bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revegetation pattern affecting accumulation of organic carbon and total nitrogen in reclaimed mine soils
Authors: Zhang Ping Ping , Zhang Yan Le , Jia Jun Chao , Cui Yong Xing , Wang Xia , Zhang Xing Chang , Wang Yun Qiang
Published: March 2020

Selecting optimal revegetation patterns, i.e., patterns that are more effective for soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) accumulation, is particularly important for mine land reclamation. However, there have been few evaluations of the effects of different revegetation patterns on the SOC and TN in reclaimed mine soils on the Loess Plateau, China. In this study, the SOC and TN stocks were investigated at reclaimed mine sites (RMSs), including artificially revegetated sites (ARSs) (arbors (Ar), bushes (Bu), arbor-bush mixtures (AB), and grasslands (Gr)) and a natural recovery site (NRS), as well as at undisturbed native sites (UNSs). Overall, the SOC and TN stocks in the RMSs were lower than those in the UNSs over 10–13 years after reclamation. The SOC stocks in the RMSs and UNSs only differed in the top 0–20 cm of the soil (p < 0.05). Except for those in Ar, the SOC and TN stocks in the ARSs were significantly larger than those in the NRS (p < 0.05). Compared with those in the NRS, the total SOC stocks in the 100 cm soil interval increased by 51.4%, 59.9%, and 109.9% for Bu, AB, and Gr, respectively, and the TN stocks increased by 33.1%, 35.1%, and 57.9%. The SOC stocks in the 0–100 cm soil interval decreased in the order of Gr (3.78 kg m−2) > AB (2.88 kg m−2) ≥ Bu (2.72 kg m−2), and the TN stocks exhibited a similar trend. These results suggest that grasslands were more favorable than woodlands for SOC and TN accumulation in this arid area. Thus, in terms of the accumulation of SOC and TN, grassland planting is recommended as a revegetation pattern for areas with reclaimed mine soils.
Reliability of the velocity achieved during the last repetition of sets to failure and its association with the velocity of the 1-repetition maximum
Authors: García-Ramos Amador , Janicijevic Danica , González-Hernández Jorge M. , Keogh Justin W.L. , Weakley Jonathon
Published: March 2020

Background

This study aimed to determine the reliability of the velocity achieved during the last repetition of sets to failure (Vlast) and the association of Vlast with the velocity of the 1-repetition maximum (V1RM) during the paused and touch-and-go bench press (BP) exercises performed in a Smith machine.

Methods

A total of 96 healthy men participated in this study that consisted of two testing sessions. A single BP variant (paused BP or touch-and-go BP) was evaluated on each session in a randomized order. Each session consisted of an incremental loading test until reaching the 1RM, followed by two sets of repetitions to failure against a load ranging from 75% to 90% of 1RM.

Results

The reliability of Vlast was unacceptable for both BP variants (CV > 18.3%, ICC < 0.60). The correlations between V1RM and Vlast were small for the paused BP (r = 0.18) and moderate for the touch-and-go BP (r = 0.37).

Conclusions

Although these results suggest that Vlast could be a better indicator of the minimal velocity threshold than V1RM, the low reliability of Vlast and the similar values of Vlast for both BP variants suggest that a standard V1RM should be used to estimate the 1RM from the individualized load-velocity relationship.
Application of artificially intelligent systems for the identification of discrete fossiliferous levels
Authors: Martín-Perea David M. , Courtenay Lloyd A. , Domingo M. Soledad , Morales Jorge
Published: March 2020

The separation of discrete fossiliferous levels within an archaeological or paleontological site with no clear stratigraphic horizons has historically been carried out using qualitative approaches, relying on two-dimensional transversal and longitudinal projection planes. Analyses of this type, however, can often be conditioned by subjectivity based on the perspective of the analyst. This study presents a novel use of Machine Learning algorithms for pattern recognition techniques in the automated separation and identification of fossiliferous levels. This approach can be divided into three main steps including: (1) unsupervised Machine Learning for density based clustering (2) expert-in-the-loop Collaborative Intelligence Learning for the integration of geological data followed by (3) supervised learning for the final fine-tuning of fossiliferous level models. For evaluation of these techniques, this method was tested in two Late Miocene sites of the Batallones Butte paleontological complex (Madrid, Spain). Here we show Machine Learning analyses to be a valuable tool for the processing of spatial data in an efficient and quantitative manner, successfully identifying the presence of discrete fossiliferous levels in both Batallones-3 and Batallones-10. Three discrete fossiliferous levels have been identified in Batallones-3, whereas another three have been differentiated in Batallones-10.
Bayesian Analysis of Weibull-Lindley Distribution Using Different Loss Functions
Authors: Eraikhuemen Innocent Boyle , Bamigbala Olateju Alao , Magaji Umar Alhaji , Yakura Bassa Shiwaye , Manju Kabiru Ahmed
Published: March 2020

In the present paper, a three-parameter Weibull-Lindley distribution is considered for Bayesian analysis. The estimation of a shape parameter of Weibull-Lindley distribution is obtained with the help of both the classical and Bayesian methods. Bayesian estimators are obtained by using Jeffrey’s prior, uniform prior and Gamma prior under square error loss function, quadratic loss function and Precautionary loss function. Estimation by the method of Maximum likelihood is also discussed. These methods are compared by using mean square error through simulation study with varying parameter values and sample sizes.
Interfacial and Electronic Modulation via Localized Sulfurization for Boosting Lithium Storage Kinetics
Authors: Ruan Tingting , Wang Bo , Yang Yubo , Zhang Xu , Song Rensheng , Ning Yu , Wang Zhenbo , Yu Haijun , Zhou Yu , Wang Dianlong , Liu Huakun , Dou Shixue
Published: March 2020

