bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silane‐functionalized graphene oxide/epoxy resin nanocomposites: Dielectric and thermal studies
Authors: Abdel Rehim Mona , Turky Gamal
Published: July 2019

Improved dispersion of graphene oxide (GO) in the epoxy resin, as nanofiller, requires surface modification. Hence, functionalization of GO with small silane (GONSi) and bulky silane moieties (GOSi) has been carried out. Structural confirmation analysis of the prepared GO and modified forms have been performed using different analytical techniques. Cationic photocuring polymerization of pure aliphatic epoxy resin (CE) and loaded samples with GO, GOSi, or GONSi in amounts 0.5 and 1 wt % has been followed by FTIR. Loading of CE showed a passive effect for the modified filler on the conversion of the CE during photocuring, whereas the thermal stability of loaded epoxy resin is enhanced. Dielectric properties investigations revealed that the insulation feature of CE is not seriously reduced by the addition of GO or its modified forms. The secondary relaxation β process originating from the fluctuations of the side functional hydroxyl group can be described by the semi‐empirical Cole–Cole function. The dielectric loss values are decreasing in the order GONSi > GOSi > GO > CE. Furthermore, it was found that the activation energy of the dynamic process is related to the conversion and to the ratio of the modified filler. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48253.
Alginate biofilms plasticized with hydrophilic and hydrophobic plasticizers for application in food packaging
Authors: Paixão Louryval Coelho , Lopes Ilmar Alves , Barros Filho Allan Kardec Duailibe , Santana Audirene Amorim
Published: July 2019

Biofilms are defined as flexible films prepared from biological materials such as proteins or polysaccharides, which act as barriers to external elements and can consequently protect the products and increase their shelf life. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of hydrophilic and hydrophobic plasticizers and mixtures thereof in the characterization of alginate biofilms. Films plasticized with glycerol were less hygroscopic than films plasticized with TC (tributyl citrate) or with TC/glycerol mixtures. The presence of TC in the plasticization of the films turn them more hygroscopic, thus confirming their excellent performance in protecting against dissolution and in water vapor permeability. Films plasticized with pure TC were the least water‐soluble and showed the higher tensile stress, having a globular microstructure, which was attenuated as the TC was partially substituted by glycerol, making the structure more compact but not as homogenous as films containing only glycerol as the plasticizer. Films plasticized with pure TC and with TC/glycerol mixtures were opaque and showed only one glass transition temperature (Tg). © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48263.
Spray coating thin polymeric sensor films for Au3+
Authors: Chansri Prangtip , Wanno Banchob , Keawwangchai Somchai , Tuntulani Thawatchai , Pulpoka Buncha , Kaewtong Chatthai
Published: July 2019

A novel polymeric sensor of the poly(sodium‐4‐styrenesulfonate) (PSS)‐modified rhodamine B derivative (Rho) was synthesized using 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC)/N,N′‐dimethylpyridin‐4‐amine (DMAP) as coupling reagents to obtain PSS‐Rho4 in 21% yield. The characterization and “Off–On” sensing phenomena were established through UV–Vis, fluorescence, NMR, and FTIR techniques. The PSS‐Rho4 showed high selectivity and sensitivity for Au3+ over other metal ions. Upon the addition of Au3+, significant color change and “Off–On” fluorescence were observed due to a cation Au3+ induced spirolactam ring‐opening process with detection limit down to micromolar values (1.2 μM). In addition, spray coating thin polymeric sensor films were produced onto the surface of material (PSS‐Rho4‐ITO and PSS‐Rho4‐filtered paper) providing a fast, portable, and easy‐to‐use molecular device for the detection of Au3+ in the real system. Reversibility was evaluated by rinsing with EDTA solution under basic condition. We believe that, this approach provides a sensitive and accurate method for the detection of Au3+ in environmental and biological applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48273.
An unexpected host for the endangered giant freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera auricularia (Spengler, 1793) as a conservation tool
Authors: Soler Joaquín , Boisneau Catherine , Jugé Philippe , Richard Nina , Guerez Yann , Morisseau Laure , Wantzen Karl Matthias , Araujo Rafael
Published: July 2019

The giant freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera auricularia (GFPM) is one of the most endangered bivalve species in the world. Originally occurring in many European rivers, the GFPM is a relict now restricted to a few ageing populations in France and Spain in which natural reproduction is almost absent.

Like most unionoid mussels, the GFPM needs host fish for the development of their parasitic larvae (glochidia). The European sturgeon (Acipenser sturio), the only known native host fish of the GFPM in France, is essentially extinct. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify other hosts that could be responsible for the few cases of recent recruitment.

Natural infestation of wild fishes in three French rivers was assessed to identify potential hosts of M. auricularia, while artificial infestation experiments were conducted on the sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) and the wels catfish (Silurus glanis) to determine their compatibility as hosts.

Among the 29 fish species assessed for natural infestation, only the three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) and the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) carried M. auricularia glochidia. In the artificial infestation experiments, living juvenile mussels were collected from both P. marinus and S. glanis. The number of juveniles collected from a single P. marinus specimen (13,827) suggests that this species is a highly efficient host. As with previously known hosts, newly identified ones also appear to have a relationship with marine environments.

