bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term water retention increases in degraded soils amended with cross‐linked polyacrylamide
Authors: Lentz Rodrick D.
Published: March 2020

Cross‐linked polymer hydrogels, polyacrylamide co‐polymer (XPAM), and K‐polyacrylate (XPAA) increase soil water availability under drought, but their long‐term effects are unknown despite the importance of such knowledge in assessing economic feasibility. This 9‐yr outdoor pot study evaluated a one‐time addition of XPAM or XPAA at 0.25 or 0.5% dry weight (5.6 or 11.2 Mg ha−1) in a degraded calcareous silt loam. Controls included an unamended degraded soil and an unamended nondegraded soil (topsoil). Soil water retention and plant available water (PAW, g water g−1 dry soil−1) were measured in soil samples collected in spring for seven of the nine years. Across all years, the 0.5% XPAM produced the greatest PAW (0.318) and the PAW of other treatments followed in the order: 0.5% XPAM > 0.25% XPAM > Topsoil > 0.5% XPAA > 0.25% XPAA = control (0.224). In all years, the 0.25% XPAM and 0.5% XPAM treatments increased soil PAW relative to the control, that is, their PAW ratios exceeded unity. Topsoil PAW exceeded that of the control in six of the seven years measured. The PAW of 0.25% XPAM and 0.5% XPAM peaked in Year 1 after application and declined linearly with time (P < .03), at −0.0036 yr−1 and −0.0044 yr−1, respectively. Hence, the mean residence time the XPAM‐related water‐retention benefit is 24–29 yr. In this study, soil water‐retention benefits from XPAM amendments exceeded projections proposed by the industry (5 yr) and suggests that the cost‐benefits of field‐level XPAM applications might be more favorable than previously anticipated.
Mob and rotational grazing influence pasture biomass, nutritive value, and species composition
Authors: Billman Eric D. , Williamson Jessica A. , Soder Kathy J. , Andreen Danielle M. , Skinner R. Howard
Published: March 2020

Mob grazing, which uses very high stocking densities for short durations followed by a relatively long rest period, was designed to mimic bison (Bison bison) grazing in western U.S. grassland. This project assessed the suitability of mob grazing for livestock production in the Northeast. Objectives were to compare the effects of mob and rotational grazing on dry matter (DM) mass, nutritive value, and botanical composition across four grazing seasons. Eight, 0.10‐ha paddocks were established in 2014 as a randomized complete block with four replications, and seeded with alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), white clover (Trifolium repens L.), orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), narrowleaf plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.), and tall fescue [Schedonorus arundinaceus (Schreb.) Dumort]. Mob‐grazed (MOB) paddocks were grazed by yearling beef cattle twice each year, (70–90–day interval), and rotationally grazed (ROT) paddocks were grazed four to six times each year (when sward height reached 25 cm). Cumulative pre‐grazing forage biomass (PGFM) of ROT was greater than MOB in three of four years. At the final grazing, the PGFM of ROT exceeded MOB by 2,500 kg ha−1. Within year, PGFM of ROT was more consistent, varying by only 1,000–1,400 kg DM ha−1 compared with 1,800–2,800 kg DM ha−1 for MOB. Grazing strategy altered botanical composition; ROT favored grasses while MOB favored alfalfa. Forage fiber content was consistently lower in ROT than MOB paddocks, indicating superior nutritive value. Results suggest rotational grazing is likely suitable for more consistent forage production of greater nutritive value in temperate, cool‐season grass‐legume pastures of the northeastern United States.
Proinflammation, profibrosis, and arterial aging
Authors: Wang Mingyi , Monticone Robert E. , McGraw Kimberly R.
Published: March 2020

Aging is a major risk factor for quintessential cardiovascular diseases, which are closely related to arterial proinflammation. The age‐related alterations of the amount, distribution, and properties of the collagen fibers, such as cross‐links and degradation in the arterial wall, are the major sequelae of proinflammation. In the aging arterial wall, collagen types I, II, and III are predominant,  and are mainly produced by stiffened vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) governed by proinflammatory signaling, leading to profibrosis. Profibrosis is regulated by an increase in the proinflammatory molecules angiotensin II, milk fat globule‐EGF‐VIII, and transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1) signaling and a decrease in the vasorin signaling cascade. The release of these proinflammatory factors triggers the activation of matrix metalloproteinase type II (MMP‐2) and activates profibrogenic TGF‐β1 signaling, contributing to profibrosis. The age‐associated increase in activated MMP‐2 cleaves latent TGF‐β and subsequently increases TGF‐β1 activity leading to collagen deposition in the arterial wall. Furthermore, a blockade of the proinflammatory signaling pathway alleviates the fibrogenic signaling, reduces profibrosis, and prevents arterial stiffening with aging. Thus, age‐associated proinflammatory‐profibrosis coupling is the underlying molecular mechanism of arterial stiffening with advancing age.
Roads to Smart Artificial Microswimmers
Authors: Tsang Alan C. H. , Demir Ebru , Ding Yang , Pak On Shun
Published: March 2020

