bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Where Does Electron Correlation Lie? Some Answers from a Real Space Partition
Authors: Casalz‐Sainz José Luis , Guevara‐Vela José Manuel , Francisco Evelio , Rocha‐Rinza Tomás , Martín Pendás Ángel
Published: October 2017

We discuss an intra‐ and interatomic partition of the electron correlation energy (Ecorr) within the interacting quantum atoms (IQA) approach at the accurate coupled cluster level with single, double, and estimated triple excitations (CCSDT(T)). This division offers a privileged window into the spatial localization of this component of the molecular energy. We show that the total molecularEcorris dominated by the intra‐atomic or intra‐fragment terms and that interatomic contributions change smoothly from short‐ to long‐range correlation (dispersion). The sign of these interatomic correlation terms differentiate between (i) mainly covalent or (ii) mainly ionic or nonbonded interactions. We propose that this feature may be used to define and examine intramolecular dispersion terms.
The computation and analysis of energy‐efficient multirelay and multihop communication scheme in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Xie Zhibin , Shen Qin , Hu Ying , Su Yinjie , Wang Yajun
Published: October 2017

Wireless sensor network (WSN) has been one of the most important network technologies nowadays. However, the communication of wireless sensor nodes is often constrained by computation capability and energy efficiency, and direct transmission is hard to adapt to all communication environments. Cooperative transmission can achieve the low energy consumption requirements effectively. But most researches considered multirelay and singular‐hop scheme, and their energy efficiencies were not satisfactory in a longer transmission distance. To address this problem, we investigate the effect of the relay links and the relay node hops on the energy consumption in this paper. By deriving the outage probability of the multirelay and multihop transmission scheme, the minimum transmitting power of the source node is obtained. Then the existence of the minimum energy consumption is proved with respect to the number of relay links. Simultaneously, to reduce the computational complexity to ensure the effective implementation of the communication, the optimal number of relay links is calculated based on the minimum energy consumption. The simulation results show that the proposed multirelay and multihop transmission scheme has better transmission efficiency and can achieve satisfactory performance of communication and computation cooperation.
Comparative responses of early‐successional plants to charcoal soil amendments
Authors: Gale Nigel V. , Halim Md Abdul , Horsburgh Mark , Thomas Sean C.
Published: October 2017

Charcoal used as a soil amendment, or “biochar,” has received considerable recent research attention as a means to increase plant productivity while mitigating climate change through enhanced carbon sequestration. Interest in biochar for use in the restoration of disturbed sites is growing; however, biochar effects on wild plant species of the early phase of post‐disturbance succession have received almost no prior research attention. Physiological adaptations that enable rapid growth in early‐successional pioneers (e.g., high rates of photosynthesis) should be advantageous in soils with fresh charcoal since plants with a capacity for expeditious resource capture can capitalize on resource pulses from leachable mineral elements. In a glasshouse study, we tested the effects of biochar applied at two doses (10 and 20 t/ha) to brunisol/juvenile podzol soils, collected from a managed temperate mixed‐wood forest, on the growth and physiology of 13 herbaceous old‐field pioneers. We measured leaf‐level physiology and nutrient supply rates throughout the experiment, and biomass and reproductive performance at experiment completion. Overall, biochar treatments resulted in 30–37% increases in final average aboveground biomass, 13–17% increases in photosynthesis, and an average ~44% increase in leaf‐level water‐use efficiency (at 10 t/ha), but with a high species‐specific variation that included negative responses. We detected weak negative relationships between intrinsic photosynthetic rates (of non‐biochar controls) and some biomass responses: Species with high photosynthetic capacities tended to have low or negative biomass responses to biochar. Plants in biochar treatments flowered earlier and on average had double the reproductive biomass overall. Pulses of PO4− and K+ were supplied by biochar in the first four weeks of the experiment, while NO3− was significantly immobilized by biochar. These results suggest that by providing a pulse of P and base cations, biochar can improve the restoration of disturbed landscapes by enhancing the physiological and reproductive performance of a subset of pioneers that have moderate photosynthetic rates and nitrogen demand. Biochar has important potential applications to restoration; however, biochar is likely to affect community composition strongly, and careful consideration of the physiological rates and nitrogen requirements of target species will be necessary to maximize the success of biochar‐based restoration projects.
Non‐linear thresholds characterize the relationship between reef fishes and mangrove habitat
Authors: Shideler Geoffrey S. , Araújo Rafael J. , Walker Brian K. , Blondeau Jeremiah , Serafy Joseph E.
Published: October 2017

