bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pushkin texts in the description of characters by Dostoevsky and Nabokov
Authors: Fedorova Elena A.
Published: June 2020

In his novels, Dostoevsky refers to the Pushkin text to describe characters. For Dostoev­sky, Pushkin is an ethical and aesthetic touchstone; the writer’s voice is consonant with that of the poet’s persona. In some cases, the Pushkin text is embedded in religious discourse (the parable of the prodigal son). In interpreting the Pushkin text, Dostoevsky’s characters present and disclose themselves. The ‘dreamer’ from ‘White Nights’ invokes the Pushkin text to con­vey the values of his own. In her peculiar account of the ‘poor knight’ ballad, Aglaya is trans­forming religious discourse into aesthetic and mundane. Pushkin’s St Petersburg text, whose sign is wet snow, creates the space in which contradiction-ridden Hermann (The Queen of Spades) and Dostoevsky’s paradoxalists develop. The Pushkin code in Dostoevsky’s texts is what the images of characters are built on. It is a text-producing and plot-building technique and an element of literary discourse, of author-reader interactions. These techniques are used by Vladimir Nabokov in Despair and “The Visit to the Museum”.
An Examination of Adolescents' Values in a Motivational Interviewing-based Obesity Intervention
Authors: Caccavale Laura J. , LaRose Jessica Gokee , Mazzeo Suzanne E. , Bean Melanie K.
Published: June 2020

Objectives: In this paper, we examine values selected by adolescents as part of a motivational interviewing (MI) weight loss intervention. Methods: During a values clarification activity, adolescents (N = 52; 75.0% girls; 78.4% African-American; mean age = 13.5 ±
1.8 years; mean body mass index (BMI) = 36.8 ± 6.4 kg/m2) selected their top 5 values. Using MI, interventionists explored selected values with adolescents and related them to target behaviors to develop discrepancy and enhance motivation for engagement in behavioral weight
loss behaviors. Values were categorized using thematic analysis. Frequencies of value and theme selection were examined. Results: The majority of adolescents selected values in the Health (N = 38; 73.1%), Religion/ Spirituality (N = 36; 69.2%), Personal Achievement (N = 31; 59.6%),
Virtuous (N = 28; 53.8%), and Family (N = 27; 51.9%) categories. Conclusions: Values selected by adolescents with obesity can inform intervention development for this difficult to engage population.
PROMs og livskvalitet
Authors: Bissenbakker Kristine Henderson , Møller Anne , Brodersen John , Jønsson Alexandra Ryborg
Published: June 2020

Denne artikel beskriver de udfordringer, vi er stødt på i det indledende arbejde, i bestræ- belsen på at udvikle et nyt patient rapporteret outcome measure (PROM) for livskvalitet blandt patienter med multisygdom. De eksisterende livskvalitetsmål, der i dag anvendes, præsenteres sammen med en redegørelse for deres relation til dette projekt. Derefter in- troduceres projektets teoretiske ramme for en patientcentreret, behovsrelateret livskvalitet, The Needs-Based Model. Endelig diskuteres udfordringerne ved at definere begrebet livs- kvalitet, så det er kvantificerbart og kan bruges på populationsniveau i forskningsmæssige sammenhænge.

Tre af de indledende interviews i et pilotstudie er i denne sammenhæng udvalgt som ca- ses, fordi de på hver deres måde bidrager til at illustrere de tematiske udfordringer: adaptiv livskvalitet og temporalitet i multisygdom. Data fra disse interviews viser, at selvevaluerin- ger af livskvalitet kan ændres gennem forløbet af en sygdom, og at der i disse ændringer kan være tale om en iboende gradvis tilpasning til sygdommene. Interviewene tydeliggør herudover koblingen af temporalitet med multisygdom som en både progressiv og cyklisk faktor og den deraf afledte mulige fluktuation i livskvalitet.

Til sidst præsenteres de refleksioner og de valg, forfatterne har foretaget, for at tage højde for forskellige definitioner af multisygdom samt adaption og temporaliteten i multisygdom. Herunder begrænsningerne ved at anvende et øjebliksbillede af livskvalitet som et forsk- ningsmæssigt værktøj.
Paradojas de la comunicación en un mundo postpandemia
Authors: Creus Tomás
Published: June 2020

En estos días de pandemia y confinamiento, se ha disparado el consumo de entretenimiento en la red. Mientras se multiplican las propuestas creativas online de artistas u organizaciones de la industria digital, los espacios tradicionales del arte, como los museos, los cines, el teatro o la música en directo, experimentan la agonía de las salas cerradas y el temor de un futuro incierto en cuanto a su continuidad. La tragedia del virus ha dejado al descubierto, todavía más si cabe, la fragilidad del sector de la cultura, mientras se dibujan en el horizonte nuevas maneras de consumirla en un mundo postpandemia.
Mental spaces of LIGHT/DARK archetypical binary opposition
Authors: Semenova Elena Mikhailovna
Published: June 2020

