bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolomics of A Model Fruit: Tomato
Authors: de Vos Ric C.H. , Hall Robert D. , Moing Annick
Published: May 2017

Tomato has quickly become a favoured species for metabolomics research. Tomato fills a niche that cannot be occupied byArabidopsis,particularly regarding studies on fleshy fruit. Variations in genotype and phenotype have been broadly exploited using metabolomics approaches in order to gain a better understanding of fundamental aspects of plant physiology, fruit growth and fruit development. The commercial importance of tomato as one of the world's most important and widely grown and consumed vegetables is a significant driving force behind this fruit research. Therefore, many metabolomics studies have specifically been focused on traits of importance to the food and agro‐industries. Fruit quality, nutritional value as well as the influence on these traits of fruit storage, transport and processing into pasteurized and cooked products have also been subjects for extensive metabolomics analyses. These studies have already considerably expanded our knowledge, and continue to do so, concerning many aspects of the tomato fruit phenotype, both visible and chemical. Furthermore, increased knowledge of the genetics of tomato, the recently available draft of the tomato genome sequence as well as the emerging technologies for next generation sequencing, large‐scale phenotyping and systems biology approaches have generated many novel research concepts that are also placing metabolomics analyses of tomatoes right at the forefront of fruit research.
Data Integration, Metabolic Networks and Systems Biology
Authors: Redestig Henning , Szymanski Jedrzej , Hirai Masami Y. , Selbig Joachim , Willmitzer Lothar , Nikoloski Zoran , Saito Kazuki
Published: May 2017

As analytical techniques and data pre‐processing methods continue to improve, the bottleneck of metabolomics is shifting towards later stages of data analysis and biological interpretation. High‐coverage metabolomics is only possible when combining data from multiple platforms necessitating efficient methods for data integration. Metabolomic data sets with high coverage provide a unique opportunity to estimate and study metabolic networks. Once established, these networks can provide a backbone for systems biology approaches where the aim is to construct fundamental models of metabolic regulation. In this chapter, we provide an overview of status of these topics and describe current methods and tools, their drawbacks and advantages for integrative plant metabolomics.
On the Breakdown of SiC during the Selective Laser Melting of Aluminum Matrix Composites
Authors: Astfalck Lachlan Connor , Kelly Gemma Kaye , Li Xiaopeng , Sercombe Timothy Barry
Published: May 2017

Selective laser melting (SLM) is used to produce a SiC reinforced aluminum metal matrix composite (AMMC, Al–12Si plus 10 vol% SiC) with laser energy densities () between 20 and 80 J mm−3. Microstructural analysis shows that at lower energies, SiC is present in the Al–12Si matrix; however, at higher energies there is a distinct lack of SiC particles and the extensive formation of Al4C3 needles and primary Si particles. XRD analysis confirms a decrease in the volume of SiC and an increase in the amount of Al4C3 and primary Si with increasing . This indicates that a reaction occurs between the Al and SiC during SLM. The underlying mechanism is attributed to the selective absorption of laser energy into the SiC particles, causing regions of extremely high temperatures. The formation of the reaction products cause errors in the theoretical density calculations. Therefore, X‐ray micro tomography (XMT) is used to independently measure the relative density of the samples with a peak relative density ≈97.4%, which is much higher than that (relative density ≈93%) measured using the Archimedes method.
Extremely Strong and Transparent Chitin Films: A High‐Efficiency, Energy‐Saving, and “Green” Route Using an Aqueous KOH/Urea Solution
Authors: Huang Junchao , Zhong Yi , Zhang Lina , Cai Jie
Published: May 2017

Crystalline polysaccharides are useful for important and rapidly growing applications ranging from advanced energy storage, green electronics, and catalyst or enzyme supports to tissue engineering and biological devices. However, the potential value of chitin in such applications is currently neglected because of its poor swellability, reactivity, and solubility in most commonly used solvents. Here, a high‐efficiency, energy‐saving, and “green” route for the fabrication of extremely strong and transparent chitin films is described in which chitin is dissolved in an aqueous KOH/urea solution and neutralized in aqueous ethanol solution. The neutralization temperature, ethanol concentration, and chitin solution deacetylation time are critical parameters for the self‐assembly of chitin chains and for tuning the morphology and aggregate structures of the resulting chitin hydrogels and films. Moreover, the drawing orientation can produce extremely strong and tough chitin films with a tensile strength, Young's modulus, and work of fracture of 226 MPa, 7.2 GPa, and 20.3 MJ m−3, respectively. The method developed here should contribute to the utilization of seafood waste and, thereby, to the sustainable use of marine resources.
Retracted: Earth‐Abundant Iron Diboride (FeB2) Nanoparticles as Highly Active Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Li Hui , Wen Peng , Li Qi , Dun Chaochao , Xing Junheng , Lu Chang , Adhikari Shiba , Jiang Lin , Carroll David L. , Geyer Scott M.
Published: May 2017

