bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The timing of adrenarche in Maya girls, Merida, Mexico
Authors: Keestra Sarai M. , Bentley Gillian R. , Núñez‐de la Mora Alejandra , Houghton Lauren C. , Wilson Hannah , Vázquez‐Vázquez Adriana , Cooper Gillian D. , Dickinson Federico , Griffiths Paula , Bogin Barry A. , Varela‐Silva Maria Inês
Published: July 2020

Background

Adrenarche involves maturation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis and increased production of dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfate ester, dehydroepiandrosterone‐sulfate (DHEA‐S). It occurs at ages 6 to 8 in industrialized populations, marking the transition from childhood to juvenility and cognitive development at middle childhood. Studies in subsistence level populations indicate a later age (8‐9) for adrenarche, but only two such studies currently exist for comparison.

Aims

To investigate adrenarcheal age among Maya girls and its association with body composition and dietary variables. We hypothesized adrenarche would occur earlier given the current dual burden of nutrition in Mexico.

Materials and Methods

25 Maya girls aged 7 to 9 from Merida, Mexico using ELISAs to measure salivary DHEA‐S, standard anthropometry for height, weight, and skinfolds, bioelectrical impedance for body composition variables, as well as a food frequency questionnaire for dietary information.

Results

Our hypothesis was rejected—adrenarche occurred close to 9 years. While no measures of body composition were significantly associated with adrenarcheal status, girls eating meat and dairy products more frequently had significantly higher DHEA‐S levels.

Discussion

Like other populations living in ecologically challenging environments, adrenarche occurred relatively late among Maya girls. Adrenarche has been linked to measures of body composition, particularly, the adiposity or body mass index rebound, but no relevant anthropometric measures were associated, possibly because of the small sample.

Conclusion

Further studies are required to illuminate how adrenarcheal variation relates to developmental plasticity, body composition, pubertal progression, and animal product consumption in other transitional populations.
Promising new catalytic properties of a Co (II)‐carboxamide complex and its derived Co3O4 nanoparticles for the Mizoroki‐Heck and the Epoxidation reactions
Authors: Kiani Mahsa , Bagherzadeh Mojtaba , Meghdadi Soraia , Fadaei‐Tirani Farzaneh , Babaie Maryam , Schenk‐Joß Kurt
Published: July 2020

The new Co(II) ‐ carboxamide complex (1) and Co3O4 nanoparticles (2), by way of thermal decomposition of (1) have been efficiently synthesised in the environment‐friendly. X‐ray diffraction reveals a slightly distorted octahedral coordination of cobalt (four nitrogens and two oxygens) in (1) and regular octahedral or tetrahedral ones (oxygens only) in (2). The investigation of (1) and (2) in the Mizoroki‐Heck and epoxidation of alkens reactions showed them both to be powerful, green and inexpensive catalysts.
A new hybrid method for two dimensional nonlinear variable order fractional optimal control problems
Authors: Hassani Hossein , Avazzadeh Zakieh , Tenreiro Machado José António , Naraghirad Eskandar
Published: July 2020

This paper presents an efficient operational matrix method for two dimensional nonlinear variable order fractional optimal control problems (2D‐NVOFOCP). These problems include the nonlinear variable order fractional dynamical systems (NVOFDS) described by partial differential equations such as the diffusion‐wave, convection‐diffusion‐wave and Klein‐Gordon equations. The variable order fractional derivative is defined in the Caputo type. The proposed hybrid method is based on the transcendental Bernstein series (TBS) and the generalized shifted Chebyshev polynomials (GSCP). The new operational matrices of derivatives are generated for the mentioned polynomials. The state and control functions are expressed by the TBS and GSCP with free coefficients and control parameters. These expansions are substituted in the performance index and the resulting operational matrices are employed to extract algebraic equations from the approximated NVOFDS. The constrained extremum is obtained by coupling the algebraic constraints from the dynamical system and the initial and boundary conditions with the algebraic equation extracted from the performance index by means of a set of unknown Lagrange multipliers. The convergence analysis is discussed and several numerical experiments illustrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.
Synthesis and Versatile Utilization of 2‐Pyridyl and Pyrimidyl‐Related Reagents
Authors: In Lee Jae
Published: July 2020

Active (thio)esters and amides were prepared from carboxylic acids and several reagents containing 2‐pyridyl or pyrimidyl moiety. Active (thio)carbonates, thionocarbonate, and thiourea were prepared from (thio)phosgene and 2‐hydroxypyridine or 2‐mercaptopyridine. The acylation of active (thio)esters and amides containing 2‐pyridyl or pyrimidyl groups with various organometallics afforded ketones, aldehydes, esters, amides, and β‐keto esters. The alkoxycarbonylation of active (thio)carbonates with Grignard reagents and amines afforded esters and carbamates, respectively. Active di(thiono)carbonates and thiourea containing the 2‐pyridyl or pyrimidyl moiety have been used in the dehydration of carboxylic acids/alcohols or aldoximes, dehydrosulfurization of thioureas, and (thio)carbonyl transfer of diols or amines to produce esters or nitriles, carbodiimides, cyclic carbonates or isothiocyanates, respectively.
Simultaneous determination of eight bioactive components in Marsdenia tenacissima extract in rat plasma by LC–MS/MS and its application in a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Li SiYu , Pei Wen Han , Zhang Hui
Published: July 2020

