bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Multi-Drug Resistance Traits in Probiotic Bacterial Species from Fermented Milk Products in Bangladesh
Authors: Shahriar Asif , Alo Mahenaj , Hossain Md. Fahad , Bin Emran Talha , Uddin Md. Zia , Paul Arkajyoti
Published: October 2019

Aims: Matured nourishment like yogurt and cheese are great wellsprings of probiotic living beings. The present study was carried out for isolation, identification and antibiotic profiling of some important bacteria in, local fermented milk-products sold in the market of Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Methodology: Twenty types of yogurt and fifteen types of cheese samples were collected from two different local market. De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe agar (MRS agar) and Streptococcus thermophilus agar (ST agar) were used for the isolation of probiotic micro-organisms from these different fermented dairy products. Characterization of lactic acid bacteria belonging to the species of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus was done by using morphological feature, Gram staining, biochemical tests (catalase test, some carbohydrate fermentation tests, alpha haemolysis test, starch hydrolysis test, bile salt tolerance test). The antibiotic profiling was performed by utilizing twelve distinct antibiotics: amikacin (10 μg), amoxicillin (15 μg), azithromycin (30 μg), bacitracin (30 μg), chloramphenicol (30 μg), ciprofloxacin (10 μg), erythromycin (30 μg), gentamicin (30 μg), kanamycin (30 μg), penicillin g (30 μg), tetracycline (15 μg), vancomycin (15 μg) to identified the multi-drug resistance of probiotic micro-organisms.

Results: The outcomes demonstrated that specific bacterial species (L. acidophilus, L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus) were utilized in the production of yogurt and cheese samples, that may have unnecessary antibiotic resistances which can be a risk if they transfer antibiotic resistance genes to pathogenic microbes. Notably, L. bulgaricus was effectively susceptible against bacitracin and penicillin g.

Conclusion: Yogurt and cheese are one kind of probiotic source, made up by using probiotic starter cultures (Lactobacillus spp. and Streptococcus thermophilus) which were identified in this study. Most of the probiotic micro-organisms were resistant against these widely accepted commercial antibiotics. These resistant lactic acid bacteria may transfer their resistance genes to pathogenic microorganisms. It can be a significant cause of concern for human and animal health.
A High‐Performing, Visible‐Light‐Driven Actuating Material Responsive to Ultralow Light Intensities
Authors: Kwan Kin Wa , Ngan Alfonso Hing Wan
Published: October 2019

Light‐driven actuating materials are highly desirable for miniaturized, untethered devices and microrobots. However, current light actuators require high light intensity or the use of UV or IR light to operate, which greatly increase the cost and difficulty for real‐life applications. Here, a significant visible (vis)‐light‐driven actuation effect in cobalt oxides/hydroxides (C–O–H), inducible at low intensities from ≈3 mW cm−2 (≈0.03 sun), is reported. In the form of bilayered films, the actuators can curl into loops at 70–180 ms per loop, corresponding to a high intrinsic strain of more than 1% at strain rate 0.6% s−1, and actuating stress exceeding 60 MPa, at ≈50 mW cm−2 (≈0.5 sun). Linear actuators made from actuating hinges of C–O–H can weightlift objects ≈200 times heavier than the active material. A chemo‐mechanics model describes the actuation well, showing that the mechanism is light‐induced volume shrinkage assisted by diffusion, and C–O–H exhibits outperforming chemical driving force per unit light‐intensity stimulation.
The Effect of Antioxidants on Corn and Sunflower Biodiesel Properties under Extreme Oxidation Conditions
Authors: Nogales‐Delgado Sergio , Encinar José María , Guiberteau Agustina , Márquez Sandra
Published: October 2019

Biodiesel is an alternative to mineral fuels, with advantages such as biodegradability. However, this makes biodiesel unstable to oxidation. In this way, the use of natural or synthetic antioxidants is necessary. Although many studies have paid attention to the effect of these antioxidants on oxidation stability, not much literature about their effect of them on other properties (before and during storage) was found. The aim of this research study was to characterize biodiesel from corn and sunflower by adding two antioxidants, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), in order to improve its oxidation stability. Moreover, the effect of oxidation on the parameters of biodiesel was studied by using extreme oxidation conditions to accelerate the oxidation process. Both antioxidants improved the oxidation stability of biodiesel, whereas some parameters were altered (viscosity and acid number), which could make this biofuel, if high concentrations of antioxidants are used, unsuitable for commercialization according to standards.
Construction of electrostatic and π–π interaction to enhance interfacial adhesion between carbon nanoparticles and polymer matrix
Authors: Ma Lin , Zhao Dan , Zheng Junping
Published: October 2019

In this study, an efficient method by constructing electrostatic and π–π interaction to enhance interfacial adhesion of nanocomposites was contrived. As commercial products and commonly used reinforcements, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene oxide (GO) were selected as fillers. Two kinds of interactions between carbon nanoparticles and polymer matrix were constructed by adding auxiliary comonomers (ACMs) into nanocomposites, in which one was the electrostatic interaction between quaternary ammonium cationic groups on ACMs as well as oxygen‐containing groups of carbon nanoparticles, while the other was the π–π interaction between benzene rings on ACMs and conjugated structure on nanoparticles. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) was chosen as a polymer matrix. It was found that carbon nanoparticles dramatically improved properties of nanocomposites, including thermal and mechanical performances due to the construction of electrostatic and π–π interaction on the interface. Compared with PMMA, the tensile strength of CNTs and GO reinforced nanocomposites was improved by 43.1 and 57.5%, respectively. The thermal decomposition temperature of CNTs and GO reinforced nanocomposites was improved by 21 and 23°C, respectively. Interesting and convincing results proved that the construction of multiple interactions can provide a promising method to effectively enhance interfacial adhesion of nanocomposites. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48633.
Development of SSR markers for Astragalus lehmannianus, a vulnerable species from northwestern China
Authors: Wu Mingying , Shi Xiaojun , Tan Dunyan
Published: October 2019