Developing efficient, durable, and earth‐abundant electrocatalysts for both hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions is important for realizing large‐scale water splitting. The authors report that FeB2 nanoparticles, prepared by a facile chemical reduction of Fe2+ using LiBH4 in an organic solvent, are a superb bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting. The FeB2 electrode delivers a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at overpotentials of 61 mV for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and 296 mV for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline electrolyte with Tafel slopes of 87.5 and 52.4 mV dec−1, respectively. The electrode can sustain the HER at an overpotential of 100 mV for 24 h and OER for 1000 cyclic voltammetry cycles with negligible degradation. Density function theory calculations demonstrate that the boron‐rich surface possesses appropriate binding energy for chemisorption and desorption of hydrogen‐containing intermediates, thus favoring the HER process. The excellent OER activity of FeB2 is ascribed to the formation of a FeOOH/FeB2 heterojunction during water oxidation. An alkaline electrolyzer is constructed using two identical FeB2‐NF electrodes as both anode and cathode, which can achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at 1.57 V for overall water splitting with a faradaic efficiency of nearly 100%, rivalling the integrated state‐of‐the‐art Pt/C and RuO2/C.
A Shell‐Shaped Carbon Architecture with High‐Loading Capability for Lithium Sulfide Cathodes
Authors: Chung Sheng‐Heng , Han Pauline , Chang Chi‐Hao , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: May 2017

Lithium sulfide (Li2S) is considered a highly attractive cathode for establishing high‐energy‐density rechargeable batteries, especially due to its high charge‐storage capacity and compatibility with lithium‐metal‐free anodes. Although various approaches have recently been pursued with Li2S to obtain high performance, formidable challenges still remain with cell design (e.g., low Li2S loading, insufficient Li2S content, and an excess electrolyte) to realize high areal, gravimetric, and volumetric capacities. This study demonstrates a shell‐shaped carbon architecture for holding pure Li2S, offering innovation in cell‐design parameters and gains in electrochemical characteristics. The Li2S core–carbon shell electrode encapsulates the redox products within the conductive shell so as to facilitate facile accessibility to electrons and ions. The fast redox‐reaction kinetics enables the cells to attain the highest Li2S loading of 8 mg cm−2 and the lowest electrolyte/Li2S ratio of 9/1, which is the best cell‐design specifications ever reported with Li2S cathodes so far. Benefiting from the excellent cell‐design criterion, the core–shell cathodes exhibit stable cyclability from slow to fast cycle rates and, for the first time, simultaneously achieve superior performance metrics with areal, gravimetric, and volumetric capacities.
Effects of treated waste silicon rubber on properties of poly(lactic acid)/ammonium polyphosphate composites
Authors: Cao Hongwei , Zhang Yan , Li Xiaonan , Wang Fengtao , Zhang Xiaoni
Published: May 2017

Considering the massive waste silicone rubber composites (WSiRC) in electrical and electronic engineering industries every year, the utilization of WSiRC is a meaningful and urgent task. In this study, WSiRC was utilized after a simple treatment in the flame retardant polylactic acid (PLA). The TG data in N2 indicated that the char residues at 700 °C of the PLA/ammonium polyphosphate(APP)/WSiRC samples are improved with the loading of WSiRC, which means that WSiRC could act as the carbonization promoter for the PLA blends. Moreover, it is found in LOI, UL94, and cone tests that WSiRC can only improve the flame retardancy of PLA in an appropriate loading range since the crosslink structure formed by WSiRC may interact with that formed by APP and jointly improve the char‐formation ability of PLA. However, too much WSiRC deteriorated the flame retardancy of PLA because of the effect of WSiRC cluster at its higher loading. The photographs of the char residue after the cone tests also manifested that. The cone data showed that WSiRC could suppress the production of smoke as well. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45231.
Thiomaleimide Functionalization for Selective Biological Fluorescence Detection of Peroxynitrite as Tested in HeLa and RAW 264.7 Cells
Authors: Yudhistira Tesla , Mulay Sandip V. , Lee Kyung Jin , Kim Youngsam , Park Hee‐Sung , Churchill David G.
Published: May 2017

The role of fluorescent molecules in diagnosis, treatment as well as in biomedical research has great current medicinal significance and is the focus of concentrated effort across the scientific research spectrum. Related research continues to reveal new practical sensing systems that bear enhanced features for interfacing of substituted molecules with biological systems. As part of an effort to better understand chalcogenide systems, a new dithiomaleimide BODIPY (BDP‐NGM) probe has been designed, synthesized and characterized. The fluorescence of BDP‐NGM was quenched by the incorporation of [3,4‐bis(phenylthio)] on the maleimide‐4‐phenyl moiety which is, in turn, placed at the meso‐position of the BODIPY system. The probe shows a turn‐on fluorescence response upon reaction with ONOO−; mass spectral evidence reveals peaks in agreement with products involving oxidation of the sulfur groups to sulfone groups. An about 18.0‐fold emission intensity enhancement was found. By comparison, the emission signal from another ROS/RNS, superoxide, gave a modest turn on signal (≈5.0‐fold). The reaction is complete within 10 min, judging from the monitoring of the turn‐on fluorescence process; the detection limit was found to be 0.4 μm. BDP‐NGM can be used for the detection of ONOO− under both acidic and basic conditions. Live cell imaging showed that the current probe can be used for the selective detection of ONOO− in living systems.
Anwendung von Naturbrandmodellen für die brandschutztechnische Bemessung
Authors: Zehfuß Jochen , Paliga Karen
Published: May 2017

