bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Throwaway” consumption in a consumerist society: Evidence from a developing country
Authors: Wijetunga Dinuka
Published: July 2019

Consumerism, closely linked with growth‐oriented development, has been identified as detrimental to environmental sustainability. Yet literature on throwaway consumption, a key form of unsustainable consumption, has rarely examined the influence of consumerist social values on individual behavior. This paper examines how the contemporary “liquid” consumerist social trends that elevate transience over durability manifest in individual throwaway consumption. Utilizing a sample of consumers from a developing country, Sri Lanka, the study explored the throwaway consumption of the mobile telephone. It identifies that consumers replace their phones with new ones at quick intervals because they consider novelty as a source of pleasure and technological change as progress, both of which can be considered as manifestations of “liquid” consumerism. Further, the market stimulates both ideas, providing greater impetus for throwaway consumption.
Water disclosure and firm risk: Empirical evidence from highly water‐sensitive industries in China
Authors: Zeng Huixiang , Zhang Tao , Zhou Zhifang , Zhao Yang , Chen Xiaohong
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we examine the relationship between water disclosure and firm risk. Specifically, based upon a panel dataset of 334 Chinese listed firms operating in highly water‐sensitive industries during 2010–2015, we use regression models to analyze the relationships between water disclosure and three types of firm risk (i.e., total risk, systematic risk, and idiosyncratic risk) and the moderating effects of media coverage on these relationships. Our empirical results show that (a) although there are no significant relationships between water disclosure and total risk and idiosyncratic risk, there is a significant negative relationship between water disclosure and systematic risk; (b) negative media coverage weakens the negative relationship between water disclosure and systematic risk, whereas nonnegative media coverage reinforces this negative relationship. Our cornerstone study examines the effect of a specific type of environmental disclosure (i.e., water disclosure) on firm risk, and our empirical findings are different from previous studies, which examined the effects of overall corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure on firm risk. We analyze the causes of the differences in detail. With this study, we make theoretical, empirical, and managerial contributions to CSR disclosure–firm risk research in business ethics literature.
Biochemical characterization and kinetic/thermodynamic study of Aspergillus tamarii URM4634 β‐fructofuranosidase with transfructosylating activity
Authors: de Oliveira Rodrigo Lira , da Silva Marcos Fellipe , Converti Attilio , Porto Tatiana Souza
Published: July 2019

This study reports on the biochemical characterization as well as the kinetic and thermodynamic study of Aspergillus tamarii URM4634 β‐fructofuranosidase (FFase) with transfructosylating activity. Conditions for FFase activity were optimized by means of a central composite rotational design using pH and temperature as the independent variables, while residual activity tests carried out in the temperature range of 45–65°C enabled us to investigate FFase thermostability and estimate the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of enzyme denaturation. Optimal conditions for sucrose hydrolysis and fructosyl transfer catalyzed by crude FFase were 50°C, and pH 6.0 and 7.4, respectively. The thermodynamic properties of irreversible enzyme inactivation were found to be activation energy of 293.1 kJ mol−1, and activation enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy in the ranges 290.3–290.4 kJ mol−1, 568.7–571.0 J mol−1 K−1, and 97.9–108.8 kJ mol−1, respectively. The results obtained in this study point out satisfactory enzyme activity and thermostability at temperatures commonly used for industrial fructo‐oligosaccharide (FOS) synthesis; therefore, this novel FFase appears to be a promising biocatalyst with great potential for long‐term FOS synthesis and invert sugar production. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of an A. tamarii FFase.
Amorphous Fe−Co−P−C Film on a Carbon Fiber Paper Support as an Efficient Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Lian Jun , Zhang Fabao , Lu ShuQiang , Jiang Wei , Hu Qingzhuo , Li Dongdong , Zhang Bo
Published: July 2019

Amorphous Fe−Co−P−C films supported on carbon fiber paper were prepared by using an inexpensive conventional magnetron co‐sputtering technique, and the effects of the Co content on electrocatalytic performance were assessed. These
CoxP13C7 (x=20, 40 or 60) films performed well as electrocatalysts and exhibited good durability during the oxygen evolution reaction in 1.0 M KOH. Increases in the Co concentration improved the electrocatalytic activity, and the Fe20Co60P13C7 film produced a low overpotential of approximately 310 mV at 10 mA cm−2, with a low Tafel slope of approximately 31 mV dec−1. This material also maintained a constant overpotential for at least 20 h. Based on the results of this study, these materials represent a new approach to the development of highly efficient, inexpensive catalysts for water electrolysis.
Molecular Tectonics: A Node‐and‐Linker Building Block Approach to a Family of Hydrogen‐Bonded Frameworks
Authors: Boer Stephanie A. , Morshedi Mahbod , Tarzia Andrew , Doonan Christian J. , White Nicholas G.
Published: July 2019

While numerous hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) have been reported, typically these cannot be prepared predictably or in a modular fashion. In this work, we report a family of nine diamondoid crystalline porous frameworks assembled via hydrogen bonding between poly‐amidinium and poly‐carboxylate tectons. The frameworks are prepared at room temperature in either water or water/alcohol mixtures. Importantly, both the cationic and anionic components can be varied and additional functionality can be incorporated into the frameworks, which show good stability including to prolonged heating in DMSO or water.
Hybrid Soft Nanomaterials Composed of DNA Microspheres and Supramolecular Nanostructures of Semi‐artificial Glycopeptides
Authors: Higashi Sayuri L. , Shibata Aya , Kitamura Yoshiaki , Hirosawa Koichiro M. , Suzuki Kenichi G. N. , Matsuura Kazunori , Ikeda Masato
Published: July 2019

