bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germination of dimorphic seeds of Suaeda aralocaspica in response to light and salinity conditions during and after cold stratification
Authors: Wang Hong-Ling , Tian Chang-Yan , Wang Lei
Published: August 2017

Cold stratification is a requirement for seed dormancy breaking in many species, and thus it is one of the important factors for the regulation of timing of germination. However, few studies have examined the influence of various environmental conditions during cold stratification on subsequent germination, and no study has compared such effects on the performance of dormant versus non-dormant seeds. Seeds of halophytes in the cold desert might experience different light and salinity conditions during and after cold stratification. As such, dimorphic seeds (non-dormant brown seeds and black seeds with non-deep physiological dormancy) of Suaeda aralocaspica were cold stratified under different light (12 h light–12 h darkness photoperiod or continuous darkness) or salinity (0, 200 or 1,000 mmol L-1 NaCl) conditions for 20 or 40 days. Then stratified seeds were incubated under different light or salinity conditions at daily (12/12 h) temperature regime of 10:25 °C for 20 days. For brown seeds, cold stratification was also part of the germination period. In contrast, almost no black seeds germinated during cold stratification. The longer the cold stratification, the better the subsequent germination of black seeds, regardless of light or salinity conditions. Light did not influence germination of brown seeds. Germination of cold-stratified black seeds was inhibited by darkness, especially when they were stratified in darkness. With an increase in salinity at the stage of cold stratification or germination, germination percentages of both seed morphs decreased. Combinational pre-treatments of cold stratification and salinity did not increase salt tolerance of dimorphic seeds in germination phase. Thus, light and salinity conditions during cold stratification partly interact with these conditions during germination stage and differentially affect germination of dimorphic seeds of S. aralocaspica.
Visual assessment of the coastal fish assemblages from the area of the proposed Gando-Arinaga Marine Reserve (Gran Canaria, Canary Islands)
Authors: Tuya F , Reuss GM , Martín JA , Luque A
Published: August 2017

Eighty-eight visual assessments (5-min stationary censuses in an area of 200 m2) were made during the winter of 1999|00E2|??2000 and summer of 2000 in the area of the proposed Gando-Arinaga Marine Reserve (Gran Canaria, Canary Islands), in order to optimize a technique for the visual evaluation of the fish assemblages, describe the situation and environmental factors that structure the fish community, and determine the influence of the different protection categories defined on the abundance and size of certain species of interest to fisheries. A total of 36 fish species were observed. The most frequent (frequency of occurrence >50%) were Abudefduf luridus, Thalassoma pavo, Chromis limbatus, Sparisoma cretense and Diplodus vulgaris, while the most abundant (mean abundance per census >5 ind 100 m–2) were Pomadasys incisus, Boop boops, A. luridus, C. limbatus and T. pavo. The mean number of species per census varied between 18.25 and 3.5 (mean = 7.61). The mean number of individuals varied between 382.62 and 2.75 (mean = 94.43). Diversity (H′) was low (0.88–0.22, mean = 0.52) and evenness (J′) ranged from 0.33 to 0.94 (mean = 0.64). Differences in abundance and size among the different zones defined were not detected for S. cretense whereas differences in size but not in abundance were detected for Mullus surmuletus and Diplodus sargus. Differences were not found for the biotic descriptors of the fish community in terms of seasonality, but differences were found relative to habitat. Multivariate techniques showed that substrate slope and depth are the most important abiotic factors structuring the community. Species richness and total abundance of individuals increased with depth and slope, whereas evenness decreased.
Erosion event at Mismaloya Beach, Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: Cupul-Magaña LA , Cupul-Magaña AL , Nuñez-Cornú FJ , Gil-Silva E
Published: August 2017

A study was carried out to determine the causes of the sudden disappearance of Mismaloya Beach, Jalisco (Mexico), in the early hours of 8 September 2001. This event occurred in a few hours, leaving behind a 2-m-high beach scarp as well as restaurants and palapas flooded by the ocean. Bathymetric and beach profiles were done to know the morphology and evolution of the coastal zone, and the bathymetry and eroded sediment volumes were obtained. Analyses were made of the coastal profile slopes, the physical characteristics of the sediments and the zone hydrodynamics. The event was caused by a slump of the sediments that lay over very steep slopes of the coastal profile (up to 18º), as a consequence of the weight and tixotrophic properties of the sediments.
Phosphatase activity in salt-ponds of the Bay of Cadiz
Authors: Frutos MD , Blasco J , Gómez-Parra A
Published: August 2017

Acid and alkaline phosphatase activities (E.C.3.1.3.2 and E.C.3.1.3.1, respectively) were measured in seawater and sediments from different sites of a salt-pond of the Bay of Cádiz. The profiles of enzymatic activity relative to depth were also analysed. Initially, the optimum conditions (pH, temperature, substrate concentration and amount of sample) for determining enzymatic activities were studied. The apparent activation energies for alkaline phosphatase activity in seawater and sediments were 53.8 and 48.6 kJ mol–1, respectively. The Km and Vmax were 10.6 mM and 89 ∞g of 4-nitrophenol g–1 h–1 and 8.42 mM and 145 ∞g of 4-nitrophenol L–1 h–1 for sediments and seawater, respectively. Both types of enzymatic activity reached high values in seawater and sediments; in the confined areas of the salt-pond the values were around 100 ∞g of 4-nitrophenol L–1 h–1 for seawater and higher for sediments. In general, clear seasonal evolutions for both types of enzymatic activity were found in the seawater, with maxima at the end of summer and minima in winter. No seasonal pattern was evident in the sediment. Stratification of phosphorus regeneration was observed in the sediment column but there was no stratification at depths greater than 15 cm.
Assessment of the Pacific red snapper (Lutjanus peru) fishery in the southwestern Gulf of California
Authors: Díaz-Uribe JG , Chávez EA , Elorduy-Garay JF
Published: August 2017

