bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of biochar, lime, and compost application on phosphorus adsorption in a Ferralsol
Authors: Qayyum Muhammad Farooq , Ashraf Imran , Abid Muhammad , Steffens Diedrich
Published: May 2015

Use of biochar has multiple benefits like C, soil organic matter stabilization, and agricultural productivity. However, there is limited information about the effect of biochar on P dynamics in acidic soils. Hence, we investigated the effects of fresh and aged hydrothermal coal produced from bark (HTC) and low temperature coal synthesized from sewage sludge (LTC) on the kinetics of P adsorption in a Ferralsol. The treatments comprised of a control, compost [7.7 g (kg soil)−1], hydrothermal carbonization coal [HTC, 2 g (kg soil)−1], low temperature conversion coal [LTC, 3.8 g (kg soil)−1], lime [0.3 g CaO (kg soil)−1], compost + HTC [3.8 + 1.0 g (kg soil)−1], compost + LTC [3.8 + 1.9 g (kg soil)−1, respectively], compost + lime [7.6 and 0.4 g (kg soil)−1, respectively]. The soil samples were incubated for a period of 3 months at 60% of the maximum water holding capacity. After 5 d and 3 months of the incubation period soil pH, Ca‐acetate lactate (CAL) extractable soil‐P, and P‐adsorption isotherms were determined. The results show a significant effect of treatments on soil pH just after 5 d, which remained consistent after three months of incubation. All treatments, except HTC increased the soil pH compared with the control treatment. The maximum increase in soil pH was observed with compost + lime (from 4.5 to 6.1). The CAL‐extractable P was significantly increased with application of LTC, compost + LTC, and compost + lime. The sorption parameters were not affected after 5 d of incubation. Due to residence effects, the P sorption capacity (Sm) was significantly reduced in the LTC treatment [from 1182 to 1099 mg (kg soil)−1], and in the combination treatments compost + HTC [from 1182 to1078 mg (kg soil)−1], and compost + LTC [from 1182 to 1099 mg (kg soil)−1] treatments. The P binding energy (K) was significantly increased by the addition of LTC (from 2.18 to 4.26 mg L−1), lime (from 2.18 to 4.53 mg L−1), compost + HTC (from 2.18 to 7.03 mg L−1) and compost + LTC (from 2.18 to 4.68 mg L−1). Based on the results of the present study it is concluded that alone application of biochars do not alter the P bioavailability and sorption in a Ferralsol. However, combined application of biochars along with compost significantly decreases P sorption and increases bioavailability.
Effect of the season on the free phytoprostane content in Cornicabra extra virgin olive oil from deficit‐irrigated olive trees
Authors: Collado‐González Jacinta , Pérez‐López David , Memmi Houssem , Gijón M Carmen , Medina Sonia , Durand Thierry , Guy Alexandre , Galano Jean‐Marie , Fernández Diego José , Carro Fernando , Ferreres Federico , Torrecillas Arturo , Gil‐Izquierdo Angel
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

The effect of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) on the phytoprostane (PhytoP) content in extra virgin olive (Olea europaea L., cv. Cornicabra) oil (EVOO) was studied. During the 2012 and 2013 seasons, T0 plants were irrigated at 100% ETc, while T1 and T2 plants were irrigated avoiding water deficit during phases I and III of fruit growth and saving water during the non‐critical phenological period of pit hardening (phase II), developing a more severe water deficit in T2 plants. In 2013, a fourth treatment (T3) was also performed, which was similar to T2 except that water saving was from the beginning of phase II to 15 days after the end of phase II.

RESULTS

9‐F1t‐PhytoP, 9‐epi‐9‐F1t‐PhytoP, 9‐epi‐9‐D1t‐PhytoP, 9‐D1t‐PhytoP, 16‐B1‐PhytoP and 9‐L1‐PhytoP were present in Cornicabra EVOO, and their contents increased in the EVOO from RDI plants.

CONCLUSION

Deficit irrigation during pit hardening or for a further period of 2 weeks thereafter to increase irrigation water saving is clearly critical for EVOO composition because of the enhancement of free PhytoPs, which have potential beneficial effects on human health. The response of individual free PhytoPs to changes in plant water status was not as perceptible as expected, preventing their use as biomarkers of water stress. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Generation mean analysis of grain quality traits in selected rice populations derived from different amylose characteristics
Authors: Ramli Asfaliza Bt , Rafii Mohd Y , Latif Muhamad A , Saleh Ghizan B , Omar Othman B , Puteh Adam B
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Genetic analysis using generation mean analysis is a tool for designing the most appropriate breeding approaches to developing varieties of rice. It estimates the gene actions that control quantitative traits, as well as the additive, dominance and epistatic effects. This study was conducted using three rice populations that were derived from parental lines with different amylose content. The aim was to partition the gene actions using generation mean analysis for the selected populations.

