bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Biosorption Features of Cr (VI) Ions by Dried Biomass of a Facultative Anaerobic Bacillus cereus Strain Pf-1
Authors: Nguema Paul Fabrice , Luo Zejiao , Mounir Zachari Mohamadou , Jing Lian Jing
Published: March 2019

Many studies were undertaken on the biosorption potential of different kinds of biomaterials. However, there is a paucity of data regarding the biosorption mechanism of Cr (VI) using dried cells. In our study, the removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solution was investigated in a batch system by the dried biomass of a chromium-resistant bacterium isolated from activated sludge samples. Equilibrium and kinetic experiments were undertaken at various initial metal concentration, pH, and biosorbent dosage. Bacillus cereus biomass was characterized using Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Biosorption process was found to be pH dependent. The optimum pH was found to be 2.0. The Langmuir and Freundlich were considered to identify the isotherm that could better describe the equilibrium adsorption of Cr (VI) onto the biomass. Langmuir and Freundlich models fitted our experimental data. The suitability of the pseudo-first order and pseudo-second order kinetic models for the biosorption of Cr (VI) onto Bacillus cereus was also performed. The mechanism for the adsorption was studied by fitting the kinetic data with the Boyd plot and intra-particle diffusion model. External mass transfer was found to be the rate-determining step. Based on the ionic nature of the metal, the intra-particle diffusion and extent of film diffusion varied.
Effect of Diets on Growth and Reproductive Performances of Growing Pigs Maintained at Farmer’s Door
Authors: Devi A. A. , Singh Deepak , Kumar Hemant
Published: March 2019

Aims: This study was conducted to study the effect of different types of diets on growth and reproductive performances of pigs under village managemental conditions Chandel, Manipur.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel, ICAR, Manipur Centre between May 2016 to November 2017.

Methods: The present study was carried out on 36 Hampshire crossbred pigs maintained by 12 farm women of Chandel district of Manipur. Each farm women were provided with 3 weaned piglets having 2 females and one male of about 3 months old. Out of which, the 50% (6 family) farm women were maintained their piglets on 40% wheat bran and 60 % rice fermented waste (D1), whereas pigs of rest 50% (6 family) farm women were maintained on 30 % crushed maize, 30 % rice bran and 40 % rice fermented waste (D2). The different parameters like body weight at different stage, age at sexual maturity, age at first farrowing, litter size at birth and litter size at weans were determined.

Results: Analysis of variance showed non-significant influence of diets on weight at various ages. The average initial body weight of piglets mentioned on D1 and D2 diets were 16.86 ± 0.25 and 16.75 ± 0.43 kg, respectively which was increased to 52.17 ± 1.86 and 53.56 ± 0.92 kg within three months of experimental period. Sex had significant influence on weight at 4th and 5th months of age. However, males were heavier than females at all the ages under study, the value at 6 months of age were 54.50 ± 1.66 and 52.04 ± 1.30 kg for males and females, respectively. Influence of diet was found to be non-significant on various reproductive traits. The age at sexual maturity, age at first farrowing, litter size at birth and at weaning  were found to by 8.45 ± 0.23  and 8.23 ± 0.25 months,  12.95 ± 0.33 and 12.66 ± 0.30 months, 7.58 ± 0.31 and 7.75 ± 0.63 and 7.17 ± 0.13 and 7.42 ± 0.29 in D1 and D2 diets, respectively.

Conclusion: The results indicated that the rice fermented waste may be incorporated in pig grower ration upto 60 % level without any adverse effect on their growth and reproductive performance to cut down the cost on pig feed.
Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS) Gene Polymorphism (G894T) as a Risk Factor for obesity in the Egyptian Population
Authors: Elbaz Rizk , Barakat Lamiaa A. A. , Nageb Ahmed , Sayed Hewaydah El
Published: March 2019

Background and Objective: Endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene polymorphism  (eNOS) is one of three isoforms that synthesize nitric oxide (NO), that participates in several biological processes have been associated with obesity. This study was undertaken to determine if eNOS gene (G894T) was associated with susceptibility of obesity.

Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on 200 cases divided into 100 obese patient and 100 healthy as control. The mean age cases was (27.02 ± 10.90) they include 79 female and 21 males. All participants were subjected to an estimation of their body mass index (BMI), weight hip ratio (WHR), in addition to random blood sugar (RBS), total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme (LDH). DNA was amplified using PCR-SSP for detection of relation between polymorphism and endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene in G894T.  

