bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Approach to Identify Mutations in Genes of Notch Signaling Pathway and Its Association with OSCC
Authors: Sivarajan Madhumithaa , Girija A. S. Smiline , Paramasivam A. , Priyadharsini J. Vijayashree
Published: September 2020

Derailments in signal transduction pathways are associated with the development of tumors. One such vital pathway is the Notch signaling pathway which is associated with various processes of carcinogenesis such as proliferation of cells, cell renewal, angiogenesis and oncogenic microenvironment preservation. Interestingly, Notch also plays a pivotal role in tumor development by acting as an oncogene as well as tumor suppressor gene. In view of this fact, the present study was designed to analyze mutations in Notch signalling pathway which might have a crucial role in the etiology of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) using computational approach. The Cancer Gene Atlas data set hosted in the cBioportal was used in the present study. These samples were queried for the presence of mutations in Notch signalling genes which included a predefined list of 55 genes. Further, the Oncoprint data obtained was compared to that of gnomAD database which identified novel and reported mutations in the genes analyzed. Additionally, I-Mutant and MutPred analysis was carried out to determine the stability and pathogenicity of the variations recorded. Among 55 genes analysed, SPEN gene was shown to possess the highest frequency of mutation (5%) followed by FBXW7, Notch1, EP300, NUMB, and RBPJL genes. Most of the mutations identified were novel as assessed using the control dataset from the gnomAD database. The stability of the protein was found to decrease upon nucleotide substitution. Finally, the MutPred score revealed that most of the mutant proteins were pathogenic.  Several novel mutations have been identified in the pathway analyzed. Functional analysis of these variants using experimental approaches would aid in dissecting their association with OSCC.
Cross-Sectional Study of Prevalence of COVID-19 in Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J.
Published: September 2020

Aim: Forecasting the prevalence of the disease is important for health departments to strengthen surveillance systems and reallocate resources. The aim of this study is to assess the occurrence of COVID-19 in Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.

Methodology:  This is a cross-sectional study that included data about the occurrence of COVID-19 cases in Alkharj, Saudi Arabia between the 12th of July, 2020 till 5th of august, 2020. Data were extracted from Saudi Ministry of Health official site and also from Saudi Ministry of Health page on Facebook.

Results: The rate of cases in Alkharj were low in comparison with other cities. The number of population in Saudi Arabia was 34,871,847 in 2020. among of these people, More than 425,300 live in Alkharj. So Alkharj residents represent about 1.219 % of the total population in Saudi Arabia. COVID-19 cases in Alkharj represent only 0.576% of total cases in Saudi Arabia. In Alkharj, only 0.387 % of the population suffered from COVID-19 (out of 425,300 people there were 1646 COVID-19 patients)

Conclusion: This study showed a reduction in the number of COVID-19 cases but still it is essential to implement the preventive measures to reduce the number of COVID-19 cases.
Other Experts: Disciplinary and Aesthetic Impacts of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Rehm M Casey
Published: September 2020

Constrained artificial intelligence can provide many benefits to the building industry of the 21st century. Los Angeles‐based multidisciplinary designer and SCIArc tutor M Casey Rehm describes how AI, programmed without a priori concepts, can develop many previously inconceivable architectural solutions. Such designs do not depend on traditional or received human thought patterns.
The Impact of Automobile Design on Architecture
Authors: Pininfarina Paolo , Trevisan Paolo
Published: September 2020

Paolo Pininfarina, chairman of longstanding Italian car designer and maker Pininfarina, and Paolo Trevisan, Head of Design and Architecture at Pininfarina of America, describe how the seamless, double‐curved formal transitions made in automobile design can be transferable to architecture, and question the discrete separateness of building elements and techniques, for example roofs and walls, as illustrated by their Cyrela residential tower block in São Paulo.
Aesthetics, Narrative and the Materials of Architecture
Authors: Goldblatt David
Published: September 2020

All buildings have an impact on us, whether seeing and navigating through and around them for the first time or frequently. Their materiality interacts with us and the streetscape, contributing to our internal and external, sometimes received narrative. David Goldblatt, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at Denison University in Ohio, explains this complex interrelationship and contemplates the effect new materiality might have on this symbiosis.
Shanghai Bund: The Impact of Context
Authors: Heatherwick Thomas
Published: September 2020

Designer Thomas Heatherwick has an international reputation honed by a series of buildings that have audacious formal articulations. These buildings often exhibit the repetition of architectural elements, yet the same base element is used in an almost infinite array of combinations. Here he describes the thoughts, concepts, materiality and surface treatments of his Fosun Foundation building for the Bund Finance Centre in Shanghai.
Material Intricacy
Authors: Mergenthaler Ascan
Published: September 2020

Herzog & de Meuron's Tai Kwun centre for heritage and arts in Hong Kong has an innovative and spectacular facade. It is both a sun‐and rain‐screen made of rough‐cast aluminium units. Ascan Mergenthaler, senior partner at the firm, guides us through the design process, the detailing, and particularly how the facade turns corners, the inspiration for its jointing coming from traditional masonry bonding.
Beyond Digital Avant‐Gardes: The Materiality of Architecture and Its Impact
Authors: Picon Antoine
Published: September 2020