Premise

Astragalus lehmannianus (Fabaceae) is a vulnerable species found in the cold deserts of northwestern China. We aimed to characterize polymorphic microsatellite loci for A. lehmannianus to support future studies of population genetic dynamics and conservation management of the species.

Methods and Results

We used next‐generation sequencing to detect polymorphic microsatellites. Twenty‐five potential microsatellite loci were identified, 12 of which were polymorphic and present in the three study populations of A. lehmannianus. Levels of observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.000–1.000 and 0.000–0.827, respectively. Furthermore, two and five of the 12 developed primers were successfully amplified in two congeneric species, A. arpilobus and A. oxyglottis, respectively.

Conclusions

These newly developed microsatellite markers can be used to determine population diversity and to develop conservation strategies in A. lehmannianus.
Implications of hydrodynamic testing to guide sizing of self‐expanding transcatheter heart valves for valve‐in‐valve procedures
Authors: Sathananthan Janarthanan , Hensey Mark , Fraser Rob , Landes Uri , Blanke Philipp , Hatoum Hoda , Dasi Lakshmi Prasad , Sedaghat Alexander , Bapat Vinayak N , Leipsic Jonathon , Søndergaard Lars , Wood David A. , Webb John G.
Published: October 2019

Aims

The commonly used valve‐in‐valve (VIV) app recommends sizing based on dimensions of both the transcatheter heart valve (THV) and bioprosthetic surgical valve. The implications of hydrodynamic testing to guide VIV sizing are poorly understood. This bench study assessed the hydrodynamic performance of different sizes of self‐expanding supra‐annular THVs in three different surgical aortic bioprostheses at different implantation depths.

Methods

A small versus medium ACURATE neo (ACn), and a 26 mm versus 29 mm Evolut R were assessed after VIV implantation in 25 mm Mitroflow, Mosaic, and Magna Ease aortic surgical bioprostheses, at three implantation depths (+2 mm, ‐2 mm, and ‐6 mm).

Results

The medium‐sized ACn had lower gradients compared to the small ACn when the THV was implanted high (+2 mm, or ‐2 mm). The 29 mm Evolut R had lower gradients compared to a 26 mm Evolut R for all implantation depths, except for a depth of ‐2 mm in the 25 mm Mitroflow. The medium ACn and 29 mm Evolut R had larger effective orifice areas compared to the small ACn and 26 mm Evolut R, respectively. Both Evolut R sizes had acceptable regurgitant fractions (<15%), while both ACn sizes were above the acceptable performance criteria (>15%), at all implantation depths.

Conclusions

Use of a larger self‐expanding THV was associated with superior hydrodynamic performance if the THV was implanted high. Hydrodynamic testing can provide additional information to the VIV app to help guide VIV sizing.
Outcomes of urgent versus nonurgent transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Elbadawi Ayman , Elgendy Islam Y. , Mentias Amgad , Saad Marwan , Mohamed Ahmed H. , Choudhry Muhammad Waqas , Ogunbayo Gbolahan O. , Gilani Syed , Jneid Hani
Published: October 2019

Background

There is a paucity of data regarding the outcomes of transcatheter valve replacement (TAVR) performed in an urgent clinical setting.

Methods

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database years 2011–2014 was used to identify hospitalizations for TAVR in the urgent setting. Using propensity score matching, we compared patients who underwent TAVR in nonurgent versus urgent settings.

Results

Among 42,154 hospitalizations in which TAVR was performed, 10,114 (24%) underwent urgent TAVR. There was an uptrend in the rate of urgent TAVR procedures (p = .001). The rates of in‐hospital mortality among this group did not change during the study period (p = .713). Nonurgent TAVR was associated with lower mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.69–0.89, p < .001) compared with urgent TAVR. Nonurgent TAVR was associated with lower incidence of cardiogenic shock (OR = 0.46; 95%CI: 0.40–0.53 p < .001), use of mechanical circulatory support devices (OR = 0.69; 95%CI: 0.59–0.82, p < .001), AKI (OR = 0.60; 95%CI: 0.56–0.64 p < .001), hemodialysis (OR = 0.67; 95%CI: 0.56–0.80 p < .001), major bleeding (OR = 0.94; 95%CI: 0.89–0.99 p = .045) and shorter length of stay (7.08 ± 6.317 vs. 12.39 ± 9.737 days, p < .001). There was no difference in acute stroke (OR = 0.96; 95%CI: 0.81–1.14, p = .636), vascular complications (OR = 1.07; 95%CI: 0.89–1.29, p = .492), and pacemaker insertions (OR = 0.92; 95%CI: 0.84–1.01, p = .067) between both groups. Among those undergoing urgent TAVR, subgroup analysis showed higher mortality in patients ≤80 years (p = .033), women (p < .001), chronic kidney disease (p = .001), heart failure (p < .001), and liver disease (p = .003).

Conclusion

In this large nationwide analysis, almost a quarter of TAVR procedures were performed in the urgent settings. Although urgent TAVR was associated with higher mortality and increased complications compared with nonurgent TAVR, the absolute difference in in‐hospital mortality was not remarkably higher. Thus, urgent TAVR can be considered as a reasonable approach when indicated.
Reconstruction of a deep sternal wound with exposed pericardium using an IMAP propeller flap: A case report
Authors: Zanchetta Francesco , Borg Matthew , Troisi Luigi
Published: October 2019

The results of this case suggest that the IMAP propeller flap may be a viable and safe option for deep sternal wound reconstruction with minimal donor‐site morbidity.
Transition‐Metal‐Like Reversible Cycloadditions of [tBuSP‐W(CO)5] with Alkenes and Alkynes
Authors: Wang Min , Xu Yang , Wei Donghui , Tian Rongqiang , Duan Zheng , Mathey François
Published: October 2019

tert‐Butylthiophosphinidene complex [tBuSP‐W(CO)5] was generated by dissociation of 1‐(tert‐butylthio)phosphirane–W(CO)5 complex under mild conditions. The formation of transient [tBuSP‐W(CO)5] was indicated by trapping reactions with 2,3‐dimethyl‐1,3‐butadiene, alkynes, phenanthrene‐9,10‐dione, and methanol. The LUMO of [MeSP‐W(CO)5] is significantly lower in energy than those of [Me2NP‐W(CO)5], [MeOP‐W(CO)5], and [Me2PP‐W(CO)5]. The HOMO of [MeSP‐W(CO)5] contains a significant contribution from the in‐plane lone pair of P and the LUMO shows a typical π* characteristic. Since stabilized by sulfur lone pair and coordinated by W(CO)5, [tBuSP‐W(CO)5] undergoes facile and reversible cycloadditions with alkenes and alkynes.
Multifunctional Glycoconjugates for Recruiting Natural Antibodies against Cancer Cells
Authors: Liet Benjamin , Laigre Eugénie , Goyard David , Todaro Biagio , Tiertant Claire , Boturyn Didier , Berthet Nathalie , Renaudet Olivier
Published: October 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue is Olivier Renaudet and co‐workers at the Université Grenoble Alpes and funded by the European Research Council (CoG “LEGO′” no. 647938). The image illustrates a synthetic chemist playing with supramolecular structures to kill cancer cells by using natural antibodies present in the blood stream. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201903327.
ComChain: A blockchain with Byzantine fault‐tolerant reconfiguration
Authors: Vizier Guillaume , Gramoli Vincent
Published: October 2019

Selecting which blockchain participants can decide upon a new block is a difficult problem. Consortium blockchains need the participants to be predetermined while public blockchains incentivize all participants to waste their resources to decide every block. In this paper, we introduce the community blockchain that allows potentially all participants to decide upon “some” block while restricting the set of participants deciding upon “one” block. To this end, we propose a blockchain reconfiguration, a Byzantine consensus protocol that allows to dynamically change the set of blockchain participants deciding upon the upcoming blocks. The resulting blockchain, called ComChain, is resilience optimal and transitions through different configurations of participants recorded in dedicated blocks so that each configuration decides upon its subsequent transaction blocks. We evaluate an implementation that adds reconfiguration to the Red Belly Blockchain and demonstrates its practical performance in a distributed system.
Intervertebral disc degeneration: A focus on obesity and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Cannata Francesca , Vadalà Gianluca , Ambrosio Luca , Fallucca Sara , Napoli Nicola , Papalia Rocco , Pozzilli Paolo , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: October 2019

Obesity (OB) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are among the most prevalent metabolic diseases. They currently affect a substantial part of the world population and are characterized by several systemic co‐morbidities, including cardiovascular diseases, stroke, cancer, liver steatosis, and musculoskeletal disorders, by increasing the risk of developing osteoarthritis and intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). IVDD is a chronic, progressive process whose main features are disc dehydration, loss of disc height, and changes of load distribution across the spine, resulting in disc structure disruption and leading to low back pain onset. Given the high prevalence of these metabolic disorders and their association with IVDD, several studies have been conducted in order to investigate the causative role of biological and biomechanical characteristics proper to these conditions in the development of IVDD. This review aims to analyse the role of OB and T2D on IVDD, in order to clarify the pathophysiological drivers of the degenerative process and to delineate possible targets to which appropriate treatments may be addressed in the near future.
Looking back to look ahead: a vision for soil denitrification research
Authors: Almaraz Maya , Wong Michelle Y. , Yang Wendy H.
Published: October 2019

