bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heart function and hemodynamic analysis for zebrafish embryos
Authors: Yalcin Huseyin C. , Amindari Armin , Butcher Jonathan T. , Althani Asma , Yacoub Magdi
Published: March 2017

The Zebrafish has emerged to become a powerful vertebrate animal model for cardiovascular research in recent years. Its advantages include easy genetic manipulation, transparency, small size, low cost, and the ability to survive without active circulation at early stages of development. Sequencing the whole genome and identifying ortholog genes with human genome made it possible to induce clinically relevant cardiovascular defects via genetic approaches. Heart function and disturbed hemodynamics need to be assessed in a reliable manner for these disease models in order to reveal the mechanobiology of induced defects. This effort requires precise determination of blood flow patterns as well as hemodynamic stress (i.e., wall shear stress and pressure) levels within the developing heart. While traditional approach involves time‐lapse brightfield microscopy to track cell and tissue movements, in more recent studies fast light‐sheet fluorescent microscopes are utilized for that purpose. Integration of more complicated techniques like particle image velocimetry and computational fluid dynamics modeling for hemodynamic analysis holds a great promise to the advancement of the Zebrafish studies. Here, we discuss the latest developments in heart function and hemodynamic analysis for Zebrafish embryos and conclude with our future perspective on dynamic analysis of the Zebrafish cardiovascular system. Developmental Dynamics 246:868–880, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influences of multilocus heterozygosity on size during early life
Authors: Feiner Zachary S. , DeWoody J. Andrew , Breck James E. , Höök Tomas O.
Published: March 2017

Genetic diversity has been hypothesized to promote fitness of individuals and populations, but few studies have examined how genetic diversity varies with ontogeny. We examined patterns in population and individual genetic diversity and the effect of genetic diversity on individual fitness among life stages (adults and juveniles) and populations of captive yellow perch (Perca flavescens) stocked into two ponds and allowed to spawn naturally. Significant genetic structure developed between adults and offspring in a single generation, even as heterozygosity and allelic richness remained relatively constant. Heterozygosity had no effect on adult growth or survival, but was significantly and consistently positively related to offspring length throughout the first year of life in one pond but not the other. The largest individuals in the pond exhibiting this positive relationship were more outbred than averaged size individuals and also more closely related to one another than they were to average‐sized individuals, suggesting potential heritability of body size or spawn timing effects. These results indicate that the influence of heterozygosity may be mediated through an interaction, likely viability selection, between ontogeny and environment that is most important during early life. In addition, populations may experience significant genetic change within a single generation in captive environments, even when allowed to reproduce naturally. Accounting for the dynamic influences of genetic diversity on early life fitness could lead to improved understanding of recruitment and population dynamics in both wild and captive populations.
Cellular proteomic analysis of porcine circovirus type 2 and classical swine fever virus coinfection in porcine kidney‐15 cells using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation‐coupled LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Zhou Niu , Fan Chunmei , Liu Song , Zhou Jianwei , Jin Yulan , Zheng Xiaojuan , Wang Qin , Liu Jue , Yang Hanchun , Gu Jinyan , Zhou Jiyong
Published: March 2017

Viral coinfection or superinfection in host has caused public health concern and huge economic losses of farming industry. The influence of viral coinfection on cellular protein abundance is essential for viral pathogenesis. Based on a coinfection model for porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and classical swine fever virus (CSFV) developed previously by our laboratory, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)‐coupled LC‐MS/MS proteomic profiling was performed to explore the host cell responses to PCV2‐CSFV coinfection. Totally, 3932 proteins were identified in three independent mass spectrometry analyses. Compared with uninfected cells, 304 proteins increased (fold change >1.2) and 198 decreased (fold change <0.833) their abundance in PCV2‐infected cells (p < 0.05), 60 and 61 were more and less abundant in CSFV‐infected cells, and 196 and 158 were more and less abundant, respectively in cells coinfected with PCV2 and CSFV. Representative differentially abundant proteins were validated by quantitative real‐time PCR, Western blotting and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Bioinformatic analyses confirmed the dominant role of PCV2, and indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)‐mediated oxidative stress response and apoptosis signaling pathways might be the specifical targets during PCV2‐CSFV coinfection.
Lifestyle for Brain Health (LIBRA): a new model for dementia prevention
Authors: Schiepers Olga J. G. , Köhler Sebastian , Deckers Kay , Irving Kate , O'Donnell Catherine A. , van den Akker Marjan , Verhey Frans R. J. , Vos Stephanie J. B. , de Vugt Marjolein E. , van Boxtel Martin P. J.
Published: March 2017

Objective

Modifiable risk factors for dementia were recently identified and compiled in a systematic review. The ‘Lifestyle for Brain Health’ (LIBRA) score, reflecting someone's potential for dementia prevention, was studied in a large longitudinal population‐based sample with respect to predicting cognitive change over an observation period of up to 16 years.

Methods

Lifestyle for Brain Health was calculated at baseline for 949 participants aged 50–81 years from the Maastricht Ageing Study. The predictive value of LIBRA for incident dementia and cognitive impairment was examined by using Cox proportional hazard models and by testing its relation with cognitive decline.