In the last 25 years, since the beginning of the ‘first digital turn’ in architecture, the imperative towards sustainability and the preoccupations of the virtual vanguard have seldom been bedfellows. Antoine Picon, Harvard Professor of the History of Architecture and Technology, sees some green shoots in the post‐digital world.
Stereoselective Construction of (E,Z)‐1,3‐Dienes and Its Application in Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Hubert Pierre , Seibel Elena , Beemelmanns Christine , Campagne Jean‐Marc , de Figueiredo Renata Marcia
Published: September 2020

The E,Z‐configured 1,3‐diene unit is a common motif in numerous bioactive natural products. Although several powerful methods are available to produce these motifs with high levels of selectivity, their construction within a complex, polyfunctionalised structure, such as a natural product, requires well‐defined strategies to avoid undesirable reactions and low‐to‐moderate selectivities. The aim of this review is to provide a full account of the stereoselective strategies for building E,Z‐configured 1,3‐dienes, as well as to highlight selected total syntheses that employ them.

magnified image
Artificial Somatosensors: Feedback Receptors for Electronic Skins
Authors: Rahman Md. Ataur , Walia Sumeet , Naznee Sumaiya , Taha Mohammad , Nirantar Shruti , Rahman Fahmida , Bhaskaran Madhu , Sriram Sharath
Published: September 2020

The human skin is the largest sensory organ, made up of complex sensors that detect noxious stimuli to rapidly send warning signals to the central nervous system to initiate a motor response. It is complex to mimic key skin features using existing tactile sensors, and there exists no somatosensor that responds to real stimuli of pressure, temperature, and touch. Herein, three critical skin receptors created by realizing integrated electronic systems that mimic the feedback response of somatosensors are experimentally demonstrated. Fully functional Pacinian corpuscles, thermoreceptors, and nociceptors are realized using a combination of stretchable pressure sensors, phase‐change oxide thin films, and threshold‐based resistive switching (memristor) memory elements. The ability to detect and respond to pressure, temperature, and pain stimuli above a threshold with real‐life performance characteristics is demonstrated with explanation of underlying mechanisms. The ability to design and realize artificial skin receptors enables replacement of affected human skin regions, augment skin sensitivity for agile applications in defense and sports, and drive advancements in intelligent robotics.
In‐Syringe Electrokinetic Protein Removal from Biological Samples prior to Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Mikhail Ibraam E. , Tehranirokh Masoomeh , Gooley Andrew A. , Guijt Rosanne M. , Breadmore Michael C.
Published: September 2020

Here, an electrokinetic extraction (EkE) syringe is presented allowing for on‐line electrokinetic removal of serum proteins before ESI‐MS. The proposed concept is demonstrated by the determination of pharmaceuticals from human serum within minutes, with sample preparation limited to a 5× dilution of the sample in the background electrolyte (BGE) and application of voltage, both of which can be performed in‐syringe. Signal enhancements of 3.6–32 fold relative to direct infusion of diluted serum and up to 10.8 fold enhancement, were obtained for basic and acidic pharmaceuticals, respectively. Linear correlations for the basic drugs by EkE‐ESI‐MS/MS were achieved, covering the necessary clinical range with LOQs of 5.3, 7.8, 6.1, and 17.8 ng mL−1 for clomipramine, chlorphenamine, pindolol, and atenolol, respectively. For the acidic drugs, the EkE‐ESI‐MS LOQs were 3.1 μg mL−1 and 2.9 μg mL−1 for naproxen and paracetamol, respectively. The EkE‐ESI‐MS and EkE‐ESI‐MS/MS methods showed good accuracy (%found of 81 % to 120 %), precision (≤20 %), and linearity (r>0.997) for all the studied drugs in spiked serum samples.
The pre‐Roman hilltop settlement of Monte Torretta di Pietragalla: preliminary results of the geophysical survey
Authors: Capozzoli Luigi , De Martino Gregory , Capozzoli Vincenzo , Duplouy Alain , Henning Agnes , Rizzo Enzo
Published: September 2020

Monte Torretta (Pietragalla, PZ) represents one of the most interesting and less known settlements of ancient Lucania. The site was investigated in the last 50 years by several archaeological activities, but no result has been published so far. In order to study and disseminate the archaeological value of the site, the Université Paris 1 Panthéon‐Sorbonne and the Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin has established the joint Pietragalla Project. The project is based on a multidisciplinary approach, which aims at studying the settlement and at recovering the lost information obtained by the previous archaeological works. The first geophysical activities conducted on the site offer important results, which increase the knowledge of the site and will help the archaeologists in their future investigation. Through the comparison and integration of different geophysical methodologies, including ground penetrating radar, electrical resistivity tomography and geomagnetic measurements, various information was obtained in proximity of the fortification walls and the two main gates of the site. Moreover, geological and geomorphological interpretations highlighted important information on the archaeological site. The obtained results show the importance of geophysical activities in a context strongly damaged by rural activities of the last century. From an archaeological point of view, the geophysical surveys conducted in 2017 and 2018 show a dense building activity within the area enclosed by the walls. Thanks to these results, we are now able to understand the settlement pattern in the longue durée, at the least for the western part of the infra‐muros area.
Quantum Dots: A Review from Concept to Clinic
Authors: Kargozar Saeid , Hoseini Seyed Javad , Milan Peiman Brouki , Hooshmand Sara , Kim Hae‐Won , Mozafari Masoud
Published: September 2020