The article represents the description of ideal cognitive model of LIGHT/DARK archetypical binary opposition, metaphorically represented in the modern American political media discourse. Classific cognitive features and frames, constituting the mental spaces of the dichotomy under consideration are identified and described. The modelling of LIGHT/DARK binary pposition cognitive structure is represented by 3 stages. They are as follows: 1. the cognitive features identifed in the process of archetypical concepts' macrostructures description are referred to archetypical senses forming their mental spaces;2. the categorical structures of arcgetypical concepts are identified as frames or specific cognitive features, makong concepts' cognitive structure more detaoled;3.the character of archetypicak concepts' field organisation is determined by means of identyfying the core, the nearest and the farthest periphery of archetypical binary opposition cognitive structure.The methodology of the research is based on the cognitive-discursive paradigm, cognitive analysis of image making ways of archetypical senses ontologization in the political discourse.The novelty of research consists in representation of the ideal cognitive model of archetypical binary opposition LOGHT/DARK in the political discourse, the main characterisitic of which is conceptual assymetry, predetermining the charachter of interconnections between the components of binary opposition on the cognitive, verbal and discourse levels.
Firmato il Protocollo di Intesa per il “Patentino”. Report su Geofluid Academy
Authors: Brizzolari Bonizzella
Published: June 2020

Lo staff della rivista Acque Sotterranee-Italian Journal of Groundwater è vicino ai nostri Associati e a tutti coloro che in questo difficile momento stanno cercando, seppur con fatica, di mandare avanti l’Italia. Grazie di cuore. Il futuro è ancora incerto e non sappiamo dirvi quando ci rivedremo con i nostri corsi di formazione e di aggiornamento, ma ci stiamo impegnando per fare uscire la rivista regolarmente.
Evaluation of Vegetative and Yield Performance of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Varieties at Abol District, Gambella Region
Authors: Yonas Mihtretu , Abajabal Nazif
Published: June 2020

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is major fruity vegetables grown in Ethiopia next to hot pepper. Although crops grown in the country its production and productivity is very low compared to the world average. Among the reasons for low its production and productivity, shortage of improved tomato varieties is the major one.  This experiment was done with the aim of evaluating tomato varieties and select high yielding cultivars. An experiment was conducted in bonga district Gambella region 2011/12 dry season under irrigated condition. Seven tomato varieties namely ARP Tomato D2, Fetan, Melkasalsa, Chali, Bishola, Gelila and  Roma-VF(as local check) and  were tested in randomized complete block design with 3 replications. The mean values of all parameters were subjected to two way analysis of variance using the Proc GLM procedure of  SAS 9.3. Then statistical significance of the mean of each parameter was determined using F-test and Duncan multiple range test procedure was used to compare differences between treatment means at 5% probability level. The analysis of variance showed statistically significant differences (p< 0.05) among varieties in all growth and yield parameters except days to 50% flowering. Among the tested tomato cultivars, Melkasalsa produced the largest fruit. The highest fruit yield was recorded by Melkasalsa followed by Bishola. we can conclude Melkasalsa and Bishola variety were the most productive and gave larger fruit compared to others. Hence, these varieties can be used by tomato growers under irrigated condition around Bonga area.
Net Returns Maximizing Combination of Arable Crops among Smallholder Farmers in Kaiama Agricultural Zone of Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Adewumi A. , Tanko L. , Ibrahim F. D. , Yisa E. S.
Published: June 2020

The study developed an optimal arable crop combination plans that would maximize the net returns of the smallholder farmers in Kaiama agricultural zone of Kwara State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 40 smallholder farmers. Interview schedule was used to obtain cross-sectional data from the farmers. Descriptive statistics, farm budgeting technique and linear programming model were used to analyse the data obtained. The results of the analysis showed that mixed crop enterprises were more profitable than sole crop enterprises. The LP result revealed that 1.75 ha of maize/cowpea, 1.64 ha of maize/soybean, 1.40 ha of maize/yam and 0.70 ha of sorghum/soybean were prescribed as solutions to maximize net returns in the optimal plan. The optimal net return was $937.98 which is 52.23% higher than the existing plan. Maize enterprise had the highest marginal opportunity cost while yam had the least. However, Capital and labour constituted the limiting resources in the optimal plan. It was concluded that the smallholder farmers have the potential to maximize net returns as resources were not optimally allocated in the existing plan for arable crop activities. Farmers should therefore adopt the optimum farm plans as prescribed in the LP solution.
On the Extended Generalized Inverse Exponential Distribution with Its Applications
Authors: Ibrahim Sule , Akanji Bello Olalekan , Olanrewaju Lawal Hammed
Published: June 2020

We propose a new distribution called the extended generalized inverse exponential distribution with four positive parameters, which extends the generalized inverse exponential distribution. We derive some mathematical properties of the proposed model including explicit expressions for the quantile function, moments, generating function, survival, hazard rate, reversed hazard rate and odd functions. The method of maximum likelihood is used to estimate the parameters of the distribution. We illustrate its potentiality with applications to two real data sets which show that the extended generalized inverse exponential model provides a better fit than other models considered.
On Hyperoctahedral Enumeration System, Application to Signed Permutations
Authors: Raharinirina Iharantsoa Vero
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we give the denitions and basic facts about hyperoctahedral number system. There is a natural correspondence between the integers expressed in the latter and the elements of the hyperoctahedral group when we use the inversion statistic on this group to code the signed permutations. We show that this correspondence provides a way with which the signed permutations group can be ordered. With this classication scheme, we can nd the r-th signed permutation from a given number r and vice versa without consulting the list in lexicographical order of the elements of the signed permutations group.
Sickle Cell Disease - A Comprehensive Study and Usage of Technology for Diagnosis
Authors: Yeruva Sagar , Varalakshmi M. Sharada , Gowtham B. Pavan , Chandana Y. Hari , Prasad P. E. S. N. Krishna
Published: June 2020

