bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation in Body Weight, Lipid Profile and Selected Reproduction Hormones in Rats Given Psidium guajava Leaves from Crude Oil Polluted and Non-Crude Oil Polluted Areas
Authors: Ekpo Grace , Eze Adindu , Benjamin Amadi , Michael Odey , Ishade Sunday Ogar , Princewill Dasimeokuna
Published: December 2019

Variation in body weight, lipid profile and selected reproduction hormones in rats given Psidium guajava leaf samples from crude oil polluted and non-crude oil polluted areas was evaluated.  Thirty-six albino rats of Wistar strain weighing between 90-120 g were divided into three major groups of I-III, with each group having two subgroups designated “a” and “b”. Each of the subgroup housed six rats and they were given different concentrations of the compounded feed of the leaf samples. Rat groups placed on P. guajava leaf sample from non-crude oil polluted area had significantly (p<0.05) increased weight when compared to rat groups placed on P. guajava leaf sample from crude oil polluted area. Triglyceride, cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) increased significantly (p<0.05) in rat groups placed on P. guajava leaf sample from crude oil polluted area against rat groups placed on P. guajava leaf sample from non-crude oil polluted area. Atherogenic indices of rat groups placed on P. guajava leaf sample from crude oil polluted area showed increased risk to cardiovascular diseases when compared to rat groups placed on P. guajava leaf sample from non-crude oil polluted area. The evaluated reproductive hormones increased significantly (p<0.05) in rats placed on P. guajava leaf sample from crude oil polluted area against those groups placed on P. guajava leaf sample from non-crude oil polluted area. The constituents of P. guajava leaf sample from crude oil polluted area could be behind the observed risk while the increase in hormones could be linked to increased cholesterol in rats groups placed on the leaf sample from crude oil polluted area. There is to sensitise those in the act of herbalism to be aware of where they harvest the plants they use as raw materials. This study has shown the variation in body weight, lipid profile and selected reproduction hormones in rats given P. guajava leaves from crude oil polluted and non-crude oil polluted areas.
Small‐field dosimetry of TrueBeamTM flattened and flattening filter‐free beams: A multi‐institutional analysis
Authors: Akino Yuichi , Mizuno Hirokazu , Isono Masaru , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Masai Norihisa , Yamamoto Toshijiro
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Detector‐dependent interinstitutional variations of the beam data may lead to uncertainties of the delivered dose to patients. Here we evaluated the inter‐unit variability of the flattened and flattening filter‐free (FFF) beam data of multiple TrueBeam (Varian Medical Systems) linear accelerators focusing on the small‐field dosimetry.

Methods

The beam data of 6‐ and 10‐MV photon beams with and without flattening filter measured for modeling of an iPLAN treatment planning system (BrainLAB) were collected from 12 institutions — ten HD120 Multileaf Collimator (MLC) and two Millennium120 MLC. Percent‐depth dose (PDD), off‐center ratio (OCR), and detector output factors (OFdet) measured with different detectors were evaluated. To investigate the detector‐associated effects, we evaluated the inter‐unit variations of the OFdet before and after having applied the output correction factors provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Technical Reports Series no. 483.

Results

PDD measured with a field size of 5 × 5 mm2 showed that the data measured using an ionization chamber had variations exceeding 1% from the median values. The maximum difference from median value was 2.87% for 10 MV photon beam. The maximum variations of the penumbra width for OCR with 10 × 10 mm2 field size were 0.97 mm. The OFdet showed large variations exceeding 15% for a field size of 5 × 5 mm2. When the output correction factors were applied to the OFdet, the variations were greatly reduced. The relative difference of almost all field output factors were within ± 5% from the median field output factors.

Conclusion

In this study, the inter‐unit variability of small‐field dosimetry was evaluated for TrueBeam linear accelerators. The variations were large at a field size of 5 × 5 mm2, and most occurred in a detector‐dependent manner.
Neurofilament light is a treatment‐responsive biomarker in CLN2 disease
Authors: Ru Yuanbin , Corado Carley , Soon Russell K. , Melton Andrew C. , Harris Adam , Yu Guoying K. , Pryer Nancy , Sinclair John R. , Katz Martin L. , Ajayi Temitayo , Jacoby David , Russell Chris B. , Chandriani Sanjay
Published: December 2019

Objective

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis type 2 (CLN2 disease) is a rare, progressive, fatal neurodegenerative pediatric disorder resulting from deficiencies of the lysosomal enzyme tripeptidyl peptidase 1 that are caused by mutations in TPP1. Identifying biomarkers of CLN2 disease progression will be important in assessing the efficacy of therapeutic interventions for this disorder. Neurofilament light is an intrinsic component of healthy neurons; elevated circulating extracellular neurofilament light is a biomarker of neuropathology in several adult‐onset neurological diseases. Our objective was to assess whether circulating neurofilament light is a biomarker that is responsive to enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in CLN2 disease.

Methods

Using an ultrasensitive immunoassay, we assessed plasma neurofilament light changes during disease progression in a canine model of CLN2 disease and in ERT clinical trial CLN2 disease patients.

