bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metal Ion Sensing and Electrochemical Behavior of MOF Derived ZnCo2O4
Authors: Ghosh Debamalya , Pal Ananya , Ghosh Susanta , Gayen Arup , Seikh Md. Motin , Mahata Partha
Published: June 2019

A metal‐organic framework (MOF) with the formula {(H2pip)[Zn1/3Co2/3(pydc‐2,5)2(H2O)]·2H2O}{where H2pip = piperazinediium, pydc‐2,5 = pyridine‐2,5‐dicarboxylate}, 1, has been synthesized. To confirm the structure and phase purity of 1, the PXRD pattern of the synthesized compound has been compared with the simulated PXRD pattern generated from the single‐crystal X‐ray data of isomorphous pure Co compound synthesized by Niu and Co‐workers. Upon solid state annealing of the mixed‐metal precursor (MOF) at 400 °C for one hour, pure ZnCo2O4 was obtained. The phase purity of ZnCo2O4 was confirmed by powder X‐ray diffraction. The as obtained ZnCo2O4 was fully characterized using PXRD, SEM, TEM, and EDX elemental mapping analysis. The particle size is in the range of 22 nm‐40 nm with a dominant size of 30 nm. The emissive properties of nano‐sized ZnCo2O4 at 391 nm upon excitation at 310 nm have been probed for the luminescence‐based sensing of metal cations in aqueous medium. The metal ion sensing is based on the differential change in intensity, which in turn reflects the strength of the interaction between ZnCo2O4 and the metal ion. Such interactions can be rationalized within the framework of the ligand exchange rate as well as ionic radii of the aquated metal ions. Accordingly, Cu2+ and Hg2+ with highest ligand exchange rate exhibit maximum luminescence quenching, 71.7 % and 51 %, respectively. On the other hand, the nanostructured ZnCo2O4 also shows super capacitance behavior with a maximum energy density of 2.39 Wh kg–1 at a power density of 36.66 W kg–1.
Sulfur doped carbon porous as an efficient catalyst for sustainable energy processes
Authors: Tavakol Hossein , Hassani Fahimeh
Published: June 2019

The chemical vapor deposition method has been employed to produce carbon porous (CPs) and sulfur‐doped carbon porous (SCPs). Mo‐Fe/CaCO3 and Fe/CaCO3 have been used as the catalysts for the growth step, which Fe/CaCO3 produced the more appropriate products with smaller diameters in higher yield. Moreover, different growth temperatures were used and among all examined temperatures (750, 800, 850, 900°C), the product produced at 750°C (SCP750) has the smallest diameter, the highest sulfur content and the least defect in its structure. The product with 0.5% Mo content in the catalyst showed the highest yield and The ID/IG ratio of SCP750 is less than that of SCP900. The sulfur content of in SCP750, SCP800, SCP850, and SCP900 (using EDS analyses) are respectively 7.6, 3.8, 6.9, and 5.7 w/w%. The porosity of the product (SCP750) was examined using adsorption–desorption diagrams, which showed macro‐porous structures with the diameters of the pores between 40 and 80 nm and high surface area (770.9 m2/g). Finally, the abilities of all products (CPs and all SCPs) as a catalyst for sustainable energy processes, oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) were investigated. In both electrochemical reactions, SCPs had better activities than CPs. However, the products showed appropriate efficiencies only in OER reaction and among doped products, SCP750 and SCP800 showed the highest catalytic efficiencies. The results showed that doping is an appropriate way to enhance the catalytic ability of this type of non‐metal materials in OER and HER reactions.
Dynamic risk assessment approach of riser recoil control failure during production test of marine natural gas hydrate
Authors: Chang Yuanjiang , Li Jiayi , Zhang Changshuai , Chen Guoming , Li Xinhong , Zhang Shenyan , Xu Liangbin , Sheng Leixiang
Published: June 2019

The marine natural gas hydrate is considered to have huge resource potential in the South China Sea, and a sixty‐day production test has been successfully conducted in 2017. As the crucial and most vulnerable connection of floating platform and subsea wellhead, the risers are of paramount importance in safe production test of the hydrate. Due to harsh environment and the possible drive off and drift off events induced by failure of dynamic positioning system of the platform, the unplanned emergency disconnect of risers is an integral preventive measure to avoid accidents and secure the well. Once the disconnect occurs, the huge potential energy stored in the riser column will release and consequently cause violent axial recoil, which will cause serious consequences if the recoil control fails. This paper presented a quantitative risk assessment approach on the basis of dynamic Bayesian networks to dynamically predict the risk of riser recoil control failure during production test of hydrate. By using the proposed method, the dynamic failure risk of the riser recoil control was figured out, and the most contributory factors were identified. The practical application of the proposed methodology was demonstrated through a case study. Results indicated that the probability of riser recoil control failure can be significantly decreased within one year through equipment repair, and the failure and repair rates of shutoff valves and main air isolation valves are the most contributory factors. Some corresponding safety control measures were proposed to further mitigate the risk of riser recoil control failure during the production test of hydrate.
Toxicity of Aluminum to Ceriodaphnia dubia in Low-Hardness Waters as Affected by Natural Dissolved Organic Matter
Authors: Besser John , Cleveland Danielle , Ivey Chris , Blake Laura
Published: June 2019