The Pacific red snapper (Lutjanus peru) fishery in the southwestern Gulf of California was analyzed with an age-structured simulation model. In addition to natural mortality (M) and fishing mortality (F), the model incorporates juvenile by-catch mortality (f) caused by the shrimp fishery in the zone. Four simulated scenarios were tested in which different levels of mortality were combined. Contrary to what is established in the National Fishing Charter, simulation outputs showed that the Pacific red snapper fishery cannot be developed if both F and f are kept unregulated as presently occurs. According to the model, the fishery could only be developed with an effective regulation of these mortality sources, which implies control measures for both the artisanal fleet and the shrimp fleet.
Response of benthic polychaetes to environmental variability and El Niño conditions at Petacalco Bay (Guerrero, Mexico)
Authors: Rodríguez-Valencia JA
Published: August 2017

Fluctuations of temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen in the superficial (0–7 m) and lower (7–23 m) layers of the water column in Petacalco Bay (Guerrero, Mexico) and their effects on benthic polychaetes were analyzed on different dates between 1992 and 1994. Samplings undertaken during 1992 allowed the detection of the terminal phase of the 1992 El Niño event, followed by the discharge of warm freshwater from a power plant (2100 MW) over the surface of the bay. During the 1992 El Niño, the water was significantly warmer, more saline, and contained more oxygen than during 1993–1994. Stratification of the water column increased after the dissipation of El Niño conditions, and dissolved oxygen and salinity levels decreased noticeably. Polychaete abundances and the number of species were lowest during the El Niño period and increased afterwards. These changes occurred despite the operation of the power plant, since its discharges remained on the surface of the bay. Emersions of deep water through the Petacalco submarine canyon in spring may also have had a positive effect.
Reproductive cycle of Geukensia demissa (Bivalvia: Mytilidae) on a beach at Nazaret, El Moján, Zulia State, Venezuela
Authors: Báez M , García-de-Severeyn Y , Severeyn H
Published: August 2017

The mytilid Geukensia demissa invaded Lake Maracaibo and since it is a new species at this location, little is known about its reproductive biology. We describe the reproductive cycle of this bivalve mollusk on a beach (Nazaret) located along the straight that leads into Lake Maracaibo. During 12 months (January to December), 80 specimens were collected monthly from this beach. The animals were dissected and samples of their gonadal fluid were microscopically examined to detect gametes. The different stages of gonadal development are described according to Shafee, (1989). The gonad index was calculated by the equation IG = Σ(n × V)/N. Results indicated that G. demissa presents a continuous reproductive cycle, with mature, spawning animals occurring throughout the year. Two gametogenic processes occurred, one beginning during the dry season and extending until the onset of the rainy season, and another beginning during the rainy season and extending until late November, when the animals are once again mature. Two spawning peaks were observed, one in July and the other in December; 100% spawning in the population was not observed. Synchrony was found in spawning and maturation in both male and female mussels.
Assessing the potential toxicity of marine sediments found in petroleum industry areas: A new approach based on responses of postlarval shrimp
Authors: Evangelista AJA , Nascimiento IA , Pereira SA , Lopes MBNL , Martins LKP , Fillmann G
Published: August 2017

In this study we tested the toxicity of bulk sediment from the northeastern area of Todos os Santos Bay, Bahia, Brazil, to evaluate environmental impact induced by 50 years of exposure to the local petroleum industry (Petrobras). Sediment samples were collected during one year, at three-month intervals, from four sites in areas of oil extraction (Ilha das Fontes, station 4), transportation (Ilhas de Madre de Deus and Pati, stations 2 and 3) and refinement (RELAM, station 1). Two reference stations (5 and 6) were located outside the petroleum influence area, to the south of the bay. Static bioassays were conducted for 96 h, using 7–8 day old Litopenaeus vannamei postlarvae (PL). The assays were conducted in 2.5 L plastic jars containing 200 g of surface (1 cm deep) bulk sediment covered by 2 L of dilution water (filtered seawater, 28 ppt salinity, 27 + 2ºC and DO under saturation). Fifteen exposed PL in each jar were fed daily on 60 recently hatched Artemia salina nauplii. Physico-chemical parameters were monitored. Mortality and dry weight gain were taken as end-points. The PL mortality data obtained for sediment from the Petrobras stations in comparison to the data from the reference stations were not significantly different (P > 0.05); however, the dry weight gain showed significant differences among stations. A maximum value was reached at station 5 (reference area) and a minimum at station 1 (RELAM refinery). Stations 2 and 3 in petroleum transportation areas did not show significant differences (P > 0.05). To evaluate the sensitivity of this bulk-sediment test in detecting contaminant effects generated by the petroleum industry, the toxicity data were considered in terms of the hydrocarbon levels analyzed in sediments from the same Petrobras areas and in one of the control areas, located outside the bay. The results support the assumption that the bulksediment bioassay on penaeid PL is a suitable methodology not only to distinguish between impacted and relatively unperturbed environments, but also to separate the different degrees of impact among areas subjected to petroleum industry activities in the coastal environment.
PCB composition in flood material and sediments from the Guadiana River estuary
Authors: Martins M , Ferreira AM , Vales C
Published: August 2017