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor materials that have gained great interest due to their unique characteristics like optical properties. They are extensively being used in different areas, including solar cells, light‐emitting diodes, laser technology, as well as biological and biomedical applications. In this review, comprehensive information about different aspects of QDs is provided, including their types and classifications, synthesis approaches, in vitro and in vivo toxicity, biological applications, and potentials in clinical applications. With a focus on the biological aspects, the respective in vitro and in vivo studies are collected and presented. Various surface modifications on QDs are discussed as directly influencing their properties like toxicity and optical abilities. Given the promising results, these materials are clinically used for targeted molecular therapy and imaging. However, there are a large number of questions that should be addressed before the wide application of QDs in a clinical setting. Regarding the existing barriers to QDs, suggestions are given and discussed to present an appropriate route for the clinical use of these materials.
Proactive environmental strategy and firm performance at the bottom of the pyramid
Authors: Adomako Samuel , Ning Ernestine , Adu‐Ameyaw Emmanuel
Published: September 2020

This paper utilizes insights from the natural resource‐based view to examine the conditions under which proactive environmental strategy (PES) drive firm performance. Using data collected from 266 small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises operating in Ghana, the results suggest that the impact of PES on firm performance is more pronounced in firms that do not purse bottom of the pyramid orientation but not significant for firms pursuing the bottom of the pyramid orientation. Besides, the findings show that the influence of PES on firm performance is amplified for firms adopting imitation orientation but not significant for nonimitation‐oriented firms. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
An observational study of drug utilization and associated outcomes among adult patients diagnosed with BRAF‐mutant advanced melanoma treated with first‐line anti‐PD‐1 monotherapies or BRAF/MEK inhibitors in a community‐based oncology setting
Authors: Cowey Charles L. , Boyd Marley , Aguilar Kathleen M. , Beeks April , Krepler Clemens , Scherrer Emilie
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Anti‐PD‐1 monotherapies (aPD‐1) and BRAF/MEK inhibitors (BRAF/MEKi) changed the BRAF‐mutant advanced melanoma treatment landscape. This study aimed to improve the understanding of real‐world treatment patterns and optimal treatment sequence.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of BRAF‐mutant advanced melanoma patients who initiated 1L aPD‐1 or BRAF/MEKi in the US Oncology Network between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2017, followed through 31 December 2018. Patient and treatment characteristics were assessed descriptively, with Kaplan‐Meier methods used for time‐to‐event endpoints. As the primary analysis, overall survival (OS) and physician‐assessed progression‐free survival (rwPFS) were evaluated with Cox proportional hazard regression models and propensity score matching (n = 49).

Results

A total of 224 patients were included (median age 61 years, 62.9% male, 89.7% white): 36.2% received aPD‐1 and 63.8% BRAF/MEKi. Median OS and rwPFS were longer among aPD‐1 vs BRAF/MEKi patients (OS: not reached vs 13.9 months, log‐rank P = .0169; rwPFS: 7.6 vs 6.5 months, log‐rank P = .0144). Receipt of aPD‐1 was associated with improved OS (HR = 0.602 vs BRAF/MEKi [95%CI 0.382‐0.949]; P = .0287). Among patients without an event within 6 months of 1L initiation, receipt of aPD‐1 was associated with a decreased risk of progression or death from 6 months onwards (HR = 0.228 [95%CI 0.106‐0.493]; P = .0002). This association was not observed among patients within 6 months of 1L initiation (HR = 1.146; 95% CI 0.755‐1.738). Results from the propensity score‐matched pairs were consistent with these trends.

Conclusion

These results suggest a clinical benefit of 1L aPD‐1 compared to BRAF/MEKi after 6 months of treatment for BRAF‐mutant advanced melanoma. Future research should explore factors associated with early progression and their relationship with clinical outcomes.
The mechanisms of lncRNA Tug1 in islet dysfunction in a mouse model of intrauterine growth retardation
Authors: Li Yihui , Dai Chengting , Yuan Yi , You Lianghui , Yuan Qingxin
Published: September 2020

Taurine upregulated gene 1 (Tug1) is a novel lncRNA that participates in growth, and the abnormal expression of Tug1 related to mouse islet cell dysfunction. A recent study revealed that intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) related to the pathogenesis of diabetes. Here, we aimed to explore the role and mechanism of Tug1 in IUGR‐mediated islet dysfunction. We observed that newborn IUGR mice had lower body and pancreas weight and smaller islets than newborn control mice. After IUGR mice were given a normal diet, they showed catch‐up growth and abnormal glucose tolerance; however, the pancreas/body weight ratio remained low. Blood glucose, serum insulin and related gene expression showed mild recovery after overexpression of Tug1 in IUGR mice. Furthermore, Tug1 was enriched in the nuclei of MIN6 cells. Using RIP and CHIP analyses we found that Tug1 could regulate Hes1 expression by binding to EZH2 to affect insulin synthesis in MIN6 cells. These findings indicate that lncRNA Tug1 could regulate the expression of Hes1 via EZH2‐driven H3K27 methylation and affect insulin production.

