bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron Oxide Nanoclusters Incorporated into Iron Phthalocyanine as Highly Active Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Cheng Yi , Liang Ji , Veder Jean‐Pierre , Li Meng , Chen Shuangming , Pan Jian , Song Li , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Liu Chang , Jiang San Ping
Published: August 2017

Iron‐nitrogen‐carbon (Fe‐N‐C) composites have emerged as active and non‐precious‐metal electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Here, we developed a simple process to synthesize FeOx nanoclusters (NCs) incorporated with iron phthalocyanine (FePc) supported on graphene (FeOx/FePc) as highly active electrocatalysts for the ORR by a self‐assembly method. The electrochemical activity of FeOx/FePc depends on the loading or size of the FeOx NCs. The best results are obtained on FeOx/FePc with 10 wt % FeOx NCs of a size of approximately 2 nm and a thickness of approximately 0.6 nm, which achieves a half‐wave potential of 0.888 V and current density of 37.6 Ag−1 at 0.9 V (vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode). This is 50 mV higher than that of FePc supported on graphene and 64 mV higher than that of Pt/C in 0.1 m KOH solution at a catalyst loading of 0.1 mg cm−2. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and electrochemical cyclic voltammetry results indicate that the incorporated FeOx NCs interact with the active center of FePc, Fe−N4, to enhance the electron transition and reversibility of the FeIII/FeII redox couple and promote the kinetics of the ORR. We demonstrate that the nature of the active center of FePc (i.e., Fe−N4) is related closely to the activity of the FeIII/FeII redox couple.
In Silico Analysis of Bacterial Systems For Textile Azo Dye Decolorization and Affirmation With Wetlab Studies
Authors: Srinivasan Shantkriti , Shanmugam Gnanendra , Surwase Swati V. , Jadhav Jyoti P. , Sadasivam Senthil K.
Published: August 2017

A systemic approach involving in‐silico and in‐vitro tests were used for the decolorization of five azo dyes, Reactive Yellow F3R, Joyfix Yellow 53R, Remazol Red RR, Drimaren Black CL‐S and Disperse Red F3BS, using Aeromonas hydrophila SK16 and Lysinibacillus sphaericus SK13. Homology models for laccase and azoreductase enzymes from these two bacteria were generated using Accelrys Discovery Studio 3.5 and validated. Docking was performed with LeadIT software for binding energy calculation, and active site residues were identified. Reactive Yellow F3R showed highest binding energy with A. hydrophila, which emulated the decolorization percentage by ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy. High‐performance LC (HPLC), Fourier transform IR spectroscopy (FTIR), and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GCMS) supported biotransformation and biodegradation of Reactive Yellow F3R by A. hydrophila SK16, and a biodegradation pathway was proposed. HPLC analysis of treated sample illustrated peaks at retention time 1.481, 3.165, 3.374, and 3.945 min while the control dye showed peaks at 1.478 and 3.106 min. GCMS analysis showed that (2Z)‐but‐2‐ene, 1,3,5‐triazine, aniline, and naphthalene were formed as end products. The in‐silico outcome was in good agreement with experimental studies. Thus, it can be surmised that in‐silico molecular modeling and docking studies can assist as a preliminary tool for screening of potential bacterial system to be employed in textile dye decolorization and degradation studies.
A new model for the formation of microbial polygons in a coastal sabkha setting
Authors: Lokier Stephen W. , Andrade Luiza L. , Court Wesley M. , Dutton Kirsten E. , Head Ian M. , van der Land Cees , Paul Andreas , Sherry Angela
Published: August 2017

The stratigraphic record of microbially induced sedimentary structures spans most of the depositional record. Today, microbes continue to generate, bind and modify sediments in a vast range of depositional environments. One of the most cited of these settings is the coastal microbial mat system of the Persian/Arabian Gulf. In this setting, an extensive zone of microbial mat polygons has previously been interpreted as resulting from desiccation‐related contraction during episodic drying. This study employs 15 years of field‐based monitoring of the interaction between environmental factors and the development and evolution of polygon morphologies to test the desiccation model in this setting. On the basis of these observations, a new model is proposed that accounts for the genesis and development of microbial polygons without the need for desiccation‐induced shrinkage. Conversely, the formation, development and erosion of microbial polygons is a direct result of the production of large amounts of organic matter in a healthy, yet spatially limited, microbial community. The recognition of microbial polygons has previously been applied as a diagnostic tool for the reconstruction of ancient depositional environments. The present study calls these interpretations into doubt. It is inferred that preservation of the microbial polygons as a recognizable form would be rare. Biological degradation and compaction will reduce polygons to produce the ‘wispy’ laminae that are a common feature of ancient sabkha lithofacies.
Effect of Deficit Irrigation Regimes on Yield and Fruit Quality of Olive Trees (cv. Memecik) on the Aegean Coast of Turkey
Authors: Kaya Ü. , Öztürk Güngör F. , Çamoğlu G. , Akkuzu E. , Aşik Ş. , Köseoğlu O.
Published: August 2017

