bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Solid‐Solution Electrodes and the Rocking‐Chair Concept to Today's Batteries
Authors: Zhang Heng , Li Chunmei , Eshetu Gebrekidan Gebresilassie , Laruelle Stéphane , Grugeon Sylvie , Zaghib Karim , Julien Christian , Mauger Alain , Guyomard Dominique , Rojo Teófilo , Gisbert‐Trejo Nuria , Passerini Stefano , Huang Xuejie , Zhou Zhibin , Johansson Patrik , Forsyth Maria
Published: November 2019

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have become ubiquitous power sources for small electronic devices, electric vehicles, and stationary energy storage systems. Despite the success of LIBs which is acknowledged by their increasing commodity market, the historical evolution of the chemistry behind the LIB technologies is laden with obstacles and yet to be unambiguously documented. This Viewpoint outlines chronologically the most essential findings related to today's LIBs, including commercial electrode and electrolyte materials, but furthermore also depicts how the today popular and widely emerging solid‐state batteries were instrumental at very early stages in the development of LIBs.
Pistacia atlantica leaf extract mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their antioxidant, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial effects under in vitro condition
Authors: Hamelian Mona , Zangeneh Mohammad Mahdi , Shahmohammadi Azin , Varmira Kambiz , Veisi Hojat
Published: November 2019

Recently, researchers have investigated the therapeutical properties of metal nanoparticles especially silver nanoparticles in vitro and in vivo conditions. The aim of the experiment was green synthesis and chemical characterization of silver nanoparticles from aqueous extract of Pistacia atlantica leaf (Ag NPs) and evaluation of their cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects under in vitro condition. Ag NPs were spherical with a size range of 40‐60 nm and characterized using various analysis techniques including UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy to determine the presence of Ag NP in the solution. We studied functional groups of Pistacia atlantica extract in the reduction and capping process of Ag NP by FT‐IR, crystallinity and FCC planes by XRD pattern, elemental analysis of the sample by EDS, and surface morphology, shapes, and size of Ag NPs by SEM, AFM, and TEM. Destroy initiation and termination temperatures of the Ag NPs were determined by TGA. DPPH free radical scavenging test was done to evaluate the antioxidant potentials, which indicated similar antioxidant potentials for Ag NPs and butylated hydroxytoluene. The synthesized Ag NPs had great cell viability dose‐dependently and indicated this method was nontoxic. Agar diffusion tests were done to determine the antibacterial characteristic. Ag NPs revealed similar antibacterial property to the standard antibiotic. Also, Ag NPs prevented the growth of all bacteria at 1‐7 μg/ml concentrations and removed them at 3‐15 μg/ml concentrations. Finally, synthesized Ag NPs revealed non‐cytotoxicity, antioxidant and antibacterial activities in a dose‐depended manner.
Nrf2 mediates the antinociceptive activity of dexmedetomidine in an acute inflammatory visceral pain rat model by activating the NF‐κB sensor
Authors: Lan Jiangli , Zheng Jianqiu , Feng Jifeng , Peng Wei
Published: November 2019

Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a highly selective α2 adrenoceptor agonist. In this study, we evaluated the antalgic effect of DEX on acetic acid–induced acute inflammatory visceral pain (AIVP) in rats. Additionally, we evaluated the role of Nrf2 signalling in antinociception. We administered acetic acid to male Sprague Dawley rats that were treated with DEX or saline. Twenty rats were randomly classified into the following groups: normal, model, vehicle, or DEX group. Both q‐RT PCR and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay data suggested that interleukin 1β (IL‐1β), tumour necrosis factor α, and IL‐6 were upregulated in the spinal cord. Western blotting and q‐RT PCR analyses were performed to detect the protein and mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, Keap1, and HO‐1 in the spinal cord. The DEX group exhibited a significant downregulation in Nrf2/Keap1/HO‐1 signal activation compared with the model group. Furthermore, we used the Nrf2‐/‐ knockout AIVP rat model to determine the role of Nrf2 in the antinociceptive effect of DEX. We observed that the Nrf2 knockout blocked the Keap1/Nrf2/HO‐1 signal transduction and partially abated the antinociceptive and the anti‐inflammatory effects of DEX. Moreover, our data also indicated that DEX treatment decreased the activation and expression of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB. However, Nrf2 silencing restored the expression of NF‐κB and its phosphorylated form to physiological levels. In summary, our results suggested that Nrf2 signalling plays an important role in the antinociceptive effect of DEX in the AIVP rat model and that Nrf2 exerts its function by enhancing the activation of the NF‐κB sensor.