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird beschrieben, unter welchen Randbedingungen eine Anwendung von Naturbrandmodellen für die Brandschutzbemessung sinnvoll ist. Es wird ein Überblick über die verschiedenen Nachweismethoden der Eurocode‐Brandschutznachweise gegeben und auf ihre bauaufsichtliche Einführung eingegangen. Die Eurocodes sehen neben den aus der DIN 4102‐4 bekannten Bemessungstabellen auch vereinfachte und allgemeine Rechenverfahren vor. Mit Letzteren kann das Trag‐ und Verformungsverhalten von Bauteilen im Brandfall unter Berücksichtigung temperaturabhängiger Materialeigenschaften und thermischer Dehnungen berechnet werden. Aufgrund der Komplexität und des vergleichsweise großen Aufwands dieser Nachweisverfahren eignen sie sich jedoch besonders für Naturbrandbeanspruchungen. Derartige Nachweise erfordern jedoch eine Abweichung von den bauordnungsrechtlichen Vorschriften und sind nur in Abstimmung mit den Genehmigungsbehörden anwendbar. Anhand eines Beispiels wird die Anwendung eines Naturbrandmodells für die brandschutztechnische Bemessung gezeigt. Es handelt sich um eine ehemalige U‐Boot‐Halle, die in eine Verkaufsstätte umgenutzt wird und bei der sich infolgedessen die brandschutztechnischen Anforderungen ändern. Das Tragwerk der historischen Stahlkonstruktion sollte sichtbar erhalten bleiben, sodass der Nachweis mithilfe eines Naturbrandmodells geführt wurde. Im Beitrag werden die Randbedingungen, die Anwendungsgrenzen und die Vorgehensweise dargestellt.
Preoperative imaging and prediction of oesophageal conduit necrosis after oesophagectomy for cancer
Authors: Lainas P , Fuks D , Gaujoux S , Machroub Z , Fregeville A , Perniceni T , Mal F , Dousset B , Gayet B
Published: May 2017

Background

Oesophageal conduit necrosis following oesophagectomy is a rare but life-threatening complication. The present study aimed to assess the impact of coeliac axis stenosis on outcomes after oesophagectomy for cancer.

Methods

The study included consecutive patients who had an Ivor Lewis procedure with curative intent for middle- and lower-third oesophageal cancer at two tertiary referral centres. All patients underwent preoperative multidetector CT with arterial phase to detect coeliac axis stenosis. The coeliac artery was classified as normal, with extrinsic stenosis due to a median arcuate ligament or with intrinsic stenosis caused by atherosclerosis.

Results

Some 481 patients underwent an Ivor Lewis procedure. Of these, ten (2·1 per cent) developed oesophageal conduit necrosis after surgery. Coeliac artery evaluation revealed a completely normal artery in 431 patients (91·5 per cent) in the group without conduit necrosis and in one (10 per cent) with necrosis (P < 0·001). Extrinsic stenosis of the coeliac artery due to a median arcuate ligament was found in two patients (0·4 per cent) without conduit necrosis and five (50 per cent) with necrosis (P < 0·001). Intrinsic stenosis of the coeliac artery was found in 11 (2·3 per cent) and eight (80 per cent) patients respectively (P < 0·001). Eight patients without (1·7 per cent) and five (50 per cent) with conduit necrosis had a single and thin left gastric artery (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

This study suggests that oesophageal conduit necrosis after oesophagectomy for cancer may be due to pre-existing coeliac axis stenosis.
The mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) as a model for inflammation‐promoted prostate carcinogenesis
Authors: Quintar Amado A. , Gonçalves Bianca F. , Taboga Sebastião R. , Maldonado Cristina A.
Published: May 2017

One of the recognized issues in prostate cancer research is the lack of animal models allowing the research of pathological, biochemical, and genetic factors in immunocompetent animals. Our research group has successfully employed the gerbil in several studies for prostate diseases. In the present work, we aimed to analyze the effect of chronic bacterial inflammation on N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosourea (MNU)‐induced prostate carcinogenesis in gerbils. Histopathological assessment of the prostatic complex revealed that treatment combinations with MNU plus testosterone or bacterial infection resulted in a promotion of prostate cancer, with bacterial inflammation being more effective in increasing premalignant and malignant tissular alterations than testosterone in the prostate. Furthermore, chronic bacterial inflammation itself induced premalignant lesions in the ventral lobe and increased their frequency in the dorsolateral lobe as well as malignant lesions in the ventral prostate. These animals showed a rich inflammatory microenvironment, characterized as intraluminal and periductal foci. These data indicate that chronic inflammation induced by Escherichia coli acts as a potent tumor promoter, in the early stages of carcinogenesis in the gerbil, in line with the hypothesis of inflammation supporting several steps of tumor development in the prostate gland.
Post‐Synthesis Amine Borane Functionalization of a Metal‐Organic Framework and Its Unusual Chemical Hydrogen Release Phenomenon
Authors: Barman Samir , Remhof Arndt , Koitz Ralph , Iannuzzi Marcella , Blacque Olivier , Yan Yigang , Fox Thomas , Hutter Jürg , Züttel Andreas , Berke Heinz
Published: May 2017