In this study, six different irrigation treatments were applied to an olive orchard using the drip irrigation method. Five of these were arranged according to 25% (S0.25), 50% (S0.50), 75% (S0.75), 100% (S1.00) and 125% (S1.25) of the evaporation in 5 days of a class ‘A’ evaporation pan, and one control (SC) was arranged so as to bring the reducing moisture at a soil depth of 0–90 cm to field capacity. Yield values were not affected by the irrigation treatment (p > 0.05). In contrast, 100‐fruit weight, pulp ratio, hardness moisture, oil, reducing sugar content and bitterness were affected by irrigation (p < 0.05). Generally, an increase in the amount of irrigation water given in the study was accompanied by a fall in ripeness index values, a rise in moisture content, and a reduction in the oil content of fruit. The highest content of reducing sugar was obtained from S0.25, generally being lower with increase in the water applied. The findings show that application of 25% of the evaporation of a class ‘A’ evaporation pan (treatment S0.25) can be recommended for cv. Memecik. Application of this recommendation can achieve a 72% saving in water and make a significant contribution to the conservation of limited water resources. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bibliometric Analysis of Female Authorship Trends and Collaboration Dynamics Over JBMR's 30-Year History
Authors: Wininger Austin E , Fischer James P , Likine Elive F , Gudeman Andrew S , Brinker Alexander R , Ryu Jonathan , Maupin Kevin A , Lunsford Shatoria , Whipple Elizabeth C , Loder Randall T , Kacena Melissa A
Published: August 2017

In academia, authorship is considered a currency and is important for career advancement. As the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research (JBMR) is the highest-ranked journal in the field of bone, muscle, and mineral metabolism and is the official publication of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, we sought to examine authorship changes over JBMR's 30-year history. Two bibliometric methods were used to collect the data. The “decade method” included all published manuscripts throughout 1 year in each decade over the past 30 years starting with the inaugural year, yielding 746 manuscripts for analysis. The “random method” examined 10% of published manuscripts from each of the 30 years, yielding 652 manuscripts for analysis. Using both methods, the average number of authors per manuscript, numerical location of the corresponding author, number of collaborating institutions, number of collaborating countries, number of printed manuscript pages, and the number of times each manuscript was cited all significantly increased between 1986 and 2015 (p < 10−4). Using the decade method, there was a significant increase in the percentage of female first authors over time from 35.8% in 1986 to 47.7% in 2015 (p = 0.02), and this trend was confirmed using the random method. The highest percentage of female first authors in 2015 was in Europe (60.0%), and Europe also had the most dramatic increase in female first authors over time (more than double in 2015 compared with 1986). Likewise, the overall number of female corresponding authors significantly increased during the past 30 years. With the increasing demands of publishing in academic medicine, understanding changes in publishing characteristics over time and by geographical region is important. These findings highlight JBMR's authorship trends over the past 30 years and demonstrate those countries having the most changes and where challenges still exist. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Capillary membrane bioreactor for abatement of low soluble compounds in waste gas
Authors: Morral Eloi , Lao‐Luque Conxita , Gabriel David , Gamisans Xavier , Dorado Antonio David
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

The removal of problematic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from polluted gas (toluene, iso‐octane and hexane) has been investigated in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) by adapting a commercial capillary microporous polypropylene membrane. The MBR performance was measured under several operational conditions. The influence of the empty bed residence time (EBRT), the liquid velocity and the inlet concentration was evaluated.

RESULTS

For toluene, it was possible to treat higher loading rates than 1600 g m‐3 h‐1 with a maximum elimination capacity (EC) of 1309 g m‐3 h‐1, removal efficiencies (RE) of ∼80%. However, iso‐octane was poorly degraded as a single pollutant. Hexane presented lower EC values (400 g m‐3 h‐1) than toluene. The synergistic effect of hexane degradation in two different mixtures was also considered.

CONCLUSION

Results demonstrate that a commercial membrane for wastewater treatment can be adapted for biological gas treatment, becoming a potential alternative to conventional biological treatment technologies, especially for pollutants with low solubility. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Iron(III)‐modified tungstophosphoric acid supported on silica‐pillared montmorillonite as catalysts for fructose conversion to methyl levulinate
Authors: Lai Fengjiao , Luo Jia , Jiang Dan , Su Tongchao , Zhang Fan
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Because of the decline in conventional sources of energy and the increasing pollution, the fossil fuel based energy structures is being replaced by renewable energy based structures such as biomass energy. Among current biodiesel sources, methyl levulinate (ML) obtained from catalytic conversion of renewable carbohydrate with methanol has received a great deal of attention. Silica‐pillared montmorillonites (MMTSi) functionalized by iron‐modified tungstophosphoric acid (HPWFe) were prepared, and their physicochemical properties and catalytic effects on ML production studied.

RESULTS

Catalysts characterization demonstrated the high dispersion and Keggin structure of HPWFe in the framework of MMTSi. Effects of various reaction parameters and catalyst recycling on the reaction performance were studied to optimize fructose conversion. With 4‐HPWFe‐MMTSi as the catalyst, an optimized ML yield of around 74 mol% was obtained at 180°C for 1 h, and the recovered catalyst after calcination was found to retain high activity after being reused five times.

CONCLUSION

The prepared HPWFe‐MMTSi catalysts showed high porosity, perfect Brnsted‐Lewis acidity and high thermal stability, which made their catalytic activity for fructose conversion and catalyst reusability values higher than others reported in the literature. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Risk factors can classify individuals who develop accelerated knee osteoarthritis: Data from the osteoarthritis initiative
Authors: Driban Jeffrey B. , McAlindon Timothy E. , Amin Mamta , Price Lori L. , Eaton Charles B. , Davis Julie E. , Lu Bing , Lo Grace H. , Duryea Jeffrey , Barbe Mary F.
Published: August 2017

We assessed which combinations of risk factors can classify adults who develop accelerated knee osteoarthritis (KOA) or not and which factors are most important. We conducted a case‐control study using data from baseline and the first four annual visits of the Osteoarthritis Initiative. Participants had no radiographic KOA at baseline (Kellgren‐Lawrence [KL]<2). We classified three groups (matched on sex): (i) accelerated KOA: >1 knee developed advance‐stage KOA (KL = 3 or 4) within 48 months; (ii) typical KOA: >1 knee increased in radiographic scoring (excluding those with accelerated KOA); and (iii) No KOA: no change in KL grade by 48 months. We selected eight predictors: Serum concentrations for C‐reactive protein, glycated serum protein (GSP), and glucose; age; sex; body mass index; coronal tibial slope, and femorotibial alignment. We performed a classification and regression tree (CART) analysis to determine rules for classifying individuals as accelerated KOA or not (no KOA and typical KOA). The most important baseline variables for classifying individuals with incident accelerated KOA (in order of importance) were age, glucose concentrations, BMI, and static alignment. Individuals <63.5 years were likely not to develop accelerated KOA, except when overweight. Individuals >63.5 years were more likely to develop accelerated KOA except when their glucose levels were >81.98 mg/dl and they did not have varus malalignment. The unexplained variance of the CART = 69%. These analyses highlight the complex interactions among four risk factors that may classify individuals who will develop accelerated KOA but more research is needed to uncover novel risk factors. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:876–880, 2018.
Relating quality of life to outcomes and predictors in adult cochlear implant users: Are we measuring the right things?
Authors: Moberly Aaron C. , Harris Michael S. , Boyce Lauren , Vasil Kara , Wucinich Taylor , Pisoni David B. , Baxter Jodi , Ray Christin , Shafiro Valeriy
Published: August 2017

Objective

Current clinical outcome measures for adults receiving cochlear implants (CIs) consist of word and sentence recognition, primarily under quiet conditions. However, these measures may not adequately reflect patients' CI‐specific quality of life (QOL). This study first examined traditional auditory‐only speech recognition measures and other potentially relevant auditory measures as correlates of QOL in CI users. Second, scores on nonauditory tasks of language and cognition were examined as potential predictors of QOL.

Study Design

Twenty‐five postlingually deafened adults with CIs were assessed.

Methods

Participants completed a validated CI‐specific QOL measure (the Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire) and were tested for word and sentence recognition in quiet, as well as sentence recognition in speech‐shaped noise. Participants also completed assessments of audiovisual speech recognition, environmental sound identification, and a task of complex auditory verbal processing. Several nonauditory language and cognitive tasks were examined as potential predictors of QOL.

Results

Quality‐of‐life scores significantly correlated with scores for audiovisual speech recognition and recognition of complex sentences in quiet but not sentences in noise or isolated words. No significant correlations were obtained between QOL and environmental sound identification or complex auditory verbal processing. Quality‐of‐life subdomain scores were predicted by several nonauditory language and cognitive tasks as well as some patient characteristics.

Conclusion

Postoperative measures of recognition of sentences in quiet and audiovisual sentence recognition correlate with CI‐related QOL. Findings suggest that sentence recognition tasks are QOL‐relevant outcomes but only explain a small fraction of the variability in QOL outcomes for this patient population.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:959–966, 2018
Technical Note: Using experimentally determined proton spot scanning timing parameters to accurately model beam delivery time
Authors: Shen Jiajian , Tryggestad Erik , Younkin James E. , Keole Sameer R. , Furutani Keith M. , Kang Yixiu , Herman Michael G. , Bues Martin
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To accurately model the beam delivery time (BDT) for a synchrotron‐based proton spot scanning system using experimentally determined beam parameters.

Methods

A model to simulate the proton spot delivery sequences was constructed, and BDT was calculated by summing times for layer switch, spot switch, and spot delivery. Test plans were designed to isolate and quantify the relevant beam parameters in the operation cycle of the proton beam therapy delivery system. These parameters included the layer switch time, magnet preparation and verification time, average beam scanning speeds in x‐ and y‐directions, proton spill rate, and maximum charge and maximum extraction time for each spill. The experimentally determined parameters, as well as the nominal values initially provided by the vendor, served as inputs to the model to predict BDTs for 602 clinical proton beam deliveries. The calculated BDTs (TBDT) were compared with the BDTs recorded in the treatment delivery log files (TLog): ∆t = TLog−TBDT.

Results

The experimentally determined average layer switch time for all 97 energies was 1.91 s (ranging from 1.9 to 2.0 s for beam energies from 71.3 to 228.8 MeV), average magnet preparation and verification time was 1.93 ms, the average scanning speeds were 5.9 m/s in x‐direction and 19.3 m/s in y‐direction, the proton spill rate was 8.7 MU/s, and the maximum proton charge available for one acceleration is 2.0 ± 0.4 nC. Some of the measured parameters differed from the nominal values provided by the vendor. The calculated BDTs using experimentally determined parameters matched the recorded BDTs of 602 beam deliveries (∆t = −0.49 ± 1.44 s), which were significantly more accurate than BDTs calculated using nominal timing parameters (∆t = −7.48 ± 6.97 s).

Conclusions

An accurate model for BDT prediction was achieved by using the experimentally determined proton beam therapy delivery parameters, which may be useful in modeling the interplay effect and patient throughput. The model may provide guidance on how to effectively reduce BDT and may be used to identifying deteriorating machine performance.
Quantitative two‐dimensional ultrashort echo time magnetization transfer (2D UTE‐MT) imaging of cortical bone
Authors: Ma Ya‐Jun , Tadros Anthony , Du Jiang , Chang Eric Y.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To investigate quantitative 2D ultrashort echo time magnetization transfer (UTE‐MT) imaging in ex vivo bovine cortical bone and in vivo human tibial cortical bone.

Methods

Data were acquired from five fresh bovine cortical bone samples and five healthy volunteer tibial cortical bones using a 2D UTE‐MT sequence on a clinical 3T scanner. The 2D UTE‐MT sequence used four or five MT powers with five frequency offsets. Results were analyzed with a two‐pool quantitative MT model, providing measurements of macromolecular fraction (f), macromolecular proton transverse relaxation times (T2m), proton exchange rates from water/macromolecular to the macromolecular/water pool (RM0m/RM0w), and spin‐lattice relaxation rate of water pool (R1w). A sequential air‐drying study for a small bovine cortical bone chip was used to investigate whether above MT modeling parameters were sensitive to the water loss.

Results

Mean fresh bovine cortical bone values for f, T2m, R1w, RM0m, and RM0w were 59.9 ± 7.3%, 14.6 ± 0.3 μs, 9.9 ± 2.4 s−1, 17.9 ± 3.6 s−1, and 11.8 ± 2.0 s−1, respectively. Mean in vivo human cortical bone values for f, T2m, R1w, RM0m and RM0w were 54.5 ± 4.9%, 15.4 ± 0.6 μs, 8.9 ± 1.1 s−1, 11.5 ± 3.5 s−1, and 9.5 ± 1.9 s−1, respectively. The sequential air‐drying study shows that f, RM0m, and R1w were increased with longer drying time.

Conclusion

UTE‐MT two‐pool modeling provides novel and useful quantitative information for cortical bone. Magn Reson Med 79:1941–1949, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Synthesis of polyacrylamide/layered double hydroxides hybrid composite gel via in situ polymerization and study of its rheological and thermal behavior
Authors: Blaise Allou N'guadi , Saikia Pinky , Florentin Assanvo Edja , Lochan Goswamee Rajib
Published: August 2017

A hybrid nanocomposite gel of layered double hydroxides (LDHs)/acrylamide was prepared by polymerization of acrylamide in the presence of LDH via sonochemical shaking method. Acrylamide monomer is initially intercalated in the interlayer of LDH and polymerized within the layers to get the hybrid gel. The morphology and structure properties of the prepared sample were characterized by FT‐IR, XRD, FESEM, particle size, as well as its flow behavior and rheology studies. Thermal analysis was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis method. The thermal analysis was performed at four different heating rates. The successful preparation of the nanocomposite and the intercalation of polyacylamide into the interlayer space of the LDH was confirmed by FT‐IR and XRD analysis. The synthesized gel exhibited a non‐Newtonian flow motion with a pseudo‐plastic behavior. Herschel‐Bulkley model gave a good description on the rheological behavior of the hybrid gel. Four mass loss steps were observed and could be attributed to the removal of weakly absorbed water from the external surface of the hydrotalcite, the removal of interlayer water, the decomposition of interlayer anions and dehydroxylation and the destruction of the layers of LDH, respectively. The apparent activation energy of the decomposition has been calculated by using Kissinger, Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa (FWO) and modified Coats Redfern methods. The most probable mechanism function describing the nanocomposite degradation was found to be that of Jander equation:
. The results are of great interest in the understanding the thermodynamic properties of polyacrylamide/Mg‐Al layered double hydroxide hybrid nanocomposite gel and for its further applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1606–E1617, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Supercritical fluid technology parameters affecting size and behavior of stereocomplex polylactide particles and their composites
Authors: Im Seung Hyuk , Lee Cheol Woo , Bibi Gulnaz , Jung Youngmee , Kim Soo Hyun
Published: August 2017

Polylactide (PLA) is a eco‐friendly and biodegradable material that can be synthesized from renewable resources. PLA features poly(d‐lactic acid) (PDLA) and poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) enantiomers. Supercritical fluid (SCF) technology is a very promising method for the stereocomplexation between PDLA and PLLA enantiomers. This study acquires stereocomplex (sc‐)PLA particles with diverse sizes and behaviors by controlling the experimental conditions. Various parameters including polymer concentration, reaction temperature, stirring speed, pressure reducing speed, and final temperature were controlled to adjust size and behavior of sc‐PLA particles. Additionally, we analyzed the effect of subsequent processing following SCF (such as homogenization, mechanical stirring, and sonication) on the size and morphological behavior of sc‐PLA particles. Finally, the mechanical strengths of different PLA composites featuring different sc‐PLA filler sizes were determined. The mechanical strength of PLA composites was significantly improved when using smaller filler sizes. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1193–1200, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of recycled HDPE and nanoclay on stress cracking of HDPE by correlatingJcwith slow crack growth
Authors: Na Sukjoon , Nguyen Long , Spatari Sabrina , Hsuan Yick G.
Published: August 2017

The effects of recycled high density polyethylene (HDPE) and nanoclay on the stress crack resistance (SCR) of pristine HDPE were evaluated using the Notched Constant Ligament Stress (NCLS) test. The test data were analyzed by both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and elastic plastic fracture mechanics (EPFM). The LEFM approach uses the stress intensity factorKto define the two failure mechanisms: creep and slow crack growth (SCG). In contrast, using theJ‐integral in EPFM, which emphasizes the nonlinear elastic‐plastic strain field at the crack‐tip, revealed a short‐term failure stage prior to the creep failure. In this article, a power law correlation between the fracture toughnessJcand SCG was found under a plane‐strain condition. Increasing recycled HDPE content lowered the SCG resistance of pristine HDPE by decreasingJc. Adding nanoclay up to 6 wt% also decreasedJcwhile simultaneously, lowering the stress relaxation of nanocomposites, leading to longer SCG failure times at lowJvalues. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1471–1478, 2018. © Published [2017]. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
The effects of recycling on the structure and properties of carbon nanotube‐filled polycarbonate
Authors: Zhang Jinde , Panwar Artee , Bello Dhimiter , Isaacs Jacqueline A. , Jozokos Tim , Mead Joey
Published: August 2017

Sustainable manufacturing processes are becoming more important in industrial practice. A critical part of the manufacturing process is understanding the recycling behavior of nanocomposite materials, particularly as more recycled plastic nanocomposites are entering the market for a variety of different applications. A common method to recycle thermoplastic composites is by melting and remolding, which often leads to decreased mechanical properties. This work was conducted to investigate the effect of nanofillers on the recycling behavior and structure–property relationships of carbon nanotube (CNT)‐filled polycarbonate (PC). Materials were recycled by repeated injection molding and granulating up to twenty cycles. The effect of recycling on chemical, rheological, and mechanical properties was investigated. The results indicated a general decrease in melt viscosity and mechanical properties (with the exception of Young's Modulus). The CNT‐filled PC shows less resistance to recycling compared to neat PC. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1278–1284, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
HPSLPred: An Ensemble Multi‐Label Classifier for Human Protein Subcellular Location Prediction with Imbalanced Source
Authors: Wan Shixiang , Duan Yucong , Zou Quan
Published: August 2017

Predicting the subcellular localization of proteins is an important and challenging problem. Traditional experimental approaches are often expensive and time‐consuming. Consequently, a growing number of research efforts employ a series of machine learning approaches to predict the subcellular location of proteins. There are two main challenges among the state‐of‐the‐art prediction methods. First, most of the existing techniques are designed to deal with multi‐class rather than multi‐label classification, which ignores connections between multiple labels. In reality, multiple locations of particular proteins imply that there are vital and unique biological significances that deserve special focus and cannot be ignored. Second, techniques for handling imbalanced data in multi‐label classification problems are necessary, but never employed. For solving these two issues, we have developed an ensemble multi‐label classifier called HPSLPred, which can be applied for multi‐label classification with an imbalanced protein source. For convenience, a user‐friendly webserver has been established at http://server.malab.cn/HPSLPred.
Substitution‐induced near phase transition with Maxwell–Wagner polarization in SrBi2(Nb1−xAx)2O9 ceramics [A = W, Mo and x = 0, 0.025]
Authors: Banerjee Prasun , Franco Jr Adolfo
Published: August 2017

The synthesis, micro‐structure, spectroscopic, and dielectric properties of [with AW, Mo and , 0.025] ceramics were systematically studied. A relative density of 98% was obtained for all the samples using a two‐step solid state sintering process. XRD images showed that a single phase layered perovskite structure of (SBN) was formed. The orthorhombic structure with phase group was found up to ∼2.5 at.% substitution of W and Mo into the SBN matrix. SEM revealed the rod‐like grain structure similar to the Maxwell–Wagner (MW) parallel plate capacitor model in SBN ceramic, whereas smaller heterogeneous grain structure was observed in W and Mo donor doped ceramics. The initial high value of real and imaginary part of relative permittivity also indicated the presence of interfacial MW relaxation in the SBN ceramics. The experimental data fit well to the theoretical data obtained from MW polarization model in SBN ceramics. The possible origin of the difference of the properties present in the doped sample has been explained based on grain size, orientation, and modification done in the ceramic matrices.
A frontier in the use of camera traps: surveying terrestrial squamate assemblages
Authors: Welbourne Dustin J. , Paull David J. , Claridge Andrew W. , Ford Frederic
Published: August 2017

There is an urgent need to improve methods for surveying snakes and lizards (squamates). Currently, fundamental data gaps exist about squamate distributions and abundance in numerous regions. Traditional squamate survey methods are useful, but they are also resource and labour intensive. In recent decades, camera traps have provided researchers an effective, cost‐efficient and minimally invasive survey tool; albeit primarily for birds, mammals and fish. The use of camera traps for reptiles generally, and squamates specifically, has been limited. Yet, recent developments in camera trapping methodology demonstrate how they could be used to survey a squamate assemblage. Although further research is required, these developments are encouraging. Thus, surveying squamates with camera traps is a primary frontier in camera trapping.
Fabrication of Chitosan‐Reinforced ZrxAl1‐xOOH Nanocomposites and Their Arsenite and Fluoride Depollution Densities from Single/Binary Systems
Authors: Prabhu Subbaiah Muthu , Sasaki Keiko
Published: August 2017

The unique and versatile adsorbents zirconium oxyhydroxide (ZrOOH), aluminum oxyhydroxide (AlOOH), zirconium‐aluminum oxyhydroxide (ZrxAl1‐xOOH) and chitosan‐supported zirconium‐aluminum oxyhydroxide (CS@ZrxAl1‐xOOH) were synthesized via a simple co‐precipitation method. CS was used as a pillar‐like support to reinforce the ZrxAl1‐xOOH, the resulting material was capable of simultaneously adsorbing both F− and AsO33− because the functional groups of CS facilitated the formation of both ZrOOH and AlOOH nanoparticles. Interestingly, ZrxAl1‐xOOH and CS@ ZrxAl1‐xOOH had better F− adsorption capacities at pH<7, whereas better AsO33− removal was observed at pH>9. The Langmuir maximum adsorption capacity of CS@ZrxAl1‐xOOH was 0.655 and 0.983 mmol g−1 for AsO33− and F−, respectively and the performance was superior to that of previously reported metallic oxide and chitosan‐based sorbents. In addition, the presence of coexisting anions revealed that the CS@ZrxAl1‐xOOH material selectively removed AsO33− over F− in a binary batch system. The adsorption kinetics of the adsorbents were well fit to the pseudo‐second‐order model. Due to the simultaneous and quick uptake capacity and cost‐effectiveness, CS@ZrxAl1‐xOOH nanocomposite have potential application in environmental cleanup.
Efficient Degradation of Endocrine Disruptors Using 1D and 3D Copper (I) Oxide Nanostructures
Authors: Mukherjee Indrani , Mishrra Anushka , Saha Rajnarayan , Chatterjee Sriparna
Published: August 2017

The visible light photocatalytic degradation of a synthetic oral contraceptive, 17α‐ ethinylestradiol (EE2) and a natural estrogen, estrone (E1) by Cu2O nanostructures has been investigated. For this purpose, Cu2O nanocrystals with varied morphologies (nano‐ cubes, nano‐ octahedra and nano‐ rods) have been synthesized via different synthetic routes. The morphological evolution from nano‐ cubes to nano‐ octahedra with simple alteration of the stabilizing agent (PVP) has been shown. To account for the pH effect on the degradation rates, the photocatalytic experiments have been conducted in three different pH values (7, 8 and 10). Photocatalytic studies prove that the Cu2O nanostructures work best at pH 7 with decrease in efficiency at higher pH. Cu2O nano‐ rods has emerged as the best visible light photocatalyst at pH 7 (95 % degradation within 45 minutes of irradiation) reported till date for the degradation of estrogens EE2 and E1.
Synthesis of N,N‐Bis‐Sulfonylated and N‐Alkyl‐N‐Sulfonylated G1 Dendrimers via Click Reaction: Application of Thiocarbamide based CuI Catalysts
Authors: Khanam Shaziya , Pandey Sunil K. , Rai Sunil K. , Verma Deepshikha , Jasinski Jerry P. , Pratap Seema , Tewari Ashish K.
Published: August 2017

This manuscript deals with the design of thiocarbamide based CuI catalysts C1, C2 and C3 and their application in synthesis of 1,2,3‐triazole based N,N‐bis‐sulfonylated and N‐alkyl‐N‐sulfonylated G1 dendrimers. Since thermal stability of N−S bonds of persulfone moiety is poor, therefore, CuAAC reactions were performed at ambient conditions using catalysts C1, C2 and C3, and solvents water/t‐BuOH, DCM, DMSO. It was observed that product yield was satisfactory in DCM however it was very poor in DMSO. However, liquid assisted grinding (LAG) approach improved the yield from good to excellent and lowers the reaction time. Among all the three catalysts, C3 showed the better catalytic activity under LAG approach.
Sabotaging Another: Priming Competition Increases Cheating Behavior in Tournaments
Authors: Rigdon Mary L. , D'Esterre Alexander
Published: August 2017

Trophy. Goal. Dominated. Does priming individuals with competitive concepts such as these influence the temptation to cheat? We utilize a standard laboratory cheating task in a tournament setting and test whether nonconscious priming impacts the nature of cheating behavior. The results demonstrate an asymmetry in a winner‐take‐all setting: a competitive prime does not increase cheating to improve one's own outcome, but does significantly increase the willingness of an individual to sabotage a competitor.
Development of Severe Hyperparathyroidism Despite Short‐Term Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Okada Manabu , Tominaga Yoshihiro , Hiramitsu Takahisa , Ichimori Toshihiro
Published: August 2017

Background

We occasionally experience cases of severe secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) that require parathyroidectomy (PTX) despite undergoing short‐term renal replacement therapy (RRT). Because the characteristics of such cases have never been discussed, we aimed to elucidate the pathophysiology of severe SHPT after short‐term RRT by retrospectively analyzing clinical data.

Methods

A total of 1013 patients with severe SHPT underwent PTX between January 2007 and April 2016 at Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital. Of these patients, 570 underwent RRT for ≥10 years (long RRT group) and 23 for ≤1 year (short RRT group). We retrospectively investigated and compared patient characteristics, preoperative data, subjective symptoms, and bone lesion incidence between the two groups.

Results

A higher proportion of subjects with congenital or hereditary diseases as primary disease for chronic kidney disease (CKD) (21.7% (5/23) vs. 6.3% (36/570); P = 0.016) and longer predialysis period (21.2 ± 14.0 vs. 10.1 ± 9.2 years; P < 0.001) were observed in the short RRT group than in the long RRT group. Furthermore, lower serum calcium and phosphate levels, heavier parathyroid glands, and severe bone lesions were observed in the short RRT group than in the long RRT group.

Conclusion

Severe SHPT after short‐term RRT appeared to occur because of long‐term CKD before initiating RRT. Therefore, treating mineral and bone disorders during the early CKD stage might prevent severe SHPT development before initiating RRT.
Synthesis, Surface Activity and Aggregation Properties of Glucosamide‐Based Polysiloxanes
Authors: Ma Shuaishuai , Han Fu , Zhou Yawen , Xu Baocai
Published: August 2017

Three glucosamide‐based polysiloxanes (GAPS) surfactants were prepared by amidation of gluconolactone with amino functional polysiloxanes synthesized by polymerization. GAPS were characterized by FT‐IR,1H NMR and13C NMR. Surface activity and aggregation behavior in aqueous solution were studied by surface tension measurements, dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. GAPS can reduce the surface tension of water to 24 mN m−1at concentration levels of 10−4g mL−1and self‐assemble in water at room temperature to form spherical micelles with average diameters ranging from 30 to 1000 nm. The micelle diameter increases with increasing degree of polymerization.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and physical multimorbidity: A population-based study
Authors: Stickley A. , Koyanagi A. , Takahashi H. , Ruchkin V. , Inoue Y. , Kamio Y.
Published: August 2017

Background:

There has been little research on the association of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with co-occurring physical diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the association between possible ADHD and physical multimorbidity (i.e. = 2 physical diseases) among adults in the English general population.

Methods:

Data were analyzed from 7274 individuals aged = 18 years that came from the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2007. ADHD symptoms were assessed with the Adult Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Screener. Information was also obtained on 20 self-reported doctor/other health professional diagnosed physical health conditions present in the past 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression and mediation analyses were conducted to assess the associations.

Results:

There was a monotonic relation between the number of physical diseases and possible ADHD (ASRS score = 14). Compared to those with no diseases, individuals with = 5 diseases had over 3 times higher odds for possible ADHD (odds ratio [OR]: 3.30, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.48–4.37). This association was observed in all age groups. Stressful life events (% mediated 10.3–24.3%), disordered eating (6.8%), depression (12.8%), and anxiety (24.8%) were significant mediators in the association between possible ADHD and physical multimorbidity.

Conclusion:

Adults that screen positive for ADHD are at an increased risk for multimorbidity and several factors are important in this association. As many adults with ADHD remain undiagnosed, the results of this study highlight the importance of detecting adult ADHD as it may confer an increased risk for poorer health outcomes, including physical multimorbidity.
Incidence of chronic pain after single stitch mesh fixation in open inguinal hernia repair: An observational prospective study, a case series
Authors: Kapur Neeti , Kumar Naveen
Published: August 2017

Abstract

Background

Chronic pain, after Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repair, remains a frequent complication. Various causes for post operative pain from Liechtenstein inguinal repair have been suggested, one of them being the use of sutures for fixing the mesh to the inguinal ligament. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the incidence of chronic pain and recurrence rate, using a single stitch mesh fixation in open inguinal hernia repair.

Methods

625 male patients between 18 and 60 years operated for open inguinal hernia repair. The incidence of pain at one week, one month, three months and one year were recorded. The effect of physical activity and recurrence rates were also recorded. A 3-0,polypropylene suture was used to secure the lower medial corner of the mesh to the soft tissue overlying the pubic tubercle.

Results

Majority of the patients fall between the age group of 40 and 60 (80%) years and all are male patients. Of the total cases, 313 were right sided, 200 were left sided, and 112 were bilateral. 82 patients required further analgesics for one more week, 10 patients required analgesics for another two weeks while only one patient had analgesics for one more post-operative month. All patients were performing all their activities after 15 days. There was one recurrence at the end of three months.

Conclusions

Single stitch mesh fixation over pubic tubercle in open inguinal hernia repair causes minimum postoperative chronic pain with 0.2% recurrence.