Significance of the study

Currently, using the behavioural parameters is not adequate for the diagnosis of AIVP, and there are no studies that have investigated the role and the mechanism of DEX in ameliorating visceral pain. In this study, we demonstrated that acetic acid stimulation in rats induces AIVP. Additionally, the administration of DEX inhibited the acute inflammation response and decreased the visceromotor reaction (behavioural) to algesia. Further, DEX inhibited the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway, which was activated by acetic acid treatment. We suggest that suppressing the inflammatory response could partially regulate the antinociceptive effect of DEX through Nrf2‐mediated NF‐κB activation associated with AIVP.
Hybridization of ZSM‐5 with Spinel Oxides for Biomass Vapour Upgrading
Authors: Atanda Luqman , Batalha Nuno , Stark Terra , Tabulo Ben , Perkins Greg , Wang Zhiliang , Odedairo Taiwo , Wang Lianzhou , Konarova Muxina
Published: November 2019

In this study, we report catalytic fast pyrolysis of biomass using multifunctional hybrid spinel‐oxide@zeolite catalysts prepared by using the steam‐assisted crystallization (SAC) method to create the mesoporous zeolite followed by urea hydrolysis of metal nitrates to deposit spinel‐oxides. This hybrid catalyst was quite effective in the deoxygenation of pinewood sawdust pyrolysis vapours, while avoiding over cracking of the lignin precursors, which are already ideal as chemical and fuel precursors. In the first step, multiple spinel oxides MgB2O4 (where B=Fe, Al, Ce, Ga, Cr) were screened as catalysts for the pyrolysis of pinewood sawdust and the resultant bio‐oil (bio‐oil on the water‐free basis) was assessed in terms of carbon efficiency, oxygen content and chemical composition. While all the tested spinel oxides deoxygenated the pyrolysis vapour, MgAl2O4 and MgFe2O4 were found to provide a well‐balanced deoxygenation degree and producing bio‐oil with acceptable carbon efficiency. Catalytic activity and product distribution were affected by the density and strength of the acid sites of the spinel oxides. Subsequently, CFP over MgFe2O4@ZSM5 and MgAl2O4@ZSM5 was investigated under similar condition. The better performance of the hybrid catalyst was attributed to the deposition of small particles of MgFe2O4 in the external surface of the zeolite. The presence of this spinel oxide on the external surface depolymerized bulky oxygenates to lighter fractions that could easily access the active sites within the mesoporous structure of the zeolite, thus providing the catalytic function needed for the oxygen removal after aromatic ring saturation.
PNPN‐H in Comparison to other PNP, PNPN and NPNPN Ligands for the Chromium Catalyzed Selective Ethylene Oligomerization
Authors: Rosenthal Uwe
Published: November 2019

Many examples exist for the chromium catalyzed selective ethylene oligomerization in which the influence of ligands is essential for the formation of products. Regarding the tri‐ and tetramerization to 1‐hexene or 1‐octene mostly PNP ligands are responsible for the tetra‐ and some of such modified ligands for the trimerization. A very special case in these reactions are PNPN−H ligands, showing in most cases highly selective trimerization of ethylene to 1‐hexene. In this review all existing published information about these PNPN−H ligands is accumulated and compared to some other related PNP, PNPN and NPNPN ligands in the chromium catalyzed selective ethylene oligomerization with respect to the switch from tetra‐ to trimerization and back by different substituent pattern of PNP ligand. Mechanistic information and arguments are collected to explain the switch from tetra‐ to trimerization and back by substitution of functional groups in classical PNP to PNPN−H ligands as a result of mono‐ and dinuclear catalytic species.
Coordination‐Cage‐Catalysed Hydrolysis of Organophosphates: Cavity‐ or Surface‐Based?
Authors: Taylor Christopher G. P. , Metherell Alexander J. , Argent Stephen P. , Ashour Fatma M. , Williams Nicholas H. , Ward Michael D.
Published: November 2019

The hydrophobic central cavity of a water‐soluble M8L12 cubic coordination cage can accommodate a range of phospho‐diester and phospho‐triester guests such as the insecticide “dichlorvos” (2,2‐dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate) and the chemical warfare agent analogue di(isopropyl) chlorophosphate. The accumulation of hydroxide ions around the cationic cage surface due to ion‐pairing in solution generates a high local pH around the cage, resulting in catalysed hydrolysis of the phospho‐triester guests. A series of control experiments unexpectedly demonstrates that—in marked contrast to previous cases—it is not necessary for the phospho‐triester substrates to be bound inside the cavity for catalysed hydrolysis to occur. This suggests that catalysis can occur on the exterior surface of the cage as well as the interior surface, with the exterior‐binding catalysis pathway dominating here because of the small binding constants for these phospho‐triester substrates in the cage cavity. These observations suggest that cationic but hydrophobic surfaces could act as quite general catalysts in water by bringing substrates into contact with the surface (via the hydrophobic effect) where there is also a high local concentration of anions (due to ion pairing/electrostatic effects).
Eu(O2C‐C≡C‐CO2): An EuII Containing Anhydrous Coordination Polymer with High Stability and Negative Thermal Expansion
Authors: Gramm Verena K. , Smets Daniel , Grzesiak Ireneus , Block Theresa , Pöttgen Rainer , Suta Markus , Wickleder Claudia , Lorenz Thomas , Ruschewitz Uwe
Published: November 2019

