bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boron‐Based Chiral Helix Be6B102− and Be6B11− Clusters: Structures, Chemical Bonding, and Formation Mechanism
Authors: Feng Lin‐Yan , Guo Jin‐Chang , Li Peng‐Fei , Zhai Hua‐Jin
Published: February 2020

Boron forms a rich variety of low‐dimensional nanosystems, including the newly discovered helix Be6B102− (1) and Be6B11− (2) clusters. We report herein on the elucidation of chemical bonding in clusters 1/2, using the modern quantum chemistry tools of canonical molecular orbital analyses and adaptive natural density partitioning (AdNDP). It is shown that clusters 1/2 contain a chiral helix Be2B10Be2 or Be2B11Be2 skeleton with a total of 11 and 12 segments, respectively, which effectively curve into “helical pseudo rings” and chemically consist of two “quasicircles” as defined by their anchoring Be centers. The helix skeleton is connected via Lewis‐type B−B and Be−B−Be σ bonds, being further stabilized by island π/σ bonds and a loose π bond at the junction. The Be6 component in 1/2 assumes a distorted prism shape only physically, and it is fragmented into four parts: two terminal Be2 dimers and two isolated Be centers. A Be2 dimer at the far end manages to bend over and cap a quasicircle from one side of B plane. Consequently, each quasicircle of a helical pseudo ring is capped from opposite sides by two Be2/Be units, facilitating intramolecular charge‐transfers of 5 electrons from Be to B. Overall, the folding of B helix involves as many as 10 electrons. The enormous electrostatics offers the ultimate driving forces for B helix formation.
Ein Geflecht aus Stahlbeton
Authors: Helbig Thorsten , Kamp Florian , Meier Florian
Published: February 2020

Das Haupttragwerk des National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) in Columbus, Ohio, USA besteht im Grundriss aus drei konzentrischen, frei geformten Ringen aus Ortbeton. Jeder Ring setzt sich wiederum aus einer Reihe verschachtelter Bögen zusammen. Dieses nach außen und innen sichtbare Gestaltungselement trägt das Dach des im Durchmesser circa 61 m großen Gebäudes. Im Inneren befinden sich Galerien, Veranstaltungsflächen, Schulungs‐ und Büroräume. Über eine außen liegende Rampe entlang der Ringe gelangt man für Veranstaltungen und Gedenkfeiern nach oben auf die Dachterrasse des Gebäudes. Die Ringe wurden als architektonisch anspruchsvolle Sichtbetonflächen ausgeführt. Der Beitrag stellt einen Bezug zu Freiform‐Stahlbetonarchitektur aus der Vergangenheit auf und geht vertieft auf die Besonderheiten der Geometrie und deren Auswirkungen auf die Stahlbetonbemessung, ‐modellierung und ‐konstruktion ein.
Protein Phosphorylation Dynamics: Unexplored Because of Current Methodological Limitations
Authors: Robichon Alain
Published: February 2020

The study of intrinsic phosphorylation dynamics and kinetics in the context of complex protein architecture in vivo has been challenging: Method limitations have prevented significant advances in the understanding of the highly variable turnover of phosphate groups, synergy, and cooperativity between P‐sites. However, over the last decade, powerful analytical technologies have been developed to determine the full catalog of the phosphoproteome for many species. The curated databases of phospho sites found by mass spectrometry analysis and the computationally predicted sites based on the linear sequence of kinase motifs are valuable tools. They allow investigation of the complexity of phosphorylation in vivo, albeit with strong discrepancies between different methods. A series of hypothetical scenarios on combinatorial processive phosphorylation is proposed that are likely unverifiable with current methodologies. These proposed a priori postulates could be considered as possible extensions of the known schemes of the activation/inhibition signaling process in vivo.
Antimicrobial and Light‐Enhanced Antimicrobial Activities, Cytotoxicity and Chemical Variability of All Tunisian Eryngium Species
Authors: Landoulsi Ameni , Hennebelle Thierry , Bero Joanne , Rivière Céline , Sahpaz Sevser , Quetin‐Leclercq Joëlle , Neut Christel , Benhamida Jeannette , Roumy Vincent
Published: February 2020

This study was performed on all Eryngium species growing in Tunisia in order to evaluate their intra and interspecies variabilities and to investigate their biological activities. These species are used in traditional medicine, and literature about the phytochemical investigations of most of them is scarce. Antimicrobial and light‐enhanced activities were tested against multiresistant microorganisms and extended spectrum beta‐lactamase producing bacteria (ESBL). All studied species showed antimicrobial effect with several MIC values lower than 70 μg/ml. Tested Eryngium species have proven to be a promising source of photoactive compounds, while light‐enhanced activity offers an alternative for the inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms which is currently subjected to a great interest. This is the first report of this activity in genus Eryngium. A significant improvement of antimicrobial activity with UV irradiation was observed, mainly for E. dichotomum, E. ilicifolium and E. triquetrum. Cytotoxicity, studied for the first time for the most species, was evaluated against cancer (J774) and non‐cancer (WI38) human cell lines. Chemical composition of volatile compounds presented in the most active crude extracts (petroleum ether extracts) of the aerial parts was investigated using GC/MS analysis and was submitted to statistical analyses. It revealed their high content of bioactive phytochemicals, particularly oxygenated sesquiterpenes like spathulenol, ledol and α‐bisabolol but also hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes such as β‐bisabolene and copaene, as well as polyacetylene derivatives such as falcarinol. Statistical analyses permitted to evaluate the interrelations between all Tunisian Eryngium species.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalyst‐ and Additive‐Free Cross‐Coupling of β‐Ketothioamides with α‐Diazo 1,3‐Diketones: Access to Highly Functionalized Thiazolines
Authors: Ansari Monish Arbaz , Yadav Dhananjay , Singh Maya Shankar
Published: February 2020

