bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking climate to changing discharge at springs in Arches National Park, Utah, USA
Authors: Weissinger R. , Philippi T. E. , Thoma D.
Published: October 2016

Groundwater‐fed springs are essential habitat for many dryland species. Climate projections forecast an increasingly arid climate for the southwestern United States. Therefore, an understanding of the relationships between climate and spring discharge is increasingly important. Monthly discharge measurements were recorded from 2001 to 2014 at three jointed bedrock springs in and near Arches National Park, Utah, United States. Discharge was compared with the potential evapotranspiration (PET) and precipitation derived from Daymet gridded climate data. Despite the similarities in location, aquifer type, and climate exposure, all three springs showed different responses to local climate. Two springs emerging from the western aquifer had decreases in discharge during differing portions of their record, while the eastern aquifer spring had stable discharge. At the monthly scale, there was a strong inverse relationship between measured discharge and PET at all three springs, likely due to vegetation accessing the water prior to its surface expression. Annual average winter discharge from both western aquifer springs responded to reductions in 10‐year cumulative winter precipitation, while discharge from the eastern aquifer spring did not correspond well to precipitation within the period of record. Uncertainty in climate projections for aquifer recharge remains high, but increasing air temperatures will likely lead to increased PET and reduced spring surface flow. Better characterization of climate and spring discharge relationships will help managers protect contributing areas that may be more susceptible to groundwater withdrawal and better understand the available habitat for groundwater‐dependent ecosystems and species.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Domino Reaction of Two Aryl Iodides involving C–H Activation Processes: Efficient Synthesis of Fused Polycycles
Authors: He Hai‐Yu , Wang Wei , Yu Xiao‐Jun , Huang Jin , Jian Lei , Fu Hai‐Yan , Zheng Xue‐Li , Chen Hua , Li Rui‐Xiang
Published: October 2016

The palladium‐catalyzed domino intermolecular C(sp2)–H activation reaction of two aryl iodides was explored. This simple palladium catalytic system showed good activity.
Facile Synthesis of [1,2,3]Triazolo[5,1‐a]isoquinolines through a Copper‐Catalyzed Tandem Sonogashira Coupling/Cyclization Reaction
Authors: Fan Mingzhu , Liu Yi , Hu Qinquan , Jia Lihui , Chen Yunfeng
Published: October 2016

A highly efficient synthesis of [1,2,3]triazolo[5,1‐a]isoquinoline derivatives was developed that proceeds through copper‐catalyzed tandem Sonogashira coupling/regioselective 6‐endo cyclization. This NH‐triazole‐directed annulation approach showed good functional‐group tolerance and gave the corresponding N‐fused heterocycles in good to excellent yields.
Stimulating TRPV1 externalization and synthesis in dorsal root ganglion neurons contributes to PGE2 potentiation of TRPV1 activity and nociceptor sensitization
Authors: Ma W. , St‐Jacques B. , Rudakou U. , Kim Y.N.
Published: October 2016

Background

Persistent peripheral sensitization contributes to chronic pain. Plasticity of nociceptive dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons (nociceptors) induced by pro‐inflammatory mediators contributes to sensitization. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) enriched in injured tissues is known not only directly to sensitize DRG neurons, but also to potentiate sensitizing effects of other pain mediators such as capsaicin and its receptor transient receptor potential vanilloid‐1 (TRPV1). It remains unknown whether PGE2 potentiates TRPV1 activity by stimulating its synthesis, cell surface and axonal trafficking in DRG neurons.

Methods

Combined biochemical, morphological, pharmacological and behavioral approaches have been used to address this issue in both in vitro and in vivo models.

Results

PGE2 increased TRPV1 externalization in cultured rat DRG neurons in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner, an event blocked by an inhibitor of protein synthesis or anterograde export. EP1 and EP4, but not EP2 and EP3, mediated this event. EP1 agonist‐induced TRPV1 externalization was suppressed by inhibitors of CaMKII, PLC, PKC and PKCε, while EP4 agonist‐induced TRPV1 externalization by inhibitors of cAMP/PKA and ERK/MAPK. Pre‐exposure to PGE2 potentiated release of calcitonin gene‐related peptide from cultured DRG neurons evoked by subsequent capsaicin stimulation. This event was blocked by an inhibitor of protein synthesis or export, suggesting that PGE2‐induced TRPV1 synthesis and externalization is coupled to enhanced TRPV1 activity. Pre‐exposure to PGE2 not only prolonged tactile allodynia evoked by subsequent capsaicin challenge, but also increased TRPV1 levels in L4‐6 DRG, sciatic nerves and plantar skin.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that facilitating TRPV1 synthesis, cell surface and axonal trafficking is a novel mechanism underlying PGE2 potentiation of TRPV1 activity.
Advances in Graphene/Graphene Composite Based Microbial Fuel/Electrolysis Cells
Authors: Liu Zhuangzhuang , Zhou Lei , Chen Qi , Zhou Wen , Liu Ying
Published: October 2016

