bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rational Analysis of Layered Oxide Power Performance Limitations in a Lithium Battery Application
Authors: Cabelguen Pierre‐Etienne , Peralta David , Cugnet Mikael , Badot Jean‐Claude , Dubrunfaut Olivier , Mailley Pascal
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this paper is to rationalize material geometry contribution on the electrochemical performances of four model LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 materials. A methodology combining the exhaustive microstructural characterization and the careful study of each component of the electrochemical process is established to discuss the limiting factors of power performances. Intuitions based on the exhaustive microstructural characterization are first confronted with the study, by cyclic voltammetry, of the rate‐limiting step of the electrochemical process. Depending on the microstructure, diffusion controlled electrochemical behavior is observed, which is expected in Li‐ion battery, and also charge‐transfer limitation even at extremely high scan rates. This second behavior surprisingly occurs for high surface area materials. Possible electronic limitations in these materials are explored using broadband dielectric spectroscopy. This unique technique shows that flake‐shaped, highly anisotropic, crystallites facilitate electronic motion at all scale levels compared to cuboidal crystallites. Charge‐transfer limitations are not electronic, but come from the material interface contribution to the electrochemical process. Numerical simulations allow quantifying the actual electroactive surface area. Between 15% and 30% of the BET surface area, corresponding to the thickness of the crystallites, are actually active.
Seasonal glucocorticoid production correlates with a suite of small‐magnitude environmental, demographic, and physiological effects in mandrills
Authors: Charpentier M. J. E. , Givalois L. , Faurie C. , Soghessa O. , Simon F. , Kappeler P. M.
Published: October 2017

Objectives

The activation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis is a neuroendocrine response to external and internal changes that animals face on a predictable or unpredictable basis. Across species, variation in glucocorticoid production has been related to such changes. In this study, we investigated the predictable, seasonal sources of variation in the levels of fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (fGCM) in a large natural population of mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) in Southern Gabon.

Materials and methods

Using five years of regular behavioral monitoring and hormone analyses performed on 1,233 fecal samples collected on 99 individuals of both sexes and all ages and General Linear Mixed Models, we studied the three main seasonal predictors of fGCM concentrations: (i) weather conditions, (ii) number of adult males, and (iii) female reproductive status. These three predictors all vary seasonally in mandrills.

Results

We first showed an increase in fGCM concentrations during the short dry season while controlling for other factors. Pregnant females, which include the large majority of adult females at this time of the year, mainly drove this increase, although a combination of other small‐magnitude, season‐related effects linked to climatic events and demographic changes also partly explained this seasonal trend. Indeed, fGCM concentrations increased with both low temperatures (and low rainfall) and high numbers of adult males present in the group. These seasonal changes, while correlated, held true throughout the studied years and when restricting our analyses to a given season. Finally, we found that older mandrills showed on average higher fGCM concentrations than younger ones and that medium‐ranked females exhibited the highest levels of fGCMs.

Discussion

The observed patterns suggest that plasticity in mandrills’ metabolism in the form of glucocorticoid production allows them to adjust to predictable changes in climatic, demographic and physiological conditions by mobilizing and redirecting energetic resources toward appropriate, calibrated seasonal responses.
A comparative analysis of microscopic alterations in modern and ancient undecalcified and decalcified dry bones
Authors: Caruso Valentina , Cummaudo Marco , Maderna Emanuela , Cappella Annalisa , Caudullo Giorgio , Scarpulla Valentina , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: October 2017

Objectives

The present study aims to evaluate the preservation of the microstructure of skeletal remains collected from four different known burial sites (archaeological and contemporary). Histological analysis on undecalcified and decalcified thin sections was performed in order to assess which of the two techniques is more affected by taphonomic insults.

Materials and Methods

A histological analysis was performed on both undecalcified and decalcified thin sections of 40 long bones and the degree of diagenetic change was evaluated using transmitted and polarized light microscopy according to the Oxford Histological Index (OHI). In order to test the optical behavior of bone tissue, thin sections were observed by polarized light microscopy and the intensity of birefringence was evaluated.

Results

The more ancient samples are generally characterized by a low OHI (0–1) with extensive microscopic focal destruction; recent samples exhibited a better preservation of bone micromorphology. When comparing undecalcified to decalcified thin sections, the latter showed an amelioration in the conservation of microscopic structure. As regards the birefringence, it was very low in all the undecalcified thin sections, whereas decalcification process seems to improve its visibility.

Discussion

The preservation of the bone microscopic structure appears to be influenced not only by age, but also by the burial context. Undecalcified bones appear to be more affected by taphonomical alterations, probably because of the thickness of the thin sections; on the contrary, decalcified thin sections proved to be able to tackle this issue allowing a better reading of the bone tissue.
High‐Pressure Band‐Gap Engineering in Lead‐Free Cs2AgBiBr6 Double Perovskite
Authors: Li Qian , Wang Yonggang , Pan Weicheng , Yang Wenge , Zou Bo , Tang Jiang , Quan Zewei
Published: October 2017

