bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timed Delivery of Therapy Enhances Functional Muscle Regeneration
Authors: Cezar Christine A. , Arany Praveen , Vermillion Sarah A. , Seo Bo Ri , Vandenburgh Herman H. , Mooney David J.
Published: July 2017

Cell transplantation is a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of traumatic muscle injury in humans. Previous investigations have typically focused on the identification of potent cell and growth factor treatments and optimization of spatial control over delivery. However, the optimal time point for cell transplantation remains unclear. Here, this study reports how myoblast and morphogen delivery timed to coincide with specific phases of the inflammatory response affects donor cell engraftment and the functional repair of severely injured muscle. Delivery of a biomaterial‐based therapy timed with the peak of injury‐induced inflammation leads to potent early and long‐term regenerative benefits. Diminished inflammation and fibrosis, enhanced angiogenesis, and increased cell engraftment are seen during the acute stage following optimally timed treatment. Over the long term, treatment during peak inflammation leads to enhanced functional regeneration, as indicated by reduced chronic inflammation and fibrosis along with increased tissue perfusion and muscle contractile force. Treatments initiated immediately after injury or after inflammation had largely resolved provided more limited benefits. These results demonstrate the importance of appropriately timing the delivery of biologic therapy in the context of muscle regeneration. Biomaterial‐based timed delivery can likely be applied to other tissues and is of potential wide utility in regenerative medicine.
Core–Satellite Polydopamine–Gadolinium‐Metallofullerene Nanotheranostics for Multimodal Imaging Guided Combination Cancer Therapy
Authors: Wang Sheng , Lin Jing , Wang Zhantong , Zhou Zijian , Bai Ruiliang , Lu Nan , Liu Yijing , Fu Xiao , Jacobson Orit , Fan Wenpei , Qu Junle , Chen Siping , Wang Tianfu , Huang Peng , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: July 2017

Integration of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other imaging modalities is promising to furnish complementary information for accurate cancer diagnosis and imaging‐guided therapy. However, most gadolinium (Gd)–chelator MR contrast agents are limited by their relatively low relaxivity and high risk of released‐Gd‐ions‐associated toxicity. Herein, a radionuclide‐64Cu‐labeled doxorubicin‐loaded polydopamine (PDA)–gadolinium‐metallofullerene core–satellite nanotheranostic agent (denoted as CDPGM) is developed for MR/photoacoustic (PA)/positron emission tomography (PET) multimodal imaging‐guided combination cancer therapy. In this system, the near‐infrared (NIR)‐absorbing PDA acts as a platform for the assembly of different moieties; Gd3N@C80, a kind of gadolinium metallofullerene with three Gd ions in one carbon cage, acts as a satellite anchoring on the surface of PDA. The as‐prepared CDPGM NPs show good biocompatibility, strong NIR absorption, high relaxivity (r
1 = 14.06 mM−1 s−1), low risk of release of Gd ions, and NIR‐triggered drug release. In vivo MR/PA/PET multimodal imaging confirms effective tumor accumulation of the CDPGM NPs. Moreover, upon NIR laser irradiation, the tumor is completely eliminated with combined chemo‐photothermal therapy. These results suggest that the CDPGM NPs hold great promise for cancer theranostics.
Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly Fabrication of Porous Boron Nitride Coated Multifunctional Materials for Water Cleaning
Authors: Liu Dan , Zhang Mingwen , He Li , Chen Ying , Lei Weiwei
Published: July 2017

Cleanup of oil spills and industrial discharge of organic solvents is a global challenge. However, development of the ideal materials for water remediation with a high separation efficiency and low risk of fire is still rather sparse because the material needs to be superhydrophobic/superoleophilic and also flame‐retardant. Here, a novel coating material of porous boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) and a layer‐by‐layer assembly technology for tailoring inexpensive cotton fabric and melamine sponge with these desired properties are reported. The BNNS‐coated cotton fabric and melamine sponge exhibit high oil/water separation efficiency, selective absorption capacity of oil and organic solvents, and excellent recyclability. Furthermore, the coated materials show an efficient flame‐retardant effect which completely stops melamine sponge melt dripping upon exposure to the direct flame from a butane blowtorch within 52 s. The integrated advantages of the high porosity, low water adhesion, compressibility, strong fire‐resistance, simple operation, and commercial availability enable the porous BNNS‐coated cotton fabric and melamine sponge to satisfy various practical oil/water separation requirements.
Geometry Defines Ultrafast Hot‐Carrier Dynamics and Kerr Nonlinearity in Plasmonic Metamaterial Waveguides and Cavities
Authors: Peruch Silvia , Neira Andres , Wurtz Gregory A. , Wells Brian , Podolskiy Viktor A. , Zayats Anatoly V.
Published: July 2017