Two months after moderate river flows, we collected 27 surface sediments from the river-estuarine system and one sediment core from the coastal area. The PCB levels in sediments were lower than 1.1 ng g–1, which is in conformity with the absence of industrial activities in the Guadiana drainage basin. Material transported by the flood contained higher PCB concentrations (0.8–1.8 ng g–1) than surface sediments (0.1–1.1 ng g–1), indicating the importance of these events in the transport of PCB to this low-contaminated estuarine system. These differences were not related to organic carbon content. Furthermore, this material is enriched in less chlorinated compounds as usually occurs far away from point sources. The diffuse transport influences the CB composition of sediment deposits on the adjacent coast, as revealed by variations in the depth profiles of the tri-/hexa-chlorinated ratio, organic carbon content and Si/Al ratio.
Induction of metallothioneins in Mullus barbatus as specific biomarker of metal contamination: A field study in the western Mediterranean
Authors: Benedicto J , Martínez-Gómez C , Campillo J
Published: August 2017

Red mullet (Mullus barbatus, Linnaeus, 1758) is one of the fish species used as bioindicator in the Mediterranean Pollution Monitoring Programme (MEDPOL). This paper presents the results of a field study on the induction of hepatic metallothioneins (MT) in red mullet as specific biomarker of metal contamination. Specimens of M. barbatus were collected in six areas with different degrees of anthropogenic activities along the Iberian Mediterranean coast. The environmental exposure to heavy metals of the populations was determined through the analyses of surface sediments collected in each study area. The MT levels obtained showed statistically significant differences between areas, but not between specimens of different sex. Furthermore, the highest MT levels were found in the most polluted areas. Hepatic MT levels in red mullet reflect the metal contamination present in surface sediments, especially for Cu, for which a significant linear regression was found. The MT levels are better correlated with Cu and Cd concentrations than with Zn and Hg concentrations. The MT values obtained in this study are the first to be reported for this species in the Iberian Mediterranean and they should help in the interpretation of MT levels and to establish MT background levels for M. barbatus in the western Mediterranean.
Influence of Aveiro Lagoon heavy metal contents in the adjacent continental shelf (Portugal)
Authors: Abrantes I , Rocha F , Vidinha J , Dias JA
Published: August 2017

A chemical analysis of Al, Ca, Fe, Mg, Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Co, Ni and Cd was carried out in 22 surface sediment samples of the continental shelf and upper slope between Espinho and Aveiro (Portugal). To reduce the disturbing effects of grain size, all samples were size-normalized by wet sieving (<63 µm). The fine fraction was digested with concentrated acids and analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The Al and heavy metal concentrations displayed a similar distribution pattern, decreasing seaward. Exceptions to this general pattern are Ca, Mg and Pb distributions. The Ca contents are related to carbonated biogenic particles that are very abundant in the outer shelf. Multivariate statistical analysis was applied to all data to assess the behaviour and sources of each element analyzed. The results from factor analysis showed that terrigenous supply (from Aveiro Lagoon flow, coastal erosion and littoral drift), grain size (clay) sorting and anthropogenic influences from Aveiro Lagoon are the major factors controlling spatial variations of chemical elements in the continental shelf between Espinho and Aveiro. Unusually high contents of Pb were found in the middle shelf off Furadouro, but we could not determine the possible source of this contamination.
Characteristics of the surface water DMS and pCO2 distributions and their relationships in the Southern Ocean, southeast Indian Ocean, and northwest Pacific Ocean
Authors: Zhang Miming , Marandino C. A. , Chen Liqi , Sun Heng , Gao Zhongyong , Park Keyhong , Kim Intae , Yang Bo , Zhu Tingting , Yan Jinpei , Wang Jianjun
Published: August 2017

Oceanic dimethyl sulfide (DMS) is of interest due to its critical influence on atmospheric sulfur compounds in the marine atmosphere and its hypothesized significant role in global climate. High‐resolution shipboard underway measurements of surface seawater DMS and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) were conducted in the Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean sectors of the Southern Ocean (SO), the southeast Indian Ocean, and the northwest Pacific Ocean from February to April 2014 during the 30th Chinese Antarctic Research Expedition. The SO, particularly in the region south of 58°S, had the highest mean surface seawater DMS concentration of 4.1 ± 8.3 nM (ranged from 0.1 to 73.2 nM) and lowest mean seawater pCO2 level of 337 ± 50 μatm (ranged from 221 to 411 μatm) over the entire cruise. Significant variations of surface seawater DMS and pCO2 in the seasonal ice zone (SIZ) of SO were observed, which are mainly controlled by biological process and sea ice activity. We found a significant negative relationship between DMS and pCO2 in the SO SIZ using 0.1° resolution, [DMS] seawater = −0.160 [pCO2] seawater + 61.3 (r2 = 0.594, n = 924, p < 0.001). We anticipate that the relationship may possibly be utilized to reconstruct the surface seawater DMS climatology in the SO SIZ. Further studies are necessary to improve the universality of this approach.
Thermal segmentation of mid‐ocean ridge‐transform faults
Authors: Wolfson‐Schwehr Monica , Boettcher Margaret S. , Behn Mark D.
Published: August 2017

