bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidiabetic properties of dietary phenolic compounds: Inhibition effects on α‐amylase, aldose reductase, and α‐glycosidase
Authors: Demir Yeliz , Durmaz Lokman , Taslimi Parham , Gulçin İlhami
Published: May 2019

Aldose reductase (AR), α‐amylase, and α‐glycosidase are vital enzymes to prevent diabetic complications. Here, AR was purified from sheep kidney using elementary methods with 111.11‐purification fold and with 0.85% purification yield. The interactions between some phenolic compounds and the AR, α‐glycosidase, and α‐amylase enzyme were determined. It was found that phenolic compounds exhibit potential inhibitor properties for these enzymes. For α‐amylase, studied phenolic compounds showed IC50 values in the range of 601.56–2,067.78 nM. For α‐glycosidase, Ki values were found in the range of 169.25 ± 27.22–572.88 ± 106.76 nM. For AR, Ki values in the range of 8.48 ± 0.56–43.26 ± 7.63 µM. However, genistein showed the best inhibition effect toward AR and α‐glycosidase, but delphinidin chloride exhibited the best inhibition effect against α‐amylase enzyme. We determined that all compounds showed noncompetitive inhibition effect against AR and α‐glycosidase. Also, studied phenolic compounds may be useful in the prevention or treatment of diabetic complications.
Modulatory effects of curcumin on heat shock proteins in cancer: A promising therapeutic approach
Authors: Forouzanfar Fatemeh , Barreto George , Majeed Muhammed , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: May 2019

Cancer metastasis represents a multistep process, including alteration of cell adhesion/motility in the microenvironment and sustained angiogenesis, which is essential for supporting cancer growth in tissues that are distant from the primary tumor. There is growing evidence suggesting that heat shock proteins (HSPs) (also known as heat stress proteins), which constitute a family of stress‐inducible proteins, may be involved in the pathogenesis of cancer. Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a potent anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor agent. Curcumin has been shown to regulate different members of HSPs including HSP27, HSP40, HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90 in cancer. Here, we present extent findings suggesting that curcumin may act as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer through its regulation of HSPs.
Development of a microchannel emulsification process for pancreatic beta cell encapsulation
Authors: Bitar Christina M.E. , Markwick Karen E. , Treľová Dušana , Kroneková Zuzana , Pelach Michal , Selerier Chloé M.O. , Dietrich James , Lacík Igor , Hoesli Corinne A.
Published: May 2019

In this study, we developed a high‐throughput microchannel emulsification process to encapsulate pancreatic beta cells in monodisperse alginate beads. The process builds on a stirred emulsification and internal gelation method previously adapted to pancreatic cell encapsulation. Alginate bead production was achieved by flowing a 0.5–2.5% alginate solution with cells and CaCO3 across a 1‐mm thick polytetrafluoroethylene plate with 700 × 200 μm rectangular straight‐through channels. Alginate beads ranging from 1.5–3 mm in diameter were obtained at production rates exceeding 140 mL/hr per microchannel. Compared to the stirred emulsification process, the microchannel emulsification beads had a narrower size distribution and demonstrated enhanced compressive burst strength. Both microchannel and stirred emulsification beads exhibited homogeneous profiles of 0.7% alginate concentration using an initial alginate solution concentration of 1.5%. Encapsulated beta cell viability of 89 ± 2% based on live/dead staining was achieved by minimizing the bead residence time in the acidified organic phase fluid. Microchannel emulsification is a promising method for clinical‐scale pancreatic beta cell encapsulation as well as other applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries.
An optimization on water wave diffraction approximation based on wave packets
Authors: Yang Zhongyao , Liu Shiguang
Published: May 2019

This paper proposes a novel approach for diffraction approximation in two‐dimensional water wave simulation. Our method is based on wave packets, which ensures unconditionally stability. We introduce the Green function in order to generate diffraction patterns that are used to judge whether our method can produce realistic diffraction effects. This method also implements propagation direction optimization for diffractive wave packets to handle the efficiency problem existed in the state‐of‐the‐art approach. Various results indicate that our new method can produce more appealing diffractive effects than current particle‐based approaches. Besides, from the efficiency perspective, compared to current approaches, our implementation greatly enhances the computational efficiency for scenes with high curvature obstacle boundaries.
Co‐MOF‐Derived Hierarchical Mesoporous Yolk‐shell‐structured Nanoreactor for the Catalytic Reduction of Nitroarenes with Hydrazine Hydrate
Authors: Yuan Man , Zhang Hongbo , Yang Chen , Wang Fanhao , Dong Zhengping
Published: May 2019

Porous nanoreactors demonstrate immense potential for applications in heterogeneous catalysis due to their excellent mass‐transfer performance and stability. The design of a simple, universal strategy for fabricating nanoreactor catalysts is of significance for organic transformation. In this study, a nanoreactor with a hierarchical mesoporous yolk‐shell structure was successfully prepared by the high‐temperature carbonization of a ZIF‐67@polymer composite. The core of the resultant Co@ZDC@mC material comprised Co NPs anchored in the ZIF‐67‐derived carbon framework, while the shell comprised resin‐polymer‐derived mesoporous carbon. The as‐obtained Co@ZDC@mC‐700 catalyst enriched reactants, efficiently catalyzed the reaction in the core, and permitted the desorption of the product from the nanoreactor. In the catalytic reduction of nitrobenzene with N2H4⋅H2O, Co@ZDC@mC‐700 exhibited superior catalytic efficiency (TOF=1136.3 h−1). In addition, Co@ZDC@mC‐700 exhibited excellent performance for the catalytic reduction of various functionalized nitroarenes, as well as good reusability and recyclability. Hence, a simple, useful approach for fabricating a metal‐organic‐framework‐derived non‐noble metal‐based yolk‐shell nanoreactor for effective catalytic transformation is proposed.
Morphology Control Synthesis of ZIF‐8 as Highly Efficient Catalyst for the Cycloaddition of CO2 to Cyclic Carbonate
Authors: Hu Lihua , Yan Zongcheng , Mo Xiaohong , Peng Xiong , Chen Li
Published: May 2019

