optimisation. With further optimisation, this concept has the potential to generate two chemical products directly from lignocellulose in high yields and selectivities and hence a novel avenue for full utilisation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin.
Organic Cathode Materials for Rechargeable Zinc Batteries: Mechanisms, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Cui Jin , Guo Zhaowei , Yi Jin , Liu Xiaoyu , Wu Kai , Liang Pengcheng , Li Qian , Liu Yuyu , Wang Yonggang , Xia Yongyao , Zhang Jiujun
Published: February 2020

Energy and environmental issues have given rise to the development of advanced energy‐storage devices worldwide. Electrochemical energy technologies, such as rechargeable batteries, are considered to be the most reliable and efficient candidates. Compared with other batteries, zinc‐based batteries seem promising due to their advantages, including inherent safety, cost‐effectiveness, and environmentally friendliness. As potential alternatives to conventional inorganic cathodes, organic cathodes for Zn–organic batteries have become a hot topic for research, owing to their favorable characteristics, such as easy structure design, controllable synthesis, and environmental benignancy. Herein, a systematic overview on the fundamentals of organic cathode materials for zinc batteries, including material design, electrochemical mechanisms, technical advances, and challenging analysis, is provided. Furthermore, perspectives and corresponding research directions are offered to facilitate the future development of organic cathode materials for zinc batteries toward practical applications.
Oxygen Reduction Reaction on Au Revisited at Different pH Values using in situ Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Yu Hai‐Yang , Li Xiao‐Feng , Zhang Tian‐Heng , Liu Jiao , Tian Jing‐Hua , Yang Ruizhi
Published: February 2020

The mechanisms of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on Au surfaces are revisited in electrolytes with different pH values by using a combination of electrochemical and in situ surface‐enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy. Surprisingly, the in situ Raman signal of the O−O stretching vibration was detected during the ORR on a Au surface by using a λ=785 nm laser. Both the intermediate products O2− and H2O2 could be detected, which indicates the difficulty of the further reduction H2O2 and results in a lower electron transfer number, especially in neutral and acid electrolytes. The weak absorption ability of HO2 on the Au surface may explain the poor ORR in neutral and acid electrolytes. This work not only provides a deep insight to understand the reduction mechanisms of O2 on Au in electrolytes with different pH values but also supplies a new idea for the selection and optimization of electrolytes and efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction.
Advances in Porous Perovskites: Synthesis and Electrocatalytic Performance in Fuel Cells and Metal–Air Batteries
Authors: Yu Jie , Ran Ran , Zhong Yijun , Zhou Wei , Ni Meng , Shao Zongping
Published: February 2020

With a rising energy demand and anabatic environmental crisis arising from the fast growth in human population and society economics, numerous efforts have been devoted to explore and design plentiful multifunctional materials for meeting high‐efficiency energy transfer processes, which happen in various developed energy conversion and storage systems. As a special kind of multi‐metal oxides, perovskite with attractive physical and chemical properties, is becoming a rapidly rising star on the horizon of high‐performance catalytic materials with substantial research behaviors worldwide. The porous nanostructure in targeted catalysts is favorable to the catalytic activity and thus improves the overall efficiency of these energy‐related installations. In this review paper, recent advances made in the porous perovskite nanostructures for catalyzing several anodic or cathodic reactions in fuel cells and metal–air batteries are comprehensively summarized. Plenty of general preparation methods employed to attain porous perovskite‐type oxides are provided, followed by a further discussion about the influence of various strategies on structures and catalytic properties of the porous perovskites. Furthermore, deep insights gathered in the future development of porous perovskite‐based materials for energy conversion and storage technologies are also provided.
Neprilysin inhibition, endorphin dynamics, and early symptomatic improvement in heart failure: a pilot study
Authors: Revuelta‐López Elena , Núñez Julio , Gastelurrutia Paloma , Cediel Germán , Januzzi James L. , Ibrahim Nasrien E. , Emdin Michele , VanKimmenade Roland , Pascual‐Figal Domingo , Núñez Eduardo , Gommans Frank , Lupón Josep , Bayés‐Genís Antoni
Published: February 2020