Denitrification plays a critical role in regulating ecosystem nutrient availability and anthropogenic reactive nitrogen (N) production. Its importance has inspired an increasing number of studies, yet it remains the most poorly constrained term in terrestrial ecosystem N budgets. We censused the peer‐reviewed soil denitrification literature (1975–2015) to identify opportunities for future studies to advance our understanding despite the inherent challenges in studying the process. We found that only one‐third of studies reported estimates of both nitrous oxide (N2O) and dinitrogen (N2) production fluxes, often the dominant end products of denitrification, while the majority of studies reported only net N2O fluxes or denitrification potential. Of the 236 studies that measured complete denitrification to N2, 49% used the acetylene inhibition method, 84% were conducted in the laboratory, 81% were performed on surface soils (0–20 cm depth), 75% were located in North America and Europe, and 78% performed treatment manipulations, mostly of N, carbon, or water. To improve understanding of soil denitrification, we recommend broadening access to technologies for new methodologies to measure soil N2 production rates, conducting more studies in the tropics and on subsoils, performing standardized experiments on unmanipulated soils, and using more precise terminology to refer to measured process rates (e.g., net N2O flux or denitrification potential). To overcome the greater challenges in studying soil denitrification, we envision coordinated research efforts based on standard reporting of metadata for all soil denitrification studies, standard protocols for studies contributing to a Global Denitrification Research Network, and a global consortium of denitrification researchers to facilitate sharing ideas, resources, and to provide mentorship for researchers new to the field.
Heart failure in Norway, 2000–2014: analysing incident, total and readmission rates using data from the Cardiovascular Disease in Norway (CVDNOR) Project
Authors: Sulo Gerhard , Igland Jannicke , Øverland Simon , Egeland Grace M. , Roth Gregory A. , Vollset Stein E. , Tell Grethe S.
Published: October 2019

Aims

To examine trends in heart failure (HF) hospitalization rates and risk of readmissions following an incident HF hospitalization.

Methods and results

During 2000–2014, we identified in the Cardiovascular Disease in Norway Project 142 109 hospitalizations with HF as primary diagnosis. Trends of incident and total (incident and recurrent) HF hospitalization rates were analysed using negative binomial regression models. Changes over time in 30‐day and 3‐year risk of HF recurrences or cardiovascular disease (CVD)‐related readmissions were analysed using Fine and Grey competing risk regression, with death as competing events. Age‐standardized rates declined on average 1.9% per year in men and 1.8% per year in women for incident HF hospitalizations (both Ptrend < 0.001) but did not change significantly in either men or women for total HF hospitalizations. In men surviving the incident HF hospitalization, 30‐day and 3‐year risk of a HF recurrent event increased 1.7% and 1.2% per year, respectively. Similarly, 30‐day and 3‐year risk of a CVD‐related hospitalization increased 1.5% and 1.0% per year, respectively (all Ptrend < 0.001). No statistically significant changes in the risk of HF recurrences or CVD‐related readmissions were observed among women. In‐hospital mortality for a first and recurrent HF episode declined over time in both men and women.

Conclusions

Incident HF hospitalization rates declined in Norway during 2000–2014. An increase in the risk of recurrences in the context of reduced in‐hospital mortality following an incident and recurrent HF hospitalization led to flat trends of total HF hospitalization rates.
Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology position paper on frailty in patients with heart failure
Authors: Vitale Cristiana , Jankowska Ewa , Hill Loreena , Piepoli Massimo , Doehner Wolfram , Anker Stefan D. , Lainscak Mitja , Jaarsma Tiny , Ponikowski Piotr , Rosano Giuseppe M.C. , Seferovic Petar , Coats Andrew J.
Published: October 2019

Heart failure (HF) and frailty are two distinct yet commonly associated conditions. The interplay between the two conditions is complex, due to overlaps in underlying mechanisms, symptoms and prognosis. The assessment of frailty in patients with HF is crucial, as it is associated with both unfavourable outcomes and reduced access and tolerance to treatments. However, to date a consensus definition of frailty in patients with HF remains lacking and the need for a validated assessment score, for identifying those HF patients with frailty, is high and timely. This position paper proposes a new definition of frailty for use by healthcare professionals in the setting of HF and creates a foundation for the design of a tailored and validated score for this common condition.
Inkjet Printing of Li‐Rich Cathode Material for Thin‐Film Lithium‐Ion Microbatteries
Authors: Kolchanov Denis S. , Mitrofanov Ilya , Kim Artem , Koshtyal Yury , Rumyantsev Aleksander , Sergeeva Ekaterina , Vinogradov Alexandr , Popovich Anatoly , Maximov Maxim Yu.
Published: October 2019

The observed downsizing tendency of microelectronic devices leads to a higher demand in new types of miniaturized energy sources. Thin‐film Li‐ion batteries (LiBs) are promising candidates to fulfil this function. New materials and technologies should be investigated for customized production of miniaturized, high‐efficient solid‐state batteries. Herein, inkjet printing technology is considered as a promising one for the fabrication of LiBs. The modification of crystalline lattice of Li‐rich cathode material by aluminium, sodium, and potassium and their influence on power efficiency are studied in detail. Lithium‐manganese‐rich compounds are chosen as the most suitable composition of an active component for LiBs fabrication. The stable aqueous colloidal ink composition is synthesized and its rheological parameters are optimized for inkjet printing in terms of viscosity, surface tension, and contact angle. Protocols for inkjet printing for the fabrication of thin‐film cathodes with the thickness of less than 10 μm are reported. The good correlation of electrochemical properties such as average voltage, capacity, and energy between inkjet printed and conventionally fabricated electrodes confirms the feasibility of the suggested technological approach and selected cathode material composition.
Experimental investigations of stress‐gas pressure evolution rules of coal and gas outburst: A case study in Dingji coal mine, China
Authors: Zhao Bo , Cao Jie , Sun Haitao , Wen Guangcai , Dai Linchao , Wang Bo
Published: October 2019

Coal and gas outburst is a potentially fatal risk during the mining of gassy coal seams, which seriously threatens the safe mining of collieries. To understand the outburst mechanism and evolution rules, a new apparatus (LSTT) was developed to conduct simulated experiment. In the context of an outburst accident in Dingji coal mine, the authors launched an authentic outburst experiment to replay the outburst accident. Experimental apparatus, similar criterion, coal‐like materials and gas sources, and experimental design were discussed systematically in this paper. Experimentally, the study analyzed the geo‐stress has significant influence on the outburst evolution. At the driving face, the stress concentration possibly caused gas outburst, under the influence of mining‐induced stress. After the outburst occurred, the stress balance of the coal changed, resulting in the instability of the coal. Furthermore, the elastic energy, gas enthalpy, and gravitational potential energy were released rapidly. The experimental result stated that outburst coal has the sorting characteristics, in line with the field outburst law. The intensity prediction model has been built based on the energy model. Moreover, the factors that impact outburst intensity were analyzed. In the process of coal and gas outburst, the gas enthalpy of gas and the elastic potential of coal are the main energy sources. This study provides guidance for the development of the outburst mechanism and outburst mine management.
Energy‐efficient power allocation for device‐to‐device communications underlaid cellular networks using stochastic geometry
Authors: Zabetian Negar , Mohammadi Abbas , Masoudi Meysam
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we study an energy efficiency maximization problem in uplink for device‐to‐device (D2D) communications underlaid with cellular networks on multiple bands. Utilizing stochastic geometry, we derive closed‐form expressions for the average sum rate, successful transmission probability, and energy efficiency of cellular and D2D users. Then, we formulate an optimization problem to jointly maximize the energy efficiency of D2D and cellular users and obtain optimum transmission power of both D2D and cellular users. In the optimization problem, we guarantee the quality‐of‐service of users by taking into account the success transmission probability on each link. To solve the problem, first we convert the problem into canonical convex form. Afterwards, we solve the problem in two phases: energy efficiency maximization of devices and energy efficiency maximization of cellular users. In the first phase, we maximize the energy efficiency of D2D users and feed the solution to the second phase where we maximize the energy efficiency of cellular users. Simulation results reveal that significant energy efficiency can be attained, eg, 10% energy efficiency improvement compared to fix transmission power in a high‐density scenario.
Mesozoic multistage structural deformation along the Ke‐Bai fault zone in the north‐west Junggar Basin, NW China
Authors: Yan Dezhi , Xu Huaimin , Xu Zhaohui , Tian Miao , Lei Zhicheng
Published: October 2019

The Junggar Basin is one of the main oil basins in Northwest China, and the north‐west part of the basin is a significant petroleum exploration target. Mesozoic structural activity had an important influence on the present structural characteristics of the north‐west Junggar Basin. In this paper, we discuss the tectonic evolution of the Junggar Basin by studying the structural characteristics of the Ke‐Bai Fault. Our results suggest that the Ke‐Bai Fault has obvious strike‐slip characteristics and that it is an important basin‐controlling fault that has controlled the tectonic evolution of the north‐west Junggar Basin. The Junggar Basin was a rift basin in the Early Permian, but it experienced a tectonic reversal during the Middle Permian to the Triassic. The Ke‐Bai Fault changed from a normal fault into a thrust fault from the Early Permian to the Triassic. During the Jurassic, dextral strike‐slip structures developed along the Ke‐Bai Fault, horsetail splay faults developed in its north segment, and there is evidence that it was under WNW–ESE compression. The dextral strike‐slip faulting of the Ke‐Bai Fault is consistent with tectonic movement along the Kelameili, Sangequan, Wu‐Xia, Hong‐Che, and North Tianshan fault systems in the Junggar Basin. We therefore infer that counterclockwise rotation occurred in the Junggar Basin in the Jurassic.
Kesterson Reservoir: 30 Years of Selenium Risk Assessment and Management
Authors: Ohlendorf Harry M , Santolo Gary M , Byron Earl R , Eisert Marjorie A
Published: October 2019

Severe effects of selenium (Se) occurred among birds feeding and nesting at Kesterson Reservoir (San Joaquin Valley, California, USA) in 1983 to 1985. This paper describes the integration of site monitoring, risk assessment, and management actions conducted after the effects of Se were discovered. Selenium contamination of the site occurred over just a few years, but actions to resolve the contamination issues required >20 y. The reservoir, a series of 12 ponds totaling about 1280 acres (518 hectares), served for storage and evaporation of subsurface agricultural drainage. Selenium concentrations in reservoir inflow in 1983 were about 300 µg/L, primarily as selenate; within the ponds it was biogeochemically reduced to other inorganic and organic forms and bioaccumulated by biota or deposited to sediments. An estimated 9000 kg of Se were delivered to Kesterson in 1981–1986. A 1985 order required cleanup and abatement of the reservoir, so the United States Bureau of Reclamation and the US Department of the Interior undertook actions and studies to reduce hazards to birds. In 1988, about 1 million cubic yards (764 500 m3) of soil were used to fill portions of the reservoir, transforming it into terrestrial habitat. Intensive monitoring began in 1989 to assess the impact of the reservoir on wildlife, provide a basis for adjusting site management, verify the effectiveness of cleanup actions, and provide a basis for modifying future monitoring. Monitoring continued until 2014, with modifications and management actions based on results of 2 risk assessments (1993 and 2000). Monitoring results in 2013–2014 showed that Se concentrations were relatively stable over time and risks to wildlife were low. From the initial problem discovery to the conclusion of actions taken to remediate the site, combining responsive, reactive, and adaptive monitoring; modeling; risk assessment; and mitigation actions proved effective in solving the problem so that risks to wildlife were reduced to minimal levels. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:257–268. © 2019 SETAC
Risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse after conization in relation to HPV vaccination status
Authors: Sand Freja L. , Kjaer Susanne K. , Frederiksen Kirsten , Dehlendorff Christian
Published: October 2019

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is essential for developing cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. Currently, three vaccines are available, which are effective as prophylaxis against HPV infection, however, limited knowledge exists about the possible effect of vaccinating women treated with conization to prevent recurrence. The aim of our study was to examine the risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) after conization according to HPV vaccination status. Using Danish nationwide registries, we identified women diagnosed with CIN3 on the cone (2006–2012) and their HPV vaccination status. Vaccinees were defined as women vaccinated between 3 months before until 1 year after conization. The women were followed from 1 year after conization until diagnosis of CIN2+, conization, death, emigration or end of follow‐up. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of CIN2+ comparing vaccinees with nonvaccinees. The HR was adjusted for age, histology on cone, education, year of conization, repeat conizations and CIN2+ lesions between conization and start of follow‐up. Altogether 17,128 women were included (2,074 vaccinees). There was a statistically nonsignificant lower risk of CIN2+ among vaccinees (HRadjusted = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.67–1.09). Women vaccinated 0–3 months before tended to have a slightly lower HR of CIN2+ (HRadjusted = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.45–1.32) than women vaccinated 0–12 months after conization (HRadjusted = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.67–1.14), although not statistically significantly different. Our results add to the current knowledge about the potential clinical effect of vaccination as an adjunct to conization of high‐grade cervical neoplasia to decrease risk of recurrence.
The housing market and agricultural land dynamics: Appraising with Economic Policy Uncertainty Index
Authors: Alola Andrew Adewale , Uzuner Gizem
Published: October 2019

Agricultural land is a main component of the environment and ecological system. Therefore, this study employs the panel cointegration approach to investigate the dynamic relationship between the housing market vis‐à‐vis housing price (hp) and agricultural land (land) of a panel of 15 countries (countries with the gross domestic product–weighted average of the national Economic Policy Uncertainty index) over the period 1997–2015. Additionally, Granger causality approach of Dumitrescu–Hurlin is employed for the investigation. The model adjusts to the long‐run equilibrium with an annual speed of 11% from any situation of disequilibrium and with elasticities of −3.97 and −0.67, respectively, for a land and Global Economic Policy Uncertainty (gepu). Meanwhile, the impact during a short run of gepu is statistically significant and positive on hp, whereas it is not significant for land. Interestingly, the investigation reveals Granger causality from agricultural land to the housing price with feedback. The research presents an indication that policymaker(s) and urbanization stakeholders should be more concern about effective and sustainable long‐term policies. Future anomalies of food scarcity and skyrocketing house prices associated with agricultural land–house price trade‐off challenges could potentially be mitigated by such effective policy frameworks.
DFT/MRCI assessment of the excited‐state interplay in a coumarin‐schiff Mg2+ fluorescent sensor
Authors: Zarate Ximena , Rodriguez‐Serrano Angela , Schott Eduardo , Tatchen Jörg
Published: October 2019

Fluorescent sensors with selectivity and sensitivity to metal ions are an active field in supramolecular chemistry for biochemical, analytical, and environmental problems. Mg2+ is one of the most abundant divalent ions in the cell, and it plays a critical role in many biological processes. Coumarin‐based sensors are widely used as desirable fluorophore and binding moieties showing a remarkable sensitivity and fluorometric enhancement for Mg2+. In this work, density functional theory/multireference configuration interaction (DFT/MRCI) calculations were performed in order to understand the sensing behavior of the organic fluorescent sensor 7‐hydroxy‐4‐methyl‐8‐((2‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)hydrazono)methyl)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one (PyHC) in ethanol to solvated Mg2+ ions. The computed optical properties reproduce well‐reported experimental data. Our results suggest that after photoexcitation of the free PyHC, a photo‐induced electron transfer (PET) mechanism may compete with the fluorescence decay to the ground state. In contrast, this PET channel is no longer available in the complex with Mg2+ making the emissive decay more efficient. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The implication of spatial interpolated climate data on biophysical modelling in agricultural systems
Authors: Liu De Li , Ji Fei , Wang Bin , Waters Cathy , Feng Puyu , Darbyshire Rebecca
Published: October 2019

Spatial modelling of agricultural production has been more frequently analysed to assist with regional and long‐term planning. Typically, point‐scale crop models are used to construct these analyses with researchers using various sources of input data, including observed and interpolated gridded climate data. Understanding the implication of data choice on production estimates is crucial to appreciate the consequences of selecting methodological approaches for agricultural model outputs. In this study, we compared site observed climate data and gridded data sets interpolated from site observations that are commonly used the Australian climate data set. We assessed the consequences of the differences in climate variables (biases) to the modelled outputs. Our results showed that the major differences between gridded and observed climate data sets were for rainfall variables. Interpolated gridded data tended to have larger rainfall frequency and smaller rainfall intensity, leading to lower surface runoff and higher soil evaporation that caused less plant water uses and less nitrogen uptake, and ultimately resulted in biases in simulated crop biomass and yield. In addition, the results indicated that agricultural models implemented with gridded data could produce similar overall model outputs as those driven by observed climate data, but can result in more uncertainties in simulated spatial outputs. This is particularly evident in regions with high rainfall. Our results showed that applying agricultural models with observed data and then interpolating these results spatially might be the optimal approach to minimize the biases in production modelling outputs and reduce computing time and storage.
An evaluation of COSMO‐CLM regional climate model in simulating precipitation over Central Africa
Authors: Fotso‐Kamga Gabriel , Fotso‐Nguemo Thierry C. , Diallo Ismaila , Yepdo Zéphirin D. , Pokam Wilfried M. , Vondou Derbetini A. , Lenouo André
Published: October 2019