Results: All cases showed that there were  no significant difference between cases and controls regarding to their chemical lab’s  analysis (TG, Cholesterol, LDL and HDL).All cases showed significant frequency of G894T GG, TT and GT (P <0.001) vs. Controls

Conclusion: The polymorphism G894T of eNOS considered as a potential risk factor for obesity.
A Robust and Efficient System to Detect Human Faces Based on Facial Features
Authors: Ali Abdelmgeid A. , El-Hafeez Tarek Abd , Mohany Yosra Khalaf
Published: March 2019

Face detection is considered as a one of the most important issues in the identification and authentication systems which use biometric features. Face detection is not straightforward as long as it has lots of dissimilarity of image appearance. Some challenges are required to be resolved to improve the detection process. These challenges include environmental constraints, device specific constraints and the facial feature constraints. Here in our paper we present a modified method to enrich face detection by using combination of Haar cascade files using skin detection, eye detection and nose detection. Our proposed system has been evaluated using Wild database. The experimental results have shown that the proposed system can achieve accuracy of detection up to 96%. Also, here we compared the proposed system with the other face detection systems and the success rate of the proposed system is better than the considered systems.
Nannochloropsis gaditana and Dunaliella salina as Feedstock for Biodiesel Production: Lipid Production and Biofuel Quality
Authors: Bredda Eduardo Henrique , Molgero Da Rós Patrícia Caroline , Pedro Guilherme Arantes , Castro Heizir Ferreira de , Silva Messias Borges
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Microalgal lipids have a wide range of applications, from biodiesel manufacture in the energy industry to the production of polyunsaturated fatty acids for the pharmaceutical industry. Microalgal lipid productivity and quality, however, vary greatly depending on cultivation parameters.

Aims: In this study, we investigated the potential of two marine microalgae, Nannochloropsis gaditana and Dunaliella salina, to be used as feedstock for biodiesel production.

Methodology: A Taguchi L4 orthogonal array design was applied to understand the effects of sodium acetate (0 or 2 g L−1), sodium bicarbonate (0 or 2 g L−1), and sodium nitrate (25 or 75 mg L−1) concentrations on biomass and lipid productivities. Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles of microalgal lipids obtained under the best conditions were determined, and FAME results were used to predict biodiesel properties.

Results: Both carbon sources (sodium acetate and sodium bicarbonate) improved biomass productivity. Lipid productivity was enhanced only by sodium acetate. The highest lipid productivities obtained were 10.25 ± 1.02 and 12.12 ± 0.28 mg L−1 day−1 for N. gaditana and D. salina, respectively. Palmitic (C16:0), stearic (C18:1), oleic (C18:1), linoleic (C18:2), lauric (C12:0), and myristic (C14:0) acids were the major components of D. salina oil. The major fatty acids in N. gaditana oil were C16:0, C18:0, and C18:1.

Conclusion: The great differences in FAME profiles resulted in different biodiesel properties. Biodiesel from N. gaditana oil was predicted to have a higher cetane number (73.20) than that derived from D. salina oil (59.59). D. salina oil biodiesel, however, was predicted to have better properties than N. gaditana oil biodiesel, including lower cloud point (0.46°C) and cold filter plugging point (−7.27°C).
Disaggregated Analysis of Foreign Trade Impact on Economic Growth; Reflecting on the Nigeria Experience
Authors: Abiodun Dada, Matthew
Published: March 2019

This study conducted a disaggregated analysis of foreign trade impact on economic growth using Nigeria historical data. The data used spans the period 1981-2017 on variables such as foreign trade decomposed into four components namely; oil import, oil export, non-oil import, and non-oil export. Others are GDP, aggregated government expenditure data and consumer price index. The variables were sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria [CBN] Statistical Bulletin [latest edition] augmented with World Development Indicator [WDI], latest version and CBN Annual Report [various issues].  Models were formulated with and without recession dummy variable and estimated using (FMOLS) technique. Variables were tested and found to be non-stationary at level. They become stationary after first differencing, meaning that all variables exhibit a I[1] process. The group of I(1) variables were found to be cointegrated after testing for cointegration following a multivariate cointegration analysis proposed by Johansen and Juselius [20]. The result shows that non-oil trade has positive impact on growth while oil trade has negative impact on growth. The negative impact of oil trade declines marginally in recession period.  Both government expenditure and consumer prices have significant positive impact on economic growth. This study strongly recommends that government in her effort to diversifying and repositioning the Nigerian economy should give urgent attention to the non-oil sector in order to boost trade in this sector to enhance economic growth. The study therefore concluded that foreign trade impact on economic growth in Nigeria depends largely on the magnitude of foreign trade resulting from non-oil export.
Investigation into the relationship between fatal work accidents, national income, and employment rate in developed and developing countries
Authors: Kahraman Esma , Akay Özlem , Mahmut Kılıç Ahmet
Published: March 2019

Objectives

Industrial advances, as a result of globalization, causes many threats to the working life. These threats are generally associated with the level of economic development of countries. While threats from industrialization are decreasing in developed countries, developing countries are still faced with these threats. Therefore, this study aims to examine the relationship between fatal work accidents (FWA), and independent variables which are national income (NI) and employment rate (ER) in a number of selected countries.

Methods

In this study the relationship between FWA and independent variables which are NI and ER of 18 developed and developing countries and a region, between 2006 and 2015, was analyzed by applying panel data analysis.

Results

According to panel data analysis, whilst a 1% increase in the NI reduces the FWA rate by 1.1%, a 1% increase in the ER results in an increase of approximately 4% in the rate of FWA.

Conclusions

As a result, there was a negative relationship between the FWA and NI growth and a positive relationship with the ER
Technical Note: The use of DirectDensityTM and dual‐energy CT in the radiation oncology clinic
Authors: Nelson Geoff , Pigrish Vadim , Sarkar Vikren , Su Fan‐Chi , Salter Bill
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Two new tools available in Radiation Oncology clinics are Dual‐energy CT (DECT) and Siemens’ DirectDensity™ (DD) reconstruction algorithm, which allows scans of any kV setting to use the same calibration. This study demonstrates why DD scans should not be used in combination with DECT and quantifies the magnitude of potential errors in image quality and dose.

