bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Symmetry‐Controlled Rearrangements in Piedfort Units (PU) of 2,4,6‐Triaryloxy‐1,3,5‐triazines
Authors: Bombicz Petra , Bathori Nikoletta B. , Kalman Alajos
Published: November 2015

Review: 30 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: The Synthesis of Gliflozins
Authors: Larson Gerald L.
Published: November 2015

Review: 25 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: The Genus Neolitsea of Lauraceae: A Phytochemical and Biological Progress
Authors: Cao Yuan , Gao Xiao‐Li , Su Guo‐Zhu , Yu Xue‐Long , Tu Peng‐Fei , Chai Xing‐Yun
Published: November 2015

Review: 73 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Development and Sensing Applications of Fluorescent Motifs within the Mitochondrial Environment
Authors: Roopa Roopa , Kumar Naresh , Bhalla Vandana , Kumar Manoj
Published: November 2015

Review: 152 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Kinetic Profiling of Catalytic Organic Reactions as a Mechanistic Tool
Authors: Blackmond Donna G.
Published: November 2015

Review: [33 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Two‐Photon Probes for Biomedical Imaging
Authors: Lim Chang Su , Cho Bong Rae
Published: November 2015

Review: 154 refs.
Development of the Travelling Wave Bioreactor. Part I: Design Studies Based on Numerical Models
Authors: Kaiser Stephan C. , Kraume Matthias , Eibl Dieter
Published: November 2015

In the travelling wave bioreactor (TWB) an orbital movement is used to set up a quasi‐periodic wave motion in the partially filled, toroidal shaped vessel. Based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models, this study presents detailed analyses of the fluid flow in the TWB for a wide range of operational conditions. Even though the wave propagation is shown to be greatly influenced by the rotation, it was found that the regular vessel shape facilitates a predominantly tangential flow with low back mixing, irrespective of the operational conditions. Hence, the influence of different bioreactor geometries without and with baffles is examined. The study indicates that CFD models can be used as a valuable tool for bioreactor development, because it provides a deep insight into the bioreactor's hydrodynamics and can help to reduce the number of prototypes.
Shape‐Controlled Preparation of Basic Bismuth Nitrate Crystals with High Iodide‐Removal Capacities
Authors: Ng Choon Hwee Bernard , Fan Wai Yip
Published: November 2015

Bismuth compounds have generated much interest as agents for the removal of radioactive iodine. In this work, we present the shape‐controlled preparation of basic bismuth nitrate crystals (BBN) in the form of Reuleaux triangles, hexagons, and deformed hexagon disks. Shape control was achieved through modulation of the effect of the shape‐directing agent 2,3‐bis(2‐pyridyl)pyrazine (dpp). The crystals were shown to be capable of iodide removal through reaction with I− to form BiOI. Depending on the degree of saturation, the resultant solids can exhibit colors ranging from yellow (unsaturated) to orange (saturated). Sedimentation of the products facilitates its removal after use. While the removal capacities did not depend on the crystal morphology, the Reuleaux triangle disks exhibited faster reaction rates than the other two shapes. With improved removal capacities of up to 3.6 mmol g−1, fast removal kinetics, good selectivity, and capture irreversibility, the BBN crystals show good potential as agents for radioactive iodine removal.
A Simple Approach towards Highly Dense Solvated Graphene Films for Supercapacitors
Authors: Sevilla Marta , Ferrero Guillermo A. , Vu Tan T. , Fuertes Antonio B.
Published: November 2015

Highly dense porous solvated free‐standing graphene films were prepared by pressing graphene hydrogels obtained by a hydrothermal approach, which entails the generation of hematite nanoparticles that act as separators and endotemplate agents to generate pores. The as‐prepared solvated graphene films have characteristics that make them suitable for use in supercapacitors, that is, a free‐standing nature, a thickness of around 110 μm, a high packing density (1.1 g cm−3) and a large areal mass loading (12 mg cm−2). When used as supercapacitor electrodes, the graphene films show a high cell capacitance of ≈43 F g−1 (47 F cm−3) at 0.1 A g−1 in aqueous electrolyte (H2SO4) and retain 50 % of their low rate capacitance even at a high current density of 40 A g−1. Such porous yet highly dense materials could be used to fabricate lighter and more compact supercapacitor devices than those currently based on activated carbon.
Noncovalent Interaction of Graphene with Heterocyclic Compounds: Benzene, Imidazole, Tetracene, and Imidazophenazines
Authors: Zarudnev Eugene , Stepanian Stepan , Adamowicz Ludwik , Karachevtsev Victor
Published: November 2015

Noncovalent functionalization of graphene with organic molecules offers a direct route to multifunctional modification of this nanomaterial, leading to its various possible practical applications. In this work, the structures of hybrids formed by linear heterocyclic compounds such as imidazophenazine (F1) and its derivatives (F2‐F4) with graphene and the corresponding interaction energies are studied by using the DFT method. Special attention is paid to the hybrids where the attached molecule is located along the graphene zigzag (GZZ) and armchair (GAC) directions. The interaction energies corresponding to the graphene hybrids of the F1‐F4 compounds for the two directions are found to be distinct, while tetracene (being a symmetrical molecule) shows a small difference between these binding energies. It is found that the back‐side CH3 and CF3 groups have an important influence on the arrangements of F1 derivatives on graphene and on their binding energies. The contribution of the CF3 group to the total binding energy of the F3 molecule with graphene is the largest (3.4 kcal mol−1) (the GZZ direction) while the CH3 group increases this energy of F2 only by 2.0 kcal mol−1 (the GAC direction). It is shown that replacing the carbons with other atoms or adding a back‐side group enables one to vary the polarizability of graphene.
Finite‐Time lag synchronization of delayed neural networks via periodically intermittent control
Authors: Jing Taiyan , Chen Fangqi
Published: November 2015

