bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear empirical modeling to estimate phosphorus exports using continuous records of turbidity and discharge
Authors: Minaudo Camille , Dupas Rémi , Gascuel‐Odoux Chantal , Fovet Ophélie , Mellander Per‐Erik , Jordan Philip , Shore Mairead , Moatar Florentina
Published: August 2017

We tested an empirical modeling approach using relatively low‐cost continuous records of turbidity and discharge as proxies to estimate phosphorus (P) concentrations at a subhourly time step for estimating loads. The method takes into account nonlinearity and hysteresis effects during storm events, and hydrological conditions variability. High‐frequency records of total P and reactive P originating from four contrasting European agricultural catchments in terms of P loads were used to test the method. The models were calibrated on weekly grab sampling data combined with 10 storms surveyed subhourly per year (weekly+ survey) and then used to reconstruct P concentrations during all storm events for computing annual loads. For total P, results showed that this modeling approach allowed the estimation of annual loads with limited uncertainties (≈ −10% ± 15%), more reliable than estimations based on simple linear regressions using turbidity, based on interpolated weekly+ data without storm event reconstruction, or on discharge weighted calculations from weekly series or monthly series. For reactive P, load uncertainties based on the nonlinear model were similar to uncertainties based on storm event reconstruction using simple linear regression (≈ 20% ± 30%), and remained lower than uncertainties obtained without storm reconstruction on weekly or monthly series, but larger than uncertainties based on interpolated weekly+ data (≈ −15% ± 20%). These empirical models showed we could estimate reliable P exports from noncontinuous P time series when using continuous proxies, and this could potentially be very useful for completing time‐series data sets in high‐frequency surveys, even over extended periods.
Phase‐Field Modeling of Microstructural Evolution by Freeze‐Casting
Authors: Huang Tsung‐Hui , Huang Tzu‐Hsuan , Lin Yang‐Shan , Chang Chih‐Hsiang , Chen Po‐Yu , Chang Shu‐Wei , Chen Chuin‐Shan
Published: August 2017

Freeze‐casting has attracted great attention as a potential method for manufacturing bioinspired materials with excellent flexibility in microstructure control. The solidification of ice crystals in ceramic colloidal suspensions plays an important role during the dynamic process of freeze‐casting. During solidification, the formation of a microstructure results in a dendritic pattern within the ice‐template crystals, which determines the macroscopic properties of materials. In this paper, the authors propose a phase‐field model that describes the crystallization in an ice template and the evolution of particles during anisotropic solidification. Under the assumption that ceramic particles represent mass flow, namely a concentration field, the authors derive a sharp‐interface model and then transform the model into a continuous initial boundary value problem via the phase‐field method. The adaptive finite‐element technique and generalized single‐step single‐solve (GSSSS) time‐integration method are employed to reduce computational cost and reconstruct microstructure details. The numerical results are compared with experimental results, which demonstrate good agreement. Finally, a microstructural morphology map is constructed to demonstrate the effect of different concentration fields and input cooling rates. The authors observe that at particle concentrations ranging between 25 and 30% and cooling rate lower than −5° min−1 generates the optimal dendrite structure in freeze casting process.
Nanotechnology for Neuroscience: Promising Approaches for Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Brain Activity Mapping
Authors: Kumar Anil , Tan Aaron , Wong Joanna , Spagnoli Jonathan Clayton , Lam James , Blevins Brianna Diane , G Natasha , Thorne Lewis , Ashkan Keyoumars , Xie Jin , Liu Hong
Published: August 2017

Unlocking the secrets of the brain is a task fraught with complexity and challenge – not least due to the intricacy of the circuits involved. With advancements in the scale and precision of scientific technologies, we are increasingly equipped to explore how these components interact to produce a vast range of outputs that constitute function and disease. Here, an insight is offered into key areas in which the marriage of neuroscience and nanotechnology has revolutionized the industry. The evolution of ever more sophisticated nanomaterials culminates in network‐operant functionalized agents. In turn, these materials contribute to novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, including drug delivery, neuroprotection, neural regeneration, neuroimaging and neurosurgery. Further, the entrance of nanotechnology into future research arenas including optogenetics, molecular/ion sensing and monitoring, and piezoelectric effects is discussed. Finally, considerations in nanoneurotoxicity, the main barrier to clinical translation, are reviewed, and direction for future perspectives is provided.
Amorphous Bimetallic Oxide–Graphene Hybrids as Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Wei Li , Karahan H. Enis , Zhai Shengli , Liu Hongwei , Chen Xuncai , Zhou Zheng , Lei Yaojie , Liu Zongwen , Chen Yuan
Published: August 2017

