bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Verbund von Glas‐Hartschaum‐Beton‐Sandwichelementen
Authors: Weimar Thorsten , Hammer Christian
Published: March 2019

Im Rahmen der Entwicklung eines Glas‐Hartschaum‐Beton‐Sandwichelements ohne mechanische Verbindungsmittel werden Untersuchungen zum Verbundverhalten zwischen Polyurethan‐Hartschaum und Floatglas mit verschiedenen Oberflächen durchgeführt. Die Ergebnisse aus Haftzug‐ und Scherversuchen zeigen, dass eine raue Glasoberfläche zu kohäsivem Versagen in der Dämmstoffschicht und die Atmosphären‐ und Zinnbadseite der glatten Glasoberflächen zu einem adhäsiven Versagen führen. Insgesamt erzielen die Prüfkörper mit einem im Produktionsprozess von MetallHartschaum‐Sandwichelementen eingesetztem Haftvermittler höhere Festigkeiten. Aus mikroskopischen Untersuchungen der Bruchflächen geht hervor, dass der Haftvermittler einen signifikanten Einfluss auf die Benetzung und die Porenausbildung des flüssigen Polyurethans an der Glasoberfläche besitzt.
Ressourceneffiziente Holz‐Holzleichtbeton‐Glasfassaden | Entwicklung und Bewertung
Authors: Fadai Alireza , Müllner Alex
Published: March 2019

Die wachsende Bedeutung von großflächigen Glaselementen im modernen Fassadenbau veranlasst die Untersuchung von möglichem Optimierungspotential durch den Einsatz von Glaskomponenten in Verbindung mit anderen Werkstoffen. Aus einer entsprechenden Kombination von unterschiedlichen Materialien kann eine gesteigerte Ressourceneffizienz der Gesamtkonstruktion resultieren. Zur Bewertung dieser Möglichkeit werden verschiedene Varianten von Holz‐Holzleichtbeton‐Glasfassaden entwickelt und konventionellen Wandaufbauten gegenübergestellt. Dieser Vergleich erfolgt hinsichtlich der Materialwahl auf Bauteilebene, sowie anhand von daraus resultierenden thermischen und ökologischen Simulationen auf Gebäudeebene, wodurch eine maßstabsunabhängige Bewertung der untersuchten Konstruktionen möglich wird.
Experimentelle Untersuchung von Klebverbindungen zwischen lackiertem Glas und holzbasierten Werkstoffen
Authors: Giese‐Hinz Johannes , Weller Bernhard
Published: March 2019

Im Rahmen eines Forschungsprojektes zu einer Glas‐Hybridbrüstung wurde eine lastabtragende Silikonklebung zwischen lackiertem Glas und einem Hochdrucklaminat (HPL) sowie einem modifizierten Kiefernholz untersucht. Dieser Beitrag stellt die Ergebnisse der Charakterisierung der Klebstoffe mit unterschiedlicher chemischer Basis und anschließend Erkenntnisse aus den Haftversuchen unter einer Zugbelastung zur Anfangsfestigkeit sowie zur Restfestigkeit nach künstlichen Alterungen dar. Die Bewertung der Ergebnisse erfolgt mithilfe der Leitlinie für Europäische Technische Zulassungen für geklebte Glaskonstruktionen (ETAG 002). Diese regelt lastabtragende Silikonklebungen zwischen Glas und anodisiertem Aluminium oder nichtrostendem Stahl im Konstruktiven Glasbau. Obwohl die ETAG 002 daher keine Gültigkeit für den hier gezeigten Untersuchungsgegenstand hat, wird sie, aufgrund ihrer wichtigen Stellung im Konstruktiven Glasbau, genutzt. Die gewonnenen positiven Ergebnisse zeigen einmal mehr, dass nicht geregelte Anwendungsbereiche die gestellten Anforderungen erfüllen können. Als Abschluss des Forschungsprojekts wurde mit dem Vorzugsklebstoff ein Ausstellungsdemonstrator für die glasstec 2018 umgesetzt. Dieser zeigt eine Anwendung der lastabtragenden Klebung zwischen lackiertem Glas und HPL in einer Absturzsicherung.
Anwendung der DIN 2304 im Konstruktiven Glasbau
Authors: Böhm Stefan , Kahlmeyer Martin
Published: March 2019

Die DIN 2304 konkretisiert seit 2016 die ISO 9001 für den „speziellen Prozess” Kleben. Es handelt sich hierbei um eine Anwender‐Norm, die für alle Branchen – in Industrie und Handwerk – und alle Klebungen gilt, deren Hauptfunktion in der Übertragung mechanischer Lasten liegt. Als zentrale Punkte eines qualitätsgerechten und robusten Klebprozesses gibt die Norm eine Einteilung der Klebung nach der Sicherheitsanforderung, nach den Qualifikationsstufen des ausführenden und des Klebaufsichtspersonals und nach der Nachweisführung vor. Die DIN 2304 gilt allerdings nicht für Klebverbindungen, deren Herstellung bereits durch anerkannte und bewährte Regelwerke, bestehende Zulassungen oder andere Normen geregelt wird.
Mirror‐Image Oligonucleotides: History and Emerging Applications
Authors: Young Brian E. , Kundu Nandini , Sczepanski Jonathan T.
Published: March 2019

