bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DG‐GL: Differential geometry‐based geometric learning of molecular datasets
Authors: Nguyen Duc Duy , Wei Guo‐Wei
Published: January 2019

Motivation: Despite its great success in various physical modeling, differential geometry (DG) has rarely been devised as a versatile tool for analyzing large, diverse, and complex molecular and biomolecular datasets because of the limited understanding of its potential power in dimensionality reduction and its ability to encode essential chemical and biological information in differentiable manifolds.

Results: We put forward a differential geometry‐based geometric learning (DG‐GL) hypothesis that the intrinsic physics of three‐dimensional (3D) molecular structures lies on a family of low‐dimensional manifolds embedded in a high‐dimensional data space. We encode crucial chemical, physical, and biological information into 2D element interactive manifolds, extracted from a high‐dimensional structural data space via a multiscale discrete‐to‐continuum mapping using differentiable density estimators. Differential geometry apparatuses are utilized to construct element interactive curvatures in analytical forms for certain analytically differentiable density estimators. These low‐dimensional differential geometry representations are paired with a robust machine learning algorithm to showcase their descriptive and predictive powers for large, diverse, and complex molecular and biomolecular datasets. Extensive numerical experiments are carried out to demonstrate that the proposed DG‐GL strategy outperforms other advanced methods in the predictions of drug discovery‐related protein‐ligand binding affinity, drug toxicity, and molecular solvation free energy.

Availability and implementation: http://weilab.math.msu.edu/DG‐GL/

Contact: wei@math.msu.edu
What is the relationship between dissociation and self‐harming behaviour in adolescents?
Authors: Černis Emma , Chan Carmen , Cooper Myra
Published: January 2019

Deliberate self‐harm in adolescents is an increasing clinical problem, but there is a limited understanding of the mechanisms causing or maintaining this behaviour. One proposed mechanism is that of dissociation. However, the role this mechanism may play is unclear: although some suggest that adolescents engage in self‐harm to end the aversive experience of dissociation, others propose that self‐harm is used to purposefully trigger a dissociative state to avoid emotional pain. This systematic review is the first to evaluate the available evidence regarding the relationship between dissociation and deliberate self‐harm in adolescents (aged 18 or younger). Nineteen relevant studies were identified. These studies were limited by cross‐sectional design and poor methods of measurement, but some important conclusions could be drawn. The majority of studies found a positive correlation between the severity of dissociation and the severity and frequency of deliberate self‐harm in adolescents, and a small number of results suggest that dissociation mediates the relationship between childhood trauma and adolescent self‐harm.
Institutional pressures on corporate social responsibility strategy in construction corporations: The role of internal motivations
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Gao‐Zeller Xiaojiang , Rizzuto Tracey E. , Yang Fan
Published: January 2019

The aim of the research is to reveal the role of internal motivations in the mechanism driving corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy in construction corporations. A framework was constructed based on neo‐institutional theory, and measurement scales were developed through interviews. Questionnaire surveys and hierarchical regression analysis were carried out to verify the framework in a sample of huge Chinese construction corporations. The results reveal the mediating and moderating roles of ethical leadership, managerial moral motivation, and managerial autonomy in driving CSR strategy, which will enrich the application of neo‐institutional theory in future CSR research. Furthermore, this study developed indicators, scales, and analytical frameworks with full consideration of the theoretical generality and the industrial particularity of Chinese construction corporations, which deepened the understanding of the driving mechanism of CSR strategy in the construction industry. The findings have practical implications for HCCCs in terms of developing CSR strategy and ultimately improving their CSR performance.
Factors influencing the level of environmental disclosures in sustainability reports: Case of climate risk disclosure by Brazilian companies
Authors: Kouloukoui Daniel , Sant'Anna Ângelo Marcio Oliveira , da Silva Gomes Sônia Maria , de Oliveira Marinho Marcia Mara , de Jong Pieter , Kiperstok Asher , Torres Ednildo Andrade
Published: January 2019

In addition to sustainability issues, companies are being asked to disclose information on climate change risks in order to inform investors and stakeholders. However, despite the growing number of studies on corporate environmental disclosure, there are few studies on risks and opportunities in relation to climate change. This study investigated the extent and content of climate risks information disclosure provided in the sustainability reports of firms listed on the Brazilian Stock Exchange (BM&FBovespa) and tested whether there were any relationships between the amount of climate risks disclosure and some corporation characteristics. The sample was composed of companies that were simultaneously listed on the stock exchange and disclosed the Global Reporting Initiative sustainability reports from 2009 to 2014. The final sample of the study was 67 companies totaling 402 observations. Preliminary results from the content analysis revealed that, although Brazilian companies tend to disclose information on climate risks, the level of this type of disclosure still remains relatively low. Findings suggest that corporate climate risk disclosures have significant and positive relationships with firm size, financial performance, and country origin. Nevertheless, findings indicate that corporate climate risk disclosures have negative associations with level of indebtedness.
Antibodies to oxidized insulin improve prediction of type 1 diabetes in children with positive standard islet autoantibodies
Authors: Strollo Rocky , Vinci Chiara , Napoli Nicola , Fioriti Elvira , Maddaloni Ernesto , Åkerman Linda , Casas Rosaura , Pozzilli Paolo , Ludvigsson Johnny , Nissim Ahuva
Published: January 2019

Background

Antibodies to posttranslationally modified insulin (oxPTM‐INS‐Ab) are a novel biomarker of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Here, we evaluated whether oxPTM‐INS‐Ab can improve T1D prediction in children with positive standard islet autoantibodies (AAB).

