bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotype × environment interactions for grain iron and zinc content in rice
Authors: Naik Shilpa M , Raman Anitha K , Nagamallika Minnuru , Venkateshwarlu Challa , Singh Suresh Prasad , Kumar Santosh , Singh Shravan Kumar , Tomizuddin Ahmed  , Das Sankar Prasad , Prasad Krishna , Izhar Tajwar , Mandal Nimmai P , Singh Nitendra Kumar , Yadav Shailesh , Reinke Russell , Swamy Ballagere Prabhu Mallikarjuna , Virk Parminder , Kumar Arvind
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Nutrient deficiency in humans, especially in children and lactating women, is a major concern. Increasing the micronutrient concentration in staple crops like rice is one way to overcome this. The micronutrient content in rice, especially the iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) content, is highly variable. The identification of rice genotypes in which there are naturally high Fe and Zn concentrations across environments is an important target towards the production of biofortified rice.

RESULTS

Phenotypic correlations between grain Fe and Zn content were positive and significant in all environments but a significant negative association was observed between grain yield and grain Fe and Zn. Promising breeding lines with higher Zn or Fe content, or both, were: IR 82475‐110‐2‐2‐1‐2 (Zn: 20.24–37.33 mg kg−1; Fe: 7.47–14.65 mg kg−1); IR 83294‐66‐2‐2‐3‐2 (Zn: 22–37–41.97 mg kg−1; Fe: 9.43–17.16); IR 83668‐35‐2‐2‐2 (Zn: 27.15–42.73 mg kg−1; Fe: 6.01–14.71); IR 68144‐2B‐2‐2‐3‐1‐166 (Zn: 23.53–40.30 mg kg−1; Fe: 10.53–17.80 mg kg−1) and RP Bio 5478‐185M7 (Zn: 22.60–40.07 mg kg−1; Fe: 7.64–14.73 mg kg−1). Among these, IR82475‐110‐2‐2‐1‐2 (Zn: 20.24–37.33 mg kg−1; Fe: 7.47–14.65 mg kg−1) is also high yielding with 3.75 t ha−1. Kelhrie Cha (Zn: 17.76–36.45 mg kg−1; Fe: 7.17–14.77 mg kg−1), Dzuluorhe (Zn: 17.48–39.68 mg kg−1; Fe: 7.89–19.90 mg kg−1), Nedu (Zn: 18.97–43.55 mg kg−1 Fe: 8.01–19.51 mg kg−1), Kuhusoi‐Ri‐Sareku (Zn: 17.37–44.14 mg kg−1; Fe: 8.99–14.30 mg kg−1) and Mima (Zn: 17.10–45.64 mg kg−1; Fe: 9.97–17.40 mg kg−1) were traditional donor genotypes that possessed both high grain Fe and high Zn content.

CONCLUSION

Significant genotype × location (G × L) effects were observed in all traits except Fe. Genetic variance was significant and was considerably larger than the variance of G × L for grain Zn and Fe content traits, except grain yield. The G × L × year variance component was significant in all cases. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Chemometric comparison of almond oxidation rates using kinetic parameters obtained by infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Román Falcó Iván P , Prats Moya María Soledad , Maestre Pérez Salvador E , Martín Carratalá Maria L , Grané Teruel Nuria
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The study of almond fat stability is essential from a quality control perspective meanly because, in most of the cases, almonds are sold skinned and thermally treated. In this work an alternative method to Rancimat test based on attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier‐transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectrometry was adapted for checking the induced degradation at 75 °C of seven almond oil cultivars, three of the top Californian producing varieties, and, four traditional cultivars harvested in Spain.

RESULTS

The thermal oil degradation evolution was followed by measuring the changes in the absorbance of the selected FTIR spectra bands (3470, 3006, 1730, 1630, 988 and 970 cm−1). A first‐order kinetic behaviour was observed, after an induction time in all bands.

CONCLUSIONS

Kinetic coefficients and induction times were easily obtained as the absorbance values (from difference spectra) fitted to pseudo‐first‐order kinetics after the induction time. Principal component analysis was applied to the kinetic parameters to visualize which variables could be useful to classify the almond cultivars based on their resistance to thermal oxidation processes. It was found that selecting only the induction times corresponding to the bands 3470, 3006, 1630 and 970 cm−1 a separate classification of the Californian cultivars from the Spanish ones was possible. Finally, a linear discriminant analysis was assayed using only the four induction times previously selected. Validated classification and correct in 100% of the cases was obtained for all the samples based on their Spanish or Californian origin. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Lipase catalysis of α‐linolenic acid‐rich medium‐ and long‐chain triacylglycerols from perilla oil and medium‐chain triacylglycerols with reduced by‐products
Authors: Huang Zhaoxian , Cao Zhenyu , Guo Zengwang , Chen Liang , Wang Zhongjiang , Sui Xiaonan , Jiang Lianzhou
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Medium‐ and long‐ chain triacylglycerols (MLCTs) are functional structural lipids that can provide the human body with essential fatty acids and a faster energy supply. This study aimed to prepare MLCTs rich in α‐linolenic by enzymatic interesterification of perilla oil and medium‐chain triacylglycerols (MCTs), catalyzed by Lipozyme RM IM, Lipozyme TL IM, Lipozyme 435, and Novozyme 435 respectively.