Aqueous hybrid soft nanomaterials consisting of plural supramolecular architectures with a high degree of segregation (orthogonal coexistence) and precise hierarchy at the nano‐ and microscales, which are reminiscent of complex biomolecular systems, have attracted increasing attention. Remarkable progress has been witnessed in the construction of DNA nanostructures obtained by rational sequence design and supramolecular nanostructures of peptide derivatives through self‐assembly under aqueous conditions. However, orthogonal self‐assembly of DNA nanostructures and supramolecular nanostructures of peptide derivatives in a single medium has not yet been explored in detail. In this study, DNA microspheres, which can be obtained from three single‐stranded DNAs, and three different supramolecular nanostructures (helical nanofibers, straight nanoribbons, and flowerlike microaggregates) of semi‐artificial glycopeptides were simultaneously constructed in a single medium by a simple thermal annealing process, which gives rise to hybrid soft nanomaterials. Fluorescence imaging with selective staining of each supramolecular nanostructure uncovered the orthogonal coexistence of these structures with only marginal impact on their morphology. Additionally, the biostimuli‐responsive degradation propensity of each supramolecular architecture is retained, and this may allow the construction of active soft nanomaterials exhibiting intelligent biofunctions.
Isolation and Crystallographic Characterization of Two, Nonisolated Pentagon Endohedral Fullerenes: Ho3N@C2(22010)‐C78 and Tb3N@C2(22010)‐C78
Authors: Stevenson Steven , Rothgeb Amanda J. , Tepper Katelyn R. , Duchamp James , Dorn Harry C. , Powers Xian B. , Roy Mrittika , Olmstead Marilyn M. , Balch Alan L.
Published: July 2019

Purified samples of Ho3N@C2(22010)‐C78 and Tb3N@C2(22010)‐C78 have been isolated by two distinct processes from the rich array of fullerenes and endohedral fullerenes present in carbon soot from graphite rods doped with Ho2O3 or Tb4O7. Crystallographic analysis of the endohedral fullerenes as cocrystals with Ni(OEP) (in which OEP is the dianion of octaethylporphyrin) shows that both molecules contain the chiral C2(22010)‐C78 cage. This cage does not obey the isolated pentagon rule (IPR) but has two sites where two pentagons share a common C−C bond. These pentalene units bind two of the metal ions, whereas the third metal resides near a hexagon of the cage. Inside the cages, the Ho3N or Tb3N unit is planar. Ho3N@C2(22010)‐C78 and Tb3N@C2(22010)‐C78 use the same cage previously found for Gd3N@C2(22010)‐C78 rather than the IPR‐obeying cage found in Sc3N@D3h‐C78.
Erhöhung der Energieeffizienz der Crossflow‐Filtration durch keramische Rohrmembranen einer neuen Generation
Authors: Lescoche Philippe , Grospelly Laurent , Grangeon André , Ruschel Bernd , Anquetil Jérome
Published: July 2019

Die Wirkung der Crossflow‐Filtration von Flüssigkeiten beruht auf der kontinuierlichen und kontrollierten Zirkulation von Fluiden in linearen Kanälen. Die Strömungsgeschwindigkeit ist von entscheidender Bedeutung für die Wirtschaftlichkeit des Prozesses. TAMI Industries untersucht die Verwendung sog. additiver Verfahren zur Herstellung keramischer Träger mit geometrischen Strukturen, die mit herkömmlichen Technologien nicht produziert werden können. Im Vergleich zu konventionellen Geometrien ist es möglich, die Permeatleistung zu steigern, ohne den Energieverbrauch zu erhöhen oder bei gleicher Permeatleistung den Energieverbrauch entsprechend zu reduzieren.
Insertion Pool Sequencing for Insertional Mutant Analysis in Complex Host‐Microbe Interactions
Authors: Uhse Simon , Pflug Florian G. , von Haeseler Arndt , Djamei Armin
Published: July 2019

Insertional mutant libraries of microorganisms can be applied in negative depletion screens to decipher gene functions. Because of underrepresentation in colonized tissue, one major bottleneck is analysis of species that colonize hosts. To overcome this, we developed insertion pool sequencing (iPool‐Seq). iPool‐Seq allows direct analysis of colonized tissue due to high specificity for insertional mutant cassettes. Here, we describe detailed protocols for infection as well as genomic DNA extraction to study the interaction between the corn smut fungus Ustilago maydis and its host maize. In addition, we provide protocols for library preparation and bioinformatic data analysis that are applicable to any host‐microbe interaction system. © 2019 The Authors. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Fathoming sea turtles: monitoring strategy evaluation to improve conservation status assessments
Authors: Piacenza Susan E. , Richards Paul M. , Heppell Selina S.
Published: July 2019