Morphology control synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) is very important to understand its morphology, structure, and catalytic property relationships. Herein, morphology control synthesis of ZIF‐8 was achieved through an efficient and environmentally friendly one‐pot heating strategy. Different sophisticated ZIF‐8, such as solid spheres, hollow spheres, hierarchical particles, and stackable particles, were obtained by using different surfactants as templates. The sophisticated ZIF‐8 can be employed directly as a catalyst for cycloaddition reaction between CO2 and styrene oxide. The high specific surface areas and most abundant acid‐base sites are account for the superior catalytic performance of ZIF‐8 solid spheres, and the rich mesopores provides channels for the mass transfer of large reactants or product molecules, facilitating the accessibility of reactive sites and increasing catalytic activity. ZIF‐8 solid spheres showed enhanced catalytic activity and excellent recyclability and are thus potential heterogeneous catalysts in various catalytic reactions.
Suppressing Nickel Dissolution in Ni‐rich Layered Oxide Cathodes Using NiF2 as Electrolyte Additive
Authors: Zhang Jinping , Xue Longlong , Li Yunjiao , Lei Tongxing , Deng Shiyi , Chen Yongxiang , Zhu Jie , Wang Shilei , Guo Jia
Published: May 2019

The dissolution of transition metals is the main reason for the capacity fading and structural degradation of Ni‐rich cathode materials. In this work, NiF2 is used as functional electrolyte additive for the first time to improve the performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathodes by the chemical‐equilibrium principle. The suppression of transition‐metal dissolution, especially Ni, is proved by energy disperse spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma analyses. The NiF2 additive can stabilize the cathode structure by relieving the dissolution of transition metals, which is confirmed by morphology and structure analyses. Moreover, the NiF2 additive also reduces side reactions of the cell, which is verified by self‐discharge tests and coulombic efficiency analysis. As a result, the addition of 100 ppm NiF2 elevates the capacity retention of the Li/NCM622 half‐cell from 69.53 to 79.67 % after 100 cycles, and the 100 ppm NiF2‐containing cathode delivers an initial capacity of 174.0 mAh g−1 even at 8 C after 50 cycles.
Infrared Spectroscopy of Size‐Selected Hydrated Carbon Dioxide Radical Anions CO2.−(H2O)n (n=2–61) in the C−O Stretch Region
Authors: Herburger Andreas , Ončák Milan , Siu Chi‐Kit , Demissie Ephrem G. , Heller Jakob , Tang Wai Kit , Beyer Martin K.
Published: May 2019

Understanding the intrinsic properties of the hydrated carbon dioxide radical anions CO2.−(H2O)n is relevant for electrochemical carbon dioxide functionalization. CO2.−(H2O)n (n=2–61) is investigated by using infrared action spectroscopy in the 1150–2220 cm−1 region in an ICR (ion cyclotron resonance) cell cooled to T=80 K. The spectra show an absorption band around 1280 cm−1, which is assigned to the symmetric C−O stretching vibration νs. It blueshifts with increasing cluster size, reaching the bulk value, within the experimental linewidth, for n=20. The antisymmetric C−O vibration νas is strongly coupled with the water bending mode ν2, causing a broad feature at approximately 1650 cm−1. For larger clusters, an additional broad and weak band appears above 1900 cm−1 similar to bulk water, which is assigned to a combination band of water bending and libration modes. Quantum chemical calculations provide insight into the interaction of CO2.− with the hydrogen‐bonding network.
Acid‐Controlled Synthesis of Carboxylate‐Stabilized Ti44‐Oxo Clusters: Scaling up Preparation, Exchangeable Protecting Ligands, and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Gao Mei‐Yan , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: May 2019

A range of polyoxotitanium clusters (PTCs) was constructed by tuning the type of acid (inorganic and organic) in alcoholic solvents, from Ti4, Ti6, Ti9, Ti11, to Ti16. After removing the tBuOH solvent, giant carboxylate‐stabilized Ti44‐oxo clusters in which propionic acid serves as both ligand and solvent were ultimately obtained. The four labile sites in the Ti44 cluster core can be occupied by two formate and two propionate anions (PTC‐165) or a pair of glutarate (PTC‐166) or 3‐methylglutarate anions (PTC‐167). According to the synthesis of PTC‐155 to PTC‐167, the propionic acid solvent plays a crucial role in the construction of giant Ti oxo clusters. Their one‐pot yields, which readily reached up to 8.75 g for PTC‐165 and 9.96 g for PTC‐166, proved the feasibility of large‐scale preparation. More interestingly, the obtained Ti44‐oxo clusters are almost completely surrounded by carboxylate ligands, which allow them to retain crystalline stability in air for about three weeks and in either acidic or basic aqueous solution over a wide pH range for at least 6 h. In addition, PTC‐165 and PTC‐166 exhibit excellent UV photocurrent response and reversible photochromic effect. This work provides a systematic approach for constructing high‐nuclearity and stable PTCs on a large scale, which is significant for future applications of PTC‐based photochemical devices.
One‐step solvothermal synthesis of hollow Bi2WO6 photocatalyst
Authors: Gao Yanhua , Shan Xinyao , Song Dongdong , Gulnigar Elham , Wang Yang , Yang Wei , Chen Ying
Published: May 2019

