bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral Behavior of Pinus elliottii, Subjected to Drought in Southern Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Géssyca Fernanda de Sena , Barbosa Uilian do Nascimento , Junior José Jorge Monteiro , Pimentel Diogo José Oliveira , Silva Julianne Moura da , Melo Lorena de Moura , Moreira Giselle Lemos , Salami Gabriela , Lima Tamires Leal de , Bellé Pierre André , Alba Elisiane , Silva Emanuel Araújo , Pereira Rudiney Soares , Santos Adriano Castelo dos
Published: December 2019

The second most cultivated plant to a forest range in Brazil is the Pinus elliottii. This paper aims to evaluate the spectral behavior of individuals of Pinus elliottii in the electromagnetic radiation (1st) of the visible and (2nd) the infrared, when submitted to the water deficit. The experiment was conducted in the city of Santa Maria located at the Rio Grande do Sul State. The spectral responses of 10 individuals of Pinus elliottii were observed in different climatic seasons at 24 months of age. To evaluate the spectral behavior a spectroradiometer was used, and the behavior in the 450 to 1700 nm range was analyzed. Five individuals were submitted to water deficit treatment and five were used as controls, remaining in adequate water conditions. The spectral pattern for individuals submitted to water deficit was similar, but a trend of wavelength responses in the region of visible green (577-491 nm) and near-infrared (1100-789 nm) was noticeable. The most evident differences occurred in the fall season when differences in spectral amplitudes are noticeable and significantly different from the rest of the year.
Prognostic of the Using Wood of Erythroxylum myrsinites Mart. Under the Anatomic Prism
Authors: Rosa Rossana Cortelini da , Raddatz Dione Dambrós , Machado Paulo Fernando dos Santos , Santos Mario Lima dos , Vasconcelos Alexandro Dias Martins , Martins Walmer Bruno Rocha , D’arace Larissa Martins Barbosa , Souza Anderson Marcos de , Pedrazzi Cristiane , Gatto Darci Alberto
Published: December 2019

The composition of the wood and its elements are considered determinants in the wood properties, standing out the fibers, axial parenchyma, number of vessels and rays. In this context, we aimed to investigate and describe the wood anatomical structure of the Erythroxylum myrsinites Mart. and identify its potential uses in the area of wood technology. From the tree, were removed three wood samples for the confection of anatomical slides, witch 3 × 3 × 3 cm, oriented we plans transversal, longitudinal and tangential longitudinal. For the preparation of histological blades, the method of Burger and Richter was adopted; the anatomical description was based on IAWA Committee recommendations. The species presents vessels numerous, solitary, composing 19% of the volume of wood. Diffuse porosity of polygonal contour and thin walls. Mean vascular elements, axial parenchyma representing 3% of the volume of the wood, in a paratracheal vasicentric arrangement. The rays are numerous, occupying 23% of the volume of the wood, narrow and heterogeneous, consisting of procumbent, square and erect cells. The fibers are libriform, of length medium and thick walls, occupying 55% of the volume of the wood, have spiral thickening and septate fibers, absent tracheids, and gelatinous fibers abundant. The characteristics presented give high flexibility to the stem and branches, and the wood with low specific mass, permeable and resistant to mechanical loads has potential for use in energy generation.
Development of a Drink Type Infusion From Coffee Pulp (Arabia coffea) Lempira Variety of Honduras
Authors: Fuentes Jhunior Abrahan Marcia , Alemán Ricardo Antonio , Chavarría Leonardo Antonio , Murillo Ingris Mary Varela , Alvarado Noreyda Patricia , Fernández Ismael Montero
Published: December 2019

This work aimed to develop an infusion type beverage from Lempira coffee pulp for human consumption. Samples from the Honduran Coffee Institute IHCAFE were used. According to the results obtained from the sensory analysis, it was determined that 70.75% of the evaluators prefer the beverage made with mature grains, given that a balance in taste and acidity is obtained. As for the mass concentration of the packaged content, 60% of the universe of tasters prefer a concentration of 1.6 g of dried pulp per cup. Regarding the type of grinding of the grain, it was determined that 80% of the tasters prefer coarse grinding (701 to 900 µm), describing it as an extremely pleasant product in its flavor and color, with shades of Jamaica, tamarind and nuts. Checking that with this particle size there is a greater release of flavors and maintains a balance in terms of aromas, however in fine particles (350 to 500 µm), their fragrances stand out, but negatively affects their taste and the high sedimentation rate. Therefore, it was concluded that the quality of the infusion drink from coffee pulp is influenced by the type of grinding used for its preparation.
Metabolic Changes in the Blood of Dromedary Camel at Early Post-partum
Authors: Shehab-El-Deen M. A. M. M. , Al-Dobaib S. N. , Al-Sobayil K. A.
Published: December 2019