Population monitoring must be accurate and reliable to correctly classify population status. For sea turtles, nesting beach surveys are often the only population‐level surveys that are accessible. However, process and observation errors, compounded by delayed maturity, obscure the relationship between trends on the nesting beach and the population. We present a simulation‐based tool, monitoring strategy evaluation (MoSE), to test the relationships between monitoring data and assessment accuracy, using green sea turtles, Chelonia mydas, as a case study. To explore this first application of MoSE, we apply different treatments of population impacts to virtual true populations, and sample the nests or nesters, with observation error, to test if the observation data can be used to diagnose population status accurately. Based on the observed data, we examine population trend and compare it to the known values from the operating model. We ran a series of scenarios including harvest impacts, cyclical breeding probability, and sampling biases, to see how these factors impact accuracy in estimating population trend. We explored the necessary duration of monitoring for accurate trend estimation and the probability of a false trend diagnosis. Our results suggest that disturbance type and severity can have important and persistent effects on the accuracy of population assessments drawn from monitoring nesting beaches. The underlying population phase, age classes disturbed, and impact severity influenced the accuracy of estimating population trend. At least 10 yr of monitoring data is necessary to estimate population trend accurately, and >20 yr if juvenile age classes were disturbed and the population is recovering. In general, there is a greater probability of making a false positive trend diagnosis than a false negative, but this depends on impact type and severity, population phase, and sampling duration. Improving detection rates to 90% does little to lower probability of a false trend diagnosis with shorter monitoring spans. Altogether, monitoring strategies for specific populations may be tailored based on the impact history, population phase, and environmental drivers. The MoSE is an important framework for analysis through simulation that can comprehensively test population assessments for accuracy and inform policy recommendations regarding the best monitoring strategies.
Statins can suppress DC‐mediated Th2 responses through the repression of OX40‐ligand and CCL17 expression
Authors: Inagaki‐Katashiba Noriko , Ito Tomoki , Inaba Muneo , Azuma Yoshiko , Tanaka Akihiro , Phan Vien , Kibata Kayoko , Satake Atsushi , Nomura Shosaku
Published: July 2019

DCs and epithelial cell‐derived thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) have pivotal roles in allergic inflammation. TSLP stimulates myeloid DCs to express OX40‐ligand (OX40L) and CCL17, which trigger and maintain Th2 cell responses. We have previously shown that statins, which are HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors, have the ability to suppress type I IFN production by plasmacytoid DCs. Here, we extended our previous work to examine the immunomodulatory effect of statins on allergic responses, particularly the TSLP‐dependent Th2 pathway induced by myeloid DCs. We found that treatment of TSLP‐stimulated DCs with either pitavastatin or simvastatin suppressed both the DC‐mediated inflammatory Th2 cell differentiation and CRTH2+CD4+ memory Th2 cell expansion and also repressed the expressions of OX40L and CCL17 by DCs. These inhibitory effects of statins were mimicked by treatment with either a geranylgeranyl‐transferase inhibitor or Rho‐kinase inhibitor and were counteracted by the addition of mevalonate, suggesting that statins induce geranylgeranylated Rho inactivation through a mevalonate‐dependent pathway. We also found that statins inhibited the expressions of phosphorylated STA6 and NF‐κB‐p50 in TSLP‐stimulated DCs. This study identified a specific ability of statins to control DC‐mediated Th2 responses, suggesting their therapeutic potential for treating allergic diseases.
Synthesis of Dimeric Steroid Trioxabispiroacetals Scaffolds by Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Hydroalkoxylation–Hydration of Diynediols
Authors: Valdez‐García Ricardo M. , Alarcón‐Manjarrez Carlos , Galano Annia , Rodríguez‐Molina Braulio , Flores‐Álamo Marcos , Iglesias‐Arteaga Martín A.
Published: July 2019

Five novel dimers in which the steroid cores are bridged by a 6,5,6‐trioxabispiroacetal moiety were synthesized by gold(I)‐catalyzed hydroalkoxylation–hydration of steroid diynediols. The double spiroacetalization proceeded with excellent yield and produced almost exclusively the C2 symmetrical trans diastereomer. A small amount of the cis unsymmetrical diastereomer was isolated only in one case. Density Functional Theory calculations were used to further analyze and justify the population of the diastereomers. Characterization of the obtained dimers was based on combined 1D and 2D NMR techniques. X‐ray diffraction of one of the obtained dimers corroborated the anticipated V‐shaped structure and provided additional structural insights on the crystal network. Unexpectedly, the crystalline array showed interconnected voids, resulting in channels that make this new class of steroid dimers suitable candidates for the development of applications on solid state supramolecular chemistry.
Inulinase immobilization on polyethylene glycol/polypyrrole multiwall carbon nanotubes producing a catalyst with enhanced thermal and operational stability
Authors: Temkov Mishela , Petrovski Aleksandar , Gjorgieva Emilija , Popovski Emil , Lazarova Maja , Boev Ivan , Paunovic Perica , Grozdanov Anita , Dimitrov Aleksandar , Baidak Aliaksandr , Krastanov Albert
Published: July 2019

This paper describes the development of a simple method for mixed non‐covalent and covalent bonding of partially purified inulinase on functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes (f‐MWCNTs) with polypyrrole (PPy). The pyrrole (Py) was electrochemically polymerized on MWCNTs in order to fabricate MWCNTs/PPy nanocomposite. Two multiple forms of enzyme were bound to N‐H functional groups from PPy and ‐COO− from activated MWCNTs to yield a stable MWCNTs/PPy/PEG immobilized preparation with increased thermal stability. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to confirm functionalization of nanoparticles and immobilization of the enzyme. The immobilization yield of 85% and optimal enzyme load of 345 μg protein onto MWCNTs was obtained. The optimum reaction conditions and kinetic parameters were established using the UV‐Vis analytical assay. The best functional performance for prepared heterogeneous catalyst has been observed at pH 3.6 and 10, and at the temperatures of 60 and 80ºC. The half‐life (t1/2) of the immobilized inulinase at 60 and 80ºC was found to be 231 and 99 min, respectively. The reusability of the immobilized formulation was evaluated based on a method in which the enzyme retained 50% of its initial activity, which occurred after the eighteenth operation cycle.
Mode of Action Classifications in the EnviroTox Database: Development and Implementation of a Consensus MOA Classification
Authors: Kienzler Aude , Connors Kristin A. , Bonnell Mark , Barron Mace G. , Beasley Amy , Inglis Cristina G. , Norberg-King Teresa J. , Martin Todd , Sanderson Hans , Vallotton Nathalie , Wilson Peter , Embry Michelle R.
Published: July 2019