The present findings suggest that P. marinus has played a key role in preventing the total extinction of M. auricularia in France, and indicate the potential use of P. marinus in conservation strategies aimed at reintroducing or stabilizing populations of this rare mollusc.
Safety and efficacy of transarterial embolization of hepatocellular adenomas
Authors: van Rosmalen B V , Klompenhouwer A J , de Graeff J Jaap , Haring M P D , de Meijer V E , Rifai L , Dokmak S , Rawashdeh A , Abu Hilal M , de Jong M C , Dejong C H C , Doukas M , de Man R A , IJzermans J N M , van Delden O M , Verheij J , van Gulik T M
Published: July 2019

Background

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) larger than 5 cm in diameter has an increased risk of haemorrhage and malignant transformation, and is considered an indication for resection. As an alternative to resection, transarterial embolization (TAE) may play a role in prevention of complications of HCA, but its safety and efficacy are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to assess outcomes and postembolization effects of selective TAE in the management of HCA.

Methods

This retrospective, multicentre cohort study included patients aged at least 18 years, diagnosed with HCA and treated with TAE. Patient characteristics, 30-day complications, tumour size before and after TAE, symptoms before and after TAE, and need for secondary interventions were analysed.

Results

Overall, 59 patients with a median age of 33.5 years were included from six centres; 57 of the 59 patients were women. Median tumour size at time of TAE was 76 mm. Six of 59 patients (10 per cent) had a major complication (cyst formation or sepsis), which could be resolved with minimal therapy, but prolonged hospital stay. Thirty-four patients (58 per cent) were symptomatic at presentation. There were no significant differences in symptoms before TAE and symptoms evaluated in the short term (within 3 months) after TAE (P = 0·134). First follow-up imaging was performed a median of 5·5 months after TAE and showed a reduction in size to a median of 48 mm (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

TAE is safe, can lead to adequate size reduction of HCA and, offers an alternative to resection in selected patients.
Cerebrospinal fluid light and heavy neurofilament level increased in anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor encephalitis
Authors: Li Jiayu , Gu Yong , An Hongwei , Zhou Zheyi , Zheng Dong , Wang Zhanhang , Wen Zehuai , Shen Hai‐Ying , Wang Qi , Wang Honghao
Published: July 2019

Background

Neurofilaments (Nf) are a series of highly specific scaffolding proteins of neurons. Neurofilament light chains (Nf‐L) and the heavy one (Nf‐H) are subunits of Nf, and they are recognized as potent productions of neural damage. The concentrations of Nf aggrandized significantly in neurological disease including neuromyelitis optica, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. However, whether Nf in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) elevated in anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is unclear. Here, we aimed to detect whether CSF Nf is altered in NMDAR and whether changes in CSF Nf can serve as an objective and effective biomarker to evaluate disease severity and prognosis.

Methods

We collected 24 anti‐NMDAR encephalitis patients, 11 viral meningoencephalitis/encephalitis (VM) patients, and 21 controls in this study. CSF Nf‐L, Nf‐H, and cytokine levels (IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐17A) were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and compared between groups. We evaluated patients’ clinical outcomes or prognosis according to modified Rankin scale (mRS) score.

Results

Compared with controls, both CSF Nf‐L and Nf‐H levels were significantly increased in anti‐NMDAR encephalitis patients. While compared with VM patients, only Nf‐L were increased in anti‐NMDAR encephalitis patients. Moreover, CSF Nf‐L were positively correlated with concentration of cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐17A) and mRS scores in anti‐NMDAR encephalitis patients. After treatment, both CSF Nf‐L and Nf‐H levels decreased. Furthermore, the Nf‐L during follow‐up positively correlated with 3‐month mRS scores, and ΔNf‐L positively correlated with ΔmRS.

Conclusions

Briefly, CSF Nf‐L levels notably increased in anti‐NMDAR encephalitis patients in acute phase and positively correlated with disease severity. It could be considered as a useful indicator for clinical outcomes and prognosis.
Influence of female hormones on fascia elasticity: An elastography study
Authors: Vita Martin , Sedlackova Zuzana , Herman Miroslav , Furst Tomas , Smekal David , Cech Zdenek
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle on deep fasciae. A total of 29 women, 17 users, and 12 nonusers of hormonal contraceptives were examined clinically and by ultrasound, including shear wave elastography, at two phases of the menstrual cycle. The thickness and elasticity of the fascia lata, thoracolumbar fascia, and plantar fascia were measured, compared between hormonal contraceptive users and nonusers, and correlated with clinical data. There were statistically significant differences between users and nonusers of hormonal contraceptives: the thoracolumbar fascia was thicker in nonusers (P = 0.011), and nonusers had higher maximal and mean stiffnesses of the fascia lata (P = 0.01 and 0.0095, respectively). Generally, nonusers had a higher body mass index (BMI). The elasticity of the thoracolumbar and the plantar fasciae did not differ significantly between the groups. We found no correlation between thickness and elasticity in the fasciae. There were no statistically significant differences in hypermobility, cephalgia, or dysmenorrhea between users and nonusers of hormonal contraceptives. The results of this pilot study suggest that deep fasciae can be evaluated by shear wave elastography. Nonusers of contraceptives had greater stiffness of the fascia lata and higher BMI. Clin. Anat. 32:941–947, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact on health‐related quality of life deterioration‐free survival of a first‐line therapy combining nab‐paclitaxel plus either gemcitabine or simplified leucovorin and fluorouracil for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer: Results of the randomized phase II AFUGEM GERCOR clinical trial
Authors: Charton Emilie , Bachet Jean‐Baptiste , Hammel Pascal , Desramé Jérôme , Chibaudel Benoist , Cohen Romain , Debourdeau Philippe , Dauba Jérome , Lecomte Thierry , Seitz Jean‐François , Tournigand Christophe , Aparicio Thomas , Guerin‐Meyer Véronique , Taieb Julien , Volet Julien , Louvet Christophe , Anota Amélie , Bonnetain Franck
Published: July 2019