A one‐step solvothermal synthesis of hollow microspherical Bi2WO6 nanophotocatalyst was carried out for the first time under the collective action of potassium chloride (KCl) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The physicochemical properties such as crystal structure, morphology, specific surface area, and optical properties of the material were characterized by means of XRD, SEM, EDS, UV‐vis, and BET. The effect of KCl and PVP on the morphology control of the product is discussed. Rhodamine B dye in wastewater was used as model pollutant, and the effect of hollow microspherical morphology on photocatalytic activity is discussed. The results presented here provide a simple, effective, and widely applicable approach for the rapid synthesis of special morphology Bi2WO6 by a one‐step method.
The PROK2/PROKR2 signaling pathway is required for the migration of most olfactory bulb interneurons
Authors: Wen Yan , Zhang Zhuangzhi , Li Zhenmeiyu , Liu Guoping , Tao Guangxu , Song Xiaolei , Xu Zhejun , Shang Zicong , Guo Teng , Su Zihao , Chen Haotian , You Yan , Li Jiada , Yang Zhengang
Published: May 2019

Neural stem cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricle generate new interneurons, which migrate tangentially through the rostral migratory stream (RMS) to the olfactory bulb (OB). The PROK2 (prokineticin 2) and PROKR2 (prokineticin receptor 2) signaling pathway has been identified to cause human Kallmann syndrome, a developmental disease that associates hypogonadism with anosmia (OB developmental defects). However, the identities and properties of PROK2+ and PROKR2+ cells in the SVZ‐RMS‐OB remain largely unknown. Here we examine the expression patterns of Prok2 and Prokr2 in the SVZ‐RMS‐OB using Prok2EGFP transgenic and Prokr2LacZ/+ knockin mice. Our results show that Prokr2 is expressed in postmitotic immature interneurons in the SVZ‐RMS‐OB. Prok2 is not expressed in the SVZ, but a few PROK2+ cells are found in the medial part of the RMS; they are not neural progenitors or migrating neuroblasts. In the OB, Prok2 is expressed in a subset of granule cells and tufted cells, but no coexpression of Prok2 and Prokr2 in the OB cells is observed. In Prok2 and Prokr2 mutant mice, severe tangential and radial migration defects of neuroblasts in the SVZ‐RMS‐OB result in loss of ~75% of GABAergic interneurons in the OB. These analyses demonstrate that PROK2/PROKR2 signaling is crucial for the tangential and radial migration of OB interneurons.
Adaptive Polymersome Nanoreactors
Authors: Che Hailong , van Hest Jan C. M.
Published: May 2019

Adaptive polymersome systems have gained much interest in a wide variety of research fields, ranging from cell mimics to nanomedicine, because of their high stability, tunable shape and size. Furthermore, polymersomes can be effectively transformed into nanoreactors via the incorporation of catalytic species. By employing polymersomes which are adaptive in structure and function the features of polymersome nanoreactors can be even further extended. In this review, we focus on recent impressive developments of smart polymersomes as functional nanoreactors with an emphasis on the type of adaptivity that is installed, which includes intrinsic permeability, stimuli‐responsiveness and self‐adaptivity. Moreover, particular attention is given to the utility of polymersome nanoreactors in vitro and in vivo, which paves the next step forward towards the engineering of artificial organelles as therapeutic materials.
Supramolecular Gelation of Europium and Calcium Cholates through the Nucleation‐Elongation Growth Mechanism
Authors: Laishram Raju , Maitra Uday
Published: May 2019

A detailed understanding of gelation mechanism can enable the properties of gels to be tuned for various applications, and may possibly help in understanding the aggregation of different biomolecules. We report a detailed study of the morphological and physio‐chemical changes, dynamics (of a probe), and kinetics during the gelation of europium and calcium cholate hydrogels, leading to the development of a growth model. AFM images showed the transition of aggregated particles (100–150 nm) in the sol phase growing to a fibrous network in the gel through the entanglement of fibres, and not by dendritic growth (height analysis). The dynamic changes during this phase transformation were studied using a fluorescence probe (change in intensity and lifetime). We have been able to delineate the growth mechanism by using a combination of Eu(III) luminescence and a polarity sensitive fluorescence probe. The growth was found to follow the nucleation–elongation model, and these two phases responded in distinctly different fashions in rheological and luminescence measurements.
One‐ and Two‐Photon‐Induced Photochemistry of Iron Pentacarbonyl [Fe(CO)5]: Insights from Coupled Cluster Response Theory
Authors: Malcomson Thomas , McKinlay Russell G. , Paterson Martin J.
Published: May 2019

