bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homoleptic Mononuclear Tris‐Chelate Complexes of FeII, CoII, NiII, and ZnII Based on a Redox‐Active Imidazolyl‐2‐thione Ligand: Structural and Electrochemical Correlation
Authors: Plaza‐Lozano Diego , Morales‐Martínez Daniel , González Felipe J. , Olguín Juan
Published: March 2020

Five mononuclear tris‐chelate complexes of FeII, CoII, NiII and ZnII, containing the bidentate ligand 3‐methyl‐1‐(2‐pyridyl)imidazolyl‐2‐thione (L), have been synthesised and characterised, namely [MII(L)3](BF4)2, where M = Fe (1), Co (2), Ni (3) and Zn (4), and [FeII(L)3](PF6)2 {1‐(PF6)2}. The complexes have been characterised by standard methods and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, showing that all the complexes are isostructural and isomorphs, crystallising in the P1 space group, except for 1‐(PF6)2, which crystallises in the P21/c, as expected due to the different size and symmetry of the anion. The metal centre is found in a distorted meridional‐N3S3 octahedral geometry. In all the complexes, two ligand strands within the same complex cation unit interact via an almost perfect face‐to‐face π–π stacking. The double intramolecular interaction occurs between a pyridyl ring of one ligand strand and an imidazolyl ring of a second ligand strand and vice versa. The FeII and CoII complexes, 1 and 2, are stabilised in the high spin state, based on the bond lengths and angles obtained by SC‐XRD and by VT‐magnetic studies in the solid state and NMR Evans method in CD3CN solution. The cyclic voltammetry behaviour for compounds 1–4 showed an EC mechanism for the oxidation process, in which two ligand strands are electrochemically oxidised, instead of the metal centre, followed by a chemical process (de‐coordination and dimerisation). Whereas, the reduction process involved metal electrodeposition for the FeII, NiII and ZnII complexes. In the case of the CoII complex, the voltammetric response suggested a multistep decomposition process during the electrochemical reduction. Finally, a linear correlation between the oxidation potential of the ligand and the average M–N bond length has been found, permitting the modification of the oxidation potential by selection of the metal centre.
Stereoelectronic Effects: Perlin Effects in Thiane‐Derived Compounds
Authors: Jung Sebastian T. , Basche Luis , Reinsperger Tony , Luy Burkhard , Podlech Joachim
Published: March 2020

Stereoelectronic effects in thianes and thiane‐derived sulfoxides, sulfones, sulfilimines, and sulfoximines were investigated by measuring1JC,Hcoupling constants and by identification of normal and reversed Perlin effects, i.e., of differences in the coupling constants for equatorial and axial C–H bonds in the methylene groups of six‐membered rings. The Perlin effects were correlated with results from natural bond orbital (NBO) analyses. NMR experiments were performed with conformationally restricted dimethyl‐ ortert‐butyl‐substituted derivatives, while the parent compounds were used for calculations. It turned out that the coupling constants are not only strongly influenced by stereoelectronic interactions with antiperiplanar C–H, C–C, C–O, and C–N bonds, but by the s character of the respective C–H bonds' carbon orbital as well.
Matrix remodeling and mechanotransduction in in vitro chondrogenesis: Implications towards functional stem cell‐based cartilage tissue engineering
Authors: Remya Nirmal S. , Nair Prabha D.
Published: March 2020

Stem cell‐based cartilage regeneration strategies take benefits from functional tissue engineering concepts that effectively exploit cells native mechanotransduction phenomenon for the development of in vitro cartilage constructs. In the present study, stem cell‐seeded constructs were subjected to a dynamic compression of 10% strain, 1 Hz, 4 hours/1 hour each for 7 days. Integrin and Integrin‐associated protein expression was evaluated using real‐time PCR to elucidate the possible mechanotransduction pathway. Matrix remodeling was analyzed by evaluating chondrocyte‐specific extracellular matrix genes as well as by expression of matrix metalloproteinases. The results suggest that dynamic compression significantly influences chondrogenesis by enhancing the expression of chondrocyte‐specific extracellular matrix genes. The results also propose the involvement of Integrin‐mediated signaling pathways in the mechanotransduction events on biomechanical stimuli‐assisted chondrogenesis of stem cells.
Influence of Surface Modifier Molecular Structures on the Photovoltaic Performance of Sb2S3‐Sensitized TiO2 Nanorod Array Solar Cells
Authors: Ying Chao , Guo Fuling , Wu Zhongyi , Lv Kai , Shi Chengwu
Published: March 2020