RESULTS

The effects of lipase loading, concentration of MCTs, reaction temperature, and reaction time on the yield of MLCTs were investigated. It was found that the reaction achieved more than a 70% yield of MLCTs in triacylglycerols under the conditions of 400 g kg−1 MCTs and 60 g kg−1 lipase loading after equilibrium. A novel two‐stage deodorization was also applied to purify the interesterification products. The triacylglycerols reach over 97% purity in the products with significant removal (P < 0.05) of the free fatty acids, and the trans fatty acids were strictly controlled at below 1%. There was more than 40% α‐linolenic in the purified products, with long‐chain fatty acids mostly occupying the desired sn‐2 position in acylglycerols, which are more active in hydrolysis.

CONCLUSION

A series of novel α‐linolenic acid‐rich medium‐ and long‐chain triacylglycerols was prepared. Under appropriate reaction conditions, the yield of MLCTs in triacylglycerols was above 70%. A novel two‐stage deodorization can be used to promote the elimination of free fatty acids and limit the generation of trans fatty acids. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of low‐temperature vacuum heating on physicochemical properties of sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedti) fillets
Authors: Cai Wen‐qiang , Wei Jian‐ling , Chen Yue‐wen , Dong Xiu‐ping , Zhang Jing‐na , Bai Fan , Zheng Li‐li , Shi Yu‐gang
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Sturgeon is popular for its nutritious value and its taste. However, sturgeon fillets are traditionally heated in 100 °C boiling water, resulting in unfavorable taste and with a negative effect on the quality. This study considered the effect of combinations of vacuum and low‐temperature treatments (LTVH groups) on sturgeon fillets compared with the traditional heat treatment (TC groups).

RESULTS

The results show that the LTVH groups had lower cooking‐loss rates. All LTVH fillets were changed to a white color, and appeared ‘done’, as did the TC fillets. The LTVH and TC methods gave rise to significant differences in texture: the springiness of the LTVH groups decreased with heating time, and decreased rapidly in the TC groups (P < 0.05); hardness and chewiness increased with time and temperature in the LTVH groups, but decreased in the TC groups. More compact and denser gaps were observed in LTVH70 groups and TC groups. Less protein and lipid oxidation was evident in LTVH groups, including more myofibril protein solubility; there was less protein aggregation, fewer thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, and Schiff base.

CONCLUSION

Vacuum and low‐temperature treated sturgeon fillets can be served as a good alternative. This treatment caused slight tissue damage and less proteolysis and lipid oxidation, which is beneficial for the quality of aquatic products.
Image quality equivalence between peak luminance and chromaticity gamut
Authors: Park Yongmin , Murdoch Michael J.
Published: May 2020

This paper introduces a psychophysical experiment to investigate the image quality trade‐off relationship between peak luminance and the chromaticity area of the color gamut of a display device and models to predict equivalent image quality based on the experimental results. Our experimental results confirmed the hypothesis that the peak luminance required to maintain equivalent image quality tends to decrease as the color gamut area expands. At the same time, the relationship between peak luminance and color gamut strongly depends on image content. Based on the experimental results, two models are suggested. These models show good performance in terms of predicting the required luminance levels for given color gamut areas. Notably, the model built using an observer‐chosen region of interest (ROI) in an image slightly outperforms the model generated without this information.
Switchable‐hydrophilicity solvent liquid‐liquid microextraction versus dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction prior to HPLC‐UV for the determination and isolation of piperine from Piper nigrum L
Authors: Al‐Nidawi Mais , Alshana Usama , Caleb Jude , Hassan Malek , Rahman Zia ur , Hanoğlu Duygu Yiğit , Çalış İhsan
Published: May 2020

Switchable‐hydrophilicity solvent liquid‐liquid microextraction and dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction were compared for the extraction of piperine from Piper nigrum L. prior to its analysis by using high‐performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. Under optimum conditions, limits of detection and quantitation were found as 0.2–0.6 and 0.7–2.0 μg/mg with the two methods, respectively. Calibration graphs showed good linearity with coefficients of determination (R2) higher than 0.9962 and percentage relative standard deviations lower than 6.8%. Both methods were efficiently used for the extraction of piperine from black and white pepper samples from different origins and percentage relative recoveries ranged between 90.0 and 106.0%. The results showed that switchable‐hydrophilicity solvent liquid‐liquid microextraction is a better alternative to dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction for the routine analysis of piperine in food samples. A novel scaled‐up dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction method was also proposed for the isolation of piperine providing a yield of 102.9 ± 4.9% and purity higher than 98.0% as revealed by NMR spectroscopy.
Coupled changes in traits and biomasses cascading through a tritrophic plankton food web
Authors: Ehrlich Elias , Gaedke Ursula
Published: May 2020

Trait‐based approaches have broadened our understanding of how the composition of ecological communities responds to environmental drivers. This research has mainly focussed on abiotic factors and competition determining the community trait distribution, while effects of trophic interactions on trait dynamics, if considered at all, have been studied for two trophic levels at maximum. However, natural food webs are typically at least tritrophic. This enables indirect interactions of traits and biomasses among multiple trophic levels leading to underexplored effects on food web dynamics. Here, we demonstrate the occurrence of mutual trait adjustment among three trophic levels in a natural plankton food web (Lake Constance) and in a corresponding mathematical model. We found highly recurrent seasonal biomass and trait dynamics, where herbivorous zooplankton increased its size, and thus its ability to counter phytoplankton defense, before phytoplankton defense actually increased. This is contrary to predictions from bitrophic systems where counter‐defense of the consumer is a reaction to prey defense. In contrast, counter‐defense of carnivores by size adjustment followed the defense of herbivores as expected. By combining observations and model simulations, we show how the reversed trait dynamics at the two lower trophic levels result from a “trophic biomass–trait cascade” driven by the carnivores. Trait adjustment between two trophic levels can therefore be altered by biomass or trait changes of adjacent trophic levels. Hence, analyses of only pairwise trait adjustment can be misleading in natural food webs, while multitrophic trait‐based approaches capture indirect biomass–trait interactions among multiple trophic levels.
Polymeric Nanoparticles that Combine Dexamethasone and Naproxen for the Synergistic Inhibition of Il12b Transcription in Macrophages
Authors: Espinosa‐Cano Eva , Aguilar Maria Rosa , Portilla Yadileiny , Barber Domingo F. , San Román Julio
Published: May 2020

Recent studies have demonstrated in vivo synergistic immunosuppressive and anti‐inflammatory capacity of dexamethasone (Dx) and naproxen (NAP) in collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) rats. However, the molecular basis of this synergistic effect is barely understood. The low solubility of these drugs and their adverse effects hamper their efficacy on the treatment of inflammatory processes making nanoparticulated systems promising candidates to overcome these drawbacks. The aim of this work is the preparation of polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) that combine NAP and Dx in different concentrations, and the evaluation of the expression of key genes related to autoimmune diseases like CIA. To do so, self‐assembled polymeric NPs that incorporate covalently‐linked NAP and physically entrapped Dx are designed to have hydrodynamic properties that, according to bibliography, may improve retention and colocalization of both drugs at inflammation sites. The rapid uptake of NPs by macrophages is demonstrated using coumarine‐6‐loaded NPs. Dx is efficiently encapsulated and in vitro biological studies demonstrate that the Dx‐loaded NAP‐bearing NPs are noncytotoxic and reduce lipopolysaccharide‐induced NO released levels at any of the tested concentrations. Moreover, at the molecular level, a significant synergistic reduction of Il12b transcript gene expression when combining Dx and NAP is demonstrated.
Ultrasonics Sonochemistry Assisted Preparation of Polysiloxane Main‐Chain Liquid‐Crystalline Elastomers
Authors: Wang Xiuxiu , Zhao Nan , Qin Ban , Xu Jiaojiao , Yang Wenlong , Li Chensha , Sun Liguo , Zhang Jianqi
Published: May 2020

For the first time, an ultrasonics sonochemistry method is developed to promote the one‐pot hydrosilylation polyaddition polymerization and crosslinking reaction in the preparation of polysiloxane main‐chain liquid‐crystalline elastomers (MC‐LCEs). Due to the extraordinary effect of acoustic cavitation, the polyaddition polymerization and crosslinking reaction can be successfully carried out in an ordinary laboratory ultrasonic cleaner at room temperature, and generates the LCE matrix network in about 30 min. The prepared MC‐LCEs demonstrate good quality, good properties, and stimuli‐actuation performances. Compared to the traditional thermal processing methods for preparing polysiloxane MC‐LCEs, this method exhibits superior properties rapidly, with high convenience and efficiency, and can be a path for batch fabrication at low cost. The work also demonstrates that the ultrasonics sonochemistry method is effective in generating linear main‐chain liquid crystal polymers through hydrosilylation polyaddition and polysiloxane side‐chain LCE matrix through hydrosilylation crosslinking reaction, thus confirming the high availability of ultrasonics sonochemistry in the processes of hydrosilylation polymerization, crosslinking reactions, or synchronous polymerization and crosslinking reactions.
Penicillin‐binding protein PBP2a provides variable levels of protection toward different β‐lactams in Staphylococcus aureus RN4220
Authors: Fergestad Marte Ekeland , Stamsås Gro Anita , Morales Angeles Danae , Salehian Zhian , Wasteson Yngvild , Kjos Morten
Published: May 2020

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is resistant to most β‐lactams due to the expression of an extra penicillin‐binding protein, PBP2a, with low β‐lactam affinity. It has long been known that heterologous expression of the PBP2a‐encoding mecA gene in methicillin‐sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) provides protection towards β‐lactams, however, some reports suggest that the degree of protection can vary between different β‐lactams. To test this more systematically, we introduced an IPTG‐inducible mecA into the MSSA laboratory strain RN4220. We confirm, by growth assays as well as single‐cell microfluidics time‐lapse microscopy experiments, that PBP2a expression protects against β‐lactams in S. aureus RN4220. By testing a panel of ten different β‐lactams, we conclude that there is also a great variation in the level of protection conferred by PBP2a. Expression of PBP2a resulted in an only fourfold increase in minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for imipenem, while a 32‐fold increase in MIC was observed for cefaclor and cephalexin. Interestingly, in our experimental setup, PBP2a confers the highest protection against cefaclor and cephalexin—two β‐lactams that are known to have a high specific affinity toward the transpeptidase PBP3 of S. aureus. Notably, using a single‐cell microfluidics setup we demonstrate a considerable phenotypic variation between cells upon β‐lactam exposure and show that mecA‐expressing S. aureus can survive β‐lactam concentrations much higher than the minimal inhibitory concentrations. We discuss possible explanations and implications of these results including important aspects regarding treatment of infection.
Convincing evidence for magic angle less‐sensitive quantitative T1ρ imaging of articular cartilage using the 3D ultrashort echo time cones adiabatic T1ρ (3D UTE cones‐AdiabT1ρ) sequence
Authors: Wu Mei , Ma Ya-jun , Kasibhatla Akhil , Chen Mingxin , Jang Hyungseok , Jerban Saeed , Chang Eric Y. , Du Jiang
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To investigate the magic angle effect in three‐dimensional ultrashort echo time Cones Adiabatic T1ρ (3D UTE Cones‐AdiabT1ρ) imaging of articular cartilage at 3T.

Methods

The magic angle effect was investigated by repeated 3D UTE Cones‐AdiabT1ρ imaging of eight human patellar samples at five angular orientations ranging from 0° to 90° relative to the B0 field. Cones continuous wave T1ρ (Cones‐CW‐T1ρ) and Cones‐
sequences were also applied for comparison. Cones‐AdiabT1ρ, Cones‐CW‐T1ρ and Cones‐
values were measured for four regions of interest (ROIs) (10% superficial layer, 60% transitional layer, 30% radial layer, and a global ROI) for each sample at each orientation to evaluate their angular dependence.

Results

3D UTE Cones‐AdiabT1ρ values increased from the radial layer to the superficial layer for all angular orientations. The superficial layer showed the least angular dependence (around 4.4%), while the radial layer showed the strongest angular dependence (around 34.4%). Cones‐AdiabT1ρ values showed much reduced magic angle effect compared to Cones‐CW‐T1ρ and Cones‐
values for all four ROIs. On average over eight patellae, Cones‐AdiabT1ρ values increased by 27.2% (4.4% for superficial, 23.8% for transitional, and 34.4% for radial layers), Cones‐CW‐T1ρ values increased by 76.9% (11.3% for superficial, 59.1% for transitional, and 117.8% for radial layers), and Cones‐
values increased by 237.5% (87.9% for superficial, 262.9% for transitional, and 327.3% for radial layers) near the magic angle.

Conclusions

The 3D UTE Cones‐AdiabT1ρ sequence is less sensitive to the magic angle effect in the evaluation of articular cartilage compared to Cones‐
and Cones‐CW‐T1ρ.
Preparation and antimicrobial properties of LL‐37 peptide immobilized lignin/caprolactone polymer film
Authors: Ogan Ayşe , Yüce‐Dursun Başak , Abdullah Deka , Beyler‐Çiğil Aslı , Kahraman Memet Vezir , Çağlayan Pınar , Birbir Meral , Mutlu Özal , Gülsoy Nagihan
Published: May 2020

The use of biopolymers has gained priority in tissue engineering and biotechnology, both as dressing material and for enhancing treatment efficiency. There is a demand for new biopolymers designed with protease inhibitors and antimicrobials. LL‐37 is an important antimicrobial peptide in human skin and exhibits a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and viral pathogens. Using lignin which is an abundant carbohydrate polymer in nature and a polyacrylic acid, we prepared a lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film by plastifying caprolactone and polyacyrlic acid. Lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film was activated with CDI and then immobilized LL‐37 peptide. The structure was elucidated in terms of its functional groups by attenuated total reflectance‐fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), and the morphology of the lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) before and after the immobilization process. The amount of LL‐37 immobilized was determined by ELISA method. It was found that 97% of LL‐37 peptide was successfully immobilized onto the lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film. Antimicrobial activity was determined in the lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film samples by quantitative antimicrobial activity method. According to the results, LL‐37 immobilized lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film samples were effective on test organisms; Gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram‐negative Escherichia coli. In bio‐compatibility assays, the ability to support tissue cell integration was detected by using 3 T3 mouse fibroblasts. Samples were examined under transverse microscope, non‐immobilized sample showed a huge cellular death, whereas LL‐37 immobilized lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film had identical cellular growth with the control group. This dual functional lignin/caprolactone biodegradable film with enhanced antibacterial properties and increased tissue cell compatibility may be used to design new materials for various types of biological applications.
Effects of graphene quantum dot (GQD) on photoluminescence, mechanical, thermal and shape memory properties of thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposites
Authors: Sarabiyan Nejad Sanaz , Babaie Amin , Bagheri Massoumeh , Rezaei Mostafa , Abbasi Farhang , Shomali Ashkan
Published: May 2020

A group of shape memory polyurethane‐based nanocomposites containing graphene quantum dot nanoparticles (GQDs) were prepared via in‐situ polymerization method. GQD nanoparticles were synthesized by a facile and rapid microwave‐assisted method and characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction pattern, field emission scanning microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and fluorescence analysis. Chemical structure and hydrogen bonding index (HBI[C=O]) of the nanocomposites were analyzed via FTIR spectra. The results show that the incorporation of GQDs in PU matrix reduces HBI(C=O) of nanocomposites. Crystalline structure and thermal properties of the nanocomposites were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry. As results indicate, nucleation effect of GQDs raises crystallinity content of the samples. Mechanical examinations indicate that incorporation of GQDs improves Young's modulus of the nanocomposites, while their elongation at break values are reduced. In addition, shape memory analyses reveal that the presence of GQDs in PU matrix increases the shape fixity ratios in nanocomposites.
Polyester composites filled with walnut shell powder: Preparation and thermal characterization
Authors: Pradhan Priyabrat , Nanda Bishnu Prasad , Satapathy Alok
Published: May 2020

This article reports on the fabrication and subsequently on the thermal properties of a biomaterial filled polymer composite consisting of polyester and walnut shell powder (WSP) in different proportions. The focus has been given to the evaluation of effective properties of the composites like thermal conductivity, glass transition temperature, and coefficient of thermal expansion. The experimental findings obtained for thermal conductivity are supported by the mathematical and numerical analysis made under suitable assumptions. A mathematical correlation is proposed to predict the effective thermal conductivity (Keff) of such particulate filled polymer composites. For the numerical study, a commercially available finite‐element package ANSYS19.2R2 is used to calculate the thermal conductivity of the composites. One dimensional heat conduction analysis is performed across composites with the periodic and randomly oriented arrangement of spherical fillers in different concentrations. Thermal conductivities of the composites are measured with Unitherm Model 2022 tester to validate the results. These values are then compared with effective thermal conductivities obtained from the proposed mathematical correlation and are found to be in close agreement with one another. It is concluded from this study that the addition of WSP improves the thermal insulation capability of neat polyester to a reasonable extent.
Deciphering the structure of itaconate‐based unsaturated polyester resins by high resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Molina Julien , Mahmoud Ziad , Hubert‐Roux Marie , Azaroual Nathalie , Afonso Carlos , Schuller Anne‐Sophie , Rolando Christian
Published: May 2020

Unsaturated polyester (UP) resins are widely used to manufacture composite materials and fulfil a wide panel of specification for industrial or domestic applications at low cost. These resins consist of a highly viscous polyester oligomer and a reactive diluent, which allow their processability and crosslinking. The oligomers are synthesized from diols and saturated or unsaturated diacids. Maleic anhydride is classically used as an unsaturated acid because of its reactivity for esterification and its competitive cost. However, maleic anhydride is petroleum based and classified as skin and respiratory sensitizing by the European Chemicals Agency. Itaconic acid which is recognized as one of the top 12 biobased molecules by the US Department of Energy is a biobased alternative with a reactive unsaturation. In this work, a UP based on propylene glycol, itaconic acid and dimethyl terephthalate was synthesized by polycondensation and characterized by high resolution mass spectroscopy, 1H, 13C 1D and 2D NMR as well as ion mobility spectrometry mass spectrometry. The main structures were linear but cyclic species and a few branched chains due to the intermolecular Ordelt reaction were also detected by NMR and high resolution mass spectroscopy. Molecular modelling has indeed demonstrated that itaconate‐based UPs are more prone to cyclization than fumarate‐based UPs. Moreover, NMR analysis showed a significant consumption of itaconate unsaturation by the Ordelt reaction. Ion mobility spectrometry mass spectrometry allowed an additional structure to be distinguished for the same m/z peaks first attributed to a linear structure only. These results suggest the existence of cyclic species based on an intramolecular Ordelt reaction. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Predictors of women's sexual outcomes after implant‐based breast reconstruction
Authors: van de Grift Tim C. , Mureau Marc A. M. , Negenborn Vera N. , Dikmans Rieky E. G. , Bouman Mark‐Bram , Mullender Margriet G.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Although breast reconstruction has become an important treatment modality following mastectomy, few studies assessed predictors of postoperative sexual outcomes after breast reconstruction. Therefore, we aimed to study three sexual outcomes following implant‐based breast reconstruction (IBBR), and associate multiple biopsychosocial factors with these outcomes.

Methods

Data collection was part of a multicenter prospective study on IBBR. A predictive model was tested including medical, background and psychological predictors, partner relationship factors and physical sexual function. Data collection included clinical and questionnaire data (preoperatively and 1 year following reconstruction) using the BREAST‐Q Sexual well‐being scale (BQ5), and questions regarding sexual dysfunction and sexual satisfaction questions (Female Sexual Function Index).

Results

The study sample consisted of 88 women who underwent mastectomy and IBBR. Mean postoperative BQ5 scores were lower than before surgery (M = 58 [SD = 18] vs 65 [SD = 20]; P = .01, Wilks' Lamdba = .88). Sexual dysfunctions were related strongest to orgasm inability and vaginal lubrication issues. The tested models predicted 37%‐46% of the sexual outcomes: sexual outcomes were mostly predicted by psychosocial well‐being, physical sexual function and partner support. Preoperative sexual and psychosocial well‐being were positively associated with postoperative sexual well‐being (r = 0.45 and r = 0.47).

Conclusions

Although moderately positive sexual outcomes were reported after IBBR, some women reported issues with vaginal lubrication, breast sensation and orgasm. Sexual dysfunctions were predicted by vaginal lubrication and medical treatments, while sexual well‐being and satisfaction were more predicted by psychosocial well‐being and partner support. We advocate supportive care that includes partners and psychosocial functioning to optimize sexual outcomes after IBBR.
In‐home conversations of couples with advanced cancer: Support has its costs
Authors: Reblin Maija , Otto Amy K. , Ketcher Dana , Vadaparampil Susan T. , Ellington Lee , Heyman Richard E.
Published: May 2020

Objective

The goal of this study was to describe the quality of naturalistic communication between patients with advanced cancer and their spouse caregivers using observational methods. We also assessed the association between patient and caregiver communication behaviors and psychological and physical health using the actor‐partner interdependence model.

