bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Formative Evaluation Modes on Learning Outcomes among Senior Secondary Agricultural Science Students in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
Authors: Ekanem J. T. , Inyang E. B. , Umoh I. M.
Published: November 2019

This study examined the effect of formative evaluation modes on secondary school agricultural science students’ learning outcomes in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It was a pre-test and post-test quasi-experimental/control group research that relied on multi-stage sampling technique in the selection of respondents. Five (5) instruments developed and validated by the researchers were used to generate data from 200 SS11 students exposed to Agricultural science and farming techniques in secondary schools. Collected data were analysed using mean scores and standard deviation as well as Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) at .01 level of significance. Formative evaluation modes with feedback and remediation, which enabled respondents, develop good study habit and positive interpersonal relationship with their instructors and peers have proved to be very effective in the assessment and improvement of students’ learning outcomes. The improvements in respondents’ performances were observed in both achievements in and attitude to learning Agricultural science. It could thus be concluded from this study that formative evaluation modes with feedback and remediation are effective in improving farmers’ achievement in and their attitude to learning more about Agricultural science. Formative evaluation modes with feedback and remediation enabled young farmers to engage in consistent studying. It allowed the farmers to be exposed to different formative evaluation techniques such as peer assessment, projects, group assignment instead of the usually test and individual assignment that they were used to. Need for Agricultural science instructors to acquire necessary skills in the development of various formative evaluation modes/techniques needed for the assessment of the cognitive and affective domains of the young farmers was raised. Such techniques include written quiz, end-of-lesson assessment, peer assessment, individualized task, project, group assignment, attitudinal scales, and socio-metric scale among others.
Sex‐specific population dynamics and demography of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus L.) in a patchy environment
Authors: Augustine Ben C. , Kéry Marc , Olano Marin Juanita , Mollet Pierre , Pasinelli Gilberto , Sutherland Chris
Published: November 2019

Modeling the population dynamics of patchily distributed species is a challenge, particularly when inference must be based on incomplete and small data sets such as those from most species of conservation concern. Here, we develop an open population spatial capture–recapture (SCR) model with sex‐specific detection and population dynamics parameters to investigate population trend and sex‐specific population dynamics of a capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) population in Switzerland living in eight distinct forest patches totaling 22 km2 within a region of 908 km2 and sampled via scat collection. Our model accounts for the patchy distribution of habitat and the uncertainty introduced by collecting data only every third year, while producing sex by patch population trajectories. The estimated population trajectory was a decline of 2% per year; however, the sex specificity of the model revealed a decline in the male population only, with no evidence of decline in the female population. The decline observed in males was explained by the demography of just two of the eight patches. Our study highlights the flexibility of open population SCR models for assessing population trajectories through time and across space and emphasizes the desirability of estimating sex‐stratified population trends especially in species of conservation concern.
Murine adenoviruses: tools for studying adenovirus pathogenesis in a natural host
Authors: Hemmi Silvio , Spindler Katherine R.
Published: November 2019

Small laboratory animals are powerful models for investigating in vivo viral pathogenesis of a number of viruses. For adenoviruses (AdVs), however, species‐specificity poses limitations to studying human adenoviruses (HAdVs) in mice and other small laboratory animals. Thus, this review covers work on naturally occurring mouse AdVs, primarily mouse adenovirus type 1 (MAdV‐1), a member of the species Murine mastadenovirus A. Molecular genetics, virus life cycle, cell and tissue tropism, interactions with the host immune response, persistence, and host genetics of susceptibility are described. A brief discussion of MAdV‐2 (member of species Murine mastadenovirus B) and MAdV‐3 (member of species Murine mastadenovirus C) is included. We report the use of MAdVs in the development of vectors and vaccines.
A New Era for Cyborg Science Is Emerging: The Promise of Cyborganic Beings
Authors: Orive Gorka , Taebnia Nayere , Dolatshahi‐Pirouz Alireza
Published: November 2019

Living flesh, hacked beyond known biological borders, and sophisticated machineries, made by humans, are currently being united to address some of the impending challenges in medicine. Imagine biological systems made from smart biomaterials with the capacity to operate like smart machines to regulate insulin production in diabetic patients, or cardiac patches that can monitor and release important biological factors, on demand, to optimize the mending of broken hearts. It sounds like something from the realm of science fiction; however, this big gap between the real world and the world of fantasy and fiction is slowly being bridged. This piece sheds a much‐needed light on this emerging area, as this futuristic concept is gaining momentum, at a speed, that soon will ignite a paradigm shift in disease management and the healthcare sector as an entirety.
Fast‐Acting Black‐Phosphorus‐Assisted Depression Therapy with Low Toxicity
Authors: Jin Liguo , Hu Ping , Wang Yinyin , Wu Luojia , Qin Kang , Cheng Haoxin , Wang Shuhua , Pan Bingxing , Xin Hongbo , Zhang Wenhua , Wang Xiaolei
Published: November 2019

A black phosphorus (BP)‐nanosheet‐based drug‐delivery system containing a therapeutic drug (Fluoxetine, Flu) is synthesized. According to subsequent behavioral, biochemical, and electrophysiological analysis, BP‐Flu, after irradiated with near‐infrared light (808 nm), can significantly reduce the therapy time of depression. Meanwhile, the inherent biotoxicity of Flu is also alleviated.
3D Carbon Materials for Efficient Oxygen and Hydrogen Electrocatalysis
Authors: Jorge Ana Belen , Jervis Rhodri , Periasamy Arun Prakash , Qiao Mo , Feng Jingyu , Tran Linh Ngoc , Titirici Maria‐Magdalena
Published: November 2019

