bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Expenditure and Protein Requirements Following Burn Injury
Authors: Wise Amy K. , Hromatka Kathleen A. , Miller Keith R.
Published: August 2019

Severe burn injuries have long been known to have a profound effect on metabolic equilibrium that can persist after resolution of the cutaneous injuries. Following burn injury, metabolism is a dynamic state resulting in the need for frequent interval reassessment over the course of the care continuum. The acute phase of injury transitions to chronic alterations in macronutrient utilization characterized by futile energy cycling and disproportionate catabolism of skeletal muscle. Protein supplementation appears to be preferentially distributed to the burn wound rather than the skeletal muscle pool. Accurate assessment of caloric and protein requirements is extremely difficult in these patients but is an essential step in efforts to attenuate functional impairment. Indirect calorimetry should be utilized to determine caloric requirements, but trophic feeding strategies are preferred in the initial resuscitative phase to prevent overfeeding while maintaining enteric and immune function. Controversy persists regarding optimal protein targets, and weight‐based estimates remain the norm. Exogenous protein and caloric provision performed in isolation is insufficient to optimize outcomes and should be incorporated within a multidisciplinary approach to include muscle loading and pharmaceutical adjuncts.
Melt‐blending of unmodified and modified cellulose nanocrystals with reduced graphene oxide into PLA matrix for biomedical application
Authors: Pal Nidhi , Banerjee Somesh , Roy Partha , Pal Kaushik
Published: August 2019

In this article, we successfully fabricated the bionanocomposites using cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) reinforced into biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) matrix through melt‐mixing method. Due to the affinity difference between hydrophilic CNC and hydrophobic PLA, the surface modification of CNC was employed using quaternary ammonium salts (CTAB) as a surfactant. The nanocomposites were developed using different blend ratios of CNC/modified CNC (1, 2, and 3) wt% and (0.5 wt%) rGO into the polymer matrix. The morphology of CNC, q‐CNC (modified CNC), and nanocomposites were inspected by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). It is demonstrated from tensile tests that, the nanocomposite with 1 wt% CNC and rGO showed maximum tensile strength compared with PLA and its nanocomposites. Moreover, the nanocomposite with 1 wt% CNC and rGO was also having maximum thermal stability. From cytotoxicity evaluation, it is observed that all the nanocomposites are nontoxic and cytocompatible to HEK293 cells. In addition to this, the nanocomposite with q‐CNC showed enhanced barrier properties compared with PLA and PLA/CNC/rGO nanocomposite. The results obtained from different characterizations showed that the incorporation of surfactant onto CNC improved the dispersion in PLA but at the same time deteriorated the PLA matrix.
IL‐10 from plasmacytoid dendritic cells promotes angiogenesis in the early stage of endometriosis
Authors: Suen Jau‐Ling , Chang Yu , Shiu Yu‐Shiang , Hsu Chia‐Yi , Sharma Pooja , Chiu Chien‐Chih , Chen Yi‐Ju , Hour Tzyh‐Chyuan , Tsai Eing‐Mei
Published: August 2019

An elevated level of IL‐10 has been considered a critical factor for the development of endometriosis; however, its detailed mechanism and causal relationship remain unclear. This study explored the cellular source and angiogenic activity of local IL‐10 during the early stage of endometriosis. Using a surgical murine model, we found that localised treatment with exogenous recombinant IL‐10 on the day of surgery significantly enhanced endometriotic lesion growth and angiogenesis, whereas blocking local IL‐10 activity using mAbs significantly suppressed those effects. Adoptive transfer of Il10+/+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells into mice significantly enhanced lesion development, whereas Il10−/− plasmacytoid dendritic cells significantly inhibited lesion development. Furthermore, in vitro angiogenesis analyses demonstrated that the IL‐10 and IL‐10 receptor pathway stimulated the migratory and tube formation ability of HUVECs as well as ectopic endometrial mesenchymal stem cells through, at least in part, a VEGF‐dependent pathway. We also found that recombinant IL‐10 directly stimulated angiogenesis, based on a Matrigel plug assay as well as a zebrafish model. Pathological results from human endometrioma tissues showed the increased infiltration of CD123+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells and higher percentages of cells that express the IL‐10 receptor and CD31 as compared with the corresponding normal counterparts. Taken together, these results show that IL‐10 secreted from local plasmacytoid dendritic cells promotes endometriosis development through pathological angiogenesis during the early disease stage. This study provides a scientific basis for a potential therapeutic strategy targeting the IL‐10—IL‐10 receptor pathway in the endometriotic milieu. © 2019 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
High occurrence of sleep problems in survivors of a childhood brain tumor with neurocognitive complaints: The association with psychosocial and behavioral executive functioning
Authors: van Kooten Jojanneke A.M.C. , Maurice‐Stam Heleen , Schouten Antoinette Y.N. , van Vuurden Dannis G. , Granzen Bernd , Gidding Corrie , de Ruiter Marieke A. , van Litsenburg Raphaële R.L. , Grootenhuis Martha A.
Published: August 2019

Background

Survivors of childhood brain tumors are prone to sleep and neurocognitive problems. Effective interventions to improve neurocognitive functioning are largely lacking. In general, sleep problems are negatively related to neurocognitive functioning, but this relationship is unclear in survivors of childhood brain tumors. Therefore, the occurrence of sleep problems, potential risk factors, and the relation between sleep and executive functioning were evaluated.