Novel inorganic lead‐free double perovskites with improved stability are regarded as alternatives to state‐of‐art hybrid lead halide perovskites in photovoltaic devices. The recently discovered Cs2AgBiBr6 double perovskite exhibits attractive optical and electronic features, making it promising for various optoelectronic applications. However, its practical performance is hampered by the large band gap. In this work, remarkable band gap narrowing of Cs2AgBiBr6 is, for the first time, achieved on inorganic photovoltaic double perovskites through high pressure treatments. Moreover, the narrowed band gap is partially retainable after releasing pressure, promoting its optoelectronic applications. This work not only provides novel insights into the structure–property relationship in lead‐free double perovskites, but also offers new strategies for further development of advanced perovskite devices.
Practical arbitrage‐free scenario tree reduction methods and their applications in financial optimization
Authors: Chen Zhiping , Yan Zhe
Published: October 2017

We construct an arbitrage‐free scenario tree reduction model, from which some arbitrage‐free scenario tree reduction algorithms are designed. They ensure that the reduced scenario trees are arbitrage free. Numerical results show the practicality and efficiency of the proposed algorithms. Results for multistage portfolio selection problems demonstrate the necessity and importance for guaranteeing that the reduced scenario trees are arbitrage free, as well as the practicality of the proposed arbitrage‐free scenario tree reduction algorithms for financial optimization.
What will my child's future hold? phenotypes of intellectual development in 2–8‐year‐olds with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Solomon Marjorie , Iosif Ana‐Maria , Reinhardt Vanessa P. , Libero Lauren E. , Nordahl Christine W. , Ozonoff Sally , Rogers Sally J. , Amaral David G.
Published: October 2017

We examined phenotypes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on trajectories of intellectual development from early (ages 2–3 ½) to middle (ages 5–8) childhood in a recent clinically ascertained cohort. Participants included 102 children (82 males) initially diagnosed with ASD from the Autism Phenome Project longitudinal sample. Latent class growth analysis was used to identify distinct IQ trajectories. Baseline and developmental course differences among groups were assessed using univariate techniques and repeated measures regression models, respectively. A four class model best represented the data. Using the highest posterior probability, participants were assigned to High Challenges (25.5%), Stable Low (17.6%), Changers (35.3%), and Lesser Challenges (21.6%) groups. The High Challenges and Stable Low groups exhibited persistently low IQ, although, the High Challenges group experienced declines while the Stable Low group's scores remained more constant. Changers showed IQ improvement of > 2 standard deviations. The Lesser Challenges group had IQs in the average range at both times that were about 1 standard deviation higher at T2. In summation, 75% of the participants experienced some relative improvements in intellectual and/or other areas of functioning between ages 2 and 8 years. The Changers group demonstrated the most significant IQ change that was accompanied by adaptive communication improvement and declining externalizing symptoms. Only the Lesser Challenges group showed a significant reduction in ASD symptom severity, such that by age 8, 14% of them no longer met ADOS‐2 criteria for ASD. All groups showed reductions in internalizing symptoms. Intervention history was not associated with group status. Autism Res 2018, 11: 121–132. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

We examined how the IQs of children with autism spectrum disorder change between ages 2 and 8, and identified four patterns. Two groups exhibited persistently lower IQs. One group showed IQ increases of greater than 30 points with improved communicate abilities and declining disruptive behaviors. The final group had IQs in the average or better range at both time points, and 14% of them lost their diagnoses. Over half of the children experienced improved intellectual functioning between ages 2 and 8, whereas about 25% showed declines. Findings were not associated with intervention history.
Zerstörungsfreie Untersuchung von Beton mittels Impuls‐Echo‐Methode – Möglichkeiten und Grenzen
Authors: Vogel Michael , Kotan Engin , Müller Harald S.
Published: October 2017

Im Rahmen von Bauwerksuntersuchungen kommt die Impuls‐Echo‐Methode verstärkt zum Einsatz. Diese Methode erlaubt das zerstörungsfreie Auffinden von z. B. Fehlstellen sowie die Überprüfung der Bauteildicke bei begrenzter, einseitiger Zugänglichkeit des Bauteils. Die ordnungsgemäße Anwendung der Impuls‐Echo‐Methode erfordert allerdings ein gesichertes Fach‐ und Erfahrungswissen. Zur Unterstützung eines solchen Wissens ist es sinnvoll, die Anwendung der Impuls‐Echo‐Methode bereits unter Laborbedingungen eingehend zu schulen.

In diesem Beitrag wird zunächst auf die Ultraschalltechnik eingegangen. Anschließend wird gezeigt, wie anhand speziell angefertigter Betonprüfkörper die Durchführung von Impuls‐Echo‐Messungen in Verbindung mit der Auswertung der Messdaten bewerkstelligt werden kann. In den besagten Prüfkörpern wurden diverse Kunststoffkörper (als Fehlstellen) unterschiedlicher Form und Größe sowie Hüllrohre eingebaut. Anhand dieser bekannten Einbauelemente können zielsicher die Messroutine am Betonbauteil sowie die Datenanalyse und Interpretation geschult werden.
Test‐compatible confidence intervals for adaptive two‐stage single‐arm designs with binary endpoint
Authors: Kunzmann Kevin , Kieser Meinhard
Published: October 2017