Methods

We evaluated sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and risk for progression to T1D associated with oxPTM‐INS‐Ab and the standard islet AAB that include insulin (IAA), GAD (GADA), and tyrosine phosphatase 2 (IA‐2A) in a cohort of islet AAB‐positive (AAB+) children from the general population (median follow‐up 8.8 years).

Results

oxPTM‐INS‐Ab was the most sensitive and specific autoantibody biomarker (74% sensitivity, 91% specificity), followed by IA‐2A (71% sensitivity, 91% specificity). GADA and IAA showed lower sensitivity (65% and 50%, respectively) and specificity (66% and 68%, respectively). Accuracy (AUC of ROC) of oxPTM‐INS‐Ab was higher than GADA and IAA (P = 0.003 and P = 0.017, respectively), and similar to IA‐2A (P = 0.896). oxPTM‐INS‐Ab and IA‐2A were more effective than IAA for detecting progr‐T1D when used as second‐line biomarker in GADA+ children. Risk for diabetes was higher (P = 0.03) among multiple AAB+ who were also oxPTM‐INS‐Ab+ compared with those who were oxPTM‐INS‐Ab–. Importantly, when replacing IAA with oxPTM‐INS‐Ab, diabetes risk increased to 100% in children with oxPTM‐INS‐Ab+ in combination with GADA+ and IA‐2A+, compared with 84.37% in those with IAA+, GADA+, and IA‐2A+ (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Antibodies to oxidized insulin (oxPTM‐INS‐Ab), compared with IAA which measure autoantibodies to native insulin, improve T1D risk assessment and prediction accuracy in AAB+ children.
Assessing serum albumin concentration following exercise‐induced fluid shifts in the context of the athlete biological passport
Authors: Miller Geoffrey D. , Teramoto Masaru , Smeal Stacy J. , Cushman Dan , Eichner Daniel
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The hydration status of an athlete at the time of a doping control sample collection is an important factor to consider when reviewing athlete biological passports (ABPs). Dehydration results in a reduction of the circulating plasma volume (PV), which may lead to artificially high values of some blood parameters. This study aimed to identify whether serum albumin could serve as a single marker of fluid shifts, which are not currently accounted for in the hematological passport. An additional marker could be used to assist experts when interpreting irregularities in the ABP.

Methods

Twelve subjects underwent multiple controlled exercise trials designed to induce varying levels of PV shifts. Pre‐exercise blood samples were collected to establish baseline values for individual passports. During exercise interventions, blood samples were collected before the start of exercise and at 10 minute, 1 hour, 2 hours, and 24 hours following exercise.

Results

Significant increases in hematological parameters – hemoglobin [Hb], hematocrit (HCT), albumin (ALB), and calculated OFF‐score – were identified at varying time points following fluid shift‐inducing exercise. Changes in ALB correlated strongly with changes in [Hb] (r = 0.753) and with estimated PV shifts (r = −0.764). In analyzing ABPs, the resulting increases in Hb did not trigger any atypical findings at 99% specificity.

Perspective

Monitoring changes in ALB longitudinally may assist experts when reviewing PV shifts in the biological passport.
Psychiatric and medical correlates of DSM‐5 eating disorders in a nationally representative sample of adults in the United States
Authors: Udo Tomoko , Grilo Carlos M.
Published: January 2019

Objective

To examine psychiatric and somatic correlates of DSM‐5 eating disorders (EDs)—anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge‐eating disorder (BED)—in a nationally representative sample of adults in the United States.

Method

A national sample of 36,309 adult participants in the national epidemiologic survey on alcohol and related conditions III (NESARC‐III) completed structured diagnostic interviews (AUDADIS‐5) to determine psychiatric disorders, including EDs, and reported 12‐month diagnosis of chronic somatic conditions. Prevalence of lifetime psychiatric disorders and somatic conditions were calculated across the AN, BN, and BED groups and a fourth group without specific ED; multiple logistic regression models compared the likelihood of psychiatric/somatic conditions with each specific ED relative to the no‐specific ED group.

Results

All three EDs were associated significantly with lifetime mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use disorders, and personality disorders. In all three EDs, major depressive disorder was the most prevalent, followed by alcohol use disorder. AN was associated significantly with fibromyalgia, cancer, anemia, and osteoporosis, and BED with diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and triglycerides. BN was not associated significantly with any somatic conditions.