Hot carrier dynamics in plasmonic nanorod metamaterials and its influence on the metamaterial's optical Kerr nonlinearity is studied. The electron temperature distribution induced by an optical pump in the metallic component of the plasmonic metamaterial leads to geometry‐dependent variations of the optical response and its dynamics as observed in both the transmission and reflection properties of the metamaterial slab. Thus, the ultrafast dynamics of a metamaterial's optical response can be controlled via modal engineering. Both the transient response relaxation time and magnitude of the nonlinearity are shown to depend on the modal‐induced spatial profile of the electron temperature distribution and the hot‐electron diffusion in nanorods. The nonlocal effects, depending on the excitation‐induced losses in the metal, are shown to dictate the modal structure of the metamaterial slab and the associated dynamics of its nonlinear response. The opportunity of controlling the electron temperature profile induced in the plasmonic nanorods by changing the metamaterial's geometry and/or excitation conditions paves the way to achieve controllable dynamics of the nonlinear optical response for free‐space as well as integrated nanophotonic applications involving nonequilibrium electrons.
Fluoreszenzsonden mit mehreren Bindungsstellen unterscheiden zwischen Cys, Hcy und GSH
Authors: Yin Cai‐Xia , Xiong Kang‐Ming , Huo Fang‐Jun , Salamanca James C. , Strongin Robert M.
Published: July 2017

Thiole wie Cystein (Cys), Homocystein (Hcy) und Glutathion (GSH) spielen für das Redoxgleichgewicht in biologischen Systemen eine entscheidende Rolle. Dieser Kurzaufsatz fasst aktuelle Aspekte aus dem Bereich der reaktiven Thiolsonden für die biomedizinische Forschung und Diagnostik zusammen und betont die verbleibenden Herausforderungen für Chemiker im Bereich der selektiven Sonden und Sensoren. Der Fortschritt bei Sonden mit mehreren Bindungsstellen stellt eine kreative neue Richtung des Feldes dar, die gleichzeitige und akkurate ratiometrische Messungen ermöglichen kann. Neue Strategien zur Entwicklung von Sonden können helfen, aktuelle Aufgaben anzugehen. Dazu zählt das Monitoring von Krankheiten, die durch abweichende GSH‐, Cys‐ und Hcy‐Spiegel gekennzeichnet sind, wie etwa Autismus und chronische Erkrankungen, die auf oxidativem Stress beruhen.
Stoichiometric and Catalytic C−C and C−H Bond Formation with B(C6F5)3 via Cationic Intermediates
Authors: Soltani Yashar , Wilkins Lewis C. , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: July 2017

This work showcases a new catalytic cyclization reaction using a highly Lewis acidic borane with concomitant C−H or C−C bond formation. The activation of alkyne‐containing substrates with B(C6F5)3 enabled the first catalytic intramolecular cyclizations of carboxylic acid substrates using this Lewis acid. In addition, intramolecular cyclizations of esters enable C−C bond formation as catalytic B(C6F5)3 can be used to effect formal 1,5‐alkyl migrations from the ester functional groups to unsaturated carbon–carbon frameworks. This metal‐free method was used for the catalytic formation of complex dihydropyrones and isocoumarins in very good yields under relatively mild conditions with excellent atom efficiency.
Influence of reversion in compounds containing recycled natural rubber: In search of sustainable processing
Authors: de Sousa Fabiula D. B. , Zanchet Aline , Scuracchio Carlos H.
Published: July 2017

The influence of rubber devulcanization by microwaves in the reversion behavior is still modestly explored in the literature. The reversion occurs due to thermal degradation of unstable crosslinkings formed during the vulcanization process. This phenomenon results in poor final mechanical properties of the artifacts. In this work, some formulations based on natural rubber (NR) with the incorporation of NR devulcanized by microwaves at different exposure times to the microwaves were vulcanized by compression molding at the same temperature and time used for the study of their vulcanization characteristics, in order to correlate the properties obtained and understand the influence of the reversion on the mechanical properties. The results showed that levels of devulcanization/degradation of the recycled phase, as well as the additional heating time influenced on the behavior of reversion and, consequently, on the mechanical properties. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45325.
Electrical properties of flexible graphene reinforced polyimide composites
Authors: Marashdeh Wajeeh , Iroh Jude O.
Published: July 2017

The electrical properties of polyimide and the composite at different volumes fractions were studied in the frequency range 200–20 kHz and in the temperature range 30–200 °C. Increasing the volume fraction of graphene up to 10%, resulted in an extremely large increase in the dielectric constant, which indicates the composites remarkable ability to store electric potential energy under the effect of alternating electric field. An increase in dielectric constant was also observed with increasing temperature and decreasing frequency. The outstanding dielectric properties of polyimide graphene nanocomposites are attributed to the large volume fraction of interfaces in the bulk of the material. The measured increase in dielectric constant with increasing temperature was attributed to the segmental mobility of the polymer chains. The AC conductivity for polyimide and the composites was calculated from the loss factor and a remarkably high conductivity was obtained for the composites due to the formation of conducting paths in the matrix by the graphene sheets. Also this study showed that the thermal conductivity of the composites increased sharply with increasing graphene concentration. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45372.
Fabrication and SERS application of the thermoresponsive nanofibers with monodisperse Au@Ag bimetallic nanorods loaded shells
Authors: Chen Siyuan , Liu Xiaoyun , Zhou Jianfeng , Zha Liusheng
Published: July 2017