3‐D finite element simulations are used to calculate thermal structures and mantle flow fields underlying mid‐ocean ridge‐transform faults (RTFs) composed of two fault segments separated by an orthogonal step over. Using fault lengths and slip rates, we derive an empirical scaling relation for the critical step over length (
), which marks the transition from predominantly horizontal to predominantly vertical mantle flow at the base of the lithosphere under a step over. Using the ratio of step over length (LS) to
, we define three degrees of segmentation: first‐degree, corresponding to type I step overs (
 ≥ 3); second‐degree, corresponding to type II step overs (1 ≤ 
 < 3); and third‐degree, corresponding to type III step overs (
<1). In first‐degree segmentation, thermal structures and mantle upwelling patterns under a step over are similar to those of mature ridges, where normal mid‐ocean ridge basalts (MORBs) form. The seismogenic area under first‐degree segmentation is characteristic of two, isolated faults. Second‐degree segmentation creates pull‐apart basins with subdued melt generation, and intratransform spreading centers with enriched MORBs. The seismogenic area of RTFs under second‐degree segmentation is greater than that of two isolated faults, but less than that of an unsegmented RTF. Under third‐degree segmentation, mantle flow is predominantly horizontal, resulting in little lithospheric thinning and little to no melt generation. The total seismogenic area under third‐degree segmentation approaches that of an unsegmented RTF. Our scaling relations characterize the degree of segmentation due to step overs along transform faults and provide insight into RTF frictional processes, seismogenic behavior, and melt transport.
Metal‐Free O‐Arylation of Carboxylic Acid by Active Diaryliodonium(III) Intermediates Generated in situ from Iodosoarenes
Authors: Dohi Toshifumi , Koseki Daichi , Sumida Kohei , Okada Kana , Mizuno Serina , Kato Asami , Morimoto Koji , Kita Yasuyuki
Published: August 2017

The metal‐free arylative coupling of carboxylic acids using iodosoarenes without the use of a catalyst and base, which is applicable to even a highly‐polar molecule bearing multiple alcohol groups, is reported. The in situ preparation of the reactive diaryliodonium(III) carboxylates is the important key to this approach, and the introduction of the trimethoxybenzene auxiliary enables both the smooth salt formations and the selective aryl transfer events during the couplings.

magnified image
Nanoporous PbSe–SiO2 Thermoelectric Composites
Authors: Wu Chao‐Feng , Wei Tian‐Ran , Sun Fu‐Hua , Li Jing‐Feng
Published: August 2017

Nanoporous architecture has long been predicted theoretically for its proficiency in suppressing thermal conduction, but less concerned as a practical approach for better thermoelectric materials hitherto probably due to its technical challenges. This article demonstrates a study on nanoporous PbSe–SiO2 composites fabricated by a facile method of mechanical alloying assisted by subsequent wet‐milling and then spark plasma sintering. Owing to the formation of random nanopores and additional interface scattering, the lattice thermal conductivity is limited to a value as low as 0.56 W m−1 K−1 at above 600 K, almost the same low level achieved by introducing nanoscale precipitates. Besides, the room‐temperature electrical transport is found to be dominated by the grain‐boundary potential barrier scattering, whose effect fades away with increasing temperatures. Consequently, a maximum ZT of 1.15 at 823 K is achieved in the PbSe + 0.7 vol% SiO2 composition with >20% increase in average ZT, indicating the great potential of nanoporous structuring toward high thermoelectric conversion efficiency.
Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation for homogeneous nucleation of metal nanoparticles during vapor phase synthesis
Authors: Davari Seyyed Ali , Mukherjee Dibyendu
Published: August 2017

We present a free‐energy driven kinetic Monte Carlo model to simulate homogeneous nucleation of metal nanoparticles (NPs) from vapor phase. The model accounts for monomer‐cluster condensations, cluster–cluster collisions, and cluster evaporations simultaneously. Specifically, we investigate the homogeneous nucleation of Al NPs starting with different initial background temperatures. Our results indicate good agreement with earlier phenomenological studies using the Gibbs# free energy formulation from Classical Nucleation Theory (CNT). Furthermore, nucleation rates for various clusters are calculated through direct cluster observations. The steady‐state nucleation rate estimated using two different approaches namely, the Yasuoka‐Matsumoto (YM) and mean first passage time (MFPT) methods indicate excellent agreement with each other. Finally, our simulation results depict the expected increase in the entropy of mixing as clusters approach the nucleation barrier, followed by its subsequent drastic loss after the critical cluster formation resulting from first‐order phase transitions. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 18–28, 2018
Conformationally Flexible Bis(9‐fluorenylidene)porphyrin Diradicaloids
Authors: Zhang Hejian , Phan Hoa , Herng Tun Seng , Gopalakrishna Tullimilli Y. , Zeng Wangdong , Ding Jun , Wu Jishan
Published: August 2017