Multiple mode of action (MOA) frameworks have been developed in aquatic ecotoxicology, mainly based on fish toxicity. These frameworks provide information on a key determinant of chemical toxicity, but the MOA categories and level of specificity remain unique to each of the classification schemes. The present study aimed to develop a consensus MOA assignment within EnviroTox, a curated in vivo aquatic toxicity database, based on the following MOA classification schemes: Verhaar (modified) framework, Assessment Tool for Evaluating Risk, Toxicity Estimation Software Tool, and OASIS. The MOA classifications from each scheme were first collapsed into one of 3 categories: non–specifically acting (i.e., narcosis), specifically acting, or nonclassifiable. Consensus rules were developed based on the degree of concordance among the 4 individual MOA classifications to attribute a consensus MOA to each chemical. A confidence rank was also assigned to the consensus MOA classification based on the degree of consensus. Overall, 40% of the chemicals were classified as narcotics, 17% as specifically acting, and 43% as unclassified. Sixty percent of chemicals had a medium to high consensus MOA assignment. When compared to empirical acute toxicity data, the general trend of specifically acting chemicals being more toxic is clearly observed for both fish and invertebrates but not for algae. EnviroTox is the first approach to establishing a high-level consensus across 4 computationally and structurally distinct MOA classification schemes. This consensus MOA classification provides both a transparent understanding of the variation between MOA classification schemes and an added certainty of the MOA assignment. In terms of regulatory relevance, a reliable understanding of MOA can provide information that can be useful for the prioritization (ranking) and risk assessment of chemicals. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2294–2304. © 2019 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Effect of Microstructure on the Degradation of La0.6Sr0.4CoO3–δ Electrodes in Dry and Humid Atmospheres
Authors: Egger A. , Perz M. , Bucher E. , Gspan C. , Sitte W.
Published: July 2019

La0.6Sr0.4CoO3–δ electrode layers with three different microstructures were manufactured by screen‐printing, spin‐coating and infiltration into a porous Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95 backbone. Electrode performance was monitored at 700 °C in 20% O2 over periods of 1,600 to 3,860 h by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy under open circuit conditions. Reference measurements were performed in dry atmospheres, where significant electrode activation was observed for cells with spin‐coated and infiltrated electrodes. Subsequently, the relative humidity level in the surrounding atmosphere was set to 30% and further raised to 60%, thus simulating SOFC operation with ambient air without pre‐drying. While no performance loss could be observed in dry atmospheres, significant degradation occurred in humid atmospheres with pronounced differences between degradation rates of half cells with different electrode microstructures. Post‐test analyses by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmissionscanning electron microscopy (STEM) were employed to identify the causes for the observed differences in degradation behavior. For screen‐printed cells, the surface of the degraded electrodes was covered with small crystallites, probably consisting of SrO formed by Sr‐segregation and surface precipitation, where humidity was found to be a crucial factor. For spin‐coated and infiltrated electrodes, poisoning by impurities (Si, Cr, S) and particle coarsening were identified as potential causes.
Aggregation‐Free Organic Dyes Featuring Spiro[dibenzo[3,4:6,7]cyclohepta[1,2‐b]quinoxaline‐10,9′‐fluorene] (SDBQX) for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Fang Jing‐Kun , Xu Mengchen , Hu Xiangyu , Wu Chunxia , Lu Shuang , Yu Hui‐Juan , Bao Xin , Wang Yinglin , Shao Guang , Liu Wei
Published: July 2019

Three novel organic dyes coded as FHD4‐1, FHD4‐2, and FHD4‐3 featuring spiro[dibenzo[3,4:6,7]cyclohepta[1,2‐b]quinoxaline‐10,9′‐fluorene] (SDBQX) moieties are designed to inhibit dye aggregation to improve the performance of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The consistent absorption onsets of FHD4‐1, FHD4‐2, and FHD4‐3 in solutions and adsorbed on TiO2 films indicate that these dyes are aggregation‐free dyes. Therefore, coadsorption with chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) of these three dyes reduces the performance of DSSCs because no inhibition effect for dye aggregation is needed, but, on the contrary, the dye loading amount is reduced after addition of CDCA.
TICON: TIdal CONstants based on GESLA sea‐level records from globally located tide gauges
Authors: Piccioni Gaia , Dettmering Denise , Bosch Wolfgang , Seitz Florian
Published: July 2019