Herein, Sb2S3‐sensitized TiO2 nanorod arrays are prepared by the pyrolysis of 1.2 m antimony–thiourea complex solution in dimethylformamide (DMF) at 270 °C for 10 min. Various surface modifiers with different functional groups and carbon numbers of C10H21PO3H2, C12H25SO3Na, C3H7COOH, C5H11COOH, C7H15COOH, C11H23COOH, C13H27COOH, C15H31COOH, and C17H35COOH are applied to modify Sb2S3‐sensitized TiO2 nanorod arrays. The corresponding solar cells are fabricated, and their photovoltaic performances are evaluated. To the different functional group surface modifiers, the improvement of functional group on photovoltaic performance is of the order of COOH > PO3H2> SO3Na. To the different carbon number (4–18) surface modifiers, RCOOH with carbon number range of 8–12 exhibits better photovoltaic performance. Moreover, the Sb2S3‐sensitized TiO2 nanorod array solar cells with C11H23COOH achieve the best photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.37% with the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.53 V, short‐circuit current density (Jsc) of 16.98 mA cm−2, fill factor (FF) of 60.66%, and the average PCE of 5.11 ± 0.21% with the Voc of 0.52 ± 0.01 V, Jsc of 16.65 ± 0.24 mA cm−2, and FF of 58.93 ± 1.21%. The PCE of 5.37% corresponding to the use of spiro‐OMeTAD as the hole‐transporting material is a relatively high PCE for Sb2S3 solar cells.
Research on large deformation mechanism of deep roadway with dynamic pressure
Authors: Fan Lei , Wang Weijun , Yuan Chao , Peng Wenqing
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the large deformation mechanism of deep dynamic pressure roadway is studied from the perspective of the formation and development of plastic zone, and creep and damage of rock mass. The results show that (a) the butterfly‐shaped plastic zone is a nonstable plastic zone, and its unique stress sensitivity and rock formation difference are important causes of disasters such as large deformation of deep roadway. (b) Established a creep model of anchored surrounding rock. Due to the existence of rock mass damage and creep, the range of the plastic zone of the surrounding rock is always dynamic. (c) Explain the mechanism of large deformation of surrounding rock in deep roadway. The source of large deformation of deep dynamic roadway lies in the formation of unstable plastic duct‐shaped zone, and the interference of external factors such as tectonic stress and mining disturbance is the main way to change the plastic zone from stable to unsteady. In addition, the increase in rock mass damage and creep promotes the continuous development of the plastic zone, which eventually leads to the large deformation of the surrounding rock of the roadway. (d) Guided by the deformation mechanism of the surrounding rock in the deep dynamic pressure roadway, the corresponding roadway support technology was proposed for the test roadway, and the better support effect was obtained through the test.
Study on the rock‐breaking effect of water jets generated by self‐rotatory multinozzle drilling bit
Authors: Liu Yanbao , Ba Quanbin , He Lipeng , Shen Kai , Xiong Wei
Published: March 2020

Underground radial drilling technique is a novel hydraulic stimulation technology, which is one of the important ways to realize precise, intelligent, and efficient extraction of the gas resources. There are many factors influencing the hole‐forming effect by water jet, such as nozzle arrangement and so on. Recently, the self‐rotatory multinozzle drilling bit is frequently used to improve the rock‐breaking effect of water jets. In this paper, to study the effects of inclination angle of forward nozzles and standoff distance, the ANSYS FLUENT combined with RNG turbulence model was adopted to analyze the multinozzle jets flow field. The results indicate that the components of axial velocity and tangential velocity of forward nozzle jets are different with inclination angles of forward nozzles. Moreover, there exists an optimal standoff distance of multinozzle drilling bit for rock breaking. Besides, the drilling test was conducted using the self‐developed drilling simulation system to investigate the effect of inclination angle, radial angle, standoff distance, and jet pressure on the rock‐breaking effect of water jet. Based on the rotating characteristic of rotary jet, the asymmetric inclined linear nozzle arrangement was proposed for the multinozzle drilling bit. And the results also show that the drilling bit with three forward nozzles has larger rock‐breaking zone in terms of jetted hole diameter. Besides, the depth of jetted hole decreased, while the hole diameter increased with the inclination angle of forward nozzle.
Sublethal Effects of Dermal Exposure to Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances on Postmetamorphic Amphibians
Authors: Abercrombie Sarah A. , de Perre Chloé , Iacchetta Michael , Flynn R. Wesley , Sepúlveda Maria S. , Lee Linda S. , Hoverman Jason T.
Published: March 2020

Studies of the toxicity of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on amphibians, especially after metamorphosis, are limited. We examined effects of dermal PFAS exposure (30 d) on survival and growth of juvenile American toads (Anaxyrus americanus), eastern tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum), and northern leopard frogs (Rana pipiens). Chemicals included perfluorooctanoic acid, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS) at 0, 80, 800, or 8000 ppb on a moss dry weight basis. Exposure to PFAS influenced final snout–vent length (SVL) and scaled mass index (SMI), a measure of relative body condition. Observed effects depended on species and chemical, but not concentration. Anurans exposed to PFOS, PFHxS (frogs only), and 6:2 FTS demonstrated reduced SVL versus controls, whereas salamanders exposed to 6:2 FTS showed increased SVL. Frogs exposed to PFHxS and 6:2 FTS and toads exposed to PFOS had increased SMI compared to controls; salamanders did not demonstrate effects. Concentrations of 6:2 FTS in substrate decreased substantially by 30 d, likely driven by microbial action. Perfluorooctane sulfonate had notable biota–sediment accumulation factors, but was still <1. Although a no-observable-effect concentration could not generally be determined, the lowest-observable-effect concentration was 50 to 120 ppb. Survival was not affected. The present study demonstrates that PFAS bioaccumulation from dermal exposures and sublethal effects are dependent on species, chemical, and focal trait. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:717–726. © 2020 SETAC
Microbial quality and formation of biogenic amines in the meat and edible offal of Camelus dromedaries with a protection trial using gingerol and nisin
Authors: Tang Hui , Darwish Wageh Sobhy , El‐Ghareeb Waleed Rizk , Al‐Humam Naser A. , Chen Lin , Zhong Rui‐Min , Xiao Zi‐Jun , Ma Jin‐Kui
Published: March 2020