Procedure

Baseline data of a randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of neurofeedback were used. Childhood brain tumor survivors 8‐18 years of age with parent‐reported neurocognitive complaints ≥2 years after treatment were eligible. Parents completed the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children. Executive functioning was assessed by parents and teachers (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine sociodemographic and medical characteristics and emotional difficulties and hyperactivity/inattention (Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire) as potential risk factors for sleep problems, and to assess the association between sleep and executive functioning.

Results

Forty‐eight percent of survivors (n = 82, 7.0 ± 3.6 years post diagnosis, age 13.8 ± 3.2 years) had sleep problems and scored significantly worse than the norm on the subscales Initiating and Maintaining Sleep, Excessive Somnolence, and the total scale (effect sizes 0.58‐0.92). Emotional problems and/or hyperactivity/inattention were independent potential risk factors. Sleep problems were associated with worse parent‐reported executive functioning.

Conclusions

Sleep problems occur among half of childhood brain tumor survivors with neurocognitive problems, and are associated with worse executive functioning. Future studies should focus on the development of sleep interventions for this population, to improve sleep as well as executive functioning.
Postmarket surveillance of arthroplasty device components using machine learning methods
Authors: Cafri Guy , Graves Stephen E. , Sedrakyan Art , Fan Juanjuan , Calhoun Peter , de Steiger Richard N. , Cuthbert Alana , Lorimer Michelle , Paxton Elizabeth W.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

While joint arthroplasty is generally a safe and effective procedure, there are concerns that some devices are at increased risk of failure. Early identification of total hip arthroplasty devices with increased risk of failure can be challenging because devices consist of multiple components, hundreds of distinct components are currently used in surgery, and any estimated effect needs to address confounding due to device and patient factors. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of machine learning approaches at identifying recalled components listed by the US Food and Drug Administration using data from a US total joint arthroplasty registry.

Methods

An open cohort study was conducted using data (January 1, 2001, to December 31, 2015) from 74 520 implantations and 348 unique components in the Kaiser Permanente Total Joint Replacement Registry. Exposures of interest were device components used in elective primary total hip arthroplasty. The outcome was time to first revision surgery, defined as exchange, removal, or addition of any component. Machine learning methods included regularized/unregularized Cox models and random survival forest.

Results

Among the recalled components detected were ASR acetabular shell/large femoral head, Durom acetabular shell/Metasul large femoral head, and Rejuvenate modular neck stem. The three components not identified were characterized by small numbers of devices recorded in the registry.

Conclusions

The novel approaches to signal detection may improve postmarket surveillance of frequently used arthroplasty devices, which in turn will improve public health.
Cognitive functioning following brain irradiation as part of cancer treatment: Characterizing better cognitive performance
Authors: Wong Shan S. , Case L. Douglas , Avis Nancy E. , Cummings Tiffany L. , Cramer Christina K. , Rapp Stephen R.
Published: August 2019

Objective

Although brain radiation therapy (RT) impacts cognitive function, little is known about the subset of survivors with minimal cognitive deficits. This study compares the characteristics of patients receiving brain irradiation as part of cancer treatment with minimal cognitive deficits to those with poorer cognitive functioning.

Methods

Adults at least 6 months postbrain RT (N = 198) completed cognitive measures of attention, memory, and executive functions. Cognitive functioning was categorized into better‐ and poorer‐performing groups, with better‐performing survivors scoring no worse than 1.5 standard deviations below the published normative mean on all cognitive measures. Logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with better‐performing group membership.

Results

Approximately 25% of the sample met the criteria for the better‐performing group. In unadjusted analyses, RT type (whole brain irradiation and partial brain irradiation), sedating medications, and fatigue were independently associated with cognition. Sociodemographic and other clinical characteristics were not significant. In adjusted analyses, only fatigue remained significantly associated with group membership (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.01‐1.09, P = .009).

Conclusions

There is a subgroup of survivors with minimal long‐term cognitive deficits despite undergoing a full course of brain RT as part of cancer treatment. Lower fatigue had the strongest association with better cognitive performance. Interventions targeting cancer‐related fatigue may help buffer the neurotoxic effects of brain RT.
Variation in health literacy among family caregiver communication types
Authors: Wittenberg Elaine , Goldsmith Joy V. , Kerr Anna M.
Published: August 2019

Objective

Previously, four caregiver types have been identified as a result of communication patterns between patient and caregiver, revealing unique caregiver information needs and preferences. The purpose of this study was to explore variation in health literacy among the four family caregiver communication types: manager, partner, carrier, and lone caregivers.

Methods

The sample consisted of 115 cancer caregivers. Participants completed the Family Caregiver Communication Tool and the Health Literacy of Caregivers Scale‐Cancer.

Results

A significant difference in health literacy domains was found between caregiver types for cancer‐related communication with the care recipient (P = .038) and understanding of the health care system (P = .003). Of the health literacy domains, mean scores were highest on understanding the health care system for both lone and carrier caregivers. Manager and partner caregivers were highest on the social support domain. The self‐care domain was lowest for the carrier, lone, and manager caregivers.