The problem of finite‐time lag synchronization of delayed neural networks via periodically intermittent control is studied. In two sections, based on the same finite‐time stability theory and using the same sliding mode control, by designing a periodically intermittent feedback controller and adjusting periodically intermittent control strengths with the updated laws, we achieve the finite‐time lag synchronization between two time delayed networks. In addition, we ensure that the trajectory of the error system converges to a chosen sliding surface within finite time and keeps it on forever. Finally, two examples are presented to verify the effectiveness of the analytical results obtained here. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 211–219, 2016
Numerical Modeling of the Droplet Vaporization for Design and Operation of Liquid‐pulsed CVD
Authors: Boichot Raphaël , Krumdieck Susan
Published: November 2015

This article presents an approach for modeling the vaporization of droplets of solvent and precursor mixture under vacuum in the pulsed‐pressure (pp) CVD process. The pulsed, direct liquid injection apparatus with ultrasonic atomizer is demonstrated as a controllable and reliable alternative to the bubbler and carrier gas system. The numerical modeling solves mass, heat, and momentum continuity equations on liquid droplets, and is intended to evaluate the relative roles of the physical chemistry properties and reactor parameters in the fast vaporization of droplets. The sensitivity analysis proposed here shows that the vaporization time into the pulsed‐liquid CVD system is mainly dependent on the heating available in the flash evaporation zone, then on the thermodynamic properties of the liquid solution.
Practice and nap schedules modulate children's motor learning
Authors: Ren Jie , Guo Wei , Yan Jin H. , Liu Guanmin , Jia Fujun
Published: November 2015

Night‐ or day‐time sleep enhances motor skill acquisition. However, prominent issues remained about thecircadian(time‐of‐day) andhomeostatic(time since last sleep) effects of sleep on developmental motor learning. Therefore, we examined the effects of nap schedules and nap‐test‐intervals (NTIs) on the learning of finger tapping sequences on computer keyboards. Children aged 6–7, 8–9, and 10–11 years explicitly acquired the short and long tapping orders that share the same movement strings (4‐2‐3‐1‐4, 4‐2‐3‐1‐4‐2‐3‐1‐4). Following a constant 8‐ or 10‐hr post‐learning period in one of the four NTIs (2, 4, 5, 7 hr), children in the morning napping groups, the afternoon napping groups, or the waking group performed the original long sequence in retention test (4‐2‐3‐1‐4‐2‐3‐1‐4) and the mirrored‐order sequence in transfer test (1‐3‐2‐4‐1‐3‐2‐4‐1). Age and treatment differences in the movement time (MT, ms) and sequence accuracy (SA, %) were compared during skill learning and in retrieval tests. Results suggest that practice or nap affects MT and SA in a greater extent for the younger learners than for the older learners. Thecircadianeffects might not change nap‐based skill learning. Importantly, the longer NTIs resulted in superior retention performance than the shorter ones, suggesting that children require a relatively longer post‐nap period to form motor memory. Finally, nap‐based motor learning was more marked in skill retention than in skill transfer. Brain development may play an important role in motor learning. Our discussion centers on memory consolidation and its relevance for skill acquisition from early to late childhood. © 2015Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 58:107–119, 2016.
A Method of Constructing Phase Spreading Sequences for CPM‐CDMA Systems
Authors: MORIOKA KAZUYUKI , ASANO DAVID
Published: November 2015

In this paper, a construction method for phase spreading sequences that is suitable for CPM‐CDMA systems is proposed. Using these sequences, the performance of asynchronous CPM‐CDMA systems with traditional BPSK/OQPSK‐CDMA systems and the trade‐off between the spreading factor and modulation parameters are considered. Numerical results show that the optimal modulation index for CPFSK‐CDMA systems is and the performance is better for lower values of in GMSK‐CDMA systems. Also, we found that the user capacities of MSK‐CDMA systems are 2.3 times larger than those of BPSK/OQPSK‐CDMA systems.
A Serial Processing FIR Inverse Filter Circuit
Authors: TAKATO KENJI
Published: November 2015

Inverse filters are used in many fields, including audio circuits, metal and optical telecom line equalization, and wireless equalization. The purpose of such filters is to compensate for distortion in the signal caused by the transmission medium. Design methods for an inverse filter using an IIR filter, FFT/IFFT, and an adaptive FIR filter are available. However, an IIR filter has some problems as regards stability. The FFT/IFFT method requires significant calculation and the adaptive FIR filter needs substantial time. This paper proposes a new method of generating the FIR inverse filter coefficients through serial calculations of the impulse response and its expected value. At first, all coefficients of the FIR filter except the first are set to zero. When an input of the impulse response data XN is applied to the filter, the temporal output of the FIR filter WN is compared to the expectation value EN, and the FIR inverse filter coefficients gN are calculated using step by step. This algorithm is simulated by calculations in Excel. The FPGA circuit is synthesized using VHDL and a behavior model is simulated using the ISE design tool. The coefficients of the filter are generated during the input period of the data XN. Therefore, real‐time inverse filter circuit generation is possible.
Moving beyond bioclimatic envelope models: integrating upland forest and peatland processes to predict ecosystem transitions under climate change in the western Canadian boreal plain
Authors: Schneider Richard R. , Devito Kevin , Kettridge Nicholas , Bayne Erin
Published: November 2015