Sustainable energy production at an acceptable cost is key for its widespread application. At present, noble metals and metal oxides are the most widely used for electrocatalysis, but they suffer from low selectivity, poor durability, and scarcity. Because of this, metal‐free carbons have become the subject of great interest as promising alternative electrocatalysts for energy conversion and storage devices, and remarkable progress has been accomplished in the advance of metal‐free carbons as electrocatalysts for renewable energy technologies. Particularly interesting are 3D porous carbon architectures, which exhibit outstanding features for electrocatalysis applications, including broad range of active sites, interconnected porosity, high conductivity, and mechanical stability. This review summarizes the latest advances in 3D porous carbon structures for oxygen and hydrogen electrocatalysis. The structure–performance relationship of these materials is consequently rationalized and perspectives on creating more efficient 3D carbon electrocatalysts are suggested.
Cascade Cross‐Coupling of Dienes: Photoredox and Nickel Dual Catalysis
Authors: Huang Long , Zhu Chen , Yi Liang , Yue Huifeng , Kancherla Rajesh , Rueping Magnus
Published: November 2019

Chemical transformations based on cascade reactions have the potential to simplify the preparation of diverse and architecturally complex molecules dramatically. Herein, we disclose an unprecedented and efficient method for the cross‐coupling of radical precursors, dienes, and electrophilic coupling partners via a photoredox‐ and nickel‐enabled cascade cross‐coupling process. The cascade reaction furnishes a diverse array of saturated carbo‐ and heterocyclic scaffolds, thus providing access to a quick gain in C−C bond saturation.
Crystallinity, reversibility, and injectability of physically crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels
Authors: LaMastro Veronica , Brewer Erik , Lowman Anthony
Published: November 2019

Crystallite regions within a hydrogel network contribute to its mechanical strength, which is crucial for use in load‐bearing applications. However, high amounts of crystallinity can negatively impact the ability for hydrogels to be injected, an attractive property that could replace the need for highly invasive surgical procedures. The reversibility of crystallinity and its lasting impact on the injectability of poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels was evaluated in this paper. The relative percent crystallinity in hydrogels was evaluated after storage and autoclaving in syringes in weekly intervals using X‐ray diffraction. Results indicate that crystallinity increased over time and significantly decreased after autoclaving for all samples, where postautoclaved samples contained comparable crystallinity percentages to freshly made gels (p > 0.05). Injectability was evaluated using calculated viscosity. Aged samples were able to be injected after autoclaving, yet there was no determination established between viscosity and storage times based on the data. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48706.
Rheological and mechanical properties of cellulose/LDPE composites using sustainable and fully renewable compatibilisers
Authors: Scholten Philip Benjamin Vincent , Özen Mürüvvet Begüm , Söyler Zafer , Thomassin Jean‐Michel , Wilhelm Manfred , Detrembleur Christophe , Meier Michael Andreas Robert
Published: November 2019

Cellulose composites with polyethylene (PE) permit to reinforce this commodity polymer, while at the same time introducing renewable content and thus minimizing the use of petroleum‐based feedstocks. Herein, we report on two fully renewably sourced and sustainably synthesized compatibilisers based on amylose and starch, which allow for such cellulose dispersion in low‐density PE (LDPE). These compatibilisers advantageously combine the hydrophilicity of carbohydrates with the hydrophobicity of fatty acids. Upon extrusion of cellulose, LDPE, and the compatibilisers, a significantly improved dispersion of cellulose within LDPE was observed using rheology at loadings of 10 wt % cellulose and 5–15 wt % compatibiliser. Moreover, an improved interfacial adhesion was observed using scanning electron microscopy and was also confirmed by the mechanical properties, notably the Young's modulus, as a result of the good stress transfer between filler and matrix material. This study highlights the potential of fully renewable compatibilisers for the preparation of composites of cellulose and the commodity plastic LDPE. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Applied Polymer Science published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48744.
Coordination‐Accelerated Radical Formation from Acyclic Enediynes for Tumor Cell Suppression
Authors: Li Baojun , Zhang Mengsi , Lu Haotian , Ma Hailong , Wang Yue , Chen Huimin , Ding Yun , Hu Aiguo
Published: November 2019

A maleimide‐based acyclic enediyne with salicylaldiminato substituents at the alkyne termini was synthesized, which was further chelated with three kinds of metal‐ions, CuII, ZnII, and MgII, and form metalloenediynes. The cycloaromatization of this thermally inactive enediyne ligand was greatly accelerated through the coordination with metal ions. Specifically, the CuII‐metalloenediyne showed an extremely low onset temperature of 55 °C and underwent spontaneous cycloaromatization at ambient temperature to produce free radicals, followed by generation of reactive oxygen species in the physiological environment. The metalloenediyne exhibited excellent DNA cleavage ability and high cytotoxicity towards HeLa cells, with half‐maximal inhibitory concentration values comparable to many commercial antitumor agents. The combination of the electron‐withdrawing effect of the maleimide moiety at the ene position and metal coordination at the yne termini provides a new inspiration for designing and synthesizing highly efficient enediyne antitumor agents.
Silver‐Catalyzed Nitration/Annulation of α‐Alkynyl Arylols toward 3‐Nitrated Benzofurans
Authors: Zhang Tian‐Shu , Yang Lei , Cai Pei‐Jun , Tu Shu‐Jiang , Jiang Bo
Published: November 2019