As a traditional Chinese medicine, Marsdenia tenacissima (Roxb.) Wight et Arn. plays an indispensable role in clinical practice owing to its specific efficacy in treating malignant tumors, leukocythemia, cystitis and asthma. This study aimed to establish a novel and scientific LC–MS/MS approach to simultaneously determine tenacissoside B, H, G and I, caffeic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid and neochlorogenic acid from M. tenacissima extract within the rat plasma samples. Digoxin was used as the internal reference. All determinations were carried out using the Eclipse Plus C18 column, and water (containing 0.1% formic acid) was used as the mobile phase A, while acetonitrile was the mobile phase B for gradient elution. The UPLC methods were validated, including calibration curves, accuracy, precision, stability and recovery of the total eight analytes, in accordance with the requirements for biopharmaceutical analysis. Moreover, the proposed approach was also used in comprehensive pharmacokinetic research on those eight analytes in rats following M. tenacissima extract gavage. According to the pharmacokinetic parameters, tenacissoside B, I, H and G are the long‐acting and primary bioactive constituents in M. tenacissima extract, with long mean residence times and high concentrations. Our findings shed light on the absorption mechanism and provide significant information for the clinical application of M. tenacissima.
Sustainable development: The stock market's view of environmental policy
Authors: Garcia‐Blandon Josep , Castillo‐Merino David , Chams Nour
Published: July 2020

This study applies panel data regression models to investigate how the stock market values the environmental policy of the firm. The empirical analysis relies on a cross‐country sample of public firms for the period between 2014 and 2017 and uses the ratings of environmental performance (EP) released by Eikon Thomson Reuters. For the first time in the related literature, the price‐to‐sales multiple is used to capture the assessment of the stock market towards EP. The study reveals that firms with the highest (lowest) scores of EP are quoted at significantly lower (higher) price‐to‐sales multiples than other firms, indicating a negative perception of the stock market towards EP. This finding is mostly driven by firms from the American region (United States and Canada). However, even in the Scandinavian region, considered as the most advanced area with regard to the concern towards environmental issues, stock market participants do not seem to have a positive view of EP. These results are robust to various checks and, particularly, to the use of the Tobin Q ratio as an alternative indicator of the stock market perceptions. The inference of this analysis suggests that the negative assessment of the stock market towards EP may constitute a deterrent for achieving more environmentally committed firms, making it difficult to accomplish the United Nations' Sustainable Development agenda.
Quadriceps or multiceps femoris?—Cadaveric study
Authors: Olewnik Łukasz , Tubbs Richard Shane , Ruzik Kacper , Podgórski Michał , Aragonés Paloma , Waśniewska Anna , Karauda Piotr , Szewczyk Bartłomiej , Sanudo Jose Ramón , Polguj Michał
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The quadriceps femoris (QF) consists of four muscles: the rectus femoris; vastus medialis; vastus lateralis, and vastus intermediate. The tendons of all of these parts join together into a single tendon that attaches to the patella. The QF is a powerful extensor of the knee joint that is needed for walking. A growing number of publications have examined the fifth head of the QF muscle. There is no information about the possibility of other heads, and there is no correct classification of their proximal attachments. Further, the frequency of occurrence of additional heads/components of the QF remains unclear.

Methods

One hundred and six lower limbs (34 male and 18 female) fixed in 10% formalin solution were examined.

Results

Additional heads of the QF were present in 64.1% of the limbs. Three main types were identified and included subtypes. The most common was Type I (44.1%), which had an independent fifth head. This type was divided into two subtypes (A‐B) depending on its location relative to the vastus intermediate. The second most common type was Type II (30.8%), which originated from other muscles: IIA from the vastus lateralis; IIB from the vastus intermediate, and IIC from the gluteus minimus. In addition, Type III (25%) was characterized by multiple heads: IIIA—two heads with a single common tendon; IIIB—two heads with two separate tendons; IIIC—three heads (lateral, intermediate, medial), and IIID—four heads (bifurcated lateral and bifurcated medial).

Conclusion

The introduction of a new classification based on a proximal attachment is necessary. The presence of the fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth head varies.
Enriched Terpenes Fractions of the Latex of Euphorbia umbellata Promote Apoptosis in Leukemic Cells
Authors: Cruz Luiza Stolz , Kanunfre Carla Cristine , de Andrade Evelyn Assis , de Oliveira Alexandre Alves , Cruz Laura Stolz , de Faria Moss Mariane , Sassaki Guilherme Lanzi , Alencar Menezes Leociley Rocha , Wang Mei , Khan Ikhlas Ahmad , Beltrame Flávio Luís
Published: July 2020

The current study was carried out by a bioguided fractionation of a hexane extract of the latex of Euphorbia umbellata against leukemic cells. Samples were analyzed by NMR, GC/MS, triterpenes quantification, and MTT reduction assay. Morphological, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential and caspases 3/7 analyses were performed for the dichloromethane and ethanol fractions, and selectivity index for the dichloromethane fraction. NMR analysis presented characteristic signals of terpenes and steroids, data were confirmed by the quantification of triterpenes and GC/MS analysis. MTT reduction assay demonstrated that HL‐60 was the most sensitive cell lineage against dichloromethane and ethanol fractions. Compounds of these matrices caused morphological changes compatible with apoptosis induction, altered cell cycle, increment of depolarized population cells and activation of caspases 3/7. Selectivity indices were higher than 22.44. Bioguided‐fractionation study showed that samples of the latex of E. umbellata raised the activity of the phytocomplex against leukemic cells, and the cytotoxicity can be associated with an apoptosis pathway.
Biogas Plant Upgrade to CO2‐Free Technology: A Techno‐Economic Case Study
Authors: Kutsay Andrey , Kratky Lukas , Jirout Tomas
Published: July 2020