Conclusions

There was a variation across health literacy domains among caregiver communication types, further validating the Family Caregiver Communication Typology. Findings showed a need for educational programs for cancer caregivers to strengthen their health literacy skills. As cancer caregivers have a prominent role in the delivery and quality of cancer care, it is pivotal for health care centers to provide caregiver communication training and support.
Time‐Dependent Measurement of Nrf2‐Regulated Antioxidant Response to Ionizing Radiation Toward Identifying Potential Protein Biomarkers for Acute Radiation Injury
Authors: Liu Kate , Singer Elizabeth , Cohn Whitaker , Micewicz Ewa D. , McBride William H. , Whitelegge Julian P. , Loo Joseph A.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Potential acute exposure to ionizing radiation in nuclear or radiological accidents presents complex mass casualty scenarios that demand prompt triage and treatment decisions. Due to delayed symptoms and varied response of radiation victims, there is an urgent need to develop robust biomarkers to assess the extent of injuries in individuals.

Experimental design

The transcription factor Nrf2 is the master of redox homeostasis and there is transcriptional evidence of Nrf2‐dependent antioxidant response activation upon radiation. The biomarker potential of Nrf2‐dependent downstream target enzymes is investigated by measuring their response in bone marrow extracted from C57Bl/6 and C3H mice of both genders for up to 4 days following 6 Gy total body irradiation using targeted MS.

Results

Overall, C57Bl/6 mice have a stronger proteomic response than C3H mice. In both strains, male mice have more occurrences of upregulation in antioxidant enzymes than female mice. For C57Bl/6 male mice, three proteins show elevated abundances after radiation exposure: catalase, superoxide dismutase 1, and heme oxygenase 1. Across both strains and genders, glutathione S‐transferase Mu 1 is consistently decreased.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

This study provides the basis for future development of organ‐specific protein biomarkers used in diagnostic blood test for radiation injury.
Proteomic Investigations of In Vitro and In Vivo Models of Periodontal Disease
Authors: Binti Badlishah Sham Nurul Iman , Lewin Sean D. , Grant Melissa M.
Published: August 2019

Proteomics has currently been a developing field in periodontal diseases to obtain protein information of certain samples. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disorder that attacks the teeth, connective tissues, and alveolar bone within the oral cavity. Proteomics information can provide proteins that are differentially expressed in diseased or healthy samples. This review provides insight into approaches researching single species, multi species, bacteria, non‐human, and human models of periodontal disease for proteomics information. The approaches that have been taken include gel electrophoresis and qualitative and quantitative mass spectrometry. This review is carried out by extracting information about in vitro and in vivo studies of proteomics in models of periodontal diseases that have been carried out in the past two decades. The research has concentrated on a relatively small but well‐known group of microorganisms. A wide range of models has been reviewed and conclusions across the breadth of these studies are presented in this review.
Species‐Specific Quantitative Proteomics Profiles of Sarcoma Patient‐Derived Models Closely Reflect Their Primary Tumors
Authors: Shiozawa Kumiko , Oyama Rieko , Takahashi Mami , Kito Fusako , Hattori Emi , Yoshida Akihiko , Kawai Akira , Ono Masaya , Kondo Tadashi
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose is to examine whether patient‐derived sarcoma models recapitulate the spectrum of sarcoma heterogeneity seen in patients.

Experimental design

To characterize patient‐derived models for functional studies, proteomic comparisons with originating sarcomas representative of three intrinsic subtypes by MS are performed.

Results

Human protein profiling is found to be retained with high fidelity in patient‐derived models. The protein profiles of patient sarcoma tumors and mouse stroma are characterized by species‐specific quantitative proteomics. Protein‐expression levels in mouse stroma are affected by the primary human tumor. The levels of stromal proteins derived from tumors are lower in PDXs and cell lines, and some human stromal proteins are replaced by the corresponding mouse proteins in PDXs.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

These findings suggest that the effects of the microenvironment on drug responses may not reflect those in the primary tumor. This cross‐species proteomic analysis in PDXs can potentially improve preclinical evaluation of treatment modalities and enhance the ability to predict clinical trial responses.
Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Composite Solid Propellant by Genetic Engineering of Materials: Part A.
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhou Xing , Bao Tong , Deng Lei , Gao Dong‐lei
Published: August 2019

The uniaxial tensile constitutive models of a crosslinked polymer and plasticizer were established based on the characteristics of the network and plasticization by genetic engineering of materials. The key factors affecting the mechanical properties of the polymer matrix were chosen as the genomes of materials. The constitutive model for the crosslinked polymer network with no plasticizer was related to the molecular characteristics of the ingredients, such as the flexibility of the binder prepolymer, functionalities of the ingredients, as well as the curing parameters. On the basis of the constitutive relation of the crosslinked polymer, the constitutive model for the crosslinked polymer and plasticizer was also related to the volumetric fraction of the plasticizer and the interaction of the binder prepolymer and plasticizer molecules. Within the range of viscoelastic deformation in the tensile test, the viscoelastic characteristics of the network were considered in the model. Numeric results showed that the predicted and experimentally measured stress‐strain curves were consistent under uniaxial tensile loading, indicating that the model satisfactorily predicted the stress and strain response.
Design, synthesis and antibacterial activities against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. Citri and Ralstonia solanacearum of novel myricetin derivatives containing sulfonamide moiety
Authors: Jiang Shichun , Tang Xu , Chen Mei , He Jun , Su Shijun , Liu Liwei , He Ming , Xue Wei
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Myricetin and sulfonamide derivatives exhibited a wide variety of biological activity. In order to develop highly bioactive molecules, novel myricetin derivatives containing sulfonamide moiety were synthesized and antibacterial activities were investigated.