We conducted a series of 7-d toxicity tests with Ceriodaphnia dubia in dilutions of low-hardness natural waters, which contained dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations up to 10 mg/L. Stream waters were mixed with well water to achieve 2 target hardness levels (20 and 35 mg/L) and 4 DOC concentrations. Tests with aluminum (Al)-spiked waters were conducted in a controlled CO2 atmosphere to maintain the pH at a range of 6.0 to 6.5. The results were used to estimate effect concentrations for survival and reproduction, expressed as total (unfiltered) Al concentrations. There were small differences in total-Al thresholds between waters with 20 and 35 mg/L hardness, but effect concentrations for C. dubia survival (median lethal concentrations) and reproduction (effect concentrations, 20%) increased log-linearly with increasing DOC concentrations in the range, 0.3 to 6 mg/L. Slopes of these regressions were similar to slopes from data used to revise the US Environmental Protection Agency water quality criterion for Al, but toxic effects in the present study occurred at total-Al concentrations 8- to 10-fold greater than toxicity values used for criteria development. This difference probably reflects the long equilibration (aging) times of Al test waters used in the present study (up to 192 h) compared with short (3-h) equilibration times in other studies used for criteria development. These results confirm the importance of DOC as a control on Al toxicity in low-hardness waters, but they also demonstrate that total-Al concentrations are not predictive of Al toxicity, except under defined water quality (pH, hardness, DOC) and exposure conditions (e.g., aging of test waters). Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2121–2127. Published 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work, and as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Environmental Risk Assessment for the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Mycophenolic Acid in European Surface Waters
Authors: Straub Jürg Oliver , Oldenkamp Rik , Pfister Thomas , Häner Andreas
Published: June 2019

An environmental risk assessment is presented for mycophenolic acid (MPA), an immunosuppressive pharmaceutical used for prevention of organ rejection, and its prodrug mycophenolate mofetil (MPM). Mycophenolic acid will not significantly adsorb to activated sludge. In activated sludge, 14C-MPA attained >80% degradation, supporting an older environmental fate test with the same compound. Based on n-octanol/water distribution coefficient (log DOW) values of 2.28, 0.48, and ≤–1.54 at pH 5, 7, and 9, respectively, MPA is not expected to bioaccumulate. Sales amounts of MPA+MPM in Europe were used to derive predicted environmental concentrations (PECs) in surface waters; PECs were refined by including expected biodegradation in sewage treatment, average drinking water use, and average dilution of the effluents in the receiving waters per country. In addition, the exposure to pharmaceuticals in the environment (ePiE) model was run for 4 European catchments. The PECs were complemented with 110 measured environmental concentrations (MECs), ranging from below the limit of quantitation (<0.001 µg/L) to 0.656 µg/L. Predicted no-effect concentrations (PNECs) were derived from chronic tests with cyanobacteria, green algae, daphnids, and fish. The comparison of PECs and MECs with the PNECs resulted in a differentiated environmental risk assessment in which the risk ratio of PEC/PNEC or MEC/PNEC was <1 in most cases (mostly >90%), meaning no significant risk, but a potential risk to aquatic organisms in generally <10% of instances. Because this assessment reveals a partial risk, the following questions must be asked: How much risk is acceptable? and Through which measures can this risk be reduced? These questions are all the more important in view of limited alternatives for MPM and MPA and the serious consequences of not using them. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2259–2278. © 2019 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Hybridization in human evolution: Insights from other organisms
Authors: Ackermann Rebecca R. , Arnold Michael L. , Baiz Marcella D. , Cahill James A. , Cortés‐Ortiz Liliana , Evans Ben J. , Grant B. Rosemary , Grant Peter R. , Hallgrimsson Benedikt , Humphreys Robyn A. , Jolly Clifford J. , Malukiewicz Joanna , Percival Christopher J. , Ritzman Terrence B. , Roos Christian , Roseman Charles C. , Schroeder Lauren , Smith Fred H. , Warren Kerryn A. , Wayne Robert K. , Zinner Dietmar
Published: June 2019

During the late Pleistocene, isolated lineages of hominins exchanged genes thus influencing genomic variation in humans in both the past and present. However, the dynamics of this genetic exchange and associated phenotypic consequences through time remain poorly understood. Gene exchange across divergent lineages can result in myriad outcomes arising from these dynamics and the environmental conditions under which it occurs. Here we draw from our collective research across various organisms, illustrating some of the ways in which gene exchange can structure genomic/phenotypic diversity within/among species. We present a range of examples relevant to questions about the evolution of hominins. These examples are not meant to be exhaustive, but rather illustrative of the diverse evolutionary causes/consequences of hybridization, highlighting potential drivers of human evolution in the context of hybridization including: influences on adaptive evolution, climate change, developmental systems, sex‐differences in behavior, Haldane's rule and the large X‐effect, and transgressive phenotypic variation.
Interspecific variation, antioxidant and allelopathic activity of the essential oil from three Launaea species growing naturally in heterogeneous habitats in Egypt
Authors: Elshamy Abdelsamed I. , Abd‐ElGawad Ahmed M. , El‐Amier Yasser A. , El Gendy Abd El‐Nasser G. , Al‐Rowaily Saud L.
Published: June 2019