Monodisperse Au@Ag bimetallic nanorods (Au@AgNRs) with gold nanorod core and silver shell were introduced into the shells of the thermoresponsive nanofibers with core‐shell structure by coaxial electrospinning technique using poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐N‐hydroxymethylacrylamide) aqueous solution as core fluid and its Au@AgNRs mixture as shell fluid, followed by heat treatment. Their core‐shell structure and the oriented alignment of the Au@AgNRs embedded within their shells along their axes were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy observation. The produced composite nanofibrous membrane has high stability in aqueous medium and more remarkable and faster thermoresponsiveness than our previously reported composite nanofibrous membrane with homogeneous Au@AgNRs distribution inside its constituent nanofibers. The smart composite nanofibrous membrane as a free‐standing surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy substrate with temperature‐dependent surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy efficiency from 25 to 50 °C and good reproducibility is able to be used to detect 10−14 mol/L 4‐mercaptobenzoic acid in aqueous solution at 50 °C. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45375.
Oxidation‐grafting surface modification of waste silicone rubber composite insulator powder: Characterizations and properties of EPDM/modified waste powder composites
Authors: Sun Bin , Du Zhenxia , Cao Hongwei , Du Linjuan , Yu Wenlian
Published: July 2017

In order to broaden the applications of waste silicone rubber composite insulator powder (WSP), modified waste powder (WSP‐KH570) was prepared by a two‐step treatment process involving improved surface oxidation approach by using acidic H2O2 solution and subsequently grafting of KH570. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in the attenuated total reflection mode (FTIR‐ATR) analysis revealed the presence of KH570 on the powder surface. The result was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Blends of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) with WSP‐KH570 were prepared. The effects of WSP‐KH570 on mechanical properties and thermal properties of the blends were investigated. The WSP‐KH570 showed an observed improvement in tensile strength and elongation at break of EPDM/WSP‐KH570 blends compared with corresponding compositions of EPDM/WSP blends. The TGA cure showed that EPDM filled with WSP‐KH570 had higher thermal stability at 210–380 °C than EPDM/WSP. Dynamic mechanical analysis indicated EPDM and WSP‐KH570 were better miscible with the blend ratio (90/10). © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45438.
Modelling functional fish habitat connectivity in rivers: A case study for prioritizing restoration actions targeting brown trout
Authors: Roy Mathieu L. , Le Pichon Céline
Published: July 2017

Throughout the world, decreased connectivity of fluvial habitats caused by artificial river channel alterations such as culverts, weirs and dykes is seen as an important threat to the long‐term survival of many aquatic species. In addition to assessing habitat quality and abundance, wildlife managers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of taking into account habitat connectivity when setting priorities for restoration. In this paper, a new approach of spatial analysis adapted to rivers and streams is proposed for modelling 2D functional habitat connectivity, integrating distance, costs and risk of travelling between habitat patches (e.g. daily use, spawning, refuge) for particular fish species, size classes and life stages.

This approach was applied to a case study in which brown trout (Salmo trutta) habitat accessibility was examined and compared under various scenarios of stream restoration in a highly fragmented stream in Ile‐de‐France. Probabilities of reaching spawning habitats were estimated from a trout‐populated area located downstream of the barriers and from potential daily‐use habitat patches across the stream segment.

The approach successfully helped prioritize restoration actions by identifying options that yield the greatest increase in accessible spawning habitat areas and connectivity between spawning habitat and daily‐use habitat patches. This case study illustrates the practical use of the approach and the software in the context of river habitat management.
Quantifying the extremity of windstorms for regions featuring infrequent events
Authors: Walz Michael A. , Kruschke Tim , Rust Henning W. , Ulbrich Uwe , Leckebusch Gregor C.
Published: July 2017

This paper introduces the Distribution‐Independent Storm Severity Index (DI‐SSI). The DI‐SSI represents an approach to quantify the severity of exceptional surface wind speeds of large scale windstorms that is complementary to the SSI introduced by Leckebusch et al. While the SSI approaches the extremeness of a storm from a meteorological and potential loss (impact) perspective, the DI‐SSI defines the severity in a more climatological perspective. The idea is to assign equal index values to wind speeds of the same singularity (e.g. the 99th percentile) under consideration of the shape of the tail of the local wind speed climatology. Especially in regions at the edge of the classical storm track, the DI‐SSI shows more equitable severity estimates, e.g. for the extra‐tropical cyclone Klaus. In order to compare the indices, their relation with the North Atlantic Oscillation is studied, which is one of the main large scale drivers for the intensity of European windstorms.
Cyclodextrins increase phytosterol and tocopherol levels in suspension cultured cells obtained from mung beans and safflower
Authors: Almagro Lorena , Raquel Tudela Libertad , Belén Sabater‐Jara Ana , Miras‐Moreno Begoña , Pedreño Maria A.
Published: July 2017