A significant obstacle to evaluating the importance of mangrove habitat to coral reef fishes has been the difficulty of disentangling its effects from other subtidal/nearshore habitats or human population pressures. Florida's seascape, unlike most others, has been extensively surveyed and mapped, and there are reliable estimates of human population density. Despite many studies that have correlated reef fish abundance with nearby mangrove habitat, some researchers continue to question the importance of mangroves to reef fishes. Previous studies that have investigated the mangrove–reef fish subsidy effect have applied methods that either compared averages or examined linear relationships; yet there is a body of literature that indicates that the effects of habitat are characterized by thresholds and limiting functions. Here, we employed a generalized additive model to investigate whether species richness of 106 mangrove‐associated reef fishes is related to thresholds in the extent of nearby mangrove forests along the Florida Keys Reef Tract. In addition, we used linear discriminant analyses (LDAs) to examine the relationships between the occurrence of 77 reef fish species and extent of Florida mangrove forests. We found that after accounting for confounding factors, at scales <20 km2, species richness declines with decreasing mangrove extent, whereas richness increases with increasing mangrove extent at scales >80 km2. Results of our LDA suggested that at least 49 reef fish species (64% of focal species) were associated with higher nearby mangrove forest extent. Our results indicate that of all habitat attributes considered, mangroves played the most substantial role in the diversity of nearby reef fish populations. These apparent thresholds (i.e., non‐linearities) in the extent of mangrove forests should be incorporated into fisheries critical habitat management and emphasize the need to consider non‐linear relationships between fishes and their habitat.
Linear and nonlinear effects of temperature and precipitation on ecosystem properties in tidal saline wetlands
Authors: Feher Laura C. , Osland Michael J. , Griffith Kereen T. , Grace James B. , Howard Rebecca J. , Stagg Camille L. , Enwright Nicholas M. , Krauss Ken W. , Gabler Christopher A. , Day Richard H. , Rogers Kerrylee
Published: October 2017

Climate greatly influences the structure and functioning of tidal saline wetland ecosystems. However, there is a need to better quantify the effects of climatic drivers on ecosystem properties, particularly near climate‐sensitive ecological transition zones. Here, we used climate‐ and literature‐derived ecological data from tidal saline wetlands to test hypotheses regarding the influence of climatic drivers (i.e., temperature and precipitation regimes) on the following six ecosystem properties: canopy height, biomass, productivity, decomposition, soil carbon density, and soil carbon accumulation. Our analyses quantify and elucidate linear and nonlinear effects of climatic drivers. We quantified positive linear relationships between temperature and above‐ground productivity and strong positive nonlinear (sigmoidal) relationships between (1) temperature and above‐ground biomass and canopy height and (2) precipitation and canopy height. Near temperature‐controlled mangrove range limits, small changes in temperature are expected to trigger comparatively large changes in biomass and canopy height, as mangrove forests grow, expand, and, in some cases, replace salt marshes. However, within these same transition zones, temperature‐induced changes in productivity are expected to be comparatively small. Interestingly, despite the significant above‐ground height, biomass, and productivity relationships across the tropical–temperate mangrove–marsh transition zone, the relationships between temperature and soil carbon density or soil carbon accumulation were not significant. Our literature review identifies several ecosystem properties and many regions of the world for which there are insufficient data to fully evaluate the influence of climatic drivers, and the identified data gaps can be used by scientists to guide future research. Our analyses indicate that near precipitation‐controlled transition zones, small changes in precipitation are expected to trigger comparatively large changes in canopy height. However, there are scant data to evaluate the influence of precipitation on other ecosystem properties. There is a need for more decomposition data across climatic gradients, and to advance understanding of the influence of changes in precipitation and freshwater availability, additional ecological data are needed from tidal saline wetlands in arid climates. Collectively, our results can help scientists and managers better anticipate the linear and nonlinear ecological consequences of climate change for coastal wetlands.
Model parameters for representative wetland plant functional groups
Authors: Williams Amber S. , Kiniry James R. , Mushet David , Smith Loren M. , McMurry Scott , Attebury Kelly , Lang Megan , McCarty Gregory W. , Shaffer Jill A. , Effland William R. , Johnson Mari‐Vaughn V.
Published: October 2017

Wetlands provide a wide variety of ecosystem services including water quality remediation, biodiversity refugia, groundwater recharge, and floodwater storage. Realistic estimation of ecosystem service benefits associated with wetlands requires reasonable simulation of the hydrology of each site and realistic simulation of the upland and wetland plant growth cycles. Objectives of this study were to quantify leaf area index (LAI), light extinction coefficient (k), and plant nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) concentrations in natural stands of representative plant species for some major plant functional groups in the United States. Functional groups in this study were based on these parameters and plant growth types to enable process‐based modeling. We collected data at four locations representing some of the main wetland regions of the United States. At each site, we collected on‐the‐ground measurements of fraction of light intercepted, LAI, and dry matter within the 2013–2015 growing seasons. Maximum LAI and k variables showed noticeable variations among sites and years, while overall averages and functional group averages give useful estimates for multisite simulation modeling. Variation within each species gives an indication of what can be expected in such natural ecosystems. For P and K, the concentrations from highest to lowest were spikerush (Eleocharis macrostachya), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), smartweed (Polygonum spp.), cattail (Typha spp.), and hardstem bulrush (Schoenoplectus acutus). Spikerush had the highest N concentration, followed by smartweed, bulrush, reed canary grass, and then cattail. These parameters will be useful for the actual wetland species measured and for the wetland plant functional groups they represent. These parameters and the associated process‐based models offer promise as valuable tools for evaluating environmental benefits of wetlands and for evaluating impacts of various agronomic practices in adjacent areas as they affect wetlands.
Effects of grassland management on plant C:N:P stoichiometry: implications for soil element cycling and storage
Authors: Heyburn Jemma , McKenzie Paul , Crawley Michael J. , Fornara Dario A.
Published: October 2017