Results

In tripeptidyl peptidase 1 (TPP1)‐null dogs (N = 11), but not in control dogs [N = 6 (TPP1+/−) and N = 27 (WT)], neurofilament light levels increased more than tenfold above initial low baseline levels during disease progression. Before treatment in 21 human subjects with CLN2 disease (age range: 1.72–6.85 years), neurofilament light levels were 48‐fold higher (P < 0.001) than in 7 pediatric controls (age range: 8–11 years). Pretreatment neurofilament light did not significantly correlate with disease severity or age. In CLN2 disease subjects receiving ERT, neurofilament light levels decreased by 50% each year over more than 3 years of treatment.

Interpretation

Our data indicate that circulating neurofilament light is a treatment‐responsive biomarker in CLN2 disease and could contribute to understanding of the pathophysiology of this devastating pediatric disorder.
Disturbance observer‐based nonlinear control of a quadrotor UAV
Authors: Moeini Amir , Lynch Alan F. , Zhao Qing
Published: December 2019

This paper proposes a nonlinear backstepping‐based trajectory tracking control for a quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle. By incorporating a disturbance observer, the method provides globally exponentially stable tracking error dynamics in the presence of constant force and torque disturbances for position tracking. For time‐varying disturbances, the tracking error is proven to be ultimately bounded. Simulation results illustrates the robust performance and reduced complexity of the proposed control law.
Energy Transport by Radiation in Hyperbolic Material Comparable to Conduction
Authors: Salihoglu Hakan , Iyer Vasudevan , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Ye Peide D. , Xu Xianfan
Published: December 2019

Radiation as a heat transfer mode inside a bulk material is usually negligible in comparison to conduction. Here, the contribution of radiation to energy transport inside a hyperbolic material, hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), is investigated. With hyperbolic dispersion, i.e., opposite signs of dielectric components along principal directions, phonon polaritons contribute significantly to energy transport due to a much greater number of propagating modes compared to that in a normal material. A many‐body model is developed to account for radiative heat transfer in a material with a nonuniform temperature distribution. The total radiative heat transfer through hBN is found to be largely contributed by the high‐κ modes within the Reststrahlen bands, and is comparable to phonon conduction. Experimental measurements of temperature‐dependent thermal transport also show that radiative contribution to thermal transport is of the same order as that from phonons. Therefore, this work shows, for the first time, radiative heat transfer inside a material can be comparable to phonon conductive heat transfer.
Thermal Conductivity of HfTe5: A Critical Revisit
Authors: Feng Tianli , Wu Xuewang , Yang Xiaolong , Wang Peipei , Zhang Liyuan , Du Xu , Wang Xiaojia , Pantelides Sokrates T.
Published: December 2019

Hafnium pentatelluride (HfTe5) has attracted extensive interest due to its exotic electronic, optical, and thermal properties. As a highly anisotropic crystal (layered structure with in‐plane chains), it has highly anisotropic electrical‐transport properties, but the anisotropy of its thermal‐transport properties has not been established. Here, accurate experimental measurements and theoretical calculations are combined to resolve this issue. Time‐domain thermoreflectance measurements find a highly anisotropic thermal conductivity, 28:1:8, with values of 11.3 ± 2.2, 0.41 ± 0.04, and 3.2 ± 2.0 W m-1 K-1 along the in‐plane a‐axis, through‐plane b‐axis, and in‐plane c‐axis, respectively. This anisotropy is even larger than what was recently established for ZrTe5 (12:1:6), but the individual values are somewhat higher, even though Zr has a smaller atomic mass than Hf. Density‐functional‐theory calculations predict thermal conductivities in good agreement with the experimental data, provide comprehensive insights into the results, and reveal the origin of the apparent anomaly of the relative thermal conductivities of the two pentatellurides. These results establish that HfTe5 and ZrTe5, and by implication their alloys, have highly anisotropic and ultralow through‐plane thermal conductivities, which can provide guidance for the design of materials for new directional‐heat‐management applications and potentially other thermal functionalities.
Band‐Edge Exciton Fine Structure and Exciton Recombination Dynamics in Single Crystals of Layered Hybrid Perovskites
Authors: Fang Hong‐Hua , Yang Jie , Adjokatse Sampson , Tekelenburg Eelco , Kamminga Machteld E. , Duim Herman , Ye Jianting , Blake Graeme R. , Even Jacky , Loi Maria Antonietta
Published: December 2019

2D perovskite materials have recently reattracted intense research interest for applications in photovoltaics and optoelectronics. As a consequence of the dielectric and quantum confinement effect, they show strongly bound and stable excitons at room temperature. Here, the band‐edge exciton fine structure and in particular its exciton and biexciton dynamics in high quality crystals of (PEA)2PbI4 are investigated. A comparison of bulk and surface exciton lifetimes yields a room temperature surface recombination velocity of 2 × 103 cm s−1 and an intrinsic lifetime of 185 ns. Biexciton emission is evidenced at room temperature, with a binding energy of ≈45 meV and a lifetime of 80 ps. At low temperature, exciton state splitting is observed, which is caused by the electron–hole exchange interaction. Transient photoluminescence resolves the low‐lying dark exciton state, with a bright/dark splitting energy estimated to be 10 meV. This work contributes to the understanding of the complex scenario of the elementary photoexcitations in 2D perovskites.
All‐Fiber Structured Electronic Skin with High Elasticity and Breathability
Authors: Li Zhaoling , Zhu Miaomiao , Shen Jiali , Qiu Qian , Yu Jianyong , Ding Bin
Published: December 2019