Aim

Sacubitril/valsartan is a first‐in‐class angiotensin receptor‐neprilysin inhibitor developed for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Its benefits are achieved through the inhibition of neprilysin (NEP) and the specific blockade of the angiotensin receptor AT1. The many peptides metabolized by NEP suggest multifaceted potential consequences of its inhibition. We sought to evaluate the short‐term changes in serum endorphin (EP) values and their relation with patients' physical functioning after initiation of sacubitril/valsartan treatment.

Methods and results

A total of 105 patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, who were candidates for sacubitril/valsartan treatment, were included in this prospective, observational, multicentre, and international study. In a first visit, and in agreement with current guidelines, treatment with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blocker was replaced by sacubitril/valsartan because of clinical indication by the responsible physician. By protocol, patients were reevaluated at 30 days after the start of sacubitril/valsartan. Serum levels of α‐ (α‐EP), γ‐Endorphin (γ‐EP), and soluble NEP (sNEP) were measured using enzyme‐linked immunoassays. New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class was used as an indicator of patient's functional status. Baseline median levels of circulating α‐EP, γ‐EP, and sNEP were 582 (160–772), 101 (37–287), and 222 pg/mL (124–820), respectively. There was not a significant increase in α‐EP nor γ‐EP serum values after sacubitril/valsartan treatment (P value = 0.194 and 0.102, respectively). There were no significant differences in sNEP values between 30 days and baseline (P value = 0.103). Medians (IQR) of Δα‐EP, Δγ‐EP, and ΔsNEP between 30 days and baseline were 9.3 (−34 − 44), −3.0 (−46.0 − 18.9), and 0 units (−16.4 − 157.0), respectively. In a pre–post sacubitril/valsartan treatment comparison, there was a significant improvement in NYHA class, with 36 (34.3%) patients experiencing improvement by at least one NYHA class category. Δα‐EP and ΔsNEP showed to be significantly associated with NYHA class after 30 days of treatment (P = 0.014 and P < 0.001, respectively). Δα‐EP was linear and significantly associated with NYHA class improvement after 30 days of sacubitril/valsartan treatment.

Conclusions

These preliminary data suggest that beyond the haemodynamic benefits achieved with sacubitril/valsartan, the altered cleavage of endorphin peptides by NEP inhibition may participate in patients' symptoms improvement.
Early cardiac unloading with ImpellaCP™ in acute myocardial infarction with ventricular septal defect
Authors: Via Gabriele , Buson Stefania , Tavazzi Guido , Halasz Geza , Quagliana Angelo , Moccetti Marco , Demertzis Stefanos , Cassina Tiziano
Published: February 2020

Despite a relative contraindication, mechanical support with Impella™ left ventricular assist device has already been described for ischaemic ventricular septal defect treatment, either as a bridge to surgery, as intraoperative mechanical haemodynamic support, or to ensure intraprocedural haemodynamic stability during device closure. We describe two cases of ventricular septal defect complicating acute myocardial infarction, where the percutaneous ImpellaCP was implanted early (differently than previously described) with the aim of preventing haemodynamic instability, while deferring surgical repair. We present a report of haemodynamic, echocardiographic, biochemical, and clinical data of two consecutive cases of ImpellaCP use, within a minimally invasive monitoring and therapeutic approach. In two cases of subacute myocardial infarction‐related ventricular septal defect not amenable to percutaneous device closure, the use ImpellaCP was successful: it was followed by effective and rapid right and left ventricular unloading, by major haemodynamic instability prevention and protection from systemic venous congestion, from kidney and splanchnic organ failures. This allowed bridging to appropriately timed surgical repair. These cases suggest a potentially effective, clinically grounded strategy in the early management of ischaemic ventricular septal defect patients, with the aim of deferring surgery beyond the safer 7 days cutoff associated with a lower perioperative mortality.
Policy knowledge among ‘elite citizens’
Authors: Jensen Carsten , Zohlnhöfer Reimut
Published: February 2020