Sickle cell is haematological disorder (haematology is a study of blood in health and diseases) which may lead to an organ damage, heart strokes and serious complications. It may also reduce human life span. Most of the sickle cells are observed in new born babies. At the start of sickle cells in human people though it’s a kind of feature in tribal people but it has spread over the world. Sickle cell Symptoms are observed in human beings as episodes of pains (crisis), Vision problems, swelling of hands and Feet. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) can harm patient’s spleen (slightly pain at left Ribs). If one organ is affected in human body, then slowly it affects the entire body by spreading into Brain, Lungs, Heart, Liver, Kidneys, Joints, Eyes, Penis, Skin or Bone. This paper is aimed at presenting the complete details of the SCD with its properties, symptoms, signs, treatment for this disease. This is also a comprehensive study and characteristics of this disease with other similar diseases. The technological implications and usage in the field of SCD for better accuracy of identification of the disease is presented.
Transfusion Transmitable Infections and Reasons for Release of Total Blood to the Blood Bank of the Yaounde Centrall Hospital
Authors: Bernard Chetcha C.
Published: June 2020

Blood banks in sub-Saharan Africa regularly face shortages of blood products (PS). Several factors are responsible for this, including transfusion-transmissible infections (ITT) and deficiencies in the transfusion system. This study aims to determine the prevalence and the various reasons for rejection at the blood bank of the Central Hospital of Yaoundé. We first conducted a retrospective study at the blood bank of the Central Hospital of Yaoundé for 12 months between January 01, 2014 and December 31, 2014.Secondly, we carried out a prospective study in October 2015. Five milliliters (05 ml) of venous blood were taken from each participant in a tube without anticoagulant; patient samples were stored at -24°C. A rapid screening test and ELISA were used to test for HIV, HCV, HBs and syphilis on the samples taken. Approximately 15,028 bags of whole blood were drawn in 2014, of which 3,688 bags were rejected. This equates to a rejection rate of 24.54%. Discards for non-infectious reasons represented 3.51% and rejections for infectious reasons 21.03%. During the prospective study, among those selected, there were 95.74% men and 4.26% women. The average age of the participants was 30 years. Among the 705 people in this investigation, 185 blood bags were rejected. Infectious causes represented 22.55% (Hepatitis B and C, HIV and syphilis with a respective prevalence of 9.08%, 0.71% 6.95% and 5.82%) and non-infectious causes represented 3.68 % (clots, insufficient volume of PST, hemolysis and expiration with a respective prevalence of: 1.84%, 0.71 0.14% and 0.99%).The association between rejection of blood bags and qualitative variables was assessed. There emerged a significant association between the risk of rejection of a blood bag and the type of donor; condom use, number of partners, history of STIs. At the Yaoundé Central Hospital blood bank, the reasons for rejecting blood bags are divided into two categories: Mainly infectious and non-infectious. Also, certain risk variables such as not using a condom, multiple sexual partners and a history of STIs are risk factors that can encourage rejection of blood bags.
Studies on the Protein Status of White and Brown Rice Grain in Selected Varieties Cultivated in and around Tiruchirappalli District of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Pandarinathan S.
Published: June 2020

A study was conducted to evaluate the Protein status of White and Brown Rice grain in selected varieties at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College & Research Institute, Tiruchirappalli of Tamil Nadu, India during the period from June 2017 to May 2019. In the present study, sixteen different rice varieties cultivated in and around Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu as the test rice grains in terms of White and Brown rice in completely randomized design with three replications were tried. Screening and evaluation of protein content in 16 rice varieties were carried out to identify protein rich varieties. Biochemical analysis based on five different traits including contents of albumin(Alb), globulin(Glo), prolamin(Pro), glutelin(Glu) and total or gross grain storage protein (GGSP) were carried out. Results showed that the relative contribution of Albumin as 0.9 to 2.3 g/100 g, globulin as 0.67 to 2.3 g/100 g, prolamin as 0.28 to 2.73 g/100 g and glutelin as 2.0 to 6.18 g/100 g in Brown Rice; Albumin as 0.67 to 2.0 g/100 g, globulin as 0.652 to 2.0 g/100 g, prolamin as 0.20 to 2.3 g/100 g and glutelin as 1.684 to 5.258 g/100 g in White Rice. Results revealed a considerable variation also in gross grain protein contents among Brown and White rice of sixteen cultivars ranged from 5.087 to 9.644 g/100 g and 4.5 to 8.760 g/100 g respectively. Gross grain protein contents were higher in ASD-19, TKM (R) 12 and ADT 37 of Brown rice. Gross grain protein contents were higher in TKM (R) 12, ASD-19 and ADT-38 of White rice. The result on status of protein in Brown rice showed that ADT-40 had the highest Albumin content. ADT 37 exhibited the highest globulin content. The lowest prolamin content was found in TKM (R) 12, whereas the highest content of glutelin was found in ASD-19. The result of status of protein in White rice showed that TKM (R) 12 had the highest Albumin content. ADT 37 exhibited the highest globulin content. The lowest prolamin content was found in Anna (R) 4, whereas the highest content of glutelin was found in ASD-19. The highest Prolamin to Glutelin ratio was recorded in TKM (R) 12, CR 1009 /Ponmani and Anna (R) 4 for Brown rice. The overall results of this study revealed that ASD-19, TKM (R) 12 and CR 1009 /Ponmani were considered as Top three genotypes suitable for Tiruchirappalli district farmers based on consumer preferences.
A Review on Diagnostic Methods for the Identification of Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Ebob Tarh, Jacqueline
Published: June 2020