Methods

Data on 81 dyads were gathered as part of a prospective observational study. Patients with advanced cancer and their spouse caregivers completed demographic, physical health, and emotional well‐being questionnaires. Cancer and relationship communication captured in “day‐in‐the‐life” audio recordings were coded using Gottman's Turning System to assess the quality of bids for attention and responses.

Results

Bids for attention were most often informational (Low Bids) and responses were mostly positive and effortful (Turn Towards); patients and caregivers did not significantly differ in communication behavior. More effortful bids for attention (High Bids) were associated with more positive and effortful responses. Patient communication behaviors were significantly associated with caregiver emotional well‐being, whereas caregiver communication behaviors were significantly associated with their own emotional well‐being and patient physical health.

Conclusions

While patients may benefit from caregivers' more positive and engaged communication at home, the emotional labor of focusing on and engaging the patient may take a toll on caregivers' own well‐being. This work contributes to the understanding of what everyday communication looks like for patients with advanced cancer and their spouse caregivers and how this communication may impact physical and psychological health. Our findings provide a foundation to develop guidelines for psychosocial couple‐based interventions.
Nonlinear Optics to Glucose Sensing: Multifunctional Nitrogen and Boron Doped Carbon Dots with Solid‐State Fluorescence in Nanoporous Silica Films
Authors: Kipnusu Wycliffe Kiprop , Doñate‐Buendía Carlos , Fernández‐Alonso Mercedes , Lancis Jesús , Mínguez‐Vega Gladys
Published: May 2020

Multifunctional triple color photoluminescent (PL) nitrogen–boron doped carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with high quantum yield (QY) of 58% are fabricated by one step femtosecond pulsed laser irradiation of a single precursor (2‐aminopyrimidine‐5‐boronic acid) in solution. In situ generated non‐linear and linear emissions are used to monitor CQDs formation which results in enhanced second harmonic generation, two photon absorption (2PA), and linear fluorescence; implying triple mode emission. These CQDs present blue, green, and possible red color rendering which are mostly independent to the respective excitation wavelengths (λ) with large stokes shift of 100 nm. Solid‐state photoluminescence with QY of 46% is achieved by incorporating CQDs into thin transparent nanoporous silica (pSiO2) films (thickness 50 µm) to form a CQDs‐pSiO2 composite which exhibits reverse saturable absorption at λ = 800 nm with 2PA coefficient and excited state absorption cross‐section of 4.94 × 10−10 m W−1 and 6.23 × 10−17 cm2, respectively. CQDs‐pSiO2 is also sensitive to glucose concentration down to 1.0 mg dL−1 in a wide linear range up to 100 mg dL−1. This work therefore demonstrates facile, controllable, and up‐scalable bottom‐up fabrication of CQDs forming multifunctional solid‐state CQDs‐pSiO2 with proven application in optical limiting and glucose sensing.
Leveraging Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Approach into Development of Human Recombinant Follistatin Fusion Protein for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Nguyen Hoa Q. , Iskenderian Andrea , Ehmann David , Jasper Paul , Zhang Zhiwei , Rong Haojing , Welty Devin , Narayanan Rangaraj
Published: May 2020

Quantitative understanding about the dynamics of drug–target interactions in biological systems is essential, especially in rare disease programs with small patient populations. Follistatin, by antagonism of myostatin and activin, which are negative regulators of skeletal muscle and inflammatory response, is a promising therapeutic target for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. In this study, we constructed a quantitative systems pharmacology model for FS‐EEE‐Fc, a follistatin recombinant protein to investigate its efficacy from dual target binding, and, subsequently, to project its human efficacious dose. Based on model simulations, with an assumed efficacy threshold of 7–10% muscle volume increase, 3–5 mg/kg weekly dosing of FS‐EEE‐Fc is predicted to achieve meaningful clinical outcome. In conclusion, the study demonstrated an application of mechanism driven approach at early stage of a rare disease drug development to support lead compound optimization, enable human dose, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy predictions.
An application of the localized weighted ensemble Kalman filter for ocean data assimilation
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhang Weimin , Wang Pinqiang
Published: May 2020

We presented a new local particle filter named the localized weighted ensemble Kalman filter (LWEnKF), which was tested and verified using a simple high‐dimensional Lorenz 96 model. A revised LWEnKF, the proposal weights calculation of which is modified through localization to prevent filter degeneracy for real geophysical models, is explored further in this article and shows lots of potential in the implementation of real complex models. For geophysical models, the ocean dynamics changes slowly compared with that of the atmosphere. With a relatively low resolution, it is weakly nonlinear in the surface layers of the ocean model used in this article, which fits the linear and Gaussian assumptions of the EnKF but could be a challenge for particle filters in the data assimilation process. With only 50 particles, the LWEnKF assimilates the sea‐surface temperature (SST), sea‐surface height (SSH), temperature, and salinity profiles with affordable computational cost, providing a reasonable forecast. Moreover, the LWEnKF is compared with the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) and the local particle filter (PF). For observed variables, the LWEnKF performs comparably to the EnKF, as the observation operator is linear. For unobserved variables, the LWEnKF provides more accurate forecasts than the EnKF, since the latter considers only the correlations, while the former considers higher‐order moments. The local PF ensemble does not converge to the observed solution in an ample amount of time in this study, which needs further investigation.
Incidental synchronous bronchial tumour: an unusual bronchoscopic finding
Authors: Caterino Umberto , Amore Dario , Petagna Chiara , Palma Albina , Caroppo Danila , Massa Simona
Published: May 2020

