bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of a Combination of Ethanol Extract of Ficus capensis and Cnidoscolus aconitifolius on Liver and Kidney Function Parameters of Phenylhydrazine-Induced Anemic Rats
Authors: Christian Ezeigwe, Obiajulu , Obumneme Okpala, Chukwuemeka , Chibuzo Ogbodo, Uchechukwu , Divine Anwuna, Chioma , Rita Ngwu, Ogochukwu , Malachy Chigbo, Chidiebere
Published: February 2020

Background: Anemia is a condition in which there is a reduced number of red blood cells or haemoglobin and iron concentration in the body thereby leading to a decreased capacity of the blood to carry oxygen to the body tissues.

Objectives: The study was designed to investigate the effect of a combination of ethanol extract of Ficus capensis and Cnidoscolus aconitifolius in phenylhydrazine-induced anemic rats.

Methods: The animals were divided into five groups of five rats each. Group A served as normal control, Group B as anemic control, group C as standard drug control, groups D and E were treated with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of combined ethanol leaf extract of F. capensis and C. aconitifolius respectively. Phenylhydrazine was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 20 mg/kg b.w. for two days to induce anemia in rats. The administration of the extract lasted for 14 days after which the animals were sacrificed and blood obtained through cardiac puncture for kidney and liver biomarkers analyses.

Results: Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase, Alkaline phosphatase, Total bilirubin, Direct bilirubin and Kidney function parameters assayed in the anemic untreated group showed significant increases (p<0.05) compared to the normal rats which may be attributed to toxicity induced by phenylhydrazine. The groups treated with the ethanol extract at a dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight revealed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the liver function parameters compared to the anemic untreated group. The creatinine and urea levels of the anemic untreated group increased more than the that of the test groups although the increase was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: This study suggests that combined ethanol leaf extract of F. capensis and C. aconitifolius is safe and can be effective in the treatment and management of anemia.
Concrete
Authors: Hurd Mary K. ,   Portland Cement Association,   American Concrete Institute,   Tucker Concrete Form Company,   Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute, Batson Gordon B. , Franch Kenneth D. , Rankins D. Neil ,   Prosoco Inc., McGee Cline , Halvorsen Grant
Published: February 2020

Concrete forming and accessories includes permanent and temporary forms, anchors, inserts, expansion and control joints, and waterstops for structural and architectural cast‐in‐place concrete. Concrete forms include metal pan forms, wood forms, plastic forms, slip forms, and corrugated paper forms for placing concrete. Formwork costs are a substantial part of the total expense of putting concrete in place. Concrete reinforcing includes reinforcement of all types including tension, compression, and temperature‐reinforcing steel, welded wire fabric, stressing tendon, and fibrous reinforcing to increase the structural capabilities of concrete. Cast‐in‐place concrete Includes concrete mixture placement, finishing, and curing for structural, architectural, and specialty placed concrete. Architectural concrete and structural concrete are both made from portland cement, aggregate, and water, but they have entirely different concrete mix designs. Colored concrete can provide a cost‐effective simulation of natural stone or other building materials.
Efficient Optical Angular Momentum Manipulation for Compact Multiplexing and Demultiplexing Using a Dielectric Metasurface
Authors: Li Siqi , Li Xingyi , Zhang Lei , Wang Guoxi , Zhang Lingxuan , Liu Mulong , Zeng Chao , Wang Leiran , Sun Qibing , Zhao Wei , Zhang Wenfu
Published: February 2020

Angular momentum (AM), one of the most basic physical properties of light, has attracted great interest of the scientific community due to its significant values in high‐capacity optical communication. To realize AM multiplexing and demultiplexing, the methods based on metallic metasurface are proposed, which suffers from huge Ohmic losses. Besides, additional coupling elements are necessary for coupling the output light into single‐mode waveguides. Here, an efficient and focused AM multiplexing and demultiplexing system based on dielectric metasurfaces are proposed and investigated. Employing the off‐axis technique and spin photonic Hall effect, the orbital angular momentum (OAM) and spin angular momentum (SAM) multiplexing/demultiplexing can be achieved. A 10‐channel AM multiplexing/demultiplexing system based on the proposed method is demonstrated. The demultiplexing efficiencies for all AM stats are above 8% and the maximum crosstalk among all AM states is −12.8 dB, which exhibits an excellent performance of the proposed metasurface for the AM demultiplexing. Furthermore, the output light is focused at the focal plane, which can be directly coupled into the single‐mode waveguides and improve the compactness of the system. The proposed method provides an effective way for AM multiplexing and demultiplexing, which possess a crucial potential for high‐capacity optical communication applications.
A Reactive Prodrug Ink Formulation Strategy for Inkjet 3D Printing of Controlled Release Dosage Forms and Implants
Authors: He Yinfeng , Foralosso Ruggero , Trindade Gustavo F. , Ilchev Alexander , Ruiz‐Cantu Laura , Clark Elizabeth A. , Khaled Shaban , Hague Richard J. M. , Tuck Christopher J. , Rose Felicity R. A. J. , Mantovani Giuseppe , Irvine Derek J. , Roberts Clive J. , Wildman Ricky D.
Published: February 2020

