bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melt rheology and interfacial properties of binary and ternary blends of PS, EOC, and SEBS
Authors: Entezam Mehdi , Poormadadkar Hasti , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Jafari Seyed Hassan
Published: December 2019

This works systematically investigates the interfacial properties of the binary and the ternary blends based on polystyrene (PS), ethylene octene copolymer (EOC), and styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene (SEBS) by analyzing the melt linear rheological behavior of the blends and neat components. Moreover, the relationship between rheology, phase morphology, and mechanical properties of PS/EOC ternary blends with various quantities of SEBS were studied. The surface shear modulus (β) and interfacial tension values obtained by Palierne model indicated that the EOC/SEBS blend has the best interfacial properties, while the lowest interaction was found for PS/EOC blend. Based on the Palierne model and Harkin's spreading coefficients a core–shell type morphology with EOC phase encapsulated by the SEBS shell dispersed in the PS matrix was determined for the ternary blends. Scanning electron microscopy results revealed that both fibrillar and droplet forms of dispersed phase could be developed during the blending of PS and EOC in presence of SEBS. The extent of fibrillar morphology and interfacial interactions in PS/EOC/SEBS ternary blends was dependent on the SEBS content. The improvement of the mechanical properties of PS/EOC blends in the presence of SEBS was evidenced by the tensile and impact resistance experiments. The tensile strength reinforcement was more pronounced for the ternary blends with more fibrillar dispersed phase. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48791.
Preferences for token exchange‐production schedules: Effects of task difficulty and token‐production schedules
Authors: Falligant John M. , Pence Sacha T. , Bedell Sarah B.
Published: December 2019

Previous research suggests that accumulated exchange‐production schedules promote increased work completion and are more preferred than distributed exchange‐production schedules. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the response effort or token‐production schedules associated with token delivery influenced preferences for exchange‐production schedules. Tokens exchanged under accumulated schedules were more preferred, relative to distributed schedules, when tokens were earned for completing easy tasks. When participants earned tokens for completing difficult tasks, two of three participants preferred accumulated exchange‐production schedules (Experiment 1). Under dense token‐production schedules, accumulated exchange‐production schedules were preferred, but participant's preferences switched to distributed schedules under increasing token‐production (i.e., leaner) schedules (Experiment 2).
The spatial representation of business models for climate adaptation: An approach for business model innovation and adaptation strategies in the private sector
Authors: DiBella Jose
Published: December 2019

Climate change adaptation requires organizations to recognize the numerous natural and social dimensions of climate risk. In the private sector, local adaptation responses to climate change are observed as changes to the limited capacities of organizational processes to plan for social aspects of adaptation. This article applies a methodology to map these connections and presents empirical evidence of a firm's autonomous adaptation measures along their supply chain in Baja California, Mexico. The spatial conceptualization of the business model illustrates the potential to identify sources of climate‐related risks, autonomous adaptation actions, and the barriers to improving the feedback loops to facilitate the integration of local knowledge for business model innovation. The results suggest that coproduction of innovations is a mechanism for organizational learning that can help to overcome the challenges for business strategy to identify the wide array of local factors associated to climate adaptation and normalize adaptation planning into business models. This approach might accelerate leveraging the capabilities of the private sector for socially oriented forms of adaptation that amplify the transformational value of business model approaches for improved adaptation strategies.
Impact of high‐growth start‐ups on entrepreneurial environment based on the level of national economic development
Authors: Martínez‐Fierro Salustiano , Biedma‐Ferrer José María , Ruiz‐Navarro José
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we examine the relationship between the conditions of the entrepreneurial environment and high‐potential entrepreneurship according to the stage of economic development of the country.

A structural equation model was designed based on data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor project, which contains information about 62 countries. Our results suggest that economic development and high‐potential entrepreneurship have a greater impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem than entrepreneurial activity in general—with special effects on government programs, R&D transfer, and access to the domestic market. Notably, the level of influence of sustainable economic development and high‐potential entrepreneurship depends on the level of economic development of the country.
Word‐of‐mouth information processing routes: The mediating role of message and source characteristics
Authors: Le Tri D. , Robinson Linda J. , Dobele Angela R.
Published: December 2019

This study investigates word‐of‐mouth (WOM) information processing routes from active WOM seeking behaviour. Employing the elaboration likelihood model (ELM), the direct and indirect effects of factors within information processing routes are examined in a credence service context. A deeper exploration of the causal chains of each route was conducted using serial mediation models of message quality and source characteristics. Data were collected in the higher education context from a survey of 509 high school students applying for tertiary study. Findings indicate that active WOM seeking and the serial mediation effects elicit two routes of information processing: central and peripheral. This study is amongst the first to intensively reveal the underlying causal chains of WOM processing and supports the application of ELM theory in WOM research.
Characterization of white flour produced from roasted wheats differing in hardness and protein content
Authors: Germishuys Zandré , Delcour Jan A. , Deleu Lomme J. , Manley Marena
Published: December 2019

Background and objectives

Roasting of cereals can improve sensory properties and increase shelf‐life of products made thereof. Here, the physicochemical properties of white flour from roasted wheats differing in hardness and protein content were characterized.

