bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of sources of atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at Mount Lushan in southern China
Authors: Li Haiyan , Wang Yan , Li Hongli , Zhu Chen , Mao Huiting , Yang Minmin , Wang Ruixia , Wang Wenxing
Published: March 2016

Gaseous and particulate samples of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were collected at the summit of Mount Lushan (29.58°N, 115.98°E, 1165 m asl) in southern China from August to September of 2011 and March to May of 2012 except special meteorological conditions such as rainy or very foggy days. The concentration of PAHs in total (gaseous and particulate PAHs) ranged from 15.79 to 160.53 ng m−3 (mean 41.67 ng m−3). Observed logarithmic values of particulate mass fraction (log θ) and partitioning coefficient (log Kp) were all higher than values calculated by the three gas‐particle partitioning models, presenting higher fraction of particulate PAHs, indicating continual contribution of gaseous PAHs to particulate PAHs concentrations during long‐range transport of air masses. Identified potential source regions using potential source contribution function analysis suggested significant contributions of emissions from coking, thermal power, and steel plants. The sources of PAHs levels at Mount Lushan that were identified using positive matrix factorization included diesel vehicles (43%), coal‐fired boiler combustion (33%), coke oven source (17%), and incineration source (7%).
Asian irrigation, African rain: Remote impacts of irrigation
Authors: de Vrese Philipp , Hagemann Stefan , Claussen Martin
Published: March 2016

Irrigation is not only vital for global food security but also constitutes an anthropogenic land use change, known to have strong effects on local hydrological and energy cycles. Using the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology's Earth System Model, we show that related impacts are not confined regionally but that possibly as much as 40% of the present‐day precipitation in some of the arid regions in Eastern Africa are related to irrigation‐based agriculture in Asia. Irrigation in South Asia also substantially influences the climate throughout Southeast Asia and China via the advection of water vapor and by altering the Asian monsoon. The simulated impact of irrigation on remote regions is sensitive to the magnitude of the irrigation‐induced moisture flux. Therefore, it is likely that a future extension or decline of irrigated areas due to increasing food demand or declining fresh water resources will also affect precipitation and temperatures in remote regions.
Choline and Geranate Deep Eutectic Solvent as a Broad‐Spectrum Antiseptic Agent for Preventive and Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Zakrewsky Michael , Banerjee Amrita , Apte Sanjana , Kern Theresa L. , Jones Mattie R. , Sesto Rico E. Del , Koppisch Andrew T. , Fox David T. , Mitragotri Samir
Published: March 2016

Antiseptic agents are the primary arsenal to disinfect skin and prevent pathogens spreading within the host as well as into the surroundings; however the Food and Drug Administration published a report in 2015 requiring additional validation of nearly all current antiseptic agents before their continued use can be allowed. This vulnerable position calls for urgent identification of novel antiseptic agents. Recently, the ability of a deep eutectic, Choline And Geranate (CAGE), to treat biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella enterica was demonstrated. Here it is reported that CAGE exhibits broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity against a number of drug‐resistant bacteria, fungi, and viruses including clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans as well as laboratory strains of Herpes Simplex Virus. Studies in human keratinocytes and mice show that CAGE affords negligible local or systemic toxicity, and an ≈180–14 000‐fold improved efficacy/toxicity ratio over currently used antiseptic agents. Further, CAGE penetrates deep into the dermis and treats pathogens located in deep skin layers as confirmed by the ability of CAGE in vivo to treat Propionibacterium acnes infection. In combination, the results clearly demonstrate CAGE holds promise as a transformative platform antiseptic agent for preventive as well as therapeutic applications.
Central nervous system involvement by multiple myeloma: A multi‐institutional retrospective study of 172 patients in daily clinical practice
Authors: Jurczyszyn Artur , Grzasko Norbert , Gozzetti Alessandro , Czepiel Jacek , Cerase Alfonso , Hungria Vania , Crusoe Edvan , Silva Dias Ana Luiza Miranda , Vij Ravi , Fiala Mark A. , Caers Jo , Rasche Leo , Nooka Ajay K. , Lonial Sagar , Vesole David H. , Philip Sandhya , Gangatharan Shane , Druzd‐Sitek Agnieszka , Walewski Jan , Corso Alessandro , Cocito Federica , Vekemans Marie‐Christine M. , Atilla Erden , Beksac Meral , Leleu Xavier , Davila Julio , Badros Ashraf , Aneja Ekta , Abildgaard Niels , Kastritis Efstathios , Fantl Dorotea , Schutz Natalia , Pika Tomas , Butrym Aleksandra , Olszewska‐Szopa Magdalena , Usnarska‐Zubkiewicz Lidia , Usmani Saad Z. , Nahi Hareth , Chim Chor S , Shustik Chaim , Madry Krzysztof , Lentzsch Suzanne , Swiderska Alina , Helbig Grzegorz , Guzicka‐Kazimierczak Renata , Lendvai Nikoletta , Waage Anders , Andersen Kristian T. , Murakami Hirokazu , Zweegman Sonja , Castillo Jorge J.
Published: March 2016