RESULTS

A scaling test was carried out to evaluate the fulfilment of the additive–dominance model. Non‐allelic interaction was observed for milled grain length, length‐to‐width ratio and milled rice recovery of all populations evaluated. An additive–dominance model was not adequate for amylose, gel consistency, grain length, grain width, milled grain width and head rice recovery, thus epistasis was involved in the populations evaluated. The importance of additive gene action was observed for grain length, milled grain length and milled rice recovery for populations of high‐ and low‐amylose parents. However, populations with intermediate‐ and high‐amylose parents and intermediate‐ and low‐amylose parents shared almost similar dominance gene actions for most of the physical grain quality traits.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that delayed selection is the best approach for traits governed by dominance and epistasis effects. Meanwhile, the traits that were governed by additive effects should undergo thorough selection at an early stage. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Living donor liver transplantation for Echinococcus Alveolaris: single‐center experience
Authors: Ozdemir Fatih , Ince Volkan , Barut Bora , Onur Asim , Kayaalp Cuneyt , Yilmaz Sezai
Published: May 2015

Echinococcus alveolaris (EA) causes a hepatic zoonotic infection and behaves like a malignant tumor during invasion. Liver transplantation (LT) is the only curative treatment option for this unresectable disease. Here, we share our experience with living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) due to EA from the time between March 2002 and November 2014 at the Liver Transplantation Institute of İnönü University. Ten patients (mean age, 38.6 years) undergoing LDLT because of unresectable EA were evaluated preoperatively, and the operative and follow‐up data were analyzed retrospectively. The mean time interval between diagnosis and LT was 27 months. The mean operation time and mean intraoperative blood requirement were 613 minutes and 4 units of packed red blood cells, respectively. Diaphragmatic resections were performed in 3 patients, and vena cava replacement was performed in 2 patients because of difficulties in removing the extended disease. The local recurrence and distant metastasis rates were 10% and 20%, respectively. The mean survival time was 19.5 months (range, 0‐54 months), and the mortality rate was 30%. Unresectable hepatic alveolar echinococcosis is a rare indication for LT and presents some technical difficulties during surgery because diaphragmatic resection, vascular reconstruction, or multiple blood transfusions may be needed. LDLT can be performed successfully in patients with this rare infectious disease, with careful follow‐up for potential recurrence and metastasis and administration of low‐dose immunosuppressive agents. Liver Transpl 21:1091‐1095, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Hyaluronic Acid/Poly‐l‐Lysine Multilayers as Reservoirs for Storage and Release of Small Charged Molecules
Authors: Prokopović Vladimir Z. , Duschl Claus , Volodkin Dmitry
Published: May 2015

Polyelectrolyte multilayer films are nowadays very attractive for bioapplications due to their tunable properties and ability to control cellular response. Here we demonstrate that multilayers made of hyaluronic acid and poly‐l‐lysine act as high‐capacity reservoirs for small charged molecules. Strong accumulation within the film is explained by electrostatically driven binding to free charges of polyelectrolytes. Binding and release mechanisms are discussed based on charge balance and polymer dynamics in the film. Our results show that transport of molecules through the film‐solution interface limits the release rate. The multilayers might serve as an effective platform for drug delivery and tissue engineering due to high potential for drug loading and controlled release.
A construction of real closed fields
Authors: Tanaka Yu‐ichi , Tsuboi Akito
Published: May 2015

We introduce a new construction of real closed fields by using an elementary extension of an ordered field with an integer part satisfying . This method can be extend to a finite extension of an ordered field with an integer part satisfying . In general, a field obtained from our construction is either real closed or algebraically closed, so an analogy of Ostrowski's dichotomy holds. Moreover we investigate recursive saturation of an o‐minimal extension of a real closed field by finitely many function symbols.
Classical provability of uniform versions and intuitionistic provability
Authors: Fujiwara Makoto , Kohlenbach Ulrich
Published: May 2015

Along the line of Hirst‐Mummert and Dorais , we analyze the relationship between the classical provability of uniform versions Uni(S) of Π2‐statements S with respect to higher order reverse mathematics and the intuitionistic provability of S. Our main theorem states that (in particular) for every Π2‐statement S of some syntactical form, if its uniform version derives the uniform variant of over a classical system of arithmetic in all finite types with weak extensionality, then S is not provable in strong semi‐intuitionistic systems including bar induction in all finite types but also nonconstructive principles such as Kőnig's lemma and uniform weak Kőnig's lemma . Our result is applicable to many mathematical principles whose sequential versions imply .
Non‐hormonal targets underlying endometriosis: A focus on molecular mechanisms
Authors: Che Xiao‐hang , Chen Yi‐chen , Chen Chun‐lin , Ye Xiao‐lei , Zhu Hong
Published: May 2015

Endometriosis is regarded as a hormone‐dependent disease. Current therapeutic approaches to treating this common gynecological disorder mainly depend on surgical and hormonal interventions, but the high rate of disease recurrence as well as the side effects related to such therapies make it difficult for patients to recover completely. Molecular evidence has recently suggested that the source of endometriosis can be both hormone‐dependent and influenced by the dysregulation of some signaling cascades. In this review, we focus on the non‐hormonal triggers of endometriosis and the pre‐clinical compounds designed to correct these signaling defects in order to achieve a better understanding of the disease as well as novel approaches to treating it. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 410–431, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Model‐Based Production of Polymer Chains Having Precisely Designed End‐to‐End Gradient Copolymer Composition and Chain Topology Distributions in Controlled Radical Polymerization, A Review
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Liang Shaoning , Wang Wen‐Jun , Li Bo‐Geng , Luo Yingwu , Zhu Shiping
Published: May 2015