With the rapid advancement in artificial intelligence, wearable electronic skins have attracted substantial attention. However, the fabrication of such devices with high elasticity and breathability is still a challenge and highly desired. Here, a route to develop an all‐fiber structured electronic skin with a scalable electrospinning fabrication technique is reported. The fabricated electronic skin is demonstrated to exhibit high pressure sensing with a sensitivity of 0.18 V kPa−1 in the detection range of 0–175 kPa. This wearable device could maintain prominent sensing performance and mechanical stability in the presence of large deformation, even when the elastic deformation is up to 50%. The electronic skin is easily conformable on different desired objects for real‐time spatial mapping and long‐term tactile sensing. Besides, it possesses high gas permeability with a water vapor transmittance rate of 10.26 kg m−2 d−1. More importantly, the electronic skin is capable of working in a self‐powered manner and even serves as a reliable power source to effectively drive small electronics. Possessing several compelling features, such as high sensitivity, high elasticity, high breathability as well as being self‐powered and scalable in fabrication, the presented device paves a pathway for smart electronic skins.
DNA‐ and Field‐Mediated Assembly of Magnetic Nanoparticles into High‐Aspect Ratio Crystals
Authors: Park Sarah S. , Urbach Zachary J. , Brisbois Chase A. , Parker Kelly A. , Partridge Benjamin E. , Oh Taegon , Dravid Vinayak P. , Olvera de la Cruz Monica , Mirkin Chad A.
Published: December 2019

Under an applied magnetic field, superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles with complementary DNA strands assemble into crystalline, pseudo‐1D elongated superlattice structures. The assembly process is driven through a combination of DNA hybridization and particle dipolar coupling, a property dependent on particle composition, size, and interparticle distance. The DNA controls interparticle distance and crystal symmetry, while the magnetic field leads to anisotropic crystal growth. Increasing the dipole interaction between particles by increasing particle size or external field strength leads to a preference for a particular crystal morphology (e.g., rhombic dodecahedra, stacked clusters, and smooth rods). Molecular dynamics simulations show that an understanding of both DNA hybridization energetic and magnetic interactions is required to predict the resulting crystal morphology. Taken together, the data show that applied magnetic fields with magnetic nanoparticles can be deliberately used to access nanostructures beyond what is possible with DNA hybridization alone.
Near‐Infrared Light‐Triggered Therapy to Combat Bacterial Biofilm Infections by MoSe2/TiO2 Nanorod Arrays on Bone Implants
Authors: Zhang Guannan , Zhang Xingyu , Yang Yongqiang , Zhang Hongyu , Shi Jing , Yao Xiaohong , Zhang Xiangyu
Published: December 2019

Light‐triggered antibacterial therapy is a promising alternative to combat bone‐implant‐associated infections. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is already widely used in biomedical engineering due to its excellent biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and photocatalytic capability. However, the narrow absorption band in near‐infrared (NIR) region restricts its practical application as photosensitizer for disinfection. Herein, molybdenum diselenide (MoSe2)/TiO2‐Ti nanorod arrays (NRAs) with enhanced photothermal conversion and photocatalytic performance under 808 nm NIR light irradiation are prepared on titanium (Ti) by a two‐step hydrothermal treatment. The combined actions of hyperthermia and reactive oxygen species give rise to excellent antibacterial activities on titanium requiring irradiation for only 10 min as demonstrated by the experiments conducted in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the introduction of arginine–glycine–aspartic acid can not only eliminate the weak toxicity of MoSe2, but also improve the cell adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of TiO2‐Ti NRAs. This composite NRAs show great promise for in situ and nonsurgical treatment of biofilm infection on Ti implants.
Research progress on immune aging and its mechanisms affecting geriatric diseases
Authors: Yu Yanping , Zheng Songbai
Published: December 2019

Immunosenescence, also known as immune aging, refers to the degeneration, compensation, and reconstruction of the immune system with aging. Immune aging is an important factor in the increased susceptibility of the elderly to infectious diseases, malignant tumors, and a variety of chronic diseases and has long been a hotspot in geriatrics and immunology research. In this paper, the characteristics and progression of immune aging are briefly reviewed for clinicians' reference.
Scale and structure dependent drag in gas–solid flows
Authors: Liu Xiaowen , Ge Wei , Wang Limin
Published: December 2019

Drag plays a crucial role in hydrodynamic modeling and simulations of gas–solid flows, which is significantly affected by particle Reynolds number, solid volume fraction, heterogeneity, granular temperature, particle‐fluid density ratio, and so on. To clarify and quantify the multiscale effects of these factors, large‐scale particle‐resolved direct numerical simulations of gas–solid flows with up to 115,200 freely moving particles are conducted. Both domain‐averaged kinetic properties and local averaged dimensionless drag are sampled and analyzed. It is revealed that the complex scale‐dependence of drag is attributed to the multiscale effects of heterogeneous structures and particle fluctuating velocity. The granular temperature and the scalar variance of solid volume fraction are also found to be scale‐dependent. On account of these, a new drag correlation as the function of Froude number is proposed with consideration of scale‐dependence.
Second cancers in MPN: Survival analysis from an international study
Authors: Marchetti Monia , Ghirardi Arianna , Masciulli Arianna , Carobbio Alessandra , Palandri Francesca , Vianelli Nicola , Rossi Elena , Betti Silvia , Di Veroli Ambra , Iurlo Alessandra , Cattaneo Daniele , Finazzi Guido , Bonifacio Massimiliano , Scaffidi Luigi , Patriarca Andrea , Rumi Elisa , Casetti Ilaria Carola , Stephenson Clemency , Guglielmelli Paola , Elli Elena Maria , Palova Miroslava , Rapezzi Davide , Erez Daniel , Gomez Montse , Wille Kai , Perez‐Encinas Manuel , Lunghi Francesca , Angona Anna , Fox Maria Laura , Beggiato Eloise , Benevolo Giulia , Carli Giuseppe , Cacciola Rossella , McMullin Mary Frances , Tieghi Alessia , Recasens Valle , Isfort Susanne , Pane Fabrizio , De Stefano Valerio , Griesshammer Martin , Alvarez‐Larran Alberto , Vannucchi Alessandro Maria , Rambaldi Alessandro , Barbui Tiziano
Published: December 2019