As chiral molecules, naturally occurring d‐oligonucleotides have enantiomers, l‐DNA and l‐RNA, which are comprised of l‐(deoxy)ribose sugars. These mirror‐image oligonucleotides have the same physical and chemical properties as that of their native d‐counterparts, yet are highly orthogonal to the stereospecific environment of biology. Consequently, l‐oligonucleotides are resistant to nuclease degradation and many of the off‐target interactions that plague traditional d‐oligonucleotide‐based technologies; thus making them ideal for biomedical applications. Despite a flurry of interest during the early 1990s, the inability of d‐ and l‐oligonucleotides to form contiguous Watson–Crick base pairs with each other has ultimately led to the perception that l‐oligonucleotides have only limited utility. Recently, however, scientists have begun to uncover novel strategies to harness the bio‐orthogonality of l‐oligonucleotides, while overcoming (and even exploiting) their inability to Watson–Crick base pair with the natural polymer. Herein, a brief history of l‐oligonucleotide research is presented and emerging l‐oligonucleotide‐based technologies, as well as their applications in research and therapy, are presented.
Facile and Large‐Scale Fabrication of Sub‐3 nm PtNi Nanoparticles Supported on Porous Carbon Sheet: A Bifunctional Material for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction and Hydrogenation
Authors: Li Jifan , Liu Lei , Ai Yongjian , Hu Zenan , Xie Liping , Bao Hongjie , Wu Jiajing , Tian Haimeng , Guo Rongxiu , Ren Shucheng , Xu Wenjuan , Sun Hongbin , Zhang Gang , Liang Qionglin
Published: March 2019

Facile and large‐scale preparation of materials with uniform distributions of ultrafine particles for catalysis is a challenging task, and it is even more difficult to obtain catalysts that excel in both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and hydrogenation, which are the corresponding merging and splitting procedures of hydrogen, respectively. Herein, the fabrication of ultrafine bimetallic PtNi nanoparticles embedded in carbon nanosheets (CNS) by means of in situ self‐polymerization and annealing is reported. This bifunctional catalyst shows excellent performance in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the hydrogenation of p‐nitrophenol. Remarkably PtNi bimetallic catalyst with low metal loading (PtNi2@CNS‐600, 0.074 wt % Pt) exhibited outstanding HER activity with an overpotential as low as 68 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 with a platinum loading of only 0.612 μgPt cm−2 and Tafel slope of 35.27 mV dec−1 in a 0.5 m aqueous solution of H2SO4, which is comparable to that of the 20 % Pt/C catalyst (31 mV dec−1). Moreover, it also shows superior long‐term electrochemical durability for at least 30 h with negligible degradation compared with 20 % Pt/C. In addition, the material with increased loading (mPtNi2@CNS‐600, 2.88 % Pt) showed robust catalytic activity for hydrogenation of p‐nitrophenol at ambient pressure and temperature. The catalytic activity towards hydrogen splitting is a circumstantial evidence that agrees with the Volmer–Tafel reaction path in the HER.
π–π Stacking Interaction in an Oxidized CuII–Salen Complex with a Side‐Chain Indole Ring: An Approach to the Function of the Tryptophan in the Active Site of Galactose Oxidase
Authors: Oshita Hiromi , Suzuki Takashi , Kawashima Kyohei , Abe Hitoshi , Tani Fumito , Mori Seiji , Yajima Tatsuo , Shimazaki Yuichi
Published: March 2019

In order to gain new insights into the effect of the π–π stacking interaction of the indole ring with the CuII–phenoxyl radical as seen in the active form of galactose oxidase, we have prepared a CuII complex of a methoxy‐substituted salen‐type ligand, containing a pendent indole ring on the dinitrogen chelate backbone, and characterized its one‐electron‐oxidized forms. The X‐ray crystal structures of the oxidized CuII complex exhibited the π–π stacking interaction of the indole ring mainly with one of the two phenolate moieties. The phenolate moiety in close contact with the indole moiety showed the characteristic phenoxyl radical structural features, indicating that the indole ring favors the π–π stacking interaction with the phenoxyl radical. The UV/Vis/NIR spectra of the oxidized CuII complex with the pendent indole ring was significantly different from those of the complex without the side‐chain indole ring, and the absorption and CD spectra exhibited a solvent dependence, which is in line with the phenoxyl radical–indole stacking interaction in solution. The other physicochemical results and theoretical calculations strongly support that the indole ring, as an electron donor, stabilizes the phenoxyl radical by the π–π stacking interaction.
A Three‐Color Fluorescent Supramolecular Nanoassembly of Phototherapeutics Activable by Two‐Photon Excitation with Near‐Infrared Light
Authors: Fraix Aurore , Kirejev Vladimir , Malanga Milo , Fenyvesi Éva , Béni Szabolcs , Ericson Marica B. , Sortino Salvatore
Published: March 2019

A supramolecular nanoassembly, of about 30 nm in diameter, that consists of a green‐fluorescent, β‐cyclodextrin‐based, branched polymer co‐encapsulating a red‐emitting singlet oxygen (1O2) photosensitizer and a nitric oxide (NO) photoreleaser, which comprises a blue fluorescent reporter, is here reported. The system exhibits “five‐in‐one” photofunctionalities. All components can be simultaneously excited in the phototherapeutic window with two‐photons by using near‐infrared light at 740 nm and despite their close proximity, behave as independent units. This allows for their in vitro visualization in carcinoma cancer cells, due to their distinct green, red, and blue fluorescence, and for the production of both cytotoxic 1O2 and biofunctional NO.
Revisiting a Historical Concept by Using Quantum Crystallography: Are Phosphate, Sulfate and Perchlorate Anions Hypervalent?
Authors: Fugel Malte , Malaspina Lorraine A. , Pal Rumpa , Thomas Sajesh P. , Shi Ming W. , Spackman Mark A. , Sugimoto Kunihisa , Grabowsky Simon
Published: March 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Simon Grabowsky at the University of Bremen. The image depicts one of the main messages of the present study: Lewis structure representations are not sufficient to understand chemical bonding. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201806247.
FPGA implementation of fast digital FIR and IIR filters
Authors: Seshadri R. , Ramakrishnan S.
Published: March 2019

The demand for digital signal processing optimized solutions grows drastically in the modern years, especially in the field of communication and modern signal processing circuits. The finite impulse response (FIR) and an infinite impulse response (IIR) filters play a crucial role in the design of any complex signal processing system. This paper exemplifies the conventional moving average (MA) FIR filters, fast MA FIR filters using look‐ahead arithmetic, the conventional IIR filters using combination of integrator and comb sections (CIC) method, and the fast IIR filters using look‐ahead arithmetic in detail. Altera EP4CE115F29C7 field‐programmable gate array (FPGA) device using Quartus II 13.1 synthesis tool has been used to implement these filters. The performance metrics like the number of Logic Elements (LEs), the performance, and the power immoderation simulation results are compared with the normal and fast MA FIR and IIR filters, respectively. The first‐order IIR conventional filter has 153.4 MHz performance shown in simulation result, the same filter with look‐ahead level 1 has 189.79 MHz performance, and the fast filter with level 2 has 199.96 MHz performance. In addition, with the MA FIR filters, an 8‐tap MA FIR filter using CIC method has 166.09 MHz performance, the same filter using look‐ahead with level 1 has 167.22 MHz performance, and the same filter using look‐ahead with level 2 has 168.56 MHz performance. The proposed FIR and IIR filter is designed efficiently in terms of speed for the application of VLSI signal processing environment.
Parallel Clamps and Polypurine Hairpins (PPRH) for Gene Silencing and Triplex‐Affinity Capture: Design, Synthesis, and Use
Authors: Aviñó Anna , Eritja Ramon , Ciudad Carlos J. , Noé Verónica
Published: March 2019

Nucleic acid triplexes are formed when a DNA or RNA oligonucleotide binds to a polypurine‐polypyrimidine‐rich sequence. Triplexes have wide therapeutic applications such as gene silencing or site‐specific mutagenesis. In addition, protocols based on triplex‐affinity capture have been used for detecting nucleic acids in biosensing platforms. In this article, the design, synthesis, and use of parallel clamps and polypurine‐reversed hairpins (PPRH) to bind to target polypyrimidine targets are described. The combination of the polypurine Watson‐Crick strand with the triplex‐forming strand in a single molecule produces highly stable triplexes allowing targeting of single‐ and double‐stranded nucleic acid sequences. On the other hand, PPRHs are easily prepared and work at nanomolar range, like siRNAs, and at a lower concentration than that needed for antisense ODNs or TFOs. However, the stability of PPRHs is higher than that of siRNAs. In addition, PPRHs circumvent off‐target effects and are non‐immunogenic. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Scaling‐Up of Bio‐Oil Upgrading during Biomass Pyrolysis over ZrO2/ZSM‐5‐Attapulgite
Authors: Hernando Héctor , Hernández‐Giménez Ana M. , Gutiérrez‐Rubio Santiago , Fakin Tomaz , Horvat Andrej , Danisi Rosa M. , Pizarro Patricia , Fermoso Javier , Heracleous Eleni , Bruijnincx Pieter C. A. , Lappas Angelos A. , Weckhuysen Bert M. , Serrano David P.
Published: March 2019

Ex situ catalytic biomass pyrolysis was investigated at both laboratory and bench scale by using a zeolite ZSM‐5‐based catalyst for selectively upgrading the bio‐oil vapors. The catalyst consisted of nanocrystalline ZSM‐5, modified by incorporation of ZrO2 and agglomerated with attapulgite (ZrO2/n‐ZSM‐5‐ATP). Characterization of this material by means of different techniques, including CO2 and NH3 temperature‐programmed desorption (TPD), NMR spectroscopy, UV/Vis microspectroscopy, and fluorescence microscopy, showed that it possessed the right combination of accessibility and acid–base properties for promoting the conversion of the bulky molecules formed by lignocellulose pyrolysis and their subsequent deoxygenation to upgraded liquid organic fractions (bio‐oil). The results obtained at the laboratory scale by varying the catalyst‐to‐biomass ratio (C/B) indicated that the ZrO2/n‐ZSM‐5‐ATP catalyst was more efficient for bio‐oil deoxygenation than the parent zeolite n‐ZSM‐5, producing upgraded bio‐oils with better combinations of mass and energy yields with respect to the oxygen content. The excellent performance of the ZrO2/n‐ZSM‐5‐ATP system was confirmed by working with a continuous bench‐scale plant. The scale‐up of the process, even with different raw biomasses as the feedstock, reaction conditions, and operation modes, was in line with the laboratory‐scale results, leading to deoxygenation degrees of approximately 60 % with energy yields of approximately 70 % with respect to those of the thermal bio‐oil.
SLE pericardial effusion clinically mimicking hypothyroidism and tuberculosis diagnosed on cytology with LE cells
Authors: Patel Bidish K. , Gochhait Debasis , Stephen Norton , Siddaraju Neelaiah
Published: March 2019

The occurrence of lupus erythematosus cells (LE cells) in serous body fluids is extremely uncommon but, when present, is highly specific for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). LE cells are commonly reported in pleural and peritoneal effusions but very rarely documented in pericardial effusion. Here, we report a case in which pericardial fluid examination clinched the diagnosis of SLE which was clinically suspected of tuberculosis/hypothyroid effusion by striking presence of LE cells on May‐Grünwald Giemsa‐stained and Papanicolaou stained smears. Subsequent serologic studies revealed high titers of anti‐nuclear antibodies and anti‐ds‐DNA confirming the diagnosis of SLE. This case highlights the importance of careful examination of pericardial fluid or pleural or peritoneal fluid in the diagnosis of unsuspected cases of SLE in an era wherein “LE cell detection” is considered to be of historic interest.
Quaternary climatic fluctuations and resulting climatically suitable areas for Eurasian owlets
Authors: Koparde Pankaj , Mehta Prachi , Mukherjee Shomita , Robin V. V.
Published: March 2019

