bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel phosphorus‐based flame retardants containing 4‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene: Preparation and application for the fire safety of epoxy resins
Authors: Lu Lingang , Qian Xiaodong , Zeng Zejun , Yang Shousheng , Shao Gaosong , Wang Huiya , Jin Jing , Xu Xiaonan
Published: April 2017

A novel flame retardant (FR) containing phosphorus and 4‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene was synthesized and characterized. The FR combined with ammonium polyphosphate (APP) was then incorporated into epoxy resins (EPs) at different ratios. The flame retardancy, thermal stability, and smoke‐releasing properties were investigated. The limiting oxygen index was as high as 30.8% when the mass fraction ratio of the FR to APP was 1:2. The improved FR effect have been due to the combined FR effects between the FR and APP. The char residue content at 800 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere increased notably from 8.22% to 17.6% when the FR APP was incorporated into EP; this indicated an improvement in the thermooxidation resistance. From the cone test, we found that both the total heat‐release and peak heat‐release rate of the FR resins were reduced. Compared to the resins containing no FRs, the smoke‐production rate and total smoke‐production results indicate that the FR resins also exhibited good smoke‐suppression properties. Generally, the stable char layer of the FR APP–EP not only effectively prevented the release of combustion gases but also hindered the propagation of oxygen and heat into the interior substrate. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45105.
Replacing 100% of phenol in phenolic adhesive formulations with lignin
Authors: Kalami Somayyeh , Arefmanesh Maryam , Master Emma , Nejad Mojgan
Published: April 2017

Lignin, produced as a byproduct of pulp and paper and bioethanol industries, is a polyphenolic compound that has excellent potential to be used as phenol replacement in phenolic adhesive formulation. In this study, the phenol portion of phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin has been replaced by an agricultural‐based lignin, which was produced as a byproduct of a cellulosic bioethanol process through dilute‐acid pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis from corn stover. The PF resol resin was formulated using isolated lignin under alkaline condition. Chemical, physical, and thermal properties of the isolated lignin, PF resin and adhesive were measured using advanced analytical techniques such as Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), phosphorous nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P NMR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The developed 100% lignin‐based adhesive and a commercially formulated phenol resorcinol formaldehyde (PRF, as reference) were used to prepare single‐lap‐joint samples for mechanical testing. The plywood samples were pressed under exactly the same conditions (time, temperature, and pressure) as what recommended for the commercial PRF formulation. According to two‐way ANOVA results, statistically there was no significant difference between the shear strengths of plywood samples made with 100% lignin‐based adhesive and those made with the commercial PRF resin. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45124.
Solvent‐induced crystal formation in polymers: Experimental studies and theoretical modeling of poly(vinyl alcohol) based on free‐volume concepts
Authors: Ramesh Narayan , Hamedi Mourad , Danner Ronald P. , Zielinski John M.
Published: April 2017

A model has been developed to describe the simultaneous diffusion and solvent‐induced crystal formation in polymers based on the idea that crystal formation is governed by polymer chain mobility and a thermodynamic driving force. The polymer chain mobility is described based on solvent and polymer physical characteristics using the free‐volume theory of transport. The semicrystalline polymer‐solvent system is treated as a ternary system consisting of crystalline polymer, amorphous polymer, and solvent. The addition of solvent to the amorphous phase is assumed to increase the local free volume and facilitate movement of polymer chains, thereby enabling crystal formation. Diffusion of the solvent is assumed to occur solely in the amorphous polymer phase. The species continuity equations are formulated in volume‐averaged coordinates and give rise to a convective term due to the density change accompanying transformation of the amorphous polymer to the crystalline polymer. Accurate modeling of this problem requires that a moving boundary be considered. The model was tested using gravimetric sorption data for the poly(vinyl alcohol)‐water system. In the experimental studies, the water was initially absorbed and then a high percentage of it was expelled. The proposed model accurately describes this behavior. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45171.
Expandable graphite in polyurethane foams: The effect of expansion volume and intercalants on flame retardancy
Authors: Lorenzetti A. , Dittrich B. , Schartel B. , Roso M. , Modesti M.
Published: April 2017

Several expandable graphites (EGs), differing in expansion volume but with the same mean size, are compared as flame retardants in polyurethane (PUR) foams. Not only common sulfur‐intercalated graphites are investigated but also a new one intercalated with phosphorus. The main aim of this article is to understand which properties of EG are important for its flame retardancy effectiveness in PUR foams. Thermal stability, flammability, and fire behavior are analyzed through limiting oxygen index and cone calorimeter tests. Detailed characterization of the phosphorus‐intercalated graphite is also provided as well as physical–mechanical characterization. The results show that the well‐known sulfur‐intercalated graphites and the one with phosphorus both enhance the residue yield, induce a protective layer, and thus efficiently flame‐retard PUR foams. While the expansion volume of the EGs had a surprisingly limited influence on the performance of the foams, at least in the range tested, the most important feature controlling the effectiveness of EG in terms of flame retardant PUR foams was the type of intercalant. The presence of EG affected the physical–mechanical properties of the foams; however, no significant effect of the expansion volume or intercalant type has been revealed on the physical–mechanical properties of the foams. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45173.
High performance electrospun PVdF‐HFP/SiO2 nanocomposite membrane electrolyte for Li‐ion capacitors
Authors: Solarajan Arun Kumar , Murugadoss Vignesh , Angaiah Subramania
Published: April 2017

