bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonfood GM Crops in Tropical Regions: A Reasonable Way to Promote the Technology for Increased Agricultural Sustainability
Authors: Cardoso Jean Carlos
Published: May 2018

Modifying a plant genetically is the most remarkable technology developed for agriculture production; however, the use of genetically modified (GM) food crops has raised concerns regarding their impact on the human health and environment. Nevertheless, the nonfood GM crops, such as for biofuel and wood production, can be a solution to increase the yield and avoid deforestation promoted by the expansion of cultivable land. Thus, the biosafety regulatory framework of different countries can be revised and studied on a case‐by‐case basis, considering the rapid release of nonfood GM uses for the development of a more sustainable agriculture, particularly in tropical regions.
Is team‐based perception of safety in the operating room associated with self‐reported wrong‐site surgery? An exploratory cross‐sectional survey among physicians
Authors: Cullati Stéphane , Courvoisier Delphine S. , Francis Patricia , Degiorgi Adriana , Bezzola Paula , Licker Marc‐Joseph , Chopard Pierre
Published: May 2018

Aims

Participation in wrong‐site surgery may negatively influence the perception of safety by the health care professionals in the operating room (OR). The objective was to explore if perception of safety in the OR was seen as a team‐based or individualist concern and whether having participated in wrong‐site surgery was associated with perception of safety.

Method and Results

Cross‐sectional survey at 2 annual meetings of surgery, in Switzerland, 2010. We used multivariate generalized models to assess the association of perception of safety in the OR (1 item) with self‐reported participation in wrong‐site surgery—overall, past (more than 3 y ago), or recent (last 3 y) participations—controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and opinion of the surgical safety checklist. One hundred ninety respondents answered the questionnaire (participation rate of 22.6%). Respondents mostly had a team‐based, rather than an individualistic, perception of safety in the OR. In multivariate analyses, the influence of ever participation in wrong‐site surgery was not significant. However, past participation in wrong‐site surgery (more than 3 y ago) was associated with perception of safety as team based, whereas recent participation (last 3 y) was associated—despite not significant at α ≤ 5%—with perception of safety as individualistic.

Conclusion

In this sample, safety in the OR is most often seen as team based rather than individualistic. Perceiving safety in the OR as team based varies according to recent or past participation in wrong‐site surgery. Longitudinal research is needed to assess causality between participation in wrong‐site surgery and change in perception of safety.
Incidence of Mutations in the ALPL, GGPS1, and CYP1A1 Genes in Patients With Atypical Femoral Fractures
Authors: Peris Pilar , González‐Roca Eva , Rodríguez‐García Sebastian C , del Mar López‐Cobo María , Monegal Ana , Guañabens Núria
Published: May 2018

Atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) are uncommon and often related to prolonged bisphosphonate (BP) treatment. Isolated cases have been linked to mutations of tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (ALPL). Moreover, mutations in the geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthase (GGPPS) gene, which can be inhibited by BPs, and in the enzyme of the cytochrome P450 superfamily (CYP1A1), related to the metabolism of several drugs, have also been associated with AFF development. Our aim was to analyze the incidence of ALPL, GGPS1, and CYP1A1 gene mutations in patients with AFFs and their clinical characteristics. Seventeen women with AAFs were included. All patients underwent Sanger sequencing of the ALPL, GGPS1, and CYP1A1 genes, analyzing the presence of mutations and polymorphisms in these genes. The clinical characteristics of the patients, previous treatments, ALP substrates (vitamin B6 and phosphoethanolamine), bone turnover markers, and bone mass were also analyzed. Three of 17 patients (17.6%) presented heterozygous mutations in the ALPL (p.Gly288Ala) or CYP1A1 (p.Arg136His, p.Val409Ile) genes. Only the patient with the ALPL mutation presented increased ALP substrates. Patients with CYP1A1 variants had glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis. All patients were previously treated with BPs during 85.5 ± 38 months, and nearly 50% were also treated with glucocorticoids. The AFF was bilateral in 35% of cases. In conclusion, ALPL and CYP1A1 mutations may be related to the development of AFF in patients treated with BPs. The evaluation of ALP substrates in patients with low ALPL levels allows the identification of patients with hypophosphatasia. The role of CYP1A1 mutations in AFF needs further study. © 2018 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Body Mass Index Trajectories From Birth to Midlife and Vertebral Dimensions in Midlife: the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 Study
Authors: Oura Petteri , Junno Juho‐Antti , Auvinen Juha , Niinimäki Jaakko , Karppinen Jaro , Ojaniemi Marja , Paananen Markus
Published: May 2018

Vertebral fracture risk is higher among individuals with small vertebral dimensions. Obesity is a global health problem and may also contribute to bone size and fracture risk. In this work we report the association between life course body mass index (BMI) and vertebral cross‐sectional area (CSA) in midlife. The Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 study with its 46‐year follow‐up provided the material for this study. A subsample of 780 individuals had attended lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the age of 46 years, and had records of objectively measured BMI from the ages of 0, 7, 15, 31, and 46 years. Of these, MRI‐derived data on vertebral size was available for 682 individuals. We identified latent lifelong BMI trajectories by performing latent class growth modeling (LCGM) on the BMI data, and then used sex‐stratified linear regression models to compare the identified trajectory groups in terms of midlife vertebral CSA. Gestational age, education years, adult height, lifelong physical activity, lifelong smoking history, and adulthood diet were assessed as potential confounders. Three distinct trajectory groups (“stable slim,” “stable average,” and “early onset overweight”) were identified among both sexes. Comparisons to the stable slim trajectory revealed that vertebral CSA was significantly (p < 0.001) larger among the stable average and early onset overweight trajectories (69.8 and 118.6 mm2 larger among men, 57.7 and 106.1 mm2 larger among women, respectively). We conclude that lifelong BMI has a positive association with midlife vertebral size among both sexes. Future studies should characterize the mediating factors of this association. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Regioselective Reactions, Spectroscopic Characterization, and Cytotoxic Evaluation of Spiro‐pyrrolidine Thiophene
Authors: Rizk Sameh A. , Abdelwahab Salwa S. , Sallam Hanan A.
Published: May 2018