Artificial microswimmers offer exciting opportunities for biomedical applications. The goal of these synthetics is to swim like natural micro‐organisms through biological environments and perform complex tasks such as drug delivery and microsurgery. Extensive efforts in the past several decades have focused on generating propulsion at the microscopic scale, which has engendered a variety of artificial microswimmers based on different physical and physicochemical mechanisms. Yet, these major advancements represent only the initial steps toward successful biomedical applications of microswimmers in realistic scenarios. A next step is to design “smart” microswimmers that can adapt their locomotion behaviors in response to environmental factors. Herein, recent progress in the development of microswimmers with intelligent behaviors is surveyed in three major areas: 1) adaptive locomotion across different media, 2) tactic behaviors in response to environment stimuli, and 3) multifunctional swimmers that can perform complex tasks. The emerging technologies and novel approaches used in developing these “smart” microswimmers, which enable them to display behaviors similar to biological cells, are discussed.
Limitations of exome sequencing in detecting rare and undiagnosed diseases
Authors: Burdick Kendall J. , Cogan Joy D. , Rives Lynette C. , Robertson Amy K. , Koziura Mary E. , Brokamp Elly , Duncan Laura , Hannig Vickie , Pfotenhauer Jean , Vanzo Rena , Paul Michael S. , Bican Anna , Morgan Thomas , Duis Jessica , Newman John H. , Hamid Rizwan , Phillips John A. ,   Undiagnosed Diseases Network
Published: March 2020

While exome sequencing (ES) is commonly the final diagnostic step in clinical genetics, it may miss diagnoses. To clarify the limitations of ES, we investigated the diagnostic yield of genetic tests beyond ES in our Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) participants. We reviewed the yield of additional genetic testing including genome sequencing (GS), copy number variant (CNV), noncoding variant (NCV), repeat expansion (RE), or methylation testing in UDN cases with nondiagnostic ES results. Overall, 36/54 (67%) of total diagnoses were based on clinical findings and coding variants found by ES and 3/54 (6%) were based on clinical findings only. The remaining 15/54 (28%) required testing beyond ES. Of these, 7/15 (47%) had NCV, 6/15 (40%) CNV, and 2/15 (13%) had a RE or a DNA methylation disorder. Thus 18/54 (33%) of diagnoses were not solved exclusively by ES. Several methods were needed to detect and/or confirm the functional effects of the variants missed by ES, and in some cases by GS. These results indicate that tests to detect elusive variants should be considered after nondiagnostic preliminary steps. Further studies are needed to determine the cost‐effectiveness of tests beyond ES that provide diagnoses and insights to possible treatment.
The evolution of pair‐living, sexual monogamy, and cooperative infant care: Insights from research on wild owl monkeys, titis, sakis, and tamarins
Authors: Fernandez‐Duque Eduardo , Huck Maren , Van Belle Sarie , Di Fiore Anthony
Published: March 2020

“Monogamy” and pair bonding have long been of interest to anthropologists and primatologists. Their study contributes to our knowledge of human evolutionary biology and social evolution without the cultural trappings associated with studying human societies directly. Here, we first provide an overview of theoretical considerations, followed by an evaluation of recent comparative studies of the evolution of “social monogamy”; we are left with serious doubts about the conclusions of these studies that stem from the often poor quality of the data used and an overreliance on secondary sources without vetting the data therein. We then describe our field research program on four “monogamous” platyrrhines (owl monkeys, titis, sakis, and tamarins), evaluate how well our data support various hypotheses proposed to explain “monogamy,” and compare our data to those reported on the same genera in comparative studies. Overall, we found a distressing lack of agreement between the data used in comparative studies and data from the literature for the taxa that we work with. In the final section, we propose areas of research that deserve more attention. We stress the need for more high‐quality natural history data, and we urge researchers to be cautious about the uncritical use of variables of uncertain internal validity. Overall, it is imperative that biological anthropologists establish and follow clear criteria for comparing and combining results from published studies and that researchers, reviewers, and editors alike comply with these standards to improve the transparency, reproducibility, and interpretability of causal inferences made in comparative studies.
Clinical data analysis reveals the role of OGR1 (GPR68) in head and neck squamous cancer
Authors: Zhang Wenlong , Han Yong , Li Weisha , Cao Lin , Yan Libo , Qin Chuan , Gao Ran
Published: March 2020

Background

Head and neck squamous cancer (HNSC) frequently occurs in the clinic. Revealing the role of the genes that correlate with cancer cell outgrowth will contribute to potential treatment target identification and tumor inhibition.

Methods

The gene expression profiles and gene ontology of the proton‐sensing G‐protein‐coupled receptor OGR1 were analyzed using the TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) database. The effects of sex, age, race, and degree of malignancy on HNSC were investigated, and the survival times of HNSC patients with high or low/medium expression levels of OGR1 were compared. Methylation of the OGR1 promoter CpG sites was also investigated and OGR1‐related genes were analyzed using gene set enrichment analysis.

Results

OGR1 is overexpressed in HNSC patients. However, compared with the low/median expression group, the high OGR1 expression group did not have different survival rates. The OGR1 expression level differed across sex, age, race, and degree of malignancy, while the methylation of the OGR1 promoter CpG sites was maintained at a similar level. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that OGR1 was positively correlated with head and neck cancer, cisplatin resistance, hypoxia, angiogenesis, cell migration, and TGF‐β.

