bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green synthesis of pyrido[2,1‐a]isoquinolines and pyrido[1,2‐a]quinolins using Fe3O4‐MNPs as efficient nanocatalyst: Study of antioxidant activity
Authors: Faal Hamedani Naghmeh , Ghazvini Maryam , Azad Leila , Noushin Annataj
Published: November 2019

In this work, synthesis of pyrido[2,1‐a]isoquinolines and pyrido[1,2‐a]quinolins in excellent yield using multicomponent reaction of phthalaldehyde, methyl amine, methyl malonyl chloride, alkyl bromides, and triphenylphosphine in the presence of catalytic amount of Fe3O4‐MNPs with aqueous sodium hydroxide at 80°C was investigated. The reduction of ferric chloride solution with Clover Leaf water extract caused to synthesis of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4‐MNPs) as a green method. As well, antioxidant activity was studied for the some newly synthesized compounds such as 6a, 6c, 9b, and 9c using the DPPH radical trapping and reducing of ferric ion experiments and comparing results with synthetic antioxidants (TBHQ and BHT). As a result, compounds 6a, 6c, 9b, and 9c show good DPPH radical trapping and excellent reducing strength of ferric ion.
Automatic identification and classification of the northern part of the Red Sea trough and its application for climatological analysis
Authors: Saaroni Hadas , Harpaz Tzvi , Alpert Pinhas , Ziv Baruch
Published: November 2019

The Red Sea trough (RST) is a low‐pressure trough extending from south towards the Levant. Unlike previous synoptic classifications covering all systems that affect the region, our algorithm focuses on the RST alone. It uses sea‐level pressure (SLP) and relative geostrophic vorticity for identifying the existence of an RST and classifying it to one of three types, according to the location of the trough axis with respect to 35°E longitude. The following conditions were imposed to assure the existence of an RST: (a) north to south SLP drop across the Levant, (b) average positive sea‐level relative vorticity over the region of interest, (c) existence of a distinct and continuous trough axis from the south towards the region of interest and (d) absence of any pronounced closed cyclone near the Levant. The algorithm was applied on the NCEP/NCAR reanalysis, 2.5° × 2.5° resolution and the ERA‐Interim, 2.5° × 2.5° and 0.75° × 0.75° resolutions. An evaluation of the algorithm against subjective identification, based on the NCEP reanalysis, showed an agreement of 93% for RST identification and 79% for correct classification. The use of fine resolution data may insert noise that reduce the identification rate of RSTs but improves the axis locating. The autumn is the main season of RST, with a maximum in November and a consistent decrease towards the July minimum. The annual frequency varies among the data sources between 17.6 and 24.6%. The trough axis is shown to have a diurnal oscillation; towards the eastern coast of the Mediterranean at nighttime and eastward, inland, at noontime. No consistent long‐term trend was found for the period 1979–2016, during which the global warming was persistent. This automated algorithm is flexible in the sense that it is not confined to any predetermined spatial resolution and is applicable to operational forecast model as well as to climate model outputs.
Transesterification of Palm‐based Methyl Palmitate into Esteramine Catalyzed by Calcium Oxide Catalyst
Authors: Aziz Haliza Abdul , Abas Noor Azeerah , Ping Bonnie Tay Yen , Idris Zainab
Published: November 2019

The technology for transesterification reactions between methyl esters and alcohols is well established by using classical homogeneous alkaline catalysts, which provide high conversion of methyl esters to specialty or nonindigenous esters. However, in certain products where the purity of the esters is of concern, the removal of homogeneous catalysts after the completion of the reaction is a challenge in terms of production cost and water footprint. Therefore, a study to investigate the potential of heterogeneous catalysts was conducted on reactions between methyl palmitate and triethanolamine. The degree of basicity and active surface area of calcium oxide (CaO), zinc oxide (ZnO), and magnesium oxide (MgO) were first characterized by using temperature‐programmed desorption (TPD‐CO2) and Brunauere–Emmett–Teller (BET), respectively. Among the metal oxides investigated, the CaO catalyst showed the best catalytic activity toward the transesterification process as it gave the highest conversion of methyl palmitate and yielded fatty esteramine compositions similar to the conventional homogeneous catalyst. The optimum transesterification condition by using the CaO catalyst utilized a lower vacuum system of approximately 200 mbar, which could minimize a considerable amount of energy consumption. Furthermore, low CaO dosage of 0.1% was able to give a conversion of 94.5% methyl ester and formed esteramine at 170 °C for 2 h. Therefore, the production of esterquats from esteramine may become more economically feasible through the methyl ester route by using the CaO catalyst, which can be recycled three times.
Changes in vineyard productive attributes and phytochemical composition of sauvignon blanc grape and wine induced by the application of silicon and calcium
Authors: Gomes Trilícia Margarida , Mazon Luiza Freitas , Panceri Carolina Pretto , Machado Bruno Dalazen , Brighenti Alberto , Burin Vívian Maria , Bordignon‐Luiz Marilde T
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

It is important to increase productivity and improve plant quality at the same time as preserving the principles of safety and productivity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of sodium metasilicate and calcium chloride, applied as fertilizers, on the productivity and phytochemical characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc grapes and their respective wines.