This study aimed firstly at the investigation of the microbial status of the camel meat and edible offal including liver, kidneys, lungs, rumen, and duodenum distributed at local markets of Egypt. Total plate count, total psychrophilic counts, total Enterobacteriaceae count, the most probable number of coliforms, and total mold counts were monitored at the collected samples. The produced biogenic amines (BA) in the camel meat and offal were further estimated. An experimental trial to investigate the antimicrobial potentials of either nisin, gingerol, or an equal mixture of both using camel muscle as a food matrix was conducted. The achieved results declared a high microbial load in the camel meat and the offal. Duodenum and rumen had the highest microbial counts followed by lungs, kidneys, liver, and muscle, respectively. Similarly, duodenum and rumen had the highest levels of BA, including tyramine, spermine, putrescine, cadaverine, and histamine. Both of nisin and ginger showed significant antimicrobial properties in a concentration‐dependent manner. Thus, efficient hygienic measures during the handling of camel meat are highly recommended. In addition, using nisin, gingerol, or a mixture of both is an efficient strategy for improving the microbiological quality of the camel meat.
Development of Thin‐Film Composite Membranes from Aromatic Cardo‐Type Co‐Polyimide for Mixed and Sour Gas Separations from Natural Gas
Authors: Yahaya Garba O. , Choi Seung‐Hak , Sultan Melhan M. Ben , Hayek Ali
Published: March 2020

The consumption of natural gas (NG) is rapidly increasing worldwide as it is becoming the second largest fuel source after coal. However, many of the world gas reserves contain high levels of subquality NG including the presence of carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), nitrogen (N2), benzene/toluene/xylene (BTX) etc., in varying amounts (up to 50% v/v in some reserves), which constitute several problems. Membrane‐based NG sweetening/upgrading processes emerge as among the fastest growing technologies, due to their lower capital cost, higher energy savings, greater economic viability, etc. as compared to conventional technologies. Thus, a defective‐free, multilayer thin‐film composite membrane is developed from 6FDA‐Durene/6FDA‐CARDO block co‐polyimide for the separation of sour gas from NG. The membrane shows good performance as it exhibit CO2/CH4 and H2S/CH4 selectivities ranges from 8 to 10 and 15 to 19, respectively, and CO2 and H2S permeance are 122 and 220 GPU, respectively.
A Field Study Method as a Potential Higher Tier Option to Refine Herbicide Risk Assessment for Nontarget Terrestrial Plants
Authors: Isemer Rena , Mihan Christine , Peeters Stephanie , Rumohr Quintana , Toschki Andreas , Ducrot Virginie
Published: March 2020

During herbicide spray application, nontarget terrestrial plants (NTTPs) growing in the off-field area need to be protected from unacceptable effects of herbicide drift. The risk of such unintended effects is assessed in order to establish whether a particular use can be approved, possibly in combination with mitigation measures. In Europe, the risk of herbicide treatment to NTTPs is assessed on the basis of tier 2 studies done under controlled conditions in greenhouses. Following the concept of a tiered testing approach, higher tier field studies under more realistic conditions could be used to refine the risk assessment. No current guideline for conducting higher tier NTTP field studies is available. We developed an NTTP higher tier field study method done on an experimental plant community established by sowing of a seed mixture. The setup was optimized in 3 pilot field studies and subsequently used for a definitive study testing effects of the herbicide iofensulfuron-sodium. Results show that the method can be regarded as a suitable higher tier option for assessing effects of herbicides on NTTPs. Growth of species from the soil seed bank cannot be avoided and has to be carefully considered when evaluating results. Adaptations of the study design may be necessary when testing different herbicides. Community-level endpoints were at the same level as single-species endpoints. Results of the field study were compared to standard greenhouse study results for the same herbicide. No observed effect rates (NOERs) in the field were about a factor of 10 higher and show that the current tier 2 risk assessment for NTTPs can be regarded as protective in this case. Whether the present field study design and the assessed endpoints can be used in higher tier risk assessment of NTTPs depends on selection of the specific protection goal and requires further discussion. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:691–705. © 2020 Bayer AG. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)
Acridine Variations for Coordination Chemistry
Authors: Omolo Kevin O. , Bacsa John , Sadighi Joseph P.
Published: March 2020

This study describes the synthesis of an acridone through the directed lithiation of a diarylamine, and elaboration via the 4,5‐dibromoacridone. The bromo substituents are amenable to Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling. Conversion to a 9‐chloro‐4,5‐dibromoacridine, followed by bromine‐lithium exchange, allows the preparation of a 4,5‐bis (phosphino)‐9‐chloroacridine. The 9‐chloro moiety undergoes nucleophilic aromatic substitution by methoxide or an aryloxide. One‐electron reduction of a 9‐(aryloxy)‐4,5‐bis(phosphino)acridine affords a stable radical anion.
DeepBus: Machine learning based real time pothole detection system for smart transportation using IoT
Authors: Bansal Kashish , Mittal Kashish , Ahuja Gautam , Singh Ashima , Gill Sukhpal Singh
Published: March 2020