The TICON (TIdal CONstants) dataset contains harmonic constants of 40 tidal constituents computed for 1,145 tide gauges distributed globally. The tidal estimations are based on publicly available sea level records of the second version of the Global Extreme Sea Level Analysis (GESLA) project and were derived through a least squares‐based harmonic analysis on the single time series. A preliminary screening was performed on all records to exclude doubtful observations. Only the records containing more than 70% of valid measurements were processed, that correspond to 89.7% of the total 1,276 original public GESLA records. The results are stored in a text file, and include additional information on the position of the stations, the starting and ending years of the analysed record, the estimated error of the fit, a code that corresponds to the source of the record and additional information on the single time series. In ocean tide models, data from in situ stations are used for validation purposes, and TICON is a useful and easy‐to‐handle data set that allows the users to select the records according to different criteria most suitable for their purposes. The data are provided with DOI identification in the PANGAEA repository.
Glial α‐synuclein promotes neurodegeneration characterized by a distinct transcriptional program in vivo
Authors: Olsen Abby L. , Feany Mel B.
Published: July 2019

α‐Synucleinopathies are neurodegenerative diseases that are characterized pathologically by α‐synuclein inclusions in neurons and glia. The pathologic contribution of glial α‐synuclein in these diseases is not well understood. Glial α‐synuclein may be of particular importance in multiple system atrophy (MSA), which is defined pathologically by glial cytoplasmic α‐synuclein inclusions. We have previously described Drosophila models of neuronal α‐synucleinopathy, which recapitulate key features of the human disorders. We have now expanded our model to express human α‐synuclein in glia. We demonstrate that expression of α‐synuclein in glia alone results in α‐synuclein aggregation, death of dopaminergic neurons, impaired locomotor function, and autonomic dysfunction. Furthermore, co‐expression of α‐synuclein in both neurons and glia worsens these phenotypes as compared to expression of α‐synuclein in neurons alone. We identify unique transcriptomic signatures induced by glial as opposed to neuronal α‐synuclein. These results suggest that glial α‐synuclein may contribute to the burden of pathology in the α‐synucleinopathies through a cell type‐specific transcriptional program. This new Drosophila model system enables further mechanistic studies dissecting the contribution of glial and neuronal α‐synuclein in vivo, potentially shedding light on mechanisms of disease that are especially relevant in MSA but also the α‐synucleinopathies more broadly.
Embracing Asymmetry and Humility in the Face of Disability
Authors: Carlson Licia
Published: July 2019

In “The Relational Potential Standard,” in this issue of the Hastings Center Report, Aaron Wightman and colleagues propose “relational potential” as an addition to existing standards that are employed in making difficult decisions regarding life‐sustaining treatment for children with profound cognitive disabilities. They offer compelling explanations for why the expanded standard is important and why an approach grounded in an ethics of care is both necessary and justified. In what follows, I would like to explore asymmetries that emerge from their account: between clinician and parent and between child and parent. “Asymmetry” is a term invoked in the context of disability, often as a marker of something undesirable, abnormal, pathological. Yet asymmetry may also be generative and worthy of attention, and in some cases, something to be embraced. My aim here is to argue that an important dimension of humility in the face of disability lies in recognizing these asymmetrical relationships and responding to them with care.
Capacity and Relationship
Authors: Kaebnick Gregory E.
Published: July 2019

In the lead article in the May‐June 2019 issue of the Hastings Center Report, Aaron Wightman and coauthors consider the guiding principles for making decisions about life‐sustaining treatment for children who have profound cognitive impairments. They argue that the usual standard, which asks decision‐makers to consider what will be in the child's best interests, cannot provide sufficient guidance. Discussing this problem in HCR thirty‐five years ago, the philosopher John Arras proposed addressing it by means of a “relational potential standard,” according to which decisions about providing life‐sustaining treatment to a child should depend in part on whether the child has the capacity to form human relationships. Wightman et al. build on Arras's work, but where Arras had suggested that the capacity to form relationships could be gauged by examining the child's cognitive capabilities, the authors suggest that the medical team should lean heavily on the parents’ views.
Qualitative Research on Expanded Prenatal and Newborn Screening: Robust but Marginalized
Authors: Grob Rachel
Published: July 2019

If I told you that screening technologies are iteratively transforming how people experience pregnancy and early parenting, you might take notice. If I mentioned that a new class of newborn patients was being created and that particular forms of parental vigilance were emerging, you might want to know more. If I described how the particular stories told about screening in public, combined with parents’ fierce commitment to safeguarding their children’s health, make it difficult for problematic experiences with screening to translate into negative opinions about it, you would most likely be intrigued. An extensive qualitative literature documents all these social phenomena, and more, in connection with the spread of prenatal and newborn screening. So why is it, then, that commentators frequently assert that the predicted psychosocial impact of increased screening and testing associated with “the genomic revolution” has been far less severe and worthy of attention than predicted? How can or should social science “evidence” that sits outside adopted measurement conventions be considered? Why is it that summary statements about the psychosocial impact of genomic information often ignore qualitative evidence, or sideline it as relevant only for improving communication among patients, clinicians, and public health systems? This essay addresses such questions, using qualitative research on prenatal and newborn screening as a case study for illustrating the broad methodological, ideological, and dialogical issues at stake.
The Stress Test
Authors: Gascho Joseph
Published: July 2019