A novel strategy for post‐synthesis amine borane functionalization of MOFs under gas‐solid phase transformation, utilizing gaseous diborane, is reported. The covalently confined amine borane derivative decorated on the framework backbone is stable when preserved at low temperature, but spontaneously liberates soft chemical hydrogen at room temperature, leading to the development of an unusual borenium type species (‐NH=BH2+) ion‐paired with a hydroborate anion. Furthermore, the unsaturated amino borane (‐NH=BH2) and the μ‐iminodiborane (‐μ‐NHB2H5) were detected as final products. A combination of DFT based molecular dynamics simulations and solid state NMR spectroscopy, utilizing isotopically enriched materials, were undertaken to unequivocally elucidate the mechanistic pathways for H2 liberation.
Data reconciliation strategy with time registration for the evaporation process in alumina production
Authors: Xie Sen , Yang Chunhua , Wang Xiaoli , Xie Yongfang
Published: May 2017

In real industrial production, many mass and heat transfer processes are influenced by high temperature, high pressure, and even strong acid or alkali conditions. In addition, some important variables cannot be measured and chemical compositions are analyzed offline with a long time delay, which leads to inaccurate measurements of the process data. In this paper, a layered data reconciliation (LDR) method based on time registration is proposed to improve the measurement accuracy and estimate unmeasured variables. Considering that the material cannot be tagged and tracked in process manufacturing, a temporal and spatial matching strategy for the process data is designed based on a time‐correlation analysis matrix which is determined to describe the correlation of each time sequence in the data matrix. Then, a layered data reconciliation model with time registration is developed by reconciling the mass balance layer and the heat balance layer separately and stepwise, and the model is solved by the state transition algorithm. Meanwhile, regular terms and engineer's knowledge are introduced into the data reconciliation model to solve the problem of insufficient redundancy. The industrial verification results from the actual industrial evaporation process indicate that the accuracy of measured values is improved by using the proposed reconciliation strategy.
Tuning Order‐Disorder Phase Transition through Regulating the Substituent Group of Anion
Authors: Li Dong , Chen Lihong , Zhao Haixia , Long Lasheng , Zheng Lansun
Published: May 2017

The structural phase transition compound {[(CH3)2CHCH2]2NH2}•[CF3COO] (1) has been synthesized based on the diisobutylamine and trifluoroacetic acid. The DSC data reveal that 1 undergoes a phase transition at 277 K (Tc). When one chlorine atom replaces one fluorine atom on trifluoroacetate anion, three order‐disorder phase transitions at 251 K (T1), 282 K (T2) and 290 K could be achieved owing to a stepwise release of rotation motions of the anion and cation in {[(CH3)2CHCH2]2NH2}•[CF2ClCOO] (2). Based on the variable temperature crystal structures, the phase transition in compound 1 is triggered by the rotation of three fluorine atoms on the trifluoroacetate anion synchronized with the motions of the methyl groups on the diisobutylammonium cation. However, in compound 2, the phase transitions can be realized by a sequence of motions of both the anion and cation. Besides, the dielectric‐ temperature dependences were investigated in order to prove this regulation process. All of this investigation will be beneficial to design and synthesis of the novel phase transition materials and molecular dielectric materials on purpose.
Investigation of the Dinoflagellate Bioluminescence Mechanism: Chemically Initiated Electron Exchange Luminescence or Twisted Intramolecular Charge Transfer?
Authors: Ngo Phong D. , Mansoorabadi Steven O.
Published: May 2017

Ubiquitous in the world's oceans, dinoflagellates are capable of fantastic displays of bright‐blue bioluminescence. This luminosity is a consequence of the oxidation of an open‐chain tetrapyrrole, dinoflagellate luciferin (LH2), by the enzyme dinoflagellate luciferase (LCF). While many other bioluminescence systems are well understood, the reaction mechanism of LCF remains enigmatic. A comprehensive density functional theory investigation was used to evaluate several competing mechanisms of LCF catalysis employing distinct excited‐state luminophores. The results provide strong evidence in favor of a mechanism of dinoflagellate bioluminescence involving an excited‐state gem‐diol(ate) intermediate. Analysis of the molecular orbitals relevant to the emission process indicates that catalysis from the E isomer of LH2 is likely to proceed via a chemically initiated electron‐exchange luminescence reaction, whereas that from the Z isomer may involve the formation of a biologically unprecedented twisted intramolecular charge transfer state.
Objective automated quantification of fluorescence signal in histological sections of rat lens
Authors: Talebizadeh Nooshin , Hagström Nanna Zhou , Yu Zhaohua , Kronschläger Martin , Söderberg Per , Wählby Carolina
Published: May 2017

Visual quantification and classification of fluorescent signals is the gold standard in microscopy. The purpose of this study was to develop an automated method to delineate cells and to quantify expression of fluorescent signal of biomarkers in each nucleus and cytoplasm of lens epithelial cells in a histological section. A region of interest representing the lens epithelium was manually demarcated in each input image. Thereafter, individual cell nuclei within the region of interest were automatically delineated based on watershed segmentation and thresholding with an algorithm developed in Matlab™. Fluorescence signal was quantified within nuclei, cytoplasms and juxtaposed backgrounds. The classification of cells as labelled or not labelled was based on comparison of the fluorescence signal within cells with local background. The classification rule was thereafter optimized as compared with visual classification of a limited dataset. The performance of the automated classification was evaluated by asking 11 independent blinded observers to classify all cells (n = 395) in one lens image. Time consumed by the automatic algorithm and visual classification of cells was recorded. On an average, 77% of the cells were correctly classified as compared with the majority vote of the visual observers. The average agreement among visual observers was 83%. However, variation among visual observers was high, and agreement between two visual observers was as low as 71% in the worst case. Automated classification was on average 10 times faster than visual scoring. The presented method enables objective and fast detection of lens epithelial cells and quantification of expression of fluorescent signal with an accuracy comparable with the variability among visual observers. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Volatile compounds and other indicators of quality for cold‐pressed rapeseed oils obtained from peeled, whole, flaked and roasted seeds
Authors: Gracka Anna , Raczyk Marianna , Hradecký Jaromír , Hajslova Jana , Jeziorski Sławomir , Karlovits Gyorgi , Michalak Barbara , Bąkowska Natalia , Jeleń Henryk
Published: May 2017