Electrospun poly[(vinylidene fluoride)‐co‐hexafluoropropylene]/silica (PVdF‐HFP/SiO2) nanocomposite polymer membranes (esCPMs) were prepared by incorporating different weight percentages of SiO2 nanoparticles onto electrospun PVdF‐HFP by electrospinning technique. The surface morphology of electrospun PVdF‐HFP nanocomposite membranes was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The effect of SiO2 nanoparticles incorporation onto electrospun PVdF‐HFP polymer membranes (esPMs) has been studied by XRD, DSC, TGA, and tensile analysis. The electrospun PVdF‐HFP/SiO2 based nanocomposite membrane electrolytes (esCPMEs) were prepared by soaking the corresponding esCPMs into 1 M LiPF6 in EC:DMC (1:1 vol/vol %). The ionic conductivity of the esCPMEs was studied by AC‐impedance studies and it was found that the incorporation of SiO2 nanoparticles into PVdF‐HFP membrane has improved the ionic conductivity from 1.320 × 10−3 S cm−1 to 2.259 × 10−3 S cm−1. The electrochemical stability of the esCPME was studied by linear sweep voltammetry studies and it was found to be 2.87 V. Finally, a prototype LiCo0.2Mn1.8O4//C Li‐ion capacitor (LIC) cell was fabricated with esCPME, which delivered a discharge capacitance of 128 F g−1 at the current density of 1 A g−1 and retained 86% of its discharge capacitance even after 10,000 cycles. These results demonstrated that the esCPMEs could be used as promising polymer membrane electrolyte for LICs. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45177.
A comparison between thermal tropopauses derived from mandatory and significant levels for the Indian subcontinent upper‐air network
Authors: Yuchechen Adrián E. , Canziani Pablo O.
Published: April 2017

Differences between lapse rate tropopauses (LRTs) and LRT‐like tropopauses retrieved from mandatory levels (LRTMs) were studied for height, pressure and temperature at 37 locations of the Indian subcontinent on a long‐term annual, summer and winter basis covering the period 1973–2015. LRTM is usually found below LRT and statistical distinctions hinder the use of the former tropopause as a replacement for the latter one, yet significant positive Spearman's correlations show a relationship through a monotonic increasing function that enable the estimation of LRT variables from the corresponding LRTM ones. The slope and the intercept for a linear function relating corresponding variables were obtained at each location.
Ancestral Haloalkane Dehalogenases Show Robustness and Unique Substrate Specificity
Authors: Babkova Petra , Sebestova Eva , Brezovsky Jan , Chaloupkova Radka , Damborsky Jiri
Published: April 2017

Ancestral sequence reconstruction (ASR) represents a powerful approach for empirical testing structure‐function relationships of diverse proteins. We employed ASR to predict sequences of five ancestral haloalkane dehalogenases (HLDs) from the HLD‐II subfamily. Genes encoding the inferred ancestral sequences were synthesized and expressed inEscherichia coli,and the resurrected ancestral enzymes (AncHLD1–5) were experimentally characterized. Strikingly, the ancestral HLDs exhibited significantly enhanced thermodynamic stability compared to extant enzymes (ΔTmup to 24 °C), as well as higher specific activities with preference for short multi‐substituted halogenated substrates. Moreover, multivariate statistical analysis revealed a shift in the substrate specificity profiles of AncHLD1 and AncHLD2. This is extremely difficult to achieve by rational protein engineering. The study highlights that ASR is an efficient approach for the development of novel biocatalysts and robust templates for directed evolution.
Cardiac arrest reveals a mobile large left atrial myxoma
Authors: Papadakis Emmanouel , Vournas Ilias , Kanakis Meletios A.
Published: April 2017

Key Clinical Message

Left atrial myxoma could be a rare cause of cardiac arrest as this mass could impinge on the mitral orifice causing left ventricular inflow tract obstruction.
New Motifs in Deoxydehydration: Beyond the Realms of Rhenium
Authors: Petersen Allan R. , Fristrup Peter
Published: April 2017

The deoxydehydration (DODH) reaction remains one of the most efficient methods of reducing the oxygen content of biomass while keeping important functionality in place. This reaction is traditionally catalysed by high‐valent oxo‐rhenium species. Recent research into heterogeneous rhenium‐based catalysts for DODH demonstrates their ability to rival and in some cases surpass their homogeneous counterparts. Furthermore, catalysts based on the metals molybdenum and vanadium show great potential as inexpensive alternatives to rhenium catalysts. In this Minireview, we detail the recent developments within the field of DODH with particular emphasis on discoveries outside the realms of rhenium.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Alkoxycarbonylation of Propargylic Carbonates with (R)‐ or (S)‐3,4,5‐(MeO)3‐MeOBIPHEP
Authors: Zhang Wanli , Ma Shengming
Published: April 2017

(R)‐ and (S)‐3,4,5‐(MeO)3‐MeOBIPHEP have been identified as the efficient chiral ligands for the palladium‐catalyzed highly enantioselective synthesis of 2,3‐allenoates from different types of easily available racemic propargylic carbonates with 90–98 % ee and decent yields. The potential of the products was demonstrated with high chirality transfer efficiency.
Instantaneous Conversion of [11C]CO2 to [11C]CO via Fluoride‐Activated Disilane Species
Authors: Taddei Carlotta , Bongarzone Salvatore , Gee Antony D.
Published: April 2017