A strategy for creating tuneable 3D printed drug delivery devices is proposed. 3D printing offers the opportunity for improved compliance and patient treatment outcomes through personalization, but bottlenecks include finding formulations that provide a choice of drug loading and release rate, that are tuneable, and avoid the need for surgical removal. The suggested solution is to exploit 3D inkjet printing freedoms. A reactive prodrug is used that can polymerize into drug‐attached macromolecules during 3D printing and by tuning the hydrophilicity, hydrolysis can be facilitated or hindered, which in turn controls drug release. To demonstrate this approach, ibuprofen is attached to 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate through a cleavable ester bond, formulated for inkjet 3D printing, and then printed to produce a solid dosage form. This allows a much higher loading than is usually achievable—in this case up to 58 wt%. Of equal importance, the 3D inkjet printing freedoms mean that the drug delivery device is highly tuneable: by selection of spacer monomers to adjust the hydrophilicity; through geometry; by spatially varying the components. Consequently, hierarchical release systems are created bespoke, from the molecular to macro. This approach represents a new paradigm for the formulation of printable inks for drug‐loaded medical devices.
Hierarchical Microcables Constructed by CoP@C⊂Carbon Framework Intertwined with Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient Lithium Storage
Authors: Guo Kangkang , Xi Baojuan , Wei Ruchao , Li Haibo , Feng Jinkui , Xiong Shenglin
Published: February 2020

Transition‐metal phosphides (TMPs)‐based electrode materials with high capacity have attracted considerable interest as a promising anode material for lithium−ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, a hierarchical cable‐like structure composed of CoP@C core−shell nanoparticles (NPs) encapsulated in one‐dimensional (1D) porous carbon framework intertwined with N‐doped carbon nanotubes (CoP@C⊂PCF/NCNTs) is synthesized by a self‐templating, self‐catalytic, and subsequent vapor‐phase phosphorization strategy. The unique nanoarchitecture regime provides multiple advantages. The 1D carbon framework allows for quick ion and electron access, maintaining the integrity and accommodating the volume change of the structure during repeated discharging/charging. The internal carbon shell can prevent the direct aggregation of CoP NPs on cycling. The external NCNTs on the surface supply a staggered conductive network to promote electrolyte penetration and charge transportation. Impressively, the as‐fabricated hybrid nanocables deliver a reversible capacity of 712 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 for over 700 cycles with excellent rate capability as an anode material for LIBs. The significantly improved lithium storage properties of CoP@C⊂PCF/NCNTs reveal the importance of reasonable design and engineering of novel hierarchical structures with higher complexity.
Predictors of HBeAg loss after nucleos(t)ide analogues treatment for chronic hepatitis B: A preliminary finding
Authors: Wen Shi‐Chi , Tsai Chi‐Chang , Cheng Lung‐Chih , Huang Chien‐Wei , Kuo Wu‐Hsien
Published: February 2020

Entecavir (ETV) and tenofovir (TDF) are both potent antiviral agents for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The primary effective endpoints of treatment have been a sustained disappearance of HBV DNA and hepatitis B e‐antigen (HBeAg) loss or seroconversion. We compared the efficacy of ETV and TDF and determined clinical factors that contributed to HBeAg loss at Pao‐Chien Hospital in Pingtung city. We conducted a retrospective study. A total of 36 consecutive patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) (e‐positive) antigens were treated with ETV (n = 19) and TDF (n = 17) between January 2010 and January 2018. Demographic and baseline characteristics were used for Cox proportion hazard regression models to identify variables that were predictive of ETV and TDF‐induced HBeAg loss. The alfa fetal protein (AFP) levels were higher in patients with HBeAg loss than in those without loss (P = .006). Of which, 17 (47.2%) of 36 patients achieved HBeAg loss and 12 (33.3%) patients achieved HBeAg seroconversion. None of these seroconversion patients developed serum reversion after consolidation therapy and off treatment. The cumulative rate of HBeAg loss at years 1, 2, and 3 of therapy was 22.2% (8/36), 37.0% (10/27), and 57.7% (15/26), respectively. In cumulative rate at years 1 and 2, the frequency of HBeAg loss was observed greater in virological response at 6 months (13.9% vs 8.3%, P = .013; 40% vs 22%, P = .028, respectively). In multivariate Cox regression analysis for factors associated with HBeAg loss, an increase in virological response at 6 months (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 4.780; 95% CI, 1.013‐22.565; P = .048) was only significant factor associated with cumulative HBeAg loss rate at year 2 (adjusted HR = 0.183; 95% CI, 0.043‐0.774; P = .021). The rapidity and efficacy of HBV DNA reduction to undetectable is the predictor of nucleos(t)ide analogue (NUC)‐induced HBeAg loss. Early undetectable HBV DNA in 6 months might be used to predict a higher likelihood of HBeAg loss within 2‐year therapy with NUC.
Host affinity of endophytic fungi and the potential for reciprocal interactions involving host secondary chemistry
Authors: Christian Natalie , Sedio Brian E. , Florez‐Buitrago Ximena , Ramírez‐Camejo Luis A. , Rojas Enith I. , Mejía Luis C. , Palmedo Sage , Rose Autumn , Schroeder John W. , Herre Edward Allen
Published: February 2020

Premise

Interactions between fungal endophytes and their host plants present useful systems for identifying important factors affecting assembly of host‐associated microbiomes. Here we investigated the role of secondary chemistry in mediating host affinity of asymptomatic foliar endophytic fungi using Psychotria spp. and Theobroma cacao (cacao) as hosts.