Anhydrous EuII–acetylenedicarboxylate (EuADC; ADC2− = −O2C‐C≡C‐CO2−) was synthesized by reaction of EuBr2 with K2ADC or H2ADC in degassed water under oxygen‐free conditions. EuADC crystallizes in the SrADC type structure (I41/amd, Z=4) forming a 3D coordination polymer with a diamond‐like arrangement of Eu2+ nodes (msw topology including the connecting ADC2− linkers). Deep orange coloured EuADC is stable in air and starts decomposing upon heating in an argon atmosphere only at 440 °C. Measurements of the magnetic susceptibilities (μeff=7.76 μB) and 151Eu Mössbauer spectra (δ=−13.25 mm s−1 at 78 K) confirm the existence of Eu2+ cations. Diffuse reflectance spectra indicate a direct optical band gap of Eg=2.64 eV (470 nm), which is in accordance with the orange colour of the material. Surprisingly, EuADC does not show any photoluminescence under irradiation with UV light of different wavelengths. Similar to SrADC, EuADC exhibits a negative thermal volume expansion below room temperature with a volume expansion coefficient αV=−9.4(12)×10−6 K−1.
Adaptive cooperative sensing in cognitive radio networks with ensemble model for primary user detection
Authors: Prasad Venkata Vara , Rao Polipalli Trinatha
Published: November 2019

Opportunistic spectrum sharing ability enables higher spectrum utilization in cognitive radio networks. Detecting the presence of primary user in the network is the most important functionality in cognitive radio network as the cognitive users cannot use the spectrum with interference to primary users. Most solutions proposed for primary user detection suffer from hidden terminal problem resulting from multipath fading and shadow effects. The work focus on Rayleigh and Nakagami fading channel with comparable nonfading AWGN channel in cognitive radio. An ensemble model to detect the presence of primary user with high confidence is proposed in this work. The approach is based on training machine learning models with energy vectors in presence and absence of primary users. The trained model is then used to predict the primary user based on the energy vector.
Investigating the environmental drivers of deep‐seafloor biodiversity: A case study of peracarid crustacean assemblages in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Ashford Oliver S. , Kenny Andrew J. , Barrio Froján Christopher R. S. , Horton Tammy , Rogers Alex D.
Published: November 2019

The deep‐sea benthos covers over 90% of seafloor area and hosts a great diversity of species which contribute toward essential ecosystem services. Evidence suggests that deep‐seafloor assemblages are structured predominantly by their physical environment, yet knowledge of assemblage/environment relationships is limited. Here, we utilized a very large dataset of Northwest Atlantic Ocean continental slope peracarid crustacean assemblages as a case study to investigate the environmental drivers of deep‐seafloor macrofaunal biodiversity. We investigated biodiversity from a phylogenetic, functional, and taxonomic perspective, and found that a wide variety of environmental drivers, including food availability, physical disturbance (bottom trawling), current speed, sediment characteristics, topographic heterogeneity, and temperature (in order of relative importance), significantly influenced peracarid biodiversity. We also found deep‐water peracarid assemblages to vary seasonally and interannually. Contrary to prevailing theory on the drivers of deep‐seafloor diversity, we found high topographic heterogeneity (at the hundreds to thousands of meter scale) to negatively influence assemblage diversity, while broadscale sediment characteristics (i.e., percent sand content) were found to influence assemblages more than sediment particle‐size diversity. However, our results support other paradigms of deep‐seafloor biodiversity, including that assemblages may vary inter‐ and intra‐annually, and how assemblages respond to changes in current speed. We found that bottom trawling negatively affects the evenness and diversity of deep‐sea soft‐sediment peracarid assemblages, but that predicted changes in ocean temperature as a result of climate change may not strongly influence continental slope biodiversity over human timescales, although it may alter deep‐sea community biomass. Finally, we emphasize the value of analyzing multiple metrics of biodiversity and call for researchers to consider an expanded definition of biodiversity in future investigations of deep‐ocean life.
Environmental DNA for detecting Bulinus truncatus: A new environmental surveillance tool for schistosomiasis emergence risk assessment
Authors: Mulero Stephen , Boissier Jérôme , Allienne Jean‐François , Quilichini Yann , Foata Joséphine , Pointier Jean‐Pierre , Rey Olivier
Published: November 2019

Under ongoing climate changes, the development of large‐scale monitoring tools for assessing the risk of disease emergence constitutes an urging challenge. This is particularly the case for snail‐borne diseases such as the urogenital bilharziasis that emerged in Corsica and threat European countries. The expansion of this tropical disease mainly relies on the local presence of competent snail hosts such as Bulinus truncatus. Unfortunately, very little is known about the actual repartition of freshwater snails worldwide which makes new emergences difficult to predict. In this study, we developed two ready‐to‐use environmental DNA‐based methods for assessing the distribution of B. truncatus from water samples collected in the field. We used two approaches, a quantitative PCR (qPCR) and a droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) approach. We successfully detected B. truncatus in natural environments where the snail was previously visually reported. Our environmental DNA diagnostic methods showed a high sensitivity (≈60 DNA copy per mL of filtered water) and a high specificity to B. truncatus. Results obtained in qPCR and ddPCR were very similar. This study demonstrates that environmental DNA diagnostics tools enable a sensitive large‐scale monitoring of snail‐borne diseases hence allowing the delimitation of areas potentially threatened by urogenital schistosomiasis.
Review on contribution of indigenous food preparation and preservation techniques to attainment of food security in Ethiopian
Authors: Kuyu Chala Gowe , Bereka Tizazu Yirga
Published: November 2019