A silver‐catalyzed nitration/annulation of α‐alkynyl arylols is reported by using tert‐butyl nitrite (TBN) as a NO2 radical precursor, from which a set of 3‐nitrated benzofurans were synthesized with moderate to good yields. This transformation initiated by an in situ generated NO2 radical proceeds efficiently under mild and neutral redox conditions, which provides a new pathway toward the 3‐nitrobenzofuran framework via catalytic difunctionalization of internal alkynes.
Single‐Step, Rapid, and Mild Synthesis of β‐Amino Acid N‐Carboxy Anhydrides Using Micro‐Flow Technology
Authors: Sugisawa Naoto , Otake Yuma , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Fuse Shinichiro
Published: November 2019

β‐Amino acid N‐carboxy anhydrides (β‐NCAs) are rarely used in the synthesis of β‐peptides, which is due mainly to the poor availability of these potentially useful substrates. Herein, we describe the heretofore challenging synthesis of β‐NCAs via a single‐step, rapid, and mild formation using pH flash switching and flash dilution, which are aspects of micro‐flow technology. We synthesized 15 β‐NCAs in good to excellent yields that included acid‐labile β‐NCAs that cannot be readily synthesized using the conventional Leuchs approach. Scaled‐up synthesis using this process can be readily achieved via continuous operation.
Yoshikatsu Sugiura's Contribution to the Development of Quantum Physics in Japan
Authors: Nakane Michiyo
Published: November 2019

Previous research in the history of physics has led us to believe that Yoshio Nishina (1890–1951) virtually single‐handedly imported quantum physics into Japan. However, there are first‐hand accounts that Yoshikatsu Sugiura (1895–1960) also played an important role. Sugiura made his name in quantum chemistry with his contribution to the Heitler‐London theory of the chemical bond. Yet, historians of physics have paid scant attention to him. This paper brings forward information on Sugiura from his letters, his scientific papers, and his own recollections until ca. 1930. By examining this material, the present paper studies Sugiura's accomplishments in Europe and his contributions to the development of quantum physics in Japan. We conclude that Sugiura was one of the most important physicists when it comes to the arrival of quantum physics in Japan. In addition, we assess why he has been under‐appreciated in the history of physics in Japan. Our historical study on Sugiura suggests that, in addition to the position Nishina and his students rightfully occupy, there still are important unexplored aspects in the history of Japanese quantum physics.
Profiling of hydroxyurea‐treated β‐thalassemia/ serum proteome through nano‐LC–ESI–MS/ MS in combination with microsol‐isoelectric focusing
Authors: Khan Faisal , Ali Arslan , Iqbal Ayesha , Musharraf Syed Ghulam
Published: November 2019

Advancements in proteomic tools offer a comprehensive solution to studying the complexity of diseases at molecular level. This study focusses on the clinical proteomic profiling of pre‐ and post‐hydroxyurea (HU)‐treated β‐thalassemia patients in parallel with healthy individuals to better understand the role of HU in the treatment of β‐thalassemia. The strategy encompasses sequential high‐resolution protein fractionation using MicroSol‐isoelectric focusing (ZOOM‐ IEF) followed by one‐dimensional SDS‐PAGE before nano‐RP‐LC–MS/ MS analysis of tryptic peptides. Protein identification was performed through Mascot search using NCBInr and SwissProt databases. Several different proteins were observed in pool serum samples of each of the three study groups. Approximately, 1250 proteins exclusive to each group were identified, and after removing the redundant and low sequence coverage proteins, the number was reduced to 576 (201 in healthy, 187 in HU‐untreated and 188 in HU‐treated group). Uniquely identified proteins in the HU‐treated group regulate the focal adhesion, ECM‐receptor interaction, PI3K‐Akt signaling, Rap1 signaling, cAMP signaling, platelet activation, and Ca2+ signaling pathways in the HU‐treated group. The proteomic profile presented here will add to the current state of understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in hydroxyurea treatment of β‐thalassemia.
Rapid quantitative analysis of 18 chemical constituents in HuangQi JianZhong Tang based on UHPLC–MS
Authors: Liu Yuetao , Jia Lu , Qin Xuemei
Published: November 2019

A rapid, highly sensitive, and specific analytical method using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐triple quadruple MS was developed to quantitatively measure 18 chemical constituents in Huangqi Jianzhong Tang (HQJZ), a famous traditional Chinese medicine formula. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Waters ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) with a gradient mobile phase (A: 0.1% aqueous formic acid and B: acetonitrile) at a flow rate of 0.25 mL/min. The chromatographic peaks of 18 components were identified by comparing with the reference compounds. Multiple reaction monitoring was employed for quantitative analysis of the components. Seven batches of HQJZ samples were analyzed with a good linear regression relationship (R2, .9978–.9993), precisions [relative standard deviation (RSD), 0.90%–3.60%], repeatability (RSD, 2.50%–4.00%), stability (RSD, 1.00%–4.00%), and recovery (96.10%–104.30%). Based on this established method, the present study offered a highly sensitive, specific, and rapid determination method for identification of 18 compounds, which greatly promoted the systemic quality control of HQJZ.
GC–MS analysis of organic acids in rat urine: A protocol of direct ultrasound‐assisted derivatization
Authors: Yu Jiaying , Liu Xiaowei , Guo Jing , Zhao Jinhui , Li Ying , Sun Changhao , Liu Liyan
Published: November 2019