Road related accidents have always been a nuisance to drivers and pedestrians alike. Every year countless accidents and deaths occur due to potholes which could have been preventable if there had been a prior warning or if the civic authorities were able to repair these potholes in time. This paper proposes a machine learning based pothole detection system called DeepBus for real time identification of surface irregularities on roads using Internet of Things (IoT). DeepBus uses IoT sensors to detect potholes in real time while an end user is driving vehicles on the road. The location of these potholes would be available on a centrally hosted map which can be accessed by both end users and civic authorities. Thus, it would serve as a warning system to all users as well as a database of potholes with thier locations to the authorities for quick repair and action. We have compared the performance of various machine learning models (Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine (SVM), K‐Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Naive Bayes, Decision Tree, Random Forest and Ensemble Voting) based on different parameters (Accuracy, F‐score, Precision and Recall) and identified that Random Forest is the best model for pothole detection.
Effect of hemolysis on Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectra of blood plasma
Authors: Medipally Dinesh K. R. , Cullen Daniel , Untereiner Valérie , Bryant Jane , Sockalingum Ganesh D. , Nguyen Thi N. Q. , Noone Emma , Bradshaw Shirley , Finn Marie , Dunne Mary , Shannon Aoife M. , Armstrong John , Meade Aidan D. , Lyng Fiona M.
Published: March 2020

Hemolysis is a very common phenomenon and is referred as the release of intracellular components from red blood cells to the extracellular fluid. Hemolyzed samples are often rejected in clinics due to the interference of hemoglobin and intracellular components in laboratory measurements. Plasma and serum based vibrational spectroscopy studies are extensively applied to generate spectral biomarkers for various diseases. However, no studies have reported the effect of hemolysis in blood based vibrational spectroscopy studies. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of hemolysis on infrared and Raman spectra of blood plasma. In this study, prostate cancer plasma samples (n = 30) were divided into three groups (nonhemolyzed, mildly hemolyzed, and moderately hemolyzed) based on the degree of hemolysis and FTIR and Raman spectra were recorded using high throughput (HT)‐FTIR and HT‐Raman spectroscopy. Discrimination was observed between the infrared and Raman spectra of nonhemolyzed and hemolyzed plasma samples using principal component analysis. A classical least square fitting analysis showed differences in the weighting of pure components in nonhemolyzed and hemolyzed plasma samples. Therefore, it is worth to consider the changes in spectral features due to hemolysis when comparing the results within and between experiments.
Backpropagation neural networks modelling of photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants using TiO2‐based photocatalysts
Authors: Ayodele Bamidele Victor , Alsaffar May Ali , Mustapa Siti Indati , Vo Dai‐Viet N
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

The advanced oxidation process using photocatalysts has been proven to be an efficient technique used for the degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater. However, there exists a nonlinear relationship between the process parameters of the photodegradation reaction, which needs to be well understood for the design of an efficient photoreactor. This study employed a backpropagation artificial neural network (BPANN) for the modelling of photocatalytic degradation of indole, anthraquinone dye and methyl blue using undoped and Ag+‐doped TiO2 catalysts.

RESULTS

A Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm was employed to train the BPANN by varying the hidden neurons to obtained an optimized architecture. Optimized architectures with 3‐14‐1, 4‐12‐1 and 3‐16‐1 consist of the input layers, hidden layer and the output layer, were obtained using the datasets from photodegradation of indole, anthraquinone dye and methyl blue, respectively. The optimized BPANN accurately predicts the indole, anthraquinone dye and methyl blue degradation as a function of colour removal from the wastewater. High coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.999, 0.961 and 0.993 were obtained for the prediction of the photodegradation of indole, anthraquinone dye and methyl blue, respectively, with over 95% confidence level. The study revealed that dye concentration, catalyst dosage and reaction time have the highest level of importance for the photodegradation of indole, anthraquinone dye and methyl blue, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated the robustness of BPANN for predictive modelling of photodegradation of organic pollutants such as indole, anthraquinone dye and methyl blue. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Psychological reactions to predictive genetic testing for Huntington’s disease: A qualitative study
Authors: Tillerås Kristine H. , Kjoelaas Siri H. , Dramstad Elisabeth , Feragen Kristin B. , von der Lippe Charlotte
Published: March 2020

There is a lack of qualitative research investigating the experience of individuals at risk for Huntington's disease (HD) during the period prior to undergoing predictive testing, as well as their reaction to the test result. This secondary analysis study aimed to explore the experiences during the predictive testing process of individuals who had been or who were at risk for HD. For the primary study, in‐depth semi‐structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. We employed the explorative qualitative design for this study, which involved 33 individuals who had been or who were at risk for HD. Results indicate that many had been anticipating the onset of the disease even before they knew their mutation status. Their choice of whether to get tested or not was influenced by personal, social, and practical factors. Whether the test result was positive or negative, coping with the test result was reported to be difficult. Participants with a mutation‐negative result felt a need for more follow‐up consultations than what they had received. Findings indicate that the decision to undergo predictive testing for HD was not only a personal choice, but was also influenced by both proximal and distant factors. Similar to individuals who tested positive for the mutation, individuals who tested negative for the mutation may need comprehensive follow‐up to adapt to the reality of the test result.
Prognostic prediction of apparent diffusion coefficient obtained by diffusion‐weighted MRI in mass‐forming intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yamada Shinichiro , Morine Yuji , Imura Satoru , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Arakawa Yusuke , Saito Yu , Yoshikawa Masato , Miyazaki Katsuki , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: March 2020

Background

We evaluated apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of diffusion‐weighted image MRI as a prognostic factor for mass‐forming intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC).