Metal oxides of earth‐abundant elements are promising electrocatalysts to overcome the sluggish oxygen evolution and oxygen reduction reaction (OER/ORR) in many electrochemical energy‐conversion devices. However, it is difficult to control their catalytic activity precisely. Here, a general three‐stage synthesis strategy is described to produce a family of hybrid materials comprising amorphous bimetallic oxide nanoparticles anchored on N‐doped reduced graphene oxide with simultaneous control of nanoparticle elemental composition, size, and crystallinity. Amorphous Fe0.5Co0.5Ox is obtained from Prussian blue analog nanocrystals, showing excellent OER activity with a Tafel slope of 30.1 mV dec−1 and an overpotential of 257 mV for 10 mA cm−2 and superior ORR activity with a large limiting current density of −5.25 mA cm−2 at 0.6 V. A fabricated Zn–air battery delivers a specific capacity of 756 mA h gZn−1 (corresponding to an energy density of 904 W h kgZn−1), a peak power density of 86 mW cm−2 and can be cycled over 120 h at 10 mA cm−2. Other two amorphous bimetallic, Ni0.4Fe0.6Ox and Ni0.33Co0.67Ox, are also produced to demonstrate the general applicability of this method for synthesizing binary metal oxides with controllable structures as electrocatalysts for energy conversion.
One‐Step Noncovalent Surface Functionalization of PDMS with Chitosan‐Based Bioparticles and Their Protein‐Repellent Properties
Authors: Bračič Matej , Mohan Tamilselvan , Griesser Thomas , Stana‐Kleinschek Karin , Strnad Simona , Fras‐Zemljič Lidija
Published: August 2017

Stable hydrophilic and protein‐repellent surfaces from nontoxic polysaccharides are highly desirable in several biomedical applications such as implants and prosthetics. Herein, a water‐based one‐step strategy to functionalize polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) surfaces with chitosan‐based bioparticles is described to suppress the adsorption of blood plasma proteins, which causes biofilm formation and implant‐associated infection. Micro‐ and nanosized chitosan (Chi) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMChi) particles, featuring high stability, hydrophilicity, and zwitterionic feature, are synthesized in an ecofriendly solvent water and their interaction with PDMS surfaces is investigated in‐real time over a wide range of pH (3–10) using a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM‐D). The results show that both Chi and CMChi form stable colloidal particles at pH close to their zero‐point charge, and thus exhibit maximum adsorption and irreversibly bound layers on PDMS surfaces. Coating from CMChi shows high stability, improved hydrophilicity, and subsequently no adsorption of bovine serum albumin and enhanced resistance to fibrinogen, compared to Chi and native PDMS, as revealed by water contact angle and QCM‐D measurements. The results demonstrate the possibility to develop novel and biobased coating materials to address unspecific protein adsorption not only on silicone‐based implants but also on other biomaterials in general.
Shape‐Customizable Macro‐/Microporous Carbon Monoliths for Structure‐to‐Functionality CO2 Adsorption and Novel Electrical Regeneration
Authors: Wang Mei , Li Yuexing , Pan Min , Jia Xianfeng , Yin Di , Long Donghui , Wang Jitong , Qiao Wenming , Ling Licheng
Published: August 2017

Potential of porous carbons for practical applications is often limited by their intrinsic fragility and poor processability. Here, a facile approach to fabricate hierarchically macro‐/microporous carbon monolith (CM) with high strength and integrated structure is developed, which offers great possibilities for structure‐to‐functionality applications. Through a fiber‐reinforced sol–gel process and an ambient pressure drying approach, aerogel‐like CMs can be designed and fabricated in customizable forms. In particular, a novel scroll‐type carbon monolith (S‐CM) is constructed, which can mimic a roll‐to‐roll tube reactor and thus avoid the packing problems arising from the granules or powders of conventional activated carbons. The resulting CM exhibits a high CO2 adsorption capacity of 15.9 mmol g−1 at 25 bar and a breakthrough capacity of 1 mmol g−1 at 1 bar. Moreover, owing to the integrated structure and good electrical conductivity, the scroll‐type S‐CM can be easily regenerated by employing a low‐energy electrothermal desorption technique. The specialized design of the CMs should fulfill industrial directives and may provide an access route to more efficient porous carbons for structure‐oriented and process‐intensified applications.
Intramolecular Hydroamidation of ortho‐Vinyl Benzamides Promoted by Potassium tert‐Butoxide/N,N‐Dimethylformamide
Authors: Chen Zhen‐yu , Wu Liang‐yu , Fang Hai‐sheng , Zhang Ting , Mao Zhi‐feng , Zou Yong , Zhang Xue‐jing , Yan Ming
Published: August 2017

An intramolecular hydroamidation of ortho‐vinyl benzamides had been developed. The reaction was promoted efficiently by potassium tert‐butoxide and N,N‐dimethylformamide without the need for strong oxidants or transition‐metal catalysts. A series of dihydroisoquinolinones and 3‐benzylisoindolinones were prepared in good to excellent yields. The new method is operationally simple, scalable, and tolerant of various functional groups.

magnified image
Particle‐resolved PIV experiments of solid‐liquid mixing in a turbulent stirred tank
Authors: Li Genghong , Gao Zhengming , Li Zhipeng , Wang Jiawei , Derksen J. J.
Published: August 2017

Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) experiments on turbulent solid‐liquid stirred tank flow with careful refractive index matching of the two phases have been performed. The spatial resolution of the PIV data is finer than the size of the spherical, uniformly sized solid particles, thereby providing insight in the flow around individual particles. The impeller is a down‐pumping pitch‐blade turbine. The impeller‐based Reynolds number has been fixed to Re = 104. Overall solids volume fractions up to 8% have been investigated. The PIV experiments are impeller‐angle resolved, that is, conditioned on the angular position of the impeller. The two‐phase systems are in partially suspended states with an inhomogeneous distribution of solids: high solids loadings near the bottom and near the outer walls of the tank, much less solids in the bulk of the tank. The liquid velocity fields show very strong phase coupling effects with the particles increasingly attenuating the overall circulation patterns as well as the liquid velocity fluctuation levels when the solids volume fraction is increased. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 389–402, 2018
Model for the outer cavity of a dual‐cavity die with parameters determined by two‐dimensional finite‐element analysis
Authors: Ruschak Kenneth J. , Weinstein Steven J.
Published: August 2017

A coating die forms liquid layers of uniform thickness for application to a substrate. In a dual‐cavity coating die an outer cavity and slot improves flow distribution from an inner cavity and slot. A model for axial flow in the outer cavity must consider the ever‐present cross flow. A 1‐D equation for the pressure gradient for a power‐law liquid is obtained as a small departure from a uniform flow distribution and no axial flow. The equation contains a shape factor dependent on cavity shape, Reynolds number, and power‐law index. The shape factor for five triangular cavity shapes is obtained by finite‐element analysis and correlated for application to die design up to the onset of flow recirculation which arises at the junction of the cavity and outer slot. The performance of the combined cavity and slot is considered and the most effective design determined. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 708–716, 2018
CFD simulation of the effect of rain on the performance of horizontal wind turbines
Authors: Arastoopour Hamid , Cohan Aiden
Published: August 2017

Wind turbine power output is influenced by environmental conditions, including rain. Therefore, a better understanding of the effect of rain on the performance of wind turbines is necessary. Our coupled Lagrangian‐Eulerian multiphase computational fluid dynamics model was modified to more accurately simulate the momentum transfer during water film formation on the airfoils of a horizontal‐axis turbine and the performance loss caused by the rainwater film on the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) turbine performance. To obtain three‐dimensional numerical simulation of the wind turbine in manageable computational time, simplifying assumptions were made and the validity of these assumptions was verified by simulating the flow over the S809 airfoil of the NREL turbine. In a dry environment, simulation of turbine power output agreed well with NREL experimental data. Our multiphase model showed that the rain film accumulation and flow on the surface of the turbine airfoil reduces the power output of the turbine. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 5375–5383, 2017
Efficacy of endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis following primary radiotherapy and concurrent chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Ayoub Noel , Walgama Evan , Thamboo Andrew , Nayak Jayakar V. , Hwang Peter H.
Published: August 2017

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a downstream complication following radiotherapy or chemoradiation for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is an accepted therapy for medically refractory CRS, but its efficacy in addressing CRS symptoms in patients with previously irradiated NPC is unclear.

Methods

All patients at the Stanford Sinus Center with a history of radiation therapy or chemoradiation for NPC between 2006 and 2015 were reviewed. Patients without antecedent CRS prior to NPC treatment (n = 26) were retrospectively divided into 2 cohorts based on whether they developed postirradiation CRS and underwent ESS (surgical group, n = 13) or did not develop CRS (control, n = 13). Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected, and temporal changes in 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) score were compared.

Results

The median time following primary irradiation to initial presentation was 6.8 and 6.5 years in the surgical and control groups, respectively. The surgical cohort had statistically greater baseline SNOT‐22 scores than the control group (45 vs 14, p = 0.0198). At 6 to 12 months postoperatively, the surgical group demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in SNOT‐22 scores when compared to controls (15‐point decrease vs 0, p = 0.0040), ultimately resulting in similar SNOT‐22 scores for both groups (28 vs 18, p = 0.3687). The rhinologic, extranasal, and ear/face subdomain scores of the surgical group were significantly greater than those of the control group preoperatively (rhinologic: p = 0.0010; extranasal: p = 0.0179; ear/face: p = 0.0068), but these disparities resolved postoperatively (rhinologic: p = 0.1461; extranasal: p = 0.3131; ear/face: p = 0.3401).

Conclusion

ESS appears to effectively manage recalcitrant CRS symptoms in patients previously treated with radiation therapy and concurrent chemotherapy for NPC.
Flavylium Polymethine Fluorophores for Near‐ and Shortwave Infrared Imaging
Authors: Cosco Emily D. , Caram Justin R. , Bruns Oliver T. , Franke Daniel , Day Rachael A. , Farr Erik P. , Bawendi Moungi G. , Sletten Ellen M.
Published: August 2017

Bright fluorophores in the near‐infrared and shortwave infrared (SWIR) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum are essential for optical imaging in vivo. In this work, we utilized a 7‐dimethylamino flavylium heterocycle to construct a panel of novel red‐shifted polymethine dyes, with emission wavelengths from 680 to 1045 nm. Photophysical characterization revealed that the 1‐ and 3‐methine dyes display enhanced photostability and the 5‐ and 7‐methine dyes exhibit exceptional brightness for their respective spectral regions. A micelle formulation of the 7‐methine facilitated SWIR imaging in mice. This report presents the first polymethine dye designed and synthesized for SWIR in vivo imaging.
Divergent Asymmetric Total Synthesis of Mulinane Diterpenoids
Authors: Liu Yun‐Ting , Li Lin‐Ping , Xie Jian‐Hua , Zhou Qi‐Lin
Published: August 2017