A photocatalyst‐ and additive‐free, visible‐light‐mediated chemoselective domino protocol was devised to access fully substituted thiazoline derivatives from β‐ketothioamides and α‐diazo 1,3‐diketones at moderate temperature in open air. The reaction proceeds through in situ generation of electrophilic carbenes from α‐diazo 1,3‐diketones by a low‐energy blue LED (448 nm), which undergoes selective coupling with nucleophilic β‐ketothioamides to give thiazolines by successive formation of C−S and C−N bonds in one stretch. Notably, the benign and clean conditions, operational simplicity, sustainability, 100 % carbon economy, high yields, and wide functional‐group tolerance are further attributes of the strategy. A mechanistic rationale for this cascade reaction sequence is well supported by control experiments.
Systematisierung und Bestimmbarkeit von Indikatoren zur Ressourcennutzung auf Unternehmens‐ bzw. Produktebene
Authors: Hauer Bruno , Fischer Diana , Klein Markus
Published: February 2020

Es gibt zahlreiche Ansätze, Ressourcennutzung in Volkswirtschaften und Unternehmen zu messen und zu bewerten. Sechzehn Ansätze werden systematisiert und für ausgewählte Indikatoren aus diesen Ansätzen wird beispielhaft die Möglichkeit untersucht, sie auf Unternehmens‐ bzw. Produktebene zu bestimmen. Es zeigen sich Schwierigkeiten in der Datenermittlung, insbesondere in den Lieferketten, sowie in der Indikatorberechnung durch das Fehlen von Umrechnungsfaktoren und unklare methodische Vorgaben. Die mangelnde Bestimmbarkeit der Indikatoren steht so der Anwendung dieser Ansätze im Weg.
Tiller development affected by nitrogen fertilization in a high‐yielding wheat production system
Authors: Zhang Ling , He Xiaoming , Liang Zhengyuan , Zhang Wei , Zou Chunqin , Chen Xinping
Published: February 2020

Quantitative understanding of how fertilizer N affects tiller development is essential for simultaneously achieving high yield and high N use efficiency in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production. A 3‐yr field experiment was conducted on the North China Plain during 2015–2017, with winter wheat grown at five fertilizer N rates (0–300 kg ha−1). The highest grain yield (∼9 Mg ha−1) was obtained at the optimized N rate (on average 160 kg ha−1, determined by subtracting the soil NO3− content from estimated N target values) and attributed to the high spike number, which was further contributed by the main stem (MS) and the fertile first tiller (T1). Greater N application than the optimized rate did not further increase grain yield but increased the biomass and N concentration of other tillers that were unproductive. The critical plant aboveground N concentrations (2.81% at stem elongation stage [Zadoks Growth Stage, GS 31] and 1.95% at anthesis (GS 64) and critical root‐zone soil mineral N content (Nmin) (74 kg ha−1 at GS 31 and 129 kg ha−1 at GS 64) for the attainable maximum stem number (1578 m−2 at GS 31 and 944 m−2 at GS 64) were quantified in this high‐yielding system. The critical plant aboveground N concentrations for achieving the maximal biomass of stem were also established to be 2.72% at GS 31 and 1.53% at GS 64, respectively. At these critical levels, the maximal biomass of MS and T1 were obtained without increasing the growth of the other tillers that were unproductive. Our results showed that high yield of winter wheat can be achieved by increasing the number of productive stems and the biomass per productive stem through optimizing the root‐zone Nmin and plant N concentrations.
Across the Board: Sheng Dai on Catalyst Design by Entropic Factors
Authors: Dai Sheng
Published: February 2020

In this series of articles, the board members of ChemSusChem discuss recent research articles that they consider of exceptional quality and importance for sustainability. This entry features Dr. S. Dai, who discusses high‐entropy materials (HEMs) as new materials in catalysis. In this viewpoint, two types of HEMs (alloy and non‐alloy HEMs), their synthesis, and their application in various catalytic reactions are presented.
Digital multiplier‐less implementation of high‐precision SDSP and synaptic strength‐based STDP
Authors: Asgari Hajar , Maybodi Babak Mazloom‐Nezhad , Sandamirskaya Yulia
Published: February 2020

Spiking neural networks (SNNs) can achieve lower latency and higher efficiency compared with traditional neural networks if they are implemented in dedicated neuromorphic hardware. In both biological and artificial spiking neuronal systems, synaptic modifications are the main mechanism for learning. Plastic synapses are thus the core component of neuromorphic hardware with on‐chip learning capability. Recently, several research groups have designed hardware architectures for modeling plasticity in SNNs for various applications. Following these research efforts, this paper proposes multiplier‐less digital neuromorphic circuits for two plasticity learning rules: the spike‐driven synaptic plasticity (SDSP) and synaptic strength–based spike timing–dependent plasticity (SSSTDP). The proposed architectures have increased the precision of the plastic synaptic weights and are suitable for spiking neural network architectures with more precise calculations. The proposed models are validated in MATLAB simulations and physical implementations on a field‐programmable gate array (FPGA).
Recent Advances in Phosphine‐Promoted (4 + 1) Annulation Reactions
Authors: Zhang Heng , Zhou Rong
Published: February 2020