Significance of the study

This study suggests Tug1 as a novel biomarker, as it was shown to regulate β cell function and is worthy of further investigation due to its potential for diabetes treatment.
A Pyrimido‐Quinoxaline Fused Heterocycle Lights Up Transfer RNA upon Binding at the Mg2+ Binding Site
Authors: Patra Dipendu , Banerjee Sayanika , Sova Mandi Chandra , Haseena K. S. , Basu Gautam , Dutta Sanjay
Published: September 2020

Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are fundamental molecules in cellular translation. In this study we have highlighted a fluorescence‐based perceptive approach for tRNAs by using a quinoxaline small molecule. We have synthesised a water‐soluble fluorescent pyrimido‐quinoxaline‐fused heterocycle containing a mandatory piperazine tail (DS1) with a large Stokes shift (∼160 nm). The interaction between DS1 and tRNA results in significant fluorescence enhancement of the molecule with Kd∼5 μM and multiple binding sites. Our work reveals that the DS1 binding site overlaps with the specific Mg2+ ion binding site in the D loop of tRNA. As a proof‐of‐concept, the molecule inhibited Pb2+‐induced cleavage of yeast tRNAPhe in the D loop. In competitive binding assays, the fluorescence of DS1‐tRNA complex is quenched by a known tRNA‐binder, tobramycin. This indicates the displacement of DS1 and, indeed, a substantiation of specific binding at the site of tertiary interaction in the central region of tRNA. The ability of compound DS1 to bind tRNA with a higher affinity compared to DNA and single‐stranded RNA offers a promising approach to developing tRNA‐based biomarker diagnostics in the future.
Keep Your Eye On…
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2020

Avoiding system crashes when transitioning to telemedicine

Primary psychosis, cannabis intoxication, and cannabis‐induced psychosis
Links between sleep problems in early childhood and borderline personality disorder/psychosis in adolescence
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2020

Some behavioral sleep problems in childhood are associated with onset of psychosis and borderline personality disorder (BPD) in early adolescence, researchers have found. In addition, the association with psychosis may be mediated by depression at 10 years of age. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, used the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children birth cohort and included 13,488 participants who were born in 1991–92 and focused on parent‐reported nighttime sleep duration, night awakening frequency, bedtime, and regulatory of sleep routines in children assessed at 6 months, 18 months, and 30 months of age, and at 3.5, 4.8, and 5.8 years of age. While it is known that persistent childhood nightmares are associated with psychosis and BPD in adolescence, little was known about the association with general behavioral sleep problems, as well as the potential mechanisms.
The role of police in public schools: Harmful or helpful?
Authors: Walters Anne S.
Published: September 2020

As police brutality protests continue across the country, the role of police in our schools is under scrutiny. Assigning police to schools began in the 1990s to address school shootings, with a recent allocation of $400 million from the Department of Justice to keep programs funded. And yet, many districts have recently severed their relationships with police departments, including Denver, Minneapolis, Portland, San Francisco, Oakland, and Los Angeles.
Do you know what vaping companies are telling your children?
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2020

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is trying to keep vaping companies from advertising to children, but the companies know this is a hot market for them. Nicotine, plentiful in vaping products, is extremely addictive. Young people do not want to be told what to do. Vaping has appeal for them, especially when the flavors are clearly made for them. It's reminiscent of combustible cigarette marketing attempts to get new audiences, such as Virginia Slims for women.
Insights into LiAlH4 Catalyzed Imine Hydrogenation
Authors: Elsen Holger , Langer Jens , Ballmann Gerd , Wiesinger Michael , Harder Sjoerd
Published: September 2020

Commercial LiAlH4 can be used in catalytic quantities in the hydrogenation of imines to amines with H2. Combined experimental and theoretical investigations give deeper insight in the mechanism and identifies the most likely catalytic cycle. Activity is lost when Li in LiAlH4 is exchanged for Na or K. Exchanging Al for B or Ga also led to dramatically reduced activities. This indicates a heterobimetallic mechanism in which cooperation between Li and Al is crucial. Potential intermediates on the catalytic pathway have been isolated from reactions of MAlH4 (M=Li, Na, K) and different imines. Depending on the imine, double, triple or quadruple imine insertion has been observed. Prolonged reaction of LiAlH4 with PhC(H)=NtBu led to a side‐reaction and gave the double insertion product LiAlH2[N]2 ([N]=N(tBu)CH2Ph) which at higher temperature reacts further by ortho‐metallation of the Ph ring. A DFT study led to a number of conclusions. The most likely catalyst for hydrogenation of PhC(H)=NtBu with LiAlH4 is LiAlH2[N]2. Insertion of a third imine via a heterobimetallic transition state has a barrier of +23.2 kcal mol−1 (ΔH). The rate‐determining step is hydrogenolysis of LiAlH[N]3 with H2 with a barrier of +29.2 kcal mol−1. In agreement with experiment, replacing Li for Na (or K) and Al for B (or Ga) led to higher calculated barriers. Also, the AlH4− anion showed very high barriers. Calculations support the experimentally observed effects of the imine substituents at C and N: the lowest barriers are calculated for imines with aryl‐substituents at C and alkyl‐substituents at N.
Importance and role of CSR and stakeholder engagement strategy in polish companies in the context of activities of experts handling public relations
Authors: Tworzydło Dariusz , Gawroński Sławomir , Szuba Przemysław
Published: September 2020

