bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and solid‐state properties of crosslinked alternating copolymers of phenyl vinylethylene carbonate and N‐substituted maleimides
Authors: Yoshida Yoshiaki , Endo Takeshi
Published: May 2017

The copolymers of phenyl vinylethylene carbonate (PVEC) and N‐phenylmaleimide were prepared with various monomer feeds by using a radical initiator. These copolymers were crosslinked by aminolysis between hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) and cyclic carbonate moiety in the side‐chain to obtain the networked polymers having the hydroxyurethane structure. Furthermore, the crosslinked copolymers having the polar cyclic carbonate in the side‐chain were synthesized from PVEC and several bifunctional maleimides, and their double networked polymers were prepared with HMDA. These copolymers and networked polymers exhibited color changes depending on their structures based on the acid–base switching in the solid‐state. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45247.
Simplex‐based optimization of numerical and categorical inputs in early bioprocess development: Case studies in HT chromatography
Authors: Konstantinidis Spyridon , Titchener‐Hooker Nigel , Velayudhan Ajoy
Published: May 2017

Bioprocess development studies often involve the investigation of numerical and categorical inputs via the adoption of Design of Experiments (DoE) techniques. An attractive alternative is the deployment of a grid compatible Simplex variant which has been shown to yield optima rapidly and consistently. In this work, the method is combined with dummy variables and it is deployed in three case studies wherein spaces are comprised of both categorical and numerical inputs, a situation intractable by traditional Simplex methods. The first study employs in silico data and lays out the dummy variable methodology. The latter two employ experimental data from chromatography based studies performed with the filter‐plate and miniature column High Throughput (HT) techniques. The solute of interest in the former case study was a monoclonal antibody whereas the latter dealt with the separation of a binary system of model proteins. The implemented approach prevented the stranding of the Simplex method at local optima, due to the arbitrary handling of the categorical inputs, and allowed for the concurrent optimization of numerical and categorical, multilevel and/or dichotomous, inputs. The deployment of the Simplex method, combined with dummy variables, was therefore entirely successful in identifying and characterizing global optima in all three case studies. The Simplex‐based method was further shown to be of equivalent efficiency to a DoE‐based approach, represented here by D‐Optimal designs. Such an approach failed, however, to both capture trends and identify optima, and led to poor operating conditions. It is suggested that the Simplex‐variant is suited to development activities involving numerical and categorical inputs in early bioprocess development.
Enhanced production of enveloped viruses in BST‐2‐deficient cell lines
Authors: Yi Eunbi , Oh Jinsoo , Giao Ngoc Q. , Oh Soohwan , Park Se‐Ho
Published: May 2017

Despite all the advantages that cell‐cultured influenza vaccines have over egg‐based influenza vaccines, the inferior productivity of cell‐culture systems is a major drawback that must be addressed. BST‐2 (tetherin) is a host restriction factor which inhibits budding‐out of various enveloped viruses from infected host cells. We developed BST‐2‐deficient MDCK and Vero cell lines to increase influenza virus release in cell culture. BST‐2 gene knock‐out resulted in increased release of viral particles into the culture medium, by at least 2‐fold and up to 50‐fold compared to release from wild‐type counterpart cells depending on cell line and virus type. The effect was not influenza virus/MDCK/Vero‐specific, but was also present in a broad range of host cells and virus families; we observed similar results in murine, human, canine, and monkey cell lines with viruses including MHV‐68 (Herpesviridae), influenza A virus (Orthomyxoviridae), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (Coronaviridae), and vaccinia virus (Poxviridae). Our results suggest that the elimination of BST‐2 expression in virus‐producing cell lines can enhance the production of viral vaccines. Biotechnol. Bioeng.2017;114: 2289–2297. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gold nanoparticles–conjugated quercetin induces apoptosis via inhibition of EGFR/PI3K/Akt–mediated pathway in breast cancer cell lines (MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231)
Authors: Balakrishnan Solaimuthu , Mukherjee Sudip , Das Sourav , Bhat Firdous Ahmad , Raja Singh Paulraj , Patra Chitta Ranjan , Arunakaran Jagadeesan
Published: May 2017