Spiro‐oxo‐indole/pyrrolidine‐thiophene base possessed significant pharmacological activity. The [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of thia‐methine ylide respected through multi‐component reaction affording regioselective and stereoselective spiroindoline‐3,2′‐tetrahydrothiophene derivative 3. Reaction of such compound with different electrophilic and nucleophilic reagents afforded bioactive heterocyclic compounds 4–16. Biological evaluation showed that these synthesized spiro‐pyrrolidine exhibited moderate to good cytotoxic activity. Among them, compounds 7 and 14 displayed the best cytotoxic activity against MCF‐7 and Wl‐38 cells with the IC50 values of 7.02 ± 0.6 and 8.97 ± 0.9 μm (very strong), respectively. Compounds 4, 5, and 12 exhibited strong cytotoxicity's with IC50 16.28 ± 1.7, 11.16 ± 1.1, and 19.14 ± 1.7 μm, respectively, against MCF‐7 mammary gland cell line. All compound structures were supported by spectroscopic data and elemental analysis.
Corticospinal and intracortical excitability differ between athletes early after ACLR and matched controls
Authors: Zarzycki Ryan , Morton Susanne M. , Charalambous Charalambos C. , Marmon Adam , Snyder‐Mackler Lynn
Published: May 2018

Neuromuscular impairments, such as quadriceps weakness and activation deficits, persist after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Recent research demonstrating changes in the function of the primary motor cortex after ACLR posits that quadriceps impairments may be influenced by reduced corticospinal excitability. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the integrity of the neuromotor axis of the vastus medialis is altered in subjects 2 weeks post‐ACLR compared to uninjured control subjects. Eighteen athletes 2 weeks post‐ACLR and 18 age and sex matched uninjured control subjects participated in this cross‐sectional study. We quantified corticospinal (resting motor threshold, RMT; motor evoked potential amplitudes at 120% RMT, MEP120) and intracortical (inhibition and facilitation) excitability using single and paired pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), respectively. We assessed spinal‐reflex excitability (H‐reflex amplitude normalized to maximal M‐wave, H/M ratio) using peripheral stimulation. Subjects post‐ACLR had higher RMTs (p = 0.001), greater MEP120 amplitudes (p = 0.001), and more asymmetric facilitation (p = 0.041) than the uninjured control subjects. No significant group differences were found for intracortical inhibition (p = 0.289) and H/M ratio (p = 0.332). Our findings indicate that both intracortical and corticospinal excitability of vastus medialis are bilaterally altered in subjects 2 weeks after ACLR. Given persistent neuromuscular deficits seen after ACLR, rehabilitation strategies targeting intracortical and corticospinal deficits may potentially improve clinical outcomes. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2941–2948, 2018.
Comparison of Syringe Compression Force Between ENFit and Legacy Feeding Tubes
Authors: Mundi Manpreet S. , Duellman Wanda , Epp Lisa , Davidson Jacob , Hurt Ryan T.
Published: May 2018

Background: Since initial report in 1972, misconnections continue to be an issue, especially in hospitalized patients with multiple access devices. A new small‐bore connector standard (ENFit) has been proposed in order to minimize misconnections. Methods: Commercially available finalized ENFit tubes of a variety of sizes (14 French [Fr] size, 18Fr, 20Fr, 24Fr, and low‐profile) were obtained for current testing. Variety of commercially available formulas including blenderized tube feeding (BTF) products (Jevity 1 Cal, Abbott Nutrition, Abbott Park, IL; Nourish, Functional Formularies, Centerville, OH; Real Food Blends, Chesterton, IN) were tested. Results: Data from individual measurements were aggregated for ENFit and legacy tubes and revealed higher syringe compression force in legacy tubes compared with ENFit tubes for 20Fr size with Jevity formula. Our institution's BTF formula revealed that legacy tubes had lower syringe compression force than ENFit tubes for 14Fr tube size. Remaining measurements revealed no significant difference. Model 1 of regression analysis revealed that only formula and tube size were significant with R2 of 0.63. Model 2 evaluating the impact of tube size, blender, time of blending, and legacy vs ENFit revealed that tube size, blender used, and blending time were significant with legacy vs ENFit being nonsignificant (R2 of 0.72). Conclusions: Overall, only a small number of tube sizes (14Fr and 20Fr) with selected formulas revealed a significant difference between ENFit and Legacy tubes, with remaining studies finding no significant difference. Regression analysis revealed that variables such as formula, size of tube, blender used, and time of blending may have more impact on compression force.
Fatigue safety design of automotive suspension links by using computer aided engineering static analysis
Authors: Kim K.J.
Published: May 2018