The development of a fast and novel methodology to generate carbon‐11 carbon monoxide ([11C]CO) from cyclotron‐produced carbon‐11 carbon dioxide ([11C]CO2) mediated by a fluoride‐activated disilane species is described. This methodology allows up to 74 % conversion of [11C]CO2 to [11C]CO using commercially available reagents, readily available laboratory equipment and mild reaction conditions (room temperature). As proof of utility, radiochemically pure [carbonyl‐11C]N‐benzylbenzamide was successfully synthesized from produced [11C]CO in up to 74 % radiochemical yield (RCY) and >99 % radiochemical purity (RCP) in ≤10 min from end of [11C]CO2 delivery.
Through the looking glass: Strategic organizational practices in strategic management
Authors: Edwards Gwyneth
Published: April 2017

The field of strategic management indicates that there is no ‘one best way’ to manage strategy over time, leaving researchers with a pluralistic research setting. The findings here suggest that strategic organizational practices, a construct from the international business literature, can provide insight into the strategy formation process. I argue that strategic organizational practices, which are actor‐centered and embedded with values and beliefs, reflect both the content and process of strategy, and the organizational environment itself, thereby providing a pluralistic context of theoretical study. Through the exploration of four practices implemented by a large Canadian‐based multinational enterprise, the paper encourages a more explicit integration of strategic organizational practices, as a unit of analysis, into the field of strategic management. Copyright © 2017 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of unit k/s calculation and spectral overlapping on the performance of color matching
Authors: Shams Nateri A. , Mohtasham J.
Published: April 2017

There are several approaches to dyeing recipe formulation in the textile industry, because the accuracy of computer recipe prediction is not very high. There are several theories such as colorimetric and spectrophotometeric appraches on color reception. This work addressed the effect of the calibration method as the calculation of unit k/s and spectral overlapping of the components of the mixture on the accuracy of recipe prediction in dyeing nylon with acid dye. To this aim, the unit k/s was calculated using single and binary mixture samples. Two types unit k/s were used for the recipe prediction of ternary mixture dyed samples with low and high overlapping reflectance spectra. The obtained results indicated that the unit k/s of single component differed from the unit k/s of bicomponent mixture. The accuracy of recipe prediction using unit k/s of single component was less than that of the binary mixture. However, the performance of the recipe prediction of high level overlapping was found to be more than that of the low level overlapping mixture. Subsequently, the accuracy of color matching depended on the reflectance spectra similarity (spectral overlapping) of the components of the mixture.
Biological traits, rather than environment, shape detection curves of large vertebrates in neotropical rainforests
Authors: Denis Thomas , Richard‐Hansen Cécile , Brunaux Olivier , Etienne Marie‐Pierre , Guitet Stéphane , Hérault Bruno
Published: April 2017

Line transect surveys are widely used in Neotropical rainforests to estimate the population abundance of medium‐ and large‐sized vertebrates. The use of indices such as encounter rate has been criticized because the probability of animal detection may fluctuate due to the heterogeneity of environmental conditions among sites. In addition, the morphological and behavioral characteristics (biological traits) of species affect their detectability. In this study, we compared the extent to which environmental conditions and species’ biological traits bias abundance estimates in terra firme rainforests in French Guiana. The selected environmental conditions included both physical conditions and forest structure covariates, while the selected biological traits included the morphological and behavioral characteristics of species. We used the distance sampling method to model the detection probability as an explicit function of environmental conditions and biological traits and implemented a model selection process to determine the relative importance of each group of covariates. Biological traits contributed to the variability of animal detectability more than environmental conditions, which had only a marginal effect. Detectability was best for large animals with uniform or disruptive markings that live in groups in the canopy top. Detectability was worst for small, solitary, terrestrial animals with mottled markings. In the terra firme rainforests that represent ~80% of the Amazonia and Guianas regions, our findings support the use of relative indices such as the encounter rate to compare population abundance between sites in species‐specific studies. Even though terra firme rainforests may appear similar between regions of Amazonia and the Guianas, comparability must be ensured, especially in forests disturbed by human activity. The detection probability can be used as an indicator of species’ vulnerability to hunting and, thus, to the risk of local extinction. Only a few biological trait covariates are required to correctly estimate the detectability of the majority of medium‐ and large‐sized vertebrates. Thus, a biological trait model could be useful in predicting the detection probabilities of rare, uncommon, or localized species for which few data are available to fit the detection function.
Estimating species richness in hyper‐diverse large tree communities
Authors: ter Steege Hans , Sabatier Daniel , Mota de Oliveira Sylvia , Magnusson William E. , Molino Jean‐François , Gomes Vitor F. , Pos Edwin T. , Salomão Rafael P.
Published: April 2017