Aim

The nested pattern in the geographical distribution of three Indian owlets, resulting in a gradient of endemicity, is hypothesized to be an impact of historical climate change. In current time, the Forest Owlet Athene blewitti is endemic to central India, and its range is encompassed within the ranges of the Jungle Owlet Glaucidium radiatum (distributed through South Asia) and Spotted Owlet Athene brama (distributed through Iran, South and Southeast Asia). Another phylogenetically close species, Little Owl Athene noctua, which is largely Palearctic in distribution, is hypothesized to have undergone severe range reduction during the Last Glacial Maximum, showing a postglacial expansion. The present study tests hypotheses on the possible role of Quaternary climatic fluctuations in shaping geographical ranges of owlets.

Methods

We used primary field observations, open access data, and climatic niche modeling to construct climatic niches of four owlets for four periods, the Last Interglacial (~120–140 Ka), Last Glacial Maximum (~22 Ka), Mid‐Holocene (~6 Ka), and Current (1960–1990). We performed climatic niche extent, breadth, and overlap analyses and tested if climatically suitable areas for owlets are nested in a relatively stable climate.

Results

Climatically suitable areas for all owlets examined underwent cycles of expansion and reduction or a gradual expansion or reduction since the Last Interglacial. The Indian owlets show significant climatic niche overlap in the current period. Climatically suitable areas for Little Owl shifted southwards during the Last Glacial Maximum and expanded northwards in the postglaciation period. For each owlet, the modeled climatic niches were nested in climatically stable areas.

Main Conclusions

The study highlights the impact of Quaternary climate change in shaping the present distribution of owlets. This is relevant to the current scenario of climate change and global warming and can help inform conservation strategies, especially for the extremely range‐restricted Forest Owlet.
Pyridine‐Stabilized Rhodium Nanoparticles in Ionic Liquids as Selective Hydrogenation and Transfer Hydrogenation Catalysts
Authors: Serrano‐Maldonado Alejandro , Martin Erika , Guerrero‐Ríos Itzel
Published: March 2019

Rhodium nanoparticles (RhNPs) stabilized with pyridine‐based ligands in the ionic liquid [BMIM][BF4] (RhNPs‐I to III) were synthesized from the organometallic precursor [Rh(µ‐OMe)COD]2 under dihydrogen pressure. The pyridine‐stabilized RhNPs showed smaller size compared to the ligand free RhNPs‐V and presented higher activity and selectivity in the hydrogenation of acetophenone to 1‐phenylethanol. In the case of pyridine‐capped RhNPs‐I, the system was reused for several runs without loss of activity and selectivity. Nitrobenzene was reduced to aniline with dihydrogen in the presence of RhNPs‐I with moderate activity. When the hydrogen source was formic acid‐Et3N azeotrope (transfer hydrogenation) the reaction was completed within minutes with high selectivity. Under transfer hydrogenation conditions, it was possible to apply the catalytic system RhNPs‐I in multistep processes for the generation of substituted arylic amines through the reductive N‐alkylation of nitrobenzene and benzaldehyde; and the synthesis of substituted pyrroles through the nitroarene reduction/Paal‐Knorr condensation.
A Computational Study of Carbene Ligand Stabilization of Biomimetic Models of the Rotated Hred State of [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase
Authors: Borthakur Bitupon , Vargas Alfredo , Phukan Ashwini K.
Published: March 2019

Stabilization of fully rotated conformation at one of the iron center has been achieved for the reduced Fe(I)Fe(I) state in chelated cyclic alkyl amino carbene (CAAC) substituted biomimetic hydrogenase model complex. This study indicates that the spatial orientation of the chelated NHCs at one of the iron center plays a major role in determining the geometry at the other iron center. We also made an attempt at explaining the electronic origin behind the favorability of rotated vs. unrotated structure in asymmetrically substituted chelated vs. monodentate NHC complexes.
Ammonothermal Synthesis of the Mixed‐Valence Nitrogen‐Rich Europium Tantalum Ruddlesden‐Popper Phase EuIIEuIII2Ta2N4O3
Authors: Cordes Niklas , Nentwig Markus , Eisenburger Lucien , Oeckler Oliver , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: March 2019

The mixed‐valence europium tantalum nitride oxide EuIIEuIII2Ta2N4O3 was synthesized with the ammonothermal approach in high‐pressure custom‐built autoclaves. The reaction was performed at 1070 K and a maximum pressure of 170 MPa in an ammonobasic environment with NaN3 and NaOH as mineralizers. EuIIEuIII2Ta2N4O3 was obtained as a black microcrystalline powder. Single‐crystal synchrotron diffraction data revealed a Ruddlesden‐Popper phase crystallizing in space group P42/mnm (no. 136) with a = 5.7278(1), c = 19.8149(5) Å and Z = 4. The crystallographic results from single‐crystal diffraction data have been confirmed by powder diffraction and TEM measurements. Anion positions were assigned to O and N based on bond‐valence (BVS), lattice energy (MAPLE) and charge distribution calculations (CHARDI). EuII and EuIII are crystallographically ordered. The band gap was estimated from UV/Vis measurements employing the Kubelka–Munk function to be 0.6 eV, which supports the black color and the mixed valence of europium.
Two‐Step Direct Transesterification as a Rapid Method for the Analysis of Fatty Acids in Microalgae Biomass
Authors: Safafar Hamed , Ljubic Anita , Møller Per , Jacobsen Charlotte
Published: March 2019

A rapid and routine direct transesterification (DT) method for the evaluation of the relative fatty acid composition of microalgae biomass is presented in this paper. The method is optimized on Lake Superior Fish Tissue (SRM 1946), as standard reference material and then the proposed DT procedure is tested on various microalgae species, and the results are compared to a validated microwave assisted esterification (MAE) as a reference (R2 = 0.99). Total DT time is very fast (14 min), while the fatty acid compositions are virtually identical to those prepared by MAE for various species of microalgae as well as fish and krill biomasses.

