bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Institutional pressures, environmental management strategy, and organizational performance: The role of environmental management accounting
Authors: Gunarathne A.D. Nuwan , Lee Ki‐Hoon , Hitigala Kaluarachchilage Pubudu K.
Published: October 2020

This study investigates the implementation of environmental management accounting in translating environmental management strategy into organizational performance. Further, the study identifies the influence of institutional pressures on environmental management strategy and environmental management accounting to provide a better description of the impact of the institutional environment on corporate environmental practices. The data were collected from 144 business entities in Sri Lanka using a web‐based survey and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. We found statistically significant evidence to state that the environmental management strategy is positively associated with the environmental and economic performance of organizations, whereas environmental management accounting mediates this relationship. Further, a firm's institutional environment positively affects both environmental management strategies and environmental management accounting. This study emphasizes that the organizational information systems such as environmental management accounting are useful in providing information on environmental costs and monitoring environmental and financial performance when implementing environmental management strategies in the pursuit of corporate sustainable development.
A cascade of multiple complications hampering a complex high‐risk percutaneous coronary intervention (CHIP‐PCI): When ingenuity overcomes troubles!
Authors: Marchese Alfredo , Tito Antonio , Paparella Domenico , Colombo Antonio
Published: October 2020

Even skilled CHIP operators can run into multiple complications. Some are unexpected and not related to the operator, and others are fully preventable by careful procedural choices. If those occur, the knowledge of devices and cognitive skills become lifesaving elements and sudden issues need to be dealt with calmly and efficiently.
Heterogeneously Catalyzed Methanolysis of Gmelina Seed Oil to Biodiesel
Authors: Ude Callistus Nonso , Onukwuli Dominic Okechukwu , Umeuzuegbu Jonah Chukwudi , Chukwuka Chinemelum Chukwujekwu
Published: October 2020

The heterogeneous catalysis of transesterification of gmelina seed oil to biodiesel is evaluated. The oil was extracted from the seeds with n‐hexane by solvent extraction and characterized to determine its physiochemical properties. Response surface methodology was applied to optimize the effect of process variables on the biodiesel yield. The base‐activated clay catalyst performed as montmorillonite clay with the characteristic property of a Brønsted acid. It has an improved surface area after activation that enhanced its catalytic activity on transesterification reaction. Under optimal conditions, the biodiesel yield was 70.1 %, thus demonstrating that the model predicted well the biodiesel production.
Forecast Formulas for Bulk Material Dustiness Under Low Vacuum Conditions in a Single‐Drop Device
Authors: Londershausen Tim , Schmidt Eberhard
Published: October 2020

The release of particles from bulk materials is usually an undesired quality. Nevertheless, it can occur in a wide range of material‐handling processes and may present a hazard to humans and the environment. Therefore, the dust formation tendency represents an important material property that depends on the specific type of stress. A forecast of the dust formation tendency could simplify and expedite the assessment of possible hazard potentials as it would eliminate the need for comprehensive dustiness measurements. A single‐drop method was used to analyze the dustiness of nine materials at low pressure conditions. Based on the experimental results, an empirically derived apparatus‐specific forecast parameter and a prediction function were developed.
Construction of 3‐Azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane Backbone by the Reaction of Allenes with Allylamines via Tandem Michael Addition and Copper‐Mediated Oxidative Carbanion Cyclization
Authors: Xu Hui , Han Teng , Luo Xiaoyan , Deng Wei‐Ping
Published: October 2020

Main observation and conclusion

A facile synthetic method for the construction of 3‐azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane in the presence of copper catalyst system was developed. The reaction proceeds through Michael addition of allylamines with allenes followed by copper‐mediated intramolecular oxidative carbanion 5‐exo‐trig radical cyclization, affording potential biologically active 3‐azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane derivatives in moderate to high yields (42%—85%).
Experimental Visualisation of Chemical Bonding
Authors: Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Irmer Erhard
Published: October 2020

Hochaufgelöste Röntgenbeugungsdaten liefern mit Hilfe des Multipolmodells Informationen über Bindungselektronendichte. Über die graphische Darstellung des elektrostatischen Potentials kann man nukleophile und elektrophile Zentren in einem Molekül identifizieren. Die Quantentheorie von Atomen in Molekülen (QTAIM) ermöglicht die Berechnung von Atomladungen, Charakterisierung von Bindungen und die Visualisierung von Bindungselektronen‐ und freien Elektronenpaaren. Das Konzept wird an den beiden Beispielstrukturen Benzol und Oxalsäure‐Dihydrat verdeutlicht.
Association of early repolarization pattern with cardiovascular outcomes in middle‐aged population: A cohort study
Authors: Cheng Yun‐Jiu , Zhao Xiao‐Xiao , Pan Shun‐Ping , Pan Jia‐Min , Zhang Ming , Li Zhu‐Yu
Published: October 2020

Background

Large cohort studies provide conflicting evidence regarding the prognostic value of early repolarization pattern (ERP) in the general population, complicated by the complex or heterogeneous definitions of ERP applied in different studies.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that ERP was associated with increased cardiovascular risk with the definition of ERP recommended by the expert consensus statements.