The severe diarrheal disease Cholera, has gained public health importance because of its life-threatening effect. The detection of the causative agent of this disease (Vibrio cholerae (V.  Cholerae) O1 or O139) from a specimen (stool, vomitus of food sample) remains a major concern in the world today. Phenotypic finger printing (the conventional methods) of the toxigenic V. cholerae strain, remains the gold standard for the laboratory diagnosis of cholera; especially during cholera epidemic outbreaks. Detection around the remote areas which are usually rampaged by these outbreaks is usually difficult due to lack of required diagnostic facilities in small laboratories. However, the use of phenotypic approaches have some major setbacks as they are usually labor-intensive and time consuming. This delays treatment commencement especially in life threatening cases.To alleviate these setbacks, rapid molecular typing techniques involving the Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, hybridization methods, Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE), Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST), Multiple-Locus Variable Number Tandem Repeat Analysis (MVLA), Fluorescent Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (FAFLP),  Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) etc. represent promising tools for early detection of the pathogen V. cholerae O1/O139 even in remote areas where laboratory resources are poor. Immunoassay-based techniques like enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA), coagglutination, immunofluorescence, and quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), are capital/labour intensive and expensive for low resource settings. Rapid diagnostic tests based on immune-chromatography principle have also been developed for simultaneous detection of V. choleraesero groups O1 and O139. These test kits are easy to use, transport, and fast. All these methods enable the subtyping of unrelated bacterial strains and they all operate with different accuracies, discriminatory ability, and reproducibility. This review sought to address some of the methods used in diagnosing the disease cholera, with the objective of identifying the best and easiest of the methods that can help to curb the cholera problem (deaths) often encountered, especially in low resource settings in the developing countries (Nigeria inclusive).
The Relevance of Mathematics Education in the Nigerian Contemporary Society: Implications to Secondary Education
Authors: Agah Marcel Papka
Published: June 2020

This paper highlights the universal importance and application of Mathematics to man and his environment. Several other intervening factors were suspected to be responsible for the poor performance of secondary school students. Suggestions were made for further in-depth research into the effect of such factors. It is hoped that this submission would help student’s have an ardent interest in mathematics, so much so that more and more students would begin to choose mathematics as a discipline to study. If it does, the purpose of this discussion would have been achieved.
Conservatibacter
Authors: Christensen Henrik , Bisgaard Magne , Nicklas Werner , Adhikary Sadhana
Published: June 2020

Con.ser.va.ti.bac'ter. L. part. adj.
conservatus
conserved; N.L. masc. n.
bacter
rod; N.L. masc. n.
Conservatibacter
a rod‐shaped bacterium of conserved nature. The name refers to the genotypically conserved nature of the genus.

Proteobacteria / Gammaproteobacteria / Pasteurellales / Pasteurellaceae / Conservatibacter

The genus
Conservatibacter
is based on the characterization of 15 strains, all from guinea pigs. The strains were previously classified as Bisgaard taxon 7 by comparison of the phenotypic characteristics. The cells are Gram‐negative, nonmotile, and pleomorphic rods. The colonies are nonhemolytic on bovine blood agar. The 16S rRNA gene sequences are identical for the five strains investigated, and the partial
rpoB
gene sequences are identical for all 15 strains. The oxidase test is positive, and the catalase test is weak positive or negative. The Hugh and Leifson's test with glucose is fermentative. There are no requirements for X‐factor (positive in porphyrin synthesis) or V‐factor (no NAD requirement). The Simmons' citrate test is negative, and base is not formed from malonate just as acid is not formed from mucate. The tests for H
2
S/TSI, methyl red, Voges–Proskauer, and urease are negative. The genus can be separated from other genera of
Pasteurellaceae
by at least two phenotypic characters. The most distinctive characteristics aiding in the separation are a negative alkaline phosphatase test and a positive ornithine decarboxylase reaction and acid formation from many of the carbohydrates. DNA–DNA hybridization experiments documented a strong genotypic relationship between the strains. The only one species is
Conservatibacter flavescens
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 39.5 determined by whole‐genomic sequencing.

Type species
:
Conservatibacter flavescens
Adhikary et al. 2018
VP
.
Natrarchaeobius
Authors: Sorokin Dimitry Y. , Merkel Alexander , Kublanov Ilya , Oren Aharon
Published: June 2020

Natr.ar.chae.o'bi.us. N.L. n.
natron
(derived from Arabic n.
natrun
or
natron
) soda, sodium carbonate; Gr. masc. adj.
archaios
ancient; Gr. masc. n.
bios
life; N.L. masc. n.
Natrarchaeobius
, archaeon that lives in soda.