Species richness estimation is one of the most widely used analyses carried out by ecologists, and nonparametric estimators are probably the most used techniques to carry out such estimations. We tested the assumptions and results of nonparametric estimators and those of a logseries approach to species richness estimation for simulated tropical forests and five data sets from the field. We conclude that nonparametric estimators are not suitable to estimate species richness in tropical forests, where sampling intensity is usually low and richness is high, because the assumptions of the methods do not meet the sampling strategy used in most studies. The logseries, while also requiring substantial sampling, is much more effective in estimating species richness than commonly used nonparametric estimators, and its assumptions better match the way field data is being collected.
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Triazololactams Structurally Related to Pancratistatin
Authors: de la Sovera Victoria , Suescun Leopoldo , Bellomo Ana , Gonzalez David
Published: April 2017

Four tricyclic lactams that structurally resemble alkaloids with the pancratistatin skeleton were synthetized from bromobenzene by a chemoenzymatic strategy. The sequence involved enzymatic dihydroxylation, efficient stereodirected oxidation of double bonds, inter‐ or intramolecular Huisgen cycloaddition, and a solvent‐free cyclization. The complex structures were obtained in high chemical and optical purity and may be good candidates for biological testing.
Production of biopesticide azadirachtin using plant cell and hairy root cultures
Authors: Thakore Dhara , Srivastava Ashok K.
Published: April 2017

The extensive use of nondegradable chemical pesticides for pest management has developed serious environmental hazards. This has necessitated the urgent need to switch over to an alternative mode of biopesticide development for mass agriculture and field crop protection. Azadirachta indica A. Juss (commonly known as neem) houses a plethora of bioactive secondary metabolites with azadirachtin being the most active constituent explored in the sector of ecofriendly and biodegradable biopesticides characterized by low toxicity toward nontarget organisms. It has been reported that the highest content of azadirachtin and related limonoids is present in the seeds, available once in a year. Moreover, the inconsistent content and purity of the metabolites in whole plant makes it imperative to tap the potential of in vitro plant tissue culture applications, which would allow for several controlled manipulations for better yield and productivities. This review gives a summarized literature of the applied research and achievements in plant cell/hairy cultures of A. indica A. Juss mainly in context with the biopesticide azadirachtin and applications thereof.
Reactive Adsorption of Sulfur Compounds on Transition Metal Polycation‐Exchanged Zeolites for Desulfurization of Hydrocarbon Streams
Authors: Tsybulevski Albert M. , Tkachenko Olga P. , Rode Edward J. , Weston Kerry C. , Kustov Leonid M. , Sulman Esther M. , Doluda Valentin Yu. , Greish Alexander A.
Published: April 2017

The reactive adsorption of sulfur‐contaminated compounds over transition metal (TrM) polycation‐exchanged zeolites is a very efficient method for the desulfurization of hydrocarbon processing streams. The process consists of the physical adsorption of thiols, sulfides, and disulfides and the catalytic oxidation of the adsorbed substances. The reaction does not require the participation of free oxygen; diffuse‐reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) studies confirmed that the thiol oxidation proceeds through the direct involvement of TrM polycation superoxides. All of the studied zeolite X, zeolite Y, and mordenite materials containing Zn, Mn, Cu, and Cd polycations show remarkable activity for the oxidation of sulfur compounds; this results in a significant increase of the total pick‐up from gas and liquid hydrocarbons. The thermal regeneration of the adsorbent–catalysts under oxidizing conditions leads to the complete restoration of their original activities and capacities for the removal of sulfur compounds. Suitable operating conditions for the regeneration process are disclosed. The study also demonstrates favorable properties of the suggested adsorbent–catalysts for use in commercially important applications such as the desulfurization of natural gas and liquid hydrocarbons.
Effects of exogenous abscisic acid on cadmium accumulation in two ecotypes of hyperaccumulator Bidens pilosa
Authors: Liu Lei , Ma Qianqian , Lin Lijin , Tang Yi , Wang Jin , Lv Xiulan , Liao Ming'an , Xia Hui , Chen Shengxiang , Li Jianhua , Wang Xun , Lai Yunsong , Liang Dong
Published: April 2017

Abscisic acid (ABA) is an important plant hormone that enhances plants’ tolerance to heavy metal stress. In this study, we applied ABA to two ecotypes (mining and farmland) of the cadmium (Cd) hyperaccumulator Bidens pilosa which grown under Cd‐contaminated conditions. The effects of ABA on Cd accumulation in the two ecotypes of B. pilosa were evaluated. Exogenous ABA decreased the biomass and plant height of the two ecotypes of B. pilosa compared with their respective controls. The plants treated with 10 μmol L−1 ABA showed the minimum biomass and plant height. Exogenous ABA also decreased the chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents of two ecotypes of B. pilosa compared with their controls, but increased the chlorophyll a/b ratio. For both two ecotypes of B. pilosa, application of ABA increased the Cd contents in the roots, stems, leaves, and shoots, compared with the controls, but only 40 μmol L−1 ABA increased the amount of Cd extracted by the two ecotypes (an increase of 30.26% in shoots of the farmland ecotype and 16.36% in shoots of the mining ecotype) of B. pilosa. These results show that ABA inhibits the growth of two ecotypes of B. pilosa, and the high concentration (40 μmol L−1) of ABA can enhance Cd extraction from Cd‐contaminated soil. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1643–1649, 2017
Impacts of solar energy on butterfly communities in mediterranean agro‐ecosystems
Authors: Guiller Clémence , Affre Laurence , Deschamps‐Cottin Magali , Geslin Benoît , Kaldonski Nicolas , Tatoni Thierry
Published: April 2017

The rapid expansion of Utility‐Scale Solar Energy (USSE) is expected to meet economic and environmental challenges that society faces today and in the future. Yet there is a paucity of comprehensive research on biodiversity responses to USSE. Here we investigated the impact of USSE on species movements via the correlations between landscape connectivity modeling and the similarity of butterfly communities given their life‐history traits. Our results suggest that mobile butterflies cope with USSE while interpatch movement of sedentary butterflies does not depend on landscape structure. We provide land‐managers and energy‐developers with an innovative tool to assess the ecological integration of USSE. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1817–1823, 2017
A Literature Review on Collaborative Problem Solving for College and Workforce Readiness
Authors: Oliveri María Elena , Lawless René , Molloy Hillary
Published: April 2017

The literature and the employee and workforce surveys rank collaborative problem solving (CPS) among the top 5 most critical skills necessary for success in college and the workforce. This paper provides a review of the literature on CPS and related terms, including a discussion of their definitions, importance to higher education and workforce success, and considerations relevant to their assessment. The goal is to discuss progress on CPS to date and help generate future research on CPS in relation to educational and workforce success.
Microphysical characteristics of rainfall during different seasons over a coastal tropical station using disdrometer
Authors: Sreekanth T.S. , Varikoden Hamza , Sukumar Nita , Mohan Kumar G.
Published: April 2017

Drop size distribution (DSD) over the tropical region exhibit pronounced variations during different monsoon seasons. Measurements from an impact type Joss–Waldovgel disdrometer is used for characterization of drop size distribution and its integral parameters over a tropical coastal station (Thiruvananthapuram, 8.31°N, 76.54°E, 20 m asl). Rain events were identified during the winter, premonsoon, summer monsoon and postmonsoon seasons from 8 years, computed rain duration (min) and accumulated rain water (mm). Rain intensity (mm h−1), mean drop diameter (Dm, mm) and total number concentration of raindrops (NT, m−3) were calculated on each sampling interval and classified in to different bins.

The different range bins of rain intensity and their relative contributions towards total rainfall are different for different seasons. Maximum events were reported on the R2 (heavy drizzle/light rain) type, but the contribution of rainfall (mm) is mainly registered on R4 (heavy rain) type. Similarly, the NT and Dm are also showing different characteristics during different monsoon seasons. Frequency of occurrence of Dm is higher in Dm2 (1–2 mm) followed by Dm1 (Dm < 1 mm) and then Dm3 (2–3 mm) with difference in magnitudes for different seasons. On analysing relative rainfall contribution from different mean diameter bins, it can be observed that Dm2 and Dm3 (1–3 mm) are the major contributors to the total rainfall. In the case of NT, both frequency and accumulated water are almost same or comparable for the different bins during all the seasons. The Dm and NT are positively related with different intensity bins. The lower rainfall intensity bins show higher duration during the summer monsoon season and lower duration during the premonsoon season, the higher intensity range bins show lower duration for the premonsoon season and higher duration for the postmonsoon season.
3D soil hydraulic database of Europe at 250 m resolution
Authors: Tóth Brigitta , Weynants Melanie , Pásztor László , Hengl Tomislav
Published: April 2017

Soil hydraulic properties are required in various modelling schemes. We propose a consistent spatial soil hydraulic database at 7 soil depths up to 2 m calculated for Europe based on SoilGrids250m and 1 km datasets and pedotransfer functions trained on the European Hydropedological Data Inventory. Saturated water content, water content at field capacity and wilting point, saturated hydraulic conductivity and Mualem‐van Genuchten parameters for the description of the moisture retention, and unsaturated hydraulic conductivity curves have been predicted. The derived 3D soil hydraulic layers (EU‐SoilHydroGrids ver1.0) can be used for environmental modelling purposes at catchment or continental scale in Europe. Currently, only EU‐SoilHydroGrids provides information on the most frequently required soil hydraulic properties with full European coverage up to 2 m depth at 250 m resolution.
A transition from using multi‐step procedures to a fully integrated system for performing extracorporeal photopheresis: A comparison of costs and efficiencies
Authors: Azar Nabih , Leblond Veronique , Ouzegdouh Maya , Button Paul
Published: April 2017

Introduction

The Pitié Salpêtrière Hospital Hemobiotherapy Department, Paris, France, has been providing extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) since November 2011, and started using the Therakos® CELLEX® fully integrated system in 2012. This report summarizes our single‐center experience of transitioning from the use of multi‐step ECP procedures to the fully integrated ECP system, considering the capacity and cost implications.

Materials and Methods

The total number of ECP procedures performed 2011–2015 was derived from department records. The time taken to complete a single ECP treatment using a multi‐step technique and the fully integrated system at our department was assessed. Resource costs (2014€) were obtained for materials and calculated for personnel time required. Time‐driven activity‐based costing methods were applied to provide a cost comparison.

Results

The number of ECP treatments per year increased from 225 (2012) to 727 (2015). The single multi‐step procedure took 270 min compared to 120 min for the fully integrated system. The total calculated per‐session cost of performing ECP using the multi‐step procedure was greater than with the CELLEX® system (€1,429.37 and €1,264.70 per treatment, respectively).