Conclusion

The expression of OGR1 correlated with HNSC progression and survival and thus can serve as a potential treatment target and prognostic marker.
Überwindung von Vancomycinresistenzen durch Modifikation mit polykationischen Peptiden
Authors: Umstätter Florian , Domhan Cornelius , Hertlein Tobias , Ohlsen Knut , Mühlberg Eric , Kleist Christian , Zimmermann Stefan , Beijer Barbro , Klika Karel D. , Haberkorn Uwe , Mier Walter , Uhl Philipp
Published: March 2020

Die zunehmende Prävalenz von Resistenzen bei Bakterien gegen Glykopeptid‐Antibiotika macht auch vor Vancomycin nicht halt. Um die ursprünglich hohe Effektivität gegen diese resistenten Bakterien wieder zu erzielen, wurden hier polykationische Peptide an Vancomycin gekuppelt. Mithilfe einer regioselektiven Konjugationsstrategie wurden zahlreiche Derivate synthetisiert, welche die Peptidmodifikation an vier unterschiedlichen Anknüpfungsstellen des Antibiotikums tragen. Die hierbei erhaltenen wirksamsten Verbindungen zeigten eine bis zu 1000‐fach erhöhte antimikrobielle Aktivität und konnten alle wichtigen Formen an Vancomycinresistenzen überwinden. Ein Kompetitions‐Assay unter Verwendung des d‐Ala‐d‐Ala‐Motivs ergab, dass ein Wirkmechanismus abseits der bekannten Hemmung der Zellwandsynthese vorliegen muss. Die antimikrobielle Aktivität der Leitsubstanz FU002 konnte in einer In‐vivo‐Wirksamkeitsstudie in Mäusen nachgewiesen werden. Bildgebungs‐ und Bioverteilungsstudien ergaben, dass durch diese Konjugationsstrategie die Pharmakokinetik optimiert und detailliert gesteuert werden kann.
Rare‐Earth Single Erbium Atoms for Enhanced Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Ji Shufang , Qu Yang , Wang Tao , Chen Yuanjun , Wang Guofeng , Li Xue , Dong Juncai , Chen QiuYu , Zhang Wanying , Zhang Zedong , Liang Shiyou , Yu Rong , Wang Yu , Wang Dingsheng , Li Yadong
Published: March 2020

The solar‐driven photocatalytic reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) into chemical fuels is a promising route to enrich energy supplies and mitigate CO2 emissions. However, low catalytic efficiency and poor selectivity, especially in a pure‐water system, hinder the development of photocatalytic CO2RR owing to the lack of effective catalysts. Herein, we report a novel atom‐confinement and coordination (ACC) strategy to achieve the synthesis of rare‐earth single erbium (Er) atoms supported on carbon nitride nanotubes (Er1/CN‐NT) with a tunable dispersion density of single atoms. Er1/CN‐NT is a highly efficient and robust photocatalyst that exhibits outstanding CO2RR performance in a pure‐water system. Experimental results and density functional theory calculations reveal the crucial role of single Er atoms in promoting photocatalytic CO2RR.
An Electrochemophysiological Microarray for Real‐Time Monitoring and Quantification of Multiple Ions in the Brain of a Freely Moving Rat
Authors: Zhao Fan , Liu Yuandong , Dong Hui , Feng Shiqing , Shi Guoyue , Lin Longnian , Tian Yang
Published: March 2020

Herein, we present an electrochemophysiological microarray (ECPM) for real‐time mapping and simultaneous quantification of chemical signals for multiple ions in the deep brain of a freely moving rat, in which microelectrode arrays were developed for direct determination of multiple ions using open‐circuit potentiometry. Specific recognition ionophores were synthesized and optimized for determination of K+, Ca2+, Na+ and pH. A reference electrode was also developed to avoid interferences in the brain. The microarrays were successfully applied in real‐time monitoring and quantification of ions in a live brain. The extra current‐free potentiometry allowed mapping and biosensing of chemical signals, together with recording of electrical signals in the whole brain without cross‐talk, for the first time. Furthermore, the ECPM provided a platform for real‐time monitoring of the dynamic changes of multiple ions in the deep brain of freely moving rat during a seizure.
Optimization of the Degumming Process for Aqueous‐Extracted Wild Almond Oil
Authors: Nekouei Niloufar , Rezaei Karamatollah
Published: March 2020

Wild almond (Amygdalus scoparia) oil is rich in oleic acid and, considering both nutritional and stability points of view, it can be utilized for future food applications. In the current study, acid degumming was investigated based on a method by response surface methodology using four degumming parameters, namely the amount of phosphoric acid (0.0–0.2%, w/w), the amount of water (1.0–5.0%, w/w), degumming temperature (30–70 °C), and degumming time (10–50 min). Optimum conditions for the minimum phosphorus level in the oil were found to be 0.15% phosphoric acid, 3.0% water, 40 °C degumming temperature, and 28 min degumming time, resulting in an almost complete removal of phosphorus. The final degummed wild almond oil had less than 1 mg kg−1 phosphorus (reduced from an original value of 206 mg kg−1). The experimental value of phosphorus reduction at optimum conditions agreed well with that predicted by the model. Peroxide value, anisidine value, iron, copper, and lead contents, phytosterols, unsaponifiable matter, and color of the oil decreased significantly during the degumming process; however, the fatty acid composition did not change. Also, degumming did not significantly impact the free fatty acid level, refractive index, density, iodine value, and the saponification value of the oil. However, tocopherols and the oxidative stability of the oil increased during degumming. Crude wild almond oil contained a trace level of amygdalin, which was completely eliminated during the degumming process.
Improving interfacial compatibility by a micro–nano synergetic structure for high‐performance epoxy composites
Authors: Li Song , Wang Cong , Wang Tingmei , Wang Qihua , Zhang Xinrui
Published: March 2020