Findings

Hard, soft, and intermediate texture wheat kernels were roasted for 140 s at 180°C. Roasting of hard wheat resulted in the largest reduction in hectoliter mass (7.36 kg/hl), flour yield (2.33%), and moisture content (2.87%). The largest increase in flour ash (0.06%) and damaged starch (4.54%) was observed for the soft and hard wheats, respectively. A gluten network did not form during dough mixing with any of the resultant flours. When composite flours were prepared (80% untreated flour and 20% flour from roasted wheat), the water absorption capacity of the medium‐textured wheat composite flour displayed the largest decrease (5.2%) compared to the control. Hard and medium‐textured roasted wheats had improved Chopin P/L ratios and higher levels of free starch than the control.

Conclusions

Prior roasting impacts wheat flour milling characteristics. Roasting has a greater effect on hard and medium‐textured wheats than on soft wheat.

Significance and novelty

Roasting of wheat prior to milling results in flour which alone or in composites prepared with regular flour has unique functionalities.
Ethanol as a Binder to Fabricate a Highly‐Efficient Capsule‐Structured CuO−ZnO−Al2O3@HZSM‐5 Catalyst for Direct Production of Dimethyl Ether from Syngas
Authors: Guo Yongle , Zhao Zhongkui
Published: December 2019

This work reports a highly efficient capsule‐structured CuO−ZnO−Al2O3@HZSM‐5 (CZA@HZSM‐5‐EtOH) core‐shell catalyst for the direct conversion of syngas to dimethyl ether by a facile physical coating method with ethanol as a binder through coating micrometer‐sized HZSM‐5 shell on the prior‐shaped millimeter‐sized CZA core, it shows 2.9 times higher CO conversion with the 2.7 times higher turnover frequency and 9.2 times higher dimethyl ether space‐time yield of the CZA@HZSM‐5‐SS catalyst prepared by a similar process but with silica sol as a binder (315.5 vs 34.3 gDME kgcat−1 h−1). The relationship between the structure and performance was explored by a variety of characterization techniques including X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), ammonia temperature programmed desorption (NH3‐TPD), nitrogen adsorption‐desorption, H2‐temperature‐programmed reduction (H2‐TPR) and H2‐TPR after oxidation of the samples by N2O. CZA@HZSM‐5‐EtOH can be considered as a highly efficient and practical catalyst for dimethyl ether synthesis from syngas. This work presents a new avenue to design other bifunctional catalysts for the cascade reactions in which the raw materials can be converted into an intermediate over the core and then the as‐formed intermediate over the core can be subsequently converted into the final product.
Experimental Investigation of Droplet Entrainment in the Feed Section of Distillation Columns
Authors: Darvishsefat Novin , Grünewald Marcus
Published: December 2019

Droplet entrainment was investigated in the feed section of distillation columns for multiple feed inlet devices under different flow conditions. Entrainments from two‐phase flow regimes were measured in the feed section of a column with an air and water system. A new feed inlet device named demister flash box was developed. Measurements with two‐phase flow regime in the feed pipe indicated that the demister flash box had the lowest entrainment. Experiments with a surfactant in water due to low surface tension demonstrated that the entrainment was higher compared to water. In addition, entrainment determinations with high droplet flow rate from a spray nozzle in feed were conducted. The results indicated that the V baffle had the lowest entrainment.
Chlorine‐Promoted Nitrogen and Sulfur Co‐Doped Biocarbon Catalyst for Electrochemical Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Cai Xiaosen , Qin Binhao , Li Yuhang , Zhang Qiao , Yang Guangxing , Wang Hongjuan , Cao Yonghai , Yu Hao , Peng Feng
Published: December 2019

The conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to high value‐added products is a forward‐looking work, and has a good application prospect in mitigating energy crisis and climate problems. Recently, the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (ECRR) has attracted wide attention because of its controllable target products and high conversion efficiency. Here, a sulfur‐nitrogen co‐doped porous biocarbon catalyst derived from biomass lignin is reported, which has a high Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 95.9 % for ECRR to CO at a low overpotential of 490 mV and the corresponding average current density and yield of CO are −1.98 mA cm−2 and 8.8 L m−2 h−1, respectively. During up to 18 hours of stability test, there was no significant change in catalyst activity and selectivity of CO and H2. Besides, we systematically demonstrated that nitrogen doping is beneficial to the selectivity for ECRR to CO, and the adsorbed chlorine on the surface of biocarbon derived from hydrochloric acid washing greatly enhances the activity of ECRR, and thereby increases the yield of CO.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Characterization of Lithium Carboxylate 2D Compounds as High‐Performance Anodes for Li−Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Haitao , Lin Yichao , Chen Liang , Wang Deyu , Hu Hefeng , Shen Cai
Published: December 2019