Results

Lifestyle for Brain Health predicted future risk of dementia, as well as risk of cognitive impairment. A one‐point increase in LIBRA score related to 19% higher risk for dementia and 9% higher risk for cognitive impairment. LIBRA predicted rate of decline in processing speed, but not memory or executive functioning.

Conclusions

Lifestyle for Brain Health (LIBRA) may help in identifying and monitoring risk status in dementia‐prevention programmes, by targeting modifiable, lifestyle‐related risk factors. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of lithology on surface water sources
Authors: Nickolas Lydia B. , Segura Catalina , Brooks J. Renée
Published: March 2017

Understanding the temporal and spatial variability of water sources within a basin is vital to our ability to interpret hydrologic controls on biogeochemical processes and to manage water resources. Water stable isotopes can be used as a tool to determine geographic and seasonal sources of water at the basin scale. Previous studies in the Coastal Range of Oregon reported that the variation in the isotopic signatures of surface water did not conform to the commonly observed “elevation effect,” which exhibits a trend of increasing isotopic depletion with rising elevation. The primary purpose of this research is to investigate the mechanisms governing seasonal and spatial variations in the isotopic signature of surface waters within the Marys River Basin, located in the leeward side of the Oregon Coastal Range. Surface water and precipitation samples were collected every 2–3 weeks for isotopic analysis for 1 year. Our results confirmed the lack of elevational variation of surface water isotopes within this leeward basin. Although we find elevational variation in precipitation in the eastern portion of the watershed, this elevation effect is counteracted by rainout with distance from the Pacific coast. In addition, we found significant variation in surface water isotope values between catchments underlain predominantly by basalt or sandstone. The degree of separation was strongest during the summer when low flows reflect deeper groundwater sources. This indicates that baseflow within streams drained by each lithology is being supplied from two distinctly separate water sources. In addition, the flow of the Marys River is dominated by water originating from the sandstone water source, particularly during the low‐flow summer months. We interpreted that the difference in water source results from sandstone catchments having highly fractured geology or locally tipping to the east facilitating cross‐basin water exchange from the windward to the leeward side of the Coast Range. Our results challenge topographic derived watershed boundaries in permeable sedimentary rocks; highlighting the overwhelming importance of underlying geology.
Advancing alternatives analysis: The role of predictive toxicology in selecting safer chemical products and processes
Authors: Malloy Timothy , Zaunbrecher Virginia , Beryt Elizabeth , Judson Richard , Tice Raymond , Allard Patrick , Blake Ann , Cote Ila , Godwin Hilary , Heine Lauren , Kerzic Patrick , Kostal Jakub , Marchant Gary , McPartland Jennifer , Moran Kelly , Nel Andre , Ogunseitan Oladele , Rossi Mark , Thayer Kristina , Tickner Joel , Whittaker Margaret , Zarker Ken
Published: March 2017

Alternatives analysis (AA) is a method used in regulation and product design to identify, assess, and evaluate the safety and viability of potential substitutes for hazardous chemicals. It requires toxicological data for the existing chemical and potential alternatives. Predictive toxicology uses in silico and in vitro approaches, computational models, and other tools to expedite toxicological data generation in a more cost-effective manner than traditional approaches. The present article briefly reviews the challenges associated with using predictive toxicology in regulatory AA, then presents 4 recommendations for its advancement. It recommends using case studies to advance the integration of predictive toxicology into AA, adopting a stepwise process to employing predictive toxicology in AA beginning with prioritization of chemicals of concern, leveraging existing resources to advance the integration of predictive toxicology into the practice of AA, and supporting transdisciplinary efforts. The further incorporation of predictive toxicology into AA would advance the ability of companies and regulators to select alternatives to harmful ingredients, and potentially increase the use of predictive toxicology in regulation more broadly. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:915–925. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points

In chemical regulation, alternatives analysis (AA), also known as “alternatives assessment,” is a rapidly advancing method used to determine the relative safety and viability of potential alternatives to existing products or processes that use hazardous chemicals. The problem of data gaps is exacerbated in the AA context in which multiple chemicals contained in various alternatives must be characterized and compared. Predictive toxicological methods offer the potential for obtaining the necessary toxicity and exposure estimates in substantially less time and at significantly less cost than convention methods. Four steps will speed integrating predictive toxicology and AA: 1) Use case studies to advance the integration, 2) use predictive toxicology for screening chemicals of concern in the short term, 3) use existing resources to the fullest, and 4) support trans-sector and transdisciplinary activities.
Optimization of complex slater‐type functions with analytic derivative methods for describing photoionization differential cross sections
Authors: Matsuzaki Rei , Yabushita Satoshi
Published: March 2017