The multicenter retrospective study conducted in 38 centers from 20 countries including 172 adult patients with CNS MM aimed to describe the clinical and pathological characteristics and outcomes of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) involving the central nervous system (CNS). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors for survival. The median time from MM diagnosis to CNS MM diagnosis was 3 years. Thirty‐eight patients (22%) were diagnosed with CNS involvement at the time of initial MM diagnosis and 134 (78%) at relapse/progression. Upon diagnosis of CNS MM, 97% patients received initial therapy for CNS disease, of which 76% received systemic therapy, 36% radiotherapy and 32% intrathecal therapy. After a median follow‐up of 3.5 years, the median overall survival (OS) from the onset of CNS involvement for the entire group was 7 months. Untreated and treated patients had median OS of 2 and 8 months, respectively (P < 0.001). At least one previous line of therapy for MM before the diagnosis of CNS disease and >1 cytogenetic abnormality detected by FISH were independently associated with worse OS. The median OS for patients with 0, 1 and 2 of these risk factors were 25 months, 5.5 months and 2 months, respectively (P < 0.001). Neurological manifestations, not considered chemotherapy‐related, observed at any time after initial diagnosis of MM should raise a suspicion of CNS involvement. Although prognosis is generally poor, the survival of previously untreated patients and patients with favorable cytogenetic profile might be prolonged due to systemic treatment and/or radiotherapy. Am. J. Hematol. 91:575–580, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimal designing of polyurethane‐based nanocomposite system for aerostat envelope
Authors: Chatterjee U. , Butola B. S. , Joshi M.
Published: March 2016

This article reports an optimal designing of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposite formulation, particularly targeting aerostat envelope for enhanced weathering and gas barrier properties. The synergistic effect of conventional UV protective additive with advanced nano materials (i.e. nanoclay and graphene) on TPU‐based formulations was explored. A series of formulations were prepared in accordance with a mixture design for three components additives (UV stabilizer, nanoclay, and graphene) and coated on to a woven polyester (PET) fabric. The coated systems were evaluated for resistance to UV radiation, resistance to helium gas permeability, and loss in both the properties against accelerated artificial weathering. The composition of the additive mixture was simultaneously optimized by desirability function approach with a view to maximize UV radiation protection and minimize helium gas permeability. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43529.
POSS‐based fluorinated azobenzene‐containing polymers: Photo‐responsive behavior and evaluation of water repellency
Authors: Chen Liang , He Chuanglong , Huang Yangen , Huang Jianbao , Zhang Yanzhong , Gao Yu
Published: March 2016

The photoresponsive polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) based fluorinated azobenzene‐containing polymers were prepared and characterized by NMR, FT‐IR, GPC, XRD, TG and UV–Vis spectra. The thermal property of the polymers was improved by the introduction of POSS cage. The trans‐cis photoisomerization of the polymers in solution was similar to that of the fluorinated azobenzene monomer and in accordance with the first‐order reaction kinetics equation within the first 250 seconds UV irradiation. The cotton fabrics coated with the polymers showed excellent water repellency and possessed switchable wettability under UV irradiation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43540.
Enhanced water flux through ultrafiltration polysulfone membrane via addition‐removal of silica nano‐particles: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Habibi Samin , Nematollahzadeh Ali
Published: March 2016

In the present paper, hierarchically structured ultrafiltration polysulfone (PSf) membrane was prepared to explore the effect of addition and subsequent removal of SiO2 nano‐particles on the membrane morphology, hydrophilicity, and separation properties. The PSf based membranes namely PSf, PSf/SiO2 and PSf/WSiO2 (i.e. SiO2 nano‐particles was acid‐washed and removed from PSf/SiO2), were synthesized and characterized by different characterization methods. Pure water flux through the membranes was determined using a filtration unit operating at a continuous dead‐end flow mode. The modification enhanced the morphology, hydrophobicity, porosity and transport properties of the modified membranes, although the molecular weight cut‐off (MWCO) of the membranes was not changed considerably. In comparison, PSf/WSiO2 membrane exhibited excellent pure water flux (about 4.5 times the flux of PSf, and 17 times the flux of PSf/SiO2), although antifouling property of PSf/SiO2 in separation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) was better than that of PSf and PSf/WSiO2 membranes. The results suggested that the addition/removal of sacrificial solid fillers within/from a membrane matrix may provide a promising strategy to enhance PSf membrane transport property. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43556.
Exfoliating and Dispersing Few‐Layered Graphene in Low‐Boiling‐Point Organic Solvents towards Solution‐Processed Optoelectronic Device Applications
Authors: Zhang Lu , Miao Zhongshuo , Hao Zhen , Liu Jun
Published: March 2016

With normal organic surfactants, graphene can only be dispersed in water and cannot be dispersed in low‐boiling‐point organic solvents, which hampers its application in solution‐processed organic optoelectronic devices. Herein, we report the exfoliation of graphite into graphene in low‐boiling‐point organic solvents, for example, methanol and acetone, by using edge‐carboxylated graphene quantum dots (ECGQD) as the surfactant. The great capability of ECGQD for graphene dispersion is due to its ultralarge π‐conjugated unit that allows tight adhesion on the graphene surface through strong π–π interactions, its edge‐carboxylated structure that diminishes the steric effects of the oxygen‐containing functional groups on the basal plane of ECGQD, and its abundance of carboxylic acid groups for solubility. The graphene dispersion in methanol enables the application of graphene:ECGQD as a cathode interlayer in polymer solar cells (PSCs). Moreover, the PSC device performance of graphene:ECGQD is better than that of Ca, the state‐of‐the‐art cathode interlayer material.
Dual‐Reactable Fluorescent Probes for Highly Selective and Sensitive Detection of Biological H2S
Authors: Wei Chao , Wang Runyu , Zhang Changyu , Xu Guoce , Li Yanyan , Zhang Qiang‐Zhe , Li Lu‐Yuan , Yi Long , Xi Zhen
Published: March 2016