The functioning of human‐managed grassland ecosystems strongly depends on how common management practices (e.g., animal grazing and the chronic addition of fertilizing materials to soils) interact to influence plant and soil element stoichiometry. Here we use data from a 22‐yr‐long grassland experiment to address whether and how plant element stoichiometry (i.e., carbon [C], nitrogen [N], phosphorus [P] ratios) might respond to (1) animal grazing, (2) agricultural liming (i.e., CaCO3) applications, and (3) nutrient fertilization. We also ask whether plant C:N:P stoichiometry could predict changes in soil N and P availability and in soil C, N, and P stocks. We found that grassland management significantly affected plant C:N:P ratios as predicted by ecological stoichiometry theory. For example, plant aboveground and belowground C:N and C:P ratios decreased under chronic N and P fertilization, respectively. Plant C:N and C:P ratios were significantly greater in unfertilized (control) soils. Also plant C:N ratios were highest under P‐only additions, whereas plant C:P ratios were highest under N‐only additions. However, unpredictable changes in C:N:P ratios also occurred, suggesting that plant tissue chemistry may not be a simple reflection of soil nutrient availability. Changes in plant C:nutrient ratios well predicted variation in soil nutrient availability, but not in soil C, N, and P stocks. Contrary to expectations, soil C stocks significantly increased with decreasing plant C:N ratios in the nutrient‐fertilized grasslands and not with increasing plant C:N ratios in the unfertilized grasslands. We suggest that a better mechanistic understanding of the negative relationship between plant C:N stoichiometry and soil C accrual will greatly help in improving the sustainability of human‐managed grasslands.
Ly9 (SLAMF3) receptor differentially regulates iNKT cell development and activation in mice
Authors: Cuenca Marta , Puñet‐Ortiz Joan , Ruart Maria , Terhorst Cox , Engel Pablo
Published: October 2017

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells develop into three subsets (NKT1, NKT2, and NKT17) expressing a distinct transcription factor profile, which regulates cytokine secretion upon activation. iNKT cell development in the thymus is modulated by signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family (SLAMF) receptors. In contrast to other SLAMF members, Ly9 (SLAMF3) is a non‐redundant negative regulator of iNKT cell development. Here, we show that Ly9 influences iNKT cell lineage differentiation. Ly9‐deficient mice on a BALB/c background contained a significantly expanded population of thymic NKT2 cells, while NKT1 cells were nearly absent in BALB/c.Ly9−/− thymus. Conversely, the number of peripheral NKT1 cells in BALB/c.Ly9−/− mice was comparable to that in wild‐type mice, indicating that the homeostasis of the different iNKT cell subsets may have distinct requirements depending on their tissue localization. Importantly, Ly9 absence also promoted NKT2 cell differentiation in the NKT1‐skewed C57BL/6 background. Furthermore, treatment of wild‐type mice with an agonistic monoclonal antibody directed against Ly9 impaired IL‐4 and IFN‐γ production and reduced by half the number of spleen iNKT cells, with a significant decrease in the proportion of NKT2 cells. Thus, anti‐Ly9 targeting could represent a novel therapeutic approach to modulate iNKT cell numbers and activation.
Cationic versus Anionic Palladium Species in the Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Schroeter Felix , Strassner Thomas
Published: October 2017

The cationic complex [(pym‐Im‐Me)2PdCl][PF6] (pym = pyrimidyl; Im = imidazolin‐2‐ylidene) has been identified as a highly active and reliable catalyst in the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction in ethanol for a wide range of substrates without the need for an excess of boronic acid. The catalytic activity of the cationic complex is retained at very low catalyst loadings, whereas quick decomposition occurs when using the anionic complex [Bu4N][Pd(DMSO)Cl3] (DMSO = dimethyl sulfoxide). Further investigations of the induction period, the effect of catalyst poisons, and SEM analysis of the particles formed under catalytic conditions show that in both cases the catalytically active species is – at least partially – heterogeneous.
Iodobismuthate(III) and Iodobismuthate(III)/Iodocuprate(I) Complexes with Organic Ligands
Authors: Kelly Andrew W. , Wheaton Amelia M. , Nicholas Aaron D. , Barnes Francis H. , Patterson Howard H. , Pike Robert D.
Published: October 2017

Pyridine ligand complexes of [Bu4N][BiI4] were prepared using chelating ligands 2,2′‐bipyridyl (2,2′‐Bpy), 1,10‐phenanthroline (Phen), and 4‐nitro‐1,10‐phenanthroline (NO2Phen), producing monomeric complexes [Bu4N][(2,2′‐Bpy)BiI4], [Bu4N][(Phen)BiI4], and [Bu4N][(NO2Phen)BiI4], and bridging ligands 4,4′‐bipyridyl (4,4′‐Bpy), pyrazine (Pyz), and aminopyrazine (NH2Pyz) resulting in formation of polymers [Bu4N]n[(4,4′‐Bpy)BiI4]n and [Bu4N]2n[(RPyz)Bi2I8]n (R = H, NH2). The latter contain edge‐sharing Bi2I8 dimers. Organic ligand BiIII/CuI clusters [Bu4N]2[L2Bi2Cu2I10] {L = PPh3, P(OPh)3} and [Bu4N]2[PyBi2Cu2I10] (Py = pyridine) have been prepared. All bismuthate(III) centers are distorted octahedra and all cuprate(I) centers are tetrahedral, with organic ligands bonded to CuI. The first neutral BiI3/CuI organic ligand complex [BiCu3I6(PPh3)6] is reported. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy measurements reveal strong absorption bands for both iodobismuthate(III) and iodocuprate(I)/bismuthate(III) complexes in the UV and visible range. Despite the similarity in absorption bands, DFT calculations support a distinct shift in transition from a mixed halide/metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (X/MLCT) to a metal–halide cluster‐centered transition upon incorporation of copper(I) into the cluster.
Synthesis of Oxaphosphinane‐Based Pseudodisaccharides
Authors: Babouri Rachida , Clarion Ludovic , Rolland Marc , Van der Lee Arie , Kabouche Zahia , Volle Jean‐Noël , Virieux David , Pirat Jean‐Luc
Published: October 2017