A concise, divergent, asymmetric total syntheses of mulinane diterpenoids has been achieved. Specifically, a new strategy was developed featuring a key intramolecular Friedel–Crafts reaction to construct the chiral fused 5‐6‐6 tricyclic motif, followed by sequential Birch reduction, conjugate methylation, and homologation/ring‐expansion reactions to furnish the desired 5‐6‐7 tricyclic skeleton bearing five contiguous stereocenters. With this efficient strategy, seven mulinane diterpenoids and two analogues were synthesized via late‐stage functional modification or functionalization in 8.6–20 % overall yields and 11–15 steps.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Reductive Heck Cyclization of Aryl Halides to Afford Indolines
Authors: Qin Xurong , Lee Marcus Wen Yao , Zhou Jianrong Steve
Published: August 2017

A nickel‐catalyzed asymmetric reductive Heck reaction of aryl chlorides has been developed that affords substituted indolines with high enantioselectivity. Manganese powder is used as the terminal reductant with water as a proton source. Mechanistically, it is distinct from the palladium‐catalyzed process in that the nickel–carbon bond is converted into a C−H bond to release the product through protonation instead of hydride donation followed by C−H reductive elimination on Pd.
Gold‐Catalyzed [4+2] Annulation/Cyclization Cascades of Benzisoxazoles with Propiolate Derivatives to Access Highly Oxygenated Tetrahydroquinolines
Authors: Sahani Rajkumar Lalji , Liu Rai‐Shung
Published: August 2017

This work describes gold‐catalyzed annulations of electron‐deficient alkynes with benzisoxazoles to yield quinoline oxides chemoselectively. Chemical functionalizations of these resulting azacyclic compounds afforded various oxygenated tetrahydroquinolines which are present as the cores of many bioactive molecules. With the same reactants, a new relay catalysis using gold and zinc(II) catalysts affords highly oxygenated tetrahydroquinoline derivatives stereoselectively.
Morphology and Postnatal Development of Lower Hindlimbs in Desmodus rotundus (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae): A Comparative Study
Authors: Reyes‐Amaya Nicolás , Jerez Adriana , Flores David
Published: August 2017

The hindlimbs in bats are functionally adapted to serve as a hook to attach to the mother from birth, and to roost during independent life. Although bats exhibit different terrestrial locomotion capabilities involving hindlimbs, hindlimb morphology and postnatal development have been poorly studied. We describe in detail the postnatal development and bone morphology of hindlimbs of the nimble walker vampire bat, Desmodus rotundus, and compare adult characters with the insectivorous Molossus molossus (erratic walker) and the frugivorous Artibeus lituratus (non‐walker). The advanced ossification of most hindlimb elements of D. rotundus at the newborn stage is consistent with the functional role of this structure at birth in bats. The development completion events of hindlimb bone elements and bone processes in D. rotundus coincide with the cranial bone processes completion and suture closure events. Those events occur when individuals begin to feed by themselves. There are differences in the number and position of bone processes and sesamoids in adults among the compared species, most of which are described for the first time, and in the case of D. rotundus and M. molossus mostly related to a greater and tight articulation between elements. These facts seem to be closely associated with the different terrestrial locomotion capabilities, and in the case of the exclusively sanguivorous D. rotundus with specializations for obtaining food. Anat Rec, 300:2150–2165, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Serial functional communication training: Extending serial DRA to mands and problem behavior
Authors: Lambert Joseph M. , Bloom Sarah E. , Samaha Andrew L. , Dayton Elizabeth
Published: August 2017

Functional communication training (FCT) is commonly used to eliminate problem behavior. Not surprisingly, the efficacy of the intervention depends on fidelity to programmed procedures. For instance, problem behavior is likely to resurge if caregivers fail to reinforce mands during the maintenance stages of FCT. Despite this, recent translational work on arbitrary human responses suggests that incorporating multiple‐mand instruction into a serial‐training format may increase the probability of a recency effect, and a reversion of response resurgence (both desirable outcomes when mands are the most recently reinforced responses prior to extinction). Although promising, this effect has not been replicated with socially significant human behavior. Thus, we compared the relative effect of traditional FCT with that of serial FCT on the resurgence of the problem behavior, and mands, of 2 children. In contrast to previous research, we observed primacy effects for both subjects (i.e., the magnitude of the resurgence of problem behavior was greater than it was for any subsequently trained mand), and mand resurgence never occurred for one subject. Notwithstanding these limitations, the percentage of total responding allocated toward the resurgence of problem behavior was less in the serial FCT component relative to the traditional FCT component, and we observed a reversion of response resurgence for one subject.
Time‐Temperature Indicator Based on Enzymatic Degradation of Dye‐Loaded Polyhydroxybutyrate
Authors: Anbukarasu Preetam , Sauvageau Dominic , Elias Anastasia L.
Published: August 2017