Epidermal growth factor plays a major role in breast cancer cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. Quercetin, a bioactive flavonoid, is shown to exhibit anticarcinogenic effects against various cancers including breast cancer. Hence, the present study was designed to evaluate the effects of gold nanoparticles–conjugated quercetin (AuNPs‐Qu‐5) in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cell lines. Borohydride reduced AuNPs were synthesized and conjugated with quercetin to yield AuNPs‐Qu‐5. Both were thoroughly characterized by several physicochemical techniques, and their cytotoxic effects were assessed by MTT assay. Apoptotic studies such as DAPI, AO/EtBr dual staining, and annexin V‐FITC staining were performed. AuNPs and AuNPs‐Qu‐5 were spherical with crystalline nature, and the size of particles range from 3.0 to 4.5 nm. AuNPs‐Qu‐5 exhibited lower IC50 value compared to free Qu. There was a considerable increase in apoptotic population with increased nuclear condensation seen upon treatment with AuNPs‐Qu‐5. To delineate the molecular mechanism behind its apoptotic role, we analysed the proteins involved in apoptosis and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–mediated PI3K/Akt/GSK‐3β signalling by immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry. The pro‐apoptotic proteins (Bax, Caspase‐3) were found to be up regulated and anti‐apoptotic protein (Bcl‐2) was down regulated on treatment with AuNPs‐Qu‐5. Additionally, AuNPs‐Qu‐5 treatment inhibited the EGFR and its downstream signalling molecules PI3K/Akt/mTOR/GSK‐3β. In conclusion, administration of AuNPs‐Qu‐5 in breast cancer cell lines curtails cell proliferation through induction of apoptosis and also suppresses EGFR signalling. AuNPs‐Qu‐5 is more potent than free quercetin in causing cancer cell death, and hence, this could be a potential drug delivery system in breast cancer therapy.
Molecular interplays in hepatic stellate cells: apoptosis, senescence, and phenotype reversion as cellular connections that modulate liver fibrosis
Authors: de Oliveira da Silva Brenda , Ramos Letícia Ferrreira , Moraes Karen C. M.
Published: May 2017

Liver fibrosis is a pathophysiological process correlated with intense repair and cicatrization mechanisms in injured liver, and over the past few years, the characterization of the fine‐tuning of molecular interconnections that support the development of liver fibrosis has been investigated. In this cellular process, the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) support the organ fibrogenesis. The HSCs are found in two distinct morpho‐physiological states: quiescent and activated. In normal liver, most HSCs are found in quiescent state, presenting a considerable amount of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm, while in injured liver, the activated phenotype of HSCs is a myofibroblast, that secrete extracellular matrix elements and contribute to the establishment of the fibrotic process. Studies on the molecular mechanisms by which HSCs try to restore their quiescent state have been performed; however, no effective treatment to reverse fibrosis has been so far prescribed. Therefore, the elucidation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of apoptosis, senescence, and the cell reversion phenotype process from activate to quiescent state will certainly contribute to the development of effective therapies to treat hepatic fibrosis. In this context, this review aimed to address central elements of apoptosis, senescence, and reversal of HSC phenotype in the control of hepatic fibrogenesis, as a guide to future development of therapeutic strategies.
The successful use of autologous skin in management of guidewire‐induced distal coronary perforation
Authors: Guo Ruiwei , Yang Lixia
Published: May 2017

Key Clinical Message

The successful use of autologous skin to management may provide a useful and widely applicable method for dealing with the troublesome complication of guidewire‐induced coronary perforation.
Cefazolin as a cause of leukocytoclastic vasculitis
Authors: Ali Naveed , Karia Nidhi , Goldhahn Richard
Published: May 2017

Key Clinical Message

Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) is a cutaneous small vessel vasculitis characterized by cutaneous manifestations in the form of palpable purpura, and rarely bullae, vesicles, and ulcerations. Although rare, cephalosporins such as cefazolin, should be recognized to have a potential to trigger LCV.
Fluorogenic Sensing of Carcinogenic Bisphenol A using Aptamer‐Capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Ribes Àngela , Aznar Elena , Bernardos Andrea , Marcos M. Dolores , Amorós Pedro , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Sancenón Félix
Published: May 2017

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with rhodamine B and capped with a bisphenol A aptamer were used for the selective and sensitive detection of this lethal chemical. The pores of the nanoparticles are selectively opened in the presence of bisphenol A (through its selective coordination with the aptamer) with subsequent rhodamine B delivery. With this capped material a limit of detection as low as 3.5 μm of bisphenol A was measured.
Catalytic Enantioselective Arylation and Heteroarylation of Ketones with Organotitanium Reagents Generated In Situ
Authors: Matsuda Atsushi , Ushimaru Tomoya , Kobayashi Yusuke , Harada Toshiro
Published: May 2017

A practical and useful, catalytic enantioselective method has been developed for the synthesis of tertiary diaryl and aryl heteroaryl carbinols starting from commercially available aromatic ketones and aryl or heteroaryl bromides. In this method, organotitanium reagents are generated in situ from the bromides by lithiation with nBuLi followed by transmetallation of the resulting organolithiums with ClTi(OiPr)3. Treatment of the ketones with the titanium reagents in the presence of (R)‐3‐(3,5‐bistrifluoromehthylphenyl)‐1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol (BTFP‐BINOL) affords the corresponding tertiary alcohols in high enantioselectivities and yields. The reaction can also start with furan and 2‐thienyllithium. The method is operationally simple and can be conducted on a 10‐mmol scale without any difficulties.
Unconventional Behavior of Friction at the Nanoscale beyond Amontons’ Law
Authors: Chen Jingrun , Gao Wang
Published: May 2017