In this work, suspension‐cultured cells of mung beans and safflower were used in order to analyze the effect of methyl jasmonate and/or cyclodextrins, on bioactive compound production such as phytosterols and tocopherols. The results indicated that mung bean suspension‐cultured cells produced higher amount of total phytosterols and tocopherols. In particular, mung bean suspension‐cultured cells produced almost 220‐fold higher levels of tocopherols than safflower suspension‐cultured cells in the best conditions. However, while cyclodextrins were able to enhance extracellular production of phytosterols, in the case of tocopherols, they only increased their intracellular accumulation. Our results showed that mung bean cells could be used as a highly efficient system for the production of phytosterols and tocopherols which have a wide range of biological activities. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:1662–1665, 2017
Determining the number of pure chemical components in the mixed spectral data based on eigenvalue sequences transform
Authors: Li Qingbo , Wu Kejiang
Published: July 2017

Determining the number of pure chemical components is an important step for various chemical data analysis methods like cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and spectral unmixing. In this paper, a method of eigenvalue sequences transform is proposed to improve the performance in determining the number of chemical components in spectral matrix. The proposed method converts the spectral data cube to eigenvalue sequences by applying the singular value decomposition technique firstly. Then, the method innovatively transforms the normalized eigenvalue sequences into a redefined coordinate system and detects the number of chemical components by searching the sequence of the highest point. Since the proposed method identifies the number of chemical components from the angle of geometry, all processes need not involve the use of time‐consuming iterations, extensive calibration tables, or pseudostatistical hypothesis. This paper also evaluates the applications of the proposed method with simulation and real‐world spectral data. The evaluation results show that the method has stronger robustness, better accuracy, and higher automaticity in estimating the number of chemical components by comparing with some calibration methods.
Efficient Long‐Range Hole Transport Through G‐Quadruplexes
Authors: Wu Jingyuan , Meng Zhenyu , Lu Yunpeng , Shao Fangwei
Published: July 2017

DNA offers a means of long‐range charge transport for biology and electric nanodevices. Here, a series of tetra‐stranded G‐quadruplexes were assembled within a dendritic DNA architecture to explore oxidative charge transport (hole transport) through the G‐quadruplex. Efficient charge transport was achieved over 28 Å upon UV irradiation. Over a longer G‐quadruplex bridge, hole transport was escalated to a higher efficiency, which resulted in a higher yield than that of the optimal duplex DNA for charge transport, that is, the adenine tract. Efficient long‐range hole transport suggests tetra‐stranded G‐quadruplexes, instead of an oxidation hotspot, hold better potential as an electron conduit than duplex DNA.
Approach Matters: The Kinetics of Interfacial Inverse‐Electron Demand Diels–Alder Reactions
Authors: Sen Rickdeb , Gahtory Digvijay , Escorihuela Jorge , Firet Judith , Pujari Sidharam P. , Zuilhof Han
Published: July 2017

Rapid and quantitative click functionalization of surfaces remains an interesting challenge in surface chemistry. In this regard, inverse electron demand Diels–Alder (IEDDA) reactions represent a promising metal‐free candidate. Herein, we reveal quantitative surface functionalization within 15 min. Furthermore, we report the comprehensive effects of substrate stereochemistry, surrounding microenvironment and substrate order on the reaction kinetics as obtained by surface‐bound mass spectrometry (DART‐HRMS).
Pore network modelling of molecular diffusion in a single‐block model during lean gas injection, investigating the effect of throat sorting
Authors: Mashayekhizadeh Vahid , Rasaei Mohammad Reza
Published: July 2017

Based on analogy between isothermal drying of porous media and molecular diffusion in a single‐block model containing a volatile liquid during lean gas injection, a detailed procedure is presented for two‐dimensional quasi‐static pore network modelling of diffusion. A modified invasion percolation algorithm is used to account for evaporation of liquid clusters formed during gas injection process. Diffusion in gas phase, capillary‐induced flow in liquid phase, and evaporation in gas‐liquid interface were modelled to trace the movement of gas‐liquid interface and desaturation profile. Using a set of throat sizes with normal distribution, 15 cases of a regular pore network model were proposed by rearranging throat positions in the model. Results of this study indicate that diffusion time, breakthrough time, vapour partial pressure gradient, liquid saturation gradient, liquid cluster frequency, gas‐liquid interface frequency, and evaporation potential are strong functions of throat sorting. Correlation coefficient of throat size with position was used to capture the disorder of porous medium. It was shown that such a correlation coefficient is not capable of describing diffusion characteristics.
Efficient Electron Transfer across a ZnO–MoS2–Reduced Graphene Oxide Heterojunction for Enhanced Sunlight‐Driven Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Kumar Suneel , Reddy Nagappagari Lakshmana , Kushwaha Himmat Singh , Kumar Ashish , Shankar Muthukonda Venkatakrishnan , Bhattacharyya Kaustava , Halder Aditi , Krishnan Venkata
Published: July 2017