Inference after two‐stage single‐arm designs with binary endpoint is challenging due to the nonunique ordering of the sampling space in multistage designs. We illustrate the problem of specifying test‐compatible confidence intervals for designs with nonconstant second‐stage sample size and present two approaches that guarantee confidence intervals consistent with the test decision. Firstly, we extend the well‐known Clopper–Pearson approach of inverting a family of two‐sided hypothesis tests from the group‐sequential case to designs with fully adaptive sample size. Test compatibility is achieved by using a sample space ordering that is derived from a test‐compatible estimator. The resulting confidence intervals tend to be conservative but assure the nominal coverage probability. In order to assess the possibility of further improving these confidence intervals, we pursue a direct optimization approach minimizing the mean width of the confidence intervals. While the latter approach produces more stable coverage probabilities, it is also slightly anti‐conservative and yields only negligible improvements in mean width. We conclude that the Clopper–Pearson‐type confidence intervals based on a test‐compatible estimator are the best choice if the nominal coverage probability is not to be undershot and compatibility of test decision and confidence interval is to be preserved.
Toward Systems Metabolic Engineering of Streptomycetes for Secondary Metabolites Production
Authors: Robertsen Helene Lunde , Weber Tilmann , Kim Hyun Uk , Lee Sang Yup
Published: October 2017

Streptomycetes are known for their inherent ability to produce pharmaceutically relevant secondary metabolites. Discovery of medically useful, yet novel compounds has become a great challenge due to frequent rediscovery of known compounds and a consequent decline in the number of relevant clinical trials in the last decades. A paradigm shift took place when the first whole genome sequences of streptomycetes became available, from which silent or “cryptic” biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) were discovered. Cryptic BGCs reveal a so far untapped potential of the microorganisms for the production of novel compounds, which has spurred new efforts in understanding the complex regulation between primary and secondary metabolism. This new trend has been accompanied with development of new computational resources (genome and compound mining tools), generation of various high‐quality omics data, establishment of molecular tools, and other strain engineering strategies. They all come together to enable systems metabolic engineering of streptomycetes, allowing more systematic and efficient strain development. In this review, the authors present recent progresses within systems metabolic engineering of streptomycetes for uncovering their hidden potential to produce novel compounds and for the improved production of secondary metabolites.
A Novel Computational Method for Biomedical Binary Data Analysis: Development of a Thyroid Disease Index Using a Brute‐Force Search with MLR Analysis
Authors: Lee Jin Kak , Han Won Seok , Lee Jun‐Seok , Yoon Chang No
Published: October 2017

The thyroid disease index (TDI), which estimates thyroid disease progress based on hormone concentration measurements and hormone pattern changes, was developed. In this study, we measured concentrations of hormone profiles in the androgen and estrogen metabolic pathways from 23 patients with thyroid disease, as well as 20 unaffected people. We illustrated that the hormones 2‐hydroxyestrone (2‐OH‐E1), 2‐hydroxyestradiol (2‐OH‐E2), 2‐methoxyestrone (2‐MeO‐E1), 2‐methoxyestradiol (2‐MeO‐E2), and 2‐methoxyestradiol‐3‐methylether (2‐MeO‐E2‐3‐methylether) are related to the development of thyroid disease through t‐tests. Though the concentration levels of these hormones generally increase as the disease progresses, big fluctuations cause the determining of a disease's progress by measuring hormone levels to be difficult. The differing patterns between the correlation matrices of the disease and control groups possibly indicates changes in hormone releasing patterns during the thyroid disease's progress. Because of a lack of progressive experimental data on thyroid disease, binary data for the two categories (the thyroid disease patients and the control group) was utilized. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze five risk factors associated with thyroid disease, and the highest overall accuracy was 97.7% with three risk factors. Logistic regression models, however, are unable to describe disease progress. Hence, the TDI was developed to estimate thyroid disease progress. An arbitrary ranking of disease progress was generated for the TDI equation. The ranking contained a total number of 29 030 400 entries with six stages from the control group and eight stages from the disease group. Multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis was performed with a brute‐force search. The best result among the MLR runs presented strong correlation (r2 values of 0.840 and q2 values of 0.663) between the selected hormones and the values of the disease progress in the training set. Overall accuracy of our novel method was 90.7%, which is worse than the 97.7% of logistic regression models. Brute‐force search with MLR analysis might classify different types of thyroid disease progress such as thyroid mass (0.8055), goiter (0.8806), thyroid mass which was a thyroid cancer before operation (0.8951 and 0.9112), and cancer (1.001–2.144). The results show that the TDI is a good indicator of thyroid disease progress and that brute‐force search with MLR analysis is useful for biomedical binary data analysis.
A sensitive HPLC–MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of anemoside B4, anemoside A3 and 23‐hydroxybetulinic acid: Application to the pharmacokinetics and liver distribution of Pulsatilla chinensis saponins
Authors: Guo Xiaozhen , Xie Yang , Lian Shan , Li Zhixiong , Gao Yu , Xu Zhou , Hu Pei , Chen Mingcang , Sun Zhaolin , Tian Xiaoting , Huang Chenggang
Published: October 2017