Practical Applications: Microalgae are known as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds such as fatty acids, and their implementation is growing. Application of microalgae biomass as a source of fatty acids requires fast and reliable methods of analysis of fatty acids. The DT method developed in this study can be used as a powerful tool for the monitoring of the variations in fatty acid composition during the cultivation, processing, formulation, and storage.

The fatty acid composition of microalgae has been proven as a potential tool for the identification of microalgal taxa. Application of fatty acid composition as a fingerprinting tool requires fast, reliable, and precise methods. A rapid and routine direct transesterification method for the evaluation of the fatty acid composition of microalgae biomass is presented in this paper. The transesterification is being done in two steps as sonication assisting base‐catalyzed methanolysis followed by BF3 methylation reactions. Heating in boiling water bath for 2 min is required at both steps to improve the reactions.
Characterization of Key Odorants in Moroccan Argan Oil by Aroma Extract Dilution Analysis
Authors: Sevindik Onur , Amanpour Armin , Tsouli Sarhir Salwa , Kelebek Hasim , Selli Serkan
Published: March 2019

The aroma‐active compounds of Moroccan argan oil are sensorily and instrumentally analyzed via gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry‐olfactometry (GC‐MS‐O). The purge and trap extraction (PTE) method is used for the extraction of volatile components. A total of 35 aroma compounds are determined including mostly alcohols and pyrazines, and some carboxylic acids, pyrroles, furans, lactones, volatile phenols, an aldehyde, and a ketone. An aroma extract dilution analysis of the aromatic fraction of argan oil isolated by the PTE method reveals 19 key odorants with flavor dilution (FD) factors ranging from 4 to 512, among which nonanal, 2,5‐dimethyl‐3‐ethylpyrazine and 2,3‐diethyl‐5‐methylpyrazine show the highest FD factors of 512. As for the principal scents perceived by all panelists, characteristic odor notes in argan oil are found to be roasty, nutty, fatty, earthy, and cheesy.

Practical Applications: Nut oil is one of the most widely consumed oils in many countries. The outcomes of this investigation provide valuable information for elucidation of the key odorants and aroma composition of the well‐known and expensive Moroccan argan oil. Aroma is a crucial quality parameter of a foodstuff which directly influences customer preferences. Therefore, determining the key odorants of argan oil's aromatic extract isolated by purge and trap methodology is of major importance for the argan oil sector. The purge and trap extraction set for separation followed by analysis and characterization of those compounds via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry‐olfactometry (GC‐MS‐O) is an effective practical application tool for aroma description in valuable and expensive oil samples. It is observed that the characteristic odor notes of argan oil are related to the few most powerful aroma‐active compounds using the aroma extract dilution analysis technique.

The aroma‐active compounds of Moroccan argan oil are sensorily and instrumentally analyzed via gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry‐olfactometry (GC‐MS‐O). The purge and trap extraction (PTE) method is used for the extraction of volatile components. A total of 19 aroma compounds are detected as aroma active by AEDA method among 35 volatiles. Characteristic odor notes in argan oil are found to be roasty, nutty, fatty, earthy, and cheesy.
Analysis of Edible Oil Oxidation Based on Changes in the Electrical Conductivity of the Extracted Aqueous Phase
Authors: Wang Mengzhu , Huyan Zongyao , Jing Bingyu , Mao Xiaohui , Yu Xiuzhu
Published: March 2019

A novel and rapid method is developed to analyze oxidation in edible oils by using electrical conductivity (EC). The extent of edible oil oxidation is confirmed using the American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS) standard method as a reference. Analytical conditions, including temperature, oscillating time, and water–oil (v/v) ratio, are optimized to determine ECs. A model is established based on EC changes in the aqueous phase extracted from several water–oil mixtures. This model is used to predict the oxidation degree of the samples, and its results are validated by the AOCS standard methods. Results show that the analytical conditions exert no significant effects on EC determination. The model is developed using a water–oil (v/v) ratio of 5. Three regions are classified according to the ECs of the samples. Oils with ECs less than 6.9 µS cm−1 are found to be non‐oxidized oils, samples with ECs within 6.9–8.9 µS cm−1 are suspected oils, and samples with ECs exceeding 8.9 µS cm−1 correspond to oxidized oils. The total identification rate of the model in validation samples is 94.1%. The results of the present study clearly indicate that the proposed method can be used as an alternative to conduct qualitative discrimination of the oxidation degree of edible oils. Practical applications: A method based on EC changes in the aqueous phase is used to determine the extent of edible oil oxidation. A total of 151 oil samples are used and assigned to two groups for calibration (n = 83) and validation (n = 68) oil samples. In the EC method, determination of ECs is independent of analytical conditions, which provides great flexibility in the selection process. The method requires no spectral pre‐treatments or data processing methods, which simplifies the experiment process. Furthermore, the EC instrument is less than 40 $ USD, which is more affordable and portable in a small scale. These characteristics make the proposed method convenient for inspection departments to accomplish on‐site testing of edible oils. The EC method can be applied to determine edible oil oxidation.