An enzyme activated time‐temperature indicator (TTI) which produces a direct colour change concomitant to variations in integrated time and temperature conditions is described. This direct colour change is realised by degrading a dye‐loaded polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) film by a depolymerase enzyme. The degradation of the PHB film by the enzyme causes the release of the dye in solution, which in turn undergoes an optical transition from clear to coloured with elapsing time. Macroscopic and microscopic optical observations confirms the uniform distribution of the dye in the PHB film. The dye release kinetics, mediated by the enzymatic reaction, are tested at different temperatures ranging from 4 to 37 °C, and are used to determine the suitability of a dye‐loaded PHB as a time‐temperature indicator for fresh food products based on kinetic parameters previously reported. The kinetic analysis shows that the activation energy of the dye release process is 74 kJ mol−1, and that, at 37 °C, the dye would be totally released within 6 h. However, when incubated at 4 °C, the TTI requires in the range of 168 h (7 days) to release all the dye. These kinetics values highlight the potential of the TTI for monitoring fresh food products that have optimum shelf life around 4 °C.
A combination of anti‐PD‐L1 mAb plus Lm‐LLO‐E6 vaccine efficiently suppresses tumor growth and metastasis in HPV‐infected cancers
Authors: Lin Po‐Lin , Cheng Ya‐Min , Wu De‐Wei , Huang Yu‐Ju , Lin Hun‐Chi , Chen Chih‐Yi , Lee Huei
Published: August 2017

PD‐1/PD‐L1 immunotherapy is viewed as having clinical benefits in advanced cancers but is effective in only a few patients, suggesting that an efficient combination approach is needed to improve efficacy. Immunohistochemistry analysis indicated that PD‐L1 expression was correlated with the E6 expression in tumors from 122 lung cancer patients. The poorest survival occurred in PD‐L1‐positive/E6‐positive tumor. PD‐L1 expression was increased by the expression of E6, but not the E7, oncoprotein in lung and cervical cancer cells. PD‐L1 expression was responsible for E6‐mediated colony formation and soft agar growth. Therefore, PD‐L1 secreted from tumor cells may directly promote tumor progression, particularly in E6‐positive tumors. Immune deficiency nude mice were used to test the possibility that combining anti‐PD‐L1 mAb with Lm‐LLO‐E6 vaccine could have a higher antitumor activity compared with anti‐PD‐L1 mAb or Lm‐LLO‐E6 vaccine alone. A greater antitumor activity was obtained with anti‐PD‐L1 mAb + Lm‐LLO‐E6 vaccine than with anti‐PD‐L1 mAb or Lm‐LLO‐E6 alone in subcutaneous and metastatic tumors induced by TL‐1 and SiHa cells. The longest survival time for nude mice was observed in the anti‐PD‐L1 mAb + Lm‐LLO‐E6 vaccine group. In conclusion, an anti‐PD‐L1 mAb + Lm‐LLO‐E6 vaccine may be an efficient treatment for suppression of tumor growth and metastasis induced by HPV‐infected cells.
Was band director's comparison to ‘spirit squad’ director enough to establish different treatment?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: August 2017

A Title IX investigation in July 2014 revealed the culture of The Ohio State University band facilitated acts of sexual harassment. It also concluded Director Jonathan Waters reasonably should have known about that culture and failed to eliminate it.
Monitoring Photosynthetic Activity in Microalgal Cells by Raman Spectroscopy with Deuterium Oxide as a Tracking Probe
Authors: Yonamine Yusuke , Suzuki Yuta , Ito Takuro , Miura Yoshiko , Goda Keisuke , Ozeki Yasuyuki , Hoshino Yu
Published: August 2017

Microalgae offer great potential for the production of biofuel, but high photosynthetic activity is demanded for the practical realisation of microalgal biofuels. To this end, it is essential to evaluate the photosynthetic activity of single microalgal cells in a heterogeneous population. In this study, we present a method to monitor the photosynthetic activity of microalgae (in particular Euglena gracilis, a microalgal species of unicellular, photosynthetic, flagellate protists as our model organism) at single‐cell resolution by Raman spectroscopy with deuterium from deuterium oxide (D2O) as a tracking probe. Specifically, we replaced H2O in culture media with D2O up to a concentration of 20 % without disturbing the growth rate of E. gracilis cells and evaluated C−D bond formation as a consequence of photosynthetic reactions by Raman spectroscopy. We used the probe to monitor the kinetics of the C−D bond formation in E. gracilis cells by incubating them in D2O media under light irradiation. Furthermore, we demonstrated Raman microscopy imaging of each single E. gracilis cell to discriminate deuterated cells from normal cells. Our results hold great promise for Raman‐based screening of E. gracilis and potentially other microalgae with high photosynthetic activity by using D2O as a tracking probe.
One catheter or two? Tomayto or Tomahto?
Authors: Seto Arnold H. , Kern Morton J.
Published: August 2017

Key Points

This retrospective study compares the performance of transradial diagnostic procedures using the single versus Judkins catheter approach.

The Judkins approach had a 15% lower patient radiation exposure than single catheter approach while fluoroscopy time was comparable.