RESULTS

The experiments were conducted using 2017 and 2018 vintages of commercial Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The treatments consisted of applying separately different concentrations of sodium metasilicate (0, 4, 8 and 12 g L−1) or calcium chloride (0, 5, 10 and 15 g L−1). The treatments were carried out during four phenological phases. The grapes were harvested at technical maturity and white wines were elaborated. The application of inorganic salts, silicon and calcium to the grapes had a significant effect on the vineyard productivity. The best results were obtained with 4 and 8 g L−1 silicon and 15 g L−1 calcium. An increase in the concentration of phenolics in the grapes was noted. These compounds have antioxidant capacity, which is one of the factors responsible for the resistance of the grapes to pathogens.

CONCLUSION

The application of 4 and 8 g L−1 silicon and 15 g L−1 calcium to the grapes represents a potential alternative fertilizing strategy, which could increase the plant yield without damaging the phytochemical characteristics of the fruit and its derivatives. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Combining ability and heterosis for grain iron biofortification in bread wheat
Authors: Younas Abia , Sadaqat Hafeez Ahmad , Kashif Muhammad , Ahmed Nisar , Farooq Muhammad
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Iron is one of the nutrients that is essential for the human body. Despite the abundance of iron on earth, about two billion people worldwide are affected by iron deficiency. Iron biofortification of wheat, instead of supplementation and food fortification, provides a pragmatic approach to solve the problem of iron deficiency. In this study, 144 diverse wheat genotypes were evaluated for grain iron and yield potential, to estimate the potential for the iron biofortification of high‐yielding wheat varieties.

RESULTS

Genotypes did not differ significantly across the species, but within species the differences were significant for grain iron content and the phytate:iron molar ratio. Triticum aestivum (bread wheat) had the highest yield potential with more diversity than other Triticum species. Genotypes with high iron contents were crossed with high‐yielding genotypes in line × tester fashion to check the gene action controlling these traits. The combining ability analysis showed non‐additive gene action controlling grain iron, grain phytate, and grain yield. Heterosis manifestation also indicated some transgressive segregates with high specific combining ability effects.

CONCLUSION

There was considerable genetic potential for improving the grain iron content in the germplasm to provide an economical and long‐lasting solution to benefit an iron‐deficient population. Triticum aestivum had the highest variation and potential for iron biofortification. This study indicated the possibility of simultaneous improvement in grain iron and grain yield by producing a new variety through continuous selective breeding. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficiency of two arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal inocula to improve saline stress tolerance in lettuce plants by changes of antioxidant defense mechanisms
Authors: Santander Christian , Ruiz Antonieta , García Susana , Aroca Ricardo , Cumming Jonathan , Cornejo Pablo
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi establish symbioses with most agricultural plants and improves growth under soil stress conditions. The present study aimed to evaluate the functional contribution of 2 AM fungal inocula (a native consortium isolated from saline soils of the Atacama Desert, ‘HMC’, and a reference inoculum Claroideoglomus claroideum, ‘Cc’) on the growth and antioxidant compounds of two cultivars of lettuce (Lactuca sativa cvs. ‘Grand Rapids’ and ‘Lollo Bionda’) at increasing salt stress conditions (0, 40, and 80 mmol L–1 NaCl). At 60 days of plant growth, the symbiotic development, biomass production, lipid peroxidation, proline content, antioxidant enzymes, phenolic compound profiles and antioxidant activity were evaluated.

RESULTS

The 2 AM inocula differentially colonized the roots of Grand Rapids and Lollo Bionda lettuce plants. The AM symbioses increased proline synthesis and superoxide dismutase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities and diminished phenolic compound synthesis and oxidative damage in lettuce, which was related positively to a higher growth of inoculated plants under salt exposure. The higher concentration of phenolic compounds induced by salinity in non‐inoculated plants was associated with high oxidative stress and low fresh biomass production.

CONCLUSION

Modulation of salinity stress in lettuce by AM root colonization is a result of changes of antioxidant enzymatic systems that reduce oxidative damage and sustain growth. The application of AM fungi to improve crop production by means of directed inoculation with efficient AM fungal strains may enhance lettuce production on soils plagued with salinity worldwide. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Rapid Bending Origami in Micro/Nanoscale toward a Versatile 3D Metasurface
Authors: Pan Ruhao , Li Zhancheng , Liu Zhe , Zhu Wei , Zhu Liang , Li Yunlong , Chen Shuqi , Gu Changzhi , Li Junjie
Published: November 2019

Devices consisting of 3D components are always desired for their far more controllable degrees of freedom compared with their planar counterparts; however, the limitations on the fabrication of 3D nanostructures have severely restricted their applications. Here, a focused ion beam (FIB) defined rapid bending origami method is reported to fabricate 3D micro/nanoscale architectures, by relying on ion irradiation induced 2D structure bending mechanism based on the residual stress formation in metal/dielectric film. Regulated by ions irradiation dose and energy, a large‐scale programmable 2D patterns can be controllably bended to configure versatile 3D micro/nanostructures with scalable bending capacity and feature sizes down to 175 nm. The benefit of this method is, a 3D bended metasurface is designed and fabricated as an asymmetric mirror, showing a very simple strategy to realize high‐efficiency unidirectional reflectionless effect. This FIB‐defined bending origami proves to be a rapid fabrication approach of varied 3D configuration in micro/nanoscale with extremely flexible controllability of spatial orientation, providing more opportunities and options for various functional devices based on 3D configurations, especially for 3D metasurfaces.
Rational Design of 2D p–π Conjugated Polysquaraines for Both Fullerene and Nonfullerene Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Xiao Qi , Li Yanxun , Han Mengmeng , Wu Fei , Leng Xuanye , Zhang Dongyang , Zhang Xuning , Yang Shuo , Zhang Yuan , Li Zhen , Zhou Huiqiong , Li Zhong'an
Published: November 2019