The aim of the present study was to develop a novel ultrasound‐assisted derivatization method for analysis of urine that can be used for preliminary screening and monitoring of metabolic disorders. Here we describe an ultrasound‐assisted derivatization method followed by GC–MS analysis to quantify 26 organic acids in urine. The optimum levels of the variables affecting the yield of derivatization were investigated, including urease doses, derivatization reagents and derivatization conditions (duration time, reaction temperature and sonic power). The method exhibited the best results with 80 μl urease. The optimal reaction conditions were 100 μl BSTFA, 80% ultrasound power, 70°C and 40 min. This method showed satisfactory linearity, good reproducibility and an acceptable limit of detection and accuracy. Therefore, it could potentially be used to as a standard method to enable comparisons between laboratories. Finally, we applied our method to urine samples from pregnant rats administered 2 or 10 mg/kg folic acid supplementation.
Cardoon as a Sustainable Crop for Biomass and Bioactive Compounds Production
Authors: Barracosa Paulo , Barracosa Mariana , Pires Euclides
Published: November 2019

Cardoon is a multi‐purpose and versatile Mediterranean crop, adapted to climate change, with a wide spectrum of potential applications due its added value as a rich source of fibers, oils and bioactive compounds. The Cynara species are a component of the Mediterranean diet and have been used as food and medicine since ancient times. The important role of cardoon in human nutrition, as a functional food, is due to its high content of nutraceutical and bioactive compounds such as oligofructose inulin, caffeoylquinic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, sesquiterpenes lactones, triterpenes, fatty acids and aspartic proteases. The present review highlights the characteristics and functions of cardoon biomass which permits the development of innovative products in food and nutrition, pharmaceutics and cosmetics, plant protection and biocides, oils and energy, lignocellulose materials, and healthcare industries following the actual trends of a circular economy.
Leveraging Strategies and Capacities in Rural Communities for LGBTQIA+ Students
Authors: Brisolara Sharon
Published: November 2019

Rural community colleges, often located in communities with fewer resources than urban or suburban institutions, face unique challenges in serving LGBTQIA+ students. This chapter showcases the challenges in one district and strategies that college community members have employed in working for LGBTQIA+ student success.
Assimilation in Suburbia? Geographical and Cultural Barriers to Working With LGBTQ+ Students in Suburban Community Colleges
Authors: Edwards Monica , Grippe Al
Published: November 2019

Partial LGBTQ+ assimilation into mainstream culture has changed how practitioners interact with students at suburban community colleges. This chapter reviews the history of the Chicago suburbs and reflects on the authors' experiences working with LGBTQ+ students in community colleges there.
Examining the Advisor Experience of Student‐Run LGBTQ+ Organizations Within Community Colleges
Authors: Hoffshire Mike , Campbell Emily
Published: November 2019

This chapter examines the role of advisors of student‐run LGBTQ+ organizations within community colleges as well as offers important recommendations for practice.
Open Systems Theory Analysis of Community College Gender‐Inclusive Housing Policies
Authors: Anderson‐Long Maria , Jeffries Matthew
Published: November 2019

This chapter analyzes research of gender‐inclusive housing policies at four‐year institutions and current policies at two‐year institutions using open systems theory to provide recommendations on how practitioners can best utilize these policies to create a greater inclusive campus environment.
Outcomes with retrograde versus antegrade chronic total occlusion revascularization
Authors: Megaly Michael , Ali Abdelrahman , Saad Marwan , Omer Mohamed , Xenogiannis Iosif , Werner Gerald S. , Karmpaliotis Dimitri , Russo Juan J. , Yamane Masahisa , Garbo Roberto , Gagnor Andrea , Ungi Imre , Rinfret Stephane , Pershad Ashish , Wojcik Jaroslaw , Garcia Santiago , Mashayekhi Kambis , Sianos Georgios , Galassi Alfredo R. , Burke M. Nicholas , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of retrograde versus antegrade approach in chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

The retrograde approach has increased the success rate of CTO PCI but has been associated with a higher risk for complications.

Methods

We conducted a meta‐analysis of studies published between 2000 and August 2019 comparing the in‐hospital and long‐term outcomes with retrograde versus antegrade CTO PCI.

Results

Twelve observational studies (10,240 patients) met our inclusion criteria (retrograde approach 2,789 patients, antegrade approach 7,451 patients). Lesions treated with the retrograde approach had higher J‐CTO score (2.8 vs. 1.9, p < .001). Retrograde CTO PCI was associated with a lower success rate (80.9% vs. 87.4%, p < .001). Both approaches had similar in‐hospital mortality, urgent revascularization, and cerebrovascular events. Retrograde CTO PCI was associated with higher risk of in‐hospital myocardial infarction (MI; odds ratio [OR] 2.37, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.7, 3.32, p < .001), urgent pericardiocentesis (OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.41–4.51, p = .002), and contrast‐induced nephropathy (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.47–3.08; p < .001). During a mean follow‐up of 48 ± 31 months retrograde crossing had similar mortality (OR 1.79, 95% CI 0.84–3.81, p = .13), but a higher incidence of MI (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.1–3.88, p = .02), target vessel revascularization (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.49–2.46, p < .001), and target lesion revascularization (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.33–3.28, p = .001).