RESULTS

The results of bioassays indicated that compound A12, having an EC50 value of 4.7 μg mL−1, exhibited the best in vitro antibacterial activities against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (X. oryzae pv. o.); EC50 values for this compound were even better than those of thiodiazole‐copper (TC, 71.4 μg mL−1) and bismerthiazol (BT, 54.7 μg mL−1). Compound A2, having an EC50 value of 1.1 μg mL−1, exhibited the best in vitro antibacterial activities against Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri (X. axonopodis pv. c); values were notably better than those of TC (60.0 μg mL−1) and BT (48.9 μg mL−1). Scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated that compounds A2 and A12 caused the cell membranes of X. axonopodis pv. c and X. oryzae pv. o. to break or deform, respectively. When the concentration of compound A12 was 100 μg mL−1, the effective curative activity against bacterial leaf blight of rice was 44.2% in vivo and the effective protection activity was 58.2% in vivo, results that were both better than values for TC (18.9 and 21.4%, respectively) and BT (12.5 and 12.5%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Novel myricetin derivatives containing a sulfonamide moiety were synthesized and bioassay results showed that compounds A2 and A12 exhibited the best antibacterial activities. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Prospects, challenges and current status of RNAi through insect feeding
Authors: Kunte Nitish , McGraw Erin , Bell Sydney , Held David , Avila Luz‐Adriana
Published: August 2019

RNA interference is a phenomenon in which the introduction of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) into cells triggers the degradation of the complementary messenger RNA in a sequence‐specific manner. Suppressing expression of vital genes could lead to insect death, therefore this technology has been considered as a potential strategy for insect pest control. There are three main routes of dsRNA administration into insects: (i) injections to the hemolymph, (ii) topical, and (iii) feeding. In this review, we focus on dsRNA administration through feeding. We summarize novel strategies that have been developed to improve the efficacy of this method, such as the use of nano‐based formulations, engineered microorganisms, and transgenic plants. We also expose the hurdles that have to be overcome in order to use this technique as a reliable pest management method. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Fiber and phenolic compounds contribution to the hepatoprotective effects of mango diets in rats fed high cholesterol/sodium cholate
Authors: Ruiz‐Canizales Jacqueline , Domínguez‐Avila J. Abraham , Wall‐Medrano Abraham , Ayala‐Zavala J. Fernando , González‐Córdova Aarón F. , Vallejo‐Córdoba Belinda , Salazar‐López Norma Julieta , González‐Aguilar Gustavo A.
Published: August 2019

The present study evaluated the contribution of mango fiber (MF) and mango phenolic compounds (MP) to the hepatoprotective effect of freeze‐dried mango pulp (FDM) cultivar (cv.) “Ataulfo” diets in high cholesterol/sodium cholate (HCC)–fed rats. Male Wistar rats were fed with a HCC diet for 12 weeks, either untreated, or supplemented with MF, MP, FDM, or a control diet (no HCC; n = 6/group). All mango treatments significantly decreased hepatic cholesterol deposition and altered its fatty acid profile, whereas MF and MP mitigated adipose tissue hypertrophy. MF caused a lower level of proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐1α/β, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α) whereas FDM increased the anti‐inflammatory ones (IL‐4, 6, 10). Mango treatments increased catalase (CAT) activity and its mRNA expression; superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was normalized by MF and FDM, but its activity was unrelated to its hepatic mRNA expression. Changes in CAT and SOD mRNA expression were unrelated to altered Nrf2 mRNA expression. Higher hepatic PPARα and LXRα mRNA levels were found in MP and MF. We concluded that MF and MP are highly bioactive, according to the documented hepatoprotection in HCC‐fed rats; their mechanism of action appears to be related to modulating cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism as well as to stimulating the endogenous antioxidant system.
The nocturnal boundary layer transition from weakly to very stable. Part I: Observations
Authors: Acevedo Otávio C. , Maroneze Rafael , Costa Felipe D. , Puhales Franciano S. , Degrazia Gervásio A. , Nogueira Martins Luis G. , Soares de Oliveira Pablo E. , Mortarini Luca
Published: August 2019

The nocturnal boundary‐layer regime transition from weakly stable (strong wind) to very stable (weak wind) is analyzed using 10 levels of turbulence observations made at a 140 m micrometeorological mast near the southeastern Brazilian coast. The combination of synoptic and local flow favors the systematic occurrence of such a transition, typically 5 to 7 h after sunset. The regime transition is marked by decreases in temperature, wind speed, turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) and absolute heat flux. The decrease in temperature is often abrupt and the inflection point in the temperature series marks the regime transition. Absolute heat flux peaks before the transition during the weakly stable period, while temperature variance peaks near the transition. Composites from 36 cases when the cooling rate exceeded 2 °C/h are used to describe the vertical structure of the stable boundary layer (SBL) in both regimes. For these abrupt transitions, dimensionless variables that relate thermal and mechanical properties of the flow are compared as indicators of the SBL regime, and the gradient Richardson number is found to be better for that purpose. The absolute heat flux is shown to be proportional to the cube of the wind speed only in the strong wind limit of the very stable regime. Simulations of similar transitions using a second‐order model are described in Part II.
Styrene radical cations for chemical ionization mass spectrometry analyses of monoterpene hydrocarbons
Authors: Spesyvyi Anatolii , Španěl Patrik , Sovová Kristýna
Published: August 2019