In this study, an analysis of present day climate simulation (1998–2008) is presented for the Central African (CA) region with the COnsortium for Small‐scale MOdelling in CLimate Mode (CCLM) regional climate model, forced by the ERA‐Interim (ERAINT) reanalysis data. The ability of the CCLM to simulate the observed precipitation with particular focus on the mean spatial pattern, low‐level circulation, seasonal cycles, and daily characteristics is evaluated. Likewise, the added value of the regional model CCLM compared to the driving ERAINT reanalysis is also investigated. It is shown that ERAINT and CCLM exhibit quite different sign of bias, which is an indication of the importance of internal variability and fine scale processes representation for the simulation of surface climate. Despite the CCLM is constantly dry over southern CA, the model succeeds to reproduce reasonably the mean spatial patterns of precipitation and low‐level circulation features, along with the associated seasonal cycles over the whole CA and majority of the five selected analysis sub‐regions. Results also show that daily precipitation indices are well represented, although the better performance greatly depends on the considered seasons. Nevertheless, CCLM substantially outperforms the ERAINT daily precipitation characteristics, thus highlighting the added value of the downscaling exercise over the region. The analysis of daily precipitation indices also reveals that the dry character of the model could probably be connected to the underestimation of the simulated less intense events, which in turn result to an overestimation of the simulated dry spell duration.
Impact of berry size at harvest on red wine composition: a winemaker's approach
Authors: Gil Cortiella Mariona , Úbeda Cristina , del Barrio‐Galán Rubén , Peña‐Neira Alvaro
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

A classical postulate of viticulture declares that small grape berries produce the best red wines. The popularity of this postulate among winemakers leads them to consider berry size at harvest as a tool to measure the grape's potential to obtain great red wines. To address this issue, two vineyards from the same cultivar and subjected to the same physiological conditions during growing were selected for their difference in average grape berry size at harvest. Grapes from both origins were characterized and used for red winemaking by the same way. Release of volatile compounds and phenolic compounds during the alcoholic fermentation was monitored, and the finished wines were chemically characterized.

RESULTS

Larger grapes have a lower theoretical surface‐to‐volume ratio but have thicker skins and a greater proportion of skins (m/m). Wines made from grapes with a greater proportion of skins contain higher amounts of phenolic compounds, terpenes, volatile acids, acetate esters and polysaccharides.

CONCLUSION

According to the results, it seems that grape skin extraction is more related to skin proportion than to berry size. Thus not always smaller grapes produce darker red wines. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Riemann‐Hilbert approach for multisoliton solutions of generalized coupled fourth‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equations
Authors: Xu Tai‐Yang , Tian Shou‐Fu , Peng Wei‐Qi
Published: October 2019

The main purpose of this work is to develop Riemann‐Hilbert approach to obtain the soliton solutions for generalized coupled fourth‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equations, which describe the simultaneous propagation of optical pulses in an inhomogeneous optical fiber. Starting from the spectral analysis of the Lax pair, a Riemann‐Hilbert problem is set up. After solving the obtained Riemann‐Hilbert problem with reflectionless case, we systematically derive multisoliton solutions for the generalized coupled fourth‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equations. In addition, the localized structures and dynamic behaviors of one‐ and two‐soliton solutions are shown by some graphic analysis.
Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors and the risk of fractures: A propensity score‐matched cohort study
Authors: Adimadhyam Sruthi , Lee Todd A. , Calip Gregory S. , Smith Marsh Daphne E. , Layden Brian T. , Schumock Glen T.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To determine the risk of fractures associated with sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) compared with dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP4i).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from the Truven Health MarketScan (2009‐2015) databases. Our cohort included patients newly initiating treatment with SGLT2i or DPP‐4i between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2015 that were matched 1:1 using high dimensional propensity scores. Patients were followed up in an as‐treated approach starting from initiation of treatment until the earliest of any fracture, treatment discontinuation, disenrollment, or end of data (31 December 2015). Risk of fractures was determined at any time during the follow‐up, early in therapy (1‐14 days of the follow‐up), and later in therapy (15 days and beyond). Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine hazard ratios and robust 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

After matching, our cohort included 30 549 patients in each treatment group. Over a median follow‐up of 219 days, there were 745 fractures overall. The most common site for fractures was the foot (32.7%). The effect estimates for fracture risk occurring at any time during follow‐up, early in therapy, and later in therapy were HR 1.11 [95% CI 0.96‐1.28], HR 1.82 [95% CI 0.99‐3.32], and HR 1.07 [95% CI 0.92‐1.24], respectively.