We present herein the first comprehensive study of the one‐ and two‐photon absorption of Fe(CO)5 utilising a hierarchy of linear‐ and quadratic‐response coupled cluster (LR‐ and QR‐CC) methodologies to provide an in‐depth characterisation, as well as potential energy curves for axial and equatorial bond dissociations, highlighting the state crossings leading from the bright 1A2′′ state through to the dissociative 1E′ state. We have characterised a range of metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) and ligand field (LF) states that are in agreement with both previous studies and experiment, including the identification of a series of E′ states that present Rydberg character in the 5.9–7.2 eV region. Due to the rapid excited state dissociation of Fe(CO)5 through the low lying 1E′ and 2E′′ ligand‐field states, we have also included an LR‐CCSD analysis of the major dissociative product, Fe(CO)4. Analysis of the C2v geometry of Fe(CO)4 reveals four accessible ligand field states at 1.085, 1.684, 1.958, and 2.504 eV respectively, reinforcing the highly unstable nature of Fe(CO)4 along with a strong MLCT band between 4.300 and 5.573 eV. This band overlaps with one in the spectra of Fe(CO)5 suggesting that full fragmentation could proceed by two paths: two‐photon excitation leading to dissociation, or through sequential one‐photon absorption events, the first causing dissociation to and the second initiating further fragmentation of the complex.
Setting out across the sea of monsters: Bringing learning design into mediator training
Authors: Walsh Sabine
Published: May 2019

As online education increases its foothold in higher and professional education, educators must face the challenge of bringing experiential learning activities such as role‐play into online settings. Mediation courses rely heavily on role‐play, but are increasingly moving online. This literature review will ascertain to what extent online mediation training is being considered, and how experiential learning can be brought into the online classroom. Suggestions will be made as to how such courses can be informed by the theory and practice of effective learning design so as to improve the experience of, and outcomes for online students of mediation.
Robust QCA full‐adders using an efficient fault‐tolerant five‐input majority gate
Authors: Ahmadpour Seyed‐Sajad , Mosleh Mohammad , Rasouli Heikalabad Saeed
Published: May 2019

Quantum‐dot cellular automata (QCA) is considered as a top candidate for nanoscale technologies with unique features such as very low occupancy and ultralow power consumption. Despite the potential benefits of QCA technology over CMOS technology, QCA circuits are highly prone to defects. Therefore, a demand has risen in designing fault‐tolerant circuits. In this research, a novel fault‐tolerant five‐input majority gate is first suggested, and then it is evaluated by implementing a variety of faults such as cell omission, cell displacement, and extra‐cell deposition. The evaluation results reveal that the proposed structure is 100%, 51.85%, and 18.8% fault‐tolerant under extra‐cell deposition, single‐cell omission, and double‐cell omission, respectively. Moreover, two single‐layer and coplanar fault‐tolerant QCA full‐adders are offered using the suggested fault‐tolerant structure. The stability of the presented single‐layer full‐adder has also been investigated under single and double cell omission defects. The evaluation outcomes show that the suggested fault‐tolerant single‐layer full‐adder has a high stability in Sum and Cout outputs compared with other full‐adders. In order to validate the functionality of the suggested fault‐tolerant five‐input majority gate, a number of physical investigations are given. The QCADesigner 2.0.3 software has been used to evaluate the simulation results.
An experimental test of how parasites of predators can influence trophic cascades and ecosystem functioning
Authors: Anaya‐Rojas Jaime M. , Best Rebecca J. , Brunner Franziska S. , Eizaguirre Christophe , Leal Miguel Costa , Melián Carlos J. , Seehausen Ole , Matthews Blake
Published: May 2019

Parasites can shape the structure and function of ecosystems by influencing both the density and traits of their hosts. Such changes in ecosystems are particularly likely when the host is a predator that mediates the dynamics of trophic cascades. Here, we experimentally tested how parasite load of a small predatory fish, the threespine stickleback, can affect the occurrence and strength of trophic cascades and ecosystem functioning. In a factorial mesocosm experiment, we manipulated the density of stickleback (low vs. high), and the level of parasite load (natural vs. reduced). In addition, we used two stickleback populations from different lineages: an eastern European lineage with a more pelagic phenotype (Lake Constance) and a western European lineage with a more benthic phenotype (Lake Geneva). We found that stickleback caused trophic cascades in the pelagic but not the benthic food chain. Evidence for pelagic trophic cascades was stronger in treatments where parasite load of stickleback was reduced with an antihelmintic medication, and where fish originated from Lake Constance (i.e., the more pelagic lineage). A structural equation model revealed that differences in stickleback lineage and parasite load were most likely to impact trophic cascades via changes in the composition, rather than overall biomass, of zooplankton communities. Overall, our results provide experimental evidence that parasites of predators can influence the cascading effects of fish on lower trophic levels with consequences on ecosystem functioning.
Oxido‐Hydroxido‐ and Oxido‐Aminato‐Osmium(V) Complexes with a Cyclohexanediamine‐Based Tetradentate Ligand as Active Oxidants for Dihydroxylation and Aminohydroxylation of Alkenes
Authors: Fujimoto Tomohiro , Sugimoto Hideki , Kai Kenichiro , Maeda Kazuki , Itoh Shinobu
Published: May 2019