Methods

A CatPhan 504 phantom was scanned with a dual‐pass DECT and reconstructed with many different kernels, including several DD kernels. The HU values of various inserts were measured. The RANDO® man phantom was also scanned. Bone was contoured and then histograms of the bone HU values were analyzed for Filtered‐Backprojection (FBP) and DD reconstructions of the 80 and 140 kV scans, as well as several virtual, monoenergetic reconstructions generated from FBP and DD reconstructions. “Standard” dose distributions were calculated on several reconstructions of both phantoms for comparison.

Results

The DD kernel overcorrected the high‐Z material inserts relative to bone, giving an excessively low relative electron density (RED). A unique artifact was observed in the high density inserts of the CatPhan in the monoenergetic scans when utilizing a DD kernel, due to the overcorrection in the DD scan of the material, especially at lower kV.

Conclusions

While DD and DECT perform as expected when used independently, errors from their combined use were demonstrated. Dose errors from misuse of the DD kernel with DECT post‐processing were as large as 2.5%. The DECT post‐processing was without value because the HU differences between low and high energy were removed by the DD kernel. When using DD and DECT, we recommend the use of a DD reconstruction of the high energy scan for the dose calculation, and use of a FBP filter for the low and high energy scans for the DECT post‐processing.
Development and validation of an open source Monte Carlo dosimetry model for wide‐beam CT scanners using Fluka
Authors: Somasundaram Elanchezhian , Artz Nathan S. , Brady Samuel L.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Development and validation of an open source Fluka‐based Monte Carlo source model for diagnostic patient dose calculations.

Methods

A framework to simulate a computed tomography (CT) scanner using Fluka Monte Carlo particle transport code was developed. The General Electric (GE) Revolution scanner with the large body filter and 120 kV tube potential was characterized using measurements. The model was validated on benchmark CT test problems and on dose measurements in computed tomography dose index (CTDI) and anthropomorphic phantoms. Axial and helical operation modes with provision for tube current modulation (TCM) were implemented. The particle simulations in Fluka were accelerated by executing them on a high‐performance computing cluster.

Results

The simulation results agreed to better than an average of 4% of the reference simulation results from the AAPM Report 195 test scenarios, namely: better than 2% for both test problems in case 4 using the PMMA phantom, and better than 5% of the reference result for 14 of 17 organs in case 5, and within 10% for the three remaining organs. The Fluka simulation results agreed to better than 2% of the air kerma measured in‐air at isocenter of the GE Revolution scanner. The simulated air kerma in the center of the CTDI phantom overestimated the measurement by 7.5% and a correction factor was introduced to account for this. The simulated mean absorbed doses for a chest scan of the pediatric anthropomorphic phantom was completed in ~9 min and agreed to within the 95% CI for bone, soft tissue, and lung measurements made using MOSFET detectors for fixed current axial and helical scans as well as helical scan with TCM.

Conclusion

A Fluka‐based Monte Carlo simulation model of axial and helical acquisition techniques using a wide‐beam collimation CT scanner demonstrated good agreement between measured and simulated results for both fixed current and TCM in complex and simple geometries. Code and dataset will be made available at https://github.com/chezhia/FLUKA_CT.
Artificial Organelles for Energy Regeneration
Authors: Otrin Lado , Kleineberg Christin , Caire da Silva Lucas , Landfester Katharina , Ivanov Ivan , Wang Minhui , Bednarz Claudia , Sundmacher Kai , Vidaković‐Koch Tanja
Published: March 2019

One of the critical steps in sustaining life‐mimicking processes in synthetic cells is energy, i.e., adenosine triphosphate (ATP) regeneration. Previous studies have shown that the simple addition of ATP or ATP regeneration systems, which do not regenerate ATP directly from ADP and Pi, have no or only limited success due to accumulation of ATP hydrolysis products. In general, ATP regeneration can be achieved by converting light or chemical energy into ATP, which may also involve redox transformations of cofactors. The present contribution provides an overview of the existing ATP regeneration strategies and the related nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) redox cycling, with a focus on compartmentalized systems. Special attention is being paid to those approaches where so‐called artificial organelles are developed. They comprise a semipermeable membrane functionalized by biological or man‐made components and employ external energy in the form of light or nutrients in order to generate a transmembrane proton gradient, which is further utilized for ATP synthesis.
Programmable Electrofabrication of Porous Janus Films with Tunable Janus Balance for Anisotropic Cell Guidance and Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Lei Miao , Qu Xue , Liu Huan , Liu Yi , Wang Shijia , Wu Shang , Bentley William E. , Payne Gregory F. , Liu Changsheng
Published: March 2019

Janus films with controlled pore structures can be particularly important in diverse applications. There remains a challenge for simple, rapid, and scalable fabrication methods to control Janus balance (JB) including the thickness of the individual face as well as porosity and pore size. Here the electrofabrication of a porous Janus film with controlled Janus balance from aminopolysaccharide chitosan under the salt effect is reported. Sequential deposition of chitosan under programmable salt environment and electrochemical conditions enables construction of Janus films with precisely controlled Janus balance. Bioactive partially soluble calcium phosphate (CaP) salts can also generate porous structure in Janus film. It is specifically reported that a chitosan/hydroxyl apatite (HAp) composite Janus film can serve as an effective scaffold for guided bone regeneration. The dense layer functions to provide mechanical support and serves as a barrier for fibrous connective tissue penetration. The porous composite layer functions to provide the microenvironment for osteogenesis. In vivo studies using a rat calvarial defect model confirm the beneficial features of this Janus composite for guided bone regeneration. These results suggest the potential of electrofabrication as a simple and scalable platform technology to tune the self‐organization of soft matter for a range of emerging applications.
Diachronic changes in craniofacial morphology among the middle–late Holocene populations from Hehuang region, Northwest China
Authors: He Letian , Liu Wu , Temple Daniel H. , Wang Minghui , Zhang Quanchao , von Cramon‐Taubadel Noreen
Published: March 2019

Objectives

This study analyzes craniofacial shape variation in the Hehuang region of Northwest China within a population genetic framework, and takes a diachronic approach to explore the relationship betwee cultural discontinuity and biological continuity/discontinuity in the Hehuang region during the middle to late Holocene.

Materials and methods

The sample comprises 76 adult skulls from five archaeological sites, ranging from 4,500 to 1,530 BP. 3D geometric morphometrics, multivariate statistics, quantitative evolutionary genetic and biodistance analyses were performed to study the diachronic variation in craniofacial morphology. Analyses were performed on two cranial modules: the face and the cranial vault, across three major diachronic groups representing the late Neolithic (LNA), the Bronze Age (BA), and the Han‐Jin dynasty (HD).

Results

Average regional FST for both cranial modules was low, indicating relatively greater variation within diachronic groups than among them. While the LNA and BA groups did not show any significant differences in facial and vault shape, significant craniofacial shape changes were detected between the BA and HD groups.

Discussion

The consistent craniofacial morphology during the LNA and the BA, and the shift in morphology between the BA and the HD indicates that cultural discontinuity does not always coincide with biological discontinuity. The Hehuang population evolved in situ with few changes, despite cultural and dietary changes, until the HD when migrations from the Central Plains are associated with extra‐local gene flow to the area.
North and south: A comprehensive analysis of non‐adult growth and health in the industrial revolution (AD 18th–19th C), England
Authors: Newman Sophie L. , Gowland Rebecca L. , Caffell Anwen C.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Stark health inequalities exist in the present day between the North and South of England, with people in the South, overall, experiencing better health across a range of parameters (e.g., life expectancy and number of years spent in good health). Bioarchaeological studies of skeletal remains from cemeteries across this geographical divide have the ability to provide a temporal perspective on the etiology, longevity, and nature of this disparity.

Methods

In total 574 non‐adults (0–17 years) from six urban sites (c. AD 1711–1856) were analyzed from the North and South of England. Measurements of long bone length, cortical thickness, and vertebral dimensions were analyzed alongside both skeletal and dental palaeopathological data to assess patterns of disease and growth disruption between skeletal samples.

Results

There were few significant differences in growth parameters between the six sites in relation to geographical location. However, the northern‐based sample Coach Lane (North Shields) demonstrated some of the highest rates of pathology, with metabolic disease being particularly prevalent.

Discussion

Northern and southern populations suffered alike from the detrimental environmental conditions associated with urban centers of the 18th–19th centuries. However, the elevated prevalence of vitamin D deficiency seen within the Coach Lane sample is indicative of a regionally specific risk that may be related to latitude, and/or the influence of particular industries operating in the North‐East.
Photoacoustic Imaging of Nanoparticle Transport in the Kidneys at High Temporal Resolution
Authors: Jiang Xingya , Du Bujie , Tang Shaoheng , Hsieh Jer‐Tsong , Zheng Jie
Published: March 2019

Noninvasive monitoring of kidney elimination of engineered nanoparticles at high temporal and spatial resolution will not only significantly advance our fundamental understandings of nephrology on the nanoscale, but also aid in the early detection of kidney disease, which affects more than 10 % of the worldwide population. Taking advantage of strong NIR absorption of the well‐defined Au25(SG)18 nanocluster, photoacoustic (PA) imaging was used to visualize its transport in situ through the aorta to the renal parenchyma and its subsequent filtration into the renal pelvis at a temporal resolution down to 1 s. High temporal and spatial resolution imaging of Au25(SG)18 kidney elimination allowed the accurate quantification of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of individual kidneys in normal and pathological conditions, broadening the biomedical applications of engineered nanoparticles in preclinical kidney research.
Post‐Separation Parenting Disputes and the Many Faces of High Conflict: Theory and Research
Authors: Smyth Bruce M. , Moloney Lawrence J.
Published: March 2019

Couple conflict, which includes conflict over parenting practices, continues to be a topic of considerable interest to family therapists. Following parental separation, resolution or management of conflict over children has a special urgency. ‘High‐conflict’ cases present some of the most complex systemic and clinical challenges. In this first of two related articles in this issue of ANZJFT, we set out key ideas – some old, some new – about parental conflict from the divorce literature. We present Australian data on separated parents’ reports, which found significant conflict at three different points in time after separation and consider the clinical implications. We suggest that while ‘high conflict’ has an intuitive feel as a descriptor for difficult post‐separation disputes, it has limited utility as a blanket term to inform research and practice. The article acts as a conceptual backdrop to an earlier paper (Smyth & Moloney, 2017), in which we consider the dynamics of enduring ‘high conflict.’ We suggest that these cases might be qualitatively different to those cases in which intensely felt disputes develop but then recede. We also suggest that amongst enduring ‘high conflict’ cases there are likely to be cases with especially challenging dynamics such as interparental hatred.
Breaking Symmetry: A Quantitative Analysis of Facial Skeleton Disharmony in Children Born with Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Santana Nicole , Starbuck John M.
Published: March 2019

Bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) occurs when craniofacial precursors fail to form or fuse properly during development. The aim of this retrospective, cross‐sectional investigation was to quantify directional asymmetry (DA) of the facial skeleton of children born with Veau Class IV nonsyndromic BCLP. To accomplish this goal, coordinate values of anatomical landmarks were acquired from three‐dimensional cone beam computed tomographic images of the craniofacial skeleton of middle‐ to late‐aged children born with BCLP and age‐ and sex‐matched controls and used to compare patterns of asymmetry variation. Multivariate analyses revealed different patterns of DA variation across samples and identified approximately 30% of DA measures as significantly different. Magnitudes of statistically significant linear distances differ in the craniofacial region, with most smaller DA differences located near the orbits and frontal bone, while larger differences were localized mostly to the midface, alveolar ridge, and nasal borders. Generally, areas of the craniofacial skeleton derived from the maxillary and nasal prominences demonstrated the highest magnitudes of DA. The methods and results presented will be useful to biomedical researchers when identifying the extent to which patients with BCLP diverge from typical developmental expectations. Quantifying DA and assessing local differences across the craniofacial complex can aid medical practitioners when developing treatments to improve BCLP surgical algorithms and outcomes. Anat Rec, 302:1726–1732, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Changes in immune responses of Helicoverpa armigera Hübner followed by feeding on Knotgrass, Polygonum persicaria agglutinin
Authors: Rahimi Vahid , Hajizadeh Jalil , Zibaee Arash , Sendi Jalal Jalali
Published: March 2019

There is no study implying the effect of plant lectins on insect immune elements in both challenged and non‐challenged conditions with entomopathogenic agents. Lectins may bind to immune receptors on the surface of insect hemocytes, thus inducing or even disabling common immune functions including hemocyte counts, nodulation/encapsulation, phenoloxidase activity, and synthesis of antimicrobial peptides. In the present study, effect of Polygonum persicaria L. agglutinin (PPA) on immune responses of Helicoverpa armigera Hübner was investigated by feeding artificial diet treated to the larvae. Subsequently hemocyte count and expression of some immune‐related genes were considered for analyses. The two groups of larvae including control and PPA‐treated (1%) were divided into four subgroups of intact, Tween‐80 injected, latex‐bead injected and Beauveria bassiana‐injected. Except for intact larvae, the highest numbers of total and differential hemocyte counts were recorded 12 hr postinjection, however, the PPA‐fed larvae showed a significantly lower hemocyte counts compared to control. The number of nodules in PPA‐fed larvae was significantly lower than control, but the injected larvae of both control and PPA showed the highest nodulation 24 hr postinjection. Although the highest activity of phenoloxidase was observed 12 and 24 hr postinjection but its activity significantly decreased in PPA‐fed larvae compared to control. Gene expression of antimicrobial peptides including attacin, cecropin, and peptidoglycan receptor proteins were significantly decreased in artificial diet‐fed larvae containing PPA and then injected by B. bassiana spores and latex bead compared to control. These results clearly indicate adverse effects of PPA on immune responses in H. armigera.
Carboxylic acid consumption and production by Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Conrady Marius , Lemoine Anja , Limberg Michael H. , Oldiges Marco , Neubauer Peter , Junne Stefan
Published: March 2019

Corynebacterium glutamicum is well‐known as an industrial workhorse, most notably for its use in the bulk production of amino acids in the feed and food sector. Previous studies of the effect of gradients in scale‐down reactors with complex media disclosed an accumulation of several carboxylic acids and a parallel decrease of growth and product accumulation. This study, therefore, addresses the impact of carboxylic acids, for example, acetate and l‐lactate, on the cultivation of the cadaverine producing strain C. glutamicum DM1945Δact3:Ptuf‐ldcCopt and their potential role in scale up related performance losses. A fluctuating power input in shake flask and stirred tank cultivations with mineral salt was applied to mimic discontinuous oxygen availability.

Results demonstrate, whenever sufficient oxygen was available, C. glutamicum recovered from previously occurring stressful conditions like an oxygen limiting phase. Reassimilation of acids was detected simultaneously. In cultures, which were supplemented with either acetate or l‐lactate, a rapid cometabolization of both acids in presence of glucose was observed, showing conversion rates of 7.8 and 3.8 mmol gcell dry weight−1 hr−1, respectively. Uptake of these acids was accompanied by increased oxygen consumption. Proteins related to oxidative stress response, glycogen synthesis, and the main carbon metabolism were found in altered concentrations under oscillatory cultivation conditions. (Proteomics data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD012760). Virtually no impact on growth or product formation was observed. We conclude that the reduced growth and product formation in scale‐down cultivations when complex media was used is not caused by the accumulation of carboxylic acids.
The genomic mutation spectrums of breast fibroadenomas in Chinese population by whole exome sequencing analysis
Authors: Xie Shang‐Nao , Cai Yuan‐Jie , Ma Bo , Xu Yanting , Qian Peng , Zhou Juan‐Di , Zhao Fu‐Guang , Chen Jie
Published: March 2019

Fibroadenomas (FAs) are the most common fibroepithelial lesions and the most common benign tumors of the breast in women of reproductive age. Although MED12 mutations, an overwhelming majority of all mutations, and some other gene mutations have been found in FAs, the genomic landscapes of FAs are still not completely clear and the genomic mutation spectrums of FAs in Chinese population remains unknown. Here, by performing whole exome sequencing of 12 FAs and the corresponding normal breast tissues in Chinese Han population, we observed the somatic and germline landscapes of genetic alterations. We identified 16 recurrently mutated genes with 37 nonsynonymous or frameshift somatic mutations and 27 recurrent somatic copy number variants (CNVs). In these mutated genes, MED12 was the most common in FAs, harboring 6 nonsynonymous/frameshift somatic mutations and 1 CNV. In addition, 6 germline mutations of tumor susceptibility genes in 5 FAs were identified and the tumor mutational burden of the 5 FAs was significantly higher than the other 7 FAs without germline mutations. This study provides genomic mutation spectrums of FAs in Chinese population and expand the genetic spectrum of FAs.
Overexpansion of older generation balloon expandable transcatheter heart valves: An ex‐vivo bench study
Authors: Sathananthan Janarthanan , Sellers Stephanie , Barlow Aaron , Hensey Mark , Landes Uri , Cheung Anson , Ye Jian , Alkhodair Abdullah , Blanke Philipp , Søndergaard Lars , Pibarot Phillippe , Wood David , Leipsic Jonathan , Webb John
Published: March 2019

Background

The SAPIEN 3 (S3) transcatheter heart valve (THV) can be over‐expanded beyond its labeled diameter. Overexpansion can be achieved with use of either a compliant or non‐compliant balloon. Objective data regarding the ability to over‐expand older generation balloon expandable valves are limited. We sought to assess the effects of over‐expanding the SAPIEN and SAPIEN XT (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA) valve beyond labeled size (diameter) through an ex‐vivo bench study.

Methods and results

We assessed SAPIEN and SAPIEN XT THVs, sized 23/26 mm and 23/26/29 mm, respectively. The SAPIEN THVs were explanted samples. Valves were expanded to nominal dimensions, and then incrementally overexpanded with balloons sized 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐mm larger than the recommended diameter. When an appropriate sized non‐compliant balloon was not available, a compliant balloon was utilized. Valves underwent visual and radiographic assessment of overexpansion.

SAPIEN THVs with labeled size of 23 and 26 mm could be incrementally overexpanded to midvalve (MV) diameters of 26.7 and 27.4 mm, respectively. SAPIENT XT THVs with labeled size of 23, 26, and 29 mm could be incrementally overexpanded to MV diameters of 26.8, 28.3, and 28.8 mm, respectively. The desired degree of overexpansion was only achieved with use of non‐compliant balloons and not with compliant balloons. The outflow of the SAPIEN and SAPIEN XT had larger diameters than the MV and inflow of the THV.

Conclusion

Overexpansion of older generation SAPIEN and SAPIEN XT THVs is possible. Achieving the desired degree of overexpansion was only achieved with use of non‐compliant balloons. This has potential implications for the treatment of failed THVs.
Are optical trocars free of complications?
Authors: Bustos Roberto , Masrur Mario , Frederick Patrice
Published: March 2019

Key Clinical Message

Optical view trocars provide an acceptable level of safety for port entry during minimally invasive surgery. Nevertheless, this technique is not exempt from potential complications. These can range from a minor subcutaneous insufflation that will not require any further treatment to abdominal aorta injuries.
Nitrogen‐Doped Hollow Carbonized Cotton Fully Covered with Trumpet‐Like Nanocarbons for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Qian Ou , Lin Dou , Han Fangming
Published: March 2019

Carbon materials obtained by carbonizing low‐cost natural materials tend to achieve a nearly solid original structure with a smaller specific surface area (SSA), which limits their application in electrochemical energy storage. In this work, by precisely controlling the heating rate and gas flow in the carbonization process, we successfully fabricated hollow carbonized cotton fibers fully covered with trumpet‐like nanocarbons (HCC@TNC) and the nitrogen‐doped product (N−HCC@TNC). N−HCC@TNC achieves a high SSA of 1477 m2 g−1 and specific capacitance of 381 F g−1 at a current density of 2 A g−1. Even at 400 A g−1, N−HCC@TNC still retains 77 % of the capacitance at 2 A g−1. Our approach to the hollow carbon fibers with surface trumpet‐like nanocarbons might provide a new way for carbonizing natural materials and low‐cost, high‐performance energy storage devices.
Internally Bridged Hückel Aromatic [46]Decaphyrins: (Doubly‐Twisted‐Annuleno)Doubly‐Twisted‐Annulene Variants
Authors: Soya Takanori , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: March 2019

Internally 3,3′‐biphenyl‐, 2,2′,5,5′‐bithiophene‐, and 2,5‐thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene‐bridged [46]decaphyrins were prepared. In addition to the global 46π‐conjugated circuits, the internal core‐modified [32]heptaphyrin‐ and [30]hexaphyrin moieties in 2,2′,5,5′‐bithiophene‐ and 2,5‐thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene‐bridged [46]decaphyrins also possess doubly twisted topologies (|Lk|=2) and are regarded as (doubly‐twisted‐annuleno)doubly‐twisted‐annulene variants. All these decaphyrins display distinct Hückel aromaticity owing to the global 46π‐electronic networks but the contributions of the local half circuits were almost negligible due to the perpendicular orientation of the bridges.
Clinical and molecular characterization of early‐onset colorectal cancer
Authors: Willauer Alexandra N. , Liu Yusha , Pereira Allan A. L. , Lam Michael , Morris Jeffrey S. , Raghav Kanwal P. S. , Morris Van K. , Menter David , Broaddus Russell , Meric‐Bernstam Funda , Hayes‐Jordan Andrea , Huh Winston , Overman Michael J. , Kopetz Scott , Loree Jonathan M.
Published: March 2019

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is increasing in adults younger than 50 years. This study evaluated clinical and molecular features to identify those features unique to early‐onset CRC that differentiate these patients from patients 50 years old or older.

Methods

Baseline characteristics were evaluated according to the CRC onset age with 3 independent cohorts. A fourth cohort was used to describe the impact of age on the consensus molecular subtype (CMS) prevalence.

Results

This retrospective review of more than 36,000 patients with CRC showed that early‐onset patients were more likely to have microsatellite instability (P = .038), synchronous metastatic disease (P = .009), primary tumors in the distal colon or rectum (P < .0001), and fewer BRAF V600 mutations (P < .001) in comparison with patients 50 years old or older. Patients aged 18 to 29 years had fewer adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) mutations (odds ratio [OR], 0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.35‐0.90; P = .015) and an increased prevalence of signet ring histology (OR, 4.89; 95% CI, 3.23‐7.39; P < .0001) in comparison with other patients younger than 50 years. In patients younger than 40 years, CMS1 was the most common subtype, whereas CMS3 and CMS4 were uncommon (P = .003). CMS2 was relatively stable across age groups. Early‐onset patients with inflammatory bowel disease were more likely to have mucinous or signet ring histology (OR, 5.54; 95% CI, 2.24‐13.74; P = .0004) and less likely to have APC mutations (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.07‐0.75; P = .019) in comparison with early‐onset patients without predisposing conditions.

Conclusions

Early‐onset CRC is not only distinct from traditional CRC: special consideration should be given to and further investigations should be performed for both very young patients with CRC (18‐29 years) and those with predisposing conditions. The etiology of the high rate of CMS1 in patients younger than 40 years deserves further exploration.
Changes in ecosystem services and an analysis of driving factors for China's Natural Forest Conservation Program
Authors: Huang Longsheng , Wang Bing , Niu Xiang , Gao Peng , Song Qingfeng
Published: March 2019

China's Natural Forest Conservation Program (NFCP) is aimed at improving the fragile and unstable ecological environment and has become one of the largest ecological restoration programs in the world because of its enormous investment and effects. It is important to work out and strengthen new measures to overcome difficulties to promote more ecosystem services and human well‐being in the NFCP. This study focused on how to evaluate the ecosystem services change brought about by implementing the NFCP. Taking the key state‐owned forest areas in the Northeast and Inner Mongolia as the study area, we provide a basic overview of development and construct an evaluation index system and a distributed calculation method for the NFCP to analyze the implications of the NFCP on ecosystem services combined with multi‐source data coupling. An evaluation index system for NFCP ecosystem services was constructed. The system includes five ecological service functions and 12 evaluation indices. The trade‐off and/or synergistic analysis of ecosystem services were carried out. The regional characteristics and changes in the NFCP ecosystem services were emphasized. Although it has not been implemented for a long time, the NFCP has had a great impact on ecosystem services because it reduces soil and water losses, increases soil fertility, strengthens the forest carbon sink and helped the forest accumulate nutrients and purify the atmosphere. Socioeconomic factors affect the NFCP ecosystem services, such as the implementation area of NFCP, investment amount of NFCP, area ratio of nature reserves, and yield of tree stock volume. Policy drivers of the NFCP, changes in the economic structure and reductions in forest yield are the main factors affecting the change in NFCP ecosystem services. Although the NFCP has positively affected the society, the economy, and the ecological environment, it has also generated some problems, such as the improper management of forest resources, shortage of capital investment, staff transfer, etc. The social and economic problems will be transient with implementation of the NFCP, and the structural changes in forestry and agriculture may eventually benefit the forestry workers and other stakeholders.
Seasonal changes in light availability modify the temperature dependence of secondary production in an Arctic stream
Authors: Huryn Alexander D. , Benstead Jonathan P.
Published: March 2019

Light and temperature are key drivers of ecosystem productivity, but synchrony of their annual cycles typically obscures their relative influence. The coupling of annual light–temperature regimes also drives complementary seasonal cycles of energy supply (primary production) and demand (metabolism), perhaps promoting temporal stability in carbon (C) storage and food web production that may be difficult to discern in most ecosystems. Spring‐fed streams in the Arctic are subject to extreme annual fluctuations in light availability but have relatively stable water temperatures, which allows assessment of the independent effects of light and temperature. We used the unusual annual light and temperature regimes of Ivishak Spring, Alaska, USA (latitude 69° N, annual water temperature range ~4–7°C) to test predictions about the effect of light availability on consumer productivity with minimally confounding effects of temperature. We predicted that (1) annual patterns of secondary production would follow patterns of primary production, rather than temperature, due to organic C limitation during winter darkness when photosynthesis is effectively halted, (2) C limitation would propagate from primary producers upward through several trophic levels, (3) the lack of temperature dependence during winter darkness would be expressed as anomalous Arrhenius plots of growth rates indicating decoupled production‐temperature relationships, and (4) consumer diets would reflect C limitation during winter. As predicted, we found (1) lowest production by macroinvertebrates and Salvelinus malma (Dolly Varden char) at the lowest light levels rather than the lowest temperatures, (2) apparent winter C limitation propagated upward through three trophic levels, (3) anomalous Arrhenius plots indicating lack of temperature dependence of consumer growth rates during winter, and (4) lowest consumption of diatoms (by macroinvertebrates) and invertebrate prey (by S. malma) during winter. Together, these results indicate that light drives annual patterns of animal production in Ivishak Spring, with stable annual temperatures likely exacerbating C limitation of ectotherm metabolism during winter. The timing and severity of winter C limitation in this unusual Arctic‐spring food web highlight a fundamental role for light–temperature synchrony in matching energy supply with demand in most other ecosystem types, thereby conferring a measure of stability in the metabolism of their food webs over annual time scales.
In Situ Synthesis of Sulfur Host with Chemisorption and Electrocatalytic Capability toward High‐Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yu Huali , Guo Xiaoqing , Liu Xiaofei , Lu Suya , Lu Youcai , Liu Qingchao , Li Zhongjun , He Zhanhang
Published: March 2019

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have been attracting much attention because of their outstanding theoretical capacity and abundance of sulfur. However, there are still some drawbacks, in which the shuttling of soluble polysulfides in the charge and discharge process severely limits its practical application. Herein, new 3D interconnected carbon nanotubes (CNTs) embedded with in situ grown cobalt disulfide (CoS2) nanoparticles (CoS2/CNTs) as an advanced matrix for sulfur electrode are developed. The 3D interconnected CNTs exhibit a good conductivity and a highly porous structure, which are promising for fast electron transport and buffering volume expansion. Furthermore, abundant CoS2 nanoparticles not only help to chemically trap the soluble polysulfides but also dynamically enhance polysulfide redox reactions. Because of these synchronous advantages, enhanced electrochemical performances including high capacity, superior redox reaction kinetics, and excellent cycling stability are achieved.
Solar Green Roofs: A Unified Outlook 20 Years On
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Meneguzzo Francesco , Pecoraino Mario , Pagliaro Mario
Published: March 2019

Solar green roofs, namely, rooftops functionalized with properly selected living vegetation and photovoltaic modules, achieve an ideal symbiotic relationship in which the promotion of biodiversity and onsite renewable energy production are enhanced, while the roof provides a range of environmental, health, aesthetic, and economic benefits. This study provides a unified outlook of this important sustainability technology before its large‐scale uptake across the world, especially in polluted urban areas.
Greenhouse gas emission reduction measures in the urban road transport sector of ethiopia
Authors: Gebre Tewelde , Nigussa Fekadu
Published: March 2019

Climate change is the most serious threat that the world is facing today. Transport sector in general and road transport in particular have a prominent contribution in intensifying the causes of climate change. Mitigating the vehicular greenhouse gas emission is one of the finest approaches to deal with climate change. Thus, the main aim of the study is to examine the vehicular greenhouse gas emission reduction measures being undertaken in the emerging cities of Ethiopia. The study has employed a descriptive research method with qualitative and quantitative research approaches. Data for the study were obtained from the emerging and second largest city of Ethiopia, Mekelle. Auxiliary facts are also obtained from the other two emerging regional capital cities (Bahir Dar and Adama) and one city council (Dire Dawa) of Ethiopia. This study has found that two measures of reducing vehicular greenhouse gas emissions are being undertaken in the urban road transport of Ethiopia: the technical and nontechnical measures. The technical measures of reducing vehicular emissions entertain mechanical measures taken by drivers. These include: use of biofuel, annual inspections of cars and complying with speed limits. Nontechnical measures, on the other hand, incorporate policy measures carried out to reduce the levels of emissions. These include: extending public transport services, promoting the use of non‐motorized transport, taxing vehicles, integrating urban transport with the land use planning, improving and extending urban road infrastructures, regulation of transport‐related legislation, and organizing civil society movements to mitigate vehicular emissions. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13146, 2019