bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grassland renovation has important consequences for C and N cycling and losses
Authors: Kayser Manfred , Müller Jürgen , Isselstein Johannes
Published: August 2018

Sward degradation is a serious threat to the functioning of agricultural grassland and the provision of ecosystem services. Renovation measures are frequently applied to restore degraded swards. The success is highly variable, and substantial trade‐offs can be related to the process of renovation. This paper starts with a general classification of renovation measures and then investigates the processes that are directly related to renovation and lead to a change in botanical composition and affect soil functions and C and N fluxes. These processes are strongly interrelated and dependent on site, climate, and management condition as well as on the timescale. The more an existing and degraded sward is deliberately disturbed prior to a renovation measure, for example, by ploughing, the stronger will be the change in sward composition, and the stronger will be the potential yield and quality advantage. However, the risk of a release of soil organic C and N emissions to the environment will also increase. These emissions will usually decrease in time, but so will the positive effects on sward composition. This demonstrates that the renovation of swards is normally the second best solution and a proper and well‐adapted grassland utilization and management should be adopted to avoid degradation in the first place.
Stability of wheat grain yields over three field seasons in the UK
Authors: Pennacchi João Paulo , Carmo‐Silva Elizabete , Andralojc P. John , Lawson Tracy , Allen Alexandra M. , Raines Christine A. , Parry Martin A. J.
Published: August 2018

Ensuring food security in a changing climate is a major contemporary challenge and requires development of climate‐resilient crops that perform well under variable environments. The hypothesis that yield stability in suboptimal conditions is linked to yield penalties in optimal conditions was investigated in field‐grown wheat in the UK. The phenotypic responses, rate of wheat crop development, and final grain yield to varying sowing date, rainfall, air temperature, and radiation patterns were studied for a panel of 61 elite commercial wheat cultivars grown in the UK in 2012, 2013, and 2014. Contrasting climatic patterns, particularly rainfall accumulation and distribution over the season, influenced the relative performance of the cultivars affecting the duration of grain development stage and impacting on productivity. Indices for crop productivity, yield stability, and performance under suboptimal conditions revealed four cultivars with a combination of stable and high relative grain yields over the three seasons: Gladiator, Humber, Mercato, and Zebedee. Genetic similarity between cultivars partially explained yield performance in the contrasting seasons. The year of release of the cultivars correlated with grain yield but not with yield stability, supporting the contention that breeding for yield potential does not select for climate resilience and yield stability of crops. Further analysis of the outstanding cultivars may unravel target traits for breeding efforts aimed at increasing wheat yield potential and stability in the changing climate.
The evidential statistical paradigm in genetics
Authors: Strug Lisa J.
Published: August 2018

Concerns over reproducibility in research has reinvigorated the discourse onP‐values as measures of statistical evidence. In a position statement by the American Statistical Association board of directors, they warn ofP‐value misuse and refer to the availability of alternatives. Despite the common practice of comparingP‐values across different hypothesis tests in genetics, it is well‐appreciated thatP‐values must be interpreted alongside the sample size and experimental design used for their computation. Here, we discuss the evidential statistical paradigm (EP), an alternative to Bayesian and Frequentist paradigms, that has been implemented in human genetics studies. Using applications in Cystic Fibrosis genetic association analyses, and describing recent theoretical developments, we review how to measure statistical evidence using the EP in the presence of covariates, model misspecification, and for composite hypotheses. Novel graphical displays are presented, and software for their computation is highlighted. The implications of multiple hypothesis testing for the EP are delineated in the analyses, demonstrating a view more consistent with scientific reasoning; the EP provides a theoretical justification for replication that is a requirement in genetic association studies. As genetic studies grow in size and complexity, a fresh look at measures of statistical evidence that are sensible amid the analysis of big data are required.
Singing in the brain: Neural representation of music and voice as revealed by fMRI
Authors: Whitehead Jocelyne C. , Armony Jorge L.
Published: August 2018

The ubiquity of music across cultures as a means of emotional expression, and its proposed evolutionary relation to speech, motivated researchers to attempt a characterization of its neural representation. Several neuroimaging studies have reported that specific regions in the anterior temporal lobe respond more strongly to music than to other auditory stimuli, including spoken voice. Nonetheless, because most studies have employed instrumental music, which has important acoustic distinctions from human voice, questions still exist as to the specificity of the observed “music‐preferred” areas. Here, we sought to address this issue by testing 24 healthy young adults with fast, high‐resolution fMRI, to record neural responses to a large and varied set of musical stimuli, which, critically, includeda capellasinging, as well as purely instrumental excerpts. Our results confirmed that music; vocal or instrumental, preferentially engaged regions in the superior STG, particularly in the anterior planum polare, bilaterally. In contrast, human voice, either spoken or sung, activated more strongly a large area along the superior temporal sulcus. Findings were consistent between univariate and multivariate analyses, as well as with the use of a “silent” sparse acquisition sequence that minimizes any potential influence of scanner noise on the resulting activations. Activity in music‐preferred regions could not be accounted for by any basic acoustic parameter tested, suggesting these areas integrate, likely in a nonlinear fashion, a combination of acoustic attributes that, together, result in the perceived musicality of the stimuli, consistent with proposed hierarchical processing of complex auditory information within the temporal lobes.
Neural representation of word categories is distinct in the temporal lobe: An activation likelihood analysis
Authors: Faroqi‐Shah Yasmeen , Sebastian Rajani , Woude Ashlyn Vander
Published: August 2018