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an important endogenous signaling molecule with a variety of biological functions. Development of fluorescent probes for highly selective and sensitive detection of H2S is necessary. We show here that dual‐reactable fluorescent H2S probes could react with higher selectivity than single‐reactable probes. One of the dual‐reactable probes gives more than 4000‐fold turn‐on response when reacting with H2S, the largest response among fluorescent H2S probes reported thus far. In addition, the probe could be used for high‐throughput enzymatic assays and for the detection of Cys‐induced H2S in cells and in zebrafish. These dual‐reactable probes hold potential for highly selective and sensitive detection of H2S in biological systems.
Helix Nucleation via Hydrocarbon Cross‐link Mimicking N‐capping Box
Authors: Nguyen Luong Thuy , Luong Huy Xuan , Kim Young‐Woo
Published: March 2016

The N‐capping box is a well‐known helix‐stabilizing motif with a distinct reciprocal backbone–side chain hydrogen‐bonding arrangement at the N‐terminus of helices. This unique N‐terminal flanking motif consists of a hydrogen‐bonded cycle of four amino acid residues in which the backbone amide of the N3 residue forms a hydrogen bond with the side chain of the Ncap residue, and reciprocally, the side chain of the N3 accepts a hydrogen from the Ncap amide. In this study, as a new helix‐stabilizing strategy, we examined a metathesis‐based cross‐linking system that mimics the hydrogen bond between the Ncap amide and the side chain of the N3 at the N‐terminus. Using this new system, we prepared two alanine/lysine‐based model peptides and analyzed its impact on helix stabilization. We found that a 16‐membered macrocycle incorporated by ring‐closing metathesis effectively induces and stabilizes helical conformations of the given model sequence.
An Efficient Lanthanide‐Dependent DNAzyme Cleaving 2′–5′‐Linked RNA
Authors: Zhou Wenhu , Ding Jinsong , Liu Juewen
Published: March 2016

RNA can form two types of linkage. In addition to the predominant 3′–5′ linkage, 2′–5′‐linked RNA is also important in biology, medicine, and prebiotic studies. Here, in vitro selection was used to isolate a DNAzyme that specifically cleaves 2′–5′ RNA by using Ce3+ as the metal cofactor, but leaves the 3′–5′ counterpart intact. This Ce5 DNAzyme requires trivalent light lanthanide ions and shows a rate of 0.16 min−1 in the presence of 10 μm Ce3+; the activity decreases with heavier lanthanide ions. This is the fastest DNAzyme reported for this reaction, and it might enable applications in chemical biology. As a proof‐of‐concept, using this DNAzyme, the reactions between phosphorothioate‐modified RNA and strongly thiophilic metals (Hg2+ and Tl3+) were studied as a function of pH.
Attaching Redox Proteins onto Electrode Surfaces by using bis‐Silane
Authors: Trashin Stanislav , de Jong Mats , Meynen Vera , Dewilde Sylvia , De Wael Karolien
Published: March 2016

Immobilization of redox proteins on electrode surfaces is of special interest for mechanistic studies and applications, because of the well‐controlled redox state of protein molecules at a polarized electrode and fast electron‐transfer kinetics that are free from diffusion limitation. Here, bis‐organosilane [1,2‐bis(trimethoxysilyl)ethane] was used as a fresh solution in a pH 7 phosphate buffer without the use of any organic solvent, sol‐gel, or mesoporous bulk matrix. A short aging period of 30 min before deposition on the electrodes was optimal for the immobilization of proteins. Three redox proteins (cytochrome c, neuroglobin, and GLB‐12) were confined to the gold surface of electrodes with high coverages and stabilities, indicating that the suggested technique is simple, efficient, and generic in nature.
Fluorinated Hyperbranched Cyclotriphosphazene Simultaneously Enhances the Safety and Electrochemical Performance of High‐Voltage Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Choon‐Ki , Shin Dong‐Seon , Kim Ko‐Eun , Shin Kyomin , Woo Jung‐Je , Kim Saheum , Hong Sung You , Choi Nam‐Soon
Published: March 2016

As high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) are being developed, their thermal stability problems become more apparent. In spite of elaborate precautions, exothermic reactions between electrolytes and electrode materials at elevated temperatures can lead to battery explosion. In this study, we introduce a novel flame‐retardant additive with a fluorinated hyperbranched cyclotriphosphazene structure for high‐voltage LIBs. Along with the effective reduction of flammability, it enhances the electrochemical performance by generating a thermally and electrochemically stable solid electrolyte interphase on both the cathode and the anode, which is rare for conventional additives. In full cells composed of a 5 V‐class spinel cathode and a graphite anode with practical‐level mass loading, this new additive demonstrates significant improvements in discharge capacity retention and coulombic efficiency during cycle testing.
How novel actors achieve a positive reputation: A case of prep schools with elite‐level hockey programs
Authors: Washington Marvin , Edwards Jonathon
Published: March 2016