The large‐scale utilization of Li‐ion batteries in electric vehicles requires urgent development of cost‐effective and high‐performance electrode materials. Herein, we report the synthesis of conjugated carboxylate (Li4C8H2O6) and non‐conjugated carboxylate (Li4C4H2O6) by using a simple solvothermal method and its utilization as anode materials in Li‐ion batteries. Atomic force microscopy reveals that as‐prepared Li4C8H2O6 and Li4C4H2O6 possess a sheet‐like morphology with a thickness of 3–5 nm. An initial discharge capacities of 251.7 mAh/g and 251.6 mAh/g at a current density of 50 mA/g can be obtained for Li4C8H2O6 and Li4C4H2O6, respectively. In addition, Li4C8H2O6 is combined with a small amount (5 wt. %) of graphene and nano‐Si to enhance the cyclic performance and specific capacity. Consequently, Li4C8H2O6/graphene and Li4C8H2O6/nano‐Si composites rendered a high discharge capacity of 350 mAh/g and 240 mAh/g, respectively, at a relatively higher current density of 100 mA/g. These results demonstrate that lithium carboxylates are promising anode materials for Li‐ion batteries.
External quality assessment demonstrates that PD‐L1 22C3 and SP263 assays are systematically different
Authors: Dodson Andrew , Parry Suzanne , Lissenberg‐Witte Birgit , Haragan Alex , Allen David , O'Grady Anthony , McClean Emma , Hughes Jamie , Miller Keith , Thunnissen Erik
Published: December 2019

PD‐L1 inhibitors are part of first line treatment options for patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer. PD‐L1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays act as either a companion or a complementary diagnostic. The purpose of this study is to describe the experience of external quality assurance (EQA) provider UK NEQAS ICC and ISH with the comparison of different PD‐L1 assays used in daily practice. Three EQA rounds (pilot, run A and run B) were carried out using formalin fixed paraffin embedded samples with sample sets covering a range of epitope concentrations, including ‘critical samples’ near to clinical threshold cut‐offs. An expert panel (n = 4) evaluated all returned slides simultaneously and independently on a multi‐header microscope together with the participants own in‐house control material. The tonsil sample was evaluated as ‘acceptable’ or ‘unacceptable’, and for the other samples the percentage of PD‐L1 stained tumour cells were estimated in predetermined categories (<1%, 1 to <5%, 5 to <10%, 10 to <25%, 25 to <50%, 50 to <80%, 80 to 100%). In the pilot and the two subsequent runs the number of participating laboratories was 43, 69 and 76, respectively. The pass rate for the pilot run was 67%; this increased to 81% at run A and 82% at run B. For two ‘critical samples’, in runs A and B, 22C3 IHC had significantly higher PD‐L1 expression than SP263 IHC (p < 0.001), whilst the PD‐L1 scores for the other six samples were similar for all assays. In run A the laboratory developed tests (LDTs) using 22C3 scored lower than the commercial 22C3 tests (p = 0.01). After the initial testing, improvement in performance of PD‐L1 IHC is shown for approved and LDT PD‐L1 assays. Equivalency of approved PD‐L1 22C3 and SP263 assays cannot be assumed as the scores cross the clinically relevant thresholds of 1% and 50% PD‐L1 expression.
Using ranked set sampling with binary outcomes in cluster randomized designs
Authors: Wang Xinlei , Wang Mumu , Lim Johan , Ahn Soohyun
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study the use of ranked set sampling (RSS) with binary outcomes in cluster‐randomized designs (CRDs), where a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) is used to model the hierarchical data structure involved. Under the GLMM‐based framework, we propose three different approaches to estimate the treatment effect, including the nonparametric (NP), maximum likelihood (ML) and pseudo likelihood (PL) estimators. We investigate their asymptotic properties and examine their finite‐sample performance via simulation. Based on these three RSS estimators, we further develop procedures for testing the existence of the treatment effect. We examine the power and size of our proposed RSS tests and compare them with existing tests based on simple random sampling (SRS). All the proposed RSS estimation and test methods are illustrated with two data examples, one for rare events and the other for non‐extreme events. Throughout our investigations, we also consider the possible effect of imperfect ranking. Among the proposed methods, we provide recommendations on whether to use RSS rather than SRS with binary outcomes in CRDs and, if yes, when to use which RSS method. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 48: 342–365; 2020 © 2019 Statistical Society of Canada
Integrated Photo‐Responsive Batteries for Solar Energy Harnessing: Recent Advances, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Fang Zhengsong , Hu Xuanhe , Yu Dingshan
Published: December 2019

Photo‐responsive batteries that enable the effective combination of solar harvesting and energy conversion/storage functionalities render a potential solution to achieve the large‐scale utilization of unlimited and cost‐effective solar energy and alleviate the limits of conventional energy storage devices. The internal integration of photo‐responsive electrodes into rechargeable batteries with the simplest two‐electrode configuration is regarded as a reliable and appealing strategy for highly‐efficient and low‐cost utilization of solar energy by simplifying the device architecture and improving the energy efficiency. This progress report provides a brief review on photo‐responsive batteries with integrated two‐electrode configuration that can achieve solar energy conversion/storage in one single device. The basic device architecture, operating principles and practical performance of various photo‐responsive systems based on solar energy harvesting in various batteries including Li ion batteries, Li−S batteries, Li−I batteries, dual‐liquid redox batteries, Li−O2 batteries, non‐Li anode‐O2/air batteries are summarized and discussed. Finally, the future opportunities and challenges regarding the two‐electrode photo‐responsive batteries are proposed.
A Functional Assay to Assess Toxicity During Murine B Cell Development In Vitro
Authors: Guilbert Cynthia , Chou Hsiang , Bolt Alicia M. , Wu Ting Hua , Luo Vincent Mingyi , Orthwein Alexandre , Mann Koren K.
Published: December 2019