By the end of this century, much of the climate space of western Canada's boreal forest is expected to shift northwards and be replaced by climates that are currently associated with aspen forest, parkland and grassland ecosystems. In this study, we review the various processes that will mediate ecological responses to these projected changes in climate. We conclude that ecological transitions are unlikely to involve a gradual wave‐like shift in ecotonal boundaries. Instead, we predict that ecological changes will lag substantially behind changes in climate and that individual ecosystem components will respond at different rates. In particular, if precipitation inputs are maintained as expected, then peatlands should exhibit considerable resilience to climate change and remain a dominant feature on the landscape in 2100. Because peatlands retain large amounts of water on the landscape their continued presence may in turn slow the rate of forest loss, especially the aspen component. Thus, ecological response to climate change in the western boreal region may involve a transition to a novel ecosystem that includes peatlands and aspen as dominant features – unlike anything that exists today. Moreover, this interim stage may remain in place well into the next century, potentially providing additional time for forest‐dependent species to adapt. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of a CuInS2 Nanoparticle Ink and Application in a Selenization‐Free, Solution‐Processed Superstrate Solar Cell
Authors: Cheshme Khavar Amir Hossein , Mahjoub Ali Reza , Tajabadi Fariba , Dehghani Mehdi , Taghavinia Nima
Published: November 2015

We report a study on chalcopyrite solar cells fabricated by low‐cost, nonvacuum, and selenization‐free methods. Superstrate‐type CuInS2 (CIS) thin‐film solar cells were prepared by sequential ink deposition. The CIS film was formed from a stable low‐carbon ink, which was synthesized at low temperature (<120 °C). The CIS nanoparticle ink was prepared with n‐butylamine and acetic acid as the solvent and stabilizer, respectively. The viscous and stable ink that formed through the dispersion of the final nanoparticles in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) could be deposited readily onto the substrate. The major features of the obtained ink are the small amount of impurity phases and negligible carbon residue (ca. 2.8 %). The obtained ink was used for the fabrication of superstrate solar‐cell devices with a glass/FTO/TiO2/In2S3/CIS/carbon (FTO = fluorine‐doped tin oxide) structure. The performance of the solar cells was improved by optimizing different synthetic and geometric parameters, including the sulfur source, reaction time, reaction temperature, buffer‐layer thickness and second annealing temperature. The best cells were obtained by using inks with thiourea as the sulfur source, and a high current density of 21 mA/cm2 and 5.2 % efficiency were obtained. This current density is the highest among those reported for solution‐based superstrate CIS solar cells and is comparable to those of solar cells fabricated with a selenization step at high temperature. The ink is stable, and the efficiency of the device fabricated with ink aged for 100 d is ca. 12 % less than that of the device fabricated with fresh ink.
The adverse outcome pathway (AOP) for chemical binding to tubulin in oocytes leading to aneuploid offspring
Authors: Marchetti Francesco , Massarotti Alberto , Yauk Carole L. , Pacchierotti Francesca , Russo Antonella
Published: November 2015

The Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) has launched the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) Programme to advance knowledge of pathways of toxicity and improve the use of mechanistic information in risk assessment. An AOP links a molecular initiating event (MIE) to an adverse outcome (AO) through intermediate key events (KE). Here, we present the scientific evidence in support of an AOP whereby chemicals that bind to tubulin cause microtubule depolymerization resulting in spindle disorganization followed by altered chromosome alignment and segregation and the generation of aneuploidy in female germ cells, ultimately leading to aneuploidy in the offspring. Aneuploidy, an abnormal number of chromosomes that is not an exact multiple of the haploid number, is a well‐known cause of human disease and represents a major cause of infertility, pregnancy failure, and serious genetic disorders in the offspring. Among chemicals that induce aneuploidy in female germ cells, a large majority impairs microtubule dynamics and spindle function. Colchicine, a prototypical chemical that binds to tubulin and causes microtubule depolymerization, is used here to illustrate the AOP. This AOP is specific to female germ cells exposed during the periovulation period. Although the majority of the data come from rodent studies, the available evidence suggests that the MIE and KEs are conserved across species and would occur in human oocytes. The development of AOPs related to mutagenicity in germ cells is expected to aid the identification of potential hazards to germ cell genomic integrity and support regulatory efforts to protect population health. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:87–113, 2016. © 2015 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada.
Dysregulation of DNA methylation induced by past arsenic treatment causes persistent genomic instability in mammalian cells
Authors: Mauro Maurizio , Caradonna Fabio , Klein Catherine B.
Published: November 2015