The development of noble metal‐free catalysts for hydrogen evolution is required for energy applications. In this regard, ternary heterojunction nanocomposites consisting of ZnO nanoparticles anchored on MoS2–RGO (RGO=reduced graphene oxide) nanosheets as heterogeneous catalysts show highly efficient photocatalytic H2 evolution. In the photocatalytic process, the catalyst dispersed in an electrolytic solution (S2− and SO32− ions) exhibits an enhanced rate of H2 evolution, and optimization experiments reveal that ZnO with 4.0 wt % of MoS2–RGO nanosheets gives the highest photocatalytic H2 production of 28.616 mmol h−1 gcat−1 under sunlight irradiation; approximately 56 times higher than that on bare ZnO and several times higher than those of other ternary photocatalysts. The superior catalytic activity can be attributed to the in situ generation of ZnS, which leads to improved interfacial charge transfer to the MoS2 cocatalyst and RGO, which has plenty of active sites available for photocatalytic reactions. Recycling experiments also proved the stability of the optimized photocatalyst. In addition, the ternary nanocomposite displayed multifunctional properties for hydrogen evolution activity under electrocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic conditions owing to the high electrode–electrolyte contact area. Thus, the present work provides very useful insights for the development of inexpensive, multifunctional catalysts without noble metal loading to achieve a high rate of H2 generation.
An effective approach to solving large communication overhead issue and strengthening the securities of AKA protocols
Authors: Chien Hung‐Yu
Published: July 2017

Authentication and key agreement (AKA) is a challenge‐response‐like security protocol that uses symmetric‐key cryptography to establish authenticated keys between 2 parties. Its application in the third‐generation mobile system universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) is called UMTS‐AKA, and the version applied in the fourth‐generation mobile communication system long‐term evolution (LTE) is called LTE‐AKA. Both UMTS‐AKA and LTE‐AKA share the same weakness: the network operators need to maintain a large space of authentication vectors for visiting stations, and the transmission of the vectors causes lots of overhead. This weakness will be amplified when there are billions of devices accessing the network in the Internet‐of‐things scenarios. In addition, these schemes provide only key distribution (not key agreement) and cannot provide session key forward secrecy. In this paper, we propose a range‐bound key assignment technique to tackle the challenges. The proposed scheme drastically reduces the communication overhead and greatly strengthens the security robustness. The securities are analyzed and are verified using the AVISPA toolset.
Isomeric commo‐Ferracarboranes: meso‐, dd/ll‐[PPh3R][commo‐Fe(2,4‐closo‐C2B8H10)2] and Their Bimetal Ferra–Copper Zwitterion Derivatives
Authors: Balagurova Elena V. , Silivonenko Anastasia I. , Kostyukovich Alexander Yu. , D'yachihin Dmitrii I. , Smol'yakov Alexander F. , Dolgushin Fedor M. , Minin Vadim V. , Peregudova Svetlana M. , Chizhevsky Igor T.
Published: July 2017

The reaction of [Na][C2B8H11] with anhydrous FeCl2 in THF affords a mixture of dd/ll and meso isomers of anionic paramagnetic commo‐ferracarborane [Ph3PR][commo‐1,1′‐Fe(closo‐2,4‐C2B8H10)2] (meso, R = Me: 1a; meso, Et: 1b; dd/ll, R = Me: 2a; dd/ll, R = Et: 2b) with unusual closo geometry. Both dd/ll and meso isomers were successfully isolated and their structures were determined using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. Their paramagnetic properties were confirmed with EPR spectra and their oxidative–reductive properties were investigated using cyclic voltammetry. It was shown that facile dd/ll → meso and meso → dd/ll transformations, leading to equilibrium in CH2Cl2 solution, occur. Quantum‐chemical calculations of the isomer‐to‐isomer transformations were performed. Ferra–copper zwitterionic complexes [3,3′,6,7′‐exo‐{Ph3PCu}‐3,3′,6,7′‐(µ‐H)4‐commo‐1,1′‐Fe(2,4‐C2B8H8)2] and [3,3′,6,6′‐exo‐{Ph3PCu}‐3,3′,6,6′‐(µ‐H)4‐commo‐1,1′‐Fe(2,4‐C2B8H8)2] were synthesized and their structures were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies.
Nonlinear FE model updating and reconstruction of the response of an instrumented seismic isolated bridge to the 2010 Maule Chile earthquake
Authors: Li Yong , Astroza Rodrigo , Conte Joel P. , Soto Pedro
Published: July 2017

Nonlinear finite element (FE) modeling has been widely used to investigate the effects of seismic isolation on the response of bridges to earthquakes. However, most FE models of seismic isolated bridges (SIB) have used seismic isolator models calibrated from component test data, while the prediction accuracy of nonlinear FE models of SIB is rarely addressed by using data recorded from instrumented bridges. In this paper, the accuracy of a state‐of‐the‐art FE model is studied through nonlinear FE model updating (FEMU) of an existing instrumented SIB, the Marga‐Marga Bridge located in Viña del Mar, Chile. The seismic isolator models are updated in 2 phases: component‐wise and system‐wise FEMU. The isolator model parameters obtained from 23 isolator component tests show large scatter, and poor goodness of fit of the FE‐predicted bridge response to the 2010 Mw 8.8 Maule, Chile Earthquake is obtained when most of those parameter sets are used for the isolator elements of the bridge model. In contrast, good agreement is obtained between the FE‐predicted and measured bridge response when the isolator model parameters are calibrated using the bridge response data recorded during the mega‐earthquake. Nonlinear FEMU is conducted by solving single‐ and multiobjective optimization problems using high‐throughput cloud computing. The updated FE model is then used to reconstruct response quantities not recorded during the earthquake, gaining more insight into the effects of seismic isolation on the response of the bridge during the strong earthquake.
Energy for Conventional Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment in Urban China: A Review
Authors: Smith Kate , Liu Shuming
Published: July 2017