A techno‐economic analysis was performed for a biogas plant with in‐built algae production. Degradation in the fermenter occurs under mesophilic conditions, to produce 605 Nm3t−1TS of biogas and 343 Nm3t−1TS of methane after 50 days. The biogas was combusted in a combined heat‐and‐power unit to produce heat and electricity. Cultivation of Chlorella vulgaris was done in co‐annular photo‐bioreactors, with an annual productivity of 107.5 t. For cultivation, both autotrophic and mixotrophic growth were assumed. Detailed mass and energy balances were done. For both conditions of algae growth, the results are approximately the same after a 30‐year payback period.
Construction of Supramolecular Polymers Based on Host‐Guest Recognition†
Authors: Ji Xiaofan , Wang Feng , Yan Xuzhou , Dong Shengyi , Huang Feihe
Published: July 2020

What is the most favorite and original chemistry developed in your research group?

The establishment of two new types of host‐guest recognition building blocks (21‐crown‐7/secondary ammonium salt and pillar[5]arene/alkyl chain) for supramolecular polymers.

How do you get into this specific field? Could you please share some experiences with our readers?

I got my introduction to supramolecular chemistry during the postgraduate period. There are many phenomena closely related to the weak non‐covalent interactions in nature, such as the storage and transmission of genetic information through the DNA double helix structure. Inspired by these fascinating natural phenomena, scientists try to use non‐covalent interactions to prepare many very complex self‐assembled systems including supramolecular polymers from natural and artificially designed structural units. In 1987, Lehn, Cram, and Pederson won the Nobel Prize for their contribution to supramolecular chemistry. At present, supra‐

molecular chemistry has developed into an emerging discipline formed by the intersection of chemistry, physics, life sciences, materials science, and electronic engineering.

How do you supervise your students?

Lead by example, teach students according to their aptitude, strive for excellence, and be a teacher and a friend.

What is the most important personality for scientific research?

Curiosity, thinking, hard work, and concentration.

What's your hobbies? What's your favorite book(s)?

Hiking and reading. Swordmen novels.

How do you keep balance between research and family?

Reasonable arrangement and choice.

Who influences you mostly in your life?

My grandmother. She taught me: “No pains, no gains”.

Self‐assembly is a topic of intense scientific interest. Supramolecular polymers are one of the most important research directions in the field of chemical self‐assembly. As a novel kind of polymeric systems, supramolecular polymers are still in the early stage of their development. There are three fundamental scientific problems: How to expand host‐guest recognition building blocks? How to realize the control of the structures of supramolecular polymers at multiple levels? And how to realize multi‐stimuli responsivenesses of supramolecular polymers? To address these scientific problems, we constructed a series of novel supramolecular polymers based on host‐guest recognition.
Acoustophoretic Motion of Erythrocyte‐mimicking Hemoglobin Micromotors
Authors: Gao Changyong , Lin Zhihua , Zhou Chang , Wang Daolin , He Qiang
Published: July 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Biocompatible micromotors have received increasing attention, due to their powerful motion, diverse functionalities and autonomous navigation in the field of biomedical applications. Herein, we report an acoustically‐propelled, magnetic‐guided, erythrocyte‐mimicking hemoglobin micromotor with oxygen‐carrying capability. These hemoglobin micromotors were fabricated by encapsulating magnetic nanoparticles in hybrid hemoglobin/calcium carbonate microparticles, followed by covalently layer‐by‐layer assembly of hemoglobin multilayers. The asymmetric distribution of magnetic nanoparticles enables these micromotors to move rapidly under the propulsion of an acoustic field. The velocity of acoustophoretic motion of hemoglobin micromotors increases with the increase of input voltage of acoustic field, up to 58.2 μm·s–1 at 10 V. The hemoglobin micromotors are directionally navigated by applying an external magnetic field, and also could pass through microchannels toward the targeted region. Moreover, such hemoglobin micromotors show effective oxygen loading and releasing capability, holding considerable promise as a new platform for oxygen delivery applications.
Radiolabelled CCK2R Antagonists Containing PEG Linkers: Design, Synthesis and Evaluation
Authors: Novak Doroteja , Tomašič Tihomir , Krošelj Marko , Javornik Uroš , Plavec Janez , Anderluh Marko , Kolenc Peitl Petra
Published: July 2020

The cholecystokinin‐2/gastrin receptor (CCK2R) is considered a suitable target for the development of radiolabelled antagonists, due to its overexpression in various tumours, but no such compounds are available in clinical use. Therefore, we designed novel 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid‐conjugated ligands based on CCK2R antagonist Z360/nastorazepide. As a proof of concept that CCK2R antagonistic activity can be retained by extending the Z360/nastorazepide structure using suitable linker, we present herein three compounds containing various PEG linkers synthesised on solid phase and in solution. The antagonistic properties were measured in a functional assay in the A431‐CCK2R cell line (in the presence of agonist G17), with IC50 values of 3.31, 4.11 and 10.4 nM for compounds containing PEG4, PEG6 and PEG12, respectively. All compounds were successfully radiolabelled with indium‐111, lutetium‐177 and gallium‐68 (incorporation of radiometal >95 %). The gallium‐68‐labelled compounds were stable for up to 2 h (PBS, 37 °C). log D7.4 values were determined for indium‐111‐ and gallium‐68‐labelled compounds, showing improved hydrophilicity compared to the reference compound.
US Food and Drug Administration approvals for Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Potential inefficiencies in trial design and evidence generation
Authors: Kim Myung Sun , Prasad Vinay
Published: July 2020

