bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of common metrics used to quantify the effectiveness of conservation interventions
Authors: Khorozyan Igor
Published: September 2020

Background

Evidence-based conservation is urgently needed to identify, apply and promote effective interventions for mitigation of threats and recovery of the natural environment. Estimation of intervention effectiveness is subject to robust study design and statistical analysis, and much progress is documented in these fields. In contrast, little is understood about the accuracy and biases (underestimation and overestimation) of different effectiveness metrics and how they are affected by sample size.

Methods

In this study, a dataset (n = 500 cases) consisting of random, positive, integer numbers was simulated to produce frequency input data for the 2 × 2 contingency table. For each case, three metrics of the relative risk, odds ratio and the magnitude of change were calculated, their disparity was estimated and the characteristics of treatment (with intervention) and control (without intervention) samples significantly affecting this disparity were studied by means of linear regression. Further, four case studies from different conservation interventions are provided to support the results.

Results

The study has shown that the relative risk and the magnitude of change produce identical estimates of intervention effectiveness only when treatment and control samples are equal, or when the number of target outcomes (e.g., number of livestock killed by predators) in treatment sample reaches zero. In other situations, the magnitude of change gives overestimates or underestimates, depending on relationships between treatment and control sample sizes. The table summarizing the conditions of equalities and biases between these two metrics is provided. These conditions are valid for both reduction-aimed interventions reducing negative target outcomes (e.g., livestock protection to reduce livestock losses to predators) and for addition-aimed interventions increasing positive target outcomes (e.g., establishment of protected areas to increase species presence). No significant effects on the odds ratio were found.

Conclusion

Researchers should set equal treatment and control sample sizes so that to produce identical estimates of intervention effectiveness by the relative risk and the magnitude of change. Otherwise, these estimates are biased if produced by the magnitude of change and the relative risk should be used instead. As setting equal treatment and control samples can be impractical, I encourage researchers and practitioners to use the relative risk in estimation of intervention effectiveness. This will not take additional efforts as both metrics are calculated from the same contingency table. Treatment and control sample sizes, along with their sub-samples affected and not by an intervention, should be explicitly reported by researchers to allow independent evaluation of intervention effectiveness. This approach can help obtain more accurate information on intervention effectiveness for making better decisions in conservation actions.
Job Design and Sustainability of Tertiary Institutions in South East, Nigeria
Authors: Chidi Onwuchekwa, Faith , Helen Okoli, Chibuokem , Tochukwu Ifeanyi, Titus
Published: September 2020

Tertiary institutions in southeast Nigeria have in the past been bedeviled with the challenge of achieving optimal performance as a result of seemingly poor job structure as exemplified by low skill variety and poor task identity which has lead to various industrial actions. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between job design and sustainability of tertiary institutions in South East, Nigeria. The study was anchored on Hackman and Oldham's (1975) Job Characteristics Model (JCM). The population of the study consisted of 9240 academic and non-academic staff of six tertiary institutions in South East, Nigeria. Taro Yamane formula was used to determine the sample size of 383. Hypotheses were tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient at 5% significance level. The findings confirmed that there was a significant correlation between skill variety and employee empowerment and between task identity and workplace flexibility. It was therefore recommended among others, that managers of tertiary institutions in the South-East should take a proactive role in designing jobs that take care of the main job characteristics in the institutions.
Spatial Distribution of Macrozoobenthos as Bioindicators of Organic Material Pollution in the Citanduy River, Cisayong, Tasikmalaya Region, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Sulaeman Dimas , Nurruhwati Isni , Hasan Zahidah , Hamdani Herman
Published: September 2020

The Cisayong area of ​​Tasikmalaya Regency is an area that is passed by the Citanduy River. Citanduy River has received a variety of inputs, that affect the river water quality and cause pollution. Macrozoobenthos can be used as an indicator of water pollution. This research aims to determine the spatial distribution of the macrozoobenthic community as a bioindicator of organic matter pollution in the Citanduy River, Cisayong Tasikmalaya Region, West Java. This research was conducted on January 2 - March 3, 2020. The research method used a field survey method. The data collection technique used purposive sampling by determining 4 stations based on environmental factors and land use around the river flow. The results of the macrozoobenthic spatial distribution along the Citanduy River were different at each observation location. At station 1 several intolerant species Heptagenia sp., Leptophelbia sp., and Hydropsyche sp. Were found, station 2 found several facultative species Melanoides tuberculata, Lymnea sp., Tarebia granifera, Sulcosfira testudinaria, Filopaludina javanica, and Pomacea canalicuta, station 3 found several tolerant species Chironomus sp., and Tubifex sp., station 4 were found several species of facultative and tolerant macrozoobenthos Melanoides tuberculata, Lymnea sp., Tarebia granifera, Sulcosfira testudinaria, Filopaludina javanica, Pomacea canalicuta, and Tubifex sp. The abundance of macrozoobenthos in the Citanduy River ranges from 1460-2540 ind/m2. Diversity index ranges from 1.53 to 1.79. The uniformity index ranges from 0.45 to 0.53. Species deficits at each station are different. The Morisita index ranges from 0.48 to 1.12 representing uniform categories and groups.
Evaluation of Nutritional Fact and Study of Various Physico-chemical Parameters of Black, Green and Red Grapes Samples in the Local Fruit Market
Authors: N. Patil Pandurang , Aamri Amani Ahmaed Al- , Rubkhi Zahra Abdullah Al- , Abri Aida Salim Al
Published: September 2020

Aims: Aim of our study was to analyze various nutritional fact of three types of grape fruits and compare their facts in terms of consumption. The grape is one of the most edible fruit with high amount of nutritional and medicinal properties.

