bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐speed slot‐scanning radiography using small‐angle tomosynthesis: Investigation of spatial resolution
Authors: Luckner Christoph , Herbst Magdalena , Weber Thomas , Beister Marcel , Ritschl Ludwig , Kappler Steffen , Maier Andreas
Published: September 2019

Purpose

This paper studies spatial resolution that is achievable with a fast slot‐scanning tomosynthesis approach for orthopedic examinations. Hereby, we use parallel scanning motion implemented in a twin robotic x‐ray system.

Methods

We have measured and analyzed the modulation transfer function (MTF) for various combinations of scanning speed, x‐ray tube voltage, pulse length, the nominal focal spot size as well as source‐to‐object distances. Moreover, we present a theoretical model which describes the system in terms of the MTF. The system was equipped with newly developed linear trajectory prototypes for slot scanning. The acquired images form the basis for a small‐angle tomosynthesis reconstruction. In total, three different scanning speeds (27, 14, 8 cm/s), pulse lengths (1, 2, 4 ms), tube voltages (80, 100, 120 kV), two nominal focal spot sizes (0.6, 1.0), and three source‐to‐object distances (950, 1050, 1150 mm) were investigated. To determine the resolution capabilities, we measured the MTF for the given parameter space. The results were then used to design a filter that yields a desired resolution in the reconstructed image. In addition, we also measured the noise power spectrum (NPS) to show the influence of the aforementioned filters on the noise distribution.

Results

We have shown that the presented model is in good agreement with the performed measurements. Scanning speed and pulse width have an impact on the MTF in the scanning direction. Up to a travel distance of 0.3 mm during an x‐ray pulse, an isotropic resolution can be achieved. Longer pulse width or higher scanning speed cause anisotropic resolution. Moreover, it is shown that none of the investigated parameters have an influence on the MTF perpendicular to the scanning direction (slot direction). The 10% MTF value ranges between 9 and 18 lp/cm in the scanning direction and about 18 lp/cm in slot direction. Tube voltage, nominal focal spot size as well as the source‐to‐object distance showed no major impact on the system MTF.

In terms of the anisotropic resolution capabilities, we have shown that limiting the resolution in the slot direction to obtain isotropic resolution is possible yet at the cost of an inhomogeneous noise pattern. However, maintaining the resolution in slot direction will provide a better edge response and a more homogeneous noise texture at the cost of an inhomogeneous image resolution.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated the feasibility of the slot‐scanning technique using a twin‐robotic x‐ray system. Even the fastest scanning mode (27 cm/s) yields image resolution on a level that is sufficient for typical orthopedic examinations in terms of musculoskeletal (MSK) measurements. Moreover, it could be shown that the application of specifically designed target MTFs on two‐dimensional x‐ray images is feasible.
The therapeutic potential of parathyroid hormone in dental and oral medicine
Authors: Yamashita Junro
Published: September 2019

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is an essential hormone that plays a vital role in calcium homeostasis in our body. Exogenous recombinant human PTH is widely applicable in health care, and the clinical utilization of PTH is emerging. The biological effects of systemic PTH depend upon the mode of administration: it is bone catabolic when continuously administered but bone anabolic when intermittently administered. Animal studies have shown that intermittent PTH therapy greatly improves the outcome of osseous regeneration procedures. The bone anabolic actions of PTH have been further investigated in human clinical trials to assess its effects on fracture repair, spinal fusion, bone regeneration, implant osseointegration, and healing of periodontal surgery. Findings support the positive effects of intermittent PTH therapy on the outcomes of osseous regenerative procedures. Furthermore, biomaterials through which PTH can be delivered locally have been developed and investigated in order to evaluate the therapeutic potential of PTH at the preclinical level. With advances in our understanding of PTH and hard tissue physiology, PTH provides a new therapeutic modality for osseous regeneration therapy.
Urban plant diversity in Los Angeles, California: Species and functional type turnover in cultivated landscapes
Authors: Avolio Meghan , Pataki Diane E. , Jenerette G. Darrel , Pincetl Stephanie , Clarke Lorraine Weller , Cavender‐Bares Jeannine , Gillespie Thomas W. , Hobbie Sarah E. , Larson Kelli L. , McCarthy Heather R. , Trammell Tara L. E.
Published: September 2019

Societal Impact Statement

People plant, remove, and manage urban vegetation in cities for varying purposes and to varying extents. The direct manipulation of plants affects the benefits people receive from plants. In synthesizing several studies of urban biodiversity in Los Angeles, we find that cultivated plants differ from those in remnant natural areas. This highlights the importance of studying cultivated plants in cities, which is crucial for the design and planning of sustainable cities. Residents have created a new urban biome in Los Angeles, and this has consequences for associated organisms, ultimately resulting in a responsibility for society to determine what type of biome we wish to create.

Urbanization is a large driver of biodiversity globally. Within cities, urban trees, gardens, and residential yards contribute extensively to plant biodiversity, although the consequences and mechanisms of plant cultivation for biodiversity are uncertain.

We used Los Angeles, California, USA as a case study for investigating plant diversity in cultivated areas. We synthesized datasets quantifying the diversity of urban trees, residential yards, and community gardens in Los Angeles, the availability of plants from nurseries, and residents’ attitudes about plant attributes.

Cultivated plant diversity was drastically different from remnant natural areas; compared to remnant natural areas, cultivated areas contained more exotic species, more than double the number of plant species, and turnover in plant functional trait distributions. In cultivated areas, most plants were intentionally planted and dominated by exotic species planted for ornamental purposes. Most tree species sampled in Los Angeles were available for sale in local nurseries. Residents’ preferences for specific plant traits were correlated with the trait composition of the plant community, suggesting cultivated plant communities at least partially reflect resident preferences.

Our findings demonstrate the importance of cultivated species in a diverse megacity that are driven in part through commercial distribution. The cultivation of plants in Los Angeles greatly increases regional plant biodiversity through changes in species composition and functional trait distributions. The pervasive presence of cultivated species likely has many consequences for residents and the ecosystem services they receive compared with unmanaged or remnant urban areas.
Rapid and Efficient Approaches for Synthesis of Some New Aryl Propionic Acid Derivatives and In–Vivo Anti‐Diabetic Screening of Selected Compounds
Authors: Vekariya Mitesh B. , Joshi Hitendra S. , Desai Nisheeth C. , Jadeja Krunalsinh A.
Published: September 2019

A series of some new aryl propionic acid derivatives as 2‐(6‐(substituted phenylethynyl)‐2,3‐dihydrobenzofuran‐3‐yl)acetic acids were synthesized. The targeted molecules were prepared by using techniques such as efficient and high‐performance autoclave hydrogenation to reduce highly stable π‐electron system of furan ring and microwave‐assisted rapid Sonogashira Cross‐Coupling reaction between aryl triflate derivatives and substituted aryl acetylenes. The anti‐diabetic screening of selected compounds was performed by using alloxan‐induced diabetic model. The studies include acute and chronic toxicity, effectiveness, change in the behavioral pattern and change in glucose level of the tested animals. The compound 2‐(6‐((4‐ethylphenyl)ethynyl)‐2,3‐dihydrobenzofuran‐3‐yl)acetic acid exhibited maximum anti‐hyperglycemic properties. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by spectroscopic techniques such as 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, IR, Mass spectrometry and single crystal XRD (MTS‐201).
Pyrene Based NLOphoric D‐π‐A‐π‐D Coumarin‐Chalcone and Their Red Emitting OBO Difluoride Complex: Synthesis, Solvatochromism, Z‐scan, and Detailed TD‐DFT Studies
Authors: Yadav Sagar B. , Erande Yogesh , Sreenath Mavila C. , Chitrambalam Subramaniyan , Joe Isaac H. , Sekar Nagaiyan
Published: September 2019

NLOphoric D‐π‐A‐π‐D coumarin chalcone 5 and their BF2 complex 6 were designed, synthesized and characterized through Mass,13C‐NMR, and 1H‐NMR analysis. Their Photophysical properties are extensively studied in solvents of different polarity. On BF2 complexation of coumarin chalcone shows highly red shift in absorption and emission spectra compared to uncomplexed coumarin chalcone. Positive solvatochromism observed which is well supported by linear and multilinear regression analysis. For BF2 complexed coumarin‐chalcone 6 the solvent dipolarity (CSdP) is the main factor responsible for slightly red shift in absorption spectra, and also for the highly red‐shift in emission spectra. Frontier molecular orbital, molecular electrostatic potential and Generalized Mulliken‐Hush analysis revealed intramolecular charge transfer in these compounds. Nonlinear optical (NLO) properties for compounds 5 and 6 were studied by solvatochromic and computational method. The linear polarizability (α), first‐order hyperpolarizability (β) and second‐order hyperpolarizability (γ) of compounds were studied by the time dependent density functional theory using three different functionals namely B3LYP, BHHLYP and CAM−B3LYP with the 6–31 G (d) basis set. BF2 complexed compound 6, show higher values for αe + αv as well as βe+βv compared to compound 5. Third order nonlinear optical susceptibility (χ(3)) of these compounds obtained by Z‐scan analysis. Third‐order (χ(3)) non‐linear optical properties of BF2 complexed coumarin‐chalcone 6 were observed to be several times higher than those of the uncomplexed coumarin‐chalcone 5 these justify the design approach.
Bowl‐like Micromotors Using Red Blood Cell Membrane as Template
Authors: Pan Xiaoyi , Wang Qingyi , Li Shubin , Wang Xuejing , Han Xiaojun
Published: September 2019

The asymmetric micro/nano motors have attracted great attentions recently, because they convert external physical and chemical energy into the kinetic energy. Red blood cell (RBC) membranes with good deformability and fluidity are excellent natural templates for micromaterial fabrication. Herein, RBC membranes were used as templates to prepare bowl‐like micro‐motors by electroless plating platinum particle onto the membranes. The asymmetric Pt bowl‐like micromotors were driven by hydrogen peroxide.
Ag2S/CdS‐Heterostructured Nanorod Synthesis by L–Cysteine‐Mediated Reverse Microemulsion Method
Authors: Liu Jing , Shan Dongyu , Zhang Tingting , Li Yunhe , Wang Ran , Liu Meiying
Published: September 2019

Highly‐efficient charge separation is of significant importance for the improvement of photocatalytic performance towards solar H2 production. Here, Ag2S/CdS hetero nanorods with intimate contact were fabricated at ambient temperature by L‐cysteine‐assisted method involving a Triton X‐100/cyclohexane/hexanol/water quaternary W/O reverse microemulsion process. The formation of Ag2S/CdS nanojunction is verified by XRD, TEM, HRTEM, EDS as well as XPS technique, while the photocatalytic activity of Ag2S/CdS hetero nanorod is assessed by water photo‐reduction to H2 in the presence of S2−/SO32− as sacrificial agents under visible‐light irradiation. It is demonstrated that Ag2S/CdS hetero nanorod exhibits an about 480‐fold enhancement in the H2‐evolution rate relative to that of pristine CdS. In combination with UV‐vis absorption and photoluminescence spectra, the synergistic effects stemmed from the extended light‐absorption and facilitated charge‐separation between the interfaces largely contribute to boosting the photocatalytic H2‐evolution activity of CdS nanorod. This work offers a novel strategy to in‐situ construct CdS‐based heterostructured photocatalysts with good performance and low cost.
A Facile One‐Pot Synthesis of 2,2,2‐Trichloroacetates Through Acid‐Catalyzed Deimination and Its Applications
Authors: Poshala Soumya , Thunga Sanjeeva , Golla Sivaparwathi , Satheesh Vanaparthi , Kokatla Hari Prasad
Published: September 2019

A novel one‐pot approach for the synthesis of trichloroacetates is described. Use of inexpensive, commercially available trichloroacetonitrile as a trichloroacyl source has made this protocol have more industrial applications. This one‐pot approach is applicable to a wide range of alcohols as demonstrated by 28 examples with good to excellent yields in the order of 93%. Trichloroacetates were characterized by infrared, NMR spectra and further the structure of 2‐(1,3‐dioxoisoindolin‐2‐yl)ethyl‐2,2,2‐trichloroacetate was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Moreover, benzyl trichloroacetates synthesized were converted into corresponding benzyl iodides in good yields (51‐70%). In addition, bypassing harsh reagents, use of cheaper, commercially available sodium iodide as nucleophile and mild reaction conditions are some of practical features of this methodology.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Evaluation of New2‐Phenylbenzimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Saleh Omayma R. , Shaldum Moataz A. , Goda Reham M. , Shehata Ihsan A. , El‐Ashmawy Mahmoud B.
Published: September 2019

Bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV are well‐characterized targets for both fluoroquinolones (e. g. Ciprofloxacin), which inhibit the catalytic subunits GyrA/ParC, and aminocoumarins (e. g. Novobiocin), which act as GyrB/ParE ATPase inhibitors. Due to the emergence of resistance to the first class, and the safety issues related to the latter, current research is aimed at developing novel synthetic inhibitors for GyrB/ParE in order to overcome the limitations of available drugs. A novel series of benzimidazole derivatives, carrying various functional groups or heterocyclic rings, were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro antibacterial effect. The majority of the new benzimidazole derivatives showed Gram positive antibacterial activity. Compounds 7 d, 12 a,b and 14 a were selected for the assessment of their binding affinity and enzyme inhibitory activity against the E.coli DNA gyrase and the S. aureus topoisomerase IV. The results revealed good binding as well as dual inhibition against both enzymes. Compounds 7 d (% inhibition 87.71, IC50: 0.61 uM) and 14 a (% inhibition: 89.3, IC50: 0.58 uM) showed the best results against the E.coli DNA gyrase and the S. aureus topoisomerase IV, respectively. In silico studies revealed a potential good oral absorption of compounds due to compatibility with Lipinski's rule of five. Compound 14 a showed both good druglikeness (3.76) and drug score (0.76) values giving it potential as a promising new drug.
A Highly Enantioselective and Efficient Synthesis of New Pyrimidine‐Fused Spiro[indoline‐3,4′‐pyran]s Promoted by a Novel Chiral Ionic Liquid
Authors: Ahmadkhani Amin , Rad‐Moghadam Kurosh , Roudsari Saeedeh Toorchi
Published: September 2019

A nearly neutral but protic chiral ionic liquid was prepared via neutralization of (1 S)‐(+)‐camphor‐10‐sulfonic acid with N,N‐dimethyl‐n‐octylamine. The structure of this room temperature ionic liquid was confirmed by NMR spectroscopy. It was proved to be an efficient mild promoter for the synthesis of some novel spiro‐oxindoles. The ionic liquid has shown a high asymmetric induction potential, as the spiro‐oxindoles were obtained in high optical purities. All the synthesized spiro‐compounds are new.
Folic Acid Conjugated Polyglutamic Acid Drug Vehicle Synthesis through Deep Eutectic Solvent for Targeted Release of Paclitaxel
Authors: Pradeepkumar Periyakaruppan , Sangeetha Ramalingam , Gunaseelan Sathaiah , Varalakshmi Perumal , Chuturgoon Anil A , Rajan Mariappan
Published: September 2019

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are promising biocompatible solvents that have many applications in biomedical research including drug delivery. In this study, nanomicelles were designed and developed for encapsulation of paclitaxel (PTX) for cancer therapy using DES from proline (PA) and lactic acid (LA) as resources. The self‐assembled DES grafted polyglutamic acid conjugated folic acid (DES‐g‐PGA‐FA) micelles were determined through Critical micelle concentration (CMC) by fluorescence analysis using pyrene as a probe (CMC=0.7 mg/mL). The successful preparation of DESs and DESs grafted polymer was confirmed by spectroscopy techniques, and density. The crystalline nature, thermal stability, particle size, surface morphology of the micelles and drug loaded micelles were determined by X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and also microscope techniques analysis. In addition, the encapsulation efficiency and sustained release behavior of PTX loaded micelles was tested by UV‐visible spectroscopy at the λmax value of 280 nm. Anticancer activity of the compound (PTX loaded polymeric micelles) was assessed on the human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa) and toxicity effect against normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) using the tetrazolium‐based MTT assay. These results demonstrate that the polymeric micelles are a promising carrier for anticancer therapeutics and minimize adverse side effects to normal cells.
GO/Ag2O Composite Nanostructure as an Effective Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Sajjad Shamaila , Arshad Farwa , Uzair Bushra , Leghari Sajjad A. K. , Noor Saima , Maaza Malik
Published: September 2019

Silver oxide nano‐particles (Ag2O NPs) are prepared by wet chemical method and impregnated with graphene oxide (GO) nano‐sheets in different wt. % ratios. The Ag2O NPs showed peaks in with the face centered cubic crystalline structure as indicated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The characteristic peaks of GO are also appeared in XRD patterns of GO/Ag2O composites. SEM image of pure GO nano‐sheets represented thin flexible layered structure. In GO/Ag2O hybrid structure, the Ag2O nanoparticles are randomly anchored on the surface of GO nano‐sheets. FT‐IR spectra of GO/Ag2O composite illustrate the reduction in intensity of peaks as compared to pure Ag2O. Some oxygen functional groups are also reduced in the composites samples. The antibacterial activity of hetero systems was observed in case of E.coli and Staph aureus by disc diffusion method. In antibacterial activity, pure Ag2O and GO exhibited small zones of inhibition in comparison to 2.0 and 4.0% GO/Ag2O nano composite materials towards E. coli and S. aureus. The results indicated that GO/Ag2O nanocomposites can markedly inhibit E. coli reproduction as compared to S. aureus. In antibacterial mechanism, positively charged Ag ions and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced more in GO/Ag2O nanocomposites than singly Ag2O and GO nanomaterials which cause the disrupting interaction with bacterial cell wall through membrane proteins. The effectiveness of Ag2O NPs is enhanced by incorporating GO nano‐sheets.
Gradient‐Distributed Nucleation Seeds on Conductive Host for a Dendrite‐Free and High‐Rate Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Nan Yang , Li Songmei , Shi Yongzheng , Yang Shubin , Li Bin
Published: September 2019

Much attention is paid to metal lithium as a hopeful negative material for reversible batteries with a high specific capacity. Although applying 3D hosts can relieve the dendrite growth to some extent, gradient‐distributed lithium ion in 3D uniform hosts still induces uncontrolled lithium dendrites growth, especially at high lithium capacity and high current density. Herein, a 3D conductive carbon nanofiber framework with gradient‐distributed ZnO particles as nucleation seeds (G‐CNF) to regulate lithium deposition is proposed. Based on such a unique structure, the G‐CNF electrode exhibits a high average Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 98.1% for 700 cycles at 0.5 mA cm−2. Even at 5 mA cm−2, the G‐CNF electrode performs a stable cycling process and high CE of 96.0% for over 200 cycles. When the lithium‐deposited G‐CNF (G‐CNF‐Li) anode is applied in a full cell with a commercial LiFePO4 cathode, it exhibits a stable capacity of 115 mAh g−1 and high retention of 95.7% after 300 cycles. Through inducing the gradient‐distributed nucleation seeds to counter the existing Li‐ion concentration polarization, a uniform and stable lithium deposition process in the 3D host is achieved even under the condition of high current density.
Metal–Organic Framework‐Derived N‐Rich Porous Carbon as an Auxiliary Additive of Hole Transport Layers for Highly Efficient and Long‐Term Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhou Xuesong , Qiu Lele , Fan Ruiqing , Wang Ani , Ye Haoxin , Tian Changhao , Hao Sue , Yang Yulin
Published: September 2019

As the standard bidopants of hole transport layers (HTLs) in perovskite solar cells (PSCs), bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide lithium salt (Li‐TFSI) and 4‐tert‐butylpyridine not only induce adverse influence on the quality of thin films, but also seriously impair the long‐term stability of devices. Herein, a metal–organic framework‐derived 2D graphitic N‐rich porous carbon (NPC) is first introduced into the HTLs as an effective auxiliary additive. The introduction of NPC significantly reduces the aggregation of lithium salts and the formation of HTL defects, optimizing film quality for rapid hole extraction and migration. Furthermore, inherent porosity and hydrophobicity of NPCs are extremely beneficial to restrict the permeation of Li+ ions and anode metals, and prevent the moisture from eroding the HTLs and perovskite layers, enhancing the stability of PSCs. As expected, the PSCs with NPC realize a satisfactory fill factor of 0.76 and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.51%, apparently higher than that of pristine devices (0.70% and 16.47%). In addition, over 85% of the initial PCE for optimized PSCs is maintained after 720 h of exposure to air. Obviously, an innovative strategy for highly efficient and long‐term stable PSC devices is provided.
Role of Endogenous Protein in the Spherical Aggregation of Taro Starch Granules upon Spray‐Drying and in In Vitro Digestibility
Authors: Vernon‐Carter Eduardo Jaime , Alvarez‐Ramirez Jose , Bello‐Perez Luis A. , Hernandez‐Jaimes Carmen , Reyes Isabel
Published: September 2019

The role of endogenous protein in the formation of spray‐dried taro starch spherical aggregates is studied in this work. Taro starch dispersions (30 g per 100 mL water) are added with different protease concentrations (0.0, 1.0, and 5.0 × 103 IU protease per g starch) for degrading the surface protein of the starch granules. Protease treatment has a negative effect on the formation of starch aggregates, which are scarce and irregular. The incorporation of exogenous protein in the form of whey protein isolate (WPI) improved the formation of starch aggregates, but with non‐spherical morphology. Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) analysis reveals that the formation of random structures at the expense of β‐structures (up to 65%) in proteins is the mechanism responsible for the spherical aggregates formation. In vitro digestibility tests show that spherical aggregates are less digestible (≈19% of RDS) than native taro starch (≈40% of RDS), an effect that might be attributed to increased ordering and crystallinity (≈34% for spray‐dried starch) induced by thermal modifications in the spray‐drying process.
Intravenous Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells for Acute Ischemic Stroke: Safety, Feasibility, and Effect Size from a Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Vahidy Farhaan S. , Haque Muhammad E. , Rahbar Mohammad H. , Zhu Hongjian , Rowan Paul , Aisiku Imoigele P. , Lee Dean A. , Juneja Harinder S. , Alderman Susan , Barreto Andrew D. , Suarez Jose I. , Bambhroliya Arvind , Hasan Khader M. , Kassam Mallikarjuna Rao , Aronowski Jaroslaw , Gee Adrian , Cox Charles S. , Grotta James C. , Savitz Sean I.
Published: September 2019

Cellular therapy is a promising investigational modality to enhance poststroke recovery. We conducted a single-arm, phase I clinical trial to determine the safety and feasibility of intravenous (IV) administration of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (MNCs) after acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Patients with moderate severity of AIS underwent bone marrow harvest followed by IV reinfusion of MNCs within 24–72 hours of onset. A target dose of 10 million cells per kilogram was chosen based on preclinical data. Patients were followed up daily during hospitalization and at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months for incidence of adverse events using laboratory, clinical (12 months), and radiological (24 months) parameters. The trial was powered to detect severe adverse events (SAEs) with incidences of at least 10% and planned to enroll 30 patients. Primary outcomes were study-related SAEs and the proportion of patients successfully completing study intervention. A propensity score-based matched control group was used for the estimation of effect size (ES) for day-90 modified Rankin score (mRS). There were no study-related SAEs and, based on a futility analysis, enrolment was stopped after 25 patients. All patients successfully completed study intervention and most received the target dose. Secondary analysis estimated the ES to be a reduction of 1 point (95% confidence interval: 0.33–1.67) in median day-90 mRS for treated patients as compared with the matched control group. Bone marrow harvest and infusion of MNCs is safe and feasible in patients with AIS. The estimated ES is helpful in designing future randomized controlled trials. Stem Cells  2019;37:1481–1491
Fostering intra‐BRICS trade and investment: The increasing role of China in the Brazilian and South African economies
Authors: Gouvea Raul , Kapelianis Dimitri , Li Shihong
Published: September 2019

In the past two decades, Brazil, South Africa and China have designed closer economic and political ties. Since the early 2000s, China has become a key economic partner for both countries. International trade and foreign direct investment between the three nations have expanded, and closer political ties have also evolved. This article elaborates on the increasing economic interdependence between Brazil, China, and South Africa addressing challenges and opportunities for all three countries involved.
Physico‐chemical processes
Authors: Ouyang Weihang , Chen Tianhao , Shi Yihao , Tong Liangyu , Chen Yangyu , Wang Weiwen , Yang Jiajun , Xue Jinkai
Published: September 2019

The review scans research articles published in 2018 on physico‐chemical processes for water and wastewater treatment. The paper includes eight sections, that is, membrane technology, granular filtration, flotation, adsorption, coagulation/flocculation, capacitive deionization, ion exchange, and oxidation. The membrane technology section further divides into six parts, including microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis/forward osmosis, and membrane distillation.

Practitioner points

Totally 266 articles on water and wastewater treatment have been scanned;

The review is sectioned into 8 major parts; 

Membrane technology has drawn the widest attention from the research community.
The accuracy of self-report versus objective assessment for estimating socioeconomic inequalities in disease prevalence in Indonesia
Authors: Mulyanto Joko , Kringos Dionne S. , Kunst Anton E.
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To estimate socioeconomic inequalities in hypertension and asthma prevalence in Indonesia, to compare estimates based on self-report (SR) to those based on objective assessment (OA), and to assess the role of sensitivity and specificity of SR.

Methods

We used data from the 2014 Indonesia Family Life Survey (n = 34,257). We measured inequalities in hypertension and asthma prevalence in relation to educational level and income, using standardised prevalence rate and the relative index of inequality (RII). Using OA as standard, we calculated the sensitivity and specificity of SR.

Results

For hypertension, reversed inequalities were found when estimated by SR instead of OA (RII for education 0.86, 95% CI 0.74–0.99 vs. RII 1.29, 95% CI 1.16–1.44). For asthma, a similar but even larger reversal of inequalities was found. The sensitivity of SR was low overall, and especially for the lowest education or income group.

Conclusions

Results imply that the use of SR may lead to underestimation of socioeconomic inequalities in disease prevalence in a low-income country such as Indonesia. The use of OA is recommended for monitoring inequalities in non-communicable disease prevalence.
Induction of tumor-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes from naïve human T cells by using Mycobacterium-derived mycolic acid and lipoarabinomannan-stimulated dendritic cells
Authors: Tomita Yuji , Watanabe Eri , Shimizu Masumi , Negishi Yasuyuki , Kondo Yukihiro , Takahashi Hidemi
Published: September 2019

The main effectors in tumor control are the class I MHC molecule-restricted CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Tumor-specific CTL induction can be regulated by dendritic cells (DCs) expressing both tumor-derived epitopes and co-stimulatory molecules. Immunosuppressive tolerogenic DCs, having down-regulated co-stimulatory molecules, are seen within the tumor mass and can suppress tumor-specific CTL induction. The tolerogenic DCs expressing down-regulated XCR1+CD141+ appear to be induced by tumor-derived soluble factors or dexamethasone, while the immunogenic DCs usually express XCR1+CD141+ molecules with a cross-presentation function in humans. Thus, if tolerogenic DCs can be reactivated into immunogenic DCs with sufficient co-stimulatory molecules, tumor-specific CD8+ CTLs can be primed and activated in vivo. In the present study, we converted human tolerogenic CD141+ DCs with enhanced co-stimulatory molecule expression of CD40, CD80, and CD86 through stimulation with non-toxic mycobacterial lipids such as mycolic acid (MA) and lipoarabinomannan (LAM), which synergistically enhanced both co-stimulatory molecule expression and interleukin (IL)-12 secretion by XCR1+CD141+ DCs. Moreover, MA and LAM-stimulated DCs captured tumor antigens and presented tumor epitope(s) in association with class I MHCs and sufficient upregulated co-stimulatory molecules to prime naïve CD3+ T cells to become CD8+ tumor-specific CTLs. Repeat CD141+ DC stimulation with MA and LAM augmented the secretion of IL-12. These findings provide us a new method for altering the tumor environment by converting tolerogenic DCs to immunogenic DCs with MA and LAM from Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Traction Injury of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve During Thyroidectomy
Authors: Liu Meng‐Yu , Chang Chun‐Ping , Hung Chien‐Ling , Hung Chung‐Jye , Huang Shih‐Ming
Published: September 2019

Background

Loss of the neuromonitoring signal (LOS) during thyroidectomy signifies recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury, which is one of the common complications, especially by traction injury. Transient intraoperative LOS means spontaneous recovery of nerve function during surgery or within 6‐month post‐surgery. Few articles discuss intraoperative recovery time and transient LOS, and there is no consensus on the risk factors for RLN traction injury and its recovery course; thus, we wanted to determine the maximum intraoperative recovery time.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study included patients who had undergone thyroidectomies at Tainan National Cheng Kung University Hospital between January 2015 and August 2018. A total of 775 patients (with 1000 nerves at risk) who underwent intermittent intraoperative neuromonitoring during thyroidectomy were included in this study. The LOS nerves were divided into 4 groups based on the LOS subtype and the intraoperative status of the recovery. The postoperative vocal cord function was determined by thyroid ultrasound and/or laryngoscope. All the patients would be followed up postoperatively in 2–3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 4–6 weeks.

Results

LOS occurred in 67 of 775 (8.6%) patients and in 70 of 1000 nerves at risk (7.0%). There were 2 in 70 nerves (2.9%) with LOS type 1 (segmental nerve traction injury) with intraoperative recovery (Group 1), 5 (7.1%) with LOS type 1 without intraoperative recovery (Group 2), 47 (67.1%) with LOS type 2 (global injury) with intraoperative recovery (Group 3), and 16 (22.8%) with LOS type 2 without intraoperative recovery (Group 4). All LOS type 1 (segmental nerve injury) nerves had pathologic lesions near the RLN or vagus nerve, but none had invaded the nerves (p < 0.05). The resolving time intraoperatively in the 2 patients in Group 1 was 5 min and 10 min, respectively. The resolving time intraoperatively in Group 3 was 1–20 min, and the average time was 4.8 min. In Group 2, 3 injured nerves recovered within 6 weeks postoperatively, and 2 nerves in 12 weeks. In Group 4, all the 16 injured nerves recovered within 6 weeks postoperatively.

Conclusion

Applying intermittent intraoperative neuromonitoring during thyroidectomy, traction recurrent laryngeal nerve injury still happened in 7.0%. 70% of the injured nerves recovered the function intraoperatively after releasing the traction, and the longest duration of recovery is 20 min.
Surgical Outcomes in Acute Mesenteric Ischemia: Has Anything Changed Over the Years?
Authors: Acosta‐Mérida María Asunción , Marchena‐Gómez Joaquín , Saavedra‐Santana Pedro , Silvestre‐Rodríguez José , Artiles‐Armas Manuel , Callejón‐Cara María Mar
Published: September 2019

Background

Despite increases in knowledge and advances in the management of acute mesenteric ischemia syndrome (AMI), there have been no significant improvements in mortality in recent years. The objective of this study was to assess the changes in clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes in patients who underwent AMI over time.

Methods

A total of 323 consecutive patients who underwent acute mesenteric ischemia at our institution between 1990 and 2015 were examined. The occurrence of significant changes over this 25‐year period in demographic data, comorbidity, clinical characteristics, laboratory results, operative findings, etiology of the AMI, and operative mortality were evaluated. The evolution mortality rates for the studied period were analyzed using the additive logistic regression, and the significant effect was determined using the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC).

Results

A significant increasing linear trend was observed in recent years in Charlson score values (p = 0.008), antiplatelet drug intake (p < 0.001), use of CT scan (p < 0.001), arterial thrombosis (p < 0.001), and intestinal resection (p = 0.047), while a decreasing linear trend was observed in digoxin intake (p < 0.001), angiography use (p = 0.004), and embolia (p < 0.001). The rest of the parameters did not present changes over time. Regarding the evolution of the adjusted surgical mortality, a significant decrease according the AIC criterion was observed.

Conclusions

In recent years, the characteristics of patients with AMI requiring surgery have changed. Changes in operative mortality have also been detected, showing a tendency toward a progressive and significant decrease.
Hydrodynamic interaction of bubbles rising side-by-side in viscous liquids
Authors: Kong G , Mirsandi H. , Buist K. A. , Peters E. A. J. F. , Baltussen M. W. , Kuipers J. A. M.
Published: September 2019

Detailed experiments are conducted to study hydrodynamic effects of two simultaneously released bubbles rising in viscous liquids. Different types of interactions are observed as a function of the liquid viscosities, leading to different bubble shapes, ranging from rigid spheres and spheroids to deformable spheroids. Bubble velocities are obtained by an automated smooth spline technique, which allows for an accurate calculation of the lift and drag forces. The results obtained for spherical bubbles are in agreement with predictions of Legendre et al. (J Fluid Mech 497:133–166, 2003). The observations of deformed bubbles show that a very small equilibrium distance can be established due to the induced torque arising from the deformation. In terms of the lateral interaction, different separation distances can be observed depending on the initial distance. For deformable bubbles, the results are limited to a qualitative analysis due to limitations of the processing technique to handle strong shape irregularities. Nevertheless, the observations reveal that the deformation plays an important role with respect to bubble interactions and path instability of which the latter can be triggered by the presence of other bubbles.

Graphic abstract
Correction to: Transmission of the frequency components of the vibrational signal of the glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca vitripennis, within and between grapevines
Authors: Gordon Shira D. , Tiller Benjamin , Windmill James F. C. , Krugner Rodrigo , Narins Peter M.
Published: September 2019

Unfortunately, Fig. 3 was incorrectly published in the original publication. The correct version of Fig. 3 is updated here.
Co-ingestion of whey protein hydrolysate with milk minerals rich in calcium potently stimulates glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion: an RCT in healthy adults
Authors: Chen Yung-Chih , Smith Harry A. , Hengist Aaron , Chrzanowski-Smith Oliver J. , Mikkelsen Ulla Ramer , Carroll Harriet A. , Betts James A. , Thompson Dylan , Saunders John , Gonzalez Javier T.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

To examine whether calcium type and co-ingestion with protein alter gut hormone availability.

Methods

Healthy adults aged 26 ± 7 years (mean ± SD) completed three randomized, double-blind, crossover studies. In all studies, arterialized blood was sampled postprandially over 120 min to determine GLP-1, GIP and PYY responses, alongside appetite ratings, energy expenditure and blood pressure. In study 1 (n = 20), three treatments matched for total calcium content (1058 mg) were compared: calcium citrate (CALCITR); milk minerals rich in calcium (MILK MINERALS); and milk minerals rich in calcium plus co-ingestion of 50 g whey protein hydrolysate (MILK MINERALS + PROTEIN). In study 2 (n = 6), 50 g whey protein hydrolysate (PROTEIN) was compared to MILK MINERALS + PROTEIN. In study 3 (n = 6), MILK MINERALS was compared to the vehicle of ingestion (water plus sucralose; CONTROL).

Results

MILK MINERALS + PROTEIN increased GLP-1 incremental area under the curve (iAUC) by ~ ninefold (43.7 ± 11.1 pmol L−1 120 min; p < 0.001) versus both CALCITR and MILK MINERALS, with no difference detected between CALCITR (6.6 ± 3.7 pmol L−1 120 min) and MILK MINERALS (5.3 ± 3.5 pmol L−1 120 min; p > 0.999). MILK MINERALS + PROTEIN produced a GLP-1 iAUC ~ 25% greater than PROTEIN (p = 0.024; mean difference: 9.1 ± 6.9 pmol L−1 120 min), whereas the difference between MILK MINERALS versus CONTROL was small and non-significant (p = 0.098; mean difference: 4.2 ± 5.1 pmol L−1 120 min).

Conclusions

When ingested alone, milk minerals rich in calcium do not increase GLP-1 secretion compared to calcium citrate. Co-ingesting high-dose whey protein hydrolysate with milk minerals rich in calcium increases postprandial GLP-1 concentrations to some of the highest physiological levels ever reported. Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03232034, NCT03370484, NCT03370497.
Genetically encoded FRET-based optical sensor for Hg2+ detection and intracellular imaging in living cells
Authors: Soleja Neha , Jairajpuri Mohamad Aman , Queen Aarfa , Mohsin Mohd
Published: September 2019

Due to the potential toxicity of mercury, there is an immediate need to understand its uptake, transport and flux within living cells. Conventional techniques used to analyze Hg2+ are invasive, involve high cost and are less sensitive. In the present study, a highly efficient genetically encoded mercury FRET sensor (MerFS) was developed to measure the cellular dynamics of Hg2+ at trace level in real time. To construct MerFS, the periplasmic mercury-binding protein MerP was sandwiched between enhanced cyan fluorescent protein (ECFP) and venus. MerFS is pH stable, offers a measurable fluorescent signal and binds to Hg2+ with high sensitivity and selectivity. Mutant MerFS-51 binds with an apparent affinity (K  d) of 5.09 × 10−7 M, thus providing a detection range for Hg2+ quantification between 0.210 µM and 1.196 µM. Furthermore, MerFS-51 was targeted to Escherichia coli (E. coli), yeast and human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293T cells that allowed dynamic measurement of intracellular Hg2+ concentration with a highly responsive saturation curve, proving its potential application in cellular systems.
Synthesis of a New Chloro Antimony Complex with Pyridinium Derivative: Crystal Structure, Hirshfeld Surface Analysis, Vibrational, and Optical Properties
Authors: Elleuch Nour , Fredj Donia , Chniba-Boudjada Nassira , Boujelbene Mohamed
Published: September 2019

The new organic–inorganic hybrid material (C6H7N2S)2[SbCl4]Cl was synthesized by slow evaporation method and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, infrared absorption, Hirshfeld surface analysis, optical absorption and photoluminescence measurements. The Centro symmetric compound crystallizes in the triclinic system of space group $${\text{P}}\bar{1}$$P1¯ with two formula units cell (Z = 2).The crystal structure is composed of a discrete [SbCl4]− anion and two isolated chloride Cl− anions which carried the same negative charge to balance the total charge of this compound surrounded by the 4 pyridiniumethioamide cations. Organic and inorganic parts which are linked by means of hydrogen bonding contacts N–H···Cl with N···Cl length are varied in the range of 3.221–3.456 Å to form a Zero-dimensional network. The infrared study performed at room temperature charge in the 4000–400 cm−1 frequency regions confirms the existence of the organic cation [C6H7N2S]+ and that of the [SbCl4]− anion. The Photoluminescence spectrum exhibits a broad and strong band of luminescence located at 1.95 eV (635 nm), which can be even observed with the naked eye at room temperature and is due to exaction emission. The various intermolecular interactions of the two independent cations and six chloride atoms were examined via Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Qualitätszielfunktionen für stark variierende Gemeindegrößen im Zensus 2021
Authors: Burgard Jan Pablo , Münnich Ralf , Rupp Martin
Published: September 2019

Am 24. Oktober 2017 wurden beim Bundesverfassungsgericht die Normenkontrollklagen der Länder Berlin und Hamburg im Bezug auf das Zensusgesetz 2011 verhandelt. Ein zentraler Gegenstand der Klagen war eine methodische Ungleichbehandlung von Gemeinden unterschiedlicher Größe bei der Einwohnerzahlermittlung im Zensus 2011, da für Gemeinden kleiner als 10.000 Einwohner eine andere Methodik angewendet wurde als für Gemeinden mit mehr als 10.000 Einwohnern. Diese Grenze wurde im Zensusgesetz für den Zensus 2011 festgeschrieben und ist nach Bekanntwerden der Zensusergebnisse kritisiert worden. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden verschiedene Möglichkeiten diskutiert, wie beim Zensus 2021 auf einen Methodenwechsel, wie er im Jahr 2011 stattfand, verzichtet werden kann und wie dahingehend die Methodik geeignet angepasst werden muss. Einen besonderen Schwerpunkt nimmt hierbei eine Adjustierung der Qualitätsmessung, die sogenannten Präzisionsvorgaben, ein. Eine Definition dieser für eine stichprobenbasierte Zensuserhebung muss insbesondere im Hinblick auf die Gemeindegröße geeignet gewählt werden. Zudem bedarf es einer Untersuchung der Auswirkung der Qualitätsmessung auf die regionalen Stichprobenumfänge und auf die Qualität der später zu schätzenden Einwohnerzahl. In den Untersuchungen werden methodische und praktische Überlegungen berücksichtigt.
Bio-economic analysis of super-intensive closed shrimp farming and improvement of management plans: a case study in Japan
Authors: Shinji Junpei , Nohara Setsuo , Yagi Nobuyuki , Wilder Marcy
Published: September 2019

Crustacean aquaculture is a multibillion-dollar industry worldwide that continues to show significant growth. Shrimp farming has been intensified for decades, and super-intensive closed culture systems have now been developed to improve productivity and reduce environmental burdens. Here, we used bio-economic approaches to investigate the mechanisms and economic productivity of shrimp farming. We used three steps: (1) path analysis by using structural equation models to determine the candidate factors associated with productivity; (2) modeling of population dynamics and profits; and (3) simulations based on the models to clarify the productive characteristics of a super-intensive closed culture system. Our findings suggest that the population dynamics of the system were limited by unidentified factors that differed from those found in many experimental studies, such as water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and nitrogenous waste. The unidentified factors were related to the number of days of rearing and cumulative biomass mortality. The production plan suggested by our simulation required frequent culture rotation to increase profits. Our case study provides important practical information about the characteristics of super-intensive shrimp farming, implications for efficient economic management, and new research subjects for the future.
Use of aminated hulls of sunflower seeds for the removal of anionic dyes from aqueous solutions
Authors: Jóźwiak T. , Filipkowska U. , Brym S. , Kopeć L.
Published: September 2019

In this study, we analyzed the effectiveness of sorption of dyes popular in the textile industry (Reactive Black 5, Reactive Yellow 84, Acid Yellow 23, and Acid Red 18) on aminated and non-aminated seed hulls of common sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). The scope of the study included: determination of the effect of pH on dye sorption effectiveness, sorption kinetics analyses (sorption equilibrium time, pseudo-first-order/pseudo-second-order model, intramolecular diffusion model), and determination of the maximum sorption capacity against dyes (Langmuir/Freundlich isotherm). The sorbent was subjected to the FTIR analysis. The sorption capacity of the aminated sunflower seed hulls against reactive dyes RB5 and RY84 accounted for 51.02 mg/g and 63.27 mg/g, respectively, and was higher by 1665% (17.6 times higher) and 1425% (15.3 times higher) compared to that of non-modified hulls. In the case of acidic dyes, Acid Yellow 23 and Acid Red 18, the sorption capacity of the aminated sunflower seed hulls reached 44.78 mg/g and 42.19 mg/g, respectively, and was higher by 1881% (19.8 times higher) and 2284% (23.8 times higher), respectively, compared to the non-modified hulls.