Methods

A total of 13673 middle‐aged subjects from the prospective, population‐based Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study were included in this analysis. Cox models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) adjusted for possible confounding factors. ERP was defined as ST‐segment elevation ≥0.1mV at the end of the QRS or J wave on the QRS downstroke in two or more contiguous leads.

Results

Compared with those without ERP, subjects with ERP had a significantly increased risk of developing sudden cardiac death (SCD) (HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.08–2.04) and death from coronary heart disease (CHD) (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.10–1.92) after a median follow‐up of 20.1 years. ERP was significantly predictive of SCD in females, whites, younger people, and subjects with relatively low cardiovascular risk. ERP with ST‐segment elevation appeared to indicate poor cardiovascular outcomes. ERP was associated with an absolute risk increase of 93.3 additional SCDs per 100 000 person‐years.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that ERP was an independent predictor of SCD and CHD death in the middle‐aged biracial population.
Regional differences in beta amyloid plaque deposition and variable response to midlife environmental enrichment in the cortex of APP/PS1 mice
Authors: Fulopova Barbora , Stuart Kimberley E. , Bennett William , Bindoff Aidan , King Anna E. , Vickers James C. , Canty Alison J.
Published: October 2020

Environmentally enriched housing conditions can increase performance on cognitive tasks in APP/PS1 mice; however, the potential effects of environmental enrichment (EE) on disease modification in terms of pathological change are inconclusive. We hypothesized that previous contrasting findings may be attributable to regional differences in susceptibility to amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque deposition in cortical regions that are functionally associated with EE. We characterized fibrillar plaque deposition in 6, 12, and 18–22 months old APP/PS1 mice in the prefrontal (PFC), somatosensory (SS2), and primary motor cortex (M1). We found a significant increase in plaque load between 6 and 12 months in all regions. In animals over 12 months, only the PFC region continued to significantly accumulate plaques. Additionally, 12 months old animals subjected to 6 months of EE showed improved spatial navigation and had significantly fewer plaques in M1 and SS2, but not in the PFC. These findings suggest that the PFC region is selectively susceptible to Aβ deposition and less responsive to the attenuating effects of EE. In contrast, M1 and SS2 regions plateau with respect to Aβ deposition by 12 months of age and are susceptible to amyloid pathology modification by midlife EE.
Femto/Picosecond Transient Absorption Study of Ring‐Opening Dynamics in Perimidinespirocyclohexadienone Derivatives
Authors: Metelitsa Anatoly V. , Poizat Olivier , Buntinx Guy , Dorogan Igor V.
Published: October 2020

The ring‐opening dynamics of perimidinespirocyclohexadienone derivatives has been studied by means of time‐resolved spectroscopy in cyclohexane and acetonitrile solutions. It has been established that molecular isomerisation leading to the open isomer occurs against the background of the S1‐S0 internal conversion of the cyclic form. In addition, the features of the observed spectral changes in the cyclohexane made it possible to distinguish formation of the photoproduct in the T1 state and its relaxation via intersystem crossing to the singlet ground state. The corresponding assignments for transient absorption bands were performed on the basis of TD‐DFT calculations.
Are all narratives the same: Convergent and discriminant validity of the Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale—Global Rating Method across two narrative types
Authors: Slavin‐Mulford Jenelle M. , Amerson Luke R. , Hilsenroth Mark J. , Zodan Jennifer , Charnas Jocelyn W. , Cain Lylli A. , Stein Michelle B.
Published: October 2020

This study examines the construct validity of the Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale—Global Rating Method (SCORS‐G) by exploring the degree of convergence across different narrative sources (i.e., early memories [EM] and psychotherapy narratives [PT]) using a university‐based outpatient sample (n = 101). First, we examined intercorrelations between SCORS‐G ratings of EM and PT. Intercorrelations between SCORS‐G EM and PT revealed that three of the dimensions significantly correlated with themselves across narrative type (Emotional Investment in Relationships [EIR], Experience and Management of Aggressive Impulses [AGG], and Self‐Esteem [SE]), but that only AGG had its strongest correlation with itself (i.e., EM AGG to PT AGG). In addition, EM AGG was significantly related to all but one of the PT SCORS‐G dimensions. Likewise, EM SE correlated with all but two of the PT SCORS‐G dimensions. Second, we examined how narrative source related to clinical findings. With the use of a multimethod approach, we assessed how SCORS‐G ratings from both narrative types correlated with selected variables from the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) and Rorschach Inkblot Test. Findings indicated that there were only three instances in which both narrative types had significant relationships to the same variable/scale, and all three instances were with the Rorschach. Together, these findings suggest that even when using the same scale (SCORS‐G), different narrative sources differentially activate aspects of object relations. In addition, the results highlight that difficulties with self‐esteem and poor management of aggression in childhood interactions relates to patients' object relational functioning later in life. Clinical implications and future research are discussed.
Preparation of Oxazole Acetals from N‐Propargylamides Enabled by Visible‐Light‐Promoted Selenium‐π‐Acid Catalysis
Authors: Wang Xue Yang , Zhang Qing Bao , Jin Xiao Ling , Wu Li Zhu , Liu Qiang
Published: October 2020