Over the past two decades, the nucleophilic phosphine catalysis has effected many powerful annulation reactions and emerged as an intriguing platform for the generation of highly functionalized carbo‐ and heterocycles. In addition to the well‐established (3 + 2) annulation, the phosphine‐promoted (4 + 1) annulation has received increasing attention and developed rapidly in recent years, which complements the (3 + 2) annulation and also provides an alternative approach to structurally diverse five‐membered carbo‐ and heterocycles. This minireview summarizes the recent advances in phosphine‐promoted (4 + 1) annulation reactions according to the type of substrates used in the annulations.
Multiple functions of microfluidic platforms: Characterization and applications in tissue engineering and diagnosis of cancer
Authors: Davaran Soodabeh , Sadeghinia Mohammad , Jamalpoor Zahra , Raeisdasteh Hokmabad Vahideh , Doosti‐Telgerd Mehdi , Karimian Ansar , Sadeghinia Zahra , Khalilifard Javad , keramt Akram , Moradikhah Farzad , Sadeghinia Ali
Published: February 2020

Microfluidic system, or lab‐on‐a‐chip, has grown explosively. This system has been used in research for the first time and then entered in the clinical section. Due to economic reasons, this technique has been used for screening of laboratory and clinical indices. The microfluidic system solves some difficulties accompanied by clinical and biological applications. In this review, the interpretation and analysis of some recent developments in microfluidic systems in biomedical applications with more emphasis on tissue engineering and cancer will be discussed. Moreover, we try to discuss the features and functions of microfluidic systems.
Synthesis and characterization of magnetized ETS‐4 modified with lanthanum and iron for fluoride adsorption
Authors: Esmaeeli Nahal , Faghihian Hossein
Published: February 2020

In this work, two adsorbents were synthesized by loading lanthanum and iron ions on magnetized ETS‐4 titanosilicate. The sorbents were identified by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), thermogravimetry, differential thermogravimetry (TG‐DTG), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer‐Emmette‐Teller techniques, and their adsorption performance for the sorption of fluoride was evaluated in a wide fluoride concentration range. The influence of various variables, including shaking time, fluoride concentration, pH, and temperature, on the uptake of fluoride was investigated. The maximal capacity of ETS‐4 impregnated with La and with Fe was 260.69 and 231.43 mg/g, respectively. The used sorbent was readily removed from the solution by using a magnet bar. The regenerated sorbent retained most of its capability after regeneration. The results of the kinetic study were described by a pseudosecond‐order model, indicating that the process was chemisorption in nature. The Freundlich isotherm well described the sorption data, which implied that the adsorption was multilayered and heterogeneous.
Effect of alcohol on the properties of water‐in‐diesel microemulsion fuels
Authors: Abrar Iyman , Bhaskarwar Ashok N.
Published: February 2020

Microemulsions are thermodynamically stable alternatives to diesel, which could be directly used in the engine, without any modification. Surfactant‐free water‐in‐diesel microemulsions with 60.0–70.0% (vol/vol) diesel, 29.0–39.5% (vol/vol) butanol, and 0.5–2.0% (vol/vol) water were formulated, and their properties were compared against standard specifications of diesel fuel oil (ASTM D975). The calorific values of the microemulsion fuels (41.23–44.75 MJ/kg) were higher than the volume‐fraction weighted averages (39.20–40.75 MJ/kg). The cloud points (−0.5 to −3.5°C) were lower than expected (0°C). The specific gravities (0.825–0.831), viscosities (2.16–2.39 mm2/s), and sulfur contents (27–45 mg/kg) were also within the permissible limits. Some of the microemulsions showed improved cetane indices (cetane index up to 49.5), while the microemulsions with higher butanol percentages, for which cetane index reduced to 38, would require the use of cetane improvers. Since these microemulsions satisfied the ASTM specifications, they could be potentially used as a cleaner alternative to diesel.
Quaternary drainage network reorganization in the Colombian Eastern Cordillera plateau
Authors: Struth Lucía , Giachetta Emanuele , Willett Sean D. , Owen Lewis A. , Tesón Eliseo
Published: February 2020

Dramatic drainage reorganization from initial longitudinal to transversal domains has occurred in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia. We perform a regional analysis of drainage basin geometry and transformed river profiles based on the integral form of the slope‐area scaling, to investigate the dynamic state of drainage networks and to predict the degree of drainage reorganization in this region. We propose a new model of drainage rearrangement for the Eastern Cordillera, based on the analyses of knickpoint distribution, normalized river profiles, landforms characteristic of river capture, erosion rates and palaeodrainage data. We establish that the oldest longitudinal basin captured by the Magdalena River network was the Suárez Basin at ≈409 ka, inferring the timing of abandonment of a river terrace using in situ produced cosmogenic beryllium‐10 (10Be) depth profiles and providing a first estimation of incision rate of 0.07 mm/yr. We integrate published geochronologic data and interpret the last capture of the Sabana de Bogotá, providing a minimum age of the basin opening to the Magdalena drainage at ≈38 ka. Our results suggest that the Magdalena basin Increased its drainage area by integrating the closed basins from the western flank of the Eastern Cordillera. Our study also suggests that the Magdalena basin is an aggressor compared to the basins located in the eastern flank of the orogen and provides a framework for examining drainage reorganization within the Eastern Cordillera and in similar orogenic settings. The results improve our understanding of headward integration of closed basins across orogenic plateaux. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting Australia's real house price index: A comparison of time series and machine learning methods
Authors: Milunovich George
Published: February 2020