I felt good about myself, driving to the free medical clinic that evening. A full professor at a medical school, leaving my warm home on a cold night after a day at the hospital, seeing patients in clinic in the morning and teaching second‐year students medical ethics in the afternoon (autonomy was the theme; we'd covered beneficence and maleficence earlier in the week). Once a month, patients with cardiac problems come to the clinic, and this was the night. Two students presented the patient, a middle‐aged woman with chest pain. Their presentation was disjointed, in part because of their inexperience, in part because she spoke no English and her story was obtained with the help of a translator. Her eyes rarely met mine; she kept glancing at the translator. I auscultated her heart and lungs, letting the students listen through my stethoscope. What to do now? Had she been a patient that morning back in my clinic, I would have thought to myself, “I can't get a good history; why not do a stress test?” I thought, for what seemed like an eternity: If I send her for a stress test, that will deplete the funds needed for other patients. How important is this test? Is it really necessary? If I send her for a stress test, will someone with a suspicious mass on their chest x‐ray not be able to get a CT scan because no money is left?
Multi‐Gram Scale Synthesis of Chiral 3‐Methyl‐2,5‐trans‐tetrahydrofurans
Authors: Qin Shuanglin , Cao Yuting , Luo Yunhao , Jiang Shende , Clark J. Stephen , Wang Xiaoji , Yang Guang
Published: July 2019

In this article, we report the rapid and facile synthesis of chiral 3‐methyl‐2,5‐trans‐tetrahydrofurans. This reaction utilizes cheap and easily available starting materials. A domino hydrolysis and intramolecular Michael‐type ring closure reaction was the key step. As a result, synthesis of the desired 3‐methyl‐2,5‐trans‐tetrahydrofurans could be achieved in gram‐scale over seven linear steps with high chemical yield and high diastereoselectivity.
Amifostine inhibited the differentiation of RAW264.7 cells into osteoclasts by reducing the production of ROS under 2 Gy radiation
Authors: Zhang Liang , Huang Bo , Tang Haiyang , Ye Xingchen , Yao Yang , Gong Ping , Tang Hua
Published: July 2019

Patients with malignant tumors receive radiotherapy, and radiation could harm the skeletal system, leading to radiation‐induced osteoporosis. A major cause of this phenomenon is the activation of osteoclasts by radiotherapy. In this study, we studied whether amifostine (AMI) could affect the differentiation of osteoclast precursor cells (RAW264.7 cells) into osteoclasts under 2 gray (Gy) radiation. Four groups were used in the experiment: (a) 0 Gy (no radiation); (b) 0 Gy + AMI; (c) 2 Gy radiation; and (d) 2 Gy radiation + AMI. After radiation, a proliferation assay, a reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, a comet assay, Trap staining, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and an animal study to test the effect of AMI on osteoclast precursor cells under 2 Gy radiation were conducted. Cell proliferation was significantly inhibited by AMI (P < .05). In addition, 2 Gy radiation led to longer “comet tails”, high level of ROS, and more Trap‐positive cells in vivo and in vitro (P < .05). Radiation improved the expression of CSTK, NFAT, and Rankl/OPG gene (P < .05), as well as Trap‐5b levels in the serum, and decreased bone mineral density. AMI inhibited the differentiation of RAW264.7 cells, shortened the tail moment length of comets, and decreased the level of ROS induced by radiation. The expression of NFAT, CTSK, and Rankl/OPG was decreased by AMI at the detection time point in radiation groups (P < .05). AMI inhibits the maturation and differentiation of osteoclasts under radiation conditions by reducing DNA damage and ROS induced by radiation, thereby reducing the adverse effects of radiation in the skeletal system, indicating that AMI might be used to treat osteoradionecrosis.
A three‐component process for the synthesis of 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐one derivatives using nanosized nickel aluminate spinel crystals as highly efficient catalysts
Authors: Safaei‐Ghomi Javad , Teymuri Raheleh
Published: July 2019

NiAl2O4 spinel nanocrystals were synthesized as mesoporous catalysts and were fully characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction patterns (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). These nanocrystals catalyzed the synthesis of 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐one derivatives via a one‐pot, three‐component condensation reaction of aromatic aldehydes, isatoic anhydride, and ammonium acetate or primary aromatic amine under microwave irradiation. By far, the most obvious advantages of the offered process are efficiency and recyclability of the catalyst as well as a significantly shorter reaction time.
Enhanced ethanol production from lignocellulosic hydrolysates by inhibiting the hydrogen synthesis in Thermoanaerobacterium aotearoense SCUT27(Δldh)
Authors: Fu Hongxin , Yang Xitong , Qu Chunyun , Li Yang , Wang Jufang
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Thermophilic anaerobic bacteria have gained increased interest as a desirable biological catalyst for bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass. However, by‐products such as lactic acid, acetic acid and hydrogen (H2) not only lead to low ethanol yield but also increase the difficulty of ethanol purification. Considering that ethanol production is dependent on the supply of NADH, blocking or inhibiting lactic acid (by knocking out ldh) and H2 formation should be a reliable strategy to further increase the ethanol production.

RESULTS

Comparative genome analysis indicated that three hydrogenase gene clusters (hyd, ech and hfs) were identified in Thermoanaerobacterium aotearoense SCUT27, and they were proved to be related to H2 production by gene knockout. Deletion of hyd or ech in SCUT27(Δldh) showed a decrease in substrate consumption and ethanol production, while hfsB gene knockout resulted in significant improvement in overall fermentation performance. Compared with SCUT27(Δldh), the ethanol concentration, yield and productivity of SCUT27(Δldh/ΔhfsB) were increased from 25.15 ± 0.45 g L−1, 0.33 ± 0.01 g g−1 and 0.30 ± 0.01 g L−1 h−1 to 39.64 ± 0.16 g L−1, 0.36 ± 0.00 g g−1 and 0.41 ± 0.01 g L−1 h−1 respectively using glucose in fed‐batch fermentation. The enhanced ethanol production was due to the increased NADH supply and alcohol dehydrogenase activity. Finally, the feasibility of ethanol production by SCUT27(Δldh/ΔhfsB) from hydrolysates of soybean hull, wheat straw, corn cob and corn straw was demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

Knocking out the ldh and hfsB in SCUT27 is an efficient strategy for diverting carbon flux and NADH towards ethanol production, and the resulting strain SCUT27(Δldh/ΔhfsB) has great potential in the production of ethanol from lignocellulosic hydrolysates. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Prediction of disease severity in multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency: A retrospective and laboratory cohort study
Authors: van Rijt Willemijn J. , Ferdinandusse Sacha , Giannopoulos Panagiotis , Ruiter Jos P. N. , de Boer Lonneke , Bosch Annet M. , Huidekoper Hidde H. , Rubio‐Gozalbo M. Estela , Visser Gepke , Williams Monique , Wanders Ronald J. A. , Derks Terry G. J.
Published: July 2019

Multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is an ultra‐rare inborn error of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and amino acid metabolism. Individual phenotypes and treatment response can vary markedly. We aimed to identify markers that predict MADD phenotypes. We performed a retrospective nationwide cohort study; then developed an MADD‐disease severity scoring system (MADD‐DS3) based on signs and symptoms with weighed expert opinions; and finally correlated phenotypes and MADD‐DS3 scores to FAO flux (oleate and myristate oxidation rates) and acylcarnitine profiles after palmitate loading in fibroblasts. Eighteen patients, diagnosed between 1989 and 2014, were identified. The MADD‐DS3 entails enumeration of eight domain scores, which are calculated by averaging the relevant symptom scores. Lifetime MADD‐DS3 scores of patients in our cohort ranged from 0 to 29. FAO flux and [U‐13C]C2‐, C5‐, and [U‐13C]C16‐acylcarnitines were identified as key variables that discriminated neonatal from later onset patients (all P < .05) and strongly correlated to MADD‐DS3 scores (oleate: r = −.86; myristate: r = −.91; [U‐13C]C2‐acylcarnitine: r = −.96; C5‐acylcarnitine: r = .97; [U‐13C]C16‐acylcarnitine: r = .98, all P < .01). Functional studies in fibroblasts were found to differentiate between neonatal and later onset MADD‐patients and were correlated to MADD‐DS3 scores. Our data may improve early prediction of disease severity in order to start (preventive) and follow‐up treatment appropriately. This is especially relevant in view of the inclusion of MADD in population newborn screening programs.
Growing evidence for a role for acyl-CoA synthetase 1 in immunometabolism
Authors: Bornfeldt Karin E
Published: July 2019

Discussion on the role of acyl-CoA synthetase 1 in immunometabolism.
An Exploratory Retrospective Study of Factors Affecting Energy Expenditure in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Mtaweh Haifa , Garros Christiana , Ashkin Allison , Tuira Lori , Allard Johane P. , Pencharz Paul , Pullenayegum Eleanor , Joffe Ari , Parshuram Christopher S.
Published: July 2019

Background

Accurate measurement of energy expenditure is not widely available. Patient and clinical factors associated with energy expenditure have been poorly explored, leading to errors in estimation formulae. The objective of this study was to determine clinical factors associated with measured energy expenditure (MEE), expressed in kcal/kg/d, in critically ill children.

Methods

This was a retrospective study at 2 Canadian pediatric intensive care units (ICUs). Patients were mechanically ventilated children who had 1 or more MEE using indirect calorimetry. Associations between MEE and 28 clinical factors were evaluated in univariate regression and 16 factors in a multivariate regression model accounting for repeated measurements.

Results

Data from 239 patients (279 measurements) were analyzed. Median (Q1, Q3) MEE was 34.8 (26.8, 46.2) kcal/kg/d. MEE was significantly associated with weight, heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, ICU day of indirect calorimetry (P = 0.004), minute ventilation, vasoactive inotropic score (P = 0.004), opioids, chloral hydrate, dexmedetomidine, inhaled salbutamol (P = 0.02), and propofol dose (all P < 0.0001 unless otherwise specified) in the final multivariate regression model.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated association between MEE (kcal/kg/d) and factors not previously explored in pediatric critical illness. Further evaluation of these factors to confirm associations and more precisely quantify the magnitude of effect is required to support refinement of formulae to estimate energy expenditure.
Morbidity after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with carboplatin used for ovarian, tubal, and primary peritoneal cancer
Authors: Mikkelsen Mette Schou , Christiansen Thora , Petersen Lone Kjeld , Blaakaer Jan , Iversen Lene Hjerrild
Published: July 2019

Background and objectives: Hypertherm intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is increasingly used in the treatment of ovarian, tubal, and primary peritoneal cancer (OC). The aim was to evaluate short‐term morbidity of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and carboplatin HIPEC.

Methods: Prospective feasibility study performed from January 2016 to December 2017. Twenty‐five patients with primary OC (FIGO III‐IV) received upfront or interval CRS combined with carboplatin HIPEC at dose 800 mg/m
2. Primary outcome measurements: grade 3 to 5 adverse events within 30 days according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Secondary outcome measurements: reoperation rate, length of hospital stay, readmission rate, and time from surgery to systemic chemotherapy administration.

Results: No deaths (grade 5) or grade 4 adverse events were observed. Eleven patients (44.0%) experienced at least one grade 3 adverse event, the most common being an infection (28.0%) and neutropenia (12.0%). The reoperation rate was 8.0%. The median hospital stay was 14 days (range 9‐25 days), and five patients (25.0%) were readmitted within 30 days after surgery. Median time from surgery to the administration of the first dose of systemic chemotherapy was 41 days (range 24‐81 days).

Conclusion: Our small‐scale prospective study supports that CRS and carboplatin HIPEC used for primary advanced‐stage OC is feasible with acceptable morbidity.
Solid‐phase microextraction Arrow for the volatile organic compounds in soy sauce
Authors: Lee Jun‐Young , Kim Woo Seok , Lee Yun‐Yeol , Choi Yun‐Sang , Choi Hyunwook , Jang Hae Won
Published: July 2019

A novel solid‐phase microextraction Arrow was used to separate volatile organic compounds from soy sauce, and the results were verified by using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Solid‐phase microextraction Arrow was optimized in terms of three extraction conditions: type of fiber used (polydimethylsiloxane, polyacrylate, carbon wide range/polydimethylsiloxane, and divinylbenzene/polydimethylsiloxane), extraction temperature (40, 50, and 60°C), and extraction time (10, 30, and 60 min). The optimal solid‐phase microextraction Arrow conditions were as follows: type of fiber = polyacrylate, extraction time = 60 min, and extraction temperature = 50°C. Under the optimized conditions, the solid‐phase microextraction Arrow was compared with conventional solid‐phase microextraction to determine extraction yields. The solid‐phase microextraction Arrow yielded 6–42‐fold higher levels than in solid‐phase microextraction for all 21 volatile organic compounds detected in soy sauce due to the larger sorption phase volume. The findings of this study can provide practical guidelines for solid‐phase microextraction Arrow applications in food matrixes by providing analytical methods for volatile organic compounds.
Ultrasound‐Guided Hydraulic Release Associated With Corticosteroids in Radial Tunnel Syndrome: Description of Technique and Preliminary Clinical Results
Authors: García Nicolás , Rosales Julio , Greene Cristóbal , Droppelmann Guillermo , Verdugo Marco A.
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to describe a perineural ultrasound‐guided infiltration technique for management of radial tunnel syndrome and to report its preliminary results in 54 patients. A mixture of a saline solution, a local anesthetic, and a corticosteroid solution was infiltrated in the perineural region at the arcade of Frohse. Pain was reported in 100% of patients before the procedure versus 1.9% after the procedure. Scratch collapse and Cozen test results were positive in 98.1% and 66.7% of patients before infiltration, respectively, versus 5.6% and 9.2% after infiltration. All variables had statistically significant differences between preprocedure and postprocedure evaluations (P < .01).
Microfluidic‐Printed Microcarrier for In Vitro Expansion of Adherent Stem Cells in 3D Culture Platform
Authors: Park Wook , Jang Seoyoung , Kim Tae Woo , Bae Junghyun , Oh Tong In , Lee EunAh
Published: July 2019

Microcarrier‐based stem cell expansion cultures can increase the dimensions of in vitro stem cell cultures from 2D to 3D. The culture handling process then becomes more efficient compared with conventional 2D cultures. However, the use of spherical plastic microcarriers complicates the monitoring of cell culture. To facilitate monitoring, transparent disc‐shaped microcarriers are manufactured using a light‐initiated microfluidic printing system and the obtained microcarriers are named as 2.5D microcarrier. The 2.5D microcarriers (diameter/height ≈ 5) enable us to use conventional monitoring tools in 2D‐based platform during the in vitro expansion on a 3D culture platform. Surface modification via a 1 h‐long poly‐dopamine (PDA) reaction can maintain the transparent nature of the microcarriers while optimizing the cell attachment. The surface marker expression and differentiation potential of the 2.5D microcarrier‐expanded stem cells reveal that the characteristics and functionalities preserved during expansion. The 2.5D microcarrier is readily integrated into an on‐bead assay to conserve reagents and permit a high number (n = 9) of repeated measurements with reliable results. These results demonstrate that the 2.5D microcarrier‐based scale‐up culture provides a valuable tool for the in vitro expansion of adherent stem cells, especially if repetitive monitoring is required.
Biodegradable Poly(butylene succinate‐co‐terephthalate) Fibers Incorporated with Nanoparticles under High Drawing Temperatures for Enhanced Mechanical Properties
Authors: Gu Jiayi , Wei Xing , Hou Xueni , Wei Zhenzhen
Published: July 2019

The performance of materials depends strongly on their microstructures which, in turn, are dependent on the processing parameters. In this work, the emerging and biodegradable poly(butylene succinate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBST) nanocomposites with different nanoparticles (NPs) are generated via in situ polymerization and the corresponding composite fibers are fabricated via melt‐spinning for the first time. The NPs play a role as nucleating agents and can increase the crystallization rate. The real‐time investigation of evolution of fibers during uniaxial stretching is carried out on synchrotron radiation small‐angle X‐ray scattering beamline integrated with a thermomechanical equipment, so as to identify the effects of drawing temperatures and NPs on lamellar structure. Both the existence of NPs and high drawing temperature are beneficial to the formation and perfection of new lamellae. Moreover, NPs and relatively high temperature can improve the break strength of PBST fibers by 10–20%, which is reasonable according to the findings in structure development. Furthermore, the method employed here for property improvement of PBST fibers sheds light on performance optimization of other polymers and fibers.