How are novel organizations able to build a positive reputation while attempting to enter into a system with established organizations? To address this, we examined the field of elite‐level amateur hockey. Private Secondary Schools (PSS) are novel in that they offer a nontraditional pathway for players with respect to fielding elite‐level hockey teams. Findings from interviews with PSS with elite‐level hockey programs revealed that PSS highlight their Selection Processes, Player Development Practices, and the enhanced Player Experience in an effort to build a positive reputation. This study contributes to the literature on reputation by showing that novel organizations can build a reputation through highlighting the unique value they add. Copyright © 2016 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fe3O4 Anisotropic Nanostructures in Hydrogels: Efficient Catalysts for the Rapid Removal of Organic Dyes from Wastewater
Authors: Gao Yang , Hu Chen , Zheng Wen Jiang , Yang Sen , Li Fei , Sun Shao Dong , Zrínyi Miklós , Osada Yoshihito , Yang Zhi Mao , Chen Yong Mei
Published: March 2016

Fe3O4 anisotropic nanostructures that exhibit excellent catalytic performance are rarely used to catalyze Fenton‐like reactions because of the inevitable drawbacks resulting from traditional preparation methods. In this study, a facile, nontoxic, water‐based approach is developed for directly regulating a series of anisotropic morphologies of Fe3O4 nanostructures in a hydrogel matrix. In having the advantages of both the catalytic activity of Fe3O4 and the adsorptive capacity of an anionic polymer network, the hybrid nanocomposites have the capability to effect the rapid removal of cationic dyes, such as methylene blue, from water samples. Perhaps more interestingly, hybrid nanocomposites loaded with Fe3O4 nanorods exhibit the highest catalytic activity compared to those composed of nanoneedles and nanooctahedra, revealing the important role of nanostructure morphology. By means of scanning electrochemical microscopy, it is revealed that Fe3O4 nanorods can efficiently catalyze H2O2 decomposition and thus generate more free radicals (.OH, .HO2) for methylene blue degradation, which might account for their high catalytic activity.
A Highly Sensitive Luminescent Dye@MOF Composite for Probing Different Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Zheng Jun‐Ping , Ou Sha , Zhao Min , Wu Chuan‐De
Published: March 2016

The probing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is critical and challenging in biotechnology and environmental monitoring. Incorporation of luminescent moieties into metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) has produced many unique luminescent sensors for probing different VOCs. The emissions of most MOF sensors are based mainly on the single transitions of luminescent moieties, so the luminescence readouts are only predominant for some special VOCs. We use a natural amino acid derivative as the luminescent moiety to result in a lamellar coordination polymer, and further embed luminescent dye molecules in the crystal matrix to result in a luminescent dye@MOF sensor. The composite sensor exhibits excellent sensitivity for decoding different VOCs with clearly differentiable fluorescence emission by tuning the energy transfer efficiency from the organic ligand to the dye moieties. The composite luminescent sensor is self‐calibrated, and much more stable and instantaneous than other more widely explored luminescent sensors.
Proficient selection of gateway and base station by adroit algorithm in cloud‐VMesh network
Authors: Dharanyadevi P. , Venkatalakshmi K.
Published: March 2016

Cloud computing is alluring for the vehicular mesh (VMesh) network. Cloud computing stipulates the computing resources and services on demand using the Internet. The VMesh network is a type of networking where each vehicle must not only capture and disseminate its own data but also serve as a gateway for another vehicle. The cloud‐VMesh network is a convergent technology encompassed of three key technologies, namely, vehicular mesh network, cloud computing, and networking. In this paper, we propose a new routing algorithm for cloud‐VMesh network, dubbed as adroit algorithm. The proposed adroit algorithm addresses the choosing of an optimal gateway and base station in the network layer from and to the service requesters and cloud server. The simulation study shows that the adroit algorithm augments the routing issues such as delay, packet loss, congestion and deployment cost in the cloud‐VMesh network, and it is justified based on the packet delivery ratio, average response time, routing overhead ratio, and packet collision ratio. The simulation results demonstrate that the adroit algorithm outperforms the existing protocols. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of non‐neoplastic adrenal pathology
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Dey Pranab
Published: March 2016

Background

The incidence of many fungal and parasitic lesions are on the rise over the last few decades. In this study, we have analyzed the spectrum of non‐malignant lesions in adrenal gland diagnosed on fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in a tertiary health care center.

Methods

FNAB of the adrenal gland was done under CT (4 cases) and ultrasound guidance (11 cases). In six cases, the lesions were present in both the adrenal glands. Special stains were done whenever needed. No complications were encountered in any of the FNAB procedure. Detailed cytomorphological study was done along with clinical history.

Results

There were total of 15 cases comprising of 5 tuberculosis, 5 Histoplasma, 2 acute inflammation, 2 granulomatous inflammation, and 1 myelolipoma. Acid fast bacilli positive on Ziehl Neelsen stain were labeled as mycobacterial infection possibly tuberculosis. The capsule of Histoplasma was bright pink on Periodic Acid Schiff stain.