The complex basis function (CBF) method applied to various atomic and molecular photoionization problems can be interpreted as an
method to solve the driven‐type (inhomogeneous) Schrödinger equation, whose driven term being dipole operator times the initial state wave function. However, efficient basis functions for representing the solution have not fully been studied. Moreover, the relation between their solution and that of the ordinary Schrödinger equation has been unclear. For these reasons, most previous applications have been limited to total cross sections. To examine the applicability of the CBF method to differential cross sections and asymmetry parameters, we show that the complex valued solution to the driven‐type Schrödinger equation can be variationally obtained by optimizing the complex trial functions for the frequency dependent polarizability. In the test calculations made for the hydrogen photoionization problem with five or six complex Slater‐type orbitals (cSTOs), their complex valued expansion coefficients and the orbital exponents have been optimized with the analytic derivative method. Both the real and imaginary parts of the solution have been obtained accurately in a wide region covering typical molecular regions. Their phase shifts and asymmetry parameters are successfully obtained by extrapolating the CBF solution from the inner matching region to the asymptotic region using WKB method. The distribution of the optimized orbital exponents in the complex plane is explained based on the close connection between the CBF method and the driven‐type equation method. The obtained information is essential to constructing the appropriate basis sets in future molecular applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic significance of long noncoding RNA Z38 as a candidate biomarker in breast cancer
Authors: Nie Zhen‐Lin , Wang Yi‐Shan , Mei Yan‐Ping , Lin Xin , Zhang Guo‐Xing , Sun Hui‐Ling , Wang Yi‐Lian , Xia Yong‐Xiang , Wang Shu‐Kui
Published: March 2017

Background

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) Z38 has been shown to promote cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in breast cancer. However, expression pattern and prognostic value of lncRNA Z38 in breast cancer patients remain elusive.

Methods

The expression levels of SPRY4‐IT1 in 110 self‐paired specimens of breast cancer and adjacent normal breast tissues were measured by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR), and its correlation with overall survival of patients with breast cancer was further statistically analyzed.

Results

Compared with normal breast tissues, Z38 was upregulated in breast cancer tissues. Furthermore, of 110 breast cancer patients, high Z38 expression was significantly associated with tumor‐node‐metastasis stage and lymph node metastasis. Further analysis using the Cox regression model revealed that Z38 expression was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival in patients with breast cancer (hazard ratio=4.74, 95% confidence interval 2.41‐9.32). The nomogram presents a good prediction of the probability of overall survival of breast cancer patients (c‐index: 0.792), and its predictive efficiency was further confirmed by the calibration curve.

Conclusion

Our data highlighted the potential of lncRNA Z38 as novel candidate biomarker to identify patients with breast cancer at high risk of tumor death.
Anti‐CRISPR proteins: Counterattack of phages on bacterial defense (CRISPR/Cas) system
Authors: Bhushan Kul , Chattopadhyay Anirudha , Pratap Dharmendra
Published: March 2017

Since the dawn of life there is a never ending strife between bacteria and phages. Both are perpetually changing their strategies to take over each other. CRISPR/Cas is the most widespread defense system used by bacteria against mobile genetic elements (MGEs) such as phages, cojugative palsmids, transoposons, and pathogenicity islands. This system utilizes small guide RNA molecules to protect against phages infection and invasion by MGEs. Phages circumvent to these antiviral barriers by point mutation in PAM (protospacer‐adjacent motif) sequence, genome rearrangements and by using anti‐CRISPR proteins.
TGFβ signaling and the control of myofibroblast differentiation: Implications for chronic inflammatory disorders
Authors: Carthy Jonathon M.
Published: March 2017

The myofibroblast is a highly specialized cell type that plays a critical role during normal tissue wound healing, but also contributes pathologically to chronic inflammatory conditions such as fibrosis and cancer. As fibrotic conditions continue to be a major burden to the public health system, novel therapies that target the function of myofibroblasts may show promise in the clinic. The cytokine transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) is the most potent known inducer of myofibroblast differentiation and thus represents a powerful target to modify myofibroblast function during disease. This review focuses on our current understanding of the key signaling pathways activated by TGFβ during myofibroblast differentiation.
C‐reactive protein, symptoms and activity of daily living in patients with advanced cancer receiving palliative care
Authors: Amano Koji , Maeda Isseki , Morita Tatsuya , Baba Mika , Miura Tomofumi , Hama Takashi , Mori Ichiro , Nakajima Nobuhisa , Nishi Tomohiro , Sakurai Hiroki , Shimoyama Satofumi , Shinjo Takuya , Shirayama Hiroto , Yamada Takeshi , Ono Shigeki , Ozawa Taketoshi , Yamamoto Ryo , Yamamoto Naoki , Shishido Hideki , Kinoshita Hiroya
Published: March 2017

Background

The association between C‐reactive protein (CRP) level, symptoms, and activities of daily living (ADL) in advanced cancer patients is unclear.

Methods

Secondary data analysis of a multicenter prospective cohort study consisted of 2426 advanced cancer patients referred to palliative care settings was conducted to examine the cross‐sectional relationships between CRP level, symptoms, and ADL disabilities. Laboratory data, symptoms, ADL, and manual muscle testing (MMT) results were obtained at baseline. Participants were divided into four groups: low (CRP < 1 mg/dl), moderate (1 = < CRP <5 mg/dl), high (5 = < CRP < 10 mg/dl), and very high CRP (10 mg/dl = < CRP). The proportions of eight symptoms, five ADL disabilities, and three categories of MMT according to the CRP groups were tested by chi‐square tests. Multiple‐adjusted odd ratios (ORs) were calculated by using ordinal logistic regression after adjustment for age, gender, site of primary cancer, metastatic disease, performance status, chemotherapy, and setting of care.