The modifications of electrodes using graphene and graphene composites in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) have been widely applied for enhancing the electrochemical catalytic activity and performance of MFCs and MECs. Graphene as one of advanced materials has shown outstanding features for promoting practical applications of MFCs. This review summarizes the modification methods and characterization methods of graphene and related graphene composites on electrode surfaces in MFCs and MECs. The performance improvements of MFCs and MECs by various graphene related composites have been reviewed, which will provide an efficient guide for selecting suitable graphene material to modify electrodes in MFCs and MECs for improving their performance.
Estimation of instantaneous peak flow from maximum mean daily flow by regionalization of catchment model parameters
Authors: Ding Jie , Haberlandt Uwe
Published: October 2016

Regionalization methods have been effectively used in many hydrological studies, such as regional flood frequency analysis and low flows. However, there is no study to estimate the instantaneous peak flow (IPF) from maximum mean daily flow (MDF) using hydrological models with regionalized parameters. In this paper, the semidistributed conceptual hydrological model Hydrologiska Byråns Vattenbalansavdelning is operated on a daily time step for 18 catchments in the Aller‐Leine basin, Germany. The model is calibrated on four different flow statistics, including winter/summer extremes distribution and flow duration curves. The model parameter values are predefined with the associated catchment descriptors by a transfer function. Two different regionalization schemes are investigated: one is carried out for all the catchments in the study area; the other one is only performed for several catchments within a cluster. The k‐means algorithm is used to 12 different catchment characteristics from all 18 catchments as the partitional clustering algorithm. Subsequently, the general extreme value distributions are fitted to the modeled MDFs, which are then transferred into IPF quantiles using a multiple regression model.

The results show that (a) the uncertainty resulted from model parameter regionalization for the estimation of IPFs is much smaller than the error when using MDFs instead of IPFs; (b) the hydrological responses of the clustered catchments located in the flat areas are, in general, not as homogeneous as the ones in high elevated regions; and (c) the model with the parameters derived from the same regionalization coefficients within a cluster performs better using the corresponding parameters estimated through all the catchments.
Investigating the possible causal role of coffee consumption with prostate cancer risk and progression using Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Taylor Amy E. , Martin Richard M. , Geybels Milan S. , Stanford Janet L. , Shui Irene , Eeles Rosalind , Easton Doug , Kote‐Jarai Zsofia , Amin Al Olama Ali , Benlloch Sara , Muir Kenneth , Giles Graham G , Wiklund Fredrik , Gronberg Henrik , Haiman Christopher A , Schleutker Johanna , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Travis Ruth C , Neal David , Pashayan Nora , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Blot William , Thibodeau Stephen , Maier Christiane , Kibel Adam S , Cybulski Cezary , Cannon‐Albright Lisa , Brenner Hermann , Park Jong , Kaneva Radka , Batra Jyotsna , Teixeira Manuel R , Pandha Hardev ,   PRACTICAL Consortium, Donovan Jenny , Munafò Marcus R.
Published: October 2016

Coffee consumption has been shown in some studies to be associated with lower risk of prostate cancer. However, it is unclear if this association is causal or due to confounding or reverse causality. We conducted a Mendelian randomisation analysis to investigate the causal effects of coffee consumption on prostate cancer risk and progression. We used two genetic variants robustly associated with caffeine intake (rs4410790 and rs2472297) as proxies for coffee consumption in a sample of 46,687 men of European ancestry from 25 studies in the PRACTICAL consortium. Associations between genetic variants and prostate cancer case status, stage and grade were assessed by logistic regression and with all‐cause and prostate cancer‐specific mortality using Cox proportional hazards regression. There was no clear evidence that a genetic risk score combining rs4410790 and rs2472297 was associated with prostate cancer risk (OR per additional coffee increasing allele: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.98,1.03) or having high‐grade compared to low‐grade disease (OR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.97,1.04). There was some evidence that the genetic risk score was associated with higher odds of having nonlocalised compared to localised stage disease (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.06). Amongst men with prostate cancer, there was no clear association between the genetic risk score and all‐cause mortality (HR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.97,1.04) or prostate cancer‐specific mortality (HR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.98,1.08). These results, which should have less bias from confounding than observational estimates, are not consistent with a substantial effect of coffee consumption on reducing prostate cancer incidence or progression.
Characterization and in vivo performance of nitric oxide‐releasing extracorporeal circuits in a feline model of thrombogenicity
Authors: Goudie Marcus J. , Brainard Benjamin M. , Schmiedt Chad W. , Handa Hitesh
Published: October 2016

Infection and thrombosis are the two leading complications associated with blood contacting medical devices, and have led to the development of active materials that can delivery antibiotics or antithrombotic agents. Two key characteristics of these materials are the ability to produce controlled delivery, as well as minimal systemic delivery of the agent outside of the device site. Nitric oxide (NO) releasing materials are attractive as NO plays pivotal roles in the body's natural defense against bacterial infection, as well as regulation of platelet adhesion and activation. This work characterizes an NO‐releasing extracorporeal circuit (ECC) under flow conditions for the first time, examining the effect of incubation and application of the top coating on leaching of NO donor and NO‐release kinetics. Top coated ECCs with incubation delivered ca. 1% of the total NO potential over the 4‐h period, whereas uncoated ECCs delivered over 4.5% of the total NO. Incubated ECC loops maintained a flux of 1.83 ± 0.50 × 10−10 mol min−1 cm−2 for the full 4 h duration. The NO‐releasing ECC loops significantly increased the time‐to‐clot as compared to the corresponding control (11 ± 3.6 min control, 132 ± 93.0 min NO‐releasing) when evaluated in vivo in a feline animal model. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 539–546, 2017.
Castanea sativa Mill. Bark Extract Protects U‐373 MG Cells and Rat Brain Slices Against Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Santulli Chiara , Brizi Claudia , Micucci Matteo , Del Genio Ambra , De Cristofaro Assunta , Bracco Federica , Pepe Giuseppina Lucia , di Perna Ilaria , Budriesi Roberta , Chiarini Alberto , Frosini Maria
Published: October 2016

Ischemic brain injury is one of the most important causes of death worldwide. The use of one‐drug‐multi‐target agents based on natural compounds is a promising therapeutic option for cerebral ischemia due to their pleiotropic properties. This study assessed the neuroprotective properties of Castanea sativa Mill. bark extract (ENC) in human astrocytoma U‐373 MG cells subjected to oxygen‐glucose deprivation and reperfusion and rat cortical slices subjected to ischemia‐like conditions or treated with glutamate or hydrogen peroxide. Neuroprotective effects were determined by assessing cells or slices viability (MTT assay), ROS formation (DCFH‐DA assay), apoptosis (sub G0/G1 peak), nuclear fragmentation and chromatin condensation (DAPI staining) as well as changes in lysosomes and mitochondria morphology (Acridine Orange and Rhodamine123 staining, respectively). ENC treatment before injury on U‐373 MG cells (5–50 μg/ml) and cortical slices (50–100 μg/ml) provided neuroprotection, while lower or higher concentrations (100 μg/ml U‐373 MG cells, 200 μg/ml brain slices) were ineffective. ENC addition during reperfusion or after the injury was not found to be effective. The results suggest that ENC might hold potential as preventive neuroprotective agent, and indicate the importance of further studies exploring its mechanism of action. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 839–850, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of FLT3/TKD and IDH1 Mutations in Pakistani Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients by Denaturing HPLC
Authors: Ali Akbar , Gale Rosemary E. , Shakoori Abdul Rauf
Published: October 2016

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by an increase in the number of myeloid cells in the marrow and an arrest in their maturation. Various genetic mutations are associated with AML. FMS‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3), a member of the class III receptor tyrosine kinase family, plays an important role in stem cell survival, and the development of dendritic and natural killer cells. FLT3/TKD mutations are generally missense mutations or in‐frame alterations of residues D835 and I836 within the activation loop of the FLT3 protein. D835 mutations have been reported to occur in ≈ 7% of AML patients. Mutations have also been reported in exon 4 of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) in ≈9% of AML patients. Mutations in FLT3/TKD and IDH1 genes were studied in AML patients from Pakistan and correlated with the laboratory findings. FLT3/TKD mutations were found in 7%, while IDH1 mutations were found in 10% Pakistani AML patients. Neither of these mutations was significantly correlated with age and sex, although the incidence of these mutations was higher in female patients. These mutations were found to be positively associated with each other. IDH1 mutations were positively associated with FAB type M1 and negatively associated with FAB type M2. In conclusion, the overall incidence of all these mutations in Pakistani patients was within the globally reported ranges. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1174–1181, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Platycodin D Inhibits Osteoclastogenesis by Repressing the NFATc1 and MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Choi Jae Ho , Han Younho , Kim Yong An , Jin Sun Woo , Lee Gi Ho , Jeong Hyung Min , Lee Hyun Sun , Chung Young Chul , Lee Young Chun , Kim Eun Ju , Lee Kwang Youl , Jeong Hye Gwang
Published: October 2016

Platycodon grandiflorum root‐derived saponins (Changkil saponins, CKS) are reported to have many pharmacological activities. In our latest research, CKS was proven to have a significant osteogenic effect. However, the detail molecular mechanism of CKS on osteoclastic differentiation has not been fully investigated. Administration of CKS considerably reduced OVX‐induced bone loss, and ameliorated the reduction in plasma levels of alkaline phosphatase, calcium, and phosphorus observed in OVX mice. CKS also repressed the deterioration of bone trabecular microarchitecture. Interestingly, platycodin D, the most abundant and major pharmacological constituent of triterpenoid CKS, inhibited receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL)‐induced activation of NF‐κB, and ERK and p38 MAPK, ultimately repressing osteoclast differentiation. OVX‐induced bone turnover was attenuated by CKS, possibly via repression of osteoclast differentiation by platycodin D, the active component of CKS. Platycodin D can be regarded as an antiosteoporotic candidate for treatment of osteoporosis diseases. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 860–868, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Maintenance of Bone Homeostasis by DLL1‐Mediated Notch Signaling
Authors: Muguruma Yukari , Hozumi Katsuto , Warita Hiroyuki , Yahata Takashi , Uno Tomoko , Ito Mamoru , Ando Kiyoshi
Published: October 2016

Adult bone mass is maintained through a balance of the activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Although Notch signaling has been shown to maintain bone homeostasis by controlling the commitment, differentiation, and function of cells in both the osteoblast and osteoclast lineages, the precise mechanisms by which Notch performs such diverse and complex roles in bone physiology remain unclear. By using a transgenic approach that modified the expression of delta‐like 1 (DLL1) or Jagged1 (JAG1) in an osteoblast‐specific manner, we investigated the ligand‐specific effects of Notch signaling in bone homeostasis. This study demonstrated for the first time that the proper regulation of DLL1 expression, but not JAG1 expression, in osteoblasts is essential for the maintenance of bone remodeling. DLL1‐induced Notch signaling was responsible for the expansion of the bone‐forming cell pool by promoting the proliferation of committed but immature osteoblasts. However, DLL1‐Notch signaling inhibited further differentiation of the expanded osteoblasts to become fully matured functional osteoblasts, thereby substantially decreasing bone formation. Osteoblast‐specific expression of DLL1 did not alter the intrinsic differentiation ability of cells of the osteoclast lineage. However, maturational arrest of osteoblasts caused by the DLL1 transgene impaired the maturation and function of osteoclasts due to a failed osteoblast‐osteoclast coupling, resulting in severe suppression of bone metabolic turnover. Taken together, DLL1‐mediated Notch signaling is critical for proper bone remodeling as it regulates the differentiation and function of both osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Our study elucidates the importance of ligand‐specific activation of Notch signaling in the maintenance of bone homeostasis. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2569–2580, 2017. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Physiology Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
The effects of prenatal H1N1 infection at E16 on FMRP, glutamate, GABA, and reelin signaling systems in developing murine cerebellum
Authors: Fatemi S. Hossein , Folsom Timothy D. , Liesch Stephanie B. , Kneeland Rachel E. , Karkhane Yousefi Mahtab , Thuras Paul D.
Published: October 2016

Prenatal viral infection has been identified as a potential risk factor for the development of neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia and autism. Additionally, dysfunction in gamma‐aminobutyric acid, Reelin, and fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP)–metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 signaling systems has also been demonstrated in these two disorders. In the current report, we have characterized the developmental profiles of selected markers for these systems in cerebella of mice born to pregnant mice infected with human influenza (H1N1) virus on embryonic day 16 or sham‐infected controls using SDS‐PAGE and Western blotting techniques and evaluated the presence of abnormalities in the above‐mentioned markers during brain development. The cerebellum was selected in light of emerging evidence that it plays roles in learning, memory, and emotional processing—all of which are disrupted in autism and schizophrenia. We identified unique patterns of gene and protein expression at birth (postnatal day 0 [P0]), childhood (P14), adolescence (P35), and young adulthood (P56) in both exposed and control mouse progeny. We also identified significant differences in protein expression for FMRP, very‐low‐density lipoprotein receptor, and glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 and 67 kDa proteins at specific postnatal time points in cerebella of the offspring of exposed mice. Our results provide evidence of disrupted FMRP, glutamatergic, and Reelin signaling in the exposed mouse offspring that explains the multiple brain abnormalities observed in this animal model. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential expression of cytoskeletal regulatory factors in the adolescent prefrontal cortex: Implications for cortical development
Authors: Shapiro Lauren P. , Parsons Ryan G. , Koleske Anthony J. , Gourley Shannon L.
Published: October 2016

The prevalence of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and drug and alcohol use disorders peaks during adolescence. Further, up to 50% of “adult” mental health disorders emerge in adolescence. During adolescence, the prefrontal cortex (PFC) undergoes dramatic structural reorganization, in which dendritic spines and synapses are refined, pruned, and stabilized. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie these processes should help to identify factors that influence the development of psychiatric illness. Here we briefly discuss the anatomical connections of the medial and orbital prefrontal cortex (mPFC and OFC, respectively). We then present original findings suggesting that dendritic spines on deep‐layer excitatory neurons in the mouse mPFC and OFC prune at different adolescent ages, with later pruning in the OFC. In parallel, we used Western blotting to define levels of several cytoskeletal regulatory proteins during early, mid‐, and late adolescence, focusing on tropomyosin‐related kinase receptor B (TrkB) and β1‐integrin–containing receptors and select signaling partners. We identified regional differences in the levels of several proteins in early and midadolescence that then converged in early adulthood. We also observed age‐related differences in TrkB levels, both full‐length and truncated isoforms, Rho‐kinase 2, and synaptophysin in both PFC subregions. Finally, we identified changes in protein levels in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus that were distinct from those in the PFC. We conclude with a general review of the manner in which TrkB‐ and β1‐integrin–mediated signaling influences neuronal structure in the postnatal brain. Elucidating the role of cytoskeletal regulatory factors throughout adolescence may identify critical mechanisms of PFC development. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of C70 rotation on the photoluminescence spectra of compressed C70*mesitylene
Authors: Du Mingrun , Yao Mingguang , Chen Shuanglong , Sundqvist Bertil , Yang Xigui , Liu Ran , Liu Bo , Zou Bo , Cui Tian , Liu Bingbing
Published: October 2016

The efficient photoluminescence (PL) emission of solvated fullerenes has attracted significant interest because of their potential applications. Uncovering the possible factors that govern the PL emission of solvated fullerenes thus becomes important for the purpose of application. Here, we report a high pressure study on a typical solvated fullerene, C70*mesitylene, using the diamond anvil cell technique with associated spectroscopic measurements. Our Raman and PL spectra show that there is a change in the pressure dependence for the normalized PL intensity in solvated samples during the rotational transition. It indicates that the rotational state of C70 is a critical factor which can influence the PL emission of solvated samples. The optical absorption (OA) spectra further suggest that the C70–C70 interactions in solvated samples compared with those in desolvated samples are hindered under pressure because of the intercalation of solvent, which makes the PL emission in solvated samples more sensitive to the change in C70 rotations under pressure. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of intensive and alternative production systems on the technological and quality parameters of rapeseed seed (Brassica napus L. ‘Siska’)
Authors: Turinek Maja , Bavec Martina , Repič Milan , Turinek Matjaž , Krajnc Andreja Urbanek , Möllers Christian , Tres Alba , Bavec Franc
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Organic production is widely assumed to affect quality and nutritional parameters of arable crops. A field experiment was started in 2009 following integrated (INT), organic (ORG) and biodynamic (BD) production standards for wheat, maize and rapeseed production. With resort to standard analytical procedures and chemometrics, compositional parameters of Brassica napus L. ‘Siska’ seed (water, protein, oil and glucosinolate content) by non‐destructive near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and fatty acid composition determined by gas chromatography, were assessed.

RESULTS

The BD and ORG production systems positively influenced oleic fatty acid and oil content in comparison to INT, which had higher levels of protein and water content (19.8% and 4.7%, respectively), as well as linolenic (3.8%), gadoleic (12.6%) and hexadecadienoic (15.5%) fatty acids. Increases in the listed parameters were linked to mineral fertilizer application in the INT production system. With principal component analysis (PCA) the INT samples were clearly differentiated. The PCA results were influenced by differences in linolenic, gadoleic and behenic fatty acid levels as well as protein and water content.

CONCLUSION

Because quality parameters in rapeseed are increased in alternative production systems, production with an understanding of the soil processes and yield formation presents an opportunity for ORG and BD farmers. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Core–shell column Tanaka characterization and additional tests using active pharmaceutical ingredients
Authors: Ludvigsson Jufang Wu , Karlsson Anders , Kjellberg Viktor
Published: October 2016

In the last decade, core–shell particles have gained more and more attention in fast liquid chromatography separations due to their comparable performance with fully porous sub‐2 μm particles and their significantly lower back pressure. Core–shell particles are made of a solid core surrounded by a shell of classic fully porous material. To embrace the developed core–shell column market and use these columns in pharmaceutical analytical applications, 17 core–shell C18 columns purchased from various vendors with various dimensions (50 mm × 2.1 mm to 100 mm × 3 mm) and particle sizes (1.6–2.7 μm) were characterized using Tanaka test protocols. Furthermore, four selected active pharmaceutical ingredients were chosen as test probes to investigate the batch to batch reproducibility for core–shell columns of particle size 2.6–2.7 μm, with dimension of 100 × 3 mm and columns of particle size 1.6 μm, with dimension 100 × 2.1 mm under isocratic elution. Columns of particle size 2.6–2.7 μm were also tested under gradient elution conditions. To confirm the claimed comparable efficiency of 2.6 μm core–shell particles as sub‐2 μm fully porous particles, column performances of the selected core–shell columns were compared with BEH C18, 1.7 μm, a fully porous column material as well.
Laser Applications in Gear Box Manufacturing at Mercedes‐Benz
Authors: Talmon l'Armée Patrick
Published: October 2016

In the past years, the number of laser applications has risen worldwide. Along with that, the variety of the applications grew. The high‐power laser beam was first used in series production for cutting and welding. With decreasing prices and increasing quality of beam sources, applications that have been too expensive or technically not feasible in the past can be realized today. Mercedes‐Benz, the main brand of the Daimler AG, was one of the first users of lasers in series production and still expands the use of the laser beam as a wear‐free tool.
Molecular Cancer Imaging with Polymeric Nanoassemblies: From Tumor Detection to Theranostics
Authors: Mi Peng , Wang Fang , Nishiyama Nobuhiro , Cabral Horacio
Published: October 2016

Several imaging modalities have been widely applied for the detection of cancer and its pathological activity in combination with probes capable of improving the contrast between healthy and cancerous tissues. Biocompatible polymeric nanoassemblies have been developed for precise detection of malignant tumors by enhancing the selectivity and sensitivity of the imaging. Exploiting the compartmentalized structure of the nanoassemblies advantageously allows delivering both imaging and therapeutic agents for cancer multifunctional imaging and theranostics, i.e., the combination of therapy and diagnosis tool on a single platform. Thus, nanoassemblies have high potential not only for cancer molecular imaging but also for tracing nanoparticles in biological systems, studying their biological pathways, gathering pathological information, monitoring therapeutic effects, and guiding pinpoint therapies. In this review, polymeric nanoassemblies for optical imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, multifunctional imaging, and image‐guided therapy, emphasizing their role in cancer diagnosis and theranostics are highlighted.

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Hyaluronan/Tannic Acid Nanoparticles Via Catechol/Boronate Complexation as a Smart Antibacterial System
Authors: Montanari Elita , Gennari Arianna , Pelliccia Maria , Gourmel Charlotte , Lallana Enrique , Matricardi Pietro , McBain Andrew J. , Tirelli Nicola
Published: October 2016

Nanoparticles based on hyaluronic acid (HA) are designed to deliver tannic acid (TA) as an antimicrobial agent. The presence of HA makes these particles potentially useful to target bacteria that colonize cells presenting HA membrane receptors (e.g. CD44), such as macrophages. HA bearing 3‐aminophenyl boronic acid groups (HA‐APBA) is reacted with TA, yielding nanoparticles with a size that decreases with decreasing HA molecular weight (e.g. 200 nm for 44 kDa, 400 nm for 737 kDa). The boronate esters make the nanoparticles stable at physiological pH, but their hydrolysis in an acidic environment (pH = 5) leads to swelling/solubilization, therefore potentially allowing TA release in endosomal compartments. We have assessed the nanoparticle toxicity profile (on RAW 264.7 macrophages) and their antimicrobial activity (on E. coli and on both methicillin‐sensitive and ‐resistant S. aureus). The antibacterial effect of HA‐APBA/TA nanoparticles was significantly higher than that of TA alone, and has very similar activity to TA coformulated with a reducing agent (ascorbic acid), which indicates both the nanoparticles to protect TA catechols from oxidation, and the effective release of TA after nanoparticle internalization. Therefore, there is potential for these nanoparticles to be used in stable, effective, and potentially targetable nanoparticle‐based antimicrobial formulations.

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A third order boundary value problem with nonlinear growth at resonance on the half‐axis
Authors: Djebali Smaïl , Guedda Lamine
Published: October 2016

This paper is concerned with the solvability of a fully nonlinear third‐order m‐point boundary value problem at resonance posed on the half line. The nonlinearity which depends on the first and the second derivatives satisfies a sublinear‐like growth condition. Our main existence result is based on Mawhin's coincidence degree theory. An illustrative example of application is included. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mathematical description of the interactions of CycE/Cdk2, Cdc25A, and P27Kip1 in a core cancer subnetwork
Authors: Bayleyegn Y. N. , Govinder K. S.
Published: October 2016

Recent studies have shown that the initiation of human cancer is due to the malfunction of some genes (such as E2F, CycE, CycD, Cdc25A, P27Kip1, and Rb) at the R‐checkpoint during the G1‐to‐S transition of the cell cycle. Identifying and modeling the dynamics of these genes provide new insight into the initiation and progression of many types of cancers. In this study, a cancer subnetwork that has a mutual activation between phosphatase Cdc25A and the CycE/Cdk2 complex and a mutual inhibition between the Cdk inhibitor P27Kip1 and the CycE/Cdk2 complex is identified. A new mathematical model for the dynamics of this cancer subnetwork is developed. Positive steady states are determined and rigorously analyzed. We have found a condition for the existence of positive steady states from the activation, inhibition, and degradation parameter values of the dynamical system. We also found a robust condition that needs to be satisfied for the steady states to be asymptotically stable. We determine the parameter value(s) under which the system exhibits a saddle–node bifurcation. We also identify the condition for which the system exhibits damped oscillation solutions. We further explore the possibility of Hopf and homoclinic bifurcations from the saddle–focus steady state of the system. Our analytic and numerical results confirm experimental results in the literature, thus validating our model. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isolation and characterization of roridin E
Authors: Ridge Clark D. , Mazzola Eugene P. , Coles Martyn P. , Hinkley Simon F. R.
Published: October 2016

The commonly occurring, high‐cytotoxicity macrolide roridin E has been re‐isolated from Stachybotrys chartarum and characterized by 1‐D and 2‐D NMR spectroscopy. Assignment of the spectral data for roridin E revealed differences from the accepted literature, and spectra are reported herein to aid in future identification. For the first time confirmation of structure was provided by a crystallographic solution for roridin E. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple roles of FOXJ3 in spermatogenesis: A lesson from Foxj3 conditional knockout mouse models
Authors: Ni Lili , Xie Hongchang , Tan Li
Published: October 2016

The transcription factor FOXJ3 (Forkhead box J3) is highly expressed in spermatogonia and meiotic spermatocytes within mouse testes. Here, we addressed how FOXJ3 might participate in spermatogenesis using two conditional knockout mouse models in which Foxj3 was deleted from either spermatogonia or meiotic spermatocytes. Both models exhibited complete male sterility, but distinct etiologies: Deleting FOXJ3 from spermatogonia using Foxj3flox/flox, Mvh‐Cre mice caused Sertoli‐cell‐only syndrome in males. Foxj3‐deficient spermatogonia were lost as early as postnatal Day 4, partially due to the accumulation of DNA double‐stranded breaks. In contrast, loss of FOXJ3 in spermatocytes using Foxj3flox/flox, Stra8‐Cre mice led to meiotic arrest. Indeed, the mRNA abundance of meiotic arrest‐related proteins (Rad51, Dmc1, Brca1, Brca2, Brit1, Eif4g3, Hop2, Hormad1, and Rnf212) was significantly reduced in Foxj3flox/flox, Stra8‐Cre spermatocytes. Thus, we conclude that FOXJ3 is required for the survival of spermatogonia and participates in spermatocyte meiosis. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 1060–1069, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Perceived weight discrimination and chronic biochemical stress: A population‐based study using cortisol in scalp hair
Authors: Jackson Sarah E. , Kirschbaum Clemens , Steptoe Andrew
Published: October 2016

Objective

There is increasing evidence for weight‐based discrimination against persons with obesity. This study aimed to examine the physiological impact of perceived weight discrimination on cortisol in hair, an indicator of chronic stress exposure.

Methods

Data were from 563 nonsmoking individuals with obesity (body mass index, BMI ≥30 kg/m2) participating in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Experiences of discrimination were reported via questionnaire, and hair cortisol concentrations were determined from the scalp‐nearest 2‐cm hair segment. Height and weight were objectively measured. ANCOVAs tested associations between perceived weight discrimination and hair cortisol concentration overall and by degree of obesity. All analyses were adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and BMI.

Results

Mean hair cortisol concentrations were 33% higher in those who had experienced weight discrimination than those who had not (mean log pg/mg 1.241 vs. 0.933, F = 12.01, P = 0.001). The association between weight discrimination and hair cortisol was particularly pronounced in individuals with severe (class II/III) obesity (1.402 vs. 0.972, F = 11.58, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Weight discrimination is associated with the experience of stress at a biological level. Chronic exposure to elevated levels of cortisol may play a role in generating a vicious circle of weight gain and discrimination and contribute to obesity‐associated health conditions.
The effect of a semi‐industrial masterbatch process on the carbon nanotube agglomerates and its influence in the properties of thermoplastic carbon nanotube composites
Authors: Herrera‐Ramírez Luis C. , Castell Pere , Castillo‐Rodríguez Miguel , Fernández Ángel , Guzman de Villoria Roberto
Published: October 2016

This study details an industrial process to prepare polypropylene (PP) composites reinforced with different loadings (0.5–10wt.%) of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) from a direct dilution of a masterbatch produced by an optimized extrusion compounding process. The work demonstrates how the anisotropy in the distribution of CNTs can have a positive effect on the electrical conductivity and fracture toughness of the resulting composites. The composite with the highest loading of CNTs had an electrical conductivity of 10−2 S/m comparable with those reported in the available literature. The composites showed anisotropy in their properties that seems to be caused by the non‐homogeneous distribution of the agglomerates produced by the orientation of the flow direction during the injection process. The composites produced in this work exhibited a fracture toughness up to 55% higher than neat PP and failed by polymer ductile tearing. It was found that the CNT agglomerates distributed throughout the matrix increased the toughness of PP by promoting plastic deformation of the matrix during the fracture process and by a slight load transfer between the polymer matrix and the CNTs of the agglomerates. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 189–197
Explosive Properties and Thermal Stability of Urea‐Hydrogen Peroxide Adduct
Authors: Matyáš Robert , Selesovsky Jakub , Pelikán Vojtěch , Szala Mateusz , Cudziło Stanisław , Trzciński Waldemar A. , Gozin Michael
Published: October 2016

The adduct of urea and hydrogen peroxide (UHP) is industrially produced material on a large scale. Although UHP is widely used as a bleaching and oxidizing agent, its properties as energetic material are generally overlooked. In this work we report comprehensive characterization of UHP explosive and thermal properties. We found that UHP is a compound with a negative value of standard enthalpy of formation (−565.1 kJ mol−1). It is not sensitive to impact and friction. However, we demonstrated that UHP (ρ=0.93 g cm−3; packed into a steel pipe with inner diameter of 206 mm) detonates with experimental velocity of detonation (VOD) of 3780 m s−1. Moreover, for UHP with maximal theoretical density (ρ=1.43 g cm−3), the calculated VOD reaches 5219 m s−1. Based on our findings, we recommend that present regulations regarding the handling, storage and transportation of the UHP should be revised, especially in cases, where UHP is kept on a large scale, under confinement and at places where the temperature can reach above 60 °C.
Software development practices in small entities: an ISO29110‐based survey
Authors: Majchrowski Annick , Ponsard Christophe , Saadaoui Sanae , Flamand Jacques , Deprez Jean‐Christophe
Published: October 2016

Small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in software development often experience problems in mastering their development processes. This can lead to time and cost overruns or failure to address functional and nonfunctional requirements. In general, this can significantly affect customer satisfaction and hamper business growth potential. This paper reports on a survey conducted in Belgium to assess more precisely which and how SMEs are affected by problems related to development processes. The survey was driven by the ISO29110 lightweight standard focusing on very small entities developing software, ie, whose internal IT department is less than 25 people. Worldwide, and in particular in Belgium, this represents a very large portion of SMEs in business. Survey results highlight the most frequent issues and how they may be linked to organization and project characteristics. The survey is based on a free online self‐assessment tool. Therefore, results go 1 step further than identifying issues encountered in companies: the tool also infers a set of quick‐win high‐level recommendations to solve these issues. Our results are also compared with those reported by other surveys targeting both large and small companies.
A global survey of banteng (Bos javanicus) housing and husbandry
Authors: Rowden Lewis J. , Rose Paul E.
Published: October 2016

Banteng (Bos javanicus) are an example of a species of conservation concern without current “best practice” guidance, as they have been the focus of little applied husbandry research. Despite their elevated conservation status, and established, increasing global captive population, zoos do not yet have information on optimal husbandry. To help address this problem, a husbandry survey was distributed to all global holders of banteng. Questions focused on herd demographic structure, exhibit features (including mixed‐species exhibition), dietary provision, and behavioral management. Completed surveys from 16 zoos enabled analysis of contemporary practice between institutions. Results indicate differences in enclosure size between zoos, and that herd size is unlikely to predict enclosure size. Herd sizes are smaller than wild examples, and enclosure space (per animal) is significantly smaller than a potential wild range. Banteng are frequently maintained successfully in mixed species exhibits alongside a wide range of other taxa. Nutrient analysis focused on fiber and protein, and although provision of these nutrients appears comparable between zoos, more work is needed on browse and forage intake to determine overall diet suitability. Behavior management shows variation between zoos, with numerous collections providing browse but only a minority undertaking training, and not all providing enrichment. The overall diversity in findings between zoos suggest future research areas that should focus on key aspects of behavioral ecology, such as wild foraging behavior, food plant selection and day/night activity patterns, which may help underpin husbandry guidelines and excellent animal welfare. Zoo Biol. 35:546–555, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Well‐Differentiated, Non‐Functional, Non‐Ampullary Duodenal Neuroendocrine Tumors: Toward Defining Evaluation and Management
Authors: Weatherall Timothy , Denbo Jason , Sharpe John , Martin Michael , O’Brien Thomas , Gupta Rajib , Groshart Kenneth , Behrman Stephen , Dickson Paxton
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Nonfunctional, non‐ampullary duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (dNETs) are rare neoplasms, and specific treatment recommendations are less clear than for other NETs.

Materials and methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients (pts) with a diagnosis of dNET, excluding hormonally functional, ampullary, and high‐grade tumors. Clinical data were evaluated to identify factors that might impact clinical staging and predictors of metastases.

Results

Thirty‐six pts were identified. Surgical resection was performed in 28 and endoscopic resection in 8. LNs were included in specimens of 19/28 (68 %) pts who underwent surgical resection (median #LNs 5, range 1–12). Of these 19 pts, 5 (26 %) were found to be LN+. Of LN+ pts, all had tumors ≤2 cm. When compared to LN− pts, LN+ pts were more likely to have muscularis propria (MP) invasion (80 vs. 23 %, p = 0.04). Tumor size, tumor grade, lymphovascular invasion, and multifocality were similar between LN+ and LN− patients. No pt was found to have distant metastases. Heterogeneity in clinical staging modalities and small number of pts evaluated prohibited meaningful analysis of most appropriate preoperative imaging. At a median follow‐up of 25 months (range 9–139), no patient developed recurrence or experienced disease‐specific death.

Conclusions

Non‐functional, non‐ampullary dNETs, particularly those with MP invasion, have a propensity to metastasize to regional LNs. However, these neoplasms appear to have a favorable prognosis. Further evaluation of preoperative imaging is required to better determine most appropriate clinical staging. A suggested workup and management strategy for prospective evaluation is proposed.
Structural Characterization of Phase Separation in Fe-Cr: A Current Comparison of Experimental Methods
Authors: XU XIN , ODQVIST JOAKIM , COLLIANDER MAGNUS HÖRNQVIST , THUVANDER MATTIAS , STEUWER AXEL , WESTRAADT JOHAN E. , KING STEPHEN , HEDSTRÖM PETER
Published: October 2016

Self-assembly due to phase separation within a miscibility gap is important in numerous material systems and applications. A system of particular interest is the binary alloy system Fe-Cr, since it is both a suitable model material and the base system for the stainless steel alloy category, suffering from low-temperature embrittlement due to phase separation. Structural characterization of the minute nano-scale concentration fluctuations during early phase separation has for a long time been considered a major challenge within material characterization. However, recent developments present new opportunities in this field. Here, we present an overview of the current capabilities and limitations of different techniques. A set of Fe-Cr alloys were investigated using small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), atom probe tomography, and analytical transmission electron microscopy. The complementarity of the characterization techniques is clear, and combinatorial studies can provide complete quantitative structure information during phase separation in Fe-Cr alloys. Furthermore, we argue that SANS provides a unique in-situ access to the nanostructure, and that direct comparisons between SANS and phase-field modeling, solving the non-linear Cahn Hilliard equation with proper physical input, should be pursued.
Whole-rock and mineral chemistry of mafic cumulates from the Low-Ti ophiolite in the southern part of Kahramanmaras, Turkey
Authors: Tanirli M. , Rizaoglu T.
Published: October 2016

A Late Cretaceous dismembered ophiolite unit in the south of Kahramanmaras belongs to the Peri-Arabian ophiolite belt in southern Turkey. The ophiloitic rocks include, from bottom to top, metamorphic sole (plagioclase-amphibole schist and plagioclase amphibolite), mantle tectonites (serpentinized dunite and harzburgite), ultramafic cumulates (mainly websterite), mafic cumulates (olivine gabbro, gabbro, and olivine gabbronorite), and isotropic gabbros (olivine gabbronorite). The whole-rock geochemistry of the cumulates suggests that they can mainly be classified as Low-Ti ophiolite and derived from an island arc tholeiitic magma source. Chondrite normalized REE and N-MORB normalized multielement patterns and tectonomagmatic discrimination diagrams show that fractional crystallization was important during the formation of the cumulate rocks. The presence of highly magnesian olivines (Fo78.24–81.89), clinopyroxenes (Mg#71.46–85.82), and orthopyroxenes (Mg#62.63–87.18) as well as highly calcic plagioclases (An81.88–97.40) in the mafic cumulates indicates a subduction-related tectonic environment. The geochemical, petrographical, and field data suggest that the ophiolitic rocks in the studied region formed in a suprasubduction zone environment in the southern branch of Neotethys in the Late Cretaceous.