So far, squaraine‐based polymer donors have been less explored for the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) polymer solar cells. In this work, two new p–π conjugated polysquaraines (PASQ‐BDT1 and PASQ‐BDT2) with different electron‐rich subunits on the squaraine skeleton are rationally developed as new polymer donors based on the 2D structure design concept. PASQ‐BDT2 with N,N‐diisobutylaniline subunits shows superior device performances in both fullerene and nonfullerene PSCs compared to PASQ‐BDT1 containing triphenylamine subunits, with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 4.34% and 3.72%, respectively, owing to increased light‐harvesting ability and more favorable nanoscale morphology in the BHJ films. Moreover, its demonstrated that solvent effects can play an effective role in elevating the device performance. For the PASQ‐BDT2/PC71BM blend, the PCE is improved from 3.19% to 4.34% after solvent vapor annealing treatment, mainly attributed to the optimized film morphology and increased hole mobility. More interestingly, when the processing solvent for nonfullerene devices is changed from chlorobenzene to chloroform, a significant enhancement on PCE from 1.96% to 3.72% is yielded for the PASQ‐BDT2/ITIC blend, due to suppressed charge recombination and enhanced crystallinity in the chloroform‐processed BHJ films.
Nonpharmacological, Nonsurgical Treatments for Freezing of Gait in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Delgado‐Alvarado Manuel , Marano Massimo , Santurtún Ana , Urtiaga‐Gallano Ainhoa , Tordesillas‐Gutierrez Diana , Infante Jon
Published: November 2019

Freezing of gait is a disabling phenomenon that appears in a substantial number of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients as the disease evolves. It is considered to be one of the most relevant contributing factors to worsening of quality of life. Current pharmacological or surgical treatment options have limited efficacy. Thus, alternative nonpharmacological/nonsurgical approaches have emerged in recent years in an attempt to improve quality of life in PD. This systematic review summarizes studies of such therapies over the past 5 years. Thirty‐five studies were evaluated by use of a qualitative evaluation, while the methodological quality was assessed using validated tools. According to our results, there appear to be two broad categories of nonpharmacological therapies: those that seek a long‐lasting benefit and those that aim to achieve a transient effect to overcome the freezing of gait episode. Among the former, it is possible to differentiate between “passive” therapies, which include transcranial magnetic stimulation or transcranial direct current stimulation, and “active” therapies, which are based on different cognitive or physical training programs. Finally, “transient effect” therapies use different types of cues, such as visual, auditory, or proprioceptive stimuli, to attempt to shift the patient's habitual motor control to a goal‐directed one. In conclusion, a broad spectrum of nonpharmacological/nonsurgical approaches for freezing of gait has emerged in recent years with promising results. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Sparse multiscale representation of Galerkin method for solving linear‐mixed Volterra‐Fredholm integral equations
Authors: Nemati Saray Behzad
Published: November 2019

This paper presents an efficient method for solving the linear‐mixed Volterra‐Fredholm equations using multiscale transformation. For this purpose, by changing the variables, the Fredholm‐Volterra equation is discretized using wavelet Galerkin method. This equation reduces to a set of linear algebraic equations by using the wavelet transform matrix and the operational matrix of integration. To reach the sparse coefficients matrix for having a reduction in the computational cost, thresholding is used. This sparse system solves by generalized minimal residual (GMRES) method. If the appropriate threshold selects, the number of nonzero coefficients reduces while the error will not be less than a certain amount. The convergence analysis has been investigated. The validity and applicability of the technique are illustrated by a series of numerical tests.
Numerical modeling of strongly coupled microscale multiphase flow and solid deformation
Authors: Fagbemi Samuel , Tahmasebi Pejman , Piri Mohammad
Published: November 2019

When fluid flows in porous media under subsurface conditions, significant deformation can occur. Such deformation is dependent on structural and phase characteristics. In this paper, we investigate the effect of multiphase flow on the deformation of porous media at the pore scale by implementing a strongly coupled partitioned solver discretized with finite volume (FV) technique. Specifically, the role of capillary forces on grain deformation in porous media is investigated. The fluid and solid subdomains are meshed using unstructured independent grids. The model is applied for solving multiphase coupled equations and is capable of capturing pore scale physics during primary drainage by solving the Navier‐Stokes equation and advecting fluid indicator function using volume of fluid (VOF) while the fluid is interacting with a nonlinear elastic solid matrix. The convergence of the coupled solver is accelerated by Aitken underrelaxation. We also reproduce geomechanical stress conditions, at the pore scale, by applying uniaxial stress on the solid while simultaneously solving the multiphase fluid‐solid interaction problem to investigate the effect of external stress on fluid occupancy, velocity‐field distribution, and relative permeability. We observe that the solid matrix exhibits elasto‐capillary behavior during the drainage sequence. Relative permeability endpoints are shifted on the basis of the external stress exerted.
The image‐source method: a tool for geoacoustic inversion
Authors: Pinson Samuel , Guillon Laurent , Holland Charles W.
Published: November 2019