Background

The phase II AFUGEM GERCOR trial aimed to assess the efficacy of a first‐line therapy combining nab‐paclitaxel plus either gemcitabine (gemcitabine group) or simplified leucovorin and fluorouracil (sLV5FU2 group) in patients with previously untreated metastatic pancreatic cancer. Results of progression‐free survival at 4 months (primary endpoint) were in favor of the sLV5FU2 group. This paper presents health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) data as a secondary endpoint.

Methods

HRQoL was assessed using the EORTC QLQ‐C30 questionnaire at baseline and at each chemotherapy cycle until the end of treatment. The HRQoL deterioration‐free survival (QFS) was used as a modality of longitudinal analysis. QFS was defined as the time between randomization and the first definitive HRQoL score deterioration as compared to the baseline score, or death. Sensitivity analysis was performed excluding death as an event. Univariate Cox models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of the treatment effect.

Results

Between 2013 and 2014, 114 patients were randomized in a 1:2 ratio (39 in the gemcitabine group and 75 in the sLV5FU2 group). Patients in the sLV5FU2 group seemed to present longer QFS than those of the gemcitabine group for 14 out of 15 dimensions, with HRs < 1. Results of the sensitivity analysis excluding death as an event were significantly in favor of the sLV5FU2 group for physical functioning (HR = 0.51 [90% CI 0.27‐0.97]) and pain (HR = 0.26 [90% CI 0.09‐0.74]).

Conclusion

The nab‐paclitaxel plus simplified leucovorin and fluorouracil combination had no negative impact in exploratory HRQoL analyses.
Deliquescence and Efflorescence of Hygroscopic Salt Particles in Dust Cakes on Surface Filters
Authors: Horst David , Zhang Qian , Schmidt Eberhard
Published: July 2019

In the case of dust separation with surface filters, both the structure of the formed cake and the adhesive bonds on particle contacts significantly influence the operating behavior. Microscopic as well as macroscopic insights into the characteristics of deliquescence and efflorescence of salt particles in contact with non‐hygroscopic particles are presented. By means of an environmental scanning electron microscope a change to the adhesive bonds as well as a restructuring of the dust cake are observed. The change in the performance of test filters by inducing deliquescence and efflorescence of the salt particle fraction in a dust cake is investigated on a customized standard filter testing rig.
Hydrogen Production via Load‐Matched Coupled Solar‐Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis Using Aqueous Methanol
Authors: Arellano-Garcia Harvey , Ife Maximilian R. , Sanduk Mohammed , Sebastia-Saez Daniel
Published: July 2019

Hydrogen production via a directly coupled solar‐proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis system using aqueous methanol instead of water was investigated. The effect of load matching and methanol concentration on hydrogen production rates, electrolysis efficiency, and solar‐hydrogen efficiency was evaluated. The electrolysis efficiencies were subsequently used in simulation studies to estimate production costs in scaled‐up systems. The results demonstrate that the added hydrogen production associated with the methanol solutions leads to favorable hydrogen production costs at smaller scales.
Precise Manipulation of Temperature‐Driven Chirality Switching of Molecular Universal Joints through Solvent Mixing
Authors: Fan Chunying , Yao Jiabin , Li Guojuan , Guo Cheng , Wu Wanhua , Su Dan , Zhong Zhihui , Zhou Dayang , Wang Yuliang , Chruma Jason J. , Yang Cheng
Published: July 2019

Three chiral bicyclic pillar[5]arene derivatives termed as molecular universal joints (MUJs), were synthesized and separated enantiomerically. These MUJs showed temperature‐driven chirality switching in certain solvents. Herein, it is demonstrated that temperature‐driven chirality switching could also be realized by mixing two miscible organic solvents, in each of which chirality inversion is not accomplishable. Additionally, solvent mixing drastically varied the inversion temperature of the MUJs, for example, from far below zero to room temperature. Moreover, the temperature‐driven Sp/Rp to Rp/Sp chirality switching direction could be reversed by the solvent mixing and it was critically controlled by the mixing ratios of the two solvents. These observations allowed precise manipulation of the chirality switching behavior of the MUJs. Such a chirality switching was ascribed to the influences of solvent and temperature on the in–out equilibrium of the side rings, which is delicately controlled by several processes, including the solvation/desolvation and the inclusion/exclusion of the side rings and solvent molecules. Crucially, the solvent mixing introduced new supramolecular processes, in particular the desolvation of solvent molecules from the mixed solvent system and the solvation of the side ring by the mixed solvent, which significantly disturbed the original in–out equilibrium of MUJs and drastically switched the entropy and enthalpy changes of conformational interconversion.
Simulated Sunlight Selectively Modifies Maillard Reaction Products in a Wide Array of Chemical Reactions
Authors: Hemmler Daniel , Gonsior Michael , Powers Leanne C. , Marshall James W. , Rychlik Michael , Taylor Andrew J. , Schmitt‐Kopplin Philippe
Published: July 2019