The distinction between nouns and verbs is a language universal. Yet, functional neuroimaging studies comparing noun and verb processing have yielded inconsistent findings, ranging from a complete frontal(verb)–temporal(noun) dichotomy to a complete overlap in activation patterns. The current study addressed the debate about neural distinctions between nouns and verbs by conducting an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta‐analysis of probabilistic cytoarchitectonic maps. Two levels of analysis were conducted: simple effects (Verbs vs. Baseline, Nouns vs. Baseline), and direct comparisons (Verbs vs. Nouns, Nouns vs. Verbs). Nouns were uniquely associated with a left medial temporal cluster (BA37). Activation foci for verbs included extensive inferior frontal (BA44–47) and mid‐temporal (BA22, 21) regions in the left hemisphere. These findings confirm that the two grammatical classes have distinct neural architecture in supra‐modal brain regions. Further, nouns and verbs overlapped in a small left lateral inferior temporal activation cluster (BA37), which is a region for modality‐independent, grammatical class‐independent lexical representations. These findings are most consistent with the view that as one acquires language, linguistic representations for a lexical category shift from the modality specific cortices which represent prototypical members of that category (e.g., motion for verbs) to abstract amodal representations in close proximity to modality specific cortices.
Differences in motor network dynamics during recovery between supra‐ and infra‐tentorial ischemic strokes
Authors: Lee Jungsoo , Lee Ahee , Kim Heegoo , Chang Won Hyuk , Kim Yun‐Hee
Published: August 2018

Most previous stroke studies have been performed in heterogeneous patient populations. Moreover, the brain network might demonstrate different recovery dynamics according to lesion location. In this study, we investigated variation in motor network alterations according to lesion location. Forty patients with subcortical ischemic stroke were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups: 21 patients with supratentorial stroke (STS) and 19 patients with infratentorial stroke (ITS). All patients underwent resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging and behavioral assessment at 2 weeks and 3 months poststroke. Twenty‐four healthy subjects participated as a control group. To compare altered connectivity between groups, measures used in previous studies to evaluate interhemispheric balance and global network reorganization were investigated and the relationship between network measures and motor functions were examined. Cortico‐cerebellar connectivity was also extracted to investigate its relationship with interhemispheric connectivity. In the STS group, measures related to interhemispheric balance were disrupted compared to the control group 2 weeks poststroke, while this was not found in the ITS group. During recovery, measures related to global network reorganization in the STS group and measures related to interhemispheric balance in the ITS group demonstrated significant changes, respectively. Moreover, motor functions were correlated with altered network measures in both groups. There was an interactive relationship between cortico‐cerebellar and interhemispheric cortical connectivity only in the ITS group. Different changes in the motor network were observed depending on the location of stroke lesions. These results might originate from differences in the interactions between cortico‐cerebellar and interhemispheric connectivity.
Noninvasive, tube‐based, continuous vagal nerve monitoring using the laryngeal adductor reflex: Feasibility study of 134 nerves at risk
Authors: Sinclair Catherine F. , Téllez Maria J. , Ulkatan Sedat
Published: August 2018

Background

Continuous vagal intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) currently requires placement of a vagal nerve electrode. Herein, we present data from 100 patients (134 nerves‐at‐risk) monitored continuously during neck endocrine surgeries using a noninvasive, new methodology that solely utilizes endotracheal tube electrodes to simultaneously stimulate laryngeal mucosa and record a laryngeal adductor reflex continuous IONM (LAR‐C‐IONM) response.

Methods

The laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) was elicited by electrical laryngeal mucosal stimulation on the side contralateral to the operative field using endotracheal tube electrodes. All patients completed preoperative and postoperative laryngeal and voice examinations.

Results

One hundred patients (134 nerves‐at‐risk) were included. Significantly more nerves‐at‐risk with an LAR opening to closing amplitude decrement >60% or with absolute closing amplitude <100 μV had postoperative vocal fold paralysis (P < .001). The LAR‐C‐IONM was highly sensitive to recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) stretch or compression.

Conclusion

The LAR‐C‐IONM is a promising new way to perform continuous vagal monitoring that requires no equipment other than an electromyography (EMG) endotracheal tube and is undergoing further, large‐scale evaluation.
Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and microRNAs: Challenges and future perspectives in oral cancer
Authors: Domingues Cátia Sofia da Costa , Serambeque Beatriz Prazeres , Laranjo Cândido Mafalda Sofia , Marto Carlos Miguel Machado , Veiga Francisco José de Baptista , Sarmento Antunes Cruz Ribeiro Ana Bela , Figueiras Ana Rita Ramalho , Botelho Maria Filomena Roque , Dourado Marília de Assunção Rodrigues Ferreira
Published: August 2018

Background

Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) being the most representative type. OSCC is a public health problem with high morbidity and poor survival rate. Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition is emerging as a hallmark in OSCC.

Methods

In this study, we described the role of microRNAs in epithelial‐mesenchymal transition regulation in OSCC based on a PubMed search using articles published in English between January 1, 2010, and January 31, 2018.