Rationale

Monoterpene hydrocarbons play an important role in the formation of secondary aerosol particles and in atmospheric chemistry. Thus, there is a demand to measure their individual concentrations in situ in real time. Currently, only the total concentration of monoterpenes C10H16 can be determined by chemical ionization mass spectrometry techniques using reagent ions H3O+, NO+ and (C6H6)n+• without gas chromatographic separation.

Methods

The styrene cation C8H8+• was investigated as a reagent for chemical ionization of monoterpenes. The modified selected ion flow drift tube, SIFDT, technique was used to characterize the differences in product ion distributions between α‐phellandrene, α‐pinene, γ‐terpinene, β‐pinene, ocimene, sabinene, 3‐carene, (R)‐limonene, camphene and myrcene.

Results

The monoterpene molecular cation C10H16+• is the main product (about 90%) for all isomers except (R)‐limonene and camphene with an efficient channel of C8H8+•C10H16 adduct formation and γ‐terpinene with unexpectedly significant product ions at m/z 134 and 135 corresponding to losses of H2 and H.

Conclusions

Utilization of the styrene cation for the ionization of monoterpenes is beneficial due to the very low fragmentation of the product ions. Specific association product ions for camphene and (R)‐limonene and fragment product ions for γ‐terpinene allow them to be distinguished from other isomers that produce mostly the molecular cation.
Artificial stone‐associated silicosis: clinical‐pathological‐radiological correlates of disease
Authors: Levin Kovi , McLean Catriona , Hoy Ryan
Published: August 2019

Occupational lung disease secondary to inhalation of silica particles is variable and potentially life‐threatening. As the artificial stone industry has grown over the last two decades, the development of silicosis has been seen to accelerate and behave differently to chronic silicosis. In this case report, we present two patients who underwent lung transplantation for silicosis at the Alfred Hospital, both with predominantly artificial stone masonry exposure. We have identified the presence of both fibrotic/nodular silicosis and conspicuous alveolar proteinosis within the same lung parenchyma of both patients. We then demonstrate the radiological and histopathological correlates of disease; the first time this has been shown clearly in the literature.
A characterization of side channel development
Authors: van Denderen R. Pepijn , Schielen Ralph M. J. , Straatsma Menno W. , Kleinhans Maarten G. , Hulscher Suzanne J. M. H.
Published: August 2019

Side channels are commonly constructed to reduce the flood risk or to increase the ecological value of a river. Such artificial side channels generally aggrade. We categorize the development of side channels based on the sediment that is deposited in these channels. Based on this categorization, we determine the main mechanisms that affect their development, and we propose an initial framework on how to predict the long‐term development of side channels. The results can be used to design, operate, and maintain side channel systems.
Recycling of Silver and Zinc from Silver Oxide Battery Waste
Authors: Morcali Mehmet H.
Published: August 2019

A remarkable number of batteries are used for powering various types of devices; however, after use, batteries are randomly thrown away, causing potential environmental damage to the bio‐habitats and a loss of resources. Battery recycling processes should be comprehensively studied to address the aforementioned issues.
Ecofriendly Determinations of Pseudoephedrine HCl and Triprolidine HCl in Their Tablet Form: Evaluation of Dissolution Profile.
Authors: Bassuoni Yasmine F. , Essam Hebatallah M. , Elzanfaly Eman S. , Zaazaa Hala E. , Kelani Khadiga O.
Published: August 2019

Derivative ratio method was applied to determine PSE in the range of 5–1000 μg/mL by using 10 μg/mL TRI as a divisor, where the interference of TRI was cancelled at 265.90 nm. Second derivative method was applied to determine TRI in the range of 0.25–50 μg/mL, by selecting a zero crossing point at 304.80 nm. For the HPLC method, different experimental parameters were investigated and optimized to allow complete baseline separation and well resolved peaks. The analytes were partitioned between C18 column (25 cm×4 mm) and phosphate buffer (pH 4.6): acetonitrile (60: 40, v/v) as a mobile phase with flow rate of 1 mL/min and UV detection at 254 nm. The HPLC method was valid in the range of 5–600 μg/mL for PSE and 0.2–50 μg/mL for TRI. The methods were validated in compliance with ICH guidelines, where acceptable results were obtained indicating the suggested methods validity.
A Comparison of Drug Delivery Systems of Zr‐Based MOFs and Halloysite Nanotubes: Evaluation of β‐Estradiol Encapsulation
Authors: Luo Ting , Liu Hao , Liang Yong , Tang Jun , Zhou Jinrong , Liang Wenjie , Cai Jianfeng , Xu Hai
Published: August 2019