A stable 5,10‐bis(9‐fluorenylidene)porphyrin (Por‐Fl) diradicaloid was synthesized. It shows a quinoidal, saddle‐shaped geometry in the single crystal but can be thermally populated to a triplet diradical both in solution and in the solid state. Coordination with the Ni2+ ion (Por‐Fl‐Ni) does not significantly change the contorted conformation but reduces the singlet–triplet gap. Heat‐induced geometric change can explain the observed paramagnetic properties as well as unusual hysteresis in SQUID measurements. On the other hand, protonation (Por‐Fl‐2H+) dramatically changes the conformation while maintains the closed‐shell electronic structure. Our studies demonstrate how heat, coordination, and protonation affect the geometry, diradical character, and physical properties of conformationally flexible open‐shell singlet diradicaloids.
The Charge Transfer Approach to Heavier Main‐Group Element Radicals in Transition‐Metal Complexes
Authors: Tan Gengwen , Li Jing , Zhang Li , Chen Chao , Zhao Yue , Wang Xinping , Song You , Zhang Yi‐Quan , Driess Matthias
Published: August 2017

The CoII and FeII complexes 1Co and 1Fe with a coordinated phosphorus radical were easily obtained through a charge‐transfer approach from the MI precursors LMI(tol) (M=Co, Fe; L=CH(MeC=NDipp)2, Dipp=2,6‐iPr2C6H3) to the diazafluorenylidene‐substituted phosphaalkene 1. Structural, magnetic, and computational studies on 1Co and 1Fe indicate a weak antiferromagnetic interaction between the high‐spin MII ion and the phosphorus radical, resulting in a triplet and quartet ground state, respectively. Complexes 1Co and 1Fe are the first examples of phosphorus‐radical‐coordinated transition‐metal complexes synthesized by charge transfer, providing a new approach to access radicals of heavier main‐group elements.
Comparison of pristine and polyaniline‐grafted MWCNTs as conductive sensor elements for phase change materials: Thermal conductivity trend analysis
Authors: Halvaee Maryam , Didehban Khadijeh , Goodarzi Vahabodin , Ghaffari Mehdi , Ehsani Morteza , Saeb Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2017

Phase change materials (PCMs) function based on latent heat stored on or released from a substance over a slim temperature range. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and polyaniline are important elements in sensor devices. In this work, pristine and polyaniline‐grafted MWCNTs (PANI‐g‐MWCNTs) were applied as conductive carbon‐based fillers to make PCMs based on paraffin. The attachment of PANI to the surface of MWCNTs was proved by Fourier transform Infrared analysis. Dispersion of MWCNTs in paraffin was studied by wide‐angle X‐ray scattering. Heating and solidification of PCM nanocomposites were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, while variation in nanostructure of PCMs during heating/solidification process was evaluated by rheological measurements. It was found that after 30 min of sonication, the samples filled with 1 wt % MWCNTs have melting and solidification temperatures of 29 and 42 °C, respectively. It was also found that PANI attachment to MWCNTs significantly changes thermal conductivity behavior of PCM nanocomposites. The developed MWCNTs‐based sensor elements responded sharply at low MWCNTs content, and experienced an almost steady trend in conductivity at higher contents, while PANI‐g‐MWCNTs sensor followed an inverse trend. This contradictory behavior brought insight for understanding the response of PCMs against thermal fluctuations. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45389.
Composite nanofibrous microfiltration water filter
Authors: Zhang Cong , Wang Jia , Olah Andrew , Baer Eric
Published: August 2017

A novel environmentally friendly co‐extrusion and multiplication technology in combination with a water jet procedure was utilized to produce dual‐component fibrous filters. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) systems were selected as the filter materials. The orientation procedure was shown to greatly enhance the mechanical properties of the fibers as well as the filters. These filters were found to have micron‐size pores, high porosity, and high surface areas. Various physical treatments were applied on these filters which decrease the filter pore size. It was found that filter pore size decreased to 0.2 μm and the mechanical properties were enhanced. Water flux tests and microparticle separation tests were performed on these filters to evaluate their microfiltration behavior. PVDF/HDPE filters exhibit high water flux with low pressure requirement, making them good candidates for microfiltration water filters. In addition, the PVDF/HDPE filters exhibit high separation efficiencies 90% on 1 μm particles, 96% on 2 μm particles, and 99% on 5 and 10 μm particles. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45557.
Hydrolyzed collagen‐grafted‐poly[(acrylic acid)‐co‐(methacrylic acid)] hydrogel for drug delivery
Authors: Noppakundilograt Supaporn , Choopromkaw Sopinya , Kiatkamjornwong Suda
Published: August 2017

Hydrolyzed collagen‐grafted‐poly[(acrylic acid)‐co‐(methacrylic acid)] hydrogels were synthesized by solution polymerization and confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. From sequential univariate analysis, the optimal molar ratio of acrylic acid: methacrylic acid was 92:8 in the presence of N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide, ammonium persulfate, and N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine at 0.12, 0.015, and 0.2% mol of the monomers, respectively. The water absorbency of this hydrogel was both pH‐ and temperature‐dependent, but was higher in nonbuffered water than in boric acid/citric acid/phosphate buffer under the same conditions. The optimal hydrogel could swiftly swell and deswell in neutral and acid solutions, respectively. Its potential application in drug delivery was examined using insulin and methylene blue as model payload drugs. Loading in a 50% (v v−1) ethanol solution gave a higher insulin loading level than in the buffer water. Insulin and methylene blue were both released at pH 6.8 but not at pH 1.2, but followed first order kinetics and the Higuchi equation, respectively. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45654.
Effects of proton pump inhibitors and famotidine on elimination of plasma methotrexate: Evaluation of drug–drug interactions mediated by organic anion transporter 3
Authors: Narumi Katsuya , Sato Yu , Kobayashi Masaki , Furugen Ayako , Kasashi Kumiko , Yamada Takehiro , Teshima Takanori , Iseki Ken
Published: August 2017