The photochemical transformation of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) under simulated sunlight into mostly unexplored photoproducts is reported herein. Non‐enzymatic glycation of amino acids leads to a heterogeneous class of intermediates with extreme chemical diversity, which is of particular relevance in processed and stored food products as well as in diabetic and age‐related protein damage. Here, three amino acids (lysine, arginine, and histidine) were reacted with ribose at 100 °C in water for ten hours. Exposing these model systems to simulated sunlight led to a fast decay of MRPs. The photodegradation of MRPs and the formation of new compounds have been studied by fluorescence spectroscopy and nontargeted (ultra)high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Photoreactions showed strong selectivity towards the degradation of electron‐rich aromatic heterocycles, such as pyrroles and pyrimidines. The data show that oxidative cleavage mechanisms dominate the formation of photoproducts. The photochemical transformations differed fundamentally from “traditional” thermal Maillard reactions and indicated a high amino acid specificity.
Subcomponent Self‐Assembly of a Cyclic Tetranuclear FeII Helicate in a Highly Diastereoselective Self‐Sorting Manner
Authors: Anhäuser Jana , Puttreddy Rakesh , Glanz Lukas , Schneider Andreas , Engeser Marianne , Rissanen Kari , Lützen Arne
Published: July 2019

An enantiomerically pure diamine based on the 4,15‐difunctionalized [2.2]paracyclophane scaffold and 2‐formylpyridine self‐assemble into an optically pure cyclic metallosupramolecular Fe4L6 helicate upon mixing with iron(II) ions in a diastereoselective subcomponent self‐assembly process. The cyclic assembly results from steric strain that prevents the formation of a smaller linear dinuclear triple‐stranded helicate, and hence, leads to the larger strain‐free assembly that fulfils the maximum occupancy rule. Interestingly, use of the racemic diamine also leads to a racemic mixture of the homochiral cyclic helicates as the major product in a highly diastereoselective narcissistic chiral self‐sorting manner given the fact that the assembly contains ten stereogenic elements, which can in principle give rise to 149 different diastereomers. The metallosupramolecular aggregates could be characterized by NMR, UV/Vis and CD spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray crystallography.
Fabrication of Strong Solid Base FeO–MgO for Warm CO2 Capture
Authors: Chen Jie Ling , Dong Xin Yu Ming , Shi Chun Ling , Li Shuo Hao , Wang Ying , Zhu Jian Hua
Published: July 2019

A strong solid base, FeO–MgO, is synthesized using magnesium acetate and ferrous acetate in order to meet the requirement of capturing CO2 in flue gas at a temperature higher than 423 K. After the two salts are ground and carbonized at 823 K, the ferric MgO composite with a surface area exceeding 160 m2 g−1 is obtained, where ferric oxide species are wrapped by magnesia particles. The influence of ferric salt on the structure and adsorption properties of the strong solid bases is investigated to determine the optimal amount, and the distribution of ferric additive is assessed with X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). With a mass ratio of ferrous oxide of about 3%, the basic sorbent could capture 35 mg g−1 CO2 at 473 K and the ratio of strong base sites increases to 91%. Both the CO2 adsorption capacity and the ratio of strong basic sites are higher than those of the other MgO sorbents, which is beneficial for warm CO2 capture. Additionally, the function of strong basic sites in the ferric MgO sorbent is explored in the instantaneous adsorption of warm CO2. The capability in the cycled warm CO2 adsorption is found to be related to the desorption temperature of CO2. Different forms of CO2 injections are used in adsorption and the influence on the performance of the strong basic sorbent is also studied.
Monitoring of Measurable Residual Disease in Multiple Myeloma by Multiparametric Flow Cytometry
Authors: Soh Kah Teong , Wallace Paul K.
Published: July 2019

Recent interest in high‐sensitivity multiple myeloma (MM) measurable residual disease (MRD) testing is a direct consequence of the high‐quality responses achieved using novel therapeutic agents and better treatment strategies. Traditional diagnostic measures such as immunohistochemistry and morphology have detection sensitivities of only 10−2 to 10−3, which do not reliably predict progression‐free survival (PFS) or overall survival (OS) after these treatments. Contemporary monitoring of MM MRD has switched to more sensitive platforms such as allele‐specific oligonucleotide quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ASO‐qPCR), next‐generation sequencing (NGS), and multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC). Though both ASO‐qPCR and NGS have excellent detection sensitivities (10−5 to 10−6), both technologies have lower applicability when compared to MFC. Conventional MFC can easily reach a detection sensitivity of 10−4 and when optimized can achieve a sensitivity of 10−5 to 10−6. Current consensus guidelines require a minimum of 2 million and recommend 5 million events be acquired to reach a minimum sensitivity of 10−5. As conventional immunophenotyping protocols are unable to attain these numbers, alternative MFC staining procedures are required. This article describes two high‐sensitivity MFC approaches that can be used for MM MRD testing. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evolutionary game analysis on competition strategy choice of application providers
Authors: Ye Ayong , Jin Junlin , Yang Zhijiang , Zhao Ziwen , Meng LingYu
Published: July 2019