Six‐coordinate osmium(III) complexes coordinated by a cyclohexanediamine‐based tetradentate ligand [trans‐N,N′‐dimethyl‐N,N′‐bis(2‐pyridylmethyl)‐1,2‐cyclohexanediamine: BPMCN] are synthesized. The remaining two coordination sites are occupied by chloride (Cl–), triflate (OTf–), or hydroxide/water (OH–/H2O) to complete the octahedral osmium(III) centers; [OsIIIX2(BPMCN)]+ (X = Cl– or OTf–) and [OsIII(OH)(H2O)(BPMCN)]2+. The OsIII(OH)(H2O) complex catalyzes cis‐dihydroxylation and cis‐aminohydroxylation of styrene with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and chloramine‐T (TsNClNa) to yield the corresponding diol and aminoalcohol, respectively. The oxido‐hydroxido‐osmium(V) complex {[OsV(O)(OH)(BPMCN)]2+} is isolated as the active oxidant of the dihydroxylation. The oxidation of the OsIII(OH)(H2O) complex with chloramine‐T yields oxido‐aminato‐osmium(V) complex, [OsV(O)(NHTs)(BPMCN)]2+. Comparison of the crystal structure with those of the oxido‐hydroxido‐osmium(V) complex and related imido‐ and amino‐osmium complexes indicates that the –NHTs group works as a monoanionic aminate ligand and the osmium(V)–NHTs bond has a single bond character [Os–N; 2.058(4) Å]. The oxido‐aminato‐osmium(V) complex is revealed as the active oxidant for the aminohydroxylation by the direct reaction of the complex with styrene. The characterization of the complex allows us to propose the catalytic mechanism of the aminohydroxylation of alkenes.
Toward Metal–Organic‐Framework‐Based Supercapacitors: Room‐Temperature Synthesis of Electrically Conducting MOF‐Based Nanocomposites Decorated with Redox‐Active Manganese
Authors: Wang Yi‐Sen , Chen Yu‐Chuan , Li Jun‐Hong , Kung Chung‐Wei
Published: May 2019

Nanocrystals of a zirconium‐based metal–organic framework (Zr‐MOF) were grown on carboxylate‐functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNT) at room temperature to synthesize electrically conducting Zr‐MOF‐CNT nanocomposites. To further enable charge transport within the Zr‐MOF phase via redox hopping under electrochemical conditions, redox‐active manganese sites were then installed in the Zr‐MOF and nanocomposites at room temperature by means of the solvothermal deposition in MOFs (SIM) technique. The redox hopping behavior of the Mn‐decorated Zr‐MOF nanocrystals was investigated. With the high electrical conductivity provided by the one‐dimensional CNT bridges interconnecting multiple MOF nanocrystals, as well as the high‐density accessible redox‐active Mn sites supported by the Zr‐MOF, the Mn‐decorated Zr‐MOF‐CNT nanocomposites show more electrochemically addressable manganese sites and thus much higher pseudocapacitive performance compared to those of both the Mn‐decorated Zr‐MOF and the Mn‐decorated CNT.
Synthesis of Spirooxindole Oxetanes Through a Domino Reaction of 3‐Hydroxyoxindoles and Phenyl Vinyl Selenone
Authors: Palomba Martina , Scarcella Elisabetta , Sancineto Luca , Bagnoli Luana , Santi Claudio , Marini Francesca
Published: May 2019

An unprecedented Michael/intramolecular etherification cascade reaction of phenyl vinyl selenone with 3‐hydroxyoxindoles under aqueous basic conditions at room temperature is described. The method provides a domino access to new spirooxindole 2,2‐disubstituted oxetanes in moderate to good yields under mild reaction conditions.
The role of fatigue in functional outcomes for youth with chronic pain
Authors: Yoon Isabel Angela , Sturgeon John Andrew , Feinstein Amanda Beth , Bhandari Rashmi Parekh
Published: May 2019

Background

As a complex multidimensional construct, fatigue may play an important role in the physical and psychosocial functioning of youth with chronic pain. Based on a model previously tested in adults, the current study similarly utilized patient‐reported outcomes measurement system (PROMIS) to examine how fatigue contributes to functional outcomes for youth with chronic pain. The model tested self‐reported ratings of pain intensity, depressive symptoms and sleep disturbance as predictors of outcomes (mobility, pain‐related interference and school functioning) as mediated by ratings of fatigue.

Methods

Two hundred and eighty‐five youth with chronic pain ages 8–17 years and their caregivers, completed surveys as part of their initial clinical evaluation at a tertiary paediatric pain clinic. Study measures included: paediatric PROMIS domains (mobility, pain interference, sleep disturbance, fatigue and depressive symptoms), Paediatric Quality of Life school functioning and pain intensity. All mediated effects were calculated via a 1,000‐draw bootstrap estimation method in Mplus.

Results

Fatigue was found to be a statistically significant mediator of the effects of pain intensity, sleep disturbance and depressive symptoms on outcomes of pain interference, mobility and school functioning. While pain intensity was found to independently contribute to mobility and pain interference, depressive symptoms did not show significant effects on any outcome beyond its association with fatigue. Sleep disturbance predicted pain interference while fatigue predicted school functioning.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that fatigue is an important intervening factor for functional outcomes among youth with chronic pain. Targeting fatigue may be effective in optimizing school functioning and reducing the deleterious effects of depressive symptoms.