Conclusions

For hospitals considering a transition from multi‐step procedures to fully integrated methods for ECP where cost may be a barrier, time‐driven activity‐based costing should be utilized to gain a more comprehensive understanding the full benefit that such a transition offers. The example from our department confirmed that there were not just cost and time savings, but that the time efficiencies gained with CELLEX® allow for more patient treatments per year.
Genetic Recombination Between Stromal and Cancer Cells Results in Highly Malignant Cells Identified by Color‐Coded Imaging in a Mouse Lymphoma Model
Authors: Nakamura Miki , Suetsugu Atsushi , Hasegawa Kousuke , Matsumoto Takuro , Aoki Hitomi , Kunisada Takahiro , Shimizu Masahito , Saji Shigetoyo , Moriwaki Hisataka , Hoffman Robert M.
Published: April 2017

The tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes tumor growth and metastasis. We previously established the color‐coded EL4 lymphoma TME model with red fluorescent protein (RFP) expressing EL4 implanted in transgenic C57BL/6 green fluorescent protein (GFP) mice. Color‐coded imaging of the lymphoma TME suggested an important role of stromal cells in lymphoma progression and metastasis. In the present study, we used color‐coded imaging of RFP‐lymphoma cells and GFP stromal cells to identify yellow‐fluorescent genetically recombinant cells appearing only during metastasis. The EL4‐RFP lymphoma cells were injected subcutaneously in C57BL/6‐GFP transgenic mice and formed subcutaneous tumors 14 days after cell transplantation. The subcutaneous tumors were harvested and transplanted to the abdominal cavity of nude mice. Metastases to the liver, perigastric lymph node, ascites, bone marrow, and primary tumor were imaged. In addition to EL4‐RFP cells and GFP‐host cells, genetically recombinant yellow‐fluorescent cells, were observed only in the ascites and bone marrow. These results indicate genetic exchange between the stromal and cancer cells. Possible mechanisms of genetic exchange are discussed as well as its ramifications for metastasis. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4216–4221, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Soluble Egg Antigen Activates M2 Macrophages via the STAT6 and PI3K Pathways, and Schistosoma Japonicum Alternatively Activates Macrophage Polarization to Improve the Survival Rate of Septic Mice
Authors: Tang Hao , Liang Yan‐bing , Chen Zhi‐bin , Du Lin‐lin , Zeng Li‐jin , Wu Jing‐guo , Yang Wen , Liang Hua‐ping , Ma Zhong‐fu
Published: April 2017

Sepsis is one of the most challenging health problems worldwide. Our previous study showed that chronic schistosoma japonica (SJ) infection might increase serum anti‐inflammatory factors to play a protective role, thus improving the survival rate of septic mice. Further research revealed that SJ infection promoted J774A.1 macrophage differentiation into M2 macrophages; suppressed LPS‐induced activation of M1 macrophages; up‐regulated CD163, IL‐10, and TGF‐β1 expression; inhibited TNF‐α and iNOS expression; and blocked the effect of LPS‐promoted TNF‐α and iNOS expression. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of ex vivo programed M2 macrophages significantly increased the survival rate of septic mice. In vitro studies suggested that soluble egg antigen (SEA) from SJ played the same role as worm infection but had no impact on M1 macrophages. SEA reduced LPS‐induced TNF‐α and iNOS expression, decreased the inhibitory effect of LPS on IL‐10 and TGF‐β1 expression, increased STAT6 phosphorylation, and up‐regulated PI3K and Akt expression but inhibited SOCS1 expression. When PI3K inhibitors were added, SEA‐induced expression of CD163, IL‐10, and arg1 might be reduced. Therefore, worm infection has a protective effect in septic mice in which SEA may play a key role via the STAT6 and PI3K pathways. This finding may provide a favorable solution for the treatment of sepsis, especially early cases. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4230–4239, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intermolecular Interactions Between DMα and DMβ Proteins in BuLA‐DM Complex of Water Buffalo Bubalus bubalis
Authors: Rawal Leena , Panwar Deepak , Ali Sher
Published: April 2017