Results

MicroRNA's regulatory networks seem to be a hallmark of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in OSCC pathophysiology becoming a growing challenge to design new studies and strategies from biology to clinical applications.

Conclusion

Therefore, we propose that targeting therapies to epithelial‐mesenchymal transition‐type cells, namely, coordinating microRNAs and/or hydrophobic drugs, such as conventional therapy, could be a promising strategy to improve the outcomes of patients with OSCC.
Liver Complications Following Treatment of Hematologic Malignancy With Anti‐CD22‐Calicheamicin (Inotuzumab Ozogamicin)
Authors: McDonald George B. , Freston James W. , Boyer James L. , DeLeve Laurie D.
Published: August 2018

Treatment of hematological malignancy with antibody‐drug conjugates (ADCs) may cause liver injury. ADCs deliver a toxic moiety into antigen‐expressing tumor cells, but may also injure hepatic sinusoids (sinusoidal obstruction syndrome; SOS). We studied patients who received an anti‐CD22/calicheamicin conjugate (inotuzumab ozogamicin; InO) to gain insight into mechanisms of sinusoidal injury, given that there are no CD22+ cells in the normal liver, but nonspecific uptake of ADCs by liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). Six hundred thirty‐eight patients (307 with acute lymphocytic leukemia [ALL], 311 with non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma [NHL]) were randomized to either InO or standard chemotherapy (controls). While blinded to treatment assignment, we reviewed all cases with hepatobiliary complications to adjudicate the causes. Frequency of SOS among patients who received InO was 5 of 328 (1.5%), compared to no cases among 310 control patients. Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) developed in 26 (7.9%) InO recipients and 3 (1%) controls. Intrahepatic cholestasis (IHC) was observed in 4.9% of InO recipients and in 5.5% of controls. Subsequent to the randomization study, 113 patients with ALL underwent allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT); frequency of SOS in those previously exposed to InO was 21 of 79 (27%) versus 3 of 34 (9%) in controls. An exploratory multivariate model identified a past history of liver disease and thrombocytopenia before conditioning therapy as dominant risk factors for SOS after transplant. Conclusion: Frequencies of SOS and DILI after inotuzumab ozogamicin treatment were 1.5% and 7.9%, respectively, compared to none and 1% among controls who received standard chemotherapy. These data suggest that ADCs that do not target antigens present in the normal liver have a relatively low frequency of SOS, but a relatively high frequency of DILI.
Chemistry and Dual Use: From Scientific Integrity to Social Responsibility
Authors: Mehlich Jan
Published: August 2018

Ethical aspects of chemical activity are often exclusively located in the field of scientific integrity and good scientific practice. Yet, there is another dimension of ethics in chemistry that is not covered by research ethics: the impact of chemical scientific and technological progress on society and environment. Here, especially, the dual character of manifestations of chemical progress (new compounds, materials, and processes) is discussed. This essay aims at clarifying the roles, responsibilities, and chances of chemists to contribute to the assessment and management of dual use risks. Its main argument is that the framework for an efficient risk assessment has been established in science and technology governance, based on the sustainability concept. Without having to worry about exceeding their core competences too much – as in ‘Ethics is not my business!’ – chemists’ expertise and knowledge plays a crucial role in tackling the most urging issues of our times as part of a larger interdisciplinary endeavour.
Hydrogen‐Bonded Siloxane Liquid Crystals for Hybrid Nanomaterials
Authors: Nickmans Koen , Jansma Sjoerd O. , Hey Daniela , Velpula Gangamallaiah , Teyssandier Joan , De Feyter Steven , Schenning Albert P. H. J.
Published: August 2018

The self‐assembly of molecular inorganic/organic hybrid building blocks into ordered hierarchical nanomaterials with a tunable morphology is an enormous challenge. Here, we describe the synthesis and characterization of a novel liquid crystalline hydrogen‐bonding hepta(dimethylsiloxane) azobenzene carboxylic acid dimer. This inorganic/organic hybrid dimer forms sub‐5 nm lamellar features in the bulk and at the liquid solid interface. When mixed with a complementary hydrogen‐bonding disk‐shaped small molecule, a columnar hexagonal phase is formed. When adding a block copolymer containing hydrogen bond‐accepting moieties, a hierarchical nanostructured material is obtained with a hexagonal columnar arrangement perpendicular to lamellae super structure. Our supramolecular approach shows that hierarchical hybrid nanomaterials can be fabricated with controlled properties which is appealing for applications such as nanoporous materials, organic electronics, and nanolithography.
Reducing stress and burnout in the public‐sector work environment: A mindfulness meditation pilot study
Authors: Vella Elizabeth , McIver Shane
Published: August 2018

Issue addressed

Identifying ways to manage the psychological and emotional costs of workplace stress is essential. Mindfulness meditation is reported to support mental well‐being; however, findings are limited in Australian business settings. Accordingly, this study explored the efficacy of a mindfulness meditation program tailored for an Australian public‐sector workplace.