Structural modulation endows electrochemical hybrids with promising energy storage properties owing to their adjustable interfacial and/or electronic characteristics. For MXene‐based materials, however, the facile but effective strategies for tuning their structural properties at nanoscale are still lacking. Herein, 3D crumpled S‐functionalized Ti3C2Tx substrate is rationally integrated with Fe3O4/FeS heterostructures via coprecipitation and subsequent partial sulfurization to induce a highly active and stable electrode architecture. The unique heterostructures with tuned electronic properties can induce improved kinetics and structural stability. The surface engineering by S terminations on the MXene further unlocks extra (pseudo)capacitive lithium storage. Serving as anode for lithium storage, the optimized electrode delivers an excellent long‐term cycling stability (913.9 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1) and superior rate capability (490.4 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1). Moreover, the (de)lithiation pathways associated with energy storage mechanisms are further revealed by operando X‐ray diffraction, in situ electroanalytical techniques, and first‐principles calculations. The hybrid electrode is proved to undergo stepwise phase transformations during discharging but a relatively uniform reconversion during charging, suggesting an asymmetric conversion mechanism. This work provides a novel strategy for designing high‐performance hybrids and paves the way for in‐depth understanding of complex lithium intercalation and conversion reactions.
Scattering Mechanisms and Compositional Optimization of High‐Performance Elemental Te as a Thermoelectric Material
Authors: Wu Yehao , Zhang Qi , Liu Feng , Fang Teng , Zhu Tiejun , Zhao Xinbing
Published: March 2020

p‐Type elemental tellurium (Te) has been found to be a promising thermoelectric (TE) material due to its high band degeneracy near the valence band maximum, and has exhibited a high zT ≈ 1.0 above 600 K. However, when forming Te1−xSex solid solutions, the maximal zTs are reduced because of the severely decreased carrier concentration. It is demonstrated that Se alloying is beneficial for enhancing TE performance of elemental Te provided the carrier concentration is optimized. Through Se alloying, the lattice thermal conductivity is remarkably suppressed by the induced large mass and strain field fluctuation, while the power factor can be maintained at a relatively high value as a result of the moderate alloying scattering potential, the unchanged density‐of‐state effective mass, and the optimized carrier concentration in Te1−xSex alloys. Notably, a positive temperature dependence of carrier mobility is observed near room temperature in Te1−xSex, which is proven to be caused by grain boundary scattering. A maximal zT ≈ 1.05 at 625 K is realized in Te0.93Se0.04As0.03 alloys, about 9% higher than the Se‐free Te. The conversion efficiency between 300 and 625 K is also improved ≈18% via Se alloying.
Metal‐Organic Framework Integrated Anodes for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yuksel Recep , Buyukcakir Onur , Seong Won Kyung , Ruoff Rodney S.
Published: March 2020

Zinc‐based batteries have a high capacity and are safe, cost‐effective, environmentally‐friendly, and capable of scalable production. However, dendrite formation and poor reversibility hinder their performance. Metal‐organic framework (MOF)‐based Zn anodes are made by wet chemistry to address these issues. These MOF‐based anodes exhibit high efficiency during Zn plating‐stripping and prevent dendrite formation, as shown by ex situ SEM analysis. The practicality of the MOF‐based anodes is demonstrated in aqueous Zn ion batteries, which show improved performance including specific capacity, cycle life, and safety relative to the pristine Zn anode due to their hydrophilic and porous surface. These results, along with the easy scalability of the process, demonstrate the high potential of MOF‐modified Zn anodes for use in dendrite‐free, higher‐performance, Zn‐based energy storage systems.
Agronomic and economic impacts of cover crops in Texas rolling plains cotton
Authors: DeLaune Paul B. , Mubvumba P. , Fan Y. , Bevers S.
Published: March 2020

Cover crops have been proposed as a resource that could enhance the effect of no‐till (NT) cropping systems. Crop yield limitations due to cover crops in the U.S. Great Plains are a concern to potential adopters. This research determined the impact of cover crops on crop yield and economic return compared with conventional practices in dryland systems of the Texas Rolling Plains. The study conducted at the Texas A&M AgriLife Chillicothe Research Station evaluated the following treatments: (a) conventional till (CT); (b) NT, and NT with the following cover crops; (c) Austrian winter pea (Pisum sativum L.); (d) hairy vetch (Vicia villosa L.); (e) crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.); (f) winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.); and (g) a multi‐species mixture. Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) yields, expenses, and returns were determined over a 4‐yr period (2013–2016). Cover crops increased total seed costs compared to CT and NT. Hairy vetch and the multi‐species mixture increased total expenses over CT and NT. However, no significant treatment effect was determined for crop yield or net return among treatments. A multi‐species mixture did not provide an agronomic or economic advantage compared to single species cover crop approaches. Under dryland conditions in the Texas Rolling Plains, these selected cover crops maintained cotton yields without negatively affecting net returns. Other ecosystem services should be considered prior to implementing cover crops in studied cropping systems. Site‐specific research is warranted in regions of the southern Great Plains where water may be more limited than the Texas Rolling Plains.
Narrow rows and high maize plant population improve water use and grain yield under conservation agriculture
Authors: Haarhoff Stephanus J. , Swanepoel Pieter A.
Published: March 2020