Modern smartphone platforms offer a multitude of useful features to their users, but at the same time, they highly affect privacy, which may lead to unnecessary personal data being collected. In this paper, we proposed an evolutionary game model to study permission request strategies of the bounded rational application providers. We study the proposed model with detailed simulations. Initial results demonstrate that evolution processes are influenced by four factors: revenue increase ratio, market share, credit cost, and market attraction. It also suggests that establishing a privacy alarm mechanism not only can improve the users' privacy awareness but also decrease the market share when providers over‐request permissions and push them request permissions properly.
Next‐Generation DILI Biomarkers: Prioritization of Biomarkers for Qualification and Best Practices for Biospecimen Collection in Drug Development
Authors: Roth Sharin E. , Avigan Mark I. , Bourdet David , Brott David , Church Rachel , Dash Ajit , Keller Douglas , Sherratt Philip , Watkins Paul B. , Westcott‐Baker Lucas , Lentini Silvia , Merz Michael , Ramaiah Lila , Ramaiah Shashi K. , Stanley Ann Marie , Marcinak John
Published: July 2019

The diagnosis and management of drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) remains a challenge in clinical trials in drug development. The qualification of emerging biomarkers capable of predicting DILI soon after the initiation of treatment, differentiating DILI from underlying liver disease, identifying the causal entity, and assigning appropriate treatment options after DILI is diagnosed are needed. Qualification efforts have been hindered by lack of properly stored and consented biospecimens that are linked to clinical data relevant to a specific context of use. Recommendations are made for biospecimen collection procedures, with the focus on clinical trials, and for specific emerging biomarkers to focus qualification efforts.
Star‐Shaped Non‐Fullerene Small Acceptors for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Pan Yi‐Qi , Sun Guang‐Yan
Published: July 2019

Over the past decade, organic solar cells (OSCs) have received considerable attention from the scientific community and are considered one of the most important sources of low‐cost electricity production. Recently, OSC‐based on star‐shaped small‐molecule (SM) non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) have developed rapidly, and the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) has exceeded 10 %. The star‐shaped SM NFAs not only have three‐dimensional charge‐transport characteristics similar to fullerenes but also have a strong light absorption capacities and easily tunable energy levels. They are potential candidates as outstanding acceptor materials. In this Review, research progress in of star‐shaped SM NFAs OSCs is reviewed specifically. Moreover, the influence of molecular structure, central unit, and peripheral linking group on OSC performance has been evaluated systematically. This Review could stimulate inspiration for designing high‐performance OSC acceptor materials in the future.
Powering the Hydrogen Economy from Waste Heat: A Review of Heat‐to‐Hydrogen Concepts
Authors: Mulla Rafiq , Dunnill Charles W.
Published: July 2019

Ever‐increasing energy demands and environmental concerns require new and clean energy supplies, many of which are intermittent and do not correlate with demand. To balance supply with demand, a universal energy vector should be employed such that intermittent renewable energy can be stored and transported and then used when needed. Hydrogen is the perfect universal energy vector and a possible solution that ensures environmental cleanliness, maximum utilization of renewable energy sources, and high efficiency, whereby the combustion of the fuel yields only water. One abundant and freely available energy source—both anthropogenic and natural—is heat. Heat can be obtained from industrial processes and is indeed often viewed as a waste product with a premium to remove but is notoriously difficult to capture, store, and transport. Capturing and storing low‐grade heat therefore provides a significant opportunity and can be achieved by coupling thermoelectric generators and water electrolyzers. A thermoelectric generator is placed within a thermal energy gradient and produces a flow of current that is fed to the electrolysis unit with which it produces hydrogen and oxygen as the final products. The hydrogen can be stored for long periods and transported for “on‐demand” use in fuel cells for electricity from hydrogen burners for a return to thermal energy. This Review summarizes the current state‐of‐the‐art research into implementing thermoelectric generators and utilizing heat as a primary energy source to produce hydrogen, which could replace the need for extra electric power to run hydrogen production units. Furthermore, suitable requirements, modifications, and other related aspects associated with such a new and novel method of hydrogen generation are discussed. Hydrogen produced from otherwise‐wasted energy sources can be considered to be green.
γδ T‐cell responses during HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Juno Jennifer A , Eriksson Emily M
Published: July 2019

HIV infection is associated with a rapid and sustained inversion of the Vδ1:Vδ2 T‐cell ratio in peripheral blood. Studies of antiretroviral therapy (ART)‐treated cohorts suggest that ART is insufficient to reconstitute either the frequency or function of the γδ T‐cell subset. Recent advances are now beginning to shed light on the relationship between microbial translocation, chronic inflammation, immune ageing and γδ T‐cell immunology. Here, we review the impact of acute, chronic untreated and treated HIV infection on circulating and mucosal γδ T‐cell subsets and highlight novel approaches to harness γδ T cells as components of anti‐HIV immunotherapy.
RETRACTED: Dose‐dependent chemopreventive effects of citronellol in DMBA‐induced breast cancer among rats
Authors: Rajendran Jayaganesh , Pachaiappan Pugalendhi , Subramaniyan Suganthi
Published: July 2019