By means of a many‐body van der Waals (vdW)‐corrected density functional theory approach, the atomic‐scale friction of a prototypical tip–substrate system consisting of an Si tip and a graphene substrate is studied. In a loading–sliding process, the tip–substrate distance is found to be essential for nanofrictional behavior, through determining the competition between vdW contributions and electronic contributions. As the tip approaches the substrate, this competition results in a smooth transition of normal forces from attraction to repulsion, and the friction coefficient in turn undergoes a sign change from negative to positive with possible giant magnitude and strong anisotropy. The loading–sliding process does not introduce any chemical modification of the underlying system. These findings reveal the boundary of validity of Amontons’ law, unify negative and giant friction coefficients, rationalize the experimentally observed anisotropy of nanofriction, and are universal when vdW interactions are crucial, all of which are helpful to establish a comprehensive picture of nanofriction.
Progression and stability analysis of rain forest tree growth under environmental stochasticity
Authors: Newbery David M. , Lingenfelder Marcus
Published: May 2017

Changes in relative stem growth rate (rgr) across periods of multi‐censused plot data in tropical forest allow response indices (RIs) to be related to environmental (climatic) variation over time. Among small trees (12.5 to <50 cm girth at breast height [gbh]) in two permanent 4‐ha plots at Danum, Sabah, Borneo (lowland dipterocarp formation), growth responses were followed before, during, and after a major ENSO drying event in 1998 (censuses of 1986, 1996, 1999, 2001, and 2007 in subplots). Overall, RI was negative in the interval with the drought, increased or reflected overcompensation in rgr immediately afterwards, and then settled back to pre‐event levels. However, among the various tree species, responses and trajectories were very different: Some species showed positive or negative trends, while others showed stabilizing ones, and several had stable and unstable oscillations. Response index was graphed for pairs of periods in two ways: “consecutive” and “constitutive,” allowing, respectively, progression (fundamental, implicit and explicit) and stability (fundamental, intended, and extended) to be examined. Strongest RIs were found among the understory species. Variation in RI was, nevertheless, very high between individuals within species and masked most average species' differences. Environmental stochasticity appears to lead to strong mixing effects of species composition over time, not necessarily randomly, but in a highly complicated manner depending on tree size, topographic location, neighborhood, and over–understory status, which would compound demographic stochasticity in recruitment to the small‐tree class. Fluctuating responses cascade over one another in a highly unpredictable manner. These pluralistic responses may form the basis to a new understanding of tree population dynamics within the forest ecosystem, and to an improved theory about the maintenance of high species richness. Plasticity in allocation of resources to roots vs. shoots under water limitation offers a feasible hypothesis for high individual variation in growth. Instead of tropical rain forests being viewed as “complex,” an empirically more sound way is to regard them as being highly “complicated” within a mechanistic and functional approach. Multi‐species tree population dynamics are accordingly highly unpredictable and quasi‐indeterminate.
Coral disease hotspots in the Caribbean
Authors: van Woesik R. , Randall C. J.
Published: May 2017

Recent outbreaks of coral diseases in the Caribbean have been linked to increasingly stressful sea‐surface temperatures (SSTs). Yet, ocean warming is spatially heterogeneous and therefore has the potential to lead to hotspots of disease activity. Here, we take an epidemiological approach to examine spatial differences in the risk of white‐band disease on Acropora spp. and yellow‐band disease on Orbicella spp. in the Caribbean. Our analysis involved examining the spatial patterns of disease prevalence, and creating a Bayesian‐risk model that tested for regional differences in disease risk. The spatial examination of disease prevalence showed several clusters of white‐band disease, including high prevalence in the Turks and Caicos, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Belize, whereas yellow‐band disease seemed most prevalent along the Yucatan Peninsula. The Bayesian‐risk model showed regional clusters of white‐band disease near the southern Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and the Lesser Antilles, whereas the risk of yellow‐band disease was highest in the southern Caribbean. The relative risk of both diseases increased with warmer SSTs. The Bayesian‐risk model allowed us to predict where we should expect future outbreaks of coral diseases at a regional scale, and suggests regions where the implementation of disease mitigation plans may be most urgent.
[3+2] Cycloaddition between 3‐Isothiocyanato Oxindoles and Nitroso Compounds
Authors: Zhao Hong‐Wu , Chen Xiao‐Qin , Zhao Yu‐Di , Liu Yue‐Yang , Pang Hai‐Liang , Song Xiu‐Qing , Tian Ting , Li Bo , Yang Zhao , Du Juan , Feng Ning‐Ning
Published: May 2017

Catalyzed by 10 mol‐% PhCO2H, the [3+2] cycloaddition between 3‐isothiocyanato oxindoles and nitroso compounds proceeded readily to deliver 1,2,4‐oxadiazolidine‐3‐thione‐fused spirooxindoles in 40–82 % yield. The structures of the title compounds were firmly confirmed by X‐ray single‐crystal structure analysis.
2,2′‐Homocoupled Azine N,N′‐Dioxides or Azine N‐Oxides: CDC‐ or SNAr‐Controlled Chemoselectivity
Authors: Jha Abadh Kishor , Jain Nidhi
Published: May 2017

An unprecedented Cu(OAc)2‐ and LiOtBu‐mediated homocoupling of azine N‐oxides to yield 2,2′‐azine N,N′‐dioxides is reported. This is the first instance in which copper has been used to catalyze the homodimerization reaction, especially of 2‐phenylpyridine N‐oxides. In the absence of catalytic copper, the reaction follows an alternative pathway, and instead of dioxides it yields 2,2′‐azine N‐monoxides. This latter protocol works efficiently with a range of N‐heterocyclic oxides of pyridine, 2‐phenylpyridine, quinoline and N‐aryl‐1,2,3‐triazole. It is scalable, offers high regioselectivity and gives the products in moderate to high yields. The observed chemoselectivity between the copper‐assisted and copper‐free protocols is routed through oxidative cross‐dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) and nucleophilic aromatic substitution of hydrogen (SNAr) pathways, respectively.
A Statistical Procedure for Testing Unusually Frequent Exactly Matching Responses and Nearly Matching Responses
Authors: Haberman Shelby J. , Lee Yi‐Hsuan
Published: May 2017

In investigations of unusual testing behavior, a common question is whether a specific pattern of responses occurs unusually often within a group of examinees. In many current tests, modern communication techniques can permit quite large numbers of examinees to share keys, or common response patterns, to the entire test. To address this issue, statistical methods are provided to identify examinees in a test with answers that exactly match and to assess whether such exact matches are unusual. In addition, methodology is provided to identify examinees with response patterns unusually similar to circulated keys. Application is made to a testing program.
Hybrid teaching‐learning optimization of wireless sensor networks
Authors: Tsiflikiotis Antonios , Goudos Sotirios K. , Karagiannidis George K.
Published: May 2017

This paper deals with the power allocation of decentralized detection in an optimal wireless sensor network (WSN). The main objective is to find a solution that minimizes the total power consumed by the WSN, so that the error probability at the fusion center would be below a certain threshold. More specifically, we propose a novel stochastic optimization algorithm, called the TLBO‐Jaya algorithm, which is a hybrid form of two recently proposed algorithms, ie, the teaching‐learning–based optimization (TLBO) and Jaya algorithms. The proposed optimization solution is evaluated for several WSN cases and compared with results from the literature. Additionally, it is compared with both the TLBO and Jaya algorithms, the heat transfer search algorithm, and the popular particle swarm optimization. Numerical results show that the proposed algorithm performs better than other well‐known algorithms in almost all tested cases.
Incentives to patients versus incentives to health care providers: The users' perspective
Authors: Jelovac Izabela , Polomé Philippe
Published: May 2017

In theory, health care providers may adapt their professional behavior to the financial incentives resulting from their remuneration. Our research question is whether the users of health care services anticipate such behavior from their general practitioner (GP) and, if they do, what consequences such anticipation has on their preferences regarding financial incentives. Our theoretical model explains users' preferences for one or another incentives scheme, disentangling the financial motives (incentives amounts, wealth) from the behavioral ones (perceived GPs' sensitivity to incentives). We empirically test our theoretical predictions using data from a survey that elicits individual preferences for either patient or provider hypothetical incentives in France. The empirical results confirm the theoretical ones: users tend to prefer incentives to patients rather than to GPs when the amount of GP incentives is high, when the amount of patient incentives is low, when they anticipate that their GP's medical decisions are affected by financial incentives or when their wealth is high. Otherwise, they prefer their GP to face financial incentives.
Estimating lifetime medical costs from censored claims data
Authors: Hwang Jing‐Shiang , Hu Tsuey‐Hwa , Lee Lukas Jyuhn‐Hsiarn , Wang Jung‐Der
Published: May 2017

Claims databases consisting of routinely collected longitudinal records of medical expenditures are increasingly utilized for estimating expected medical costs of patients with a specific condition. Survival data of the patients of interest are usually highly censored, and observed expenditures are incomplete. In this study, we propose a survival‐adjusted estimator for estimating mean lifetime costs, which integrates the product of the survival function and the mean cost function over the lifetime horizon. The survival function is estimated by a new algorithm of rolling extrapolation, aided by external information of age‐ and sex‐matched referents simulated from national vital statistics. The mean cost function is estimated by a weighted average of mean expenditures of patients in a number of months prior to their death, of which the number could be determined by observed costs in their final months, and the weights depend on extrapolated hazards. We evaluate the performance of the proposed approach in comparison with that of a popular method using simulated data under various scenarios and 2 cohorts of intracerebral hemorrhage and ischemic stroke patients with a maximum follow‐up of 13 years and conclude that our new method estimates the mean lifetime costs more accurately.
Exploring Veteran Success Through State‐Level Administrative Data Sets
Authors: Massa Tod , Gogia Laura
Published: May 2017

This chapter describes the benefits and challenges of state‐level longitudinal data collection on student veterans and offers recommendations for optimizing collection and reporting for the advocacy of student veteran success.
Catalyst‐free Synthesis of Spiro[indoline‐3,1′‐pyrazolo[5,1‐a]isoquinolines] via Diastereoselective 1,3‐dipolar Cycloaddition under Mild Conditions
Authors: Hu Fangzhi , Chen Hui , Zhang Minmin , Yu Shuowen , Xu Xiaoying , Yuan Weicheng , Zhang Xiaomei
Published: May 2017

A highly efficient catalyst‐free1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction of methyleneindolinones and C,N‐cyclic azomethine imines was realized. The reactions afforded a large variety of spirooxindoles in high yields (up to 99%) and excellent diastereoselectivities (dr > 20:1). Furthermore, the configuration of one of the products was determined on the basis of X‐ray structural analysis. Accordingly, a possible transition‐state model was proposed.
Synthesis of Some New Ciprofloxacin Hybrids as Potential Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Menteşe Meltem , Beriş Fatih Şaban , Demirbaş Neslihan
Published: May 2017

A new series of ciprofloxacin hybrid compounds as new type of antimicrobial agents were synthesized and evaluated for antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria.
The climatology of the Red Sea – part 1: the wind
Authors: Langodan Sabique , Cavaleri Luigi , Vishwanadhapalli Yesubabu , Pomaro Angela , Bertotti Luciana , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: May 2017

The wind climatology of the Red Sea is described based on a 30‐year high‐resolution regional reanalysis generated using the Advanced Weather Research Forecasting model. The model was reinitialized on a daily basis with ERA‐Interim global data and regional observations were assimilated using a cyclic three‐dimensional variational approach. The reanalysis products were validated against buoy and scatterometers data. We describe the wind climatology and identify four major systems that determine the wind patterns in the Red Sea. Each system has a well‐defined origin, and consequently different characteristics along the year. After analysing the relevant features of the basin in terms of their climatology, we investigate possible long‐term trends in each system. It is found that there is a definite tendency towards lowering the strength of the wind speed, but at a different rate for different systems and periods of the year.
Quality changes and shelf‐life extension of ready‐to‐eat fish patties by adding encapsulated citric acid
Authors: Bou Ricard , Claret Anna , Stamatakis Antonios , Martínez Brigitte , Guerrero Luis
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Citric acid is commonly used as a flavoring and preservative in food and beverages. The effect of adding citric acid directly or encapsulated (each at 1 and 2 g kg−1) on the quality and shelf‐life of ready‐to‐eat sea bass patties was evaluated during storage at 4 °C in vacuum skin packaging.

RESULTS

Microbial growth and total basic volatile nitrogen were maintained at relatively low levels up to 8 weeks of storage. With respect to oxidative stability, the addition of encapsulated citric acid minimized secondary oxidation values more efficiently than its direct addition, regardless of the concentration. This is in agreement with the decreased fishy odor observed in those patties containing encapsulated citric acid. Accordingly, sensory analysis showed that the addition of encapsulated citric acid at 1 g kg−1 resulted in lower scores in fish aroma compared to that of the control. Sourness is dependent on the amount of citric acid added, regardless of the form (direct or encapsulated).

CONCLUSIONS

The form of citric acid addition, rather than the amount of citric acid added, caused changes in texture. Therefore, the use of encapsulated citric acid represents a suitable strategy that is of great interest in the seafood industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Proximate composition, amino acid and fatty acid profiles of marine snail Rapana venosa meat, visceral mass and operculum
Authors: Luo Fenglei , Xing Ronge , Wang Xueqin , Peng Quancai , Li Pengcheng
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Rapana venosa (Rv), an important marine snail, demonstrates an increasing nutritional and economic importance. However, there is still limited information available on their nutritional composition. The present study highlights and provides new information on the proximate composition, amino acid and fatty acid profiles of different body parts of Rv, aiming for its better application and research.

RESULTS

The operculum contained a high amount of protein and flavor amino acids. The edible tissues, including meat and visceral mass, were valuable sources of essential amino acids (EAA) apart from methionine and cysteine. In addition, the meat contained high amount of taurine. Fatty acid analysis indicated that the edible tissues contained high amounts of ω3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (C20:5ω3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (C22:6ω3), and had a low ω6/ω3 fatty acid ratio. Interestingly, significantly higher concentrations of most nutritional elements such as fat, EAA, EPA and DHA, were found in the visceral mass compared to those in the meat.

CONCLUSION

The operculum of Rv may became a very interesting source for some protein and flavor peptide development, and the edible parts of Rv may be utilized for special dietary applications requiring high amounts of taurine, EPA, DHA and a lower ω6/ω3 fatty acid ratio. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Variation of fucoid community metabolism during the tidal cycle: Insights from in situ measurements of seasonal carbon fluxes during emersion and immersion
Authors: Bordeyne François , Migné Aline , Davoult Dominique
Published: May 2017

Intertidal communities dominated by canopy‐forming brown seaweed are typically highly productive systems. However, their metabolism can vary significantly over time, due to fluctuations in abiotic parameters. If tidal and/or seasonal cycles play an important role in the regulation of metabolism in these communities, they may therefore strongly influence community functioning and dynamics. Here, we investigated the low mid‐intertidal Fucus serratus community, measuring in situ carbon fluxes of its primary production and respiration during different seasons. To perform direct comparisons of its underwater and aerial metabolism, these measurements were carried out during immersion and emersion, analyzing the changes in dissolved inorganic carbon and in CO2 concentrations under closed benthic chambers. Our results showed that during both emersion and immersion periods, primary production and respiration varied seasonally with minimum values in winter and maximum values in summer. These values were, on average, 5 and 3.5 times higher when the community was exposed to air than when immersed, due to the large changes that occur in abiotic environmental conditions during the tidal cycle. Primary production fluctuated greatly during immersion and was generally limited by underwater light availability. In contrast, primary production remained high during emersion, partly because canopies limit the water loss of their understory layers. During both tidal periods, community respiration was mainly driven by temperature. Our results suggest that the relatively high metabolism during emersion contributes substantially to the total energy budget of fucoid mid‐intertidal communities, even those that are low on the shore and spend most of their time underwater.
Dynamic behavior of fluid‐structure coupling of hydrostatic spindle under effect of oil film slip
Authors: Chen Dongju , Wang Hao , Gao Xue , Fan Jinwei
Published: May 2017