The relationship between maize (Zea mays L.) population density and grain yield is influenced by soil and crop management strategies, including Conservation Agriculture (CA). However, little is known about the response of maize grain yield to varying plant population and/or row spacing under CA. A 3‐yr study was conducted under CA to evaluate the effects of plant population and row spacing on maize grain yield, plant available soil water, and soil temperature. Plant populations ranging from 40,000 to 80,000 plants ha−1 were evaluated at three row spacings (0.5, 0.76, and 1.0 m). The response of maize grain yield to plant population was highly variable between seasons: it was not affected by plant population in the season with the highest early season rainfall but increased with increasing plant population in the driest season and in the season with well‐distributed, near average rainfall. Higher plant populations resulted in lower soil water levels, presumably due to greater water extraction. Plant population affected soil water availability in the 20‐ to 80‐cm soil layer in Season 2, while plant population affected soil water availability at all soil layers except the 10‐ to 20‐ and 60‐ to 80‐cm soil layers in Season 3. Rapid maize leaf‐canopy closure provided by increased plant population and narrower row spacing is critical to adequately utilize the benefits associated with CA.
Evaluation of eastern gamagrass and a sorghum × sudangrass for summer pasture
Authors: Keyser Patrick D. , Lituma Christopher M. , Bates Gary E. , Holcomb Elizabeth D. , Waller John C. , Griffith Andrew P.
Published: March 2020

Improved summer forage production is important in forage systems dominated by cool‐season perennial grasses. Improved forage may be especially important for heifer [Bos taurus (L)] development. Therefore, we compared two summer forage options, a perennial, eastern gamagrass [Tripsacum dactyloides (L.) L.], and a widely used summer annual, sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] × sudangrass [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench ssp. drummondii (Nees ex Steud.) de Wet & Harlan] hybrid, as options for providing summer pasture for bred heifers (418 ± 31 kg initial body mass). We used put‐and‐take grazing (i.e., routine adjustment of stocking to maintain target canopy conditions) to evaluate pasture characteristics, animal performance, and pasture productivity, 2013–2015. Crude protein of eastern gamagrass (EG) exceeded (P = 0.01) that of the sorghum × sudangrass hybrid (SXS), but FM, ADF, and NDF were all similar between the two forage types. Although SXS provided greater ADG (P = 0.03) in two of three years, EG provided twice as many AD ha−1 (P = 0.03) and consequently, greater (P < .001) GAIN in two of three years. Calving rates (89%) did not differ between the two forages. Increased N rates (67 vs.137 kg ha−1 N) did not alter EG pasture characteristics but appeared to improve GAIN (279 and 355 kg ha−1, respectively). Cost of gain was greater for SXS in 2014 and 2015 ($1.71 and $1.64 kg−1) than for EG ($0.62 and $0.62 kg−1). Both EG and SXS could be useful for providing summer forage for bred heifers.
An aerosol reactor for the controlled synthesis of heterogeneous catalyst particles
Authors: Bukhovko Maxim P. , Hanna Brian S. , Kucharski Timothy J. , Ostraat Michele L.
Published: March 2020

Commercialized catalysts are often needed in multiton quantities for industrial deployment. Although scalable, manufacturing methods to produce catalysts at quantity often produce materials with an ensemble of physical and chemical characteristics. This work explores an aerosol reactor to synthesize homogeneous, uniform catalyst materials in order to develop correlations between key chemical and physical characteristics and their resulting catalytic performance. With these insights, we optimize reactor processing conditions to engineer particles with the desired physical and chemical characteristics to produce enhanced performance catalysts. Control over several process parameters, including reactor residence time, temperature, precursor type, and precursor composition, allows for the rational determination of key physical and chemical characteristics on the resulting catalyst materials and enables process optimization to engineer catalysts with enhanced performance. To demonstrate the methodology, the aerosol reactor was used to synthesize and optimize WO
x catalyst materials for the isomerization and metathesis of a 2‐butene feed into propylene.
Linear and Nonlinear Fiber Propagation of Partially Coherent Fields Exhibiting Temporal Correlations
Authors: Audo Frédéric , Rigneault Hervé , Finot Christophe
Published: March 2020

Using an ultrafast photonic first‐order differentiator applied on a partially coherent field, the generation of two correlated temporal waveforms is reported and their correlation properties upon linear and nonlinear propagation along the two orthogonal polarization axes of a dispersive optical fiber are studied. Temporal correlations are maintained in linear propagation whereas Kerr nonlinearity generates anticorrelated temporal intensity patterns for both partially and uncorrelated fields. Experiments are in close agreement with the theoretical analysis.
A Diffusion‐‐Reaction Competition Mechanism to Tailor Lithium Deposition for Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Ru , Yao Yu‐Xing , Yan Chong , Zhang Rui , Cheng Xin‐Bing , Zhang Qiang
Published: March 2020

Lithium metal is recognized as one of the most promising anode materials owing to its ultrahigh theoretical specific capacity and low electrochemical potential. Nonetheless, dendritic Li growth has dramatically hindered the practical applications of Li metal anodes. Realizing spherical Li deposition is an effective approach to avoid Li dendrite growth, but the mechanism of spherical deposition is unknown. Herein, a diffusion‐reaction competition mechanism is proposed to reveal the rationale of different Li deposition morphologies. By controlling the rate‐determining step (diffusion or reaction) of Li deposition, various Li deposition scenarios are realized, in which the diffusion‐controlled process tends to lead to dendritic Li deposition while the reaction‐controlled process leads to spherical Li deposition. This study sheds fresh light on the dendrite‐free Li metal anode and guides to achieve safe batteries to benefit future wireless and fossil‐fuel‐free world.
Trapping of Difluorocarbene by Frustrated Lewis Pairs
Authors: Smirnov Vladimir O. , Volodin Alexander D. , Korlyukov Alexander A. , Dilman Alexander D.
Published: March 2020