Euryarchaeota / Halobacteria / Natrialbales / Natrialbaceae / Natrarchaeobius

The genus
Natrarchaeobius
, classified within the family
Natrialbaceae
, order
Natrialbales
, and within the class
Halobacteria
, consists of coccoid to flat rod‐shaped, nonmotile cells. Colonies on agar plates are pink orange to pale orange. The species of the genus are extremely halophilic, requiring >3 M Na
+
and growing optimally at 3.5–4 M Na
+
, and alkaliphilic or alkali tolerant, growing at pH 6.5–10.0 with an optimum at pH 8.5–9.3. Both sodium carbonate and chloride are required for growth. The temperature optimum is at 43–45°C. Cells are obligately aerobic chemoorganoheterotrophs that use chitin, chitosan, and a number of simple carbohydrates as carbon and energy sources. Multiple GH18 family chitinase genes are found in the genomes. The respiratory quinone is MK‐8:0. The major polar lipids are C
20
–C
20
and C
20
–C
25
diether derivatives of phosphatidylglycerol phosphate methyl ester (PGP‐Me) and phosphatidylglycerol (PG).

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 61.1–62.3 (genome sequences).

Type species
:
Natrarchaeobius chitinivorans
Sorokin et al. 2019, VL191.
Confluence of factors challenges ability to stem rise in overdoses
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: June 2020

Most observers of drug use trends are concluding that the relaxation of restrictions on opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment during the COVID‐19 crisis has amounted to a net positive for combating overdose. But with reports of overall increases in overdoses mounting across the country, it remains clear that other factors are offsetting any gains from the increased flexibility to serve individuals who need treatment.
Brain Insulin Signaling, Alzheimer Disease Pathology, and Cognitive Function
Authors: Arvanitakis Zoe , Wang Hoau‐Yan , Capuano Ana W. , Khan Amber , Taïb Bouchra , Anokye‐Danso Frederick , Schneider Julie A. , Bennett David A. , Ahima Rexford S. , Arnold Steven E.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To examine associations of molecular markers of brain insulin signaling with Alzheimer disease (AD) and cognition among older persons with or without diabetes.

Methods

This clinical–pathologic study was derived from a community‐based cohort study, the Religious Orders Study. We studied 150 individuals (mean age at death =87 years, 48% women): 75 with and 75 without diabetes (matched by sex on age at death and education). Using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry, and ex vivo stimulation of brain tissue with insulin, we assessed insulin signaling in the postmortem middle frontal gyrus cortex. Postmortem data documented AD neuropathology. Clinical evaluations documented cognitive function proximate to death, based on 17 neuropsychological tests. In adjusted regression analyses, we examined associations of brain insulin signaling with diabetes, AD, and level of cognition.

Results

Brain insulin receptor substrate‐1 (IRS1) phosphorylation (pS307IRS1/total IRS1) and serine/threonine‐protein kinase (AKT) phosphorylation (pT308AKT1/total AKT1) were similar in persons with or without diabetes. AKT phosphorylation was associated with the global AD pathology score (p = 0.001). In contrast, IRS1 phosphorylation was not associated with AD (p = 0.536). No other associations of insulin signaling were found with the global AD score, including when using the ex vivo brain insulin stimulation method. In secondary analyses, normalized pT308AKT1 was positively correlated with both the amyloid burden and tau tangle density, and no other associations of brain insulin signaling with neuropathology were observed. Moreover, normalized pT308AKT1 was associated with a lower level of global cognitive function (estimate = −0.212, standard error = 0.097; p = 0.031).

Interpretation

Brain AKT phosphorylation, a critical node in the signaling of insulin and other growth factors, is associated with AD neuropathology and lower cognitive function. ANN NEUROL 2020;88:513–525
Highly Concentrated Electrolyte towards Enhanced Energy Density and Cycling Life of Dual‐Ion Battery
Authors: Xiang Li , Ou Xuewu , Wang Xingyong , Zhou Zhiming , Li Xiang , Tang Yongbing
Published: June 2020

Dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) have attracted much attention owing to their low cost, high voltage, and environmental friendliness. As the source of active ions during the charging/discharging process, the electrolyte plays a critical role in the performance of DIBs, including capacity, energy density, and cycling life. However, most used electrolyte systems based on the LiPF6 salt demonstrate unsatisfactory performance in DIBs. We have successfully developed a 7.5 mol kg−1 lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) in a carbonate electrolyte system. Compared with diluted electrolytes, this highly concentrated electrolyte exhibits several advantages: 1) enhanced intercalation capacity and cycling stability of the graphite cathode, 2) optimized structural stability of the Al anode, and 3) significantly increased battery energy density. A proof‐of‐concept DIB based on this concentrated electrolyte exhibits a discharge capacity of 94.0 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1 and 96.8 % capacity retention after 500 cycles. By counting both the electrode materials and electrolyte, the energy density of this DIB reaches up to ≈180 Wh kg−1, which is among the best performances of DIBs reported to date.
Probing the Mineral–Water Interface with Nonlinear Optical Spectroscopy
Authors: Backus Ellen H. G. , Schaefer Jan , Bonn Mischa
Published: June 2020

The interaction between minerals and water is manifold and complex: the mineral surface can be (de)protonated by water, thereby changing its charge; mineral ions dissolved into the aqueous phase screen the surface charges. Both factors affect the interaction with water. Intrinsically molecular‐level processes and interactions govern macroscopic phenomena, such as flow‐induced dissolution, wetting, and charging. This realization is increasingly prompting molecular‐level studies of mineral–water interfaces. Here, we provide an overview of recent developments in surface‐specific nonlinear spectroscopy techniques such as sum frequency and second harmonic generation (SFG/SHG), which can provide information about the molecular arrangement of the first few layers of water molecules at the mineral surface. The results illustrate the subtleties of both chemical and physical interactions between water and the mineral as well as the critical role of mineral dissolution and other ions in solution for determining those interactions.
An RCM‐Based Total Synthesis of the Antibiotic Disciformycin B
Authors: Waser Philipp , Altmann Karl‐Heinz
Published: June 2020