Conclusion

There is a possible increase in risk for fractures early in therapy with SGLT2i. Beyond this initial period, SGLT2is had no apparent effect on the incidence of fractures.
Population Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Methylprednisolone in Neonates Undergoing Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Hornik Christoph P. , Gonzalez Daniel , Dumond Julie , Wu Huali , Graham Eric M. , Hill Kevin D. , Cohen‐Wolkowiez Michael
Published: October 2019

Methylprednisolone is used in neonates to modulate cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)–induced inflammation, but optimal dosing and exposure are unknown. We used plasma methylprednisolone and interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐10 concentrations from neonates enrolled in a randomized trial comparing one vs. two doses of methylprednisolone to develop indirect response population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic models characterizing the exposure–response relationships. We applied the models to simulate methylprednisolone dosages resulting in the desired IL‐6 and ‐10 exposures, known mediators of CPB‐induced inflammation. A total of 64 neonates (median weight 3.2 kg, range 2.2–4.3) contributed 290 plasma methylprednisolone concentrations (range 1.07–12,700 ng/mL) and IL‐6 (0–681 pg/mL) and IL‐10 (0.1–1125 pg/mL). Methylprednisolone plasma exposure following a single 10 mg/kg intravenous dose inhibited IL‐6 and stimulated IL‐10 production when compared with placebo. Higher (30 mg/kg) or more frequent (twice) dosing did not confer additional benefit. Clinical efficacy studies are needed to evaluate the effect of optimized dosing on outcomes.
Improved Electron Transport Properties of Ga1–xInxSb Quantum Well Channel Using Strained‐Al0.40In0.60Sb/Al1–yInySb Stepped Buffer
Authors: Hiraoka Mizuho , Endoh Yuki , Osawa Koki , Kishimoto Naoyuki , Hayashi Takuya , Machida Ryuto , Watanabe Issei , Yamashita Yoshimi , Hara Shinsuke , Gotow Takahiro , Kasamatsu Akifumi , Endoh Akira , Fujishiro Hiroki I.
Published: October 2019

Unstrained Ga1–xInxSb quantum well (QW) channel using strained‐Al0.40In0.60Sb/Al1–yInySb stepped buffer layer grown on GaAs (100) substrate is investigated. Ga1–xInxSb QW is lattice‐matched to the Al1–yInySb lower buffer layer. Sheet electron density (Ns) of Ga1–xInxSb QW is about twice that of InSb one. Electron mobility (μ) increases with increasing In contentxof Ga1–xInxSb. Unstrained Ga0.22In0.78Sb QW channel using strained‐Al0.40In0.60Sb/Al0.25In0.75Sb stepped buffer hasNsof 2.05 × 1012 cm−2andμof 15 500 cm2 V−1 s−1. Compared with the InSb QW channel,Nsincreases by a factor of 193% andμdecreases to 87%. Consequently, the sheet resistance decreases to 59%. These results indicate that the unstrained Ga1–xInxSb QW channel using strained‐Al0.40In0.60Sb/Al1–yInySb stepped buffer is effective to improve the electron transport properties.
Generation of ground‐state structures and electronic properties of ternary AlxTiyNiz clusters (x + y + z = 6) with a two‐stage density functional theory global search approach
Authors: Koh Pin W. , Yoon Tiem L. , Lim Thong L. , Chang Yee H. R. , Goh Eong S.
Published: October 2019

The structural and electronic properties of ternary AlxTiyNiz clusters, where x, y, and z are integers and x + y + z = 6, are investigated. Both Slater, Vosko, Wilks, and Nusair and B3LYP exchange‐correlation (XC) functionals are employed in a two‐stage density functional theory (DFT) calculations to generate these clusters. In the first stage, a minimum energy cluster structure is generated by an unbiased global search algorithm coupled with a DFT code using a light XC functional and small basis sets. In the second stage, the obtained cluster structure is further optimized by another round of global minimization search coupled with a DFT calculator using a heavier XC functional and more costly basis set. Electronic properties of the structures are illustrated in the form of a ternary diagram. Our DFT calculations find that the thermodynamic stability of the clusters increases with the increment in the number of constituent nickel atoms. These results provide a new insight to the structure, stability, chemical order, and electronic properties for the ternary alloy nanoclusters.
Prenatal stem cell therapy for inherited diseases: Past, present, and future treatment strategies
Authors: Ekblad-Nordberg Åsa , Walther-Jallow Lilian , Westgren Magnus , Götherström Cecilia
Published: October 2019

Imagine the profits in quality of life that can be made by treating inherited diseases early in life, maybe even before birth! Immense cost savings can also be made by treating diseases promptly. Hence, prenatal stem cell therapy holds great promise for developing new and early-stage treatment strategies for several diseases. Successful prenatal stem cell therapy would represent a major step forward in the management of patients with hematological, metabolic, or immunological disorders. However, treatment before birth has several limitations, including ethical issues. In this review, we summarize the past, the present, and the future of prenatal stem cell therapy, which includes an overview of different stem cell types, preclinical studies, and clinical attempts treating various diseases. We also discuss the current challenges and future strategies for prenatal stem cell therapy and also new approaches, which may lead to advancement in the management of patients with severe incurable diseases.

Significance statement This review summarizes the past, the present progress, and the future potential of prenatal stem cell therapy. Recent and previous studies are discussed, focusing on both preclinical and clinical data, highlighting both the drawbacks and the novel findings leading to the progress of prenatal stem cell therapies into the clinic.