Essential oils (EOs) from the aerial parts of three Launaea species collected from two different habitats were extracted [Launaea mucronata collected from coastal desert (LMC) and from inland desert (LMD), Launaea nudicaulis collected from coastal desert (LNC) and from inland desert (LND), Launaea spinosa (LS)]. The EOs were analysed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and tested for antioxidant activity as well for allelopathic activity against purslane. A total of 117 compounds were identified from all samples, including 64 from LS, 50 from LMC, 39 from LMD, 24 from LNC, and 20 from LND, representing 100% of the total oil mass. The oxygenated sesquiterpenes were the major compounds of the EOs from LS, LMC, LMD, LNC, and LND, representing 62.73, 61.02, 58.35, 43.22, and 48.33%, respectively, whereas the monoterpene hydrocarbons were minor compounds in all samples. α‐Acorenol (31.42%), trans‐longipinocarveol (12.04%), and γ‐eudesmol (6.31%) represented the major compounds of the EO from LS, whereas hexahydrofarnesyl acetone and n‐heneicosane represented the major compounds from LMC, LMD, LNC, and LND. Correlations between the EOs of the five samples were studied via principal component analysis and agglomerative hierarchical clustering, based on the chemical composition of the EOs. There was a significant variation between Launaea species regarding both the quality and the quantity of EO composition, whereas no significant difference was observed based on the habitats (coastal and inland deserts). The EOs of the five Launaea samples exhibited meaningful antioxidant activities, as follows: LND > LNC > LMD > LMC > LS. Moreover, the EOs of the five Lanaea samples exhibited significant allelopathic activity against purslane weed in a concentration‐dependent manner. LMD and LMC showed the highest effect, with germination inhibition of 96.1 and 87.9% at 250 μL L−1, and radicle growth inhibition of 92.6 and 89.7%, but LS was the least effective extract. Our results showed that the variation in the quality and quantity of EO composition is mainly species specific, with a slight correlation with habitats.
Derivatives pricing when supply and demand matter: Evidence from the term structure of VIX futures
Authors: Mixon Scott , Onur Esen
Published: June 2019

We decompose the VIX futures term structure into systematic components driving the VIX and idiosyncratic components reflecting demand by various types of futures end‐users. We model two distinct channels by which trading activity manifests itself into futures prices: a contemporaneous “level effect” across the term structure due to the aggregate size of nondealer net demand and a mean‐reverting “roll effect” due to large trades in specific contracts. The observed futures term structure was, on average, higher and steeper than it would have been in the absence of the observed nondealer demand, but the impact varies in sign and magnitude over time.
Understanding the effectiveness of government health expenditure in improving health equity: Preliminary evidence from global health expenditure and child mortality rate
Authors: Li Jiannan , Yuan Bocong
Published: June 2019

Governments around the world are committed to enhance health equity, but the effectiveness of government health expenditure in improving health equity is still full of controversy. To respond to it, this study investigates the influence of government health expenditure (including domestic government health expenditure and foreign‐sourced health expenditure distributed by government) on child mortality rate across the world, in doing so evaluates its role in improving the social equity of health outcome. Using data of health expenditure and child mortality rate across the world (2000‐2015), empirical results show that both domestic government and foreign‐sourced health expenditure can greatly reduce the child mortality rate of families in rural areas with the lower level of maternal education and in the medium or low‐income stratum. Further, even though domestic government health expenditure is found more effective to reduce the child mortality rate of males, foreign‐sourced health expenditure can help cover such gender bias due to making a greater reduction in child mortality rate of females.
Ensuring effective implementation: A fidelity assessment system for comprehensive medication management
Authors: Livet Melanie , Blanchard Carrie , Frail Caity , Sorensen Todd , McClurg Mary R.
Published: June 2019

Measuring the extent to which an intervention is implemented with fidelity (ie, as intended) is critical to its success. Comprehensive medication management (CMM) is an established pharmacy practice intervention in outpatient settings. However, there is no standardized approach to measuring its implementation fidelity. This article describes a fidelity assessment system that includes measures and tools for use by pharmacists and others involved with the practice of CMM. This system is a comprehensive but modular approach to assessing fidelity designed to facilitate measurement along three fidelity dimensions: context (ie, infrastructure needed to support CMM), content (ie, adherence to CMM), and competence (ie, skillset needed to deliver CMM). Practical recommendations with examples are also provided to facilitate application of the system in real‐world settings. These recommendations are designed to assist with prioritization of the fidelity dimensions to consider timing of the assessments, use of the resulting data, interpretation of the data, and translation of results into actionable decisions. Incorporating fidelity measurement into any CMM implementation effort is key to ensuring consistent care delivery and impactful clinical outcomes.
Assessing the performance of the g_mmpbsa tools to simulate the inhibition of oseltamivir to influenza virus neuraminidase by molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area methods
Authors: Ren Jiayi , Yuan Xiaohui , Li Junqi , Lin Shujian , Yang Bing , Chen Chun , Zhao Jian , Zheng Weihong , Liao Huaxin , Yang Zhiwei , Qu Zhangyi
Published: June 2019

The molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area (MM‐PBSA) method for GROMACS (g_mmpbsa) is an open‐source tool that is capable of reading the trajectories generated by GROMACS and calculating the binding free energy using the MM‐PBSA method. However, there are multiple force fields available for users to choose from in the GROMACS software, and there are also different solvent water models to combine with the chosen force fields. These different combinations of parameters may significantly impact the results of g_mmpbsa calculation. Unfortunately, the exact combination of force field and solvent water that can well calculate the free energy of the receptor–ligand binding in GROMACS has not been explored yet. To resolve the above issues, this study mainly explored the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations by GROMACS with the six commonly used force fields and three solvent water models, in combination with g_mmpbsa, to calculate the binding free energies of the influenza virus neuraminidase and its mutants with inhibitor oseltamivir carboxylate and compared the present results with previous published results of Amber software from ours and other researchers. Finally, we provided an optimized calculation model, as well as suggestions that may serve as advice and guidance for future computer‐aided designs of drug molecules.
Propranolol inhibits neonatal Nav1.5 activity and invasiveness of MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells: Effects of combination with ranolazine
Authors: Lee Alice , Fraser Scott P. , Djamgoz Mustafa B. A.
Published: June 2019

The MDA‐MB‐231 cell line was used as a model of triple negative breast cancer to investigate the interaction of β‐adrenergic receptor (β‐AR) and voltage‐gated sodium channel (VGSC). There was significant (86%) overlap in their expression. Short‐term (acute) application of the β‐AR antagonist propranolol (25 μM) led to reduction of peak current and quickening of current inactivation (the latter occurred only in 5% fetal bovine serum). Long‐term (48 hr) incubation with propranolol (25 μM) resulted in several changes in VGSC characteristics: shifts in (a) current‐voltage relationship and (b) steady‐state inactivation, both to more negative potentials and (c) the slowing of recovery from inactivation. We then investigated the effects of propranolol and ranolazine, a blocker of VGSC activity, alone and in combination, on lateral motility and Matrigel invasion. These assays were carried out under hypoxic conditions more representative of tumor progression. Propranolol (2.5 and 25 μM) and ranolazine (5 μM), and their combination inhibited lateral motility. Also, propranolol (25 μM) and ranolazine (5 μM), and their combination inhibited invasion. However, no synergy was observed in the pharmacological combinations for both assays. Propranolol also significantly decreased total neonatal Nav1.5 protein expression, the predominant VGSC subtype expressed in these cells. We conclude (a) that β‐AR and VGSC are functionally coupled in MDA‐MB‐231 cells; (b) that propranolol has direct blocking action on the VGSC; (c) that the action of propranolol is modulated by serum; and (d) that the antimetastatic cellular effects of propranolol and ranolazine are not additive.
Estrogen receptor activation in response to Azadirachtin A stimulates osteoblast differentiation and bone formation in mice
Authors: Kushwaha Priyanka , Ahmad Naseer , Dhar Yogeshwar V. , Verma Ashwni , Haldar Saikat , Mulani Fayaj A. , Trivedi Prabodh K. , Mishra Prabhat R. , Thulasiram Hirekodathakallu V. , Trivedi Ritu
Published: June 2019

The positive effects of the sex hormone in sustaining bone homeostasis are exercised by maintaining the equilibrium between cell activity and apoptosis. In this regard, the importance of estrogen receptors in maintaining the bone is that it is an attractive drug target, if devoid of known side effects. In this study, we show that a natural pure compound Azadirachtin A (Aza A) isolated from Azadirachta indica binds selectively to a site in the estrogen receptor, identifying itself to be a selective tissue modifier. Using computational and medicinal chemistry, we show that Aza A binds potentially and selectively to estrogen receptor‐α (ERα) as compared with ERβ. This preferential binding of Aza A to ERα with good pharmacokinetic distribution in the body forms metabolites, showing that it is well absorbed. In in vivo estrogen deficiency models for osteoporosis, Aza A at a much lower dose enhances new bone formation at both sites of the trabecular and cortical bone with increased bone strength and presents with no hyperplastic effect in the uterus.
Shape‐dependent adhesion and endocytosis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles on A7R5 aortic smooth muscle cells
Authors: Huang Ling‐Hong , Han Jin , Ouyang Jian‐Ming , Gui Bao‐Song
Published: June 2019

The interaction between nanohydroxyapatite (HAP) and smooth muscle cells is an important step in vascular calcification. However, the effect of the shape of HAP on adhesion and endocytosis to aortic smooth muscle cells has been rarely reported. Four different morphological HAP crystals (H‐Rod, H‐Needle, H‐Sphere, and H‐Plate) were selected to interact with rat aortic smooth muscle cells (A7R5). Fluorescence‐labeled HAP was used to detect crystal adhesion and endocytosis and then pretreated with different endocytic inhibitors to explore the pathway of endocytotic crystals. The distribution of crystals inside and outside the cells and the crystal localization in lysosomes was observed through laser confocal microscopy. The effect of crystal on the cell cycle and the changes in the expression of phosphatidylserine, osteopontin, α‐actin, core binding factor alpha 1, and osterix on the surface of A7R5 cells were detected. The adhesion and endocytosis of HAP on A7R5 cells were closely related to crystal shapes and ranked as follows: H‐Plate > H‐Sphere > H‐Needle > H‐Rod. H‐Sphere and H‐Needle were internalized into the cells mainly via the clathrin‐mediated pathway, whereas H‐Plate and H‐Rod were internalized into the cells mainly via macropinocytosis. The endocytosed nano‐HAP was mainly distributed in the cell lysosome. The adhesion and endocytosis of HAP to A7R5 cells were positively correlated with the specific surface area, and contact area of HAP and negatively correlated with the absolute value of Zeta and contact angle of HAP. This study provided insights into the effect of crystal morphology on vascular calcification and its mechanism.
The response of reference evapotranspiration to climate change in Xinjiang, China: Historical changes, driving forces, and future projections
Authors: Dong Qing , Wang Weiguang , Shao Quanxi , Xing Wanqiu , Ding Yimin , Fu Jianyu
Published: June 2019