A method based on EC changes in the aqueous phase extracted from water–oil mixture is used to determine the extent of edible oil oxidation. At a water–oil (v/v) ratio of 5, the EC model can be divided into three regions: ECs of less than 6.9 µS cm−1 representing non‐oxidized oils, ECs within 6.9–8.9 µS cm−1 representing suspected oils, and ECs of over 8.9 µS cm−1 representing oxidized oils. The total identification rate of the model in validation samples is 94.1%.
Synthesis of Fused Indoline‐Cyclobutanone Derivatives via an Intramolecular [2+2] Cycloaddition
Authors: Neyyappadath Rifahath M. , Greenhalgh Mark D. , Cordes David B. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Smith Andrew D.
Published: March 2019

A serendipitously‐discovered process for the synthesis of heterocyclic products containing a novel fused indoline‐cyclobutanone ring system is reported. This process is believed to take place through in situ generation of a ketene intermediate, followed by intramolecular [2+2] cycloaddition with a pendant enamide. The formation of a ketene intermediate in this process is significant as the reaction conditions employed are analogous to those commonly used in tertiary amine Lewis base catalysis, where the potential intermediacy of ketenes is an important consideration that is often overlooked.
Bituminous Coal as Low‐Cost Anode Materials for Sodium‐Ion and Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Abou-Rjeily John , Ait Laziz Nour , Autret-Lambert Cecile , Tahar Sougrati Moulay , Toufaily Joumana , Outzourhit Abdelkader , Ghamouss Fouad
Published: March 2019

The expanding market for secondary batteries is attentive for novel carbonaceous anode materials due to the continuing demand for energy storage systems that grant access for mobile applications, transportation, and stationary systems. Accordingly, natural high‐volatile bituminous coal analyzed in its raw and thermally processed states in half‐cells for energy storage (sodium‐ and lithium‐ion batteries) is presented. Thermal annealing is carried out at various temperatures (800, 1000, and 1200 °C) and in different annealing atmospheres (argon and nitrogen). Morphology and structural alterations are observed and detected via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, elemental analysis, and textural porosity evaluations. Electrochemical experiments show satisfactory reversible capacities (223 mAh g−1 vs Na and 409 mAh g−1 vs Li) and retentions remarkable for low‐temperature annealed samples. Exploiting this neglected carbonaceous mining ore debris provides prospective ecological, economic, and energetic assertions. This work also discusses the positive influence of annealing under a nitrogen atmosphere at reduced temperatures (800 °C).
Genesis of the Meishan iron oxide–apatite deposit in the Ningwu Basin, eastern China: Constraints from apatite chemistry
Authors: Yu Jin‐Jie , Chen Bao‐Yun , Che Lin‐Rui , Wang Tie‐Zhu , Liu Shuai‐Jie
Published: March 2019

The Meishan iron oxide–apatite deposit is located in the Ningwu volcanic basin in eastern China. The deposit comprises massive and brecciated ores in the main orebody, located at the contact between a gabbro–diorite porphyry and biotite–pyroxene andesites, and sub‐economic stockwork and disseminated ores. Among the four stages of alteration and mineralization, apatite coexists with magnetite, andradite, and quartz in massive magnetite ore and occurs in disseminated magnetite ore, coexisting with magnetite, siderite (after diopside), and quartz for Stage 2 iron mineralization. Apatite is also present in the altered gabbro–diorite porphyry. The apatites from the massive and disseminated magnetite–apatite ores are fluor‐ and hydroxyl‐ variety. Those from the altered gabbro–diorite porphyry show extensive solid solution between the hydroxyl‐apatite, fluor‐apatite, and chlor‐apatite end members. The apatites at Meishan record oxidized states during formation of the mineral deposit. The SO3 contents of apatite in the Meishan deposit mostly vary from 0.4 to 1.2 wt%, with the highest value of 4.97 wt%. MnO contents in apatites from our study are less than 0.17 wt%, and most values are below detection limit, indicating that the apatite formed in a high ƒO2 magmatic–hydrothermal fluid. The strong Eu depletion in apatites at Meishan resulted from the fractionation of plagioclase. The gabbro–diorite porphyry, magnetite, and apatite show similar LREE‐enriched patterns with significant negative Eu anomalies for apatite and magnetite, and no Eu anomaly for the gabbro–diorite porphyry. The gabbro–diorite porphyry and Stage 2 apatite associated with iron mineralization have also similar primitive mantle‐normalized trace element patterns, suggesting that the mineralization was related to gabbro–diorite porphyry. The REE pattern with significant negative Eu anomalies in apatite from the Meishan deposit is comparable with that of other Kiruna‐type deposits elsewhere in the world.
Synthesis and evaluation of pyrazole‐incorporated monocarbonyl curcumin analogues as antiproliferative and antioxidant agents
Authors: Nagargoje Amol A. , Akolkar Satish V. , Siddiqui Madiha M. , Bagade Aditi V. , Kodam Kisan M. , Sangshetti Jaiprakash N. , Damale Manoj G. , Shingate Bapurao B.
Published: March 2019

A series of pyrazole‐incorporated monocarbonyl analogues of curcumin were synthesized via Clasien–Schimidt‐type condensation and subsequently screened for in vitro antiproliferative and antioxidant activity. The analogues 4c, 5d, 5e, 5g, 6e, and 6f showed potential activity against the MDA‐MB‐231 cell line. The synthesized analogues were also screened for their antioxidant activity. Compounds 5a, 5e, 6d, and 6f exhibit comparable radical scavenging activity with respect to the standard drug ascorbic acid. Furthermore, a molecular docking study has been conducted for 5d and 5g and suggests that these compounds have a potential to become lead molecules in drug discovery and process.
The influence of social support on loneliness and depression among older elderly people in China: Coping styles as mediators
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Alston Max , Guo Wei
Published: March 2019

This study examines the direct effect of social support and the mediating effects of coping styles on loneliness and depression of older elderly people in China using data from the 2014 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey. Our sample includes 905 males and 741 females aged 75 years and over. The mean age of the sample is 79.71 (standard deviation = 4.01). We use structural equation modeling to show that social support is significantly negatively associated with the incidence of loneliness and depression among older elderly people. Higher levels of social support are also significantly negatively associated with the use of negative coping styles and consequently predict fewer symptoms of loneliness and depression. A higher level of social support is significantly positively associated with positive coping styles and consequently predicts fewer depressive symptoms. However, positive coping styles are not significantly associated with loneliness. These findings emphasize the importance of social networks in resilience and have significant implications for gerontological social work practice in China.
Loss of MCL1 function sensitizes the MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells to rh‐TRAIL by increasing DR4 levels
Authors: De Blasio Anna , Pratelli Giovanni , Drago‐Ferrante Rosa , Saliba Christian , Baldacchino Shawn , Grech Godfrey , Tesoriere Giovanni , Scerri Christian , Vento Renza , Di Fiore Riccardo
Published: March 2019

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a form of BC characterized by high aggressiveness and therapy resistance probably determined by cancer stem cells. MCL1 is an antiapoptotic Bcl‐2 family member that could limit the efficacy of anticancer agents as recombinant human tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (rh‐TRAIL). Here, we investigated MCL1 expression in TNBC tissues and cells. We found
MCL1 differentially expressed (upregulated or downregulated) in TNBC tissues. Furthermore, in comparison to the human mammary epithelial cells, we found that MDA‐MB‐231 cells show similar messenger RNA levels but higher MCL1 protein levels, whereas it resulted downregulated in MDA‐MB‐436 and BT‐20 cells. We evaluated the effects of rh‐TRAIL and A‐1210477, a selective MCL1 inhibitor, on cell viability and growth of MDA‐MB‐231 cells. We demonstrated that the drug combination reduced the cell growth and activated the apoptotic pathway. Similar effects were observed on three‐dimensional cultures and tertiary mammospheres of MDA‐MB‐231 cells. In MDA‐MB‐231 cells, after MCL1 silencing, rh‐TRAIL confined the cell population in the sub‐G0/G1 phase and induced a drop in the mitochondrial transmembrane potential. To understand the molecular mechanism by which the loss of MCL1 function sensitizes the MDA‐MB‐231 cells to rh‐TRAIL, we analyzed by real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, the expression of genes related to apoptosis, stemness, cell cycle, and those involved in epigenetic regulation. Interestingly, among the upregulated genes through MCL1 silencing or inhibition, there was TNFRSF10A (DR4). Moreover, MCL1 inhibition increased DR4 protein levels and its cell surface expression. Finally, we demonstrated MCL1‐DR4 interaction and dissociation of this complex after A‐1210477 treatment. Overall, our findings highlight the potential MCL1‐roles in MDA‐MB‐231 cells and suggest that MCL1 targeting could be an effective strategy to overcome TNBC's rh‐TRAIL resistance.
lncRNA B4GALT1‐AS1 promotes colon cancer cell stemness and migration by recruiting YAP to the nucleus and enhancing YAP transcriptional activity
Authors: Zhang Yang , Fang Zhixue , Guo Xiong , Dong Hongyu , Zhou Ke , Huang Zhongcheng , Xiao Zhigang
Published: March 2019

Here, an RNA‐sequencing assay revealed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with an ectopic expression between colon cancer (CC) and normal colon epithelial cells, in which lncRNA B4GALT1‐AS1 exhibited the highest change. A 3‐(4,5‐dimethythiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay indicated that B4GALT1‐AS1 knockdown had no effect on CC cell viability, however, cell clone formation analysis showed that B4GALT1‐AS1 knockdown attenuated the capacity of cell clone formation. Additionally, gene set enrichment analysis of this data set revealed that positive enrichment of stem cell‐differentiated signatures and negative embryonic stem cell function and adult tissue stem module were observed in CC cells with B4GALT1‐AS1 knockdown. Furthermore, B4GALT1‐AS1 knockdown suppressed the stemness‐marker expression, the ability of cell spheroid formation, and ALDH1 activity in CC cells. Mechanistically, RNA‐sequencing data found that the Hippo pathway in cancer was shown on pathways mostly upregulated by B4GALT1‐AS1 knockdown, and B4GALT1‐AS1 directly bound to the yes‐associated protein (YAP), a downstream executor of the Hippo pathway, and B4GALT1‐AS1 knockdown promoted the nuclear cytoplasm translocation of YAP and decreased YAP transcriptional activity. Notably, YAP overexpression attenuated the inhibitory effects mediated by B4GALT1‐AS1 knockdown. Our results identify the direct binding of lncRNA B4GALT1‐AS1 to YAP, which is responsible for CC cell stemness.
Circulating microparticles as biomarkers of stroke: A focus on the value of endothelial‐ and platelet‐derived microparticles
Authors: El‐Gamal Heba , Parray Aijaz S. , Mir Fayaz A. , Shuaib Ashfaq , Agouni Abdelali
Published: March 2019

Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide. Numerous pathophysiological mechanisms involving blood vessels, coagulation and inflammation contribute to the vascular occlusion. Perturbations in these pathways can be detected by numerous methods including changes in endoplasmic membrane remodeling and rearrangement leading to the shedding of microparticles (MPs) from various cellular origins in the blood. MPs are small membrane‐derived vesicles that are shed from nearly all cells in the body in resting state or upon stimulation. MPs act as biological messengers to transfer information to adjacent and distant cells thus regulating various biological processes. MPs may be important biomarkers and tools for the identification of the risk and diagnosis of cerebrovascular diseases. Endothelial activation and dysfunction and altered thrombotic responses are two of the main features predisposing to stroke. Endothelial MPs (EMPs) have been recognized as both biomarkers and effectors of endothelial cell activation and injury while platelet‐derived MPs (PMPs) carry a strong procoagulant potential and are activated in thrombotic states. Therefore, we reviewed here the role of EMPs and PMPs as biomarkers of stroke. Most studies reported high circulating levels of EMPs and PMPs in addition to other cell origins in stroke patients and have been linked to stroke severity, the size of infarction, and prognosis. The identification and quantification of EMPs and PMPs may thus be useful for the diagnosis and management of stroke.
Generation of neural stem cells from adult astrocytes by using a single reprogramming factor
Authors: Zarei‐Kheirabadi Masoumeh , Hesaraki Mehdi , Shojaei Amir , Kiani Sahar , Baharvand Hossein
Published: March 2019

Generating neural stem cells (NSCs) from astroglia as an abundant cell type in the mammalian brain has a promising outlook to be used in cell‐replacement therapy for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders and neuronal trauma. However, little is known about a single reprogramming factor that may lead to the generation of induced NSCs (iNSCs) from adult brain‐derived astrocytes in the absence of extrinsic inductive signals. Here, we show that zinc‐finger nuclear protein Zfp521 alone is sufficient for converting the adult mouse brain‐derived astrocytes into iNSCs. In vitro, Zfp521‐iNSCs demonstrated long‐term self‐renewal and multipotency and expressed related markers. Moreover, single‐seeded iNSCs were able to produce NSC colonies. These results suggest that application of Zfp521 to generate iNSCs could be regarded as a new approach for conversion of resident astrocytes into iNSCs in cell therapy for in vivo treatment of neural injuries.
Fleet sizing for UNHCR country offices
Authors: Kunz Nathan , Van Wassenhove Luk N.
Published: March 2019

Vehicles are important assets generating significant costs. Relief organizations frequently struggle to define the appropriate number of vehicles to support their operations. The high level of decentralization giving country offices the autonomy to decide on the size of their fleet complicates the issue. This study follows a design science approach in collaboration with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). We develop a prediction model to support UNHCR's fleet sizing problem. A stepwise linear regression approach is used to construct a model able to predict the number of vehicles required by each country office based on data from comparable countries. Three variables have the best predictive accuracy: the number of locations, small partners, and large partners working for UNHCR. We validate our findings with different regression methods and by applying our approach to another organization. Our model has provided UNHCR with valuable indications on how to help determine the appropriate number of vehicles in many countries. We develop three design propositions that show how our approach can be generalized to other humanitarian operations. These propositions offer insights on how to implement a fleet sizing decision process in highly decentralized humanitarian operations with limited information on optimal fleet sizes.
Assessment of iron status and interplay between lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity in common hemoglobin variants in Osun State, southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Ajibola Kabiru A. , Adedokun Kamoru A. , Oduola Taofeeq , Oparinde Dolapo P. , Ayelagbe Olubunmi G. , Ojokuku Hammed O.
Published: March 2019

INTRODUCTION

Hemoglobin (Hb) and iron are prooxidants in nature and sources of free radicals in the biological system of all Hb phenotypes. Recent evidence linked abnormal hemoglobin S and C (HbSC) in sickle cell disease (SCD) to various complications in multiple oxidative processes. However, similar studies in relation to abnormal Hb traits are sparse. Besides, reports on activities of antioxidant enzymes and iron status in SCDs are still contradictory. This study assessed the interplay between lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense capacity in various Hb variants. We enrolled 193 participants with different Hb phenotypes. They were consecutive patients with sickle cell anemia (HbSS, n = 32) and hemoglobin SC (HbSC) disease (n = 28) regularly followed up in a steady state. Other participants were subjects with abnormal Hb traits (HbAS, n = 50; HbAC, n = 33) and normal controls (HbAA, n = 50). The hematocrit (Hct) level, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, iron status, and biochemical parameters including malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant status (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzymes were investigated simultaneously. The MDA and SOD levels were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in Hb variants in order of HbSS>HbSC>HbAC>HbAS when compared with controls. Conversely, GPx and TAS levels showed significant reductions (P < 0.05). Similarly, Hct, Hb, and iron concentrations showed significant reductions (P < 0.05) sequentially following HbAC > HbAS > HbSC > HbSS compared with controls. The results suggest that both SCDs and the carriers were relatively more vulnerable to systemic oxidative stress against normal phenotype, and may be owing to ineffective antioxidant mechanisms needed for keeping spontaneous generations of free radicals in control without necessarily iron‐mediated.
Lipid content in overwintering Calanus finmarchicus across the Subpolar Eastern North Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Jónasdóttir Sigrún H. , Wilson Robert J. , Gislason Astthor , Heath Michael R.
Published: March 2019

The boreal copepod Calanus finmarchicus accumulates lipid reserves during summer feeding in surface ocean waters, which enable it to stay at depth and survive famine during overwintering. Respiration of lipids during prolonged overwintering at ocean depths (> 1000 m in some areas) has been shown to result in a net sequestration of carbon into the deep ocean: the so‐called “lipid pump.” Here, we provide a comprehensive synthesis of the geographic and vertical variations in lipid content of overwintering animals across the Subpolar Eastern North Atlantic and, on the basis of this, we revise the estimates of carbon sequestration. Wax ester content ranged from 40 to 190 μg individual−1 at > 250 m depths, with highest concentrations in the coldest (< 0°C) waters at 400–600 m depth at the slope east of Faroe Islands and east of Greenland and lowest in the warmer (> 4°C) Irminger Sea and Rockall Basin. Our new analysis results in about 44% higher estimates of carbon sequestration at up to 11.5 g C m−2.