Conclusions

This study examined lifetime psychiatric and somatic correlates of DSM‐5 AN, BN, and BED in a large representative sample of U.S. adults. Our findings on significant associations with other psychiatric disorders and with current chronic somatic conditions indicate the serious burdens of EDs. Our findings suggest important differences across specific EDs and indicate some similarities and differences to previous smaller studies based on earlier diagnostic criteria.
SPECIES: A platform for the exploration of ecological data
Authors: Stephens Christopher R. , Sierra‐Alcocer Raúl , González‐Salazar Constantino , Barrios Juan M. , Salazar Carrillo Juan Carlos , Robredo Ezquivelzeta Everardo , del Callejo Canal Enrique
Published: January 2019

The modeling of ecological data that include both abiotic and biotic factors is fundamental to our understanding of ecosystems. Repositories of biodiversity data, such as GBIF, iDigBio, Atlas of Living Australia, and SNIB (Mexico's National System of Biodiversity Information), contain a great deal of information that can lead to knowledge discovery about ecosystems. However, there is a lack of tools with which to efficiently extract such knowledge. In this paper, we present SPECIES, an open, web‐based platform designed to extract implicit information contained in large scale sets of ecological data. SPECIES is based on a tested methodology, wherein the correlations of variables of arbitrary type and spatial resolution, both biotic and abiotic, discrete and continuous, may be explored from both niche and network perspectives. In distinction to other modeling systems, SPECIES is a full stack exploratory tool that integrates the three basic components: data (which is incrementally growing), a statistical modeling and analysis engine, and an interactive visualization front end. Combined, these components provide a powerful tool that may guide ecologists toward new insights. SPECIES is optimized to support fast hypothesis prototyping and testing, analyzing thousands of biotic and abiotic variables, and presenting descriptive results to the user at different levels of detail. SPECIES is an open‐access platform available online (http://species.conabio.gob.mx), that is, powerful, flexible, and easy to use. It allows for the exploration and incorporation of ecological data and its subsequent integration into predictive models for both potential ecological niche and geographic distribution. It also provides an ecosystemic, network‐based analysis that may guide the researcher in identifying relations between different biota, such as the relation between disease vectors and potential disease hosts.
Population genetics reveals high connectivity of giant panda populations across human disturbance features in key nature reserve
Authors: Qiao Maiju , Connor Thomas , Shi Xiaogang , Huang Jie , Huang Yan , Zhang Hemin , Ran Jianghong
Published: January 2019

The giant panda is an example of a species that has faced extensive historical habitat fragmentation, and anthropogenic disturbance and is assumed to be isolated in numerous subpopulations with limited gene flow between them. To investigate the population size, health, and connectivity of pandas in a key habitat area, we noninvasively collected a total of 539 fresh wild giant panda fecal samples for DNA extraction within Wolong Nature Reserve, Sichuan, China. Seven validated tetra‐microsatellite markers were used to analyze each sample, and a total of 142 unique genotypes were identified. Nonspatial and spatial capture–recapture models estimated the population size of the reserve at 164 and 137 individuals (95% confidence intervals 153–175 and 115–163), respectively. Relatively high levels of genetic variation and low levels of inbreeding were estimated, indicating adequate genetic diversity. Surprisingly, no significant genetic boundaries were found within the population despite the national road G350 that bisects the reserve, which is also bordered with patches of development and agricultural land. We attribute this to high rates of migration, with four giant panda road‐crossing events confirmed within a year based on repeated captures of individuals. This likely means that giant panda populations within mountain ranges are better connected than previously thought. Increased development and tourism traffic in the area and throughout the current panda distribution pose a threat of increasing population isolation, however. Maintaining and restoring adequate habitat corridors for dispersal is thus a vital step for preserving the levels of gene flow seen in our analysis and the continued conservation of the giant panda meta‐population in both Wolong and throughout their current range.
Microsite conditions in retrogressive thaw slumps may facilitate increased seedling recruitment in the Alaskan Low Arctic
Authors: Huebner Diane Christine , Bret‐Harte Marion Syndonia
Published: January 2019

In Low Arctic tundra, thermal erosion of ice‐rich permafrost soils (thermokarst) has increased in frequency since the 1980s. Retrogressive thaw slumps (RTS) are thermokarst disturbances forming large open depressions on hillslopes through soil wasting and vegetation displacement. Tall (>0.5 m) deciduous shrubs have been observed in RTS a decade after disturbance. RTS may provide conditions suitable for seedling recruitment, which may contribute to Arctic shrub expansion. We quantified in situ seedling abundance, and size and viability of soil seedbanks in greenhouse trials for two RTS chronosequences near lakes on Alaska's North Slope. We hypothesized recent RTS provide microsites for greater recruitment than mature RTS or undisturbed tundra. We also hypothesized soil seedbanks demonstrate quantity–quality trade‐offs; younger seedbanks contain smaller numbers of mostly viable seed that decrease in viability as seed accumulates over time. We found five times as many seedlings in younger RTS as in older RTS, including birch and willow, and no seedlings in undisturbed tundra. Higher seedling counts were associated with bare soil, warmer soils, higher soil available nitrogen, and less plant cover. Seedbank viability was unrelated to size. Older seedbanks were larger at one chronosequence, with no difference in percent germination. At the other chronosequence, germination was lower from older seedbanks but seedbank size was not different. Seedbank germination was positively associated with in situ seedling abundance at one RTS chronosequence, suggesting postdisturbance revegetation from seedbanks. Thermal erosion may be important for recruitment in tundra by providing bare microsites that are warmer, more nutrient‐rich, and less vegetated than in undisturbed ground. Differences between two chronosequences in seedbank size, viability, and species composition suggest disturbance interacts with local conditions to form seedbanks. RTS may act as seedling nurseries to benefit many Arctic species as climate changes, particularly those that do not produce persistent seed.
Influence of phylogeny and abiotic factors varies across early and late reproductive phenology of HimalayanRhododendrons
Authors: Basnett Shweta , Nagaraju Shivaprakash K. , Ravikanth Gudasalamani , Devy Soubadra M.
Published: January 2019