The synthesis of pseudodisaccharides based on an oxaphosphinane heterocycle is described. Disaccharide mimetics 5 and 6 were readily obtained through glycosylation of a hydroxy group with appropriately protected furanosyl or pyranosyl carbohydrates using a trichloroacetamidate coupling strategy. Selective or complete deprotection then produced the chiral pseudodisaccharides in good yields.
Designing Silylated l‐Amino Acids using a Wittig Strategy: Synthesis of Peptide Derivatives and 18F‐Labelling
Authors: Rugeri Baptiste , Audi Hassib , Jewula Pawel , Koudih Radouane , Malacea‐Kabbara Raluca , Vimont Delphine , Schulz Jürgen , Fernandez Philippe , Jugé Sylvain
Published: October 2017

An efficient semisynthesis of silylated l‐amino acids by reaction of silylated benzaldehydes with a phosphonium l‐amino acid used as a Wittig reagent is described. The efficiency of the silylated l‐amino acids in peptide synthesis was investigated by coupling both the carboxylic acid and the amino moiety with l‐alanine and phenylalanine derivatives, respectively. The silylated derivatives were treated with KF or tetrabutylammonium fluoride to give the corresponding fluorosilyl derivatives without racemization. The hydrolysis of the fluorosilylated derivatives in phosphate buffer at pH 7.2 was checked. Finally, the 18F‐labelling of di‐tert‐butylsilylated saturated and unsaturated dipeptides was achieved in hot DMSO with a mixture of K[18F]/cryptand (K2.2.2) and acetic acid. The 18F‐labelled dipeptides were obtained with radiochemical yields and molar activities of up to 31 % and 410 GBq/µmol, respectively. Consequently, this semisynthesis involving a Wittig reaction offers a new and efficient route for the design and 18F‐labelling of Si‐based amino acids and peptide derivatives, which may find applications in PET imaging.
Automation of the Storing‐In Part of a Hydrogen‐Storage System using Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers
Authors: Milella Vito‐Oronzo , Koelpin Alexander , Schluecker Eberhard
Published: October 2017

Accumulating electrical energy in decentralized electrical grids is a demanding task. Preliminary work exists on the charging and discharging of liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs). These carriers allow the storage of hydrogen by reversible hydrogenation of an aromatic compound. A challenge is that the chemical process has to be conducted within the power‐generating infrastructure, and therefore, continuous and fully automated implementation is mandatory. In this work, the fundamentals of controlling and automating LOHC‐based energy‐storage systems are presented. For this purpose, the identification of the controlled variable is performed before its influence on the reaction dynamics is determined. This results in a fully automated hydrogenation process, whereby the conductibility of the reaction, the performance, and the necessity of applying pressure pulsations to get a stable operation mode are shown. Derived from these results, the investigations help to establish LOHCs as feasible hydrogen carriers, which will be a decisive step to mid‐ and long‐term energy‐storage systems suitable to a modern smart‐grid infrastructure.
Upgrading of a Norwegian pressurized sand trap combined with an open air surge tank
Authors: Richter Wolfgang , Vereide Kaspar , Zenz Gerald
Published: October 2017

In 1988 the Tonstad power plant (Norway) was upgraded from 640 to 960 MW. The headrace system to the reservoirs was not upgraded except for an additional pressure shaft, surge tank and an additional sand trap. Even with about 50 % higher discharge in the main tunnel, the sand traps worked adequately after the commissioning. However, in recent years, higher flexibility of demand is challenging the power plant and has resulted in events with flushing of sediments to the turbines. Higher flexibility demands also challenge the current surge tank design. During one event, free surface flow is believed to have occurred in the sand trap since severe damage to two of the turbines was observed. This contribution presents the background of the power system situation at the Tonstad power plant and the current flexibility demands of the power market and its challenges for the hydraulic system, as well as the proposals to solve the sand trap issues and the oscillation demands for the surge tank. The paper discusses the possibility of utilizing a model predictive controller with real‐time flow simulations to solve the challenges without structural reconstruction, and possible options should structural reconstruction be necessary. The contribution compares analysed options for improving the efficiency of sand traps. Finally, an outlook is offered to future demands for flexibility in hydropower plants with increasing supply of renewable power sources.
Challenges with regard to road tunnel structures – Assement management by Asfinag
Authors: Honeger Christian , Engelbogen Siegfried , Pucher Michael
Published: October 2017