One of the main challenges facing Ethiopia today is ensuring food security, as the country demands more food than before with the increase in population. Although the country's production is much lower than the national demand, there are high postharvest food losses, largely due to limited food processing, preservation, and storage capacity. Universities and research centers in the country had been done and doing research on the postharvest activities to assure effective and sustainable methods of food security enhancement strategy. In contrast, most of the strategies and technologies they develop never get implemented by farmers as they still rely on indigenous knowledge for postharvest activities. Although people are using indigenous knowledge, their contributions and potentials in food processing, preservation, and storage are underestimated. However, indigenous methods of food preparation, preservation, and storage are time tested and have been used by locals people over generation to preserve their produce after harvest, thereby serving as a survival strategy. Moreover, the country is blessed with various types of wild edible plants and also possesses diverse indigenous knowledge systems for their processing, preservation, and storage. These indigenous foods are inexpensive to use, safe, nutritious, and thus boosting overall food security. Therefore, the aim of this review paper is to document indigenous knowledge of food storage, processing, and preservation in the country. This could help as a gateway to verify and support indigenous knowledge with latest technologies and promote their role in attainment of food security.
Rapid determination of pit mud moisture content using hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Zhu Min , Chen Ping , Hu Xin‐Jun , Mao Xiang , Tian Jian‐Ping , Luo Hui‐Bo , Huang Dan
Published: November 2019

Lack of moisture can lead to the aging of pit mud, excessive moisture will make it difficult to maintain its shape or even collapse. Therefore, a rapid and nondestructive detection technology for moisture in pit mud using hyperspectral imaging was firstly investigated. Modeling efficiency of various processing was compared in visible (400–1,000 nm) and near‐infrared (900–1,700 nm) regions, and the optimal model was SNV‐SPA‐SVM in near‐infrared spectroscopy; the and RMSEP of model were .9953 and 0.0029, respectively. Furthermore, the distribution map showed that the moisture in the new cellar was generally lower than that of old, and the moisture distribution of the old pit mud was more even. Moreover, the moisture content of different layers in the same cellar increased from top to bottom. This work provides strong technical support for liquor brewing enterprises to effectively implement online monitoring of pit mud changes and open a new era for the application of hyperspectral imaging technology in the field of liquor solid‐state fermentation.
Asset tokenization in plain English
Authors: Sazandrishvili George
Published: November 2019

Asset tokenization is an expansion of blockchain technology that allows digital assets to be bought, sold, and traded on blockchains. Digitizing real assets will help create universally accessible, fast, liquid, and transparent investment and financial systems. However, blockchain and related asset tokenization are still in their infancy, and there are obstacles that need to be overcome before widespread adoption occurs. This article describes what it means to tokenize an asset on a blockchain, how tokenization is accomplished, and why it has the potential to disrupt a variety of industries, particularly the financial and real estate industries. Challenges that are associated with implementing asset tokenization are also explored.
Combretastatin analogues in cancer biology: A prospective view
Authors: Sherbet Gajanan V.
Published: November 2019

The stilbenoid combretastatin and its derivatives are potent inhibitors of angiogenesis and cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. They disrupt cytoskeletal dynamics and modulate cell morphology, motility, and invasion. Hence they have been viewed as potential as anticancer agents. The impediments of poor solubility and bioavailability and the spontaneous geometric isomerisation of combretastatin into an inactive form have led to intensive efforts towards evolving novel analogues to provide more efficacious biological outcome. Importantly, isomerically stable and biologically active cis‐restricted analogues have been synthesised and tested. However, very few analogues have been tested in preclinical models to assess their effects on processes relevant to cancer development and progression. Hence the accent here is on the signalling systems operated by the new derivatives and their biological effects with reference to cancer progression. Combretastatins modulate an extensive network of signalling emphasising their varied versatility. Harnessing these systems and accentuating or counteracting aberrant signalling could open potential avenues of approach to the designing of novel derivatives with enhanced performance. The import of mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, which co‐ordinates growth factor receptor signalling, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition activation and angiogenic signalling, is emphasised. It may be viewed as a prime target for allosteric inhibition in combination with combretastatin analogues to ascertain their potential in cancer control.
Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor associates with higher risk, advanced disease severity as well as inflammation, and might serve as a prognostic biomarker of severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Zhang Qi , Li Le , Chen Hongze , Zhang Guangquan , Zhu Siqiang , Kong Rui , Chen Hua , Wang Gang , Sun Bei
Published: November 2019

Background

This study aimed to explore the potential of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) as a biomarker for severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) risk prediction and disease management in SAP patients.

Methods

Totally 225 acute pancreatitis (AP) patients (including 75 SAP, 75 moderate‐severe acute pancreatitis [MSAP], and 75 mild acute pancreatitis [MAP] patients) were recruited based on the Atlanta classification, and their serum samples were obtained within 24 hours after admission. Meanwhile, 75 health controls (HCs) were recruited with their serum samples collected at the enrollment. The serum suPAR was then detected using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The suPAR level was increased in SAP patients compared with MSAP patients (P = .023), MAP patients (P < .001), and HCs (P < .001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve presented that suPAR could not only differentiate SAP patients from HCs (AUC: 0.920, 95%CI: 0.875‐0.965) but also differentiate SAP patients from MSAP (AUC: 0.684, 95%CI: 0.600‐0.769) and MAP patients (AUC: 0.855, 95%CI: 0.797‐0.912). In SAP patients, suPAR was positively correlated with Ranson score (P < .001), acute physiology and chronic healthcare evaluation II score (P = .001), sequential organ failure assessment score (P < .001), and C‐reaction protein (P = .002). Further ROC curve exhibited that suPAR (AUC: 0.806, 95%CI: 0.663‐0.949) was of good value in predicting increased inhospital mortality of SAP patients.