One out of ten patients with Philadelphia‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) develop a second cancer (SC): in such patients we aimed at assessing the survival impact of SC itself and of MPN‐specific therapies. Data were therefore extracted from an international nested case‐control study, recruiting 798 patients with SC diagnosed concurrently or after the MPN. Overall, 2995 person‐years (PYs) were accumulated and mortality rate (MR) since SC diagnosis was 5.9 (5.1‐6.9) deaths for every 100 PYs. A “poor prognosis” SC (stomach, esophagus, liver, pancreas, lung, ovary, head‐and‐neck or nervous system, osteosarcomas, multiple myeloma, aggressive lymphoma, acute leukemia) was reported in 26.3% of the patients and was the cause of death in 65% of them (MR 11.0/100 PYs). In contrast, patients with a “non‐poor prognosis” SC (NPPSC) incurred a MR of 4.6/100 PYs: 31% of the deaths were attributed to SC and 15% to MPN evolution. At multivariable analysis, death after SC diagnosis was independently predicted (HR and 95% CI) by patient age greater than 70 years (2.68; 1.88‐3.81), the SC prognostic group (2.57; 1.86‐3.55), SC relapse (1.53; 10.6‐2.21), MPN evolution (2.72; 1.84‐4.02), anemia at SC diagnosis (2.32; 1.49‐3.59), exposure to hydroxyurea (1.89; 1.26‐2.85) and to ruxolitinib (3.63; 1.97‐6.71). Aspirin was protective for patients with a NPPSC (0.60; 0.38‐0.95). In conclusion, SC is a relevant cause of death competing with MPN evolution. Prospective data are awaited to confirm the role of cytoreductive and anti‐platelet drugs in modulating patient survival after the occurrence of a SC.
A mixed methods study of physical activity and quality of life in adolescents with Turner syndrome
Authors: Thompson Talia , Zieba Brianna , Howell Susan , Karakash William , Davis Shanlee
Published: December 2019

Women with Turner syndrome (TS) have a high morbidity from both medical and psychological conditions with a negative impact on quality of life (QoL). Physical activity is a modifiable behavior shown to reduce risk for these chronic medical and mental health conditions and enhance QoL in other populations. Limited research suggests that adolescents and women with TS are less likely to engage in or enjoy physical activity than peers. This mixed methods study aimed to document physical activity levels in a sample of youth with TS and explore how factors unique to TS contribute to and are affected by physical activity. A cross‐sectional sample of 21 girls (12–21 years) with TS and their parents (n = 21) completed standardized questionnaires to quantify habitual physical activity (3‐day physical activity recall) and QoL (PROMIS) and participated in individual interviews focused on their experience with physical activity. Quantitative and qualitative results were synthesized using a phenomenological mixed methods approach. Results indicate that our sample engaged in less physical activity than peers and only 19% met recommendations for 1 hr per day of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity. Parents reported significant problems with peer relationships and psychological stress, and peer relationships scores correlated with physical activity. Reported barriers to physical activity included physical and psychosocial complications related to TS as well as unique developmental considerations specific to adolescence. Quantitative and qualitative results supported that structured fitness options embedded into routines enhanced activity levels. Results were compiled into specific recommendations for clinical care and areas of future research.
Durch N‐heterocyclische Carbene katalysierte Photoenolisierungs‐Diels‐Alder‐Reaktion von Säurefluoriden
Authors: Mavroskoufis Andreas , Rajes Keerthana , Golz Paul , Agrawal Arush , Ruß Vincent , Götze Jan P. , Hopkinson Matthew N.
Published: December 2019

Die Kombination aus Lichtaktivierung und NHC‐Organokatalyse ermöglichte eine UVA‐lichtvermittelte photochemische Umwandlung von Säurefluoriden, die zuvor nur mit aromatischen Aldehyden und Ketonen beobachtet wurde. Stöchiometrische Studien und TD‐DFT‐Rechnungen stützen einen Mechanismus, der die Photoaktivierung eines ortho‐Toluylazolium‐Intermediats umfasst, das unter UVA‐Strahlung eine “ketonartige” photochemische Reaktivität aufweist. Mithilfe dieses Photo‐NHC‐Katalyseansatzes wurde ein neuer Photoenolisierungs‐Diels‐Alder (PEDA)‐Prozess entwickelt, der zu verschiedenen Isochroman‐1‐on‐Derivaten führte.
Mussel‐inspired bio‐based water‐resistant soy adhesives with low‐cost dopamine analogue‐modified silkworm silk Fiber
Authors: Pang Huiwen , Zhao Shujun , Mo Liuting , Wang Zhong , Zhang Wei , Huang Anmin , Zhang Shifeng , Li Jianzhang
Published: December 2019