Asfinag (Autobahnen‐ und Schnellstraßen‐Finanzierungs AG) has the commission to oversee the entire Austrian high‐speed road network. Tunnel safety is an important focus. In the period between 2004, when the tunnel improvement programme started, and the first months of 2019, about EUR 5.7 billion will have been invested in the upgrading of tunnels as well as the optimisation of tunnel safety equipment. Along with these investments, there is also a focus on optimising the performance of lifecycles without risking non‐compliance with safety standards. Tunnel refurbishment measures are planned and carried out on the basis of regular checks and assessments, taking into consideration requirements with regard to both construction engineering and electrical equipment while at the same time pursuing the aim of optimising cost‐effectiveness. This paper also addresses the challenges resulting from the fact that the lifecycle of the tunnel structure differs from that of the tunnel equipment. Both the medium‐term and the long‐term planning of refurbishment measures should be prepared in detail to the greatest extent possible, so that the organisation can best guarantee both safety and cost‐effectiveness.
Hurricanes and tropical storms: A necessary evil to ensure water supply?
Authors: Zhang Meijing , Chen Xing , Kumar Mukesh , Marani Marco , Goralczyk Michael
Published: October 2017

Several parts of the globe including Southeast North America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Australia, and China are often hit by hurricanes and tropical storms (HTSs), which can deliver a large amount of rainfall within a period of a few days. Although HTSs are mostly studied as disaster agents, considering that they occur during the period when water supply systems are generally depleted, it is important to ascertain their potential contributions toward sustaining water supply. Using the Lake Michie–Little River reservoir system that supplies water to the city of Durham (North Carolina) as a representative test case, we implemented an integrated watershed and reservoir management model, supported by publicly available observations, to evaluate the extent to which HTSs impact water storages. Results indicate that HTSs can have a significant impact on reservoir water storage, with their effects being felt for more than a year for some storms. The impact on reservoir water storage is identified to be primarily controlled by 3 factors, namely, streamflow response size from HTSs, storage in the reservoir right before the event, and streamflow succeeding the event response to HTS (henceforth referred as postevent streamflow). Although the impact of streamflow response size on water storage is generally proportional to its magnitude, initial water storage in the reservoir and postevent streamflow have a nonmonotonic influence on water storage. As all the 3 identified controls are a function of antecedent hydrologic conditions and meteorological forcings, these 2 factors indirectly influence the impact of HTS on water storage in a reservoir. The identification of controlling factors and assessment of their influence on reservoir response will further facilitate implementation of more accurate estimation and prediction frameworks for within‐year reservoir operations.
A retrospective study of the prevalence and outcomes of syphilis in pregnancy in a 5‐year period
Authors: Ebenezer Emily D. , Benjamin Santosh J. , Sahni Rani D. , Prakash John A.J. , Chelliah Hepsy , Mathews Jiji E.
Published: October 2017

Objective

To determine the prevalence of syphilis in pregnancy and to assess the effect of syphilis on maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Methods

In a retrospective study, data were reviewed for pregnant women who tested positive for syphilis during routine prenatal screening at a center in India between January 2011 and December 2015. Women with both a positive venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) test and a positive Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay (TPHA) were considered to have syphilis, and their maternal and fetal outcomes were assessed.

Results

Among 51 164 pregnant women who underwent VDRL testing during the study period, 343 women were VDRL‐positive (seropositivity rate 0.7%) and 18 were both VDRL‐ and TPHA‐positive and were considered to have syphilis (seropositivity rate <0.1%). Among these 18 women, there were two stillbirths, four preterm births, and five small‐for‐gestational‐age neonates.

Conclusion

Although the prevalence of syphilis was low in the study population, women who were affected had adverse perinatal outcomes. Routine screening of all pregnant women for syphilis as early as possible in pregnancy, with appropriate treatment and follow‐up of affected women and newborns, should be done to reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Neonatal delivery weight and risk of future maternal diabetes
Authors: Stuart Andrea E. , Amer‐Wåhlin Isis , Källen Karin B.M.
Published: October 2017

Objective

To investigate associations between neonatal delivery weight and future risk of maternal type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Data included in the Swedish Medical Birth Registry and Swedish National Diabetes Registry were merged to include all women born during 1930–1989; patients with pre‐existing diabetes or gestational diabetes were excluded. Cox regression analyses were performed to identify associations between the neonatal delivery weight from the most recent pregnancy and later occurrence of diabetes.

Results

There were 1 873 440 patients included in the analyses. An increased risk of type 1 (hazard ratio 3.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.23–4.01) or type 2 diabetes (hazard ratio 2.77, 95% CI 2.68–2.87) was observed among patients who had a large for gestational age neonate compared with patients who had neonates within one standard definition of the mean weight for gestational age; the odds of developing type 1 (odds ratio 10.27, 95% CI 7.37–14.31) or type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 8.50, 95% CI 6.01–12.02) within 1 year of delivery was also increased compared with patients who had a neonate within one standard deviation of the mean weight for gestational age.