Methotrexate (MTX) is an antifolate agent used in the treatment of numerous types of cancer, and eliminated by active tubular secretion via organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3). Gastric antisecretory drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine H2 receptor antagonists, are widely used among patients with cancer in clinical practice. The aim of the present study was to analyse the potential drug–drug interactions between MTX and gastric antisecretory drugs in high‐dose MTX (HD‐MTX) therapy. The impact of PPIs on the plasma MTX concentration on 73 cycles of HD‐MTX therapy was analysed retrospectively in 43 patients. Also investigated was the involvement of OAT3 in PPI–MTX drug interaction in an in vitro study using human OAT3 expressing HEK293 cells. In a retrospective study, patients who received a PPI had significantly higher MTX levels at 48 h (0.38 vs. 0.15 μmol l−1, respectively, p = 0.000018) and 72 h (0.13 vs. 0.05 μmol l−1, respectively, p = 0.0002) compared with patients who did not receive a PPI (but received famotidine). Moreover, in vitro experiments demonstrated that PPIs (esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole and rabeprazole) inhibited hOAT3‐mediated uptake of MTX in a concentration‐dependent manner (IC50 values of 0.40–5.5 μ
m), with a rank order of lansoprazole > esomeprazole > rabeprazole > omeprazole. In contrast to PPIs, famotidine showed little inhibitory effect on hOAT3‐mediated MTX uptake. These results demonstrated that co‐administration of PPI, but not famotidine, could result in a pharmacokinetic interaction that increases the plasma MTX levels, at least in part, via hOAT3 inhibition.
Utility of Capture–Recapture Methodology to Estimate Prevalence of Congenital Heart Defects Among Adolescents in 11 New York State Counties: 2008 to 2010
Authors: Akkaya‐Hocagil Tugba , Hsu Wan‐Hsiang , Sommerhalter Kristin , McGarry Claire , Van Zutphen Alissa
Published: August 2017

Background

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common birth defects in the United States, and the population of individuals living with CHDs is growing. Though CHD prevalence in infancy has been well characterized, better prevalence estimates among children and adolescents in the United States are still needed.

Methods

We used capture–recapture methods to estimate CHD prevalence among adolescents residing in 11 New York counties. The three data sources used for analysis included Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) hospital inpatient records, SPARCS outpatient records, and medical records provided by seven pediatric congenital cardiac clinics from 2008 to 2010. Bayesian log‐linear models were fit using the R package Conting to account for dataset dependencies and heterogeneous catchability.

Results

A total of 2537 adolescent CHD cases were captured in our three data sources. Forty‐four cases were identified in all data sources, 283 cases were identified in two of three data sources, and 2210 cases were identified in a single data source. The final model yielded an estimated total adolescent CHD population of 3845, indicating that 66% of the cases in the catchment area were identified in the case‐identifying data sources. Based on 2010 Census estimates, we estimated adolescent CHD prevalence as 6.4 CHD cases per 1000 adolescents (95% confidence interval: 6.2–6.6).

Conclusion

We used capture–recapture methodology with a population‐based surveillance system in New York to estimate CHD prevalence among adolescents. Future research incorporating additional data sources may improve prevalence estimates in this population. Birth Defects Research 109:1423–1429, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pharmacokinetics and metabolism of olerciamide A from Portulaca oleracea L. in rats by UHPLC‐UV and UHPLC‐ESI‐Q‐TOF/MS
Authors: Ying Zheming , Li Cuiyu , Gao Mingzhe , Ying Xixiang , Yang Guanlin
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to elucidate the pharmacokinetics of olerciamide A in rats after oral and intravenous administration of Portulaca oleracea L. extract by a simple and rapid ultra high‐performance liquid chromatography method with bergapten as internal standard. The pharmacokinetic results indicated that olerciamide A was rapidly distributed with a time to peak concentration of 30 min after oral administration and presented a low oral absolute bioavailability of 4.57%. The metabolism of olerciamide A in rats was also investigated using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography electrospray coupled with quadrupole–time of flight mass spectrometry to elucidate the reason for the low absolute bioavailability of olerciamide A and seven metabolites of oleraciamide A were found in rat plasma and urine.
Sensitive liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of two novel highly lipophilic anticancer drug candidates in rat plasma and tissues
Authors: Hooshfar Shirin , Linzey Michael R. , Wu Daqing , Gera Lajos , Mamouni Kenza , Li Xin , Chen Yanhua , Yang Yang , Olorunyolemi Oluwasegun , Bartlett Michael G.
Published: August 2017