Conclusions

Compared with antegrade CTO PCI, retrograde CTO PCI is performed in more complex lesions and is associated with a higher risk for acute and long‐term adverse events.
Successful treatment of a case with NUT midline carcinoma in the larynx and review of the literature
Authors: Zhang Hai , Liu Ming‐Hua , Zhang Jie , Luo Shu‐Peng , Wang Chao‐Bo , Zhao Zeng‐Hu , Ge Yan‐Li , Zhang Jian‐Yu , Geng Feng‐Hao
Published: November 2019

In this report, we gave the first case of successful treatment for laryngeal NMC, which is exceedingly rare with dismal prognosis. intensity‐modulated radiation therapy accompanied by traditional Chinese medicine was administrated for the young woman, instead of radical resection, and she got continuous remission for more than 2 years, with no recurrence detected.
Aqueous Phase Aldol Condensation of Formaldehyde and Acetone on Anatase TiO2(101) Surface: A Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Zhao Yuntao , Zhu Xinli , Wang Hua , Han Jinyu , Mei Donghai , Ge Qingfeng
Published: November 2019

A mechanistic understanding of catalytic reactions at solid‐liquid interface is limited both experimentally and theoretically but attracts much interest. Using density functional theory calculations (DFT) and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations, we investigated the effect of liquid water on α‐H abstraction, C−C coupling, and dehydration steps of aldol condensation of formaldehyde and acetone on an anatase TiO2(101) surface. The existence of the aqueous phase lowered the Gibbs energy of activation of dehydration step pronouncedly from 187 to 74 kJ/mol through proton transfer mechanism, making the hydrogenation pathway more favorable in the aqueous phase. In contrast, a mixed route prevails in the vapor phase. This work provides insights into the effect of the bulk water through a proton transfer mechanism on the dehydrogenation, C−C coupling, and dehydration steps.
Vergleich Hoch‐Wärmeintegrierter Adsorberkonzepte für eine Anwendung in Direct‐Air‐Capture‐Verfahren
Authors: Drechsler Carsten , Agar David W.
Published: November 2019

Zur Überwindung des hohen kohlenstoffdioxidspezifischen Energieeintrags bei Temperaturwechseladsorptionskonzepten für Direct‐Air‐Capture‐Prozesse wird eine Anwendung hoch‐wärmeintegrierter Verfahrenskonzepte untersucht. Die detaillierte Modellierung und Simulation eines Band‐ als auch Wanderbettadsorberkonzeptes deutet darauf hin, dass eine Rückgewinnung der sensiblen Wärme des Adsorbens von mehr als 90 % erreicht werden kann. Hier eröffnet eine Kombination der vorgestellten Konzepte mit einem Power‐to‐Gas‐Verfahren das Potenzial zur Realisierung eines autothermen Gesamtprozesses.
Power‐to‐X: Between Electricity Storage, e‐Production, and Demand Side Management
Authors: Burre Jannik , Bongartz Dominik , Brée Luisa , Roh Kosan , Mitsos Alexander
Published: November 2019

The common understanding of Power‐to‐X is exclusively the use of renewable electricity to manufacture products currently based on fossil sources. In this paper, it is argued that beyond such e‐Production many of these technologies also include aspects related to demand side management and temporal storage of electricity. Therefore, a definition of Power‐to‐X is suggested that encompasses all three aspects. It is discussed, which of these are relevant under which conditions and illustrative examples are highlighted, which show how process systems engineering can help address common challenges for Power‐to‐X technologies.
Monocyclic Quinone Structure‐Activity Patterns: Synthesis of Catalytic Inhibitors of Topoisomerase II with Potent Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Waugh Thomas M. , Masters John , Aliev Abil E. , Marson Charles M.
Published: November 2019

The monocyclic 1,4‐benzoquinone, HU‐331, the direct oxidation product of cannabidiol, inhibits the catalytic activity of topoisomerase II but without inducing DNA strand breaks or generating free radicals, and unlike many fused‐ring quinones exhibits minimal cardiotoxicity. Thus, monocyclic quinones have potential as anticancer agents, and investigation of the structural origins of their biological activity is warranted. New syntheses of cannabidiol and (±)‐HU‐331 are here reported. Integrated synthetic protocols afforded a wide range of polysubstituted resorcinol derivatives; many of the corresponding novel 2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐benzoquinone derivatives are potent inhibitors of the catalytic activity of topoisomerase II, some more so than HU‐331, whose monoterpene unit replaced by a 3‐cycloalkyl unit conferred increased antiproliferative properties in cell lines with IC50 values extending below 1 mM, and greater stability in solution than HU‐331. The principal pharmacophore of quinones related to HU‐331 was identified. Selected monocyclic quinones show potential for the development of new anticancer agents.
A Thorough QT Study to Evaluate the Effects of a Supratherapeutic Dose of Sertraline on Cardiac Repolarization in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Abbas Richat , Riley Steve , LaBadie Robert R. , Bachinsky Mary , Chappell Phillip B. , Crownover Penelope H. , Damle Bharat
Published: November 2019