The total synthesis of the potent new antibiotic disciformycin B (2) is described, which shows significant activity against methicillin‐ and vancomycin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA/VRSA) strains. The synthetic route is based on macrocyclization of a tetraene substrate to the 12‐membered macrolactone core by ring‐closing olefin metathesis (RCM). Although macrocyclization was accompanied by concomitant cyclopentene formation by an alternative RCM pathway, conditions were established to give the macrocycle as the major product. Key steps in the construction of the RCM substrate include a highly efficient Evans syn‐aldol reaction, the asymmetric Brown allylation of angelic aldehyde, and the stereoselective Zn(BH4)2‐mediated 1,2‐reduction of an enone. The synthesis was completed by late‐stage dehydrative glycosylation to introduce the d‐arabinofuranosyl moiety and final chemoselective allylic alcohol oxidation.
Delivery of myo‐Inositol Hexakisphosphate to the Cell Nucleus with a Proline‐Based Cell‐Penetrating Peptide
Authors: Li Mao , Puschmann Robert , Herdlitschka Andreas , Fiedler Dorothea , Wennemers Helma
Published: June 2020

Inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP6) is a central member of the inositol phosphate messengers in eukaryotic cells. Tools to manipulate the level of InsP6, particularly with compartment selectivity, are needed to enable functional cellular studies. We present cationic octa‐(4S)guanidiniumproline (Z8) for the delivery of InsP6 into the cell nucleus. CD spectroscopy, binding affinity, dynamic light scattering, and computational studies revealed that Z8 binds tightly to InsP6 and upon binding undergoes a conformational change from a PPII‐helical structure to a structure that forms aggregates. The unique conformational features of the cationic oligoproline enable complex formation and cellular delivery of InsP6 with considerably greater efficacy than the flexible counterpart octaarginine.
Acute recurrent bradycardia with evoked potential loss during transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Schwan C. P. , Pedersen M. R. , Tavanaiepour K. , Tavanaiepour D. , Hoefnagel A. L. , Mongan P. D.
Published: June 2020

During a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion a patient experienced acute intermittent bradycardia with manipulation of the intervertebral body space, followed by loss of somatosensory evoked potentials that did not recover. Postoperative evaluation revealed new bilateral lower extremity sensory and motor deficits. We postulate an afferent reflex arc to explain this and other reported instances of bradycardia and asystole during transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery. Awareness of the association between bradycardia during lumbar spine surgery may alert anaesthetists, surgeons and neuromonitoring teams to impending neurological harm.
Facile combustion synthesis of Ag2O nanoparticles using cantaloupe seeds and their multidisciplinary applications
Authors: Vinay S.P. , Udayabhanu  , Sumedha H.N. , Nagaraju G. , Harishkumar S. , Chandrasekhar N.
Published: June 2020

Silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag2O NPs) were prepared using cantaloupe (Cucumis melo) seeds as a fuel by employing a green synthesis method. The prepared Ag2O NPs were investigated using powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), UV–visible spectrum, Fourier transform infrared analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, and photoluminescence studies. PXRD data reveal the establishment of cubic crystal structure of Ag2O NPs. According to SEM and TEM results, the morphology of the prepared NPs was agglomerated and spherical. The photodegradation activity of the prepared Ag2O NPs over methylene blue dye was promising under visible light irradiation. Furthermore, the antimicrobial assay of the synthesized Ag2O NPs was carried out by the disc diffusion method against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative microbial strains.
Unraveling the Role of Cu0 and Cu+ Sites in Cu/SiO2 Catalysts for Water‐Gas Shift Reaction
Authors: Chen Chongqi , Ren Hongju , He Yuanyuan , Zhan Yingying , Au Chaktong , Luo Yu , Lin Xingyi , Liang Shijing , Jiang Lilong
Published: June 2020

CuOx/SiO2 precursor was successfully fabricated by an ammonia evaporation hydrothermal method. Upon reduction in 5 vol % H2/N2 at 250, 300, 350, 400, or 450 °C, CuO and copper phyllosilicate species in the precursor bring about the formation of highly dispersed Cu0 and Cu+ species, respectively. The Cu+/Cu0 ratios were studied by XAES technique, while the particle sizes were estimated on the basis of HRTEM images. It is disclosed that the ratios and particle sizes varied with CuOx/SiO2 reduction temperatures. The results of in situ DRIFTS and XAES characterization reveal that both Cu0 and Cu+ are active for CO adsorption and water dissociation, especially so with Cu0 and Cu+ particles of small sizes. It was also observed that the adsorption of CO on Cu+ is stronger than that on Cu0, and Cu0 is more active than Cu+ for water dissociation. Among the prepared Cu/SiO2 catalysts, the one resulted from precursor reduction at 300 °C shows the highest CO conversion in WGS reaction, which is attributed to the small size of Cu0 (2.45 nm) and the large amount of Cu+.
Generation and Reactivity of C(1)‐Ammonium Enolates by Using Isothiourea Catalysis
Authors: McLaughlin Calum , Smith Andrew D.
Published: June 2020