Cold‐pressed rapeseed oil is among the most popular virgin oils. Different processing methods yield oils varying in chemical composition and oxidative stability. The experiment aimed at identifying the differences (mostly in volatiles) between rapeseed oil obtained from peeled seeds (RO) and oils obtained by three pre‐treatment methods: pressing whole seeds (WSO), flakes (FO) and roasted flakes (RFO). Volatiles were analysed using GCxGC‐ToFMS and data were processed using statistical multivariate analysis. Fatty acid composition was determined using GC‐FID. The oils’ oxidative stability was measured using peroxide value. Free fatty acids’ value, absorbance at 236 and 238 nm and chlorophyll content were also determined. Also, a sensory panel evaluation was performed. PCA was found to be effective tool for differentiating the oils on the basis of their volatile compounds. RO was most similar to WSO from the second pressing. Fatty acid composition analysis yielded differences between the experimental oils and RO. RO had the highest PV, p‐AV and Totox values. WSO from the first pressing (WSO1) had the highest oxidative stability. Sensory analysis found that WSO1 was most similar to RO. Both oils had an intense cabbage‐like and fruity odour. The study showed that the results of volatile compounds’ analysis differs from those of sensory analysis in oils comparison.

Practical applications: The results demonstrate that the rapeseed oil obtained from whole seeds may have a volatile compounds composition that is similar to that of rapeseed oil obtained from peeled seeds. PCA makes it possible to differentiate between samples varying in pre‐treatment method as well as between samples subjected to the same pre‐treatment method, but obtained from a second pressing. Sensory panel performed by trained panellists may demonstrate which oils are most desirable when rated for selected attributes. The results of sensory panel may differ from those of volatile compound analysis performed with GCxGC‐ToFMS.

In the current study, the volatile compounds in cold‐pressed rapeseeds oil obtained from peeled seeds with those in rapeseed oils obtained from seeds prepared with various pre‐treatment methods are compared. The obtained results are compared with those of sensory evaluation. The study shows that the results obtained by means of statistical analysis based on volatile compounds do not always correlate with those of sensory panel evaluation in oils comparison.
The true methodology for rhamnolipid: Various solvents affect rhamnolipid characteristics
Authors: Çakmak Hakan , Güngörmedi Gökhan , Dikmen Gökhan , Çelik Pınar Aytar , Çabuk Ahmet
Published: May 2017

Rhamnolipid, among the most effective biosurfactants, is a glycolipid‐type biosurfactant primarily produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this study, rhamnolipid production was carried out using a strain of P. aeruginosa and it is aimed to compare rhamnolipid biopolymers obtained from various extraction methods using glycine (RG), hydrochloric acid (RH), diethyl ether (RD), ethyl acetate (RE). Comparison analyses were performed through NMR, FTIR techniques and viscosity, density measurements apart from determination of rhamnolipid yields. It can be concluded that rhamnolipid from diethyl ether for extraction is far from molecular structure to reference rhamnolipid molecule according to instrumental analyses performed. Besides, the yield of this rhamnolipid is much more than other rhamnolipids extracted through other methods but this is misleading because the value in there may be total sugar content apart from rhamnolipid. Therefore, RD extraction method can be said to be non‐selective process for rhamnolipid obtained. In RH method, some functional group peaks belonging to rhamnolipid were not observed. NMR analysis showed that some CH groups were not observed in the RG method. However, especially NMR and FTIR analyses showed that rhamnolipid obtained from RE method represented more accurate rhamnolipid based on reference molecule.

Practical applications: This study showed that rhamnolipid production and its comparative analyses using various solvent extraction methods. Comparison analyses were carried out through NMR, FTIR techniques and viscosity, density measurements as well as determination of rhamnolipid yields. Different solvents affect seriously characteristics of rhamnolipid, which were defined in the previous literature reports. Especially, some methods are not selective ways for mentioning true biomolecule. To avoid misleading characterization information in the literature, these extraction methods were discussed through comparison methods such as NMR, FTIR analyses, and quantification measurements.