The low cytotoxic Zr‐based MOF PCN‐221, which exhibited the ability to entrap β‐estradiol model drug, was studied as a drug delivery system. As a comparison, another drug carrier, halloysite nanotubes, was also investigated. Both PCN‐221 and halloysite nanotubes were characterized by IR spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). β‐estradiol was loaded mainly on skeleton and partially on the external surface of PCN‐221. We show that controlled release of β‐estradiol from PCN‐221 was observed over more than 31 days, compared with the 20 days release period from halloysite nanotubes, indicating PCN‐221 are a superior carriers of β‐estradiol.
High‐Capacity Spherical LiNi0.82Co0.15Al0.03O2 Cathode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Bai Guoliang , Wang Chunhua , Luo Jiaojiao , Xia Hongyu , Luo Qibo , Wang Junwei , Cheng Di
Published: August 2019

A novel high‐capacity‐spherical LiNi0.82Co0.15Al0.03O2 (NCA) cathode material is prepared by two‐step method. Firstly, the co‐precipitation method is used to prepare Ni0.82Co0.15Al0.03(OH)2 precursors. Then, the sol‐gel method is applied to mix the Ni0.82Co0.15Al0.03(OH)2 precursors and Li2CO3 so that Li can get in touch with Ni0.82Co0.15Al0.03(OH)2 precursors evenly. Compared to the conventional Ni‐rich cathode materials, the NCA cathode material exhibits improved reversible capacity, capacity retention, rate performance and better thermal stability. But beyond that, improving the thermal stability of the NCA cathode material at 4.5 V is also very important. Even more remarkably, the NCA cathode material exhibits an excellent rate capacity of about 175 mAh g−1 at 5 C with a cut‐off potential range between 2.8 and 4.5 V, corresponding to around 670 Wh kg−1 at 25 °C. It also provides significantly improved thermal stability at the high temperature of 60 °C, with a discharge capacity of 125.1 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles with capacity retention of 56.3%. Therefore, the NCA cathode material is one of the best classes of cathode materials that could satisfy the demands of future electric vehicles.
A Powerful Turn‐On Fluorescent Probe for Phosgene: A Primary Amide Strategically Attached to an Anthracene Fluorophore
Authors: Gangopadhyay Ankita , Ali Syed Samim , Mahapatra Ajit Kumar
Published: August 2019

We report here the application of a robust, selective primary amide moiety appended to a fluorescence signalling entity‐ anthracene, the sensing platform, 9‐AM with a view to fluorescent chemosensing of hazardous phosgene gas. The impressively fast (reaction time<1.5 min) detection of phosgene was achieved through the dehydration of the primary amide functionality to a nitrile group. A low detection limit of 5.56 nm ensures applicability of the probe for sensing of minute levels of phosgene well below prescribed safe limits. In addition, TLC sticks impregnated with the probe function as efficient gas phase phosgene sensors with real‐time applicability.
Design of Phthalocyanine‐Nanoparticle Hybrids for Photodynamic Therapy Applications in Oxygen‐Deficient Tumour Environment
Authors: Nwahara Nnamdi , Managa Muthumuni , Prinsloo Earl , Nyokong Tebello
Published: August 2019

The results show that coupling MnO2 with either AuNPs or AuNPs to phthalocyanines results in composites that significantly enhance the photodynamic therapy activity towards hypoxic MCF‐7 cancer cells. The preliminary findings from this study highlight the potential of phthalocyanines nanocomposites in reversing hypoxia‐triggered PDT resistance, and therefore, contribute to the design of hypoxia‐responsive tumour therapy systems.
Metal‐Free Based Domino Approach to Pyrano‐Fused‐Pyrido[3,2,1‐jk]carbazolones: Antibacterial and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Ahuja Monika , Majee Debashis , Sharma Pratibha , Kumar Ashok , Mobin Shaikh M. , Samanta Sampak
Published: August 2019

A facile, metal‐free based one‐pot annulation reaction of several Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman acetates of MVK/acrylate with 4‐hydroxy‐6H‐pyrido[3,2,1‐jk]carbazol‐6‐one as C/O‐1,3‐binucleophile promoted by DABCO as an organobase in 2‐MeTHF at room temperature is reported. This environmentally benign method delivers a family of pyrano‐fused pyridocarbazolones in high yields with medium to good diastereoselectivities under mild conditions. Antibacterial studies showed that attaching carboxylate group on pyran ring of pyrano‐fused pyridocarbazolones has shown better activities (MIC up to ≥6.25 μg/mL) as compared to acetyl one. Interestingly, incorporation of several substituents namely CF3, NO2, MeO, F, Cl and Br on the aryl rings of pyridocarbazolones carboxylates sharply enhanced the antibacterial activities which make them more potent or equipotent than commercial antibiotic ofloxacin. Furthermore, in silico docking studies indicated that MolDock scores of trans‐isomers with E. coli protein are in general higher than cis‐isomers which are in good agreement with their observed in vitro antibacterial activities.
A Predictable Catalyst Model for Highly Active and Selective Catalysis of Hydrogenation of Nitroarenes: Comprehension of Various Precious Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: Hu Ze‐Nan , Ai Yongjian , Liu Lei , Chen Yixin , Song Xiang , Li Jifan , Yu Jiaheng , Tian Haimeng , Guo Rongxiu , Sun Hong‐bin , Hu Jianshe , Liang Qionglin
Published: August 2019