Significance

This cross‐sectional study highlights fatigue as a potential clinical target by applying a path analytic model to understand its possible significance and distinction from overlapping constructs such as pain intensity, depression and sleep disturbance. Further study of fatigue may be important in understanding its importance in treatment of paediatric chronic pain.
Highly Sensitive AdSV Method for Fe(III) Determination in Presence of Solochrome Violet RS on Renewable Amalgam Film Electrode
Authors: Górska Anna , Paczosa‐Bator Beata , Piech Robert
Published: May 2019

The new DP AdSV method for high sensitive Fe(III) determination in the presence of Solochrome Violet RS was developed. The use of an innovative renewable amalgam film electrode Hg(Ag)FE allowed to obtain high sensitivity and significantly minimize the mercury consumption. The best results were obtained for surface area of Hg(Ag)FE equal to 11.8 mm2. Instrumental parameters were optimized. The optimal results were obtained using differential pulse technique for the following values: sampling and waiting time ts=tw=10 ms, step potential Es=5 mV, pulse amplitude ΔE=50 mV. Measurements were conducted in 0.05 M acetate buffer (pH 5.6), the concentration of SVRS was equal to 5 μM. Deposition step was carried out at the potential −400 mV for 20 s. Calculated detection limit for 40 s preconcentration time was equal to 1.4 nM (78 ng L−1). The influence of the common in environment, organic and inorganic interferences was studied. The developed method for Fe(III) determination was successfully applied and validated by investigation of certified reference material SPS‐SW2 Batch 118 and recovery of Fe(III) from various spiked samples as snow, tap water and bottom sediments. The repeatability (for 50 nM of Fe(III)) of the developed method expressed as CV was equal 3.1 % (n=5).
Suitable business models for innovation in different levels of the smart grid energy industry
Authors: Chen Silu , Chen Hsing Hung , Shen Tao
Published: May 2019

An intelligent grid system makes the combination of various renewable energy technologies and changes in power supply and demand become more possible. Technology and innovation are considered the primary drivers of the next stage of economic growth in China, and smart grid (SG) energy management has developed as an emerging industry with the goal of lowering greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy efficiency to attain sustainability. In this study, high‐level, middle‐level, and low‐level managers from 102 successful grid companies in China completed questionnaires. The particular characteristics of four business models for innovation (novelty, lock‐in, complementarities, and efficiency) are discussed, three distinct levels of SG (power supply side, grid side, and customer demand side) are considered (addressing process and elements), and effects of each business model for innovation are identified. Our findings yield important considerations for companies in the SG energy industry on how to successfully adapt their business models for innovation.
Recycling cassava stem to bioethanol by inoculating a novel xylose–glucose fermenting yeast at high initial concentration
Authors: Pham Phan , Tuyet‐Le Doan , ThuHuong Le , Trong‐Anh Nguyen
Published: May 2019

Converting cassava stem (CS) to bioethanol instead of burning or allowing them to decay on open fields can contribute to efforts on reducing CO2 emission and fossil fuel use. New xylose‐glucose fermenting yeast Blastobotrys adeninivorans XE1 was inoculated on non‐detoxified acid hydrolysate of CS to produce ethanol. Experimentally, at low furfural concentrations (0.24 ± 0.05 g/L) in non‐detoxified acid hydrolysate of 100 g CS/L, B adeninivorans XE1 (~107 CFU/mL initial concentration) degraded furfural fast and then converted both glucose and xylose to ethanol. However, at higher furfural concentration (0.51 ± 0.11 g/L) in non‐detoxified acid hydrolysate of 150 g CS/L, B adeninivorans XE1 (around 107 CFU/mL) was unable to degrade all furfural, ethanol production by B adeninivorans XE1 was reduced. Increasing initial concentration of B adeninivorans XE1 to around 108 CFU/mL surpassed furfural inhibition and produced 17.4 ± 0.8 g/L ethanol on medium of non‐detoxified acid hydrolysate of 150 g CS/L after 60 hr.
Process optimization of microwave‐assisted alkali pretreatment for enhanced delignification of Prosopis juliflora biomass
Authors: Alexander Ronaldo Anuf , Innasimuthu Ganesh Moorthy , Rajaram Shyam Kumar , Jeganathan Prakash Maran , Chellam Somasundarar Shivamathi
Published: May 2019

This study reports on the delignification of Prosopis juliflora biomass using microwave‐assisted alkaline pretreatment. Response surface methodology was employed to analyze the effect of process variables on delignification. Four independent process variables such as microwave irradiation power (270–450 W), microwave irradiation time (3–5 min), alkali concentration (0.75–1.25% wt/vol) and liquid to solid ratio (LSR; 10–20 mL/g) were analyzed. A second‐order nonlinear equation was developed to validate the model. The experimental results suggested that all the variables exhibited a similar response. The developed model was statistically valuated using analysis of variance. The optimum conditions determined from the study were as follows: microwave power of 360 W, irradiation time of 4.40 min, alkali concentration of 1.24% wt/vol and LSR of 13.16 mL/g. Maximum delignification of 75.12% was obtained using microwave‐assisted alkali pretreatment method. The delignified Prosopis juliflora biomass was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies. It was confirmed that microwave‐assisted alkali pretreatment for a short duration facilitated maximum removal of lignin from biomass. The present study, therefore, helps in developing a suitable strategy both for satisfying the energy need and management of the exotic weed.
A comprehensive review of emulsion and its field application for enhanced oil recovery
Authors: Zhou Yazhou , Yin Daiyin , Chen Wenlin , Liu Bin , Zhang Xiaoran
Published: May 2019