We have a very limited understanding of citizens’ knowledge about their social rights. It is well‐established that people on average know little about politics and research also suggests that many harbor substantial misperceptions about the outcomes of benefit systems in terms of the amount of fraud, trends in claims, and overall costs. Yet, we lack solid insights into people's knowledge about the design of social rights (what we label ‘policy knowledge’ for short). It is precisely this knowledge on the design of social policies, however, which is of prime importance for scholars of social policy because this is what governments actually change when reforming the welfare state. Employing survey evidence from Denmark and Germany, we try to address this lacuna. We find a mixed picture in the sense that policy knowledge in a few specific issues is high, but typically, when the issue has been salient in the public. Overall, policy knowledge is low.
The use of environmental tracers to characterize a leaky CO2 CCS natural analogue site, Soda Springs, Idaho, USA
Authors: McLing Travis L. , Neupane Ghanashyam , Armstrong L. Trent , Smith Robert W.
Published: February 2020

Large‐scale global adoption of carbon capture and storage (CCS) as a means of minimizing atmospheric CO2 emissions requires an unprecedented effort to store gigatons of anthropogenic emissions in the earth's subsurface. Critical to the adoption and ultimate success of CCS is the protection of valuable water resources that may be impacted by leaking CO2 from CCS operations. Therefore, appropriate technical tools and societal controls will need to be developed and evaluated to maximize the atmospheric benefits of CCS while limiting potential deleterious effects of its implementation. Here, we utilize a naturally leaking CO2 system located at Soda Springs, Idaho, USA, as an analogue for industrial‐scale CCS deployment. This site is particularly relevant and useful for studying the consequences of CCS because it allows the examination of geologic systems at temporal and spatial scales not accessible by laboratory and field experiments.

The Soda Springs system is an ideal CCS natural analogue site with the source of CO2 occurring at depths and temperatures expected for large‐scale CCS systems. Soda Springs also provides long‐term examples of at least three potential failure modes for CCS systems, including direct migration of CO2 charged brine to the surface via faulting or wells, upward movement of CO2 from the injection‐horizon into over lying shallow aquifers, and the displacement of reservoir brine into shallower aquifers. These failure mechanisms were differentiated and characterized utilizing variations in water chemistry including rare earth elements providing a framework for delineating the movement of CO2‐influenced fluids migrating from deep CCS reservoirs into overlying aquifers. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validation of the AMBIANCE‐brief: An observational screening instrument for disrupted caregiving
Authors: Cooke Jessica E. , Eirich Rachel , Racine Nicole , Lyons‐Ruth Karlen , Madigan Sheri
Published: February 2020

Resulting from a community‐identified need for a well‐validated indicator of caregiving difficulties for use in practice settings, a brief form of the Atypical Maternal Behavior Instrument for Assessment and Classification System (AMBIANCE) was developed for use as a screening instrument. Prior to its dissemination, this study aimed to assess the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the AMBIANCE‐Brief. Adolescent mother–infant dyads (N = 69) participated in the Strange Situation Procedure, as well as play sessions with and without toys. Maternal disrupted caregiving was coded from the play sessions using the AMBIANCE and AMBIANCE‐Brief. The AMBIANCE‐Brief demonstrated convergent validity with the AMBIANCE in the play session with toys (r = .65, p < .001) and without toys (r = .61, p < .001). Concurrent validity of the AMBIANCE‐Brief was also demonstrated in relation to infant attachment disorganization in the play session with toys (r = .36, p < .05) and without toys (r = .32, p < .01). These findings suggest a shorter protocol for assessing disrupted caregiving may be feasible and valid for use in community settings. Future studies are in progress to train community practitioners in the use of the AMBIANCE‐Brief and to evaluate their reliability.
Prediction regions for interval‐valued time series
Authors: Gonzalez‐Rivera Gloria , Luo Yun , Ruiz Esther
Published: February 2020

