bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultra‐low Loading of Au Clusters on Nickel Nitride Efficiently Boosts Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production with Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Meng Xiangjian , Kuang Wandi , Qi Weiliang , Cheng Zhixing , Thomas Tiju , Liu Siqi , Yang Chun , Yang Minghui
Published: April 2020

Platinum (Pt) is a widely used co‐catalyst with excellent performance for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. However, it is not suitable for industrial production because of its prohibitive cost. Currently, there are two means to overcome this challenge. One is to, find alternative cocatalysts for Pt. The other is to develop ultrasmall of noble metal clusters, which reduces the amount of noble metal loading required. This reduces the loading amount of noble metals and improves their atomic efficiency. In this work, we have integrated both these approaches to generate a non‐noble metal co‐catalyst nickel nitride (Ni3N) and Au clusters (Auc). The composite cocatalyst (Ni3N−Auc) thus obtained promotes photocatalytic hydrogen production of TiO2. The (Ni3N−Auc−TiO2) composite with an ultralow amount of Auc (0.00025 wt%) shows photocatalytic hydrogen production rates that are even higher than that of Pt−TiO2. The loading requirement of noble metal is reduced by 99.95 wt% compared to the optimal load of Pt; further indicating the cost efficiency possible through this method.
Polyurethane as Novel Catalyst for the Propoxylation of Fatty Amines
Authors: Müller Pia , Neira d'Angelo Maria Fernanda , van der Schaaf John
Published: April 2020

The propoxylation of fatty amines is a crucial reaction in the industrial production of surfactants. Catalyzing this reaction has so far proven unrewarding due to severe selectivity losses. In this study, rigid foam‐structured polyurethane, i. e., an extremely inexpensive material which has not been used as a catalyst ever before, shows an unprecedented catalytic activity during the in‐flow propoxylation of octylamine. The foam cells contain bound hydroxyl and amine groups that result in a bifunctional catalyst able to destabilize the ring structure of propylene oxide, and thus catalyze further propoxylation of fatty amines. An outstanding 10‐fold reduction of the residence time without any loss of selectivity is achieved with respect to the un‐catalyzed process. Furthermore, the polyurethane foam showed stable time‐on‐stream performance up to 10 bar and 110 °C.
A Combined Theory‐Experiment Analysis of the Surface Species in Lithium‐Mediated NH3 Electrosynthesis
Authors: Schwalbe Jay A. , Statt Michael J. , Chosy Cullen , Singh Aayush R. , Rohr Brian A. , Nielander Adam C. , Andersen Suzanne Z. , McEnaney Joshua M. , Baker Jon G. , Jaramillo Thomas F. , Nørskov Jens K. , Cargnello Matteo
Published: April 2020

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. Matteo Cargnello in the Chemical Engineering Department at Stanford University and within the SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis (USA). The cover picture shows nitrogen molecules being reduced to ammonia on a lithium‐covered surface. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.201902124.
Regio‐ and Diastereoselective Dimerization of Diazo Carbonyls: A Cooperative Catalytic Approach to Complex Scaffolds with Four Contiguous Stereocenters
Authors: Petzold Martin , Günther Andre , Jones Peter G. , Werz Daniel B.
Published: April 2020

Starting from readily available o‐diazoacyl‐substituted arene carboxylates, scaffolds with the 5,9‐epoxycyclohepta[b]pyran‐2(3H)‐one core were obtained by cooperative RhII, Lewis and Brønsted acid catalysis. Four new bonds, three functional groups (lactone, ketal, and alcohol) and four contiguous stereocenters are formed during this regio‐ and diastereoselective process in a single synthetic step. Intensive optimization and mechanistic studies, including the trapping, isolation, and elucidation of reaction intermediates, led to a plausible mechanistic scenario. The reaction is proposed to involve carbonyl ylides but also transient species of the ketocarbene equilibrium that undergo a cascade of cycloaddition and skeletal rearrangements.
In our patient‐centered era, it is time we gave patient‐reported outcomes their due
Authors: Cella David
Published: April 2020

In their article, St Germain et al have reported on the publication rate of health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) correlative studies in National Cancer Institute–supported cancer treatment trials. To the person with cancer, quality of life is as important as tumor response, disease progression, and survival. It is time to design successful implementation and analytic strategies that evaluate treatment efficacy with HRQOL in mind.
Analyzing Protein Disorder with IUPred2A
Authors: Erdős Gábor , Dosztányi Zsuzsanna
Published: April 2020

IUPred2A is a combined prediction tool designed to discover intrinsically disordered or conditionally disordered proteins and protein regions. Intrinsically disordered regions exist without a well‐defined three‐dimensional structure in isolation but carry out important biological functions. Over the years, various prediction methods have been developed to characterize disordered regions. The existence of disordered segments can also be dependent on different factors such as binding partners or environmental traits like pH or redox potential, and recognizing such regions represents additional computational challenges. In this article, we present detailed instructions on how to use IUPred2A, one of the most widely used tools for the prediction of disordered regions/proteins or conditionally disordered segments, and provide examples of how the predictions can be interpreted in different contexts. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Analyzing disorder propensity with IUPred2A online