The mechanisms by which arsenic‐induced genomic instability is initiated and maintained are poorly understood. To investigate potential epigenetic mechanisms, in this study we evaluated global DNA methylation levels in V79 cells and human HaCaT keratinocytes at several time points during expanded growth of cell cultures following removal of arsenite exposures. We have found altered genomic methylation patterns that persisted up to 40 cell generations in HaCaT cells after the treatments were withdrawn. Moreover, mRNA expression levels were evaluated by RT‐PCR for DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, HMLH1, and HMSH2 genes, demonstrating that the down regulation of DNMT3A and DNMT3B genes, but not DNMT1, occurred in an arsenic dose‐dependent manner, and persisted for many cell generations following removal of the arsenite, offering a plausible mechanism of persistently genotoxic arsenic action. Analyses of promoter methylation status of the DNA mismatch repair genes HMLH1 and HMSH2 show that HMSH2, but not HMLH1, was epigenetically regulated by promoter hypermethylation changes following arsenic treatment. The results reported here demonstrate that arsenic exposure promptly induces genome‐wide global DNA hypomethylation, and some specific gene promoter methylation changes, that persist for many cell generations following withdrawal of arsenite, supporting the hypothesis that the cells undergo epigenetic reprogramming at both the gene and genome level that is durable over many cell generations in the absence of further arsenic treatment. These DNA methylation changes, in concert with other known epigenome alterations, are likely contributing to long‐lasting arsenic‐induced genomic instability that manifests in several ways, including aberrant chromosomal effects. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:137–150, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic study of aqueous monoethanolamine‐based CO2 capture process: model development and process improvement
Authors: Li Kangkang , Cousins Ashleigh , Yu Hai , Feron Paul , Tade Moses , Luo Weiliang , Chen Jian
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we present improvements to postcombustion capture (PCC) processes based on aqueous monoethanolamine (MEA). First, a rigorous, rate‐based model of the carbon dioxide (CO2) capture process from flue gas by aqueous MEA was developed using Aspen Plus, and validated against results from the PCC pilot plant trials located at the coal‐fired Tarong power station in Queensland, Australia. The model satisfactorily predicted the comprehensive experimental results from CO2 absorption and CO2 stripping process. The model was then employed to guide the systematic study of the MEA‐based CO2 capture process for the reduction in regeneration energy penalty through parameter optimization and process modification. Important process parameters such as MEA concentration, lean CO2 loading, lean temperature, and stripper pressure were optimized. The process modifications were investigated, which included the absorber intercooling, rich‐split, and stripper interheating processes. The minimum regeneration energy obtained from the combined parameter optimization and process modification was 3.1 MJ/kg CO2. This study suggests that the combination of a validated rate‐based model and process simulation can be used as an effective tool to guide sophisticated process plant, equipment design and process improvement.
The barrier to the methyl rotation inCis‐2‐butene and its isomerization energy toTrans‐2‐butene, revisited
Authors: Matta Chérif F. , Sadjadi Seyed Abdolreza , Braden Dale A. , Frenking Gernot
Published: November 2015

We respond to the two questions posed by Weinhold, Schleyer, and McKee (WSM) in their study ofcis‐2‐butene (Weinhold et al., J Comput Chem 2014, 35, 1499), in which they solicit explanations for the relative conformational energies of this molecule in terms of the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM). WSM requested answers to the questions: (1) why iscis‐2‐butene less stable thantrans‐2‐butene despite the presence of a hydrogen‐hydrogen (H⋯H) bond path in the former but not in the latter if the H⋯H bond path is stabilizing? (2) Why is the potential well of the conformational global minimum ofcis‐2‐butene only 0.8 kcal/mol deep when the H⋯H bonding is stabilizing by 5 kcal/mol? Both questions raised by WSM are answered by considering the changes in the energies ofallatoms as a function of the rotation of one of the two methyl groups from the minimum‐energy structure, which exhibits the H⋯H bond path, to the transition state, which is devoid of this bond path. It is found that the stability gained by the H⋯H bonding interaction is cancelled by the destabilization of one of the ethylenic carbon atoms which, alone, destabilizes the system by as much as 5 kcal/mol in the global minimum conformation. Further, it is found that the 1.1 kcal/mol stability oftrans‐2‐butene with respect to thecis‐isomer is driven by the considerable destabilization of the ethylenic carbons by 11 kcal/mol, while the changes in the atomic energies of the other corresponding atoms in the two isomers account for the observed different stabilities. The error introduced into QTAIM atomic energies by neglecting the virials of the forces on the nuclei for partially optimized structures is discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photolysis of α,β‐Epoxyketones: A Green Synthesis of β‐Hydroxyenones through Tandem H‐Abstraction, Ring Cleavage and Isomerisation
Authors: Dalal Aarti , Kumar Dinesh , Kamboj Ramesh C
Published: November 2015

The photochemical behavior of various substituted epoxycarbonyl compounds consisting of more than one possible photo‐labile site (i.e. δ‐hydrogen, β‐hydrogen and epoxide ring) has been investigated. These compounds on photo‐irradiation produced the β‐hydroxyenones in an eco‐friendly green approach. Mechanistically, these photo‐transformations have been envisaged to occur via an intramolecular β‐hydrogen abstraction by the carbonyl group of benzoyl moiety to generate the 1,3‐biradical followed by epoxide ring opening that isomerizes into the photoproducts. The photolysis of the probed epoxy ketones didn’t furnish any photoproduct through δ‐hydrogen abstraction, whatsoever. This exclusive preference for β‐H abstraction over δ‐H abstraction by carbonyl group has been vindicated by the MM2 energy mini‐ mized program for the investigated photochemical substrates. The structures of these photoproducts were established from the analysis of their spectral parameters (IR, 1H/13C NMR and Mass) and single crystal X‐ray crystallography data.
Mechanism of the Adsorption Process: Cu2+ Adsorpted by Ramie Stalk
Authors: Xu Sheng , Gong Xiaofeng , Zou Huiling , Liu Chunying , Chen Chunli , Zeng Xiaoxing
Published: November 2015