Results

A total of 1702 patients were analysed. Positive rates of symptoms and ADL disabilities increased with increasing CRP level. In the very high‐CRP group, rates of positivity for anorexia, fatigue, and weight loss were 89.8%, 81.0%, and 79.2%, respectively, and over 70% of patients received assistance for bathing, dressing, going to the toilet, and transfer. The grade of MMT also deteriorated with increasing CRP level. Adjusted ORs for the accumulated symptoms significantly increased with increasing CRP level in the moderate‐CRP, high‐CRP, and very high‐CRP groups [1.6 (95% confidence interval 1.2–2.0), P < 0.001; 2.5 (1.9–3.2), P < 0.001; 3.5 (2.7–4.6), P < 0.001, respectively]. Adjusted ORs for the accumulated ADL disabilities significantly increased in the very high‐CRP groups [2.1 (1.5–2.9), P < 0.001].

Conclusions

Associations between CRP level, symptoms, and ADL were observed in advanced cancer patients receiving palliative care.
Clinical relevance of hypercoagulability and possible hypofibrinolysis associated with estrone and estriol
Authors: Swanepoel Albe C. , Naidoo Priyaa , Nielsen Vance G. , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: March 2017

Estrone (E1) and Estriol (E3) are endogenous female hormones, present in increased concentrations during female specific physiological processes (menopause and pregnancy respectively) that are associated with increased venous thrombotic risk. These hormones are also used as hormone therapies that are also associated with increased thromboembolism risk. Viscoelastic analysis revealed no significant difference to clot formation after hormone addition, however morphological analysis showed that the addition of both E1 and E3 result in fibrin clots composed of thinner fibrin fibers arranged in dense matted networks. These changes to the fibrin network ultrastructure are indicative of a prothrombotic state but may also indicate hypofibrinolysis. We therefore conclude that the increased risk of venous thrombosis during pregnancy and menopause may originate from a combination of hypercoagulation and a possible hypofibrinolytic mechanism of these hormones. Therefore females with a hypercoagulable tendency that fall pregnant or enter menopause need to be monitored to prevent venous thrombotic events. The decision to use hormone therapies during and after menopause should not be taken lightly and the risk‐reward scale should be closely examined to ensure it does not tip towards thrombosis and subsequent thrombotic events that ultimately could have been prevented.
Atmospheric dynamics and internal processes during organization and intensification of Boreal Summer Intraseasonal Oscillation (BSISO) based on TRMM and reanalyses data
Authors: Sarkar Sahadat , Mukhopadhyay Parthasarathi , Dutta Somenath
Published: March 2017

Boreal summer intraseasonal oscillations (BSISOs) show a meridional propagation from the Indian Ocean (IO) region to the continental India. The BSISOs are the main source of rainfall variability over the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) region. The recent research has revealed a basic understanding of the scale selection and northward propagation of the BSISOs. But the complete understanding about the organization and intensification of BSISOs remains elusive. This study uses observation and reanalysis data that covers summers (June–September) of 1998–2013 to investigate the dynamical and atmospheric internal processes during the organization and intensification of BSISOs. Based on rainfall analyses, two types of BSISOs are defined, one with weaker and the other with stronger intensity. Stronger BSISOs show persisting lower level moisture convergence to the north of the convection centre (CC) and a strong vertical velocity collocated with CC. The analysis of mean kinetic energy (MKE) budget suggests that MKE significantly increases during the organization of the strong BSISOs but the strength is relatively weaker during the evolution of weak BSISOs. The enhanced MKE during the strong events is supported by the increase of baroclinic energy conversion from mean available potential energy (MAPE) to MKE but the MAPE to MKE conversion is significantly weak during the evolution of weak BSISOs. There is conversion from MKE to eddy kinetic energy (EKE) during organization of strong BSISOs and the conversion increases as the events approach towards the organized and intense phase. The eddy momentum‐vertical wind shear interaction is the significant contributor for conversion of MKE to EKE during the organization of strong BSISOs. The eddy momentum‐mean flow divergence interaction and eddy momentum–vorticity interaction at the lower level support to enhance EKE as the strong BSISOs approach the organized and intense phase. But the above interactions are weak during evolutions of the weak BSISOs.
Pro‐inflammatory M1 macrophages promote Osteogenesis by mesenchymal stem cells via the COX‐2‐prostaglandin E2 pathway
Authors: Lu Laura Y. , Loi Florence , Nathan Karthik , Lin Tzu‐hua , Pajarinen Jukka , Gibon Emmanuel , Nabeshima Akira , Cordova Luis , Jämsen Eemeli , Yao Zhenyu , Goodman Stuart B.
Published: March 2017

Bone fractures are among the most common orthopaedic problems that affect individuals of all ages. Immediately after injury, activated macrophages dynamically contribute to and regulate an acute inflammatory response that involves other cells at the injury site, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These macrophages and MSCs work in concert to modulate bone healing. In this study, we co‐cultured undifferentiated M0, pro‐inflammatory M1, and anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages with primary murine MSCs in vitro to determine the cross‐talk between polarized macrophages and MSCs and their effects on osteogenesis. After 4 weeks of co‐culture, MSCs grown with macrophages, especially M1 macrophages, had enhanced bone mineralization compared to MSCs grown alone. The level of bone formation after 4 weeks of culture was closely associated with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) secretion early in osteogenesis. Treatment with celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) selective inhibitor, significantly reduced bone mineralization in all co‐cultures but most dramatically in the M1‐MSC co‐culture. We also found that the presence of macrophages reduced the secretion of osteoprotegerin (OPG), the decoy RANKL receptor, suggesting that macrophages may indirectly modulate osteoclast activity in addition to enhancing bone formation. Taken together, these findings suggest that an initial pro‐inflammatory phase modulated by M1 macrophages promotes osteogenesis in MSCs via the COX‐2‐PGE2 pathway. Understanding the complex interactions between macrophages and MSCs provide opportunities to optimize bone healing and other regenerative processes via modulation of the inflammatory response. This study provides one possible biological mechanism for the adverse effects of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs on fracture healing and bone regeneration. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2378–2385, 2017.
Critical dimensions of trans‐sacral corridors assessed by 3D CT models: Relevance for implant positioning in fractures of the sacrum
Authors: Wagner Daniel , Kamer Lukas , Sawaguchi Takeshi , Geoff Richards R. , Noser Hansrudi , Uesugi Masafumi , Ossendorf Christian , Rommens Pol M.
Published: March 2017

Trans‐sacral implants can be used alternatively to sacro‐iliac screws in the treatment of osteoporosis‐associated fragility fractures of the pelvis and the sacrum. We investigated trans‐sacral corridor dimensions, the number of individuals amenable to trans‐sacral fixation, as well as the osseous boundaries and shape of the S1 corridor. 3D models were reconstructed from pelvic CT scans from 92 Europeans and 64 Japanese. A corridor of <12 mm was considered critical for trans‐sacral implant positioning, and <8 mm as impossible. A statistical model of trans‐sacral corridor S1 was computed. The limiting cranio‐caudal diameter was 11.6 mm (±5.4) for S1 and 14 mm (±2.4) for S2. Trans‐sacral implant positioning was critical in 52% of cases for S1, and in 21% for S2. The S1 corridor was impossible in 26%, with no impossible corridor in S2. Antero‐superiorly, the S1 corridor was limited not only by the sacrum but in 40% by the iliac fossa. The statistical model demonstrated a consistent oval shape of the trans‐section of corridor S1. Considering the variable in size and shape of trans‐sacral corridors in S1, a thorough anatomical knowledge and preoperative planning are mandatory using trans‐sacral implants. In critical cases, S2 is a veritable alternative. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2577–2584, 2017.
Modification and application of an in vitro assay to examine inositol phosphate degradation in the digestive tract of poultry
Authors: Sommerfeld Vera , Schollenberger Margit , Hemberle Luca , Rodehutscord Markus
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

An in vitro assay was modified to study the disappearance of inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP6) and the formation of lower inositol phosphate (InsP) isomers in the poultry digestive tract, and three experiments investigated the influence of diets with different ingredients and additives. Using the poultry diet as a matrix, the assay simulated the conditions (e.g. pH, temperature, proteolytic enzymes, water content, and retention time) of the crop, stomach, and small intestine, and extraction and analysis of InsP isomers were immediately conducted.

RESULTS

The assay produced highly reproducible results with coefficients of variation ≤10% for an InsP isomer concentration ≥0.4 µmol g−1 DM (n = 3), and it was sensitive to the factors that varied in the three experiments.

CONCLUSION

The described assay is a suitable tool that can be used to screen feed enzymes and to investigate the effects of supplements in the absence of endogenous phytases. The ease of handling and high reproducibility of the assay indicated that the assay is a rapid and feasible method that can be used to examine the degradation pathway of phytate in feed under gastrointestinal conditions. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Controllable preparation of a hydrophilic/ion‐exchange mixed‐mode stationary phase by surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization using a mixture of two functional monomers
Authors: Wang Xiaomeng , Bo Chunmiao , Wang Chaozhan , Wei Yinmao
Published: March 2017