Study Design: Physico-chemical analysis by using various chemical analysis and instrumental methods for analysis of various grape samples.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Applied Sciences, Chemistry section, University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Muscat, Oman. The study was performed during the May 2018 – December 2018.

Methodology: We have selected three different grapes samples from the local market for the analysis (Green grapes, Red grapes and Black grapes). Our research study includes testing of various physico-chemical parameters for nutritional fact of fruit, such as water, carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamin C, and different minerals. We analyzed various physic-chemical parameters.

Results: We found that pH in the range of 3.775 – 4.14, conductivity 1.39 MS/cm – 1.553 MS/cm, titratable acidity was measured in terms of tartaric acid was found 0.712 g/100ml - 1.065 g/100ml and Brix% value 9.5% - 15.5%. Amount of water in berry was 77.964 % – 80.146 %, Ash in the range of 0.72 – 3.911 %.  Protein 6.245 g/100ml – 7.928 g/100ml, Fiber content 1.112 % – 1.143% and good amount of potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc. 

Conclusion: Analysis of three types of grapes we found, acidity of green grapes was highest. It might be depending upon ripening stage of berry. That are correlated to sugar (0Brix). Fiber value was very close to each other. Iron was highest in red grapes and then green grapes. Potassium, magnesium, calcium and zinc was found to higher in green grapes. Based on this green grape looks batter nutritional value.
Histopathological Evaluation of the Methanol Extract of Napoleonae imperialis Leaves against Methotrexate-Induced Renal Damage in Albino Rats
Authors: Mba O. J. , Odo C. E. , Chikezie P. C. , Edward U. I.
Published: September 2020

Aim: This study was aimed at investigating the effect of methanol extract of Napoleonae imperialis leaves against methotrexate renal histology in albino rats.

Methodology: Thirty (30) male albino rats of mean weight 130 g were used for this study. The animals for the study were grouped into five (5) of six (6) rats each. Group A received feed and water only and Group B was induced with methotrexate without treatment. Groups (C and D) were orally given 250 mg and 500 mg/kg b.wt of leaves extract, and group E was orally given the extract only (500 mg/kg b.wt) respectively for 28 days. All the rats used in this study were initially subjected to renal damage using 0.5 ml/kg of methotrexate except the normal control group. The rats were sacrificed after 28 days, and the kidney were carefully dissected from the abdominal region. They were fixed in normal saline for 72 hours and sliced into a thickness of 2.1mm samples of and processed for histopathological examination.

Results: The photomicrographs result showed that in group A, (normal control group) evenly distributed glomeruli of smaller size, with normal mesangial cellularity. In group B, (positive control group) there is a significant pathology and mild interstitial inflammation. In groups (C and D) (tests group that received 250 and 500 mg/kg b.wt of the extract) there is no significant pathology, in group E, there is no significant pathology.

Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the leaves extract may have exerted nephroprotective effects in albino rats, and may also be used pharmacologically in the management of organ toxicity.
Biorational Management of Pulse Beetle (Callosobruchus chinensis L.) in Gram Seed
Authors: Hasan Md. Al-Mehedi , Sultana Sonia , Akter Keya , Wara Tasnia Ummul , Hasan Mehedi , Uddin Mohammad Mahir
Published: September 2020

The pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis is one of the major pests in stored pulse causes 40-50% losses of pulses in storage. Experiments were conducted to study the efficacy of some selected biorational insecticides on percent mortality of beetle, percent weight loss of seeds, no. of eggs laid per female, percent hatchability, larval duration, pupal period and adult longevity of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis under laboratory condition. Among the different botanicals, neem oil (77%) was found the most effective showing 78% mortality of pulse beetle in direct method followed by Mahogany oil (69%) and karanja oil (62%). In case of indirect method, the highest percent mortality was recorded from karanja oil (37%) which was followed by Neem oil (33%) and Mahogany oil (33%). Among different microbial derivatives, Libsen was found most effective considering mortality followed by Suspend 5SG and Ambush 1.8EC. The highest percentage of weight reduction was observed in Karanja oil (15%) and the lowest (14%) was in Mahogany oil. The highest percentage of weight reduction was obtained from Ambush 1.8EC (16%) and the lowest percentage of weight reduction was obtained from Suspend 5SG (13%). No. of eggs laid per female was the highest in mahogany oil (24) and lowest in Libsen (19).  Percent of hatchability was highest in mahogany oil (21%) and lowest in Libsen (16%). Larval duration was the highest in mahogany oil (16 days) and the lowest was in Suspend 5SG(13days). Pupal period highest in neem oil (7 days) and the lowest was in (6 days). The highest adult longevity (22 days) from the seeds treated with karanja oil. The lowest adult longevity (18 days) from seeds treated with Libson. Thus, Karanja, Neem and Mahogany oil, Libsen, Ambush 1.8EC and Suspend 5SG were found effective against pulse beetle in storage. Therefore, these biorationals might be included in the development of IPM packages for the management of pulse beetle in the storage.
No Directional Scapular Asymmetry among Tamarines of the Genus Saguinus (Primates: Callitrichidae)
Authors: Casanova P. M. Parés- , García J. F. Vélez-
Published: September 2020

Bilateral asymmetry is defined as a deviation of a whole organism or a part of it from a perfect symmetry, and different categories can be recognized. One is the fluctuating asymmetry, defined as the random developmental variation of a trait (or character) that is expected to be perfectly symmetrical on average, and the other one is directional asymmetry, which occurs when one of the sides shows stronger morphological structures or marks than the other. The aim of this study was to determine the kind of scapula asymmetry in Saguinus scapulae. On lateral surface of each right and left scapula, a set of 5 landmarks and 3 curves with semi-landmarks along the margins, on a sample of 16 pairs from different Saguinus species, were considered. Asymmetries (fluctuating and directional) on size and shape of the scapulae were analysed by means of geometric morphometric methods. Directional asymmetry was not detected, demonstrating no side scapular shape bias. The absence of significant directional asymmetry may indicate a similar contralateral pattern of employment of the shoulder, at least for one-arm vertical suspension, as it needs stronger forces than those for terrestrial locomotion and thus would cause more asymmetry in case side loadings were different. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation on the symmetrical/asymmetrical nature of scapulae in Saguinus. Our findings increase knowledge and understanding of humeral joint and arboreal locomotion in primates.
Phytochemical Characterization of Herbal Tea from Oranges Peels (Citrus sinensis var Blonde) Marketed in Abidjan
Authors: Assamoa Koffi Kouame , Yao Assa Rebecca Rachel Epse , Yvette Fofie N’Guessan Bra
Published: September 2020

Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis L.) is the most widely consumed citrus fruit in Côte d'Ivoire. They are rich in bioactive compound. Also, their peels or flavedo rejected during consumption have a high content of polyphenols, flavonoids, and essential oils. However, in Côte D'Ivoire, studies are limited to the characterization of orange peel (Citrus sinensis). Our study therefore aims to determine the phytochemical composition of herbal teas obtained from the orange peel (Citrus sinensis) in order to contribute to their valorisation as herbal teas. The Citrus sinensis zests were collected in Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire) in Adjamé community. An herbal tea was produced and subjected to phytochemical and physicochemical tests. The results showed that the moisture content of the different batches varies from 14.13±0.41 to 7.2%±0.2; the oven-dried batches showed the lowest value. In addition, the ash content remains statistically different between batches. The herbal teas studied had an average ash content of 6.53%.  The pH values negatively correlated to acidity range from 3.92±0.2 to 3.21±0.15. Also, these herbal teas contain several secondary metabolites such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins and saponins. This study shows that herbal teas made from orange peel contain several phytochemicals including antioxidants. In addition, their high ash content suggests a high mineral content. Therefore, orange peels can be used in the form of herbal teas as a dietary supplement.
Information Communication Technology as a Strategic Resource in Enhancing Business Performance of Small Hotels in Ghana
Authors: Osei Ivy Fosua , Atakpa Sharon , Paintsil Eric , Kwofie Adelaide Spio-
Published: September 2020

Information communication technology as a business-enhancing strategy to improve business is on the ascendancy. However, a survey in 2016 visualises that 70% of the hotels especially the small hotels across the globe follow the old marketing practices due to poor marketing. Ghana is not exempted from these strategies, as small hotels appears to be operating but in reality, are just adding to hotels number. With a population size of three hundred and sixty-nine, the study seeks to investigate the strategic uses of information communication technology as a resource and its influence on hotel business. The result from respondents indicates that, the strategic use of information technology as a resource by the small size hotels influence performance. Some of the business information communication technology impact is online reservations, communication with guests and improvement in service quality that leads to customer satisfaction. Above all, it offers many options for small hotels in capturing their market space online using information communication technology.
Climate change and cancer: converging policies
Authors: Vineis Paolo , Huybrechts Inge , Millett Christopher , Weiderpass Elisabete
Published: September 2020

Intervening on risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (including cancer) in industrialized countries could achieve a reduction of between 30% and 40% of premature deaths. In the meantime, the need to intervene against the threat of climate change has become obvious. CO2 emissions must be reduced by 45% by the year 2030 and to zero by 2050 according to recent agreements. We propose an approach in which interventions are designed to prevent diseases and jointly mitigate climate change, the so‐called cobenefits. The present article describes some examples of how climate change mitigation and cancer prevention could go hand in hand: tobacco control, food production, and transportation (air pollution). Many others can be identified. The advantage of the proposed approach is that both long‐term (climate) and short‐term (health) benefits can be accrued with appropriate intersectoral policies.
Knockout of cytochrome P450 1A1 enhances lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute lung injury in mice by targeting NF‐κB activation
Authors: Tian Li‐xing , Tang Xin , Ma Wei , Wang Jing , Zhang Wei , Liu Kuan , Chen Tao , Zhu Jun‐yu , Liang Hua‐ping
Published: September 2020

