bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced Cu/Pt–HCa2Ta3O10 Perovskite Nanosheets for Sunlight‐Driven Conversion of CO2 into Valuable Fuels
Authors: Vu Nhu‐Nang , Nguyen Chinh‐Chien , Kaliaguine Serge , Do Trong‐On
Published: August 2017

Reduced perovskite HCa2Ta3O10 nanosheets loaded with Pt and Cu are synthesized for sunlight‐driven conversion of CO2 with water vapor into valuable fuels. Perovskite nanosheets are prepared by exfoliating layered perovskite CsCa2Ta3O10 via tetra butyl ammonium ion exchange, followed by liquid ultrasonic exfoliation. The obtained nanosheets exhibits a high specific surface area (>200 m2 g−1). The photocatalytic performance of the resulting reduced perovskite nanosheets is evaluated for CO2 photoreduction under sunlight in the presence of saturated water vapor. The reduced nanosheets exhibit much higher photoactivity than the nonreduced ones. This can be ascribed to their unique structure. The hydrogen treatment in the presence of platinum induces a considerable amount of Ta+4 and oxygen vacancies, which apparently improves the visible light absorption of perovskite nanosheets. Moreover, the introduction of CuO nanoparticles significantly improves the electron–hole separation through the formation of a p–n junction. It also enhances the adsorption of CO2 and stabilizes C1 intermediates which are favorable for CC coupling to form C2 products (e.g., ethanol). The formation rates of ethanol and methanol are 113 and 7.4 µmol g−1 h−1, respectively, while only methanol is obtained at the rate of 125.9 µmol g−1 h−1 in the absence of CuO nanoparticles.
Eco‐Friendly Red Seaweed‐Derived Electrolytes for Electrochemical Devices
Authors: Nunes Sílvia C. , Pereira Rui F. P. , Sousa Nuno , Silva Maria M. , Almeida Paulo , Figueiredo Filipe M. L. , de Zea Bermudez Verónica
Published: August 2017

Green electrolytes composed of kappa‐carrageenan (κ‐Cg), 1‐butyl‐3‐methyl‐1H‐imidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl) ionic liquid, and glycerol (Gly) are prepared in aqueous solution using a simple, clean, fast and low‐cost procedure. A flexible membrane incorporating 50% wt [Bmim]Cl and 50% wt Gly with respect to κ‐Cg exhibits the highest ionic conductivity values (8.47 × 10−4/2.45 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 20/66 °C, under anhydrous conditions, and 5.49 × 10−2/0.186 S cm−1 at 30/60 °C, at a relative humidity of 98%). Tests of room temperature air/hydrogen fuel cells incorporating κ‐Cg, κ‐Cg/Gly, and κ‐Cg/Gly/[Bmim]Cl membranes demonstrate that these predominantly protonic conductors electrolytes are particularly well suited for the design and fabrication of eco‐friendly electrochemical devices whose operation does not require the flow of gases and does not lead to water formation. These new materials have excellent application prospects in high performance (flexible) energy storage devices (supercapacitors and batteries) and electrochromic devices.
Evaluation of a pilot programme on diagnostic thoracic ultrasound curriculum for acute care physiotherapists
Authors: Ntoumenopoulos George , Ong Hwee Kuan , Toh Hong Chuen , Saclolo Rafael Pulido , Sewa Wen Duu
Published: August 2017

Introduction/purpose

Diagnostic thoracic ultrasound is increasingly being used by non‐physicians; hence, we evaluated a curriculum for acute care physiotherapists in critical care.

Methods

The one‐day course included didactic lectures combined with expert‐led hands‐on training. Participants undertook pre‐ and post‐course knowledge questionnaire covering key ultrasound findings for normal lungs, pleural and pulmonary pathologies. Course participants who worked at the institution where the course was undertaken undertook a practical examination. We also did a 4‐ to 6‐week follow‐up survey of participants. The pretest and post‐test questionnaire and survey results were reported using descriptive statistics (means SD or median and IQR).

Results

A total of 12 acute care physiotherapists undertook the training and questionnaire scores (mean percentage, SD, 95% CI) increased from 73.3 ± 15.5% (63.4–83.2) before the training to 86.3 ± 5.5% (82.8–89.8) after training.

Discussion

This diagnostic thoracic ultrasound training course resulted in improvements of diagnostic thoracic ultrasound knowledge including lung and pleural pathology image recognition skills in a small group of acute care physiotherapists with nil previous diagnostic thoracic ultrasound skills. Two‐thirds of the participants who responded to the survey undertook only one to three scans in clinical practice, and the most frequent barrier to clinical use of diagnostic thoracic ultrasound was time constraints.

Conclusion

Further investigation of such a diagnostic thoracic ultrasound training programme on knowledge and skills retention and image acquisition and interpretation in real life clinical practice in a larger group of acute care physiotherapists is warranted.
A 2‐O‐Methylriboside Unknown Outside the RNA World Contains Arsenic
Authors: Glabonjat Ronald A. , Raber Georg , Jensen Kenneth B. , Guttenberger Nikolaus , Zangger Klaus , Francesconi Kevin A.
Published: August 2017

Lipid‐soluble arsenic compounds, also called arsenolipids, are ubiquitous marine natural products of currently unknown origin and function. In our search for clues about the possible biological roles of these compounds, we investigated arsenic metabolism in the unicellular green alga Dunaliella tertiolecta, and discovered an arsenolipid fundamentally different from all those previously identified; namely, a phytyl 5‐dimethylarsinoyl‐2‐O‐methyl‐ribofuranoside. The discovery is of particular interest because 2‐O‐methylribosides have, until now, only been found in RNA. We briefly discuss the significance of the new lipid in biosynthesis and arsenic biogeochemical cycling.
Beyond Bleaney's Theory: Experimental and Theoretical Analysis of Periodic Trends in Lanthanide‐Induced Chemical Shift
Authors: Suturina Elizaveta A. , Mason Kevin , Geraldes Carlos F. G. C. , Kuprov Ilya , Parker David
Published: August 2017

A detailed analysis of paramagnetic NMR shifts in a series of isostructural lanthanide complexes relavant to PARASHIFT contrast agents reveals unexpected trends in the magnetic susceptibility anisotropy that cannot be explained by the commonly used Bleaney's theory. Ab initio calculations reveal that the primary assumption of Bleaney's theory—that thermal energy is larger than the ligand field splitting—does not hold for the lanthanide complexes in question, and likely for a large fraction of lanthanide complexes in general. This makes the orientation of the magnetic susceptibility tensor differ significantly between complexes of different lanthanides with the same ligand: one of the most popular assumptions about isostructural lanthanide series is wrong.
Purification and characterization of trypsin produced by gut bacteria from Anticarsia gemmatalis
Authors: Pilon Franciny Martins , Silva Camila da Rocha , Visôtto Liliane Evangelista , Barros Rafael de Almeida , da Silva Júnior Neilier Rodrigues , Campos Wellington Garcia , de Almeida Oliveira Maria Goreti
Published: August 2017

Purification of active trypsin in the digestive process of insects is essential for the development of potent protease inhibitors (PIs) as an emerging pest control technology and research into insect adaptations to dietary PIs. An important aspect is the presence of proteolytic microorganisms, which contribute to host nutrition. Here, we purified trypsins produced by bacteria Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus mundtii, Enterococcus gallinarum, and Staphylococcus xylosus isolated from the midgut of Anticarsia gemmatalis. The trypsins had a molecular mass of approximately 25 kDa. The enzymes showed increased activity at 40°C, and they were active at pH values 7.5–10. Aprotinin, bis‐benzamidine, and soybean Kunitz inhibitor (SKTI) significantly inhibited trypsin activity. The l‐1‐tosyl‐amido‐2‐phenylethylchloromethyl ketone (TPCK), pepstatin A, E‐64, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid, and calcium ions did not affect the enzyme activity at the concentrations tested. We infer the purified trypsins do not require calcium ions, by which they differ from the trypsins of other microorganisms and the soluble and insoluble trypsins characterized from A. gemmatalis. These data suggest the existence of different isoforms of trypsin in the velvetbean caterpillar midguts.
Co‐expression of alpha‐1 antitrypsin with cytoplasmic domain of v‐SNARE in Pichia pastoris: Preserving biological activity of alpha‐1 antitrypsin
Authors: Khatami Maryam , Hosseini Seyed Nezamedin , Hasannia Sadegh
Published: August 2017

Alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (A1AT) is a major serum protein in human with protease inhibitory activity. Because of its extensive application in medicine, recombinant DNA technology has been considered for its production. The current study examines coexpression of A1AT and soluble domain of v‐SNARE in Pichia pastoris, which can prevent the secretion of A1AT after thoroughly passing the secretory pathway. This was done mainly to preserve the biological activity of A1AT, which in the secretory mode might be impaired in the fermentation and early clarification conditions. SNARE proteins are the driving force for vesicle docking and membrane fusion in the exocytosis. Intracellular expression of the cytoplasmic domain of v‐SNARE and its subsequent interaction to form SNARE complex can intensify the competition for A1AT secretory vesicles to be fused and released to the media. Our investigation shows successful coexpression of A1AT in the form of post‐Golgi vesicles and the cytoplasmic domain of v‐SNARE. Our findings confirmed the reduction of A1AT secretion by 45% caused accumulation of post‐Golgi secretory vesicles filled with A1AT inside the yeast cell. A1AT trapped in secretory vesicles were biologically more active than secretory A1AT. These results indicate that the inhibition of A1AT secretion can protect its biological activity in fermentation and clarification processes.
Developmental toxicity evaluation of Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus (Gomes) Landrum, (E)‐methyl isoeugenol chemotype, in Wistar rats
Authors: Cardoso Bruce Soares , Machado Katia Borges , de Paula José Realino , de Paula Joelma Abadia Marciano , Cuvinel Wilson de Melo , Amaral Vanessa Cristiane Santana
Published: August 2017

Background

Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus (Gomes) Landrum (Myrtaceae) has been traditionally used in Brazilian folk medicine. Studies have established the botanical characterization, phytochemistry profile, and pharmacological potential of this species, including antibiotic, anxiolytic, antidepressant, antioxidant, antinociceptive, and anti‐inflammatory properties. Despite its widespread use, no previous study has been conducted regarding its toxicological profile, especially during pregnancy. Thus, this study investigated the developmental toxicity of the dry leaf extract of the P. pseudocaryophyllus, (E)‐methyl isoeugenol chemotype, in rats.