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) with its three classes represents a cluster of tightly linked genes with defined immunological and non‐immunological functions. The DM, a MHC class II molecule is formed by the non‐covalent association of DMα and DMβ chains. It binds with the processed peptide antigens and presents them to T lymphocytes, thereby triggering the immune responses. Startlingly, the expression pattern and structural organization of DMα and DMβ proteins in buffalo remains undefined. We isolated and purified the DMα and DMβ proteins from Bubalus bubalis using gel filtration chromatography. Employing western blotting and immunohistochemistry, highest expression of these proteins was observed in spleen and were later localized in the cytoplasm. We modelled 3D structures of the proteins and assessed the binding interface of BuLA‐DM docked complex. In the process, we uncovered 9 DMα and 8 DMβ specific residues participating in the formation of BuLA‐DM complex. Our work demonstrated active participation of the critical amino acid residues engaged in the formation of BuLA‐DM complex facilitating deeper understanding on the structure‐function relationship of these proteins. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4254–4266, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential expression profile analysis of PSTK‐regulated mRNAs in podocytes
Authors: Zheng Dong , Zhao Ying , Liu Limin , Sun Xiaodong , Xia Yiyuan , Sun Lina , Xie Keming
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying the protective effects of phosphoseryl‐tRNA kinase (PSTK) against cisplatin‐induced podocyte injury. PSTK overexpression and knockdown vectors were generated and transfected into murine podocyte cells‐5. PSTK levels were measured, and transcriptome sequencing was conducted. Differential expression analysis was performed to identify messenger RNAs (mRNAs) that were positively and negatively correlated with PSTK. We selected 10 candidate genes identified via real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis for further analysis. As expected, PSTK levels were significantly higher in PSTK‐overexpressing podocytes and significantly lower in PSTK‐knockdown podocytes. PSTK overexpression resulted in the upregulation of 122 genes and downregulation of 372 genes in podocytes. On the other hand, PSTK knockdown resulted in the upregulation of 231 genes and downregulation of 445 genes. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that 11 genes were positively correlated with PSTK, whereas 20 genes were negatively correlated with PSTK. The obtained PSTK‐regulated genes were primarily involved in molecular function, biological process, and cellular component, as well as the angiogenesis pathway. The Wnt family member 10A levels were significantly higher after PSTK overexpression, but were significantly lower after PSTK knockdown. In addition, Na+/K+ ATPase subunit α‐2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 levels were significantly downregulated after PSTK overexpression, but significantly upregulated upon PSTK knockdown. Cell proliferation was significantly increased upon PSTK overexpression, but significantly decreased upon PSTK suppression. The results of this study not only identified several significant PSTK‐regulated genes for further validation, but also provided insights into the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of PSTK on podocytes.
Associations Among Meaning in Life, Body Image, Psychopathology, and Suicide Ideation in Spanish Participants With Eating Disorders
Authors: Marco José H. , Cañabate Montserrat , Pérez Sandra , Llorca Ginés
Published: April 2017

Objective

The aims of this study were to (a) analyze whether participants with eating disorders have lower meaning in life than the nonclinical population; (b) discover whether participants with eating disorders with low meaning in life have more body image disturbances, more psychopathology, and higher suicide ideation than participants with high meaning in life; (c) analyze whether meaning in life is associated with eating disorder psychopathology; and (d) analyze whether meaning in life is able to predict eating disorder psychopathology and suicide ideation, when body image is controlled.

Method

The clinical sample comprised 247 Spanish participants diagnosed with eating disorders, and the nonclinical sample comprised Spanish 227 participants.

Results

Participants with eating disorders had lower meaning in life than the nonclinical population. Patients with low meaning in life had higher psychopathology and suicide ideation than participants with high meaning in life. Meaning in life was a significant predictor of the eating disorder psychopathology and suicide ideation.

Conclusion

Low meaning in life is associated with eating disorder psychopathology in a Spanish sample with eating disorders.
Sonographic diagnosis of a radiographically occult displaced fracture of a costal cartilage
Authors: Bortolotto Chandra , Federici Egisto , Draghi Ferdinando , Bianchi Stefano
Published: April 2017

We report the case of a 22‐year‐old athlete who sustained a blunt thoracic trauma to the right chest causing a costal cartilage fracture. Plain radiographs revealed no abnormalities while sonographic (US) examination performed a week later because of persistent pain led to the diagnosis of a displaced fracture of the right tenth costal cartilage. A follow‐up US examination confirmed the healing of the fracture and allowed the patient to return to competitive sport activity. We recommend the use of US in patients with persisting pain after thoracic trauma with negative plain radiographs of the ribs to rule out radiographically occult costal cartilage fractures. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:605–607, 2017
Transvaginal sonography in the diagnosis of deep infiltrating endometriosis: A review
Authors: Turocy Jenna M. , Benacerraf Beryl R.
Published: April 2017

This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the diagnostic accuracy of sonography (US) in women with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). It is well known that transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) can detect ovarian endometriomas with a high degree of sensitivity. In recent years, US has also been used to detect DIE. In the hands of an experienced sonologist, the sensitivity and specificity of TVUS in the detection of DIE is comparable to those of MRI. TVUS can eliminate the need for an MRI in the majority of patients and reduce the need for diagnostic laparoscopy, proving to be an important tool in preoperative planning. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:313–318, 2017;
Optimal treatment strategy for acute cholecystitis based on predictive factors: Japan‐Taiwan multicenter cohort study
Authors: Endo Itaru , Takada Tadahiro , Hwang Tsann‐Long , Akazawa Kohei , Mori Rintaro , Miura Fumihiko , Yokoe Masamichi , Itoi Takao , Gomi Harumi , Chen Miin‐Fu , Jan Yi‐Yin , Ker Chen‐Guo , Wang Hsiu‐Po , Kiriyama Seiki , Wada Keita , Yamaue Hiroki , Miyazaki Masaru , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: April 2017

Background

Although early laparoscopic cholecystectomy is widely performed for acute cholecystitis, the optimal timing of a cholecystectomy in clinically ill patients remains controversial. This study aims to determine the best practice for the patients presenting with acute cholecystitis focused on disease severity and comorbidities.

Methods

An international multicentric retrospective observational study was conducted over a 2‐year period. Patients were divided into four groups: Group A: primary cholecystectomy; Group B: cholecystectomy after gallbladder drainage; Group C: gallbladder drainage alone; and Group D: medical treatment alone.