An unprecedented catalytic system consisting of diselenides, Selectfluor and visible light has been developed for the one‐pot synthesis of oxazole acetals from N‐propargylamides and alcohols. This system shows the processes of cyclization, aromatization and acetalization, resulting in the construction of multiple carbon‐oxygen bonds. These transformations demonstrate the excellent compatibility of visible‐light promotion with organocatalytic oxidative carbon–oxygen bond formations using air as the terminal oxidant.
Exploiting the Degradation Mechanism of NCM523Graphite Lithium‐Ion Full Cells Operated at High Voltage
Authors: Klein Sven , Bärmann Peer , Beuse Thomas , Borzutzki Kristina , Frerichs Joop Enno , Kasnatscheew Johannes , Winter Martin , Placke Tobias
Published: October 2020

Layered oxides, particularly including Li[NixCoyMnz]O2 (NCMxyz) materials, such as NCM523, are the most promising cathode materials for high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). One major strategy to increase the energy density of LIBs is to expand the cell voltage (>4.3 V). However, high‐voltage NCM
graphite full cells typically suffer from drastic capacity fading, often referred to as “rollover” failure. In this study, the underlying degradation mechanisms responsible for failure of NCM523
graphite full cells operated at 4.5 V are unraveled by a comprehensive study including the variation of different electrode and cell parameters. It is found that the “rollover” failure after around 50 cycles can be attributed to severe solid electrolyte interphase growth, owing to formation of thick deposits at the graphite anode surface through deposition of transition metals migrating from the cathode to the anode. These deposits induce the formation of Li metal dendrites, which, in the worst cases, result in a “rollover” failure owing to the generation of (micro‐) short circuits. Finally, approaches to overcome this dramatic failure mechanism are presented, for example, by use of single‐crystal NCM523 materials, showing no “rollover” failure even after 200 cycles. The suppression of cross‐talk phenomena in high‐voltage LIB cells is of utmost importance for achieving high cycling stability.
Manipulating Au−CeO2 Interfacial Structure Toward Ultrahigh Mass Activity and Selectivity for CO2 Reduction
Authors: Fu Jile , Ren Dezhang , Xiao Meiling , Wang Ke , Deng Yaping , Luo Dan , Zhu Jianbing , Wen Guobin , Zheng Ying , Bai Zhengyu , Yang Lin , Chen Zhongwei
Published: October 2020

Deploying the application of Au‐based catalysts directly on CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR) relies on the simultaneous improvement of mass activity (usually lower than 10 mA mg−1Au at −0.6 V) and selectivity. To achieve this target, we herein manipulate the interface of small‐size Au (3.5 nm) and CeO2 nanoparticles through adjusting the surface charge of Au and CeO2. The well‐regulated interfacial structure not only guarantees the utmost utilization of Au, but also enhances the CO2 adsorption. Consequently, the mass activity (CO) of the optimal AuCeO2/C catalyst reaches 139 mA mg−1Au with 97 % CO faradaic efficiency (FECO) at −0.6 V. Moreover, the strong interaction between Au and CeO2 endows the catalyst with excellent long‐term stability. This work affords a charge‐guided approach to construct the interfacial structure for CO2RR and beyond.
Limited contributions of plant pathogens to density‐dependent seedling mortality of mast fruiting Bornean trees
Authors: Cannon Patrick G. , O’Brien Michael J. , Yusah Kalsum M. , Edwards David P. , Freckleton Robert P.
Published: October 2020

Fungal pathogens are implicated in driving tropical plant diversity by facilitating strong, negative density‐dependent mortality of conspecific seedlings (C‐NDD). Assessment of the role of fungal pathogens in mediating coexistence derives from relatively few tree species and predominantly the Neotropics, limiting our understanding of their role in maintaining hyper‐diversity in many tropical forests. A key question is whether fungal pathogen‐mediated C‐NDD seedling mortality is ubiquitous across diverse plant communities. Using a manipulative shadehouse experiment, we tested the role of fungal pathogens in mediating C‐NDD seedling mortality of eight mast fruiting Bornean trees, typical of the species‐rich forests of South East Asia. We demonstrate species‐specific responses of seedlings to fungicide and density treatments, generating weak negative density‐dependent mortality. Overall seedling mortality was low and likely insufficient to promote overall community diversity. Although conducted in the same way as previous studies, we find little evidence that fungal pathogens play a substantial role in determining patterns of seedling mortality in a SE Asian mast fruiting forest, questioning our understanding of how Janzen‐Connell mechanisms structure the plant communities of this globally important forest type.
Annealing Boosts the Supercapacitive Properties of Molybdenum Disulfide Powder
Authors: Mwonga Patrick V. , Ipadeola Adewale K. , Naidoo Shunmugam R. , Quandt Alexander , Ozoemena Kenneth I.
Published: October 2020

This work compares the supercapacitive properties of pristine molybdenum disulfide (MoS2‐AS) and its counterpart annealed at 450 °C (MoS2‐450) in 1 M Na2SO4 solution. The MoS2‐450 powder delivers an increased specific capacitance and low charge‐tansfer resistance compared to the MoS2‐AS powder, interpreted as the consequence of high pore size and annealing‐induced active edge sites on the MoS2‐450 for facile charge transport. Symmetric cells of the MoS2‐450 electrodes, connected in series, delivered a voltage of 3.5 V, high enough to light a 1.6 V LED. The high performance of the MoS2‐450 means that it can be optimized for potential application.
Trace Element Concentrations in Blood and Scute Tissues from Wild and Captive Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas)
Authors: Shaw Katherine R. , Lynch Jennifer M. , Balazs George H. , Jones T. Todd , Pawloski Jeff , Rice Marc R. , French Amanda D. , Liu Jing , Cobb George P. , Klein David M.
Published: October 2020