Pulsatilla chinensis saponins, the major active components in the herb, have drawn great attention as potential hepatitis B virus infection and hepatoma treatments. Here, a sensitive and accurate HPLC–MS/MS method was established for simultaneous determination of three saponins – anemoside B4, anemoside A3 and 23‐hydroxybetulinic acid – in rat plasma and liver, and fully validated. The method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetics and liver distribution study of P. chinensis saponins. Consequently, 23‐hydroxybetulinic acid, with an extremely low content in the P. chinensis saponins, exhibited the highest exposure in the liver and in sites before and after hepatic disposition, namely, in the portal vein plasma and systemic plasma, followed by anemoside B4, which showed the highest content in the herb, whereas anemoside A3 displayed quite limited exposure. The hepatic first‐pass effects were 71% for 23‐hydroxybetulinic acid, 27% for anemoside B4 and 37% for anemoside A3, corresponding to their different extents of liver distribution. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation on the liver first‐pass effect and distribution of P. chinensis saponins to date. These results also provide valuable information for the understanding of the pharmacological effect of P. chinensis saponins on liver diseases.
Progression‐free survival at 2 years post‐autologous transplant: a surrogate end point for overall survival in follicular lymphoma
Authors: Jiménez‐Ubieto Ana , Grande Carlos , Caballero Dolores , Yáñez Lucrecia , Novelli Silvana , Hernández Miguel T. , Manzanares María , Arranz Reyes , Ferreiro José Javier , Bobillo Sabela , Mercadal Santiago , Galego Andrea , Jiménez Javier López , Moraleda José María , Vallejo Carlos , Albo Carmen , Pérez Elena , Marrero Carmen , Magnano Laura , Palomera Luis , Jarque Isidro , Coria Erika , Rodriguez Antonia , Martín Alejandro , López‐Guillermo Armando , Salar Antonio , Lahuerta Juan José ,   the GELTAMO (Grupo Español de Linfomas y Trasplantes de Médula Ósea) cooperative study group
Published: October 2017

Overall survival (OS) is the gold‐standard end point for studies evaluating autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in follicular lymphoma (FL), but assessment may be elusive due to the lengthy disease course. We analyzed the validity of two earlier end points, proposed in the setting of first‐line chemo‐/immunotherapy, as surrogates for OS—progression‐free survival (PFS) status at 24 months (PFS24) and complete response at 30 months (CR30) post‐ASCT. We also have investigated the clinical features of patients with early progression after ASCT. Data were available for 626 chemosensitive FL patients who received ASCT between 1989 and 2007. Median follow‐up was 12.2 years from ASCT. In the PFS24 analysis, 153 (24%) patients progressed within 24 months and 447 were alive and progression‐free at 24 months post‐ASCT (26 who died without disease progressions within 24 months were excluded). Early progression was associated with shorter OS (hazard ratio [HR], 6.8; P = 0.00001). In the subgroup of patients who received an ASCT in the setting or relapse after being exposed to rituximab, the HR was 11.3 (95% CI, 3.9–30.2; P < 0.00001). In the CR30 analysis, 183 of 596 (31%) response‐evaluable patients progressed/died with 30 months post‐ASCT. The absence of CR30 was associated with shorter OS (HR, 7.8; P < 0.00001), including in patients with prior rituximab (HR, 8.2). PFS24 and CR30 post‐ASCT are associated with poor outcomes and should be primary end points. Further research is needed to identify this population to be offered alternative treatments.
Chemical Approach to Biological Safety: Molecular‐Level Control of an Integrated Zinc Finger Nuclease
Authors: Németh Eszter , Asaka Masamitsu N. , Kato Kohsuke , Fábián Zita , Oostenbrink Chris , Christensen Hans E. M. , Nagata Kyosuke , Gyurcsik Béla
Published: October 2017

Application of artificial nucleases (ANs) in genome editing is still hindered by their cytotoxicity related to off‐target cleavages. This problem can be targeted by regulation of the nuclease domain. Here, we provide an experimental survey of computationally designed integrated zinc finger nucleases, constructed by linking the inactivated catalytic centre and the allosteric activator sequence of the colicin E7 nuclease domain to the two opposite termini of a zinc finger array. DNA specificity and metal binding were confirmed by electrophoretic mobility shift assays, synchrotron radiation circular dichroism spectroscopy, and nano‐electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry. In situ intramolecular activation of the nuclease domain was observed, resulting in specific cleavage of DNA with moderate activity. This study represents a new approach to AN design through integrated nucleases consisting of three (regulator, DNA‐binding, and nuclease) units, rather than simple chimera. The optimisation of such ANs could lead to safe gene editing enzymes.
Ultrasensitive DNAzyme‐Based Ca2+ Detection Boosted by Ethanol and a Solvent‐Compatible Scaffold for Aptazyme Design
Authors: Yu Tianmeng , Zhou Wenhu , Liu Juewen
Published: October 2017

Functional DNA includes aptamers and DNAzymes, and metal ions are often important for achieving the chemical functions of such DNA. Biosensors based on functional DNA have mainly been tested in aqueous buffers. By introducing organic solvents with much lower dielectric constants, the interaction between metal ions and DNA can be significantly enhanced, and this might affect the performance of DNA‐based biosensors. In this work, the effect of ethanol on the activity of the EtNa DNAzyme was studied for Ca2+ detection. With 30 % ethanol, the sensor has a detection limit of 1.4 μm Ca2+, which is a 16‐fold improvement relative to that in water. This EtNa DNAzyme is unique because other tested DNAzymes are all inhibited by 50 % ethanol. Finally, by using the EtNa DNAzyme as a scaffold, the adenosine monophosphate (AMP) aptamer was inserted to construct an aptazyme, which allowed the measurement of AMP in ethanol. In summary, this study has reported the most sensitive DNA‐based sensor for Ca2+, and its sensitivity and selectivity can approach those of proteins or small‐molecule ligands. This work also provides a way to measure aptamer binding in organic solvents.
Polymeric Ionic Liquid‐poly(ethylene glycol) Composite Polymer Electrolytes for High‐Temperature Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Sijian , Zhang Zhengxi , Yang Kaihua , Yang Li
Published: October 2017

A new family of composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) is developed by blending pyrrolidinium‐based polymeric ionic liquid [P(DADMA)TFSI], poly(ethylene glycol) [PEG800], and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiTFSI). The structure, thermal behavior, electrochemical properties of these CPEs, as well as their potential application in high‐temperature lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) are studied. The FTIR result reveals the interactions among P(DADMA)TFSI, PEG800, and Li+ cations. X‐ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry measurements show that the as‐prepared CPEs have amorphous structures. Furthermore, CPEs exhibit satisfactory ionic conductivity, as well as high thermal and electrochemical stabilities. In addition, Li/LiFePO4 cells with the as‐prepared CPE at 0.2C rate can achieve a discharge capacity of about 150 mA h g−1 at 80oC, with good capacity retention. These findings indicate that the as‐obtained CPEs have great potential for applications as safe electrolytes in high‐temperature LIBs.
Mesoporous Silica Nanocarriers with Cyclic Peptide Gatekeeper: Specific Targeting of Aminopeptidase N and Triggered Drug Release by Stimuli‐Responsive Conformational Transformation
Authors: Lee Jeonghun , Oh Eun‐Taex , Han Yeji , Kim Ha Gyeong , Park Heon Joo , Kim Chulhee
Published: October 2017

Utilizing stimuli‐responsive conformational transformation of a cyclic peptide as a gatekeeper for mesoporous nanocarriers has several advantages such as facile introduction of targeting capabilities, low enzymatic degradation during blood circulation and enhanced specific binding to selected cells. In this report, a Asn‐Gly‐Arg (NGR)‐containing dual‐functional cyclic peptide gatekeeper on the surface of mesoporous nanocarrier is prepared not only for active targeting of the aminopeptidase N (APN) expressed on cancer cells but also stimuli‐responsive intracellular drug release triggered by a glutathione (GSH)‐induced conformational transformation of the peptide gatekeeper. The peptide gatekeeper on the surface of nanocarriers exhibits on–off gatekeeping by conformational transformation triggered by intracellular glutathione of the cancer cells. H1299 cells (high APN expression) showed greater uptake of the nanocarrier by endocytosis and higher apoptosis than A549 cells (low APN expression).
Appending Diverse π‐Extended Acceptors with Tetrathiafulvalene/Dithiafulvalene Donors: Multistate Redox Properties, Radical Ion Generation, and Mid‐IR‐Absorbing Mixed‐Valence States
Authors: Keshri Sudhir Kumar , Asthana Deepak , Chorol Sonam , Kumar Yogendra , Mukhopadhyay Pritam
Published: October 2017

Three classes of donor–acceptor (D–A) π‐extended chromophores (1–12) were synthesized through a phosphite‐mediated cross‐coupling reaction, in which the anhydride‐ or imide‐based π‐As and number of tetrathiafulvalene (TTF)/dithiafulvalene (DTF) Ds were systematically changed. Large π rings, such as benzoperylene and coronene, were integrated into the TTF/DTF unit, for the first time, to overcome their high insolubility. The anhydride and imide groups in the π acceptors can significantly alter the frontier orbitals and influence the optoelectronic properties. The D moieties allow the formation of radical cations (D.+) and the π‐extended A moieties aid the formation of radical anions (A.−) by oxidation/reduction under ambient conditions. The molecules revealed UV/Vis/near‐IR absorption, fluorescence extending into the near‐IR region, and amphoteric electrochemical properties. Chromophores 10 and 12 show solvatochromism in a wide range of solvents. The π‐As with anhydride functionality allow easier electron uptake, relative to the imide groups, whereas the increasing number of D TTF/DTF units make them easy to oxidize. Interestingly, the trans‐TTF‐fused molecules (1, 6, and 11) exhibited a mixed‐valence state in the mid‐IR region (
=5130–4000 cm−1). Moderate electron coupling between the redox centers is inferred to the compounds being of Robin–Day class II. The multistate redox activity along with panchromism and near‐/mid‐IR optical absorption of these systems can be attractive towards advanced switchable materials.
Cellulose transformation into methyl glucosides catalyzed by H3PW12O40: Enhancement of ionic liquid pretreatment
Authors: Zheng Weizhong , Cui Yanjin , Xu Zhimei , Zhao Ling , Sun Weizhen
Published: October 2017

The efficient alcoholysis of cellulose to monosaccharide is of great importance to produce fuels and fine chemicals from renewable feedstocks. In this work, the conversion of cellulose into methyl glucosides was investigated by combining the pretreatment process of the ionic liquid 1‐allyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([Amim]Cl) and the subsequent alcoholysis catalyzed by the heteropolyacid H3PW12O40. The X‐ray diffraction characterization of [Amim]Cl‐pretreated cellulose shows that the pretreatment process could transform cellulose I to cellulose II resulting in the loss of crystalline structure. The subsequent alcoholysis of the pretreated cellulose catalyzed by H3PW12O40 proves to be a highly efficient way to convert cellulose to methyl glucosides in the medium of methanol. Under the optimized conditions of the [Amim]Cl pretreatment and alcoholysis reaction, the highest yield of methyl glucosides reaches up to 70.2 mass%, which is much higher than those previously published without pretreatment process.
Linear operator‐based statistical analysis: A useful paradigm for big data
Authors: Li Bing
Published: October 2017

In this article we lay out some basic structures, technical machineries, and key applications, of Linear Operator‐Based Statistical Analysis, and organize them toward a unified paradigm. This paradigm can play an important role in analyzing big data due to the nature of linear operators: they process large number of functions in batches. The system accommodates at least four statistical settings: multivariate data analysis, functional data analysis, nonlinear multivariate data analysis via kernel learning, and nonlinear functional data analysis via kernel learning. We develop five linear operators within each statistical setting: the covariance operator, the correlation operator, the conditional covariance operator, the regression operator, and the partial correlation operator, which provide us with a powerful means to study the interconnections between random variables or random functions in a nonparametric and comprehensive way. We present a case study tracing the development of sufficient dimension reduction, and describe in detail how these linear operators play increasingly critical roles in its recent development. We also present a coordinate mapping method which can be systematically applied to implement these operators at the sample level. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 46: 79–103; 2018 © 2017 Statistical Society of Canada
Nonlinear Stability of Expanding Star Solutions of the Radially Symmetric Mass‐Critical Euler‐Poisson System
Authors: Hadžić Mahir , Jang Juhi
Published: October 2017

We prove nonlinear stability of compactly supported expanding star solutions of the mass‐critical gravitational Euler‐Poisson system. These special solutions were discovered by Goldreich and Weber in 1980. The expansion rate of such solutions can be either self‐similar or non‐self‐similar (linear), and we treat both types. An important outcome of our stability results is the existence of a new class of global‐in‐time radially symmetric solutions, which are not homologous and therefore not encompassed by the existing works. Using Lagrangian coordinates we reformulate the associated free‐boundary problem as a degenerate quasilinear wave equation on a compact spatial domain. The problem is mass‐critical with respect to an invariant rescaling and the analysis is carried out in similarity variables. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Property‐based token attestation in mobile computing
Authors: Vinh Thinh Le , Cagnon Hervé , Bouzefrane Samia , Banerjee Soumya
Published: October 2017

The surge of the presence of personal mobile devices in multi‐environment makes a significant attention to the mobile cloud computing (MCC). Along with this concern, security issues also appear as a barrier to prevent the propagation of this trend. This paper focuses on an important feature in many security protocols and application, which is the device attestation in the MCC. The existing remote attestation mechanisms are currently used in trusted computing environment such as binary attestation and property‐based attestation. In this paper, by taking advantage of the combination of technologies and trends, such as trusted platform module, cloud computing, and bring your own device, we introduce property‐based token attestation to secure the mobile user in the enterprise cloud environment. In order to accomplish a secure MCC environment, security threats need to be studied and acted accordingly, and therefore, we first represent the common threats and then explain a novel attestation schema for addressing these threats by providing security proofs. In addition, Scyther is in use to verify the correctness of our protocol.
SeShare: Secure cloud data sharing based on blockchain and public auditing
Authors: Huang Longxia , Zhang Gongxuan , Yu Shui , Fu Anmin , Yearwood John
Published: October 2017

In a data sharing group, each user can upload, modify, and access group files and a user is required to generate a new signature for the modified file after modification. There is a situation that two or more users modify the same file at almost the same time, which should be avoided as it gives rise to a signature conflict. However, the existing schemes do not take it into consideration. In this paper, we proposed a new mechanism SeShare for data storing based on blockchain to realize signature uniqueness, which solves the problem of generating signatures for the same file meanwhile by different group users. Specifically, we record every signature of a file in a blockchain in chronological order, and only one user is allowed to add new signature at the end of the blockchain when modification conflicts occur. On the other hand, to provide a secure data sharing service, SeShare introduces an efficient public auditing scheme for file integrity verification when a group user leaves the group. We also prove the security of the proposed scheme and evaluate the performance at the end of this paper. Our experimental results demonstrate the efficiency of public auditing for user leaving.
Putative periodontopathic bacteria and herpes viruses interactions in the subgingival plaque of patients with aggressive periodontitis and healthy controls
Authors: Elamin Amal , Ali Raouf Wahab , Bakken Vidar
Published: October 2017