A multiscale functional filler of micro–nano synergetic structure was successfully prepared via in‐situ growth of silica (SiO2) on biomimetic dopamine modified carbon fiber (CF) surface. The CF‐SiO2 hybrid as a reinforcement possessed lubricating and reinforcing effect to enhance tribological performance, thermal stability and thermomechanical property of epoxy (EP) composites. The micro–nano synergetic structure was of great importance for ameliorating the compatibility and interfacial adhesion between CF and EP matrix, which was conductive to transferring stress from matrix to fiber and alleviating stress concentration. It was concluded that the friction coefficient and wear rate of EP/CF‐SiO2 were 0.382 and 1.12 × 10−5 mm3/N·m, that is, a decline of 58% and 2.5 times, respectively, compared to EP/CF. The CF‐SiO2 hybrid exhibited excellent friction‐reducing and anti‐wear performance.
Two‐step route polycondensation for polynaphthalimides synthesis through high molar mass soluble precursors: A kinetic study
Authors: Moretti Passos Heloisa , Felisberti Maria Isabel
Published: March 2020

Research of polynaphthalimides (PNI) frequently reports difficulties over synthesis and processing due to insolubility. In this work, we present a novel comprehensive study on the effects of time, temperature and catalyst on the synthesis of soluble PNI precursors—polyamic acids (PAAs)—, as well as a novel synthetic procedure for the synthesis of PNI using mild conditions. Kinetic studies concerning the monomer conversion and the degree of premature imidization were performed through proton nuclear magnetic resonance and gel permeation chromatography for temperature ranging from 25 to 100°C. High temperatures (above 60°C) entail extensive premature imidization and insolubility. The use of triethylamine also catalyzes imidization. At the optimal condition, soluble PAA precursors for PNI of 72 kDa could be obtained at 40°C in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone solution (30 wt%) after 5 hr polymerization.
Dynamics of energy technology diffusion under uncertainty
Authors: Li Li , Liu Junqi , Zhu Lei
Published: March 2020

The carbon emissions trading scheme combined with feed‐in tariff policy is viewed as a feasible policy mix to promote the energy system transferring to low or near‐ zero‐carbon emissions. To investigate the interaction between such policy mix and the diffusion of energy technologies, we establish a stochastic programming model to describe the technology choice between renewable and fossil energy technologies. The uncertain carbon price and “merit order” effect have been introduced in our model. The Kuhn‐Tucker Lagrangian is adopted to derive the model solution and we present several integrals of uncertain carbon prices to analyze the patterns of technologies diffusion, as well as how the electricity price be determined with “merit order” effect. With the model we demonstrated, in a deregulated electricity market with the uncertain carbon price, the diffusion of renewables follows an S‐shaped pattern that is related to the tariff and carbon price levels, and a negative electricity price is possible once the renewables come to dominate the entire market supply. Although there exists a choice related to the low‐carbon technology for the system planner, the room for such technology diffusion can be eliminated as the technology progress of renewables.
Economic assessment of a small‐scale plant for production of sulforaphane‐rich broccoli flour in Chile
Authors: Quintero Julián , Román Daniela , Salazar José Luis , Mahn Andrea
Published: March 2020

Broccoli offers several health benefits due to its high content of bioactive compounds, especially sulforaphane – a promising anticancer compound. In Chile, the broccoli crop is expanding rapidly, creating opportunities to industrialize this vegetable and exploit its functional properties. Various processes have been studied with the aim of maximizing the sulforaphane content in processed broccoli using different dehydration methods. These have shown large differences in terms of recovery and cost. This work shows an economic feasibility study of a small‐scale plant for the production of sulforaphane‐rich broccoli flour considering three drying alternatives: tray drying (TD), pulsed fluidized‐bed drying, and freeze‐drying (FD). Freeze drying resulted in the highest sulforaphane content in the broccoli flour; however, this process entails the highest production cost. Tray drying showed the lowest production cost and a comparatively high sulforaphane content in the final product. Pulsed fluidized bed drying (PFBD) resulted in the highest sulforaphane loss. Although the three drying technologies resulted in positive net present values (NPV), the internal rate of return (IRR) was the lowest for freeze drying as a result of the high investment – over 20% higher than the investment required by the other alternatives. The NPV was practically independent of the drying technology when the sulforaphane content was considered in the estimation of the selling price. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Dosage Sensing, Threshold Responses, and Epigenetic Memory: A Systems Biology Perspective on Random X‐Chromosome Inactivation
Authors: Mutzel Verena , Schulz Edda G.
Published: March 2020

X‐chromosome inactivation ensures dosage compensation between the sexes in mammals by randomly choosing one out of the two X chromosomes in females for inactivation. This process imposes a plethora of questions: How do cells count their X chromosome number and ensure that exactly one stays active? How do they randomly choose one of two identical X chromosomes for inactivation? And how do they stably maintain this state of monoallelic expression? Here, different regulatory concepts and their plausibility are evaluated in the context of theoretical studies that have investigated threshold behavior, ultrasensitivity, and bistability through mathematical modeling. It is discussed how a twofold difference between a single and a double dose of X‐linked genes might be converted to an all‐or‐nothing response and how mutually exclusive expression can be initiated and maintained. Finally, candidate factors that might mediate the proposed regulatory principles are reviewed.
Regional pancreatoduodenectomy versus standard pancreatoduodenectomy with portal vein resection for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with portal vein invasion
Authors: Oba A , Ito H , Ono Y , Sato T , Mise Y , Inoue Y , Takahashi Y , Saiura A
Published: March 2020

Background

Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) with portal vein resection (PVR) is a standard operation for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with portal vein (PV) invasion, but positive margin rates remain high. It was hypothesized that regional pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD), in which soft tissue around the PV is resected en bloc, could enhance oncological clearance and survival.