Postpartum resumption of ovarian activity under environmental stressors is highly important for determining subsequent fertility in camel. The current study aimed to investigate the relationship of relevant biochemical and hormonal parameters in the blood serum with regard to ovarian resumption of dromedary camel at early post-partum. Blood samples were collected from female dromedary camel weekly during the postpartum period for 9 successive weeks. Serum and plasma samples were assayed for the following biochemical and hormonal constituents, glucose, cholesterol (CH), triglycerides (TG), total protein (TP), urea, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), non-esteriﬁed fatty acids (NEFA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), cortisol and triiodothyronine (T3). Glucose concentrations ranged between 92.6 and 96.2 mg/dL for the first 6 weeks postpartum, and increased to 106.8 mg/dL at week 7 postpartum (P < 0.01). The concentrations of CH followed almost the same manner during the first 7 weeks (ranged between 27.5 and 30.4 mg/dL) and increased to 38.2 mg/dL at week 8 postpartum (P < 0.01). Likewise, total protein concentrations decreased from 6.86 g/dL week2 to 6.45 g/dL at week 3 (P < 0.01) with no significant changes thereafter. Similarly, triglycerides decreased from 24.5 mg/dL at week 2 to 13.00 mg/dL at week 3 (P < 0.01) with no significant changes up to week 9. The concentrations of NEFA decreased significantly at week 3 postpartum (P < 0.01) and then maintained at low level throughout the study period. Similarly, cortisol and IGF-1 concentrations were the lowest at week 3 postpartum (5.7 µg/dL and 93.7 µg/mL for cortisol and IGF-1, respectively, P < 0.01) and then increased gradually with some little variations of IGF-1. However, the levels of urea followed a characteristic increasing and subsequently decreasing patterns while reached a plateau at weeks 8 and 9 postpartum. Similarly, the concentrations of T3 followed the same pattern and tended to increase at week 9 postpartum. Concentrations of LDH showed a significant decrease at weeks 4 to 6 postpartum and increased thereafter (P < 0.01). Throughout the study period, changes of glucose, cortisol, CH, TP, IGF-1, NEFA and LDH had a clear trend, i.e. decreasing at early postpartum period followed by increasing patterns thereafter. The results of the present study suggest that the typical metabolic patterns that are found in blood serum of dromedary camel at postpartum may be reﬂected in the follicular ﬂuid and, therefore, may use as an indication of reproductive resumption.
Technological Quality of Dual-purpose Wheat Submitted to Successive Defoliations
Authors: Rodolfo Giselle R. , Souza Clovis A. , Gutkoski Luiz C. , Stefen Deivid L. V.
Published: December 2019

Defoliation may interfere in the sink-source relationship and influence grain production and the respective technological quality of wheat flour, particularly in cultivars with potential as forage and in subsequent grain production. This study aimed to determine the effects of plant cutting heights and number of cuttings on the technological wheat flour quality of BRS Umbu and BRS Tarumã cultivars. A completely randomized design with four repetitions was used and treatments consisted of a combination of cutting heights (20 and 30 cm) and number of cuttings (no cutting, 1, 2 and 3 cuttings), resulting in the following treatments: 20/1, 20/2, 20/3 30/1, 30/2, 30/3 and controls with no cuttings. Hectoliter weight, grain crude protein, tenacity: extensibility ratio, gluten strength, falling number and wet gluten were measured. Regardless of the cutting height used, and after defoliation, the variables exhibited higher values than in non-defoliated plants, with protein content increasing by 6 and 11.3% for the BRS Tarumã and BRS Umbu cultivars, respectively. As such, it can be inferred that defoliation does not negatively affect the technological quality of wheat flour grown in a dual-purpose system.
ORCID: Testing that auto-update is blocked
Authors: Meddings Kirsty
Published: December 2019

Metadata updates. What do they really do?
Integrated approach to information analysis for planning the transport of sensitive cargo
Authors: Semenov Iouri , Filina-Dawidowicz Ludmila , Trojanowski Piotr
Published: December 2019

This article presents the methodology of information analysis, required for planning safe road transport of sensitive cargoes. Based on the literature studies we found that the traditional approaches applied to analyze traffic information are insufficient to ensure safe transport of sensitive loads as they fail to take into account several threatening factors. In addition, the need was noted to develop the procedures that may allow to choose a transport route considering appearance of so-called high-risk zones within road infrastructure, analyze the interdependence of such zones with errors made during the design or operation of road infrastructure and investigate the impact of road traffic on the frequency of road accidents involving Heavy Goods Vehicle. Therefore, article aims to present an integrated approach to traffic information analysis. Thus a multiple stage data ordering procedures were proposed, based on grouping information on accident rates and inclusion of audit results of selected route sections. Considering that transport infrastructure plays an important role in transport safety, the proposed methodology includes the analysis of errors in infrastructure and a merger in the sections the detected risk zones within the road infrastructure in any location. Application of this methodology can improve the planning of road transport of sensitive cargoes. Its verification was carried out on the example of a selected route running through Poland. During the audit of the route, it was found that a number of incorrect design solutions were applied on its separate sections, which may lead to high values of the severity factor for potential collisions and indicator of possible post-accidental losses. As a result of the research, the areas of the route were identified, where high-risk zones are located that threaten the safety of road traffic of vehicles, including those carrying sensitive loads. Research results may be of interest for those, who are involved in planning and organization of sensitive cargo transport, both in domestic and in international relations.
Application and Comparison of Uncertainty Quantification Methods for Railway Vehicle Dynamics with Random Mechanical Parameters
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Xu Peijuan , Bigoni Daniele
Published: December 2019