Future studies of comparing such techniques may always be limited by operator preference, experience, and comfort.
Chemical Functionalization of Polysaccharides—Towards Biocompatible Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kirschning Andreas , Dibbert Nick , Dräger Gerald
Published: August 2017

Hydrogels have emerged as a highly interdisciplinary topic as they play a significant role for a vast number of applications. They have been studied extensively as materials for contact lenses, wound dressing and as filler material in soft‐tissue augmentation, in which classical polymer backbones such as hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) are typically employed. More recently, polysaccharides have received attention, particularly in the fields of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, as ideal candidate materials for artificial extracellular matrices (ECM). The polysaccharides of choice are dextran, alginate, chitosan, hyaluronic acid and pullulan and in order to obtain suitable hydrogels from these polysaccharides, controlled chemical functionalization is of critical importance. This short review summarizes recent developments in the chemical derivatization of polysaccharides to pave the way for crosslinking and to decorate individual polysaccharide chains with bioactive ligands. The report covers convergent and divergent protocols for crosslinking, as well strategies for bisfunctionalization of polysaccharides. Additionally, information on biological properties and biomedical applications are covered.
Confirming the mechanisms behind cognitive‐behavioural therapy effectiveness in chronic pain using structural equation modeling in a sample of patients with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Durá‐Ferrandis Estrella , Ferrando‐García Maite , Galdón‐Garrido Mª José , Andreu‐Vaillo Yolanda
Published: August 2017

Objective

To evaluate whether therapeutic mechanisms assumed to explain the effect of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) concerning temporomandibular symptoms are confirmed by structural equation modelling.

Method

Patients were randomly assigned to either an experimental group receiving CBT (N = 41) or a standard therapy control group (N = 31). Subjects were assessed before and after intervention using mediator variables hypothesized according to the CBT model, as well as outcome variables and other socio‐demographic and clinical measures.

Results

The results confirm that the effect of treatment on pain intensity was partially mediated by distress, catastrophizing, perceived control, distraction, and mental self‐control. The self‐medication frequency was partially mediated by distraction. Pain interference was partially mediated by distress, distraction, and mental self‐control. Reduction in the number of painful points on palpation was partially explained by distress, although in this case, there was a significant direct effect of treatment not mediated by other variables.

Conclusions

The results could set the principles for the development of more efficient and effective cognitive behavioural interventions for chronic pain.
Share information with the parents of your students with disabilities
Authors: Gaddy Stephanie
Published: August 2017

Sometimes you will engage with parents, and this might not always be a positive experience. A negative experience can happen when parents don't have the necessary information or when they don't understand how your office works.
Work to resolve discrimination complaints early to avoid expensive litigation, damages
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: August 2017

The case of Daniel‐Rivera v. Keiser University has come to a close after a United States magistrate recommended that Keiser pay $156,000 in attorneys' fees and $34,000 in costs. Earlier, a federal jury decided that Keiser intentionally discriminated against a deaf student by denying her admission to the Keiser radiology technician program, and the jury awarded the student $75,000. Neither side has appealed (Daniel‐Rivera v. Everglades College, d/b/a Keiser University, Case No. 0:16.‐cv‐60044‐WPD). Details of the case highlight how you can save time and money for your institution by being proactive about resolving complaints alleging disability discrimination.
Study looks at intersection of disability, sexual violence
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2017

College women with mental health issues or behavioral disabilities experience particular forms of sexual violence and partner violence, according to a study from Michigan State University. These forms of abuse include intimidation, name‐calling, and humiliation specifically related to their disabilities, according to the study.
The association between dysregulated adipocytokines in early pregnancy and development of gestational diabetes
Authors: Abell Sally K. , Shorakae Soulmaz , Harrison Cheryce L. , Hiam Danielle , Moreno‐Asso Alba , Stepto Nigel K. , De Courten Barbora , Teede Helena J.
Published: August 2017

Background

To investigate the association of adipocytokines and other inflammatory markers with development of GDM.

Methods

Serum adipocytokines and inflammatory markers were studied at 12 to 15 weeks gestation using biobanked control samples from a randomised trial. Study participants were identified as high risk for GDM using a validated clinical risk prediction tool. Markers were tested using commercial ELISA kits for high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1, visfatin, omentin‐1, sex‐hormone binding globulin, monocyte chemoattractant protein, and asymmetrical dimethylarginine. The association between each biomarker and development of GDM at 24 to 28 weeks was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for maternal factors.

Results

There were no differences in age, parity, country of birth, smoking, body mass index, or family history of diabetes in women with normal glucose tolerance (n = 78) and women who developed GDM (n = 25). Women with GDM were more likely to have a past history of GDM (P = 0.004). HMW adiponectin (odds ratio OR 0.37 [95% confidence interval 0.19–0.74]), omentin‐1 (0.97 [0.94–0.99]), and IL‐6 (1.87[1.03–3.37]) were associated with development of GDM, after adjustment for maternal age, body mass index, and past history of GDM. The other markers were not associated with GDM development.