Agriculture wastes, ramie stalk, was used to adsorb Cu2+ ion from the aqueous solutions. Adsorption behaviors and mechanism involved in were systematically explored and discussed. A better fitting result of adsorption isotherms of Cu2+ to ramie stalk was obtained from the Langmuir model. This suggested the surface of ramie stalk is rather homogeneous, which is supported by a better fitting result of the adsorption kinetic by using a pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model. Following surface complexation modeling suggested Cu2+ uptake is driven by water‐associated adsorption along with the precipitated CuO species. This is attributed to the low dissociation constant of ramie stalk and thus there was only around one quarter of sur‐ face adsorption sites participating Cu2+ uptake at acidic environment.
Simplified Bernoulli's method significantly underestimates pulmonary transvalvular pressure drop
Authors: Falahatpisheh Ahmad , Rickers Carsten , Gabbert Dominik , Heng Ee Ling , Stalder Aurelien , Kramer Hans‐Heiner , Kilner Philip J. , Kheradvar Arash
Published: November 2015

Purpose

To determine whether neglecting the flow unsteadiness in simplified Bernoulli's equation significantly affects the pulmonary transvalvular pressure drop estimation.

Materials and Methods

3.0T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 4D velocity mapping was performed on four healthy volunteers, seven patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot, and thirteen patients with transposition of the great arteries repaired by arterial switch. Pulmonary transvalvular pressure drop was estimated based on two methods: General Bernoulli's Equation (GBE), ie, the most complete form; and Simplified Bernoulli's Equation (SBE), known as 4V2. More than 2300 individual pressure drop measurements were used to compare the simplified and the general Bernoulli's methods. A linear mixed‐effects model was employed for statistical analyses, fully accounting for clustering of observations among the methods and systolic phases.

Results

The simplified Bernoulli's method systematically underestimated the pressure drop compared to general Bernoulli's method during the entire systolic phase (P < 0.05), including the peak systole, where on average
.

Conclusion

The simplified Bernoulli method underestimated the pressure drop during all systolic phases in all the studied subjects. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account the flow unsteadiness for more accurate estimation of the pressure drop. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1313–1319.
Not if, but when we need resilience in the workplace
Authors: King Danielle D. , Newman Alexander , Luthans Fred
Published: November 2015

Workplace resilience is a necessity for organizations and employees given it assists them in overcoming adversity and ultimately succeeding. However, organizational scholars have largely overlooked this construct. In this Incubator, we briefly summarize extant research on workplace resilience to highlight opportunities for theory building and advancement of empirical research. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnosing links between atmospheric moisture and extreme daily precipitation over the UK
Authors: Allan Richard P. , Lavers David A. , Champion Adrian J.
Published: November 2015

Atmospheric moisture characteristics associated with the heaviest 1% of daily rainfall events affecting regions of the British Isles are analysed over the period 1997–2008. A blended satellite/rain‐gauge data set (GPCP‐1DD) and regionally averaged daily rain‐gauge observations (HadUKP) are combined with the ERA Interim reanalysis. These are compared with simulations from the HadGEM2‐A climate model which applied observed sea surface temperature and realistic radiative forcings. Median extreme daily rainfall across the identified events and locations is larger for GPCP (32 mm day−1) than HadUKP and the simulations (∼25 mm day−1). The heaviest observed and simulated daily rainfall events are associated with increased specific humidity and horizontal transport of moisture (median 850 hPa specific humidity of ∼6 g kg−1 and vapour transport of ∼150 g kg− 1m s− 1 for both observed and simulated events). Extreme daily rainfall events are less common during spring and summer across much of the British Isles, but in the south east region, they contribute up to 60% of the total number of distinct extreme daily rainfall events during these months. Compared to winter events, the summer events over south east Britain are associated with a greater magnitude and more southerly location of moisture maxima and less spatially extensive regions of enhanced moisture transport. This contrasting dependence of extreme daily rainfall on moisture characteristics implies a range of driving mechanisms that depend upon location and season. Higher spatial and temporal resolution data are required to explore these processes further, which is vital in assessing future projected changes in rainfall and associated flooding.
Peritraumatic Distress Mediates the Effect of Severity of Disaster Exposure on Perinatal Depression: The Iowa Flood Study
Authors: Brock Rebecca L. , O'Hara Michael W. , Hart Kimberly J. , McCabe‐Beane Jennifer E. , Williamson J. Austin , Brunet Alain , Laplante David P. , Yu Chunbo , King Suzanne
Published: November 2015