The article provides an analysis of potential available in corporate social responsibility (CSR) in regard to other activities conducted by Polish public relations (PR) experts and professionals. Different outlooks on social responsibility and PR are also presented in this article, including stakeholder engagement, relationships and practical determinants between them, taking into account practical circumstances characteristic for Polish environment. The hypothesis presented in the article indicates that CSR projects are one of the elements of a wide offer of PR activities offered in Poland, but they do not lie in a specialisation of agencies and are underrated by PR advisors when it comes to their usefulness in image creation. This hypothesis is backed by three independent research projects realised in years 2016–2019, conducted on a group of 852 PR specialists in Poland, which represented different types of organisations. This article is based on in‐house research on PR sector in Poland. Research data was gathered by interview questionnaires using quantitative methodology.
Scale‐dependent impact of land management on above‐ and belowground biodiversity
Authors: Slabbert Eleonore L. , Schweiger Oliver , Wubet Tesfaye , Kautzner Antje , Baessler Cornelia , Auge Harald , Roscher Christiane , Knight Tiffany M.
Published: September 2020

Land management is known to have consequences for biodiversity; however, our synthetic understanding of its effects is limited due to highly variable results across studies, which vary in the focal taxa and spatial grain considered, as well as the response variables reported. Such synthetic knowledge is necessary for management of agroecosystems for high diversity and function.

To fill this knowledge gap, we investigated the importance of scale‐dependent effects of land management (LM) (pastures vs. meadows), on plant and soil microbe diversity (fungi and bacteria) across 5 study sites in Central Germany. Analyses included diversity partitioning of species richness and related biodiversity components (i.e., density of individuals, species‐abundance distribution, and spatial aggregation) at two spatial grains (α‐ and γ‐scale, 1 m2 and 16 km2, respectively).

Our results show scale‐dependent patterns in response to LM to be the norm rather than the exception and highlight the importance of measuring species richness and its underlying components at multiple spatial grains.

Our outcomes provide new insight to the complexity of scale‐dependent responses within and across taxonomic groups. They suggest that, despite close associations between taxa, LM responses are not easily extrapolated across multiple spatial grains and taxa. Responses of biodiversity to LM are often driven by changes to evenness and spatial aggregation, rather than by changes in individual density. High‐site specificity of LM effects might be due to a variety of context‐specific factors, such as historic land management, identity of grazers, and grazing regime.

Synthesis and applications: Our results suggest that links between taxa are not necessarily strong enough to allow for generalization of biodiversity patterns. These findings highlight the importance of considering multiple taxa and spatial grains when investigating LM responses, while promoting management practices that do the same and are tailored to local and regional conditions.
Defining relictual biodiversity: Conservation units in speckled dace (Leuciscidae: Rhinichthys osculus) of the Greater Death Valley ecosystem
Authors: Mussmann Steven M. , Douglas Marlis R. , Oakey David D. , Douglas Michael E.
Published: September 2020

The tips in the tree of life serve as foci for conservation and management, yet clear delimitations are masked by inherent variance at the species–population interface. Analyses using thousands of nuclear loci can potentially sort inconsistencies, yet standard categories applied to this parsing are themselves potentially conflicting and/or subjective [e.g., DPS (distinct population segments); DUs (Diagnosable Units‐Canada); MUs (management units); SSP (subspecies); ESUs (Evolutionarily Significant Units); and UIEUs (uniquely identified evolutionary units)]. One potential solution for consistent categorization is to create a comparative framework by accumulating statistical results from independent studies and evaluating congruence among data sets. Our study illustrates this approach in speckled dace (Leuciscidae: Rhinichthys osculus) endemic to two basins (Owens and Amargosa) in the Death Valley ecosystem. These fish persist in the Mojave Desert as isolated Plio‐Pleistocene relicts and are of conservation concern, but lack formal taxonomic descriptions/designations. Double digest RAD (ddRAD) methods identified 14,355 SNP loci across 10 populations (N = 140). Species delimitation analyses [multispecies coalescent (MSC) and unsupervised machine learning (UML)] delineated four putative ESUs. FST outlier loci (N = 106) were juxtaposed to uncover the potential for localized adaptations. We detected one hybrid population that resulted from upstream reconnection of habitat following contemporary pluvial periods, whereas remaining populations represent relics of ancient tectonism within geographically isolated springs and groundwater‐fed streams. Our study offers three salient conclusions: a blueprint for a multifaceted delimitation of conservation units; a proposed mechanism by which criteria for intraspecific biodiversity can be potentially standardized; and a strong argument for the proactive management of critically endangered Death Valley ecosystem fishes.
Electrolyte Engineering Toward High‐Voltage Aqueous Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Tan Jianfeng , Liu Jinping
Published: September 2020