Emulsification plays an important role in enhancing oil recovery. Experiments and field applications of alkali/surfactant/polymer (ASP) flooding indicated that the amount of oil recovery in liquids with emulsions is 5% higher than that in liquids with no emulsions. Therefore, it is of great significance to study emulsion and its field application for enhanced oil recovery. This paper discusses the current status of emulsion for enhanced oil recovery, including the formation mechanism of emulsions in chemical flooding, rheological properties, stability, seepage characteristics, emulsion improving sweep volume, and displacement efficiency, along with future development plans of emulsion for enhanced oil recovery, especially surfactants for chemical flooding. In addition, the Pickering emulsion for application in enhanced oil recovery is also discussed. The development effects of emulsion flooding have been discussed for the Midway‐Sunset Oilfield, the emulsification characteristics of ASP flooding have been analyzed in Xing‐V and Xing‐II of the Daqing Oilfield, and the experiences regarding emulsion for enhanced oil recovery have been summarized. The key research directions of emulsion for enhanced oil recovery are indicated.
Response of soil erosion and sediment sorting to the transport mechanism on a steep rocky slope
Authors: Han Zhen , Wang Xiaoyan , Song Dandan , Li Xinxin , Huang Ping , Ma Maohua
Published: May 2019

A deeper understanding of the sediment characteristics associated with rock fragment content can improve our knowledge of the erosional processes and transport mechanisms of sediments on steep rocky slopes. This research used simulated rainfall experiments lasting for 1 h at a rate of 90 mm h−1 and employed 5 × 1 × 0.4 m parallel troughs filled with purple soils with different rock fragment volumetric contents (0, 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40%) on a 15° slope gradient. For each simulated event, runoff and sediment were sampled at 1‐ and 3‐min intervals, respectively, to study, in detail, the temporal changes in the size distributions of the eroded sediments. The results show that sediment concentrations, soil erosion rates and soil loss ratios significantly decreased as rock fragment content increased for rock fragment contents from 0 to 40% in purple soils. During the transportation process, clay particles often formed aggregates and were then transported as larger particles. Silt particles were more likely to be transported as primary particles with a low degree of sediment aggregation. Sand‐sized particles, which constituted a greater proportion of the original soil than the eroded sediments, were formed from other fine particles and transported as aggregates rather than as primary particles. Suspension‐saltation, which mainly transports fine particles of 0.02–0.05 mm and coarse particles larger than 0.5 mm in size, was the most important transport mechanism on steep rocky slopes. The results of this study can help to explain the inherent laws of erosional processes on steep rocky slopes and can provide a foundation for improving physical models of soil erosion. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analytical interface reconstruction algorithms in the PLIC‐VOF method for 3D polyhedral unstructured meshes
Authors: Dai Dezhi , Tong Albert Y.
Published: May 2019

Piecewise linear interface calculation (PLIC) schemes have been extensively employed in the volume‐of‐fluid (VOF) method for interface capturing in numerical simulations of multiphase flows. Polyhedral unstructured meshes are often adopted due to their geometric flexibility and superiority in gradient calculation. Four analytical interface reconstruction algorithms in the PLIC‐VOF method for arbitrary convex polyhedral cells have been proposed in this study. The plane interface at a given orientation within a polyhedral cell is located by four different analytical techniques. They have been tested successfully for six different geometric shapes that are common in polyhedral meshes. The computational efficiencies of the algorithms have been compared with two other published schemes in the literature. The proposed algorithms have been shown to yield smaller truncation errors with reduction in computational complexity. A numerical simulation of a 3D dam‐breaking problem has been successfully performed using the proposed interface reconstruction scheme on a polyhedral mesh. The percentage of the overall computational time consumed has been assessed to justify its optimization in a real multiphase flow simulation.
Blocking Sodium‐Taurocholate Cotransporting Polypeptide Stimulates Biliary Cholesterol and Phospholipid Secretion in Mice
Authors: Roscam Abbing Reinout L.P. , Slijepcevic Davor , Donkers Joanne M. , Havinga Rick , Duijst Suzanne , Paulusma Coen C. , Kuiper Johan , Kuipers Folkert , Groen Albert K. , Oude Elferink Ronald P.J. , van de Graaf Stan F.J.
Published: May 2019

Active secretion of bile salts into the canalicular lumen drives bile formation and promotes biliary cholesterol and phospholipid output. Disrupting hepatic bile salt uptake, by inhibition of sodium‐taurocholate cotransporting polypetide (NTCP; Slc10a1) with Myrcludex B, is expected to limit bile salt flux through the liver and thereby to decrease biliary lipid excretion. Here, we show that Myrcludex B–mediated NTCP inhibition actually causes an increase in biliary cholesterol and phospholipid excretion whereas biliary bile salt output and bile salt composition remains unchanged. Increased lysosomal discharge into bile was excluded as a potential contributor to increased biliary lipid secretion. Induction of cholesterol secretion was not a consequence of increased ATP‐binding cassette subfamily G member 5/8 activity given that NTCP inhibition still promoted cholesterol excretion in Abcg8
−/− mice. Stimulatory effects of NTCP inhibition were maintained in Sr‐b1
−/− mice, eliminating the possibility that the increase in biliary lipids was derived from enhanced uptake of high‐density lipoprotein–derived lipids. NTCP inhibition shifts bile salt uptake, which is generally more periportally restricted, toward pericentral hepatocytes, as was visualized using a fluorescently labeled conjugated bile salt. As a consequence, exposure of the canalicular membrane to bile salts was increased, allowing for more cholesterol and phospholipid molecules to be excreted per bile salt. Conclusion: NTCP inhibition increases biliary lipid secretion, which is independent of alterations in bile salt output, biliary bile salt hydrophobicity, or increased activity of dedicated cholesterol and phospholipid transporters. Instead, NTCP inhibition shifts hepatic bile salt uptake from mainly periportal hepatocytes toward pericentral hepatocytes, thereby increasing exposure of the canalicular membrane to bile salts linking to increased biliary cholesterol secretion. This process provides an additional level of control to biliary cholesterol and phospholipid secretion.
Experience of combined use of a Bakri uterine balloon and a non‐pneumatic anti‐shock garment in a university hospital in Colombia
Authors: Escobar María F. , Suso Juan P. , Hincapié María A. , Echavarría María P. , Fernández Paula , Carvajal Javier
Published: May 2019