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women world wide and its incidence is on tremendous increase. The present study is aimed to analyze the dose‐dependent chemopreventive efficacy of citronellol on 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)‐induced rat mammary carcinogenesis. The mammary tumor was induced through a single dose of DMBA (25 mg/rat) injected subcutaneously near the mammary gland of rats. In DMBA‐injected rats, 100% tumor incidence, increased tumor volume, and tumor burden along with loss of body weight were observed. Biochemical analysis revealed the increased levels of phase I detoxification proteins (cytochrome P450 and b5) and decreased activities of phase II detoxification enzymes (glutathione‐S‐transferase and glutathione reductase) in hepatic and mammary tissues. The levels of enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants (superoxidedismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and (GPx) and reduced glutathione) were decreased and lipid peroxidation by‐products (thiobarbituric acid reactive substance and lipid hydroperoxide) got increased in plasma and mammary tissues. Oral administration of different doses of citronellol (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight) to DMBA‐treated rats for 16 weeks absolutely inhibited the tumor incidence and restored the biochemical parameters near to normal level in 50 and 100 mg doses whereas the histopathological studies also supported the biochemical findings. Hence, the result suggests that the citronellol of 50 mg/kg body weight exerted significant chemopreventive effects and can be considered as a minimum optimum dose in the prevention of mammary carcinogenesis.
The potential of siRNA based drug delivery in respiratory disorders: Recent advances and progress
Authors: Dua Kamal , Wadhwa Ridhima , Singhvi Gautam , Rapalli Vamshikrishna , Shukla Shakti Dhar , Shastri Madhur D. , Gupta Gaurav , Satija Saurabh , Mehta Meenu , Khurana Navneet , Awasthi Rajendra , Maurya Pawan Kumar , Thangavelu Lakshmi , S Rajeshkumar , Tambuwala Murtaza M. , Collet Trudi , Hansbro Philip M. , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar
Published: July 2019

Lung diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide. The currently available therapies are not sufficient, leading to the urgent need for new therapies with sustained anti‐inflammatory effects. Small/short or silencing interfering RNA (siRNA) has potential therapeutic implications through post‐transcriptional downregulation of the target gene expression. siRNA is essential in gene regulation, so is more favorable over other gene therapies due to its small size, high specificity, potency, and no or low immune response. In chronic respiratory diseases, local and targeted delivery of siRNA is achieved via inhalation. The effectual delivery can be attained by the generation of aerosols via inhalers and nebulizers, which overcomes anatomical barriers, alveolar macrophage clearance and mucociliary clearance. In this review, we discuss the different siRNA nanocarrier systems for chronic respiratory diseases, for safe and effective delivery. siRNA mediated pro‐inflammatory gene or miRNA targeting approach can be a useful approach in combating chronic respiratory inflammatory conditions and thus providing sustained drug delivery, reduced therapeutic dose, and improved patient compliance. This review will be of high relevance to the formulation, biological and translational scientists working in the area of respiratory diseases.
The effect of intradermal microdosing of a transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 antagonist on heat evoked pain and thermal thresholds in normal and ultraviolet‐C exposed skin in healthy volunteers
Authors: Sjögren Erik , Ståhle Lars , Quiding Hans , Jonzon Bror , Halldin Magnus M. , Sundgren Anna K.
Published: July 2019

Background

Three TRPV1 (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Receptor 1) antagonists were developed for testing in situ in human skin (Sjögren et al., 2016; Sjögren et al., 2018; Sjögren et al., 2018). The first human study using these compounds and capsaicin, was performed to determine the required local antagonist concentrations needed for target engagement (Proof of Mechanism, PoM) (Sjögren et al., 2018). In this paper, the aim was to address a TRPV1 antagonist's ability to inhibit a more complex pain signal and to define translational endpoints that could be used in further drug development, when progressing orally bioavailable TRPV1 antagonists as novel analgesic medications.

Method

This was a single centre, placebo‐controlled, clinical proof of principle (PoP) study in 25 healthy volunteers. The subjects were exposed to UV irradiation, causing a local tissue inflammation. Three different doses of AZ12048189 were administered to assess pain perception through quantitative sensory testing (QST) and erythema using Laser Doppler scanning.

Results

AZ12048189 increased the warmth detection threshold (WDT) and the heat pain threshold (HPT) and decreased the intensity of supra threshold heat pain (STHP). AZ12048189 did not, however, have any significant effects as assessed using mechanical stimulation or Laser Doppler.