Understanding the influence of evolutionary history on species‐specific phenological events of high‐altitude plants and their sensitivity to the abiotic factors has gained importance mainly in the context of climate change. However, the majority of phenology studies across altitudinal gradient are carried out on flowering, whereas other reproductive phenology events are seldom considered. We tested the role of abiotic factors and evolutionary history on the reproductive phenology traits of high‐altitudeRhododendroncommunity which comprised of 10 locally aggregated species in Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Sikkim Himalaya. The study was carried out from 2013 to 2015 across an altitude gradient of 3400–4230 m a.s.l. We generated dated phylogenetic hypotheses to test for phylogenetic signal in reproductive phenology events, and its durations across 10Rhododendronspecies and also among groups of species distributed at every 100 m altitude. Comparative phylogenetic methods were used to explore the relationship between phenology traits and abiotic variables such as daylength and temperature. The early phenology events such as budding, flowering, and initial fruiting, which occurred during the favorable month of the year, exhibited strong phylogenetic signal and were mainly associated with daylength and temperature. In contrast, the later events such as immature fruiting, mature fruiting, and fruit dehiscence, which occurred during the later months of the year, showed a weak phylogenetic signal and were mostly associated with daylength. With the increase in altitude, we found a decreasing trend of phylogenetic signal for the early phenology events and later events did not show a significant trend. Our results suggest that only early events are constrained by evolutionary history; thus, the closely related species share the similar timing of the early phenology events. Also, the role of shared evolutionary history in phenological trait sensitivity to the abiotic factors reduces from early to the late phenology events. This approach can be extended to other representative plant families of the Himalayan region to better understand the response of reproductive traits to abiotic factors in deep evolutionary time.
Regulation of the functional structure of aquatic communities across spatial scales in a major river network
Authors: Harvey Eric , Altermatt Florian
Published: January 2019

Moving beyond species count data is an essential step to better understand the effects of environmental perturbations on biodiversity and ecosystem functions, and to eventually better predict the strength and direction of those effects. Here, coupling an integrative path analysis approach with data from an extensive countrywide monitoring program, we tested the main spatial, environmental and anthropogenic drivers of change in the functional structure of aquatic macroinvertebrate communities along the entire Swiss Rhine river catchment. Functional structure was largely driven by inherent altitudinal variation influencing and cascading to regional scaled factors such as land use change and position in the riverine network, which, in turn, transformed local habitat structure variables. Those cascading effects across scales propagated through the biotic community, first affecting prey and, in turn, predators. Our results illustrate how seemingly less important local factors can act as essential transmission belts, propagating through direct and indirect pathways across scales to generate the specific context in which each functional group will strive or not, leading to characteristic landscape wide variations in functional community structure.
Landscape context explains ecosystem multifunctionality in restored grasslands better than plant diversity
Authors: Zirbel Chad R. , Grman Emily , Bassett Tyler , Brudvig Lars A.
Published: January 2019

There is strong evidence for a positive relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning at local spatial scales. However, how different aspects of biodiversity relate to multiple ecosystem functions (multifunctionality) across heterogeneous landscapes, and how the magnitude of biodiversity, dominant species, and environmental effects on functioning compare, remain poorly understood. We compared relationships between plant phylogenetic, functional, and taxonomic diversity and ecosystem multifunctionality across 29 restored grasslands. Functional diversity was positively associated with multifunctionality, more strongly than other diversity measures; however, landscape composition explained nearly four times more variation in multifunctionality than did functional diversity, with plots within human‐modified landscapes supporting lower multifunctionality. Individual functions were typically more strongly correlated with environmental variables than with diversity. We also found that abundance of the dominant species, Andropogon gerardii, was positively correlated with multifunctionality. Plant diversity, dominant species, and underlying environmental conditions underpin ecosystem multifunctionality in grasslands, but how biodiversity is measured matters for the strength and direction of biodiversity–ecosystem function relationships. Finally, in natural systems environmental variation unrelated to local biodiversity is important for determining ecosystem functioning.
Styk1 expression is a hallmark of murine NK cells and other NK1.1+ subsets but is dispensable for NK‐cell development and effector functions
Authors: Fauteux‐Daniel Sébastien , Faure Fabrice , Marotel Marie , Geary Clair , Daussy Cécile , Sun Joseph C , Walzer Thierry
Published: January 2019