Methods

We enrolled 26 patients who had undergone hepatic resections for mass‐forming‐type IHCC in this study, and calculated their mean ADC, using diffusion‐weighted image MRI (b: 0, 20, 800 seconds/mm2; 1.5 T MRI). Patients were divided into the ADCHigh and the ADCLow groups at the median ADC value (n = 13 for both). We also immunohistochemically evaluated hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1α in tumor tissue.

Results

Median age in the ADCLow was older (P = .03), and showed significant higher rate of scirrhous tumor (P = .02). The 5‐year overall survival rate in the ADCLow group was significantly worse than in the ADCHigh group (P = .04). In multivariate analysis, hilar tumor, portal vein invasion and low ADC were independent prognostic factors (P < .05). The ADCLow group also had a higher rate of high HIF‐1α expression than the ADCHigh group (P < .05). Representative case of ADCLow group showed rich stroma and high HIF‐1α expression.

Conclusions

The ADC values in MRIs can predict IHCC prognosis, and correlated with stromal density and HIF‐1α expression.
Cardiac implantable electronic device infection: Does the device need to be extracted?
Authors: Nagarakanti Sandhya , Bishburg Eliahu , Bapat Anita
Published: March 2020

Background

Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) have become a common treatment modality in clinical practice. The increase in utilization of these devices has been associated with an increase in infection rates. Published guidelines define when a device is deemed infected (CDI); recommendations for the work‐up of CDI and criteria for extraction. Few data exist as to adherence to these guidelines.

Objective

We wanted to o evaluate whether devices diagnosed as CDI fit guidelines, whether clinicians followed work‐up recommendation of CDI, and whether CIED was extracted according to the guidelines criteria in our hospital.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed in our hospital between 2008 and 2017. Adult patients (pts) 18 years and older who had their device extracted (DE) with a diagnosis of CDI were included. A total of 95 pts were identified.

Results

We included 95 pts who were diagnosed as having CDI and who had their DE. Work‐up of patients with a diagnosis of CDI was inconsistently followed. Blood cultures, Echocardiogram, lead cultures (LC), and device pocket cultures (PC) were done in 100%, 90.5%, 75.6%, and 49.3%, respectively. Thirty out of 90 pts. (33%) did not meet guidelines criteria for extraction.

Conclusions

In our institution, a one third of the pts diagnosed with CDI who had DE had no indication for DE per guidelines recommendations. Clinicians did not follow recommendations for work‐up of CDI consistently. Low adherence was seen in obtaining LC and PC. CIED extraction guidelines should be followed to prevent unnecessary complications and cost.
Physicochemical properties and health risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons of fragrant rapeseed oils in China
Authors: Zhang Youfeng , Zhu Yun , Shi Longkai , Guo Yue , Wei Lai , Zhang Hui , Wang Xingguo , Jin Qingzhe
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Fragrant rapeseed oil is a type of hot‐pressed oil in China. In this study, physicochemical properties, oxidative stability index (OSI), tocopherols, sterols, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in fragrant rapeseed oils were evaluated. Additionally, the cancer risk assessment pertaining to PAHs in fragrant rapeseed oil was investigated.

RESULTS

Acid values (0.64–2.68 mg potassium hydroxide per gram), peroxide values (1.58–4.86 mmol kg−1), and color values (R = 2.6–5.8, Y = 35) of fragrant rapeseed oils were all within codex limits. Tocopherols and sterols ranged from 559.5 to 783.7 mg kg−1 and 4412.6 to 7859.8 mg kg−1 respectively. The OSI (110 °C) was between 4.8 and 15.9 h, with an average value of 10.8 h. Mean values of benzo[a]pyrene and PAH4 (chrysene, benz[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluroranthene, and benzo[a]pyrene) were 2.32 μg kg−1 and 8.21 μg kg−1 respectively. The 95% dietary exposure of benzo[a]pyrene equivalent (BaPeq) contents from PAH4 were 0.3474 ng kg−1 day−1, 0.3942 ng kg−1 day−1, 1.8293 ng kg−1 day−1, and 0.4294 ng kg−1 day−1 for male children, adolescents, adults, and seniors respectively. For females, these values were 0.3443 ng kg−1 day−1, 0.3228 ng kg−1 day−1, 1.8697 ng kg−1 day−1, and 0.4084 ng kg−1 day−1, respectively. Moreover, incremental lifetime cancer risk values at the cumulative probabilities of 91.3% and 91.6% for male adults and female adults respectively were higher than 1 × 10−5.

CONCLUSION

The results imply that the potential risk of cancer with PAHs in fragrant rapeseed oil should be a concern, especially for the health of adults. Fragrant rapeseed oil is still a product subject to contamination by PAHs. Limits for PAH4 of fragrant rapeseed oil should be included in Chinese regulations to improve safety. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
pH‐Zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography for two new lipo‐alkaloids separated from refined alkaline extraction of Kusnezoff monkshood root
Authors: Zhao Jiadi , Li Peihe , Zheng Zhong , Pi Zifeng , Xu Liang , Duan Limei , Ao Wuliji , Sun Xiaowen , Liu Zhiqiang , Liu Jinghai
Published: March 2020

An efficient and refined method for the separation of six aconitine‐type alkaloids from the alkaline prepared “Kusnezoff monkshood root” was established. It is the first study that two new lipo‐alkaloids were successfully isolated from refined sample by pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography rather than synthetic method. It was of interest that a great deal of lipo‐alkaloids was produced in crude extract from the alkalization of “Kusnezoff monkshood root.” A refined sample method was proposed to enrich two types of alkaloids by liquid–liquid extraction, i.e. lipo‐alkaloids and monoester‐diterpenoid alkaloids. The pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography was performed with an optimized two‐phase solvent system composed of n‐hexane‐ethyl acetate–methanol–water (3:5:4:5, v/v), where upper organic phase was added to 3 mmol/L triethylamine as a retainer and lower aqueous mobile phase was added to 3 mmol/L hydrochloric acid as an eluter. As a result, six aconitum alkaloids, including two lipo‐alkaloids (8‐lino‐14‐benzoylaconine, 8‐pal‐14‐benzoylaconine), three monoester‐diterpenoid alkaloids (14‐benzoylmesaconine, 14‐benzoylaconine, beyzoyldeoxyaconine), and one aconine alkaloid (neoline) were acquired from the plant at the same time. The anti‐inflammatory activities of the two new lipo‐alkaloids were compared to the six alkaloids in vitro, in cyclo‐oxygen‐ase‐2 inhibition assays. The separation mechanism of six alkaloids by pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography was illustrated.
Outcomes of Combined Anterior Septal Reconstruction and Dorsal Hump Reduction
Authors: Patel Priyesh N. , Kandathil Cherian K. , Most Sam P.
Published: March 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Deviations of the caudal nasal septum can impact airflow and aesthetics. The anterior septal reconstruction (ASR) technique, a modification of extracorporeal septoplasty, addresses this issue while preserving a segment of the dorsal septum. When ASR is combined with dorsal hump reductions and osteotomies, the keystone may be destabilized. This study evaluates the outcomes of this intervention.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

This is a retrospective study evaluating the functional and aesthetic outcomes of 58 patients who underwent ASR combined with dorsal hump reductions (with or without osteotomies). The Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) and Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey Obstructive/Cosmetic (SCHNOS‐O, SCHNOS‐C) scores were measured and compared pre‐ and postoperatively. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine the impact of sex, gender, osteotomies, and trauma on outcomes.

Results

Mean improvement in NOSE, SCHNOS‐O, and SCHNOS‐C scores within the first 3 months after surgery were −41.8, −32.6, and −51.5 respectively (P < .05). At follow‐up >9 months, these improvements were also significant for NOSE and SCHNOS‐O scores and approached significance (P = .06) for SCHNOS‐C scores. A subanalysis of patients who underwent osteotomies yielded functional and aesthetic improvements across all follow‐up periods, all of which were significant with the exception of SCHNOS‐O scores at >9 months (P = .1). In a multiple linear regression analysis, osteotomies contributed significantly to change in SCHNOS‐C scores (β = −64.09, P = .001) at 3‐ to 9‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions

The combination of ASR, hump take down, and osteotomies is safe and efficacious with implications for patients who seek correction of caudal septal deviations in conjunction with changes in external contour deformities.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 2020
Threshold friction velocities influenced by standing crop residue in the inland Pacific Northwest, USA
Authors: Pi Huawei , Huggins David R. , Sharratt Brenton
Published: March 2020

Crop residue is an important factor affecting soil wind erosion. Few studies have tested the effects of crop residue on threshold friction velocities (U*t) which not only controls the initiation of wind erosion events but also the frequency and intensity of erosion events and thus the rate of land degradation. This study measured the threshold friction velocity (U*t) and aerodynamic roughness length (Z
0) in the presence of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), canola (Brassica napus L.), and garbanzo (Cicer arietinum) standing residue arrays to identify the sheltering capability against wind erosion of these different vegetation patterns. The influence of crop residue density and lateral cover (total roughness frontal area to soil surface area) on U*t and Z
0 was tested in a wind‐tunnel. The results indicated U*t increased linearly with residue density for the three residue types and a similar trend was found for Z
0. However, U*t and Z
0 varied among crop residue types at the same residue density or frontal area index (λ). Based on the slope of regression analysis, U*t and Z
0 of garbanzo were 40 and 25% higher than winter wheat and 43 and 119% higher than canola. This study suggested that crop residue type is important in determining U*t and Z
0 when modeling wind erosion.
Drought timing and primary productivity in a semiarid grassland
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Miao Yuan , Zhang Tong , Wei Yueyue , Qiao Xiaoxin , Miao Renhui , Wang Dong , Han Shijie , Yang Zhongling
Published: March 2020

While most studies account for the effect of total annual precipitation on aboveground net primary production (ANPP), few studies have demonstrated how decreased precipitation within specific periods of growing season affects ANPP. Using a precipitation manipulation experiment, we assessed the response patterns and underlying mechanisms of ANPP to decreased precipitation in the early (DEP) and late (DLP) growing seasons on a temperate steppe in northern China. The results showed that both DEP and DLP decreased ANPP by averages of 28.3 and 39.4 g m−2, respectively. The decline of ANPP in DEP was primarily attributed to a 20.7 g m−2 decrease in grass and 4.9 g m−2 decrease in sub‐shrubs, whereas the decrease in ANPP in DLP was due to a 36.6 g m−2 decrease in perennial forbs and an 8.7 g m−2 decrease in sub‐shrubs. The reduction in grass ANPP under DEP was likely due to decreased soil moisture and increased specific leaf area of grass during the early growing season, whereas the reduction in perennial forbs ANPP under DLP was mainly caused by decreased soil moisture during late growing season. The decline of sub‐shrubs ANPP under DEP and DLP could be explained by shallow root length of sub‐shrubs in DEP and by high soil temperature in DLP. Our findings demonstrated how droughts timing affects ANPP at both community and functional group levels. Different responses of functional groups to drought timing indicate that future studies should not neglect the role of precipitation timing in regulating ecosystem productivity.
Source partitioning of oxygen‐consuming organic matter in the hypoxic zone of the Chesapeake Bay
Authors: Su Jianzhong , Cai Wei‐Jun , Brodeur Jean , Hussain Najid , Chen Baoshan , Testa Jeremy M. , Scaboo K. Michael , Jaisi Deb P. , Li Qiang , Dai Minhan , Cornwell Jeffrey
Published: March 2020