Vehicle weight and alternative materials development like aluminum alloys and magnesium alloys are hot issues around the world in the automobile industry. Therefore, in the present study, the structure analysis of the rear suspension 5‐links made by aluminum alloys (A356) with a tensile strength of 245 MPa, was performed using computer aided engineering to investigate the lightweight design process from the reference of the rear suspension 5‐links which was made by the steel materials and was already proven in the commercial market. Especially the simulated maximum von Mises stresses after strength analysis were normalized as the fatigue limit and were converted to the weight ratios of the same type as the fatigue safety factor suggested and referred to as such in this study. From these, it was suggested that the fatigue properties could be simply predicted only from this static computer aided engineering simulation. The weight reduction could be achieved when comparing steel and aluminum alloy models. It was a useful method to satisfy the fatigue safe design by using simple static analysis and weight factors.
Effect of thin SiO2 layers deposited by means of atomic layer deposition method on the mechanical and physical properties of stainless steel
Authors: Basiaga M. , Walke W. , Antonowicz M. , Sambok‐Kiełbowicz A. , Nakonieczny D. , Gawlikowski M. , Zawidlak‐Węgrzyńska B. , Krawczyk C.
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the suitability of the atomic layer deposition method in terms of using it for 316 LVM (low carbon vacuum melt) steel surface modification that is used for blood‐contacting implants in determined technological conditions. As part of a suitability assessment of thin layer deposition technology, the performance of mechanical and physical properties testing was proposed. The investigation influences the evaluation of the analysed material in the cardiovascular system's behavior used for blood. 316 LVM stainless steel was the initial material to be tested. The 316 LVM steel was subjected to the following surface modifications: electrolytic polishing, chemical passivation and deposition of a silicon dioxide (SiO2) layer using the atomic layer deposition method. The layer was applied at a variable thickness depending on the atomic layer deposition process, at constant temperature. In terms of mechanical properties, the analyzing adhesion of applied layers to the metallic base and its hardness were examined. What is more, during the evaluation of physical properties, testing of surface wettability was performed, which has a fundamental significance in case of implants used in the cardiovascular system. The obtained results have direct impact on optimization process of SiO2 layers deposition with atomic layer deposition method on blood‐contacting implants, which surface was made of steel 316 LVM, there by resulting in their have a direct impact functional properties improvement.
Determination of activation energy of relaxation events in thermoplastic polyurethane by dynamic mechanical analysis
Authors: Kopal I. , Harničárová M. , Valíček J. , Koštial P. , Jančíková Z.K.
Published: May 2018

In the present study, the activation energy associated with the primary and the secondary relaxation transition events in thermoplastic polyurethane has been determined using the multi‐frequency dynamic mechanical analysis tests. The thermoplastic polyurethane under investigation was tested at temperatures between 145 K ‐ 526 K, at frequencies of 0.5 Hz, 1 Hz, 2 Hz, 5 Hz and 10 Hz and at a constant heating rate of 3 K⋅min–1. It was observed that the studied materials show three relaxation events – glass transition of soft segments, glass transition of hard segments as well as secondary transition associated with short range order translation and with reorientational motions within the polyurethane crystals. The activation energies for all three observed relaxation events were determined from dynamic mechanical properties measured at various frequencies using a linearized Arrhenius equation. The calculated activation energy is 379.73 kJ⋅mol‐1 for the glass transition of hard segments; for the secondary relaxation transition it is 65.53 kJ⋅mol‐1 and for the glass transition of soft segments it is 45.98 kJ⋅mol‐1.
CEST, ASL, and magnetization transfer contrast: How similar pulse sequences detect different phenomena
Authors: Knutsson Linda , Xu Jiadi , Ahlgren André , van Zijl Peter C.M
Published: May 2018

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST), arterial spin labeling (ASL), and magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) methods generate different contrasts for MRI. However, they share many similarities in terms of pulse sequences and mechanistic principles. They all use RF pulse preparation schemes to label the longitudinal magnetization of certain proton pools and follow the delivery and transfer of this magnetic label to a water proton pool in a tissue region of interest, where it accumulates and can be detected using any imaging sequence. Due to the versatility of MRI, differences in spectral, spatial or motional selectivity of these schemes can be exploited to achieve pool specificity, such as for arterial water protons in ASL, protons on solute molecules in CEST, and protons on semi‐solid cell structures in MTC. Timing of these sequences can be used to optimize for the rate of a particular delivery and/or exchange transfer process, for instance, between different tissue compartments (ASL) or between tissue molecules (CEST/MTC). In this review, magnetic labeling strategies for ASL and the corresponding CEST and MTC pulse sequences are compared, including continuous labeling, single‐pulse labeling, and multi‐pulse labeling. Insight into the similarities and differences among these techniques is important not only to comprehend the mechanisms and confounds of the contrasts they generate, but also to stimulate the development of new MRI techniques to improve these contrasts or to reduce their interference. This, in turn, should benefit many possible applications in the fields of physiological and molecular imaging and spectroscopy.
Fat‐Free Mass and Skeletal Muscle Mass Five Years After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Davidson Lance E. , Yu Wen , Goodpaster Bret H. , DeLany James P. , Widen Elizabeth , Lemos Thaisa , Strain Gladys W. , Pomp Alfons , Courcoulas Anita P. , Lin Susan , Janumala Isaiah , Thornton John C. , Gallagher Dympna
Published: May 2018

Objective

This study investigated changes in fat‐free mass (FFM) and skeletal muscle 5 years after surgery in participants from the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery‐2 trial.