Acute lung injury (ALI) is accompanied by overactivation of multiple pro‐inflammatory factors. Cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) has been shown to aggravate lung injury in response to hyperoxia. However, the relationship between CYP1A1 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI is unknown. In this study, CYP1A1 was shown to be upregulated in mouse lung in response to LPS. Using CYP1A1‐deficient (CYP1A1−/−) mice, we found that CYP1A1 knockout enhanced LPS‐induced ALI, as evidenced by increased TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and nitric oxide in lung; these effects were mediated by overactivation of NF‐κB and iNOS. Furthermore, we found that aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and creatinine levels were elevated in serum of LPS‐induced CYP1A1−/− mice. Altogether, these data provide novel insights into the involvement of CYP1A1 in LPS‐induced lung injury.
Metabolomic analysis of fibrotic mice combined with public RNA‐Seq human lung data reveal potential diagnostic biomarker candidates for lung fibrosis
Authors: Nojima Yosui , Takeda Yoshito , Maeda Yohei , Bamba Takeshi , Fukusaki Eiichiro , Itoh Mari N. , Mizuguchi Kenji , Kumanogoh Atsushi
Published: September 2020

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe lung disease with poor survival that warrants early and precise diagnosis for timely therapeutic intervention. Despite accumulating genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and lipidomic data on IPF, evidence from water‐soluble metabolomics is limited. To identify biomarkers for IPF from water‐soluble metabolomic data, we measured the levels of various metabolites in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum samples from a bleomycin‐induced murine pulmonary fibrotic model using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Thirty‐two of 73 BALF metabolites and 29 of 74 serum metabolites were annotated. We observed that the levels of proline and methionine were higher in BALF but lower in serum than those in the control. Furthermore, analysis of public RNA‐Seq data from the lungs of patients with IPF revealed that proline‐ and methionine‐related genes were significantly upregulated compared to those in the lungs of healthy controls. These results suggest that proline and methionine may be potential biomarkers for IPF and may help to deepen our understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Based on our results, we propose a model capable of recapitulating the proline and methionine metabolism of fibrotic lungs, thereby providing better means for studying the disease and developing novel therapeutic strategies for IPF.
Combined use of irinotecan and p53 activator enhances growth inhibition of mesothelioma cells
Authors: Han Bo , Lee‐Okada Hyeon‐Cheol , Ishimine Momoko , Orita Hajime , Nishikawa Keiko , Takagaki Tetsuya , Kajino Kazunori , Yokomizo Takehiko , Hino Okio , Kobayashi Toshiyuki
Published: September 2020

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive malignant neoplasm which rapidly invades pleural tissues and has a poor prognosis. Here, we explore enhancement of the effect of irinotecan [camptothecin‐11 (CPT‐11)] by the p53‐dependent induction of carboxylesterase 2 (CES2), a CPT‐11‐activating enzyme, in MM. The level of CES2 mRNA was greatly increased on treatment with nutlin‐3a. A combination of CPT‐11 and nutlin‐3a inhibited the growth of MM cells more effectively than either drug alone. Knocking down CES2 in MM cells reduced the effect of the drug combination, and its forced expression in MESO4 cells enhanced the growth inhibitory activity of CPT‐11 in the absence of nutlin‐3a. Enhancement of the growth inhibitory activity of CPT‐11 by nutlin‐3a suggests a possible new combinatorial MM chemotherapy regimen.
Cyanide Complexes of the Transition Metals
Authors: DeGroot Henry P. , Hanusa Timothy P.
Published: September 2020

Cyano metal complexes contain one or more bound cyanide ligands, CN
−
, and constitute one of the largest and longest‐known classes of compounds in inorganic chemistry. Like carbon monoxide, the cyanide ion can function as a π‐acid ligand, but because of its negative charge, the cyanide ion can also form strong sigma bonds. This bifunctional behavior allows CN
−
to stabilize both high and low oxidation states of metals. The cyanide ion can bind to metals in both terminal and bridging (MCNM′) modes; the bridges are commonly linear and are present in Prussian Blue and many other polymeric metal cyanides. Framework solids with high degrees of void space can be formed with bridging cyanide ligands. Cyano metal complexes undergo a variety of oxidation–reduction reactions, but owing to the strong sigma‐donor properties of CN
−
, only a few ligands are capable of directly replacing metal‐bound cyanide. For most substitution reactions, photochemically induced dissociation of one or more of the CN
−
ligands is needed. Cyano complexes are used as pigments and dyes and are being increasingly employed as electroactive, zeolitic, and chemical sensing materials.
Structure–Function Relationships of the NsrR and RsrR Transcription Regulators
Authors: Volbeda Anne , Crack Jason C , Brun Nick E Le , Fontecilla‐Camps Juan C
Published: September 2020