Highlights
The Politics of Nationalism and Status in Puerto Rico
Authors: Lecours André , Vézina Valérie
Published: August 2017

Over the last several decades, nationalist movements in liberal democracies have challenged their community's relationship with the state. One such case that has drawn relatively little attention is Puerto Rico. A peculiar feature of Puerto Rican politics is that powerful nationalism coexists with several distinct status options: a reform of the current Commonwealth, statehood (becoming an American state), free association and independence. This article examines the various sources for Puerto Rican nationalism and discusses the relationship between nationalism and each of the status options. It also explains why none of the options has succeeded in gathering majority support amongst Puerto Ricans and why, therefore, the constitutional status quo has so far remained on the island.
The Ecology of Chinese Academia: A Third-Eye Perspective
Authors: Tenzin Jinba
Published: August 2017

While Chinese academic excellence is gaining increasing international recognition, plagiarism, corruption, nepotism and other negative practices are reportedly rampant in academia in China. Many point the finger at fundamental flaws within thetizhi, the highly structured Chinese socio-political system. I propose re-examining Chinese academia and its practices by applying and expanding Pierre Bourdieu's notion offieldas this framework helps to identify the predicament of the “deep water” in which Chinese scholars and institutes find themselves. The four fields I outline – ideological, quasi-official, fame–profit andguanxifields – spotlight academic practices with “Chinese characteristics.” I elaborate on my own experiences and reflections as both an insider and outsider to these practices, a position which I refer to as a third-eye perspective. I argue that despite the constraints of the “deep water,” the field-oriented angle of investigation reveals that the depths and types of “deep water” vary from one institute to another and also that the internally generated ongoing initiatives promise a step-by-step transformation in Chinese academia. To provoke further thought, I contend that the Chinese case is both a non-exception and alternative to the Western (and other) practices. In so doing, I call for a balanced perspective to re-examine Chinese academic ecology.
Maternal employment and childhood overweight in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Oddo Vanessa M , Mueller Noel T , Pollack Keshia M , Surkan Pamela J , Bleich Sara N , Jones-Smith Jessica C
Published: August 2017

Objective

To investigate the association between maternal employment and childhood overweight in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

Design/Setting

We utilized cross-sectional data from forty-five Demographic and Health Surveys from 2010 to 2016 (n268 763). Mothers were categorized as formally employed, informally employed or non-employed. We used country-specific logistic regression models to investigate the association between maternal employment and childhood overweight (BMIZ-score>2) and assessed heterogeneity in the association by maternal education with the inclusion of an interaction term. We used meta-analysis to pool the associations across countries. Sensitivity analyses included modelling BMIZ-score and normal weight (weight-for-ageZ-score≥−2 to <2) as outcomes.

Subjects

Participants included children 0–5 years old and their mothers (aged 18–49 years).

Results

In most countries, neither formal nor informal employment was associated with childhood overweight. However, children of employed mothers, compared with children of non-employed mothers, had higher BMIZ-score and higher odds of normal weight. In countries where the association varied by education, children of formally employed women with high education, compared with children of non-employed women with high education, had higher odds of overweight (pooled OR=1·2; 95 % CI 1·0, 1·4).

Conclusions

We find no clear association between employment and child overweight. However, maternal employment is associated with a modestly higher BMIZ-score and normal weight, suggesting that employment is currently associated with beneficial effects on children’s weight status in most LMIC.
Update – Therapie Hepatitis B und D
Authors: Bachofner Jacqueline A. , Müllhaupt Beat
Published: August 2017

Zusammenfassung. Weltweit leiden 240 Millionen Menschen an einer chronischen Hepatitis-B-Infektion, und jährlich sterben Hunderttausende an den Folgen dieser Krankheit. Die Hauptübertragungswege sind ungeschützter Geschlechtsverkehr und Nadeltausch sowie die perinatale, vertikale Übertragung von der Mutter aufs Neugeborene. Die Diagnose einer Hepatitis B wird allein durch serologische Bestimmung von Antigenen und Antikörpern gestellt. Für eine HB-Screening-Untersuchung reicht die Bestimmung des HBsAg sowie der HBs- und HBc-Antikörper. Vor allem im Kindesalter erworbene Hepatitis-B-Infektionen chronifizieren sehr häufig (> 90 %). Von einer chronischen Hepatitis B spricht man bei HBsAg-Persistenz von über sechs Monaten. Die chronische Hepatitis B verläuft in verschiedenen Stadien („natural history“). Die erste Phase nach der Ansteckung ist die sogenannte Immuntoleranzphase, gefolgt von der immunreaktiven Phase. Die beste Prognose haben Patienten, welche in der inaktiven Phase der chronischen Hepatitis B sind (früher: „inaktive Carrier“). Nach HBeAg-Serokonversion kann es zu einem Wiederanstieg der Transaminasen und der Viruslast kommen Diese Phase wird als HBeAg negative chronische Hepatitis B bezeichnet. Verlieren die Patienten das HBsAg, spricht man von einer okkulten Infektion. Heute existieren zwei Therapiestrategien: 48-wöchige Therapie mit subkutan appliziertem PEG-Interferon und eine perorale Langzeit-Therapie mit Nukleosid / Nukleotid-Analoga. Eine besondere Patientengruppe stellen unter anderem Schwangere und Patientinnen im gebärfähigen Alter dar, bei welchen vor allem die Übertragung aufs Neugeborene verhindert werden soll. Patienten mit chronischer oder durchgemachter Hepatitis B, welche eine immunsuppressive Therapie erhalten, sind dem Risiko einer Hepatitis B Exazerbation / Reaktivierung ausgesetzt, und in dieser Situation sollte immer eine antivirale Therapie evaluiert werden. Das Hepatitis-D-Virus tritt immer gemeinsam mit einer Hepatitis-B-Infektion auf. Die einzig mässig effektive Therapie der Hepatitis D ist eine 12-monatige PEG-Interferontherapie. Die effektivste Prophylaxe gegen Hepatitis B und D besteht in der aktiven Immunisierung mittels eines Totimpfstoffs.