Frustrated Lewis pairs consisting of diphenylphosphino and boryl groups located at the ortho‐position can trap difluorocarbene affording stable zwitterionic adducts. The reaction can be reversed to release difluorocarbene at elevated temperatures.
Synthesis of Galactosyl‐Queuosine and Distribution of Hypermodified Q‐Nucleosides in Mouse Tissues
Authors: Thumbs Peter , Ensfelder Timm T. , Hillmeier Markus , Wagner Mirko , Heiss Matthias , Scheel Constanze , Schön Alexander , Müller Markus , Michalakis Stylianos , Kellner Stefanie , Carell Thomas
Published: March 2020

Queuosine (Q) is a hypermodified RNA nucleoside that is found in tRNAHis, tRNAAsn, tRNATyr, and tRNAAsp. It is located at the wobble position of the tRNA anticodon loop, where it can interact with U as well as C bases located at the respective position of the corresponding mRNA codons. In tRNATyr and tRNAAsp of higher eukaryotes, including humans, the Q base is for yet unknown reasons further modified by the addition of a galactose and a mannose sugar, respectively. The reason for this additional modification, and how the sugar modification is orchestrated with Q formation and insertion, is unknown. Here, we report a total synthesis of the hypermodified nucleoside galactosyl‐queuosine (galQ). The availability of the compound enabled us to study the absolute levels of the Q‐family nucleosides in six different organs of newborn and adult mice, and also in human cytosolic tRNA. Our synthesis now paves the way to a more detailed analysis of the biological function of the Q‐nucleoside family.
Organic Spherical Nucleic Acids for the Transport of a NIR‐II‐Emitting Dye Across the Blood–Brain Barrier
Authors: Xiao Fan , Lin Lin , Chao Zhicong , Shao Chen , Chen Zhe , Wei Zixiang , Lu Jingxiong , Huang Yishun , Li Lanqing , Liu Quan , Liang Yongye , Tian Leilei
Published: March 2020

DNA nanotechnology plays an increasingly important role in the biomedical field; however, its application in the design of organic nanomaterials is underexplored. Herein, we report the use of DNA nanotechnology to transport a NIR‐II‐emitting nanofluorophore across the blood–brain barrier (BBB), facilitating non‐invasive imaging of brain tumors. Specifically, the DNA block copolymer, PS‐b‐DNA, is synthesized through a solid‐phase click reaction. We demonstrate that its self‐assembled structure shows exceptional cluster effects, among which BBB‐crossing is the most notable. Therefore, PS‐b‐DNA is utilized as an amphiphilic matrix to fabricate a NIR‐II nanofluorephore, which is applied in in vivo bioimaging. Accordingly, the NIR‐II fluorescence signal of the DNA‐based nanofluorophore localized at a glioblastoma is 3.8‐fold higher than the NIR‐II fluorescence signal of the PEG‐based counterpart. The notably increased imaging resolution will significantly benefit the further diagnosis and therapy of brain tumors.
DFT Comparison the Performance of Pd10Sn5 and Pd10Ag5 Electrocatalyst for Reduction of CO2
Authors: Han Yu , Zhang Zhijia , Guo Xinyi , Xing Minmin , Guo Ling
Published: March 2020

CO2 electrocatalysis as a hydrocarbon is a promising means of achieving economical CO2‐mediated hydrogen energy cycling. Hydrocarbons are renewable hydrogen storage materials. The development of reliable metal alloy electrocatalysts is an urgent but challenging task associated with such systems, although there is still a lack of precise reaction mechanism design.

In this study, the performance of Pd10Ag5 alloy nanoparticles (NPs) and Pd10Sn5 alloy nanoparticles (NPs) on the electrocatalytic reaction of CO2 was compare. The kinetic and density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that the selectivity of the Pd‐based bimetallic catalyst to the C2 product is greater than that of C1, and the stability of Pd10Ag5 is better and less affected by the reaction environment. However, the catalytic performance of the Pd10Sn5 electrocatalyst in the liquid phase is the best. The insight obtained from the calculations is used to develop criteria for identifying new and improved catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction.
Enhancing performance of α‐diiminonickel precatalyst for ethylene polymerization by substitution with the 2,4‐bis(4,4'‐dimethoxybenzhydryl)‐6‐methylphenyl group
Authors: Yuan Shi‐Fang , Fan Zhe , Zhang Qiuyue , Flisak Zygmunt , Ma Yanping , Sun Yang , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: March 2020

High activities in ethylene polymerization predetermine α‐diiminonickel precatalysts for potential industrial applications. In our study, we have synthesized and characterized a series of unsymmetrical 1‐(2,4‐bis(4,4′‐dimethoxybenzhydryl)‐6‐MeC6H2N)‐2‐arylimino‐acenaphthylene nickel(II) halides. The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction study of representative compounds reveals distorted tetrahedral geometry. On activation with either Me2AlCl or modified methylaluminoxane, these nickel complexes exhibit high activities of the order of 106 g of PE (mol of Ni)−1 h−1 and produce polyethylene of generic application characterized by high molecular weight, narrow molecular weight distribution, and moderate degree of branching. The substituents at the ligands affect the catalytic performance of the nickel complexes and tune the microstructure of the resultant polyethylene.
Highly Porous NiCoSe4 Microspheres as High‐Performance Anode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Xiaolian , Men Shuang , Zheng Hui , Qin Dong‐Dong , Kang Xiongwu
Published: March 2020