To gain insight into the biology of NK cells, others and we previously identified the NK‐cell signature, defined as the set of transcripts which expression is highly enriched in these cells compared to other immune subtypes. The transcript encoding the Serine/threonine/tyrosine kinase 1 (Styk1) is part of this signature. However, the role of Styk1 in the immune system is unknown. Here, we report the generation of a novel transgenic mouse model, in which Styk1 expression is invalidated and replaced by an EGFP reporter cassette. We demonstrated that Styk1 expression is a hallmark of NK cells and other NK1.1 expressing cells such as liver type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1) and NK1.1+ γδ T cells. Styk1 expression is maintained by IL‐15 in NK cells and negatively correlates with the expression of educating NK‐cell receptors. Analysis of phosphorylation levels of mTOR substrates suggested that Styk1 could moderately contribute to the activity of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. However, Styk1‐deficient NK cells develop normally and have normal in vitro and in vivo effector functions. Thus Styk1 expression is a hallmark of NK cells, ILC1 and NK1.1+ T cells but is dispensable for their development and immune functions.
Triphenylphosphaalkenes in Chemical Equilibria
Authors: D'Imperio Nicolas , Arkhypchuk Anna I. , Mai Juri , Ott Sascha
Published: January 2019

Triphenylphosphaalkenes 1a–c were prepared in good to excellent yields in a modified phospha‐Peterson reaction between PhP(Li)TMS and benzophenones with different para‐substituents at the C‐phenyl groups (a: R = H, b: R = O‐octyl, c: R = F). Owing to the low kinetic stabilization that is provided by the P‐phenyl group, compounds 1a–c engage in reversible dimerization and oligomerization reactions, some of which are not detectable by 31P NMR monitoring. The dimers and oligomers are in chemical equilibria with monomeric 1a–c and can be converted quantitatively to phosphinites 4a–c by the irreversible addition of methanol across the P=C double bond.
Brass and Glass: Crystal Structure Solution and Phase Characterisation of the Corrosion Product Zn4Cu3(Zn1–xCux)6(HCOO)8(OH)18·6(H2O)
Authors: Bette Sebastian , Fischer Andrea , Stelzner Jörg , Eggert Gerhard , Dinnebier Robert E.
Published: January 2019

The title compound, Zn4Cu3(Zn1–xCux)6(HCOO)8(OH)18·6(H2O), also denoted as “Zinc C”, a previously unknown corrosion phase of brass in contact with glass, was found on four different historic objects stored in three different collections. Model experiments demonstrated that formaldehyde emitted e.g. from wooden cabinets undergoes a Cannizarro reaction in the alkaline surface film on the historic glass making formate available for the formation of this corrosion phase. The crystal structure of “Zinc C” was solved ab initio from X‐ray powder diffraction data. From the crystal structure and EDX analyses, a phase composition of Zn4Cu3(Zn1–xCux)6(HCOO)8(OH)18·6(H2O) was derived. Zinc C crystallizes in a trigonal unit cell in space group R3(148) with lattice parameters of a = 10.9185(1) Å, c = 27.5058(4) Å, and V = 2839.74(6) Å3. Layers of edge sharing MO6/3 octahedra with voids capped by Zn(HCOO) forming Zn(HCOO)(OH)3/3 tetrahedra are the main motif in the structure. The zinc/copper ratio of the corrosion phase “Zinc C” can vary between 10:3 and 4:9, due to a partial occupational disorder between copper and zinc in the crystal structure.
One‐Dimensional Looped Chain and Two‐Dimensional Square Grid Coordination Polymers: Encapsulation of Bis(1,2,4‐Triazole)‐trans‐cyclohexane into the Voids
Authors: Adarsh Nayarassery N. , Dîrtu Marinela M. , Guionneau Philippe , Devlin Eamonn , Sanakis Yiannis , Howard Judith A. K. , Chattopadhyay Basab , Garcia Yann
Published: January 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue are Yann Garcia from Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium, and collaborators from partner universities and research centers. The cover image shows the square grid shape of an unprecedented CuII coordination polymer with an “ancient temple architecture”.
The Properties and Application of Argan Oil in Cosmetology
Authors: Goik Urszula , Goik Tomasz , Załęska Izabela
Published: January 2019

For the last few years there has been observed an interest and growing awareness of consumers regarding healthy diet, way of life, and body care. This leads to the design and creation of new products and cosmetic formulations with appropriate sensory characteristics and rheological properties, attractive in terms of nutritional values, and body care. Argan oil contains a high level of both oleic acid and linoleic acid, making it an excellent source of basic polyunsaturated fatty acids. Also, it is particularly rich in polyphenols and tocopherols that exhibit significant antioxidant activity. This paper presents a literature review of the properties of argan oil and their application. Argan oil is used in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries and supports the treatment of many diseases.

Practical Applications: This work presents a wide review and discussion of the literature on the issues related to the use of argan oil in cosmetology and cosmetics industry based on its properties. This review work can be helpful for the cosmetics and food industry in creating new cosmetic recipes and food products (e.g., special‐purpose products) using argan oil as a base raw material.