Protein‐coordinated iron–sulfur clusters play multiple crucial functions in biological processes. One of these functions is the response to effectors that regulate gene expression. This response can be very variable. Several members of the Rrf2 family of bacterial transcriptional regulators contain [FeS] clusters that perform a variety of sensing roles, including those involved in controlling cellular iron levels (RirA), controlling [FeS] cluster synthesis (IscR), responding to nitrosative stress (NsrR), and monitoring and possibly regulating the redox status of the cell (RsrR). Cluster ligation and composition varies significantly, and, with the exception of RsrR, DNA binding is regulated by effector‐dependent either partial or total cluster disassembly. Our own recent work has concentrated on the structure–function relationships of NsrR and RsrR, which coordinate [4Fe4S] and [2Fe2S] clusters, respectively. The reaction of nitric oxide with the NsrR [4Fe4S] cluster is progressive and modulates NsrR binding to different promotors. One consequence of cluster disassembly is the disruption of a key salt bridge that, in turn, causes a conformational change in the helix‐turn‐helix DNA‐binding domain of NsrR. The case of RsrR is especially interesting because its DNA binding depends on a one‐electron cluster redox change. This reduction causes the protonation of a neighboring His residue, which is followed by the generation of a protein cavity and the rotation of a tryptophan residue into it. Like in the case of NsrR, this rotation provokes a conformational change in the helix‐turn‐helix DNA‐binding domain of the protein.
Poly(aminoborane)s and Poly(iminoborane)s
Authors: Beweries Torsten , Helten Holger
Published: September 2020

The field of so‐called inorganic polymers has seen significant advances in recent years. Poly(aminoborane)s and poly(iminoborane)s represent examples for compounds of this type, possessing a polymer main chain that exclusively contains boron and nitrogen. These structures are of fundamental and application‐oriented interest in the context of BN/CC isosterism. This article summarizes the historic background, properties, synthetic aspects as well as new developments in the fields of poly(aminoborane)s and poly(iminoborane)s.
Solid‐State NMR in Well‐Defined Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Rodriguez Jessica , Conley Matthew P.
Published: September 2020

Characterization of sites on surfaces is challenging. Many spectroscopic methods are available to surface science, though few provide the detailed molecular level information as solid‐state NMR spectroscopy. This entry describes selected examples showing some of the features of solid‐state NMR spectra that give detailed information about structure, dynamics, and speciation on surfaces. This entry describes applications of spin ½ and quadrupolar nuclei.
Recent Developments in Low‐Valent Aluminum Chemistry
Authors: Weetman Catherine , Xu Huihui , Inoue Shigeyoshi
Published: September 2020

The past decade has seen some remarkable advances in the development of low‐coordinate and/or oxidation state aluminum chemistry. With efforts striving to find more economical and environmentally benign methods for bond activations and catalysis, aluminum presents itself as an ideal candidate owing to its low cost and high natural abundance. Concerning low‐valent aluminum chemistry, these complexes have been shown to act like transition‐metal mimics with Al(I) species undergoing facile oxidative addition with a series of strong σ bonds. This represents the first step in a redox‐active catalytic cycle, with the challenge still remaining to undergo reductive elimination from the stable Al(III) species. In this regard, efforts have focused on reversible bond activations as well as the development of alternate methodologies to enhance the reactive aluminum center. The ambiphilic nature of Al(I) chemistry has largely been dictated by the vacant p‐orbital and as such its electrophilicity. Recent advances have made it possible to amplify the nucleophilic character of Al(I), and as such the first examples highlighting aluminum's nucleophilic behavior have been reported. In addition, isolation of the first neutral aluminum multiple bond has also aided our understanding of the bonding properties of aluminum while also allowing for further advances in bond activations and catalysis. These recent advances in the chemistry of low‐valent aluminum are discussed in the following sections, along with the fundamental concepts that have aided the development of this field.
Push–Pull Activation of N
2
: Coordination of Lewis Acids to Dinitrogen Complexes
Authors: Coffinet Anaïs , Simonneau Antoine , Specklin David
Published: September 2020

This article gathers, as of 2020, examples of (hetero)dinuclear dinitrogen complexes that are formed by Lewis acid (LA)–base interaction thanks to dative bonding between an electron‐deficient s‐, p‐, or d‐block species and the electron‐rich terminal nitrogen of a neutral end‐on dinitrogen complex. LA coordination to the dinitrogen ligand results in a higher level of activation (i.e. polarization) according to a push–pull mechanism: electron depletion induced by LA coordination amplifies electron back‐donation. The magnitude of such phenomenon will depend on various factors that will be highlighted here, as well as the mean to measure it. In some instances, key reactivities that LA coordination has lent to the dinitrogen complex, or how their combination has allowed the discovery of original reactions will be discussed. This article is organized in three main sections according to which block of the periodic system the LA component of the complexes discussed belongs to. In a final section, pieces of work issued from main group chemistry and relevant in the context of N
2
push–pull activation will be presented.
Smectic Liquid Crystalline Titanium Dioxide Nanorods: Reducing Attractions by Optimizing Ligand Density
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Naveed , Grau‐Carbonell Albert , Nikolaenkova Anna G. , Xie Xiaobin , Chen Xiaodan , Imhof Arnout , van Blaaderen Alfons , Baesjou Patrick J.
Published: September 2020