Aqueous electrochemical energy storage (EES) devices are highly safe, environmentally benign, and inexpensive, but their operating voltage and energy density must be increased if they are to efficiently power multifunctional electronics, new‐energy cars as well as to be used in smart grids. This Minireview summarizes the key breakthroughs and progress in expanding the electrochemical stability window (ESW) of aqueous EES devices over the past five years. After briefly introducing the electrode engineering ways to widen ESW, we focus on four ground‐breaking electrolyte engineering strategies and classify them into two kinds from the perspective of salts and exotic solutes/solvents. The widening degree toward ESW of these emerging electrolytes is compared and the universal fundamental mechanism relating to the interactions between limited water molecules and high‐concentration salts (or large amounts of exotic solutes/solvents) is elucidated. Key challenges and perspectives for high‐ESW electrolytes as well as recent advances in low‐cost and other metal ion (sodium, potassium, zinc, etc.)‐based electrolytes for expanding ESW are also outlined.
Titanium Dioxide/Multi‐walled Carbon Nanotubes Composite Modified Pencil Graphite Sensor for Sensitive Voltammetric Determination of Propranolol in Real Samples
Authors: Dehnavi Azar , Soleymanpour Ahmad
Published: September 2020

A very effective electrochemical sensor for the analysis of propranolol was constructed using TiO2/MWCNT film deposited on the pencil graphite electrode as modifier. The modified electrode represented excellent electrochemical properties such as fast response, high sensitivity and low detection limit. The proposed sensor showed an excellent selective response to propranolol in the presence of foreign species and other drugs. The electrochemical features of the modified electrode were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique which indicated a decrease in resistance of the modified electrode versus bare PGE and MWCNT/PGE. The surface morphology for the modified electrode was determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). Differential pulse technique (DPV) was used to determine propranolol which showed a good analytical response in the linear range of 8.5×10−8‐6.5×10−6 M with a limit of detection 2.1×10−8 M. The TiO2/MWCNT/PGE sensor was conveniently applied for the measurement of propranolol in biological and pharmaceutical media.
Development of an active packaging system containing zinc oxide nanoparticles for the extension of chicken fillet shelf life
Authors: Ahmadi Azam , Ahmadi Parisa , Ehsani Ali
Published: September 2020

The casting method was employed to prepare gelatin‐based nanocomposite films containing different concentrations of cellulose nanofiber (CNF) as a reinforcement filler (2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% w/w of gelatin) as well as zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as an antimicrobial agent (1%, 3%, 5%, and 7% w/w of gelatin). The results showed that the incorporation of 5% CNFs (optimum concentration) significantly boosted the films' stiffness (YM; by 47%) and strength (TS; by 72%) but decreased its flexibility (EAB; by 28%), water vapor permeability, and moisture absorption. The best G/CNF film antibacterial activity was provided by the 5% concentration of ZnO NPs according to the disk diffusion assay; Gram‐positive bacteria were inhibited significantly more than Gram‐negative bacteria. The antimicrobial efficacy of the G/CNF/ZnO NPs film as a food packaging material was assessed via counts of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas fluorescens inoculated on chicken fillets (as a food model) in the treatment (G/5% CNF/5% ZnO) and control groups (plastic bag). The antibacterial film led to a significant reduction in the bacterial load of the chicken fillets (p < .05), especially against the Gram‐positive strain. This study illustrated that G/CNF/ZnO NPs films can be utilized as active packaging to prolong the shelf life of different perishable foods such as meat.
Investigation of the Long‐term Stability of Solid Oxide Electrolysis Stacks under Pressurized Conditions in Exothermic Steam and Co‐electrolysis Mode
Authors: Riedel M. , Heddrich M. P. , Friedrich K. A.
Published: September 2020

In this study three identically constructed ten‐layer stacks with electrolyte supported cells were tested in exothermic steam and co‐electrolysis mode at elevated pressures of 1.4 and 8 bar. Investigations during constant‐current operation at a current density of –0.5 A cm−2 and a reactant conversion of 70% over 1,000–2,000 h were carried out. The inlet gas composition for steam electrolysis was 90/10 (H2O/H2) and 63.7/31.3/3.3/1.7 (H2O/CO2/H2/CO) for co‐electrolysis operation. All stacks showed highly similar resistances at the beginning of the tests indicating a high level of accuracy and repeatability during manufacturing. The stack operated in steam electrolysis mode at 1.4 bar showed comparably low degradation of 8 mV kh−1 cell−1, whereas the stack operated at 8 bar showed an approximately four times higher degradation. The third stack was operated in co‐electrolysis mode at 1.4 and 8 bar and showed noticeably higher degradation rates than during steam electrolysis mode. The predominant increase of the ohmic resistance during operation was identified to be mainly responsible for the observed degradation of all three stacks, whereas the increase of the polarization resistances played a subordinate role. Within the post‐test analysis, noticeably high nickel depletion was observed for the stack operated at the highest pressure in steam electrolysis mode. Furthermore, partial delamination of electrodes was observed. The degradation is discussed with relation to phenomena and experimental parameters during operation.
The impact of net buying pressure on index options prices
Authors: Ryu Doojin , Ryu Doowon , Yang Heejin
Published: September 2020

This study examines whether the demand for options, as measured by the net buying pressure of index options, explains the implied volatility structure created by options prices. We decompose the buying pressure into the direction‐motivated (i.e., delta‐informed) and the volatility‐motivated (i.e., vega‐informed) demand for options. After controlling for options traders' hedging demand, we find that both delta‐ and vega‐informed trading play significant roles in explaining changes in implied volatility. Foreign institutions are more directionally informed in index options trading than their domestic counterparts are. Domestic investors effectively implement volatility trading using put options.
Volcanic geological features and geochemical implications of Late Jurassic volcanoes in Duolun volcanic‐eruption basin of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Han Lingfei , Bai Zhida
Published: September 2020