Argan oil contains a high level of both oleic acid and linoleic acid, making it an excellent source of basic polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is also particularly rich in polyphenols and tocopherols that exhibit significant antioxidant activity. This leads to the design and creation of new products and cosmetic formulations with appropriate sensory characteristics and rheological properties, attractive in terms of nutritional values, and body care. This paper presents a literature review of the properties of argan oil and their application.
A Domino Strategy for the Synthesis of 2H‐Pyrans from Propargyl Vinyl Ethers
Authors: Tejedor David , Delgado‐Hernández Samuel , Diana‐Rivero Raquel , Díaz‐Díaz Abián , García‐Tellado Fernando
Published: January 2019

Stable monocyclic 2H‐pyrans are synthesized from readily available tertiary propargyl vinyl ethers via a metal‐free all‐pericyclic domino manifold involving a sequential propargyl Claisen rearrangement/[1,3]H‐shift/oxa‐6π electrocyclization set of reactions. The wide scope of this protocol is exemplified by the synthesis of 21 different 2H‐pyrans incorporating a varied substitution pattern at the ring.
Slow Formation of Pseudorotaxanes in Water
Authors: Aeschi Yves , Jucker Laurent , Häussinger Daniel , Mayor Marcel
Published: January 2019

The synthesis of two water‐soluble oligophenylene‐ethynylene (OPE)‐rods with substituted iso‐ and terephthalate end groups is presented. Both undergo slow association with a Diederich‐type cyclophane in aqueous solution. Formation of [2]pseudorotaxanes occurs with reaction half‐lives of several hours. Characterization of the supermolecules by 1H‐NMR spectroscopy reveals a high thermodynamic stability and kinetic inertness of the pseudorotaxanes. The phthalate precursors are functionalized with peripheral azide groups, which make them modular precursors for construction of mechanically interlocked molecules in water.
A Novel Hydrogen Peroxide Amperometric Sensor Based on Hierarchical 3D Porous MnO2−TiO2 Composites
Authors: Ko Wen‐Yin , Chen Yi‐Shin , Li Meng‐Shan , Lai Jun‐Yan , Lin Kuan‐Jiuh
Published: January 2019

A novel nanocomposite electrode based on hierarchical 3D porous MnO2−TiO2 for the application in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) sensors has been explored. This electrode was fabricated by growing TiO2 cross‐linked nanowires on a commercial fluorine tin oxide (FTO) glass via a hydrothermal process and subsequent deposition of 3D honeycomb‐like MnO2 nanowalls using an electrodeposition method (denoted as 3D MNS‐TNW@FTO). The obtained 3D MNS‐TNW@FTO electrode was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Based on such a unique 3D porous framework and the existence of MnO2, the electrode demonstrates a good performance in the detection of H2O2, with two linear ranges from 9.8 to 125 μM and 125 μM–1.0 mM, a good selectivity of 8.02 μA mM−1 cm−2, and a low detection limit of 4.5 μM. In addition, the simplicity of the developed low‐cost fabrication process provides an efficient method for the mass production of electrocatalytical MnO2−TiO2 nanocomposites on commercial FTO glass for H2O2 sensing applications and can be adapted for other electrochemical sensors for various biochemical targets. It thus is beneficial for the practical usage in bioanalysis.
Decision tree‐based modeling of CO2 equilibrium absorption in different aqueous solutions of absorbents
Authors: Yarveicy Hamidreza , Saghafi Hamidreza , Ghiasi Mohammad M. , Mohammadi Amir H.
Published: January 2019

In absorption‐based CO2 removal processes, one of the most important parameters that must be determined is the equilibrium solubility of CO2 in solvents. This study is the first time to employ the extremely randomized trees, Extra Trees, methodology to develop an Extra Trees model for the CO2 loading capacity of various absorbents. The ability of the proposed decision tree‐based model in estimation of CO2 solubility values was compared to that of the previously presented models on the basis of the adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), least squares version of the support vector machine (LSSVM), and artificial neural network (ANN), using error analysis. According to the obtained results, the presented Extra Trees model is able to estimate the CO2 loading capacity of solvents with an absolute relative deviation in percent (AARD%) equal to 0.15. The calculated values of AARD% for the literature models, i.e., LSSVM, radial basis function‐artificial neural network (RBF‐ANN), multilayer perceptron‐ANN (MLP‐ANN), and ANFIS, are 2.00, 10.03, 6.18, and 14.15, respectively. Hence, the developed Extra Trees model provides much higher robustness and accuracy in estimating/representing the solubility of CO2 in different aqueous solutions of solvents. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: S441–S448, 2019
Off‐Odor Removal from Fish Oil by Adsorbent Treatment with Selected Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Güner Melike , Yılmaz Emin , Yüceer Yonca
Published: January 2019

The limiting factor for consumption of liquid fish oil is its fishy off‐odor. The objectives of this study were to remove the off‐odors from liquid fish oil by adsorbent treatment with selected metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), compare their activity with some natural clays, and also observe other changes developed in the oil after the treatments. Seven synthesized MOFs and three natural clays were added at 0.5% (w/w) into fish oil and mixed for 1.5 h at room temperature prior to filtration. The collected oil samples were analyzed for physico‐chemical properties, fatty acid, mineral and volatiles compositions, and sensory descriptions. Results indicated that for all the adsorbents tested, oil physico‐chemical properties improved, while no remarkable change was observed in fatty acid and mineral composition. Volatile composition analysis revealed that 68.8%, 46.2% and 44.5% reductions over total volatile concentrations were achieved using γ‐CD‐MOF, sepiolite and Ti‐MOF adsorbents, respectively. The panel described the oil with fishy, algae‐iodine, green and rancid terms. Some significant decreases in the measured sensory attributes were observed after the adsorbent treatments. Overall, although some significant reductions in volatiles were achieved, some off‐odor characteristics still remained at perceivable level. Hence, further studies focusing on designing specific MOFs are suggested.
Food functionality of protein isolates extracted from Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) roe using alkaline solubilization and acid precipitation process
Authors: Yoon In Seong , Lee Hyun Ji , Kang Sang In , Park Sun Young , Kang Young Mi , Kim Jin‐Soo , Heu Min Soo
Published: January 2019