The effect of steady‐state supratherapeutic sertraline (Zoloft) on QT interval was assessed in a single‐center, randomized, 3‐way crossover, double‐blind, placebo‐ and moxifloxacin‐controlled thorough QT study. Healthy adults received sertraline 400 mg/day, moxifloxacin 400 mg, and placebo, with a washout period (≥14 days) between treatments. A 12‐lead electrocardiogram was recorded in triplicate before dosing and at selected time points up to 72 hours after dosing. Analysis of covariance using a mixed‐effect model with sequence, period, treatment, time, and treatment‐by‐time interaction as fixed effects; subject within sequence as a random effect; and baseline QT corrected for heart rate using Fridericia formula (QTcF) as a covariate was conducted. A 90% confidence interval for the least squares (LS) mean difference in QTcF between active treatment and placebo was computed for each postdose time point. Exposure‐response was assessed using linear mixed‐effect modeling. Fifty‐four subjects were enrolled. Over 24 hours after dosing, the LS mean difference in QTcF for sertraline versus placebo ranged from 5.597 milliseconds to 9.651 milliseconds. The upper bound of the 90% confidence interval for the LS mean difference exceeded a predefined 10‐millisecond significance threshold at the 4‐hour postdose time point only (LS mean, 9.651 milliseconds [90% confidence interval, 7.635‐11.666]). In the exposure‐response analysis, QTcF values increased significantly with increasing sertraline concentration (slope = 0.036 milliseconds/ng/mL; P < .0001). Predicted change from baseline in QTcF at therapeutic maximum plasma sertraline concentration was 3.57 milliseconds. This thorough QTc study demonstrated a positive signal for QTc prolongation for sertraline at the steady‐state 400‐mg/day dose.
Benchmarking food and beverage company investment in healthful eating and active living initiatives
Authors: Barata Cavalcanti Olivia , Costa Sergio A. , Ferris Emily , Guillermin Michelle , Palmedo Chris , Crossley Rachel , Huang Terry T.‐K.
Published: November 2019

We benchmarked the strategies and performance of community‐based healthful eating and active living initiatives sponsored by food and beverage manufacturers. We developed company‐ and program‐level surveys for 11 companies and 38 programs using best practices in corporate benchmarking and the collective impact framework, including four domains: (a) strategy design, (b) governance and management, (c) monitoring and evaluation, and (d) reporting, communication, and stakeholder engagement. Company strategies varied, with most focusing on nutrition and physical activity promotion and little on social and environmental determinants of health. Some companies reported program investments as part of corporate social responsibility, and others managed these under general corporate or public affairs. Company scores ranged broadly, suggesting that our metrics had discriminant validity (mean overall score=59%, range=49–72%). Companies performed worst on monitoring and evaluation, highlighting the need for metrics and accountability. Benchmarking ensures accountability and enhances impact of corporate social responsibility initiatives.
P‐type non‐isolated boost DC‐DC converter with high voltage gain and extensibility for DC microgrid applications
Authors: Mohammadi Farid , Farhadi‐Kangarlu Mohammad , Rastegar Hassan , Khorsandi Amir , Pichan Mohammad
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the concept of converter design, using the least number of elements and achieving high voltage gain at the low duty cycle, is proposed for the microgrids. One of the important issues in the microgrids is boosting the low voltage output of sources to the utility voltage level. Therefore, the step‐up DC‐DC converters are widely used in these systems to attain the utility voltage. The benchmarking of the converters mainly in terms of the voltage gain, efficiency, the number of active and passive components, stresses on semiconductors, and simplicity is considered. In this paper, a new extendable non‐isolated boost DC‐DC converter is presented. Comparing the conventional boost converter, the basic structure of the proposed converter has a high voltage gain and reduced stress on the switch. To increase the voltage gain, the basic structure of the proposed converter can be easily extended. The modulation technique employed is high‐frequency pulse‐width modulation (PWM). The detailed analysis of the proposed converter in continuous current mode (CCM) and discontinuous current mode (DCM) is presented. The relations between currents and voltages and the voltage gain in CCM and DCM are obtained. Experimental results are carried out to verify theoretical concepts by using the hardware prototype.
Molecular mechanisms of homeostatic plasticity in central pattern generator networks
Authors: Northcutt Adam J. , Schulz David J.
Published: November 2019

Central pattern generator (CPG) networks rely on a balance of intrinsic and network properties to produce reliable, repeatable activity patterns. This balance is maintained by homeostatic plasticity where alterations in neuronal properties dynamically maintain appropriate neural output in the face of changing environmental conditions and perturbations. However, it remains unclear just how these neurons and networks can both monitor their ongoing activity and use this information to elicit homeostatic physiological responses to ensure robustness of output over time. Evidence exists that CPG networks use a mixed strategy of activity‐dependent, activity‐independent, modulator‐dependent, and synaptically regulated homeostatic plasticity to achieve this critical stability. In this review, we focus on some of the current understanding of the molecular pathways and mechanisms responsible for this homeostatic plasticity in the context of central pattern generator function, with a special emphasis on some of the smaller invertebrate networks that have allowed for extensive cellular‐level analyses that have brought recent insights to these questions.
Evaluating the effects of large marine predators on mobile prey behavior across subtropical reef ecosystems
Authors: Phenix Lindsay M. , Tricarico Dana , Quintero Enrique , Bond Mark E. , Brandl Simon J. , Gallagher Austin J.
Published: November 2019