Methods

This retrospective study included consecutive patients who underwent PD with PVR between January 2005 and December 2016 in a single high-volume centre. In standard PD (SPD) with PVR, the PV was skeletonized and the surrounding soft tissue dissected. In RPD, the retropancreatic segment of the PV was resected en bloc with its surrounding soft tissue. The extent of lymphadenectomy was similar between the procedures.

Results

A total of 268 patients were included (177 SPD, 91 RPD). Tumours were more often resectable in patients undergoing SPD (60·5 per cent versus 38 per cent in those having RPD; P = 0·014), and consequently they received neoadjuvant therapy less often (7·9 versus 25 per cent respectively; P < 0·001). R0 resection was achieved in 73 patients (80 per cent) in the RPD group, compared with 117 (66·1 per cent) of those in the SPD group (P = 0·016), although perioperative outcomes were comparable between the groups. Median recurrence-free (RFS) and overall (OS) survival were 17 and 32 months respectively in patients who had RPD, compared with 11 and 21 months in those who had SPD (RFS: P = 0·003; OS: P = 0·004).

Conclusion

RPD is as safe and feasible as SPD, and may increase the survival of patients with PDAC with PV invasion.
Mitigation of Diclofenac Pollution in Aqueous Media by Adsorption
Authors: Ighalo Joshua O. , Adeniyi Adewale George
Published: March 2020

Diclofenac is an acidic pharmaceutically active compound and one of the most frequently detected ones in wastewater. This review discusses the research progress and innovations made in recent years on the mitigation of diclofenac from aqueous media by adsorption. It was observed that activated carbon by intense physical activation, metal organic frameworks, and chitosan‐cellulose polymeric adsorbents were the best adsorbents for diclofenac removal. Diclofenac sorption follows mainly pseudo‐second order kinetics and was best fit to either Freundlich or Langmuir isotherms. Recent research trends involved the investigation of column and continuous experiments, competitive adsorption, and adsorption with photo‐catalytic degradation. Whilst numerous types of adsorbents have been explored, there is still need for mechanistic studies.
Honeycomb‐like carbon materials derived from coffee extract via a “salty” thermal treatment for high‐performance Li‐I2 batteries
Authors: Su Zhong , Ling Han Yeu , Li Meng , Qian Shangshu , Chen Hao , Lai Chao , Zhang Shanqing
Published: March 2020

Sustainable, conductive, and porous carbon materials are ideal for energy storage materials. In this study, honeycomb‐like carbon materials (HCM) are synthesized via a “salty” thermal treatment of abundant and sustainable coffee extract. Systematic materials characterization indicates that the as‐prepared HCM consists of heteroatoms (N and O, etc.) doped ultra‐thin carbon framework, possesses remarkable specific surface area, and excellent electrical conductivity. Such properties bestow HCM outstanding materials to be the blocking layer for Li‐I2 battery, significantly eliminating the dissolution of I2 in the cathode region and stopping the I2 from shutting to anode compartment. Furthermore, our electrochemical investigation suggests that HCM could incur surface pseudo‐capacitive iodine‐ions charge storage and contribute additional energy storage capacity. As a result, the resultant Li‐I2 battery achieves a robust and highly reversible capacity of 224.5 mAh·g−1 at the rate of 10 C. Even under a high rate of 50 C, the remarkable capacity of the as‐prepared Li‐I2 battery can still be maintained at 120.2 mAh·g−1 after 4000 cycles.
Influence of timing and intensity of weed management on crop yield and contribution to weed emergence in cotton the following year
Authors: Hare Andrew T. , Jordan David L. , Leon Ramon G. , Edmisten Keith L. , Post Angela R. , Cahoon Charles W. , Everman Wesley J. , Mahoney Denis J. , Inman Matthew D.
Published: March 2020

Adequate weed control is important in protecting crop yield and allowing efficient harvest in North Carolina. Data in the literature are limited with respect to direct comparisons of weed control and yield across multiple crops. Research is also limited in terms of documenting the impact of weed control in one crop on weed populations in the crop planted the following season. Experiments were conducted in North Carolina to determine weed control and yield of corn (Zea mays L.), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] in the same experiment when herbicides were applied postemergence at different timings (Year 1) and to determine how weed control translated into weed populations and cotton yield the following year (Year 2). Herbicides were applied 2 or 6 wk after planting (WAP); 2 and 4 WAP; 4 and 6 WAP; and 2, 4, and 6 WAP. At Lewiston‐Woodville, common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) and Texas millet (Urochloa texana L.) were present. At Rocky Mount, Palmer amaranth (Amanthus palmeri S. Wats) and large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis L.) were present. A single postemergence application of herbicide protected yield from weed interference in corn, whereas in most instances multiple herbicide applications were needed in cotton and to a degree in soybean. Weed densities in Year 2 in cotton were negatively correlated with weed control the previous year in corn, cotton, and soybean. Densities of common ragweed and Palmer amaranth 3 WAP in Year 2 were higher in cotton when the preceding crop was cotton or soybean rather than corn when herbicides were not applied; no difference was noted when comparing cotton and soybean. In some instances, sequential applications of herbicides resulted in lower weed densities the following year in cotton. These results demonstrate the importance of timely, sequential herbicide applications for weed control in cotton and soybean and in some instances the positive benefits on weed populations the following year in cotton.
A Sunscreen‐Based Photocage for Carbonyl Groups
Authors: Lineros‐Rosa Mauricio , Miranda Miguel A. , Lhiaubet‐Vallet Virginie
Published: March 2020