Mussel‐inspired dopamine chemistry is popular among engineers for surface modification on various substrates due to its high efficiency, handy operation process, and strong reactivity. However, the high cost of dopamine does not allow for mass production. In the present study, low‐cost dopamine analogues (alkali lignin and tannic acid) were used to fabricate high‐reactivity silkworm silk fiber (SF) via a simple dip‐coating approach, and were then applied to a soy‐based adhesive to enhance its performance. The SF tightly combines with soy protein mainly via a Schiff base reaction between polydopamine or dopamine analogue and the amine or thiol groups of soy protein; this forms a multiple crosslinked system and “reinforced concrete”‐like structure, as confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, and scanning electron microscopy analyses. As expected, the toughness of the soy‐based adhesive obviously improved and the highest wet shear strength of the adhesive samples attained 1.50 MPa, which is far greater than relevant interior use requirements. Though dopamine‐coated SF could significantly enhance the wet shear strength of the soy‐based adhesive by 387.1% compared to the pristine SM adhesive, lignin‐coated and tannic acid‐coated SFs are more suitable for practical application due to the lower cost of raw materials. The results of this study may represent an effective and low‐cost approach to mussel‐inspired surface modification chemistry for the mass production of high‐performance soy‐based adhesives. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48785.
The interplay between antisocial and obsessive‐compulsive personality characteristics in cult‐like religious groups: A psychodynamic decoding of the DSM‐5
Authors: Rahmani Fateh , Hemmati Azad , Cohen Shuki J. , Meloy J. Reid
Published: December 2019

The antisocial and violent behaviors of cult‐like religious groups (CRGs) and the maladaptive social consequences of their activities suggest clinical or character pathology and invite diagnostic and dynamic formulations of their members' personalities. The current study utilized secondary reports in the commercial media about CRG members, combined with the lived experience method of two of the authors. The resulting core characteristics of CRG members were then classified following the alternative DSM‐5 alternative model for personality disorders. The overall clinical picture is then discussed in terms of the shared psychodynamic sources that undergird the behaviors of the antisocial‐obsessive‐compulsive personality disorders. By tracing the personality characteristics into their unconscious sadomasochistic conflicts, these insights shed light on the paradoxical frequent co‐occurrence of antisocial and obsessive‐compulsive characteristics among extremists, in contrast to the patient population at large.
Methacrylate: An alternative fixing agent for identifying the botanical origin of propolis
Authors: Teixeira Érica W. , Message Dejair , Meira Renata M. S. A.
Published: December 2019

Premise

A new technique was developed to identify the botanical origin of propolis, a resin‐like material made by bees by mixing saliva and beeswax with plant buds and exudates, using methacrylate for permanent slide preparation.

Methods and Results

Propolis samples were fixed in methacrylate to produce permanent slides. The anatomical structures of the plant fragments in the methacrylated propolis were compared with propolis slides prepared using conventional techniques that consist of propolis sediment obtained during a series of solvent reactions, filtration, and centrifugations, which cost a similar amount to produce. The techniques resulted in qualitative differences between the slides obtained. The methacrylated propolis sections allowed the detailed observation and identification of plant anatomical structures that were obscured in samples prepared using the conventional procedure. This clarity enabled the detailed evaluation of valuable taxon‐diagnostic characters in a permanent slide, which can also be used for histochemical tests.

Conclusions

The methacrylated embedding of propolis is an affordable technique that could be implemented as a routine laboratory procedure. This new technique enables the efficient determination of the botanical origin of propolis.
Orientation of the round window membrane: A normative study of inner ear anatomical orientation using 2D projections of 3D volumes
Authors: Rutel Isaac B. , Stoner Julie , Kota Pravina , Dormer Kenneth , Alleman Anthony
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Orientation of the Round Window Membrane (RWM) is an important metric to establish if utilized as a potential access for targeted delivery of magnetically guided nanomedicines to the inner ear. Orientation with respect to an internal reference frame (such as the planes defined by the semicircular‐canals [SCC]) may provide an internally consistent basis if the basis is orthogonal and consistent (from patient to patient).

Materials and Methods

Utilizing a micro computed tomography (CT), 20 temporal bones are scanned for anatomical information. The scanned data sets are loaded into an imaging program to provide volumetric reconstruction and segmentation. Volumetric models of the anatomical relationships between the inner ear SCC and the RWM are utilized to get normative projection angle information and are statistically analyzed.

Results

Micro‐CT shows low to moderate reliability for reproducibility, intraobserver, and interobserver measurements; in addition, it provides mean values (±SD) for the various measured angles. The combined mean angular values for surface orientation of the RWM, with respect to the SCC basis (quasi‐orthogonal spherical coordinate system), was 57.0° ± 20.9°as measured from the line defining the posterior SCC plane in the direction of the line defining the superior SCC plane. An angle of 65.2° ± 19.1° was measured for an angle away from the line defining the horizontal SCC plane.
Sub‐10 nm Polyamide Nanofiltration Membrane for Molecular Separation
Authors: Hou Junjun , Jiang Meihuizi , He Xiao , Liu Pengchao , Long Chang , Yu Lian , Huang Zhiwei , Huang Jin , Li Lianshan , Tang Zhiyong
Published: December 2019

To separate small molecules from the solvent with high permeability and selectivity, the membrane process is thought to be highly effective with much lower energy consumption when compared to the traditional thermal‐based separation process. To achieve high solvent permeance, a sub‐10 nm thick polyamide nanofiltration membrane was synthesized through interfacial polymerization of ethidium bromide (EtBr) and trimesoyl chloride (TMC). Thanks to the extremely low solubility of the EtBr monomer in the organic phase, the polymerization process was strictly limited at the interface of the water and hexane, leading to an ultrathin polyamide membrane with a thickness down to sub‐10 nm. When used in nanofiltration, these ultrathin membranes display ultrafast water permeation of 40 liter per square meter per hour per bar (L m−2 h−1 bar−1), and a high Congo red rejection rate of 93 %. This work demonstrates a new route to synthesize ultrathin polyamide membranes by the traditional interfacial polymerization.
Metabolic engineering strategies for consolidated production of lactic acid from lignocellulosic biomass
Authors: Mazzoli Roberto
Published: December 2019

Lactic acid (LA) is one of the most desired molecules by the chemical industry. Current expansion of LA market is mainly driven by its application as building block for the synthesis of polylactide (PLA), that is, a family of biodegradable and biocompatible plastic polymers. PLA can potentially replace oil‐derived polymers as general purpose plastic, but current LA prices fails to make PLA cost‐competitive with traditional plastics. Nowadays, LA is mainly produced by fermentation of expensive starchy biomass. Hopefully, cheaper lignocellulosic feedstock could be used in future second‐generation biorefinery processes. However, most efficient natural LA producers cannot ferment lignocellulose without prior biomass saccharification. Metabolic engineering may develop improved microorganisms that feature both efficient biomass hydrolysis and LA production, thus supporting consolidated bioprocessing (CBP), that is, one‐pot fermentation, of lignocellulose to LA. CBP could dramatically reduce LA production cost, thus contributing to the expansion of more environmental sustainable plastics and commodity chemicals. This review presents an overview of “recombinant cellulolytic strategies”, mainly consisting in introducing cellulase systems in native producers of LA, and “native cellulolytic strategies” aimed at improving LA production in natural cellulolytic microorganisms. Issues and perspectives of these approaches will be discussed.
Sulfur‐Doped Carbon‐Wrapped Heterogeneous Fe3O4/Fe7S8/C Nanoplates as Stable Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Kang , Kong Xiangzhong , Xie Xuefang , Chen Jing , Cao Xinxin , Liang Shuquan , Pan Anqiang
Published: December 2019

High‐capacity electrode materials have attracted tremendous attention in energy storage systems. However, the large volume expansion always causes breakdown of electrode materials and capacity fading. In this work, we report the preparation of heterogeneous Fe3O4/Fe7S8/C nanoplates with a high lithium diffusion coefficient and excellent lithium storage performance. The heterogeneous nanoplates can be derived from Fe‐MOF octahedra during the sulfidation process. As an anode for lithium‐ion batteries, the Fe3O4/Fe7S8/C composite exhibits higher specific capacity and better rate capability than Fe3O4/C and Fe7S8/C counterparts. The Fe3O4/Fe7S8/C nanoplates deliver a reversible capacity of 859 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1. Even at 2 A g−1, a capacity of 549 mA h g−1 can still be remained. The good performances are attributed to the small nanocrystallites, high surface area, and the heterogeneous phase boundaries. The strategy can be potentially applied to other metal oxide/metal sulfide composite phases or even bimetallic sulfides and bimetal oxides for high performance lithium‐ion batteries.
Enabling High Performance Potassium‐Based Dual‐Graphite Battery Cells by Highly Concentrated Electrolytes
Authors: Münster Patrick , Heckmann Andreas , Nölle Roman , Winter Martin , Beltrop Kolja , Placke Tobias
Published: December 2019

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Dr. Tobias Placke and Prof. Dr. Martin Winter from the MEET Battery Research Center (University of Münster, Münster, Germany). The cover picture shows the dual‐graphite cell chemistry in the charged state, in which cations and anions are intercalated into the negative and positive graphite electrodes, respectively. The key requirements to achieve a high cycling stability are improved electrolytes and the design of effective interphases. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/batt.201900106.
Cell‐surface exposure of a hybrid 3‐cohesin scaffoldin allowing the functionalization of Escherichia coli envelope
Authors: Vita Nicolas , Borne Romain , Fierobe Henri‐Pierre
Published: December 2019