Various precious metal catalysts have been commonly used in catalytic reactions, but the differences and likeness between their catalytic performances are rarely systematically studied. Therefore, we have prepared the Pd, Pt, Rh, Ru, Au, and Ag/Fe3O4 catalysts, and the similarities and differences of various catalysts are analyzed by XRD, FT‐IR, TEM, HR‐TEM, XPS, BET, and VSM characterizations. Besides that platinum is the best catalyst component, the Pd and Rh/Fe3O4 catalysts also exhibit excellent catalytic activity and chemoselectivity, but the Ru, Au, Ag‐containing catalysts show poor catalytic performance for hydrogenation of 4‐nitrophenol. According to the kinetic study, we have demonstrated that the reaction orders for Pd, Pt, and Rh are 0.8, 0.8, and 1.5, respectively. This result reveals that the activity of Pd, Pt, and Rh‐containing catalysts can be precisely predicted. Moreover, our catalytic system is fascinating with many advantages such as environmental friendliness, mild reaction conditions, and the magnetic separability.
Zwitterionic Surfactant as a Promising Non‐Cytotoxic Carrier for Nanoemulsion‐Based Vaccine Development
Authors: Bhattacharjee Somnath , Chen Jesse , Landers Jeffrey , Baker James R.
Published: August 2019

Motivated by the lack of noncytotoxic carriers in the current vaccine, we pursued the possibility of using a zwitterionic surfactant as a carrier to improve their delivery efficiency with antigen for a nanoemulsion‐based vaccine. We identified that a nanoemulsion formulation that consists of a specific zwitterionic surfactant can effectively mediate cellular uptake of antigen despite not having cytotoxicity as compared to a nanoemulsion that consists of a cationic surfactant. We report here the first study of a zwitterionic surfactant that consists of a positive charge in the outer layer of the polar head group and a hydrophobic tail is a promising approach for enhancing the carrier's efficacy with no noticeable toxicity under experimental condition. However, zwitterionic surfactant that has positive charge in the outer layer with additional hydrophobicity due to the presence of aromatic ring had minimal cellular uptake and transfection efficacy.
Nb2O5/RGO Nanocomposite Modified Separators with Robust Polysulfide Traps and Catalytic Centers for Boosting Performance of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Guo Pengqian , Sun Kai , Shang Xiaonan , Liu Dequan , Wang Yanrong , Liu Qiming , Fu Yujun , He Deyan
Published: August 2019

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) have shown great potential for application in high‐density energy storage systems. However, the performance of LSBs is hindered by the shuttle effect and sluggish reaction kinetics of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). Herein, heterostructual Nb2O5 nanocrystals/reduced graphene oxide (Nb2O5/RGO) composites are introduced into LSBs through separator modification for boosting the electrochemical performance. The Nb2O5/RGO heterostructures are designed as chemical trappers and conversion accelerators of LiPSs. Originating from the strong chemical interactions between Nb2O5 and LiPSs as well as the superior catalytic nature of Nb2O5, the Nb2O5/RGO nanocomposite possesses high trapping efficiency and efficient electrocatalytic activity to long‐chain LiPSs. The effective regulation of LiPSs conversion enables the LSBs enhanced redox kinetics and suppressed shuttle effect. Moreover, the Nb2O5/RGO nanocomposite has abundant sulfophilic sites and defective interfaces, which are beneficial for the nucleation and growth of Li2S, as evidenced by analysis of the cycled separators. As a result, LSBs with the Nb2O5/RGO‐modified separators exhibit excellent rate capability (816 mAh g−1 at 3 A g−1) and cyclic performance (628 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles). Remarkably, high specific capacity and stable cycling performance are demonstrated even at an elevated temperature of 50 °C or with higher sulfur loadings.
Amorphous Sn/Crystalline SnS2 Nanosheets via In Situ Electrochemical Reduction Methodology for Highly Efficient Ambient N2 Fixation
Authors: Li Pengxiang , Fu Wenzhi , Zhuang Peiyuan , Cao Yudong , Tang Can , Watson Angelica Blake , Dong Pei , Shen Jianfeng , Ye Mingxin
Published: August 2019

Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) as a new strategy for synthesizing ammonia has attracted ever‐growing attention, due to its renewability, flexibility, and sustainability. However, the lack of efficient electrocatalysts has hampered the development of such reactions. Herein, a series of amorphous Sn/crystalline SnS2 (Sn/SnS2) nanosheets by an L‐cysteine‐based hydrothermal process, followed by in situ electrochemical reduction, are synthesized. The amount of reduced amorphous Sn can be adjusted by selecting electrolytes with different pH values. The optimized Sn/SnS2 catalyst can achieve a high ammonia yield of 23.8 µg h−1 mg−1, outperforming most reported noble‐metal NRR electrocatalysts. According to the electrochemical tests, the conversion of SnS2 to an amorphous Sn phase leads to the substantial increase of its catalytic activity, while the amorphous Sn is identified as the active phase. These results provide a guideline for a rational design of low‐cost and highly active Sn‐based catalysts thus paving a wider path for NRR.
Negotiated Discretion: Redressing the Neglect of Negotiation in “Street‐Level Bureaucracy”
Authors: Johannessen Lars E. F.
Published: August 2019