B lymphocytes, or B cells, are important players in immunity that produce antigen‐specific immunoglobulins. As a result, they are involved in various immune‐linked pathologies. To better understand, prevent, or treat B cell–associated disease and immunotoxicity, we developed an in vitro assay to model early murine B cell differentiation within the bone marrow. This model uses sorted B cell precursors cultured on a supporting stromal cell layer, which over time acquire markers of further differentiated B cells, such as surface antigens and rearranged immunoglobulin light chain. Importantly, we utilized our in vitro model to validate our previous observations that xenobiotics, such as tungsten and organotins, alter B cell development in vivo. Furthermore, gene expression can be modulated in this model using retroviral transduction, making it amenable to investigating signaling pathways involved in disruption of B cell differentiation. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol: Assessment of early B lymphocyte differentiation in vitro

Support Protocol: Isolation of murine bone marrow

Alternate Protocol 1: Addition of recombinant interleukin‐7

Alternate Protocol 2: Genetic manipulation via retroviral transduction
Entrepreneurial orientation and corporate social responsibility performance: An empirical study of state‐controlled and privately controlled firms in China
Authors: Zhuang Yiming , Lee Younggeun , Chang Xinyue , Kim Renee B.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we examine the role of a firm's entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in the advancement of corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance. We argue that a firm's innovativeness, proactiveness, and risk‐taking would lead it to employ more socially responsible practices and generate benefits to society. Moreover, we theorize that this influence would differ, depending on the firm ownership. Specifically, our argument is based on the Chinese context where state‐controlled firms dominate the economy. We test our hypotheses by utilizing secondary data on 738 Chinese public firms over an 8‐year period (2008–2015). Our empirical results demonstrate a positive and significant relationship between EO and CSR performance among state‐controlled firms. However, this relationship is not significant among privately controlled firms.
Energy efficiency optimization for device‐to‐device communication underlaying cellular networks in millimeter‐wave
Authors: Zabetian Negar , Mohammadi Abbas , Kazemi Mohammad
Published: December 2019

This paper studies energy efficiency maximization in device‐to‐device (D2D) communications underlaying cellular networks in millimeter‐wave (mm‐wave) band. A stochastic geometry framework has been used to extract the results. First, cellular and D2D users are modeled by independent homogeneous Poisson point process; then, exact expressions for successful transmission probability of D2D and cellular users have been derived. Furthermore, the average sum rate and energy efficiency for a typical D2D scenario have been presented. An optimization problem subject to transmission power and quality of service constraints for both cellular and D2D users has been defined, and energy efficiency of D2D communication is maximized. Simulation results reveal that by working in millimeter‐wave, significant energy efficiency improvement can be attained, e.g., 20% energy efficiency improvement compared with Rayleigh distribution in the practical scenarios by considering circuit power. Finally, to verify our analytical expressions, the simulation studies are carried out, and the excellent agreements have been achieved.
Historical display broadens awareness of disabilities
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: December 2019

As part of an ongoing effort to raise awareness about disabilities across the campus community, Harper College in Illinois installed a disability history display at the start of the academic year. Jason Altmann, Director of the college's Access and Disability Services Office, discussed the goals of the display and other disability awareness events planned throughout the year at the college.
Work with academic administration, instructional designers to improve digital accessibility
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: December 2019

ORLANDO — Engaging and educating faculty members is the most direct path to creating fully accessible online courses. A redesigned faculty training program at the University of Toledo significantly increased program completion and faculty members’ knowledge of how to make their courses accessible.
Partner with admissions to educate students about disability services
Authors: Hamblet Elizabeth C.
Published: December 2019

Research shows that many students who received accommodations in high school do not register for them in college. Their reasons include not knowing accommodations are available or where to go to register, and a sense of stigma. To help bridge the knowledge gap and make students feel comfortable, partner with the Admissions Office.
Doctoral students report high levels of anxiety, depression
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2019

More than a third of doctoral students are struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns and lack resources or support from those around them. That comes from the fifth annual survey of doctoral students across the globe by Nature magazine.
Mobility advice to help prevent re‐ulceration in diabetes
Authors: Mueller Michael J.
Published: December 2019