Crystalline titanium dioxide (TiO2) semiconductor nanorods (NRs) feature several optical properties, such as birefringence combined with high refractive indexes and a wide bandgap precluding optical absorption in visible‐light spectrum, making them attractive for many applications such as optoelectronics. Dispersing these NRs in suitable solvents creates inorganic liquid crystals (LCs) offering enhanced collective and orientation‐dependent properties, which can additionally be utilized to manipulate optical behavior. Herein, a synthetic procedure from literature is scaled up and coupled with an important post‐synthesis‐treatment step such that self‐assembled NRs dried onto a liquid interface and in bulk can be investigated. Comprehensive characterizations confirm the vital role of surface ligand density of the NRs in reducing the effects of attractions between them and thus increasing the range of volume fractions in which these dispersions can be exploited. Various symmetries (hexagonal or tetragonal) can be achieved in the smectic layers of NRs by tuning the aspect ratios of the NRs from 4.8 to 8.5. Experiments show that external fields such as shear flow or electric fields can easily either induce a reversible nematic order in isotropic dispersions or order existing LC phases over much longer regions, opening many opportunities to manipulate light for optical applications.
Enhancement of Nanozyme Permeation by Endovascular Interventional Treatment to Prevent Vascular Restenosis via Macrophage Polarization Modulation
Authors: Feng Lishuai , Dou Chaoran , Xia Yuguo , Li Benhao , Zhao Mengyao , El‐Toni Ahmed Mohamed , Atta Nada Farouk , Zheng Yuanyi , Cai Xiaojun , Wang Yan , Cheng Yingsheng , Zhang Fan
Published: September 2020

The long‐term prognosis of vascular restenosis after endovascular interventional treatment is a critical challenge in a clinical setting. Over‐production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a major factor to aggravate vascular restenosis. Current clinical pharmacological interventions for vascular restenosis are still unsatisfactory. Based on the intrinsic ROS scavenging properties, nanozymes have been widely applied in the treatment of inflammatory‐related diseases. However, the vascular endothelial cell barrier hinder the delivery efficiency of intravenously injected nanomaterials in most diseases. Herein, an effective therapeutic strategy for vascular restenosis is developed based on endothelial cells exfoliation by endovascular interventional treatment through vascular balloon injury, which provides an opportunity to enhance nanozyme passive permeation into the vascular intima and uptake by macrophages to alleviate long‐term vascular restenosis in vivo. Moreover, the macrophages polarization modulation mechanism of vascular restenosis prevention is further investigated. This interesting discovery that endothelial cells exfoliation enhanced nanoparticle vascular permeation by endovascular interventional treatment may provide applicative perspectives in the treatment of other disease by nanomaterials.
Family of Magic‐Sized Carbon Clusters on Transition Metal Substrates
Authors: Yan Xue , Wu Xi , Chen Xiaobin , Du Hongda , Gan Lin , Kang Feiyu , Ding Feng , Li Jia
Published: September 2020

Highly‐stable carbon clusters on transition metal substrates play an important role in the bottom‐up approaches for synthesizing graphene quantum dots, graphene nanoribbons, and novel graphene nanostructures. Here, the discovery of a series of magic‐sized carbon clusters on different transition metal substrates is reported. Careful analyses reveal that the symmetry matching between the cluster and the substrate, the interaction between cluster edge carbon atoms and the substrate, and the location and orientation of the cluster on the substrate play key roles in stabilizing the new family of magic‐sized carbon clusters. The identified magic‐sized carbon clusters are thermodynamically and kinetically stable and may serve as the nucleation centers in the synthesis of other graphene nanostructures. These findings will greatly enrich the species of highly‐stable carbon clusters on transition metal substrates and paving the road toward the synthesis route of other graphene nanostructures.
The Key Role of Intrinsic Lifetime Dynamics from Upconverting Nanosystems in Multiemission Particle Velocimetry
Authors: Tessitore Gabriella , Maurizio Steven L. , Sabri Tarek , Skinner Cameron D. , Capobianco John A.
Published: September 2020

Evaluation of particle dynamics at the nano‐ and microscale poses a challenge to the development of novel velocimetry techniques. Established optical methods implement external or internal calibrations of the emission profiles by varying the particle velocity and are limited to specific experimental conditions. The proposed multiemission particle velocimetry approach aims to introduce a new concept for a luminescent probe, which guarantees accurate velocity measurements at the microscale, independent of the particle concentration or experimental setup, and without need for calibration. The simplicity of these analyses relies on the intrinsic luminescence dynamics of core–shell upconverting nanoparticles. Upon excitation with a focused near‐infrared pulsed laser, the nanoparticle emits photons at different wavelengths. The time interval between emissions from different excited states is independent of the local environment or particle velocity. The velocity of the particles is calculated by measuring the distance between the maxima of two different emissions and dividing it by the known difference in luminescence lifetimes. This method is demonstrated using simple digital imaging of nanoparticles flowing in 75–150 µm diameter capillaries. Using this novel approach typically results in a relative standard deviation of the experimental velocities of 5% or lower without any calibration.
Rapid Computer‐Aided Diagnosis of Stroke by Serum Metabolic Fingerprint Based Multi‐Modal Recognition
Authors: Xu Wei , Lin Jixian , Gao Ming , Chen Yuhan , Cao Jing , Pu Jun , Huang Lin , Zhao Jing , Qian Kun
Published: September 2020

Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, expected to result in 61 million disability‐adjusted life‐years in 2020. Rapid diagnostics is the core of stroke management for early prevention and medical treatment. Serum metabolic fingerprints (SMFs) reflect underlying disease progression, predictive of patient phenotypes. Deep learning (DL) encoding SMFs with clinical indexes outperforms single biomarkers, while posing challenges with poor prediction to interpret by feature selection. Herein, rapid computer‐aided diagnosis of stroke is performed using SMF based multi‐modal recognition by DL, to combine adaptive machine learning with a novel feature selection approach. SMFs are extracted by nano‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI MS), consuming 100 nL of serum in seconds. A multi‐modal recognition is constructed by integrating SMFs and clinical indexes with an enhanced area under curve (AUC) up to 0.845 for stroke screening, compared to single‐modal diagnosis by only SMFs or clinical indexes. The prediction of DL is addressed by selecting 20 key metabolite features with differential regulation through a saliency map approach, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms in stroke. The approach highlights the emerging role of DL in precision medicine and suggests an expanding utility for computational analysis of SMFs in stroke screening.
6.0 V High‐Voltage and Concentrated Electrolyte toward High Energy Density K‐Based Dual‐Graphite Battery
Authors: Li Xiang , Ou Xuewu , Tang Yongbing
Published: September 2020

K‐based dual‐carbon batteries (K‐DCBs) integrate the advantages, including high‐voltage, low‐cost, and environmentally friendliness of dual‐ion batteries (DIBs), and large abundance of K, thus attracting much attention in large‐scale energy storage application. However, most currently used electrolytes based on KPF6 and carbonate solvents commonly suffer from poor oxidation potential (<4.4 V vs Li/Li+) and low electrolyte concentration (<1 m), which limit the cycling stability and energy density of K‐DCBs. Herein, after a matching behavior study of various electrolyte solvents with potassium salts, a concentrated electrolyte is developed by successfully dissolving 5.2 m potassium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide into tetramethylene sulfone. This high‐concentration electrolyte exhibits advantages: 1) high oxidation potential that enhances intercalation reversibility and capacity of FSI− anions; 2) improved K+ storage at graphite anode; 3) dramatically increased energy density of K‐DCB. A proof‐of‐concept K‐ion dual‐graphite battery based on this high‐concentration electrolyte displays a discharge capacity of 83.4 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1, and negligible capacity fading after 300 cycles. Furthermore, considering both the electrolyte and electrode materials, energy density of such K‐DCB reaches ≈130 Wh kg−1, the best performance of K‐DCBs among previously reported research.
Setback distance impacts on transport and antibiotic resistance phenotypes of fecal indicators
Authors: Meyers Morgan A. , Durso Lisa M. , Gilley John E. , Miller Daniel N. , Li Xu , Schmidt Amy Millmier
Published: September 2020

Although the land application of livestock manure has numerous agronomic benefits, runoff from manured fields can degrade water quality. Setbacks instruct a minimum distance be maintained between manure application and surface waters. They are commonly used to manage nutrient contamination of surface waters; however, their utility for reducing microbial inputs remains unclear. Here we evaluated the efficacy of five setback distances in no‐till wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) residue plots for reducing runoff fecal indicator concentrations from swine manure‐amended fields. Also, since there is increasing interest in the use of water quality indicators to monitor antibiotic resistance in environmental systems, Escherichia coli and Enterococcus isolates were collected, and evaluated for resistance to 12 antibiotics. Seven of the 12 antibiotics evaluated in this study are critically important to human health and another four of the antibiotics evaluated are highly important to human health, according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Significant differences existed in amounts of indicators from pre‐ and post‐manure application time points; however, no significant differences were observed for any of the five setback distances measured (range 4.9–23.2 m). Antibiotic‐resistant E. coli and Enterococcus were isolated from pre‐ and post‐application runoff, indicating presence of antibiotic‐resistant fecal indicators in both manured and in non‐manured soils, although the source manure had a higher percentage of isolates displaying resistance. It remains difficult to provide recommendations for concurrent reduction of nutrient and microbial contaminants.
A simple model for precisely describing liquid–liquid equilibrium and better understanding extraction mechanism
Authors: Gao Jiajun , Cai Yuan , Long Bingwen , Dai Yafen , Jiang Xingmao , Li Chunxi
Published: September 2020

Describing distribution of solute equilibrium concentrations between two solvents is important for liquid–liquid equilibrium (LLE). Due to non‐ideality of solutions, the distribution usually possesses non‐linear characteristic. In this work, the non‐ideality was simply represented by pseudo reaction (or chemical interaction) between the solute and the solvent without recourse to the complicated activity coefficient models. On this basis, a simple model, which combined physical partition and pseudo reaction equilibriums, was proposed and can precisely correlate various LLE systems, for example, the immiscible, the partially miscible, the organic, and even the electrolyte. More interestingly, the model can accurately reflect intrinsic mechanism by fitted parameters, that is, stoichiometric ratio of the pseudo reaction and total equilibrium constant for the interaction intensity. Besides, influence of the solute, the extractant, and temperature on the parameters was discussed deeply. This simple model is promising for precisely describing the LLE systems and better understanding their intrinsic extraction mechanism.
Use of complementary therapies for chronic pain management in patients with reported Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome or hypermobility spectrum disorders
Authors: Demes Jessica S. , McNair Bryan , Taylor Matthew R.G.
Published: September 2020