Photolabile protecting groups (PPGs) have been exploited in a wide range of chemical and biological applications, due to their ability to provide spatial and temporal control over light‐triggered activation. In this work, we explore the concept of a new photocage compound based on the commercial UVA/UVB filter oxybenzone (OB; 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzophenone) for photoprotection and controlled release of carbonyl groups. The point here is that oxybenzone not only acts as a mere PPG, but also provides, once released, UV photoprotection to the carbonyl derivative. This design points to a possible therapeutic approach to reduce the severe photoadverse effects of drugs containing a carbonyl chromophore.
The Influence of Nucleophilic and Redox Pincer Character as well as Alkali Metals on the Capture of Oxygen Substrates: The Case of Chromium(II)
Authors: Labrum Nicholas S. , Curtin Gregory M. , Jakubikova Elena , Caulton Kenneth G.
Published: March 2020

Dimeric [CrL]2, where L is the conjugate base of bis‐pyrazolyl pyridine, is evaluated for its ability to undergo inner sphere and outer sphere redox chemistry. It reacts with Cp2Fe+ to give [Cr4(HL)4(μ4‐O)]2+, still containing divalent Cr. Reduction (KC8) of [CrL]2 by two electrons gives [K2(THF)3Cr3L3(μ3‐O)], and by four electrons gives [K4(THF)10Cr2L2(μ‐O)], each of which has scavenged (hydr)oxide from glass surface because of the electrophilicity of the underligated Cr. [K4(THF)10Cr2L2(μ‐O)], is shown by comprehensive DFT calculations and analysis of intra‐ligand bond lengths to contain a pyridyl radical L3− and CrII, illustrating that this pincer is proton‐responsive, redox active, and a versatile donor to associated K+ ions here. The K+ electrophiles interact with electron‐rich oxo, but do not significantly (>5 kcal mol−1) alter spin state energies. Inner sphere oxidation of [CrL]2 with a quinone gives [Cr2L2(semiquinone)2], while pre‐reduced [CrL]22− reacts with quinone to give [K3(THF)3Cr2L2(catecholate)2(μ‐OH)], a product of capture of two undercoordinated LCr(catecholate)1− by hydroxide.
Increasing the Affinity of an O‐Antigen Polysaccharide Binding Site in Shigella flexneri Bacteriophage Sf6 Tailspike Protein
Authors: Kunstmann Sonja , Engström Olof , Wehle Marko , Widmalm Göran , Santer Mark , Barbirz Stefanie
Published: March 2020

Broad and unspecific use of antibiotics accelerates spread of resistances. Sensitive and robust pathogen detection is thus important for a more targeted application. Bacteriophages contain a large repertoire of pathogen‐binding proteins. These tailspike proteins (TSP) often bind surface glycans and represent a promising design platform for specific pathogen sensors. We analysed bacteriophage Sf6 TSP that recognizes the O‐polysaccharide of dysentery‐causing Shigella flexneri to develop variants with increased sensitivity for sensor applications. Ligand polyrhamnose backbone conformations were obtained from 2D 1H,1H‐trNOESY NMR utilizing methine–methine and methine–methyl correlations. They agreed well with conformations obtained from molecular dynamics (MD), validating the method for further predictions. In a set of mutants, MD predicted ligand flexibilities that were in good correlation with binding strength as confirmed on immobilized S. flexneri O‐polysaccharide (PS) with surface plasmon resonance. In silico approaches combined with rapid screening on PS surfaces hence provide valuable strategies for TSP‐based pathogen sensor design.
Characterization of tetrakis(thiadiazole)porphyrazine metal complexes by magnetic circular dichroism and magnetic circularly polarized luminescence
Authors: Ghidinelli Simone , Abbate Sergio , Mazzeo Giuseppe , Paoloni Lorenzo , Viola Elisa , Ercolani Claudio , Donzello Maria Pia , Longhi Giovanna
Published: March 2020

The magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectra of metal complexes of tetrakis(thiadiazole)porphyrazines ([TTDPzM] with M = 2HI, ZnII, MgII(H2O), and CdII) have been recorded in dimethyl formamide solution. Together with the UV–Vis spectra, the MCD spectra provide useful information about the structure and electronic properties of the complexes. The experimental UV–Vis and MCD spectra compare pretty well with DFT calculations of two sorts, based either on the sum‐over‐states (SOS) approach or on the complex polarization propagator approach. They further corroborate the findings and interpretation of MCD spectra of porphyrazines based on the model of Michl for peripheral molecular orbitals. Magnetic circularly polarized luminescence (MCPL) spectra, quite uncommon in the literature, have been recorded for [TTDPzM] (M = 2HI, ZnII, MgII(H2O)).
The relationship between laissez‐faire leadership and burnout: Mediation through work alienation and the moderating role of political skill
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Ali Moazzam , Yousaf Zahid , Anwar Farooq , Waqas Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Aamir Shafique
Published: March 2020