Sea turtles are exposed to trace elements through water, sediment, and food. Exposure to these elements has been shown to decrease immune function, impair growth, and decrease reproductive output in wildlife. The present study compares trace element concentrations in green turtles in captivity at Sea Life Park Hawaii (n = 6) to wild green turtles in Kapoho Bay, Hawaii, USA (n = 5–7). Blood and scute samples were collected and analyzed for 11 elements via inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Selenium was significantly greater (p < 0.05) in the blood of captive turtles compared with wild turtles, whereas V, Ni, and Pb were significantly greater in the blood of wild turtles. In scute, V, Cu, Se, and Cr were significantly greater in captive turtles, whereas As was significantly greater in wild turtles. Pelleted food fed to the captive turtles and representative samples of the wild turtle diet were analyzed via ICP-MS to calculate trophic transfer factors and daily intake values. Wild turtles had greater estimated daily intake than captive turtles for all elements except Cu and Se. Because captive turtles are fed a diet very different from that of their wild counterparts, captive turtles do not represent control or reference samples for chemical exposure studies in wild turtles. No toxic thresholds are known for sea turtles, but rehabilitation and managed care facilities should monitor sea turtle elemental concentrations to ensure the animals' health. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:208–218. © 2020 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.

Abstract

The differences in elemental concentrations between captive and wild turtles are primarily due to their food source. Captive turtles are given a pelleted food that is a mixture of animal and plant protein products with additives, whereas wild turtles have a primarily herbivorous diet. Asterisk indicates significant difference (p < 0.05) between captive and wild turtles.
Dynamic controller placement insoftware‐definednetworks for reducing costs and improving survivability
Authors: Abdi Seyedkolaei Ali , Hosseini Seno Seyed Amin , Moradi Ahmad
Published: October 2020

Software‐defined networks are a modern architecture in computer networks where traffic transfer is separated from network control. In software‐defined networks, all decisions are made in the controller, and the necessary commands are injected into the network equipment. With the advent of software‐defined networks and the introduction of a new concept called controller in these types of networks, it becomes important to find an appropriate location for the controller and its number in the network. This problem aims to find the location and the optimal number of controllers needed in the network, and how to assign switches to the controllers declined certain constraints. In this article, a method to determine the appropriate location for controllers is proposed, so that the cost of network implementation would be reduced and thus its survivability is improved. Finally, we analyzed the proposed method in terms of evaluation criteria.
Meshfree lattice Boltzmann flux solver for compressible inviscid flows
Authors: Zhan Ningyu , Chen Rongqian , Liu Jiaqi , Qiu Ruofan , You Yancheng
Published: October 2020

In this work, a meshfree Lattice Boltzmann Flux Solver (LBFS) is proposed to resolve compressible flow problems based on scattered points without mesh connections. The new method employs the Least Square‐based Finite Difference (LSFD) scheme to discretize the governing equations. In order to simulate discontinuous problems such as shock wave, the mid‐point between two adjacent nodes is regarded as a discontinuous interface over which the Riemann problem is established. The local fluxes at this interface point are reconstructed by LBFS using the local solution of the Lattice Boltzmann Equation (LBE) as well as its correlations to macroscopic variables and moment relations. The LBFS is constructed based on the non‐free parameter D1Q4 model: the normal component of the particle velocity on the interface is retained, while the tangential component is reconstructed by the macroscopic variables on both sides of the interface. The meshfree LBFS expects some intriguing merits. On one hand, it inherits the physical robustness of the LBFS: the local fluxes are reconstructed from the physical solutions instead of mathematical interpolations. On the other hand, it allows the implementation at arbitrarily distributed nodes, which credits to the flexibility of the method. Representative examples of compressible flows, including Sod shock tube, Osher‐Shu shock tube, flow around NACA0012 airfoil, flow around staggered NACA0012 biplane configuration and shock reflection problem, are simulated by the proposed method for comprehensive evaluation of the meshfree LBFS.
Sustainable Solar Evaporation from Solute Surface via Energy Downconversion
Authors: Bian Yue , Tian Yanli , Tang Kun , Li Wei , Zhao Lijuan , Yang Yi , Ye Jiandong , Gu Shulin
Published: October 2020

Solar‐powered interfacial evaporation, a cost‐effective and ecofriendly way to obtain freshwater from contaminated water, provides a promising path to ease the global water crisis. However, solute accumulation has severely impacted efficient light‐to‐heat‐to‐vapor generation in conventional solar evaporators. Here, it is demonstrated that an interfacial solar thermal photo‐vapor generator is an efficient light‐to‐heat photo‐vapor generator that can evaporate water stably in the presence of solute accumulation. An energy downconversion strategy which shifts sunlight energy from visible‐near infrared to mid infrared‐far infrared bands turns water from transparent to its own absorber, thus changing the fixed evaporation surface (black absorber) in a traditional solar evaporator to a dynamic front (solute surface). Light reflected from the solute can be recycled to drive evaporation. The prototype evaporator can evaporate at a high speed of 1.94 kg m−2 h−1 during a persistent solute accumulation process for 32 h. Such an ability to produce purified water while recycle valuable heavy metals from waste water containing heavy metal ions can inspire more advanced solar‐driven water treatment devices.
Coupled CO2‐well‐reservoir simulation using a partitioned approach: effect of reservoir properties on well dynamics
Authors: Munkejord Svend Tollak , Hammer Morten , Ervik Åsmund , Odsæter Lars Hov , Lund Halvor
Published: October 2020