C(1)‐Ammonium enolates are powerful, catalytically generated synthetic intermediates applied in the enantioselective α‐functionalisation of carboxylic acid derivatives. This minireview describes the recent developments in the generation and application of C(1)‐ammonium enolates from various precursors (carboxylic acids, anhydrides, acyl imidazoles, aryl esters, α‐diazoketones, alkyl halides) using isothiourea Lewis base organocatalysts. Their synthetic utility in intra‐ and intermolecular enantioselective C−C and C−X bond forming processes on reaction with various electrophiles will be showcased utilising two distinct catalyst turnover approaches.
Hydrocarbon condensation modelling to mitigate fluid coker cyclone fouling
Authors: Glatt Erica , Pjontek Dominic , McKnight Craig , Wiens Jason , Wormsbecker Michael , McMillan Jennifer
Published: June 2020

FLUID COKING is a continuous process that thermally converts heavy hydrocarbons, such as oil sands bitumen, to lighter and higher‐value products by horizontal spray injection onto a fluidized bed of hot coke particles. The cyclone sections of commercial fluid coker reactors experience fouling during typical operation, which limits unit run lengths. The main objective of this work is to improve fluid coker reliability by proposing cyclone fouling mitigation strategies based on practical operation modifications. This study developed a process simulation in Aspen Plus to establish the combined impact of vapour‐liquid equilibrium, endothermic thermal cracking reactions, pressure changes, and overall fluid dynamics in the selected fluid coker control volumes. The hydrocarbon composition was defined by applying an assay characterization of distillation data for representative hydrocarbon streams. Case studies were performed to determine the sensitivity of the predicted temperatures and hydrocarbon condensate flow rates for: (a) the burner‐to‐fluid coker transfer line temperature; (b) the hot coke flow rate; (c) hot coke entrainment from the freeboard region; and (d) scouring coke flow rate in the horn chamber. The scouring coke flow rate was identified as the most promising process lever to mitigate fluid coker cyclone fouling.
Strategies to Make Methods Based on Flow Injection Analysis Greener
Authors: Bezerra Marcos Almeida , Santelli Ricardo Erthal , Lemos Valfredo Azevedo , dos Santos Alves Juscelia Pereira , Braz Bernardo Ferreira , Santos Luana Bastos
Published: June 2020

The implementation of flow injection analysis (FIA) systems and correlated techniques in the laboratory routine provides an increase of analytical throughput and the reduction of risks of analyte losses and contamination. Naturally, it contributes to the reduction of reagent consumption and minimization of waste generation. This paper presents and discusses an overview of the main strategies adopted to make methods based on FIA systems more environmentally friendly, and offers a review of these methods that covers the period from January 2002 to December 2019. Strategies based on reagent management (adoption of procedures without reagents, replacement of toxic reagents, recycling and reuse of reagents and, use of immobilized reagents), the online waste treatment, and the improvements of FIA systems (flow system configurations that avoid reagent wastage, use of green detectors, automation, and miniaturization) are approached in this perspective.
Axillofemoral bypass to improve congestive heart failure for atypical aortic coarctation complicating Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Hiraya Daigo , Sato Akira , Watabe Hiroaki , Hoshi Tomoya , Ieda Masaki
Published: June 2020

Atypical aortic coarctation is a rare condition associated with Takayasu arteritis, and is characterized by symptoms caused either by hypotension in the lower half of the body or secondary hypertension in the upper half of the body, and heart failure. We report a rare case of axillofemoral bypass to improve congestive heart failure for atypical aortic coarctation complicating Takayasu arteritis. Augmented vascular bed and retrograde renal blood flow after axillofemoral bypass surgery could achieve effective blood pressure control and improve renal function and cardiac function (LVEF: 30% → 55%, BNP: 2943 pg/mL → 128 pg/mL). There were two contributing factors for improvement of heart failure such as the increased vascular bed and the increase in retrograde renal blood flow. We believe that axillofemoral bypass is effective for Takayasu arteritis patients with refractory heart failure. In daily practice, careful attention should be paid to an impact of cardiorenal‐aorta interaction in atypical aortic coarctation complicating Takayasu arteritis.
A Straightforward Synthesis of Trideuterated α‐Terpinene for Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Mitschke Nico , Christoffers Jens , Wilkes Heinz
Published: June 2020