Methods

First, the dry leaf extract was prepared by a spray‐drying technique. Then, pregnant Wistar rats were orally treated with dry extract at doses of 0, 2000, 2500, or 3000 mg/kg from gestational day 6 through 15 (organogenesis period). On gestational day 21, the rats underwent cesarean sections and the reproductive outcomes and biochemistry parameters related to hepatic and renal markers were evaluated. Additionally, the fetuses were examined for external and skeletal variations and malformations.

Results

The spray‐drying technique preserved the phytocomplex components and showed a satisfactory yield. No relevant differences were seen in the food consumption, reproductive performances, and hepatic and renal biochemical parameters between groups. However, there was a decrease in body weight gain of the dams during the organogenesis period and an increase of minor skeletal variations in the offspring (increased fetal incidences only of delayed ossification of the metacarpals, metatarsals, phalanges, sternebra, and rudimentary ribs) treated with the dry extract.

Conclusion

The extract of P. pseudocaryophyllus, (E)‐methyl isoeugenol chemotype, showed low maternal toxicity and induced minor skeletal variations in the offspring. Birth Defects Research 109:1292–1300, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prediction accuracy and variable selection for penalized cause‐specific hazards models
Authors: Saadati Maral , Beyersmann Jan , Kopp‐Schneider Annette , Benner Axel
Published: August 2017

We consider modeling competing risks data in high dimensions using a penalized cause‐specific hazards (CSHs) approach. CSHs have conceptual advantages that are useful for analyzing molecular data. First, working on hazards level can further understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms that drive transition hazards. Second, CSH models can be used to extend the multistate framework for high‐dimensional data. The CSH approach is implemented by fitting separate proportional hazards models for each event type (iCS). In the high‐dimensional setting, this might seem too complex and possibly prone to overfitting. Therefore, we consider an extension, namely “linking” the separate models by choosing penalty tuning parameters that in combination yield best prediction of the incidence of the event of interest (penCR). We investigate whether this extension is useful with respect to prediction accuracy and variable selection. The two approaches are compared to the subdistribution hazards (SDH) model, which is an established method that naturally achieves “linking” by working on incidence level, but loses interpretability of the covariate effects. Our simulation studies indicate that in many aspects, iCS is competitive to penCR and the SDH approach. There are some instances that speak in favor of linking the CSH models, for example, in the presence of opposing effects on the CSHs. We conclude that penalized CSH models are a viable solution for competing risks models in high dimensions. Linking the CSHs can be useful in some particular cases; however, simple models using separately penalized CSH are often justified.
Luminescent properties of single‐phase Ba2‐x‐1.5y‐1.5zP2O7:xEu2+,yCe3+, zTb3+ phosphors for white light‐emitting diode
Authors: Liu Sha‐sha , Zhu Da‐chuan , Zhao Cong , Han Tao
Published: August 2017

A series of Ba2P2O7:xEu2+,yCe3+,zTb3+ phosphors was synthesized via a co‐precipitation method, then their crystal structure, quantum efficiency and luminescent properties were analyzed by XRD and FL, respectively. The results showed that these phosphors not only presented the excitation characteristics of Ba2P2O7:xEu2+,zTb3+, but also exhibited that of the Ba2P2O7:yCe3+,zTb3+ phosphor. Meanwhile, the tri‐doped phosphor showed a stronger absorption around 320 nm in contrast with the Eu2+/Ce3+:Tb3+ co‐doped phosphor. Not only can energy transfer from Ce3+→Eu2+ be observed; the energy transfer mechanism from Eu2+ to Tb3+ is discussed in the tri‐doped system. Ce3+ affects the luminescence properties of Ba2P2O7:xEu2+,yCe3+,zTb3+ phosphors just as the sensitizer whereas Eu2+ is considered both as the sensitizer and the activator. The chromaticity coordinates of tri‐doped phosphors excited at 320 nm stayed steadily in the bluish‐white light region,and the emitted color and color temperature (CCT) of these phosphors could be tuned by adjusting the relative contents of Eu2+, Ce3+ and Tb3+. Hence, the single phase Ba2P2O7:xEu2+,yCe3+,zTb3+ phosphors may be considered as potential candidates for white light‐emitting diodes.
Genomic, Transcriptional, and Phenotypic Analysis of the Glucose Derepressed Clostridium beijerinckii Mutant Exhibiting Acid Crash Phenotype
Authors: Seo Seung‐Oh , Janssen Holger , Magis Andrew , Wang Yi , Lu Ting , Price Nathan D. , Jin Yong‐Su , Blaschek Hans P.
Published: August 2017