We employ 47 different algorithms to forecast Australian log real house prices and growth rates, and compare their ability to produce accurate out‐of‐sample predictions. The algorithms, which are specified in both single‐ and multi‐equation frameworks, consist of traditional time series models, machine learning (ML) procedures, and deep learning neural networks. A method is adopted to compute iterated multistep forecasts from nonlinear ML specifications. While the rankings of forecast accuracy depend on the length of the forecast horizon, as well as on the choice of the dependent variable (log price or growth rate), a few generalizations can be made. For one‐ and two‐quarter‐ahead forecasts we find a large number of algorithms that outperform the random walk with drift benchmark. We also report several such outperformances at longer horizons of four and eight quarters, although these are not statistically significant at any conventional level. Six of the eight top forecasts (4 horizons × 2 dependent variables) are generated by the same algorithm, namely a linear support vector regressor (SVR). The other two highest ranked forecasts are produced as simple mean forecast combinations. Linear autoregressive moving average and vector autoregression models produce accurate olne‐quarter‐ahead predictions, while forecasts generated by deep learning nets rank well across medium and long forecast horizons.
ZNF687 Mutations in an Extended Cohort of Neoplastic Transformations in Paget's Disease of Bone: Implications for Clinical Pathology
Authors: Scotto di Carlo Federica , Pazzaglia Laura , Mumm Steven , Benassi Maria S , De Chiara Annarosaria , Franchi Alessandro , Parafioriti Antonina , Righi Alberto , Esposito Teresa , Whyte Michael P , Gianfrancesco Fernando
Published: February 2020

Neoplastic transformation is a rare but serious complication of Paget's disease of bone (PDB), occurring in fewer than 1% of individuals with polyostotic disease. Their prognosis is poor, with less than 50% surviving 5 years. In 2016, the genetic alteration of giant cell tumor (GCT) complicating PDB was identified as a founder germline mutation (P937R) in the ZNF687 gene. However, the study population was exclusively of Italian descent, and patients of different ethnic origins were not studied. To fill this gap, herein we performed mutation analysis of ZNF687 in a GCT in the pelvis of a 45-year-old black American woman with polyostotic PDB. The P937R mutation in ZNF687 was found in her tumor but, as expected, the ancestral haplotype that characterizes the Italian GCT/PDB patients was not found. Furthermore, we identified two additional Italian GCT/PDB patients with this ZNF687 mutation, now constituting a cohort of 18 GCT/PDB cases, all harboring the identical mutation. We also searched for ZNF687 mutations in a unique collection of tumor tissues derived from Italian PDB patients, including 28 osteosarcomas (OS/PDB), 8 undifferentiated sarcomas (SRC/PDB), 1 fibrosarcoma (FS/PDB), and 1 chondrosarcoma (CS/PDB). We identified the P937R mutation in one SRC/PDB and a different ZNF687 mutation (R331W) in 1 of 28 pagetic osteosarcomas. Thus, whereas GCT/PDB pathogenesis globally seems to involve the P937R mutation in ZNF687, other neoplasms associated with PDB seem to be less related to mutations in this gene. Finally, we identified the G34W mutation in the H3F3A gene in the maxillary tumor masses of two PDB patients, defining them as conventional GCT rather than GCT/PDB. Thus, combined molecular analysis of H3F3A and ZNF687 is essential to clarify the origin and diagnosis of tumors in PDB. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Predictors of genetic beliefs toward cancer risk perceptions among adults in the United States: Implications for prevention or early detection
Authors: McKinney Lawrence P. , Gerbi Gemechu B. , Caplan Lee S. , Claridy Mechelle D. , Rivers Brian M.
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study is to assess predictors of genetic beliefs toward cancer risk perceptions among adults, aged 18 years and over, in the United States (US). Data were obtained from the National Cancer Institute's (NCI) Health Information National Trends Survey 2014 (HINTS) 4 Cycle 4. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess factors associated with an individual's beliefs about genetic and cancer risk perceptions. The results showed that African Americans, Non‐White Hispanics, Non‐Hispanic Asians, individuals with a high school education or less, and annual household incomes less than $20,000 and do not believe that health behaviors play some role in determining whether a person will develop cancer was significantly less likely to report that genetics plays at least some role in whether a person will develop cancer. Findings of this study provide an opportunity for genetic counselors to address beliefs about genetics and cancer risk perceptions among minority populations and promote health equity.
Effect of synovial fluid temperature on the corrosion resistance of Ti6Al4V, Ti6Al7Nb, and CoCrMo alloys
Authors: Fang Xingxing , Wang Songquan , Li Dahan , Guo Yongbo , Hu Ningning
Published: February 2020