Methods

First, we surveyed endophytic communities in Psychotria species in a natural common garden using culture‐based methods. Then we compared differences in endophytic community composition with differences in foliar secondary chemistry in the same host species, determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Finally, we tested how inoculation with live and heat‐killed endophytes affected the cacao chemical profile.

Results

Despite sharing a common environment and source pool for endophyte spores, different Psychotria host species harbored strikingly different endophytic communities that reflected intrinsic differences in their leaf chemical profiles. In T. cacao, inoculation with live and heat‐killed endophytes produced distinct cacao chemical profiles not found in uninoculated plants or pure fungal cultures, suggesting that endophytes, like pathogens, induce changes in secondary chemical profiles of their host plant.

Conclusions

Collectively our results suggest at least two potential processes: (1) Plant secondary chemistry influences assembly and composition of fungal endophytic communities, and (2) host colonization by endophytes subsequently induces changes in the host chemical landscape. We propose a series of testable predictions based on the possibility that reciprocal chemical interactions are a general property of plant–endophyte interactions.
Stereoselective Thermal Addition of RP and/or SP‐Menthyl‐Deriving Secondary Phosphine Oxides to Active Alkynes, the Mechanism, Stereochemistry and Generation of P,C‐Chirogenic Bis‐Phosphine Derivatives
Authors: Yan Bing‐Xia , Zheng Hong‐Xing , Ye Jing‐Jing , Qiu Mao‐Ran , Zhang Yu , Zhao Chang‐Qiu , Li Qiang
Published: February 2020

The additions of RP‐1 or SP‐1 to alkynyl esters stereo selectively afforded bis‐phosphinylated derivatives having up to four C‐ and P‐chirogenic centers. The stereochemistry was controlled by kinetic and thermodynamic processes at lower and higher temperature, respectively. At 100 °C, the bis‐adducts were obtained in up to 99% yield and >99 : 1 d.r.
Connectome‐Based Propagation Model in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Meier Jil M. , van der Burgh Hannelore K. , Nitert Abram D. , Bede Peter , de Lange Siemon C. , Hardiman Orla , van den Berg Leonard H. , van den Heuvel Martijn P.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Clinical trials in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) continue to rely on survival or functional scales as endpoints, despite the emergence of quantitative biomarkers. Neuroimaging‐based biomarkers in ALS have been shown to detect ALS‐associated pathology in vivo, although anatomical patterns of disease spread are poorly characterized. The objective of this study is to simulate disease propagation using network analyses of cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data to predict disease progression.

Methods

Using brain networks of ALS patients (n = 208) and matched controls across longitudinal time points, network‐based statistics unraveled progressive network degeneration originating from the motor cortex and expanding in a spatiotemporal manner. We applied a computational model to the MRI scan of patients to simulate this progressive network degeneration. Simulated aggregation levels at the group and individual level were validated with empirical impairment observed at later time points of white matter and clinical decline using both internal and external datasets.

Results

We observe that computer‐simulated aggregation levels mimic true disease patterns in ALS patients. Simulated patterns of involvement across cortical areas show significant overlap with the patterns of empirically impaired brain regions on later scans, at both group and individual levels. These findings are validated using an external longitudinal dataset of 30 patients.

Interpretation

Our results are in accordance with established pathological staging systems and may have implications for patient stratification in future clinical trials. Our results demonstrate the utility of computational models in ALS to predict disease progression and underscore their potential as a prognostic biomarker. ANN NEUROL 2020;87:725–738
Molecular, Macromolecular, and Supramolecular Glucuronide Prodrugs: Lead Identified for Anticancer Prodrug Monotherapy
Authors: Jarlstad Olesen Morten T. , Walther Raoul , Poier Pier Paolo , Dagnæs‐Hansen Frederik , Zelikin Alexander N.
Published: February 2020

In this work, a tumor growth intervention by localized drug synthesis within the tumor volume, using the enzymatic repertoire of the tumor itself, is presented. Towards the overall success, molecular, macromolecular, and supramolecular glucuronide prodrugs were designed for a highly potent toxin, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). The lead candidate exhibited a fold difference in toxicity between the prodrug and the drug of 175, had an engineered mechanism to enhance the deliverable payload to tumours, and contained a highly potent toxin such that bioconversion of only a few prodrug molecules created a concentration of MMAE sufficient enough for efficient suppression of tumor growth. Each of these points is highly significant and together afford a safe, selective anticancer measure, making tumor‐targeted glucuronides attractive for translational medicine.
Cupin Variants as a Macromolecular Ligand Library for Stereoselective Michael Addition of Nitroalkanes
Authors: Fujieda Nobutaka , Ichihashi Haruna , Yuasa Miho , Nishikawa Yosuke , Kurisu Genji , Itoh Shinobu
Published: February 2020

Cupin superfamily proteins (TM1459) work as a macromolecular ligand framework with a double‐stranded β‐barrel structure ligating to a Cu ion through histidine side chains. Variegating the first coordination sphere of TM1459 revealed that H52A and H54A/H58A mutants effectively catalyzed the diastereo‐ and enantioselective Michael addition reaction of nitroalkanes to an α,β‐unsaturated ketone. Moreover, calculated substrate docking signified C106N and F104W single‐point mutations, which inverted the diastereoselectivity of H52A and further improved the stereoselectivity of H54A/H58A, respectively.
Effect of Crystal Structure and Morphology on Na3V2(PO4)2F3 Performances for Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Mukherjee Ayan , Sharabani Tali , Sharma Rosy , Okashy Sivan , Noked Malachi
Published: February 2020