Basic Protocol 2: Analyzing disordered binding regions using ANCHOR2

Support Protocol 1: Interpretation of the results

Basic Protocol 3: Analyzing redox‐sensitive disordered regions

Support Protocol 2: Download options

Support Protocol 3: REST API for programmatic purposes

Basic Protocol 4: Using IUPred2A locally
Integrated Photo‐Responsive Batteries for Solar Energy Harnessing: Recent Advances, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Fang Zhengsong , Hu Xuanhe , Yu Dingshan
Published: April 2020

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Prof. Dingshan Yu from Sun Yat‐sen University, China. The Front Cover shows an integrated photo‐responsive battery with the simplest two‐electrode configuration powering a vehicle under light illumination. The Taiji diagram shows the working principle of this device, which combines photoexcited electrons (e‐) and/or holes (h+) with various redox species of the batteries during charging and/or discharging processes to realize the harnessing of solar energy. Read the full text of the Minireview at 10.1002/cplu.201900608.
Pharmacogenomic‐Based Decision Support to Predict Adherence to Medications
Authors: Christian Carlton , Borden Brittany A. , Danahey Keith , Yeo Kiang‐Teck J. , van Wijk Xander M.R. , Ratain Mark J. , O'Donnell Peter H.
Published: April 2020

Poor adherence is associated with worse disease outcomes. Pharmacogenomics provides a possible intervention to address adherence. We hypothesized that pharmacogenomic‐informed care could increase adherence. Patients in a prospective case‐control study underwent preemptive pharmacogenomic genotyping with results available for provider use at the point of care; controls (not genotyped) were treated by the same providers. Over 6,000 e‐prescriptions for 39 medications with actionable pharmacogenomic information were analyzed. Composite adherence, measured by modified proportion of days covered (mPDC), was compared between cases/controls and genomically concordant vs. genomically higher‐risk medications. Overall, 536 patients were included. No difference in mean mPDC was observed due to availability of pharmacogenomic guidance. However, case patients prescribed high‐risk pharmacogenomic medications were more than twice as likely to have low mPDC for these medications compared with genomically concordant prescriptions (odds ratio = 2.4 (1.03–5.74), P < 0.05). This study is the first to show that composite pharmacogenomic information predicts adherence.
Trade‐off between nutritive value improvement and crop water use for an alfalfa–grass system
Authors: Dhakal Madhav , West Charles P. , Villalobos Carlos , Sarturi Jhones O. , Deb Sanjit K.
Published: April 2020

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) can enhance the supply of nutritious forage when interseeded into semiarid native grassland. Alfalfa is a high water‐using species; therefore, a possible trade‐off between soil water depletion and nutritive value merits study. We determined the effects of interseeding three alfalfa cultivars at two densities on crude protein (CP) and digestible organic matter (DOM) accumulations, the water footprint (WF, m3 evapotranspiration kg−1) of CP and DOM accumulation at two row spacings, and the marginal cost (MC) of such trade‐offs. Nutritive values and accumulation of CP and DOM for mixtures with alfalfa planted at 36‐ or 71‐cm row spacing did not differ in 2018 (P > .05), as both spacings reduced the WF over grass only (P < .0001). Alfalfa presence reduced the WF (P < .001) with respect to CP and DOM accumulation from 20.17 and 3.07 m3 kg−1 in the grass‐only control to 10.14 and 2.22 m3 kg−1 in alfalfa–grass mixtures, respectively. Interseeding alfalfa in wide rows had 23 and 26% less MC of revenue increment than interseeding in narrow rows, relative to grass only in Years 2 and 3, respectively (P < .01). Hay‐type cultivars NuMex Bill Melton and WL 440HQ enhanced the forage mixture nutritive value more than the grazing‐type Falcata–Rhizoma blend, mainly driven by greater alfalfa growth. Interseeding alfalfa into native grasses in wide rows can increase the efficiency of water use (lower WF) by enhancing forage nutritive value at low MC, thereby inducing a minimal trade‐off in soil water consumption.
Genome‐wide association study to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with Fe, Zn, and Se concentration in field pea
Authors: Dissanayaka Dilanganie N. , Gali Krishna K. , Jha Ambuj B. , Lachagari V.B. Reddy , Warkentin Thomas D.
Published: April 2020