Methods

A three‐compartment model assessed FFM, and whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) quantified skeletal muscle mass prior to surgery (T0) and 1 year (T1), 2 years (T2), and 5 years (T5) postoperatively in 93 patients (85% female; 68% Caucasian; age 44.2 ± 11.6 years) who underwent gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy, or adjustable gastric band. Repeated‐measures mixed models were used to analyze the data.

Results

Significant weight loss occurred across all surgical groups in females from T0 to T1. FFM loss from T0 to T1 was greater after RYGB (mean ± SE: −6.9 ± 0.6 kg) than adjustable gastric band (−3.5 ± 1.4 kg; P < 0.05). Females with RYGB continued to lose FFM (−3.3 ± 0.7 kg; P < 0.001) from T1 to T5. A subset of males and females with RYGB and MRI‐measured skeletal muscle showed similar initial FFM loss while maintaining FFM and skeletal muscle from T1 to T5.

Conclusions

Between 1 and 5 years following common bariatric procedures, FFM and skeletal muscle are maintained or decrease minimally. The changes observed in FFM and muscle during the follow‐up phase may be consistent with aging.
Synthesis of Novel Aza‐aromatic Curcuminoids with Improved Biological Activities towards Various Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Theppawong Atiruj , Van de Walle Tim , Grootaert Charlotte , Bultinck Margot , Desmet Tom , Van Camp John , D'hooghe Matthias
Published: May 2018

Curcumin, a natural compound extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa, displays pronounced anticancer properties but lacks good bioavailability and stability. In a previous study, we initiated structure modification of the curcumin scaffold by imination of the labile β‐diketone moiety to produce novel β‐enaminone derivatives. These compounds showed promising properties for elaborate follow‐up studies. In this work, we focused on another class of nitrogen‐containing curcuminoids with a similar objective: to address the bioavailability and stability issues and to improve the biological activity of curcumin. This paper thus reports on the synthesis of new pyridine‐, indole‐, and pyrrole‐based curcumin analogues (aza‐aromatic curcuminoids) and discusses their water solubility, antioxidant activity, and antiproliferative properties. In addition, multivariate statistics, including hierarchical clustering analysis and principal component analysis, were performed on a broad set of nitrogen‐containing curcuminoids. Compared to their respective mother structures, that is, curcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin, all compounds, and especially the pyridin‐3‐yl β‐enaminone analogues, showed better water solubility profiles. Interestingly, the pyridine‐, indole‐, and pyrrole‐based curcumin derivatives demonstrated improved biological effects in terms of mitochondrial activity impairment and protein content, in addition to comparable or decreased antioxidant properties. Overall, the biologically active N‐alkyl β‐enaminone aza‐aromatic curcuminoids were shown to offer a desirable balance between good solubility and significant bioactivity.
Coupled Optical and Electrochemical Probing of Silver Nanoparticle Destruction in a Reaction Layer
Authors: Little Christopher A. , Batchelor‐McAuley Christopher , Ngamchuea Kamonwad , Lin Chuhong , Young Neil P. , Compton Richard G.
Published: May 2018

The oxidation of silver nanoparticles is induced to occur near to, but not at, an electrode surface. This reaction at a distance from the electrode is studied through the use of dark‐field microscopy, allowing individual nanoparticles and their reaction with the electrode product to be visualized. The oxidation product diffuses away from the electrode and oxidizes the nanoparticles in a reaction layer, resulting in their destruction. The kinetics of the silver nanoparticle solution‐phase reaction is shown to control the length scale over which the nanoparticles react. In general, the new methodology offers a route by which nanoparticle reactivity can be studied close to an electrode surface.
Cascade Reaction by Chemo‐ and Biocatalytic Approaches to Obtain Chiral Hydroxy Ketones and anti 1,3‐Diols
Authors: Gandolfi Raffaella , Facchetti Giorgio , Christodoulou Michael S. , Fusè Marco , Meneghetti Fiorella , Rimoldi Isabella
Published: May 2018

A chemo‐ and biocatalytic cascade approach was applied for the stereoselective synthesis of hydroxy ketones and the corresponding 1,3‐diols. A new class of tridentate N,N,O ligands was used with copper(II) complexes for the asymmetric β‐borylation of α,β‐unsaturated compounds. The complex containing ligand L5 emerged as the best performer, and it gave the organoborane derivatives with good ee values. The corresponding keto–alcohol compounds were then bioreduced by yeasts. The biotransformation set up with Rhodotorula rubra allowed (R)‐keto–alcohols and (S,S)‐diols to be obtained with up to 99 % ee and up to 99 % de in favor of the anti enantiomers.
Aerosil‐Supported Ionic‐Liquid‐Phase (ASILP) Mediated Synthesis of 2‐Substituted Benzimidazole Derivatives as AChE Inhibitors
Authors: Sonawane Babasaheb D. , Rashinkar Gajanan S. , Sonawane Kailas D. , Dhanavade Maruti J. , Sonawane Vikas D. , Patil Suresh V.
Published: May 2018

Aerosil supported ionic liquid phase (ASILP) has been prepared by confinement of ionic liquid [Bmim]PF6 on the aerosil support by adsorption interactions. This novel ASILP served as robust heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of biologically relevant 2‐substituted benzimidazoles from o‐phenylenediamines and aryl aldehydes in high yields under mild reaction conditions. The molecular docking studies revealed potential of 2‐substituted benzimidazoles to act as acetyl cholinesterase inhibitors (AChE).
Ru(Cl)‐Salen Complex: Solvent Selective Homogeneous Catalyst for One‐Pot Synthesis of Nitriles and Amides
Authors: Borase Pravin N. , Thale Pranila B. , Shankarling Ganapati. S.
Published: May 2018