The indirect effect of predators on prey behavior, recruitment, and spatial relationships continues to attract considerable attention. However, top predators like sharks or large, mobile teleosts, which can have substantial top–down effects in ecosystems, are often difficult to study due to their large size and mobility. This has created a knowledge gap in understanding how they affect their prey through nonconsumptive effects. Here, we investigated how different functional groups of predators affected potential prey fish populations across various habitats within Biscayne Bay, FL. Using baited remote underwater videos (BRUVs), we quantified predator abundance and activity as a rough proxy for predation risk and analyzed key prey behaviors across coral reef, sea fan, seagrass, and sandy habitats. Both predator abundance and prey arrival times to the bait were strongly influenced by habitat type, with open homogenous habitats receiving faster arrival times by prey. Other prey behaviors, such as residency and risk‐associated behaviors, were potentially driven by predator interaction. Our data suggest that small predators across functional groups do not have large controlling effects on prey behavior or stress responses over short temporal scales; however, habitats where predators are more unpredictable in their occurrence (i.e., open areas) may trigger risk‐associated behaviors such as avoidance and vigilance. Our data shed new light on the importance of habitat and context for understanding how marine predators may influence prey behaviors in marine ecosystems.
Differential expression of olfactory genes in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) during the parr–smolt transformation
Authors: Madsen Steffen S. , Winther Sara S. T. , Bollinger Rebecca J. , Steiner Ulrich , Larsen Martin H.
Published: November 2019

The anadromous salmon life cycle includes two migratory events, downstream smolt migration and adult homing migration, during which they must navigate with high precision. During homing migration, olfactory cues are used for navigation in coastal and freshwater areas, and studies have suggested that the parr–smolt transformation has a sensitive period for imprinting. Accordingly, we hypothesized that there would be significant changes in gene expression in the olfactory epithelium specifically related to smoltification and sampled olfactory rosettes from hatchery‐reared upper growth modal juvenile Atlantic salmon at 3‐week intervals from January to June, using lower growth modal nonsmolting siblings as controls. A suite of olfactory receptors and receptor‐specific proteins involved in functional aspects of olfaction and peripheral odor memorization was analyzed by qPCR. Gene expression in juveniles was compared with mature adult salmon of the same genetic strain caught in the river Gudenaa. All mRNAs displayed significant variation over time in both modal groups. Furthermore, five receptor genes (olfc13.1, olfc15.1, sorb, ora2, and asor1) and four olfactory‐specific genes (soig, ependymin, gst, and omp2) were differentially regulated between modal groups, suggesting altered olfactory function during smoltification. Several genes were differentially regulated in mature salmon compared with juveniles, suggesting that homing and odor recollection involve a different set of genes than during imprinting. Thyroid hormone receptors thrα and thrβ mRNAs were elevated during smolting, suggesting increased sensitivity to thyroid hormones. Treatment of presmolts with triiodothyronine in vivo and ex vivo had, however, only subtle effects on the investigated olfactory targets, questioning the hypothesis that thyroid hormones directly regulate gene expression in the olfactory epithelium.
Ecological stoichiometry of the epiphyte community in a subtropical forest canopy
Authors: Huang Jun‐Biao , Liu Wen‐Yao , Li Su , Song Liang , Lu Hua‐Zheng , Shi Xian‐Meng , Chen Xi , Hu Tao , Liu Shuai , Liu Tao
Published: November 2019

Epiphytes in tree canopies make a considerable contribution to the species diversity, aboveground biomass, and nutrient pools in forest ecosystems. However, the nutrient status of epiphytes and their possible adaptations to nutrient deficiencies in the forest canopy remain unclear. Therefore, we analyzed the stoichiometry of five macroelements (C, N, P, K, and Ca) in four taxonomic groups (lichens, bryophytes, ferns, and spermatophytes) to investigate this issue in a subtropical montane moist evergreen broad‐leaved forest in Southwest China. We found that the interspecific variations in element concentrations and mass ratios were generally greater than the intraspecific variations. And there were significant stoichiometric differences among functional groups. Allometric relationships between N and P across the epiphyte community indicated that P might be in greater demand than N with an increase in nutrients. Although canopy nutrients were deficient, most epiphytes could still maintain high N and P concentrations and low N:P ratios. Moreover, ferns and spermatophytes allocated more limited nutrients to leaves than to stems and roots. To alleviate frequent drought stress in the forest canopy, vascular epiphytes maintained several times higher K concentrations in their leaves than in the tissues of lichens and bryophytes. Our results suggest that epiphytes may have evolved specific nutrient characteristics and adaptations, so that they can distribute in heterogeneous canopy habitats and maintain the stability of nutrient metabolism.
Do differences in developmental mode shape the potential for local adaptation?
Authors: Jupe L. L. , Bilton D. T. , Knights A. M.
Published: November 2019