Rhamnolipid biopolymers obtained from various extraction methods using glycine (RG), hydrochloric acid (RH), diethyl ether (RD), ethyl acetate (RE) are compared through NMR, FTIR techniques, and viscosity, density measurements. These analyses show that rhamnolipid obtained from RE method represents more accurate rhamnolipid based on reference molecule.
Analysis of Levodopa in the Presence of Vitamin B6 Using Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with 1‐Butyl‐3 methylimidazolium Hexafluorophosphate and CuO Nanoparticles
Authors: Karimi‐Maleh Hassan , Shojaei Moein , Amini Fatemeh , Akbari Ahmad
Published: May 2017

A carbon paste electrode modified with 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ionic liquid (BMIPF6) and CuO nanoparticles (CuO/NPs) (CPE/BMIPF6/CuO/NPs) was fabricated and used for square wave voltammetric analysis of levodopa in the presence of vitamin B6. The elemental analysis, SEM and XRD methods were used for characterization of synthesized CuO nanoparticle. CPE/BMIPF6/CuO/NPs exhibited high electrical conductivity toward the electro‐oxidation of levodopa at a pH=7.0 as best experimental condition. Using CPE/BMIPF6/CuO/NPs the levodopa and vitamin B6 peaks are separated and oxidized at potentials of 0.565 V and 0.835 V, respectively; hence levodopa can be detected in the presence of vitamin B6. The electrochemical response shows a linear relationship from concentration of levodopa and vitamin B6 in the ranges of 0.06‐1000 μM and 0.1‐700.0 μM, respectively. Finally, CPE/BMIPF6/CuO/NPs were applied as high performance tool for determination of levodopa and vitamin B6 in real samples.
Catchment Level Water Resource Constraints on UK Policies for Low‐Carbon Energy System Transitions by 2030
Authors: Konadu D. Dennis , Fenner Richard A.
Published: May 2017

The UK government has proposed different low‐carbon energy system options that lead to meeting its greenhouse gas emissions target of 80% reduction on 1990 levels by 2050. While these energy system options meet emission targets at feasible economic cost, water requirement for the deployment of the proposed energy technology mix is not adequately accounted for. This may become critical, as some of the proposed energy technologies are relatively more water‐intensive, and could result in significant future water resource constraints. Previous studies have analyzed the potential water resource constraints of future energy systems in the UK at national scale. However, water must be considered as a local resource with significant regional variability. This paper uses a linear spatial‐downscaling model to allocate water‐intensive energy system infrastructure/technologies at catchment level, and estimates water requirements for the deployment of these technologies for the Committee on Climate Change Carbon Budgets in 2030. The paper concludes that while national‐scale analysis shows minimal long‐term water related impacts, catchment level appraisal of water resource requirements reveals significant constraints in some locations. This has important implications for regions where the water‐energy nexus must be analyzed at appropriate spatial resolution to capture the full water resource impact of national energy policy.
uPA‐derived peptide, Å6 is involved in the suppression of lipopolysaccaride‐promoted inflammatory osteoclastogenesis and the resultant bone loss
Authors: Kanno Yosuke , Maruyama Chihiro , Matsuda Ayaka , Ishisaki Akira
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis frequently cause bone destruction. Inflammation‐induced bone loss results from the increase of bone‐resorbing osteoclasts. Recently, we demonstrated that urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA) suppressed lipopolysaccaride (LPS)‐inflammatory osteoclastogenesis through the adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, whereas its receptor (uPAR) promoted that through the Akt pathway.

Methods

We investigated the effects of uPA‐derived peptide (Å6) in the LPS‐induced inflammatory osteoclastogenesis and bone destruction.

Results

We found that Å6 attenuated inflammatory osteoclastogenesis and bone loss induced by LPS in mice. We also showed that Å6 attenuated the LPS‐promoted inflammatory osteoclastogenesis by inactivation of NF‐κB in RAW264.7 mouse monocyte/macrophage lineage cells. Furthermore, we showed that Å6 attenuated the Akt phosphorylation, and promoted the AMPK phosphorylation.

Conclusion

Å6 is involved in the suppression of LPS‐promoted inflammatory osteoclastgensis and bone destruction by regulating the AMPK and Akt pathways. These findings provide a basis for clinical strategies to improve the bone loss caused by inflammatory diseases.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its association with lifestyle and cardiovascular biomarkers among postmenopausal women in western Algeria
Authors: Khalfa Ali , Tiali Amina , Zemour Lakhdar , Fatah Azzedine , Mekki Khedidja
Published: May 2017

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), its components, and their relationship with lifestyle, inflammation, and oxidative stress among postmenopausal Algerian women.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional survey was conducted among postmenopausal women at a clinic in Oran, Algeria, from March 1 to June 28, 2015. A diagnosis of MetS was made using the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines. Demographic, clinical, metabolic, inflammatory, dietary, and energy variables were assessed.

Results

Among 183 participants, 106 (57.9%) were diagnosed with MetS. Components of MetS included hypertension (n=144, 78.7%), hyperglycemia (n=135, 73.8%), hypertriglyceridemia (n=125, 68.3%), abdominal obesity (n=123, 67.2%), and low levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (n=121, 66.1%). Although daily energy expenditure was similar among the women with or without MetS, total energy intake was increased in the group with MetS (P<0.001). The following measures were also increased among women with MetS: saturated fatty acid intake (P<0.001), C‐reactive protein (P=0.051), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (P<0.001), and carbonyls (P<0.001). By contrast, decreased monounsaturated fatty acid intake (P=0.024) and catalase activity (P<0.001) were observed in this group.