We approximate probabilistic forecasts for interval‐valued time series by offering alternative approaches. After fitting a possibly non‐Gaussian bivariate vector autoregression (VAR) model to the center/log‐range system, we transform prediction regions (analytical and bootstrap) for this system into regions for center/range and upper/lower bounds systems. Monte Carlo simulations show that bootstrap methods are preferred according to several new metrics. For daily S&P 500 low/high returns, we build joint conditional prediction regions of the return level and volatility. We illustrate the usefulness of obtaining bootstrap forecasts regions for low/high returns by developing a trading strategy and showing its profitability when compared to using point forecasts.
Order‐invariant tests for proper calibration of multivariate density forecasts
Authors: Dovern Jonas , Manner Hans
Published: February 2020

Established tests for proper calibration of multivariate density forecasts based on Rosenblatt probability integral transforms can be manipulated by changing the order of variables in the forecasting model. We derive order‐invariant tests. The new tests are applicable to densities of arbitrary dimensions and can deal with parameter estimation uncertainty and dynamic misspecification. Monte Carlo simulations show that they often have superior power relative to established approaches. We use the tests to evaluate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity‐based multivariate density forecasts for a vector of stock market returns and macroeconomic forecasts from a Bayesian vector autoregression with time‐varying parameters.
Deleterious cardiovascular effect of exosome in digitalis‐treated decompensated congestive heart failure
Authors: Fu Jin‐Ling , Yu Qiong , Li Meng‐Di , Hu Chun‐Mei , Shi Guang
Published: February 2020

Heart failure (HF) is a medical condition inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood to meet the metabolic demand of the body to take place. The number of hospitalized patients with cardiovascular diseases is estimated to be more than 1 million each year, of which 80% to 90% of patients ultimately progress to decompensated HF. Digitalis glycosides exert modest inotropic actions when administered to patients with decompensated HF. Although its efficacy in patients with HF and atrial fibrillation is clear, its value in patients with HF and sinus rhythm has often been questioned. A series of recent studies have cast serious doubt on the benefit of digoxin when added to contemporary HF treatment. We are hypothesizing the role and mechanism of exosome and its biological constituents responsible for worsening the disease state and mortality in decompensated HF patients on digitalis.
Tranilast attenuates methotrexate‐induced renal and hepatic toxicities: Role of apoptosis‐induced tissue proliferation
Authors: Helal Manar Gamal , Said Eman
Published: February 2020

Drug‐induced organ toxicity is a frequently encountered obstacle in the field of medical practice that limits the use of numerous pharmacologically valuable drugs. Methotrexate (MTX)‐induced organ toxicity is unfortunately the rate‐limiting factor for its clinical application. In the current study, MTX injection induced significant renal and hepatic toxicities manifested on functional, biochemical, and histopathological scales. This was associated with a significant elevation in both renal and hepatic contents of TNF‐related apoptosis–inducing ligand (TRAIL) and caspase‐8, biomarkers of tissue apoptosis. Inline, immunohistochemical analysis confirmed that tissue increased expression of Ki67 as a biomarker of tissue regeneration in both organs. Tranilast (TRAN) is a small molecular weight anti‐inflammatory and antiallergic agent. TRAN's coadministration with MTX in the current study induced a significant tissue recovery via modulation of TRAIL/caspase‐8 signaling and modulation of apoptosis‐induced tissue proliferation confirmed by quantification of Ki67 expression. In conclusion, TRAN can be proposed as an effective drug to attenuate MTX‐induced organ toxicity via modulation of apoptosis‐induced tissue proliferation pathway.