Mixed‐mode chromatographic stationary phases require functionalization with at least two functional groups to yield multiple interactions with analytes. Departing from reported methods, a mixture of two different monomers, glycidyl methacrylate and 2‐dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate, was grafted onto the surface of silica by a one‐step surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization to prepare a novel hydrophilic interaction/anion‐exchange mixed‐mode chromatographic stationary phase. The grafted amounts of functional groups were controlled via varying the ratio of monomers in the polymerization system. The influences of water content, salt concentration and pH in the mobile phase were investigated to illustrate the mixed interaction between the stationary phase and analytes. The retention of various solutes on three columns, especially acidic and basic solutes, showed an obvious dependence on the ratio of the two monomers in the polymerization system. The results indicated that the strategy proposed in this work was beneficial to develop various types of mixed‐mode chromatographic stationary phases with adjustable selectivity to meet the needs of complex samples. Finally, the column was successfully employed in the isolation of melamine in liquid milk.
Amino Acid Block Copolymers with Broad Antimicrobial Activity and Barrier Properties
Authors: Bevilacqua Michael P. , Huang Daniel J. , Wall Brian D. , Lane Shalyn J. , Edwards Carl K. , Hanson Jarrod A. , Benitez Diego , Solomkin Joseph S. , Deming Timothy J.
Published: March 2017

Antimicrobial properties of a long‐chain, synthetic, cationic, and hydrophobic amino acid block copolymer are reported. In 5 and 60 min time‐kill assays, solutions of K100L40 block copolymers (poly(l‐lysine·hydrochloride)100‐b‐poly(l‐leucine)40) at concentrations of 10–100 µg mL−1 show multi‐log reductions in colony forming units of Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, as well as yeast, including multidrug‐resistant strains. Driven by association of hydrophobic segments, K100L40 copolymers form viscous solutions and self‐supporting hydrogels in water at concentrations of 1 and 2 wt%, respectively. These K100L40 preparations provide an effective barrier to microbial contamination of wounds, as measured by multi‐log decreases of tissue‐associated bacteria with deliberate inoculation of porcine skin explants, porcine open wounds, and rodent closed wounds with foreign body. Based on these findings, amino acid copolymers with the features of K100L40 can combine potent, direct antimicrobial activity and barrier properties in one biopolymer for a new approach to prevention of wound infections.

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Parameter Estimation for an Inverse Nonlinear Stochastic Problem: Reactivity Ratio Studies in Copolymerization
Authors: Du Yuncheng , Budman Hector , Duever Thomas
Published: March 2017

A generalized polynomial chaos (gPC)‐based methodology is developed to estimate the reactivity ratio in copolymerization, where the reactivity ratio is assumed to be stochastic unknown and determined by comparing model predictions with limited experimental data. The estimation step is formulated as a stochastic inverse problem of finding the distributional stochastic reactivity ratio parameters with a maximum likelihood function. The results show that the gPC‐based reactivity ratio estimation is efficient and powerful, since it simultaneously provides the best estimates and their corresponding variances. Beyond achieving accurate estimation results, it is shown that the computational cost of the gPC‐based methodology is significantly lower than Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations, thus demonstrating the potential of the gPC method for dealing with other more complicated nonlinear problems.

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The challenge of bias‐free coil combination for quantitative susceptibility mapping at ultra‐high field
Authors: Bollmann Steffen , Robinson Simon Daniel , O'Brien Kieran , Vegh Viktor , Janke Andrew , Marstaller Lars , Reutens David , Barth Markus
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Quantitative susceptibility mapping is a technique to estimate the magnetic property of tissue with particularly high sensitivity at ultra‐high field. However, a key challenge at ultra‐high field is the combination of phase data acquired using phased array receive coils. Several methods for combining phase data have been proposed, but the influence of coil combination choices on susceptibility quantitation has not been studied systematically.

Methods

We combined phase data using COMPOSER (COMbining Phase data using a Short Echo‐time Reference scan) and a reference‐free channel‐by‐channel method. We investigated the effect of the chosen combination method on susceptibility results in a group of 28 participants at 7 Tesla.

Results

Our results show that reference scans can bias susceptibility values. Although the proposed reference‐free channel‐by‐channel method cannot remove transmit field phase, it shows comparable results to the COMPOSER method in which a high‐resolution ultrashort echo‐time reference scan was used.

Conclusions

We conclude that ultrashort echo‐time reference scans reduce quantitation bias and remove the transmit field phase when using COMPOSER to combine phase data, and not combining the phase data before susceptibility processing avoids this bias, resulting in comparable results. Magn Reson Med 79:97–107, 2018. © 2017 InternationalSociety for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Interleaved neuromuscular electrical stimulation after spinal cord injury
Authors: Bergquist Austin J. , Wiest Matheus J. , Okuma Yoshino , Collins David F.
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) over a muscle belly (mNMES) recruits superficial motor units (MUs) preferentially, whereas NMES over a nerve trunk (nNMES) recruits MUs evenly throughout the muscle. We performed tests to determine whether “interleaving” pulses between the mNMES and nNMES sites (iNMES) reduces the fatigability of contractions for people experiencing paralysis because of chronic spinal cord injury.

Methods

Plantar flexion torque and soleus electromyography (M‐waves) were recorded from 8 participants. A fatigue protocol (75 contractions; 2 s on/2 s off for 5 min) was delivered by iNMES. The results were compared with previously published data collected with mNMES and nNMES in the same 8 participants.

Results

Torque declined ∼40% more during mNMES than during nNMES or iNMES. M‐waves declined during mNMES but not during nNMES or iNMES.

Discussion

To reduce fatigability of electrically evoked contractions of paralyzed plantar flexors, iNMES is equivalent to nNMES, and both are superior to mNMES. Muscle Nerve 56: 989–993, 2017
Silane surface modification of boron nitride for high thermal conductivity with polyphenylene sulfide via melt mixing method
Authors: Ryu Seokgyu , Kim Kiho , Kim Jooheon
Published: March 2017

Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is a promising engineering polymer, which is used for various industrial applications. In this study, we developed a highly thermally conductive PPS composite containing boron nitride (BN) as a thermally conductive ceramic filler. (3‐Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane was doped onto the surface of hydroxyl‐functionalized BN using a simple sol–gel process. The modified BN particles were embedded in a PPS matrix via a melt mixing process using a twin extruder to form BN‐Si composites. The maximum thermal conductivity 3.09 W/m·K was exhibited by the surface‐modified BN‐Si containing 60 wt%. This value was 116% higher than the thermal conductivities of the pristine BN and PPS matrix, respectively. The surface‐treated composites also showed an improved storage modulus because of an improvement in the interfacial adhesion and interaction between the BN filler and the PPS matrix. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Process safety education and training academic education as a foundation for other process safety initiatives on education
Authors: Boogaerts Geert , Degrève Jan , Vercruysse Geert
Published: March 2017

Commitment to process safety is fundamental to the process industry. Governance, promotion, and participation in academic and related educational programs are testament to the industry's commitment and stakeholder reach. Process safety education and training is a very broad topic. Industry‐academic collaboration is essential when developing high level education and training on process safety. This article looks at the development of educational and training programmes for students in Advanced Master programmes in the European master network and for experienced industry workers. The Advanced Master Safety Engineering developed at the University has a proven track record in realizing the intended learning outcomes along with a high level of academic and professional orientation as well as international orientation. The results related to the learning outcomes are very satisfying, which implies that there is a good relationship between the intended learning outcomes, the programme and the evaluation tests. The associated Advanced Master Class on process safety has a very satisfying overall trainee satisfaction (Level 1) and learning gains (Level 2) evaluation in the Kirkpatrick's Model. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 36: 414–421, 2017
Design, synthesis and insecticidal activity of novel hydrocarbylidene nitrohydrazinecarboximidamides
Authors: Xu Yong , Yang Dong‐yan , Zou Xiang‐gao , Rui Chang‐hui , Zhou Zi‐yuan , Ma Yong‐qiang , Qin Zhao‐hai
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Neonicotinoids, among the most important pesticides in recent decades, have played pivotal roles in controlling agricultural pests. However, the toxicity to some environmentally beneficial insects is a cause of concern. The development of novel insecticides safer to these insects is increasingly urgent.

RESULTS

A novel series of hydrocarbylidene nitrohydrazinecarboximidamides were designed and synthesised, starting from S‐methylisothiourea sulphate. Preliminary bioassays showed that the target molecules exhibited good activities against Lipaphis erysimi (turnip aphid) and Myzus persicae. As shown by initial insecticidal activity data, most of the target compounds had moderate to excellent activities at a concentration of 600 mg L−1 against L. erysimi, and the lethal rate of most compounds exceeded 90%. They were also highly effective against M. persicae. Some of them have shown excellent insecticidal activities, for example, the LC50 values of compounds Ie‐02 to Ie‐07 were found to be 3.8, 3.0, 2.5, 3.1, 4.1 and 4.0 mg L−1 respectively.

CONCLUSION

Structure–activity relationship analysis indicated that a suitable flexible alkyl chain at the imine point and a Cl‐substituted pyridine ring are the most crucial factors affecting the activity. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
First‐principles study of the surface phase diagrams of GaN(0001) and (000−1) under oxide vapor phase epitaxy growth conditions
Authors: Kawamura Takahiro , Kitamoto Akira , Imade Mamoru , Yoshimura Masashi , Mori Yusuke , Morikawa Yoshitada , Kangawa Yoshihiro , Kakimoto Koichi
Published: March 2017

First‐principles calculations are used to investigate the stable structures of the GaN(0001) and (000–1) surfaces under oxide vapor phase epitaxy growth conditions. The surface phase diagrams as a function of temperature and Ga pressure are described. It was found that the GaN(0001) surface is covered by OH groups. For the GaN(000–1) surface, the stable surface structure is with H atoms adsorbed on the topmost N atoms or an O atom stably incorporated into the Ga monolayer. We discuss the relationship between the growth conditions and O impurity incorporation. From the results, we suggest that high H2 pressure and high temperature growth conditions are favorable for decreasing O impurity incorporation.
Substances of Very High Concern in Food Contact Materials: Migration and Regulatory Background
Authors: Geueke Birgit , Muncke Jane
Published: March 2017