Reference evapotranspiration (ET0), which is an indicator of atmospheric evaporation demand over a hypothetical reference surface, is expected to alter along with global climate change. In this study, the changes and driving forces of historical ET0 and its future projections in Xinjiang, China, were comprehensively conducted. The trend analysis revealed that regional ET0 decreased significantly at a rate of −4.1 mm/year2 during 1961–1993 and increased at a rate of 3.4 mm/year2 during 1994–2010. To explore the possible causes, the contributions of major climatic variables to the ET0 trends were derived based on the differential equation method. During 1961–1993, the decreasing trend of ET0 was primarily ascribed to the wind speed. The integrated negative effect from the decrease in wind speed (U) and increase in relative humidity (RH) was more significant than the positive effect from the increase in air temperature (T), resulting in the decrease in ET0. During 1994–2010, combined with increasing T and decreasing RH, the increase in U offset the effect of the net radiation (Rn) decrease and led to an increase in ET0. Future ET0 projections over three periods (2010–2039, 2040–2069, and 2070–2099, which are named as 2020s, 2050s, and 2080s, respectively) were conducted based on the general circulation models under two representative concentration pathways scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5). A continuous increasing trend in ET0 was demonstrated in the 21st century. The increase in ET0 will increase the irrigated water resource consumption and bring new challenge to water resource management in this area.
A decision‐tree approach to seasonal prediction of extreme precipitation in eastern China
Authors: Wei Wenguang , Yan Zhongwei , Jones Phil D.
Published: June 2019

Seasonal prediction of extreme precipitation has long been a challenge especially for the East Asian Summer Monsoon region, where extreme rains are often disastrous for the human society and economy. This paper introduces a decision‐tree (DT) method for predicting extreme precipitation in the rainy season over South China in April–June (SC‐AMJ) and the North China Plain in July–August (NCP‐JA). A number of preceding climate indices are adopted as predictors. In both cases, the DT models involving ENSO and NAO indices exhibit the best performance with significant skills among those with other combinations of predictors and are superior to their linear counterpart, the binary logistic regression model. The physical mechanisms for the DT results are demonstrated by composite analyses of the same DT path samples. For SC‐AMJ, an extreme season can be determined mainly via two paths: the first follows a persistent negative NAO phase in February–March; the second goes with decaying El Niño. For NCP‐JA, an extreme season can also be traced via two paths: the first is featured by “non El Niño” and an extremely negative NAO phase in the preceding winter; the second follows a shift from El Niño in the preceding winter to La Niña in the early summer. Most of the mechanisms underlying the decision rules have been documented in previous studies, while some need further studies. The present results suggest that the decision‐tree approach takes advantage of discovering and incorporating various nonlinear relationships in the climate system, hence is of great potential for improving the prediction of seasonal extreme precipitation for given regions with increasing sample observations.
Effect of carbon dots with chitosan coating on microorganisms and storage quality of modified‐atmosphere‐packaged fresh‐cut cucumber
Authors: Fan Kai , Zhang Min , Fan Dongcui , Jiang Fangjun
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

In order to inhibit microorganisms and improve storage quality of fresh‐cut cucumber, fresh‐cut cucumber was treated by carbon dots (CDs) from kelp/chitosan (CH) coating solution with CD concentrations of 0%, 1.5%, 3% and 4.5% and then packaged as well as stored at 4 °C for 15 days. The effect of CDs/CH coating on microorganisms and the quality of modified‐atmosphere‐packaged fresh‐cut cucumber during storage were investigated.

RESULTS

The CDs was monodispersed spherical morphology with size distribution of 0.54–0.83 nm. Interaction of CDs and CH had the generation of strong hydrogen bond. Inhibition zone diameters of CDs/CH coating against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were enhanced with the increase of CD concentrations. Moreover, CDs/CH coating inhibited the growth of total number of colonies, mold, and yeast in modified‐atmosphere‐packaged fresh‐cut cucumber during storage. A coating of 4.5% CDs/CH effectively reduced the losses of weight, firmness, and total soluble solids, the degradation of ascorbic acid content and flavor, and inhibited peroxidases activity, as well as decreased water mobility in fresh‐cut cucumber during storage.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that a CDs/CH coating was helpful for inhibiting microorganisms and improving storage quality, and could be an effective method to prolong shelf life of fresh‐cut cucumber. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Bioactive properties of greenhouse‐cultivated green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under biostimulants and water‐stress effect
Authors: Petropoulos Spyridon A , Taofiq Oludemi , Fernandes Ângela , Tzortzakis Nikos , Ciric Ana , Sokovic Marina , Barros Lillian , Ferreira Isabel CFR
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The scarcity of irrigation water is severely affecting global crop production. In this context, biostimulants are increasingly used as alternatives means against abiotic stress conditions. In this study, phenolic compounds composition and bioactive properties of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) plants grown under water stress conditions and biostimulants application were investigated.

RESULTS

Sixteen individual phenolic compounds were detected in both pods and seeds with a notable difference in their compositional profile. A significant effect on phenolic compounds content and composition was also observed for the biostimulants tested. Regarding the antibacterial activity, pods of the second harvest and seed extracts showed significant efficacy against Bacillus cereus, especially in water‐stressed plants, where all biostimulant treatments were more effective than positive controls. Moreover, all biostimulant treatments for seed extracts of water‐stressed plants were more effective against Staphylococcus aureus compared with ampicillin, whereas streptomycin showed the best results. Extracts from pods of the second harvest from normally irrigated plants showed the best results against the fungi tested, except for Penicillium verrucosum var. cyclopium. Finally, no significant cytotoxic effects were detected.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the biostimulants tested increased total phenolic compounds content compared with control treatment, especially in pods of the first harvest and seeds of water‐stressed plants. Moreover, bioactive properties showed a varied response in regard to irrigation and biostimulant treatment. Therefore, biostimulants can be considered as a useful means towards increasing phenolic compounds content, and they may also affect the antimicrobial properties of pods and seeds extracts. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Ozone gas as a storage treatment to control Gnomoniopsis castanea, preserving chestnut quality
Authors: Vettraino Anna Maria , Bianchini Leonardo , Caradonna Valentina , Forniti Roberto , Goffi Valentina , Zambelli Marta , Testa Antonino , Vinciguerra Vittorio , Botondi Rinaldo
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Chestnuts are gluten‐free, low‐fat, cholesterol‐free products. Postharvest decay reduces chestnut shelf life and can cause severe economic losses. In this study we investigated the effect of ozone (O3) gaseous treatment on chestnut rot caused by Gnomoniopsis castanea and the quality parameters of chestnuts.

RESULTS

The results showed that ozone treatment (150 ppb during the day, and 300 ppb during the night) reduced the decay of chestnuts and had a fungistatic effect on isolates of G. castanea. The exposure of chestnuts to ozone did not alter weight losses, sugar content and titratable acidity. The concentration of total phenolics decreased during the storage period, both for treated and untreated nuts. However, after 150 days of treatment the polyphenol content of the chestnuts exposed to ozone was significantly higher than in control nuts.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested that ozone is an appropriate and economical tool to maximize the quality of chestnut shelf life, enabling it to be stored for long periods. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Epoxide‐derived mixed‐mode chromatographic stationary phases for separation of active substances in fixed‐dose combination drugs
Authors: Zhang Shuanghong , Wan Qian‐Hong , Li Yan
Published: June 2019

A method for the preparation of novel mixed‐mode reversed‐phase/strong cation exchange stationary phase for the separation of fixed‐dose combination drugs has been developed. An epoxysilane bonded silica prepared by vapor phase deposition was used as a starting material to produce diol, octadecyl, sulfonate, and mixed octadecyl/sulfonate groups bonded silica phases. The chemical structure and surface coverage of the functional groups on these synthesized phases were confirmed by fourier‐transform infrared and solid‐state 13C NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Alkylbenzene homologs, basic drugs, nucleobases and alkylaniline homologs were used as probes to demonstrate the reversed‐phase, ion exchange, hydrophilic interaction and mixed‐mode retention behaviors of these stationary phases. The octadecyl/sulfonate bonded silica exhibits pronounced mixed‐mode retention behavior and superior retentivity and selectivity for alkylaniline homologs. The mixed‐mode retention is affected by either ionic or solvent strength in the mobile phase, permiting optimization of a separation by fine tuning these parameters. The mixed‐mode stationary phase was applied to separate two fixed‐dose combination drugs: compound reserpine tablets and compound methoxyphenamine capsules. The results show that simultaneous separation of multiple substances in the compound dosage can be achieved on the mixed‐mode phase, which makes multi‐cycles of analysis for multiple components obsolete.
Application of Deep Learning in Quantitative Analysis of 2‐Dimensional Ultrasound Imaging of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Cao Wen , An Xing , Cong Longfei , Lyu Chaoyang , Zhou Qian , Guo Ruijun
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To verify the value of deep learning in diagnosing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by comparing 3 image‐processing techniques.

Methods

A total of 240 participants were recruited and divided into 4 groups (normal, mild, moderate, and severe NAFLD groups), according to the definition and the ultrasound scoring system for NAFLD. Two‐dimensional hepatic imaging was analyzed by the envelope signal, grayscale signal, and deep‐learning index obtained by 3 image‐processing techniques. The values of the 3 methods ranged from 0 to 65,535, 0 to 255, and 0 to 4, respectively. We compared the values among the 4 groups, draw receiver operating characteristic curves, and compared the area under the curve (AUC) values to identify the best image‐processing technique.

Results

The envelope signal value, grayscale value, and deep‐learning index had a significant difference between groups and increased with the severity of NAFLD (P < .05). The 3 methods showed good ability (AUC > 0.7) to identify NAFLD. Meanwhile, the deep‐learning index showed the superior diagnostic ability in distinguishing moderate and severe NAFLD (AUC = 0.958).