To better understand the dynamic characteristics of a hydrostatic spindle in fluid‐structure coupling, the impact of oil film slip on the 4 dynamic stiffness and damping coefficients of the spindle is studied. On the basis of modified Reynolds equation, which considers the microscale velocity slip effect, rotation error of the spindle is calculated. To solve the rotor axis orbit under the existence of eccentric quality, 4 dynamic stiffness and damping coefficients of the oil film, which describe the dynamics of a rotor axis orbit, are calculated by using load increment method and the pressure perturbation method. The research results show that velocity slip caused a certain impact on dynamics of bearing stiffness and damping performance. The experiment of the measuring path of the shaft verifies the correct and effect of the orbit of shaft center model.
A delayed prey–predator model with Crowley–Martin‐type functional response including prey refuge
Authors: Maiti Atasi Patra , Dubey B. , Tushar Jai
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we have studied a prey–predator model living in a habitat that divided into two regions: an unreserved region and a reserved (refuge) region. The migration between these two regions is allowed. The interaction between unreserved prey and predator is Crowley–Martin‐type functional response. The local and global stability of the system is discussed. Further, the system is extended to incorporate the effect of time delay. Then the dynamical behavior of the system is analyzed, taking delay as a bifurcation parameter. The direction of Hopf bifurcation and the stability of the bifurcated periodic solution are determined with the help of normal form theory and centre manifold theorem. We have also discussed the influence of prey refuge on densities of prey and predator species. The analytical results are supplemented with numerical simulations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hankel transforms of generalized Motzkin numbers
Authors: Bojičić Radica , Petković Marko D. , Rajković Predrag M.
Published: May 2017

We study Hankel transform of the sequences (u,l,d),t, and the classical Motzkin numbers. Using the method based on orthogonal polynomials, we give closed‐form evaluations of the Hankel transform of the aforementioned sequences, sums of two consecutive, and shifted sequences. We also show that these sequences satisfy some interesting convolutional properties. Finally, we partially consider the Hankel transform evaluation of the sums of two consecutive shifted (u,l,d)‐Motzkin numbers. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adult executive functioning inventory (ADEXI): Validity, reliability, and relations to ADHD
Authors: Holst Ylva , Thorell Lisa B.
Published: May 2017

This study examined the psychometric properties of the Adult Executive Functioning Inventory (ADEXI). This new executive functioning (EF) rating instrument has the advantage of being brief (14 items) and focusing specifically on working memory and inhibitory control. Results showed that scores on the ADEXI had high internal consistency and adequate test–retest reliability, but low concurrence between self‐ratings and other ratings. High and statistically significant correlations were found between ADEXI scores and scores from another EF rating instrument, whereas the correlations between ADEXI scores and neuropsychological test scores were weak and often non‐significant. Furthermore, with regard to discriminant validity, individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) had significantly higher scores on both the inhibition and working memory subscales compared to clinical as well as non‐clinical controls. The results showed high specificity, but relatively low sensitivity, when discriminating between adults with ADHD and non‐clinical controls. Conclusively, the ADEXI can be a valuable screening instrument for assessing deficits in working memory and inhibitory control. However, similarly to other EF ratings, the ADEXI should be used as a complement rather than as a replacement for neuropsychological tests, and the low interrater reliability suggests that ratings from multiple sources is preferable compared to relying solely on self‐ratings.
Three‐dimensional ultrashort echo time MRI and Short T2 images generated from subtraction for determination of tumor burden in lung cancer: Preclinical investigation in transgenic mice
Authors: Müller Andreas , Jagoda Philippe , Fries Peter , Gräber Stefan , Bals Robert , Buecker Arno , Jungnickel Christopher , Beisswenger Christoph
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To investigate the potential of 3D ultrashort echo time MRI and short T2 images generated by subtraction for determination of total tumor burden in lung cancer.

Methods

As an animal model of spontaneously developing non–small cell lung cancer, the K‐rasLA1 transgenic mouse was used. Three‐dimensional MR imaging was performed with radial k‐space acquisition and echo times of 20 µs and 1 ms. For investigation of the short T2 component in the recorded signal, subtraction images were generated from these data sets and used for consensus identification of tumors. Next, manual segmentation was performed on all MR images by two independent investigators. MRI data were compared with the results from histologic investigations and among the investigators.

Results

Tumor number and total tumor burden from imaging experiments correlated strongly with the results of histologic investigations. Intra‐ and interuser comparison showed highest correlations between the individual measurements for ultra‐short TE MRI.

Conclusions

Three‐dimensional MRI protocols facilitate accurate tumor identification in mice harboring lung tumors. Ultrashort TE MRI is the superior imaging strategy when investigating lung tumors of miscellaneous size with 3D MR imaging strategies. Magn Reson Med 79:1052–1060, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Simultaneous measurement of macro‐ and microvascular blood flow and oxygen saturation for quantification of muscle oxygen consumption
Authors: Englund Erin K. , Rodgers Zachary B. , Langham Michael C. , Mohler Emile R. , Floyd Thomas F. , Wehrli Felix W.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between blood flow and oxygen consumption in skeletal muscle, a technique called “Velocity and Perfusion, Intravascular Venous Oxygen saturation and
” (vPIVOT) is presented. vPIVOT allows the quantification of feeding artery blood flow velocity, perfusion, draining vein oxygen saturation, and muscle
, all at 4‐s temporal resolution. Together, the measurement of blood flow and oxygen extraction can yield muscle oxygen consumption (
) via the Fick principle.

Methods

In five subjects, vPIVOT‐derived results were compared with those obtained from stand‐alone sequences during separate ischemia‐reperfusion paradigms to investigate the presence of measurement bias. Subsequently, in 10 subjects, vPIVOT was applied to assess muscle hemodynamics and
following a bout of dynamic plantar flexion contractions.

Results

From the ischemia‐reperfusion paradigm, no significant differences were observed between data from vPIVOT and comparison sequences. After exercise, the macrovascular flow response reached a maximum 8 ± 3 s after relaxation; however, perfusion in the gastrocnemius muscle continued to rise for 101 ± 53 s. Peak
calculated based on mass‐normalized arterial blood flow or perfusion was 15.2 ± 6.7 mL O2/min/100 g or 6.0 ± 1.9 mL O2/min/100 g, respectively.

Conclusions

vPIVOT is a new method to measure blood flow and oxygen saturation, and therefore to quantify muscle oxygen consumption. Magn Reson Med 79:846–855, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
In vivo proton observed carbon edited (POCE) 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the rat brain using a volumetric transmitter and receive‐only surface coil on the proton channel
Authors: Kumaragamage Chathura , Madularu Dan , Mathieu Axel P. , De Feyter Henk , Rajah M. Natasha , Near Jamie
Published: May 2017

Purpose

In vivo carbon‐13 (13C) MR spectroscopy (MRS) is capable of measuring energy metabolism and neuroenergetics, noninvasively in the brain. Indirect (1H‐[13C]) MRS provides sensitivity benefits compared with direct 13C methods, and normally includes a 1H surface coil for both localization and signal reception. The aim was to develop a coil platform with homogenous
and use short conventional pulses for short echo time proton observed carbon edited (POCE) MRS.

Methods

A 1H‐[13C] MRS coil platform was designed with a volumetric resonator for 1H transmit, and surface coils for 1H reception and 13C transmission. The Rx‐only 1H surface coil nullifies the requirement for a T/R switch before the 1H preamplifier; the highpass filter and preamplifier can be placed proximal to the coil, thus minimizing sensitivity losses inherent with POCE‐MRS systems described in the literature. The coil platform was evaluated with a PRESS‐POCE sequence (TE = 12.6 ms) on a rat model.

Results

The coil provided excellent localization, uniform spin nutation, and sensitivity. 13C labeling of Glu‐H4 and Glx‐H3 peaks, and the Glx‐H2 peaks were observed approximately 13 and 21 min following the infusion of 1‐13C glucose, respectively.

Conclusion

A convenient and sensitive platform to study energy metabolism and neurotransmitter cycling is presented. Magn Reson Med 79:628–635, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Asynchronous control of time‐delayed switched systems with actuator saturation via anti‐windup design
Authors: He Hangfeng , Gao Xianwen , Qi Wenhai
Published: May 2017

This paper deals with the problem of asynchronous
control for time‐delay switched systems under actuator saturation via anti‐windup design, where asynchronous switching means the switching of the controllers has a lag to the switching of subsystems. By constructing an appropriate piecewise Lyapunov‐Krasovskii function and using local sector conditions, sufficient conditions for solving the problem are derived in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Moreover, the domain of attraction is maximized. Finally, an application example is given to demonstrate the validity of the main results.
Clinician perspectives on symptom and quality of life experiences of patients during cancer therapies: Implications for eHealth
Authors: Berry Donna L. , Nayak Manan M. , Abrahm Janet L. , Braun Ilana , Rabin Michael S. , Cooley Mary E.
Published: May 2017

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore clinician experiences with cancer symptom and quality of life (SQL) management from diagnosis throughout therapy in the ambulatory setting, plus identify preferences for a future SQL decision support system.

Methods

Eligible clinicians worked in ambulatory cancer care with responsibility for direct patient care. Focus groups were conducted to discuss symptom management throughout the treatment experience and features desired in a future decision support system. Each group was audio‐recorded, transcribed, de‐identified, and entered into NVivo 9 for analysis. Open and axial coding was completed, grouping common concepts into nodes; large constructs among the nodes were identified and main messages were synthesized.