Clinicians and patients face a dilemma in understanding how best to resume walking after a healed diabetic neuropathic ulcer. The objectives of this brief review are to: provide context for the patient's health and mobility status; propose 5 suggestions to safely and effectively progress mobility following a healed foot ulcer; and to consider topics for future research to improve care in this area. Rates of ulcer recurrence and mortality are high, and activity is low following a diabetic foot wound. Medical and rehabilitation approaches have emphasized protection of the insensitive, fragile foot with the hope to prevent subsequent harm to the foot and person. In particular, the 1–2 months following wound unloading and “healing” have the greatest risk for ulcer recurrence. While early protection should be emphasized, a growing body of evidence suggests that over‐protection of the foot and limited walking can be harmful, presumably because of the negative effects of prolonged immobility and stress protection. Multiple recent studies report the ability of exercise and walking to have a positive effect on various diabetic foot outcomes without additional harm. Much less is known about how an ulcerated foot can resume walking after the wound is healed. This review integrates available guidelines, evidence, and precautions to suggest advice on how best to resume and progress walking in this population at high risk for ulcer recurrence.
Will the climate of plant origins influence the chemical profiles of cuticular waxes on leaves of Leymus chinensis in a common garden experiment?
Authors: Li Yang , Hou Xiangyang , Li Xiaoting , Zhao Xiao , Wu Zinian , Xiao Yu , Guo Yanjun
Published: December 2019

Cuticular wax covering the leaf surface plays important roles in protecting plants from biotic and abiotic stresses. Understanding the way in which plant leaf cuticles reflect their growing environment could give an insight into plant resilience to future climate change. Here, we analyzed the variations of cuticular waxes among 59 populations of Leymus chinensis in a common garden experiment, aiming to verify how environmental conditions influence the chemical profiles of cuticular waxes. In total, eight cuticular wax classes were identified, including fatty acids, aldehydes, primary alcohols, alkanes, secondary alcohols, ketones, β‐diketones, and alkylresorcinols, with β‐diketones the predominant compounds in all populations (averaged 67.36% across all populations). Great intraspecific trait variations (ITV) were observed for total wax coverage, wax compositions, and the relative abundance of homologues within each wax class. Cluster analysis based on wax characteristics could separate 59 populations into different clades. However, the populations could not be separated according to their original longitudes, latitudes, annual temperature, or annual precipitation. Redundancy analysis showed that latitude, arid index, and the precipitation from June to August were the most important parameters contributing to the variations of the amount of total wax coverage and wax composition and the relative abundance of wax classes. Pearson's correlation analysis further indicated that the relative abundance of wax classes, homologues in each wax class, and even isomers of certain compound differed in their responses to environmental factors. These results suggested that wax deposition patterns of L. chinensis populations formed during adaptations to their long‐term growing environments could inherit in their progenies and exhibit such inheritance even these progenies were exported to new environments.
Genetic diversity of Helosciadium repens (Jacq.) W.D.J. Koch (Apiaceae) in Germany, a Crop Wild Relative of celery
Authors: Herden Tobias , Bönisch Maria , Friesen Nikolai
Published: December 2019

Helosciadium repens (Jacq.) W.D.J. Koch is threatened by genetic erosion. It is a Crop Wild Relative (CWR) of celery and celeriac and a potentially valuable genetic resource for plant breeding. The objective of this study was the analysis of distribution of genetic diversity with a set of selected populations in Germany. The results of the genetic analysis and data obtained during the site visits were used to identify a subset which was chosen to best represent the genetic diversity of H. repens in Germany. The chance of long‐term conservation by securing the identified populations in genetic reserves is distinctly possible.

Seven hundred and fifteen individuals from 27 sites were assessed using six simple sequence repeat markers. Discriminant analysis of principal components was used to identify six clusters of genetically similar individuals. The complementary compositional genetic differentiation Δj was calculated to designate a subset of populations chosen to best represent the overall genetic diversity. Entry 18R (Δ18R = 0.2498) represented its pooled remainder the best, while entry 22R (Δ22R = 0.4902) differed the most from its complement.

Based on the results of the genetic analysis and information regarding the current conservation status, 14 most appropriate wild populations for potential genetic reserve were identified. The used markers display a low level of genetic variation between the analyzed populations, and a split between Northern and Southern populations was observed.

CWR species are essential genetic resources for plant breeding and food security. However, 11.5% of the European CWRs are threatened. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to determine their genetic compositions. These insights will provide the fundamental basis for making crucial decisions concerning future conservation strategies for H. repens.
The seasonal energetic landscape of an apex marine carnivore, the polar bear
Authors: Pagano Anthony M. , Atwood Todd C. , Durner George M. , Williams Terrie M.
Published: December 2019