The US Food and Drug Administration granted acalabrutinib approval as the second Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor to treat patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma as monotherapy or in combination with obinutuzumab. This approval was based on 2 phase 3 trials: ELEVATE‐TN and ASCEND. There are several concerns with the design of these trials, including suboptimal treatment of patients in the control arm, expansion of the trial population, and lack of data regarding efficacy or tolerability compared with ibrutinib, a first‐in‐class drug. The Food and Drug Administration approval of acalabrutinib for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma represents concerning drug approval patterns in the United States and a weakness in evidence generation.
Highly Emissive Water‐Soluble Polysulfurated Pyrene‐Based Chromophores as Dual Mode Sensors of Metal Ions
Authors: Villa Marco , Roy Myriam , Bergamini Giacomo , Ceroni Paola , Gingras Marc
Published: July 2020

Pyrene‐based materials have gained considerable attention as stimuli‐responsive chemical sensors. We designed a polysulfurated arene system based on a tetra(phenylthio)pyrene core decorated with four carboxylic acid units. Three different regioisomers, ortho, meta and para were studied in organic and aqueous solution. These systems are soluble in water at pH≥8 due to the deprotonation of carboxylic acids. The addition of metal ions cannot only quench the fluorescence of the central pyrene core, but also control the formation of three‐dimensional nanoscopic objects in a dual mode function. Several divalent metal ions were tested and compared. Addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) disassembles the non‐emissive supramolecular system and restores the initial fluorescence of the pyrene core.
ThDione: A Powerful Electron‐Withdrawing Moiety for Push–Pull Molecules
Authors: Novotná Eva , Kityk Iwan V. , Pytela Oldřich , Bureš Filip , Ludwig Miroslav , Klikar Milan , Ozga Katarzyna , Jedryka Jaroslaw
Published: July 2020

A series of new push–pull chromophores based on a combined cyclopenta[c]thiophene‐4,6‐dione (ThDione) acceptor, N,N‐dimethylaniline, N‐piperidinylthiophene or ferrocene donors, and ethylene or buta‐1,3‐dienylene π‐linkers has been designed and synthesized. Utilizing one or two ThDione acceptors afforded linear or branched push–pull molecules. Experimental and theoretical study of their fundamental properties revealed thermal robustness up to 260 °C, a electrochemical/optical HOMO–LUMO gap that is tunable within the range of 1.47–2.19/1.99–2.39 eV, and thorough elucidation of structure–property relationships. Compared to currently available portfolio of heterocyclic electron‐withdrawing units, ThDione proved to be a powerful and versatile acceptor unit. It imparts significant intramolecular charge transfer and polarizes the π‐system, which results in enhanced (non)linear optical response.
The profitable relationship among corporate social responsibility and human resource management: A new sustainable key factor
Authors: Lombardi Rosa , Manfredi Simone , Cuozzo Benedetta , Palmaccio Matteo
Published: July 2020

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been increasingly investigated assuming several perspectives. In this scenario, human resources and particularly employees are the most relevant groups of stakeholders playing a key role in all kind of organizations. Thus, this paper aims at investigating the profitable connection between CSR and human resource management (HRM). We investigate which factors determine responsible and sustainable practices in the management of the employees’ typology contracts guaranteeing CSR and its principles. The employees’ contract typology is recognized as a sustainable key factor in influencing corporate performance. Through an empirical analysis in the football industry, we investigate if the work contracts’ average duration by football players affects the performance of their clubs. Our results demonstrate that organizations assuming stabilization and long timing in the employees’ contract are going to achieve sustainable performance assuring socially responsible practices and CSR. The awareness of the existence of a correlation between the duration of the contract and the company performance could be exploited by managers of all organizations in identifying the optimal strategy and the effectiveness in the implementation of CSR. Thus, a new sustainable key factor in assuring CSR and HRM is proposed: the employees’ contractual horizon/timing.
Development of a Novel Molecularly Imprinted Overoxidized Polypyrrole Electrode for the Determination of Sulfasalazine
Authors: Koseoglu Tugba Sardohan , Durgut Aybuke
Published: July 2020

A novel molecularly imprinted overoxidized polypyrrole electrode was produced for the determination of sulfasalazine (SSZ). The electrode was attained by electropolymerization of pyrrole onto a pencil graphite electrode by cyclic voltammetry. The SSZ was penetrated into the structure during the process. Differential pulse voltammetry was used to determine performance of imprinted (MIP) and non‐imprinted (NIP) electrodes. The linear range was attained in the range between 1.0 to 10.0 ppm of SSZ (R2=0.9993) with a detection limit of 0.265 ppm. The developed MIP electrode and analysis method are suitable for analysis of SSZ with reproducible response and precision in real samples.
Poly‐amidoamine Dendrimers@Fe3O4 Based Electrochemiluminescent Nanomaterials for Biosensing of Liver Cancer Biomarkers
Authors: Chikhaliwala Priyal , Chandra Sudeshna
Published: July 2020