Conclusions

FNAB is an easy, reliable, and minimally invasive method to diagnose and categorize the various benign non‐neoplastic diseases of adrenal gland. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:472–476. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Little or no gene flow despite F1hybrids at two interspecific contact zones
Authors: Mckean Natasha E. , Trewick Steven A. , Morgan‐Richards Mary
Published: March 2016

Hybridization can create the selective force that promotes assortative mating but hybridization can also select for increased hybrid fitness. Gene flow resulting from hybridization can increase genetic diversity but also reduce distinctiveness. Thus the formation of hybrids has important implications for long‐term species coexistence. This study compares the interaction between the tree wētāHemideina thoracicaand its two neighboring species;H. crassidensandH. trewicki. We examined the ratio of parent and hybrid forms in natural areas of sympatry. Individuals with intermediate phenotype were confirmed as first generation hybrids using nine independent genetic markers. Evidence of gene flow from successful hybridization was sought from the distribution of morphological and genetic characters. Both species pairs appear to be largely retaining their own identity where they live in sympatry, each with a distinct karyotype.Hemideina thoracicaandH. trewickiare probably reproductively isolated, with sterile F1hybrids. This species pair shows evidence of niche differences with adult size and timing of maturity differing whereHemideina thoracicais sympatric withH. trewicki. In contrast, evidence of a low level of introgression was detected in phenotypes and genotypes whereH. thoracicaandH. crassidensare sympatric. We found no evidence of size divergence although color traits in combination with hind tibia spines reliably distinguish the two species. This species pair show a bimodal hybrid zone in the absence of assortative mating and possible sexual exclusion byH. thoracicamales in the formation of F1hybrids.
A DFT Insight on LnPu+(L = C4H4, C5H5, C6H6;n= 1–3) Complexes: Nature of Interactions and Electronic Spectroscopy
Authors: Du Jiguang , Jiang Gang
Published: March 2016

The structures, bonding nature, and electronic spectra of Pu+–hydrocarbon complexes were investigated by using DFT. Our results indicate that electron promotion from 7s to 6d orbitals occurs when the Pu+ion is involved in chemical bonding. Nucleus‐independent chemical shift (NICS) values and electron localization function (ELF) analyses suggest that Pu+C5H5is aromatic and shows a large reinforcement of the ring delocalization. The weakly covalent characters of Pu+–C bonds were revealed by quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) topological analyses. Simulated electronic spectra show that the absorption bands are localized at 200–500 nm and are mainly attributed to the Pu(f)→Pu(d) transition or LMCT.
Corrosion‐Resistant Hybrid Nanoparticles of Polydimethylsiloxane@Fe Obtained by Thermolysis of Fe(CO)5
Authors: Aouat Yohann , Marom Gad , Avnir David
Published: March 2016

Thermal decomposition of iron pentacarbonyl, Fe(CO)5, in the presence of small amounts of polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMSs) leads to a hybrid aggregate of pure nanosized (about 10 nm) zero‐valent iron nanoparticles (PDMS@Fe) with remarkable corrosion‐resistance properties even after three months of immersion in saline solution. Various tests, including potentiodynamic polarization measurements and impedance spectroscopy, were carried out in a 3.5 wt.‐% NaCl solution; the results indicate a corrosion protection efficiency (η, %) of up to 99.7 % and an iron corrosion rate estimation of 3 µm per year. Detailed characterization of the materials, including Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetization measurements, was used to provide a mechanism for the remarkable corrosion inhibition properties of this PDMS‐doped iron nanohybrid.
Deep‐Red Phosphorescent Iridium(III) Complexes with Chromophoric N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligands: Design, Photophysical Properties, and DFT Calculations
Authors: Lanoë Pierre‐Henri , Chan Jonny , Gontard Geoffrey , Monti Filippo , Armaroli Nicola , Barbieri Andrea , Amouri Hani
Published: March 2016

The synthesis of three deep‐red‐emitting iridium(III) complexes featuring a naphthalimide N‐heterocyclic carbene ligand was investigated. The introduction of this organic chromophore onto the carbene moiety changed the character of the lowest excited state from triplet metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer to triplet ligand centered, as corroborated by time‐dependent DFT calculations. All complexes displayed a naphthalimide‐based deep‐red phosphorescence emission above λ = 630 nm in polymer matrix with good quantum yields (Φ ≈ 0.2) and long lifetimes.
Lipid quantification techniques for screening oleaginous species of microalgae for biofuel production
Authors: Hounslow Emily , Noirel Josselin , Gilmour D. James , Wright Phillip C.
Published: March 2016

This review examines the available literature on quantifying lipids in microalgae suitable for biofuels research. It discusses their advantages and disadvantages, their prevalence in the literature, and draws conclusions about the best way to approach choosing a suitable lipid measurement technique for microalgal biofuels research. We conclude that the method must be chosen based on the following key criteria: (1) the level of detail required in the results, and (2) the amount of biomass that can be spared for the assay. This review establishes that no method can be used as a “golden standard” for all microalgae. However, we present a systematic decision chart to choose the best measurement method or combination of methods to provide a guide to those wishing to understand the differences between the myriad of lipid measurement techniques.

Practical applications: This review will allow researchers new to the field to choose the most appropriate techniques for quantifying lipids in the microalgal species under study. The review is also intended to act as a gateway to the wider literature and will enable researchers to look in depth at a particular technique before carrying out experimental work.

These two figures show contrasting results obtained from one set of samples using esterification with GC (left hand figure), and Nile Red staining with fluorescence measurement (right hand figure). The Nile Red method indicates a high accumulation of lipids over time in 0.3 M NaCl, whereas the GC method indicates the opposite pattern of decreasing FAME content over time in the high salt conditions (green line in each figure). The contrasting results highlight the problem of accuracy in lipid measurement, and how it is possible to be misled if only one experimental technique is used.
Parallel data acquisition of in‐source fragmented glycopeptides to sequence the glycosylation sites of proteins
Authors: Zhao Jingfu , Song Ehwang , Zhu Rui , Mechref Yehia
Published: March 2016

Glycosylation plays important roles in maintaining protein stability and controlling biological processes. In recent years, the correlation between aberrant glycoproteins and many diseases has been reported. Hence, qualitative and quantitative analyses of glycoproteins are necessary to understand physiological processes. LC–MS/MS analysis of glycopeptides is faced with the low glycopeptide signal intensities and low peptide sequence identification. In our study, in‐source fragmentation (ISF) was used in conjunction with LC–MS/MS to facilitate the parallel acquisition of peptide backbone sequence and glycan composition information. In ISF method, the identification of glycosylation sites depended on the detection of Y1 ion (ion of peptide backbone with an N‐acetylglucosamine attached). To attain dominant Y1 ions, a range of source fragmentation voltages was studied using fetuin. A 45 V ISF voltage was found to be the most efficient voltage for the analysis of glycoproteins. ISF was employed to study the glycosylation sites of three model glycoproteins, including fetuin, α1‐acid glycoprotein and porcine thyroglobulin. The approach was then used to analyze blood serum samples. Y1 ions of glycopeptides in tryptic digests of samples were detected. Y1 ions of glycopeptides with different sialic acid groups are observed at different retention times, representing the various numbers of sialic acid moieties associated with the same peptide backbone sequence. With ISF facilitating the peptide backbone sequencing of glycopeptides, identified peptide sequence coverage was increased. For example, identified fetuin sequence percentage was improved from 39 to 80% in MASCOT database searching compared to conventional CID method. The formation of Y1 ions and oxonium ions in ISF facilitates glycopeptide sequencing and glycan composition identification.
Production of Hydrogen‐Rich Syngas from Lignite using Different Pyrolysis Methods
Authors: Wang Qing‐dong , Wang Guang‐hua , Li Wen‐bing , Chen Biao
Published: March 2016

The efficiency of hydrogen production by the pyrolysis of lignite from Dongsheng in Inner Mongolia was investigated. Three pyrolysis methods, namely, temperature‐programmed pyrolysis, isothermal pyrolysis, and microwave pyrolysis, were applied and compared. The online analysis of the composition of the pyrolysis gas showed the effects of the different pyrolysis methods on the gas composition and the yield of hydrogen. The reasons were discussed on the basis of infrared thermography of the semicoke samples, FTIR spectroscopy, and SEM analysis. The microwave pyrolysis was improved by the addition of a shimming device to the furnace chamber. Consequently, the efficiency of hydrogen production by the pyrolysis of lignite was increased substantially, and the yield of hydrogen surged by 430 % compared with the yield for the original microwave pyrolysis.
Mercury concentrations in Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) and sediments in the Columbia River basin
Authors: Linley Timothy , Krogstad Eirik , Mueller Robert , Gill Gary , Lasorsa Brenda
Published: March 2016

The accumulation of mercury was investigated in Pacific lamprey and stream sediments in the Columbia River basin. Mercury concentrations in larval lamprey differed significantly among sample locations (p < 0.001) and were correlated with concentrations in sediments (r2 = 0.83). Adult concentrations were highly variable (range, 0.1–9.5 μg/g) and unrelated to holding time after collection. The results suggest that Pacific lamprey in the Columbia River basin may be exposed to mercury levels that have adverse ecological effects. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2571–2576. © 2016 SETAC
Colorectal cancer risk and nitrate exposure through drinking water and diet
Authors: Espejo‐Herrera Nadia , Gràcia‐Lavedan Esther , Boldo Elena , Aragonés Nuria , Pérez‐Gómez Beatriz , Pollán Marina , Molina Antonio J. , Fernández Tania , Martín Vicente , La Vecchia Carlo , Bosetti Cristina , Tavani Alessandra , Polesel Jerry , Serraino Diego , Gómez Acebo Inés , Altzibar Jone M. , Ardanaz Eva , Burgui Rosana , Pisa Federica , Fernández‐Tardón Guillermo , Tardón Adonina , Peiró Rosana , Navarro Carmen , Castaño‐Vinyals Gemma , Moreno Victor , Righi Elena , Aggazzotti Gabriella , Basagaña Xavier , Nieuwenhuijsen Mark , Kogevinas Manolis , Villanueva Cristina M.
Published: March 2016

Ingested nitrate leads to the endogenous synthesis of N‐nitroso compounds (NOCs), animal carcinogens with limited human evidence. We aimed to evaluate the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) associated with nitrate exposure in drinking water and diet. A case‐control study in Spain and Italy during 2008‐2013 was conducted. Hospital‐based incident cases and population‐based (Spain) or hospital‐based (Italy) controls were interviewed on residential history, water consumption since age 18, and dietary information. Long‐term waterborne ingested nitrate was derived from routine monitoring records, linked to subjects’ residential histories and water consumption habits. Dietary nitrate intake was estimated from food frequency questionnaires and published food composition databases. Odd ratios (OR) were calculated using mixed models with area as random effect, adjusted for CRC risk factors and other covariables. Generalized additive models (GAMs) were used to analyze exposure‐response relationships. Interaction with endogenous nitrosation factors and other covariables was also evaluated. In total 1,869 cases and 3,530 controls were analyzed. Average waterborne ingested nitrate ranged from 3.4 to 19.7 mg/day, among areas. OR (95% CIs) of CRC was 1.49 (1.24, 1.78) for >10 versus ≤5 mg/day, overall. Associations were larger among men versus women, and among subjects with high red meat intake. GAMs showed increasing exposure‐response relationship among men. Animal‐derived dietary nitrate was associated with rectal, but not with colon cancer risk. In conclusion, a positive association between CRC risk and waterborne ingested nitrate is suggested, mainly among subgroups with other risk factors. Heterogeneous effects of nitrate from different sources (water, animal and vegetables) warrant further research.
S1P prophylaxis mitigates acute hypobaric hypoxia‐induced molecular, biochemical, and metabolic disturbances: A preclinical report
Authors: Chawla Sonam , Rahar Babita , Saxena Shweta
Published: March 2016

Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) is emerging to have hypoxic preconditioning potential in various preclinical studies. The study aims to evaluate the preclinical preconditioning efficacy of exogenously administered S1P against acute hypobaric hypoxia (HH)‐induced pathological disturbances. Male Sprague Dawley rats (200 ± 20 g) were preconditioned with 1, 10, and 100 μg/kg body weight (b.w.) S1P (i.v.) for three consecutive days. On the third day, S1P preconditioned animals, along with hypoxia control animals, were exposed to HH equivalent to 7,620 m (280 mm Hg) for 6 h. Postexposure status of cardiac energy production, circulatory vasoactive mediators, pulmonary and cerebral oxidative damage, and inflammation were assessed. HH exposure led to cardiac energy deficit indicated by low ATP levels and pronounced AMPK activation levels, raised circulatory levels of brain natriuretic peptide and endothelin‐1 with respect to total nitrate (NOx), redox imbalance, inflammation, and alterations in NOx levels in the pulmonary and cerebral tissues. These pathological precursors have been routinely reported to be coincident with high‐altitude diseases. Preconditioning with S1P, especially 1 µg/kg b.w. dose, was seen to reverse the manifestation of these pathological disturbances. The protective efficacy could be attributed, at least in part, to enhanced activity of cardioprotective protein kinase C and activation of small GTPase Rac1, which led to further induction of hypoxia‐adaptive molecular mediators: hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)−1α and Hsp70. This is a first such report, to the best of our knowledge, elucidating the mechanism of exogenous S1P‐mediated HIF‐1α/Hsp70 induction. Conclusively, systemic preconditioning with 1 μg/kg b.w. S1P in rats protects against acute HH‐induced pathological disturbances. © 2016 IUBMB Life 68(5):365–375, 2016
Gender Inequality, Female Leadership and Aid Allocation
Authors: Kleemann Linda , Nunnenkamp Peter , Thiele Rainer
Published: March 2016

This paper contributes to the aid allocation literature by assessing whether recipient countries with persistent gender inequality in schooling receive more aid for education. Furthermore, we analyze whether female leadership of the relevant ministries in the donor countries results in better targeted aid by directing aid for education to where girls receive less schooling than boys. Our empirical findings suggest that female as well as male leaders have rewarded countries with more years of schooling of all children, or specifically of girls, rather than allocating aid for education according to general or gender‐specific needs with regard to schooling. Female leadership appears to have played a marginal role in the allocation of aid for education. © 2016 UNU‐WIDER. Journal of International Development published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Land Governance, Gender Equality and Development: Past Achievements and Remaining Challenges
Authors: Ravnborg Helle Munk , Spichiger Rachel , Broegaard Rikke Brandt , Pedersen Rasmus Hundsbæk
Published: March 2016

Most land governance reforms seek to enhance tenure security, encourage investments and thereby promote economic growth. Increasingly, land reforms attempt to secure women's and other vulnerable groups' access to land. This article reviews the extent to which gender equality in land tenure has been pursued in these reforms and examines the role played by donor cooperation. Despite significant progress in developing land legislation that upholds gender equality, implementation often does not follow suit, and women still face discrimination. Based on country case studies, the article identifies six challenges, which should be addressed to achieve gender equality in land tenure. © 2016 UNU‐WIDER. Journal of International Development published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Travelling‐wave ion mobility and negative ion fragmentation of high‐mannose N‐glycans
Authors: Harvey David J. , Scarff Charlotte A. , Edgeworth Matthew , Struwe Weston B. , Pagel Kevin , Thalassinos Konstantinos , Crispin Max , Scrivens Jim
Published: March 2016

The isomeric structure of high‐mannose N‐glycans can significantly impact biological recognition events. Here, the utility of travelling‐wave ion mobility mass spectrometry for isomer separation of high‐mannose N‐glycans is investigated. Negative ion fragmentation using collision‐induced dissociation gave more informative spectra than positive ion spectra with mass‐different fragment ions characterizing many of the isomers. Isomer separation by ion mobility in both ionization modes was generally limited, with the arrival time distributions (ATD) often showing little sign of isomers. However, isomers could be partially resolved by plotting extracted fragment ATDs of the diagnostic fragment ions from the negative ion spectra, and the fragmentation spectra of the isomers could be extracted by using ions from limited areas of the ATD peak. In some cases, asymmetric ATDs were observed, but no isomers could be detected by fragmentation. In these cases, it was assumed that conformers or anomers were being separated. Collision cross sections of the isomers in positive and negative fragmentation mode were estimated from travelling‐wave ion mobility mass spectrometry data using dextran glycans as calibrant. More complete collision cross section data were achieved in negative ion mode by utilizing the diagnostic fragment ions. Examples of isomer separations are shown for N‐glycans released from the well‐characterized glycoproteins chicken ovalbumin, porcine thyroglobulin and gp120 from the human immunodeficiency virus. In addition to the cross‐sectional data, details of the negative ion collision‐induced dissociation spectra of all resolved isomers are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structures of [M(Ura‐H)(H2O)n]+(M = Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba;n = 1–3) complexes in the gas phase by IRMPD spectroscopy and theoretical studies
Authors: Power Barry , Haldys Violette , Salpin Jean‐Yves , Fridgen Travis D.
Published: March 2016

The structures of singly and doubly (and for Mg, triply) hydrated group 2 metal dications bound to deprotonated uracil were explored in the gas phase using infrared multiple photon dissociation spectroscopy in the mid‐infrared region (1000–1900 cm−1) and the O–H/N–H stretching region (2700–3800 cm−1) in a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer. The infrared multiple photon dissociation spectra were then compared with the computed IR spectra for various isomers. Calculations were performed using B3LYP with the 6‐31 + G(d,p) basis set for all atoms except Ba2+and Sr2+, for which the LANL2DZ or the def2‐TZVPP basis sets with relativistic core potentials were used. Atoms‐in‐molecules analysis was conducted for all lowest energy structures. The lowest energy isomers in all cases are those in which the one uracil is deprotonated at the N3 position, and the metal is coordinated to the N3 and O4 of uracil. Regardless of the degree of solvation, all water molecules are bound to the metal ion and participate in a hydrogen bond with a carbonyl of the uracil moiety. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mass spectrometry for the detection of bioterrorism agents: from environmental to clinical applications
Authors: Duriez Elodie , Armengaud Jean , Fenaille François , Ezan Eric
Published: March 2016

In the current context of international conflicts and localized terrorist actions, there is unfortunately a permanent threat of attacks with unconventional warfare agents. Among these, biological agents such as toxins, microorganisms, and viruses deserve particular attention owing to their ease of production and dissemination. Mass spectrometry (MS)‐based techniques for the detection and quantification of biological agents have a decisive role to play for countermeasures in a scenario of biological attacks. The application of MS to every field of both organic and macromolecular species has in recent years been revolutionized by the development of soft ionization techniques (MALDI and ESI), and by the continuous development of MS technologies (high resolution, accurate mass HR/AM instruments, novel analyzers, hybrid configurations). New possibilities have emerged for exquisite specific and sensitive detection of biological warfare agents. MS‐based strategies for clinical application can now address a wide range of analytical questions mainly including issues related to the complexity of biological samples and their available volume. Multiplexed toxin detection, discovery of new markers through omics approaches, and identification of untargeted microbiological or of novel molecular targets are examples of applications. In this paper, we will present these technological advances along with the novel perspectives offered by omics approaches to clinical detection and follow‐up. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selection of promising sweet potato clones using projective mapping
Authors: Vicente Esteban , Ares Gastón , Rodríguez Gustavo , Varela Pablo , Bologna Franco , Lado Joanna
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

Increasing demand for sweet potato in regions with temperate climates has triggered interest in the development of new cultivars. Breeding of this crop should consider sensory characteristics in order to meet consumers' expectations. This requires the application of simple and cost‐effective methodologies that allow quality evaluation from a sensory perspective.

RESULTS

With the objective of identifying the key sensory characteristics of different sweet potato genotypes, two commercial cultivars and seven clones were evaluated during three consecutive years using projective mapping by an untrained consumer panel. This methodology allowed the discrimination of the genotypes, identifying similarities and differences among groups based on sensory terms selected by the assessors. Genotypes were differentiated in terms of texture and flavor characteristics (firmness, moisture, smoothness, creaminess, flavor intensity, sweetness and bitterness). Materials for future crossings were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluation of the sensory characteristics of sweet potato clones and cultivars using projective mapping is a quick, cost‐effective and reliable tool for the selection of new advanced sweet potato clones with superior sensory characteristics compared to the reference cultivars INIA Arapey and Cuarí. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Sialendoscopy: Getting started, how long does it take?
Authors: Kent David T. , Walvekar Rohan R. , Schaitkin Barry M.
Published: March 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Dilation of the salivary gland papilla for access is well‐recognized as one of the major rate‐limiting steps to sialendoscopy and has been shown to be a major challenge for beginners. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that an algorithm involving multiple techniques for salivary duct access in sialendoscopy results in excellent success rates and acceptable operative times.

Study Design

A retrospective, observational review of 61 patients who underwent sialendoscopy of the parotid or submandibular gland, for a total of 65 papillas accessed (31 parotid, 34 submandibular) with seven different trainees utilizing a standard protocol for duct access, was performed. The time interval from the case start to endoscopic visualization of the ductal lumen was measured. Average values for time to duct access were then calculated.

Results

The papilla was identified in all but one case without difficulty. Five submandibular gland cases required sialodochotomy for access. The average time to duct access was 4.2 ± 4.7 minutes (range: 0.67–25 minutes). Exclusion of four difficult cases with access times over 15 minutes yielded an average access time of 3.2 ± 2.2 minutes.

Conclusion

This standardized protocol demonstrates high rates of success for salivary duct access via the papilla in a short time interval with infrequent need for sialodochotomy, even in the hands of novice surgeons.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:1083–1085, 2016