Divergent movement strategies have enabled wildlife populations to adapt to environmental change. In recent decades, the Southern Beaufort Sea subpopulation of polar bears (Ursus maritimus) has developed a divergent movement strategy in response to diminishing sea ice where the majority of the subpopulation (73–85%) stays on the sea ice in summer and the remaining bears move to land. Although declines in sea ice are generally considered a challenge to energy balance in polar bears residing in some regions of the Arctic, little quantitative data exists concerning the seasonal energy expenditures of this apex marine carnivore. We used GPS satellite collars with tri‐axial accelerometers and conductivity sensors to measure the location, behavior, and energy expenditure of five adult female polar bears in the southern Beaufort Sea across seasons of sea ice breakup and minimum extent. Using a Bayesian mixed‐effects model, we found that energy expenditure was influenced by month, ocean depth, and habitat type (sea ice or land). Total energy expenditure from May through September ranged from 37.7 to 47.2 mJ/kg for individual bears. Bears that moved to land expended 7% more energy on average from May through September than bears that remained on the receding sea ice. In August, when bears were moving from the sea ice to land or moving north with the receding pack ice, bears that moved to land spent 7% more time swimming and expended 22% more energy. This means the immediate cost of moving to land exceeded the cost of remaining on the receding summer pack ice. These findings suggest a physiological reason why the majority of the Southern Beaufort Sea subpopulation continues to inhabit a diminishing summer ice platform. However, bears that moved to land spent 29% more time in preferred hunting habitats over the continental shelf than bears that remained on the sea ice. Bears on land also had access to subsistence‐harvested bowhead whale carcasses. Hence, our findings indicate there may be a greater overall energetic benefit to move to land in this region, which suggests that the use of the diminishing summer sea ice may be functioning as an ecological trap.
A rare case of Takotsubo syndrome in a patient 5 months after heart transplantation
Authors: Itzhaki Ben Zadok Osnat , Ben‐Avraham Ben , Hamdan Ashraf , Tovar Ana , Lyon Alexander , Ben Gal Tuvia
Published: December 2019

Takotsubo syndrome is an acute heart failure syndrome with a pathogenesis that is attributed to sympathetic stimulation. This case report describes a unique case of a 5 month heart‐transplanted female patient who developed apical ballooning on an echocardiography exam performed following an emotional stress event. Detailed clinical investigations and imaging techniques confirmed the diagnosis of Takatsubo syndrome. Our case indicates that Takatsubo's cardiomyopathy should be included in the differential diagnosis of heart‐transplanted patients presenting with sudden graft dysfunction mimicking acute graft rejection or acute coronary syndrome.
Changes in m6A RNA methylation contribute to heart failure progression by modulating translation
Authors: Berulava Tea , Buchholz Eric , Elerdashvili Vakhtang , Pena Tonatiuh , Islam Md Rezaul , Lbik Dawid , Mohamed Belal A. , Renner Andre , von Lewinski Dirk , Sacherer Michael , Bohnsack Katherine E. , Bohnsack Markus T. , Jain Gaurav , Capece Vincenzo , Cleve Nicole , Burkhardt Susanne , Hasenfuss Gerd , Fischer Andre , Toischer Karl
Published: December 2019

Aims

Deregulation of epigenetic processes and aberrant gene expression are important mechanisms in heart failure. Here we studied the potential relevance of m6A RNA methylation in heart failure development.

Methods and results

We analysed m6A RNA methylation via next‐generation sequencing. We found that approximately one quarter of the transcripts in the healthy mouse and human heart exhibit m6A RNA methylation. During progression to heart failure we observed that changes in m6A RNA methylation exceed changes in gene expression both in mouse and human. RNAs with altered m6A RNA methylation were mainly linked to metabolic and regulatory pathways, while changes in RNA expression level mainly represented changes in structural plasticity. Mechanistically, we could link m6A RNA methylation to altered RNA translation and protein production. Interestingly, differentially methylated but not differentially expressed RNAs showed differential polysomal occupancy, indicating transcription‐independent modulation of translation. Furthermore, mice with a cardiomyocyte restricted knockout of the RNA demethylase Fto exhibited an impaired cardiac function compared to control mice.

Conclusions

We could show that m6A landscape is altered in heart hypertrophy and heart failure. m6A RNA methylation changes lead to changes in protein abundance, unconnected to mRNA levels. This uncovers a new transcription‐independent mechanisms of translation regulation. Therefore, our data suggest that modulation of epitranscriptomic processes such as m6A methylation might be an interesting target for therapeutic interventions.
Addition of Re‐Bonded Nucleophilic Ligands to Activated Alkynes: A Theoretical Rationalization
Authors: Álvarez Daniel , Díaz Jesús , Menéndez M. Isabel , López Ramón
Published: December 2019

Reactions between [Re(X)(CO)3(bipy)] (X = OH, OMe, NHpTol, PPh2; bipy = 2,2'‐bipyridine) complexes and methyl propiolate (HMAD) are studied to rationalize the different products experimentally obtained. Three reaction patterns were found with a common and limiting initial attack of X to HMAD. Thus, the experimental selectivity depends on the kinetics and/or thermodynamics of the last reaction stages. For X = OH and NHpTol an easy intramolecular attack of the X‐linked HMAD to a highly electrophilic CO ligand is followed by a hydrogen transposition to this CO, yielding very stable species (C‐CCOHproducts). When X = OMe, the insertion of the X‐attached HMAD into the Re–OMe bond (insproduct) takes place due to the smallest barrier and the largest stability of theinsroute. Finally, when X = PPh2theinsroute becomes restricted and the route for the coupling of the X‐attached HMAD with bipy (C‐Cbipyproduct) wins over the one for the coupling with CO (C‐CCOproduct) only due to the larger stability of theC‐Cbipyproduct.
β‐Keto Acids in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Mao Shuning , Chen Kaijun , Yan Guobing , Huang Dayun
Published: December 2019