Conclusions

Decreased high molecular weight adiponectin and omentin‐1 and increased IL‐6 may enhance sensitivity of early risk prediction tools for women at high risk of GDM. This may allow early identification and opportunities for prevention of GDM and adverse outcomes. Further research is required in large validation studies to confirm these results.
Gut microbiome response to short‐term dietary interventions in reactive hypoglycemia subjects
Authors: Quercia Sara , Turroni Silvia , Fiori Jessica , Soverini Matteo , Rampelli Simone , Biagi Elena , Castagnetti Andrea , Consolandi Clarissa , Severgnini Marco , Pianesi Mario , Fallucca Francesco , Pozzilli Paolo , Brigidi Patrizia , Candela Marco
Published: August 2017

Background

Reactive hypoglycemia is a metabolic disorder that provokes severe hypoglycemic episodes after meals. Over recent years, the gut microbiota has been recognized as potential target for the control of metabolic diseases, and the possibility to correct gut microbiota dysbioses through diet, favouring the recovery of metabolic homeostasis, has been considered.

Methods

We investigate the impact of 2 short‐term (3‐day) nutritional interventions, based on the macrobiotic Ma‐Pi 2 diet and a control Mediterranean diet, on the structure and functionality of the gut microbiota in 12 patients affected by reactive hypoglycemia. The gut microbiota composition was characterized by next‐generation sequencing of the V3 to V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene, and the ecosystem functionality was addressed by measuring the faecal concentration of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs). In order to measure the short‐term physiological gut microbiota fluctuation, the microbiomes of 7 healthy people were characterized before and after 3 days of constant diet.

Results

While no convergence of the gut microbiota compositional profiles was observed, a significant increase in SCFA faecal levels was induced only in the Ma‐Pi 2 diet group, suggesting the potential of this diet to support a short‐term functional convergence of the gut microbiota, regardless of the individual compositional layout.

Conclusions

The Ma‐Pi 2 diet, with its high fibre load, was effective in increasing the production of SCFAs by the gut microbiota. Because these metabolites are known for their ability to counterbalance the metabolic deregulation in persons with glucose impairment disorders, their increased bioavailability could be of some relevance in reactive hypoglycemia.
Magnetic Nanocomposites Derived from Hollow ZIF‐67 and Core‐Shell ZIF‐67@ZIF‐8: Synthesis, Properties, and Adsorption of Rhodamine B
Authors: Zhao Haoyang , Wang Ying , Zhao Lang
Published: August 2017

Two types of magnetic nanocomposites, Co‐carbon composite (Co@C) and Zn/Co‐carbon composite (Zn/Co@C), were synthesized by one‐step calcinations of hollow Co‐ZIF (ZIF‐67) and Zn/Co‐ZIF (ZIF‐67@ZIF‐8) (ZIF = zeolitic imidazolate framework), as well as applied as adsorbents in the reduction of Rhodamine B (RhB). The prepared composites were carefully analyzed by SEM, TEM‐EDXS (EDXS = energy‐dispersive X‐ray specroscopy), XRD, SQUID, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption measurements. Co@C and Zn/Co@C showed the maximum adsorption capacities of 48 mg g–1 and 101.93 mg g–1, respectively, toward RhB. The adsorption isotherms of RhB on the Zn/Co@C nanocomposites were well fitted with the Langmuir model, and the pseudo‐second‐order model accurately describes the adsorption kinetic process for the adsorption of RhB on the materials. The results show that the composite materials of Zn/Co@C possess higher porosity and magnetic properties and exhibit higher adsorption capacity, convenient separation ability, along with good reusability of the adsorbent. The theoretical calculations also clarify that RhB on the distorted Co–Zn surface is much more stable than that on Co(111), in good agreement with the experimental observations.
Recent advances in amino acid analysis by capillary electromigration methods: June 2015–May 2017
Authors: Poinsot Véréna , Ong‐Meang Varravaddheay , Ric Audrey , Gavard Pierre , Perquis Lucie , Couderc François
Published: August 2017

In the tenth edition of this article focused on recent advances in amino acid analysis using capillary electrophoresis, we describe the most important research articles published on this topic during the period from June 2015 to May 2017. This article follows the format of the previous articles published in Electrophoresis. The new developments in amino acid analysis with CE mainly describe improvements in CE associated with mass spectrometry. Focusing on applications, we mostly describe clinical works, although metabolomics studies are also very important. Finally, works focusing on amino acids in food and agricultural applications are also described.
Do investors use options and futures to trade on different types of information? Evidence from an aggregate stock index
Authors: Bae Kyoung‐Hun , Dixon Peter
Published: August 2017

Option prices are sensitive to changes in volatility whereas futures prices are not. We investigate this distinction empirically and test the hypothesis that investors with information about future returns (volatilities) will prefer to trade in futures (options) because futures (options) protect the investor from the risk that their bet will go against them due to unforeseen changes in volatility (returns). Consistent with this hypothesis we find that order imbalances between institutional and retail investors in Korean KOSPI 200 index futures (options) robustly predict short‐term returns (volatilities) on the KOSPI 200 index whereas options (futures) imbalances do not.
Do LGBT‐supportive corporate policies enhance firm performance?
Authors: Pichler Shaun , Blazovich Janell L. , Cook Kirsten A. , Huston Janet M. , Strawser William R.
Published: August 2017