Conclusion

Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor is of good predictive value for SAP risk and may serve as a potential biomarker for disease severity, inflammation, and inhospital mortality in SAP patients.
Zebrafish: An Emerging Model for Orthopedic Research
Authors: Busse Björn , Galloway Jenna L. , Gray Ryan S. , Harris Matthew P. , Kwon Ronald Y.
Published: November 2019

Advances in next‐generation sequencing have transformed our ability to identify genetic variants associated with clinical disorders of the musculoskeletal system. However, the means to functionally validate and analyze the physiological repercussions of genetic variation have lagged behind the rate of genetic discovery. The zebrafish provides an efficient model to leverage genetic analysis in an in vivo context. Its utility for orthopedic research is becoming evident in regard to both candidate gene validation as well as therapeutic discovery in tissues such as bone, tendon, muscle, and cartilage. With the development of new genetic and analytical tools to better assay aspects of skeletal tissue morphology, mineralization, composition, and biomechanics, researchers are emboldened to systematically approach how the skeleton develops and to identify the root causes, and potential treatments, of skeletal disease. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:925‐936, 2020
Suppression of murine osteoarthritis by 4‐methylumbelliferone
Authors: Tsuchiya Saho , Ohashi Yoshifumi , Ishizuka Shinya , Ishiguro Naoki , O'Rourke Dorcas P. , Knudson Cheryl B. , Knudson Warren
Published: November 2019

Using in vitro models, we previously reported that 4‐methylumbelliferone (4‐MU) blocked many of the pro‐catabolic features of activated chondrocytes. 4‐MU also blocked safranin O loss from human cartilage explants exposed to interleukin 1β (IL1β) in vitro. However, the mechanism for this chondroprotective effect was independent of the action of 4‐MU as a hyaluronan (HA) inhibitor. Interestingly, overexpression of HA synthase 2 (HAS2) also blocked the same pro‐catabolic features of activated chondrocytes as 4‐MU via a mechanism independent of extracellular HA accumulation. Data suggest that altering UDP‐sugars may be behind these changes in chondrocyte metabolism. However, all of our previous experiments with 4‐MU or HAS2 overexpression were performed in vitro. The purpose of this study was to confirm whether 4‐MU was effective at limiting the effects of osteoarthritis (OA) on articular cartilage in vivo. The progression of OA was evaluated after destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) surgery on C57BL/6 mice in the presence or absence of 4‐MU‐containing chow. Mice fed 4‐MU after DMM surgery exhibited significant suppression of OA starting from an early stage in vivo. Mice fed 4‐MU exhibited lower OARSI scores after DMM; reduced osteophyte formation and reduced MMP3 and MMP13 immunostaining. 4‐MU also exerted pronounced chondroprotective effects on murine joint cartilage exposed to IL1β in vitro and, blocked IL1β‐enhanced lactate production in cartilage explants. Therefore, 4‐MU is effective at significantly reducing the loss of proteoglycan and reducing MMP production both in vitro and in vivo as well as cartilage damage and osteophyte formation in vivo after DMM. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res. 38:1122‐1131, 2020
Phytic acid content may affect starch digestibility and glycemic index value of rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Kumar Awadhesh , Sahu Chandrasekhar , Panda Puja A , Biswal Monalisa , Sah Rameswar P , Lal Milan K , Baig Mirza J , Swain Padmini , Behera Lambodar , Chattopadhyay Krishnendu , Sharma Srigopal
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Phytic acid (PA) is an anti‐nutrient present in cereals and pulses. It is known to reduce mineral bioavailability and inhibit starch‐digesting α‐amylase (which requires calcium for activity) in the human gut. In principle, the greater the amount of PA, the lower is the rate of starch hydrolysis. It is reflected in the lower glycemic index (GI) value of food. People leading sedentary lifestyles and consuming rice as a staple food are likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Hence, this study was planned to understand how PA content of different rice varieties affects the GI.

RESULTS

Rice Khira and Mugai which had very low PA (0.30 and 0.36 g kg−1, respectively) had higher GI values and α‐amylase activity, while Nua Dhusara and the pigmented rice Manipuri black rice (MBR) which had high PA (2.13 and 2.98 g kg−1, respectively) showed low α‐amylase activity and GI values. This relationship was statistically significant, though a weak relationship was found for the pigmented rice. Expression levels of MIPSI, IPKI and GBSSI markedly increased in the middle stage of grain development in all of the six genotypes having contrasting PA and GI. Maximum expression of MIPSI and IPKI was observed in Nua Dhusara and MBR (which had high PA) while that of GBSSI was observed in Khira and Mugai (with higher GI) at middle stage showing a negative correlation between PA and GI.

CONCLUSIONS

The data indicate that high PA content in rice might have an adverse effect on starch digestibility resulting in slower starch digestion in the human gut and consequently low glycemic response. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Habitat and History Influence Abundance of Bog Turtles
Authors: Stratmann Theresa S. M. , Floyd Thomas M. , Barrett Kyle
Published: November 2019

Conservation of rare and endangered species requires assessment of factors that influence the current habitat associations of a species and the role of past habitat degradation in limiting occupancy or abundance. The objective of our 2011–2014 study was to determine how habitat characteristics and wetland history can predict occupancy and abundance patterns of bog turtles (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) at the fringe of their range in the southeastern United States. We used a hurdle model to examine occupancy and abundance patterns while addressing problems associated with zero‐inflated data. Occupancy patterns were weakly related to percent of the wetland containing emergent vegetation, whereas abundance patterns were predicted by the percent silt in the wetland substrate, percent forest cover, amount of habitat degradation, and recovery time since past habitat degradation. The effect of historical habitat degradation on abundance rather than occupancy patterns has rarely been documented and its effect is rarely studied in vertebrate populations. Identification of predictors of occupancy and abundance patterns will aid discovery of new populations of bog turtles and improve management of occupied wetlands. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Surgical outcomes and complications of septal extension graft supported by 3D printed polycaprolactone plate
Authors: Kim Sung Hyun , Choi Ji Yun
Published: November 2019

Background

Tip plasty using a septal extension graft (SEG) is useful in the Asian population. However, complications such as decreased tip projection, infection, or deviation are noted post‐surgery, and additional support using an SEG is often necessary. We aimed to transplant an additional 3D printed polycaprolactone (PCL) graft to the tip plasty using the SEG to reinforce the SEG.

Methods

The study included 43 patients (20 males and 23 females; mean age, 28.7 years; range, 17–58 years) who received rhinoplasties using the SEG method combined with a 3D printed PCL graft from November 2016 to August 2017. The mean observation period was 14.8 months (range, 12–20 months).

Results

Twenty‐six patients rated their satisfaction level as excellent, 13 rated good, 3 rated fair, and 1 rated poor. In total, 28 patients did not exhibit tip drooping at the 1‐year follow‐up; 13 patients demonstrated mild to moderate tip drooping, and 2 patients demonstrated severe tip drooping. Thirty‐one patients demonstrated “stiffness” of the nasal tip, of which 11 patients reported discomfort, and 20 patients reported none; two patients demonstrated deviation of the tip.

Conclusion

Although the 3D‐printed PCL graft provided support, biocompatibility, and manipulability, care is required to prevent complications.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:1680–1685, 2020
Do gender identities of femininity and masculinity affect the intention to buy ethical products?
Authors: Pinna Mariella
Published: November 2019

This study shows that gender identity affects ethical intentions. We investigate the intention to purchase ethical products through a survey study among young consumers in Italy. Measures of planned behavior, internal ethics, self‐identity, and moral harm, together with proxies for individual gender identities of femininity and masculinity are included in our model of intention to purchase ethically. Results show that femininity significantly increases ethical intent, whereas masculinity has an opposite effect. These findings are robust to gender. In fact, the relations of femininity and masculinity on the intention to consume ethical products hold when the subsamples of males and females are considered. This study relates to the ongoing debate regarding the determinants of ethical decision‐making and the feminine stereotype by extending the understanding of the attitude‐intention gap in ethical consumption among young consumers in Italy. Finally, implications and avenues for further research are discussed.
Behavioral prediction of environmentally oriented anticonsumption and consumption: A multilevel study of five Eurobarometer surveys
Authors: Ortega Egea José M. , García de Frutos Nieves
Published: November 2019

To tackle climate change, greater public engagement is called for in actions that fall under the umbrella of environmentally oriented anticonsumption (EOA), in addition to environmentally oriented consumption (EOC) ones. This study examines potential behavioral effects on EOA and EOC actions in response to climate change, by placing attention on the EOA versus EOC distinction, as well as the behavioral domain and frequency of the selected behavioral outcomes and predictors. Multilevel analysis is conducted on a large‐scale, European pooled dataset (N = 137,097 respondents) combined with secondary country data at the societal level (N = 30 countries). The findings provide overall evidence for positive behavioral effects or spillovers on EOA and EOC behaviors in response to climate change, while emphasizing also the need to account for the specificity of different proenvironmental actions. Also, the findings show that positive spillovers are more likely among actions within the same EOA/EOC path of action, pertaining to the same behavioral category (i.e., intra‐domain, rather than inter‐domain spillovers), and having similar behavioral frequency characteristics (e.g., among non‐daily actions). The findings reported here improve understanding of the behavioral mechanisms behind environmental spillovers, for less‐researched EOA (and EOC) outcomes, in response to climate change, and cross‐nationally.
SIOP PODC adapted risk stratification and treatment guidelines: Recommendations for acute myeloid leukemia in resource‐limited settings
Authors: Bansal Deepak , Davidson Alan , Supriyadi Eddy , Njuguna Festus , Ribeiro Raul C. , Kaspers Gertjan J. L.
Published: November 2019

In low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), limited resources, suboptimal risk stratification, and disproportionate patient‐to‐infrastructure ratio result in low survival of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A high incidence of relapse, inherent to the biology, renders management arduous. The challenge of treating AML in LMICs is of balancing the intensity of myelosuppressive chemotherapy, which appears necessary for cure, with available supportive care, which influences treatment‐related mortality. The recommendations outlined in this paper are based on published evidence and expert opinion. The principle of this adapted protocol is to tailor treatment to available resources, reduce preventable toxic death, and direct limited resources toward those children who are most likely to be cured.
Interpreting Experimental Results from Shock Impacts on Single Crystal PETN in the Context of Continuum Models
Authors: Luscher Darby J. , Cawkwell Marc J. , Ramos Kyle J. , Sandberg Richard L. , Bolme Cynthia A.
Published: November 2019

In this paper we interpret previous experimental measurements of impacts on single crystal PETN in the context of a simple continuum model. Hugoniot calculations using the simple model framework under various limiting assumptions envelope measured Hugoniot states reasonably well and suggest that non‐negligible deviatoric elastic strains may exist in the shock compressed state for weak impacts. An accompanying simple kinematic model for lattice deformation was used to estimate the expected shifts in X‐ray diffraction peaks for the (211) plane under impacts normal to (110) planes. The results suggest that negligible relaxation of the deviatoric lattice deformation occurs on the short (10–20 ns) time and wave propagation (40–80 m) scales of laser‐driven shock experiments, and that the corresponding elastic strains may be large. Because of the potentially large deviatoric elastic strains, the specific finite deformation strain measure used within thermomechanical single crystal models is of significant consequence, which is explored numerically by the comparison of isothermal purely elastic responses under uniaxial and simple shear deformations.
Optimization of GaN Nanowires Reformation Process by Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition for Device‐Quality GaN Templates
Authors: Delgado Carrascon Rosalia , Tran Dat Quoc , Sukkaew Pitsiri , Mock Alyssa , Ciechonski Rafal , Ohlsson Jonas , Zhu Yadan , Hultin Olof , Monemar Bo , Paskov Plamen P. , Samuelson Lars , Darakchieva Vanya
Published: November 2019

Herein, the potential of reformed GaN nanowires (NWs) fabricated by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) for device‐quality low‐defect density templates and low‐cost alternative to bulk GaN substrates is demonstrated. The effects of epilayer thickness and NW reformation conditions on the crystalline quality and thermal conductivity of the subsequent GaN epilayers are investigated. Smooth surfaces with atomically step‐like morphologies with no spirals are achieved for GaN epilayers on the reformed NW templates, indicating step‐flow growth mode. It is further found that annealing of the NWs at a temperature of 1030 °C in the presence of NH3 and H2, followed by a coalescence done at the same temperature under planar growth conditions, leads to the most efficient screw dislocation density reduction by nearly an order of magnitude. At these optimized conditions, the growth takes place in a layer‐by‐layer fashion, producing a smooth surface with a root mean square (RMS) roughness of 0.12 nm. The highest thermal conductivity of k = 206 W m−1 K−1, approaching the respective value of bulk GaN, is obtained for the optimized 2 μm‐thick GaN layer. The thermal conductivity results are further discussed in terms of the phonon‐dislocation and the phonon‐boundary scattering.
Evaluation of the combination of different atmospheric pressure ionization sources for the analysis of extremely complex mixtures
Authors: Kondyli Aikaterini , Schrader Wolfgang
Published: November 2019

Rationale

Characterization of complex samples remains a challenging task due to the high number of compounds present. Matrix effects, ion discrimination and suppression are limiting factors which force the use of different methods for the same sample to gain a broad understanding of complex mixtures.

Methods

Various ionization techniques such as electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) have been used in various problems for complex mixture analysis. Especially demanding is the analysis of energy‐related hydrocarbon mixtures, such as crude oil. Here, the different ionization sources alone and in combination with each other have been used on an ultrahigh resolution Orbitrap mass spectrometer to study a light crude oil.

Results

Despite the great variety of the available ionization sources, there is no single technique which can fully characterize the crude oil. Each ionization technique shows a selectivity towards specific types of compounds. While ESI is the method of choice for the detection of polar compounds, APPI and APCI favor the detection of nonpolar and low‐to‐medium polar compounds, respectively. The combination of ESI/APPI favors hydrocarbons and oxygen‐containing species.

Conclusions

Combining different ionization methods can be used as an alternative in order to gain more information about compounds present in a complex mixture although a combination of different ion sources could enhance suppression effects.
Intranasal delivery of human umbilical cord Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stromal cells restores lung alveolarization and vascularization in experimental bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Moreira Alvaro , Winter Caitlyn , Joy Jooby , Winter Lauryn , Jones Maxwell , Noronha Michelle , Porter Melissa , Quim Kayla , Corral Alexis , Alayli Yasmeen , Seno Tyrelle , Mustafa Shamimunisa , Hornsby Peter , Ahuja Sunil
Published: November 2019

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a devastating lung condition that develops in premature newborns exposed to prolonged mechanical ventilation and supplemental oxygen. Significant morbidity and mortality are associated with this costly disease and effective therapies are limited. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that can repair injured tissue by secreting paracrine factors known to restore the function and integrity of injured lung epithelium and endothelium. Most preclinical studies showing therapeutic efficacy of MSCs for BPD are administered either intratracheally or intravenously. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of human cord tissue-derived MSC administration given via the intranasal route. Human umbilical cord tissue MSCs were isolated, characterized, and given intranasally (500 000 cells per 20 μL) to a hyperoxia-induced rat model of BPD. Lung alveolarization, vascularization, and pulmonary vascular remodeling were restored in animals receiving MSC treatment. Gene and protein analysis suggest the beneficial effects of MSCs were attributed, in part, to a concerted effort targeting angiogenesis, immunomodulation, wound healing, and cell survival. These findings are clinically significant, as neonates who develop BPD have altered alveolar development, decreased pulmonary vascularization and chronic inflammation, all resulting in impaired tissue healing. Our study is the first to report the intranasal delivery of umbilical cord Wharton's jelly MSCs in experimental BPD is feasible, noninvasive, and an effective route that may bear clinical applicability.

Significance statement Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in extremely premature neonates. Unfortunately, current therapies for BPD are limited. Preclinical studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment can restore alveolar growth, enhance vascular development, and stimulate tissue repair. Most of these studies have administered the cells via the intravenous/tracheal route. Results of this study show, for the first time to the authors' knowledge, that the intranasal delivery of MSCs for BPD is effective in restoring lung alveolar growth and vascular development. Importantly, this study provides evidence that this noninvasive approach may be given separately or as an adjunct/alternate to other routes.
Two-year outcomes of infants enrolled in the first-in-human study of amnion cells for bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Malhotra Atul , Lim Rebecca , Mockler Joanne C. , Wallace Euan M.
Published: November 2019

We previously reported on the immediate safety and neonatal outcomes of six premature infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) who were administered human amnion epithelial cells (hAECs). One infant died in the neonatal period due to unrelated causes. In this study, we aimed to assess the long-term safety and follow-up outcomes of the five surviving infants until 2 years corrected age (CA). hAECs were administered intravenously at a dose of 1 × 106 cells per kilogram after 36 weeks postconceptional age in infants with established BPD. Study follow-up consisted of assessment of any adverse events, growth, and respiratory, cardiac, and neurodevelopmental outcomes over four time points (6, 12, 18, and 24 months CA). Investigations included chest x-rays, cranial and abdominal ultrasounds, and echocardiograms at regular intervals as well as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain at 2 years CA. All five infants were alive at 2 years CA. Median time to wean off oxygen was 24 (10-36) months. Two infants had pulmonary hypertension, which resolved by 2 years of age. Four infants were rehospitalized briefly for viral or bacterial infections during the 2 years. MRI brain findings included normal (n = 1), and mild to moderate white matter loss (n = 2). Neurodisabilities diagnosed included hemiplegic cerebral palsy (n = 1), global developmental delay (n = 3), and severe hearing loss (n = 3). No evidence of tumor formation was noted on physical examinations or on any imaging. There were no long-term adverse events observed that could be attributed to hAEC administration. We observed long-term effects of extreme prematurity and severe BPD in the cohort.

Significance statement The long-term safety results of this trial are an important addition to the literature to inform the scientific and clinical community about the impacts of this cell therapy.
Aggregation‐Induced Emission: A Tool for Sensitive Detection of Amines
Authors: Gupta Ankush
Published: November 2019

The aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) phenomenon has shown great potential to develop sensors for amine detection. The AIE‐active fluorescent probes are free from the aggregation‐caused fluorescence quenching, which is a major problem in the conventional fluorescent probes. The fluorescent aggregates formed by AIE strategy offer advantages such as high selectivity, sensitivity, low background interference as well as the simplicity of the fluorescence technique. This review aims to highlight the recent developments of AIE‐active probes for the detection of amine derivatives. We will focus our discussion on the AIE concept to develop ‘‘turn on’’ and ‘‘turn‐off’’ fluorescent sensors for the detection of amine derivatives. Thereafter, we will discuss the various examples of amine sensor with their detection mechanism. Finally, we will give a future perspective for the development of AIE‐based amine sensors. We believe, this review will inspire scientists of this emerging world for the development of new amine sensors.
Oxygen Doping Induced by Nitrogen Vacancies in Nb4N5 Enables Highly Selective CO2 Reduction
Authors: Fu Jiantao , Bao Haihong , Liu Yifan , Mi Yuying , Qiu Yuan , Zhuo Longchao , Liu Xijun , Luo Jun
Published: November 2019

Surface vacancy engineering holds great promise for boosting the electrocatalytic activity for CO2 reduction reaction; however, the vacancies are generally unstable and may degrade into the inactive phase during electrolysis. Stabilizing the vacancy‐enriched structure by heteroatoms can be an effective strategy to get a robust and active catalyst. Herein, a nitrogen‐vacancy enriched Nb4N5 on N‐doped carbons is constructed, which is thereafter stabilized by a self‐enhanced oxygen doping process. This oxygen‐doped complex is used as an effective CO2 catalyst, which exhibits a maximum CO Faradaic efficiency of 91% at −0.8 V (vs reversible hydrogen electrode, RHE) and long‐term stability throughout 30 h of electrocatalysis. Density function theory calculations suggest that the incorporation of oxygen in Nb4N5 facilitates the formation of *COOH and thus promotes the CO2 reduction.