We tested the relationship between laissez‐faire leadership and job burnout and the mediating role of work alienation in this relationship. We also examined the moderating role of political skill in the relationship between laissez‐faire leadership and burnout. Based on time‐lagged (three waves, two months apart) survey data collected from 272 employees in 92 firms operating in China, our results showed that laissez‐faire leadership was positively related to burnout both directly and via work alienation. Moreover, the positive relationship between laissez‐faire leadership and burnout was contingent on political skill, such that the relationship was weak when political skill was high. The study provides useful suggestions to help managers curb employees' feelings of burnout and work alienation.
A semiparametric stochastic mixed effects model for bivariate cyclic longitudinal data
Authors: Ji Kexin , Dubin Joel A.
Published: March 2020

Abstract

We propose a flexible semiparametric stochastic mixed effects model for bivariate cyclic longitudinal data. The model can handle either single cycle or, more generally, multiple consecutive cycle data. The approach models the mean of responses by parametric fixed effects and a smooth nonparametric function for the underlying time effects, and the relationship across the bivariate responses by a bivariate Gaussian random field and a joint distribution of random effects. The proposed model not only can model complicated individual profiles, but also allows for more flexible within‐subject and between‐response correlations. The fixed effects regression coefficients and the nonparametric time functions are estimated using maximum penalized likelihood, where the resulting estimator for the nonparametric time function is a cubic smoothing spline. The smoothing parameters and variance components are estimated simultaneously using restricted maximum likelihood. Simulation results show that the parameter estimates are close to the true values. The fit of the proposed model on a real bivariate longitudinal dataset of pre‐menopausal women also performs well, both for a single cycle analysis and for a multiple consecutive cycle analysis. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 48: 471–498; 2020 © 2020 Statistical Society of Canada
Estimation of the additive hazards model with interval‐censored data and missing covariates
Authors: Li Huiqiong , Zhang Han , Zhu Liang , Li Ni , Sun Jianguo
Published: March 2020

Abstract

The additive hazards model is one of the most commonly used regression models in the analysis of failure time data and many methods have been developed for its inference in various situations. However, no established estimation procedure exists when there are covariates with missing values and the observed responses are interval‐censored; both types of complications arise in various settings including demographic, epidemiological, financial, medical and sociological studies. To address this deficiency, we propose several inverse probability weight‐based and reweighting‐based estimation procedures for the situation where covariate values are missing at random. The resulting estimators of regression model parameters are shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal. The numerical results that we report from a simulation study suggest that the proposed methods work well in practical situations. An application to a childhood cancer survival study is provided. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 48: 499–517; 2020 © 2020 Statistical Society of Canada
Partial deconvolution estimation in nonparametric regression
Authors: Shi Jianhong , Bai Xiuqin , Song Weixing
Published: March 2020

Abstract

In this article, we propose a class of partial deconvolution kernel estimators for the nonparametric regression function when some covariates are measured with error and some are not. The estimation procedure combines the classical kernel methodology and the deconvolution kernel technique. According to whether the measurement error is ordinarily smooth or supersmooth, we establish the optimal local and global convergence rates for these proposed estimators, and the optimal bandwidths are also identified. Furthermore, lower bounds for the convergence rates of all possible estimators for the nonparametric regression functions are developed. It is shown that, in both the super and ordinarily smooth cases, the convergence rates of the proposed partial deconvolution kernel estimators attain the lower bound. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 48: 535–560; 2020 © 2020 Statistical Society of Canada
Myocardial fibrosis in athletes—Current perspective
Authors: Małek Łukasz A. , Bucciarelli‐Ducci Chiara
Published: March 2020

Several previous studies suggested that prolonged and extensive physical activity might lead to increased prevalence of myocardial fibrosis in athletes. The review summarizes these studies focusing on common patterns of myocardial fibrosis observed in athletes, their potential causes and significance. It also presents recent research on parametric imaging shedding new light on diffuse myocardial fibrosis in athletes. Finally, it reviews how these traditional and novel cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) techniques can be incorporated in the diagnostic work up to differentiate athlete's heart from cardiomyopathies.
New Insights from Crystallographic Data: Diversity of Structural Motifs and Molecular Recognition Properties between Groups of IDO1 Structures
Authors: Mammoli Andrea , Coletti Alice , Ballarotto Marco , Riccio Alessandra , Carotti Andrea , Grohmann Ursula , Camaioni Emidio , Macchiarulo Antonio
Published: March 2020

A large number of crystallographic structures of IDO1 in different ligand‐bound and ‐unbound states have been disclosed over the last decade. Yet, only a few of them have been exploited for structure‐based drug design (SBDD) campaigns. In this study, we analyzed the structural motifs and molecular‐recognition properties of three groups of IDO1 structures: 1) structures containing the heme group and inhibitors in the catalytic site; 2) heme‐free structures of IDO1; 3) substrate‐bound structures of IDO1. The results suggest that unrelated conformations of the enzyme have been solved with different ligand‐induced changes of secondary motifs that localize even in regions remote from the catalytic site. Moreover, the study identified an uncharted region of molecular‐recognition space covered by IDO1 binding sites that could guide the selection of diverse structures for additional SBDD studies aimed at the identification of novel lead compounds with differentiated chemical scaffolds.
Integrated cardiorespiratory system model with short timescale control mechanisms
Authors: Fernandes Luciano G. , Trenhago Paulo R. , Feijóo Raúl A. , Blanco Pablo J.
Published: March 2020