Methods

A mixed‐methods, single‐group, pre‐/post‐test design was used to evaluate a proof‐of‐concept mindfulness intervention. Quantitative measures included the Perceived Stress Scale and Maslach Burnout Inventory. Survey data were collected to analyse participant experiences. Participants (n = 65) were recruited from a government organisation. The 8‐week program ran weekly for 45 minutes and had a 65% retention rate. Resources were provided to support home practice.

Results

Statistically significant decreases were obtained for perceived stress (d = 0.8) and emotional exhaustion (d = 0.4). Themes from qualitative findings suggested participants experienced an increased recognition of stress triggers, increased ability to detach from stressors, increased calmness and increased ability to prioritise work.

Conclusions

Qualitative results extend comparable quantitative research by detailing how an appropriately tailored 8‐week meditation‐based program has the potential to decrease perceived stress in highly stressful work environments.

So what?

Triangulated data suggest that an appropriately adapted mindfulness meditation program can be an effective, efficient and low‐cost inclusion within an organisation's health promotion repertoire to help increase mental health among staff.
Estimating the impact of an organised screening programme on cervical cancer incidence: A 26‐year study from northern Italy
Authors: Bucchi Lauro , Baldacchini Flavia , Mancini Silvia , Ravaioli Alessandra , Giuliani Orietta , Vattiato Rosa , Falcini Fabio , Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Campari Cinzia , Canuti Debora , Di Felice Enza , Sassoli de Bianchi Priscilla , Ferretti Stefano , Bertozzi Nicoletta , Biggeri Annibale ,   on behalf of the Emilia‐Romagna Region Workgroup for Cervical Screening Evaluation
Published: August 2018

The impact of the organised cervical cancer (CC) screening programmes implemented in Europe since the 1990s has been insufficiently evaluated. We investigated the changes in CC incidence following the introduction of a screening programme in the Emilia‐Romagna Region (northern Italy). The study period was 1988–2013. The programme, targeting women aged 25–64 years (1,219,000 in 2018), started in 1998. The annual incidence rates that would be expected in 1998–2013 in the absence of screening were estimated, first, by analysing the annual rates in 1988–1997 with a log‐linear model and, second, by analysing the annual rates in 1988–2013 with an age‐period model in which the period effect was enforced to be linear. Cervical adenocarcinoma incidence trend over the entire period was used to validate both estimates. Observed annual rates were compared to the two series of expected ones with the incidence rate ratio (IRR). Incidence remained stable during 1988–1997, peaked in 1998 and then decreased until 2007, when it stabilised. The two series of expected rates were virtually coincident and their trends roughly paralleled the stable adenocarcinoma incidence trend. After 2007, the median IRR was 0.60 (95% confidence interval, 0.45–0.81) based on the log‐linear model and 0.58 (95% confidence interval, 0.34–0.97) based on the age‐period model. Thirty‐six to seventy‐five CC cases were prevented annually for an average annual frequency of 6.5 per 100,000 women in the target population. In summary, consistent circumstantial evidences were obtained that the organised screening programme brought about a 40% reduction in annual CC incidence after 10 years.
Blockchain as a service: Securing bartering functionalities in the H2020 symbIoTe framework
Authors: Tedeschi Pietro , Piro Giuseppe , Murillo Jose Antonio Sanchez , Ignjatov Nemanja , Pilc Michał , Lebloch Kaspar , Boggia Gennaro
Published: August 2018

Blockchain is emerging as a promising technology that is able to support transparent, secure, and immutable transactions traceability in decentralized networks. Its usage in many application domains, including the Internet of Things, is gaining the attention of even more researchers and industries worldwide. In line with current research interests, the work presented in this letter has been carried out in the context of the European H2020 symbIoTe project. Among its main features, the symbIoTe framework offers bartering functionalities across a federation of Internet of Things platforms. This letter extends the baseline implementation of bartering functionalities and formulates a novel methodology that properly integrates and takes advantages from the Blockchain technology. Even if the proposed approach is general, the main facets characterizing the conceived approach are illustrated through a fictional use case envisaging the provisioning of Intelligent Transportation System and air pollution services in a Smart City.
Regulation of antigen 85C activity by reversible S‐glutathionylation
Authors: Mandato Alysia , Chai Yuh‐Cherng
Published: August 2018

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the causative agent of many strains of tuberculosis, as it is composed of an impenetrable, complex cell wall. The proteins active in the synthesis of the cell wall are mycolyl transferase antigens 85A, 85B, and 85C, encoded by genes fbpA, fbpB, and fbpC. Antigen 85C contains one cysteine residue. S‐Glutathionylation is the formation of a mixed disulfide between a protein cysteine residue and glutathione (GSH), an abundant antioxidant molecule. It is a post‐translational modification of cysteine residues which can occur under oxidative stress or physiological conditions. It is a known mechanism to regulate enzyme activity, signaling pathways, and the progression of diseases. By S‐glutathionylation, the lone cysteine residue in antigen 85C is modified by biotinylated GSH ethyl ester to form a mixed disulfide. This modification results in a decrease in enzyme activity by 90%, representing a decrease in ability of the protein to synthesize the bacterial cell wall. Both the modification and the enzymatic activity of the protein are concentration dependent and can be reversed upon addition of a thiol reducing agent. The results provide a potential strategy for inhibiting the synthesis of the cell wall of M. tuberculosis by promoting oxidation of the lone cysteine residue. To our knowledge, this is a novel finding to demonstrate the modification of antigen 85C and the regulation of its activity by a physiological molecule. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(11):1111–1114, 2018
Crystal structure of phospholipase A2 in complex with 1‐naphthaleneacetic acid
Authors: Dileep Kalarickal V. , Remya Chandran , Tintu Ignatius , Mandal Pradeep K. , Karthe Ponnuraj , Haridas Madathilkovilakathu , Sadasivan Chittalakkottu
Published: August 2018

Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is one of the rate limiting enzymes involved in the production of arachidonic acid, a potent inflammatory mediator. PLA2 is widely distributed all over the animal kingdom. It is also seen in inflammatory exudation and venoms of different organisms. The studies demonstrated that PLA2 inhibitors have broad spectrum activities that they can either be used against inflammation or envenomation. In this study, the inhibitory activity of 1‐napthaleneacetic acid (NAA) against porcine pancreatic PLA2 has been explained through isothermal titration calorimetry and enzyme kinetics studies. The atomic level of interactions of NAA with PLA2 was also studied using X‐ray crystallography. Apart from these findings, the theoretical binding affinities and mode of interactions of two naphthalene‐based NSAIDs such as naproxen (NAP) and nabumetone (NAB) were studied through molecular modeling. The studies proved that the selected ligands are binding at the doorway of the active site cleft and hindering the substrate entry to the active site. The study brings out a potential scaffold for the designing of broad spectrum PLA2 inhibitors which can be used for inflammation or envenomation. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(10):995–1001, 2018
Treatment of aniline contaminated water by a self‐designed dielectric barrier discharge reactor coupling with micro‐bubbles: optimization of the system and effects of water matrix
Authors: Liu Yanan , Shen Xue , Sun Jihui , Li Pan , Zhang Ai
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

A self‐designed dielectric barrier discharge reactor coupling with micro‐bubbles (DBD/MB) system is proposed as a promising method to remove aniline in waste water. The optimum geometric dimensions of the reactor and the operating parameters of the DBD/MB system as well as the influence of the water matrix (including cations, anions, and coexisting organics) were investigated. The functional mechanisms of the DBD/MB system were explored.

RESULTS

By setting the double‐dielectric barrier discharge reactor (DDBD) with electrode gap as 5 mm, discharge voltage as 50 kV, and air intake flow of the MB generator as 40 mL min−1, the aniline removal efficiency reached 82% within an hour. The removal efficiency could be promoted by the presence of metal ions (Cu2+, Fe2+ and Mn2+), while it was also found that with the presence of certain anions (CO32−, Cl−, NO3− and SO42−), the degradation process was inhibited by more than 40%. The coexisting organics did not influence aniline removal. Active species (•OH, H2O2 and O3) generated in the DDBD/MB treatment and micro‐bubbles played important roles in the aniline degradation process.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides fundamental information for the application of a DDBD/MB system to effectively remove aniline from water. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Optimization of continuous arsenic biosorption present in natural contaminated groundwater
Authors: Pérez Mora Bárbara E , Bellú Sebastián E , Mangiameli María F , García Silvia I , González Juan C
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Arsenic (As) is a serious water pollution problem in the world. In Argentina, it is related to old volcanic activities; for example, the western region of Santa Fe State has concentrations higher than 0.1 mgAs L−1. In this work, a green, sensitive method was used to determine As concentration, and its removal using chitosan in bed columns was studied. Mathematical models were used to explain sorption, and the process was optimized using statistical methods.

RESULTS

Arsenic quantification was realized with a bespoke modification of the As molybdenum blue method (detection limit = 0.0048 mg L−1, quantification limit = 0.0145 mg L−1). Chitosan molar mass, pHZPC and deacetylation degree were 350 ± 10 kDa, 6.3% and 76.2%, respectively. A maximum of 68.5% was obtained for As(V) removal at optimum conditions. Raising the bed column height produced an increment in breakthrough times, and the sorption process was favoured using low flow rates. Salinity, phosphate and nitrate concentration reductions were 60%, 50% and 70%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Sorption studies have been carried out on groundwater, using columns packed with chitosan for arsenic removal. The process was optimized by a factorial design. Elution profiles were adjusted adequately with mathematical models. The modified analytical technique for arsenic quantification applied in groundwater, was successful. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Which activated sludge configurations qualify for maximizing energy conservation – Why?
Authors: Orhon Derin , Allı Buşra , Sözen Seval
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

This paper aimed to provide a critical appraisal on maximizing sludge generation and energy conservation in high‐rate activated sludge (AS) configurations. The role of gravity settling and the positive attributes of high rate membrane bioreactors were emphasized. The appraisal covered data reported in the literature on 40 different experiments testing high‐rate AS configurations for sludge generation and energy conservation.

RESULTS

In systems with gravity settling, effluent chemical oxygen demand (COD) was higher than 125 mg L−1 in 60% of the experiments, with similarly high effluent soluble COD values. In high‐rate MBR systems, permeate COD fluctuated around 12–18 mgCOD L−1; in gravity systems, COD loss in the effluent was higher than 200 mg L−1 in 17 runs (65%) and 300 mg L−1 in 12 runs (46%). Corresponding observed yields were only 9–43%. Membrane systems consistently yielded much higher observed yields of 50–60%.