Na‐ion batteries (SIB) are considered promising systems for energy storage devices, however diversity of available cathode materials is lower compared to lithium ion batteries. Recently, Na3V2(PO4)2F3 (NVPF) has been demonstrated as promising cathode material for SIB owing to high specific capacity and electrochemical reversibility. However, most of reports demonstrates capacities lower than theoretical value and optimization of electrochemical performances by controlled morphology and crystal structure was not demonstrated yet. Here, we demonstrate a scalable synthesis strategy to tailor the crystal structure and morphology of NVPF and showed that our approach enables to optimize the Na+ ion accommodation, diffusion and stability. A flower morphology (NVPF‐F) crystalizes in tetragonal structure, demonstrates discharge capacity of 109.5 mA.h.g−1 and 98.1 % columbic efficiency whereas a hollow spherical morphology (NVPF‐S) with orthorhombic structure exhibits discharge capacity of 124.8 mA.h.g−1 (very close to theoretical value) and 99.5 % columbic efficiency. The observed discharge capacity for NVPF‐S is highest reported value which is ascribed due to stable crystal structure and monodispersed morphology. Long term stability with negligible capacity loss is demonstrated over 550 cycles. Our findings shed light on importance of crystal structure and morphology of NVPF on electrochemical response, and realization as cathode material for SIB.
Synthesis and Evaluation of 2‐Aminothiophene Derivatives as Staphylococcus aureus Efflux Pump Inhibitors
Authors: da Cruz Rayssa M. D. , Zelli Renaud , Benhsain Sarah , da Cruz Ryldene M. D. , Siqueira‐Júnior José P. , Décout Jean‐Luc , Mingeot‐Leclercq Marie‐Paule , Mendonça‐Junior Francisco J. B.
Published: February 2020

2‐aminothiophene derivatives (2AT) in which the thiophene ring is fused with a cycloalkyl or a N‐acylated piperidine ring by positions 5 and 6 and carrying a 3‐carbethoxy group were synthesized and their bacterial growth and enzyme inhibitory effects against efflux proteins of Staphylococcus aureus leading to resistance to fluoroquinolones and erythromycin (ERY) were investigated. Compounds that most effectively decreases the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ciprofloxacin (CIP) were assayed for their dose and time effects on the accumulation and efflux of ethidium bromide (EtBr) in the SA‐1 strain. None of the compounds displayed antibacterial activity however, three derivatives carrying 2‐amino, 2‐aminoacetyl and 2‐aminotrifluoroacetyl group enhanced the activity of CIP and ERY by 8‐ and 16‐fold, respectively, and were able to restore the sensitivity of resistant strains, acting as typical efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs). The 2‐aminoacetyl and 2‐aminotrifluoroacetyl derivatives and two other piperidinyl 2‐aminotrifluoroacetyl derivatives increased EtBr accumulation in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, and one of them was also able to inhibit the EtBr efflux. Taken together, these results represent an important advance in the development of new EPIs, and demonstrate that 2AT represent a good scaffold for developing new antibiotic adjuvants.
Adaptive‐biased sense‐FET–based inductor‐current sensor for 10‐MHz buck converter
Authors: Zhou Yong , Lin Xiaohui , Yang Jianxin , Zheng Yanqi , Leung Ka Nang
Published: February 2020

A sense field effect transistor (FET)–based inductor‐current sensor for buck converters is introduced in this paper. The proposed current sensor adopts and realizes piecewise‐linear adaptive bias to maintain consistent bandwidth and phase margin in the sensor's control loop throughout a wide range of load currents. Moreover, the specially designed turn‐on/off process of switches is introduced together with the sole gain–boosted amplifier to avoid the sharp transitions in the sensed peak and valley currents during the deadtime zone of synchronous buck converters. Simulation results of the proposed sensor show an 11.6‐dB rise in direct current (DC) gain at light load (approximately 200 mA) and 21° improvement in phase margin at heavy load (approximately 2 A), compared with the traditional structure with fixed‐bias current. Furthermore, the variation in the unity gain bandwidth of the proposed structure across the whole load range is 12.8 times lower than that of the traditional designs.
New Path for Polyoxometalates: Controlled Synthesis and Characterization of Metal‐Substituted Tungstosulfates
Authors: Hirabaru Hikaru , Kawamoto Daisuke , Ohnishi Miho , Ota Hiromi , Sadakane Masahiro , Yanagisawa Kazumichi , Hasegawa Takuya , Ueda Tadaharu
Published: February 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue are Tadaharu Ueda, Kochi University, and co‐workers from Okayama University and Hiroshima University, Japan. The cover image shows the synthesis of metal‐substituted tungstosulfates via [(S2W14O54)3]32− with a unique cavity structure from (S2W18O62)4−].
Axially Chiral 1,1'‐Binaphthyl‐2‐Carboxylic Acid (BINA‐Cox) as Ligands for Titanium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydroalkoxylation
Authors: Helmbrecht Sebastian L. , Schlüter Johannes , Blazejak Max , Hintermann Lukas
Published: February 2020