Cellulosomes are large plant cell wall degrading complexes secreted by some anaerobic bacteria. They are typically composed of a major scaffolding protein containing multiple receptors called cohesins, which tightly anchor a small complementary module termed dockerin harbored by the cellulosomal enzymes. In the present study, we have successfully cell surface exposed in Escherichia coli a hybrid scaffoldin, Scaf6, fused to the curli protein CsgA, the latter is known to polymerize at the surface of E. coli to form extracellular fibers under stressful environmental conditions. The C‐terminal part of the chimera encompasses the hybrid scaffoldin composed of three cohesins from different bacterial origins and a carbohydrate‐binding module targeting insoluble cellulose. Using three cellulases hosting the complementary dockerin modules and labeled with different fluorophores, we have shown that the hybrid scaffoldin merged to CsgA is massively exposed at the cell surface of E. coli and that each cohesin module is fully operational. Altogether these data open a new route for a series of biotechnological applications exploiting the cell‐surface exposure of CsgA‐Scaf6 in various industrial sectors such as vaccines, biocatalysts or bioremediation, simply by grafting the small dockerin module to the desired proteins before incubation with the engineered E. coli.
Multicentre evaluation of case volume in minimally invasive hepatectomy
Authors: Viganò L , Cimino M , Aldrighetti L , Ferrero A , Cillo U , Guglielmi A , Ettorre G M , Giuliante F , Dalla Valle R , Mazzaferro V , Jovine E , De Carlis L , Calise F , Torzilli G , Ratti F , Gringeri E , Russolillo N , Levi Sandri G B , Ardito F , Boggi U , Gruttadauria S , Di Benedetto F , Rossi G E , Berti S , Ceccarelli G , Vincenti L , Belli G , Zamboni F , Coratti A , Mezzatesta P , Santambrogio R , Navarra G , Giuliani A , Pinna A D , Parisi A , Colledan M , Slim A , Antonucci A , Grazi G L , Frena A , Sgroi G , Brolese A , Morelli L , Floridi A , Patriti A , Veneroni L , Boni L , Maida P , Griseri G , Filauro M , Guerriero S , Tisone G , Romito R , Tedeschi U , Zimmitti G
Published: December 2019

Background

Surgical outcomes may be associated with hospital volume and the influence of volume on minimally invasive liver surgery (MILS) is not known.

Methods

Patients entered into the prospective registry of the Italian Group of MILS from 2014 to 2018 were considered. Only centres with an accrual period of at least 12 months and stable MILS activity during the enrolment period were included. Case volume was defined by the mean number of minimally invasive liver resections performed per month (MILS/month).

Results

A total of 2225 MILS operations were undertaken by 46 centres; nine centres performed more than two MILS/month (1376 patients) and 37 centres carried out two or fewer MILS/month (849 patients). The proportion of resections of anterolateral segments decreased with case volume, whereas that of major hepatectomies increased. Left lateral sectionectomies and resections of anterolateral segments had similar outcome in the two groups. Resections of posterosuperior segments and major hepatectomies had higher overall and severe morbidity rates in centres performing two or fewer MILS/month than in those undertaking a larger number (posterosuperior segments resections: overall morbidity 30·4 versus 18·7 per cent respectively, and severe morbidity 9·9 versus 4·0 per cent; left hepatectomy: 46 versus 22 per cent, and 19 versus 5 per cent; right hepatectomy: 42 versus 34 per cent, and 25 versus 15 per cent).

Conclusion

A volume–outcome association existed for minimally invasive hepatectomy. Complex and major resections may be best managed in high-volume centres.
Quality variation and standardization of black pepper (Piper nigrum): A comparative geographical evaluation based on instrumental and metabolomics analysis
Authors: Ahmad Rizwan , Ahmad Niyaz , Amir Mohd , Aljishi Fatema , Alamer Marwah Hussain , Al‐Shaban Heba Radhi , Alsadah Zainab Alawi , Alsultan Bayan Mohammed , Aldawood Noor Ali , Chathoth Shahanas , Almofty Sarah Ameen
Published: December 2019

Black pepper (Piper nigrum; BP), known as the ‘king of spices’, imported from various countries is widely available in Saudi Arabian markets, as its demand as a food as well as a medicine for minor ailments is increasing in the country. However, there is a lack of appropriate information regarding these samples in terms of quality variation and standardization. We thus aimed to evaluate the quality and standardize the BP sample with respect to its physicochemical characters, active principle variation [i.e. piperine (PPN)], toxicity, and biological activity. The main focus is to validate whether any difference exists in the quality and quantity of active principle in these samples. For this purpose, physicochemical (chemical tests and ash values) and instrumental analyses [accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), ultra‐high‐pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC)‐diode array detector, infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and inductively coupled plasma‐MS (ICP‐MS)] and biological evaluation {in vitro antioxidant activity [2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid)] and cytotoxicity assay} were performed. An extract yield (g) with %recovery of 2.26 ± 4.24 (11.3) was obtained for the Vietnamese sample, using a fast and rapid method of extraction (ASE). These values were 1.22 ± 2.64 (6.1) and 0.75 ± 1.69 (3.75) for the Pakistani and Indian samples. Physicochemical tests revealed the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds in all samples; however, in the Vietnamese sample a low amount of total, acid‐insoluble, and high water‐soluble ash value was noted. IR and NMR was applied to further standardize the samples. Results of ICP‐MS analysis showed a high amount of macronutrients and micronutrients in the samples tested while UHPLC analysis revealed a high amount of PPN (ng/mL) in the Pakistani sample (1,362,614.09); these values were 1,051,848.04 and 768,512.81 for the Vietnamese and Indian samples, respectively. In vitro antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities revealed higher potential for the Vietnamese sample. The samples were properly standardized and effectively differentiated in terms of quality and biological activities using a fast and reliable method, however it certainly does not mean that a particular geographical region is more better or productive in terms of herbal products.
Multiple certification uptake by coffee businesses: Evidence of functions and benefits from Central America
Authors: Donovan Jason , Blare Trent , Peña Meliza
Published: December 2019