Ehlers‐Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and related Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) are debilitating connective tissue disorders that feature a prominent pain component for which there are limited therapeutic options for pain management. Consequently, many patients try various non‐prescribed treatments, including complementary and alternative therapies that have not been well studied in the EDS/HSD patient population. We surveyed over 500 individuals through the EDS Society who reported having been diagnosed with EDS or HSD to ascertain what complementary and alternative therapies were used and their reported effectiveness in alleviating pain and improving quality of life. Specifically, we focused on the use of traditional Chinese therapies, herbal medications, and marijuana. The most commonly reported therapies, used by 70–92% of participants, were non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, opioids, and physical therapy. Therapies rated by participants as most efficacious were opioids, physical therapy, and marijuana with 10–24% of those using these therapies rating them as extremely helpful. Patient‐initiated complementary therapy use in EDS/HSD patients is widespread at 56%. Complementary therapies were largely utilized by EDS/HSD patients with higher reported pain levels. Providers caring for EDS/HSD patients should be aware of these data showing broad usage of predominantly non‐prescribed therapies and be prepared to consider such usage in working collaboratively with these patients to develop comprehensive treatment plans to manage their chronic pain complications.
Non‐coding variants in MYH11, FZD3, and SORCS3 are associated with dementia in women
Authors: Blue Elizabeth E. , Thornton Timothy A. , Kooperberg Charles , Liu Simin , Wactawski‐Wende Jean , Manson JoAnn , Kuller Lew , Hayden Kathleen , Reiner Alexander P.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Recent studies suggest that both sex‐specific genetic risk factors and those shared between dementia and stroke are involved in dementia pathogenesis.

Methods

We performed both single‐variant and gene‐based genome‐wide association studies of >11,000 whole genome sequences from the Women's Health Initiative cohort to discover loci associated with dementia, with adjustment for age, ethnicity, stroke, and venous thromboembolism status. Evidence for prior evidence of association and differential gene expression in dementia‐related tissues and samples was gathered for each locus.

Results

Our multiethnic studies identified significant associations between variants within APOE, MYH11, FZD3, SORCS3, and GOLGA8B and risk of dementia. Ten genes implicated by these loci, including MYH11, FZD3, SORCS3, and GOLGA8B, were differentially expressed in the context of Alzheimer's disease.

Discussion

Our association of MYH11, FZD3, SORCS3, and GOLGA8B with dementia is supported by independent functional studies in human subjects, model systems, and associations with shared risk factors for stroke and dementia.
Long‐term follow‐up of a racially and ethnically diverse population of men with localized prostate cancer who did not undergo initial active treatment
Authors: Slezak Jeff M. , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Cannavale Kimberly L. , Chien Gary W. , Jacobsen Steven J. , Chao Chun R.
Published: September 2020

Background

There is limited research on the racial/ethnic differences in long‐term outcomes for men with untreated, localized prostate cancer.

Methods

Men diagnosed with localized, Gleason ≤7 prostate cancer who were not treated within 1 year of diagnosis from 1997–2007 were identified. Cumulative incidence rates of the following events were calculated; treatment initiation, metastasis, death due to prostate cancer and all‐cause mortality, accounting for competing risks. The Cox model of all‐cause mortality and Fine‐Gray sub distribution model to account for competing risks were used to test for racial/ethnic differences in outcomes adjusted for clinical factors.

Results

There were 3925 men in the study, 749 Hispanic, 2415 non‐Hispanic white, 559 non‐Hispanic African American, and 202 non‐Hispanic Asian/Pacific Islander (API). Median follow‐up was 9.3 years. At 19 years, overall cumulative incidence of treatment, metastasis, death due to prostate cancer, and all‐cause mortality was 25.0%, 14.7%, 11.7%, and 67.8%, respectively. In adjusted models compared to non‐Hispanic whites, African Americans had higher rates of treatment (HR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.15–1.68); they had an increased risk of metastasis beyond 10 years after diagnosis (HR = 4.70, 95% CI = 2.30–9.61); API and Hispanic had lower rates of all‐cause mortality (HR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.52–0.84, and HR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.62–0.85, respectively), and API had lower rates of prostate cancer mortality in the first 10 years after diagnosis (HR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.09–0.90) and elevated risks beyond 10 years (HR = 5.41, 95% CI = 1.39–21.11).

Conclusions

Significant risks of metastasis and prostate cancer mortality exist in untreated men beyond 10 years after diagnosis, but are not equally distributed among racial/ethnic groups.
Hotel review framing and the “law of small numbers”
Authors: Cain Lisa N. , Kim Eun Joo , Tanford Sarah
Published: September 2020

Online booking engines are the primary method by which consumers purchase hotels stays. Thus, understanding the best ways to present hotel information to consumers is critical. An experimental study investigated how review framing, presentation format, and number of reviews influence consumers' intention to book. The findings reveal that the way hotel reviews and ratings are presented plays a significant role in consumers' booking intentions and hotel evaluations. The results demonstrated that positive framing, abstract numerical presentation, and a small number of reviews result in more favorable evaluations and intentions than negative framing, concrete presentation, and a large number of reviews. However, these variables influence different outcomes at each stage of the purchasing process. Practically, this study aids hoteliers by providing approaches to increase bookings and attract consumers. Theoretically, it demonstrates how the presentation of ratings information leads to judgmental heuristics that can bias consumers' judgments throughout the decision process.