Axially chiral, enantiopure 1,1'‐binaphthyl‐2‐carboxylic acids (BINA‐Cox) have recently been introduced as chiral ligands for transition metal catalysis. Together with equimolar, co‐catalytic amounts of Ti(OiPr)4 and water they form an in situ catalyst that performs the asymmetric catalytic hydroalkoxylation of 2‐allylphenols to 2‐methylcoumarans at high temperature (240 °C, microwave heating). The synthesis of reference ligand 2'‐MeO‐BINA‐Cox (L1) has been optimized and performed at molar scale. Synthetic routes have been developed to access a variety of substituted BINA‐Cox ligands (>30 examples), which have been tested for ligand effects on the reference asymmetric cyclization of 2‐allylphenol. The substrate range of asymmetric catalytic hydroalkoxylation has been explored through systematic substrate structure variations to define scope and limitations of the titanium‐catalyzed process. The new substrates 2‐(1‐vinylcycloalkyl)phenols (1j, 1k), 2‐(2‐vinylphenyl)propan‐2‐ol (1t), and 2'‐vinyl‐[1,1'‐biphenyl]‐2‐ol (1u) are shown to undergo asymmetric catalytic cyclization to benzodihydrofurans and benzo[c]chromene, respectively.
Hierarchically Rambutan‐Like Zn3V3O8 Hollow Spheres as Anodes for Lithium‐/Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Shi Zhenglu , Ru Qiang , Cheng Shikun , Hou Xianhua , Chen Fuming , Chi-Chung Ling Francis
Published: February 2020

Transition metal oxides have wide potential applications in high‐performance energy‐storage devices. Herein, hierarchically rambutan‐like Zn3V3O8 (ZVO) hollow spheres are fabricated using a simple reflux/anneal strategy. These hollow spheres are enriched with highly porous features and a favorable surface area, which can afford abundant Li+/K+ transport paths, mitigate the volume dilatation, and boost the ion‐storage capabilities. As the anodes for lithium‐ion batteries, the ZVO electrodes can sustain a high discharge capacity of 1283.7 at 0.2 A g−1 after 50 cycles. Even as the current density reaches 5 A g−1, the reversible discharge capacity also remains 541 mA h g−1 after 1000 long‐term cycles. As the anodes for potassium‐ion batteries, ZVO electrodes can afford a discharge specific capacity of 100.1 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 100 cycles. The results demonstrate that hierarchically rambutan‐like ZVO hollow spheres can serve as a feasible candidate for Li+/K+ storage.
Chronic Per-/Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure Under Environmentally Relevant Conditions Delays Development in Northern Leopard Frog (Rana pipiens) Larvae
Authors: Flynn R. Wesley , Iacchetta Michael , de Perre Chloe , Lee Linda , Sepúlveda Maria S. , Hoverman Jason T.
Published: February 2020

Per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are pervasive in aquatic systems globally and capable of causing detrimental effects on human and wildlife health. However, most studies are conducted under artificial conditions that are not representative of environmental exposures. Environmental exposures are characterized by multiple routes of exposure, low aquatic PFAS levels, and greater environmental variability than laboratory tests. Determining whether these factors influence toxicity is critical for understanding the effects of PFAS on aquatic life, including amphibians. Our goal was to assess the impact of PFAS on an amphibian under semirealistic conditions. We reared northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens) larvae in outdoor mesocosms containing sediment spiked to low, medium, and high levels (nominally 10, 100, or 1000 ppb dry wt) of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) or perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) for 30 d. Larvae in all PFOS treatments and the medium-PFOA treatment were approximately 1.5 Gosner stages less developed than control animals after 30 d. Notably, these developmental delays were observed at PFOS concentrations in the water as low as 0.06 ppb, which is considerably lower than levels associated with developmental effects in laboratory studies. Our results suggest that deriving toxicity values from laboratory studies examining aquatic exposure only may underestimate the effects of environmental PFAS exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:711–716. © 2020 SETAC
Effect of Net‐Gun Capture on Survival of Mule Deer
Authors: Van de Kerk Madelon , McMillan Brock R. , Hersey Kent R. , Roug Annette , Larsen Randy T.
Published: February 2020

Capture techniques to deploy radio‐collars often risk mortality and injury to the animal. Capture‐induced mortality can affect population sizes but also introduces bias in survival estimates based on data from captured animals. In recent years, a large‐scale research and monitoring project in Utah, USA, has involved capturing and radio‐collaring hundreds of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), a species of great interest in large parts of North America. Our objective was to investigate how the survival rates of these mule deer were affected by capture and handling. During winters of 2014–2018, an experienced capture crew net‐gunned and fitted 1,805 animals with global positioning system (GPS)‐collars. We estimated survival rates during the first 6 weeks after capture using Cox proportional hazard regression, and compared the survival rates of animals that were captured in a particular year to those of animals that were not captured but fitted with a GPS‐collar in a previous year. We used a model selection framework to evaluate how long survival rates of captured animals were different from those of animals that were not captured. Our results indicated that weekly survival rates of captured animals were 0.985 ± 0.003 (SE), 0.988 ± 0.002, and 0.990 ± 0.001 in weeks 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Weekly survival rates of captured deer during weeks 4–6 were 0.993 ± 0.001, the same as those of deer that were not captured at the same time. Furthermore, post‐capture survival rates were positively influenced by body size and negatively influenced by age. We conclude that the mortality resulting from helicopter capture was low but recommend comparing newly captured and previously captured individuals to examine what proportion of observed mortality is likely capture‐related. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Angular Vessels for Free‐Tissue Transfer in Head and Neck Reconstruction: Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Hanick Andrea , Ciolek Peter , Fritz Michael
Published: February 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the efficacy and reconstructive applications of angular vessel microvascular anastomosis in free‐tissue transfer.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

A study of patients treated from January 2010 to July 2017 was performed. Four hundred thirty patients undergoing free‐tissue transfer at the Cleveland Clinic by a single reconstructive surgeon were reviewed. Patients in whom free‐tissue transfer was performed using angular vessels were included. Patients in whom free‐tissue transfer was performed using another vascular supply of the head and neck were excluded. Primary outcome was free‐flap failure. Secondary outcomes included other postoperative complications and hospital length of stay.