Conclusions

Delivering a large for gestational age neonate was a potent risk factor for the later development of maternal type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
Investigating the healing mechanisms of an angiogenesis‐promoting topical treatment for diabetic wounds using multimodal microscopy
Authors: Li Joanne , Bower Andrew J. , Arp Zane , Olson Eric J. , Holland Claire , Chaney Eric J. , Marjanovic Marina , Pande Paritosh , Alex Aneesh , Boppart Stephen A.
Published: October 2017

Impaired skin wound healing is a significant comorbid condition of diabetes that is caused by poor microcirculation, among other factors. Studies have shown that angiogenesis, a critical step in the wound healing process in diabetic wounds, can be promoted under hypoxia. In this study, an angiogenesis‐promoting topical treatment for diabetic wounds, which promotes angiogenesis by mimicking a hypoxic environment via inhibition of prolyl hydroxylase resulting in elevation or maintenance of hypoxia‐inducible factor, was investigated utilizing a custom‐built multimodal microscopy system equipped with phase‐variance optical coherence tomography (PV‐OCT) and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). PV‐OCT was used to track the regeneration of the microvasculature network, and FLIM was used to assess the in vivo metabolic response of mouse epidermal keratinocytes to the treatment during healing. Results show a significant decrease in the fluorescence lifetime of intracellular reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, suggesting a hypoxic‐like environment in the wounded skin, followed by a quantitative increase in blood vessel density assessed by PV‐OCT. Insights gained in these studies could lead to new endpoints for evaluation of the efficacy and healing mechanisms of wound‐healing drugs in a setting where delayed healing does not permit available methods for evaluation to take place.
Interleukin‐1 receptor‐associated kinase 1 correlates with metastasis and invasion in endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yilin , Wang Yanyan , Duan Xianzhi , Wang Yinuo , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: October 2017

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is one of the most common malignancies in the world. Previous studies have investigated the altered expression of interleukin‐1 receptor‐associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) in various cancers. We aimed at exploring the biological function and the underlying molecular mechanism of IRAK1 in EC. In this study, IRAK1 was found elevated in EC compared with normal tissues. Further, high IRAK1 expression level was correlated with higher tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, myometrial invasion, and lower survival rate. Knockdown of IRAK1 in two EC cell lines, HEC‐1‐B and JEC, significantly inhibited cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. We also found that down‐regulation of IRAK1 in EC cells notably induced cell cycle arrest and apoptois, and also inhibited cell migration and invasion. Gene set enrichment analysis on The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset showed that Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) mitotic cell cycle and cell division pathways were correlative with the IRAK1 expression, which was further confirmed in EC cells by Western blot. The expression of mitotic cell cycle (CDK1 and Cdc45) and cell division pathway (Cdc7 and MCM2) related factors was significantly suppressed by IRAK1 knockdown. These collective data indicated that IRAK1 overexpression promotes EC tumorigenesis by activating mitotic cell cycle and cell division pathways, and IRAK1 may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for EC.
Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation promotes osteoblast differentiation through hedgehog signaling
Authors: Matsumoto Kenichi , Shimo Tsuyoshi , Kurio Naito , Okui Tatsuo , Ibaragi Soichiro , Kunisada Yuki , Obata Kyoichi , Masui Masanori , Pai Pang , Horikiri Yuu , Yamanaka Nobuyuki , Takigawa Masaharu , Sasaki Akira
Published: October 2017

Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has been used as an adjunct to fracture healing therapies, but the mechanisms underlying its action are not known. We reported that sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling was activated in osteoblasts at the dynamic remodeling site of a bone fracture. Mechanical stimulation is a crucial factor in bone remodeling, and it is related to the primary cilia as a sensor of hedgehog signaling. Here we observed that LIPUS promoted callus formation in accord with Gli2‐positive cells after 14 days at the mouse femur fractured site compared with a control group. An immunofluorescence analysis showed that the numbers of primary cilia and cilia/osterix double‐positive osteoblasts were increased at the fracture site by LIPUS. LIPUS stimulated not only the number and the length of primary cilia, but also the levels of ciliated protein, Ift88 mRNA, and SHH, Gli1, and Gli2 in MC3T3‐E1 cells. Further experiments revealed that LIPUS stimulated osteogenic differentiation in the presence of smoothened agonist (SAG) treatment. These results indicate that LIPUS stimulates osteogenic differentiation and the maturation of osteoblasts by a primary cilium‐mediated activation of hedgehog signaling.
Phospholipid secretions of organ cultured ciliary body
Authors: Margolis Michael J. , Martinez Mitchell , Valencia Jeffrey , Lee Richard K. , Bhattacharya Sanjoy K.
Published: October 2017

Homeostasis of intraocular pressure (IOP) is important for the maintenance of anterior eye anatomic integrity, minimizing pressure‐associated damage to the optic nerve, and maintaining a pressure gradient for blood flow to the eye. IOP is regulated by equilibrium between aqueous humor (AH) production and its outflow. The ciliary body (CB) is thought to actively secrete AH. However, whether AH composition and in particular, its phospholipids are entirely due to CB secretion remains uncertain. Comparison of phospholipids released by cultured CB, phospholipids present within CB tissue, within AH, and within blood and serum are consistent with release of most phospholipids into the AH by the CB. Treatment of CB in culture with timolol, a non‐specific beta‐adrenergic antagonist, alters the release of phospholipids by CB into the media. However, dorzalamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that reduces production of AH, does not affect phospholipid release thereby suggesting timolol, which also decreases IOP through decreased AH outflow, affects other physiological homeostatic mechanisms regulating aqueous outflow. These outflow changes also affect the composition of secreted phospholipids. We present evidence that release of lipids by the CB has a prolonged survival effect on cultured primary TM cells and TM tissue.
MiR‐132‐3p regulates ADAMTS‐5 expression and promotes chondrogenic differentiation of rat mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Zhou Xiaozhong , Luo Dixin , Sun Hongtao , Qi Yong , Xu Wangyang , Jin Xunjie , Li Chao , Lin Zhousheng , Li Guitao
Published: October 2017