Conclusions

This study validated translational tools to confirm target engagement for TRPV1 antagonists; WDT, HPT and STHP have utility in this respect, after oral administration of a TRPV1 antagonist. This study also proved that TRPV1 antagonists can inhibit a more complex, non‐capsaicin dependent thermally induced pain signal.
Species selection and assessment of eco‐engineering effects of seedlings for biogeomorphological landscape experiments
Authors: Lokhorst Ivar R. , de Lange Sjoukje I. , van Buiten Gerard , Selaković Sanja , Kleinhans Maarten G.
Published: July 2019

Landscape experiments of fluvial environments such as rivers and deltas are often conducted with live seedlings to investigate effects of biogeomorphological interactions on morphology and stratigraphy. However, such experiments have been limited to a single species, usually alfalfa (Medicago sativa), whereas important environments in nature have many different vegetation types and eco‐engineering effects. Landscape experimentation would therefore benefit from a larger choice of tested plant species. For the purpose of experimental design our objective was to identify fast‐germinating and fast‐growing species and determine their sensitivity to flow conditions during and after settling, their maximum growth, hydraulic resistance and added bank strength. We tested germination time and seedling growth rate of 18 candidate species with readily available seeds that are fast growing and occur at waterlines, plus Medicago sativa as a control. We selected five species that germinate and develop within days and measured properties and eco‐engineering effects depending on plant age and density, targeting typical experimental conditions of 0–0.3 m/s flow velocity and 0–30 mm water depth. Tested eco‐engineering effects include bank strength and flow resistance. We found that Rumex hydrolapathum can represent riparian trees. The much smaller Veronica beccabunga and Lotus pedunculatus can represent grass and saltmarsh species as they grow in dense patches with high flow resistance but are readily erodible. Sorghum bicolor grows into tall, straight shoots, which add significantly to bank strength, but adds little flow resistance and may represent sparse hardwood trees. Medicago sativa also grows densely under water, suggesting a use for mangroves and perhaps peat. In stronger and deeper flows the application of all species changes accordingly. These species can now be used in a range of landscape experiments to investigate combined effects on living landscape patterns and possible facilitation between species. The testing and treatment methodology can be applied to new species and other laboratory conditions. © 2019 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. © 2019 The Authors Earth Surface Processes and Landforms Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd © 2019 The Authors Earth Surface Processes and Landforms Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Effect of flame retardants on flame propagation and flammability properties of oil palm fibre reinforced polyester composite
Authors: Suoware Timine O. , Edelugo Sylvester O. , Ezema Ikechukwu C.
Published: July 2019

Oil palm fibre reinforced polyester composite (OPFC) was modified with aluminium tri‐hydroxide (ATH), ammonium phosphate and gum arabic (APP‐GAP) intumescent compound, and their hybrid (ATH/APP‐GAP) flame retardants (FRs) at 0%, 12%, and 18% proportion using hand lay‐up compression moulding technique. The effect of the FR loadings on impact strength, flammability properties, and flame propagation were examined using an impact tester, cone calorimeter apparatus (CCA), and flame spread apparatus (FSA), respectively. The results shows that the FRs added to OPFC enhanced the impact strength of the composite showing greater absorbed energy for 0%OPFC and 12%APP‐GAP specimens. CCA results reveal that 18%ATH/APP‐GAP hybrid specimen enhanced the flammability properties better at 50 kW m−2, while at 25 kW m−2, the performance of the specimens varied in properties with content and type of FR loadings. FSA results reveal that with 18%ATH/APP‐GAP hybrid specimen, weakest flame energy for propagation and less flame travel distance could be achieved and suggests a better FR. This paper concludes that the hybrid FR specimen can be of great benefit to the building and transportation industries.
Functional network connectivity impairments and core cognitive deficits in schizophrenia
Authors: Adhikari Bhim M. , Hong L. Elliot , Sampath Hemalatha , Chiappelli Joshua , Jahanshad Neda , Thompson Paul M. , Rowland Laura M. , Calhoun Vince D. , Du Xiaoming , Chen Shuo , Kochunov Peter
Published: July 2019

Cognitive deficits contribute to functional disability in patients with schizophrenia and may be related to altered functional networks that serve cognition. We evaluated the integrity of major functional networks and assessed their role in supporting two cognitive functions affected in schizophrenia: processing speed (PS) and working memory (WM). Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) data, N = 261 patients and 327 controls, were aggregated from three independent cohorts and evaluated using Enhancing NeuroImaging Genetics through Meta Analysis rsfMRI analysis pipeline. Meta‐ and mega‐analyses were used to evaluate patient‐control differences in functional connectivity (FC) measures. Canonical correlation analysis was used to study the association between cognitive deficits and FC measures. Patients showed consistent patterns of cognitive and resting‐state FC (rsFC) deficits across three cohorts. Patient‐control differences in rsFC calculated using seed‐based and dual‐regression approaches were consistent (Cohen's d: 0.31 ± 0.09 and 0.29 ± 0.08, p < 10−4). RsFC measures explained 12–17% of the individual variations in PS and WM in the full sample and in patients and controls separately, with the strongest correlations found in salience, auditory, somatosensory, and default‐mode networks. The pattern of association between rsFC (within‐network) and PS (r = .45, p = .07) and WM (r = .36, p = .16), and rsFC (between‐network) and PS (r = .52, p = 8.4 × 10−3) and WM (r = .47, p = .02), derived from multiple networks was related to effect size of patient‐control differences in the functional networks. No association was detected between rsFC and current medication dose or psychosis ratings. Patients demonstrated significant reduction in several FC networks that may partially underlie some of the core neurocognitive deficits in schizophrenia. The strength of connectivity‐cognition relationships in different networks was strongly associated with network's vulnerability to schizophrenia.
Charting shared developmental trajectories of cortical thickness and structural connectivity in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Ball Gareth , Beare Richard , Seal Marc L.
Published: July 2019