We present a model framework for dynamic simulation of the flow of and other components in an injection well coupled with a near‐well reservoir. With a partitioned approach, we employ numerical methods adapted to the governing equations in each domain. In both well and reservoir, accurate thermodynamics are used. This model can be used for various design and operational considerations for ‐injection wells, that is, the quantification of pressure and temperature transients, and phase composition, including the appearance of a water‐rich phase. We study cases where the flow in the well and the near‐well reservoir is dynamically coupled. The rock properties are seen to strongly affect the well dynamics, both regarding magnitude and transient evolution of the bottom‐hole pressure. We consider a variation of this case where water is co‐injected with , showing that this is a potential method to mitigate salt precipitation. We also consider intermittent injection, representing the case of direct injection from ships transporting . Finally, we observe that in the present cases, a coupled model (as opposed to a well‐only model) is necessary in order to capture the dynamics in the well during injection. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase SERCA2b is upregulated in activated microglia and its inhibition causes opposite effects on migration and phagocytosis
Authors: Morales‐Ropero Juan M. , Arroyo‐Urea Sandra , Neubrand Veronika E. , Martín‐Oliva David , Marín‐Teva José L. , Cuadros Miguel A. , Vangheluwe Peter , Navascués Julio , Mata Ana M. , Sepúlveda M. Rosario
Published: October 2020

Activation of microglia is an early immune response to damage in the brain. Although a key role for Ca2+ as trigger of microglial activation has been considered, little is known about the molecular scenario for regulating Ca2+ homeostasis in these cells. Taking into account the importance of the endoplasmic reticulum as a cellular Ca2+ store, the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA2b) is an interesting target to modulate intracellular Ca2+ dynamics. We found upregulation of SERCA2b in activated microglia of human brain with Alzheimer's disease and we further studied the participation of SERCA2b in microglial functions by using the BV2 murine microglial cell line and primary microglia isolated from mouse brain. To trigger microglia activation, we used the bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is known to induce an increase of cytosolic Ca2+. Our results showed an upregulated expression of SERCA2b in LPS‐induced activated microglia likely associated to an attempt to restore the increased cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. We analyzed SERCA2b contribution in microglial migration by using the specific SERCA inhibitor thapsigargin in scratch assays. Microglial migration was strongly stimulated with thapsigargin, even more than with LPS‐induction, but delayed in time. However, phagocytic capacity of microglia was blocked in the presence of the SERCA inhibitor, indicating the importance of a tight control of cytosolic Ca2+ in these processes. All together, these results provide for the first time compelling evidence for SERCA2b as a major player regulating microglial functions, affecting migration and phagocytosis in an opposite manner.
A 50‐year record of nitrate concentrations in the Slapton Ley Catchment, Devon, United Kingdom
Authors: Burt Tim P. , Worrall Fred , Howden Nicholas J. K. , Jarvie Helen P. , Pratt Andrew , Hutchinson Tom H.
Published: October 2020

Slapton Ley, a coastal lake, is the largest natural body of fresh water in south‐west England. There was concern in the 1960s that the lake was becoming increasingly eutrophic. To quantify inputs of water, sediment and nutrients into the lake, Slapton Ley Field Centre initiated a programme of weekly water quality sampling in September 1970. Of all the chemical properties which have been measured over the decades, the nitrate record has been the subject of more research than any other. The weekly monitoring has been supplemented by research projects aimed at understanding aspects of processes and patterns of nitrate delivery to the stream network. Three aspects of the nitrate record are reviewed: short‐term process dynamics; the annual cycle of influent streams and the lake itself; and long‐term trends. In the first two decades of monitoring, there was increasing concern about a trend of rising nitrate concentrations, an issue in most lowland rivers in the United Kingdom at the time. In the 1990s, nitrate concentrations levelled off and then have fallen steadily in recent years. In relation to eutrophication, there are clear signs of improvement in the influent streams, but concerns remain about water quality in the lake itself.
Hyporheic exchange mechanism driven by flood wave
Authors: Liu Dongsheng , Jiang Qihao , Shi Wenqing , Chen Qiuwen , Lee Jin‐Yong
Published: October 2020