Previous study showed that miRNA aberrant expression is involved in chondrogenic differentiation. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of miR‐132‐3p on chondrogenic differentiation and the underlying mechanisms. First, quantitative PCR were performed to determine the level of MiR‐132‐3p. Then, we used luciferase assay to examine the target of miR‐132‐3p. Proteoglycan was tested by Alcian blue staining assay. Moreover, the sex determining region Y‐box 9 (SOX9), Collagen type II alpha 1 chain (COL2A1) and Aggrecan (ACAN) levels were analyzed by quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Our results showed that MiR‐132‐3p level was reduced in rat MSCs (rMSCs) during chondrogenic differentiation. Ectopic expression of miR‐132‐3p induced proteoglycan accumulation and the increase of ACAN, SOX9 and COL2A1 expression, which were involved in inducing chondrogenic differentiation of rMSCs. More importantly, ADAMTS‐5 was identified as the target of MiR‐132‐3p. Knockdown of ADAMTS‐5 increased proteoglycan level, but reduced the SOX9, ACAN, and COL2A1 levels during chondrogenic differentiation of rMSCs. Taken together, our results revels that MiR‐132‐3p promotes rMSCs chondrogenic differentiation, possibly mediated by targeting ADAMTS‐5, which provided new perspective on the chondrogenic differentiation and pathology of osteoarthritis.
Structural insights into impact of Y134F mutation and discovery of novel fungicidal compounds against CYP51 in Puccinia triticina
Authors: Pandey Bharati , Sharma Pradeep
Published: October 2017

Sterol 14α‐Demethylase Cytochrome P450 (CYP51) protein involved in ergosterol biosynthesis pathways turn out to be a crucial target for the fungicidal compound. However, the recognition mechanism and dynamic behavior of CYP51 in wheat leaf rust pathogen, Puccinia triticina, is still obscure. Previously, a mutation at position 134 (Y134F) was reported in five European isolates of P. triticina, conversely, structural basis of this mutation remains unclear. To address this problem, three‐dimensional structure of CYP51 protein from P. triticina was successfully built using homology modeling approach. To assess the protein structure stability, wild and mutant‐type CYP51 proteins bound with azole fungicide was subjected to 50 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations run. Observably, the comparative protein‐ligand interaction analysis and binding free energy results revealed that impact of the mutation on the thermodynamics and conformational stability of the CYP51 protein was negligible. In addition, we carried out structure‐based virtual screening and identified potent novel fungicidal compounds from four different databases and libraries. Consequently, through MD simulation and thermodynamic integration, four novel compounds such as CoCoCo54211 (CoCoCo database), ZINC04089470 (ZINC database), Allyl pyrocatechol 3,4 diacetate (Natural compound library), and 9‐octadecenoic acid (Traditional Chinese Medicine database) has been predicted as potent fungicidal compound against CYP51 with XPGlide docking score of −11.41, −13.64, −7.40, and −6.55 kcal/mol, respectively. These compounds were found to form hydrogen bonds with heme group of CYP51, subsequently disturbing the stability and survival of fungus and can be used to control leaf rust in wheat.
Enhancement of Antibacterial Capability of Cotton Textiles Coated with TiO2–SiO2/Chitosan Using Hydrophobization
Authors: Rilda Yetria , Safitri Reza , Agustien Anthoni , Nazir Nasril , Syafiuddin Achmad , Nur Hadi
Published: October 2017

Since textiles have a porous and hydrophilic structure, they are ideal substrates for the settlement and growth of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, fabrication of hydrophobic textiles to reduce their humidity has the potential to inhibit the growth of bacteria. On this basis, we report here an improvement of the antibacterial capability of textiles coated with TiO2–SiO2/chitosan using hydrophobization. Synthesis of TiO2–SiO2 clusters with chitosan was carried out using the sol–gel technique. In addition, hydrophobization of the textiles using hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS) was carried out using a dip‐spin coating method. In addition, their characteristics were examined using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra (UV‐DRS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), water contact angle, and antibacterial activity. XRD, SEM, UV‐DRS, FTIR, and water contact angle confirmed the physical and chemical properties of the modified textiles. In summary, the present work shows that the hydrophobization of textiles using HDTMS can enhance the antibacterial capability of cotton textiles.
Effects of Concomitant Medication Use on Gefitinib‐Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Cho Soyeon , Yee Jeong , Kim Jae Youn , Jeong Rhie Sandy , Gwak Hye Sun
Published: October 2017

Gefitinib is a drug used for the treatment of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Severe hepatotoxicity was observed, but only a few cases have been reported on the hepatotoxicity of gefitinib. This study aimed to investigate the association between gefitinib‐induced hepatotoxicity and various factors including concomitant medications in lung cancer patients. From January 2013 to December 2014, a retrospective study was performed with NSCLC patients who were treated with gefitinib. Associations between hepatotoxicity and various factors including concomitant drugs were analyzed. Based on multivariate models, it was found that H2 antagonists, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and H2 antagonists or PPIs increased hepatotoxicity by about 1.5‐ to 1.7‐fold. Patients younger than 65 years showed 1.6 times higher hepatotoxicity than those older than 65 years. Patients with EGFR mutations had around 2‐fold higher hepatotoxicity, and the percentage of incidence of hepatotoxicity because of exon 19 deletion was 32.7%. Our study showed that anti‐acid‐secreting agents in addition to age younger than 65 years and EGFR mutation were associated with gefitinib‐induced hepatotoxicity. Thus, close monitoring of liver function is recommended, especially for patients using anti‐acid‐secreting agents.
Energy efficient harvesting of Arthrospira sp. using ceramic membranes: analyzing the effect of membrane pore size and incorporation of flocculant as fouling control strategy
Authors: Jana Animesh , Ghosh Sourja , Majumdar Swachchha
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Biomass harvesting is an important issue in commercialization of algal biofuel production. In the present study focus has been given to develop a robust ultrafiltration membrane on low cost ceramic substrate for efficient harvesting of Arthrospira sp. The effect of membrane pore size and flocculant addition as fouling reduction strategy was investigated. The study represents a comparative analysis in terms of flux, fouling, volume reduction factor (VRF) and energy consumption of different processes, viz. microfiltration (MF), ultrafiltration (UF), guar gum induced bioflocculation followed by MF and bioflocculation followed by UF, respectively.

RESULTS

The MF process showed higher volume reduction factor (11.11) and concentration factor (12.5) with stabilized flux of 230 L m‐2 h‐1 under optimized conditions. In terms of fouling, the UF membranes were less prone to fouling, with a flux recovery of about 93% during long‐term operation. Incorporation of bioflocculant caused significant reduction in fouling of both the MF and UF membrane. Energy uptake in the MF process was lower (0.908 kWh m‐3) than that of the UF process (2.625 kWh m‐3). Among the various processes permeate from the UF showed the highest CO2 dissolution capacity (657 ± 7 mg L‐1), hence could be reused for algal cultivation with negligible reduction in growth.

CONCLUSION

The present study reveals that clay‐alumina based ceramic MF and UF membrane can be effectively used in harvesting of algal biomass with suitable fouling control strategy based on the algal species and required biomass concentration. The processes developed exhibited less energy consumption compared with other existing processes. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Sonographic detection of an infected maternal urachal cyst during pregnancy
Authors: Sargent James , Sohaey Roya , Trivedi Neha
Published: October 2017

Infection of a maternal urachal cyst during pregnancy is rare; Sonography is an important diagnostic tool that can help minimize maternal and fetal complications. We describe the case of a 35‐year‐old multiparous woman presenting in the third trimester with 2 weeks of fever, abdominal pain, and urinary symptoms. Imaging showed a 5‐cm complex anterior midline mass, found intraoperatively to be eroding into the uterus. Sonographic imaging aided in the diagnosis and management of the urachal cyst, and antepartum sonographic measurements of the lower uterine segment helped to counsel regarding a trial of labor. Following treatment, the patient stabilized and had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery.
Intracellular delivery of nano‐formulated antituberculosis drugs enhances bactericidal activity
Authors: Donnellan Samantha , Stone Vicki , Johnston Helinor , Giardiello Marco , Owen Andrew , Rannard Steve , Aljayyoussi Ghaith , Swift Benjamin , Tran Lang , Watkins Craig , Stevenson Karen
Published: October 2017

Tuberculosis kills more people worldwide than any other infectious disease. Treatment requires multiple drug therapy administered over long periods (6–24 months). The emergence of multidrug‐resistant strains is a major problem, and with few new drugs in the pipeline, a novel modus operandi is urgently required. Solid drug nanoparticles (SDNs), a new development in nanomedicine, offer a fresh therapeutic approach. Here, we show that SDNs are more effective (50‐fold) at killing pathogenic mycobacteria than aqueous forms of the same drug and can target mycobacteria internalised by macrophages, where bacilli reside. We demonstrate synthesis of dual and triple drug loaded SDNs, facilitating combination tuberculosis therapy. Our results suggest that by employing SDNs of existing antibiotics, it may be possible to improve drug delivery and therefore reduce drug dosage to lessen side effects and fight drug resistance.
Stress, Adaptive Coping, and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Buser Juleen K. , Kearney Anne
Published: October 2017

The authors examined the relationship between stress, adaptive coping, and life satisfaction among college students who reported having a friend or family member with eating disorder symptomatology. A hierarchical regression confirmed the study's hypotheses. Higher stress was linked with less life satisfaction. After stress was controlled, plan coping had a beneficial influence on life satisfaction. College counselors can use these findings when choosing interventions for clients who are close to someone with an eating disorder.
Examining Person–Environment Fit and Academic Major Satisfaction
Authors: Milsom Amy , Coughlin Julie
Published: October 2017

Decisions regarding college majors have the potential to affect a person's overall academic performance and long‐term career success. With Holland's () trait‐and‐factor theory serving as a foundation, the authors examined relationships between person–environment fit, college major satisfaction, and grade point average of undergraduate students (N = 99). Results revealed that student–major congruence and academic major satisfaction were both significant predictors of grade point average.