This paper aims to investigate uncertainties in railway vehicle suspension components and the implement of uncertainty quantification methods in railway vehicle dynamics. The sampling-based method represented by Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) and generalized polynomial chaos approaches including the stochastic Galerkin and Collocation methods (SGM and SCM) are employed to analyze the propagation of uncertainties from the parameters input in a vehicle-track mathematical model to the results of running dynamics. In order to illustrate the performance qualities of SGM, SCM and LHS, a stochastic wheel model with uncertainties of the stiffness and damping is firstly formulated to study the vertical displacement of wheel. Numerical results show that SCM, which can be easily implemented by means of the existing deterministic model, has explicit advantages over SGM and LHS in terms of the efficiency and accuracy. Furthermore, a simplified stochastic bogie model with three random suspension parameters is also established by means of SCM and LHS to analyze the critical speed, which is affected obviously by the parametric uncertainties. Finally, a stochastic vertical vehicle-track coupled model with parametric uncertainties is built comprehensively on the basis of SCM, by which the impact behavior of wheel-rail interaction under a rail defect is investigated and the dynamic response of vehicles under the track irregularity is explored in terms of the Sperling index. It concludes that the uncertainties of parameters have a significant influence on P2 force and Sperling index from the view of the running quality.
The Ineluctable Sign in Sartre’s Account of Franconay’s Imitation
Authors: Suner Ahmet ,   Romanian Society for Phenomenology
Published: December 2019

The most interesting example of all the physical images that Sartre examines in L’Imaginaire concerns a female performer’s (Franconay’s) imitation of a male performer (Chevalier). The example is a unique instance in which Sartre deals explicitly with the possibility of ambiguity and hybridity in consciousness. Sartre’s introduction of the sign into the consciousness of imitation ties the perception of Franconay with the imaged Chevalier, but it also leads to the dissemination of the sign across the entire consciousness, a consequence that runs against Sartre’s analytic tendencies. I argue that, despite Sartre’s endeavor to keep the sign separate from perception and the image, the sign is a diffuse property of the entire consciousness of imitation, penetrating and contaminating its every instant. Sartre’s account of Franconay’s imitation contains the germs of the destruction of his clear-cut analytic distinctions, revealing the irreducible hybridity of the sign with both perception and the image.
Entre réversibilité et réverbération
Authors: Popa Delia ,   Romanian Society for Phenomenology
Published: December 2019

How can phenomenology help address the problem of social violence? Can phenomenology provide an adequate description of its essence? Is the phenomenological method able to deepen and transform its comprehension? The paper is an attempt to answer these questions through an analysis of three different testimonies of social violence entailing elements of phenomenological description. Starting with a minimal definition of the phenomenological description, understood as search for a meaning for a lived experience and substitution with those who suffer, the article discusses several issues raised by a phenomenological description of social violence, such as the danger of justifying it when searching for its meaning, of blaming the victims who suffered from it or of prolonging its traumatizing effects. The paper ends by questioning the ways in which the phenomenological method can offer support for resilience and inspire resistance to social violence.
The long conversation: Reflections on science librarianship
Authors: Ford Robin
Published: December 2019

As you read this column, feel free to get up and move around. Make access for yourself. We are in dialogue, and we should all be comfortable to nurture this conversation.As an early career science librarian, it can be challenging to incorporate the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education into my work. In the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine) students, faculty, and staff are pressed for time and are focused on skills, data, and gaining familiarity with specific resources. In this column, I reflect on the frame Scholarship as Conversation, and draw on it for inspiration and guidance in my practice. I highlight examples of this discussion with this frame and how it informs my instruction, collection development, and outreach efforts.
Instruction librarians and instructional designers: A natural collaboration
Authors: Tingelstad Catherine , McCullough Heather
Published: December 2019

At the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, instructional designers and research and instruction librarians have similar goals yet unique roles and distinct responsibilities. There are eight instructional designers at the Center for Teaching & Learning (CTL) who use learning theory and design knowledge to work with faculty to plan and create online courses. At the university’s Atkins Library, 16 instruction librarians, including subject liaisons and first-year writing specialists, connect with faculty and students to further understanding of information literacy and research resources. Recognizing the groups’ common goals of partnering with faculty in course development and creating high-quality online learning resources, group administrators have launched an initiative to introduce the designers and librarians to each other and to their work.
Washington Hotline
Authors: Hines Shawnda
Published: December 2019

ALA leads national #eBooksForAll campaignAccess to digital content has long been a sore spot for libraries. When Macmillan Publishers announced an eight-week embargo on new eBook titles sold to libraries, the public outcry was extraordinary. In response, ALA launched the #eBooksForAll petition campaign at the Digital Book World conference in September. Coverage of libraries proliferated in news outlets across the country as more and more library systems led their own local campaigns to oppose Macmillan’s new policy. Just days before the embargo took effect on November 1, 2019, ALA hand delivered more than 160,000 signatures to CEO John Sargent.
Fast Facts
Authors: Pattillo Gary
Published: December 2019

Magazine publishingCorporate reputation rankingsU.S. and Canadian print book holdingsReading proficiencyPrivate high school graduates
Combined Androgen Blockade in Localized Prostate Cancer Treated With Definitive Radiation Therapy
Authors: Vitzthum Lucas K. , Straka Chris , Sarkar Reith R. , McKay Rana , Randall J. Michael , Sandhu Ajay , Murphy James D. , Rose Brent S.
Published: December 2019