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of poly‐amidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers functionalized to Fe3O4 nanoparticles (PAMAM@Fe3O4 NPs) based on Ru(bpy)32+ complex is reported. Different generations of PAMAM dendrimer consisted of 5 (D5), 10 (D10), 8 (D8) and 16 (D16) surface primary amine‐terminated groups. D5@Fe3O4 NPs enhanced ECL emission in comparison to others. A possible mechanism is elucidated based on structural functionality of PAMAM with respect to amines, carbonyl, hydroxyl groups and size‐based diffusion. ECL biosensing of alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) and glypican‐3 (GPC‐3) using 1 mM tri‐propylamine is demonstrated using D5@Fe3O4NP@antibodies as detection probes. Detection limit for AFP and GPC‐3 was 6 pg/mL and 0.03 pg/mL, respectively.
A Novel Platform Based on Au−CeO2@MWCNT Functionalized Glassy Carbon Microspheres for Voltammetric Sensing of Valrubicin as Bladder Anticancer Drug and its Interaction with DNA
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed , Ibrahim Hossieny , Almandil Noor B. , Sayed Marwa A. , Kawde Abdel‐Nasser , Aldaqdouq Yaqeen
Published: July 2020

In this work, a sensitive and simple electrochemical sensor was constructed for the quantitative analysis of valrubicin (VLB), as a chemotherapy drug, in biological samples based on MWCNTs‐OH, CeO2NPs, AuNPs and functionalized glassy carbon microspheres (FGCM) modified electrode (Au−CeO2@MWCNT‐OH/FGCME). The new nanocomposite Au−CeO2@MWCNT‐OH/FGCM produced an electrocatalytic effect towards the electrochemical oxidation of VLB. The electrochemical behavior of the Au−CeO2@MWCNT‐OH/FGCME was also investigated using EIS and CV. The experimental and operation parameters that affect the sensitivity of the sensor were optimized. SWV was utilized for the electrochemical analysis of VLB. The oxidation peak currents were linearly dependent on the concentration of VLB in the range of 7.10×10−8 M to 5.8×10−7 M. The detection limit of VLB was found to be 1.56×10−9 M which was more sensitive than the reported method. The possible coexistence biological matrix had no interference effect on the determination of VLB. The fabricated sensor was also effectively employed to the sensitive detection of VLB in human body fluids. The interaction of VLB with salmon testes and calf thymus double‐stranded DNA (st‐DNA and ct‐DNA) on Au−CeO2@MWCNT‐OH/FGCME has been further studied by cyclic voltammetry. The corresponding binding constant (K), surface concentration (Γ) and Gibbs free energy (ΔG°) were computed for the free VLB and the bound VLB‐dsDNA complex. The obtained results revealed that VLB binds to DNA with a high binding constant as well as the K value for VLB‐st‐DNA (K=1.81×105 M−1) is higher than that of VLB‐ct‐DNA (K=4.99×104 M−1).
Optimization of dark fermentation for biohydrogen production using a hybrid artificial neural network (ANN) and response surface methodology (RSM) approach
Authors: Wang Yunshan , Yang Gang , Sage Valérie , Xu Jian , Sun Guangzhi , He Jun , Sun Yong
Published: July 2020

Herein, the production of biohydrogen by dark fermentation was optimized using a novel hybrid approach that combines ANNs (artificial neural networks) with RSM (response surface methodology). Using the limited numbers of data (15 runs) as training data set together with one cross‐out method for validation, the complete 29 runs of well‐established data matrix were created from ANNs for RSM statistical analysis in order to correlated the critical process parameters with hydrogen production performance. This methodology was found to be robust, cost‐effective, reliable, and can be extensively analyzed the critical operational parameters, that is, carbon sources (obtained from potato peel wastes and starchy wastes), metal cofactor Fe0, pH, and dose levels of microbes on the hydrogen production, along with concentrations of other metabolites, such as acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, and ethanol. The established ANNs‐RSM model using Box–Behnken design indicates the significant changes caused by the variations of a few critical operation parameters. The resultant model shows an exceptionally good result in terms of nonlinear noisy processes. Both single and multiple objective optimizations for dark hydrogen fermentation can achieve by using the established hybrid ANN‐RSM system. The optimal operating conditions (starch 6.2 kg/m3, pH 6.7, Fe0 11.7 g/m3, sludge 24.6 g/m3) could lead to the generation of hydrogen with a yield of 106.2 (cm3/g) and metabolites, that is, propionic acid (2.8 kg/m3), butyric acid (2E−2 kg/m3), valeric acid (4E−4 kg/m3) acetic acid (1.9 kg/m3), and ethanol (0.1 kg/m3) simultaneously.
Porous Silicon Fabrication and Surface Cracking Behavior Research Based on Anodic Electrochemical Etching▴
Authors: Yang X. , Xi F. , Chen X. , Li S. , Wan X. , Ma W. , Dong P. , Duan J. , Chang Y.
Published: July 2020