The cortex is organised into broadly hierarchical functional systems with distinct neuroanatomical characteristics reflected by macroscopic measures of cortical morphology. Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging allows the delineation of areal connectivity, changes to which reflect the ongoing maturation of white matter tracts. These developmental processes are intrinsically linked with timing coincident with the development of cognitive function. In this study, we use a data‐driven multivariate approach, nonnegative matrix factorisation, to define cortical regions that co‐vary together across a large paediatric cohort (n = 456) and are associated with specific subnetworks of cortical connectivity. We find that age between 3 and 21 years is associated with accelerated cortical thinning in frontoparietal regions, whereas relative thinning of primary motor and sensory regions is slower. Together, the subject‐specific weights of the derived set of cortical components can be combined to predict chronological age. Structural connectivity networks reveal a relative increase in strength in connection within, as opposed to between hemispheres that vary in line with cortical changes. We confirm our findings in an independent sample.
The response of health systems to after‐hours primary cares in Iran and the selected countries
Authors: Salemi Morteza , Aryankhesal Aidin , Jafari Mehdi
Published: July 2019

Background

After‐hours primary care often involves care required for medical conditions managed outside hospitals by a general practitioner. After‐hours care aims at meeting the urgent needs of patients who cannot wait to visit their general practitioner in office hours.

Aim

The present study aims at comparing the after‐hours primary cares in Iran, Turkey, the United States, the Netherlands, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Method

This is a descriptive‐comparative study comparing after‐hours primary cares in Iran and selected countries in 2019. Considering the research purpose, data pertaining to each country were collected from valid information sources and the countries were compared based on the comparative table. A framework analysis was used for data analyses.

Results

The results were stated regarding the model type, dominant model, payments mechanism, the support of insurance organizations, service tariffs, private sector participation, and participation of primary care general practitioners in each country.

Conclusions

Different countries are using diverse policies to enhance patients' access to general practitioners in out‐of‐office hours. In Iran, however, due to the lack of specific policies to access after‐hour primary cares, people have to use expensive hospital and private cares. An essential step in solving this problem is the availability of general practitioner services at primary care level.
Understanding the sexual and reproductive health needs in Brazil's Zika‐affected region: placing women at the center of the discussion
Authors: Diniz Debora , Brito Luciana , Ambrogi Ilana , Tavares Adriano Bueno , Ali Moazzam
Published: July 2019

Zika is no longer high on the public health agenda. There is a lack of information about Zika infection transmission, prevention, and its effects in Brazil.
Corruption versus societal trust—New evidence from Poland's limited liability companies
Authors: Malinowska Anna P.
Published: July 2019

Over the last decades, institutions, especially informal institutions, have become important determinants of economic dynamics, both in the microscale and macroscale. Even though, two of the most important social phenomena, corruption and societal trust, have remained under‐researched vis‐à‐vis corporate financial policies. This study, presenting novel and rigorous econometric evidence, aims to fill this gap. The results, obtained after controlling for endogeneity via the application of a two‐step system general method of moment for dynamic panel data, for 2,665 Polish limited liabilities companies active in the period 2007–2016, highlighted several important issues. First, as regards corruption appeared to negatively impact firm cash balances and flows. Indeed, companies decreased their cash flows and cash balances to shelter themselves from expropriation and additionally actively engaged in transparency management to make their financial situation more opaque and less attractive in terms of extortions. Second, societal trust emerged as important and increased firm cash balances and cash flows. What is more, national accounting standards as well as access to external financing, the banking system specifically, boosted firm cash balances and cash flows. We argue that all the three factors increased firm‐level transparency.
Synthesis of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural from fructose and inulin catalyzed by magnetically‐recoverable Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2–HPW nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Lu , Shah Ajay , Michel Frederick C
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is an important platform chemical that can be generated from biomass using catalysts and used for the production of biofuels and biobased polymers.

RESULTS

In this study, a novel magnetically‐recoverable catalyst (Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2−HPW) was synthesized for the first time by immobilizing H3PW12O40 (HPW) on the surfaces of SiO2 and TiO2‐coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles. A number of techniques, including inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and nitrogen (N2) adsorption–desorption analysis, were used to characterize the catalyst. Results showed that the catalyst had a porous structure and the Keggin structure of HPW on the surface of the catalyst was well‐preserved. The catalyst was then used for the syntheses of HMF from fructose and inulin using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a solvent, and the influences of reaction temperature and reaction time were investigated. Results showed that HMF yields obtained from fructose and inulin reached 83% and 54%, respectively. After reaction, the catalyst could be easily separated from reaction mixture using an external magnet, and the catalytic activity of the catalyst was well‐preserved after more than five reuses.

CONCLUSION

This magnetically‐recoverable catalyst is efficient not only for the syntheses of HMF from fructose and inulin, but also potentially for the one‐step production of HMF from inulin‐containing biomass, and its magnetic property may overcome the difficulty of catalyst separation from the insoluble biomass residues. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry