bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enantioseparation of nine indanone and tetralone derivatives by HPLC using carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin as the mobile phase additive
Authors: Hu Xiaoyu , Guo Xin , Sun Shuo , Zhu Bolin , Yu Jia , Guo Xingjie
Published: December 2016

High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is a powerful method in the area of chiral separation. In this study, a method of HPLC using carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (CM‐β‐CD) as chiral selector was developed for enantioseparation of nine indanone and tetralone derivatives. The separation was performed on a conventional C18 column. The optimal mobile phase was a mixture of methanol and 0.05 mol/L phosphate buffer at pH 1.8 (55:45, v/v) containing 22.9 mmol/L CM‐β‐CD. Under such conditions, the resolutions of all analytes were over 1.8 except for Compound F. The results of the study indicate the presence of a complex with 1:1 stoichiometry of the inclusion complex. In addition, it can be inferred from thermodynamic analysis that the behavior of formation of the inclusion complex and enantioseparation occurred simultaneously, while they were driven by different forces. The effect of analyte structure is also discussed.
Insights into the Photophysics and Supramolecular Organization of Congo Red in Solution and the Solid State
Authors: Costa Ana L. , Gomes Ana C. , Pillinger Martyn , Gonçalves Isabel S. , Pina João , Seixas de Melo J. Sérgio
Published: December 2016

Steady‐state and time‐resolved absorption and fluorescence measurements are reported for Congo Red (CR) in aqueous and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solutions. The very low fluorescence quantum yield (≈10−4) for CR in dilute solutions together with the absence of a triplet state indicates that internal conversion is the dominant deactivation route with more than 99.99 % of the quanta loss (attributed to the energy gap law for radiationless transitions). Although no direct evidence for trans–cis photoisomerization was obtained from absorption or fluorescence data, the global analysis of fs‐transient absorption data indicates the presence of a photoproduct with a lifetime of ≈170 ps that is suggested to be associated with such a process. Spectral data for more concentrated CR solutions indicate the presence of oblique or twisted J‐type aggregates. These results are compared with spectra for CR in the solid state (sodium salt) and intercalated in a layered double hydroxide via a one‐step co‐precipitation route. Powder XRD and electronic spectral data for the nanohybrid indicate that the CR guest molecules are intercalated as a monolayer consisting of slipped cofacial J‐type aggregates.
Dienamine‐Mediated Asymmetric Inverse‐Electron‐Demand Hetero‐Diels–Alder Reaction of Linear Deconjugated Enones: Diversity‐Oriented Synthesis of 3,4‐Dihydropyrans
Authors: Maity Rajendra , Pan Subhas Chandra
Published: December 2016

The first organocatalytic asymmetric inverse‐electron‐demand Diels–Alder reaction of deconjugated enones by using a linear dienamine was explored. Electron‐poor oxadienes having a cyano group were found to be suitable in this reaction. With a 20 mol‐% loading of a quinine‐derived primary amine catalyst, high yields and excellent enantioselectivities were attained for a variety of 2,4‐stereogenic 3,4‐dihydropyran products under mild reaction conditions.
A content review of cognitive process measures used in pain research within adult populations
Authors: Day M.A. , Lang C.P. , Newton‐John T.R.O. , Ehde D.M. , Jensen M.P.
Published: December 2016

Background and objective

Previous research suggests that measures of cognitive process may be confounded by the inclusion of items that also assess cognitive content. The primary aims of this content review were to: (1) identify the domains of cognitive processes assessed by measures used in pain research; and (2) determine if pain‐specific cognitive process measures with adequate psychometric properties exist.

Databases and data treatment

PsychInfo, CINAHL, PsycArticles, MEDLINE, and Academic Search Complete databases were searched to identify the measures of cognitive process used in pain research. Identified measures were double coded and the measure's items were rated as: (1) cognitive content; (2) cognitive process; (3) behavioural/social; and/or (4) emotional coping/responses to pain.

Results

A total of 319 scales were identified; of these, 29 were coded as providing an un‐confounded assessment of cognitive process, and 12 were pain‐specific. The cognitive process domains assessed in these measures are Absorption, Dissociation, Reappraisal, Distraction/Suppression, Acceptance, Rumination, Non‐Judgment, and Enhancement. Pain‐specific, un‐confounded measures were identified for: Dissociation, Reappraisal, Distraction/Suppression, and Acceptance. Psychometric properties of all 319 scales are reported in supplementary material.

Conclusions

To understand the importance of cognitive processes in influencing pain outcomes as well as explaining the efficacy of pain treatments, valid and pain‐specific cognitive process measures that are not confounded with non‐process domains (e.g., cognitive content) are needed. The findings of this content review suggest that future research focused on developing cognitive process measures is critical in order to advance our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie effective pain treatment.

Significance

Many cognitive process measures used in pain research contain a ‘mix’ of items that assess cognitive process, cognitive content, and behavioural/emotional responses. Databases searched: PsychInfo, CINAHL, PsycArticles, MEDLINE and Academic Search Complete. This review describes the domains assessed by measures assessing cognitive processes in pain research, as well as the strengths and limitations of these measures.
Physical layer security based on spread‐spectrum watermarking and jamming receiver
Authors: Soderi Simone , Mucchi Lorenzo , Hämäläinen Matti , Piva Alessandro , Iinatti Jari
Published: December 2016

Wireless communications' infrastructures are frequently selected as a cable replacement in many applications giving an immediate advantage on the wireless investment. However, the worldwide proliferation of wireless local area network (WLAN) imposed large investments on the network security. In the early days of Internet, its layered protocol stack did not consider security as a primary concern. Because then, a significant amount of literature has been published. This paper proposes a watermark‐based blind physical layer security utilizing a jamming receiver in conjunction with the spread spectrum watermarking technique. The outage probability of the secrecy capacity is analytically derived, regardless of the eavesdropper position. The theoretical analysis let us draw a secure region around the legitimate receiver. Results indicate how the watermark‐based blind physical layer security aims to be a valuable technique for deploying physical layer security. Authors utilized 2 performance metrics, the outage probability of secrecy capacity for assessing the secure communication effectiveness and the error probability for evaluating the watermark extraction process. Finally, the proposed protocol improves the secrecy capacity performance if compared with other protocols, and moreover, it has a lower energy consumption.
2017: Plenty of Reasons for a Great Future in Natural Gas
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: December 2016

As we head into 2017, the North American natural gas industry is, in a word, fascinating, exciting, tumultuous, and changing every day.
Performance Analysis of a Louvered Fin Automotive Radiator Using Hybrid Nanofluid as Coolant
Authors: Sahoo Rashmi Rekha , Ghosh Pradyumna , Sarkar Jahar
Published: December 2016

This study deals with the theoretical enhancement of thermal performance using water‐based (50/50) volume fraction of Fe2O3, CuO, TiO2, Ag, Cu in Al2O3 hybrid nanofluids as coolants for a louvered fin automobile radiator. The effects on thermophysical properties and various performance parameters, i.e., heat transfer, effectiveness, and pumping power of hybrid nanofluids have been compared with water. Among all studied hybrid nanofluids, Al2O3‐Ag/water hybrid nanofluid has higher effectiveness, heat transfer rate, pumping power, and pressure drop of 0.8%, 3%, 6%, and 5.6%, respectively, as compared to water and is followed by (50/50) volume fraction of Cu, CuO, Fe2O3, TiO2 hybrid nanofluids as radiator coolant.

For the same radiator size and heat transfer rate, coolant flow rate and pumping work decreases by 3%, 4%, respectively, for Al2O3‐Ag/water hybrid nanofluid and for the same coolant flow rate and heat transfer rate the radiator size decreases by 3% and pumping power increases by 3.4% for Al2O3‐Ag/water hybrid nanofluid as compared to water. Reduction in radiator size may lead to a reduction in radiator cost, engine fuel consumption, and environmental benefit.
Storage stability of packaged baby formula in poly(lactide)‐whey protein isolate laminated pouch
Authors: Phupoksakul Thunyaluck , Leuangsukrerk Manusawee , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat , Tananuwong Kanitha , Janjarasskul Theeranun
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

The use of biodegradable polymeric materials has been proposed as an environmentally‐friendly alternative to petroleum‐based packaging. To extend the shelf life of food products, these bioplastics must possess appropriate barrier properties and food‐package stability. In the present study, shelf life analysis of packaged baby formula in biopolymeric, multilayer film, fabricated from poly(lactide) (PLA) and whey protein isolate (WPI), PLA/WPI/PLA and PLA pouches was performed at 4–35 oC and 50–59% relative humidity.

RESULTS

Despite the possible sorption of food components into contact PLA surfaces, the results demonstated that the transparency and barrier properties of PLA‐based pouches were insignificantly changed over time (P > 0.05), although the films showed a slow rate of color change. The baby formula packaged in PLA/WPI/PLA had a delayed lipid oxidation compared to the sample in the PLA pouch, especially at a higher temperature. The application of WPI in the multilayer structure shifted the shelf life determination factor from lipid oxidation to moisture gain.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that the PLA/WPI/PLA pouch has good storage stability. The film could be used to package dry food properly at 4–35 oC and 50–59% relative humidity for an extended period of time. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Phenotypic characterization of qualitative parameters and antioxidant contents in peach and nectarine fruit and changes after jam preparation
Authors: Drogoudi Pavlina , Gerasopoulos Dimitrios , Kafkaletou Mina , Tsantili Eleni
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

Sugars and antioxidants in peaches contribute to fresh fruit quality and nutrition; however, information on widely grown cultivars and changes induced after peach jam preparation is limited. In the present study, colour, sugars and antioxidant parameters were determined in fruit and jam from 45 peach and nectarine cultivars.

RESULTS

Pronounced varietal differences were found in sorbitol (42‐fold range), total phenolics (TPs) and antioxidant capacities (10‐ to 19‐fold range). Sorbitol levels were greater in non‐melting peach, followed by nectarine, and lower values were found in melting peach cultivars. Late‐harvested peach and nectarine cultivars tended to have a higher soluble solid content and antioxidant potential. Cultivars with relatively high antioxidant contents produced darker and redder jams, containing more antioxidants, than the jam or the fruit from the other cultivars. Jam‐TPs were reduced by 48% compared to fruit‐TPs, with greater reduction being noted in high antioxidant cultivars. The most favorable jam organoleptic characteristics were found in ‘Morsiani 90’, ‘Amiga’, ‘Romea’ and ‘Alirosada’, as well as in non‐melting compared to melting peach cultivars.

CONCLUSION

The best cultivars for each fruit flesh type and jam were identified. Peach jam could be an alternative substitute when fresh fruit is not available and when it is prepared with high antioxidant cultivars. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of Degraded Soils in the Humid Ethiopian Highlands
Authors: Tebebu Tigist Y. , Bayabil Haimanote K. , Stoof Cathelijne R. , Giri Shree K. , Gessess Azalu A. , Tilahun Seifu A. , Steenhuis Tammo S.
Published: December 2016

Hardpan is a major cause of land degradation that affects agricultural productivity in developing countries. However, relatively, little is known about the interaction of land degradation and hardpans. The objective of this study was, therefore, to investigate soil degradation and the formation of hardpans in crop/livestock‐mixed rainfed agriculture systems and to assess how changes in soil properties are related to the conversion of land from forest to agriculture. Two watersheds (Anjeni and Debre Mewi) were selected in the humid Ethiopian highlands. For both watersheds, 0–45 cm soil penetration resistance (SPR, n = 180) and soil physical properties (particle size, soil organic matter, pH, base ions, cation exchange capacity, silica content, bulk density and moisture content) were determined at 15 cm depth increments for three land uses: cultivated, pasture and forest. SPR of agricultural fields was significantly greater than that of forest lands. Dense layers with a critical SPR threshold of ≥2000 kPa were observed in the cultivated and pasture lands starting at a depth of 15–30 cm but did not occur in the undisturbed forest land. Compared with the original forest soils, agricultural fields were lower in organic matter, cation exchange capacity, and exchangeable base cations; more acidic; had a higher bulk density and more fine particles (clay and silt); and contained less soluble silica. Overall, our findings suggest that soil physical and chemical properties in agricultural lands are deteriorated, causing disintegration of soil aggregates, resulting in greater sediment concentration in infiltration water that clogged up macro‐pores, thereby disconnecting deep flow paths found in original forest soils. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of liver metastases with probe‐based confocal laser endomicroscopy at two excitation wavelengths
Authors: Schneider Crispin , Johnson Sean P. , Gurusamy Kurinchi , Cook Richard J. , Desjardins Adrien E. , Hawkes David J. , Davidson Brian R. , Walker‐Samuel Simon
Published: December 2016

Background

Metastasis of colorectal cancer to the liver is the most common indication for hepatic resection in a western population. Incomplete excision of malignancy due to residual microscopic disease normally results in worse patient outcome. Therefore, a method aiding in the real time discrimination of normal and malignant tissue on a microscopic level would be of benefit.

Material and Methods

The ability of fluorescent probe‐based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) to identify normal and malignant liver tissue was evaluated in an orthotopic murine model of colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM). To maximise information yield, two clinical fluorophores, fluorescein and indocyanine green (ICG) were injected and imaged in a dual wavelength approach (488 and 660 nm, respectively). Visual tissue characteristics on pCLE examination were compared with histological features. Fluorescence intensity in both tissues was statistically analysed to elucidate if this can be used to differentiate between normal and malignant tissue.

Results

Fluorescein (488 nm) enabled good visualisation of normal and CRLM tissue, whereas ICG (660 nm) visualisation was limited to normal liver tissue only. Fluorescence intensity in areas of CRLM was typically 53–100% lower than normal hepatic parenchyma. Using general linear mixed modelling and receiver operating characteristic analysis, high fluorescence intensity was found to be statistically more likely in normal hepatic tissue.

Conclusion

Real time discrimination between normal liver parenchyma and metastatic tissue with pCLE examination of fluorescein and ICG is feasible. Employing two (rather than a single) fluorophores allows a combination of qualitative and quantitative characteristics to be used to distinguish between hepatic parenchyma and CRLM. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:280–292, 2017. © 2016 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Strong maximal operator and singular integral operators in weighted Morrey spaces on product domains
Authors: Ho Kwok‐Pun
Published: December 2016

We introduce the Morrey spaces on product domains and extend the boundedness of strong maximal operator and singular integral operators on product domains to Morrey spaces.
A CD13‐targeting peptide integrated protein inhibits human liver cancer growth by killing cancer stem cells and suppressing angiogenesis
Authors: Zheng Yan‐Bo , Gong Jian‐Hua , Liu Xiu‐Jun , Li Yi , Zhen Yong‐Su
Published: December 2016

CD13 is a marker of angiogenic endothelial cells, and recently it is proved to be a biomarker of human liver cancer stem cells (CSCs). Herein, the therapeutic effects of NGR‐LDP‐AE, a fusion protein composed of CD13‐targeting peptide NGR and antitumor antibiotic lidamycin, on human liver cancer and its mechanism were studied. Western blot and immunofluorescence assay demonstrated that CD13 (WM15 epitope) was expressed in both human liver cancer cell lines and vascular endothelial cells, while absent in normal liver cells. MTT assay showed that NGR‐LDP‐AE displayed potent cytotoxicity to cultured tumor cell lines with IC50 values at low nanomolar level. NGR‐LDP‐AE inhibited tumorsphere formation of liver cancer cells, and the IC50 values were much lower than that in MTT assay, indicating selectively killing of CSCs. In endothelial tube formation assay, NGR‐LDP‐AE at low cytotoxic dose significantly inhibited the formation of intact tube networks. Animal experiment demonstrated that NGR‐LDP‐AE inhibited the growth of human liver cancer xenograft. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that NGR‐LDP‐AE induced the down‐regulation of CD13. In vitro experiment using cultured tumor cells also confirmed this result. NGR‐LDP‐AE activated both apoptotic and autophagic pathways in cultured tumor cells, while the induced autophagy protected cells from death. Conclusively, NGR‐LDP‐AE exerts its antitumor activity via killing liver CSCs and inhibiting angiogenesis. With one targeting motif, NGR‐LDP‐AE acts on both liver CSCs and angiogenic endothelial cells. It is a promising dual targeting fusion protein for liver cancer therapy, especially for advanced or relapsed cancers.
Application of extended bi‐pedicle anterolateral thigh free flaps for reconstruction of large defects: A case series
Authors: Maruccia Michele , Orfaniotis Georgios , Ciudad Pedro , Nicoli Fabio , Cigna Emanuele , Giudice Giuseppe , Kiranantawat Kidakorn , Ribuffo Diego , Chen Hung‐Chi
Published: December 2016

Background

The anterolateral thigh flap is a workforce flap in reconstructive surgery, however, variations in it is vascular anatomy are not uncommon. These variations may affect flap design and survival, especially when large flaps are required. In some anatomical variants the anterolateral thigh flap is supplied by two separate dominant pedicles, and in these cases a bi‐pedicle modification may be necessary to ensure complete flap viability. The aim of this report is to evaluate the outcomes, and present our approach in using bi‐pedicle anterolateral thigh flaps as a method to reduce the risk of partial flap necrosis when reconstructing sizeable soft tissue defects.

Patients and Methods

From October of 2013 to November of 2015, seventeen patients were treated with extended bi‐pedicled ALT flaps for reconstruction of large defects (16 to 25 × 8 to 13 cm). Following doppler mapping of the lateral thigh perforators, an anterior incision was made. When a distinct oblique branch (OB) was present and the perforators of the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery (d‐LCFA) were small, the large bi‐pedicle ALT flaps were harvested based on both the oblique branch and the d‐LCFA pedicle. We evaluated the perfusion of the flap using only one pedicle by clamping alternately the OB and the d‐LCFA. After flap harvest, we performed two end‐to‐end venous anastomosis between the lateral circumflex femoral vein and a recipient vein, and the oblique branch vein with a second recipient vein. End to end arterial anastomosis were performed between the two pedicles and two recipient arteries. Y‐shaped interposition vein graft (YVG) was applied when single recipient artery was available for revascularization. The flaps were used for scar contracture, chest wall, lower and upper extremity soft tissue defects, breast, scalp, oral cancer, and esophageal reconstruction.

Results

The flaps size were 18 to 26 × 10 to 14 cm. For all seventeen patients the reconstructive goals were achieved with complete survival of the large ALT flaps with no events of partial necrosis or failure. We reported one case of re‐exploration of a congested flap due to venous thrombosis, which was successfully salvaged.

Conclusion

Bi‐pedicled ALT flaps could be a considered as a valuable option when a second pedicle is encountered and large flaps are required.
Stability by linear approximation and the relation between the stability of difference and differential fractional systems
Authors: Mozyrska Dorota , Wyrwas Małgorzata
Published: December 2016

The paper is devoted to study the stability of nonlinear fractional order difference systems by their linear approximation. Additionally, we show the relation between the stability of linear fractional order differential systems and their discretizations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel physical anthropomorphic breast phantom for 2D and 3D x‐ray imaging
Authors: Ikejimba Lynda C. , Graff Christian G. , Rosenthal Shani , Badal Andreu , Ghammraoui Bahaa , Lo Joseph Y. , Glick Stephen J.
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Physical phantoms are central to the evaluation of 2D and 3D breast‐imaging systems. Currently, available physical phantoms have limitations including unrealistic uniform background structure, large expense, or excessive fabrication time. The purpose of this work is to outline a method for rapidly creating realistic, inexpensive physical anthropomorphic phantoms for use in full‐field digital mammography (FFDM) and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT).

Methods

The phantom was first modeled using analytical expressions and then discretized into voxels of a specified size. The interior of the breast was divided into glandular and adipose tissue classes using Voronoi segmentation, and additional structures like blood vessels, chest muscle, and ligaments were added. The physical phantom was then fabricated from the virtual model in a slice by slice fashion through inkjet printing, using parchment paper and a radiopaque ink containing 33% (I33%) or 25% (I25%) iohexol by volume. Three types of parchment paper (P1, P2, and P3) were examined. The phantom materials were characterized in terms of their effective linear attenuation coefficients (μeff) using full‐field digital mammography (FFDM) and their energy‐dependent linear attenuation coefficients (μ(E)) using a spectroscopic energy discriminating detector system. The printing method was further validated on the basis of accuracy, print consistency, and the reproducibility of ink batches.

Results

The μeff of two types of parchment paper were close to that of adipose tissue, with μeff = 0.61 ± 0.05 cm−1 for P1, 0.61 ± 0.04 cm−1 for P2, and 0.57 ± 0.03 cm−1 for adipose tissue. The addition of the iodinated ink increased the effective attenuation to that of glandular tissue, with μeff = 0.89 ± 0.06 cm−1 for P1 + I25% and 0.94 ± 0.06 cm−1 for P1 + I33% compared to 0.90 ± 0.03 cm−1 for glandular tissue. Spectroscopic measurements showed a good match between the parchment paper and reference values for adipose and glandular tissues across photon energies. Good accuracy was found between the model and the printed phantom by comparing a FFDM of the virtual model simulated through Monte Carlo with a real FFDM of the fully printed phantom. High consistency was found over multiple prints, with 3% variability in mean ink signal across various samples. Reproducibility of ink consistency was very high with <1% variation signal from multiple batches of ink. Imaging of the phantom using FFDM and DBT systems showed promising utility for 2D and 3D imaging.

Conclusions

A novel, realistic breast phantom can be created using an analytically defined breast model and readily available materials. The work provides a method to fabricate any virtual phantom in a manner that is accurate, inexpensive, easily accessible, and can be made with different materials or breast models.
Boundary Element based Discontinuous Deformation Analysis
Authors: Fu G. Y. , Ma G. W. , Qu X. L.
Published: December 2016

A Boundary Element based Discontinuous Deformation Analysis (BE‐DDA) method is developed by implementing the improved dual reciprocity boundary element method into the open close iterations based DDA. This newly developed BE‐DDA is capable of simulating both the deformation and movement of blocks in a blocky system. Based on geometry updating, it adopts an incremental dynamic formulation taking into consideration initial stresses and dealing with external concentrated and contact forces conveniently. The boundaries of each block in the discrete blocky system are discretized with boundary elements while the domain of each block is divided into internal cells only for the integration of the domain integral of the initial stress term. The contact forces among blocks are treated as concentrated forces and the open–close iterations are applied to ensure the computational accuracy of block interactions. In the current method, an implicit time integration scheme is adopted for numerical stability. Three examples are used to show the effectiveness of the algorithm in simulating block movement, sliding, deformation and interaction of blocks. At last, block toppling and tunnel stability examples are conducted to demonstrate that the BE‐DDA is applicable for simulation of blocky systems. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural and Optical Properties of Gold/Silica “Mushroom” Particles Prepared by Interfacial Templating
Authors: Pothorszky Szilárd , Zámbó Dániel , Deák András
Published: December 2016

Complex shaped nanoparticles featuring structural or surface chemical patchiness are of special interest in both fundamental and applied research areas. This study reports the preparation and optical properties of gold/silica “mushroom” nanoparticles, where a gold particle is only partially covered by the silica cap. The synthetic approach allows precise control over the particle structure. The interfacial preparation method relies on partially embedding the gold particles in a polystyrene layer that masks the immersed part of the gold particle during silica shell growth from an aqueous solution. By adjusting sacrificial polystyrene film thickness and silica growth time, precise control over the coverage and cap thickness can be achieved. Correlative electron microscopy and single particle scattering spectroscopy measurements underline the high precision and reproducibility of the method. The good agreement between the measured and simulated single particle spectra supported by near‐field calculations indicates that the observed changes in the dipolar plasmon resonance are influenced by the extent of coverage of the gold core by the silica cap. The straightforward methods readily available for gold and silica surface modification using range of different (bio)molecules make these well‐defined nanoscale objects excellent candidates to study fundamental processes of programmed self‐assembly or application as theranostic agents.
Mortality, fecundity and development among bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) exposed to prolonged, intermediate cold stress
Authors: Rukke Bjørn A , Hage Morten , Aak Anders
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) have returned as a nuisance pest worldwide. Their ability to withstand different types of environmental stress should be explored in order potentially to increase the efficiency of control methods.

RESULTS

Immediate and long‐term effects of exposure to temperatures from 0 to −10 °C for 1, 2 and 3 weeks are reported. Fifth‐instar nymphs and adults were exposed to constant or fluctuating temperatures. Increased cold and extended time yielded higher mortality; nymphs were more resilient than adults at the shorter durations of exposure. At intermediate temperatures, mortality was higher at constant compared with fluctuating temperatures, whereas all individuals died after 3 weeks of exposure to −7 °C. The success among survivors after cold treatment was also affected in terms of reduced egg production, hatching success and the ability of fifth‐instar nymphs to advance into the adult stage; however, nymphs produced after cold treatment developed normally.

CONCLUSIONS

Detrimental effects of prolonged exposure to low temperatures were seen in bed bugs both during and after cold treatment. The results suggest that temperatures below −7 °C can be applied by laymen to control this pest in small items if available treatment time is of less concern. © 2016 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Tetra‐primer ARMS PCR for rapid detection and characterisation of Plasmopara viticola phenotypes resistant to carboxylic acid amide fungicides
Authors: Zhang Hao , Kong Fanfang , Wang Xina , Liang Lisha , Schoen Cor D , Feng Jie , Wang Zhongyue
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of Plasmopara viticola populations resistant to carboxylic acid amide (CAA) fungicides is becoming a serious problem in the control of grapevine downy mildew worldwide. The resistance is caused by point mutations in the PvCesA3 gene. These isolates with this mutation have been detected mainly by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration of fungicides, which is always time consuming and inefficient.

RESULTS

To establish a suitable method for rapid detection of the G1105S mutation in P. viticola, an efficient and simple molecular method was developed, based on tetra‐primer ARMS PCR. A set of four primers were designed and optimised to distinguish the different genotypes within one step. Only 2 h was required from the sampling of symptoms to the phenotyping of fungicide resistance. Using this method, CAA‐resistant P. viticola were identified for the first time in China. Also, the finding of sensitive heterozygotes indicated that the resistant allele is spreading in the population in Ziyuan.

CONCLUSION

This new method proved to be useful as an early warning system for resistance outbreaks of P. viticola to CAA fungicides in the field and may be helpful in decisions concerning rotation of different fungicide groups. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
The toxicity of flonicamid to cotton leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula (Ishida), is by disruption of ingestion: an electropenetrography study
Authors: Tariq Kaleem , Noor Mah , Backus Elaine A , Hussain Adil , Ali Asad , Peng Wei , Zhang Hongyu
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

The cotton leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula, is one of the most destructive pests of cotton in Asia. This species is thought to cause damage by injecting enzymatic saliva into various, presently unknown, cotton tissues and ingesting the resulting macerate. Flonicamid is a novel systemic insecticide used to control the cotton leafhopper; however, its mode of action is unknown.

RESULTS

The mechanism of action of flonicamid on cotton leafhopper was investigated using electropenetrography (EPG). EPG recordings revealed six waveforms, i.e. Np (non‐probing), A1 (channel cutting), A2, A3, A4, A5 and A6. Waveforms A2 and A3 probably represent active ingestion with (A2) and without (A3) simultaneous watery salivation. The meanings of A4, A5 and A6 are presently unknown, but minor in duration. Flonicamid significantly increased the mean duration of non‐probing events and strongly inhibited ingestion by treated insects, which resulted in the slow death of leafhoppers. Inhibition of ingestion was dose dependent, and near‐complete suppression was observed when the flonicamid concentration was increased to 10 000 mg L−1.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that starvation caused by inhibition of active ingestion is the mechanism of toxicity for flonicamid. This knowledge could aid in applicability and use of this new insecticide for field management of leafhopper populations. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Thermal resistance measurement of In3SbTe2 nanowires
Authors: Battaglia J.‐L. , Saci A. , De I. , Cecchini R. , Selmo S. , Fanciulli M. , Cecchi S. , Longo M.
Published: December 2016

The thermal resistance along the thickness of In3SbTe2 crystalline nanowires was measured using the scanning thermal microscopy in 3ω mode. The nanowires were grown by metal organic vapor deposition, exploiting the VLS mechanism induced by Au metal‐catalyst nanoparticles and harvested on a SiO2/Si substrate. Two nanowires with different thickness (13 and 23 nm) were investigated. The thermal resistance of the nanowires was determined using two different approaches; the first one exploits the experimental data, whereas the second one is more sophisticated, since it involves a minimization procedure. Both methods led to comparable values of the thermal resistance along the transverse direction (thickness) of the nanowire. The obtained results were explained starting from the mean free path of phonons calculated in the In3SbTe2 bulk.
Two‐particle interferometry in quantum Hall edge channels
Authors: Marguerite A. , Bocquillon E. , Berroir J.‐M. , Plaçais B. , Cavanna A. , Jin Y. , Degiovanni P. , Fève G.
Published: December 2016

Since the pioneering works of Hanbury‐Brown and Twiss, intensity–intensity correlations have been widely used in astronomical systems, for example, to detect binary stars. They reveal statistics effects and two‐particle interference, and offer a decoherence‐free probe of the coherence properties of light sources. In the quantum Hall edge channels, the concept of quantum optics can be transposed to electrons, and an analogous two‐particle interferometry can be developed, in order to characterize single‐electron states. We review in this article the recent experimental and theoretical progress on this topic.
Design, Synthesis and in vitro Anticancer Activity of a Cu(II) Complex of Carminic Acid: A Novel Small Molecule Inhibitor of Human DNA Topoisomerase I and Topoisomerase II
Authors: Das Piyal , Jain Chetan Kumar , Roychoudhury Susanta , Majumder Hemanta Kumar , Das Saurabh
Published: December 2016

The hydroxy‐9,10‐anthraquinones in anthracyclines form semiquinones and reactive oxygen species (ROS) that help in antitumor activity. ROS generation is cytotoxic to cells but cardiotoxic as well. Carminic acid (CA) with a sugar bound to a hydroxyanthraquinone resembles anthracyclines closely. Role of sugar in anthracyclines was realized from physicochemical parameters of CA that were found to be in between those of anthracyclines and hydroxy‐9,10‐anthraquinones. A Cu(II)complex of CA was prepared and its structure attempted from powder X‐ray diffraction. Studies with DNA revealed unlike CA, the complex did not show decrease in binding constant with increase in the pH of the medium. DNA relaxation assay showed the complex as a dual inhibitor of human DNA topoisomerase I and topoisomerase II stabilizing covalent topoisomerase‐DNA adducts in vitro. Inhibition of growth of ALL‐MOLT‐4 cells was higher for the complex supporting in vitro experiments. An enzyme assay revealed less superoxide formation for the complex suggesting that it might be less cardiotoxic. Decrease in superoxide for the complex does not affect anticancer activity, which was greater than CA.
Long noncoding RNAs in the p53 network
Authors: Chaudhary Ritu , Lal Ashish
Published: December 2016

The tumor‐suppressor protein p53 is activated in response to numerous cellular stresses including DNA damage. p53 functions primarily as a sequence‐specific transcription factor that controls the expression of hundreds of protein‐coding genes and noncoding RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). While the role of protein‐coding genes and miRNAs in mediating the effects of p53 has been extensively studied, the physiological function and molecular mechanisms by which p53‐regulated lncRNAs act is beginning to be understood. In this review, we discuss recent studies on lncRNAs that are directly or indirectly regulated by p53 and how they contribute to the biological outcomes of p53 activation. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1410. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1410

This article is categorized under:

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
Synthesis of Chlorinated and Non‐chlorinated Polyols from Model Cross‐Metathesis Modified Triacylglycerols
Authors: Pillai Prasanth K. S. , Li Shaojun , Bouzidi Laziz , Narine Suresh S.
Published: December 2016

Three pure triacylglycerols (TAG) containing decenoic acid (D), and stearic acid (S), were hydroxylated into chlorinated and non‐chlorinated polyols and studied in detail. D is a fatty moiety that can result from the cross metathesis of small olefins with common vegetable oils such as soybean oil. A fundamental understanding relating chemical composition and derived structure, particularly the number and position of the hydroxyl groups, to physical properties was established allowing us to add some perspective to the growing body of knowledge on industrially relevant polyol and polyurethane systems produced with metathesis‐modified TAG (MTAG). The hydroxyl value, crystallization and melting behaviors, thermal degradation behavior of the polyols were directly related to their peculiar shortened and primary functionality inherited from the parent MTAG. The effect of regiochemistry on the physical properties of the polyols was investigated with the chromatography fractions of the trichlorinated polyol of propane‐1,2,3‐triyl tris(dec‐9‐enoate), giving an unhindered insight into the role of short and terminal functionality of MTAG polyols that will help select the optimal isomer composition for designer polyurethane materials.
The effect of the top 20 Alzheimer disease risk genes on gray‐matter density and FDG PET brain metabolism
Authors: Stage Eddie , Duran Tugce , Risacher Shannon L. , Goukasian Naira , Do Triet M. , West John D. , Wilhalme Holly , Nho Kwangsik , Phillips Meredith , Elashoff David , Saykin Andrew J. , Apostolova Liana G. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2016

Introduction

We analyzed the effects of the top 20 Alzheimer disease (AD) risk genes on gray‐matter density (GMD) and metabolism.

Methods

We ran stepwise linear regression analysis using posterior cingulate hypometabolism and medial temporal GMD as outcomes and all risk variants as predictors while controlling for age, gender, and APOE ε4 genotype. We explored the results in 3D using Statistical Parametric Mapping 8.

Results

Significant predictors of brain GMD were SLC24A4/RIN3 in the pooled and mild cognitive impairment (MCI); ZCWPW1 in the MCI; and ABCA7, EPHA1, and INPP5D in the AD groups. Significant predictors of hypometabolism were EPHA1 in the pooled, and SLC24A4/RIN3, NME8, and CD2AP in the normal control group.

Discussion

Multiple variants showed associations with GMD and brain metabolism. For most genes, the effects were limited to specific stages of the cognitive continuum, indicating that the genetic influences on brain metabolism and GMD in AD are complex and stage dependent.
Patrons, Parties, Political Linkage, and the Birth of Competitive-Authoritarianism in Africa
Authors: Cheeseman Nic
Published: December 2016

Few scholars have taught us more about African voters, legislators, and legislatures than Joel Barkan. Drawing on Barkan’s analysis, the first part of this article argues that the African one-party state can be usefully viewed as a competitive-authoritarian system underpinned by a form of political linkage that allows for elements of coercion and competition. Building on this framework, the second part demonstrates that the political linkage structures that emerged in single-party systems such as those of Kenya, Senegal, and Tanzania have played an important role in shaping the dynamics of multiparty politics and the prospects for democratic reform.
Applying a Counterfactual: Would 1966 Ugandan University Students Be Surprised by Ugandan Governance Today?
Authors: Kasfir Nelson
Published: December 2016