Regiospecifically trideuterated (2,6,6‐2H3)‐α‐terpinene was prepared in six steps and with a deuterium incorporation of >99 % in 24 % yield from 1,4‐cyclohexanedione monoethylene ketal. The synthetic procedure involved twofold cross‐coupling reactions of alkylcuprates (lithium dimethylcuprate and chloromagnesium cyano(isopropyl)cuprate, respectively) with enol triflates to introduce the alkyl substituents on the 1,3‐cyclohexadiene backbone. By changing the alkylcuprates, the synthetic approach could serve as a prototype for the synthesis of various 1,4‐dialkyl‐substituted 1,3‐cyclohexadiene derivatives, which could be deuterium‐labeled as well, for example for mechanistic studies.
A new σ‐transform based Fourier‐Legendre‐Galerkin model for nonlinear water waves
Authors: Klahn Mathias , Madsen Per A. , Fuhrman David R.
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a new spectral model for solving the fully nonlinear potential flow problem for water waves in a single horizontal dimension. At the heart of the numerical method is the solution to the Laplace equation which is solved using a variant of the ‐transform. The method discretizes the spatial part of the governing equations using the Galerkin method and the temporal part using the classical fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta method. A careful investigation of the numerical method's stability properties is carried out, and it is shown that the method is stable up to a certain threshold steepness when applied to nonlinear monochromatic waves in deep water. Above this threshold artificial damping may be employed to obtain stable solutions. The accuracy of the model is tested for: (i) highly nonlinear progressive wave trains, (ii) solitary wave reflection, and (iii) deep water wave focusing events. In all cases it is demonstrated that the model is capable of obtaining excellent results, essentially up to very near breaking.
Sequential feature‐based mesh movement and adjoint error‐based mesh refinement
Authors: Vivarelli Guglielmo , Qin Ning , Shahpar Shahrokh , Radford David
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, aerodynamic computational modeling is carried out on a daily basis in an industrial setting. This is done with the aim of predicting the performance and flow characteristics of new components. However, limited resources in terms of time and hardware force the engineer to employ relatively coarse computational grids, thus achieving results with variable degree of inaccuracy. In this article, a novel combination of feature and adjoint‐based mesh adaptation methods is investigated and applied to typical three‐dimensional turbomachinery cases, such as compressor and fan blades. The proposed process starts by employing feature‐based mesh movement to improve the global flow solution and then adjoint refinement to tune the mesh for each quantity of interest. Comparison of this process with one utilizing only the adjoint refinement procedure shows significant benefits in terms of accuracy of the performance quantity.
Modeling VXX under jump diffusion with stochastic long‐term mean
Authors: Gehricke Sebastian A. , Zhang Jin E.
Published: June 2020

We develop a model for the VXX, the most actively traded VIX futures exchange‐traded note, using Duffie, Pan, and Singleton's affine jump diffusion framework, where the volatility process has jumps and a stochastic long‐term mean. We calibrate the model parameters using the VIX term structure data and show that our model provides the theoretical link between the VIX, VIX futures, and the VXX. Our model can be used for pricing VIX futures, the VXX and other short‐term VIX futures exchange‐traded products (ETPs). Our model could be extended to price options on the VXX and other short‐term VIX futures ETPs.
Prognostic factors associated with a restricted mouth opening (trismus) in patients with head and neck cancer: Systematic review
Authors: van der Geer Sarah J. , van Rijn Phillip V. , Roodenburg Jan L.N. , Dijkstra Pieter U.
Published: June 2020

Background

To prescribe early trismus therapy, prognostic factors influencing the restricted mouth opening should be identified first. Our aim is to present an overview of these factors in patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched using terms related to head and neck cancer and mouth opening. Risk of bias was assessed using the “Quality in Prognosis Studies” tool. A best evidence synthesis was performed.

Results

Of the identified 1418 studies, 53 were included. Three studies contained a prognostic multivariate model for a restricted mouth opening.

Conclusions

Patients with head and neck cancer will most likely develop a restricted mouth opening when they have a large tumor near the masticatory muscles that requires extensive cancer treatment. A restricted mouth opening most likely occurs within 6 months after cancer treatment. Further research is necessary on factors related to healing tendency or pain intensity.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Garetosmab (Anti‐Activin A): Results From a First‐in‐Human Phase 1 Study
Authors: Vanhoutte Frédéric , Liang Su , Ruddy Marcella , Zhao An , Drewery Tiera , Wang Yuhuan , DelGizzi Richard , Forleo‐Neto Eduardo , Rajadhyaksha Manoj , Herman Gary , Davis John D.
Published: June 2020

We describe outcomes from the first‐in‐human study of garetosmab (a fully human monoclonal antibody that inhibits activin A) under development for the treatment of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). In a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled phase 1 study, 40 healthy women of nonchildbearing potential were randomized to receive a single dose of intravenous garetosmab 0.3, 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg; subcutaneous garetosmab 300 mg; or placebo. Serum concentrations of functional garetosmab (with ≥1 arm free to bind to target), total activin A, and antidrug antibodies were measured predose and up to 113 days post–first dose. Garetosmab demonstrated an acceptable safety profile with no dose‐limiting toxicities. Garetosmab displayed nonlinear pharmacokinetics with target‐mediated elimination. With increasing doses of intravenous garetosmab, mean peak concentration increased in a dose‐proportional manner; mean steady‐state estimates ranged from 41.4 to 47.8 mL/kg. A greater than dose‐proportional increase in mean area under the concentration‐time curve from time zero extrapolated to infinity (range, 72.2‐7520 mg*day/L) was observed, consistent with decreasing mean clearance (range, 4.35‐1.34 mL/day/kg). Following administration of intravenous garetosmab, mean concentrations of total activin A increased in a dose‐dependent manner. At 10 mg/kg, total activin A levels reached a state of little or no change between weeks 4 and 12, suggesting saturation of the target‐mediated pathway. No safety signals were seen in this study to preclude investigation in patients. Following intravenous administration, garetosmab concentrations decreased quickly, then decreased over time (reflecting linear elimination), and finally decreased in a nonlinear phase, reflecting target‐mediated elimination. Results here support further investigation. Garetosmab 10 mg/kg every 4 weeks intravenously is being evaluated in patients with FOP (NCT03188666).