Future climate change is leading to the redistribution of life on Earth as species struggle to cope with rising temperatures. Local adaptation allows species to become locally optimized and persist despite environmental selection, but the extent to which this occurs in nature may be limited by dispersal and gene flow. Congeneric marine gastropod species (Littorina littoreaandL. saxatilis) with markedly different developmental modes were collected from across a latitudinal thermal gradient to explore the prevalence of local adaptation to temperature. The acute response of metabolic rate (using oxygen consumption as a proxy) to up‐ramping and down‐ramping temperature regimes between 6°C and 36°C was quantified for five populations of each species. The highly dispersiveL. littoreaexhibited minimal evidence of local adaptation to the thermal gradient, with no change in thermal optimum (Topt) or thermal breadth (Tbr) and a decline in maximal performance (max) with increasing latitude. In contrast, the direct developingL. saxatilisdisplayed evidence of local optimization, although these varied idiosyncratically with latitude, suggesting a suite of selective pressures may be involved in shaping thermal physiology in this relatively sedentary species. Our results show that the biogeography of thermal traits can differ significantly between related species, and show that interpopulation differences in thermal performance do not necessarily follow simple patterns that may be predicted based on latitudinal changes in environmental temperatures. Further research is clearly required to understand the mechanisms that can lead to the emergence of local adaptation in marine systems better and allow improved predictions of species redistribution in response to climate change.
Left atrial structure and function and the risk of death or heart failure in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Inciardi Riccardo M. , Giugliano Robert P. , Claggett Brian , Gupta Deepak K. , Chandra Alvin , Ruff Christian T. , Antman Elliott M. , Mercuri Michele F. , Grosso Michael A. , Braunwald Eugene , Solomon Scott D. ,   on behalf of the ENGAGE AF‐TIMI 48 Investigators
Published: November 2019

Aims

The present study aimed to assess the association between left atrial (LA) structure and function and the risk for cardiovascular (CV) death or heart failure (HF) hospitalization in a population with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and results

In a prospective echocardiographic substudy of the Effective Anticoagulation with Factor Xa Next Generation in AF‐Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 48 (ENGAGE AF‐TIMI 48) study, 971 patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography. The associations between LA structure (LA volume index [LAVi]) and function (LA emptying fraction [LAEF] and LA expansion index [LAEi]) and risk for the composite endpoint of CV death or HF hospitalization, and its components, were assessed. Over a median follow‐up of 2.5 years, 142 patients (14.6%) experienced CV death or HF hospitalization. Higher LAVi and lower LAEF and LAEi were each associated with a higher unadjusted risk for the composite outcome and its components. After adjustment for clinical and echocardiographic confounders, only measures of impaired LA function were predictive of the composite outcome (hazard ratio [HR] per 1 standard deviation [SD] decrease in LAEF: 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.67 [P = 0.005]; HR per 1 SD decrease in LAEi: 1.34; 95% CI 1.06–1.69 [P = 0.012]). These findings were similar regardless of left ventricular ejection fraction, history of HF or whether patients were in AF or sinus rhythm at the time of the echocardiographic examination.

Conclusions

In patients with AF, LA dysfunction was significantly associated with an increased risk for CV death or HF hospitalization and was more predictive of these outcomes than LA size. These parameters may help to identify AF patients at greatest risk for the development of HF.

Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00781391.
The role of the complement factor B‒arginase‒polyamine molecular axis in uremia‐induced cardiac remodeling in mice
Authors: Yang Yang , Ma Lu , Song Minghui , Li Xiaomeng , He Fagui , Wang Chao , Chen Meihan , Zhou Jie , Mei Changlin
Published: November 2019

The role of complement system in heart diseases is controversial. Besides, the mechanisms by which complement components participate in cardiac remodeling (CR) and heart failure during uremia are unclear. In this study, 5/6 nephrectomy was performed to adult mice to establish the uremic model and CR deteriorated over the course of uremia. Although complement pathways were not further activated over the course of the disease, soluble complement factor B (CFB) was upregulated at post‐nephrectomy day 90 (PNx90) compared with PNx30. Further, CFB notably deteriorated CR in uremic mice but this effect was reversed by depletion of macrophages with liposomal clodronate. In vivo and in vitro CFB upregulated arginase 1 (ARG1) expression, increased ARG1 enzymatic activity, and stimulated the syntheses of ornithine, leading to polyamine overproduction in macrophages. Putrescine, an important polyamine, promoted cardiac fibroblast proliferation and collagen production, resulting in progressive CR. In vivo the inhibition of ARG1 activity with Nω‐hydroxyl‐l‐arginine remarkably improved the general survival rates, inhibited the infiltration of cardiac fibroblasts, and alleviated progression of CR in uremic mice. Taken together, the CFB‒ARG1‒putrescine axis is related to progression of CR and ARG1 hyperactivity in macrophages may provide a novel therapeutic target against the heart injury in uremia.
Asymmetric Construction of Vicinal Stereocenters Containing Quaternary and Tertiary Carbons: Application to the Formal Synthesis of (–)‐Chenopodene
Authors: Harada Kenichi , Ibaragi Daisuke , Edazawa Yui , Sakashita Masanori , Nakata Ayane , Kubo Miwa , Carter Rich G. , Fukuyama Yoshiyasu
Published: November 2019

A new strategy for the construction of vicinal stereocenters containing quaternary and tertiary carbons has been developed. The quaternary carbon center was constructed by an enantioselective intramolecular aldol reaction with an organocatalyst (Hua‐cat), and a [3.3.1]‐bicyclic compound was obtained in 81 % with 84 % ee. The absolute configuration of the bicyclic compound was determined by modified Mosher's method, and recrystallization of the p‐bromobenzoate improved the ee to 99.5 %. Subsequent diastereoselective cyclopropanation of the double bond adjacent to the quaternary carbon gave rise to a [4.3.1.0]‐tricyclic product with a dr > 99:1. In addition, this method was applied to the formal synthesis of (–)‐chenopodene.