An efficient protocol for direct transformation of aldehydes into of nitrile and amide derivatives using Ru(Cl)‐salen complex as a solvent selective homogeneous catalyst is developed. The catalyst has also been explored for hydration of nitrile to synthesize the primary amides in an aqueous medium. Additionally, a mechanistic pathway for the dehydration of aldoxime to nitrile and hydration of nitrile to amide was studied using gas chromatography. The catalyst has been fully characterized by using spectroscopic techniques such as IR spectroscopy, MALDI‐TOF mass analysis and 1H NMR technique. A simple work up procedure, lower catalyst to substrate ratio, and good to excellent yields of the products, higher turnover number and turnover frequency makes the protocol more advantageous and feasible.
Structural Investigations of (Ni,Cu) Co–Doped ZnO Nanocrystals by X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Tiwari Nidhi , Kumar Shiv , Kamal Chinnathambi , Chakrabarti Aparna , Prajapat Champa Lal , Mishra P. K. , Mondal Pushpen , Jha Sambhu Nath , Bhattacharyya Dibyendu
Published: May 2018

(Ni,Cu) co‐doped ZnO nanocrystals have been prepared through wet chemical route using nitrate based precursors and have been characterized thoroughly. Phase purity of the samples has been investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) measurements. To have further micro structural insight, the samples have subsequently been subjected to synchrotron radiation based X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) measurements comprising of both X‐ray near edge structure (XANES) and Extended X‐ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) techniques. The results of the above measurements have been used to explain the magnetic properties of the samples which have further been corroborated by density functional theory (DFT) based electronic structure calculations.
Synthesis of 2‐Acyl‐Substituted Pyrazine Derivatives through Silver‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Coupling Reactions
Authors: Li Yuan , Lai Miao , Wu Zhiyong , Zhao Mingqin , Zhang Mingyue
Published: May 2018

An efficient regioselective acylation reaction of pyrazine with α‐oxocarboxylic acid via silver catalysis has been developed. The desired acyl substituted pyrazine derivatives were isolated in up to 97% yields and features a very broad substrate scope. Thermogravimetric analysis of particular product 3 o indicated that its fracture temperature was about 248 °C.
Terpyridine Functionalized Oligothiophene: Cadmium(II) Ion Sensing via Visualization and Fluorescence
Authors: Liu Taihong , Liu Ke , Zhang Jinling , Wang Zhaolong
Published: May 2018

2,2′:6′,2′′‐Terpyridine functionalized terthiophene (3T‐Terpy) has been explored and its sensing behaviors toward various metal ions have been investigated. It was found that presence of Cd2+ causes a remarkable variation in the absorption and more than 65 nm red shift of the maximum fluorescence emission of the compound, corresponding to a visual green to yellow color change under UV light. Other commonly found transition metal ions exhibit different interference even though some of them, Cu2+, Co2+ and Ni2+ as examples, may quench the emission of the fluorophore. Similar to that of Cd2+, presence of Zn2+ or Hg2+ also alters the color of the methanol solution of 3T‐Terpy, but the colors of them are different. The detection limit for Cd2+ based on the mechanism of intramolecular charge transfer was found to be around 1.74 × 10−7 M. Addition of other main group metal ions (e. g., Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Ba2+) shows little effect to the fluorescence emission. Job's plot reveals formation of a 2:1 complex between 3T‐Terpy and Cd2+ with a binding constant of 2.25 × 105 M−1 and the dynamic metal‐ligand coordination can be recovered by adding EDTA. Furthermore, the change in fluorescence of 3T‐Terpy loaded test strips upon contact with Cd2+ can be clearly observed by the naked eyes with the aid of a portable UV lamp. Therefore, excellence in sensing and simplicity in structure make 3T‐Terpy a superior fluorescent chemosensor of the relevant transition metal ions, in particular Cd2+.
Palladium (II) Acetate/Base‐Catalyzed Intermolecular Coupling of Imidazo[1, 2‐a]pyridine Esters with Aryl Halides
Authors: Babar Dattatraya A. , Kalari Saradhi , Karale Uttam B. , Makane Vitthal B. , Rode Haridas B.
Published: May 2018

The combination of Cs2CO3 and Pd(OAc)2 enables the coupling of imidazo[1, 2‐a]pyridine esters and aryl halides, allowing an easy access to generate 3‐aryl imidazo[1, 2‐a]pyridine. The reaction pathway involves a Cs2CO3‐mediated ester hydrolysis followed by a palladium (II) acetate‐catalyzed decarboxylative arylation. The method is comparable with direct arylation of imidazo[1, 2‐a]pyridine and aryl halides. The synthetic utility of this relay reaction resulted in the generation of novel GABAA ligand and potent kinase inhibitor in high overall yields.
Etherification of Hydroxymethylfurfural with Preyssler Heteropolyacids Immobilized on Magnetic Composites
Authors: Cuervo Oscar H. Pardo , Rojas Hugo A. , Santos Lucas A. , Ramalho Teodorico C. , Romanelli Gustavo P. , Martínez José J.
Published: May 2018