Background:The addition of androgen deprivation therapy to radiation therapy (RT) improves survival in patients with intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer (PCa), but it is not known whether combined androgen blockade (CAB) with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-A) and a nonsteroidal antiandrogen improves survival over GnRH-A monotherapy.Methods:This study evaluated patients with intermediate- and high-risk PCa diagnosed in 2001 through 2015 who underwent RT with either GnRH-A alone or CAB using the Veterans Affairs Informatics and Computing Infrastructure. Associations between CAB and prostate cancer–specific mortality (PCSM) and overall survival (OS) were determined using multivariable regression with Fine-Gray and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, respectively. For a positive control, the effect of long-term versus short-term GnRH-A therapy was tested.Results:The cohort included 8,423 men (GnRH-A, 4,529; CAB, 3,894) with a median follow-up of 5.9 years. There were 1,861 deaths, including 349 resulting from PCa. The unadjusted cumulative incidences of PCSM at 10 years were 5.9% and 6.9% for those receiving GnRH-A and CAB, respectively (P=.16). Compared with GnRH-A alone, CAB was not associated with a significant difference in covariate-adjusted PCSM (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR], 1.05; 95% CI, 0.85–1.30) or OS (hazard ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.93–1.12). For high-risk patients, long-term versus short-term GnRH-A therapy was associated with improved PCSM (SHR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.57–0.95) and OS (SHR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.73–0.93).Conclusions:In men receiving definitive RT for intermediate- or high-risk PCa, CAB was not associated with improved PCSM or OS compared with GnRH alone.
Håb for demokratiet
Authors: Køber Jesper Vestermark
Published: December 2019

Boganmeldelse af 'Den nye internationale' (2019) af Malte Frøslee Ibsen samt 'Sæt strøm til demokratiet' (2019) af Silas Harrebye.
Landscape
Authors: Kunz Jaciel Gustavo
Published: December 2019

(Trata-se de resenha)
Pareceristas
Authors: Zanotelli Claudio
Published: December 2019

Pareceristas
Le XXIe siècle ou la séparation achevée. Éthique et technologie dans Anima Motrix d’Arno Bertina
Authors: Jeusette Julien
Published: December 2019

De Warburg à Agamben en passant notamment par Debord et Baudrillard, nombreux sont les intellectuels qui ont alerté leurs contemporains sur les risques de la technologie : celle-ci nous séparerait les uns des autres et nous mettrait à distance du monde. Or, il est évident qu’au XXIe siècle, cette séparation prend une tournure plus dramatique. Nous suggérons ici qu’Anima Motrix, le roman d’Arno Bertina paru en 2006, permet de mieux comprendre les dangers de l’emprise des dispositifs sur nos vies ; à partir d’un cas extrême, l’écrivain nous invite à penser le potentiel inhumain de notre temps.
Bleaching and post-bleaching mortality of Acropora corals on a heat-susceptible reef in 2016
Authors: Sakai Kazuhiko , Singh Tanya , Iguchi Akira
Published: December 2019

In 2016, global temperatures were the highest on record, and mass coral bleaching occurred world-wide. However, around Sesoko Island, Okinawa, southwestern Japan, the heat stress assessed by degree heating week (DHW) based on local temperature measurements was moderate in 2016; in 1998, DHW was three times higher than in 2016 (10.6 vs. 3.3 in September in respective years). On a reef flat of Sesoko Island where the effect of severe coral bleaching on coral assemblage was monitored in 1998, significant coral bleaching occurred in 2016. Bleaching of the heat stress sensitive Acropora corals began in July 2016 on the reef flat as seawater temperature rose. We observed the bleaching and post-bleaching mortality status of individual colonies of Acropora spp. in 2016 in fixed plots on the reef flat. In total, 123 Acropora colonies were followed for six months after seawater temperature became normal by multiple surveys. At the beginning of September 2016, 99.2% of colonies, were either completely (92.7%) or partially (6.5%) bleached. Of those, the dominant species or species groups were A. gemmifera (Ag), A. digitifera (Ad), and tabular Acropora (tA). For all Acropora colonies, the overall whole and partial mortality was 41.5% and 11.4%, respectively. Whole mortality rate differed significantly among species; 72.5%, 17.9%, and 27.8% in Ag, Ad, and tA, respectively. Mortality rates at the end of the surveys were similar in smaller (≤10 cm in diameter) and larger Ag, but the former suffered mortality earlier than the latter. Higher survival of smaller colonies was observed only in tA (100%), which may be associated with large morphological differences between smaller and larger colonies. Some of the dominant Acropora colonies had survived without partial mortality including 15.0% survival of the most vulnerable Ag at the end of the surveys. These results suggest that moderate heat stress may have a potential for selecting heat-tolerant genotypes. A longer period of mortality lasting for six months, was observed in Ag in addition to immediate whole mortality after bleaching, due to the continuous loss of living tissue by partial mortality. This highlights the need for multiple surveys at least during several months to accurately assess the impact of thermal stress event to corals. In contrast to DHW based on local measurements, DHW obtained from satellite data were similar between 1998 and 2016. Although satellite-based measurement of sea surface temperature is very useful to reveal variations in heat stress at a large spatial scale, temperature should be measured on site when variations at smaller spatial scales are of interest.
La transcreación de la moda à la mode: análisis de zonas de intervención en proyectos francés-español
Authors:   Universidad Pablo de Olavide (España), Morón Martín Marián , Lobato Patricio Julia ,   Universidad Pablo de Olavide (España)
Published: December 2019

Inicialmente considerada como “traducción para la publicidad” (Rike, 2013), la transcreación surge de la necesidad de dar respuesta a las nuevas demandas del mercado para las que los servicios de traducción o localización no resultaban suficientes. Según la multinacional de nuestro sector CLS Communication (2017), “la transcréation est la restitution libre et créative d’un message dans une langue étrangère, en fonction d’un lectorat et d’un marché déterminés. La transcréation ne vise pas la fidélité aveugle au texte de départ”. En este sentido, este trabajo se centra en los resultados de la experiencia del proyecto de innovación docente TeCreaTe (Morón y Calvo, 2018) en el aula de traducción especializada, en la combinación lingüística francés-español, durante el curso académico 2016-2017. Este artículo aborda la metodología de trabajo general del proyecto y expone un análisis de una selección de las principales zonas de intervención (en adelante, ZDI; Morón, 2017) en transcreación presentes en los textos objeto de trabajo.
Do Natural Resource Management Policies Ensure Environmental Justice in Benin?
Authors: Bako Idrissou , Moumouni-Moussa Ismail
Published: December 2019

This article aims to analyze natural resource management policies in Benin. Natural resources in Benin play an important role for the livelihood of the population. The management policies of these natural resources involve several actors at different levels. This sector has also undergone several reforms with changes in intervention approaches from colonial times to the present day. Current reforms involving private organizations born of dissatisfaction with previous reforms lead us to question the governance of these resources. By adopting the perspective of the theory of environmental justice, we have analyzed natural resource management policies in Benin. The results of our study show that natural resource management in Benin provides mainly procedural justice, justice that does not guarantee sustainable management. The distributive justice that is fundamental in this management is poorly considered. This study suggests empirical research to determine the links between justice, feelings of justice of the populations and social changes observed especially, the specific cases of the agro-pastoral communities.
Evaluation of Impact of Some Selected Plants on Haematological Parameters of Testosterone and Estradiol Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Adult Male Rats
Authors: Ugwu Melvin Nnaemeka , Agbor Asuk Atamgba , Ubana Eteng Mbeh , Odey Emuru Edward
Published: December 2019

Background: Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related disease of unknown etiology, characterized by prostate enlargement. The effect of Prosopis africana (PA), Vernonia amydalina (VA) and Ocimum gratissmum (OG), plant extracts on haematological parameters of BPH animal model was investigated.

Methods: BPH was induced in 45 male Wistar rats (250-350 g) by exogenous injection of testosterone and estradiol in staggered doses for 3 weeks. To confirm BPH induction, some animals were sacrificed; histological inspection of prostate gland and PSA was carried out. Forty BPH induced rats were divided into 8 groups. Group 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 5 and 6 were treated with 50 mg/kg bw and 100 mg/kg bw doses of PA, VA and OG extracts respectively. Group 7 received finasteride (0.1 mg/kg bw). Group 8 BPH control and five rats without induction constitute group 9, the normal control and both received distilled water. After 45 days, the rats were anaesthetised by a brief exposure to trichloromethane vapour and 5 ml of blood was collected from the rats through cardiac puncture and dispensed into well-labelled EDTA containers to avoid coagulation. All analyses were completed within 24 h of sample collection.

Results: Results showed that induction of BPH caused a significant (P< 0.05) enlargement of prostate gland when compared to normal control. All extracts produced significant (P<0.05) reduction in the weight of the enlarged prostate when compared to the BPH control. There were significant (P ˂0.05) decline in RBC, PCV and Hb of BPH control when compared to the normal control and treated groups. In the treated groups the administration of the extracts and standard drug exhibited an increase in RBC, PCV and Hb concentration when compared with the BPH control. Also there was significant (P < 0.05) increase in the WBC, neutrophils, platelets, monocytes, lymphocytes and eosinophils levels in BPH control when compared to normal control and treated groups. In all treated groups there was significant decrease in WBC, neutrophils, platelets, monocytes, lymphocytes and eosinophils concentration levels when compared with the BPH control group.

Conclusion: The result of this study indicates that the extracts have the potential to reverse the inflammation caused by BPH and also have the capacity to boost the numbers of red blood cells probably by inhibiting the hemolysis caused by inflammatory factors or by enhancing the production of red blood cell from the bone marrow.
Impact of External Debt on Various Macro Economic Variables: Indian Evidence
Authors: Chisti Khalid Ashraf , Shabir Tayibah
Published: December 2019