A simple and sensitive liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) method was developed and validated for determination of two highly lipophilic anticancer drug candidates, LG1980 and GH501, in rat plasma and tissues (liver, kidney and femur bones). LG1980 and GH501 were extracted from rat plasma and tissue homogenates using liquid–liquid extraction. The method provided a linear range of 1.0–200.0 ng/mL for GH501 in plasma and LG1980 in plasma and liver. For both analytes in other tissue homogenates the linear range was 2.0–400.0 ng/mL. The method was validated with precision within 15% relative standard deviation, accuracy within 15% relative error and a consistent recovery. This method has been successfully applied in two preclinical studies for LG1980 and GH501 to determine their concentrations in rat plasma, liver, kidney and bone over 24 h after intravenous injection of compounds.
Fifty Years of (Benz)oxaphospholene Chemistry
Authors: Berton Jan K. E. T. , Heugebaert Thomas S. A. , Virieux David , Stevens Christian V.
Published: August 2017

The first synthesis of benzoxaphospholenes dates back to the 1960s. Since then, the structural variety of reported (benz)oxaphospholenes has steadily increased. Organophosphorus compounds have caught the interest of synthetic chemists for a couple of decades now because of their interesting biological properties. Oxaphospholenes, in particular, could serve as carbohydrate mimetics, and benzoxaphospholenes have been reported to possess bactericidal, insecticidal, herbicidal, and fungistatical properties. Transesterification reactions and addition of phosphorus nucleophiles to carbonyl compounds were reaction types that led to the production of the first (benz)oxaphospholenes. When it was discovered that allenylphosphonates could easily be obtained from propargyl alcohols and dialkyl halophosphites, the electrophile‐induced cyclization reaction of these allenylphosphonate precursors resulted in a huge boom in the amount of reports on oxaphospholene synthesis. To this day, this method is still frequently used. Ring‐closing metathesis and Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reactions have also proven their potential for the preparation of oxaphospholenes. In recent years, Pd, Rh and Au‐catalysis have made their entry, generating (benz)oxaphospholenes from a wide variety of simple substrates. A couple of miscellaneous methods are summarized at the end of the Review.
Minimax robust active learning for approximately specified regression models
Authors: Nie Rui , Wiens Douglas P. , Zhai Zhichun
Published: August 2017

We address problems of model misspecification in active learning. We suppose that an investigator will sample training input points (predictors) from a subpopulation with a chosen distribution, possibly different from that generating the underlying whole population. This is in particular justified when full knowledge of the predictors is easily acquired, but determining the responses is expensive. Having sampled the responses the investigator will estimate a, possibly incorrectly specified, regression function and then predict the responses at all remaining values of the predictors. We derive functions of the predictors , and carry out probability weighted sampling with weights proportional to . The functions are asymptotically minimax robust against the losses incurred by random measurement error in the responses, sampling variation in the inputs, and biases resulting from the model misspecification. In our applications the values of are functions of the diagonal elements of the “hat” matrix which features in a regression on the entire population; this yields an interpretation of sampling the “most influential” part of the population. Applications on simulated and benchmark data sets demonstrate the strong gains to be achieved in this manner, relative to passive learning and to previously proposed methods of active learning. We go on to illustrate the methods in the context of a case study relating ice thickness and snow depth at various locations in Canada, using a “population” of about 50,000 observations made available by Statistics Canada. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 46: 104–122; 2018 © 2017 Statistical Society of Canada
Dual Effect in Fluorine‐Doped Hematite Nanocrystals for Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Xie Junfeng , Liu Weiwei , Xin Jianping , Lei Fengcai , Gao Li , Qu Haichao , Zhang Xiaodong , Xie Yi
Published: August 2017

Herein, excellent light absorption and oxygen‐evolving activity were simultaneously achieved by doping fluorine anions into hematite nanocrystals. Upon anion doping, the band structure of hematite can be effectively regulated, leading to the generation of defect levels between the band gap and remarkably increased visible light absorption. The activity for electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) of the hematite nanocrystals is enhanced after fluorine doping, where the doped hematite assists as an effective catalyst for photoelectrochemical water splitting. The optimization strategy proposed herein may shed light on the future design of photocatalysts for energy‐related applications.
The diagnostic utility of Merkel cell polyomavirus immunohistochemistry in a fine needle aspirate of metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma of unknown primary to the pancreas
Authors: Li Long , Molberg Kyle , Cheedella Naga , Thibodeaux Joel , Hinson Stacy , Lucas Elena
Published: August 2017

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin tumor with a high tendency for metastases. We report a case of MCC initially presenting as axillary and pancreatic metastases. A 33‐year‐old HIV‐positive Hispanic male presented with a history of a rapidly growing axillary mass. A needle core biopsy demonstrated an epithelioid neoplasm composed of small to medium‐sized cells with high nuclear‐cytoplasmic ratio, nuclear molding, and frequent mitotic figures. A subsequent PET scan revealed a 1.5 cm FDG avid mass in the pancreas. Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided FNA of the pancreatic mass showed neoplastic cells with similar morphology to those of the axillary mass. The tumor cells were positive with pancytokeratin AE1/AE3, CK20, CD56, synatophysin, chromogranin, and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). This case of MCC most likely originated from a resolved primary skin lesion drained by the involved axillary lymph node with subsequent metastases to the pancreas and distant lymph nodes.
Determination of higenamine and coclaurine levels in human urine after the administration of a throat lozenge containing Nandina domestica fruit
Authors: Okano Masato , Sato Mitsuhiko , Kageyama Shinji
Published: August 2017