CONCLUSION

For energy recovery, AS systems require a major transition, reducing the sludge age to 1.0–2.0 d; only high‐rate systems are capable of maximizing energy conservation. This argument does not apply to the contact stabilization process, which is inherently unsuitable for energy recovery. A transition is also needed to replace gravity settling by membrane systems for effective control of particulate and soluble COD components. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry of labdane‐type acid diterpenes
Authors: Aguiar Gabriela P. , Crevelin Eduardo J. , Dias Herbert J. , Ambrósio Sérgio R. , Bastos Jairo K. , Heleno Vladimir C. G. , Vessecchi Ricardo , Crotti Antônio E. M.
Published: August 2018

Copaifera (Leguminoseae) species produce a commercially interesting oleoresin that displays several biological activities, including antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties. Labdane‐type diterpenes are the main chemical constituents of these oleoresins, and copalic acid is the only compound that has been detected in all Copaifera oleoresins. In this study, we investigate some aspects of the gas‐phase fragmentation reactions involved in the formation of the product ions from the deprotonated compounds (−)‐ent‐copalic acid (1), (−)‐ent‐3β‐hydroxy‐copalic acid (2), (−)‐ent‐3β‐acetoxy‐copalic acid (3), and (−)‐ent‐agathic acid (4) by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS) and multiple stage mass spectrometry (MSn). Our results reveal that the product ion with m/z 99 is common to all the analyzed compounds, whereas the product ion with m/z 217 is diagnostic for compounds 2 and 3. Moreover, only compound 4 undergoes CO2 (44 u) and acetic acid (60 u) elimination from the precursor ion. Thermochemical data obtained by computational chemistry at the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level of theory support the proposed ion structures. These data helped us to identify these compounds in a crude commercial Copaifera langsdorffii oleoresin by selective multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). Finally, a precursor ion scan (PIS) strategy aided screening of labdane‐type acid diterpenes other than 1 to 4 in the same Copaifera oleoresin sample and led us to propose the structures of 8,17‐dihydro‐ent‐agathic acid (5) and 3‐keto‐ent‐copalic acid (6), which have not been previously reported in Copaifera oleoresins.
Long‐term reliability of the defibrillator lead inserted by the extrathoracic subclavian puncture
Authors: Watanabe Masaya , Yokoshiki Hisashi , Mitsuyama Hirofumi , Mizukami Kazuya , Tenma Taro , Kamada Rui , Takahashi Masayuki , Matsui Yoshiro , Anzai Toshihisa
Published: August 2018

Background

As the transvenous defibrillator lead is fragile and its failure may cause a life‐threatening event, reliable insertion techniques are required. While the extrathoracic puncture has been introduced to avoid subclavian crush syndrome, the reports on the long‐term defibrillator lead survival using this approach, especially the comparison with the cephalic cutdown (CD), remain scarce. We aimed to evaluate the long‐term survival of the transvenous defibrillator lead inserted by the extrathoracic subclavian puncture (ESCP) compared with CD.

Methods

Between 1998 and 2011, 324 consecutive patients who underwent an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) implantation in Hokkaido University Hospital were included. ICD leads were inserted by CD from 1998 to 2003 and by contrast venography‐guided ESCP thereafter. Lead failure was defined as a nonphysiologic high‐rate oversensing with abnormal lead impedance or highly elevated sensing and pacing threshold.

Results

Of 324 patients, CD was used in 37 (11%) and ESCP in 287 patients (89%). During the median follow‐up of 6.2 years (IQR:3.2‐8.3), 7 leads (2 in CD and 5 leads in ESCP group) failed. All patients with lead failure in ESCP group were implanted with either SJM Riata (n = 1) or Medtronic Fidelis lead (n = 4). Five‐year lead survival was 93.8% (CI95%:77.3‐98.4%) in CD compared with 99.1% (CI95%:96.6‐99.8%) in ESCP group (P = 0.903). Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that the use of Fidelis or Riata lead was the strong predictor of the ICD lead failure (HR 13.8, CI95%:2.9‐96.5; P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Contrast venography‐guided extrathoracic puncture ensures the reliable long‐term survival in the transvenous defibrillator leads.
A rapid and reliable assay to determine flumequine, marbofloxacin, difloxacin, and sarafloxacin in commonly consumed meat by micellar liquid chromatography
Authors: Peris‐Vicente Juan , Iborra‐Millet Jesús Javier , Albiol‐Chiva Jaume , Carda‐Broch Samuel , Esteve‐Romero Josep
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Micellar liquid chromatography – fluorescence detection was used to determine the antibiotics flumequine, marbofloxacin, difloxacin, and sarafloxacin in porcine, bovine, poultry, ovine, caprine, rabbit, and equine meat, to verify compliance with EU Regulation 37/2010 with regard to the occurrence of veterinary drugs in food.

RESULTS

The analytes were isolated from the matrix by ultrasonication‐assisted leaching in a micellar solution, and the supernatant was filtered and directly injected. The fluoroquinolones were resolved in < 19 min using a C18 column, with an isocratic mobile phase of 0.05 mol L−1 sodium dodecyl sulfate ‐ 8% 1‐butanol – 0.5% triethylamine buffered at pH 3. The limits of quantification (0.01–0.05 mg kg−1) were below the maximum residue limits (0.15–0.4 mg kg−1). The method was validated by EU Commission Decision 2002/657/EC guidelines.