Recent advances of β‐keto acids were summarized as five categories according to their triggered mechanisms: (1) decarboxylative enolate nucleophiles; (2) addition without decarboxylation; (3) electrophilic acids; (4) nucleophilic acids; (5) electrophilic ketones. We hope this review will promote future research in this area.
µ‐NMR at the point of care testing
Authors: Guo Jiuchuan , Jiang Di , Feng Shilun , Ren Chunhui , Guo Jinhong
Published: December 2019

NMR shows strong analytical capability for obtaining molecular information on materials and is used in a variety of fields. Micro‐NMR (µNMR) is mainly based on low‐field NMR (LF‐NMR), which makes NMR detection portable and inexpensive. Point‐of‐care testing (POCT) has gradually become an area of major concern, and scientists have made much progress in applying µNMR systems for POCT. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review of the latest development in miniaturization of µNMR systems. Then, we discuss cutting‐edge µNMR‐based applications in POCT and the outlook for future developments.
Pressure boundary condition in a multiphase lattice Boltzmann method and its applications on simulations of two‐phase flows
Authors: Wang Lei , Peng Ze‐Rui
Published: December 2019

As a lattice Boltzmann method, He‐Chen‐Zhang model is widely used in two‐phase simulations. However, the pressure boundary conditions applied in He‐Chen‐Zhang model have hardly been discussed in detail before. In this article, a pressure boundary condition for single‐phase flows is extended to He‐Chen‐Zhang model for simulating two‐phase flows in porous media or in channel. Several cases are conducted for validation. Qualitatively, the displacement of two‐phase flows in porous media or in channel is reproduced; the manipulations of droplet in T‐junction, duct, or needle are simulated. These numerical results match well with the basic physical reality. Quantitatively, we tested the displacement of two‐phase fluids in a channel under specified pressure gradient, and it is found that the velocity profile on the crosssection coincides with the analytical solution exactly. Moreover, for stable displacement of two‐phase flows in a channel, the numerical linear relation between the apparent contact angle and the velocity of contact line coincides well with the theoretical result reported before. The present pressure boundary condition proves to be a reliable method to deal with the problems of two‐phase flows, which are driven by pressure difference.
Paracentesis‐Induced Circulatory Dysfunction With Modest‐Volume Paracentesis Is Partly Ameliorated by Albumin Infusion in Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure
Authors: Arora Vinod , Vijayaraghavan Rajan , Maiwall Rakhi , Sahney Amrish , Thomas Sherin Sarah , Ali Rehmat , Jain Priyanka , Kumar Guresh , Sarin Shiv Kumar
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

Paracentesis‐induced circulatory dysfunction (PICD) is a serious complication of large‐volume (>5 L) paracentesis in cirrhosis and is reduced with albumin infusion. There is a lack of data on PICD in acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF). Because ACLF patients have greater hemodynamic derangements than patients with decompensated cirrhosis, we investigated whether PICD could develop with modest‐volume paracentesis (MVP) and the role of albumin infusion.

Approach and Results

A total of 80 ACLF patients undergoing <5 L paracentesis were randomized to receive albumin (8 g/dL of ascitic fluid; n = 40) or no albumin (n = 40) and serially followed to detect PICD. Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups, including volume of ascitic tap (4.16 ± 0.23 versus 4.14 ± 0.27 L; P = 0.72) and plasma renin activity (PRA; 20.5 ± 7.03 versus 23.2 ± 8.24 ng/mL/hour; P = 0.12). PICD was more frequent in the no‐albumin group than the albumin group (70% versus 30%; P = 0.001), with higher incidence of hepatic encephalopathy (50% versus 27.5%; P = 0.04), hyponatremia (67.5% versus 22.5%; P < 0.001), acute kidney injury (62.5% versus 30%; P = 0.001), and in‐house mortality (62.5% versus 27.5%; P = 0.003). PRA of 25.15 ng/mL at day 3 had sensitivity and specificity of 71% and 68%, respectively, for development of PICD at day 6. Albumin infusion decreased the incidence of PICD at day 6 (odds ratio, 0.068; 95% confidence interval, 0.011‐0.43; P = 0.005).