The frictional heat generated during the operation of the joint prosthesis in vivo could change the corrosion resistance of the prosthesis material. In this paper, the corrosion behavior of three medical alloys at different synovial fluid temperatures was analyzed using electrochemical measurement technology. Furthermore, the scanning electron microscope and energy‐dispersive spectrometer were used to characterize the surface morphology and composition of the alloys after long‐term immersion. The results show that increasing temperature causes the open‐circuit potential of titanium alloy to shift negatively and the corrosion tendency to increase. The increasing temperature leads to the decrease of activation energy of titanium alloy, which in turn results in the increase of corrosion current density and accelerated corrosion. The results of Nyquist curves confirmed that the radius of the capacitive arc decreased with the increase of temperature, indicating the deterioration of corrosion resistance. The CoCrMo alloy shows the same regularity as the titanium alloy in 0.9% NaCl, though no obvious regularity in 25% newborn bovine serum; this may be related to the complexity of the corrosion system.
Efficacy and tolerance of botulinum toxin injections after sacral nerve stimulation failure for idiopathic overactive bladder
Authors: Baron Maximilien , Perrouin‐Verbe Marie‐Aimée , Lacombe Sandy , Paret Fanny , Le Normand Loïc , Cornu Jean‐Nicolas
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Management of idiopathic overactive bladder (iOAB) after the failure of sacral nerve modulation (SNM) is very challenging. To the best of our knowledge, no study has evaluated the use of botulinum toxin A (BoNT‐A) after SNM failure for iOAB. The aim of this study is to evaluate the tolerance and efficacy of BoNT‐A injection after the failure of SNM for iOAB.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective multicentric analysis of all patients who had received either onabotulinumtoxinA or abobotulinumtoxinA intradetrusor injection for iOAB after SNM failure, between January 2004 and December 2017. The primary outcome was the percentage of success of first BoNT‐A injection (either resolution of their urinary incontinence or their frequency or more than 50% reduction in frequency). Secondary outcomes were results of urodynamic studies, complications, total number of injections, causes of withdrawal, and subsequent treatment.

Results

Seventy‐six patients (62 female) were included. The percentage of success of first BoNT‐A injection was 43.4% (n = 33). All overactive bladder symptoms were significantly improved on the 3‐day bladder diary. Twenty‐eight patients (36.8%) were put under clean intermittent self‐catheterization transitory. After a mean follow‐up of 57.7 (±38.5) months, median number of injections was 2 (1‐15). Overall, 42 patients (55.2%) stopped injections during follow‐up. The estimated 36‐months discontinuation‐free rate was 48.1%. Mean cause of discontinuation was a primary failure (n = 32; 42.1%).

Conclusion

BoNT‐A can be used in SNM nonresponders with a success rate of 43.4% but is associated with a high long‐term discontinuation rate.
Targeted Approach to Distinguish and Determine Absolute Levels of GDF8 and GDF11 in Mouse Serum
Authors: Camparini Luca , Kollipara Laxmikanth , Sinagra Gianfranco , Loffredo Francesco S. , Sickmann Albert , Shevchuk Olga
Published: February 2020

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a TGF‐β superfamily circulating factor that regulates cardiomyocyte size in rodents, sharing 90% amino acid sequence identity in the active domains with myostatin (GDF8)—the major determinant of skeletal muscle mass. Conflicting data on age‐related changes in circulating levels have been reported mainly due to the lack of specific detection methods. More recently, liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) based assay showed that the circulating levels of GDF11 do not change significantly throughout human lifespan, but GDF8 levels decrease with aging in men. Here a novel detection method is demonstrated based on parallel reaction monitoring LC‐MS/MS assay combined with immunoprecipitation to reliably distinguish GDF11 and GDF8 as well as determine their endogenous levels in mouse serum. The data indicate that both GDF11 and GDF8 circulating levels significantly decline with aging in female mice.
Robust and Flexible Colloidal Photonic Crystal Films with Bending Strain–Independent Structural Colors for Anticounterfeiting
Authors: Pan Mengyao , Li Xiao bai , Xiong Chengjia , Chen Xiaoyi , Wang Lebin , Chen Xi , Pan Lei , Xu Hongbo , Zhao Jiupeng , Li Yao
Published: February 2020

Colloidal photonic crystals (PCs) possess iridescent and metallic structural color, making them an attractive candidate for anticounterfeiting. However, traditional colloidal PC‐based anticounterfeiting materials usually have bending‐induced color‐switching characteristics or poor flexible stability, significantly affecting their color reproducibility and durability. Here, a novel robust colloidal PC film with bending strain–independent structural color and high flexible stability has been developed through the self‐assembly of SiO2 particles into the poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) matrix. The unique microstructure of the colloidal PC film contains ordered and disordered arrays of SiO2 nanoparticles embedded into the flexible PEGDA matrix, which is crucial to achieving bending strain–independent structural color. In fact, during the bending process, the colorless disordered arrays act as the buffer space, avoiding deformation of the colored ordered arrays and thus maintaining its original structural color. Remarkably, the film retains its structural and optical integrity after 10 000 times bending, supporting its high flexible stability and robustness. In addition, the film shows high transparency so that it can easily achieve an invisible and visible state transition under switch of weak and strong light. The film is potentially useful for applications in anticounterfeiting and encryption.
On the role of Rossby wave breaking in the quasi‐biennial modulation of the stratospheric polar vortex during boreal winter
Authors: Lu Hua , Hitchman Matthew H. , Gray Lesley J. , Anstey James A. , Osprey Scott M.
Published: February 2020

The boreal‐winter stratospheric polar vortex is more disturbed when the quasi‐biennial oscillation (QBO) in the lower stratosphere is in its easterly phase (eQBO), and more stable during the westerly phase (wQBO). This so‐called “Holton–Tan effect” (HTE) is known to involve Rossby waves (RWs) but the details remain obscure. This tropical–extratropical connection is re‐examined in an attempt to explain its intraseasonal variation and its relation to Rossby wave breaking (RWB). Reanalyses in isentropic coordinates from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction Climate Forecast System for the 1979–2017 period are used to evaluate the relevant features of RWB in the context of waveguide, wave–mean‐flow interaction, and the QBO‐induced meridional circulation. During eQBO, the net extratropical wave forcing is enhanced in early winter with ∼25% increase in upward propagating planetary‐scale Rossby waves (PRWs) of zonal wave‐number 1 (wave‐1). RWB is also enhanced in the lower stratosphere, characterized by convergent anomalies in the subtropics and at high latitudes and strengthened waveguide in between at 20°N–40°N, 350–650 K. In late winter, RWB leads to finite amplitude growth, which hinders upward propagating PRWs. The effect is most significant for zonal wave‐numbers 2 and 3 (wave‐2‐3). During wQBO, RWB in association with wave‐2‐3 is enhanced in the upper stratosphere. Wave absorption/mixing in the surf zone reinforces a stable polar vortex in early to middle winter. A poleward confinement of the extratropical waveguide in the upper stratosphere forces RWB to extend downward around January. A strengthening of upward propagating wave‐2‐3 follows and the polar‐vortex response switches from reinforcement to disturbance around February, thus a sign reversal of the HTE in late winter.

Key Findings

• Rossby wave breaking (RWB) is enhanced in the height regions where the zero‐wind line is shifted into the winter hemisphere and where the QBO‐induced meridional circulation is directed toward the winter pole

• Polar vortex responses differ in terms of the height location of RWB, zonal wave‐number‐dependent disturbances and seasonal development

• Significant increase in wave‐1 occurs when the QBO is in its easterly phase

• A cumulative effect of RWB results in enhanced wave forcing of zonal wave‐numbers 2 and 3 during westerly QBO, which manifests in a sign reversal of the Holton–Tan effect in late winter.
Ecdysteroids from leaves of Vitex trifolia
Authors: Thoa Nguyen Thi Kim , Ban Ninh Khac , Trang Do Thi , Linh Tran My , Giang Vu Huong , Nhiem Nguyen Xuan , Van Kiem Phan
Published: February 2020

Four known ecdysteroids, ecdysone (1), 20‐hydroxyecdysone (2), 20‐hydroxyecdysone 2,3‐monoacetonide (3), and turkesterone (4) were isolated from leaves of Vitex trifolia. The structure of these compounds was elucidated by means of 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectra and was compared with those reported in literature. Compound 3 was reported from Vitex genus for the first time; compounds 1, 2, and 4 from V. trifolia for the first time.
[Fe(III)(MeO‐salen)Cl] complexes and their in vitro cytotoxicity against KB and HepG2 human cancer cells
Authors: Trung Nguyen Quang , Phuong Nam Pham Thi , Phuong Chi Nguyen Thi , Van Tuyen Nguyen
Published: February 2020

Methoxy‐substituted iron(III)‐salen complexes ([Fe(III)(MeO‐salen)Cl] with salen = N,N’‐bis(salicylidene)‐1,2‐ethylenediimine) were synthesized and structurally analyzed. Their in vitro cytotoxicity against KB and HepG2 human cancer cells was examined. The obtained results obviously demonstrated the correlation between the cytotoxicity of the complexes and the position of methoxy substituents in the salicylidene moieties as the following; 3‐OCH3 < H ~ 6‐OCH3 < 4‐OCH3 < 5‐OCH3.
Extraction of hydroxyapatite and collagen from the Vietnamese tilapia scales
Authors: Chinh Nguyen Thuy , Manh Vu Quoc , Trung Vu Quoc , Trang Tran Do Mai , Hoang Thai
Published: February 2020

This study reports the suitable condition to extract hydroxyapatite (HAp) and collagen from tilapia scales in North Viet Nam. The tilapia scales were treated by Ca(OH)2 5 % solution for 24 hours to remove protein, fat and impurities. The protein‐free scales were continuously sunk in mixture acid solutions to remove minerals. The HAp was obtained from this solution by precipitating with 0.5 M NaOH. The mineral‐free scales were immersed in 0.5 M CH3COOH solution and precipitated collagen was obtained by adding of 0.5 M NaCl solution. The methods including Energy dispersive X‐ray diffraction (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were used to determine characteristics, structure and morphology of HAp and collagen. The HAp was dried at 150°C for removing water and some organic substances and then, washed repeatedly by distilled water to obtain high purity HAp, size of 30‐40 nm, and Ca/P ratio = 1.70, closed to Ca/P ratio = 1.67 in bones and human teeth. The collagen was obtained in raw form, contains C, N, O, S, Na, Cl atoms in structure.
Anti‐inflammatory phenylpropanoid glycosides from the roots of Polygala aureocauda Dunn
Authors: Quang Tran Hong , Yen Duong Thi Hai , Dung Duong Thi , Trang Do Thi , Ngan Nguyen Thi Thanh , Van Kiem Phan , Van Minh Chau
Published: February 2020