The microbial profile of aggressive periodontitis patients is considered to be complex with variations among populations in different geographical areas. The aim of this study was to assess the presences of 4 putative periodontopathic bacteria (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola) and 2 periodontal herpes viruses (Epstein–Barr virus type 1 [EBV‐1] and human cytomegalovirus [HMCV]) in subgingival plaque of Sudanese subjects with aggressive periodontitis and healthy controls. The study group consisted of 34 subjects, 17 aggressive periodontitis patients and 17 periodontally healthy controls (14–19 years of age). Pooled subgingival plaque samples were collected and analyzed for detection of bacteria and viruses using loop‐mediated isothermal amplification. Prevalence of subgingival A. actinomycetemcomitans, HCMV, and P. gingivalis were significantly higher among aggressive periodontitis patients than periodontally healthy controls. Coinfection with A. actinomycetemcomitans, HCMV, and/or EBV‐1 was restricted to the cases. Increased risk of aggressive periodontitis was the highest when A. actinomycetemcomitans was detected together with EBV‐1 (OD 49.0, 95% CI [2.5, 948.7], p = .01) and HCMV (OD 39.1, 95% CI [2.0, 754.6], p = .02). In Sudanese patients, A. actinomycetemcomitans and HCMV were the most associated test pathogens with aggressive periodontitis.
How Corporate Social Responsibility Helps MNEs to Improve their Reputation. The Moderating Effects of Geographical Diversification and Operating in Developing Regions
Authors: Aguilera‐Caracuel Javier , Guerrero‐Villegas Jaime
Published: October 2017

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) can enhance their reputations through advanced social initiatives and management practices. These firms often locate facilities in developing countries to benefit from lax environmental and social regulations, and to reduce their operating costs. MNEs can, however, also contribute positively to the development of those countries through corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. This paper argues that MNEs operating in developing regions can enhance their level of corporate reputation through the implementation of CSR initiatives that meet specific stakeholders' expectations of the firm's activities in these areas. In addition, we argue that MNEs with units based in different regions strengthen the impact of corporate social performance on corporate reputation. Based on a sample of 113 US MNEs from the chemical, energy, and industrial machinery industries over the period 2005–2010, our findings show that CSR has a positive effect on corporate reputation. In addition, MNEs' operations in developing regions intensify the positive relationship between corporate social performance and reputation, although geographical diversification does not necessarily enhance MNEs' reputation through corporate social performance. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Cytological findings of ROS1‐rearranged lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kuroda Naoto , Tamiya Hiroyuki , Nakatani Kimiko , Ide Haruna , Wada Yukari , Yasuoka Kaori , Ohara Masahiko , Mizuno Keiko , Yorita Kenji , Takeuchi Kengo
Published: October 2017

ROS1‐rearranged lung adenocarcinoma has been recently identified. We report a case of ROS1‐rearranged lung adenocarcinoma with special emphasis on cytological findings. Here, we report a case of young woman with ROS1‐rearranged lung adenocarcinoma diagnosed by cytology and discuss the clinical, cytological, and molecular findings. Cytologically, the tumor consisted of small tight clusters of cells with high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio. Nuclei were enlarged and small nucleoli were occasionally observed. Signet‐ring cells were focally identified. Neoplastic cells were positive for ROS1 immunocytochemistry. Subsequently, the translocation of ROS1 gene was confirmed in a histological specimen. In conclusion, the specific histology of adenocarcinoma on cytological materials should promote testing for ROS1 immunohistochemistry. Immunocytochemical detection of ROS1 protein helps identify patients suitable for molecular targeted therapy.
Cytological challenges in the diagnosis of intrathyroidal parathyroid carcinoma: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Balakrishnan Meera , George Smiley Annie , Rajab Sayed Hashim , Francis Issam M , Kapila Kusum
Published: October 2017

Parathyroid carcinoma is an uncommon malignancy and the probability of an intrathyroidal location is low. Fine needle aspirations (FNA) of these presumably “thyroid nodules” can lead to misinterpretation because of the similarities in cytological features of parathyroid and thyroid lesions. Despite limitations, USG guided FNA cytology remains the first line of investigation. We report a case of intrathyroidal parathyroid carcinoma presenting with hypercalcemia and elevated serum parathormone. Cytological findings attributed it to a possible parathyroid lesion and histopathology revealed a parathyroid carcinoma. It is reported due to its rare occurrence on FNA along with brief literature review.
Gastroprotective effect of calealactone B: Lack of involvement of prostaglandins, nitric oxide and sulfhydryls
Authors: Sánchez‐Mendoza María Elena , López‐Lorenzo Yaraset , Matus‐Meza Audifás‐Salvador , Arrieta Jesús
Published: October 2017

Hit, Lead & Candidate Discovery

The gastroprotective effect of calealactone B, isolated from Calea urticifolia was assessed in an ethanol‐induced model of gastric lesioning. The possible involvement of prostaglandins, nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl groups in the mechanism of action of calealactone B was also assessed. Calealactone B inhibited ethanol‐induced gastric injuries with a maximal effect (95.3 ± 2.6%) at 30 mg kg−1. A similar value was obtained at 10 mg kg−1 (83.5 ± 7.7%). Meanwhile, the reference anti‐ulcer drug, carbenoxolone, an 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β‐HSD) inhibitor administered at 30 mg kg−1 showed 63.5 ± 9.4% gastroprotection. Hence, calealactone B was more potent than carbenoxolone. Pretreatment with indomethacin, L‐NAME or NEM did not reverse the effects of calealactone B, indicating that prostaglandins, NO and sulfhydryl compounds do not participate in its mechanism of action.
Predicting persistent impaired glucose tolerance in patients with gestational diabetes: The role of high sensitivity CRP and adiponectin
Authors: Durnwald Celeste P. , Downes Katheryne , Leite Rita , Elovitz Michal , Parry Samuel
Published: October 2017

Background

To evaluate whether maternal serum adiponectin and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) levels at the time of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosis are associated with persistent glucose intolerance in GDM women at 6 to 12 weeks postpartum.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of prospective randomized trial of GDM women enrolled in a behaviour education programme. Women with a GDM diagnosis ≥20 weeks were included. At the time of randomization, serum adiponectin and hsCRP levels were drawn. After delivery, women underwent a 2‐hour 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test at 6 to 12 weeks postpartum. Persistent impaired glucose tolerance (P‐IGT) was defined as impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Regression models and receiver operator curves were used to evaluate the association between midpregnancy adiponectin and hsCRP and persistent impaired glucose tolerance.