The image source method is a fast tool to perform sound‐speed profile estimations for sediment tomography. It uses a broadband source and an array of receivers and is based on the representation of the reflected wave from sediment interfaces by image sources and on array processing techniques. Image sources are automatically detected by the array and the sound‐speed profile is deduced directly from their locations. Thus, the method has a low computational cost and can be applied to large data sets. The image source method has been under development during the last decade and has proven its efficiency on simulated data and at‐sea experiment data. The objective of this paper is to review these advances of the image source method.
Weak Galerkin finite element methods for electric interface model with nonhomogeneous jump conditions
Authors: Deka Bhupen , Roy Papri
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the weak Galerkin finite element method (WG‐FEM) is applied to a pulsed electric model arising in biological tissue when a biological cell is exposed to an electric field. A fitted WG‐FEM is proposed to approximate the voltage of the pulsed electric model across the physical media involving an electric interface (surface membrane), and heterogeneous permittivity and a heterogeneous conductivity. This method uses totally discontinuous functions in approximation space and allows the usage of finite element partitions consisting of general polygonal meshes. Optimal pointwise‐in‐time error estimates in L2‐norm and H1‐norm are shown to hold for the semidiscrete scheme even if the regularity of the solution is low on the whole domain. Furthermore, a fully discrete approximation based on backward Euler scheme is analyzed and related optimal error estimates are derived.
Characteristics of root fractures: Image on intraoral radiography, panoramic radiography, and cone‐beam computed tomography
Authors: Mizuhashi Fumi , Ogura Ichiro , Sugawara Yoshihiro , Oohashi Makoto , Sekiguchi Hirokazu , Saegusa Hisato
Published: November 2019

Background/Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic method of root fracture, and to investigate the characteristics of root fractures.

Methods

We reviewed the CBCT images of 45 patients with root fracture. The frequency of diagnosable and impossible to diagnosis on root fracture tooth was counted at first for each radiography technique (intraoral radiography, panoramic radiography, and CBCT). Six characteristics that were considered to influence the occurrence of root fracture were investigated. Diagnostic propriety of root fracture was analyzed by cross‐tabulation. Statistical analysis of each characteristic of root fractures was performed by χ2 test.

Results

The diagnostic propriety was different by radiography (P < .001). The occurrence of root fracture was different by pulpal vitality (P < .001). The frequency of root fracture was smaller at the tooth with a history of trauma (P < .001). The frequency of root fracture was larger at posterior teeth in comparison with anterior teeth (P = .025). State of root fracture was not different between vertical fracture and horizontal fracture (P = .053). The frequency of the occurrence of root fracture was smaller at caries tooth (P = .014). There was no statistically significant difference among cast core, composite resin core, and no core to the occurrence of root fracture (P = .828).

Conclusions

It was indicated that CBCT was useful for the diagnosis of root fracture. These results suggested that pulpal vitality and position of tooth influenced the occurrence of root fracture, but core construction was not influenced the occurrence of root fracture.
Feasibility of microwave‐induced combustion combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for bromine and iodine determination in human nail
Authors: Novo Diogo La Rosa , Henn Alessandra Schneider , Flores Erico Marlon Moraes , Mesko Marcia Foster
Published: November 2019

Rationale

Bromine and iodine have important physiological functions; however, in inadequate concentration, they can also cause several physiological problems. Their mobility assessment in human organisms through biological sampling may help clarify some doubts related to metabolic routes, which are still not well elucidated. In this context, a suitable analytical method for this purpose should be developed.

Methods

An analytical method for determining ultratrace levels of bromine and iodine in human nail samples was developed. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) using a conventional nebulization system was immediately chosen as the determination tool because of its powerful sensitivity and selectivity. Sample preparation methods including microwave‐induced combustion (MIC), microwave‐assisted extraction, and microwave‐assisted digestion were evaluated. The compatibility of the final solutions with ICP‐MS analysis was considered while the method was developed.

Results

MIC was chosen as the most suitable method for the sample preparation for determining the levels of bromine and iodine in human nail samples using ICP‐MS. Unlike other sample preparation methods, this one fully eliminated interferences related to the carbon content and memory effects. Sample masses up to 100 mg were efficiently digested, and the analytes were quantitatively absorbed using only 50 mmol L−1 NH4OH solution. Recoveries ranged from 93% to 102%, and the relative standard deviation was < 8%.

Conclusions

The proposed analytical method presents important characteristics for routine analysis. It allows ultratrace determination even when low sample masses are used because of the low blank values, reduced volume of reagents, and powerful detectability using ICP‐MS.
Which country characteristics support corporate social performance?
Authors: Alonso‐Martínez Daniel , De Marchi Valentina , Di Maria Eleonora
Published: November 2019

As a growing number of firms are investing in social and environmental sustainability, academics and practitioners are increasingly becoming concerned with studying the factors that drive firms to achieve higher corporate social performance (CSP). This paper aims to contribute to the literature investigating country‐level characteristics that influence the magnitude of firm CSP based on the framework of the antecedents of green innovation. By conducting a cross‐lagged analysis of more than 370 European B Corps—a growing form of social enterprise, this paper investigates how firm CSP is impacted by the regulatory framework, the technological capacity, and the demand pressures of the country in which it is embedded. Our findings support that the presence of technological and innovation capacities and of demanding, conscious customers are the two most important country‐level factors impacting CSP. Results bespoke of the importance to develop a policy approach that supports the development of technological skills at the firm's level and the awareness at the demand level, rather than emphasizing a stricter regulation.
Influence of RGD Peptide on Morphology and Biocompatibility of 3D Scaffolds Based on PLA/Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Gutiérrez Sánchez Mariana , Escobar Barrios Vladimir A. , Guillén Amaury Pozos , Escobar‐García Diana M.
Published: November 2019

The developments of three‐dimensional and bioactive supports are essential for bone tissue engineering. Therefore, this study reports the morphology and biological behavior of osteoblast cells grown on bioactive 3D scaffolds, obtained by electro‐spinning and based on poly(lactic acid), PLA, and Hydroxyapatite, HAp, composites (PLA/HAp), which were superficially treated with RGD. Likewise, the characterization of the obtained 3D scaffolds is presented and discussed. The results indicate that it is possible to obtain structures with porosities higher than 90% with interconnected channels, which favor cell adhesion and growth. Also, the biological performance evaluation of the scaffolds indicates that surface treatment with RGD was effective and has a synergistic effect along with HAp. The cell adhesion was also observed by SEM and the images show cells extended and adhered to the scaffold's fibers along with neighboring cells. Also, the HAp had an influence on cell proliferation, which showed the maximum values with 2.5 and 5.0% wt of HAp. Therefore, 3D PLA/HAp scaffolds, obtained by electrospinning, treated with RGD represent promising material for use in bone tissue engineering.
Benign Hydrothermal Synthesis of N‐doped TiO2 and TiO2‐CoS Nanostructures for Enhanced Visible‐Light Driven Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Dey Kamol , Ganguli Sumon , Alam M. S.
Published: November 2019

An efficient utilization of broad‐spectrum solar light to harvest energy for photocatalysis in a sustainable manner remains a critical challenge in the area of environmental remediation for a long time. To address this challenge, N‐doped TiO2‐CoS nanocomposite was successfully synthesized for the first‐time via a benign hydrothermal treatment adopting combination of doping, dimensional diversity and coupling strategies. The phase composition, surface morphology, nitrogen adsorption‐desorption analysis and photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B dye (RhB) in aqueous solution under simulated sunlight were well characterized and analyzed. The powder X‐ray diffraction patterns demonstrated the crystalline anatase phase of TiO2 in all photocatalysts. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the formation of N‐doped TiO2 nanofibrous (NTNF) structure without phase alteration of TiO2 and demonstrated the co‐existence of spherical CoS particles that were randomly wrapped within the NTNF fibrous structure making the NTNF‐CoS nanocomposite. Nitrogen adsorption‐desorption analysis revealed higher specific surface area and larger pore volume of NTNF with mesoporous structure compared to those of N‐doped TiO2 nanoparticle (NTNP). The NTNF‐CoS nanocomposite showed superior photocatalytic degradation of RhB under visible light, which was predominantly ascribed to the synergistic effects of enhanced surface area, narrower band gap and efficient separation of photogenerated charge carriers. Thus, the NTNF‐CoS nanocomposite could be considered as a potential candidate for the removal or degradation of micro‐pollutant from the wastewater.
A Luminescent Lanthanide‐Functionalized Metal‐Organic Framework as a Highly Selective and Sensitive Chemical Sensor for Dopamine
Authors: Ge Kaiming , He Xiaochun , Xu Zhijun , Chu Ruiqing
Published: November 2019

Dopamine (DA), which is a neurotransmitter of the nervous system and helps cell deliver pulse signals in the human body, is detected by a luminescent Tb‐functionalized metal‐organic framework (1a) sensor. The fluorescence quenching of as‐synthesized 1a in the presence of dopamine is owing to the energy competition effect of emission light as well as the interaction between 1a and DA. The sensor also displays outstanding performances, such as excellent sensitivity, fast response, good reusability, a wide linear detection range and lower detection limits. The sensor was also exhibited to be highly selective for DA in the presence of the main coexisting species. Significantly, the 1a sensor was able to detect DA in real human serum samples and DA portable test strips were also developed. Hence, the probe has promising potential to be a useful tool for point‐of‐care diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.
Electrocatalytic Activity and Stability of 3D Ordered N‐doped Hierarchically Porous Carbon Supported Pt Catalyst for Methanol Oxidation and Oxygen Reduction Reactions
Authors: Li Yunfeng , Wang Daorui , Xie Huanying , Zhang Chengwei
Published: November 2019

Herein, nitrogen‐doped ordered hierarchical porous carbon (N‐OHPC) is fabricated via a templating method by applying silica colloidal crystal as template and polypyrrole (PPy) as carbon source. The as‐prepared N‐OHPC possesses ordered interconnected macropores, rich mesopores and large BET surface area (825.6 m2 g−1). Pt/N‐OHPC is then prepared by depositing Pt nanoparticles (19.3 wt%) on N‐OHPC as catalyst towards methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The Pt/N‐OHPC containing small and uniform Pt nanoparticles (∼1.7 nm) exhibits good electrocatalytic performance and better durability for MOR and ORR than the commercial Pt/C catalyst.
Highly Photoluminescent Carbon Dots Derived from Discarded Chewing Gum: toward Multiple Sensing of pH, Ferric Ion, and Adenosine Triphosphate
Authors: Hu Yaoping , Gao Zhijin
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we develop a sustainable strategy to reuse discarded chewing gum for low‐cost synthesis of carbon dots (CDs) via a H2O2‐assisted hydrothermal method. The as‐prepared CDs have a large photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (QY) of up to 25.7%, much higher than the most values of waste‐derived CDs. Interestingly, the PL intensity of CDs increases linearly as pH rises from 1 to 6, demonstrating the possibility of CDs for accurate pH monitoring in acidic conditions. It is suggested that the pH‐responsive PL feature is induced by the protonation and deprotonation of the surface oxygenous groups of CDs. Through the fluorescence quenching and recovery processes, the CDs can serve as a selective and sensitive sensor for sequential detection of ferric ion (Fe3+) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) with limit of detection (LOD) as low as 0.028 and 0.003 μM, respectively. A possible electron transfer process is proposed to elucidate the sensing mechanism. For real applications, the CD sensing platform is successfully employed to determinate pH in natural stream, Fe3+ in tap water, and ATP in erythrocyte sample.
Vanadium(V) and Molybdenum(VI) Complexes Containing ONO Tridentate Schiff Bases and Their Application as Catalysts for Oxidative Bromination of Phenols
Authors: Maurya Mannar R. , Jangra Nancy , Avecilla Fernando , Ribeiro Nádia , Correia Isabel
Published: November 2019

Condensation of 2,4‐dihydroxyacetophenone with isonicotinoyl hydrazide and nicotinoyl hydrazide in an equimolar ratio in methanol results in the formation of two stable ONO donor ligands, H2dhap‐inh (I) and H2dhap‐nah (II), respectively. These ligands react with [VIVO(acac)2] (Hacac=acetylacetone) in 1:1 molar ratio to give the corresponding neutral dioxidovanadium(V) complexes, [VVO2(Hdhap‐inh)] (1) and [VVO2(Hdhap‐nah)] (2), after overnight aerial oxidation in the presence of K2CO3. In the absence of K2CO3, they result in (μ‐O){bisoxidovanadium(V)} complexes, [{VVO(dhap‐inh)}2(μ‐O)] (3) and [{VVO(dhap‐nah)}2(μ‐O)] (4). Treatment of neutral dioxidovanadium(V) complexes,1and2, with H2O2yields oxidoperoxidovanadium(V) complexes K[VVO(O2)(dhap‐inh)(H2O)] (5) and K[VVO(O2)(dhap‐nah)(H2O)] (6). The ligands also react with [MoVIO2(acac)2] in 1:1 molar ratio to form [MoVIO2(dhap‐inh)]n(7) and [MoVIO2(dhap‐nah)]n(8). The reaction of oxidoperoxidomolybdenum(VI) species, generated in situ by the reaction of MoO3with H2O2with ligandsIandII, gives the oxidoperoxidomolybdenum(VI) complexes, [MoVIO(O2)(dhap‐inh)(MeOH)] (9) and [MoVIO(O2)(dhap‐nah)(MeOH)] (10), respectively. All synthesized complexes are characterized by elemental analysis, thermogravimetric, electrochemical, spectroscopic (IR, UV–Vis,1H,13C and51V NMR) and single crystal X‐ray diffraction (for1,2and8). Complexes are explored as catalysts for the oxidative bromination of phenol, a model oxidative halogenation reaction, in the presence of HClO4and KBr, using 30% H2O2as oxidant. Under optimized reaction conditions, the product selectivity follows the order: 4‐bromophenol>2‐bromophenol, both for molybdenum and vanadium complexes. Products characterized by GC analysis showed very good conversion of phenol.
An Expedient Lewis‐Acid‐Catalyzed Microwave‐Assisted Domino Approach to Coumarin‐Fused Pyrroles and Related Heterocycles under Neat Conditions
Authors: Yadav Anubha , Gudimella Santosh K. , Samanta Sampak
Published: November 2019

A superior Lewis acid‐catalyzed and microwave‐assisted, facile, solvent‐free, one‐pot quick access to a novel class of a set of diversely substituted coumarin, dimedone and naphthoquinone‐fused pyrroles via an annulation reaction between different kinds of carbo‐and heterocyclic enaminones and a group of α‐aroyl/heteroaryl/acetylidene malonates, 3‐aroylidene‐2‐oxindoles is reported. This LUMO‐lowering technique involving a powerful Lewis acid relies on the installation of pyrrole rings good to high chemical yields with a wide scope of diversely substituted substances. Furthermore, a direct C(sp3)‐H hydroxylation of 3‐pyrrolocoumarinyl‐2‐oxindoles to therapeutically exciting 3‐hydroxy‐3‐pyrrolocoumarinyl‐2‐oxindoles bearing a tetra‐substituted chiral carbon center in high yields was achieved under metal‐free conditions.
Imine‐Linked Covalent Organic Cage Porous Crystals for CO2 Adsorption
Authors: Gajula Ramesh Kumar , Kishor Rupak , Prakash. M. Jaya
Published: November 2019

In this study, covalent organic cages (COC‐MI, COC‐PI and COC‐PA) with covalently imine linked molecules were developed for CO2 adsorption. By varying the organic linkers (iso‐phthalaldehyde to para‐phthalaldehyde) tuned the structure and extrinsic porosity such as specific surface area of the organic cages was demonstrated. Additionally, COC‐PI (3.8 cm3/g to 5.7 cm3/g) and COC‐PA (0.43 cm3/g to 0.48 cm3/g) showed the significantly enhancement in CO2 adsorption capacity with increase in temperature from 273 K to 298 K at 1 bar. On the other hand, COC‐MI (1.17 cm3/g to 1.1 cm3/g) cage showed the significant reduction in CO2 adsorption capacity with increase in temperature from 273 K to 298 K at 1 bar. These unusual enhancements of CO2 adsorption capacity within COC‐PI and COC‐PA is elucidated by powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), and it is shown that cooperative diffusion and induced crystal lattice expansion in these molecular crystals can enhance the CO2 adsorption capacity. Computational modelling on the COC cages with CO2 reveals the higher binding energy and rigidity at the C=N group during intermolecular interactions enhances the overall CO2 adsorption capacity in the bulk.
CsPbI3 Nanotube Photodetectors with High Detectivity
Authors: Du Zhentao , Fu Dingfa , Teng Jie , Wang Lin , Gao Fengmei , Yang Weiyou , Zhang Hui , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: November 2019

In the present work, the exploration of photodetectors (PDs) based on CsPbI3 nanotubes are reported. The as‐prepared CsPbI3 nanotubes can be stable for more than 2 months under air conditions. It is found that, in comparison to the nanowires, nanobelts, and nanosheets, the nanotubes can be advantageous to be used as the functional units for PDs, which is mainly attributed to the enhanced light absorption ability induced by the light trapping effect within the tube cavity. As a proof of concept, the as‐constructed PDs based on CsPbI3 nanotube present an overall excellent performance with a responsivity (Rλ), external quantum efficiency (EQE) and detectivity of 1.84 × 103 A W−1, 5.65 × 105% and 9.99 × 1013 Jones, respectively, which are all comparable to state‐of‐the‐art ones for all‐inorganic perovskite PDs.
Enzymatic Degradation of Graphene Quantum Dots by Human Peroxidases
Authors: Martín Cristina , Jun Gong , Schurhammer Rachel , Reina Giacomo , Chen Peng , Bianco Alberto , Ménard‐Moyon Cécilia
Published: November 2019

Carbon‐based nanomaterials have demonstrated to be potent candidates for biomedical applications. Recently, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have emerged as an attractive tool for bioimaging, biosensing, and therapy. Hence, studying their biodegradability in living systems is essential to speed up the translation toward real clinical innovations. Here, the enzymatic degradation of GQDs using human myeloperoxidase and eosinophil peroxidase is investigated. Transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence, and Raman spectroscopy are used to evaluate the biodegradation of GQDs. Signs of degradation by both enzymes are observed already after a few hours of incubation with each enzyme, being more evident after a couple of days of treatment. Molecular dynamics simulations show intimate interactions between the enzymes and the GQDs. The conformation of both peroxidases is slightly altered to favor the interactions, while the GQD sheets distort a little to adapt to the surface of the enzymes. The biodegradability of the GQDs ensures their real potential in the practical biomedical applications.
Data provenance and trust establishment in the Internet of Things
Authors: Elkhodr Mahmoud , Alsinglawi Belal
Published: November 2019

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of heterogeneous networks encompassing various forms of communications form the current traditional communication models to ubiquitous and pervasive machine to machine communications. In such an ever expanding, dynamic, and complex environment, it becomes vital to know the origin or the source of data and whether this data can be trusted or no. This requires not only accurate, secure, and correct data collection processes; but also provisioning of data provenance throughout the life‐cycle of an IoT device and the data it produces. To this end, this work introduces a provenance‐based trust management solution, which provides a trust establishment mechanism amongst communicating devices in the IoT. It provides a way to quantitatively assess the trustworthiness of data supplied by a given IoT device. Thus, providing a novel solution to preserve data provenance of IoT devices. This IoT data provenance solution extends the capabilities of our previously proposed IoT platform known as the IoT‐management platform, which aimed at preserving the privacy of users in the IoT.
Investigation of mechanical and micro structural properties of geopolymer concrete blended by dredged marine sand and manufactured sand under ambient curing conditions
Authors: Anbarasan Indhumathi , Soundarapandian Nagan
Published: November 2019

Geopolymers, an unique class of inorganic polymers are new promising binders which are manufactured by the activation of a solid state alumina‐silicate with a highly alkaline activating solution using thermal drive. In the recent past, geopolymer binders have been found to be the best alternate to cement binders owing to its environmental sustainability (greener materials lead to cleaner environment). Further, its performance in aggressive environment is promising and these binders could become a replacement for cement concrete in aggressive situation where cement concrete turns to be vulnerable. In this paper, an attempt is made to investigate the mechanical and micro structural properties of geopolymer concrete produced using alternative fine aggregates namely dredged marine sand (DMS) and manufactured sand (M‐Sand) in the place of conventional scarce fine aggregate (river sand) under ambient curing conditions. All the tests namely compression, split tensile, flexural and micro structural evaluation have been performed by varying the percentage of DMS and M‐Sand. The experimental investigation followed by micro structural evaluation clearly indicate that DMS can very well be substituted in the place of scarce fine aggregate (river sand) under ambient curing conditions.
Enterococcus faecium supplementation in sows during gestation and lactation improves the performance of sucking piglets
Authors: Lan Ruixia , Kim Inho
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Enterococcus faecium DSM 7,134 supplementation on the performance of sows and their litters. A total of 15 primiparous sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) were randomly divided into three treatments with five replicates. Dietary treatments were: CON, basal diet; E1, CON + 0.025% E. faecium; E2, CON + 0.05% E. faecium. No significant differences were observed on body weight and feed intake of lactating sows with E. faecium supplementation, but linearly increased the sow apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter (DM), nitrogen (N) and gross energy (GE; p < .05), and decreased piglets pre‐weaning mortality (p < .05). Piglets from E. faecium‐supplemented sows linearly increased weaning weight, average daily gain (ADG) and gain:feed ratio (p < .05), as well as linearly decreased diarrhoea score (p < .05) in the first weaning week. Piglets from E. faecium‐supplemented sows linearly increased faecal Lactobacillus and Enterococci counts (p < .05), while linearly decreased faecal Escherichia coli counts (p < .05) after weaning. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of E. faecium improved the ATTD of DM, N and GE in lactating sows, as well as improved body weight, ADG and shifted faecal microbiota in their litters.
Characterisation of transcription factor profiles in polycystic kidney disease (PKD): identification and validation of STAT3 and RUNX1 in the injury/repair response and PKD progression
Authors: Formica Chiara , Malas Tareq , Balog Judit , Verburg Lotte , ‘t Hoen Peter A. C. , Peters Dorien J. M.
Published: November 2019

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common genetic renal disease, caused in the majority of the cases by a mutation in either the PKD1 or the PKD2 gene. ADPKD is characterised by a progressive increase in the number and size of cysts, together with fibrosis and distortion of the renal architecture, over the years. This is accompanied by alterations in a complex network of signalling pathways. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well characterised. Previously, we defined the PKD Signature, a set of genes typically dysregulated in PKD across different disease models from a meta-analysis of expression profiles. Given the importance of transcription factors (TFs) in modulating disease, we focused in this paper on characterising TFs from the PKD Signature. Our results revealed that out of the 1515 genes in the PKD Signature, 92 were TFs with altered expression in PKD, and 32 of those were also implicated in tissue injury/repair mechanisms. Validating the dysregulation of these TFs by qPCR in independent PKD and injury models largely confirmed these findings. STAT3 and RUNX1 displayed the strongest activation in cystic kidneys, as demonstrated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) followed by qPCR. Using immunohistochemistry, we showed a dramatic increase of expression after renal injury in mice and cystic renal tissue of mice and humans. Our results suggest a role for STAT3 and RUNX1 and their downstream targets in the aetiology of ADPKD and indicate that the meta-analysis approach is a viable strategy for new target discovery in PKD.

Key messages

We identified a list of transcription factors (TFs) commonly dysregulated in ADPKD.

Out of the 92 TFs identified in the PKD Signature, 35% are also involved in injury/repair processes.

STAT3 and RUNX1 are the most significantly dysregulated TFs after injury and during PKD progression.

STAT3 and RUNX1 activity is increased in cystic compared to non-cystic mouse kidneys.

Increased expression of STAT3 and RUNX1 is observed in the nuclei of renal epithelial cells, also in human ADPKD samples.
Health-related quality of life in patients undergoing adrenalectomy: report from a Swedish National Audit
Authors: Thompson Lo Hallin , Nordenström Erik , Almquist Martin , Bergenfelz Anders
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The aim of the study was to examine subjective health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients undergoing adrenalectomy.

Methods

The study included patients scheduled for adrenalectomy 2014–2017 after giving informed consent. The SF-36 questionnaire was administrated before operation and 1 year postoperatively. Results were compared with published normative values in Sweden.

Results

Some 50 patients were included. SF-36 scores for the whole cohort improved significantly after adrenalectomy in all dimensions except for bodily pain. Compared with the general Swedish population, the patients reported a significantly reduced HRQoL before and after adrenalectomy in all domains except for bodily pain postoperatively. Patients with benign functional tumours had lower HRQoL in physical domains before adrenalectomy than patients with benign non-functional tumours; Physical Component Summary (PCS), median 33.1 (range 17.1–62.9) vs. 44.2 (20.0–66.5), p = 0.018. Postoperatively, HRQoL was similar in the two groups of patients. Patients with benign functional tumours reported significantly improved HRQoL in all dimensions after adrenalectomy: PCS 33.1 (17.1–62.9) preoperatively vs. 47.6 (19.8-57.3) postoperatively, p = 0.005; Mental Component Summary (MCS) 33.8 (11.8–62.0) preoperatively vs. 52.7 (16.4–59.8) postoperatively, p = 0.004. These improvements were not seen in patients with benign non-functional or malignant tumours. Patients with malignant tumours reported no difference in SF-36 scores before or after adrenalectomy compared with patients with benign non-functional tumours.

Conclusions

Adrenalectomy improved HRQoL in patients with benign functional tumours. Adrenalectomy did not improve HRQoL in patients with benign non-functional tumours or in patients with malignant tumours.
Classical access structures of ramp secret sharing based on quantum stabilizer codes
Authors: Matsumoto Ryutaroh
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we consider to use the quantum stabilizer codes as secret sharing schemes for classical secrets. We give necessary and sufficient conditions for qualified and forbidden sets in terms of quantum stabilizers. Then, we give a Gilbert–Varshamov-type sufficient condition for existence of secret sharing schemes with given parameters, and by using that sufficient condition, we show that roughly 19% of participants can be made forbidden independently of the size of classical secret, in particular when an n-bit classical secret is shared among n participants having 1-qubit share each. We also consider how much information is obtained by an intermediate set and express that amount of information in terms of quantum stabilizers. All the results are stated in terms of linear spaces over finite fields associated with the quantum stabilizers.