This review seeks to provide a better understanding of energy used in the urban water system in China. Electricity is a major contributor to the environmental impact of water supply and wastewater treatment, particularly in countries like China where electricity is largely generated using coal and has a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Electricity use can also constitute one of the main costs for water and wastewater companies. China is an important country for the study of energy for water, particularly in urban areas where population is rapidly increasing. China's daily wastewater treatment capacity has increased dramatically over the last decade and a half, and energy use for both wastewater treatment and potable water supply has grown significantly. This paper deals with the challenge of energy for water in China. It reviews the growing body of work on energy for conventional water supply and wastewater treatment in urban China. The review covers energy for all parts of conventional water supply and wastewater treatment, including energy for sourcing, treating and distributing groundwater and surface water, and energy for primary and secondary treatment and sludge treatment and disposal.
Inhibition of glial hemichannels by boldine treatment reduces neuronal suffering in a murine model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Yi Chenju , Ezan Pascal , Fernández Paola , Schmitt Julien , Sáez Juan C. , Giaume Christian , Koulakoff Annette
Published: July 2017

The contribution of reactive gliosis to the pathological phenotype of Alzheimer's disease (AD) opened the way for therapeutic strategies targeting glial cells instead of neurons. In such context, connexin hemichannels were proposed recently as potential targets since neuronal suffering is alleviated when connexin expression is genetically suppressed in astrocytes of a murine model of AD. Here, we show that boldine, an alkaloid from the boldo tree, inhibited hemichannel activity in astrocytes and microglia without affecting gap junctional communication in culture and acute hippocampal slices. Long‐term oral administration of boldine in AD mice prevented the increase in glial hemichannel activity, astrocytic Ca2+ signal, ATP and glutamate release and alleviated hippocampal neuronal suffering. These findings highlight the important pathological role of hemichannels in AD mice. The neuroprotective effect of boldine treatment might provide the basis for future pharmacological strategies that target glial hemichannels to reduce neuronal damage in neurodegenerative diseases.
Struggling to be liked: The prospective effect of trait self‐control on social desirability and the moderating role of agreeableness
Authors: Stavrova Olga , Kokkoris Michail D.
Published: July 2017

Drawing from the literature on the interpersonal functions of self‐control, we examined longitudinal associations between trait self‐control and social desirability, using a survey of the general population in the Netherlands. Trait self‐control at baseline was positively associated with social desirability at a follow‐up, even when controlling for prior levels of social desirability. That is, high self‐control contributed to individuals' tendency to give socially desirable responses in self‐reports. This effect was moderated by individual differences in agreeableness. Highly agreeable individuals were more likely to “use” their self‐regulatory resources to respond in a socially desirable manner, compared to less agreeable individuals, suggesting that individuals might use self‐regulatory resources in a way consistent with the motivational bases of their personality.
Modelling Water Flow and Escherichia coli Transport in Unsaturated Soils Under Drip Irrigation
Authors: Wen Jie , Li Jiusheng , Wang Zhen , Li Yanfeng
Published: July 2017

The HYDRUS‐2D/3D model was used to simulate the wetting patterns and distributions of E. coli in unsaturated sandy and sandy loam soils under surface drip irrigation with sewage effluent. The simulated wetting dimensions of soil volume and distributions of E. coli in soil were compared with data obtained from laboratory experiments. The relatively lower values of normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) and relatively larger index of agreement (d) values indicated good performance of the model. Our simulations confirmed that soil texture greatly influenced the adsorption characteristics and played an important role in the migration of E. coli cells. E. coli was transported further in the sandy soil than in the sandy loam soil, while its concentration decreased considerably with distance from the point source in both soil types. In the sandy loam soil, E. coli was mostly concentrated in a substantially smaller volume 5 cm from the soil surface. An increasing application rate of water‐suspended bacteria accelerated water flux and enhanced the E. coli transport rate, thus resulting in a larger distribution with a higher E. coli concentration in both soil types. In the proximity of the point source, an extremely high concentration of E. coli was recorded under simulated and observed conditions, and the value increased with an increasing input concentration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An in vitro study of the interaction of the chemotherapeutic drug Actinomycin D with lung cancer cell lines using Raman micro‐spectroscopy
Authors: Farhane Zeineb , Bonnier Franck , Byrne Hugh J.
Published: July 2017