Clostridium beijerinckii is a predominant solventogenic bacterium that is used for the ABE fermentation. Various C. beijerinckii mutants are constructed for desirable phenotypes. The C. beijerinckii mutant BA105 harboring a glucose derepression phenotype was previously isolated and demonstrated the enhanced amylolytic activity in the presence of glucose. Despite its potential use, BA105 is not further characterized and utilized. Therefore, the authors investigate fermentation phenotypes of BA105 in this study. Under the typical batch fermentation conditions, BA105 consistently exhibits acid crash phenotype resulting in limited glucose uptake and cell growth. However, when the culture pH is maintained above 5.5, BA105 exhibits the increased glucose uptake and butanol production than did the wild‐type. To further analyze BA105, the authors perform genome sequencing and RNA sequencing. Genome analysis identifies two SNPs unique to BA105, in the upstream region of AbrB regulator (Cbei_4885) and the ROK family glucokinase (Cbei_4895) which are involved in catabolite repression and regulation of sugar metabolism. Transcriptional analysis of BA105 reveals significant differential expression of the genes associated with the PTS sugar transport system and acid production. This study improves understanding of the acid crash phenomenon and provides the genetic basis underlying the catabolite derepression phenotype of C. beijericnkii.
Interaction effects of GIT1 and DRD4 gene variants on continuous performance test variables in patients with ADHD
Authors: Kim Hyojin , Kim Johanna Inhyang , Kim Haebin , Kim Jae‐Won , Kim Bung‐Nyun
Published: August 2017

Introduction

The G protein‐coupled receptor kinase interacting protein 1 gene (GIT1) has been proposed to be a risk gene for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and it regulates the endocytosis of G protein‐coupled receptors like dopamine receptors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the interaction effects of GIT1 and dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) gene variants on variables of the continuous performance test (CPT).

Methods

This study recruited 255 ADHD patients and 98 healthy controls (HC) who underwent CPT and genetic analyses. The genotypes were classified into two groups (the C/C and C/T genotype groups for GIT1, 4R homozygotes and others for DRD4) and the genotype × genotype effects were examined using hierarchical multivariable linear regression analyses.

Results

There were significant GIT1 × DRD4 effects for commission errors on the CPT in the ADHD group (p = .006). In contrast, there were no significant GIT1 × DRD4 effects on any CPT variables in the HC.

Conclusions

The present findings demonstrated that there were significant interaction effects of the GIT1 and DRD4 gene variants on impulsivity in ADHD. Replication studies with larger sample sizes that include patients from various ethnic backgrounds are warranted to confirm these findings.
Female Parkinson's disease caregivers have much anxiety and depressive symptom
Authors: Gultekin Murat , Ekinci Ayten , Erturk Gozde , Mirza Meral
Published: August 2017

Objective

Parkinson's Disease Caregivers (PDC) play an important role, especially in the medium and advanced phase of the disease for patients’ daily life activities, treatment, and follow‐up. The aim of this study is to attract attention to the factors which place PDC at risk of psychological problems and to give consideration to these factors.

Materials and Methods

First of all, the 80 participants, who were PDC, filled in the demographic information form. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was applied in order to determine the psychological status of the PDC.

Results

The average age of PDC in the study was found as 47.94. While 11 (13.8%) of the PDC had undergone psychiatric treatment in the past, four of them (5%) were currently receiving treatment. Twenty‐eight (35%) of those who provide care have experience in patient care, whereas 52 (65%) of them have no prior experience in caring for patients. Thirty‐six (45%) of the PDC reported that they had difficulties, which were mostly psychological. According to the HADS which was applied, anxiety was seen in 26 of those who provide care (32.5%), while depression was seen in 41 (51.3%).

Conclusion

This study is the first to provide data on the psychological status of PDC in our country. It is important that PDC's psychological problems are reduced by psychotherapy or, if necessary, by treatment. This situation has a direct negative effect on the patient's daily life activities.
Anatomical complications of hysterectomy: A review
Authors: Ramdhan Rebecca C. , Loukas Marios , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: August 2017

Hysterectomy is the most commonly performed gynecological procedure in the United States with three possible surgical approaches; vaginal, abdominal and laparoscopic. As with any surgical procedure, various anatomical complications can arise. These include injuries to anatomical structures such as the urinary bladder, ureter, intestines, rectum, anus, and a multitude of nervous structures. Other complications include sexual dysfunction, vaginal cuff dehiscence, and urinary incontinence. Using standard search engines, the anatomical complications of hysterectomies are reviewed. In conclusion, surgeons who perform hysterectomies or are involved with postoperative hysterectomy patients should be familiar with the possible complications of this common procedure and the steps that can be taken to help reduce the risk of those complications. Clinicians should also inform their patients of the potential complications as they can affect lifestyle and comfort. Clin. Anat. 30:946–952, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Terminal Ethynyl Aryl Selenides and Sulfides Based on the Retro‐Favorskii Reaction of Hydroxypropargyl Precursors
Authors: Lopes Eric F. , Dalberto Bianca T. , Perin Gelson , Alves Diego , Barcellos Thiago , Lenardão Eder J.
Published: August 2017