We surveyed the carbonate system along the main channel of the Chesapeake Bay in June 2016 to elucidate carbonate dynamics and the associated sources of oxygen‐consuming organic matter. Using a two endmember mixing calculation, chemical proxies, and stoichiometry, we demonstrated that in early summer, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) dynamics were controlled by aerobic respiration in the water column (43%), sulfate reduction in the sediment (39%), atmospheric CO2 invasion (13%), and CaCO3 dissolution (5%). A mass balance of the DIC concentration and its stable isotope suggested that the apparent δ13C of oxygen‐consuming organic matter was −19.4 ± 0.3‰. The bulk composition of particulate organic matter also reflected a dominance of algal material (C/N = ~ 6, δ13C > −25‰). Therefore, we concluded that the decomposition of autochthonous organic matter (i.e., eutrophication‐stimulated primary production) was the dominant process consuming oxygen, while allochthonous organic matter (terrestrially derived) made minor contributions to oxygen consumption in the hypoxic zone in June 2016. These findings in the Chesapeake Bay contrast with another hypoxic estuarine ecosystem, the Pearl River Estuary in China where allochthonous organic matter contributed significantly to oxygen consumption. The differences between these two systems in terms of hydrology, quantity and quality of organic matter, and physical characteristics are discussed to yield new insights on the formation and maintenance of hypoxia. In both systems, autochthonous organic matter dominates oxygen depletion, indicating that nutrient management and reduction are useful actions to control and mitigate the occurrence of hypoxia for the restoration of ecosystem.
Modification of relevant polymeric materials for medical applications and devices
Authors: Velazco‐Medel Marlene A. , Camacho‐Cruz Luis A. , Bucio Emilio
Published: March 2020

The present review compiles different biomedical relevant polymers that have been modified to enhance their properties, giving hydrophilicity to their surfaces, antifouling properties to avoid bacterial adhesion, biocompatibility, incorporation of drug delivery systems and the improving of their mechanical properties to use them in the manufacturing of medical devices as prosthesis or implants, or other medical applications as wound dressers or scaffolds to cell culture. Other content of this work is a general description of the different techniques to modify and graft molecules, biomolecules and other polymers onto polymeric matrices in order to obtain high‐performance biomaterials and medical devices.
Nano modified zirconia dental implants: Advances and the frontiers for rapid osseointegration
Authors: Gupta Saurabh , Noumbissi Sammy , Kunrath Marcel F.
Published: March 2020

Nanotechnology has created a revolution in implant dentistry. It is an established technology in the field of titanium implant dentistry and is slowly evolving when it comes to ceramic implants. The aim of this review article was to survey the use of nanotechnology for the purpose of implant surface modification in order to improve the osseointegration process of ceramic implants, but also, the various techniques and methods by which nano features can be applied to zirconia implant surfaces. With the application of this advanced technology, the composition, surface energy, roughness and topography of dental implants can be modified for enhanced and potentially faster osseointegration. Furthermore, nanotechnology implant surface modification can also influence the biological processes that occur at the bone–implant interface. The cellular activity and tissue responses occurring at the bone‐zirconia interface can be enhanced by nanomodifications and result in better treatment outcomes. This review also highlights the ‘state of the art’ of nanomodified zirconia surfaces and the perspectives of introducing new technologies in biomedical implantology.
On the linkage between extreme rainfall and the Madden–Julian Oscillation over the Indian region
Authors: Anandh P. C. , Vissa Naresh Krishna
Published: March 2020

The relationship between extreme rainfall events (ERE) and the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) over the Indian Subcontinent is intriguing. In this regard, the study investigates in detail the association between the ERE and the MJO. Daily Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) data were used for the period 1998–2015. The real‐time multivariate MJO index was applied to classify active and suppressed phases of the MJO. The percentile‐based threshold indices, change in probability, logistic regression models and composite analysis were used to understand the statistical and atmospheric circulation features. The results suggest that the frequency and rainfall contribution of the ERE were found to be higher during the active phases of the MJO across the seasons over the geographically distinct regions. The profound influence of the MJO on the ERE was found during the post‐monsoon over the southern Indian peninsula and Bay of Bengal regions. During the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM), the prominent signals of the MJO are limited to the south of 20 ° N. The logistic regression and cumulative probability changes affirm the above results. The composite analysis of various diagnostic parameters reveals the background synoptic conditions during the post‐monsoon and the propagation of the Rossby convective lobe during the ISM might facilitate the occurrences of the ERE during the active phases of the MJO. The study highlights the space–time evolution of the ERE and the relative influence of the MJO across the seasons. Besides, its insights have practical implications for the understanding and prediction of sub‐seasonal rainfall extremes over the Indian Subcontinent.
Systematic analysis of a mitochondrial disease‐causing ND6 mutation in mitochondrial deficiency
Authors: Chen Deyu , Zhao Qiongya , Xiong Jingting , Lou Xiaoting , Han Qinxia , Wei Xiujuan , Xie Jie , Li Xueyun , Zhou Huaibin , Shen Lijun , Yang Yanling , Fang Hezhi , Lyu Jianxin
Published: March 2020

Background

The m.14487T>C mutation is recognized as a diagnostic mutation of mitochondrial disease during the past 16 years, emerging evidence suggests that mutant loads of m.14487T>C and disease phenotype are not closely correlated.