Key message

We describe a patient with incidental endobronchial synchronous hamartoma and typical carcinoid with different management strategy.
Pulmonary tuberculosis in an immunocompetent patient with primary laryngeal aspergillosis
Authors: Sarkar Nirmal Kanti , Gope Bijoy Pada
Published: May 2020

Primary laryngeal aspergillosis in an immunocompetent host is a rare entity. On the other hand, pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) among healthcare workers in a tuberculosis endemic zone with high risk of exposure is not uncommon but may be underdiagnosed especially when masquerading as another disease. In this report, we are presenting a 45‐year‐old physician who presented with chronic dry cough, hoarseness of voice, and progressive vocal fatigue. Fibreoptic laryngoscopy (FOL) showed whitish patches on both vocal folds and he was initially diagnosed with laryngeal aspergillosis following histopathological examination. As there was no significant improvement on antifungal treatment, we re‐evaluated the case and, on further investigation, concomitant PTB was detected. Patient responded to category‐I anti‐tubercular drugs with complete recovery.
Mulberry‐Like Core‐Shell Structured C@MnO2 as Electrode Material for Li–Ion Batteries and Pseudo‐Capacitors
Authors: Qi Jie , Zhu Youyu , Zhang Jizong , Wang Chengyang
Published: May 2020

In present work, mulberry‐like core‐shell structured C@MnO2 was synthesized as electrodes for Li‐ion batteries and pseudo‐capacitors. Benefiting from the nanoporous shell and conductive carbon core that improve the ion transference and conductivity, the C@MnO2 delivers excellent electrochemical performance in terms of a stable lithium storage capacity of 553 mAh g−1 after 250 cycles under 0.5 A g−1 and a high capacitance up to 274.44F g−1 under 1 A g−1 in 6 M KOH and the capacity retention is 90.2% after 5000 cycles. Such electrochemical properties combined with the facile synthesis route make C@MnO2 promising electrode materials for energy storage.
2‐Amino‐5‐(cyanomethylsulfanyl)‐1H‐pyrroles from Propargylamines, Isothiocyanates, and Bromoacetonitrile by One‐Pot Synthetic Protocol
Authors: Tarasova Olga A. , Nedolya Nina A. , Albanov Alexander I. , Trofimov Boris A.
Published: May 2020

Tertiary propargylamines (such as N,N‐dialkylpropargylamines, N‐propargylpyrrolidine, ‐piperidine, and ‐morpholine), isothiocyanates, and bromoacetonitrile have been shown to be readily available building blocks for the highly selective one‐pot construction of rare‐functionalized pyrroles, namely so far inaccessible 1‐substituted 2‐amino‐5‐(cyanomethylsulfanyl)‐1H‐pyrroles, in up to 92 % yield. This highly efficient and operationally simple approach includes the initial formation of lithium but‐2‐ynimidothioate (adduct of monolithiated propargylamine and isothiocyanate), its transformation into potassium buta‐2,3‐dienimidothioate under the action of the t‐BuOK/DMSO system (through acetylene‐allene isomerization and the exchange by cations), intramolecular cyclization into potassium thienylamide (at ≤15 °C), followed by its re‐cyclization into potassium pyrrolylsulfide at a higher temperature (45–60 °C), and the final S‐alkylation of the latter with bromoacetonitrile. The total reaction time is 45–60 min.
Base‐Promoted Intramolecular Cyclization and Hydrolysis of 2‐(2‐Formylaryloxy)acetonitriles: An Efficient Domino to Approach Benzofuran‐2‐carboxamides
Authors: A Xue‐Jiao , Li Xia , Liu Bo , Huang Guo‐Li
Published: May 2020

A novel, efficient, and practical approach for the synthesis of benzofuran‐2‐carboxamides has been developed through the base‐promoted tandem intramolecular cyclization and hydrolysis of 2‐formylaryloxyacetonitriles at room temperature. This method provides a convenient route to benzofuran‐2‐carboxamides in up to 98% yield with favorable functional group compatibility. A gram‐scale reaction was also performed to demonstrate the scaled‐up applicability of this methodology.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Trace Amounts of Benzotriazole in Aqueous Solutions Using Gold Nanoparticles: Artificial Neural Network Modeling
Authors: Esmaile Narges , Shabaneh Soroush , Mofavvaz Shirin , Sohrabi Mahmoud Reza , Torabi Behzad
Published: May 2020

In this study, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometry method was applied to determine benzotriazole (BTA) in aqueous solutions based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) property of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The experimental variables such as pH, time, the volume of various buffers, the concentration of different electrolytes, and concentrations of AuNPs were investigated. Under optimum conditions, the proposed method represented a linear range between 10 to 150 μg L−1 (R2= 0.9941) with a detection limit (LOD) of 5 μg L−1. This method was successfully used to measure trace amounts of BTA in Ahwaz drinking water and Ramin power plant cooling water samples. The proposed spectrophotometry assay is accurate, low‐cost, simple, and does not need any separation steps compared to the other methods. In the next step, an artificial neural network (ANN) using Levenberg‐Marquardt (LM) and Resilient Back propagation (RP) algorithms, was used to predict the absorbance of the mentioned factors. For each algorithm, 2 layers and for each layer 2,4,6,8, and 10 neurons were studied. According to mean square error (MSE) and coefficient of determination (R2), the LM algorithm was better than the RP algorithm for the prediction of absorbance.
Appraisal and social support as moderators between stress and physical and psychological quality of life
Authors: Szkody Erica , McKinney Cliff
Published: May 2020