Porous silicon (PSi) was fabricated based on anodic electrochemical etching, and the relationship between preparation conditions, nanostructure and PSi surface crack behavior were systematically studied. The effects of silicon wafer resistivity (doping concentration), etching time, and etching current density on nanostructure of PSi were investigated. Results indicated that lower resistivity was beneficial to etching process and led to higher porosity with uniform nano‐channels, and surface crack was more intense during drying process. Thickness and porosity of the porous layer are both initially increased and then decreased with increasing etching time. Direction of capillary stress depended on pore geometry, which further affected crack shape (shrinkage or crimp) of surface layer of PSi. Cracking extent was controlled by porosity, that the surface cracking layer began to peel off when the porosity exceeded 70%. Finally, a geometry and porosity‐controlled model was proposed to describe the cracking behaviors of PSi surface layer.
Strengthening Mechanism Analysis and Evaluation Methods of Multi‐channel Bottom‐blowing Spray Lance Stirring▴
Authors: Li S. , Wang S. , Wang Y. , Chen Q.
Published: July 2020

The bottom‐blowing enhanced smelting technology has been widely used in a variety of metallurgical processes because of its significant advantages of high melting strength, easy operation and low cost. The bottom‐blowing spray lance is its key equipment. In this paper, the multi‐channel spray lance is used as the research object, the numerical simulation method is used to establish a three‐dimensional mathematical model of the multi‐channel bottom‐blowing spray lance stirring, and the numerical simulation results are verified by the hydrodynamic model experiment. According to the simulation and experimental results, the gas‐liquid mixing uniformity in the stirring process of the straight‐pipe spray lance and the multi‐channel spray lance is evaluated by the four methods of LOG edge detection, image entropy, gas content variance and average turbulent kinetic energy. The results show that the multi‐channel spray lance can strengthen the bottom‐blowing stirring and optimize the melt mixing effect, which has achieved good application results in the production practice.
Late Palaeozoic to Late Triassic northward accretion and incorporation of seamounts along the northern South Pamir: Insights from the anatomy of the Pshart accretionary complex
Authors: Yogibekov Dzhovid , Sang Miao , Xiao Wenjiao , Windley Brian F. , Mamadjonov Yunus , Yang He , Huang Peng , Aminov Jovid , Vatanbekov Furkat
Published: July 2020

Late Palaeozoic–Mesozoic volcano‐sedimentary rocks within the Rushan–Pshart Suture zone in the Pamir contain critical information on the subduction–accretion history of the Rushan–Pshart Ocean (Meso‐Tethys) prior to the Central–South Pamir collision. In this article, we report new field, petrographic, geochronological, and geochemical data of the Permian to Triassic basic volcanic and sedimentary rocks from the Pshart area. Our field study unravels block‐in‐matrix components within some sedimentary mélanges, which, together with some previously defined ophiolitic mélanges, enables us to define the Pshart accretionary complex (AC), and thus for the first time to discuss the subduction–accretion history of the Rushan–Pshart Ocean and the growth of the Pshart AC. The youngest detrital U–Pb zircons suggest that deposition of sediments was in the Late Triassic (212 Ma). Detritus of Triassic age was primarily derived from the Triassic Karakul‐Mazar Arc‐AC (Northern Pamir) and the Bashgumbaz Magmatic Arc, which developed along the northern margin of South Pamir. The evidence of north‐directed thrusts along the Kara Djilga‐2 and Ken Djilga transverses confirms previous interpretations of southward subduction of the Rushan–Pshart oceanic lithosphere beneath the South Pamir. Geochemical OIB‐type data of the Pshart alkaline basaltic rocks suggest formation in seamounts incorporated into the Pshart AC during the southward subduction of the Rushan–Pshart Ocean. The youngest Late Triassic deposition age is consistent with the coeval time of closure of the Palaeo‐Tethys and Meso‐Tethys oceans in the Pamir. The Pshart AC formed by subduction–accretion processes during the southward subduction of the Meso‐Tethys Ocean along the northern South Pamir and the final docking of the Central and South Pamir (Cimmerian Blocks) may have occurred after the Late Triassic.
Eligibility or use? Disentangling the sources of horizontal inequity in home care receipt in the Netherlands
Authors: Tenand Marianne , Bakx Pieter , van Doorslaer Eddy
Published: July 2020

We study horizontal inequity in home care use in the Netherlands, where a social insurance scheme aims to allocate long‐term care according to care needs. Whether the system reaches its goal depends not only on whether eligible individuals have equal access to care but also on whether entitlements for care reflect needs, irrespective of socioeconomic status and other characteristics. We assess and decompose total inequity into inequity in (i) entitlements for home care and (ii) the conversion of these entitlements into actual use. This distinction is original and important, because inequity calls for different policy responses depending on the stage at which it arises. Linking survey and administrative data on the 65 and older, we find higher income elderly to receive less home care than poorer elderly with similar needs. Although lower income elderly tend to make greater use of their entitlements, need‐standardized entitlements are similar across income, education, and wealth levels. However, both use and entitlements vary by origin and place of residence. The Dutch need assessment seems effective at restricting socioeconomic inequity in home care use but may not fully prevent inequity along other dimensions. Low financial barriers and universal eligibility rules may help achieve equity in access but are not sufficient conditions.
Effect of cyclic irrigation using moderately saline and non‐saline water on onion (Allium cepa L.) yield and soil salinization in semi‐arid areas of Northern Ethiopia*
Authors: Yohannes Degol Fissahaye , Ritsema Coen J. , Habtu Solomon , Van Dam Jos C. , Froebrich Jochen
Published: July 2020

