bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulfhydryl‐Based Inhibition of δ‐ALA‐D and Na+, K+‐ATPase Activities Depends on the Organoselenium Group Bonded to the Isoquinoline
Authors: Sampaio Tuane Bazanella , da Rocha Juliana Trevisan , Quines Caroline Brandão , Stein André Luiz Agnes , Zeni Gilson , Nogueira Cristina Wayne
Published: September 2016

Organoselenium compounds and isoquinoline derivatives have their toxicity linked to induction of pro‐oxidant situations. δ‐Aminolevulinate dehydratase (δ‐ALA‐D) and Na+, K+‐ATPase have sulfhydryl groups susceptible to oxidation. Thus, we investigated toxicological effects of 4‐organoseleno‐isoquinoline derivatives, cerebral monoamine oxidase B inhibitors, on rat cerebral δ‐ALA‐D and Na+, K+‐ATPase activities and the involvement of sulfhydryl groups in vitro. Compounds substituted with fluoro (4‐(4‐fluorophenylseleno)‐3‐phenylisoquinoline), chloro (4‐(4‐chlorophenylseleno)‐3‐phenylisoquinoline) and trifluoro (4‐(3‐trifluoromethylphenylseleno)‐3‐phenylisoquinoline) at the selenium‐bonded aromatic ring inhibited δ‐ALA‐D (IC50 values: 78.42, 92.27, 44.98 µM) and Na+, K+‐ATPase (IC50 values: 41.36, 89.43, 50.66 µM) activities, possibly due to electronic effects induced by these groups. 3‐Phenyl‐4‐(phenylseleno) isoquinoline (without substitution at the selenium‐bonded aromatic ring) and 4‐(4‐methylphenylseleno)‐3‐phenylisoquinoline (with a methyl group substituted at the selenium‐bonded aromatic ring) did not alter the activity of these enzymes. Dithiothreitol, a reducing agent, restored the enzymatic activities inhibited by 4‐(4‐fluorophenylseleno)‐3‐phenylisoquinoline, 4‐(4‐chlorophenylseleno)‐3‐phenylisoquinoline and 4‐(3‐trifluoromethylphenylseleno)‐3‐phenylisoquinoline, suggesting the involvement of sulfhydryl residues in this effect. However, the release of essential zinc seems not to be related to the δ‐ALA‐D inhibition by these compounds. According to these data, the effect of oral administration (300 mg/kg, intragastric) of 3‐phenyl‐4‐(phenylseleno) isoquinoline on markers of systemic toxicity in Wistar rats was evaluated. None signs of toxicity was observed during or after treatment. This study suggests that the insertion of electron‐withdrawing groups in the aromatic ring bonded to the selenium atom of isoquinolines tested increased its inhibitory effect on sulfhydryl enzymes in vitro. 3‐Phenyl‐4‐(phenylseleno) isoquinoline, which has documented pharmacological properties, had no toxicological effects on the parameters evaluated in this study. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1144–1150, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
5‐HT3Receptor Antagonists for the Prevention of Perioperative Shivering: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wang Wen , Song Xiaojing , Wang Tong , Zhang Chaobin , Sun Li
Published: September 2016

The aim of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate the preventive efficacy and safety of 5‐HT3receptor antagonists (5‐HT3RAs) on perioperative shivering. Relevant databases were searched to identify eligible randomized, controlled trials through January 2016. Primary outcome was the incidence of perioperative shivering, and secondary outcomes were the incidence of safety‐related outcomes including postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), bradycardia, and hypotension. We calculated risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous data. Trial sequential analysis was performed to assess the risk of random errors and calculate the required information size. Sixteen studies with a total of 1126 patients were included in the meta‐analysis. Compared with the control group, 5‐HT3RAs administered intravenously could statistically significantly reduce the incidence of perioperative shivering (RR, 0.44; 95%CI, 0.35 to 0.56;P< .00001; heterogeneity:I2= 30%) as well as PONV (RR, 0.52; 95%CI, 0.28 to 0.97;P= .04; heterogeneity:I2= 0%). However, they did not show superiority in lowering the rate of bradycardia (RR, 0.75; 95%CI, 0.38 to 1.49;P= 0.42; heterogeneity:I2= 0%) or hypotension (RR, 0.79; 95%CI, 0.44 to 1.43;P= .44; heterogeneity:I2= 24%). Trial sequential analysis of primary outcome showed that the required information size was 2634 patients and that the trial sequential monitoring boundary was crossed. Thus, more high‐quality randomized, controlled trials with larger sample sizes are still required to draw a definite conclusion about the preventive efficacy of 5‐HT3RAs on perioperative shivering prevention in the future.
Preoperative direct bilirubin to prothrombin time ratio index to prevent liver failure after minor hepatectomy
Authors: Furuyama Takaki , Kudo Atsushi , Matsumura Satoshi , Mitsunori Yusuke , Aihara Arihiro , Ban Daisuke , Ochiai Takanori , Tanaka Shinji , Tanabe Minoru
Published: September 2016

Background

The most reliable index to predict the safety of hepatectomy for patients with poor liver function remains unknown. We aimed to construct a novel preoperative index to predict early liver failure (ELF) and mortality due to recurrence‐free liver failure (MLF) after hepatectomy.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2012, 385 consecutive patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing curative minor hepatectomy were divided into two sequential cohorts: training set (n = 143) and validation set (n = 242), and observed until 2015.

Results

Prothrombin time and direct bilirubin were independent predictors of both ELF and MLF in the training set. Thus we devised a novel index, the direct bilirubin to prothrombin time ratio index (DBPTRI). The areas under ROC curves of DBPTRI for predicting ELF and MLF were 0.78 and 0.93, respectively, in the validation set. Using a preoperative DBPTRI cut off of 4.2, we accurately predicted ELF and MLF in 86.8% and 88.4% of patients, respectively. DBPTRI was the best predictor of ELF and MLF when compared with conventional indices such as ICG‐R15 and Child–Pugh score. Moreover, the 5‐year overall survival rates of the patients with low and high DBPTRI were 59% and 36%, respectively (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

DBPTRI may serve as a simple, non‐invasive index for estimating liver failure after hepatectomy.
Quantitative transfer of polar analytes on a solid surface to a liquid matrix in MALDI profiling
Authors: Park Kyung Man , Moon Jeong Hee , Lee Seong Hoon , Kim Myung Soo
Published: September 2016

In profiling of a specimen by matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) using a solid matrix, the solvent of the matrix solution extracts an analyte(s). A quantitative profiling cannot be achieved if the solvent evaporates before the complete extraction of the analyte. The extraction can become more quantitative when a liquid matrix dissolved in a solvent is used, which remains a liquid even after the evaporation of the solvent. To check this, radii of an analyte circle (rA), a matrix solution drop (rD) and a liquid matrix (rM) remaining after the solvent evaporation were controlled. Three types of samples were prepared, case A (rA, rD < rM), case B (rD ≤ rM < rA) and case C (rM < rD < rA). In case A, the analyte amount in the matrix layer determined by MALDI was the same as the prepared amount inside the analyte circle. In case B, the analyte amount was the same as the amount inside the matrix circle. Only the analytes in contact with the liquid matrix layer, not more and not less, are transferred to the matrix layer. In case C, the analyte amount was greater than the amount inside the matrix circle, presumably because some of the analyte outside the matrix circle was dissolved by the solvent of the matrix solution. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical characteristics and viral load of respiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus in children hospitaled for acute lower respiratory tract infection
Authors: Yan Xiao‐li , Li Yu‐ning , Tang Yi‐jie , Xie Zhi‐ping , Gao Han‐chun , Yang Xue‐mei , Li Yu‐mei , Liu Li‐jun , Duan Zhao‐jun
Published: September 2016

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (HMPV) are two common viral pathogens in acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRTI). However, the association of viral load with clinical characteristics is not well‐defined in ALRTI. To explore the correlation between viral load and clinical characteristics of RSV and HMPV in children hospitalized for ALRTI in Lanzhou, China. Three hundred and eighty‐seven children hospitalized for ALRTI were enrolled. Nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPAs) were sampled from each children. Real‐time PCR was used to screen RSV, HMPV, and twelve additional respiratory viruses. Bronchiolitis was the leading diagnoses both in RSV and HMPV positive patients. A significantly greater frequency of wheezing (52% vs. 33.52%, P = 0.000) was noted in RSV positive and negative patients. The RSV viral load was significant higher in children aged <1 year (P = 0.003), children without fever and wheezing (P = 0.015 and P = 0.000), days of illness <14 days (P = 0.002), children with bronchiolitis (P = 0.012) and children with RSV single infections (P = 0.000). No difference was found in the clinical features of HMPV positive and negative patients. The HMPV viral load had no correlation with any clinical characteristics. The incidences of severe disease were similar between single infection and coinfection for the two viruses (RSV, P = 0.221; HMPV, P = 0.764) and there has no statistical significance between severity and viral load (P = 0.166 and P = 0.721). Bronchiolitis is the most common disease caused by RSV and HMPV. High viral load or co‐infection may be associated with some symptoms but neither has a significant impact on disease severity for the two viruses. J. Med. Virol. 89:589–597, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glutamate oxidation in astrocytes: Roles of glutamate dehydrogenase and aminotransferases
Authors: McKenna Mary C. , Stridh Malin H. , McNair Laura F. , Sonnewald Ursula , Waagepetersen Helle S. , Schousboe Arne
Published: September 2016

The cellular distribution of transporters and enzymes related to glutamate metabolism led to the concept of the glutamate–glutamine cycle. Glutamate is released as a neurotransmitter and taken up primarily by astrocytes ensheathing the synapses. The glutamate carbon skeleton is transferred back to the presynaptic neurons as the nonexcitatory amino acid glutamine. The cycle was initially thought to function with a 1:1 ratio between glutamate released and glutamine taken up by neurons. However, studies of glutamate metabolism in astrocytes have shown that a considerable proportion of glutamate undergoes oxidative degradation; thus, quantitative formation of glutamine from the glutamate taken up is not possible. Oxidation of glutamate is initiated by transamination catalyzed by an aminotransferase, or oxidative deamination catalyzed by glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). We discuss methods available to elucidate the enzymes that mediate this conversion. Methods include pharmacological tools such as the transaminase inhibitor aminooxyacetic acid, studies using GDH knockout mice, and siRNA‐mediated knockdown of GDH in astrocytes. Studies in brain slices incubated with [15N]glutamate demonstrated activity of GDH in astrocytes in situ. These results, in conjunction with reports in the literature, support the conclusion that GDH is active in astrocytes both in culture and in vivo and that this enzyme plays a significant role in glutamate oxidation. Oxidative metabolism of glutamate, primarily mediated by GDH, but also by transamination by aspartate aminotransferase, provides considerably more energy than is required to maintain the activity of the high‐affinity glutamate transporters needed for efficient removal of glutamate from the synaptic cleft. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reduction of CD200 expression in glioma cells enhances microglia activation and tumor growth
Authors: Wang Chih‐Yen , Hsieh Yun‐Ti , Fang Kuan‐Min , Yang Chung‐Shi , Tzeng Shun‐Fen
Published: September 2016

CD200, a type I transmembrane glycoprotein, can interact with its receptor CD200R, which plays an inhibitory role in the activation of microglia—the resident macrophages of the central nervous system. In this study, the rat C6 glioma cell line (C6‐1) that was previously characterized with high in vivo tumorigenicity was found to generate CD200 mRNA abundantly. However, CD200 expression was barely detected in another C6 glioma cell clone (C6‐2) that was previously found to display low tumorigenic behavior. The results from CD200 immunohistochemistry on human glioma tissue array also showed that tumor cells in Grade I–II astrocytoma expressed a lower level of CD200 immunoreactivity than those detected in Grade III–IV glioblastoma multiforme. C6‐1 transfectants with stable downregulation of CD200 gene expression using lentivirus knockdown approach were generated (C6‐KD). Microglia and iNOS+ cells were increased when microglia were co‐cultured with C6‐KD cells. The colony formation of C6‐KD was also augmented when those cells were co‐cultured with microglia. Yet, increased colony formation of C6‐KD transfectants in the co‐culture with microglia was effectively suppressed by interleukin (IL)‐4 and IL‐10. The in vivo results indicated that the tumor formation of C6‐1 cells in rat brain was promoted after CD200 gene knockdown. Moreover, CD11b+ activated microglia and iNOS+ microglia were highly accumulated in the tumor site formed by C6‐KD. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that the downregulation of CD200 expression in CD200‐rich glioma cells could foster the formation of an activated microglia–associated tumor microenvironment, leading to glioma progression. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Significance of composition and particle size on the shear flow properties of wheat flour
Authors: Siliveru Kaliramesh , Ambrose RP Kingsly , Vadlani Praveen V
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Size‐based fractionation of flour particles is an important process in wheat milling. Inter‐particle cohesion could affect the dynamic separation process and result in loss in throughput. This study quantifies the effect of particle properties that includes physical and chemical characteristics on the shear flow behavior of wheat flour.

RESULTS

The cohesion and flow function values of wheat flour at three moisture contents (10%, 12%, and 14%), three particle sizes (75–106, 45–75, and <45 µm) and three sifter loads (0.5, 1.0, and 1.0 kPa) were significantly different (P < 0.05). The triggering moisture content and particle size where the flowability shifts from ‘easy flowing’ to ‘very cohesive’ were found to be 12% (wet basis) and 45 µm, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The high correlation observed between the chemical composition (damaged starch, protein, and fat) on the physical (bulk and tapped densities) and flow properties (cohesion, flow function, and angle of internal friction) demonstrates that chemical composition significantly contributes towards the differences in dynamic flowability of wheat flours. In addition, fat composition had a significant effect on the differences in flowability of wheat flours due to the increased inter‐particulate cohesion. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Global sharp interface limit of the Hele–Shaw–Cahn–Hilliard system
Authors: Fei Mingwen
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we focus on a diffuse interface model named by Hele–Shaw–Cahn–Hilliard system, which describes a two‐phase Hele–Shaw flow with matched densities and arbitrary viscosity contrast in a bounded domain. The diffuse interface thickness is measured by ϵ, and the mobility coefficient (the diffusional Peclet number) is ϵα. We will prove rigorously that the global weak solutions of the Hele–Shaw–Cahn–Hilliard system converge to a varifold solution of the sharp interface model as ϵ→0 in the case of 0≤α < 1. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Positive solutions to semilinear elliptic equations involving a weighted fractional Lapalacian
Authors: Tang De
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we consider a uniform elliptic nonlocal operator

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4184:mma4184-math-0004
which is a weighted form of fractional Laplacian. We firstly establish three maximum principles for antisymmetric functions with respect to the nonlocal operator. Then, we obtain symmetry, monotonicity, and nonexistence of solutions to some semilinear equations involving the operator
on bounded domain,
and
, by applying direct moving plane methods. Finally, we show the relations between the classical operator  − Δ and the nonlocal operator in () as α→2. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulation, phantom validation, and clinical evaluation of fast pH‐weighted molecular imaging using amine chemical exchange saturation transfer echo planar imaging (CEST‐EPI) in glioma at 3 T
Authors: Harris Robert J. , Cloughesy Timothy F. , Liau Linda M. , Nghiemphu Phioanh L. , Lai Albert , Pope Whitney B. , Ellingson Benjamin M.
Published: September 2016

Acidity within the extracellular milieu is a hallmark of cancer. There is a current need for fast, high spatial resolution pH imaging techniques for clinical evaluation of cancers, including gliomas. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI targeting fast‐exchanging amine protons can be used to obtain high‐resolution pH‐weighted images, but conventional CEST acquisition strategies are slow. There is also a need for more accurate MR simulations to better understand the effects of amine CEST pulse sequence parameters on pH‐weighted image contrast. In the current study we present a simulation of amine CEST contrast specific for a newly developed CEST echoplanar imaging (EPI) pulse sequence. The accuracy of the simulations was validated by comparing the exchange rates and Z‐spectrum under a variety of conditions using physical phantoms of glutamine with different pH values. The effects of saturation pulse shapes, pulse durations, pulse train lengths, repetition times, and relaxation rates of bulk water and exchangeable amine protons on the CEST signal were explored for normal‐appearing white matter (NAWM), glioma, and cerebrospinal fluid. Last, 18 patients with WHO II‐IV gliomas were evaluated. Results showed that the Z‐spectrum was highly dependent on saturation pulse shape, repetition time, saturation amplitude, magnetic field strength, and T2 within bulk water; however, the Z‐spectrum was only minimally influenced by saturation pulse duration and the specific relaxation rates of amine protons. Results suggest that a Gaussian saturation pulse train consisting of 3 × 100 ms pulses using the minimum allowable repetition time is optimal for achieving over 90% available contrast across all tissues. Results also demonstrate that high saturation pulse amplitude and scanner field strength (>3 T) are necessary for adequate endogenous pH‐weighted amine CEST contrast. pH‐weighted amine CEST contrast increased with increasing tumor grade, with glioblastoma showing significantly higher contrast compared with WHO II or III gliomas.
Research on mechanical and dielectric properties of XLPE cable under accelerated electrical‐thermal aging
Authors: He Dongxin , Gu Jiefeng , Wang Wei , Liu Shiyuan , Song Shu , Yi Denghui
Published: September 2016

Research into the electrical‐thermal aging properties of cross‐linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable has great significance, because of its wide application. This study conducted accelerated electrical‐thermal aging tests on 10‐kV XLPE cable in order to assess the cable's mechanical and dielectric properties. After being aged by applying 34.8‐kV AC voltage at the four temperatures of 90, 103, 114, and 135°C, the cable samples were taken out in five stages according to the aging time and cut into slices. The slices were conducted experiments to test the breaking elongation, tensile strength, gel content, breakdown voltage, and frequency spectrums of the dielectric constant and dielectric loss. The results demonstrate that the mechanical strength and gel content of XLPE vary greatly under different aging temperatures, a finding that is associated with the crystallization characteristics of the material. The breakdown voltage shows a slight decreasing trend with aging time. The dielectric constant decreases with aging time in high‐frequency areas (103–106 Hz), while the dielectric loss factor increases with aging time at low frequencies (10−2–0 Hz). These two parameters can be used to characterize the degree of aging in cable. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antibacterial cellulose acetate films incorporated with N‐halamine‐modified nano‐crystalline cellulose particles
Authors: Liu Ying , Li Lin , Pan Nengyu , Wang Yingfeng , Ren Xuehong , Xie Zhiwei , Buschle‐Diller Gisela , Huang Tung‐Shi
Published: September 2016

Cellulose acetate (CA) membranes have been widely used as food packaging materials as well as reverse osmosis systems. This study presents the manufacturing of composite CA film with antibacterial properties which is essential for CA film applications in the industry. N‐Halamine precursor of polymethacrylamide‐modified nano‐crystalline cellulose particles (NCC‐PMAMs) were prepared and incorporated into CA film. The composite films with intercalated structure were formed via a solvent‐casting technique. After chlorination, the composite film CA/NCC‐PMAM‐Cl‐1.0 with 1.82 × 1016 atoms/cm2 covalently bonded chlorine showed excellent antibacterial properties by inactivating 6.04 logs of Staphylococcus aureus and 6.27 logs of Escherichia coli within 10 and 5 min, respectively. According to X‐ray diffraction spectra, NCC‐PMAMs behaved as a facilitator for film crystallization. The mechanical strength of the composite film also increased compared with that of pure CA film. However, the composite film became brittle and the maximum decomposition temperature decreased slightly. Preliminary data of in vitro cytocompatibility evaluation indicate that the film is not toxic and has potential use in food packaging. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymer ferroelectret based on polypropylene foam: piezoelectric properties prediction using dynamic mechanical analysis
Authors: Mohebbi Abolfazl , Mighri Frej , Ajji Abdellah , Rodrigue Denis
Published: September 2016

Thin polypropylene (PP) foam films were produced by continuous extrusion using supercritical nitrogen (N2) and then charged via corona discharge. The samples were characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis as a simple method to predict the piezoelectric properties of the cellular PP obtained. The results were then related to morphological analysis based on scanning electron microscopy and mechanical properties in tension. The results showed that the presence of a nucleating agent (CaCO3) substantially improved the morphology (in terms of cell size and cell density) of the produced foam. Also, an optimization of the extrusion (screw design, temperature profile, blowing agent, and nucleating agent content) and post‐extrusion (calendering temperature and speed) conditions led to the development of a stretched eye‐like cellular structure with uniform cell size distribution. This morphology produced higher storage and loss moduli in the machine (longitudinal) direction than for the transverse direction, as well as higher piezoelectric properties. The morphological and mechanical results showed that higher cell aspect ratio led to lower Young's modulus, which is suitable to achieve higher piezoelectric properties. Finally, the best quasi‐static piezoelectric d33 coefficient was 550 pC/N for a cellular PP ferroelectret having a uniform eye‐like cellular structure using N2 as the ionizing gas inside the cells, while the highest value was only 250 pC/N when air was used. Hence, the value of d33 can be improved by more than 100% just by replacing air with N2 as the ionizing gas. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Postpolymerization modification of polynorbornene side chains via tetramethyl guanidine promoted esterification
Authors: Xu Jing , Zhang Hongwei , Wang Luoxin , Chen Meng , Luo Dan
Published: September 2016

We demonstrate that polynorbornene containing primary activated bromide moieties is a novel chemically modifiable platform for postpolymerization modification. Polymer P0 was synthesized via ring‐opening metathesis polymerization of monomer 1 with the assistance of Grubbs third generation (G‐III) catalyst. Subsequently, nucleophilic substitution was conducted by mixing P0 with n‐caproic acid, sorbic acid, m‐toluic acid or 4‐nitrobenzoic acid in the presence of 1,1,3,3‐tetramethylguanidine (TMG) under mild and stoichiometric condition to generate functionalized polymers P1–P4. NMR results approved full conversion of the reactive sites and exemplified the “click” nature of TMG promoted esterification. Thermal stability and glass transition behaviors of all the polymer samples were investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3733–3740
Molecular dynamics simulation of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) helical structure In Vacuo and in amorphous polymer surrounding
Authors: Borzdun Natalia I. , Larin Sergey V. , Falkovich Stanislav G. , Nazarychev Victor M. , Volgin Igor V. , Yakimansky Alexander V. , Lyulin Alexey V. , Negi Vikas , Bobbert Peter A. , Lyulin Sergey V.
Published: September 2016

The stability of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) helical structure has been investigated in vacuo and in amorphous polymer surrounding via molecular dynamics‐based simulations at temperatures below and above the P3HT melting point. The results show that the helical chain remains stable at room temperature both in vacuo and in amorphous surrounding, and promptly loses its structure at elevated temperatures. However, the amorphous surrounding inhibits the destruction of the helix at higher temperatures. In addition, it is shown that the electrostatic interactions do not significantly affect the stability of the helical structure. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 2448–2456
Characterization of LiFePO4/C composite and its thermal stability by Mössbauer and XPS spectroscopy
Authors: Reklaitis Jonas , Davidonis Rimantas , Dindune Antonija , Valdniece Dagnija , Jasulaitienė Vitalija , Baltrūnas Dalis
Published: September 2016

The powders of the /C composite have been synthesized using the sol–gel method. The binding energies of the Fe 2p, P 2p, and O 1s core level the of /C surface were determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The deconvolution of the Fe 2p core level XPS is associated with the Fe2+ and Fe3+ valence states of the composite. Chemical composition and phase transitions were investigated using Mössbauer spectroscopy in the temperature interval of 10–600 K. Thermal decomposition of the composite was observed at 550 K.
High‐induction nanocrystalline soft magnetic FeXTiYBZ films prepared by magnetron sputtering
Authors: Sheftel Elena N. , Tedzhetov Valentin A. , Harin Eugene V. , Kiryukhantsev‐Korneev Filipp V. , Usmanova Galina Sh.
Published: September 2016

To design films with the Fe/TiB2 nanocomposite structure, which are characterized by high saturation induction Bs, the phase and structural states and static magnetic properties of Fe‐TiB2 films prepared by magnetron sputtering and subjected to subsequent annealing have been studied. According to X‐ray diffraction data, either amorphous or nanocrystalline single‐phase structure (an α‐Fe(Ti,B) supersaturated solid solution with a bcc crystal lattice) is formed in the as‐sputtered films. Depending on the film composition, the grain size of the α‐Fe(Ti,B) phase varies from 45.6 to 6.5 nm; grains are characterized by high microstrain (0.21‐4.96%). The annealing at 200‐500 °C leads to a decrease in the lattice parameter of the α‐Fe(Ti,B) phase, i.e. to its depletion of titanium and boron and to the formation of two‐phase α‐Fe + Fe3B structure after annealing at 500 °C. The annealing at 200‐500 °C almost does not affect the grain size and microstrain of the bcc α‐Fe‐based phase. The amorphous state of the films is stable up to 500 °C. All studied films are ferromagnets; the saturation induction Bs(0.95‐2.13 T) and coercive field Hc (0.4‐5 kA/m) of the films were determined. Correlations between the Bs and Hc magnitudes and the chemical composition of the films, their phase and structural states and magnetic structure are discussed. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of nanocrystal geometric location on tunnel currents and small‐signal admittance of MIS structures
Authors: Mazurak Andrzej , Jasiński Jakub , Majkusiak Bogdan
Published: September 2016

In this paper, basing on a theoretical model of the ncMIS (nanocrystal metal‐insulator‐semiconductor) structure, in which nanocrystals embedded in the insulator layer are represented by traps of a continuous distribution in the energy gap, we consider the effect of geometric location of nanocrystals in the insulator on the voltage dependences of gate current and small‐signal admittance parameters. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Comparative surface analysis study of the solid electrolyte interphase formation on graphite anodes in lithium‐ion batteries depending on the electrolyte composition
Authors: Winkler V. , Hanemann T. , Bruns M.
Published: September 2016

The composition of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on graphite anodes is characterized within a comparative surface analytical study varying systematically the electrolyte composition and the cycling conditions. In particular, the conducting salts lithium hexafluorophosphate and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide as well as vinylene carbonate and 1‐fluoroethylene carbonate as different electrolyte additives are compared regarding the SEI formation under different cycling conditions. A comprehensive study using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed pronounced differences of the SEI compositions at different aging stages. Both additives significantly influence the SEI composition and are able to prevent from parasitic side reactions as well as from decomposition of the conducting salt lithium hexafluorophosphate. This study suggests a promising approach to improve the SEI properties to enhance long‐term stability of lithium‐ion batteries by changing the electrolyte composition. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimising unicode regular expression evaluation with previews
Authors: Chivers Howard
Published: September 2016

The jsre regular expression library was designed to provide fast matching of complex expressions over large input streams using user‐selectable character encodings. An established design approach was used: a simulated non‐deterministic automaton (NFA) implemented as a virtual machine, avoiding exponential cost functions in either space or time. A deterministic automaton (DFA) was chosen as a general dispatching mechanism for Unicode character classes, and this also provided the opportunity to use compact DFAs in various optimization strategies. The result was the development of a regular expression Preview which provides a summary of all the matches possible from a given point in a regular expression in a form that can be implemented as a compact DFA and can be used to further improve the performance of the standard NFA simulation algorithm. This paper formally defines a preview and describes and evaluates several optimizations using this construct. They provide significant speed improvements accrued from fast scanning of anchor positions, avoiding retesting of repeated strings in unanchored searches and efficient searching of multiple alternate expressions which in the case of keyword searching has a time complexity which is logarithmic in the number of words to be searched. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enniatin B and beauvericin are common in Danish cereals and show high hepatotoxicity on a high‐content imaging platform
Authors: Svingen Terje , Lund Hansen Niels , Taxvig Camilla , Vinggaard Anne Marie , Jensen Udo , Have Rasmussen Peter
Published: September 2016

Mycotoxins are fungi‐born metabolites that can contaminate foods through mould‐infected crops. They are a significant food/feed‐safety issue across the globe and represent a substantial financial burden for the world economy. Moreover, with a changing climate and fungal biota, there is now much discussion about emerging mycotoxins that are measurable at significant levels in crops world‐wide. Unfortunately, we still know very little about the bioavailability and toxic potentials of many of these less characterized mycotoxins, including the large family of enniatins. In this study, we present new occurrence data for enniatin A, A1, B, B1 and beauvericin in four Danish crops: oat, wheat, and barley from the 2010 harvest, and rye from 2011 harvest. The occurrence of the four enniatins were B > B1 > A1 > A. Enniatin B was detected in 100% of tested samples regardless of crop type. In addition to occurrence data, we report a proof‐of‐concept study using a human‐relevant high‐content hepatotoxicity, or “quadroprobe,” assay to screen mycotoxins for their cytotoxic potential. The assay was sensitive for most cytotoxic compounds in the 0.009–100 µM range. Among eight tested mycotoxins (enniatin B, beauvericin, altenariol, deoxynivalenol, aflatoxin B1, andrastin A, citrinin, and penicillic acid), enniatin B and beauvericin showed significant cytotoxicity at a concentration lower than that for aflatoxin B1, which is the archetypal acute hepatotoxic and liver‐carcinogenic mycotoxin. Hence, the quadroprobe hepatotoxicity assay may become a valuable assessment tool for toxicity assessment of mycotoxins in the future. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1658–1664, 2017.
Accessibility assessment for operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms in the North Sea
Authors: Martini Michele , Guanche Raúl , Losada Iñigo J. , Vidal César
Published: September 2016

Focused on offshore wind energy operation and maintenance applications, this work presents a detailed accessibility analysis of the North Sea. After a review of existing normative dedicated to inspection and access of offshore wind turbines, a rigorous mathematical formulation of relevant accessibility parameters is given by means of the set theory. Long‐term and high‐resolution metocean data are extracted from reanalysis databases and used to evaluate spatial and temporal variability of such parameters. Respectively restricted by significant wave height and mean wind speed, access by workboat and helicopter is evaluated. Being affected by both wave height and wind speed. Access by offshore crane is also analyzed. It resulted that the UK coast and the southern region of the North Sea are highly accessible, while the coast of Denmark and Norway undergoes more severe metocean conditions. This is, however, balanced by a higher wind resource. Moreover, a strong seasonality is ascertained, together with a drastic reduction of accessibility during daytime in a vast part of the basin. Accessibility during daytime in winter and autumn is very difficult for the whole North Sea. Among the studied farms, Dogger Bank is by far the one with the highest resource and lowest accessibility, while Thorntonbank III the one with the lowest resource and highest accessibility. In addition, accessibility is non‐linearly related to wind speed and wave height limits chosen for the access strategies covered. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic fast pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass for aromatic production: chemistry, catalyst and process
Authors: Zheng Anqing , Jiang Liqun , Zhao Zengli , Huang Zhen , Zhao Kun , Wei Guoqiang , Li Haibin
Published: September 2016

Catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) is one of most promising technologies for aromatic production in a single‐step process. In recent years, considerable efforts have been made on the CFP of biomass for aromatic productions. However, the successful commercialization of CFP has hindered by several technical barriers, such as the rational design of continuous reactor and the development of high efficient and stable zeolite catalysts. Here, we attempt to summarize the advances in CFP of biomass from four aspects: (1) reaction chemistry, (2) reactor and operating conditions for CFP, (3) catalysts for CFP, and (4) new processes for CFP. It is expected that this review could provide some guidance for solving the technical barriers aforementioned. WIREs Energy Environ 2017, 6:e234. doi: 10.1002/wene.234

This article is categorized under:

Bioenergy > Science and Materials
Scalable machine‐learning algorithms for big data analytics: a comprehensive review
Authors: Gupta Preeti , Sharma Arun , Jindal Rajni
Published: September 2016

Big data analytics is one of the emerging technologies as it promises to provide better insights from huge and heterogeneous data. Big data analytics involves selecting the suitable big data storage and computational framework augmented by scalable machine‐learning algorithms. Despite the tremendous buzz around big data analytics and its advantages, an extensive literature survey focused on parallel data‐intensive machine‐learning algorithms for big data has not been conducted so far. The present paper provides a comprehensive overview of various machine‐learning algorithms used in big data analytics. The present work is an attempt to identify the gaps in the work already performed by researchers, thus paving the way for further quality research in parallel scalable algorithms for big data. WIREs Data Mining Knowl Discov 2016, 6:194–214. doi: 10.1002/widm.1194

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Machine Learning
Development of High‐Strength Soy Protein Adhesives Modified with Sodium Montmorillonite Clay
Authors: Qi Guangyan , Li Ningbo , Wang Donghai , Sun Xiuzhi Susan
Published: September 2016

This study investigated the high strength of a soy protein adhesive system with good flowability at high protein concentration. Sodium montmorillonite (Na MMT), the most widely used silicate clay, was incorporated into viscous, cohesive soy protein adhesives at concentrations ranging from 1 to 11 % (dry basis, w/w). Hydroxyethyl cellulose was used as a suspension agent to stabilize the soy protein and nano clay to be the dispersion system. The interaction between soy protein and Na MMT was characterized by XRD, FTIR, Zeta potential and DSC. Results indicated that soy protein molecules were adsorbed on the surface of the interlayer of Na MMT through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interaction. The soy protein/Na MMT adhesives had the intercalation structure with Na MMT contents ranging from 1 to 11 %. Adhesion strength, specifically wet adhesion strength, of soy protein adhesives at isoelectric point (pI) was significantly improved by the addition of Na MMT. It is believed that the physical cross‐linking reactions between soy protein and Na MMT mainly contribute to the improved adhesion performance of soy protein adhesives. Wet adhesion strength increased from 2.9 MPa of control soy protein adhesive to 4.3 MPa at 8 % Na MMT. An increase of pH beyond pI value resulted in decreased adhesion strength due to increased surface charges of soy protein and slightly reduced affinity of soy protein on the nano clay surface.
The uneasy alliance of assessment and feedback
Authors: Watling Christopher
Published: September 2016

None
Edward Arden and the Dudley earls of Warwick and Leicester, c. 1572–1583
Authors: Enis Cathryn
Published: September 2016

Between c. 1572 and his execution in 1583, Edward Arden, a Catholic gentleman from Warwickshire, was involved in a lineage dispute with Ambrose and Robert Dudley, earls of Warwick and Leicester and two of the most powerful men in early modern England, over their shared ancestral claim to a Saxon known as Turchil. This article explores the significance of this dispute from a number of perspectives, including the ancestry of Edward Arden, the history of the Warwick and Leicester earldoms and Philip Sidney’sDefense of Leicester, in order to explore lineage as central to the prevailing ideology of power. It uses the clash between Arden and the Dudleys to present an environment in which Catholics were still part of the political mainstream and in which different political discourses led to conflict as well as consensus during the 1570s and early 1580s. Moreover, the article suggests that the activities of the heralds and the pedigrees they produced had a political function during this period which merits changing our approach to an underused manuscript source.
Human Trafficking in Nepal: Post-Earthquake Risk and Response
Authors: Gyawali Bishal , Keeling June , Kallestrup Per
Published: September 2016

As Nepal mourns the 1-year commemoration of the April 2015 earthquake and its aftershocks that killed more than 8500 people and left thousands injured and displaced, other more hidden repercussions of the resultant chaotic environment need attention: the increased risk of human trafficking. Considering that natural disasters provide a milieu for this illicit trade, there is a need for a robust response from stakeholders such as donors, civil society organizations, and government organizations against human trafficking following disasters such as the Nepal earthquake. Responsibility to prevent and fight trafficking should be explicitly included in the mandate of relief and rehabilitation mechanisms set up at the national level to coordinate the disaster relief response, serving to support populations in both rural and urban areas. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:153–154)
Policy Innovation and Policy Pathways: Tuberculosis Control in Sri Lanka, 1948–1990
Authors: Jones Margaret
Published: September 2016

This paper, based on World Health Organization and Sri Lankan sources, examines the attempts to control tuberculosis in Sri Lanka from independence in 1948. It focuses particularly on the attempt in 1966 to implement a World Health Organization model of community-orientated tuberculosis control that sought to establish a horizontally structured programme through the integration of control into the general health services. The objective was to create a cost- effective method of control that relied on a simple bacteriological test for case finding and for treatment at the nearest health facility that would take case detection and treatment to the rural periphery where specialist services were lacking. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, Sri Lanka had already established a specialist control programme composed of chest clinics, mass X-ray, inpatient and domiciliary treatment, and social assistance for sufferers. This programme had both reduced mortality and enhanced awareness of the disease. This paper exposes the obstacles presented in trying to impose the World Health Organization’s internationally devised model onto the existing structure of tuberculosis control already operating in Sri Lanka. One significant hindrance to the WHO approach was lack of resources but, equally important, was the existing medical culture that militated against its acceptance.
Deliberative Abilities and Influence in a Transnational Deliberative Poll (EuroPolis)
Authors: Gerber Marlène , Bächtiger André , Shikano Susumu , Reber Simon , Rohr Samuel
Published: September 2016

This article investigates the deliberative abilities of ordinary citizens in the context of ‘EuroPolis’, a transnational deliberative poll. Drawing upon a philosophically grounded instrument, an updated version of the Discourse Quality Index (DQI), it explores how capable European citizens are of meeting deliberative ideals; whether socio-economic, cultural and psychological biases affect the ability to deliberate; and whether opinion change results from the exchange of arguments. On the positive side, EuroPolis shows that the ideal deliberator scoring high on all deliberative standards does actually exist, and that participants change their opinions more often when rational justification is used in the discussions. On the negative side, deliberative abilities are unequally distributed: in particular, working-class members are less likely to contribute to a high standard of deliberation.
Light conditions affect the performance of Yponomeuta evonymellus on its native host Prunus padus and the alien Prunus serotina
Authors: Łukowski A. , Giertych M.J. , Walczak U. , Baraniak E. , Karolewski P.
Published: September 2016

The bird cherry ermine moth, Yponomeuta evonymellus L., is considered an obligatory monophagous insect pest that feeds only on native European Prunus padus L. In recent years, however, increased larval feeding on alien P. serotina Ehrh. has been observed. In both species, general defoliation is extensive for shade grown trees, whereas it is high in P. padus, but very low in P. serotina, when trees are grown in full light conditions. The aim of the present study was to identify how the plant host species and light conditions affect the performance of Y. evonymellus. The influence of host species and light condition on their growth and development, characterized by the parameters of pupation, adult eclosion, body mass, potential fecundity, and wing size, was measured in a 2 × 2 experimental design (two light treatments, two hosts). In comparison with high light (HL) conditions, a greater percentage of pupation and a longer period and less dynamic adult emerge was observed under low light (LL) conditions. The effect of host species on these parameters was not significant. In contrast, mass, fecundity and all of the studied wing parameters were higher in larvae that grazed on P. padus than on P. serotina. Similarly the same parameters were also higher on shrubs in HL as compared with those grown under LL conditions. In general, light conditions, rather than plant species, were more often and to a greater extent, responsible for differences in the observed parameters of insect development and potential fecundity.
Seropositivity and identification of paramyosin for sparganosis in the Kangwon and Incheon provinces of the Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee M.-R. , Ju J.-W. , Yang H.-W. , Kim T.-S. , Park M.-Y. , Cho S.-H.
Published: September 2016

Sparganosis is one of the top three tissue-dwelling heterologous helminthic diseases, along with cysticercosis and paragonimiasis, in Korea. Due to a lack of effective early diagnosis and treatment methods, this parasitic disease is regarded as a public health threat. This study evaluated reactivity, against sparganum extracts, of sera from inhabitants of Cheorwon-gun, Goseong-gun and Ongjin-gun in Korea. The sera from 836 subjects were subjected to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblot analysis. The sera from 18 (5.8%) and 15 (5.1%) inhabitants in Cheorwon-gun (n = 312) and Goseong-gun (n = 294), respectively, exhibited highly positive reactions to the sparganum antigen, whereas only two (0.9%) inhabitants in Ongjin-gun (n = 230) showed positivity. We sought antigenic proteins for serodiagnosis of positive sera by immunoproteomic approaches. Total sparganum lysates were separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis and then subjected to immunoblot analysis with mixed sparganosis-positive sera. We found seven antigenic spots and identified paramyosin as an antigenic protein by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. By two-dimensional (2D)-based mass analysis and immunoblotting against sparganosis-positive sera, paramyosin was identified as a candidate antigen for serodiagnosis of sparganosis.
Origin matters
Authors: REJMÁNEK MARCEL , SIMBERLOFF DANIEL
Published: September 2016

Van der Wal et al. (2015) (henceforth VdW) attempted to evaluate the degree to which the geographical origin of a species shapes people's attitudes towards conservation management decisions. Based on questionnaire surveys of the general public and experts from Scotland and Canada, the authors perceive “widespread use of the label ‘non-native’ as a proxy for harmfulness” and a species' origin as being used as shorthand for “harmfulness” (pp. 349 & 352). However, the authors cited by VdW do not take such a categorical view. Invasions of non-native species are also often just symptoms, not causes of human-created environmental changes. VdW focus on well-known species with long introduction histories for which the potential abundance and impact can plausibly be judged by experts and the public alike. However, when a decision is to be made regarding whether a non-native taxon that is not yet present in the local biota should be introduced, or whether a recently established and geographically restricted but spreading non-native taxon should be controlled, the taxon's origin should be a primary component in the decision-making process.