One proposed mechanism of social support is the facilitation of primary and secondary reappraisal of stressful situations. The current study examined the expansion of the original stress‐buffering hypothesis to include primary or secondary appraisal in an emerging adult population (N = 854) on physical and psychological health outcomes. The additional moderating effects of gender also were examined. Perceived social support (by the Multidimensional Survey of Perceived Social Support) significantly buffered the effects of stress from negative events (by the Risky Behaviour and Stressful Events Scale) on physical and psychological health (by the World Health Organizations Quality of Life Instrument) for females only. Neither primary nor secondary appraisal (by the Stress Appraisal Measure) acted as additional buffers for male or females. Social support may be a more salient buffer for females. Reappraisal mechanisms may have another role in the buffering pathways. Further implications and limitations were discussed.
Stachyose Prevents Intestinal Mucosal Injury in the Immunosuppressed Mice
Authors: Shang Xiaoya , He Xiaoqin , Liu Huan , Wen Bingjie , Tan Taicong , Xu Chunlan , Niu Weining , Zhang Yong
Published: May 2020

Stachyose (STA) is extracted from sugar beet and is used as a functional food. In this study, the effects of STA on immunosuppressed mice with intestinal mucosal damage induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) are investigated. STA treatment can improve the amount of the leukocyte in the blood, the bone marrow cell density, and natural killer (NK) cell activity in the immunosuppressed mice. Furthermore, in immunosuppressed mice, the balance of intestinal bacteria is broken and intestinal mucosal integrity is disrupted. After treatment with STA, the amount of Enterococcus (6.504 ± 0.70) decreases and Bifidobacterium (7.207 ± 0.14) in cecum increases significantly (p < 0.05). Compared with CTX group, the ratio of villous height and crypt depth (V/C) in ileum increases from 2.525 ± 0.10 to 4.891 ± 0.16 (p < 0.001), and in jejunum increases from 2.719 ± 0.03 to 5.827 ± 0.19 (p < 0.001). The expression level of IL‐2 and IL‐1β gene in the spleen, and IL‐1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha gene in the ileum in STA group significantly increases (p < 0.001) compared with the CTX group. In conclusion, STA is a potential prebiotic which exerts indirect and direct effects on the immune system and can counteract the side effects of CTX in the immunosuppressed mice.
Changes in Structural and Physicochemical Properties of Corn Flour after Fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum Y1
Authors: Qi Xin , Yang Shu , Zhao Dongya , Liu Jing , Wu Qingkuo , Yang Qiang
Published: May 2020

Corn flour is fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum Y1 at 37 °C for 60 h to modify its functional properties. The effects of the fermentation on structural and physicochemical properties of corn flour, starch, zein, and glutelin are investigated. Swelling power, solubility, water binding capacity, and light transmittance of corn flour increases significantly after fermentation. The fermentation process reduces the hardness and retrogradation tendency of corn flour dough; while, viscidity, elasticity, and cohesiveness of corn flour dough enhances after fermentation. Microscopy analysis shows that the surface structure of corn flour particles and starch granules become porous after fermentation. Starch isolated from the fermented corn flour shows greater viscosity, pasting temperature, and enthalpy values than those of starch isolated from ordinary corn flour. Zein hydrolyzes moderately and its secondary structure becomes more regular and ordered after fermentation. However, glutelin hydrolyzes to a greater extent and its secondary structure tends to be disordered after fermentation. Cakes made of the fermented corn flour show lower hardness and greater chewiness compared to those of cakes made of the ordinary corn flour. The obtained results indicate that the functional properties of corn flour can be successfully improved by the fermentation with L. plantarum Y1.
One‐way shear strength of wide reinforced concrete members without stirrups
Authors: de Sousa Alex M. D. , Lantsoght Eva O. L. , El Debs Mounir K.
Published: May 2020

The calibration of most analytical models that assess the shear strength of wide reinforced concrete members without shear reinforcement is based on simply supported beam tests, which may not be representative of slabs and wide members failing in shear. This paper addresses the knowledge on the shear strength of wide members, identification of their most important parameters, and an evaluation of the accuracy and precision of the main models presented in codes of practice and literature. A database of 170 shear tests was built on wide members loaded over the entire width, with the ratio width to effective depth b/d > 1. This database includes members under concentrated loads (CLs) and distributed loads (DLs) in the span direction. A parameter analysis revealed such shear strength is mostly influenced by the shear slenderness and size effect rather than by the ratio b/d. Furthermore, the results show a clear decrease in the shear strength of continuous members under DLs to higher shear slenderness, similar to the behavior of members under CLs. This trend was well observed with the proposed model of shear slenderness, which assumes that continuous members with higher bending moment in the span than over the inner support behave closer to simply supported members. A comparison of the shear capacities predicted by the physical‐mechanical and semiempirical approaches showed the higher accuracy and precision of models based on the critical shear crack theory and critical shear displacement theory, regardless of the ratio b/d. Therefore, the same models derived based on beam tests are valid for wide members. Apart from that, the analyses of nonslender members with some strain‐based models combined with reducing factors of the acting shear load provide accurate results of shear strength for members without stirrups.