CONCLUSION

The method shows practical advantages such as simplicity, low cost, eco‐friendliness, safety, and applicability for routine analysis, and is useful for surveillance programs. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of fertilization and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal inoculation on antioxidant profiles and activities in Fragaria ananassa fruit
Authors: Parada José , Valenzuela Tamara , Gómez Francisca , Tereucán Gonzalo , García Susana , Cornejo Pablo , Winterhalter Peter , Ruiz Antonieta
Published: August 2018

Background

The main methods used to increase the yield and quality of strawberry fruit produced in acidic soils with low P availability include root colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and adjusting the type of P supplementation by means of traditional (TF) or organic (OF) fertilization, and adjusting nutrient doses. In this study, the antioxidant properties of strawberry fruit were evaluated under different treatments of fertilization (TF or OF) and different doses of P supplied at planting (0, 50 or 100% of the agronomic recommendation) and in the presence or absence of AM fungus as a bioinoculant.

Results

Fruits without fertilization treatments and with TF presented with higher anthocyanin concentrations. In general, higher values were obtained without AM colonization. However, spectrophotometric tests showed the highest activity and concentration in the AM‐inoculated treatments. It is likely that phenolic compounds other than anthocyanins are present in the extracts. These other compounds could not be identified by the method used but could be detected by the Folin–Ciocalteu method.

Conclusion

This study provides information that allows for improvements in strawberry fruit quality by agronomic management, with a potential beneficial effect on the health of consumers. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Two macamide extracts relieve physical fatigue by attenuating muscle damage in mice
Authors: Zheng Yue , Zhang Wen‐Cheng , Wu Ze‐Yu , Fu Chuan‐Xiang , Hui Ai‐Ling , Gao Han , Chen Peng‐Peng , Du Biao , Zhang Hua‐Wei
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Macamides, the main active components contained in maca, have attracted increasing attention due to their various bioactivities. In this study, crude macamide extract (CME) and purified macamide extract (PME) were prepared by enzyme‐assisted extraction and macroporous resin separation, and the anti‐fatigue effects of CME and PME were evaluated in a forced swimming model.

RESULTS

The composition analysis results revealed that both CME and PME mainly contain eight kinds of macamide. Based on the results of a weight‐loaded forced swimming test, compared with a control group, CME and and PME groups could prolong exhaustive swimming time, increase levels of liver glycogen (LG) and muscle glycogen (MG), accelerate fatty acid oxidation in serum to provide energy, eliminate the accumulation of blood lactic acid (BLA) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and decrease the serum biomarkers for muscle damage, such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK). Histological analysis also indicated that CME and PME attenuated damage to skeletal muscle and the myocardium in mice during exercise.

CONCLUSION

Two macamide extracts have a beneficial effect on relieving physical fatigue by attenuating the damage of skeletal muscle and myocardium during exercise, and a better effect was observed in the PME group. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
The relationship between alkylamide compound content and pungency intensity of Zanthoxylum bungeanum based on sensory evaluation and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry/ mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) analysis
Authors: Zhang Lu‐Lu , Zhao Lei , Wang Hou‐Yin , Shi Bo‐Lin , Liu Long‐Yun , Chen Zhong‐Xiu
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Zanthoxylum bungeanum originating in different places varies in alkylamide content and pungency intensity.

RESULTS

The pungency intensity of 19 Zanthoxylum bungeanum samples was first determined with Scoville pungency units (SPUs). The SPUs were found to range from 3.80E + 04 to 5.40E + 05. The chemical compositions and contents were measured next, using the ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry/ mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) method. The total alkylamide content ranged from 9.83 ± 0.15 to 89.98 ± 1.35 g kg−1. Hydroxy‐ϵ‐sanshool, hydroxy‐α‐sanshool, hydroxy‐β‐sanshool, hydroxy‐γ‐sanshool, bungeanool, and isobungeanool were found to be the key pungent compounds, ranging in proportion from 92.65% to 97.69%. The relationship between alkymide compound content and pungency intensity was also analyzed by ridge regression, and it was found that the β values of independent variables were stable when k was more than 0.6. The regression coefficients of hydroxy‐ϵ‐sanshool, hydroxy‐α‐sanshool, hydroxy‐β‐sanshool, hydroxy‐γ‐sanshool, bungeanool, isobungeanool, and other alkylamides were 0.105, 0.177, 0.386, −0.166, −0.006, 0.005, and −0.018, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Hydroxy‐ sanshool compounds were important in determinant the pungency intensity of Z. bungeanum. Knowledge of the relationship between alkymide compound content and pungency intensity will assist in the creation of new methods to determine pungency intensity and provide a scientific basis for flavor design, development of pungent food products, and consumer choice evaluations. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Risk assessment of forest landscape degradation using Bayesian network modeling in the Miyun Reservoir catchment (China) with emphasis on the Beijing–Tianjin sandstorm source control program
Authors: Li Hao , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Yan , Yang Xiaohui , Zhang Kebin
Published: August 2018