Results

Thirty‐one patients underwent free‐tissue transfer with microvascular anastomosis to the angular vessels during the study period. Seventy‐one percent of patients underwent reconstruction immediately following tumor ablation. A variety of primary subsites were reconstructed; 58% underwent nasal reconstruction, 16% orbit/skull base reconstruction, 13% palatal reconstruction, 6% maxillary reconstruction, and 6% mandible reconstruction. Eighty‐seven percent of patients underwent free‐tissue transfer from an anterolateral thigh donor site. Ninety‐seven percent of patients had successful free‐tissue transfer with a viable flap during the follow‐up period; only one patient experienced flap failure attributed to vascular insufficiency. Average length of stay was 4.7 days, and the most common length of stay was 3 days.

Conclusions

The angular vessels provide excellent arterial supply and venous drainage to serve as a viable option for microvascular anastomosis during free‐tissue transfer for head and neck reconstructive surgery. They are an ideal vascular source for central face and skull base reconstruction.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:2589–2592, 2020
Fatigue performance of friction stir welded Al2024 alloy in a different corrosive environment
Authors: Thapliyal S. , Dwivedi D.K.
Published: February 2020

The study examines the corrosion fatigue behavior of friction stir welded Al2024 alloy in the corrosive medium. The fatigue tests are conducted at a stress ratio of ‐1 in the different corrosive medium. The decrease in the fatigue life of welded joints in the corrosive environment is attributed to an increase in the crack initiation susceptibility in the presence of corrosive media. The fractured surfaces are investigated using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The formation of the corrosive compounds was studied using x‐ray diffractometry.
Metal Organic Frameworks as Tunable Linear Magnets
Authors: Son Kwanghyo , Kim Rae Kyung , Kim Suhwan , Schütz Gisela , Choi Kyung Min , Oh Hyunchul
Published: February 2020

Due to the tunable magnetic exchange interactions between nearest neighbor moment carriers by exchange linker length or metal ions, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in general, and MOF‐74 in particular, have promising magnetic properties for novel industrial applications such as magnetic switchers, sensors, and multifunction devices in molecular spintronics. Hence, MOF‐74‐M [M2(C8H2O6)] (M = Fe, Co, Ni) possessing a 1D channel is prepared and experimentally examined to describe its diverse magnetic properties, depending on the metal cluster used. By exchanging the metal ion (Fe, Co, and Ni) in the metal cluster, the magnetic state of MOF‐74 is changed from ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic to superparamagnetic. This phenomenon can be also confirmed by alternating current (AC)/direct current (DC) magnetic susceptibility and field‐dependent magnetization. Therefore, the intrinsic magnetic properties of MOF‐74‐M such as blocking temperature, Néel temperature, and interaction energy between metals in magnetic susceptibility tests can be elucidated. Moreover, the superparamagnetic behavior in this system is also observed in M–H curves and magnetic dynamics as single‐chain magnets. It is believed that MOF‐74‐M can be utilized for applications in which superconducting materials are required (e.g., memory‐storage devices).
Using text analytics to apprehend urban sustainability development
Authors: Lee Picheng , Kleinman Gary , Kuei Chu‐hua
Published: February 2020

This research aims to specify critical urban sustainability issues by mining unstructured text data derived from the C40 city datasets of the Carbon Disclosure Project. The current study identifies underlying topical issues exhibited by text corpora, enables creation of smarter data visualizations, and forms useful profiles. Four underlying topical areas are examined: economic opportunities, climate risks, incentives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and emissions reduction activities. For each area, we built text data visualization profiles. Developing these text data visualization profiles enables greater attention to be paid to the list of topical issues shown in the profiles. Given the number of discovered topic issues, we generate an urban sustainability activity index and use it to identify which cities were detailing their actions toward becoming more sustainable cities. The city officials and municipal planners of either C40 or non‐C40 cities worldwide can benchmark this study and put the process of text data visualization at the center of their process of generating citywide sustainable development.
Sustainability, brand image, reputation and financial value: Manager perceptions in an emerging economy context
Authors: Flores‐Hernández J. Alfredo , Cambra‐Fierro Jesús J. , Vázquez‐Carrasco Rosario
Published: February 2020