Food contact materials (FCMs) are needed to produce, transport, process and store our food. Although essential for handling and protecting food from farm to fork, FCMs are often not inert, and chemical components may partition into food. In Europe, FCMs are regulated under the FCM Framework Regulation 1935/2004 which covers their effects on human health. Environmental effects of FCM substances are included in the scope of the European Chemicals Regulation [Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)] which aims at substituting Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) by safer alternatives. In this study, we focus on 10 FCM substances that are SVHCs and already included in the authorization list of REACH (Annex XIV): We show their possible application in the manufacture of FCMs and give evidence or highlight the absence thereof for migration into food or food simulants. An overview on migration of four phthalates (diisobutyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, benzyl butyl phthalate and bis(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate) and 4,4′‐methylenedianiline from FCMs is provided, based on peer‐reviewed studies and notifications from the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed. Different approaches in evaluating and handling SVHCs under REACH and the European FCM legislation are discussed, and recommendations on how to increase the safety of FCMs are included. Combining better enforcement, an explicit ban of SVHCs without specific authorization for use in FCMs, and re‐evaluations of previously authorized FCM substances could lead to safer FCMs. In conclusion, a harmonization between REACH and European FCM legislation is desirable for improving legal certainty for FCM users as well as in the interest of public health. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis involving the epiglottis
Authors: Aono Yuya , Imokawa Shiro , Uto Tomohiro , Sato Jun , Tanioka Fumihiko , Suda Takafumi
Published: March 2017

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) frequently involves the upper respiratory tracts, but involvement of the epiglottis is extremely rare. This report describes a patient initially presenting with dysphagia and increasing stridor due to epiglottitis. Bronchoscopy showed swelling of the epiglottis with partly whitish nodular lesions, with biopsy specimens showing neutrophil infiltration and necrosis. Chest computed tomography showed multiple nodular consolidations in the bilateral lung parenchyma, and histological findings were consistent with vasculitis. The patient was diagnosed with GPA and responded well to treatment with prednisolone and cyclophosphamide. Although an uncommon manifestation, GPA should be included in the differential diagnosis of epiglottitis, especially in patients with lung parenchymal lesions suggestive of GPA.
Political Parties' Rhetoric Signaling of Sustainable Development
Authors: Fleig Andreas , Tosun Jale
Published: March 2017

This study analyzes how frequently political parties in Austria, Germany, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Switzerland referred to the concept of sustainable development in their manifestos for national elections from 1976 to 2011. Has the frequency of reference to the concept grown over time? Does an increase in frequency still allow for a clear demarcation between political parties representing different ideologies? These two research questions guide our empirical analysis, which strives to integrate sustainability research with comparative politics. Using automated content analysis, we demonstrate that all political parties – irrespective of their placement on the ideology scale – have made increasing rhetoric use of sustainable development over time. Our findings indicate that sustainable development does not serve as a dimension for competition among political parties. Since all political parties send the same rhetoric signals, voters must rely on alternative voting cues than a parties' rhetorical reference to the concept of sustainable development. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Rethinking Reader Response With Fifth Graders’ Semiotic Interpretations
Authors: Barone Diane , Barone Rebecca
Published: March 2017

Fifth graders interpreted the bookDoll Bonesby Holly Black through visual representations from the beginning to the end of the book. Each visual representation was analyzed to determine how students responded. Most frequently, they moved to inferential ways of understanding. Students often visually interpreted emotional plot elements and incorporated words, graffiti, and graphic organizers into their responses.
Evaluation of layout and atmospheric stability effects in wind farms using large‐eddy simulation
Authors: Ghaisas Niranjan S. , Archer Cristina L. , Xie Shengbai , Wu Sicheng , Maguire Eoghan
Published: March 2017

Large‐eddy simulation (LES) has been used previously to study the effect of either configuration or atmospheric stability on the power generated by large wind farms. This is the first study to consider both stability and wind farm configuration simultaneously and methodically with LES. Two prevailing wind directions, two layouts (turbines aligned versus staggered with respect to the wind) and three stabilities (neutral and moderately unstable and stable) were evaluated. Compared with neutral conditions, unstable conditions led to reduced wake losses in one configuration, to enhanced wake losses in two and to unchanged wake losses in one configuration. Conversely, stable conditions led to increased wake losses in one, decreased wake losses in two and unchanged wake losses in one configuration. Three competing effects, namely, rates of wake recovery due to vertical mixing, horizontal spread of wakes and localized regions of acceleration caused by multiple upstream wakes, were identified as being responsible for the observed trends in wake losses. The detailed flow features responsible for these non‐linear interactions could only be resolved by the LES. Existing analytical models ignore stability and non‐linear configuration effects, which therefore need to be incorporated. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induced charge fluctuations in hemispherical semiconductor detectors
Authors: Samedov Victor V.
Published: March 2017

Among the compound semiconductors, a cadmium zinc telluride material (CdZnTe) is appealing for hard X‐rayroom‐temperature detectors for medical and astrophysical applications. Despite the attractive properties of CdZnTe material such as high atomic number, high density, wide‐band gap, low chemical reactivity, and long‐term stability, poor hole and electron mobility‐lifetime products degrade the energy resolution of these detectors. For designing single polarity CdZnTe detectors insensitive to the hole transport, a hemispherical geometry is used. In this work, theoretical consideration of the stochastic process of charge induction in hemispherical geometry with accounting for electron trapping was considered. The formulae for the moments of the distribution function of the induced charge on the detector electrodes were derived. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. StartCopTextCopyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.