Joel Barkan surveyed Ugandan university students’ attitudes in 1966 and worked on Ugandan national governance three decades later. These two inquiries facilitate an unusual counterfactual analysis. Counterfactuals typically test historical explanation by manipulating an antecedent to estimate change to a known outcome. But a counterfactual can be constructed to examine how an antecedent would react to a later activity. By extrapolating from 1966 students’ responses to Barkan’s survey and their expected knowledge of political events, we can estimate their likely attitudes to later governance. Applying this unconventional counterfactual helps establish how far prior perception of politics illuminates later governmental practice.
Legislatures and Democratic Development in Africa
Authors: Mattes Robert , Mozaffar Shaheen
Published: December 2016

Afrobarometer data collected three decades after Joel Barkan’s pioneering survey of rural Kenyans confirm his insights that voters stress MPs’ linkage roles in terms of representation (carrying views upward to the capital) and constituency service (bringing goods downward from national government) over their institutional roles (lawmaking and oversight). And, contrary to conventional wisdom, they prefer collective goods for the constituency over private goods. An African Legislatures Project survey of 822 MPs in seventeen countries revealed, however, that MPs misinterpret this as a demand for material goods and development and underappreciate the demand for representation, prompting—among other things—the adoption of controversial Constituency Development Funds.
Devolution and the New Politics of Development in Kenya
Authors: Kanyinga Karuti
Published: December 2016

Joel Barkan had a special interest in decentralization and local development. He was persuaded that decentralization, and devolution in particular, had the potential of addressing Kenya’s longstanding challenges in regard to equity, ethnic inequalities, inclusion, and service delivery. Although political patronage and ethnic interests historically had hindered efforts to introduce decentralization, Kenya’s 2010 Constitution promised a devolved system of government to address regional imbalances in development, promote equitable access to basic services, and give powers of self-governance to the people. Will devolution under the 2010 Constitution succeed, or will it fail just like the other initiatives before it?
Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infections Following Neurosurgical Spinal Fusion Operations: A Case Control Study
Authors: Walsh Thomas L. , Querry Ashley M. , McCool Sheila , Galdys Alison L. , Shutt Kathleen A. , Saul Melissa I. , Muto Carlene A.
Published: December 2016

OBJECTIVE

To determine risk factors for the development of surgical site infections (SSIs) in neurosurgery patients undergoing spinal fusion.

DESIGN

Retrospective case-control study.

SETTING

Large, academic, quaternary care center.

PATIENTS

The study population included all neurosurgery patients who underwent spinal fusion between August 1, 2009, and August 31, 2013. Cases were defined as patients in the study cohort who developed an SSI. Controls were patients in the study cohort who did not develop an SSI.

METHODS

To achieve 80% power with an ability to detect an odds ratio (OR) of 2, we performed an unmatched case-control study with equal numbers of cases and controls.

RESULTS

During the study period, 5,473 spinal fusion procedures were performed by neurosurgeons in our hospital. With 161 SSIs recorded during the study period, the incidence of SSIs associated with these procedures was 2.94%. While anterior surgical approach was found to be a protective factor (OR, 0.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.08–0.52), duration of procedure (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.29–1.93), American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 3 or 4 (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.00–3.18), and hospitalization within the prior 30 days (OR, 5.8; 95% CI, 1.37–24.57) were found in multivariate analysis to be independent predictors of SSI following spinal fusion. Prior methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) nares colonization was highly associated with odds 20 times higher of SSI following spinal fusion (OR, 20.30; 95% CI, 4.64–8.78).

CONCLUSIONS

In additional to nonmodifiable risk factors, prior colonization with MRSA is a modifiable risk factor very strongly associated with development of SSI following spinal fusion.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2017;38:348–352
Independent professionals (IPros) and well-being: An emerging focus for research?
Authors: Syrett Michel
Published: December 2016

In this paper, the author, a freelance writer and researcher who has worked in this way for over 30 years, draws on his own experience of independent working to present freelancing and well-being as an important yet neglected area of research. The paper is therefore presents a brief overview of the context of freelancing, particularly in the United Kingdom and Europe as this is the working environment of the author. This overview is blended with a review the existing research on the topic of freelancer well-being. The aim is to reveal the questions and issues that the author feels encompass well-being in this context as well as to highlight some recent initiatives where independent workers and their clients have worked together to support key areas of their vulnerability compared with those in full-time employment. Setting this often intensely personal perspective set against the wider context of academic and practitioner research reveals that, in contrast to some the common public opinion that freelance and contract work is ‘second-rate’ option, many independent professionals are happy about the way they work and experience high levels of job satisfaction. However, what does also emerge is that beyond local professional bodies and associations, many feel almost completely unsupported. Of greatest concern were reports of being treated with neglect and even suspicion by policy and law makers. The hope is that this paper heralds the beginnings of a wider research agenda into this important but neglected aspect of the independent professional workforce.