Sustainability has become a fundamental concern in today' world—one which firms can no longer remain oblivious to. Through CSR, companies can shore up financial sustainability by acting in responsible, socially and environmentally sustainable ways. Yet the vast majority of literature addressing this phenomenon to date has focused almost exclusively on developed economies. The objective of the present study, therefore, is to contribute to filling this gap by analyzing the potential impact of CSR on sustainable financial value in the context of an emerging economy, Peru. To this end, we used the PLS technique to carry out quantitative analysis of data from a sample of over 200 managers at Peruvian companies. Our model is based on the premises of Social Capital Theory and Theory of Resources. Specifically, we analyze the extent to which CSR impacts corporate reputation, brand image and financial value in the context of an emerging economy. Our data indicate that—unlike more developed economies—in emerging economy contexts, direct relationships linking CSR and company financial value are lacking, though may occur by way of the path CSR > reputation > brand image > financial value. We also find that size moderates this path, while the sector of activity does not moderate the causal model. Hence, we suggest that both the cross‐cultural component and differing degrees of economic development and market maturity affect the perceived impact of CSR on financial value. The present study is pioneering in that it analyzes the impact of sustainability on financial value from the perspective of managers in an emerging economy context. Key theoretical and practical implications of our findings are provided in the final section of the paper.
Optimization and reaction kinetics analysis for phosphorus removal in struvite precipitation process
Authors: Wang Han , Tian Zeyuan , Wang He , Yan Qun
Published: February 2020

As a promising strategy to remove and recover phosphorus from wastewater, optimization of the struvite (MgNH4PO4.6H2O) precipitation parameters is required to achieve desirable phosphorus removal efficiency. To tackle the challenges upon the precipitation optimization methods as three‐level full factorial designs, and central composite design as well, Box–Behnken design was implemented to optimize different reaction parameters for phosphorus removal and recovery during struvite precipitation in the current study. Moreover, the reaction orders and the rate equation were all determined to reveal the reaction kinetics parameters of struvite precipitation. The results showed that the optimal operating parameters of pH, Mg/P ratio and N/P ratio were 9.82, 1.45, and 4.00, respectively, by which more than 95% of phosphorus removal efficiency could be achieved. In addition, it was found that pH and pH/(N/P) had the most influence on phosphorus removal efficiency among different individual factors and interactive items, respectively. The partial orders of PO4‐P, Mg2+, and

in kinetic rate equation were determined as 1.586, 0.930, and 1.236 while the rate constant k was 0.0167 ± 0.0014 mM‐2.752 per minute by differential method.

Practitioner points

Different reaction parameters were optimized by Box–Behnken design.

pH and pH/(N/P) had the most influence on phosphorus removal efficiency among different individual factors and interactive items.

The reaction orders and the rate equation were all determined to reveal the reaction kinetics parameters.
Universal critical behavior in tensor models for four-dimensional quantum gravity
Authors: Eichhorn Astrid , Lumma Johannes , Pereira Antonio D. , Sikandar Arslan
Published: February 2020

Abstract

Four-dimensional random geometries can be generated by statistical models with rank-4 tensors as random variables. These are dual to discrete building blocks of random geometries. We discover a potential candidate for a continuum limit in such a model by employing background-independent coarse-graining techniques where the tensor size serves as a pre-geometric notion of scale. A fixed point candidate which features two relevant directions is found. The possible relevance of this result in view of universal results for quantum gravity and a potential connection to the asymptotic-safety program is discussed.
A more attractive scheme for radion stabilization and supercooled phase transition
Authors: Fujikura Kohei , Nakai Yuichiro , Yamada Masaki
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We propose a new radion stabilization mechanism in the Randall-Sundrum spacetime, introducing a bulk SU(NH) gauge field which confines at a TeV scale. It turns out that the radion is stabilized by the balance between a brane tension and a pressure due to the Casimir energy of the strong SU(NH) gauge field. We investigate the phase transition between the Randall-Sundrum (compactified) spacetime and a de-compactified spacetime and determine the parameter regime in which eternal (old) inflation is avoided and the phase transition can be completed. In comparison to the Goldberger-Wise mechanism, the 5D Planck mass can be larger than the AdS curvature and a classical description of the gravity is reliable in our stabilization mechanism. We also discuss the effect of the phase transition in cosmology such as an entropy dilution and a production of gravitational waves.
Correction to: Genomic Breeding of Green Super Rice Varieties and Their Deployment in Asia and Africa
Authors: Yu Sibin , Ali Jauhar , Zhang Chaopu , Li Zhikang , Zhang Qifa
Published: February 2020

The article Genomic Breeding of Green Super Rice Varieties and Their Deployment in Asia and Africa.
AVISA: anisotropic visco-ISA model and its performance at cyclic loading
Authors: Tafili Merita , Triantafyllidis Theodoros
Published: February 2020

In this work, a constitutive model able to capture the strain rate dependency, small strain effects and the inherent anisotropy is proposed considering the influence of the overconsolidation ratio (OCR). Small strain effects are captured by using an extended ISA plasticity formulation (Fuentes and Triantafyllidis in Int J Numer Anal Methods Geomech 39(11):1235–1254, 2015). The strain rate dependency is reproduced by incorporating a third strain rate mechanism (in addition to the elastic and hypoplastic strain rate). A loading surface has been incorporated to define a three-dimensional (3D) overconsolidation ratio and to account for its effects on the simulations. Experimental investigations using Kaolin Clay and Lower Rhine Clay with horizontal bedding plane have shown that under undrained cycles of small strain amplitudes ($$<10^{-4}$$