Methods

Immortalized lymphocytes were generated by coculturing the Epstein–Barr virus and lymphocytes from m.14487T>C carrier Chinese patient with Leigh syndrome. Fifteen cytoplasmic hybrid (cybrid) cell lines were generated by fusing mtDNA lacking 143B cells with platelets donated by patients. Mitochondrial function was systematically analyzed at transcriptomic, metabolomic, and biochemical levels.

Results

Unlike previous reports, we found that the assembly of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, mitochondrial respiration, and mitochondrial OXPHOS function was barely affected in cybrid cells carrying homoplastic m.14487T>C mutation. Mitochondrial dysfunction associated transcriptomic and metabolomic reprogramming were not detected in cybrid carrying homoplastic m.14487T>C. However, we found that mitochondrial function was impaired in patient‐derived immortalized lymphocytes.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that m.14487T>C mutation is insufficient to cause mitochondrial deficiency; additional modifier genes may be involved in m.14487T>C‐associated mitochondrial disease. Our results further demonstrated that a caution should be taken by solely use of m.14487T>C mutation for molecular diagnosis of mitochondrial disease.
Modeling RBE‐weighted dose variations in irregularly moving abdominal targets treated with carbon ion beams
Authors: Meschini Giorgia , Kamp Florian , Hofmaier Jan , Reiner Michael , Sharp Gregory , Paganetti Harald , Belka Claus , Wilkens Jan J. , Carlson David J. , Parodi Katia , Baroni Guido , Riboldi Marco
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To model four‐dimensional (4D) relative biological effectiveness (RBE)‐weighted dose variations in abdominal lesions treated with scanned carbon ion beam in case of irregular breathing motion.

Methods

The proposed method, referred to as bioWED method, combines the simulation of tumor motion in a patient‐ and beam‐specific water equivalent depth (WED)‐space with RBE modeling, aiming at the estimation of RBE‐weighted dose changes due to respiratory motion. The method was validated on a phantom, simulating gated and free breathing dose delivery, and on a patient case, for which free breathing irradiation was assumed and both amplitude and baseline breathing irregularities were simulated through a respiratory motion model. We quantified (a) the effect of motion on the equivalent uniform dose (EUD) and the RBE‐weighted dose–volume histograms (DVH), by comparing the planned dose distribution with “ground truth” 4D RBE‐weighted doses computed using 4D computed tomography data, and (ii) the estimation error, by comparing the doses estimated with the bioWED method to “ground truth” 4D RBE‐weighted doses.

Results

In the phantom validation, the estimation error on the EUD was limited with respect to the motion effect and the median estimation error on relevant RBE‐weighted DVH metrics remained within 5%. In the patient study, the estimation error as computed on the EUD was smaller than the corresponding motion effect, exhibiting the largest values in the baseline irregularity simulation. However, the median estimation error over all simulations was below 3.2% considering relevant DVH metrics.

Conclusions

In the evaluated cases, the bioWED method showed proper accuracy when compared to deformable image registration‐based 4D dose calculation. Therefore, it can be seen as a tool to test treatment plan robustness against irregular breathing motion, although its accuracy decreases as a function of increasing soft tissue deformation and should be evaluated on a larger patient dataset.
Examination of the neck when a patient complains of shoulder pain: a global survey of current practice (2019)
Authors: Walker Tom , Cuff Andrew , Salt Emma , Lynch Greg , Littlewood Chris
Published: March 2020

Background

Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal problem. Despite this, much uncertainty still exists regarding diagnosis, prognosis and effectiveness of treatments. One diagnostic challenge is determining the role of the neck when a patient complains of shoulder pain. The aim of this survey was to investigate healthcare professionals’ indications for examining the neck in this case and subsequent methods used.

Methods

An online survey was developed and distributed via Twitter and the authors’ professional networks. Responses were collected over a 4‐week period in 2019.

Results

In total, 918 respondents replied; 804 completed the full survey. The majority were physiotherapists. Over 80% would examine the neck of patients presenting with shoulder pain. The most commonly used method was neck active range‐of‐movement testing (n = 822/95.3%), followed by neurological examination (n = 713/78.1%). Less commonly used tests were neck resistance testing, palpation of the neck and Spurling's test. Fewer numbers (n = 176/22%) resorted to using diagnostic tests such as imaging.

Conclusions

This survey provides some insight as to how healthcare practitioners examine the neck when a patient complains of shoulder pain. Most would examine based on anterolateral shoulder pain, using variable combinations of movement, resistance, neurological and palpation/other testing. A minority would perform diagnostics or imaging. The results of the survey highlight that practice in this area is mixed, which may be due to uncertainty regarding optimal methods. This highlights the need for further work to understand this clinical dilemma better.