Duolun volcanic‐eruption basin is part of the Mesozoic Tectono‐Magmatic Belt in the Great Khingan–Taihang Mountains. A lot of previous studies about this region have been made in geochronology, geomorphic genesis, magmatic origin, and Mesozoic Plate tectonic evolution. This article summarizes petrological features of volcanic rocks, lithofacies, volcanic sedimentary sequences, volcanic mechanism, and characters of volcanic eruptions in Duolun volcanic‐eruption basin. The volcanic sedimentary strata in this region are distributed along a series of NE and NNE tectonic belts, and accumulation thicknesses are controlled by volcanic edifices. We identified a total of seven volcanic edifices in Duolun volcanic‐eruption basin. For some typical volcanic edifices, we had studied their compositions, structures, geometries, and spatial distributions in detail, setting up regional volcanic tectonic framework. In the Manketouebo (J3m) cycle, the intensity of the eruption was large, characterized by large broken volcanoes in the early stage, and small dome and cone volcanoes in the late stage. In the Baiyingaolao (J3b) cycle, the strong volcanic activities manifested as Plinian‐type, are characterized by a large circular or nearly circular caldera at the top, moreover, late extrusive and intrusive domes in different cycles, ring faults and radial faults were also developed. Geochemical researches indicate that Duolun volcanic rocks have the basic characteristics of crust–mantle mixed source, and the tectonic environment for the Late Jurassic volcanic rocks is related to the collisional orogeny. Our work has great significance for further research on genesis of volcanic rocks, magma evolution, deep dynamics mechanism and their relationship between mineralization.
Petrogenesis and tectonic implications of Palaeocene (ca. 54 Ma) rhyolites in the western Lhasa Terrane, south Tibet: Constraints from geochemistry and Sr–Nd–Hf isotope compositions
Authors: Ding Xiang‐Li , Ding Lin , Wang Chao , Wang Hou‐Qi , Guo Xu‐Dong
Published: September 2020

The widespread Linzizong volcanic successions (LVS) in the Lhasa Terrane was a magmatic response to the tectonic transition from Neo‐Tethyan oceanic subduction to the India–Asia collision, which has been the subject of many studies; however, studies on the LVS in the western Lhasa Terrane are scarce compared to those in the east, limiting our understanding of the tectonic transition. Zircon U–Pb ages of two rhyolitic samples from the Shiquanhe region in the west of the Lhasa Terrane indicate that at least part of the Zenong Group, previously thought to have formed during the Early Cretaceous, was actually erupted during the Late Palaeocene (ca. 54 Ma) and belongs to the LVS. The rhyolites are characterized by high SiO2 and Al2O3, moderate K2O and Na2O, and low MgO, CaO, and FeO contents, enrichment in Rb and Th, depletion in Sr, Ba, Eu, Nb, and Ta, and have relatively uniform whole‐rock εNd(t) (−1.90 to −0.89) and zircon εHf(t) (+0.95 to +5.03) values. These geochemical characteristics indicate that they were formed by the partial melting of juvenile continental crust with subsequent plagioclase, biotite, amphibole, and Fe–Ti oxide fractionation. Combined with the results of previous studies, our data show that the western Lhasa Terrane underwent intensive Early Cenozoic crustal growth, similar to what occurred in the east, due to underplating of mantle‐derived magma resulting from the roll‐back and eventual break‐off of the Neo‐Tethys slab after the initial continental collision.
Subsurface flow measurements using passive flux meters in variably‐saturated cold‐regions landscapes
Authors: Devoie Élise G. , Connon Ryan F. , Craig James R. , Quinton William L.
Published: September 2020

To date, passive flux meters have predominantly been applied in temperate environments for tracking the movement of contaminants in groundwater. This study applies these instruments to reduce uncertainty in (typically instantaneous) flux measurements made in a low‐gradient, wetland dominated, discontinuous permafrost environment. This method supports improved estimation of unsaturated and over‐winter subsurface flows which are very difficult to quantify using hydraulic gradient‐based approaches. Improved subsurface flow estimates can play a key role in understanding the water budget of this landscape.
Improving statistical arbitrage investment strategy: Evidence from Latin American stock markets
Authors: Caneo Fernando , Kristjanpoller Werner
Published: September 2020

This paper analyses the profitability of pairs trading strategy in Latin American stock markets through a PCA approach with a multi‐factorial model. We propose two criteria for selecting the optimal thresholds by using moving training‐trading windows. By applying the methodology in six countries with 338 stocks in total for the period 2013–2017, we found that this strategy outperforms the markets' Sharpe ratio by 1.55 points on average. In addition, by using a correlation matrix, we found that the largest eigenvalue is clearly dominant and that its associated eigenportfolio presents a co‐movement with the market while the number of dominant components is contrary to market volatility.
The role of time‐varying risk premia in international interbank markets
Authors: Karouzakis Nikolaos
Published: September 2020