Binary transition metal selenides have been more promising than single transition metal selenides as anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). However, the controlled synthesis of transition metal selenides, especially those derived from metal‐organic‐frameworks with well‐controlled structure and morphology is still challenging. In this paper, highly porous NiCoSe4@NC composite microspheres were synthesized by simultaneous carbonization and selenization of a Ni−Co‐based metal‐organic framework (NiCo‐MOF) and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transition electron microscopy, X‐Ray diffraction, X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques. The rationally engineered NiCoSe4@NC composite exhibits a capacity of 325 mAh g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1, and 277.8 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1. Most importantly, the NiCoSe4@NC retains a capacity of 293 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 1500 cycles, with a capacity decay rate of 0.025 % per cycle.
Vulnerabilität von Verkehrswasserbauwerken
Authors: Akkermann Jan , Weiler Simon
Published: March 2020

Der bautechnische Zustand der in die Jahre gekommenen Verkehrsinfrastruktur verlangt in Kombination mit Ressourcenknappheit nach einer Priorisierung von Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen. Im Rahmen der Sicherheitsforschung des Bundes untersucht das Verbundforschungsvorhaben PREVIEW die Auswirkung von Sicherheitsszenarien auf die Verkehrsströme und den Bevölkerungsschutz am westdeutschen Kanalnetz. Als relevantes Sicherheitsszenario hat sich hierbei der Instandsetzungsstau bei den Verkehrswasserbauwerken erwiesen. Deren Ausfallwahrscheinlichkeit wird maßgeblich durch ihre Vulnerabilität hinsichtlich definierter Sicherheitsszenarien bestimmt. Für die Ermittlung der Vulnerabilität werden mehrdimensionale Fehlerbäume unter Berücksichtigung der Bauwerksrobustheit herangezogen. Die so ermittelte Ausfallwahrscheinlichkeit dient zusammen mit der Bauwerkskritikalität der Risikobetrachtung auf Bauwerksebene. Die Bauwerksergebnisse dienen als Grundlage für Resilienzuntersuchungen auf Kanalnetzebene.
Valid Exposure Protocols Needed in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Genotoxic Research
Authors: Wilén Jonna , Olsrud Johan , Frankel Jennifer , Hansson Mild Kjell
Published: March 2020

Several in vitro and in vivo studies have investigated if a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination can cause DNA damage in human blood cells. However, the electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure that the cells received in the MR scanner was not sufficiently described. The first studies looking into this could be regarded as hypothesis‐generating studies. However, for further exploration into the role of MRI exposure on DNA integrity, the exposure itself cannot be ignored. The lack of sufficient method descriptions makes the early experiments difficult, if not impossible, to repeat. The golden rule in all experimental work is that a study should be repeatable by someone with the right knowledge and equipment, and this is simply not the case with many of the recent studies on MRI and genotoxicity. Here we discuss what is lacking in previous studies, and how we think the next generation of in vitro and in vivo studies on MRI and genotoxicity should be performed. Bioelectromagnetics. © 2020 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
Enzyme engineering: Reshaping the biocatalytic functions
Authors: Ali Misha , Ishqi Hassan Mubarak , Husain Qayyum
Published: March 2020

Enzyme engineering is a powerful tool to fine‐tune the enzymes. It is a technique by which the stability, activity, and specificity of the enzymes can be altered. The characteristic properties of an enzyme can be amended by immobilization and protein engineering. Among them, protein engineering is the most promising, as in addition to amending the stability and activity, it is the only way to modulate the specificity and stereoselectivity of enzymes. The current review sheds light on protein engineering and the approaches applied for it on the basis of the degree of knowledge of structure and function of enzymes. Enzymes, which have been engineered are also discussed in detail and categorized on the basis of their respective applications. This will give a better insight into the revolutionary changes brought by protein engineering of enzymes in various industrial and environmental processes.
Consider college presidents’ viewpoints on name, image, likeness issue
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: March 2020

ANAHEIM, Calif. — When the NCAA originally developed the rules for name, image, and likeness, social media wasn't part of the landscape, noted Gary Olson, President of Daemen College in New York. But now, in today's economy, student‐athletes have the ability to earn money doing other things besides playing their sport, he added. “We need to modernize, because the world's leaving us behind,” he said, stressing that he's not talking about going as far as pay‐for‐play. And it isn't fair to prevent student‐athletes from earning money while some of their peers profit from having a lot of followers on social media, he added.
Experts weigh in on NCAA name, image, likeness debate
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: March 2020

ANAHEIM, Calif. — As the name, image, and likeness issue continues to be debated across the nation, and everyone associated with college sports tries to figure out how they might prepare as they await the NCAA's new legislation (expected by January 2021) on the matter, there's always room to gain insight. To add additional perspectives in this area, the NCAA's annual convention featured panels of leaders and experts to tackle many of the key issues at play.
The power of sophistication: How service design cues help in service failures
Authors: Terres Mellina da Silva , Herter Márcia Maurer , Costa Pinto Diego , Mazzon José A.
Published: March 2020