Higenamine is a key component of traditional Chinese herbal medicine. The fruit of Nandina domestica (which contains this component) is available as an ingredient in the so‐called Nanten‐nodo‐ame throat lozenge found on the Japanese market, which is an over‐the‐counter pharmaceutical and is easy to purchase for Japanese athletes. However, higenamine is a non‐selective β2‐agonist, which is exemplified in the prohibited list of the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA). Therefore, some have raised a concern regarding the potential cause of increased unintentional higenamine doping cases in the Asian region. This study aimed to investigate components of throat lozenges and develop a mass‐spectrometry method for the quantification of higenamine and coclaurine in human urine. Moreover, a population study of Japanese subjects (n = 246) and an excretion study (n = 4) of the corresponding throat‐lozenge recipients were performed to test the applicability of the current reporting threshold (i.e., 10 ng/mL) of higenamine set by WADA. The estimates of higenamine and coclaurine were 2.2 ± 0.1 μg/drop (mean of n = 12) and 0.5 ± 0.01 μg/drop (mean of n = 12), respectively. The maximum concentrations of higenamine and coclaurine were 0.2–0.4 and 0.3–1.0 ng/mL, respectively, at 10–12 h after administration of higenamine (nine drops); however, the concentrations in all four volunteers did not reach the positivity criterion of 10 ng/mL. No higenamine and coclaurine could be detected in the Japanese subjects. Therefore, there is no risk of detecting unintentional higenamine doping when the WADA reporting threshold is used.
Utilizing Telehealth to deliver family‐based treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa
Authors: Anderson Kristen E. , Byrne Catherine E. , Crosby Ross D. , Le Grange Daniel
Published: August 2017

Objective

The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and preliminary effect size on the main outcome measure (weight gain) of family‐based treatment (FBT) for adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) and their families delivered via a Telehealth platform (i.e., an HIPAA compliant videoconferencing format).

Method

Ten adolescents, mean age of 16.08 years (SD = 1.99), meeting DSM‐5 criteria for AN or atypical AN, were enrolled in the study and offered FBT via a Telehealth platform. Feasibility and acceptability were evaluated by rates of recruitment and retention. Treatment outcome was determined utilizing percent median body mass index (%mBMI), the eating disorder examination (EDE), and measures for depression and self‐esteem.

Results

Recruitment target was achieved within allotted time, and all participants were retained for the course of treatment. Percent mBMI improved significantly from baseline to the end‐of‐treatment (p = .013) and from baseline to the 6‐month follow‐up (p = .032). Similar results were achieved for the EDE Global Score (p = .002 and .001, respectively).

Discussion

These findings provide preliminary evidence that it is feasible to deliver FBT via Telehealth and that satisfactory clinical outcomes are achievable.
Internet‐delivered eating disorder prevention: A randomized controlled trial of dissonance‐based and cognitive‐behavioral interventions
Authors: Chithambo Taona P. , Huey Stanley J.
Published: August 2017

Objective

The current study evaluated two web‐based programs for eating disorder prevention in high‐risk, predominantly ethnic minority women.

Method

Two hundred and seventy‐one women with elevated weight concerns were randomized to Internet dissonance‐based intervention (DBI‐I), Internet cognitive‐behavioral intervention (CBI‐I), or no intervention (NI). Both interventions consisted of four weekly online sessions. Participants were assessed at pre‐ and post intervention. Outcome measures included eating pathology, body dissatisfaction, dieting, thin‐ideal internalization, and depression.

Results

At postintervention, DBI‐I and CBI‐I led to greater reductions in body dissatisfaction, thin‐ideal internalization, and depression than NI. In addition, CBI‐I was effective at reducing dieting and composite eating pathology relative to NI. No outcome differences were found between the active conditions. Moderation analyses suggested that both active conditions were more effective for ethnic minorities than Whites relative to NI.

Discussion

Results suggest that both DBI‐I and CBI‐I are effective at reducing eating disorder risk factors in a high‐risk, predominantly minority population relative to no intervention.
Virtual reality jogging as a novel exposure paradigm for the acute urge to be physically active in patients with eating disorders: Implications for treatment
Authors: Paslakis Georgios , Fauck Vanessa , Röder Kathrin , Rauh Elisabeth , Rauh Manfred , Erim Yesim
Published: August 2017

The acute urge to be physically active is a relevant clinical phenomenon in patients suffering from eating disorders. In this study with n = 20 female patients with anorexia nervosa and n = 10 female patients with bulimia nervosa, a virtual reality (VR) jogging paradigm was applied as a novel highly immersive 3D exposure paradigm. Patients were asked to rate their acute urge to be physically active during the exposure procedure. A 10‐item self‐report questionnaire (smQ) was developed to capture the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of the acute urge to move. We hypothesized that exposure would lead to habituation of the urge to be physically active. We also hypothesized that leptin levels would be associated with the degree of the subjective urge to be physically active, while habituation would be associated with a decrease in stress hormones (α‐amylase, cortisol, and cortisone in saliva). A statistically significant change in subjective scores in the smQ from baseline to postexposure was seen. Our novel VR paradigm may serve as a therapeutic tool for exposure and habituation of the urge of acutely engaging in physical activity in patients with eating disorders.