Conclusion

Postmenopausal status could predict MetS, with inflammation and oxidative stress arising from an unhealthy lifestyle potentially increasing cardiovascular risk.
Acquisitions in the biopharmaceutical IPO market: Collaboration, competition and co‐opetition
Authors: Williams David R. , Young Carlton C. , Coffey Betty S.
Published: May 2017

The present paper explores the little studied area concerning the acquisition of recent biopharmaceutical initial public offering firms. We examine the nature of the relationship between the acquiring firm and the acquired initial public offering firm prior to the acquisition and from the perspective of the resource‐based view. We find to some extent that firm specific‐resources affect the prospect that the firm will be acquired. Furthermore, our findings show that firms with more of these types of resources are likely to be acquired by firms engaged in co‐opetition rather than by firms engaged solely in collaboration, competition, or (to a limited extent) with no prior relationship.
Fucoidan ameliorates pancreatic β‐cell death and impaired insulin synthesis in streptozotocin‐treated β cells and mice via a Sirt‐1‐dependent manner
Authors: Yu Wen‐Chun , Chen Yen‐Lin , Hwang Pai‐An , Chen Tso‐Hsiao , Chou Tz‐Chong
Published: May 2017

Scope

Several beneficial biological functions of fucoidan (FO) isolated from brown algae have been demonstrated. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether FO derived from Sargassum hemiphyllum ameliorates pancreatic β‐cell damage and impaired insulin synthesis under diabetic condition.

Methods and results

The effects of FO were studied in streptozotocin (STZ)‐treated pancreatic β‐cell line, NIT‐1cells, and mice. The cell apoptosis, protein analyses, histological examination, and pancreatic function assays were performed. The increased pancreatic β‐cell apoptosis and decreased insulin secretion observed in STZ‐treated NIT‐1 cells and mice were greatly attenuated by FO. Moreover, FO has an ability to enhance glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) and sirtuin 1 (Sirt‐1) activity through activation of AMPK/GAPDH/PDX‐1 cascade in STZ‐treated β cells. However, the effects of FO were significantly reversed by EX527, a specific Sirt‐1 inhibitor. Similarly, the hyperglycemia, lower expression of Sirt‐1, PDX‐1, and GLP‐1R in the pancreas of diabetic mice were markedly improved after FO administration.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that FO exhibits an anti‐diabetic effect mainly through attenuation of β‐cell death, thereby elevating insulin synthesis by upregulating PDX‐1 and GLP1‐R via a Sirt‐1‐dependent manner. Therefore, FO‐containing food or supplements may have a therapeutic effect for diabetes by preventing β‐cell damage and dysfunction.
Prospective association between body mass index at midlife and healthy aging among French adults
Authors: Ruhunuhewa Indunil , Adjibade Moufidath , Andreeva Valentina A. , Galan Pilar , Hercberg Serge , Assmann Karen E. , Kesse‐Guyot Emmanuelle
Published: May 2017

Objective

To assess the association between midlife body mass index (BMI) and healthy aging (HA) in the French SU.VI.MAX cohort.

Methods

HA was assessed in 2007 to 2009 among 2,733 individuals, aged 45 to 60 years and free of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer at baseline (1994‐1995). HA was defined as not developing any major chronic disease, good physical and cognitive functioning, no limitations in instrumental activities of daily living, no depressive symptoms, no health‐related limitations in social life, good overall self‐perceived health, and no function‐limiting pain. Associations between anthropometric indicators (measured in 1995‐1996) and HA were assessed using robust‐error‐variance Poisson regression.

Results

After adjustment for potential confounders, BMI (continuous) was negatively associated with HA: relative risk (RR) = 0.97 (95% confidence interval = 0.96‐0.99). Moreover, the detrimental role of obesity (RRobesity vs. normal weight = 0.67 [0.51–0.88]) was substantially stronger than that of overweight (RRoverweight vs. normal weight = 0.91 [0.81‐1.01]). Furthermore, while metabolically healthy individuals with overweight had a similar HA probability as metabolically healthy individuals with normal weight, metabolically unhealthy overweight individuals had a substantially lowered HA probability.

Conclusions

This study provides novel evidence that an elevated BMI at midlife may jeopardize the preservation of health during aging. Our results also highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy metabolic profile during midlife.
Three challenges for elites in the cultural revolution of Trump
Authors: Lampert Martijn , Blanksma Ceta Anne
Published: May 2017

Reconnecting with citizens in a time of anti‐establishment voter revolts
Microstructural Evolution of 316L Austenitic Stainless Steel with 2%TiB2Addition during the HP‐HT Sintering
Authors: Sulima Iwona , Ratuszek Wiktoria , Zielińska‐Lipiec Anna , Jaworska Lucyna
Published: May 2017

In the present work, the 316L steel+2%TiB2powders are sintered after milling by High Pressure‐High Temperature (HP‐HT) process. Studies cover the effect of sintering parameters on the development of microstructure and properties. The microstructural evolution of 316L steel‐2TiB2composites is characterized by the techniques of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It is found that the structure of a mixture of the 316L steel+2%TiB2powders after milling and the structure of subsequent composites sintered by HP‐HT is composed of a two‐phase matrix including austenite (γ) and martensite (α'). The phase analysis and calculations of the martensite (α') content have revealed the highest content of this constituent in the matrix of 316L steel+2% TiB2composites obtained by sintering at a temperature of 900 °C.
Closed‐form stress solutions for incompressible visco‐hyperelastic solids in uniaxial extension
Authors: Kossa Attila
Published: May 2017