Prior research provides evidence that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)‐supportive corporate policies are related to important human resource functions, such as enhanced recruitment and retention. In addition, prior research indicates that investors view the adoption of such policies positively. We examine the firm‐performance mechanisms underlying favorable stock‐market reactions based on an integration of perspectives from corporate social responsibility and the business case for diversity. Specifically, we estimate a hierarchical linear model (HLM) to account for the nested nature of our data (firms nested within states) and find that (1) the presence of LGBT‐supportive policies is associated with higher firm value, productivity, and profitability; (2) the firm‐value and profitability benefits associated with LGBT‐supportive policies are larger for companies engaged in research and development (R&D) activities; and (3) the firm‐value and profitability benefits of LGBT‐supportive policies persist in the presence of state antidiscrimination laws. In supplemental analyses, we find that firms implementing (discontinuing) LGBT‐supportive policies experience increases (decreases) in firm value, productivity, and profitability. We are among the first to link LGBT‐supportive policies specifically to financial performance outcomes as well as to develop and test a multilevel model of these relationships. Our results have important implications for theory and research on LGBT issues in organizations, human resource managers, and policymakers.
Analysis of two‐dimensional porous fins with variable thermal conductivity
Authors: Shokouhmand Hossein , Sattari Amirmohammad , Hosseini‐Doost Seyed Erfan , Maghooli Ali
Published: August 2017

Analysis of porous fins for their higher heat transfer in comparison with solid fins with identical volumes has attracted significant attention. In this paper, a two‐dimensional thermal analysis of a porous fin having variable thermal conductivity coefficient is performed using finite difference method. Heat transfer through porous media is simulated using passage velocity from Darcy's model. The thermal conductivity of the solid phase is considered as a linear function of temperature. It is found that the temperature profile of the fin is completely two‐dimensional even for high Rayleigh and Darcy numbers (Ra = 103∼104, Da = 0.01), because the temperature changes significantly along the transverse axis especially for lower Rayleigh and Darcy numbers. Also, the effects of important nondimensional parameters such as Rayleigh and Darcy numbers, porosity, Nusselt, thermal conductivity, and aspect ratio on the temperature profile are investigated. The results demonstrate that the temperature distribution is strongly dependent on the Rayleigh and Darcy numbers.
Hydrological modelling using proxies for gauged precipitation and temperature
Authors: Chen Jie , Brissette François P.
Published: August 2017

Precipitation and temperature time series suffer from many problems, such as short time, inadequate spatial coverage, missing data, and biases from various causes, which are particularly critical in remote areas such as Northern Canada. The development of alternative datasets for using as proxies for inadequate/missing weather data represents a key research area. In this paper, the performance of 6 alternative datasets is evaluated for hydrological modelling over 12 watersheds located across Canada and the contiguous United States. The datasets can be classified into 3 distinct categories: (a) interpolated gridded data, (b) reanalysis data, and (c) climate model outputs. Hydrological simulations were carried out using a lumped conceptual hydrological model calibrated using standard weather data and compared against results using a calibration specific to each alternative dataset. Prior to the hydrological simulations, the alternative datasets were all evaluated with respect to their ability to reproduce gridded daily precipitation and temperature characteristics over North America. The results show that both the reanalysis data and climate model data adequately represent the spatial pattern of daily precipitation and temperature over North America. The North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR) dataset consistently shows the best performance. With respect to hydrological modelling, the observed discharges are accurately represented by both the gridded and NARR datasets, and more so for the NARR data. The National Centers for Environmental Prediction dataset consistently performs worst as it is unable to even capture the seasonal pattern of observed streamflow for 3 out of the 12 watersheds. These results indicate that the NARR dataset could be used as a proxy for gauged precipitation and temperature for hydrological modelling over watersheds where observational datasets are deficient. The results also illustrate the ability of climate model data to be used for performing hydrological modelling when driven by reanalysis data at their boundaries, and especially so for high‐resolution models.
Lymphocyte profile and cytokine mRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis suggest dysregulated cytokine mRNA response and impaired cytotoxic capacity
Authors: Holm Anna , Nagaeva Olga , Nagaev Ivan , Loizou Christos , Laurell Göran , Mincheva‐Nilsson Lucia , Nylander Karin , Olofsson Katarina
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a relatively rare, chronic disease caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) 6 and 11, and characterized by wart‐like lesions in the airway affecting voice and respiratory function. The majority of HPV infections are asymptomatic and resolve spontaneously, however, some individuals are afflicted with persistent HPV infections. Failure to eliminate HPV 6 and 11 due to a defect immune responsiveness to these specific genotypes is proposed to play a major role in the development of RRP.

Methods

We performed a phenotypic characterization of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) collected from 16 RRP patients and 12 age‐matched healthy controls, using immunoflow cytometry, and monoclonal antibodies against differentiation and activation markers. The cytokine mRNA profile of monocytes, T helper‐, T cytotoxic‐, and NK cells was assessed using RT‐qPCR cytokine analysis, differentiating between Th1‐, Th2‐, Th3/regulatory‐, and inflammatory immune responses.

Results

We found a dominance of cytotoxic T cells, activated NK cells, and high numbers of stressed MIC A/B expressing lymphocytes. There was an overall suppression of cytokine mRNA production and an aberrant cytokine mRNA profile in the activated NK cells.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate an immune dysregulation with inverted CD4+/CD8+ ratio and aberrant cytokine mRNA production in RRP patients, compared to healthy controls.