Due to the scarcity and/or unreliability of canal water supply, seepage water is haphazardly used for sole irrigation or in conjunction with canal water in most small‐scale irrigation schemes in northern Ethiopia. This has been a major cause of low crop yield and has aggravated soil salinization. The problem is more exacerbated for onion, which is the major irrigated vegetable crop and is sensitive to salinity. Thus, it is essential to assess a sustainable way to use both water resources conjunctively for the production of onion. A new study in the Ethiopian context was conducted to evaluate the effect of cyclic irrigation using non‐saline canal water (EC, 0.41–0.78 dS m−1) and moderately saline seepage water (EC, 0.82–2.19 dS m−1) on onion yield and soil salinization for two seasons (2014/2015 and 2015/2016) in the Gumselassa irrigation scheme, Ethiopia. Four irrigation water treatments were applied with three replications consisting of: C (canal), S (seepage), 2CS (two canal and seepage) and CS (canal and seepage). In both seasons, the onion bulb yield variations between the C, 2CS and CS treatments were not significant; however, the S treatment reduced the onion yield significantly compared to all but CS in 2015/2016. The S treatment resulted in significant salt accumulation in the upper soil profile (0–20 cm). The alternate (C : S) cyclic option is thus recommended for alleviation of the problem of freshwater scarcity, without undue onion yield reduction and soil salinization in Gumselassa and similar irrigation schemes.
Utility of Optical Coherence Tomography in the Diagnosis and Management of Optic Neuropathy in Patients with Fibrous Dysplasia
Authors: Pan Kristen S , FitzGibbon Edmond J , Vitale Susan , Lee Janice S , Collins Michael T , Boyce Alison M
Published: July 2020

Optic neuropathy (ON) is a highly disabling complication of fibrous dysplasia (FD). The optimal test for identifying and monitoring ON in FD is unknown. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an imaging modality that detects retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning, a sign of optic nerve atrophy. The purpose of this study was to (i) assess the ability of OCT RNFL thickness measurements to identify ON in FD; (ii) compare the performance of RNFL thickness to computed tomography measurements; and (iii) examine changes in RNFL thickness over time to assess disease progression. A retrospective cohort study was performed to assess subjects (n = 70) who underwent neuro-ophthalmologic examination, including OCT. The diagnostic utility of RNFL thickness was determined using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and the accuracy was compared with computed tomography measurements. The relationship between RNFL thickness and age was assessed cross-sectionally, using generalized estimating equation methodology, and longitudinally, using a generalized mixed model. Eleven subjects were identified with ON. RNFL thickness identified ON (area under curve = 0.997, p < 0.0001) with sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 95%, respectively, when using the diagnostic criterion of ≤71 μm. RNFL thickness outperformed computed tomography measurements of optic canal narrowing and optic nerve stretch. Subjects with ON exhibited a greater decrease in RNFL thickness with each year of age (−0.70 μm/year, p < 0.001) than subjects with normal vision (−0.16 μm/year, p < 0.05). When assessed longitudinally, subjects with normal vision demonstrated an increase in RNFL thickness until approximately age 20 years that decreased thereafter. In contrast, subjects with ON exhibited an earlier decrease in RNFL thickness during adolescence. In conclusion, RNFL thickness of ≤71 μm accurately identified ON in this population. By establishing the difference in rate of RNFL thinning in patients with and without ON, clinicians may distinguish between patients at risk for ON and intervene before irreversible damage. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A‐kinase interacting protein 1 as a potential biomarker of advanced tumor features and increased recurrence risk in papillary thyroid carcinoma patients
Authors: Zhang Luqing , Tao Haiying , Ke Kongliang , Ma Cui
Published: July 2020

Background

This study aimed to detect the expression of A‐kinase interacting protein 1 (AKIP1) and explore its correlation with clinicopathological features and clinical outcomes in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients.

Methods

A total of 245 PTC patients treated by lobectomy or thyroidectomy were analyzed in this retrospective study. AKIP1 expression in tumor and adjacent tissue (from Specimen Room of our hospital) was detected by immunohistochemical (IHC) assay and then categorized as four grades: AKIP1 low (IHC score ≤3), high+ (IHC score 4‐6), high++ (IHC score 7‐9), and high+++ (IHC score 10‐12).

Results

A‐kinase interacting protein 1 low, high+, high++, and high+++ expression was 101 (41.2%), 101 (41.2%), 32 (13.1%), and 11 (4.5%) in tumor tissues, while was 173 (70.6%), 61 (24.9%), 9 (3.7%), and 2 (0.8%) in adjacent tissues. Further comparison analysis showed increased grade of AKIP1 expression in tumor tissues compared to adjacent tissue. Meanwhile, increased grade of tumor AKIP1 expression was correlated with larger tumor size, extrathyroidal invasion, increased pT stage, and higher pTNM stage. For prognosis, increased grade of tumor AKIP1 expression was correlated with shorter disease‐free survival (DFS), while was not correlated with overall survival (OS). Forward stepwise multivariate Cox's regression revealed that higher tumor AKIP1 was an independent factor predicting worse DFS, but not OS.

Conclusion

AKIP1 is upregulated in tumor tissue, and increased tumor AKIP1 expression correlates with advanced tumor features and increased recurrence risk in PTC patients, which suggest that AKIP1 severs as a potential marker for effective supervision of PTC progression.
Single‐cell deconstruction of post‐sepsis skeletal muscle and adipose tissue microenvironments
Authors: Cho Dong Seong , Schmitt Rebecca E. , Dasgupta Aneesha , Ducharme Alexandra M. , Doles Jason D.
Published: July 2020

Background

Persistent loss of skeletal muscle mass and function as well as altered fat metabolism are frequently observed in severe sepsis survivors. Studies examining sepsis‐associated tissue dysfunction from the perspective of the tissue microenvironment are scarce. In this study, we comprehensively assessed transcriptional changes in muscle and fat at single‐cell resolution following experimental sepsis induction.