<

10

-
4

), the effective stress path in the p–q space is significantly inclined towards the left upper corner of the $$p - q$$

p
-
q

plane. Consequently, a transversely (hypo)elastic stiffness has been successfully formulated to capture this behaviour. The performance of the model has been inspected by simulating the database of approximately 50 cyclic undrained triaxial (CUT) tests on low-plasticity Kaolin Clay (Wichtmann and Triantafyllidis) considering different deviatoric stress amplitudes, initial stress ratios, displacement rate, overconsolidation ratio and cutting direction. Furthermore, 4 CUT tests conducted on high-plasticity Lower Rhine Clay were simulated, whereby the influence of the displacement rate, as well as the deviatoric stress amplitude, has been analysed. The simulations showed a good congruence with the experimental observations.
Collaboration, creativity, conflict and chaos: doing interdisciplinary sustainability research
Authors: Cairns Rose , Hielscher Sabine , Light Ann
Published: February 2020

How do the social dynamics within interdisciplinary research teams shape sustainability research? This paper presents a case study of interdisciplinary research projects at the University of Sussex, as part of a programme aimed at encouraging collaborative work to address intersections between the Sustainability Development Goals. Using data gathered during a series of participatory workshops at the start and end of the projects, combined with non-participant observation and analysis of project discussions during the lifetime of the projects, we examine the diverse ways in which research teams configure themselves to navigate the terrain of interdisciplinary sustainability research and the kinds of social and discursive dynamics that shape projects. In particular, we relate the emergence of distinct project team configurations to diverse problem framings, and aspirations for collaboration within these teams. We examine some of the challenges facing researchers attempting to work in these ways, and explore implications of these dynamics for knowledge production for sustainability. We conclude by drawing out and addressing some of the challenges for institutions funding and supporting interdisciplinary sustainability research.
Phase Transformation-Induced Changes in Microstructure and Residual Stresses in Thermally Sprayed MnCoFeO4 Protective Coatings
Authors: Back Hyoung Chul , Gibmeier Jens , Vaßen Robert
Published: February 2020

The contribution comprises the investigation of the microstructure and residual stresses in thermally sprayed Mn1.0Co1.9Fe0.1O4.0 (MCF) protective coatings for interconnectors of SOFC stacks, deposited on ferritic steel Crofer 22 APU via atmospheric plasma spraying (APS). The coatings are designated to prevent Cr evaporation during high operation temperature of the SOFCs. The local microstructure, pore distributions and pore shapes, phase fractions, micro-hardness, Youngs’ modulus and residual stresses through the coating thickness were characterized in as-sprayed state and compared with longtime (10-100 h) heat-treated samples (700 and 850 °C). The results show that the long-term thermal aging treatment causes a successive high sintering of the coatings characterized by a reduction in pore density, by phase transformation from the metastable rock salt structure that gradually transformed to a spinel structure and by a slight relaxation of the process-induced tensile residual stresses in the coating. For SOFC application of the MCF coating, this indicates an improvement in the coatings integrity. During operation, a self-repair proceeds leading to dense and gas-proof coatings, while the mechanical properties are mainly retained.
Structural Disjunctivism, Indistinguishability and Introspection
Authors: Franken Dirk
Published: February 2020

1Perceptual disjunctivism, as I regard it in this paper, is the view that veridical perceptions and hallucinations, while indistinguishable via introspection, are states of fundamentally different kinds. This fundamental difference can be spelled out in various ways. According to the view I will be concerned with (structural disjunctivism, as I shall call it), it is a fundamental difference in the personal-level structure of both states. Against this version of disjunctivism, I will raise a new challenge. It is a variant of what can be seen as the standard challenge against disjunctivism: how to do justice to the indistinguishability of (corresponding) veridical perceptions and hallucinations. It differs, however, from common versions of this challenge in where it locates the potential incompatibility of disjunctivism with the relevant fact of indistinguishability. Commonly, it is the disjunctivist assumption of a fundamental difference between both kinds ofstateswhich is regarded as incompatible with the indistinguishability of these states. In contrast, I will suggest that (i) if hallucinations and veridical perceptions differed in the way proposed by structural disjunctivism, this difference would induce a corresponding difference in the psychological processes of theirintrospectionand that (ii) the assumption of such a difference in the manner of introspection is most likely incompatible with a properly formulated indistinguishability claim.
Functional characterization of the idtF and idtP genes in the Claviceps paspali indole diterpene biosynthetic gene cluster
Authors: Kozák László , Szilágyi Zoltán , Tóth László , Pócsi István , Molnár István
Published: February 2020

Claviceps paspali is used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of ergot alkaloids. This fungus also biosynthesizes paspalitrems, indole diterpene (IDT) mycotoxins that cause significant economic losses in agriculture and represent safety concerns for ergot alkaloid manufacture. Here, we use Agrobacterium-mediated transformation to replace the idtP and the idtF genes in the IDT biosynthetic gene cluster of C. paspali with a selectable marker gene. We show that the ΔidtP knockout mutant produces paspaline, the first IDT intermediate of the pathway. The ΔidtF strain produces unprenylated IDTs such as paspalinine and paspaline. These experiments validate the function of idtP as the gene encoding the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase that oxidizes and demethylates paspaline to produce 13-desoxypaxilline, and that of idtF as the gene that encodes the α-prenyltransferase that prenylates paspalinine at the C20 or the C21 positions to yield paspalitrems A and C, respectively. In addition, we also show that axenic cultures of the wild type, the ΔidtP and the ΔidtF mutant C. paspali strains fail to produce an assembly of IDTs that are present in C. paspali–Paspalum spp. associations.