The retro‐Favorskii reaction is an excellent way to achieve terminal alkynes. Methodologies that connect the synthesis of terminal alkynes and organochalcogen motifs are important for the construction of novel compounds. Fourteen new terminal alkynes containing either Csp−S or Csp−Se bonds were selectively prepared through the retro‐Favorskii reaction from the respective carbinol precursors. It was discovered that terminal chalcogen alkynes were stable for weeks if stored as a solution in hexanes.
Elucidation of the Conformation of Polyglycine Organo‐Polyoxotungstates: Evidence for Zipper Folding
Authors: Vilona Debora , Lachkar David , Dumont Elise , Lelli Moreno , Lacôte Emmanuel
Published: August 2017

The conformation of a family of α1 and α2 polyglycine‐containing organo‐polyoxometalates was determined through a mixed experimental/molecular dynamics approach. The flexible peptide arm folds around the metal oxide surface in a rigid arrangement in low to average polarity solvents. The topology of the hybrid is the main factor that determines which oxos from the metal‐oxide surface accept a H‐bond from the closest amino acid. The rest of the peptide follows in a zipper mechanism that establishes a H‐bond network that locks the system. The covalent constraint leads to a new type of H‐bond where two consecutive amino acids clamp down terminal oxo ligands.
Modelling simultaneous chain‐end and random scissions using the fixed pivot technique
Authors: Ho Yong Kuen , Doshi Pankaj , Yeoh Hak Koon
Published: August 2017

In this study, for the first time we demonstrated that both random and chain‐end scissions of polymers can be simulated on a unified Fixed Pivot (FP) framework through an elegant implementation of a discrete‐continuous meshing strategy. Achieved using only a fraction of computational expense in solving the full set of exact equations, the FP solutions benchmarked very well against the exact solutions for a polymer with a broad size distribution typical of natural polymers at different degrees of up to ∼O(105). This is attained despite the use of an efficient computational technique to obtain the exact solutions. Moreover, new observations revealed an additional strength of the current meshing strategy, in that the number of the discrete partitions can be adjusted to improve the accuracy of the solution while retaining the total number of equations to be solved. The FP technique, which in the past was reported to over‐predict in cases of pure aggregation, also exhibits marginal over‐prediction for pure random scission. The source of this behaviour is further uncovered, leading to a revised guideline on the choice of the number of discrete pivots.
Instant One‐Pot Preparation of Functional Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) via a Continuous Hydrothermal Approach
Authors: Pascu Oana , Marre Samuel , Cacciuttolo Bastien , Ali Ghina , Hecquet Laurence , Pucheault Mathieu , Prevot Vanessa , Aymonier Cyril
Published: August 2017

Instant one‐pot synthesis of functional layered double hydroxides (LDHs) is demonstrated for the first time using a continuous hydrothermal multi‐step process. The as‐prepared pristine material displays high crystallinity and very small LDH nanoparticle size, lateral dimensions below 100 nm and a thickness below 20 nm, all being achieved in only 5 s. This approach was extended to the preparation of i) pristine LDH with different compositions by varying the cation (Mg, Ni, or Zn) and the anion (CO3, NO3) and ii) functional LDH by varying the functionalization agent, for example long organic molecules (hybrid LDH), enzymes (bio‐hybrid LDH) or inorganic metal/oxide nanocrystals (inorganic‐LDH). Beyond the design of functional LDH, this paper presents proof of concept for a continuous, one‐pot and multistep high temperature/high pressure (HT/HP) process for the assembly of nanoscaled materials.
Zinc Imidazolate Metal–Organic Frameworks (ZIF‐8) for Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 to CO
Authors: Wang Yulin , Hou Pengfei , Wang Zhuo , Kang Peng
Published: August 2017

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are regarded as promising materials for CO2 adsorption, which is an important step in CO2 electrochemical reduction. In this work, zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF‐8) nanomaterials were synthesized with various zinc sources and used as electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to CO. Among them, ZIF‐8, prepared using ZnSO4, delivers the best catalytic activity towards CO2 electroreduction, with 65 % CO yield. The main catalytic center can be attributed to the discrete Zn nodes in ZIF‐8. Electrolytes are important in increasing the CO selectivity, and NaCl is the best suitable electrolyte due to facile anion exchange.
Protein‐Lipid Interaction by Fluorescence (PLIF) to Characterize and Screen for Inhibitors of Protein‐Phosphoinositide Interactions
Authors: Ceccato Laurie , Mansat Mélanie , Payrastre Bernard , Gaits‐Iacovoni Frédérique , Viaud Julien
Published: August 2017

Phosphoinositides are key signaling and regulatory phospholipids that mediate important pathophysiological processes. This is achieved through the interaction of their phosphorylated inositol head group with a wide range of protein domains. Therefore, being able to determine the phosphoinositide specificity for effector protein is essential to the understanding of its cellular function. This unit describes a novel method named Protein‐Lipid Interaction by Fluorescence, or PLIF. PLIF is a fast, reliable and high throughput assay that allows determination of the phosphoinositide specificity of proteins, simultaneously providing relative affinities. In addition, PLIF is suitable for screening inhibitors of protein‐ phosphoinositide interaction, allowing identification of potential pharmacological compounds. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers Increase the Stability of Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Against Light and Oxygen
Authors: Marinova Nevena , Franckevičius Marius , Matulaitienė Ieva , Devižis Andrius , Niaura Gediminas , Gulbinas Vidmantas , Delgado Juan Luis
Published: August 2017