By analyzing three experimental studies, this research tests how and when sophisticated service environment designs (compared to modest service designs) can minimize consumers' negative emotions and increase repurchase intentions after a failure. Drawing on part‐list cueing literature, this research proposes that when a service failure occurs in a sophisticated (vs. modest) environment, consumers will rely on the sophisticated style of design as cues for service quality. We argue that sophisticated (vs. modest) service designs work as strong cues for quality that restrict the retrieval of negative information by consumers and can minimize the negative impacts of service failure, reducing consumers' negative emotions and increasing repurchase intentions. We further advance our theorizing by showing how choice failure consequences (i.e., the risk or consequence related to the service choice) moderate the effects via associative pathways of retrieval. The findings contribute to theory and practice by revealing how service designs can serve as cues to mitigate adverse consequences of service failure.
A step forward in predicting anterograde crossing success for infrapopliteal chronic total occlusions
Authors: Winscott John G. , Hillegass William B.
Published: March 2020

Key Points

Forty to fifty percent of critical limb ischemia patients have infrainguinal chronic total occlusions, frequently below‐the‐knee.

With probabilities ranging from 21 to 90%, the Infrapop‐CTO Score presented here in CCI predicts the likelihood of anterograde crossing of infrapopliteal chronic total occlusions (CTO).

Based on cap morphology, occlusion length, calcification, and restenosis status, the score is easily assessed in the lab.

An unfavorable Infrapop‐CTO Score of 5 or 6, particularly coupled with convex proximal and distal caps (chronic total occlusion plaque [CTOP] Type IV), portends very low (21%) probability of successful anterograde crossing. An initial retrograde crossing strategy should be considered in these patients when technically feasible, followed by combined anterograde‐retrograde intervention.
Invasive imaging of myocardial infarction patients: Is less or more better?
Authors: Grines Cindy L. , Marshall John J.
Published: March 2020

Key Points

Advanced intravascular imaging or fractional flow reserve in acute myocardial infarction patients may be safely performed and may be associated with clinical benefits.

Since this is a nonrandomized registry with too few numbers to adequately evaluate mortality, it is uncertain whether clinical outcomes are truly improved.

Adequately powered randomized trials using advanced imaging versus angiographic guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) would be helpful.
Rapid prediction of Apparent Amylose, total starch, and crude protein by near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy for foxtail millet (Setaria italica)
Authors: Zhang Haiying , Wang Xiaoming , Wang Feng , Zhao Fang , Li Xinru , Fan Guangyu , Zhao Zhihai , Guo Pingyi
Published: March 2020

Background and objectives

The aim of this study was to construct near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) models to test the contents of apparent amylose, total starch, and crude protein for both foxtail millet grain and dehusked millet grain. The construction of models is based on chemical values and optimized spectral data of 111 core foxtail millet germplasm materials after analyzation of partial least square (PLS) method with cross‐validation.

Findings

Model calibration showed that there was better fitting degree of dehusked millet grain than that of foxtail millet. The coefficient determination for calibration (Rc2) of former is >0.843, while that of latter is >0.823. The coefficient determination of prediction (Rp2) of each component ranged from 0.794 to 0.888 for foxtail millet grain and 0.833 to 0.970 for dehusked millet grain.

Conclusions

The constructed NIRS models of both samples can be used to rapidly test foxtail millet quality, and the nondestructive nature of foxtail millet grain‐based test (which maintains seed vigor) better meets the requirements of the breeding, although the accuracy needs to be further improved.

Significance and novelty

This study developed a rapid method to detect the main nutritional quality for foxtail millet using two different samples, which can be used in germplasm resource innovation and contribute to the acceleration of cereal breeding.
An unusual case of plasmablastic lymphoma presenting as dermatomyositis
Authors: Chee Ashlyn Rui Yin , Ng Teng Fong , Lam Stephanie Jin Ping , Wright Matthew , Leahy Michael F.
Published: March 2020

We report a rare case of aggressive plasmablastic lymphoma with an initial presentation of dermatomyositis. The challenges associated with the diagnosis and treatment approach are also highlighted in this case report.
VN/S Nanoclusters Encapsulated with Graphene via Zeta Potential Control: A Pomegranate‐Like Cathode for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries with Enhanced Rate Performance
Authors: Qu Long , Liu Pei , Tian Xiaolu , Shu Chengyong , Yi Yikun , Yang Pu , Wang Te , Fang Binren , Li Mingtao , Yang Bolun
Published: March 2020

A pomegranate‐like cathode, VN/S@G, is synthesized according to a simple principle of electrostatic attraction through a controllable Zeta potential method, establishing a hierarchical‐structured VN/S nanoclusters encapsuled with graphene nanosheets. Internal VN nanoparticles trap lithium polysulphides (LiPSs) and catalyse them transforming from long‐chain to short‐chain species; whereas the external cladding layers of graphene nanosheets confine the transformations in a nanoscale‐catalysis reactors. VN/S@G cathode exhibits excellent long‐cycling life at 2 C rate during the 2000 cycles, corresponding to 0.038 percent of capacity fade per cycle. According to in‐situ Raman and electrochemical impedance spectroscopies, VN catalyst accelerates chemical transformations of liquid‐state LiPSs to solid‐state Li2S2/Li2S and graphene intensifies Li+ diffusion behaviour. Improvement of electrochemical performance of the VN/S@G cathode depends on a coefficient of physical and chemical interactions between VN catalyst and LiPSs species.
Wavelength‐Dependent Singlet Oxygen Generation in Luminescent Lanthanide Complexes with a Pyridine‐Bis(Carboxamide)‐Terthiophene Sensitizer
Authors: Johnson Katherine R. , Vittardi Sebastian B. , Gracia‐Nava Manuel A. , Rack Jeffrey J. , de Bettencourt‐Dias Ana
Published: March 2020