Conclusions

The envelope signal and grayscale values were vital parameters in the diagnosis of NAFLD. Furthermore, deep learning had the best sensitivity and specificity in assessing the severity of NAFLD.
Postoperative opioid‐prescribing practices in otolaryngology: A multiphasic study
Authors: Dang Sophia , Duffy Alexander , Li Jonathan C. , Gandee Zachary , Rana Tanvi , Gunville Brittany , Zhan Tingting , Curry Joseph , Luginbuhl Adam , Cottrill Elizabeth , Cognetti David
Published: June 2019

Objectives

In otolaryngology, postoperative pain management lacks evidence‐based guidelines. We designed a prospective, multiphasic study aimed to develop evidence‐based guidelines for postoperative pain management within our institution. In this first phase of our project, we investigated opioid prescription and consumption as well as pain trends for common otolaryngologic procedures.

Methods

Patients (n = 161) who underwent procedures between July 2018 and February 2019 were surveyed on their postoperative opioid usage and pain from day of discharge to first clinic visit. Opioid prescriptions were converted to standardized units of morphine milligram equivalents (MME). The procedures selected for analysis were parathyroidectomy/thyroidectomy, parotidectomy, sialendoscopy, and transoral robotic surgery resection (TORS).

Results

In total, 19,748 MME were prescribed: 8,588 MME (43.5%) were used, leaving 11,159 MME (56.5%) unused. TORS average MME used: 221 ± 227; total MME unused: 38%. Sialendoscopy average MME used: 31 ± 46; total MME unused: 67%. Parathyroidectomy/thyroidectomy average MME used: 30 ± 37; total MME unused: 66%. Parotidectomy average MME used: 43 ± 53; total MME unused: 65%. Male gender, smoking (current and former), and psychiatric medication use were positive predictors of opioid consumption in postoperative patients (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

At our institution, over 50% of prescribed postoperative opioids went unused. This was most pronounced for nonmucosal surgeries. Postoperative pain management should account for this to minimize unnecessary opioid prescriptions. Based on our findings and review of current literature, we are in the process of developing prescribing recommendations to be implemented within our institution.

Level of Evidence

2

Laryngoscope, 130:659–665, 2020
Metabolic activity of cells in the macula flava of the human vocal fold from the aspect of mitochondrial microstructure
Authors: Sato Kiminori , Chitose Shun‐Ichi , Sato Kiminobu , Sato Fumihiko , Kurita Takashi , Umeno Hirohito
Published: June 2019

Objectives

There is growing evidence to suggest that the cells in the maculae flavae of the vocal fold mucosa are tissue stem cells of the human vocal fold. This study investigated the metabolic activity of the cells in the maculae flavae of the human vocal fold from the aspect of mitochondrial microstructure.

Study Design

Histologic analysis of the human vocal folds.

Methods

Five normal human adult vocal folds obtained from autopsy cases were investigated under transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Mitochondria were randomly distributed in the cytoplasm of the cells. The morphological features of the mitochondria consisted of a double‐membrane‐bounded body containing matrices and a system of cristae. In each mitochondria, the lamellar cristae were sparse. The intercristal space was occupied by a mitochondrial matrix which contained electron‐dense matrix granules, mitochondrial DNA, and ribonucleoprotein granules. Some mitochondria spread out over or fused to the surface of a lipid droplet in the cytoplasm. In addition, both the mitochondrial outer and inner membranes and the membranes of the lipid droplets had disappeared. Some close association between mitochondria and rough endoplasmic reticulum was present.

Conclusions

The features of the mitochondria of the cells in the maculae flavae of the human vocal fold suggested that their metabolic activity and oxidative phosphorylation were low and that they may have shifted to the utilization of lipids to some extent for their metabolic needs.

Level of Evidence

NA
Inhibition of Inflammation‐Associated Thrombosis with ROS‐Responsive Heparin‐DOCA/PVAX Nanoparticles
Authors: Xiang Zehong , Wang Yanming , Ma Zhifang , Xin Zhirong , Chen Runhai , Shi Qiang , Wong Shing‐Chung , Yin Jinghua
Published: June 2019

Inflammation‐associated thrombosis is a non‐negligible source of mortalities and morbidities worldwide. To manipulate inflammation‐associated coagulation, nanoparticles that contain anti‐inflammatory polymer (copolyoxalate containing vanillyl alcohol, PVAX) and anti‐thrombotic heparin derivative deoxycholic acid (Hep‐DOCA) are prepared. The strategy takes advantage of the reducted side effects of heparin through heparin conjugation, achievement of long‐term anti‐inflammation by inflammation‐trigged release of anti‐inflammatory agents, and formation of PVAX/heparin‐DOCA nanoparticles by co‐self‐assembly. It is demonstrated that the Hep‐DOCA conjugate and PVAX are synthesized successfully; PVAX and Hep‐DOCA nanodrugs (HDP) are obtained by co‐assembly; the HDP nanoparticles effectively reduce the inflammation and coagulation without inducing lethal bleeding both in vivo and in vitro. The method provided here is versatile and effective, which paves new way to develop nanodrugs to treat inflammation‐associated thrombosis safely.
The “String of Pearls” technique for increased surface area and lymphedematous fluid drainage in right gastroepiploic‐vascularized lymph node transfer: A report of two cases
Authors: Fan Kenneth L. , Black Cara K. , Song David H. , Del Corral Gabriel A.
Published: June 2019