Micronutrients are an important component of crop quality. With an objective of identification of trait‐associated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers, a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) panel of 135 diverse pea (Pisum sativum L.) accessions previously genotyped was assessed for Fe, Zn, and Se concentrations from five location–years (2013 Saskatoon, 2014 Fargo, 2015 Saskatoon, 2016 Saskatoon, and 2016 Rosthern) using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Accessions differed significantly for Fe and Zn in all location–years but not for Se (P ≤ .05). Year and location effects were significant for all three micronutrients. Mean concentration in the five location–years combined analysis was 50.70, 29.42, and 0.99, and the concentration (μg g−1) ranged from 29.22 to 90.53, 12.83 to 51.47, and 0.22 to 7.82 in the ground whole pea seeds for Fe, Zn, and Se, respectively. In general, pea grain yield was negatively correlated with Fe, Zn, and Se concentration. Of the 16,877 SNP markers used for association analysis, five each were identified for association with Fe and Zn concentrations. In silico validation identified that one Fe‐associated and four Zn‐associated markers were within the genomic regions of major quantitative trait loci (QTL) previously reported for these traits. Fe‐associated marker Chr5LG3_204123886 and Zn‐associated markers Chr5LG3_1921113554, Chr5LG3_197808492, and Sc4026_15361 identified in this study and validated using the previous GWAS and biparental mapping studies can be used for reliable marker‐assisted selection (MAS) in pea breeding programs.
Electrochemical Sensing of Flutamide Contained in Plasma and Urine Matrices Using NiFe2O4/rGO Nanocomposite, as an Efficient and Selective Electrocatalyst
Authors: Ensafi Ali Asghar , Talkhooncheh Bahareh Mandian , Zandi‐Atashbar Navid , Rezaei Behzad
Published: April 2020

In this article, we report on the synthesis and new employment of magnetic nickelferrite oxide nanoparticles decorated reduced graphene oxide (NiFe2O4/rGO) to electrochemically sensing of flutamide. The preparation of this electrocatalyst was first assessed using various analytical instrumental techniques including FT‐IR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Besides, its electrochemical performance was investigated utilizing some electrochemical methods such as cyclic and differential pulse voltammetry, and also electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The findings of this research are especially relevant for sensing flutamide in aqueous and biological samples. At the optimized conditions, the electrochemical sensor showed a linear range of 0.24–40.0 μmol L−1, the detection limit of 0.05 μmol L−1 flutamide, calibration sensitivity of 1.016 μA/μmol L−1, and repeatability and reproducibility of 1.7 % and 4.1 %, respectively. The selectivity of the method was investigated in the presence of ions, and species can generally exist in the biological medium. The resulting data of the present work represented that this type of magnetic nanocomposites is suitable for selective detection of flutamide in real samples of plasma and urine. The recoveries obtained for flutamide analyses represented lower than 5.0 percent of relative error in these real samples.
Expression profile of the carbon reserve remobilization from the source to sink in rice in response to soil drying during grain filling
Authors: Wang Guanqun , Li Haoxuan , Gong Yulong , Yang Jianchang , Yi Yake , Zhang Jianhua , Ye Nenghui
Published: April 2020

Moderate soil drying (MD) applied during the mid‐to‐late grain filling stages can promote carbon reserve remobilization in straws (sheaths and stems) and increase the grain weight. The coordination between starch‐to‐sucrose transition in straws and sucrose‐to‐starch conversion in inferior grains is essential for carbon reserve remobilization during grain filling. Herein, to reveal the regulating mechanism of carbon reserve remobilization from source to sink, RNA‐seq was utilized to analyze the dynamic transcript profile in source and sink of rice under MD treatment during grain filling. The expression of amylase genes and amylase activity was enhanced by MD treatment in straws, which is consistent with the increased amylase activity. In inferior grains, it was starch synthesis genes that were upregulated by MD treatment. Furthermore, an elevated ABA was found in both straws and inferior grains, which was caused by an increased expression of NCED1 and downregulation of ABA8OX2 by MD treatment, respectively. Additionally, the expression of MYB30, a transcription factor (TF) that negatively regulates beta‐amylase genes, was reduced in straws by MD, resulting in an increased amylase activity. In contrast, an increased expression of NAC activated the expressions of starch synthesis gene in inferior grains under MD. Therefore, it is MYB30 and NAC that cooperates in source and sink, respectively, to promote carbon reserve remobilization in response to MD. Taken together, genes involved in carbon flow from source to sink are different between rice straws and inferior grains.
Empirically derived dietary patterns and obesity among Iranian Adults: Yazd Health Study‐TAMYZ and Shahedieh cohort study
Authors: Sarkhosh‐Khorasani Sahar , Mozaffari‐Khosravi Hassan , Mirzaei Masoud , Nadjarzadeh Azadeh , Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh
Published: April 2020

The aim was to determine the relationship between dietary patterns derived by principal component analysis (PCA) in association with obesity from a large group of Iranian adults in the urban and suburb areas. A cross‐sectional study was conducted on 10,693 Iranian adults. The data were collected from two cohort studies: Shahedieh city annexed to Yazd area as well as Yazd Health Study (YaHS)‐TAMYZ (Yazd Nutrition Survey in Persian) in urban area. Dietary intakes were assessed using a validated semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire. The PCA was applied to identify the dietary patterns. Multiple logistic regressions were run to assess the relationship between dietary patterns and obesity. In Shahedieh cohort study, three major dietary patterns were identified traditional, unhealthy, and prudent pattern. Prudent pattern was associated with lower odds of obesity (OR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.53, 0.88). Higher adherence to the unhealthy (OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.50) and traditional (OR: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.72) patterns was related to greater odds of obesity. Moreover, we identified traditional and unhealthy dietary patterns in YaHS study. Higher adherence to the unhealthy dietary pattern was associated with greater odds of obesity (OR: 1.21 95% CI: 1.02, 1.44). Greater adherence to unhealthy dietary patterns was associated with higher odds of obesity in participants. Greater adherence to traditional and prudent dietary patterns increased and decreased the obesity odds, respectively. Further prospective studies are needed to find out the causal relationship between the variables.
Digitalisierung im Infrastrukturbau – Baubetriebliche Entwicklungen
Authors: Goger Gerald , Bisenberger Tobias
Published: April 2020