Lanthanide ion (LnIII) complexes, [Ln(3Tcbx)2]3+ (LnIII=YbIII, NdIII, ErIII) are isolated with a new pyridine‐bis(carboxamide)‐based ligand with a 2,2′:5′,2′′‐terthiophene pendant (3TCbx), and their resulting photophysical properties are explored. Upon excitation of the complexes at 490 nm, only LnIII emission is observed with efficiencies of 0.29 % at 976 nm for LnIII=YbIII and 0.16 % at 1053 nm for LnIII=NdIII. ErIII emission is observed but weak. Upon excitation at 400 nm, concurrent 1O2 formation is seen, with efficiencies of 11 % for the YbIII and NdIII complexes and 13 % for the ErIII complex. Owing to the concurrent generation of 1O2, as expected, the efficiency of metal‐centered emission decreases to 0.02 % for YbIII and 0.05 % for NdIII. The ability to control 1O2 generation through the excitation wavelength indicates that the incorporation of 2,2′:5′,2′′‐terthiophene results in access to multiple sensitization pathways. These energy pathways are unraveled through transient absorption spectroscopy.
Reduced Arene Complexes of Scandium
Authors: Ghana Priyabrata , Hoffmann Alexander , Spaniol Thomas P. , Okuda Jun
Published: March 2020

Alkali metal naphthalenide or anthracenide reacted with scandium(III) anilides [Sc(X){N(tBu)Xy}2(thf)] (X=N(tBu)Xy (1); X=Cl (2); Xy=C6H3‐3,5‐Me2) to give scandium complexes [M(thf)n][Sc{N(tBu)Xy}2(RA)] (M=Li–K; n=1–6; RA=C10H82− (3‐Naph‐K) and C14H102− (3‐Anth‐M)) containing a reduced arene ligand. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction revealed the scandium(III) center bonded to the naphthalene dianion in a σ2:π‐coordination mode, whereas the anthracene dianion is symmetrically attached to the scandium(III) center in a σ2‐fashion. All compounds have been characterized by multinuclear, including 45Sc NMR spectroscopy. Quantum chemical calculations of these intensely colored arene complexes confirm scandium to be in the oxidation state +3. The intense absorptions observed in the UV/Vis spectra are due to ligand‐to‐metal charge transfers. Whereas nitriles underwent C−C coupling reaction with the reduced arene ligand, the reaction with one equivalent of [NEt3H][BPh4] led to the mono‐protonation of the reduced arene ligand.
Learning how planarization can affect dichroic patterns in polyfluorenes
Authors: Pietropaolo Adriana , Nakano Tamaki
Published: March 2020

The circular dichroism spectra of a single chain of polyfluorene was predicted for a p‐twisted helix conformation and local planarized polymer sections in the presence and in the absence of thermal vibrations. Under thermal vibrations at 300 K, the planarized section of polyfluorene affords a red‐shifted positive dichroic band between 446 and 456 nm, preserving a degree of chirality. The S1 ← S0 excitation energy decreases from 3.29 eV, for the p‐twisted helix to 2.77 or 2.71 eV, for planarized sections with one or two coplanar twists, respectively. Thermal vibrations and intramolecular rotations eventually affect the circular dichroism spectrum patterns, where planarized bent conformers induce a positive band towards 450 nm.
Isobutane Dehydrogenation Assisted by CO2 over Silicalite‐1‐Supported ZnO Catalysts: Influence of Support Crystallite Size
Authors: Luo Yajun , Wei Chunling , Miao Changxi , Yue Yinghong , Hua Weiming , Gao Zi
Published: March 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

The ZnO catalysts supported on Silicalite‐1 zeolites with different crystallite sizes (0.08, 0.35, 1 and 1.7 μm, respectively) and 5% Zn were synthesized via an incipient wetness method. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, N2 adsorption, SEM, TEM‐EDX, DRIFT spectra and NH3‐TPD, and their catalytic performance in isobutane dehydrogenation assisted by CO2 was investigated. The catalytic activity is strongly dependent on the crystallite size of Silicalite‐1 support. The ZnO/S‐1‐0.35 catalyst with ca. 0.35 μm crystallite size displays the highest activity, affording an initial isobutane conversion of 51.0% and 74.5% isobutene selectivity. This can be attributed to a higher amount of acid sites present on this catalyst as well as the largest amount of nest silanols possessed by the S‐1‐0.35 support.
Opposite effect of ablation on early/late‐phase thromboembolic incidence in patients with atrial fibrillation: A meta‐analysis on more than 100 000 individuals
Authors: Liu Menghui , Wang Yuanping , Li Jie , Zhuang Xiaodong , Chen Xiaohong , Li Xiaohui , Liao Xinxue , Wang Lichun
Published: March 2020

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important risk factor for thromboembolic events, for which catheter ablation represents an effective therapy for rhythm control. Intuitively, ablation may reduce the incidence of thromboembolism, but data is quite limited.

Hypothesis

Catheter ablation was associated with the fewer risk of thromboembolism compared with nonablation in patients with AF.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from inception to September 2019. Random‐effects model was used to estimate the risk ratios (RR) for the thromboembolic events between the ablation and nonablation groups.