Disaster exposure during pregnancy has received limited attention. This study examined the impact of the 2008 Iowa Floods on perinatal maternal depression and well‐being, and the role of peritraumatic distress as a possible mechanism explaining this link. Perinatal women (N = 171) completed measures of depressive symptoms and general well‐being at 5 timepoints from pregnancy to 30 months postpartum. Objectively assessed prenatal flood exposure was associated with greater depression (r = .15). Further, flood‐related peritraumatic distress was uniquely associated with greater depression (r = .23), and was a key mechanism through which flood exposure led to depression. Prenatal flood exposure was also associated with general well‐being (r = .18); however, a mechanism other than peritraumatic distress appears to have been responsible for the effect of flood exposure on well‐being. We discuss the implications of these findings for informing etiological models and enhancing the efficacy of interventions for maternal psychopathology.
A new robust oxygen‐temperature sensor for aquatic eddy covariance measurements
Authors: Berg Peter , Koopmans Dirk J. , Huettel Markus , Li Hua , Mori Kosuke , Wüest Alfred
Published: November 2015

The fragility of thin Clark‐type glass microelectrodes used in aquatic eddy covariance measurements of benthic oxygen fluxes is a challenge when using this powerful technique. This study presents a new fast‐responding dual oxygen‐temperature sensor for eddy covariance measurements that is far more robust. Response time tests in the lab, where the sensor was inserted from air into water, revealed 90% response times of 0.51 s and 0.34 s for oxygen and temperature measurements, respectively. In wave tank tests, the new sensor showed no stirring sensitivity in contrast to Clark‐type microelectrodes. Other tests in a flume and in a particle‐free water tank revealed how close the sensor can be positioned to the measuring volume of the Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter without disturbing velocity recordings. In field tests at river sites, all > 24 h, the new sensor recorded high‐quality eddy covariance data for the entire deployment. Similar positive results were obtained in deployments at a marine site with unidirectional current flow overlaid with minor wave action. Concurrently deployed eddy covariance systems based on the new sensor and a traditional Clark‐type microelectrode revealed that they recorded statistically equivalent fluxes and similar velocity‐oxygen cospectra until the microelectrode broke after 2 h. The significant increase in robustness of the new sensor was achieved by relying on a larger sensor tip. This put some constrains on how the sensor should be deployed and fluxes extracted, but given the substantial gain in performance, it is a viable alternative for eddy covariance measurements in many aquatic environments.
Subtlety and partition relations
Authors: Usuba Toshimichi
Published: November 2015

We study the subtlety of a cardinal κ and of . We show that, under a certain large cardinal assumption, it is consistent that is subtle for some but κ is not subtle, and the consistency of such a situation is much stronger than the existence of a subtle cardinal. We show that the subtlety of can be characterized by a certain partition relation on . We also study the property of faintness of κ, and the subtlety of with the strong inclusion.
Black raspberries demethylate Sfrp4, a WNT pathway antagonist, in rat esophageal squamous cell papilloma
Authors: Huang Yi‐Wen , Gu Fei , Dombkowski Alan , Wang Li‐Shu , Stoner Gary D.
Published: November 2015

Aberrant methylation of DNA is a common event in the development of cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the human esophagus. In the present study, we determined: (a) whether aberrant DNA methylation also occurs in the development of N‐nitrosomethylbenzylamine (NMBA)‐induced tumorigenesis in the rat esophagus, a model of human esophageal SCC; and (b) if so, whether dietary black raspberries (BRBs) are capable of preventing this aberrant DNA methylation. A diet containing 5% BRBs inhibited the development of NMBA‐induced tumors in the rat esophagus. This inhibition was associated with reduced mRNA levels of the DNA methyltransferases, Dnmt1 and Dnmt3b, in both dysplastic lesions and in papillomas of the esophagus. In addition, promoter methylation of Sfrp4, a WNT pathway antagonist, was significantly reduced by the berry diet, and this was associated with decreased nuclear localization of β‐CATENIN and reduced expression of c‐MYC protein in NMBA‐treated esophagi. Decreased promoter methylation of Sfrp4 correlated with decreased expression of Dmnt3b and, ultimately, with increased Sfrp4 mRNA expression. This suggests that epigenetic alterations in NMBA‐induced rat esophageal tumorigenesis recapitulate epigenetic events in human esophageal SCC, and that BRBs could be useful in preventing the aberrant DNA methylation involved in the development of human esophageal SCC. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Flavonoids as dopaminergic neuromodulators
Authors: Meireles Manuela , Moura Eduardo , Vieira‐Coelho Maria Augusta , Santos‐Buelga Celestino , Gonzalez‐Manzano Susana , Dueñas Montserrat , Mateus Nuno , Faria Ana , Calhau Conceição
Published: November 2015

Scope

The present study aimed to characterize and evaluate flavonoids effects on organic cation uptake in neuronal cells.

Methods and results

Uptake experiments were conducted using radiolabeled methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinuim ([3H]‐MPP+), in human neuronal dopaminergic cells, SH‐SY5Y. Catechin did not alter [3H]‐MPP+ uptake, however its metabolite 4’‐methyl‐catechin decreased it by almost 50%. Epicatechin and its methylated metabolites also decreased [3H]‐MPP+ uptake. Interestingly, the quercetin flavonol and its metabolite conjugated with glucuronic acid, as well as the flavanones naringenin and hesperitin, increased [3H]‐MPP+ uptake.