Results

Of 100 women in the trial, 63 completed postpartum glucose testing. Twenty (31.7%) of the women had P‐IGT. Median hsCRP levels were higher at randomization (22‐34 wk) in women with persistent impaired glucose tolerance compared with women with normal glucose tolerance (5.1 vs 3.8, P = .01). After adjustment for the original study intervention, the association between hsCRP and P‐IGT persisted (odds ratio, 3.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.34‐8.92; P = .01) and had good diagnostic performance with an area under the curve of 0.73. There was no difference in median adiponectin levels between groups (44.8 vs 52.0, P = .57) or in odds of P‐IGT (odds ratio, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.33‐1.99; P = .65), and area under the curve = 0.54.

Conclusions

Midpregnancy high sensitivity CRP is a potential predictor of persistent impaired glucose tolerance diagnosed on the postpartum 2‐hour 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test in GDM women in the immediate postpartum period. Further investigation is needed in a larger population of women prior to using specific cut‐offs for diagnostic purposes. High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein levels in the immediate postpartum period should be seen as an adjunct, not a replacement, for the standard long‐term screening of women with a history of a GDM pregnancy.
The Magnetocaloric Effect in the Thin Film of a Prussian Blue Analogue
Authors: Fitta Magdalena , Szuwarzyński Michał , Czaja Paweł , Lewińska Gabriela , Bałanda Maria
Published: October 2017

Invited for the cover of this issue is research led by Magdalena Fitta at the Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kraków, Poland, in collaboration with scientists at the Jagiellonian University, Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science, and Kraków University of Technology. The cover image shows the temperature dependence of the change in magnetic entropy for a thin film of a Prussian blue analogue at various external magnetic fields.
Highly Reliable Real‐time Self‐powered Vibration Sensor Based on a Piezoelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Zhu Jie , Niu Xushi , Hou Xiaojuan , He Jian , Chou Xiujian , Xue Chenyang , Zhang Wendong
Published: October 2017

With the diverse development in electronic devices, high cost, low reliability, and the need for battery power have been severe obstacles to restrict the wide application of sensors. In this work, we present a highly reliable, real‐time, self‐powered vibration sensor based on an enhanced piezoelectric nanogenerator (NG), which is heat resistant, waterproof, relatively low cost, and with a long lifetime. The enhanced piezoelectric NG is constructed into a double‐arched structure: the upper arched layer is the poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) film with designed optimum size, which can utilize the excellent piezoelectric potential of the d31 mode; the lower arched layer is the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film covered by uniform trapezoidal microstructures and thereby increases the charge density of the piezoelectric NG. The piezoelectric NG output voltage with the double‐arched structure increased by 35.1 % upon applying a mechanical force of 5 N. Relating to improved steady voltage output performance, the enhanced piezoelectric NG was used as the sensitive element of a sensor with sensitivity of 2.21 V g−1 and linearity error of 5.91 % under a vibration amplitude of 6 mm. Moreover, the sensor not only exhibited stable repeatability and stability over long times, but it also steadily produced output performances after soaking in water temperatures up to 70 °C. Therefore, the highly reliable self‐powered vibration sensor presents prominent prospect for future application.
Selenium toxicity to survival and reproduction of Collembola and Enchytraeids in a sandy loam soil
Authors: Kuperman Roman G. , Checkai Ronald T. , Simini Michael , Phillips Carlton T. , Higashi Richard M. , Fan Teresa W.-M. , Sappington Keith
Published: October 2017

We investigated the toxicity of selenium (Se) to the soil invertebrates Folsomia candida (Collembola) and Enchytraeus crypticus (potworm). Studies were designed to generate ecotoxicological benchmarks for developing ecological soil screening levels (Eco-SSLs) for risk assessments of contaminated soils. For the present studies, we selected Sassafras sandy loam, an aerobic upland soil with soil characteristics (low levels of clay and organic matter, soil pH adjusted from 5.2 to 7.1) that support high relative bioavailability of the anionic Se species that is typically found in aerobic soil. The Se was amended into soil as sodium selenate, subjected to weathering and aging using 21 d of alternating cycles of air-drying/rehydration to 60% of the water-holding capacity of the Sassafras sandy loam soil, under ambient greenhouse conditions. Effective concentrations at 20 and 50% (EC20 and EC50) levels for production of juveniles (reproduction) were 4.7 and 10.9 mg of Se/kg of soil (dry mass basis), respectively, for Collembola, and 4.4 and 6.2 mg/kg, respectively, for the potworms. The data enabled the derivation of toxicity benchmarks, contributing to the development of a soil invertebrate-based Eco-SSL of 4.1 mg/kg for Se. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:846–853. Published 2017 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.