Methods

Skeletal muscle and visceral white adipose tissue from control mice or mice 1 day or 1 month following faecal slurry‐induced sepsis were used. Single cells were mechanically and enzymatically prepared from whole tissue, and viable cells were further isolated by fluorescence activated cell sorting. Droplet‐based single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq; 10× Genomics) was used to generate single‐cell gene expression profiles of thousands of muscle and fat‐resident cells. Bioinformatics analyses were performed to identify and compare individual cell populations in both tissues.

Results

In skeletal muscle, scRNA‐seq analysis classified 1438 single cells into myocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, macrophages, neutrophils, T‐cells, B‐cells, and dendritic cells. In adipose tissue, scRNA‐seq analysis classified 2281 single cells into adipose stem cells, preadipocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, macrophages, dendritic cells, B‐cells, T‐cells, NK cells, and gamma delta T‐cells. One day post‐sepsis, the proportion of most non‐immune cell populations was decreased, while immune cell populations, particularly neutrophils and macrophages, were highly enriched. Proportional changes of endothelial cells, neutrophils, and macrophages were validated using faecal slurry and cecal ligation and puncture models. At 1 month post‐sepsis, we observed persistent enrichment/depletion of cell populations and further uncovered a cell‐type and tissue‐specific ability to return to a baseline transcriptomic state. Differential gene expression analyses revealed key genes and pathways altered in post‐sepsis muscle and fat and highlighted the engagement of infection/inflammation and tissue damage signalling. Finally, regulator analysis identified gonadotropin‐releasing hormone and Bay 11‐7082 as targets/compounds that we show can reduce sepsis‐associated loss of lean or fat mass.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate persistent post‐sepsis muscle and adipose tissue disruption at the single‐cell level and highlight opportunities to combat long‐term post‐sepsis tissue wasting using bioinformatics‐guided therapeutic interventions.
Elucidating the effect of impurities present in different crude glycerol sources on lipid and citric acid production by Yarrowia lipolyticaSKY7
Authors: Kumar Lalit R , Yellapu Sravan K , Yan Song , Tyagi RD , Drogui Patrick
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Crude glycerol is an industrial by‐product of biodiesel producing companies and requires a high cost for purification. In fact, it is a good carbon source and can be used for lipid production from oleaginous microbes. However, crude glycerol has several impurities that may impact the cellular metabolism for lipid production.

RESULTS

In this study, crude glycerol from different sources was employed for lipid production and the effect of its impurities on the biomass and lipid production was investigated on Yarrowia lipolytica SKY7, which is a well‐known yeast for lipid and citric acid production. Growth inhibition was observed in BIOCARDEL, BIOLIQ, and ROTHSAY glycerol when compared with pure glycerol. This was due to high sodium concentrations in BIOCARDEL, high potassium concentrations in BIOLIQ, and high sulphur concentrations in ROTHSAY glycerol. Among three crude glycerol sources, the highest lipid concentration (14.78 g L−1) was obtained using BIOCARDEL glycerol at 96 h. However, the higher citric acid concentrations of 18.70 g L−1 in ROTHSAY glycerol and 12.00 g L−1 in BIOLIQ were obtained at 96 h when compared with 8.30 g L−1 in BIOCARDEL glycerol.

CONCLUSION

A high potassium and sulphur concentration in glycerol medium inhibits cell growth and lipid production in Yarrowia lipolytica SKY7, while it favors citric acid production. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
High efficient strategy for the production of hydroxyapatite/silk sericin nanocomposites
Authors: Veiga Anabela , Castro Filipa , L Oliveira Ana , Rocha Fernando
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Sericin (SS) induces nucleation of bone‐like hydroxyapatite (HAp) when used as an organic matrix. HAp/SS nanocomposites have been conventionally synthesized through precipitation in stirred tank reactors (STs). Despite its simplicity, this process is time consuming and presents difficulties in scale‐up. In our study, HAp/SS nanocomposites were successfully synthesized in a ST and in a meso‐oscillatory flow reactor (meso‐OFR), to compare the efficiency of both reactors and to study HAp mineralization using SS as a template.

RESULTS

The production of stable HAp, indicated by pH stabilization, was achieved after 180 min in the ST and after 30 min in the meso‐OFR. X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared analyses showed that the particles obtained in both reactors are HAp/SS nanocomposites with low crystallinity. Scanning electron microscopy evidenced the formation of rod‐ and plate‐shaped nanoparticles and revealed that the presence of SS led to the production of larger particles. The latter observation was confirmed by laser diffraction. Additionally, increasing SS concentration resulted in the formation of more plate‐like particles.

CONCLUSIONS

Precipitation is more efficient in the meso‐OFR, HAp/SS being obtained four times faster. The presence and concentration of SS led to differences in the size and morphology of the synthesized particles, suggesting a critical role of SS in the mineralization process. This work reports a new approach for the manufacture of high‐added‐value nanocomposites with similar characteristics to biological bone and the results of a study of the influence of SS as an organic component in HAp nucleation. Further, the use of this protein and technology leads to significant waste minimization. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)