Results

The subjects of analyses were 5,329 patients. There were statistically significant differences in mortality rates between patients with Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) scores below and above 6 (P < 0.001). The shortest operative time was observed in Group A patients who underwent surgery 0–3 days after admission (P < 0.01). Multiple regression analysis revealed CCI and low body mass index <20 as predictive factors of 30‐day mortality in Grade I+II patients. Also, jaundice, neurological dysfunction, and respiratory dysfunction were predictive factors of 30‐day mortality in Grade III patients. In Grade III patients without predictive factors, there were no difference in mortality between Group A and Group B (0% vs. 0%), whereas Group A patients had higher mortality rates than that of Group B patients (9.3% vs. 0.0%) in cases with at least one predictive factor.

Conclusion

Even patients with Grade III severity, primary cholecystectomy can be performed safely if they have no predictive factors of mortality. Gallbladder drainage may have a therapeutic role in subgroups with higher CCI or higher disease severity.
Validation of TG13 severity grading in acute cholecystitis: Japan‐Taiwan collaborative study for acute cholecystitis
Authors: Yokoe Masamichi , Takada Tadahiro , Hwang Tsann‐Long , Endo Itaru , Akazawa Kohei , Miura Fumihiko , Mayumi Toshihiko , Mori Rintaro , Chen Miin‐Fu , Jan Yi‐Yin , Ker Chen‐Guo , Wang Hsiu‐Po , Itoi Takao , Gomi Harumi , Kiriyama Seiki , Wada Keita , Yamaue Hiroki , Miyazaki Masaru , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: April 2017

Background

The collaborative multicenter retrospective study of acute cholecystitis (AC) was performed in Japan and Taiwan. The aim for this study was evaluation of the clinical value of TG13 severity grading for AC.

Method

The study was designed as an international multicenter retrospective study of AC from 2011 to 2013. Based on the data, we investigated the TG13 severity grading by analyzing the correlations between grade and prognosis, surgical procedures, histopathology, and organ dysfunction and prognosis.

Results

An investigation revealed that 30‐day overall mortality rate was 1.1% for Grade I, 0.8% for Grade II, 5.4% for Grade III. The mortality rate for Grade III was significantly higher than lower grades (P < 0.001). The greater the number of organ dysfunction, the higher the mortality rate (P < 0.001). However, the mortality rate varied depending on the number of organ dysfunction (3.1–25%). With respect to the surgical procedures, laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed for Grade I patients (P < 0.001), and the higher the grade, the more likely open surgery would be selected (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

TG13 severity grading criteria for AC are providing great benefits in actual clinical settings. From this study, the position of each severity grade was obviously confirmed.
Clinical application and verification of the TG13 diagnostic and severity grading criteria for acute cholangitis: an international multicenter observational study
Authors: Kiriyama Seiki , Takada Tadahiro , Hwang Tsann‐Long , Akazawa Kohei , Miura Fumihiko , Gomi Harumi , Mori Rintaro , Endo Itaru , Itoi Takao , Yokoe Masamichi , Chen Miin‐Fu , Jan Yi‐Yin , Ker Chen‐Guo , Wang Hsiu‐Po , Wada Keita , Yamaue Hiroki , Miyazaki Masaru , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: April 2017

Background

The Tokyo Guidelines 2007 (TG07) first presented the diagnostic and severity grading criteria for acute cholangitis. Subsequently updated in 2013, the Tokyo Guidelines (TG13) have been widely adopted throughout the world as global standard guidelines. We set out to verify the efficacy of these TG13 criteria in an international multicenter study.

Methods

We reviewed 6,063 patients who were clinically diagnosed with acute cholangitis in Japan and Taiwan over a 2‐year period. The TG13 diagnostic and severity grading criteria were retrospectively applied, and 30‐day mortality was investigated.

Results

A diagnosis of acute cholangitis was made in 5,454 (90.0%) patients on the basis of the TG13 criteria, and in 4,815 (79.4%) patients on the basis of the TG07 criteria. The 30‐day mortality rates of patients with Grade III, Grade II, and Grade I were 5.1%, 2.6%, and 1.2%, respectively, and increased significantly along with disease severity. The mortality rate in the 1,272 Grade II cases where urgent or early biliary drainage was performed was 2.0% (n = 25), which was significantly lower than that of 3.7% (n = 28) in the other 748 cases.

Conclusion

By using the TG13 diagnostic and severity grading criteria, more patients with possible acute cholangitis can be diagnosed, and patients whose prognosis can potentially be improved by early biliary drainage can be identified. The TG13 criteria are appropriate and useful for clinical practice.
Improved electromagnetic models with saliency effect, a novel canned switched reluctance machine drive as example
Authors: Yu Qiang , Wang Xuesong , Cheng Yuhu
Published: April 2017

A canned electrical machine is featured by having a can shield in air gap as partition. Considerable ohmic loss generated from the can (can loss) is the most highlighted feature. In this paper, an analytical electromagnetic model is proposed to analyze can loss. The model is divided into calculation of magnetic vector potential and modeling of magnetic saturation. In particular, the loss influenced by salient poles is discussed. The studied canned machine is a 3‐phase 12/8 switched reluctance machine as a pump drive. It is stressed that we do not judge and discuss performance of the machine developed but propose a modeling approach to improve the loss calculation approach. The developed method has been validated with simulation and experiments. The model gives accurate calculation of losses for electrical machines of high magnetic saturation effect.