To study the hyporheic exchange driven by a single peak flood‐induced water level fluctuation (i.e., flood wave), a method combining numerical simulation with theoretical derivation was proposed based on the Inbuk Stream, Korea, where flooding occurs frequently. The hyporheic exchanges induced by different flood waves were investigated by varying amplitude (A), duration (T), wave type parameter (r), and rising duration (tp), which were adopted from the real‐time stream stage fluctuations. Additionally, the idea of constant upstream flood volume (CUFV) condition for flood waves was put forward, and the effects of “Botan” (T/A) and peak number (N) on hyporheic exchange were studied. The results showed that the hyporheic exchange flux (q) was controlled by the water level h (sine‐type) and its change rate v (cosine‐type), and was proportional to the polynomial of them q ∝ (ω∙h + v), where ω is the angular frequency of the flood wave. Based on this mechanism, the influence principles on hyporheic exchanges of the typical flood wave parameters (A, T, r and tp) as well as T/A and N under CUFV condition were clarified. The main characteristic variables of hyporheic exchange, which were maximum aquifer storage and residence time, were positively correlated. They also had positive relations to the integral of the flood wave over time, which increased when the wave became higher, wider, rounder and less skewed. However, when CUFV condition was imposed, the residence time was positively correlated with T/A, whereas the maximum aquifer storage was negatively correlated with T/A. With the increase in N, water exchanged more frequently and some water returned to the stream early, leading to the slight decrease in maximum aquifer storage and residence time. These findings enriched the theory of hyporheic exchange driven by surface water fluctuation and be of great significance to enhance pollutant degradation in the hyporheic zone downstream of reservoirs.
Pregnancy outcomes and risk of endometrial cancer: A pooled analysis of individual participant data in the Epidemiology of Endometrial Cancer Consortium
Authors: Jordan Susan J. , Na Renhua , Weiderpass Elisabete , Adami Hans‐Olov , Anderson Kristin E. , van den Brandt Piet A. , Brinton Louise A. , Chen Chu , Cook Linda S. , Doherty Jennifer A. , Du Mengmeng , Friedenreich Christine M. , Gierach Gretchen L. , Goodman Marc T. , Krogh Vittorio , Levi Fabio , Lu Lingeng , Miller Anthony B. , McCann Susan E. , Moysich Kirsten B. , Negri Eva , Olson Sara H. , Petruzella Stacey , Palmer Julie R. , Parazzini Fabio , Pike Malcolm C. , Prizment Anna E. , Rebbeck Timothy R. , Reynolds Peggy , Ricceri Fulvio , Risch Harvey A. , Rohan Thomas E. , Sacerdote Carlotta , Schouten Leo J. , Serraino Diego , Setiawan Veronica W. , Shu Xiao‐Ou , Sponholtz Todd R. , Spurdle Amanda B. , Stolzenberg‐Solomon Rachael Z. , Trabert Britton , Wentzensen Nicolas , Wilkens Lynne R. , Wise Lauren A. , Yu Herbert , La Vecchia Carlo , De Vivo Immaculata , Xu Wanghong , Zeleniuch‐Jacquotte Anne , Webb Penelope M.
Published: October 2020

A full‐term pregnancy is associated with reduced endometrial cancer risk; however, whether the effect of additional pregnancies is independent of age at last pregnancy is unknown. The associations between other pregnancy‐related factors and endometrial cancer risk are less clear. We pooled individual participant data from 11 cohort and 19 case‐control studies participating in the Epidemiology of Endometrial Cancer Consortium (E2C2) including 16 986 women with endometrial cancer and 39 538 control women. We used one‐ and two‐stage meta‐analytic approaches to estimate pooled odds ratios (ORs) for the association between exposures and endometrial cancer risk. Ever having a full‐term pregnancy was associated with a 41% reduction in risk of endometrial cancer compared to never having a full‐term pregnancy (OR = 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56‐0.63). The risk reduction appeared the greatest for the first full‐term pregnancy (OR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.72‐0.84), with a further ~15% reduction per pregnancy up to eight pregnancies (OR = 0.20, 95% CI 0.14‐0.28) that was independent of age at last full‐term pregnancy. Incomplete pregnancy was also associated with decreased endometrial cancer risk (7%‐9% reduction per pregnancy). Twin births appeared to have the same effect as singleton pregnancies. Our pooled analysis shows that, while the magnitude of the risk reduction is greater for a full‐term pregnancy than an incomplete pregnancy, each additional pregnancy is associated with further reduction in endometrial cancer risk, independent of age at last full‐term pregnancy. These results suggest that the very high progesterone level in the last trimester of pregnancy is not the sole explanation for the protective effect of pregnancy.
Mechanisms for mobile phone use in empowerment: A critical realist study of people with disabilities in Nigeria
Authors: Iliya Abdulrashid A. , Ononiwu Chidi
Published: October 2020

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are gradually becoming important artifacts for people with disabilities (PWDs). This paper investigates the use of mobile phones in the daily activities of PWDs in sub‐Saharan Africa. The study argues that mobile phone use empowers PWDs, but little is known about what contextual factors and under what underlying mechanisms such empowerment occurs. By adopting Thapa and Omland's (2018) critical realism methodology, we aim to understand the underlying mechanisms, structures and conditions that shape empowerment through mobile phone use by PWDs in Nigeria. The Capability Approach (CA) was engaged as the theoretical framework. Semi‐structured interviews and focus group discussions with twenty‐four PWDs were used as the primary source of data. Our findings reveal that contextual factors such as personal, social and environmental factors enable/hinder empowerment for PWDs. Similarly, mechanisms such as accessibility and acceptability, technology knowledge, social media and mobile phone features are found to be the main underlying mechanisms triggering the events we observed. However, we argue that these mechanisms are enacted from other enabling structures such as the ubiquity of mobile phones, caregivers and contextual conditions like the personal innovativeness in mobile phone use and the low price of mobile phones. Our findings contribute to the critical realism methodology, policy and theory.
Instant polarized light microscopy for imaging collagen microarchitecture and dynamics
Authors: Yang Bin , Lee Po‐Yi , Hua Yi , Brazile Bryn , Waxman Susannah , Ji Fengting , Zhu Ziyi , Sigal Ian A.
Published: October 2020