The paper tries to investigate the impact of external debt on time series quarterly data spanning from 2007:02-2017:03, on various macro-economic variables and to study the existence of relationship and causality between them in India. In order to derive the results various econometric tools such as ADF unit root test, Granger Causality test and Regression Analysis have been employed in the study. The null hypothesis for the study were that External debt does not granger cause various macro-economic variables which was accepted at 5% level of significance and External debt does not have statistically significant relationship with various macro-economic variables, which was accepted in case of all variables except Inflation. Thus, it was found that no granger causal relationship was found between external debt and macro-economic variables and vice-versa. There exists no statistically significant relationship between external debt and RGDP, G-Revenue, Export, and G-Spending and they have almost no impact on the external debt. However, in case of Inflation there exists a positive statistically significant relationship that has 10.27% impact on external debt. It was concluded that External debt does not play a significant role in the economic development of India for the period of the study.
Crystal structure of the translation recovery factor Trf from Sulfolobus solfataricus
Authors: Kaiser Marco , Wurm Jan Philip , Märtens Birgit , Bläsi Udo , Pogoryelov Denys , Wöhnert Jens
Published: December 2019

During translation initiation, the heterotrimeric archaeal translation initiation factor 2 (aIF2) recruits the initiator tRNAi to the small ribosomal subunit. In the stationary growth phase and/or during nutrient stress, Sulfolobus solfataricus aIF2 has a second function: It protects leaderless mRNAs against degradation by binding to their 5′‐ends. The S. solfataricus protein Sso2509 is a translation recovery factor (Trf) that interacts with aIF2 and is responsible for the release of aIF2 from bound mRNAs, thereby enabling translation re‐initiation. It is a member of the domain of unknown function 35 (DUF35) protein family and is conserved in Sulfolobales as well as in other archaea. Here, we present the X‐ray structure of S. solfataricus Trf solved to a resolution of 1.65 Å. Trf is composed of an N‐terminal rubredoxin‐like domain containing a bound zinc ion and a C‐terminal oligosaccharide/oligonucleotide binding fold domain. The Trf structure reveals putative mRNA binding sites in both domains. Surprisingly, the Trf protein is structurally but not sequentially very similar to proteins linked to acyl‐CoA utilization—for example, the Sso2064 protein from S. solfataricus—as well as to scaffold proteins found in the acetoacetyl‐CoA thiolase/high‐mobility group‐CoA synthase complex of the archaeon Methanothermococcus thermolithotrophicus and in a steroid side‐chain‐cleaving aldolase complex from the bacterium Thermomonospora curvata. This suggests that members of the DUF35 protein family are able to act as scaffolding and binding proteins in a wide variety of biological processes.
Considerations and Caveats in Combating ESKAPE Pathogens against Nosocomial Infections
Authors: Ma Yu‐Xuan , Wang Chen‐Yu , Li Yuan‐Yuan , Li Jing , Wan Qian‐Qian , Chen Ji‐Hua , Tay Franklin R. , Niu Li‐Na
Published: December 2019

ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) are among the most common opportunistic pathogens in nosocomial infections. ESKAPE pathogens distinguish themselves from normal ones by developing a high level of antibiotic resistance that involves multiple mechanisms. Contemporary therapeutic strategies which are potential options in combating ESKAPE bacteria need further investigation. Herein, a broad overview of the antimicrobial research on ESKAPE pathogens over the past five years is provided with prospective clinical applications.
Asymmetric Oxygen Vacancies: the Intrinsic Redox Active Sites in Metal Oxide Catalysts
Authors: Yu Kai , Lou Lan‐Lan , Liu Shuangxi , Zhou Wuzong
Published: December 2019

To identify the intrinsic active sites in oxides or oxide supported catalysts is a research frontier in the fields of heterogeneous catalysis and material science. In particular, the role of oxygen vacancies on the redox properties of oxide catalysts is still not fully understood. Herein, some relevant research dealing with M1–O–M2 or M1–□–M2 linkages as active sites in mixed oxides, in oxide supported single‐atom catalysts, and at metal/oxide interfaces of oxide supported nanometal catalysts for various reaction systems is reviewed. It is found that the catalytic activity of these oxides not only depends on the amounts of oxygen vacancies and metastable cations but also shows a significant influence from the local environment of the active sites, in particular, the symmetry of the oxygen vacancies. Based on the recent progress in the relevant fields, an “asymmetric oxygen vacancy site” is introduced, which indicates an oxygen vacancy with an asymmetric coordination of cations, making oxygen “easy come, easy go,” i.e., more reactive in redox reactions. The establishment of this new mechanism would shed light on the future investigation of the intrinsic active sites in oxide and oxide supported catalysts.
Ionically Conductive Pastes as Conformable Collector for Transparent, Nonplanar Triboelectric Devices
Authors: Chen Xia‐Chao , Sun Peiru , Sun Tianyu , Yu Zhenwei , Chen Fengxiang , Chen Yong , Liu Hongliang
Published: December 2019

As an alternative to opaque electronic conductors, ionic conductors have been recently adopted to construct flexible, transparent devices. When integrated into devices, however, liquid ionic conductors can easily leak while it is difficult to shape solid ones to accommodate three‐dimensional (3D) surfaces. A paste‐like ionic conductor is fabricated by mixing an amorphous fluoropolymer with 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. The low surface electrostatic potential of [NTf2]− makes the latter compatible with the polymer, forming a transparent ionic conductor without obvious phase separation. This ionic conductor displays a unique viscoelastic behavior, which combines solid‐like elasticity and liquid‐like plasticity at different time scales. Therefore, it exhibits a series of favorable mechanical properties, including large stretchability and self‐healing capability, and demonstrates a remarkable ability to transfer onto arbitrary surfaces and comply with the locomotion of substrates. To demonstrate its practical applications, this paste‐like ionic conductor is reconfigured on a plastic tube to develop a transparent triboelectric device, which is capable of detecting the sliding of water droplets and providing visual information of inside.
Layer‐Dependent Optoelectronic Properties of 2D van der Waals SnS Grown by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Wang Weihao , Zhang Tao , Seliverstov Aleksandr , Zhang Huihui , Wang Yichen , Wang Fengzhi , Peng Xiaoli , Lu Qiaoqi , Qin Chao , Pan Xinhua , Zeng Yu‐Jia , Van Haesendonck Chris , Ye Zhizhen
Published: December 2019