A compartmental model of the cardiorespiratory system featuring pulsatile blood flow and gas transport, as well as closed loop mechanisms of cardiorespiratory regulation is presented. Short timescale regulatory action includes baroreflex, peripheral and central chemoreflex feedback. The cardiorespiratory model is composed by compartments to describe blood flow and gas exchange in the major systemic and pulmonic regions. The control systems include formulations to afferent activity of arterial baroreceptor and peripheral and central chemoreceptors. Simulations described here include situations of hypoxia, hypercapnia, and hemorrhage. The overall responses of our simulations agree with physiological (experimental) and theoretical data. Our results suggest that the present model could be used to further understand the interplay among major regulatory mechanisms in the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems in cases of normal and abnormal physiological conditions.
Self‐Assembly of DNA and RNA Building Blocks Explored by Nitrogen‐14 NMR Crystallography: Structure and Dynamics
Authors: Carnevale Diego , Hollenstein Marcel , Bodenhausen Geoffrey
Published: March 2020

The isotopic enrichment of nucleic acids with nitrogen‐15 is often carried out by solid‐phase synthesis of oligonucleotides using phosphoramidite precursors that are synthetically demanding and expensive. These synthetic challenges, combined with the overlap of chemical shifts, explain the lag of nitrogen‐15 NMR studies of nucleic acids behind those of proteins. For the structural characterization of DNA and RNA‐related systems, new NMR methods that exploit the naturally occurring 99.9 % abundant nitrogen‐14 isotope are therefore highly desirable. In this study, we have investigated nitrogen‐14 spectra of self‐assembled quartets based on the nucleobase guanine in the solid state by means of magic‐angle spinning NMR spectroscopy. The network of dipolar proton–nitrogen couplings between neighboring stacked purine units is probed by 2D spectra based on 1H→14N→1H double cross‐polarization. Interplane dipolar contacts are identified between the stacked G quartets. The assignment is supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations of the anisotropic chemical shifts and quadrupolar parameters. The experimental spectra are fully consistent with internuclear distances obtained in silico. Averaging of chemical shifts due to internal motions can be interpreted by semiempirical calculations. This method can easily be extended to synthetic G quartets based on nucleobase or nucleoside analogs and potentially to oligonucleotides.
Are mandatory non‐financial disclosures credible? Evidence from Italian listed companies
Authors: Mazzotta Romilda , Bronzetti Giovanni , Veltri Stefania
Published: March 2020

According to the Directive 2014/95/EU on non‐financial information (NFI), from 2017 onwards, large companies of member states must provide social, environmental, and governance disclosures. This paper, focusing on the evaluation of the credibility of NFI in Italy after the implementation of the EU Directive, aims to investigate whether making non‐financial disclosures (NFDs) obligatory affect their credibility. From a theoretical perspective of material legitimacy theory, we investigated the NFDs of the 31 FTSE MIB Italian listed companies for the 2017 fiscal year. Through a meaning‐oriented content analysis, we developed a self‐constructed credibility index applying an operational framework based on the Habermas idealism. Our framework conceives credibility as a multidimensional construct, constituted of three sub‐dimensions: truth, sincerity and appropriateness, and understandability. Our findings show that the NFDs of Italian FTSE MIB companies tend to be credible, contributing to widen the empirical researches addressed to investigate the credibility of NFDs in mandatory contexts.
Company's retention needs lead to enrollment boost
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2020

CHICAGO — A few years ago, supervisors at FedEx realized they had a retention problem. For employees who worked at the company, turnover was about 92%. For the Memphis warehouse, which employed about 12,000 people, that meant replacing approximately 10,000 employees annually. “It cost them about $3,500 to train a new employee,” said Courtney Brafford, Coordinator of Student Success Initiatives and Retention Specialist at the University of Memphis. As an initiative to retain employees and build lasting skills, FedEx partnered with UM to develop online pathways to degrees available to employees with no upfront tuition cost.
Radiofrequency microneedling for acne, acne scars, and more
Authors: Kesty Katarina , Goldberg David J.
Published: March 2020

Background

We have employed radiofrequency microneedling devices in our practice with favorable patient results. Rejuvenation, acne, acne scars, and skin laxity are the most common concerns that we treat with radiofrequency microneedling devices. Patient selection, preparation, and post‐procedure follow up can improve clinical outcomes and safety while increasing patient satisfaction.

Aims

The purpose of this review is to highlight radiofrequency microneedling methods and present our clinical experience.

Materials and Methods

Articles from PubMed are highlighted and our clinical experience is presented.

Results

Radiofrequency microneedling is a safe and effective treatment for acne scars, hyperhidrosis, rosacea, skin laxity and skin rejuvenation and is a key device for any cosmetic dermatologist.

Discussion

Dermatologists should consider adding radiofrequency microneedling devices to their treatments offered to patients for a variety of indications.
Studies towards the Total Synthesis of Drimentine C. Preparation of the AB and CDEF Ring Fragments
Authors: Pound Sarah M. , Underwood Steven J. , Douglas Christopher J.
Published: March 2020

The drimentine family is a class of hybrid isoprenoids derived from actinomycete bacteria. Members of this family display weak antitumor and antibacterial activity. Herein we report our efforts toward the total synthesis of drimentine C using three distinct approaches incorporating palladium‐catalyzed cyanoamidation, reductive cross‐coupling, and photoredox‐catalyzed α‐alkylation of an aldehyde as key steps. Our synthetic efforts use a convergent synthesis to assemble the terpenoid and alkaloid portions of drimentine C from readily available l‐tryptophan, l‐proline, and (+)‐sclareolide.