Methylammonium lead iodide perovskite (MAPI) is a promising material for highly efficient photovoltaic devices. However, it suffers from photooxidation, which imposes strict requirements for its protection from oxygen during processing and operation. A hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) has been found to exert a stabilization effect on methylammonium iodide (MAI) and MAPI against photooxidation. The HALS prevents the degradation of MAI by inhibiting the oxidation of iodide to iodine. Chemical modification of HALS allows its incorporation in MAPI films, which extends the resistivity of MAPI against photodegradation in ambient air from a couple of hours to several days, while causing no significant changes in key properties, such as optical absorption and charge transport. These results represent an important advance in the stabilization of MAPI against decomposition and demonstrate for the first time that antioxidants improve the stability of MAPI.
On fluid‐flow modeling of priority based request scheduling for finite buffer SIP server
Authors: Yavas Demir Y. , Hokelek Ibrahim , Gunsel Bilge
Published: August 2017

With the widespread deployments of voice‐over‐internet protocol services, the existing session initiation protocol (SIP) design cannot scale up for large network sizes. Events triggering a demand burst or a server slowdown can cause SIP server overload, overload propagation, and crash, thus bringing down the whole SIP network. Since the SIP retransmission mechanism exacerbates the overload condition, existing models created for a stable SIP system cannot be effectively used to analyze an overloaded server. In this paper, we propose a fluid‐flow model to characterize the behavior of the finite buffer SIP server equipped with priority‐based request scheduling mechanism (PRSM). The model for the PRSM uses primary and secondary queues for the original request messages and the retransmitted requests, respectively. The performance metrics, namely, the failed call attempts and the response delay from sending INVITE request until receiving a 100‐Trying response, are derived using the arrival time‐slot tracking and the removal processes of the proposed fluid‐flow model. We conducted test cases under the heavy traffic conditions, where the overload is caused by bulk and bursty arrivals or server slowdown. The numerical results closely match with the simulation results for all experiments, indicating that the proposed model can accurately capture the dynamic behavior of an SIP server with the PRSM. The experiments demonstrate that the number of failed call attempts is close to 0 and the mean response delay is kept constant around 175 ms for the PRSM when the buffer size is higher than 1K while both metrics are significantly higher for the conventional SIP.
Fifty years of continuous precipitation and stream chemistry data from the Hubbard Brook ecosystem study (1963–2013)
Authors: Likens Gene E.
Published: August 2017

The Hubbard Brook Ecosystem Study officially began on 1 June 1963. This archive contains the results of 50 yr of collection and analysis of (at least) weekly stream water and precipitation samples obtained during the period 1963–2014 (from 1 June 1963 to 30 May 2013). Stream chemistry for the nine gauged watersheds and precipitation chemistry for precipitation gauges distributed throughout the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest are reported as concentrations in (mg/L).
Combined electrocoagulation/electrooxidation process for the COD removal and recovery of tannery industry wastewater
Authors: Azarian Ghasem , Miri Mahya , Nematollahi Davood
Published: August 2017

The efficiencies of electrooxidation (EO), electrocoagulation (EC) and combined EC/EO processes for the treatment and recovery of tannery wastewater were investigated. In this way, not only the effect of retention time and current density on the COD and color removal was investigated, but also, the recovery of effluent was investigated to provide a standard quality for effluent disposal and supply for agricultural and industrial uses. The results showed that the EO process was able to eliminate COD and color by 98.9 and 99.0%, respectively. The EC process at optimum conditions had the removal efficiencies of 82.2 and 68.3% for COD and color, respectively, which could not treat the effluent completely. While the EC process produces a wastewater with COD of 1620 mg/L that needs extra treatment for agriculture and reuse, the process of EO produces a wastewater with COD of about 92 mg/L, whose its organic loading is suitable for agricultural purposes but not appropriate for industrial uses. The combined EC/EO process can produce an effluent with COD ≤ 5 mg/L that has standard quality for disposal and use for agricultural needs as well as for reuse in tannery process. Moreover, the EC/EO process has low energy consumption of 18.2 kWh/m3 as compared with EO process with energy consumption of 60 kWh/m3. The combined EC/EO process is useful for the treatment of tannery wastewater so that the effluent can be used for industrial purposes. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 637–644, 2018
Visual Attention to Ambiguous Emotional Faces in Eating Disorders: Role of Alexithymia
Authors: Fujiwara Esther , Kube Veronica L. , Rochman Daniel , Macrae‐Korobkov Alexander K. , Peynenburg Vanessa ,   The University of Alberta Hospital Eating Disorder Program
Published: August 2017

Eating disorders (EDs) are often accompanied by social–emotional problems. Recently, alexithymia has been suggested to explain objective emotion processing deficits in EDs. We tested if elevated levels of alexithymia may explain emotional face‐processing problems in a mixed ED group (N = 24, 19 with anorexia and five with bulimia), comparing them with high‐alexithymic (N = 25) and low‐alexithymic healthy controls (N = 25). Participants judged the mixture ratio of clear and ambiguous facial emotion blends while eye movements were recorded. The ED group was less accurate judging ambiguous blends containing anger or disgust and attended less to the faces compared with low‐alexithymic controls. Reduced attention to faces, in particular the eye region, was linked to confusion with ambiguous anger and disgust in the ED group only. Although significant group differences only emerged compared with low‐alexithymic controls, the visual attention patterns underlying the ED group's problems with subtle anger and disgust expressions were not driven by alexithymia. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Planimetric and volumetric changes of reef islands in response to wave conditions
Authors: Costa Mirella B. , Macedo Eduardo C. , Siegle Eduardo
Published: August 2017

Reef islands are morphologically dynamic features located on atolls and platform reefs that are very sensitive to wave‐induced processes on different timescales. The planform morphological evolution of reef islands is widely described; however, the mechanisms of the volumetric variations in response to wave energy are still poorly documented. To assess their multitemporal vertical and horizontal mobility, we performed a series of synchronous measurements of the volumetric changes and incident wave energies at two reef islands and a shingle bank at the Rocas Atoll in the South Atlantic Ocean. The results show the differences in the magnitudes and locations of the sediment mobility between the reef islands. Whereas one island remained stable on all timescales, with only small volumetric changes concentrated at its extremities, the other island (Farol Island) showed high mobility, especially during the energetic northern swell season. The gross volumetric change reached 10.03 × 103 m3 (5% of the total island volume) on a daily timescale; however, on a seasonal scale, the gross erosion was compensated by the gross accretion, indicating a cyclical seasonal pattern. Moreover, the observed volumetric changes induced by the waves on both daily and seasonal timescales did not result in large shoreline displacements. However, long‐term oceanward erosion and substantial lagoonward accretion were observed at Farol Island on a decadal scale, resulting in a pronounced change in its planform morphology. This appears to be promoted by at least three sediment transport pathways induced by waves at the atoll, including sediment adjustment between the reef islands. Our results show that reef islands on the same atoll can have very distinct morphological behaviors on daily, seasonal and decadal scales in response to the same boundary conditions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extended finite element modeling of production from a reservoir embedded with an arbitrary fracture network
Authors: Xia Yang , Jin Yan , Oswald Jay , Chen Mian , Chen Kangping
Published: August 2017

A numerical scheme based on the eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) is proposed to simulate complex fluid flow in a fractured porous reservoir. By enriching the elements fully cut by the fracture and the near‐tip region, the flow mechanism including the tip flux singularity can be exactly represented in the XFEM formulation. Fluid transfer between the matrix and the fractures can be easily coupled, and XFEM also overcomes the sensitivity to the mesh used in the traditional unstructured discretizations, regardless of the complexity of the fracture network. The method is validated for a simple case by the exact analytical solution. Results are compared between XFEM and FEM. Case studies are presented to illustrate the power, efficiency, accuracy, and flexibility of the proposed method for simulating transient productive flow in reservoirs with complex fracture networks.
Measuring the market risk of freight rates: A forecast combination approach
Authors: Argyropoulos Christos , Panopoulou Ekaterini
Published: August 2017

This paper addresses the issue of freight rate risk measurement via value at risk (VaR) and forecast combination methodologies while focusing on detailed performance evaluation. We contribute to the literature in three ways: First, we reevaluate the performance of popular VaR estimation methods on freight rates amid the adverse economic consequences of the recent financial and sovereign debt crisis. Second, we provide a detailed and extensive backtesting and evaluation methodology. Last, we propose a forecast combination approach for estimating VaR. Our findings suggest that our combination methods produce more accurate estimates for all the sectors under scrutiny, while in some cases they may be viewed as conservative since they tend to overestimate nominal VaR.
Development of an All Solid State Battery Incorporating Graphene Oxide as Proton Conductor
Authors: Shudo Yuta , Islam Md. Saidul , Karim Mohammad Razaul , Rabin Nurun Nahar , Wakata Kosuke , Ohtani Ryo , Nakamura Masaaki , Lindoy Leonard F. , Hayami Shinya
Published: August 2017

Graphene oxide (GO) shows high proton conductivity (≈10−4 Scm−1), excellent mechanical stability, and electrical insulation property, which makes it an ideal candidate for use as a proton conducting solid state electrolyte. The prospects of using GO as single phase solid electrolyte in an all solid battery is presented herein. A battery with the cell configuration: Zn + ZnSO4•7H2O + graphite (anode) || GO (electrolyte) || MnO2 + graphite (cathode) is fabricated. Cyclic voltammetry confirms its rechargeable nature. The respective discharge capacity and power density of the cell are 360 μAh and 19.5 mW kg−1 at a constant current drain of 3 μA under the experimental conditions employed. GO based proton conductors are cleaner and cheaper than other solid electrolytes. The current study strongly suggests that GO can be used as a practical and beneficial component in solid state battery applications with low energy feedback.
Block rotation on impact – A factor to be considered in the design of rockfall protection embankments
Authors: Kister Bernd , Rubin Karl‐Heinz
Published: August 2017

In the course of several research projects carried out at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, the effect of block rotation on impact on protection embankments has been investigated. The occasion for these experimental studies was the conflicting statements in the literature about the influence of block rotation on impact and the different and mostly very simple models for the design and sizing of such structures. Considering this, both small‐scale quasi‐2D tests and half‐scale 3D tests were performed and evaluated. The test results show that block rotation, which has until now been neglected in the design and sizing of rockfall protection embankments, is actually of great significance. Three rules for the geometry of such structures could be derived from the test results.
Prediction of fault zones based on geological and geotechnical observations during tunnel construction
Authors: Lenz Gerold , Kluckner Alexander , Holzer Robert , Stadlmann Thomas , Schachinger Tobias , Gobiet Gerhard
Published: August 2017

During the construction of the Semmering Base Tunnel, Lot SBT1.1, the drives have already encountered several fault zones in the Greywacke Zone. Because of the high overburden, the exact position of these fault zones is unknown at tunnel level; a common problem for all tunnelling projects in mountainous regions. Simple exploration drilling techniques such as percussion drillings, where only cuttings and not cores are won, do not always provide enough information to precisely specify the position of the fault zones or their nature ahead of the face. This is reason enough to examine other possibilities for the short‐term prediction of fault zones with differing characteristics ahead of the face. Usually displacement data evaluation provides the basis for a short‐term prediction of the system behaviour. However, experiences from Lot SBT1.1 show that applying this approach solely does not always yield satisfying results. A further systematic analysis of selected geological data can improve the short‐term prediction. In particular, changes of discontinuity and rock mass characteristics mapped at the tunnel face are analysed to spot significant trends indicating fault zones ahead of the face. These trends are then related to and verified by the results of displacement data evaluation. This combination of rock mass characteristics mapped at the face and state‐of‐the‐art evaluation of displacement data has helped to improve the reliability of short‐term predictions during the tunnel excavation.
Hepatitis B cure: From discovery to regulatory approval
Authors: Lok Anna S. , Zoulim Fabien , Dusheiko Geoffrey , Ghany Marc G.
Published: August 2017

The majority of persons currently treated for chronic hepatitis B require long‐term or lifelong therapy. New inhibitors of hepatitis B virus entry, replication, assembly, or secretion and immune modulatory therapies are in development. The introduction of these novel compounds for chronic hepatitis B necessitates a standardized appraisal of the efficacy and safety of these treatments and definitions of new or additional endpoints to inform clinical trials. To move the field forward and to expedite the pathway from discovery to regulatory approval, a workshop with key stakeholders was held in September 2016 to develop a consensus on treatment endpoints to guide the design of clinical trials aimed at hepatitis B cure. The consensus reached was that a complete sterilizing cure, i.e., viral eradication from the host, is unlikely to be feasible. Instead, a functional cure characterized by sustained loss of hepatitis B surface antigen with or without hepatitis B surface antibody seroconversion, which is associated with improved clinical outcomes, in a higher proportion of patients than is currently achieved with existing treatments is a feasible goal. Development of standardized assays for novel biomarkers toward better defining hepatitis B virus cure should occur in parallel with development of novel antiviral and immune modulatory therapies such that approval of new treatments can be linked to the approval of new diagnostic assays used to measure efficacy or to predict response. Combination of antiviral and immune modulatory therapies will likely be needed to achieve functional hepatitis B virus cure. Limited proof‐of‐concept monotherapy studies to evaluate safety and antiviral activity should be conducted prior to proceeding to combination therapies. The safety of any new curative therapies will be paramount given the excellent safety of currently approved nucleos(t)ide analogues. (Hepatology 2017).
Chitosan‐Silica Sulfate Nano Hybrid as a Novel and Highly Proficient Heterogeneous Nano Catalyst for Regioselective Ring Opening of Epoxides via Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Behrouz Somayeh , Soltani Rad Mohammad Navid , Piltan Mohammad Amin , Doroodmand Mohammad Mahdi
Published: August 2017

The synthesis and characterization of chitosan‐silica sulfate nano hybrid (CSSNH) as a novel and efficient heterogeneous nano catalyst involving acid‐base bifunctional activity is described. The catalytic potency and activity of this eco‐friendly catalyst was investigated in regioselective ring opening of epoxides with carboxylic acids to access structurally diverse 1,2‐diol mono‐esters in good to excellent yields. CSSNH catalyst was characterized using different microscopic and spectroscopic techniques encompassing scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, N2 adsorption isotherm, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The green nature, cheapness, efficiency, ease of preparation, handling and reusability of this new catalyst makes this catalyst to be useful for green industrial processes.
Mutual fund skill in timing market volatility and liquidity
Authors: Foran Jason , O'Sullivan Niall
Published: August 2017

We investigate both market volatility timing and market liquidity timing for the first time among UK mutual funds. We find strong evidence that a small percentage of funds time market volatility successfully, that is, when conditional market volatility is higher than normal, systematic risk levels are lower. The evidence around market liquidity timing ability is similar although it is slightly less prevalent compared to volatility timing. Here, funds lower the fund market beta in anticipation of reduced market liquidity. We also find a positive relation between liquidity timing ability and fund abnormal performance where skilled liquidity timers outperform unskilled timers by around 3% p.a.—though this finding is driven by poor liquidity timing funds going on to yield negative alpha. However, despite the evidence of volatility and liquidity timing ability among funds, we fail to find in support of persistence in this timing. We find little evidence supporting market return timing ability.