Layered metal monochalcogenides have attracted significant interest in the 2D family since they show different unique properties from their bulk counterparts. The comprehensive synthesis, characterization, and optoelectrical applications of 2D‐layered tin monosulfide (SnS) grown by pulsed laser deposition are reported. Few‐layer SnS‐based field‐effect transistors (FETs) and photodetectors are fabricated on Si/SiO2 substrates. The premium 2D SnS FETs yield an on/off ratio of 3.41 × 106, a subthreshold swing of 180 mV dec−1, and a field effect mobility (µFE) of 1.48 cm2 V−1 s−1 in a 14‐monolayer SnS device. The layered SnS photodetectors show a broad photoresponse from ultraviolet to near‐infrared (365–820 nm). In addition, the SnS phototransistors present an improved detectivity of 9.78 × 1010 cm2 Hz1/2 W−1 and rapid response constants of 60 ms for grow‐time constant τg and 10 ms for decay‐time constant τd under extremely weak 365 nm illumination. This study sheds light on layer‐dependent optoelectronic properties of 2D SnS that promise to be important in next‐generation 2D optoelectronic devices.
Activation of Ni Particles into Single Ni–N Atoms for Efficient Electrochemical Reduction of CO2
Authors: Fan Qun , Hou Pengfei , Choi Changhyeok , Wu Tai‐Sing , Hong Song , Li Fang , Soo Yun‐Liang , Kang Peng , Jung Yousung , Sun Zhenyu
Published: December 2019

Electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to fuels and value‐added industrial chemicals is a promising strategy for keeping a healthy balance between energy supply and net carbon emissions. Here, the facile transformation of residual Ni particle catalysts in carbon nanotubes into thermally stable single Ni atoms with a possible NiN3 moiety is reported, surrounded with a porous N‐doped carbon sheath through a one‐step nanoconfined pyrolysis strategy. These structural changes are confirmed by X‐ray absorption fine structure analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The dispersed Ni single atoms facilitate highly efficient electrocatalytic CO2 reduction at low overpotentials to yield CO, providing a CO faradaic efficiency exceeding 90%, turnover frequency approaching 12 000 h−1, and metal mass activity reaching about 10 600 mA mg−1, outperforming current state‐of‐the‐art single atom catalysts for CO2 reduction to CO. DFT calculations suggest that the Ni@N3 (pyrrolic) site favors *COOH formation with lower free energy than Ni@N4, in addition to exothermic CO desorption, hence enhancing electrocatalytic CO2 conversion. This finding provides a simple, scalable, and promising route for the preparation of low‐cost, abundant, and highly active single atom catalysts, benefiting future practical CO2 electrolysis.
Multilamellar LipoCEST Agents Obtained from Osmotic Shrinkage of Paramagnetically Loaded Giant Unilamellar Vescicles (GUVs)
Authors: Tripepi Martina , Ferrauto Giuseppe , Bennardi Paolo Oronzo , Aime Silvio , Delli Castelli Daniela
Published: December 2019

Moving from nano‐ to micro‐systems may not just be a matter of scale, but it might imply changes in the properties of the systems that can open new routes for the development of efficient MRI contrast agents. This is the case reported in the present paper, where giant liposomes (giant unilamellar vesicles, GUVs) loaded with LnIII complexes have been studied as chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI contrast agents. The comparison between nanosized liposomes (small unilamellar vesicles, SUVs) and GUVs sharing the same formulation led to differences that could not be accounted for only in terms of the increase in size (from 100–150 nm to 1–2 μm). Upon osmotic shrinkage, GUVs yielded a saturation‐transfer effect three order of magnitude higher than SUVs consistent with the increase in vesicles volume. Confocal microscopy showed that the shrinkage of GUVs resulted in multilamellar particles whereas SUVs are known to yield asymmetrical, discoidal shape.
Crucial Roles of Two Hydrated Mg2+ Ions in Reaction Catalysis of the Pistol Ribozyme
Authors: Teplova Marianna , Falschlunger Christoph , Krasheninina Olga , Egger Michaela , Ren Aiming , Patel Dinshaw J. , Micura Ronald
Published: December 2019