This article proposes an interactionist update of “street‐level bureaucracy,” one of the most influential approaches for studying how public policy is translated into street‐level practice. While the street‐level approach assumes that bureaucrats are alone in enacting policy, the present article argues for seeing “street‐level policy” as formed in negotiation between bureaucrats and clients. To demonstrate this, the article uses ethnographic data and a Straussian framework to analyze how nurses and patients negotiated access in a Norwegian emergency service. The article thus sets a new course for street‐level research, helping researchers look beyond the individual to explore inter‐individual negotiation and its influence on street‐level decision‐making.
Reliability of Click Chemistry on Drug Discovery: A Personal Account
Authors: Shankaraiah Nagula , Sakla Akash P. , Laxmikeshav Kritika , Tokala Ramya
Published: August 2019

The unprecedented efficiency, reliability and adaptability in drug discovery, with the growing number of applications and impact, have made Click Chemistry fascinating to the scientific community. The specificity, biocompatibility along with other principles of click chemistry offers a reliable platform for the synthesis of drug‐like molecules that can expedite the drug discovery process. This account summarizes such successes of versatile click reactions from our research group towards the development of functional molecules.
Collaborate across campus to make events accessible
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2019

BOSTON — Scheduling rooms, participating in orientation, planning commencement — those are just a few of the activities the Registrar's Office is likely to be involved in where accessibility for individuals with disabilities is key. Making events accessible requires collaboration across campus, said Jim Kessler, a staff member for the Association for Higher Education And Disability. Speaking at the organization's annual conference, he noted that the phrase “welcome everyone” starts with “we.”
Evolution of international carbon markets: lessons for the Paris Agreement
Authors: Michaelowa Axel , Shishlov Igor , Brescia Dario
Published: August 2019

The Paris Agreement will greatly benefit from the past experience with international market mechanisms for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions and related regulatory systems, which have gone through four periods with specific challenges. The first period 1997–2004 operationalized the mechanisms defined in the Kyoto Protocol, the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and Joint Implementation (JI). Pilot activities in different sectors were undertaken by the public sector, and the first baseline and monitoring methodologies officially approved. Between 2005 and 2011, the carbon markets expanded massively. The EU emission trading scheme (EU ETS) was linked to the Kyoto mechanisms, creating demand for carbon credits from the private sector. During this “gold rush” period criticism emerged with regarding the uneven geographical distribution of projects, as well as environmental integrity problems related to baselines and additionality. The next period saw a collapse in carbon prices between 2012 and 2014, limiting the development of new projects. The quantitative limits on the use of offsets in the EU ETS were reached and the failure to agree on a new international regime resulted in a drying up of demand from governments. The 2015–2018 period is characterized by a gradual stabilization of the international climate regime. The Paris Agreement adopted in 2015 increases complexity through global participation in mitigation. Future carbon markets will therefore face both old challenges—supply–demand balance, environmental integrity, transaction costs—and new ones—interactions with other policies and national targets, and sectoral/policy baselines and additionality checks preventing hot air proliferation.

This article is categorized under:

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Policies, Instruments, Lifestyles, Behavior
Light-cone distribution amplitudes of pseudoscalar mesons from lattice QCD
Authors: Bali Gunnar S. , Braun Vladimir M. , Bürger Simon , Göckeler Meinulf , Gruber Michael , Hutzler Fabian , Korcyl Piotr , Schäfer Andreas , Sternbeck André , Wein Philipp ,   on behalf of the RQCD collaboration
Published: August 2019

Abstract

We present the first lattice determination of the two lowest Gegenbauer moments of the leading-twist pion and kaon light-cone distribution amplitudes with full control of all errors:

$$ {a}_2^{\pi }={0.101}_{-24}^{+24} $$

a
2
π

=

0.101

−
24

+
24

for the pion;

$$ {a}_1^K={0.0533}_{-35}^{+34} $$

a
1
K

=

0.0533

−
35

+
34

and

$$ {a}_2^K={0.090}_{-20}^{+19} $$

a
2
K

=

0.090

−
20

+
19

for the kaon. The calculation is carried out on 35 different CLS ensembles with N

f
= 2 + 1 flavors of dynamical Wilson-clover fermions. These cover a multitude of pion and kaon mass combinations (including the physical point) and 5 different lattice spacings down to a = 0.039 fm. The momentum smearing technique and a new operator basis are employed to reduce statistical fluctuations and to improve the overlap with the ground states. The results are obtained from a combined chiral and continuum limit extrapolation that includes three separate trajectories in the quark mass plane.
Measuring sustainable development in the education area using multi-criteria methods: a case study
Authors: Roszkowska Ewa , Filipowicz-Chomko Marzena
Published: August 2019

Sustainability is a holistic and complex multi-dimensional concept comprising economic, social and environmental issues. The EU Sustainable Development Goals’ indicator set, developed by European Commission, is implemented online in Eurostat’s database and constitutes the basis for assessing the level of sustainability assessment in different areas. The integration of the sustainability indicators was carried out in many studies by using the multi-criteria techniques. This work proposes a new methodological framework based on extended TOPSIS procedure, which takes into account EU targets and/or national targets in building positive ideal solution and negative ideal solution. This algorithm allows compensatory and non-compensatory approach in integrated sustainability assessment from the target point of view. This framework has been applied to measure sustainable development in the area of education in 28 EU countries in 2015. The results of this research also illustrate the complexity of measuring sustainable development, where multiple sustainability criteria and targets are considered.