Objective

To compare the outcomes of women with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) refractory to initial management and in a state of hypoperfusion between management with a non‐pneumatic anti‐shock garment (NASG) and Bakri balloon and management with other surgical interventions.

Methods

A retrospective observational descriptive study of women with PPH and hemorrhagic shock who were treated at a high complexity obstetric unit in Columbia between 2011 and 2017. Clinical records were reviewed and women were divided in two groups by clinical management. Group 1 women were managed with surgical interventions; group 2 women were managed with NASG plus a Bakri balloon.

Results

Overall, 142 women were treated for PPH, with 69 in group 1 and 73 in group 2). There were differences between group 1 and group 2 in the degree of hypovolemic shock (shock index: 1.1 vs 0.9, P=0.02), indicators associated with hypoperfusion (lactic acid, 2.9 vs 1.9 mmol/L, P=0.001), and frequency of transfusion of blood components (68% vs 44%, P<0.05).

Conclusions

The joint use of NASG and Bakri balloon in PPH management seemed to improve hypoperfusion‐related markers such as lactic acid and shock index, and reduce the frequency of additional blood transfusion.
Effects of low maternal heart rate on fetal growth and birthweight
Authors: Odendaal Hein , Kieser Eduard , Nel Daan , Brink Lucy , du Plessis Carlie , Groenewald Coen , Lucchini Maristella , Fifer William P. , Myers Michael M.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To evaluate the association between birthweight and maternal heart rate (MHR) or heart rate variability (HRV) under resting conditions at 20–24 gestational weeks and 34 weeks or later (34+ weeks).

Methods

Data were retrospectively reviewed from the Safe Passage Study, a prospective longitudinal cohort study of alcohol use in pregnancy and birth outcomes in Cape Town, South Africa, between August 2007 and January 2015. Using custom‐designed software, MHR and indicators of HRV were obtained from the recorded maternal electrocardiograms and compared with birthweight and z‐scores of birthweight adjusted for gestation and gender.

Results

Data from 5655 women were included. MHR increased from 84.6 bpm at 20–24 weeks to 88.3 bpm at 34+ weeks. Increasing MHR from 70–80 to 80–90 and 90–100 bpm at 20–24 weeks was associated with increasing birthweight from 2940 to 2998 and 3032 g, respectively (P<0.05). MHR and HRV contributed 29% to the variability associated with birthweight, whereas maternal body mass index at recruitment contributed 44%. Similar associations were observed for MHR at 34+ weeks.

Conclusion

The observed association of low maternal heart rate with birthweight might help to identify pregnancies at risk of poor fetal growth.
Homesickness in social context: An ecological momentary assessment study among 1st‐year university students
Authors: Nauta Maaike H. , aan het Rot Marije , Schut Henk , Stroebe Margaret
Published: May 2019

Homesickness is common among university students and associated with mental health problems. Most previous studies assessed homesickness as a summary of the past weeks. However, there may be significant fluctuations across situations. At the current residence, homesickness may especially be triggered during (phone) interactions with attachment figures. Dutch and international 1st‐year students (n = 92) completed the Utrecht Homesickness Scale and subsequently used a smartphone application to record social interactions for 14 days (ecological momentary assessment [EMA]). For each interaction they reported the social context (e.g. location, contact type) and their affective state, including homesickness. Homesickness in the past weeks and momentary homesickness were both higher in international students than in Dutch students. Feeling homesick was highest at participants' current residency, when interacting with parents, or when using video‐chat. When participants felt more homesick, they reported less pleasant and more unpleasant affect. In conclusion, EMA provided insight in cross‐situational variations in homesickness.
Exploring Educators' Figured Worlds of Controversial Literature and Adolescent Readers
Authors: Hartsfield Danielle E. , Kimmel Sue C.
Published: May 2019

Educators assume the role of gatekeepers when they make literature selections for adolescent classrooms. Their taken‐for‐granted assumptions, or figured worlds, about adolescent and youth literature may inform their decisions to either select or preemptively censor books. In this qualitative study, the authors examined the figured worlds of six preservice and inservice middle and secondary educators as they read and discussed controversial youth literature (i.e., challenged or banned books). Three themes emerged in the analysis: figured worlds about youth, figured worlds about “appropriate” literature, and figured worlds about how adolescents should access controversial literature. These figured worlds may shape which books these participants would choose to include or exclude from their classrooms. The authors conclude by sharing suggestions that educators may use to deconstruct their own figured worlds and promote wider access to a diverse range of literature for adolescent readers.