As the local strategic surface water source for Beijing City, the Miyun Reservoir catchment is suffering from the challenges of forest landscape degradation (FLD) under various natural and anthropogenic disturbances. This study developed a cause–effect Bayesian network model, consisting of three tiers of nodes, site indicators, external disturbance, and the outcome of FLD, to perform a regional ecological risk assessment to better understand the FLD risks (1998–2013) in the catchment. The effects of the Beijing–Tianjin sandstorm source control (BTSSC) Phase I program, a typical forest landscape restoration program, on the FLD were further examined. Overall, the higher level of either current occurrence or risk probability for FLD suggests the urgency of the following restoration efforts. The dominance of soil erosion for FLD indicates that soil erosion control should be a priority in the following Phase II program. Meanwhile, the uneven spatial distribution of high‐risk areas suggests that the following efforts should be focused within the upstream Hebei Province. In addition, based on the comparison of site indicators between different risk areas, the study concluded that community livelihood activities and land degradation due to climate change have been the other two dominant driving forces contributing to FLD. Furthermore, the study found that the forest landscape has not been restored into the best state by the BTSSC program due to the multiple and complex challenges. Thus, the technical concept of nature‐based solutions, including close‐to‐nature forest management technology and a comprehensive community‐involvement governance model, was proposed for the following Phase II program.
Land degradation and restoration in the arid and semiarid zones of China: Quantified evidence and implications from satellites
Authors: Mao Dehua , Wang Zongming , Wu Bingfang , Zeng Yuan , Luo Ling , Zhang Bai
Published: August 2018

Quantified information on land degradation and restoration is needed to support policies for sustainable ecosystem management and socioeconomic development. The arid and semiarid zones of China (ASZC) have experienced significant land degradation, and in response to such degradation, multiple ecological projects were implemented. In this study, remote sensing was used to identify degrading areas and where the degraded areas have been restored from 1990 in this ecologically sensitive region. Specifically, we integrated datasets from the ChinaCover and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer products to characterize changes in vegetation, ecosystems, and environmental conditions. The results confirmed that deforestation, desertification, grassland degradation, wetland loss, and the encroachment upon farmlands were notable in the ASZC. Agricultural activity has cultivated extensive areas of natural ecosystems (46,474 km2). The expansion of built‐up lands in terms of national policies has destroyed large areas of natural (5,487 km2) and agricultural (4,138 km2) ecosystems and continually results in negative impacts on ecological conservation. China has restored some lands (7,732 km2 from farmlands and 24,904 km2 from barren lands) and improved ecosystems, as characterized by increases in the normalized different vegetation index, leaf area index, net primary productivity, and gross primary productivity values in the ASZC, especially after the implementation of many ecological projects. However, it is also necessary to document the conclusions and lessons from these projects to guide future ecological policies and projects in the context of the substantial new challenges facing the protection of this ecologically sensitive environment.
Cancer After Liver Transplantation in Children and Young Adults: A Population‐Based Study From 4 Nordic Countries
Authors: Åberg Fredrik , Isoniemi Helena , Pukkala Eero , Jalanko Hannu , Rasmussen Allan , Storm Hans H. , Schultz Nicolai , Bennet William , Ekvall Nils , Ericzon Bo‐Göran , Malenicka Silvia , Tretli Steinar , Line Pål‐Dag , Boberg Kirsten Muri , Østensen Anniken , Karlsen Tom Hemming , Nordin Arno
Published: August 2018

Cancer after liver transplantation (LT) constitutes a threat also for young recipients, but cancer risk factors are usually absent in children and large studies on the cancer risk profile in young LT recipients are scarce. Data of patients younger than 30 years who underwent LT during the period 1982‐2013 in the Nordic countries were linked with respective national cancer registries to calculate standardized incidence ratios (SIRs). A total of 37 cancer cases were observed in 923 patients with 7846 person‐years of follow‐up. The SIR for all cancer types, compared with the matched general population, was 9.8 (12.4 for males and 7.8 for females). Cumulative incidence of cancer adjusted for the competing risk of death was 2% at 10 years, 6% at 20 years, and 22% at 25 years after LT. Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma was the most common cancer type (n = 14) followed by colorectal (n = 4) and hepatocellular cancer (n = 4). Age was a significant risk factor for cancer, and the absolute risk of most cancers (except for lymphoma) increased considerably in young adults older than 20 years. The cancer risk pattern is different in pediatric and young LT patients compared with adult recipients. The striking increase in cancer incidence in young adulthood after the second decade of life deserves further consideration in transition programs.
Alliance formation under higher order uncertainty: Embeddedness, fear, and gradualism
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Bao Yongchuan , Guo Yue
Published: August 2018

Companies face higher order uncertainty when they decide whether to form strategic alliances. We develop a model to examine the key role played by higher order uncertainty in affecting strategic calculation with respect to alliance formation. Our analysis shows that fear of opportunism could prevent the formation of a mutually beneficial alliance even when companies believe they cannot be better off behaving opportunistically (a situation different from the prisoner's dilemma). This coordination problem worsens as the potential loss from relationship opportunism increases. However, it can significantly ease when companies form common approximate beliefs, as often happens when they are familiar with each other.