The applications of Raman microspectroscopy have been extended in recent years into the field of clinical medicine, and specifically in cancer research, as a non‐invasive diagnostic method in vivo and ex vivo, and the field of pharmaceutical development as a label‐free predictive technique for new drug mechanisms of action in vitro. To further illustrate its potential for such applications, it is important to establish its capability to fingerprint drug mechanisms of action and different cellular reactions. In this study, cytotoxicity assays were employed to establish the toxicity profiles for 48 and 72 hours exposure of lung cancer cell lines, A549 and Calu‐1, after exposure to Actinomycin D (ACT) and Raman micro‐spectroscopy was used to track its mechanism of action at subcellular level and subsequent cellular responses. Multivariate data analysis was used to elucidate the spectroscopic signatures associated with ACT chemical binding and cellular resistances. Results show that the ACT uptake and mechanism of action are similar in the 2 cell lines, while A549 cells exhibits spectral signatures of resistance to apoptosis related to its higher chemoresistance to the anticancer drug ACT. The observations are discussed in comparison to previous studies of the similar anthracyclic chemotherapeutic agent Doxorubicin. A, Preprocessed Raman spectrum of ACT stock solution dissolved in sterile water and mean spectrum with SD of (B) nucleolus, (C) nucleus and (D) cytoplasm of A549 cell lines after 48 hours exposure to the corresponding IC50.
Ebselen impairs cellular oxidative state and induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and activation of crucial mitogen‐activated protein kinases in pancreatic tumour AR42J cells
Authors: Santofimia‐Castaño Patricia , Izquierdo‐Alvarez Alicia , Plaza‐Davila María , Martinez‐Ruiz Antonio , Fernandez‐Bermejo Miguel , Mateos‐Rodriguez Jose M. , Salido Gines M. , Gonzalez Antonio
Published: July 2017

Ebselen (2‐phenyl‐1,2‐benzisoselenazol‐3(2H)‐one) is an organoselenium radical scavenger compound, which has strong antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. However, evidence suggests that this compound could exert deleterious actions on cell physiology. In this study, we have analyzed the effect of ebselen on rat pancreatic AR42J cells. Cytosolic free‐Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]c), cellular oxidative status, setting of endoplasmic reticulum stress, and phosphorylation of major mitogen‐activated protein kinases were analyzed. Our results show that ebselen evoked a concentration‐dependent increase in [Ca2+]c. The compound induced an increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species in the mitochondria. We also observed an increase in global cysteine oxidation in the presence of ebselen. In the presence of ebselen an impairment of cholecystokinin‐evoked amylase release was noted. Moreover, involvement of the unfolded protein response markers, ER chaperone and signaling regulator GRP78/BiP, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α and X‐box binding protein 1 was detected. Finally, increases in the phosphorylation of SAPK/JNK, p38 MAPK, and p44/42 MAPK in the presence of ebselen were also observed. Our results provide evidences for an impairment of cellular oxidative state and enzyme secretion, the induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress and the activation of crucial mitogen‐activated protein kinases in the presence of ebselen. As a consequence ebselen exerts a potential toxic effect on AR42J cells.
Evaluation of direct antifungal susceptibility testing methods of Candida spp. from positive blood culture bottles
Authors: Oz Yasemin , Gokbolat Egemen
Published: July 2017

Background

Blood culture is the gold standard diagnostic method in candidemia in spite of long result time and low sensitivity rate. Early diagnosis is crucial for management of candidemia because a delay in treatment is related with increased mortality. We aimed to evaluate the direct applicability of antifungal susceptibility testing methods from positive blood culture bottles to save at least 24 hours.

Methods

Blood culture bottles were inoculated with 62 Candida isolates. Etest and broth microdilution (BMD) methods for six antifungals, disk diffusion (DD) method for two antifungals were performed, both directly from bottles and standardly.

Results

Essential agreements between direct and standard Etest methods were 87.1% for caspofungin and >90% for other antifungals, but the agreements of them with reference BMD were relatively low. Essential agreement between direct and standard BMD was >93%. Correlation between direct and standard DD methods was very high, negative correlations were observed between reference BMD and DD methods.

Conclusion

BMD is a reference method to evaluate the antifungal susceptibility, direct application of BMD might provide reliable results at least 24 hours earlier. Direct DD method may be a qualitative alternative. Direct susceptibility testing methods may be very useful to initiating the appropriate treatment on time.
The Effect of Renal Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Ertugliflozin in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sahasrabudhe V. , Terra S. G. , Hickman A. , Saur D. , Shi H. , O'Gorman M. , Zhou Z. , Cutler D. L.
Published: July 2017

Ertugliflozin is a highly selective and potent inhibitor of the sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 in development for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The glycemic efficacy of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors such as ertugliflozin depends on glucose filtration through the kidney. This phase 1, open‐label study evaluated the effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and tolerability of ertugliflozin (15 mg) in type 2 diabetes mellitus and healthy subjects with normal renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate not normalized for body surface area ≥90 mL/min) and type 2 diabetes mellitus subjects with mild (60‐89 mL/min), moderate (30‐59 mL/min), or severe (<30 mL/min) renal impairment (n = 36). Blood and urine samples were collected predose and over 96 hours postdose for pharmacokinetic evaluation and measurement of urinary glucose excretion over 24 hours. Log‐linear regression analyses indicated predicted mean area under the concentration‐time curve values for mild, moderate, and severe renal function groups that were ≤70% higher relative to subjects with normal renal function. Generally consistent results were obtained with categorical analysis based on analysis of variance. The increase in ertugliflozin exposure in subjects with renal impairment is not expected to be clinically meaningful. Regression analysis of change from baseline in urinary glucose excretion over 24 hours vs estimated glomerular filtration rate showed a decrease in urinary glucose excretion with declining renal function. A single 15‐mg dose of ertugliflozin was well tolerated in all groups.
Screening of sorbents for recovery of succinic and itaconic acid from fermentation broths
Authors: De Wever Heleen , Dennewald Danielle
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

The di‐carboxylic acids succinic acid and itaconic acid are promising building block chemicals that can be produced through fermentation, but the processes would benefit from enhancements in product recovery. While sorption has already been studied to some extent for succinate/succinic acid removal, literature on the potential of sorption for itaconic acid recovery is scarce. This work aimed to screen a range of sorbents and/or resins for their capacity to separate both acids from fermentation broths, envisaging both ex situ and in situ product recovery applications.