This paper is concerned with the theory of incompressible visco‐hyperelastic solids. Closed‐form stress solutions are derived for five different visco‐hyperelastic material models in uniaxial extension. Two loading scenarios are considered: uniaxial extension with constant true strain‐rate; uniaxial extension with constant engineering strain‐rate. The obtained stress solutions are expressed using only elementary functions, when the applied stretch is linear in the true strain. However, for the constant engineering strain‐rate case, all the solutions are expressed using special functions, even for the very simple Hencky's hyperelastic material model. The novel solutions can be used to improve the performance and accuracy of the parameter‐fitting procedure of a particular visco‐hyperelastic solid. In addition, the closed‐form expressions for the stresses may serve reference solution for benchmark problems.
Religious Change over the Generations in an Extremely Secular Society: The Case of Sweden
Authors: Hagevi Magnus
Published: May 2017

The main argument of this paper is that religious change caused by modifying supply in the religious market takes time due to intergenerational value change. Unlike previous research, this study suggests that not only do religious agents on the supply side need time to adjust, but that the time lag is probably even greater among individuals on the demand side of the religious market. Using time series data, the study demonstrates that, despite shrinking church attendance, interest in religious concepts such as “salvation” has increased in the generations born after 1970 in Sweden. Describing the transformation of the Swedish religious market from a regulated religious monopoly before 1970 to an increasingly deregulated and competitive religious supply since 1970, the study explains this revival in religious interest on the part of generations whose formative years were after 1970. As these generations replace previous generation with less religious interest, religious interest is rising in the Swedish population. The conclusion holds even when controlling for period and lifecycle effects, as well as alternative explanations of religious change such as increased migration and the existential security thesis.
Greening the Radiology Department: Not a Big Mountain to Climb
Authors: Chawla Ashish , Chinchure Dinesh , Marchinkow Laurel Owen , Munk Peter L. , Peh Wilfred C.G.
Published: May 2017

An environmental-friendly radiology department should be a requirement of the future era. The aim of this article is to make radiologists aware of their responsibilities for a greener world. We have suggested a number of minor but important changes in various sections of a radiology department that can make the radiology department more environmentally friendly. These small steps require relatively little effort on our part but cumulatively, may have a huge positive impact on our environment.
A simple method for comparing age–length keys reveals significant regional differences within a single stock of haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus)
Authors: Gerritsen Hans D. , McGrath David , Lordan Colm
Published: May 2017

A multinomial logistic model is presented as a tool for comparing two or more age–length keys. The model provides an objective way to fill in missing values and can be used for estimating uncertainty and visualizing age–length keys (ALKs). An example of haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) in ICES Division VIa (West of Scotland) is used to illustrate significant regional differences in the proportions of age-at-length. These differences are caused by regional variation in both length-at-age and relative abundance at age. As the length-at-age data are normally not weighted by the local catch rate (abundance), the ALK of the combined age data can result in strongly biased estimates of numbers-at-age. In the present case, the use of unweighted age data would have resulted in an overestimate of recruitment of nearly 200%, and an underestimate of spawning-stock biomass of 15%. Comparing ALKs using this method has several practical applications.
The use of local anesthesia and sedation in transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with Doppler
Authors: Formiga Fernanda Bellotti , Magi João Carlos , Santos Bruna Fernandes dos , Boarini Lucas Rodrigues , Oliveira Pietro Dadalto , Vieira Renata Bandini , Formiga Galdino José Sitonio
Published: May 2017

The treatment of hemorrhoidal disease has never been as innovated as in recent decades. The transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with Doppler (THD) was described under general anesthesia or spinal blockage and there is no use of local anesthesia reports. This study aims to evaluate the safety of the use of local anesthesia with sedation in THD. For this purpose, two cases are reported describing the technical and safety analysis and results. Both patients were women with grade II and III hemorrhoidal disease. These patients underwent pre-anesthetic sedation with intravenous diazepam, then were positioned in lithotomy and sedated with midazolam and pethidine. The intersphincteric blockage was followed by THD with mucopexy. One patient made a small submucosal hematoma without expansion. The patients were stable and comfortable throughout the procedure. Both were discharged the next day, with regular analgesia. In the seventh postoperative day, both had mild annoyance at constant tenesmus, which was reduced gradually. The cases illustrate that THD is feasible when performed with local anesthesia and sedation, as it is safe and effective. This new technology can be incorporated into services that have a local anesthesia protocol as their standard.
Use of implantable and external loop recorders in syncope with unknown causes
Authors: Tanno Kaoru
Published: May 2017

The gold standard for diagnosing syncope is to elucidate the symptom‐electrocardiogram (ECG) correlation. The ECG recordings during syncope allow physicians to either confirm or exclude an arrhythmia as the mechanism of syncope. Many studies have investigated the use of internal loop recorder (ILR), while few studies have used external loop recorder (ELR) for patients with unexplained syncope. The aim of this review is to clarify the clinical usefulness of ILR and ELR in the diagnosis and management of patients with unexplained syncope. Many observational and four randomized control studies have shown that ILR for patients with unknown syncope is a useful tool for early diagnosis and improving diagnosis rate. ILR also provides important information on the mechanism of syncope and treatment strategy. However, there is no evidence of total mortality or quality of life improvements with ILR. The diagnostic yield of ELR in patients with syncope was similar to that with ILR within the same timeframe. Therefore, ELR could be considered for long‐term ECG monitoring before a patient switches to using ILR. A systematic approach and selection of ECG monitoring tools reduces health care costs and improves the selection of patients for optimal treatment possibilities.