Results

A total of 118 clinicians were contacted by email resulting in a final sample of 51 attending 1 of 9 focus groups. Clinicians described a standard face‐to‐face approach to assessment of SQL, before and throughout therapy. Preparing patients for expected symptoms and approaches to management included paper‐based patient education materials and referrals. Communicating with patients between visits was covered in detail, notably use of telephone and email. Future system features desired by the clinicians included an electronic, Web‐based system with real‐time, trended data, reasonable alerts, and tailored information for patients.

Conclusions

Cancer care specialists reported strategies to assess and manage cancer SQL in ambulatory care including patient‐reported outcome measures, contact communication modes, face‐to‐face interviews, and paper‐based patient education materials. Future system features desired by clinicians included an electronic, Web‐based system with real‐time, trended data, reasonable alerts, and tailored information for patients.
Robust nonlinear filter for nonlinear systems with multiplicative noise uncertainties, unknown external disturbances, and packet dropouts
Authors: Min Li , Yingchun Zhang , Yunhai Geng , Shuang Wang , Huayi Li
Published: May 2017

This study is concerned with the robust nonlinear filtering problem for nonlinear discrete‐time stochastic system with multiplicative noise uncertainties, unknown external disturbances, and packet dropouts. The focus of this paper is to design a filter with predictor–corrector structure such that the upper bound on the state estimation error variance is minimized in the presence of multiplicative noise, unknown external disturbances, and packet dropouts. Thus, a robust nonlinear filter based on the method to obtain the upper bound on variances of multiplicative noises, unknown disturbances, and packet dropouts is designed. Further stability analysis shows that the proposed filter has robustness against multiplicative noises, unknown external disturbances, and packet dropouts. Simulation results show that the proposed filter is more effective than extended Kalman filter and other robust extended Kalman filter. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exposure enriched outcome dependent designs for longitudinal studies of gene–environment interaction
Authors: Sun Zhichao , Mukherjee Bhramar , Estes Jason P. , Vokonas Pantel S. , Park Sung Kyun
Published: May 2017

Joint effects of genetic and environmental factors have been increasingly recognized in the development of many complex human diseases. Despite the popularity of case‐control and case‐only designs, longitudinal cohort studies that can capture time‐varying outcome and exposure information have long been recommended for gene–environment (G × E) interactions. To date, literature on sampling designs for longitudinal studies of G × E interaction is quite limited. We therefore consider designs that can prioritize a subsample of the existing cohort for retrospective genotyping on the basis of currently available outcome, exposure, and covariate data. In this work, we propose stratified sampling based on summaries of individual exposures and outcome trajectories and develop a full conditional likelihood approach for estimation that adjusts for the biased sample. We compare the performance of our proposed design and analysis with combinations of different sampling designs and estimation approaches via simulation. We observe that the full conditional likelihood provides improved estimates for the G × E interaction and joint exposure effects over uncorrected complete‐case analysis, and the exposure enriched outcome trajectory dependent design outperforms other designs in terms of estimation efficiency and power for detection of the G × E interaction. We also illustrate our design and analysis using data from the Normative Aging Study, an ongoing longitudinal cohort study initiated by the Veterans Administration in 1963. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of single‐span beams for SLS and ULS using semi‐continuous beam‐to‐column joints
Authors: da Costa Job Duarte , Obiala Renata , Odenbreit Christoph , Braun Matthias
Published: May 2017

The objective of this article is to facilitate the use of semi‐continuous joints by providing ready‐to‐use tables and charts for design, which also permit the benefits accruing from the use of semi‐continuous composite beams to be directly identified. The relevant features for the design of composite beams, such as bending moment distribution, maximum deflection and natural frequency, are derived analytically. The influence of semi‐continuous steel joints on the performance of single‐span composite beams is analysed. The article concludes with an example of the use of a new slim‐floor beam type – the composite slim‐floor beam (CoSFB). The tables and charts derived are applied in this example with the intention of demonstrating the advantages of using semi‐continuous joints in combination with composite beams. The present article extends the design of semi‐continuous steel beams presented in the previous article on this subject [1].
Application of direct tension indicators in preloaded bolted connections
Authors: Schiborr Markus , Stranghöner Natalie
Published: May 2017

The direct tension indicator (DTI) method is specified in EN 1090‐2 as one of the tightening procedures for preloading bolting assemblies to a specified level of preload. As Germany so far has no experience of using the DTI method, recent experimental and theoretical investigations were carried at the Institute for Metal and Lightweight Structures, University of Duisburg‐Essen, Germany, with the main focus being the loadbearing behaviour of preloaded bolting assemblies with DTIs under external axial tensile loading. Whereas tension connections employing preloaded bolting assemblies are quite common in Germany, in the UK, for example, bolted connections are preferably designed as shear connections, as far as is known. As a result of the investigations presented below, it can be summarized that, under tensile loading especially, preloaded bolting assemblies with DTIs might suffer from a severe loss of preload – something that should be considered in preloaded bolted connections in which the preload is taken into account in the design of the connections, e.g. in slip‐resistant connections, to activate the slip resistance, and in tension connections subjected to fatigue. Based on these investigations, recommendations have been formulated for preloaded bolting assemblies with DTIs under external axial tensile loading.