Conclusion

These results showed that different classes of flavonoids, as well as its metabolites, differently influence neuronal organic cation uptake. Several xeno‐ and endobiotics, including neurotransmitters, are organic cations. Specific food recommendations may be beneficial in pathological conditions where levels of neurotransmitters, as dopamine, are either increased or decreased.
Correcting dynamic distortions in 7T echo planar imaging using a jittered echo time sequence
Authors: Dymerska Barbara , Poser Benedikt A. , Bogner Wolfgang , Visser Eelke , Eckstein Korbinian , Cardoso Pedro , Barth Markus , Trattnig Siegfried , Robinson Simon D.
Published: November 2015

Purpose

To develop a distortion correction method for echo planar imaging (EPI) that is able to measure dynamic changes in B0.

Theory and Methods

The approach we propose is based on single‐echo EPI with a jittering of the echo time between two values for alternate time points. Field maps are calculated between phase images from adjacent volumes and are used to remove distortion from corresponding magnitude images. The performance of our approach was optimized using an analytical model and by comparison with field maps from dual‐echo EPI. The method was tested in functional MRI experiments at 7T with motor tasks and compared with the conventional static approach.

Results

Unwarping using our method was accurate even for head rotations up to 8.2°, where the static approach introduced errors up to 8.2 mm. Jittering the echo time between 19 and 25 ms had no measurable effect on blood oxygenation level–dependent (BOLD) sensitivity. Our approach reduced the distortions in activated regions to <1 mm and repositioned active voxels correctly.

Conclusion

This method yields accurate distortion correction in the presence of motion. No reduction in BOLD sensitivity was observed. As such, it is suitable for application in a wide range of functional MRI experiments. Magn Reson Med 76:1388–1399, 2016. © 2015 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Examining the association between musculoskeletal injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome in manual laborers
Authors: Cartwright Michael S. , Yeboah Samuel , Walker Francis O. , Rosenbaum Daryl A. , Newman Jill C. , Arcury Thomas A. , Mora Dana C. , Quandt Sara A.
Published: November 2015

Introduction: The association between musculoskeletal injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has not been investigated in a large, population‐based study. Methods: Latino manual laborers were recruited as part of a study of work‐related health conditions. Each had a clinical examination, completed a hand diagram, and had nerve conduction studies. Results: A total of 512 individuals completed all testing. An association was found between rotator cuff syndrome and CTS, with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.25 (P = 0.01) for the right arm, 2.08 (P = 0.03) for the left arm, and 1.84 (P = 0.03) for all individuals. Associations between epicondylitis and CTS did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Individuals with rotator cuff syndrome have a higher prevalence of CTS. Further investigations will be needed to examine for causation and to determine if 1 condition typically occurs first and leads to the other. Muscle Nerve 54: 31–35, 2016
Characterization, morphology, and biodegradation of bioplastic fertilizer (BpF) composites made of poly(Butylene succinate) blended with oil palm biomass and fertilizer
Authors: Ahmad Saffian Harmaen , Abdan Khalina , Ali Hassan Mohd , Ibrahim Azowa
Published: November 2015

Poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) is a versatile biodegradable polymer that can be processed into slow‐release bioplastic fertilizer (BpF) composites using twin screw extruder extrusion method, with controlled formulation and temperature. In this study, slow‐release BpF composites were created by blending NPK fertilizer with biodegradable plastic composites and oil palm biomass. Temperature processing was done at 125°C–145°C for 3–5 min using twin screw extruder. Its thermal degradation occurred initially at 263.44°C and reached maximum at 300.73°C. In biodegradation test, the weight losses of PBS/NPKC1 and PBS/NPKC2 were about 60% while the weight losses of PBS/EFB/NPKC1 and PBS/EFB/NPKC2 were 72.68% and 73.09%, respectively. It was observed under scanning electron microscope that PB1 and PB2 showed more homogeneous adhesion and better wetting of PBS. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2577–2583, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
The shape of protein–polymer conjugates in dilute solution
Authors: Lam Christopher N. , Chang Dongsook , Wang Muzhou , Chen Wei‐Ren , Olsen Bradley D.
Published: November 2015

Protein–polymer conjugation can significantly affect many different aspects of protein behavior, ranging from their solution properties to their ability to form solution and bulk nanostructured materials. An underlying fundamental question is how the molecular design affects the shape of the conjugate and, consequently, its properties. This work measures the molecular configuration of model protein–polymer conjugates in dilute solution using small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS) and uses quantitative model fitting to understand the shape of the molecules. Form factor measurements of four model bioconjugates of the red fluorescent protein mCherry and the polymers poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide), poly(hydroxypropyl acrylate), poly(oligoethylene glycol acrylate), and poly(ethylene glycol) show that these protein–polymer conjugates are well described by a recently developed scattering function for colloid–polymer conjugates that explicitly incorporates excluded volume interactions in the polymer configuration. In the regime where the protein does not exhibit strong interactions with the polymer, modeling the protein–polymer interactions using a purely repulsive Weeks–Chandler–Andersen potential also leads to a coarse‐grained depiction of the conjugate that agrees well with its scattering behavior. The coarse‐grained model can additionally be used for systems with varying protein–polymer interactions, ranging from purely repulsive to strongly attractive, which may be useful for conjugates with strong electrostatic or hydrophobic attractive interactions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 292–302
Surfactant deficiency in full‐term newborns with transient tachypnea delivered by elective C‐section
Authors: Estorgato Geovana Rhoden , Fiori Humberto Holmer , da Silva Ribeiro Manoel Antonio , de Paula Davi , Garcia Pedro Celiny Ramos , Mattiello Rita , Fiori Renato Machado
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Previous studies have suggested that full‐term newborns delivered by elective cesarean section who develop transient tachypnea have low gastric microbubble counts. In the present study, microbubble concentrations in oral fluid samples were used to evaluate pulmonary maturity.