A thermodynamic study about the stability of intermediates in the reaction of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) over Preyssler heteropolyacids (HPA‐Preyssler) was performed to explain the self‐etherification or oxidation of HMF. Although the product of etherification forms in higher proportion when a heteropolyacid is used, other oxidation products are also observed. The availability of HPA‐Preyssler protons is essential to conduct the self‐etherification; however, this is not favored when the heteropolyacid is immobilized on metallic oxides and besides, the reusability of the supported heteropolyacid is low. In this study, magnetic composites were used to incorporate the HPA‐Preyssler to prevent the formation of by‐products and to facilitate the separation from the reaction medium. The results of catalytic tests and acidity analysis demonstrated a better proton availability, and the recovery of glutaraldehyde of the heteropolyacid decreases the leaching of immobilized HPA‐Preyssler when the composite is reused. The reaction was optimized obtaining a maximum yield to OBMF near 70% in 5 h.
CoNi2S4 Nanoparticle/Carbon Nanotube Sponge Cathode with Ultrahigh Capacitance for Highly Compressible Asymmetric Supercapacitor
Authors: Cao Xin , He Jin , Li Huan , Kang Liping , He Xuexia , Sun Jie , Jiang Ruibing , Xu Hua , Lei Zhibin , Liu Zong‐Huai
Published: May 2018

Compared with other flexible energy‐storage devices, the design and construction of the compressible energy‐storage devices face more difficulty because they must accommodate large strain and shape deformations. In the present work, CoNi2S4 nanoparticles/3D porous carbon nanotube (CNT) sponge cathode with highly compressible property and excellent capacitance is prepared by electrodepositing CoNi2S4 on CNT sponge, in which CoNi2S4 nanoparticles with size among 10–15 nm are uniformly anchored on CNT, causing the cathode to show a high compression property and gives high specific capacitance of 1530 F g−1. Meanwhile, Fe2O3/CNT sponge anode with specific capacitance of 460 F g−1 in a prolonged voltage window is also prepared by electrodepositing Fe2O3 nanosheets on CNT sponge. An asymmetric supercapacitor (CoNi2S4/CNT//Fe2O3/CNT) is assembled by using CoNi2S4/CNT sponge as positive electrode and Fe2O3/CNT sponge as negative electrode in 2 m KOH solution. It exhibits excellent energy density of up to 50 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 847 W kg−1 and excellent cycling stability at high compression. Even at a strain of 85%, about 75% of the initial capacitance is retained after 10 000 consecutive cycles. The CoNi2S4/CNT//Fe2O3/CNT device is a promising candidate for flexible energy devices due to its excellent compressibility and high energy density.
Secure Cloud Computing: Reference Architecture for Measuring Instrument under Legal Control
Authors: Oppermann Alexander , Toro Federico Grasso , Thiel Florian , Seifert Jean‐Pierre
Published: May 2018

In Europe, measuring instruments under legal control are responsible for an annual turnover of 500 billion Euros and contribute a significant part to the economy including establishing trust between all stakeholders. In this article, a secure cloud reference architecture for measuring instruments is presented, addressing both requirements and roles in the Legal Metrology framework. With the introduction of Cloud Computing in Legal Metrology, a new role of a Cloud Service Provider has to be established. The general approach of the reference architecture shall be evaluated to determine if Cloud Computing can be integrated into the legal framework. In a bottom‐up approach, each layer of the cloud is addressed and carefully tested against the essential requirements for Legal Metrology. Splitting a well‐contained measuring instrument into a distributed measuring system creates new challenges guaranteeing security and integrity of the measurements. Addressing these problems, technologies such as fully homomorphic encryption are evaluated, improved, and implemented to enable calculations on encrypted measurements. In addition, a secure communication protocol for encrypted data is presented to address the demand of integrity of encrypted measurements throughout their lifecycle. Lastly, a continuous monitoring approach is presented to detect anomalies and to classify the system behavior depending on their severity and impact into three categories: green, yellow, and red.
Physical and Numerical Modeling of Exposed Slag Eye in Continuous Casting Mold using Euler–Euler Approach
Authors: Liu Zhongqiu , Li Baokuan , Vakhrushev Alexander , Wu Menghuai , Ludwig Andreas
Published: May 2018

Gas injection through the submerged entry nozzle (SEN) into the continuous casting mold can be an effective approach for preventing SEN clogging and promoting the floatation of the non‐metallic inclusions. However, sometimes the exposed slag eyes due to gas injection appear on the top surface of the liquid slag layer, resulting in heat losses, re‐oxidation, and nitrogen pickup in the molten steel. An Eulerian multiphase‐flow model is developed to predict the argon‐steel‐slag three‐phase flow in a slab continuous casting mold. All the phases are treated based on Eulerian approach. The mathematical model is compared with the industrial observations and the water model experiments. Both of physical and numerical results reproduce the phenomenon of the high gas concentration at the SEN exit port. Most of the argon bubbles stay below the slag layer for quite long time because the slag blocks their floatation. Furthermore, the argon bubbles would gradually gather in a dense plume while escaping through the slag layer. Scattered argon exit spots are found at the top surface of slag layer. Two main locations of the exposed slag eye are found: 1) adjacent to the SEN; 2) at the mold's mid‐section at the position where a concentrated argon plume breaches through the slag layer. The near‐SEN exposed eye occurs under any of considered conditions. The one at the mid‐section is formed when the meniscus convex reaches a critical level, been dependent on the casting conditions.
A phase‐plane trajectory vector‐based method for real‐time identification of critical machines
Authors: Yang Songhao , Hojo Masahide , Zhang Baohui
Published: May 2018