Results

Twenty‐five studies (12 randomized controlled trials and 13 observational studies) with 104 687 participants were included. Pooled analysis suggested that ablation was associated with a 35% lower risk of total thromboembolic events compared to nonablation group (RR = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.51‐0.82; P = .0003). When separated into early‐phase (<30 days) and late‐phase (>30 days) events, ablation was associated with an increased early‐phase thromboembolism (RR = 1.96; 95% CI, 1.35‐2.83; P = .0004) but a decreased late‐phase thromboembolism (RR = 0.75; 95% CI, 0.63‐0.90; P = .002). Subgroup analysis according to different study types found similar results were found in observation studies, but not in RCT studies because the sample size was too small to be conclusive.

Conclusions

In patients with AF, catheter ablation was associated with a fewer risk of overall and late‐phase thromboembolism in comparison with nonablation. However, over the early postoperative period, catheter ablation was associated with the double higher risk of thromboembolic events.
Developments of prolonged exposure in treatment effect of post‐traumatic stress disorder and controlling dropout rate: A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Zhou Yaoguang , Sun Luna , Wang Yan , Wu Lili , Sun Zhuoer , Zhang Fan , Liu Weizhi
Published: March 2020

Prolonged exposure (PE) has been proved as an efficacious psychological treatment for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There are mainly two changed formats of PE: the modified PE (mPE) and the PE combined with drug (PE/d). Symptom reduction following these two PE training formats has been reported in the patients with PTSD. However, very little is focusing on the direct comparison of mPE + PE/d and PE. Therefore, this paper aims to compare the mPE + PE/d with PE on the PTSD treatment effect and the dropout rate directly through the meta‐analysis. Eighteen studies with total sample size of 1,397 met the final inclusion criteria. The results showed that mPE + PE/d had significantly lower posttreatment PTSD severity than control group (relaxation, wait list, etc.). There was no significant difference between mPE + PE/d and PE on the posttreatment, the follow‐up PTSD score, and the posttreatment dropout rate. Compared with PE, lower PTSD symptoms and marginally lower dropout rate following the treatment were observed in the PE/d group. PE/d yielded a significantly larger effect size than mPE when compared with PE on the posttreatment PTSD symptom severity. The significance of the above results would not be changed even if studies causing high heterogeneity were removed. Although PE/d enhanced treatment effect and lowered dropout rate when compared with PE, it was still insufficient to draw the conclusion that formats of adjustments would specifically improve the implementation of PE. Further studies are warranted to develop an easily accomplished and efficacy‐guaranteeing PE programme for PTSD patients.
Analysis and comparison of different cooperative cellular networks
Authors: Mahmoud Imbaby I. , Elgazzar Osama H. , Hashima Sherief , Konber Hussein A.
Published: March 2020

This paper addresses cochannel interference (CCI) in mobile networks. So enhancements of network performance by decreasing CCI are assessed using four diverse interference reduction techniques. These techniques signify traditional sectored fractional frequency reuse (FFR), sectored FFR with beamforming (BF), relay‐assisted (R‐A) sectored FFR, and R‐A sectored FFR with BF technique. Additionally, each BF cooperative technique applies the vertical BF, three‐dimensional (3D) BF, and horizontal BF. Consequently, sectored FFR with BF contains three cases. These cases indicate sectored FFR applies horizontal BF, sectored FFR deploys vertical BF, and sectored FFR uses 3D BF. Furthermore, there are three different arrangements of applying BF in R‐A sectored FFR with BF. These arrangements signify that relay station (RS) employs BF only, base station (BS) uses BF only, and both RS and BS apply BF. Therefore, each arrangement consists of three different cases according to the applied BF technique. Consequently, nine dissimilar cases are considered. Also, a comparison of all cases in different techniques is introduced to enhance the network performance. Analytical treatments are conducted. As a result, closed‐form expressions (CFEs) for worst cases cell‐center user's (CCU's) signal‐to‐interference ratio (SIR), cell‐edge user's (CEU's) SIR, and inner radius (IR) are implemented. These closed forms are used to complete the comparison of all techniques using numerous performance evaluation metrics. The results show, that as unpredicted, the performance of R‐A sectored FFR is close to that of R‐A sectored FFR BF in low SIR threshold and high path‐loss exponent (PLE) ranges. Therefore, R‐A sectored FFR is preferred to be used from the perspectives of network cost and power consumption. Furthermore, vertical BF shows performance close to that of 3D BF in low PLE range. Consequently, using vertical BF is preferable with regard to the energy preservation and network budget. Moreover, it is noticed that BS that applies BF arrangement outperforms other arrangements when vertical or horizontal BF technique is applied. Additionally, the arrangement of both RS and BS that apply BF is superior to the other arrangements when 3D BF is used. But, as expected, it does worse than the others if the other BF techniques are applied. The work results achieve much higher CEU SIR enhancement. Therefore, the probability of outage is decreased. Then, rate of served users by the network is heightened. Accordingly, the total network cost is reduced. So this study advances the network performance while maintaining lower network cost.
Fractional radiofrequency microneedling for skin rejuvenation
Authors: Cook Jonathan , Waughtel Jessica , Lennox Krystie P. , Pozner Jason N.
Published: March 2020

Patients continue to seek aesthetic procedures that treat intrinsic aging, progressive photodamage, skin laxity, and facial rhytids. Using the latest generation of radiofrequency microneedling (RFM) technology, it is possible to achieve elegant results when treating these concerns. In this article, we will discuss the mechanism of RFM, review the improvements in the latest generation of this technology, and consider applications of this device in aesthetic practice.