Pistol ribozymes constitute a new class of small self‐cleaving RNAs. Crystal structures have been solved, providing three‐dimensional snapshots along the reaction coordinate of pistol phosphodiester cleavage, corresponding to the pre‐catalytic state, a vanadate mimic of the transition state, and the product. The results led to the proposed underlying chemical mechanism. Importantly, a hydrated Mg2+ ion remains innersphere‐coordinated to N7 of G33 in all three states, and is consistent with its likely role as acid in general acid base catalysis (δ and β catalysis). Strikingly, the new structures shed light on a second hydrated Mg2+ ion that approaches the scissile phosphate from its binding site in the pre‐cleavage state to reach out for water‐mediated hydrogen bonding in the cyclophosphate product. The major role of the second Mg2+ ion appears to be the stabilization of product conformation. This study delivers a mechanistic understanding of ribozyme‐catalyzed backbone cleavage.
The Synthesis of a 2D Ultra‐Large Protein Supramolecular Nanofilm by Chemoselective Thiol–Disulfide Exchange and its Emergent Functions
Authors: Xu Yan , Liu Yongchun , Hu Xinyi , Qin Rongrong , Su Hao , Li Juling , Yang Peng
Published: December 2019

The design and scalable synthesis of robust 2D biological ultrathin films with a tunable structure and function and the ability to be easily transferred to a range of substrates remain key challenges in chemistry and materials science. Herein, we report the use of the thiol–disulfide exchange reaction in the synthesis of a macroscopic 2D ultrathin proteinaceous film with the potential for large‐scale fabrication and on‐demand encapsulation/release of functional molecules. The reaction between the Cys6–Cys127 disulfide bond of lysozyme and cysteine is chemo‐ and site‐selective. The partially unfolded lysozyme–cysteine monomers aggregate at the air/water or solid/liquid interface to form an ultra‐large 2D nanofilm (900 cm2) with about 100 % optical transparency. This material adheres to a wide range of substrates and encapsulates and releases a range of molecules without significantly affecting activity.
Ge=B π‐Bonding: Synthesis and Reversible [2+2] Cycloaddition of Germaborenes
Authors: Raiser Dominik , Sindlinger Christian P. , Schubert Hartmut , Wesemann Lars
Published: December 2019

Phosphine‐stabilized germaborenes featuring an unprecedented Ge=B double bond with short B⋅⋅⋅Ge contacts of 1.886(2) (4) and 1.895(3) Å (5) were synthesized starting from an intramolecular germylene–phosphine Lewis pair (1). After oxidative addition of boron trihalides BX3 (X=Cl, Br), the addition products were reduced with magnesium and catalytic amounts of anthracene to give the borylene derivatives in yields of 78 % (4) and 57 % (5). These halide‐substituted germaborenes were characterized by single‐crystal structure analysis, and the electronic structures were studied by quantum‐chemical calculations. According to an NBO NRT analysis, the dominating Lewis structure contains a Ge=B double bond. The germaborenes undergo a reversible, photochemically initiated [2+2] cycloaddition with the phenyl moiety of a terphenyl substituent at room temperature, forming a complex heterocyclic structure with GeIV in a strongly distorted coordination environment.
Laparoscopic hepatectomy in a patient with uncontrolled polycythaemia vera
Authors: Riekki T. R. , Ling E. , Cordovani D.
Published: December 2019

This case report describes the peri‐operative course of a patient with uncontrolled polycythaemia vera who underwent a laparoscopic hepatectomy for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Polycythaemia vera is a chronic condition that results in erythrocytosis and puts patients at risk of peri‐operative complications including thrombotic events and paradoxical haemorrhage. Little evidence exists on the ideal peri‐operative management of uncontrolled polycythaemia vera when the proposed procedure carries a high risk of haemorrhage. Our patient presented with a pre‐operative haemoglobin of 197 g.l−1 (haematocrit 65%) and was not phlebotomised pre‐operatively. Intra‐operatively he lost 2700 ml of blood, reducing his haematocrit to 48%, and then suffered fatal thrombotic complications postoperatively. The patient did not receive any blood product transfusions during his peri‐operative course. We review the available evidence to guide the peri‐operative management of patients with polycythaemia vera. The inherent risks of thrombosis and haemorrhage associated with polycythaemia vera need to be weighed against the specific surgical and transfusion‐related risks. Phlebotomy to achieve a pre‐operative haematocrit under 45% is recommended and intra‐operative phlebotomy shows promise for reducing blood loss during hepatectomies. Management of postoperative erythrocytosis may be an important and underappreciated aspect of reducing the peri‐operative risk of thrombosis in patients with polycythaemia vera.
Effects of strain rate and temperature on the mechanical behavior of high‐density polyethylene
Authors: Lamri Abderrahmane , Shirinbayan Mohammadali , Pereira Michael , Truffault Laurianne , Fitoussi Joseph , Lamouri Saad , Bakir Farid , Tcharkhtchi Abbas
Published: December 2019

The objective of this work is to initiate the discussion about multiphysics relationships between the molten and solid states of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE). The extrusion and the injection processes are employed to prepare samples, and the experimental procedures, using differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DMTA), thermal gravimetric analysis, and rheological measurements, are defined to choose the optimal variables. After different characterizations, the extrusion and injection temperatures of 220 and 230 °C have been chosen. To investigate the viscoelastic behavior of HDPE, the DMTA is used. To perform the high strain rate tensile tests, tensile machine was equipped with a specific furnace. Two temperatures, −20 and 20 °C, with strain rates varying from 0.001 to 100 seconds−1 were used to compare the flow characteristics. Results showed that by increasing the strain rate the molecular mobility of the HDPE chains is decreased. In addition, to the tests at −20 °C, the increase of Young's modulus can be properly observed, under high strain rates. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48778.