The identification of critical machines (CMs) is the first and most important step of Equivalent‐Single Machine Infinite Bus based methods such as Extend Equal Area Criterion and SIngle Machine Equivalent (SIME) for transient stability assessment and control. This paper presents a novel real‐time CM identification method based on the Phase‐Plane Trajectory Vector (PTV) with Phase Measurement Unit (PMU) information support. The proposed method overcomes the drawbacks of conventional CM identification methods and enables the tracking of the change of CMs during the dynamic process. Only two sample points of all generators from PMUs are required to obtain the PTVs at each moment, and the computation of the feature matrix, as well as the k‐means clustering, is fast and accurate. The application of the PTV‐based method is verified through cases studied in the IEEE 39 bus New England power system. Results are compared with those obtained by conventional methods. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Franchising in African markets: Motivations and challenges from a Sub‐Saharan African country perspective
Authors: Kastner Adelaide N. A. , Mahmoud Mahmoud A. , Buame Samuel C. K. , Gabrah Antoinette Y. B.
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this article is to explore and understand the motivations and challenges of franchising in an African economy. While interest in franchising is increasing in African markets, there is a paucity of research on franchising from the perspective of local African firms participating in these international relationships. The motivations and challenges of franchising from the perspective of African businesses have not been largely investigated so far. Using in‐depth interviews, we allow motivations and challenges at play to emerge. Convenient and snowball sampling techniques were used for choosing the unit of analysis, which resulted in four respondent firms. A thematic approach was adopted for analyzing the data from the field. Support services, brand name, and franchisor's experience are identified to be the motivations for franchising. Financial assistance from the franchisor, demand, and competition also play a key role in an African firm's decision to franchise. Legal constraints and infrastructure constraints were the key challenges faced by franchisees in Ghana. The findings of this study may hold for franchisees in other African markets. However, contextual differences may be considered in the application of these findings.
Mangrove conservation for climate change mitigation in Indonesia
Authors: Sidik Frida , Supriyanto Bambang , Krisnawati Haruni , Muttaqin Muhammad Z.
Published: May 2018

In terms of climate change mitigation, mangroves serve as carbon sinks and the loss of mangrove forests can result in significant release of stored carbon. As the country in the world with the largest cover of mangrove forest, Indonesia has global significance in climate change mitigation. About 22% of mangrove forests in Indonesia are preserved in conservation areas and provide 0.82–1.09 PgC hectare−1 of carbon storage. Greater potential for climate change mitigation can be achieved by increasing mangrove conservation areas that keep mangrove forests from their conversion to other land uses. Our finding confirms the importance of mangrove conservation in storing and sequestering carbon. Furthermore, as mangrove forests are associated with a diversity of ecosystem services with multiple beneficiaries, the carbon benefits will enhance the value of mangrove forest in terms of ecological, social, and economic benefits. However, prioritizing carbon benefits through the implementation of mangrove conservation as part of climate change mitigation may be conflicting with socioeconomic issues. Thus, legal frameworks and the participation of stakeholders, especially local communities, are needed to ensure that there is a net reduction in mangrove loss.

This article is categorized under:

Climate, Ecology, and Conservation > Conservation Strategies
Effective field theory approach to trans-TeV supersymmetry: covariant matching, Yukawa unification and Higgs couplings
Authors: Wells James D. , Zhang Zhengkang
Published: May 2018

Abstract

Dismissing traditional naturalness concerns while embracing the Higgs boson mass measurement and unification motivates careful analysis of trans-TeV supersymmetric theories. We take an effective field theory (EFT) approach, matching the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model (MSSM) onto the Standard Model (SM) EFT by integrating out heavy superpartners, and evolving MSSM and SMEFT parameters according to renormalization group equations in each regime. Our matching calculation is facilitated by the recent covariant diagrams formulation of functional matching techniques, with the full one-loop SUSY threshold corrections encoded in just 30 diagrams. Requiring consistent matching onto the SMEFT with its parameters (those in the Higgs potential in particular) measured at low energies, and in addition requiring unification of bottom and tau Yukawa couplings at the scale of gauge coupling unification, we detail the solution space of superpartner masses from the TeV scale to well above. We also provide detailed views of parameter space where Higgs coupling measurements have probing capability at future colliders beyond the reach of direct superpartner searches at the LHC.
A 6D nonabelian (1, 0) theory
Authors: Chen Fa-Min
Published: May 2018

Abstract

We construct a 6D nonabelian$$ \mathcal{N}=\left(1,\ 0\right) $$N=1,0theory by coupling an$$ \mathcal{N}=\left(1,\ 0\right) $$N=1,0tensor multiplet to an$$ \mathcal{N}=\left(1,\ 0\right) $$N=1,0hypermultiplet. While the$$ \mathcal{N}=\left(1,\ 0\right) $$N=1,0tensor multiplet is in the adjoint representation of the gauge group, the hypermultiplet can be in the fundamental representation or any other representation. If the hypermultiplet is also in the adjoint representation of the gauge group, the supersymmetry is enhanced to$$ \mathcal{N}=\left(2,\ 0\right) $$N=2,0, and the theory is identical to the (2, 0) theory of Lambert and Papageorgakis (LP). Upon dimension reduction, the (1, 0) theory can be reduced to a general$$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$N=1supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory in 5D. We discuss briefly the possible applications of the theories to multi M5-branes.
Pre-ADS superpotential from confined monopoles
Authors: Csáki Csaba , Martone Mario , Shirman Yuri , Terning John
Published: May 2018

Abstract

According to the standard lore only single monopoles contribute to the superpotential on the Coulomb branch of 3D

$$ \mathcal{N}=2 $$

N
=
2

SUSY gauge theories. However we argue that multi-monopole configurations can also generate superpotential terms in the presence of squark VEVs on the mixed Higgs-Coulomb branch. The new ingredient is the confinement of monopoles via Nielsen-Olesen flux tubes. Such confined multi-monopoles will yield a pre-ADS superpotential which depends both on the local Coulomb moduli and matter superfields but has no fractional powers. Once the lifted moduli are integrated out the familiar ADS superpotential is obtained. Our results demonstrate the important role multi-monopoles can play in generating non-perturbative effects and also sheds light on the still somewhat mysterious dynamical origin of the general 4D ADS superpotential.
Postoperative Peritonitis After Digestive Tract Surgery: Surgical Management and Risk Factors for Morbidity and Mortality, a Cohort of 191 Patients
Authors: Bensignor Thierry , Lefevre Jérémie H. , Creavin Ben , Chafai Najim , Lescot Thomas , Hor Thévy , Debove Clotilde , Paye François , Balladur Pierre , Tiret Emmanuel , Parc Yann
Published: May 2018

Background

Postoperative peritonitis (POP) following gastrointestinal surgery is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, with no clear management option proposed. The aim of this study was to report our surgical management of POP and identify pre‐ and perioperative risk factors for morbidity and mortality.

Methods

All patients with POP undergoing relaparotomy in our department between January 2004 and December 2013 were included. Pre‐ and perioperative data were analyzed to identify predictors of morbidity and mortality.

Results

A total of 191 patients required relaparotomy for POP, of which 16.8% required >1 reinterventions. The commonest cause of POP was anastomotic leakage (66.5%) followed by perforation (20.9%). POP was mostly treated by anastomotic takedown (51.8%), suture with derivative stoma (11.5%), enteral resection and stoma (12%), drainage of the leak (8.9%), stoma on perforation (8.4%), duodenal intubation (7.3%) or intubation of the leak (3.1%). The overall mortality rate was 14%, of which 40% died within the first 48 h. Major complications (Dindo–Clavien > 2) were seen in 47% of the cohort. Stoma formation occurred in 81.6% of patients following relaparotomy. Independent risk factors for mortality were: ASA > 2 (OR = 2.75, 95% CI = 1.07–7.62, p = 0.037), multiorgan failure (MOF) (OR = 5.22, 95% CI = 2.11–13.5, p = 0.0037), perioperative transfusion (OR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.05–7.47, p = 0.04) and upper GI origin (OR = 3.55, 95% CI = 1.32–9.56, p = 0.013). Independent risk factors for morbidity were: MOF (OR = 2.74, 95% CI = 1.26–6.19, p = 0.013), upper GI origin (OR = 3.74, 95% CI = 1.59–9.44, p = 0.0034) and delayed extubation (OR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.14–0.55, p = 0.0027).

Conclusion

Mortality following POP remains a significant issue; however, it is decreasing due to effective and aggressive surgical intervention. Predictors of poor outcomes will help tailor management options.
Efficacy and safety of Velmanase alfa in the treatment of patients with alpha‐mannosidosis: results from the core and extension phase analysis of a phase III multicentre, double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Borgwardt Line , Guffon Nathalie , Amraoui Yasmina , Dali Christine I. , De Meirleir Linda , Gil‐Campos Mercedes , Heron Bénédicte , Geraci Silvia , Ardigò Diego , Cattaneo Federica , Fogh Jens , Van den Hout J. M. Hannerieke , Beck Michael , Jones Simon A. , Tylki‐Szymanska Anna , Haugsted Ulla , Lund Allan M.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

This phase III, double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled trial (and extension phase) was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of velmanase alfa (VA) in alpha‐mannosidosis (AM) patients.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients were randomised to weekly 1 mg/kg VA or placebo for 52 weeks. At study conclusion, placebo patients switched to VA; 23 patients continued receiving VA in compassionate‐use/follow‐on studies and were evaluated in the extension phase [last observation (LO)]. Co‐primary endpoints were changes in serum oligosaccharide (S‐oligo) and in the 3‐min stair‐climb test (3MSCT).

Results

Mean relative change in S‐oligo in the VA arm was −77.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) −81.6 to −72.8] at week 52 and −62.9% (95% CI −85.8 to −40.0) at LO; mean relative change in the placebo arm was −24.1% (95% CI −40.3 to −3.6) at week 52 and −55.7% (95% CI −76.4 to −34.9) at LO after switch to active treatment. Mean relative change in 3MSCT at week 52 was −1.1% (95% CI −9.0 to 7.6) and − % (95% CI −13.4 to 6.5) for VA and placebo, respectively. At LO, the mean relative change was 3.9% (95% CI −5.5 to 13.2) in the VA arm and 9.0% (95% CI −10.3 to 28.3) in placebo patients after switch to active treatment. Similar improvement pattern was observed in secondary parameters. A post hoc analysis investigated whether some factors at baseline could account for treatment outcome; none of those factors were predictive of the response to VA, besides age.

Conclusions

These findings support the utility of VA for the treatment of AM, with more evident benefit over time and when treatment is started in the paediatric age.