Four types of roe protein isolates (RPIs) were prepared through the alkaline solubilization and acid precipitation (ASAP) process, and their functional properties and in vitro bioactivities were evaluated. Higher buffer capacity in pH‐shift range of 8–12 was found in RPI‐1 (pH 11/4.5), required average 94.5 mM NaOH than that of other RPIs to change the pH by 1 unit. All the samples of 1% dispersion (w/v) showed the lowest buffering capacity near the initial pH. The water‐holding capacities (WHC) of RPIs and casein as controls without pH‐shift were in range of 3.7–4.0 g/g protein, and there were no significant differences (p > 0.05). At pH 2 and 8–12 with pH‐shift, WHC and protein solubility of RPIs were significantly improved compared to those of controls. Foaming capacities of RPI‐1 and RPI‐3 were 141.9% and 128.1%, respectively, but those of RPI‐2 and RPI‐4 were not detected. The oil‐in‐water emulsifying activity index of RPI‐1 and RPI‐3 was 10.0 and 8.3 m2/g protein, which was not statistically different from casein (7.0 m2/g), but lower than that of hemoglobin (19.1 m2/g). Overall, RPIs, casein, and hemoglobin exhibited lower food functionality at pH 4–6 near isoelectric points. Through the pH‐shift treatment, the food functionalities of RPIs were improved over the controls, especially in the pH 2 and pH 8–12 ranges. RPI also showed in vitro antioxidant and antihypertensive activities. Therefore, it has been confirmed that RPI extracted from yellowfin tuna roe has high utility as a protein‐ or food‐functional‐enhancing material or protein substitute resource for noodles, confectionery, baking, and surimi‐based products.
Probing the storage stability and sensorial characteristics of wheat and barley grasses juice
Authors: Qamar Aiza , Saeed Farhan , Nadeem Muhammad Tahir , Hussain Abdullah Ijaz , Khan Muhammad Asif , Niaz Bushra
Published: January 2019

The present research study was designed for the development of functional drinks from wheat and barley grasses followed by their physicochemical and sensorial characterization. In 1st phase, wheatgrass and barley grass juices were prepared with different concentrations and were subjected for physicochemical analysis and sensorial evaluation. Moreover, these juices were analyzed for color indices, pH, acidity, and total soluble solids (TSS) during storage study at 0, 2, 4, and 6 days. Results showed that TSS and pH of juices were 1.321, 2.8900, 3.100, and 6.225, 6.032, 6.491 for T0, T1, and T2, respectively, whereas a slight decreasing trend in acidity was observed during storage. Furthermore, treatments and storage (days) showed nonsignificant effect on these traits; however, storage affected significantly except for a* value for color indices. Conclusively, with respect to sensory aspects, the cereal grass juices showed satisfactory indexes of acceptability and promising marketing potential.
Amebicidal effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum) against Acanthamoeba cysts
Authors: Kaya Yasemin , Baldemir Ayşe , Karaman Ülkü , Ildız Nilay , Arıcı Yeliz Kasko , Kaçmaz Gamze , Kolören Zeynep , Konca Yusuf
Published: January 2019

Trigonella foenum‐graecum L. (TF) is known to the public as a chest emollient, mucous expectorant, laxative and is used to prevent maturation of boils and diabetes since ancient times. In this study, we aimed to determine the amebicidal effects against Acanthamoeba cysts. Plant extracts were prepared at concentrations of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 mg/ml and were placed in a hemocytometer with cell counts 22 × 106 cell/ml. The fatty acid profiles of TF seeds were determined. Standard Acanthamoeba cysts were added and incubated at 25°C. The viability of the parasite was checked and recorded at hours 3, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 102. The values of lethal concentration doses (LD50 and LD90) were calculated using probit analysis. This study revealed that T. foenum‐graecum prevented proliferation of the parasite at certain times. However, further for in vivo and controlled experimental studies are needed in order to find out how to use this plant as medication.
Effect of Pleurotus ostreatus powder addition in vegetable soup on ß‐glucan content, sensory perception, and acceptability
Authors: Proserpio Cristina , Lavelli Vera , Laureati Monica , Pagliarini Ella
Published: January 2019