Polymer chain microstructures, such as copolymer composition distribution (CCD) and topology, play an important role in determining materials properties of the polymer products. The design and control of polymer chain microstructures represents an important task in macromolecular reaction engineering. Semi‐batch copolymerization with the model‐based design of comonomer feeding policies provides a powerful approach enabling precision production of CCD, topology, and their combined structures in controlled radical copolymerization systems. Various novel polymer products with predesigned CCDs and topologies have been successfully prepared by the approach. This article highlights the recent progresses in this area.
Velocity measurement of microvessels using phase‐contrast magnetic resonance angiography at 7 tesla MRI
Authors: Kang Chang‐Ki , Park Chan‐A , Lee David Soobin , Lee Yeong‐Bae , Park Cheol‐Wan , Kim Young‐Bo , Cho Zang‐Hee
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to measure the velocity and direction of blood flow in microvessels, such as lenticulostriate arteries (LSAs), using PC MRA.

Methods

Eleven healthy subjects were scanned with 7 Tesla (T) MRI. Three velocity encoding (VENC) values of 15, 50, and 100 cm/s were tested for detecting the flow velocity in LSAs. The flow directions in Circle of Willis (CoW) were also examined with images obtained by the proposed method. Three subjects were also scanned with 3T MRI to determine the possibility of velocity measurement in LSAs. Difference between 3T and 7T was quantitatively analyzed in terms of signal‐to‐noise ratio and velocities in vessels and static tissues.

Results

In 7T MRI, use of VENC = 15 cm/s provided great visualization and velocity measurements in small and slow flowing vessels, such as the LSAs. The mean of peak velocities in LSAs was 9.61 ± 1.78 cm/s. The results obtained with low VENC also clearly depicted the directions of flow in CoW, especially in posterior communicating arteries. However, 3T MRI could not detect the velocity of blood flow in LSAs.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the potential for measuring the velocity and direction of blood flow in the targeted microvessels using an appropriate VENC and 7T MRI. Magn Reson Med 75:1640–1646, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variable flip angle T1 mapping in the human brain with reduced t2 sensitivity using fast radiofrequency‐spoiled gradient echo imaging
Authors: Heule Rahel , Ganter Carl , Bieri Oliver
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Variable flip angle (VFA) T1 quantification using three‐dimensional (3D) radiofrequency (RF) spoiled gradient echo imaging offers the acquisition of whole‐brain T1 maps in clinically acceptable times. However, conventional VFA T1 relaxometry is biased by incomplete spoiling (i.e., residual T2 dependency). A new postprocessing approach is proposed to overcome this T2‐related bias.

Methods

T1 is quantified from the signal ratio of two spoiled gradient echo (SPGR) images acquired at different flip angles using an analytical solution for the RF‐spoiled steady‐state signal in combination with a global T2 guess. T1 accuracy is evaluated from simulations and in vivo 3D SPGR imaging of the human brain at 3 Tesla.

Results

The simulations demonstrated that the sensitivity of VFA T1 mapping to T2 can considerably be reduced using a global T2 guess. The method proved to deliver reliable and accurate T1 values in vivo for white and gray matter in good agreement with inversion recovery reference measurements.

Conclusion

Based on a global T2 estimate, the accuracy of VFA T1 relaxometry in the human brain can substantially be improved compared with conventional approaches which rely on the generally wrong assumption of ideal spoiling. Magn Reson Med 75:1413–1422, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of Timd2 as a reporter gene for MRI
Authors: Patrick P. Stephen , Rodrigues Tiago B. , Kettunen Mikko I. , Lyons Scott K. , Neves André A. , Brindle Kevin M.
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To assess the potential of an MRI gene reporter based on the ferritin receptor Timd2 (T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain containing protein 2), using T1‐ and T2‐weighted imaging.

Methods

Pellets of cells that had been modified to express the Timd2 transgene, and incubated with either iron‐loaded or manganese‐loaded ferritin, were imaged using T1‐ and T2‐weighted MRI. Mice were also implanted subcutaneously with Timd2‐expressing cells and the resulting xenograft tissue imaged following intravenous injection of ferritin using T2‐weighted imaging.

Results

Timd2‐expressing cells, but not control cells, showed a large increase in both R2 and R1 in vitro following incubation with iron‐loaded and manganese‐loaded ferritin, respectively. Expression of Timd2 had no effect on cell viability or proliferation; however, manganese‐loaded ferritin, but not iron‐loaded ferritin, was toxic to Timd2‐expressing cells. Timd2‐expressing xenografts in vivo showed much smaller changes in R2 following injection of iron‐loaded ferritin than the same cells incubated in vitro with iron‐loaded ferritin.

Conclusion

Timd2 has demonstrated potential as an MRI reporter gene, producing large increases in R2 and R1 with ferritin and manganese‐loaded ferritin respectively in vitro, although more modest changes in R2 in vivo. Manganese‐loaded apoferritin was not used in vivo due to the toxicity observed in vitro. Magn Reson Med, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Magn Reson Med 75:1697–1707, 2016. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance.
Frictionless contact formulation for dynamic analysis of nonlinear saturated porous media based on the mortar method
Authors: Sabetamal Hassan , Nazem Majid , Sloan Scott W. , Carter John P.
Published: May 2015

A finite element algorithm for frictionless contact problems in a two‐phase saturated porous medium, considering finite deformation and inertia effects, has been formulated and implemented in a finite element programme. The mechanical behaviour of the saturated porous medium is predicted using mixture theory, which models the dynamic advection of fluids through a fully saturated porous solid matrix. The resulting mixed formulation predicts all field variables including the solid displacement, pore fluid pressure and Darcy velocity of the pore fluid. The contact constraints arising from the requirement for continuity of the contact traction, as well as the fluid flow across the contact interface, are enforced using a penalty approach that is regularised with an augmented Lagrangian method. The contact formulation is based on a mortar segment‐to‐segment scheme that allows the interpolation functions of the contact elements to be of order N. The main thrust of this paper is therefore how to deal with contact interfaces in problems that involve both dynamics and consolidation and possibly large deformations of porous media. The numerical algorithm is first verified using several illustrative examples. This algorithm is then employed to solve a pipe‐seabed interaction problem, involving large deformations and dynamic effects, and the results of the analysis are also compared with those obtained using a node‐to‐segment contact algorithm. The results of this study indicate that the proposed method is able to solve the highly nonlinear problem of dynamic soil–structure interaction when coupled with pore water pressures and Darcy velocity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Do ultrasound findings of levator ani “avulsion” correlate with anatomical findings: A multicenter cadaveric study
Authors: Da Silva Ana Sofia , Digesu G. Alessandro , Dell'Utri Chiara , Fritsch Helga , Piffarotti Paola , Khullar Vik
Published: May 2015

Aims

This study aimed to validate the levator “avulsion” injury as seen on ultrasound against anatomical dissection in the same cadaver.

Methods

Puboviseral muscle (PVM) anatomy of female cadavers was studied using 3D‐translabial ultrasonography and an “avulsion” confirmed per standard recommendations [Dietz HP. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 53:220–230, 2013]. Cadavers were then dissected to determine the macroscopic attachment or detachment of the PVM and the dimensions including the PVM symphysis gap and PVM attachment depth. Intra and inter‐observer reliability of USS findings and anatomical measurements were assessed using the Cohen's κ and Bland & Altman plots respectively. McNemar's and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare imaging and cadaveric dissection findings.

Results

“Avulsions” were seen on imaging in 11/30 (36.7%) cadavers; the defect was bilateral in 1/30 (3.3%) and unilateral in 10/30 (33.3%). No “avulsion” was found at dissection (McNemar's χ2 = 60.0, P < 0.001). An additional thirty‐nine cadavers were dissected with no “avulsion” identified. A narrower PVM insertion depth was strongly associated with “avulsion” on ultrasound (mean: 4.79 mm vs. 6.32 mm, Z = −3.191, P = 0.001). Intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement was perfect (K = 1.0 ± 0.0) and good (K = 0.85 ± 0.142) for anatomical “avulsions” and USS, respectively.

Conclusions

There is a clear difference between anatomical and USS findings. The imaged appearance of an “avulsion” does not represent a true anatomical “avulsion” as confirmed on dissection. The term “avulsion” is misrepresentative and should not be used to describe this imaging finding. Moreover, further attempts at surgically repairing this defect should be avoided, at least until there is a better understanding of its pathophysiology. Neurourol. Urodynam 35:683–688, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chance‐constrained multi‐terminal network design problems
Authors: Song Yongjia , Zhang Minjiao
Published: May 2015

We consider a reliable network design problem under uncertain edge failures. Our goal is to select a minimum‐cost subset of edges in the network to connect multiple terminals together with high probability. This problem can be seen as a stochastic variant of the Steiner tree problem. We propose two scenario‐based Steiner cut formulations, study the strength of the proposed valid inequalities, and develop a branch‐and‐cut solution method. We also propose an LP‐based separation for the scenario‐based directed Steiner cut inequalities using Benders feasibility cuts, leveraging the success of the directed Steiner cuts for the deterministic Steiner tree problem. In our computational study, we test our branch‐and‐cut method on instances adapted from graphs in SteinLib Testdata Library with up to 100 nodes, 200 edges, and 17 terminals. The performance of our branch‐and‐cut method demonstrates the strength of the scenario‐based formulations and the benefit from adding the additional valid inequalities that we propose. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 321–334, 2015
A new reduced integration solid‐shell element based on EAS and ANS with hourglass stabilization
Authors: Li Qiaomin , Liu Yuqi , Zhang Zhibing , Zhong Wen
Published: May 2015

In this paper, a novel reduced integration eight‐node solid‐shell finite element formulation with hourglass stabilization is proposed. The enhanced assumed strain method is adopted to eliminate the well‐known volumetric and Poisson thickness locking phenomena with only one internal variable required. In order to alleviate the transverse shear and trapezoidal locking and correct rank deficiency simultaneously, the assumed natural strain method is implemented in conjunction with the Taylor expansion of the inverse Jacobian matrix. The projection of the hourglass strain‐displacement matrix and reconstruction of its transverse shear components are further employed to avoid excessive hourglass stiffness. The proposed solid‐shell element formulation successfully passes both the membrane and bending patch tests. Several typical examples are presented to demonstrate the excellent performance and extensive applicability of the proposed element. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic pricing in subsidized performing arts
Authors: Labaronne Leticia , Slembeck Tilman
Published: May 2015

While current pricing strategies in public theaters are mostly based on static schemes, this paper analyzes the potential of dynamic pricing. Subsidized performing arts organizations face the challenge of selling a fixed capacity (available seats of a venue) to a broad and varied audience. Based on the literature and on empirical evidence from a survey among Swiss theaters, we discuss whether and to what extent yield management and uniform‐price auctions—two widespread dynamic pricing mechanisms in the Internet age—can be applied to public theaters in view of the particular goals and targets imposed by their source of funding and by subsidy contracts. Our analysis suggests that although the application of yield management may not be advantageous in the current environment, the introduction of dynamic elements (including auctions) to prevailing pricing strategies can help public theaters respond to temporal demand fluctuations and fill up performances with a varied audience. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation, characterization, and performance of a novel hollow fiber nanofiltration membrane
Authors: Mondal Mrinmoy , De Sirshendu
Published: May 2015

Nanofiltration (NF) grade hollow fiber membrane was prepared by incorporation of zinc chloride into polysulfone–polyethylene glycol (molecular weight 200) blend. A 1.0 wt% zinc chloride in the blend reduced the molecular weight cut off (MWCO) of hollow fibers from 44 kDa (average pore size 64A0) to a nanofiltration range of MWCO 870 Da (average pore size 7.69 A°). MWCO decreased further to 330 Da (average pore size 4.78 A°) on addition of 2.5 wt% zinc chloride. types of NF hollow fiber were spun, corresponding to zinc chloride concentration of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 wt%. Ternary phase diagram qualitatively explained the denser morphology for various concentrations of zinc chloride. This was supported by scanning electron micrographs of cross‐section and top surface of hollow fibers. NF membranes possessed negative surface charge at extreme pH conditions. Rejection of 1000 mg/l sodium chloride solution was in between 38 to 45% at pH 11, and for divalent sodium sulfate, it was in the range of 55 to 62%. Rejection of dye congo red was found to be 100%. NF membranes showed reasonable antifouling characteristics having flux recovery ratio of more than 90% and a flux decline ratio of less than 10%. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Behavior of biodegradable composites based on starch reinforced with modified cellulosic fibers
Authors: Spiridon Iuliana , Anghel Narcis , Bele Adrian
Published: May 2015

The aims of this study were to develop composite films based on potato starch and cellulose modified with toluenediisocyanate, to investigate their morphology and structure, and to evaluate their behavior to enzymatic hydrolysis and their potential use to manufacture of biodegradable seedling pots. The effects of modified cellulosic fibers upon mechanical properties and biodegradability of composite materials based on starch matrix were investigated by tensile strength tests, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and dynamic vapor sorption. The behavior of the films to enzymatic hydrolysis with amylase and cellulase was studied; the kinetic of enzymatic hydrolysis and characterization of materials are reported. Chemical modification of cellulose improves tensile strength with about 47%, and decreases the biodegradability of composites making them more resistant to microbial attack, thus prolonging their shelf life. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Upfront treatment of high‐risk neuroblastoma with a combination of 131I‐MIBG and topotecan
Authors: Kraal Kathelijne C.J.M. , Tytgat Godelieve A.M. , van Eck‐Smit Berthe L.F. , Kam Boen , Caron Huib N. , van Noesel Max
Published: May 2015

Background

131I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine (131I‐MIBG) has a significant anti‐tumor effect against neuroblastoma (NBL). Topotecan (TPT) can act as a radio‐sensitizer and can up‐regulate 131I‐MIBG uptake in vitro in NBL.

Aim

Determine the efficacy of the combination of 131I‐MIBG with topotecan in newly diagnosed high‐risk (HR) NBL patients.

Methods

In a prospective, window phase II study, patients with newly diagnosed high‐risk neuroblastoma were treated at diagnosis with two courses of 131I‐MIBG directly followed by topotecan (0.7 mg/m2 for 5 days). After these two courses, standard induction treatment (four courses of VECI), surgery and myeloablative therapy (MAT) with autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) was given. Response was measured after two courses of 131I‐MIBG‐topotecan and post MAT and ASCT. Hematologic toxicity and harvesting of stem cells were analysed. Topoisomerase‐1 activity levels were analysed in primary tumor material.

Results

Sixteen patients were included in the study; median age was 2.8 years. MIBG administered activity (AA) (median and range) of the first course was 0.5 (0.4–0.6) GBq/kg (giga Becquerel/kilogram) and of the second course 0.4 (0.3–0.5) GBq/kg. The overall objective response rate (ORR) after 2 × MIBG/TPT was 57%, the primary tumor RR was 94%, and bone marrow RR was 43%. The ORR post MAT and ASCT was 57%. Hematologic grade four toxicity: after first and second 131I‐MIBG (platelets 25/33%, neutrophils 13/33%, and hemoglobin 25/7%). Topoisomerase‐1 activity levels were increased in 10/10 (100%) measured tumors.

Conclusions

Combination therapy with MIBG‐topotecan is an effective window treatment in newly diagnosed high‐risk neuroblastoma patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multifunctional metal composite textile shields against electromagnetic radiation—effect of various parameters on electromagnetic shielding effectiveness
Authors: Šafářová Veronika , Militký Jiří
Published: May 2015

Over the last few years, there has been mounting concern about the possibility of adverse health effects resulting from exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, such as those emitted by wireless communication devices. For the reason given above, a demand for protection of human beings against influence of electromagnetic signals and troublesome charges, has been increasing. Therefore textile structures with increased electromagnetic shielding ability, which satisfy the requirements for casual dress or preserve air circulation at workplace, is suitable. This article presents the present state of fabrication and characterization of multifunctional light weight flexible fabrics with increased resistance to electromagnetic radiation while preserving basic properties of textile structures designated for clothing or technical purposes. In this article, an effect of metal content, a placement of conductive yarn, geometry, moisture content and correlation with frequencies is studied. In addition, percolation thresholds are identified and a form of relation between conductive component and total shielding effectiveness is proposed. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:309–323, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
LC‐MS‐based metabolite profiling of methanolic extracts from the medicinal and aromatic species Mentha pulegium and Origanum majorana
Authors: Taamalli Amani , Arráez‐Román David , Abaza Leila , Iswaldi Ihsan , Fernández‐Gutiérrez Alberto , Zarrouk Mokhtar , Segura‐Carretero Antonio
Published: May 2015

Introduction

There has been increasing interest dedicated to the phenolic compounds with a view to their antioxidant and healthy properties. Recent studies have focused on plants from the Lamiaceae family with special interest in phenolic compounds antioxidant potential.

Objective

The metabolite profile of methanolic extracts from two Lamiacea medicinal plants was investigated.

Materials and Methods

Mentha pulegium and Origanum majorana methanolic extracts were analysed using reversed‐phase ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐UHPLC) coupled to electrospray ionisation quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (ESI‐QTOF‐MS) detection in the negative ion mode.

Results

A total of 85 metabolites were characterised from different families, such as organic acids and derivatives, amino acids and derivatives, nucleosides, phenolic compounds as well as other polar metabolites, by using the MS and MS/MS information provided by the QTOF‐MS. However, the total phenols and flavonoids were also quantified spectrophotometrically and they registered higher amounts in Mentha pulegium than in Origanum majorana extract. Gallocatechin was the major compound in M. pulegium extract whereas quercetin dimethyl ether, jaceidin and dihydrokaempferide were the major ones in O. majorana extract.

Conclusion

The distribution of phenolic compounds in the methanolic extract showed a variation among studied plants. Mentha pulegium can be considered as a source of gallocatechin. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Current knowledge of prenatal diagnosis of mosaic autosomal trisomy in amniocytes: karyotype/phenotype correlations
Authors: Wallerstein Robert , Misra Sonya , Dugar R. Bryce , Alem Monika , Mazzoni Ronit , Garabedian Matthew J.
Published: May 2015

Genetic counseling for prenatal diagnosis of autosomal trisomy is complex because of the uncertainty of outcome, which is important for management decisions. Compilation of cases of prenatally diagnosed autosomal trisomies in amniocytes has been done previously in an attempt to elucidate the clinical phenotype of these pregnancies. It has been greater than a decade since these studies were completed. To update this work, we reviewed cases reported in the literature since that time. These cases are correlated with the prior reports to increase knowledge about outcomes and to hopefully improve the data available for genetic counseling. The risk of abnormal outcome can be summarized as: very high risk (>60%) for 47,+2/46; 47,+9/46; 47,+16/46; 47,+20/46; and 47,+22/46; high risk (40–59%) for 47,+5/46; 47,+14/46; and 47,+15/46; moderately high risk (20–39%) for 47,+7/46 47,+12/46; and 47,+17/46; moderate risk (up to 19%) for 47,+6/46 and 47,+8/46, and none were low risk. 47,+6/46 was originally indeterminate, 47,+7/46 was originally moderate risk, 47,+9/46 was originally high risk, and 47,+17/46 was originally low risk. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Negative Poisson's ratio for six‐constant tetragonal nano/microtubes
Authors: Goldstein Robert V. , Gorodtsov Valentin A. , Lisovenko Dmitry S. , Volkov Mikhail A.
Published: May 2015

Analytical and numerical features of the elastic properties of curvilinearly anisotropic six‐constant tetragonal nano/microtubes are considered. The analytical formulas for Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio are obtained in the case of axial extension. Numerical calculations are performed using these formulas and data on the elastic constants from the Landolt–Börnstein Handbook. The parametric dependences of Young's modulus and Poisson's ratios for nano/microtubes are analyzed in detail. The basic parameters are elastic compliances, chiral angles, and ratios of the radii of hollow cylindrical tubes.
Models for the prediction of Poisson's ratio in the ‘α‐cristobalite’ tetrahedral framework
Authors: Nazaré Frank , Alderson Andrew
Published: May 2015

Analytical model derivations for predictions of the on‐axis Poisson's ratios of the ‘α‐cristobalite’ framework of corner‐sharing tetrahedra are presented in full, for the first time, for a previously reported second tetrahedral rotation mechanism. Parametric analyses are performed for each of the three concurrent models (two 2‐mode models where dilation acts with each rotation mechanism (the CTM1 and CTM2 models), and the model where all three mechanisms operate (CTM3)) to explore the Poisson's ratio dependency on the key model geometrical and deformation strength parameters. Predictions in good agreement with all experimental on‐axis Poisson's ratios specifically for silica α‐cristobalite are possible for the new CTM3 model comprising two tetrahedral rotation mechanisms acting concurrently with tetrahedral dilation when direction‐dependent strength parameters are employed. This is a significant improvement over the previous analytical model incorporating the tetrahedral dilation and first tetrahedral rotation mechanisms and which only achieved good agreement for loading along the longitudinal x3 axis.
Quantumness of correlations and Maxwell's demon in molecular excitations created by neutron scattering
Authors: Chatzidimitriou‐Dreismann C. A.
Published: May 2015

Nonclassical correlations known as entanglement, quantum discord, quantum deficit, measurement‐induced disturbance, quantum Maxwell's demon, etc., may provide novel insights into quantum‐information processing, quantum‐thermodynamics processes, open‐system dynamics, quantum molecular dynamics, and general quantum chemistry. We study a new effect of quantumness of correlations accompanying collision of two distinguishable quantum systems A and B, the latter being part of a larger (interacting) system B + D. In contrast to the common assumption of a classical environment or “demon” D, the quantum case exhibits striking new qualitative features. Here, in the context of incoherent inelastic neutron scattering from H‐atoms which create molecular excitations (vibration, rotation, translation), we report theoretical and experimental evidence of a new phenomenon: a considerably reduced effective mass of H, or equivalently, an anomalous momentum‐transfer deficit in the neutron‐H collision. These findings contradict conventional theoretical expectations even qualitatively, but find a straightforward interpretation in the new theoretical frame under consideration. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Why We Plan: The Impact of Nascent Entrepreneurs' Cognitive Characteristics and Human Capital on Business Planning
Authors: Brinckmann Jan , Kim Sung Min
Published: May 2015

We examine the impact of nascent entrepreneurs' cognitive attributes and human capital on business planning behavior. We find that entrepreneurial self‐efficacy facilitates development of formal business plans and entrepreneurial perseverance promotes engaging in business planning activities. Further, advanced academic education leads nascent entrepreneurs to engage in business planning activities and create formal business plans, but prior work experience has a marginal effect on business plan formality. The results further indicate that a nascent entrepreneur's striving for outside financing promotes business planning activities, while being in a supportive environment or a member of a business association does not impact business planning behavior. Copyright © 2015 Strategic Management Society.
The Effect of Defense Agency Funding of University Research on Regional New Venture Creation
Authors: Plummer Lawrence A. , Gilbert Brett Anitra
Published: May 2015

This study explores the effects of defense agency funding of university research on regional new venture creation. We argue that ‘closed’ university research may constrain the direct flow of new knowledge into the entrepreneurial process, but does not restrict more tacit and indirect flows of university research. We find a negative (positive) effect of the defense share of university research funding on short‐term (long‐term) regional start‐up rates. This may indicate that while defense‐funded research may not seed start‐ups directly, the knowledge carried into the private sector through more indirect channels may contribute, albeit slowly, to regional entrepreneurial activity. Copyright © 2015 Strategic Management Society.
Evaluation and comparison of layered titanate nanosheets using TOF‐SIMS and g‐ogram analysis
Authors: Mihara Ichiro , Nakagawa Keizo , Kudo Masahiro , Aoyagi Satoka
Published: May 2015

The evaluation of nanostructure is important to develop the highly controlled nanomaterials. In this study, two kinds of layered titanate nanosheets, which were produced by using hexylamine and laurylamine, respectively, as surfactants were investigated by Gentle Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry Gentle‐SIMS (G‐SIMS) and g‐ogram, which is the latest Time‐of‐Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) data analysis method for detecting more intact ions and obtaining the information on original chemical structures of samples precisely from complicated TOF‐SIMS spectra. As a result, molecular related ions of the surfactants were detected from each sample, and the structural information of samples was obtained. From both samples, surfactant molecular ions connected with hydrocarbon were detected as more intact ions rather than molecular ions of themselves. It was suggested that hydrophobic domains of their lamellar mesostructure are formed robustly by more than two surfactant molecules connected with each other linearly. After all, important information on the chemical structure of the layered titanate nanosheets, which would be difficult to be found by using typical structural analysis methods such as X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, were obtained using G‐SIMS and g‐ogram. Therefore, it was shown that g‐ogram and G‐SIMS are helpful to evaluate the nanostructured materials. And it was also shown that g‐ogram is applicable to organic–inorganic materials which contain long hydrocarbon structures. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cu7S4 Nanosuperlattices with Greatly Enhanced Photothermal Efficiency
Authors: Cui Jiabin , Jiang Rui , Xu Suying , Hu Gaofei , Wang Leyu
Published: May 2015

According to the simulation, the self‐assembly of Cu7S4 nanocrystals would enhance the photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE) because of the localized surface plasmon resonance effects, which is highly desirable for photothermal therapy (PTT). A new strategy to synthesize Cu7S4 nanosuperlattices with greatly enhanced PCE up to 65.7% under irradiation of 808 nm near infrared light is reported here. By tuning the surface properties of Cu7S4 nanocrystals during the synthesis via thermolysis of a new single precursor, dispersed nanoparticles (NPs), rod‐like alignments, and nanosuperlattices are obtained, respectively. To explore their PTT applications, these hydrophobic nanostructures are transferred into water by coating with home‐made amphiphilic polymer while maintaining their original structures. Under identical conditions, the PCE are 48.62% and 56.32% for dispersed NPs and rod‐like alignments, respectively. As expected, when the nanoparticles are self‐assembled into nanosuperlattices, the PCE is greatly enhanced up to 65.7%. This strong PCE, along with their excellent photothermal stability and good biocompatibility, renders these nanosuperlattices good candidates as PTT agents. In vitro photothermal ablation performances have undoubtedly proved the excellent PCE of our Cu7S4 nanosuperlattices. This research offers a versatile and effective solution to get PTT agents with high photothermal efficiency.
C‐strider: type‐aware heap traversal for C
Authors: Saur Karla , Hicks Michael , Foster Jeffrey S.
Published: May 2015

Researchers have proposed many tools and techniques that work by traversing the heap, including checkpointing systems, heap profilers, heap assertion checkers, and dynamic software updating systems. Yet building a heap traversal for C remains difficult, and to our knowledge, extant services have used their own application‐specific traversals. This paper presents C‐strider, a framework for writing C heap traversals and transformations. Writing a basic C‐strider service requires implementing only four callbacks; C‐strider then generates a program‐specific traversal that invokes the callbacks as each heap location is visited. Critically, C‐strider is type aware – it tracks types as it walks the heap, so every callback is supplied with the exact type of the associated location. We used C‐strider to implement heap serialization, dynamic software updating, heap checking, and profiling, and then applied the resulting traversals to several programs. We found that C‐strider requires little programmer effort, and the resulting services are efficient and effective. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Showing, Not Telling
Authors: Branscombe Margaret
Published: May 2015

The article positions the body as a neglected entity within education today. In opposition to seat based and individual oriented learning, the article presents the process drama convention of ‘tableau’ as an example of collaborative, embodied learning that gets students out of their seats and moving as they create representations of texts. The article is grounded in Vygotsky's theory of tools as shaping cognition and in the article, tableau is presented as a tool that changes the way students think about informational texts and enhances comprehension. In light of current reading policy on the close reading of informational texts, the author considers tableau as an alternative and innovative approach to representing the main ideas within such texts. However, the article also provides examples for the use of tableau across a range of text genres and steps for teachers to follow in the implementation of tableau in their classroom.
Differential radial growth response of three coexisting dominant tree species to local and large‐scale climate variability in a subtropical evergreen broad‐leaved forest of China
Authors: Su Hongxin , Axmacher Jan C. , Yang Bo , Sang Weiguo
Published: May 2015

Subtropical evergreen broad‐leaved forests (EBF) face great pressure from global climate change. However, little consensus exists related to how coexisting trees in these forests will respond to climatic change. We used tree rings to establish climate‐growth relationships of three coexisting dominant canopy tree species in an EBF located in the Gutianshan National Nature Reserve, Zhejiang Province, in eastern China. Our results emphasize highly species‐specific radial growth responses to both local and large‐scale climate variability. The radial growth of Pinus massoniana was enhanced by high minimum autumn and low winter temperatures as well as La Niña events. Positive growth responses in Castanopsis eyrei were linked to high minimum summer and spring temperatures. Low winter temperatures and summer sunshine also increased the growth of Schima superba. We modeled future tree‐ring growth using two climate change scenarios. Under both an intermediate (Representative Concentration Pathway, RCP 4.5) and a high emission climate change scenario (RCP 8.5), we projected further growth acceleration in C. eyrei, but a reduced growth rate in S. superb. Growth of P. massoniana was not predicted to change under the RCP 4.5 scenario, but was predicted to increase significantly under the RCP 8.5 scenario. These results suggest that climate change will have repercussions for the competitive balance among these tree species in subtropical forests, and the diverging responses of individual tree species need to fully considered in any models of the effects of climate change on the EBF and in future management plans.
Marchiafava–Bignami disease – An alcohol related medical emergency
Authors: Menon Bindu , Sowmya Chowdary M. , Hima Bindu A. , Rani Usha
Published: May 2015

We report a case of Marchiafava–Bignami disease, an alcohol related neurological emergency.
Effects of aloperine on acute and inflammatory pain models in mice
Authors: Yang Yang , Jin Shao-Ju , Wang Hong-Ling , Li Yu-Xiang , Du Juan , Zhou Ru , Zheng Jie , Ma Lin , Zhao Cheng-Jun , Niu Yang , Sun Tao , Andy Li P. , Yu Jian-Qiang
Published: May 2015

Graphical Abstract