This article examines why and how nine coffee businesses in Central America engaged with multiple certification systems and the related functions and benefits. The businesses implemented, on average, four systems. Certification, in general, strengthened their negotiation position vis‐à‐vis exporters and international buyers, whereas multiple certification reduced the risks inherent in their reliance on any one certification, allowing businesses to sell as much coffee as possible at a relatively higher price. However, commitments to the certification's underlying goals were tenuous: Businesses engaged a subgroup of their supplier base in any one label, and coffee buyers purchased relatively small volumes of certified coffees, at times, conditioned on access to larger volumes of noncertified coffees. Although certification facilitated capacity upgrading, in many cases, the changes were minor and might have taken place without certification. Results suggest that multiple certification helps sustain small‐scale coffee exporters but dampen expectations that certification will drive long‐term systemic change in the sector. We conclude with recommendations for certification agencies and others that seek to support coffee businesses to expand their engagement in certified coffee markets.
Exploring networks of proximity for partner selection, firms' collaboration and knowledge exchange. The case of clean‐tech industry
Authors: Marra Alessandro , Carlei Vittorio , Baldassari Cristiano
Published: December 2019

Nowadays scholars widely recognize that know‐how, capabilities and knowledge needed to generate innovations often reside outside the firm, start‐ups are a valuable source, and collaborative networks are a fundamental strategy for innovation. This is true especially for the clean‐tech sector, which is characterized by the continuous search for innovative solutions and technological advancements. The purpose of the paper is to provide a methodological support for the screening of potential partners based on network analysis and, then, help firms to select them for collaboration and knowledge exchange. The methodology can be easily adopted by managers and executives to identify firms to monitor with greater attention for future investments. The analysis is on a dataset of 4,782 clean‐tech companies operating worldwide. Results highlight that energy companies looking for external sources could investigate their network of business proximity if they intend to specialize in a defined field and/or collaborate with similar partners, while they could explore their network of strategic proximity if they intend to diversify their businesses, that is cooperating and exchanging knowledge with firms with distant but complementary capabilities and resources.
CADASIL presenting as late‐onset mania with anosognosia
Authors: Uppal Manik , Kanellopoulos Dora , Kotbi Nabil
Published: December 2019

The diagnosis of cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) should be considered in patients with late‐onset personality change and mania. However, neuropsychological deficits precipitated by the disorder pose significant challenges to recognition and appropriate management of CADASIL in susceptible patients.
Visualizing Formation of Tungsten Carbide Model Catalyst and its Interaction with Oxygen
Authors: Meng Caixia , Li Rongtan , Ning Yanxiao , Pavlovska Anastassia , Bauer Ernst , Fu Qiang , Bao Xinhe
Published: December 2019

Construction of model metal carbide surfaces is essential for surface catalysis studies over carbide‐based catalysts. Here, well‐controlled growth of tungsten carbide (WCx) layers on W(110) including carbon‐rich R(15×3)‐C/W(110) and carbon‐poor R(15×12)‐C/W(110) structures has been clearly demonstrated using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on a clean W(110) surface or carbon segregation from the bulk. Low‐energy electron microscopy (LEEM) and micro‐region LEED (μ‐LEED) characterizations confirm that the R(15×12) structure forms first and then transforms to the R(15×3) structure by incorporating more carbon atoms in the CVD or surface segregation processes. Oxidation of the WCx/W(110) surfaces in O2 atmosphere removes surface carbon atoms, driving the structural transformation from R(15×3) to R(15×12) first and then to a two‐dimensional oxide surface. Our work provides a clear guide for well‐controlled growth of model WCx catalysts and the structural transformation between them.
Optimization of [Bmim][HSO4]‐Catalyzed Transesterification of Camelina Oil
Authors: Li Huan , Ma Tian , Shen Zhensheng , Li An , Yang Jie , Xiang Dong , Liu Jiuyi , Deng Shuguang , Sun Yingqiang
Published: December 2019

1‐Butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate ([Bmim][HSO4]) is utilized to catalyze transesterification of camelina oil with methanol. The major compositions of camelina biodiesel are saturated fatty acid esters (C16:0, C18:0), monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acid esters (C18:2, C18:3). The effects of reaction temperature, reaction time, Mmethanol:MCamelina oil, and M[Bmim][HSO4]:MCamelina oil on biodiesel production are investigated in detail, and a general mathematical model is developed to well predict the biodiesel yield. Also, [Bmim][HSO4] is thermally stable to recycle for four times with a high biodiesel yield. The fuel properties of camelina biodiesel are all comparable to the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) standards.
Chiral 3D Coordination Polymers Consisting of Achiral Terpyridyl Precursors: from Spontaneous Resolution to Enantioenriched Induction
Authors: Zuo Tao , Luo Dong , Huang Yong‐Liang , Li Yan Yan , Zhou Xiao‐Ping , Li Dan
Published: December 2019

A pair of enantiomers of three‐dimensional (3D) chiral coordination polymers (CCPs) were successfully constructed by using achiral components 4,2′:6′,4′′‐terpyridyl precursors and Cu2+ through spontaneous resolution (1 a). By utilising feeding controlled chiral‐templated induction and chiral auxiliary behaviour of optically pure camphor sulfonate (CSA), the enantioenriched (1 b‐P and 1 b‐M) and CSA captured (1 c‐P and 1 c‐M) CCPs were successfully synthesised, respectively. The chiral information of the corresponding products was confirmed by X‐ray single crystal diffraction and solid‐state CD spectra. Meanwhile, the formation processes of 1 b‐P and 1 b‐M were monitored through solution CD spectra, UV/Vis spectra and ESI‐TOF MS. Based on these results, a reasonable chiral‐templated induction mechanism of forming 1 b‐P and 1 b‐M was proposed.