Pleurotus ostreatus is an edible mushroom with interesting nutritional properties, which is able to grow on agri‐food waste and could in turn be used as an ingredient for food fortification. However, new food products have to face with the growing consumer consciousness about what they eat and hedonic responses, which represent a key factor in determining food preference and choices. The aim of this study was to design a vegetable‐based product (a pumpkin and carrot soup) added with increasing concentration of P. ostreatus powder rich in β‐glucans, which are fibers with demonstrated bioactivity in humans, and to obtain a sensory description of these fortified products to find the desirable and undesirable sensory properties that affect their acceptance. A total of 109 subjects (women N = 52; men N = 57; age = 36.1 ± 14.4 years) evaluated five samples of pumpkin and carrot soup added with increasing concentrations of mushroom powder (0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and a hidden control at 0%) for liking and sensory properties by means of the check‐all‐that‐apply method. Results showed that creaminess, orange color, mild odor, and taste were positively related to vegetable soups liking, whereas strong taste, dark color, and mushroom odor described the less liked samples. Sample added with 2% of mushroom powder obtained comparable liking scores to the unmodified sample, while liking decreased with increasing concentration of P. ostreatus powder. The present results demonstrated that it is possible to fortify a vegetable soup with P. ostreatus powder developing well‐accepted foods by consumers. This product could be used to implement an everyday dietary intervention of β‐glucans over a long‐term period.
Effect of the storage atmosphere on metabolomics of harvested tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Yokota Yuma , Akihiro Takashi , Boerzhijin Surina , Yamada Takeshi , Makino Yoshio
Published: January 2019

Harvested tomatoes were stored under atmospheres that were normoxic, anoxic, or modified (altered O2 and CO2 concentrations). Each atmosphere was created by storing the tomatoes at 25°C for up to 8 days in different kinds of pouches. During storage, metabolites of the tomatoes were measured using metabolomics. We obtained score plots of the metabolites on eighth day of storage by principal component analysis. There was a tendency for groups to be divided on the basis of score plot according to the composition of each gas. PC1 and PC2 seemed to correspond to the influence of O2 and CO2 concentrations, respectively, and the total contribution rate of the two axes was 72%, so that we concluded that the metabolites were affected mainly by O2 and CO2 concentrations. The results indicate that metabolomics may be an effective tool to reveal the relationship between metabolic state of harvested fruits and the atmosphere.
Phenolic compounds and bioactivity evaluation of aqueous and methanol extracts ofAllium mongolicumRegel
Authors: Wang Wanyu , Li Jiao , Zhang Huizhen , Wang Xiaokai , Fan Jianming , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: January 2019

Allium mongolicumRegel (AM), widely distributed in western China, is a traditional Mongolian medicine herb. Two different solvents as water and methanol were used to extract AM, and their antioxidant capacity and inhibitory effects against key enzymes related to metabolic syndrome were assessed. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated through the assay of radical scavenging ability on DPPH and ABTS and reducing power assays. In addition, the total phenolic content and total flavonoids content were quantificated and analyzed. Aqueous extract, having higher phenolic content (10.20 mg GAE/g DW) and flavonoid content (4.02 mg QE/g DW), showed better antioxidant and inhibitory effects against lipase and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE); as for α‐glucosidase, the extract made by methanol showed better ability. In general, the aqueous extract ofA. mongolicumRegel has the potential to be used as a functional food or nutraceutical in prevention and treatment of obesity and hypertension due to the high antioxidant and sound inhibitory potential against vital enzymes relevant to obesity and hypertension.
Serum concentration of appetite‐regulating hormones of mother–infant dyad according to the type of feeding
Authors: Vásquez‐Garibay Edgar M. , Larrosa‐Haro Alfredo , Guzmán‐Mercado Elizabeth , Muñoz‐Esparza Nelly , García‐Arellano Samuel , Muñoz‐Valle Francisco , Romero‐Velarde Enrique
Published: January 2019

Satiety and appetite‐stimulating hormones play a role in the regulation of food intake. Breastfed infants may have a different profile of serum appetite‐regulating hormones than formula‐fed infants. We propose to demonstrate that the serum concentration of appetite regulatory hormones differs according to the type of feeding and that there is a correlation between the serum concentrations of these hormones in mothers and in infants at 4 months of age. In a cross‐sectional analysis, 167 mother–newborn dyads at the Hospital Civil de Guadalajara were enrolled: 74 full breastfeeding (FBF), 56 partial breastfeeding (PBF), and 37 receiving human milk substitutes (HMS). Serum levels of ghrelin (pg/ml), leptin (ng/ml), peptide YY (pg/ml), and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) (pM) were measured. We performed one‐way analysis of variance, unpaired Student t test, post hoc Tukey test, and Pearson correlation. The total sample at 16 weeks postpartum included 167 dyads. The mean age was 16 ± 1 weeks. The concentrations of GLP‐1 (pM) and peptide YY (pg/ml) were higher in the FBF group (42.6 and 442.9) than in the HMS group (35.2 and 401.9), respectively, p = 0.046 and p = 0.056. And, the FBF group had higher correlation coefficients of ghrelin (r = 0.411 vs. 0.165), GLP‐1 (r = 0.576 vs. 0.407), and peptide YY (r = 0.218 vs. 0.067), respectively, than the HMS group. The concentrations of GLP‐1 and peptide YY were higher in the FBF group when compared with the HMS group. Mother–infant dyads fed by FBF had more significant direct correlations of appetite‐regulating hormones than those who received HMS.