We present our “String of Pearls” technique for upper and lower extremity lymphedema based off the right gastroepiploic artery. The entire laprascopically harvested omentum is placed through a longitudinal incision at the lymphedematous area, and anastomosed proximally, with additional distal venous outflow. This approach preserves the native lymphaticovenous architecture, distributes free lymphatic tissue along the axis of the extremity, and allows for scar release. The additional vein serves to restore bidirectional physiologic drainage inherent in the omentum and providing further lymphaticovenous drainage. We present two cases of upper and lower extremity lymphedema as a result of malignancy treated using this method. The first case was a result of breast cancer in a 55‐year‐old female with orthotopically placed omentum, and the second case a result of malignant nodular fasciitis in the distal lower extremity in a 56‐year‐old female with distally placed omentum. No complications occurred. At 3 months follow up, there is a 25% and 28% reduction in lower and upper extremity volume, respectively, with no recurrent cellulitis episodes. The safety and feasibility of placement of the entire omentum longitudinally with additional venous anastomosis are apparent. However, long‐term studies are required.
Integrating Acoustic Telemetry into a Mark–Recapture Model to Improve Catchability Parameters and Abundance Estimates of Lake Sturgeon in Eastern Lake Erie
Authors: Withers Jonah L. , Einhouse Donald , Clancy Michael , Davis Lori , Neuenhoff Rachel , Sweka John
Published: June 2019

Estimating abundances of rare fish species that exhibit low recapture rates can be challenging and can require decades’ worth of data to produce reliable results. However, when data sets are limited, auxiliary information used to fix model parameters may improve model outputs if that information is reasonably estimated. We collected mark–recapture data on 195 unique Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens in eastern Lake Erie near the headwaters of the Niagara River between 2012 and 2018. We ran Jolly–Seber capture–recapture models with the POPAN formulation in Program R using the RMark package to estimate abundance within our study area. Initial model runs produced unreasonable parameters (e.g., >99% survival). To improve our model, we integrated acoustic telemetry presence–absence data to calculate and fix catchability parameters in our model. Integrating acoustic telemetry-derived catchability parameters in our mark–recapture model produced adult abundance estimates (mean ± SE = 889 ± 184) that might not otherwise have been achieved given our relatively small data set and few recaptures. Our findings demonstrate the potential value of integrating reasonably estimated parameters generated by acoustic telemetry studies into mark–recapture.
Modeling branched and intersecting faults in reservoir‐geomechanics models with the extended finite element method
Authors: Liu Chuanqi , Prévost Jean H. , Sukumar N.
Published: June 2019

Faults are geological entities with thickness several orders of magnitude smaller than the grid blocks typically used to discretize geological formations. On using the extended finite element method (X‐FEM), a structured mesh suffices and the faults can arbitrarily cut the elements in the mesh. Modeling branched and intersecting faults is a challenge, in particular when the faults work as internal fluid flow conduits that allow fluid flow in the faults as well as to enter/leave the faults. By appropriately selecting the enrichment function and the nodes to be enriched, we are able to capture the special characteristics of the solution in the vicinity of the fault. We compare different enrichment schemes for strong discontinuities and develop new continuous enrichment functions with discontinuous derivatives to model branched and intersecting weak discontinuities. Symmetric fluid flows within the regions embedded by branched, coplanar intersecting, and noncoplanar intersecting faults are considered to verify the effectiveness of the proposed enrichment scheme. For a complex fault consisting of branched and intersecting faults, the accuracy and efficiency of the X‐FEM is compared with the FEM. We also demonstrate different slipping scenarios for branched and intersecting faults with the same friction coefficient. In addition, fault slipping triggered by an injection pressure and three‐dimensional fluid flows are modeled to show the versatility of the proposed enrichment scheme for branched and intersecting weak discontinuities.
Microwave‐assisted ionic liquid‐based micelle extraction combined with trace‐fluorinated carbon nanotubes in dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction to determine three sesquiterpenes in roots of Curcuma wenyujin
Authors: Chu Chu , Wang Shan , Jiang Luyi , Liu Caijing , Zhang Huan , Yan Jizhong
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Germacrone, furanodiene and β‐elemene are the representative bioactive compounds in Curcuma species. The conventional extraction methods of these three sesquiterpenes are usually time‐consuming and require a large volume of hazardous organic solvents. Thus, a fast and reliable method for extracting these sesquiterpenes from Curcuma plant is required urgently.

Objective

To establish a novel and simple extraction method for quantitative analysis of small amounts of sesquiterpenes in C. wenyujin plant.

Methodology

A method using microwave‐assisted ionic liquid‐micelle extraction combined with dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction (DMSPE) has been proposed for the extraction of three sesquiterpenoids in Curcuma plant. Fluorinated carbon nanotubes (FCNTs) were used as an adsorbent in DMSPE for the first time. Parameters concerning the microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) conditions and the DMSPE were investigated and evaluated to achieve optimum extraction efficiency of target analytes.

Results

The final conditions of ionic liquid‐micelle based MAE were selected to be 0.25 M of 1‐decyl‐3‐vinylimidazolium bromide as the extraction solvent, microwave irradiation for 10 min at 60°C. And the optimal DMSPE conditions were found to be 2 μg/mL of FCNTs as the adsorbent, extraction time of 2 min and 100 μL of acetonitrile as the elution solvent. The developed method exhibited good linearities (R > 0.9990), high repeatability and recoveries. The proposed method has been successfully applied in determination of sesquiterpenes in C. wenyujin samples.

Conclusion

The work shows a potential in analysing small amounts of sesquiterpenes in complex samples and represents the first attempt of using FCNTs as an adsorbent for the microextraction mode.