We study international interbank spreads within a no‐arbitrage dynamic term structure model and attempt to disentangle time‐varying risk premia in the interbank market for major currencies. Our results suggest that, at the peak of financial crisis, the interbank spread was clearly driven by liquidity risk. In the aftermath of the crisis, credit risk has become the dominant driver of the spread. This effect is stronger in the Euro and UK markets, due to the escalation of the European sovereign debt crisis, and weaker in the Japanese market which experienced remarkably low credit pressures. Furthermore, we assess the effectiveness of monetary policy actions and demonstrate that the establishment of the unconventional policy programmes led to the deterioration of liquidity risk in the interbank market, and the policy of major Central banks to substantially cut interest rates kept credit pressures at low levels. We also partition the spread into expectation hypothesis and time‐varying risk premium components and reject the hypothesis of constant risk premium. We find strong evidence of predictability inferred from the interbank spread model with time‐varying risk premia.
The performance of social responsible investing from retail investors' perspective: international evidence
Authors: Badía Guillermo , Ferruz Luis , Cortez Maria Céu
Published: September 2020

This paper investigates the performance of socially responsible investment (SRI) portfolios compared to conventional investments. Adopting a retail investor's perspective, we provide evidence of SRI financial performance at the worldwide level as well as at the regional level, for five regions (North America, Europe except UK, UK, Pacific region and emerging markets). Our results show that the performance of global SRI portfolios is higher than conventional investments. Moreover, we observe differences in the financial performance of regional SRI portfolios in the overall period and, in particular, in bear markets. These results suggest that country‐specific factors may affect the relationship between corporate social and financial performance.
Financial development, real sector and economic growth: Evidence from emerging market economies
Authors: Raghutla Chandrashekar , Chittedi Krishna Reddy
Published: September 2020

There is a developing concern among developed, developing, and emerging economies in relevance to increasing real sector expenditure across the world. As a result, all countries have started to increase their real sector expenditure by increasing the share of finance. Hence, this study aims to examine the effects of both financial development and real sector on economic growth; we choose five emerging market economies to explain the economic growth process between 2000 and 2016. The results of long‐run elasticities document that real sector and financial development play a significant role in promoting economic growth. The results also suggest that money supply, exchange rate and inflation have a considerable positive effect on economic growth, respectively. Given these findings, we suggest that both governments and policy makers of the BRICS nations to initiate more effective policies to increase the real sector expenditure and develop financial sector. The increasing real sector will allow the economies to grow further by ensuring sustainable economic development across the BRICS member countries.
Is there a J‐curve in China‐U.S. trade?
Authors: Upadhyaya Kamal P. , Mixon Franklin G. , Bhandari Rabindra
Published: September 2020

A recent series of empirical studies of the impact of real currency devaluations on a country's trade balance has produced mixed result regarding the J‐curve hypothesis. Thus, in an effort to extend the literature by shedding additional light on the validity of the J‐curve hypothesis, this study revisits the J‐curve hypothesis using data on bilateral trade involving China and the U.S. Results from error correction estimation show that an increase in domestic as well as foreign income significantly improves China's trade balance with U.S., while the monetary variables (both domestic and foreign) have no effect on that trade balance. The key finding is that a depreciation of China's currency initially worsens its trade balance, but, over time, its trade balance improves. This pattern supports the J‐curve hypothesis that is tested in prior studies with mixed results.
The effects of mesenchymal stem cell mitochondrial transplantation on doxorubicin‐mediated nephrotoxicity in rats
Authors: Kubat Gokhan Burcin , Ozler Mehmet , Ulger Oner , Ekinci Ozgur , Atalay Ozbeyen , Celik Ertugrul , Safali Mukerrem , Budak Murat Timur
Published: September 2020

The effect of dysfunctional mitochondria in several cell pathologies has been reported in renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy and acute kidney injury. Previous studies have reported that mitochondrial transplantation provided surprising results in myocardial and liver ischemia, as well as in Parkinson's disease. We aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of isolated mitochondria transplantation from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in vivo, to mitigate renal damage that arises from doxorubicin‐mediated nephrotoxicity and its action mechanism. In this study, a kidney model of doxorubicin‐mediated nephrotoxicity was used and isolated mitochondria from MSCs were transferred to the renal cortex of rats. The findings showed that the rate of isolated mitochondria from MSCs maintains sufficient membrane integrity, and was associated with a beneficial renal therapeutic effect. Following doxorubicin‐mediated renal injury, isolated mitochondria or vehicle infused into the renal cortex and rats were monitored for five days. This study found that mitochondrial transplantation decreased cellular oxidative stress and promoted regeneration of tubular cells after renal injury (P < .001, P = .009). Moreover, mitochondrial transplantation reduced protein accumulation of tubular cells and reversed renal deficits (P = .01, P < .001). Mitochondrial transplantation increased Bcl‐2 levels, and caspase‐3 levels decreased in injured renal cells (P < .015, P < .001). Our results provide a direct link between mitochondria dysfunction and doxorubicin‐mediated nephrotoxicity and suggest a therapeutic effect of transferring isolated mitochondria obtained from MSCs against renal injury. To our knowledge, this study is the first study in the literature that showed good therapeutic effects of mitochondrial transplantation in a nephrotoxicity model, which is under‐researched.