Objective

To evaluate lung maturity in full‐term newborns delivered by elective caesarean section using the stable microbubble test in oral aspirates collected at birth.

Method

The study involved newborns with gestational age >37 weeks delivered by elective cesarean section. Oral fluid samples were obtained in the delivery room immediately after birth, and gastric fluid was collected within the first hour of life. Samples were frozen and analyzed by two blinded researchers.

Results

The sample comprised 544 newborns. Twenty‐two were diagnosed with transient tachypnea of the newborn by the assisting physician, and required admission to the Neonatal Intensive or Intermediate Care Unit. The median (interquartile range) of the number of microbubbles in the oral samples of these patients was 67.5 (45–150) microbubbles/mm2. The remaining 498 newborns without respiratory difficulties had a count of 350 (150–750) microbubbles/mm2–P < 0.001. Gastric fluid tests revealed a count of 150 (82.5–700) microbubbles/mm2 for neonates with respiratory difficulties, and of 600 (216–1125) microbubbles/mm2–P < 0.05 for those without respiratory symptoms.

Conclusion

The present results suggest that transient tachypnea of the newborn is associated with surfactant dysfunction. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:596–600. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Metabolic and molecular regulation of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids on prostate cancer
Authors: Zhao Heng , Pflug Beth R. , Lai Xianyin , Wang Mu
Published: November 2015

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the role of n‐3 and n‐9 fatty acids in crucial processes involved in prostate cancer cell growth through a large‐scale proteomic analysis.

Experimental design

We used a label‐free protein quantification method to profile global protein expression of fish oil and oleic acid treated PCa cells and validated a panel of differentially expressed proteins by either Western blot or multiple reaction monitoring. Bioinformatic analysis was also performed to uncover the pathways involved in fatty acid metabolism.

Results

Fish oil, not oleic acid, suppresses prostate cancer cell viability. Assessment of fatty acid synthesis pathway activity also shows that oleic acid is a more potent inhibitor than fish oil on de novo fatty acid synthesis. Although fatty acid synthase activity decreases with fish oil treatment, the inhibition of its activity occurs over time while reduction in viability occurs within 24 h. Bioinformatic analysis revealed the pathways altered by these fatty acid treatments.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

This study suggests that suppression of cell viability by fish oil is independent of fatty acid synthase and fish oil regulates prostate cancer cells through activation of other pathways depending upon length of exposure to fish oil.
Chemical and Textural Characterization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Their Effect on the Thermal Decomposition of Ammonium Perchlorate
Authors: Campos Eunice Aparecida , Cortez Fernandes Maria Tereza , Kawachi Elizabete Yoshie , Sampaio de Oliveira José Irineu , de Cássia Lazzarini Dutra Rita
Published: November 2015

Metal oxide nanoparticles have been used as burning rate catalysts for ammonium perchlorate (AP) decomposition in composite solid propellants. Though most papers point to the efficiency of different sizes, shapes and compositions, the texture of the agglomerated particles plays an important role in the catalytic efficiency, but this aspect is not always discussed. In this paper, iron oxide and composite iron oxide/silica powders were synthesized in microemulsion systems and their effect on the decomposition of AP was investigated. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) showed that the synthesized powders have an amorphous to nanocrystalline pattern, with Fe2O3 composition. The use of different FT‐IR spectroscopic techniques – transmission, diffuse reflectance (DRIFT) and universal attenuated total reflectance (UATR) – allied to electron microscopy analysis allowed the characterization of the samples’ surface, indicating that silicon oxide forms a thick matrix that covers the iron oxide nanoparticles. Adsorption of N2, light scattering and electron microscopy pointed that all samples are formed by mesoporous agglomerated nanoparticles containing micropores indicating that silicon oxide forms a thick matrix that covers the iron oxide nanoparticles. Adsorption of N2, pointed that all samples show different microstructures and light scattering indicated results refer to agglomerated particles. Finally, the catalytic effect of the samples on the decomposition of AP was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis coupled to differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA), showing that only the high temperature decomposition step of AP was affected by the catalyst, shifting to lower temperatures the higher the surface area of the synthesized iron oxide sample, regardless of the presence of the silica matrix.
The zero phonon line revisited
Authors: York Mark C. A.
Published: November 2015

We treat the exciton–thermal acoustic phonon interaction as a coupling to a (not necessarily classical) stochastic background, in turn applying a Luttinger–Ward style of resummation to self–energy diagrams and leading to a non–perturbative resolution of the exciton spectral density. Such an approach is useful in settings where higher order corrections are not small, e.g. finite temperature and certain processes involving optical phonons. Our main observations lend a promising outlook for applications with quantum wires, quantum dots and localized states as well as a similar non–perturbative description of optical phonon relaxation/emission processes. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)