Chemical study on a methanol extract of the roots of Polygala aureocauda Dunn. resulted in the isolation of three phenylpropanoid glycosides, including β‐D‐[3‐O‐(3,4,5‐trimethoxycinnamoyl)]‐fructofuranosyl‐α‐D‐[6‐O‐(4‐methoxybenzoyl)]‐glucopyranoside (1), β‐D‐(3‐O‐sinapoyl)‐fructofuranosyl‐α‐D‐(6‐O‐sinapoyl)‐glucopyranoside (2), and tenuifoliside C (3). Their chemical structures were elucidated by NMR and MS spectroscopic analysis in comparison with the data reported in the literature. Of the isolates, compound 1 inhibited NO and PGE2 overproduction in LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, with IC50 value of 29.7 and 28.7 μM. These effects of 1 were shown to be related to its suppressive effects on iNOS and COX‐2 protein expression.
Direct synthesis of CeO2 nanospindles on gold electrode by electrochemical method
Authors: Nguyet Nguyen Thi , Trung Tran , Lan Hoang , Van Thu Vu , Vuong Pham Hung , Tam Phuong Dinh
Published: February 2020

In the present study, we reported direct synthesis of CeO2 nanospindle on gold electrode by using cyclic voltammetry (C‐V) method. The method advantages are simple, low cost, room temperature, without using any templates. The synthesized nanospindles were characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE– SEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The propery characterization of the samples was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). It was found that these nanospindles are approximately 700 nm and diameter of about 100‐200 nm. Optimal parameters such as scan rate, scan cycle, and Ce3+ concentration were also investigated.
Effect of (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane coupling agent on characteristics and mechanical properties of polylactic acid/jute fiber biocomposite
Authors: Huynh Mai Duc , Trung Tran Huu , Thai Nguyen Thi , Van Cong Do , Tung Nguyen Huy , Giang Nguyen Vu
Published: February 2020

Biocomposites based on polylactic acid (PLA) and jute fiber (JF) (90/10 wt.%/wt.%) were prepared by melt mixing method in the internal Poly Haake mixer. Before preparing PLA/JF biocomposites, JF was cut into the shorter fiber with 1‐2 mm in length and was modified by 1, 5 and 10 wt.% of (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was conducted to evaluate the presence of APTES on the JF surface. The mechanical properties of PLA/JF biocomposites including tensile strength, Young's modulus and impact strength were investigated. It is found that APTES improved remarkably the mechanical properties and reached the maximum values for sample using 5 wt.% APTES. The composites using modified JF showed the higher thermal stability in comparison to the unmodified sample. SEM micrographs of the fractured surface area exhibited the better adhesion between JF and PLA matrix after modification.
Relationship between wheat root properties and its electrical signature using the spectral induced polarization method
Authors: Tsukanov Kuzma , Schwartz Nimrod
Published: February 2020

Measuring root properties, the “hidden half” of the plant, is challenging due to their heterogeneous and dynamic nature. A promising method for noninvasive mapping of roots and their activity, spectral induced polarization (SIP), has been introduced. However, measurements of root properties together with their SIP responses are missing, limiting the interpretation of a root's SIP signature. In this study, we coupled SIP measurements of roots in hydroponic solution with measurements of root biomass, surface area, and diameter. Furthermore, we monitored the SIP response of roots poisoned by cyanide, which results in depolarization of the root's cell membrane potential. We found a linear correlation between root biomass and surface area, and the low‐frequency electrical polarization. In addition, we demonstrate the relationship between root cell membrane potential and root polarization. Based on the results, we suggest that in comparison with the stem‐based approach used by other researchers, the polarization in the contact‐free method used in this study is related to the external surface area of the root and external architectural structures such as root diameter and root hair. Overall, a direct link between root properties and their electrical signature was established.
Erratum to: Leptogenesis in the Neutrino Option
Authors: Brivio I. , Moffat K. , Pascoli S. , Petcov S. T. , Turner J.
Published: February 2020

The related work by Vedran Brdar, Alexander J. Helmboldt, Sho Iwamoto and Kai Schmitz.
On shape dependence of holographic entanglement entropy in AdS4/CFT3 with Lifshitz scaling and hyperscaling violation
Authors: Cavini Giacomo , Seminara Domenico , Sisti Jacopo , Tonni Erik
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We study the divergent terms and the finite term in the expansion of the holographic entanglement entropy as the ultraviolet cutoff vanishes for smooth spatial regions having arbitrary shape, when the gravitational background is a four dimensional asymptotically Lifshitz spacetime with hyperscaling violation, in a certain range of the hyperscaling parameter. Both static and time dependent backgrounds are considered. For the coefficients of the divergent terms and for the finite term, analytic expressions valid for any smooth entangling curve are obtained. The analytic results for the finite terms are checked through a numerical analysis focussed on disks and ellipses.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Sex Hormone Concentrations in Ringed and Grey Seals: A Possible Link to Endocrine Disruption?
Authors: Troisi G. M. , Barton S. J. , Liori O. , Nyman M.
Published: February 2020

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are recognised reproductive and immune system toxicants in marine mammals mediated by endocrine-disrupting mechanisms. As with other predators, seals are exposed to elevated bioaccumulated concentrations of PCBs and other persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Cryopreserved plasma samples from adult ringed (Phoca hispida; n = 39) and grey (Halichoerus grypus; n = 38) seals, sampled between 1998 and 2002 from Baltic Sea, Svalbard, and Sable Island (Canada) were used to investigate relationships between PCB exposure and sex hormone concentrations (progesterone; P4, 17α-hydroxy progesterone; 17α-OH-P4, testosterone; T4, 17β-estradiol; E2, estrone; E3). Immunoassay methods were used for quantification of analytes due to the limited sample volumes available. PCB concentrations were found to be significantly higher in Baltic seals than other sampling locations and were classed as “Exposed” seals while Svalbard and Sable Is seal were classed “Reference” seals (sexes and species separate). Mean hormone concentrations in Exposed seal were lower than Reference seals, and this was statistically significantly for 17α-OH-P4 (both sexes and both species), E2 (ringed and grey seal females), and E3 (grey seal females). Regression analyses (PCB v hormone concentrations) for each sex and species revealed significant correlations for P4 (Sable Is. female grey seals and female ringed seals), 17α-OH-P4 (Sable Is. male grey seals and Svalbard male ringed seals), T4 (Svalbard male ringed seals), E2 (female ringed seals), and E3 (female ringed seals and Baltic female grey seals). Although significant correlations are not evidence of cause and effect, the potential impact of hormone changes on endocrine homeostasis and reproductive health for seal populations warrants further investigation given that PCB concentrations found here are in the same range as those currently reported in seals from these populations.
Impact on clinical practice of updated guidelines on iodinated contrast material: CINART
Authors: Nijssen E. C. , Nelemans P. J. , Rennenberg R. J. , van der Molen A. J. , van Ommen G. V. , Wildberger J. E.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Guidelines on safe use of iodinated contrast material recommend intravenous prophylactic hydration to prevent post-contrast adverse (renal) effects. Recently, guidelines have been updated and standard prophylaxis is no longer recommended for the majority of patients. The current study aims to evaluate the consequences for clinical practice of the updated guidelines in terms of complications, hospitalisations, and costs.

Methods

The Contrast-Induced Nephropathy After Reduction of the prophylaxis Threshold (CINART) project is a retrospective observational study. All elective procedures with intravascular iodinated contrast administration at Maastricht University Medical Centre (UMC+) in patients aged > 18 years, formerly eligible for prophylaxis (eGFR 30–44 ml/min/1.73 m2 or eGFR 45–59 ml/min/1.73 m2 in combination with diabetes or > 1 predefined risk factor), and currently eligible for prophylaxis (eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2) were included. Data were used to calculate relative reductions in complications, hospitalisations, and costs associated with standard prophylactic intravenous hydration. CINART is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03227835.

Results

Between July 1, 2017, and July 1, 2018, 1992 elective procedures with intravascular iodinated contrast in patients formerly and currently eligible for prophylaxis were identified: 1808 in patients formerly eligible for prophylaxis and 184 in patients currently eligible for prophylaxis. At Maastricht UMC+, guideline updates led to large relative reductions in numbers of complications of prophylaxis (e.g. symptomatic heart failure; − 89%), extra hospitalisations (− 93%), and costs (− 91%).

Conclusion

Guideline updates have had a demonstrable impact on daily clinical practice benefiting patient, hospital, and health care budgets. Clinical practice varies between institutions and countries; therefore, a local estimation model is provided with which local impact on costs, hospitalisations, and complications can be calculated.

Key Points

• Clinical practice guidelines recommend prophylactic intravenous hydration to prevent post-contrast adverse outcomes such as contrast-induced acute kidney injury.

• Clinical practice guidelines have recently been updated, and standard prophylaxis is no longer recommended for the majority of patients.

• The guideline updates have a large impact on daily clinical practice: relative reductions at Maastricht UMC+ were − 89% prophylaxis complications, − 93% hospitalisations, and − 91% costs, and similar reductions are expected for Dutch and adherent European medical centres.
Local osteo-enhancement of osteoporotic vertebra with a triphasic bone implant material increases strength—a biomechanical study
Authors: Trost Matthias , Schmoelz Werner , Wimmer Doris , Hörmann Romed , Frey Sönke , Schulte Tobias Ludger
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the biomechanical properties of intact vertebra augmented using a local osteo-enhancement procedure to inject a triphasic calcium sulfate/calcium phosphate implant material.

Methods

Twenty-one fresh frozen human cadaver vertebra (Th11–L2) were randomized into three groups: treatment, sham, and control (n = 7 each). Treatment included vertebral body access, saline lavage to displace soft tissue and marrow elements, and injection of the implant material to fill approximately 20% of the vertebral body by volume. The sham group included all treatment steps, but without injection of the implant material. The control group consisted of untreated intact osteoporotic vertebra. Load at failure and displacement at failure for each of the three groups were measured in axial compression loading.

Results

The mean failure load of treated vertebra (4118 N) was significantly higher than either control (2841 N) or sham (2186 N) vertebra (p < 0.05 for: treatment vs. control, treatment vs. sham). Treated vertebra (1.11 mm) showed a significantly higher mean displacement at failure than sham vertebra (0.80 mm) (p < 0.05 for: treatment vs. sham). In the control group, the mean displacement at failure was 0.99 mm.

Conclusions

This biomechanical study shows that a local osteo-enhancement procedure using a triphasic implant material significantly increases the load at failure and displacement at failure in cadaveric osteoporotic vertebra.