Transport infrastructure is a fundamental cornerstone for mobility of the population and also functions as a motor for the economy. New digital methods along the value chain will be used to digitally support the process in the future, from the very first project idea, through tendering and construction to the maintenance of infrastructure projects. The four levers of digital transformation – data, automation, networks and access – will have a significant impact on this process in infrastructure construction. Networking of data sources and storage of data in off‐grid databases is already possible, a development which enables project participants to analyse the construction data, process it and at the same time use it as a documentation basis during the development phase and for later maintenance measures. Such a well‐founded digital database can be used to evaluate, optimize and completely document construction‐related processes. This paper deals with various digital application areas in infrastructure construction and provides an overview of digitalisation developments in this field.
Digitale Baugrundmodelle im Tunnelbau – Status, Chancen und Risiken
Authors: Weil Jonas
Published: April 2020

Digital data acquisition and processing in geology and geotechnics are essential in all phases of a tunnelling project. This article describes typical work flows of engineering geology and the digital tools used, and discusses the requirements, chances and risks associated with the integration of ground models into BIM projects. The handling of factual data is depicted, but the main topic is the development and application of interpreted geological models for tunnelling. Aspects like the transferred information and its localisation, uncertainty of a prediction and requirements for formats, data structures and software environment are discussed. Efficient exchange and long‐term usability of information demands clear definitions for the specialist models and use cases to be covered.
Astrocytes shape the plastic response of adult cortical neurons to vision loss
Authors: Hennes Maroussia , Lombaert Nathalie , Wahis Jérôme , Van den Haute Chris , Holt Matthew G. , Arckens Lutgarde
Published: April 2020

Astrocytes are vital for preserving correct brain functioning by continuously sustaining neuronal activity and survival. They are in contact with multiple synapses at once allowing the expansion of local synaptic events into activity changes in neuronal networks. Furthermore, cortical astrocytes integrate local sensory inputs and behavioral state. From an anatomical, molecular, and functional perspective, astrocytes are thus ideal candidates to influence complex large‐scale brain mechanisms such as plasticity. We collected evidence for the astrocytic potential for plasticity modulation, using the monocular enucleation (ME) mouse model of visual cortex plasticity. The impact of one‐eyed vision involves the functional recruitment of the deprived visual cortex by the spared senses within a 7‐week time frame, reflecting a substantial change in sensory information processing. In visually deprived cortex, a swift upregulation in Aldh1l1‐positive astrocyte density lasts until maximal functional recovery is reached. Transient metabolic silencing of visual cortex astrocytes at the time of ME induction, through intracranial fluorocitrate injections, reveals that astrocytes are required on site to achieve adequate long‐term neuronal reactivation. In addition, chronic stimulation by Gi but not Gq G‐protein coupled receptor activation of local astrocytes boosts the cortical plasticity phenomenon. Hence, functional manipulation of protoplasmic astrocytes has long‐lasting effects on the functional recovery of cortical neurons upon sensory loss, possibly by influencing the neuronal threshold to reactivate. Together, our results highlight an integral role for astrocytes in mediating adult cortical plasticity and unmask astrocyte specific Gi signaling as an interesting therapeutic pathway for brain plasticity regulation.
Fast periodic visual stimulation to highlight the relationship between human intracerebral recordings and scalp electroencephalography
Authors: Jacques Corentin , Jonas Jacques , Maillard Louis , Colnat‐Coulbois Sophie , Rossion Bruno , Koessler Laurent
Published: April 2020

Despite being of primary importance for fundamental research and clinical studies, the relationship between local neural population activity and scalp electroencephalography (EEG) in humans remains largely unknown. Here we report simultaneous scalp and intracerebral EEG responses to face stimuli in a unique epileptic patient implanted with 27 intracerebral recording contacts in the right occipitotemporal cortex. The patient was shown images of faces appearing at a frequency of 6 Hz, which elicits neural responses at this exact frequency. Response quantification at this frequency allowed to objectively relate the neural activity measured inside and outside the brain. The patient exhibited typical 6 Hz responses on the scalp at the right occipitotemporal sites. Moreover, there was a clear spatial correspondence between these scalp responses and intracerebral signals in the right lateral inferior occipital gyrus, both in amplitude and in phase. Nevertheless, the signal measured on the scalp and inside the brain at nearby locations showed a 10‐fold difference in amplitude due to electrical insulation from the head. To further quantify the relationship between the scalp and intracerebral recordings, we used an approach correlating time‐varying signals at the stimulation frequency across scalp and intracerebral channels. This analysis revealed a focused and right‐lateralized correspondence between the scalp and intracerebral recordings that were specific to the face stimulation is more broadly distributed in various control situations. These results demonstrate the interest of a frequency tagging approach in characterizing the electrical propagation from brain sources to scalp EEG sensors and in identifying the cortical sources of brain functions from these recordings.
α2AP is associated with the development of lupus nephritis through the regulation of plasmin inhibition and inflammatory responses
Authors: Kanno Yosuke , Miyashita Mei , Seishima Mariko , Matsuo Osamu
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is a chronic autoimmune disease. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying this disorder have remained unclear. Alpha2‐antiplasmin (α2AP) is known to perform various functions, such as plasmin inhibition and cytokine production, and to be associated with immune and inflammatory responses.

Methods

We investigated the roles of α2AP in the pathogenesis of LN using a pristane‐induced lupus mouse model.

Results

The levels of plasmin‐α2AP complex and α2AP were elevated in the lupus model mice. In addition, α2AP deficiency attenuated the pristane‐induced glomerular cell proliferation, mesangial matrix expansion, collagen production, fibrin deposition, immunoglobulin G deposition, and proinflammatory cytokine production in the model mice. We also showed that interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), which is an essential inducer of LN, induced α2AP production through the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) pathway in fibroblasts. In addition, plasmin attenuated the IFN‐γ‐induced proinflammatory cytokine production through the AMPK pathway in macrophages, and α2AP eliminated these effects. Furthermore, we showed that α2AP induced proinflammatory cytokine production through the ERK1/2 and JNK pathways in macrophages.

Conclusion

α2AP regulates the inflammatory responses through plasmin inhibition and proinflammatory cytokine production and is associated with the development of LN. Our findings may be used to develop a novel therapeutic approach for SLE.
Development in sprinkler irrigation technology in China*
Authors: Yan Haijun , Hui Xin , Li Maona , Xu Yuncheng
Published: April 2020

Since the 1950s, sprinkler irrigation technology in China has gradually realized the localization of key equipment through continuous practice and innovation. A large number of key problems in system design and operation management have been studied and addressed. Remarkable water‐saving and yield increase achievements have been made by sprinkler irrigation in China. At the same time, the continuous improvement of sprinkler irrigation technology has also realized comprehensive benefits in the precision control of water and fertilizer, and has promoted the modernization of China's agriculture and its industrial transformation. In the present paper, the development history of sprinkler irrigation technology in China is reviewed, studies on the basic theory of sprinkler irrigation and the development of sprinkler irrigation equipment are systematically summarized, and research hotspots and new development directions of sprinkler irrigation technology in China are introduced. Finally, prospects and suggestions for the further development of sprinkler irrigation in China are put forward, which provides a basis for the sustainable development of sprinkler irrigation technology. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Managing the disconnect: A critical case study of neoliberalism in youth development practice
Authors: Coleman Brett R.
Published: April 2020

Aims

This critical ethnography interrogates the influence of neoliberalism on youth development practice as instituted by the evidence‐based practice and positive youth development movements.

Methods

I employed participant observation and grounded theory analyses in my role as facilitator of a youth participatory action research program in the context of violence prevention work at a large urban youth development agency.

Results

The disconnect between professionalized youth development and the lived experience of youth manifested in organizational policies and practices and meant that the agency had to balance competing interests and worldviews, reconcile the need for funding with social justice aims, and cope with the consequences of such conflicts.

Conclusions

Neoliberalism exacerbates a disconnect between youth development practice and youth experience, contributing to an epistemic form of violence. Results are discussed in relation to Martín‐Baró liberation framework, which emphasizes the recovery of historical memory, deideologizing everyday experience, and utilizing the virtues of oppressed people.
Helping Yourself before Helping Others: How Sense of Control Promotes Charitable Behaviors
Authors: Xu Qian , Kwan Canice M. C. , Zhou Xinyue
Published: April 2020

This research elucidates the conditions under which distress appeals can evoke the instinct to help without turning recipients away from uncomfortable situations. Five experiments demonstrated with behavioral evidence that evoking a sense of control by irrelevant causes prior to appeal exposure can increase the likelihood of registering as a volunteer (Studies 1 and 3) and the tendency to donate (Studies 2, 4, and 5) in a subsequent unrelated situation. The authors found that this effect was not evident in the absence of distress and for participants with enhanced distress tolerance. The results further showed that enhanced control increased distress tolerance, which mediated the observed effect on charitable acts but had no impact on self‐efficacy in contributing as a helper. The findings have both theoretical and managerial implications for promoting charitable behaviors.
Lipid conversion of Scenedesmus rubescens biomass into biodiesel using biochar catalysts from malt spent rootlets
Authors: Tsavatopoulou Vasiliki D , Vakros John , Manariotis Ioannis D
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Microalgae are considered a third–generation raw material for biofuel production. This work compared the conversion of the extracted oil from the freshwater microalgae Scenedesmus rubescens via transesterification for the production of biodiesel. Considering the cost of biodiesel production, heterogeneous catalysts present a significant advantage because of their stability and reusability. Biochar and modified biochar with H2SO4 were used as catalysts.

RESULTS

Biochar (BC) was pyrolyzed at 850 °C, under limited oxygen conditions, and was activated by sulphuric acid (H–BC). The catalyst: oil mass ratios tested were from 0 to 0.7:1 for BC, and from 0 to 1:1 for H–BC. The biochar sample exhibited a strong buffer capacity in the pH range between 7 and 5.5, while the acid treated biochar was strongly acidic and could neutralize a significant amount of bases. The produced methyl esters are almost the same in all cases examined. BC samples gave better transesterification results, as far as it concerns the conversion, compared to H–BC.

CONCLUSION

The enhanced activity of the BC with mass used may be correlated with the basic minerals presented on the biochar surface. Raw biochar gave better conversion results (47%) during transesterification compared to the modified biochar with H2SO4 (24%) with better catalyst to molar ratio, 0.7:1 and 0.1:1, respectively. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Hepatic venous Doppler assessment can anticipate simplified pulmonary embolism severity index and right ventricle dysfunction in patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Acar Emrah , Izci Servet , Inanir Mehmet , Yilmaz Mehmet F. , Izgi Ibrahim A. , Gokce Mustafa , Kirma Cevat
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is a life‐threating cardiothoracic thromboembolic emergency in which right ventricle dysfunction (RVD) is a major concern. In the present study, we examined the hepatic veins (HVs) blood flow with pulsed‐wave spectral Doppler ultrasonography to determine its relationship with the simplified pulmonary embolism severity index (sPESI) and the patient's RVD status.

Methods

We divided the 243 patients who met the inclusion criteria into two groups based on both their sPESI scores and their RVD status. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed to evaluate the RVD and the HVs within 1 hour after patient admission. The liver was evaluated using subcostal and intercostal echocardiographic windows in grayscale B‐mode, and HVs were assessed using color and spectral Doppler assessment though the same echocardiographic windows.

Result

A cut‐off value of the systolic reverse flow velocity‐time integral (SrVTI) = 2.2 cm carried a sensitivity and specificity of 84.29% and 74.89%, respectively, for the prediction of sPESI ≥ 1. A SrVTI cut‐off value of 2.1 cm yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 83.03% and 73.91%, respectively, for the prediction of RVD.

Conclusion

HV Doppler assessment could be a useful method for anticipating the sPESI and the presence of RVD in patients with APE. In addition, it may provide information regarding the hemodynamic impact of APE.
Discontinuation or reduction in benzodiazepine use by treatment with the traditional herbal medicine Hangekobokuto, case reports
Authors: Yoshinaga Ryo , Maki Toshinobu , Goto Yusuke , Inoue Hiroki , Yano Hiromi , Tahara Eiichi
Published: April 2020

In this report, we present two cases in which benzodiazepines (BZDs) were able to be successfully reduced or discontinued by treatment with traditional Japanese herbal medicine (Kampo medicine), including Hangekobokuto (HKT). These two patients with long‐term use of BZDs due to mental disorders suffered epigastric symptoms. After starting Kampo therapy including HKT, their epigastric symptoms were improved and they were able to reduce or discontinue the use of BZDs. This suggests that HKT is a potentially promising substitutive pharmacotherapy for patients with long‐term use of BZDs. HKT should be considered as a treatment for patients with mental disorders who have taken BZDs for a long time and suffer from medically unexplained epigastric symptoms.
Does social media elevate supply chain importance? An empirical examination of supply chain glitches, Twitter reactions, and stock market returns
Authors: Schmidt Christoph G. , Wuttke David A. , Ball George P. , Heese Hans Sebastian
Published: April 2020

We build upon supply chain management and social media research by exploring the Twitter response to supply chain glitches and how this response may moderate the relationship between supply chain glitches and stock market returns. We analyze data on 213 supply chain glitches for 150 firms across 5 years and over 2 billion tweets on publicly traded firms. Leveraging event study methodology, we find support for our hypotheses. Using both volume and sentiment of tweets, we observe significant reactions on Twitter after supply chain glitches; tweet volume increases and tweets become more negative. We also find that Twitter reactions after a glitch accentuate the relationship between supply chain glitches and stock market returns, demonstrating how social media may elevate the prominence of supply chain problems. To address concerns associated with simultaneity bias, we demonstrate that pre‐stock‐market‐open Twitter activity preempts post‐stock‐market‐open returns. Finally, we conduct post hoc analyses that explore how firms can leverage Twitter to counteract the negative stock market consequences of Twitter, and how firm proximity to the end customer may influence how tweets moderate the stock market reaction to glitches.
A noninvasive system‐level model order reduction scheme for flexible multibody simulation
Authors: Naets Frank , Devos Thijs , Humer Alexander , Gerstmayr Johannes
Published: April 2020

This paper presents a novel system‐level model order reduction scheme for flexible multibody simulation, namely the system‐level affine projection (SLAP). Contrary to existing system‐level model order reduction approaches for multibody systems simulation, this methodology allows to obtain a constant reduced order basis which can be obtained in a noninvasive fashion with respect to the original flexible multibody model. It is shown that this scheme enables an automatic joint constraint elimination which can be obtained at low computational cost through exploitation of the component level modes typically employed in flexible multibody simulation. The equations of motion are derived such that the computational cost of the resulting SLAP model is independent of the original model size. This approach results in a set of ordinary differential equations with a constant mass matrix and nonlinear internal forces. This structure makes the resulting model suitable for a range of estimation, control, and design applications. The proposed approach is validated numerically on a flexible four‐bar mechanism and shows good accuracy for a very low‐order SLAP model.
Comparative performance of carbon nanotube and nanoclay on thermal properties and flammability behavior of amorphous polyamide/SEBS blend
Authors: Paes Letícia Helena Gasparini , Steffen Teresa Tromm , Becker Daniela
Published: April 2020

Multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNT) or montmorillonite clay (MMT‐30B) were added to a poly(hexamethylene isophthalamide‐co‐terephthalamine) (an amorphous polyamide ‐ aPA) and styrene‐ethylene/butylene‐styrene graphitized with maleic anhydride (SEBS) blend, in different concentrations, in order to investigate the morphology, thermal properties and flammability behavior. Different nanoparticle localizations in the phase blend were observed through transmission electronic microscopy. CNT nanoparticles are localized in SEBS phase, and MMT‐30B nanoparticles in aPA phase. No significant changes were observed on transition temperatures and thermal stability with both nanoparticle additions. However, a slight increase on storage modulus for clay nanocomposites and a slight reduction for carbon nanotube nanocomposites were observed, due to their different phase localizations. Regarding flammability, CNT nanocomposites showed better performance as a flame retardant when compared to samples with MMT‐30B. Although the MMT‐30B nanocomposites could not be classified according to the UL‐94 criteria, no dripped flaming particles were observed, due to the a char barrier formation on the polymer surface. The CNT nanocomposites were classified according to the UL‐94 criteria as V‐2. The CNT's selective localization on the SEBS phase decreases its heat‐release rate, but no interconnected network structure was formed in the matrix to suppress the dripping flaming particles.
A theoretical elucidation for the formation of unusual zwitterionic sandwich and terminal ruthenium complexes
Authors: Huo Rui‐Ping , Zhang Xiang , Zhang Cai‐Feng
Published: April 2020

The transformation mechanism of the ruthenium azido isocyanide [CpMe5Ru(CNAr)2N3] (Ar = 2,6‐dimethylphenyl) toward cyanamido ruthenium complexes was investigated by M11 calculations. Coordination‐unsaturated complex CpMe5Ru(L)‐CN(N3)Ar (A), coordination‐saturated complex CpMe5Ru(L2)‐CN(N3)Ar (B), and highly coordination‐unsaturated complex CpMe5Ru‐NC(N3)Ar (C) were the key intermediates that lead to cyanamido ruthenium species 3 and unusual sandwich zwitterionic ruthenium complex 4, via different transformation pathways. The theoretical results satisfactorily explained the experimental facts.
Lipid‐based gene delivery to macrophage mitochondria for atherosclerosis therapy
Authors: Zakirov Felix H. , Zhang Dongwei , Grechko Andrey V. , Wu Wei‐Kai , Poznyak Anastasia V. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: April 2020

Atherosclerosis with associated cardiovascular diseases remains one of the main causes of disability and death worldwide, requiring development of new solutions for prevention and treatment. Macrophages are the key effectors of a series of events involved in atherogenesis, such as inflammation, plaque formation, and changes in lipid metabolism. Some of these events were shown to be associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage. Moreover, macrophages represent a promising target for novel therapeutic approaches that are based on the expression of various receptors and nanoparticle uptake. Lipid‐based gene delivery to mitochondria is considered to be an interesting strategy for mtDNA damage correction. To date, several nanocarriers and their modifications have been developed that demonstrate high transfection efficiency and low cytotoxicity. This review discusses the possibilities of lipid‐based gene delivery to macrophage mitochondria for atherosclerosis therapy.
Geographical distribution and molecular insights into abamectin and milbemectin cross‐resistance in European field populations of Tetranychus urticae
Authors: Xue Wenxin , Snoeck Simon , Njiru Christine , Inak Emre , Dermauw Wannes , Van Leeuwen Thomas
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Milbemectin and abamectin are frequently used to control the spider mite Tetranychus urticae. The development of abamectin resistance in this major pest has become an increasing problem worldwide, potentially compromising the use of milbemectin. In this study, a large collection of European field populations was screened for milbemectin and abamectin resistance, and both target‐site and metabolic (cross‐)resistance mechanisms were investigated.

RESULTS

High to very high levels of abamectin resistance were found in one third of all populations, while milbemectin resistance levels were low for most populations. The occurrence of well‐known target‐site resistance mutations in glutamate‐gated chloride channels (G314D in GluCl1 and G326E in GluCl3) was documented in the most resistant populations. However, a new mutation, I321T in GluCl3, was also uncovered in three resistant populations, while a V327G and L329F mutation was found in GluCl3 of one resistant population. A differential gene‐expression analysis revealed the overexpression of detoxification genes, more specifically cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (P450) and UDP‐glycosyltransferase (UGT) genes. Multiple UGTs were functionally expressed, and their capability to glycosylate abamectin and milbemectin, was tested and confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a clear correlation between abamectin and milbemectin resistance in European T. urticae populations, but as milbemectin resistance levels were low, the observed cross‐resistance is probably not of operational importance. The presence of target‐site resistance mutations in GluCl genes was confirmed in most but not all resistant populations. Gene‐expression analysis and functional characterization of P450s and UGTs suggests that also metabolic abamectin resistance mechanisms are common in European T. urticae populations. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Glyphosate and cancer: the importance of the whole picture
Authors: Berry Colin
Published: April 2020

This commentary does not concern itself with the need for, or the value of glyphosate as an agrochemical: rather it examines the scientific basis for the various conclusions reached at different times by a number of regulatory authorities and by the International Agency on Research on Cancer (IARC). Why do they differ? An appropriate regulatory stance depends critically on the application of good science and consistency in the application of established criteria. Constant reappraisal of the methodology used is essential. © 2020 The Author. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
The mechanism of sublethal chlorantraniliprole exposure causing silkworm pupation metamorphosis defects
Authors: Chen Jian , Lu Zhengting , Li Mengxue , Mao Tingting , Wang Hui , Li Fanchi , Sun Haina , Dai Minli , Ye Wentao , Li Bing
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Chlorantraniliprole (CAP) is widely used in agriculture and forestry to prevent and control pests. The effects of environmental CAP residue on non‐target insect metamorphosis have not been reported. Our research aimed to investigate the sublethal effect of CAP on larva–pupa transformation in silkworm, and explore the mechanism of sublethal CAP exposure‐mediated pupation metamorphosis defects.

RESULT

Sublethal CAP exposure affected the growth and development of silkworm larvae and caused defects in pupation metamorphosis. After CAP exposure, formation the of prepupa procuticle, ecdysial membrane and new epidermis was inhibited. Also, the level of 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) and mRNA levels of the 20E signaling pathway‐related genes EcR, USP, E74, E75 and Ftz‐f1 were significantly reduced. Moreover, genes involved in chitin synthesis, such as ChsA, CDA1 and CDA2, were downregulated. Injection of 20E led to the upregulation of chitin synthesis‐related genes and increased formation of new epidermis in CAP‐treated silkworm. However, injection of 20E failed to prevent downregulation of Ftz‐f1 and the defects in pupation metamorphosis.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that 20E is a target hormone of CAP exposure‐mediated epidermis formation phenotype. Ftz‐f1 was silenced by CAP and might be a direct target gene of sublethal CAP exposure. Our study provided new evidence of the effects of sublethal CAP exposure on insect development and metamorphosis. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Structures of Liquid Iron–Light‐Element Mixtures under High Pressure
Authors: Ohmura Satoshi , Tsuchiya Taku , Shimojo Fuyuki
Published: April 2020

The effects of light elements such as H, C, O, Si, and S on the local structures of liquid Fe under high pressure are investigated by ab initio molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The simulations clarify that H, C, and O are incorporated into liquid Fe interstitially while Si and S are “substitutional” type impurities. From the calculated partial pair distribution functions, it is found that an interaction between light elements exists even under high‐pressure conditions exceeding 100 GPa. Additionally, the interaction depends on the type of element. The CC interactions are stronger than those of other light elements. The SS interactions depend on the S concentration, in the sense that the shape of pair distribution functions for the SS correlation changes with increasing S concentration.
Impacts of climatic variability on northward flowing rivers in North America, using a paired basin approach
Authors: Schenk Xizhen
Published: April 2020

Northward flowing rivers are the most vulnerable system to a general early warming trend in terms of flood risk. In a changing climate, how well we understand the variability of precipitation and streamflow and the correspondence between them determines the appropriateness and efficiency of river engineering activities, flood control structures, and water resource management policies. Using both time and frequency domain approaches, this study investigated variations and periodicities in precipitation and discharge of two neighboring northward flowing river basins, the Red River of the North (referred to hereafter as the Red River) basin and the Little Missouri River basin in North America. Additionally, this study also characterized whether the most dominant quasiperiodic climate variation El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) affected regional precipitation and streamflow. Results indicated that the southern and central Red River basin experienced significant increases in precipitation and discharge, particularly in cold season, while the Little Missouri River basin had no statistically significant change in precipitation or discharge. The global atmospheric oscillation ENSO had little effects on the regional precipitation and streamflow increases in the Red River basin. Furthermore, strong spectral coherences and prominent annual/semi‐annual periodicities in precipitation and discharge were revealed, confirming how precipitation determines frequency peaks and primary oscillation cycles of discharges in both basins. By removing broad‐scale climatic driver, this study indicated that some local forcing is most likely responsible for the excessive water abundances in the Red River basin, among which agriculture land usages stand out to be the most promising driver.