Collagen fibers are a primary load‐bearing component of connective tissues and are therefore central to tissue biomechanics and pathophysiology. Understanding collagen architecture and behavior under dynamic loading requires a quantitative imaging technique with simultaneously high spatial and temporal resolutions. Suitable techniques are thus rare and often inaccessible. In this study, we present instant polarized light microscopy (IPOL), in which a single snapshot image encodes information on fiber orientation and retardance, thus fulfilling the requirement. We utilized both simulation and experimental data from collagenous tissues of chicken tendon, sheep eye, and porcine heart to evaluate the effectiveness of IPOL as a quantitative imaging technique. We demonstrate that IPOL allows quantitative characterization of micron‐scale collagen fiber architecture at full camera frame rates (156 frames/second herein).
Blended home‐based exercise and dietary protein in community‐dwelling older adults: a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: van den Helder Jantine , Mehra Sumit , van Dronkelaar Carliene , ter Riet Gerben , Tieland Michael , Visser Bart , Kröse Ben J.A. , Engelbert Raoul H.H. , Weijs Peter J.M.
Published: October 2020

Background

Effective and sustainable interventions are needed to counteract the decline in physical function and sarcopenia in the growing aging population. The aim of this study was to determine the 6 and 12 month effectiveness of blended (e‐health + coaching) home‐based exercise and a dietary protein intervention on physical performance in community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

This cluster randomized controlled trial allocated 45 clusters of older adults already engaged in a weekly community‐based exercise programme. The clusters were randomized to three groups with ratio of 16:15:14; (i) no intervention, control (CON); (ii) blended home‐based exercise intervention (HBex); and (iii) HBex with dietary protein counselling (HBex‐Pro). Both interventions used a tablet PC with app and personalized coaching and were targeting on behaviour change. The study comprised coached 6 month interventions with a 6 month follow‐up. The primary outcome physical performance was assessed by modified Physical Performance Test (m‐PPT). Secondary outcomes were gait speed, physical activity level (PAL), handgrip muscle strength, protein intake, skeletal muscle mass, health status, and executive functioning. Linear mixed models of repeated measured were used to assess intervention effects at 6 and 12 months.

Results

The population included 245 older adults (mean age 72 ± 6.5 (SD) years), 71% female, and 54% co‐morbidities observed. Dropout of the intervention was 18% at 6 months and 26% at 12 months. Participants were well functioning, based on an m‐PPT score of 33.9 (2.8) out of 36. For the primary outcome m‐PPT, no significant intervention effects (HBex, +0.03, P = 0.933; HBex‐Pro, −0.13, P = 0.730) were found. Gait speed (+0.20 m/s, P = 0.001), PAL (+0.06, P = 0.008), muscle strength (+2.32 kg, P = 0.001), protein intake (+0.32 g/kg/day, P < 0.001), and muscle mass (+0.33 kg, P = 0.017) improved significantly in the HBex‐Pro group compared with control group after 6 month intervention. The protein intake, muscle mass, and strength remained significantly improved after 12 months as compared with those of control. Health change and executive functioning improved significantly in both intervention groups after 6 months.

Conclusions

This HBex and dietary protein interventions did not change the physical performance (m‐PPT) in community‐dwelling older adults. Changes were observed in gait speed, PAL, muscle mass, strength, and dietary protein intake, in response to this combined intervention.
SM04755, a small‐molecule inhibitor of the Wnt pathway, as a potential topical treatment for tendinopathy
Authors: Deshmukh Vishal , Seo Tim , O'Green Alyssa L. , Ibanez Maureen , Hofilena Brian , KC Sunil , Stewart Joshua , Dellamary Luis , Chiu Kevin , Ghias Abdullah , Barroga Charlene , Kennedy Sarah , Tambiah Jeyanesh , Hood John , Yazici Yusuf
Published: October 2020

The Wnt pathway is upregulated in tendinopathy, affecting inflammation and tenocyte differentiation. Given its potential role in tendinopathy, this signaling pathway may be a relevant target for treatment. The current study examined the therapeutic potential of SM04755, a topical, small‐molecule Wnt pathway inhibitor, for the treatment of tendinopathy using in vitro assays and animal models. In vitro, SM04755 decreased Wnt pathway activity, induced tenocyte differentiation, and inhibited catabolic enzymes and pro‐inflammatory cytokines in human mesenchymal stem cells, rat tendon‐derived stem cells, and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Evaluation of the mechanism of action of SM04755 by biochemical profiling and computational modeling identified CDC‐like kinase 2 (CLK2) and dual‐specificity tyrosine phosphorylation‐regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) as molecular targets. CLK and DYRK1A inhibition by siRNA knockdown or pharmacological inhibition induced tenocyte differentiation and reduced tenocyte catabolism. In vivo, topically applied SM04755 showed therapeutically relevant exposure in tendons with low systemic exposure and no detectable toxicity in rats. Moreover, SM04755 showed reduced tendon inflammation and evidence of tendon regeneration, decreased pain, and improved weight‐bearing function in rat collagenase‐induced tendinopathy models compared with vehicle control. Together, these data demonstrate that CLK2 and DYRK1A inhibition by SM04755 resulted in Wnt pathway inhibition, enhanced tenocyte differentiation and protection, and reduced inflammation. SM04755 has the potential to benefit symptoms and modify disease processes in tendinopathy.
Added Benefit and Risk of an Additional Biopsy or Targeting With Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound for Patients With Renal Transplants
Authors: Kriegshauser J. Scott , Dahiya Nirvikar , Smith Maxwell L. , Zhang Nan , Heilman Raymond L. , Stanton Melissa L. , Young Scott W. , Patel Maitray D.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To determine whether renal transplant diagnoses substantially change when 2 biopsy sites are chosen and whether contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has value for targeting the second site.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 40 patients undergoing ultrasound‐guided renal transplant biopsy within 2 years of transplant: 20, surveillance; and 20, for cause. A CEUS examination was performed to identify cortical regions with subjectively altered flow. One biopsy was performed at the operator‐preferred (primary) site regardless of CEUS findings. Another biopsy was done at a second location, either targeted to an area in which CEUS perfusion findings differed from the primary site (targeted) or at a random location (secondary) if no other area differed. Specimens were randomly labeled A or B; pathologists were blinded to the CEUS result and biopsy location. Location‐specific CEUS assessments were recorded. Pathologic results were compared, including acute and chronic Banff scores and any new findings from the targeted or secondary biopsy.

Results

Forty patients were enrolled between January 2016 and December 2018. No location‐specific pathologic differences correlated with differences in CEUS assessments. The second biopsy provided additional information that changed management in 4 of 40 patients (10.0% [95% confidence interval, 2.8%–23.7%]). Major bleeding complications occurred in 3 of 40 (7.5%) patients.

Conclusions

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound targeting was not useful. Major bleeding complications were higher than expected, possibly due to the additional biopsy away from the operator‐preferred location. Obtaining a second renal transplant biopsy from a substantially different area than the initial operator‐preferred location provided additional clinically useful information in 10% of patients.
Influence of cationic surfactants and inorganic salts on the enzyme kinetic activity of Mucor javanicus lipase
Authors: Verma Santosh K. , Ghosh Kallol K. , Verma Rameshwari , Verma Shekhar
Published: October 2020

In this article, the enzyme kinetic activity of Mucor javanicus lipase (MJL) has investigated via hydrolysis of p‐nitrophenyl acetate (PNPA) in different pH environment, cationic surfactants, and inorganic salts. The influence of hydrophilicity has been studied in the presence of cationic cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), cetyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (CTPB), and cetyldimethylethanolammonium bromide (CDMEAB) surfactants. The head group dimensions of surfactants show noteworthy contributions to enhance the catalytic activity of MJL, that is the CDMEAB surfactant, which is more efficient when compared with CTPB and CTAB. The increase in hydrophobicity of alkyltrimethylammonium bromide and alkyltriphenylphosphonium bromide in series dodecyl (C12) < tetradecyl (C14) < cetyl (C16) leads to a marked decrease in the observed enzymatic superactivity, but an opposite trend appears in case of alkyldimethylammonium bromide. The activity of MJL for the hydrolysis of PNPA was higher in the presence of sodium chloride and potassium chloride anion due to specific interactions between the lipase surface and anions of the Hofmeister effect.
Patient Reported Outcomes and Objective Swallowing Assessments in a Multidisciplinary Dysphagia Clinic
Authors: Dewan Karuna , Clarke John O. , Kamal Afrin N. , Nandwani Monica , Starmer Heather M.
Published: October 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Dysphagia encompasses a complex compilation of symptoms which often differ from findings of objective swallowing evaluations. The purpose of this investigation was to compare the results of subjective dysphagia measures to objective measures of swallowing in patients evaluated in a multidisciplinary dysphagia clinic.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

The study cohort included all patients evaluated in the multidisciplinary dysphagia clinic over 24 months. Participants were evaluated by a multidisciplinary team including a laryngologist, gastroenterologist, and speech‐language pathologist. Evaluation included a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS), fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), and transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE). Data collected included diet (FOIS), Eating Assessment Tool (EAT‐10) score, Reflux symptom index (RSI) score, and the findings of the VFSS exam.

Results

A total of 75 patients were included in the analysis. The average EAT‐10 score was 16.3 ± 2.1, RSI was 21.4 ± 0.6, and FOIS score was 6.0 ± 1.33. VFSS revealed impairments in the oral phase in 40% of the cohort, pharyngeal in 59%, and esophageal in 49%. Abnormalities were noted in one phase for 32%, in 2 phases in 32%, and three phases in 18%. Patients with abnormal pharyngeal findings on VFSS had significantly higher EAT‐10 scores (P = .04). Patients with abnormal oral findings on VFSS were noted to have significantly lower FOIS scores (P = .03).

Conclusions

Data presented here demonstrate a relationship between patient reported symptoms and objective VFSS findings in a cohort of patients referred for multidisciplinary swallowing assessment suggesting such surveys are helpful screening tools but inadequate to fully characterize swallowing impairment.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:1088–1094, 2021