Conclusions

PICD is common and develops even with MVP in ACLF patients. Albumin infusion decreases the incidence of PICD and mortality in patients with ACLF. Clinical trial identifier: NCT02467348
Dissolved organic matter in surface runoff in the Loess Plateau of China: The role of rainfall events and land‐use
Authors: Li Zhongwu , Peng Hao , Xie Binggeng , Liu Chun , Nie Xiaodong , Wang Danyang , Huang Mei , Xiao Haibing , Shi Lin , Zhang Xuqin , Jiang Jieyu
Published: December 2019

Exploring the chemical characterization of dissolved organic matter (DOM) is important for understanding the fate of laterally transported organic matter in watersheds. We hypothesized that differences in water‐extractable organic matter (WEOM) in soils of varying land uses and rainfall events may significantly affect the quality and the quantity of stream DOM. To test our hypotheses, characteristics of rainfall‐runoff DOM and WEOM of source materials (topsoil from different land uses and gullies, as well as typical vegetation) were investigated at two adjacent catchments in the Loess Plateau of China, using ultraviolet–visible absorbance and excitation emission matrix fluorescence with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC). Results indicated that land‐use types may significantly affect the chemical composition of soil WEOM, including its aromaticity, molecular weight, and degree of humification. The PARAFAC analysis demonstrated that the soils and stream water were dominated by terrestrial/allochthonous humic‐like substances and microbial transformable humic‐like fluorophores. Shifts in the fluorescence properties of stream DOM suggested a pronounced change in the relative proportion of allochthonous versus autochthonous material under different rainfall patterns and land uses. For example, high proportions of forestland could provide more allochthonous DOM input. This study highlights the relevance of soils and hydrological dynamics on the composition and fluxes of DOM issuing from watersheds. The composition of DOM in soils was influenced by land‐use type. Precipitation patterns influenced the proportion of terrestrial versus microbial origins of DOM in surface runoff. Contributions of allochthonous, terrestrially derived DOM inputs were highest from forested landscapes.
G‐protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 safeguards epithelial phenotype in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Palacios‐García Julia , Sanz‐Flores María , Asensio Alejandro , Alvarado Raúl , Rojo‐Berciano Susana , Stamatakis Konstantinos , Paramio Jesús M. , Cano Amparo , Nieto M. Ángela , García‐Escudero Ramón , Mayor Federico , Ribas Catalina
Published: December 2019

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) arises from the mucosal lining of the upper aerodigestive tract and display few treatment options in advanced stages. Despite increased knowledge of HNSCC molecular biology, the identification of new players involved in triggering HNSCC recurrence and metastatic disease is needed. We uncover that G‐protein‐coupled receptor kinase‐2 (GRK2) expression is reduced in undifferentiated, high‐grade human HNSCC tumors, whereas its silencing in model human HNSCC cells is sufficient to trigger epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotypic features, an EMT‐like transcriptional program and enhanced lymph node colonization from orthotopic tongue tumors in mice. Conversely, enhancing GRK2 expression counteracts mesenchymal cells traits by mechanisms involving phosphorylation and decreased functionality of the key EMT inducer Snail1. Our results suggest that GRK2 safeguards the epithelial phenotype, whereas its downregulation contributes to the activation of EMT programs in HNSCC.
Challenges and perspectives for manganese‐based oxides for advanced aqueous zinc‐ion batteries
Authors: Zhao Yinlei , Zhu Yunhai , Zhang Xinbo
Published: December 2019

Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) with excellent cycling stability and high‐energy densities have already occupied the commercial rechargeable battery market. Unfortunately, the high cost and intrinsic insecurity induced by organic electrolyte severely hinder their applications in large‐scale energy storage. In contrast, aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are being developed as an ideal candidate because of their cheapness and high security. Benefiting from high operating voltage and acceptable specific capacity, recently, manganese‐based oxides with different various crystal structures have been extensively studied as cathode materials for aqueous ZIBs. This review presents research progress of manganese‐based cathodes in aqueous ZIBs, including various manganese‐based oxides and their zinc storage mechanisms. In addition, we also discuss some optimization strategies that aim at improving the electrochemical performance of manganese‐based cathodes, and the design of flexible aqueous ZIBs based on manganese‐based cathodes (MZIBs). Finally, this review summarizes some valuable research directions, which will promote the further development of aqueous MZIBs.

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Oligochitosan‐modified three‐dimensional graphene free‐standing electrode for electrochemical detection of imidacloprid insecticide
Authors: Zhai Xingchen , Zhang Min , Chen Pan , Siriphithakyothin Thanawat , Liu Jingyi , Zhao Haitian , Yang Xin , Abd El‐Aty A.M. , Baranenko Denis A. , Hacimüftüoğlu Ahmet , Wang Jing
Published: December 2019

Abstract

A simple sensor based on an oligosaccharide‐modified three‐dimensional graphene (OCS‐3D‐G) free‐standing electrode was developed for the electrochemical determination of the insecticide imidacloprid (IDP). OCS can interact with graphene oxide sheets by π–π and electrostatic interactions, leading to graphene oxide sheets arranged as regular and dense porous structures. Therefore, compared with other modifier carbohydrates, OCS‐3D‐G is more suitable for electrochemical sensing. OCS‐3D‐G was synthesized by a hydrothermal method and then fabricated as an electrochemical sensor, and its characterization was done and electrochemical behavior studied in detail. The optimized sensor showed good reproducibility, selectivity, and stability, and responded linearly over a wide concentration range (1.0–50.0 μM) with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.51 μM. Finally, the proposed sensor was used for the determination of IDP in brown rice, and the results were in line with those obtained from high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). It is thereby shown that the developed free‐standing electrode is simple and cheap and can be used as a disposable electrode.