RESULTS

Static batch screening led to a shortlist of four promising products. These were further characterized in terms of dynamic sorption capacity, regenerability, acid recovery, ability to concentrate the product and stability during sorption–desorption cycles. Final tests with real fermentation broth gave unsatisfactory results for succinic acid recovery. For itaconic acid, promising results were obtained both on synthetic solutions and on a real fermentation broth.

CONCLUSION

While it is doubtful that adsorption will be the process of choice for in situ or ex situ succinic acid recovery, well performing sorbents could be identified for itaconic acid recovery from fermentation broths, offering perspectives for in situ product recovery applications. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrochemical and piezoelectric monitoring of taurine via electropolymerized molecularly imprinted films
Authors: Singh Ambareesh Kumar , Singh Meenakshi
Published: July 2017

A molecularly imprinted electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM) sensor is fabricated here for taurine, a β‐amino acid significant for functioning of almost all vital organs. The polymeric film of l‐methionine was electrochemically deposited on gold‐coated EQCM electrode. Experimental parameters were optimized for controlling the performance of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)‐modified sensor such as ratio of monomer and template, number of electropolymerization cycles, mass deposited in each cycle, and pH. Thus, fabricated MIP‐EQCM sensor was successfully applied for estimation of taurine in solutions with varying matrices, such as aqueous, human blood plasma, milk from cow, buffalo, and milk powder. Under optimized parameters, response of MIP sensor to taurine was linearly proportional to its concentration with limit of detection as 0.12μM. Hence, a highly sensitive and selective piezoelectric sensor for taurine has been reported here via imprinting approach.
Organic meat quality of dual purpose young bulls supplemented with pea (Pisum sativum L.) or soybean
Authors: Corazzin Mirco , Piasentier Edi , Saccà Elena , Bazzoli Ilario , Bovolenta Stefano
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

One of the main constraints established by organic legislation that limits the development of the rearing of young bulls is the ban on the use of genetically modified organisms (GMO). Most of the worldwide cultivated soybean is GMO, therefore the use of alternative protein sources should be evaluated. In this study, the effect of dietary substitution of soybean with pea (Pisum sativum L.) on carcass characteristics and meat quality of dual purpose young bulls reared following the organic method was investigated.

RESULTS

Twenty‐four young bulls of Rendena breed were randomly assigned to two diet treatments differing in protein supplement (soybean (SB) or field pea (FP)). Carcass characteristics and meat chemical composition, colour, cooking loss and Warner–Bratzler shear force did not differ between groups. Regarding meat fatty acid composition, SB showed higher concentrations of C18:0 and C18:1 t and lower C16:1n‐9c, C14:0, C17:1n‐9c and C18:1n‐9c than FP. In descriptive sensory analysis, trained judges were not able to differentiate meats from SB and FP, which also had similar overall liking expressed by consumers.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that FP can replace SB in the diet of dual purpose young bulls with only a minor influence on fatty acid composition and no effect on carcass characteristics and meat quality. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Kernel oil content and oil composition in walnut (Juglans regia L.) accessions from north‐eastern Italy
Authors: Poggetti Luca , Ferfuia Claudio , Chiabà Cristina , Testolin Raffaele , Baldini Mario
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Walnut oil use is currently limited by its poor oxidative stability due to the high percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Modifying the oil composition may be a goal in walnut breeding to increase interest in this crop. Exploring natural variability and identifying the main environmental factors affecting oil quality are necessary in crop selection. Therefore 190 wild accessions were collected and evaluated during 2013 and 2014 for oil content and its fatty acid profile and compared with five commercial cultivars as references.

RESULTS

High variation in kernel oil content and fatty acid composition was found in the native walnut. Kernel oil content ranged from 54.2 to 72.2% (w/w). The major fatty acids were linoleic (range 46.9–68.6%), oleic (10.0–25.1%), linolenic (6.9–17.6%), palmitic (3.9–11.4%) and stearic (1.1–5.2%) acids. Some accessions had oil with a fatty acid ratio very different from the reference commercial cultivars, especially the oleic acid/polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio. A significant linear relationship and positive correlation between the daily minimum temperature and oleic acid content was observed in the wild walnuts.

CONCLUSION

The wide variation in fatty acid content and composition allows superior accessions to be selected for diffusion among growers. A suitable strategy would be to make a selection against PUFA content rather than just for high oleic acid. In addition, the selected high oleic accessions, before being utilized per se or as donor parents in breeding programs, have to demonstrate they are not adversely affected by the environment. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry