bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models of support for disclosure of HIV status to HIV‐infected children and adolescents in resource‐limited settings
Authors: Arrivé Elise , Ayaya Samuel , Davies Mary‐Ann , Chimbetete Cleophas , Edmonds Andrew , Lelo Patricia , Fong Siew Moy , Razali Kamarul Azahar , Kouakou Kouadio , Duda Stephany N , Leroy Valériane , Vreeman Rachel C ,   the IeDEA Pediatric Working Group
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Disclosure of HIV status to HIV‐infected children and adolescents is a major care challenge. We describe current site characteristics related to disclosure of HIV status in resource‐limited paediatric HIV care settings within the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium.

Methods

An online site assessment survey was conducted across the paediatric HIV care sites within six global regions of IeDEA. A standardized questionnaire was administered to the sites through the REDCap platform.

Results

From June 2014 to March 2015, all 180 sites of the IeDEA consortium in 31 countries completed the online survey: 57% were urban, 43% were health centres and 86% were integrated clinics (serving both adults and children). Almost all the sites (98%) reported offering disclosure counselling services. Disclosure counselling was most often provided by counsellors (87% of sites), but also by nurses (77%), physicians (74%), social workers (68%), or other clinicians (65%). It was offered to both caregivers and children in 92% of 177 sites with disclosure counselling. Disclosure resources and procedures varied across geographical regions. Most sites in each region reported performing staff members' training on disclosure (72% to 96% of sites per region), routinely collecting HIV disclosure status (50% to 91%) and involving caregivers in the disclosure process (71% to 100%). A disclosure protocol was available in 14% to 71% of sites. Among the 143 sites (79%) routinely collecting disclosure status process, the main collection method was by asking the caregiver or child (85%) about the child's knowledge of his/her HIV status. Frequency of disclosure status assessment was every three months in 63% of the sites, and 71% stored disclosure status data electronically.

Conclusion

The majority of the sites reported offering disclosure counselling services, but educational and social support resources and capacities for data collection varied across regions. Paediatric HIV care sites worldwide still need specific staff members' training on disclosure, development and implementation of guidelines for HIV disclosure, and standardized data collection on this key issue to ensure the long‐term health and wellbeing of HIV‐infected youth.
Indium‐111 labeling of high‐density lipoprotein‐mimicking phospholipid‐styrene maleic acid copolymer complexes and its biodistribution in mice
Authors: Tanaka Masafumi , Hosotani Akira , Mukai Takahiro
Published: July 2018

Discoidal lipid nanoparticles mimicking native high‐density lipoproteins (HDL) are promising delivery vehicles of drugs and/or imaging agents. However, little is known about the in vivo biodistribution of such discoidal lipid nanoparticles compared to liposomes, clinically available spherical lipid nanoparticles. Recently, it has been reported that synthetic polymers instead of apolipoproteins can be complexed with phospholipid to form discoidal nanoparticles. In the present study, with the aim of developing phospholipid‐synthetic polymer complexes for future clinical applications, the biodistribution of such particles in normal mice was investigated. Lipid nanoparticles comprising 1‐palmitoyl‐2‐oleoyl‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (POPC) and styrene maleic acid copolymer (SMA), having sizes similar to native HDL, were prepared using the freeze‐sonication method. POPC‐SMA complexes remained stable at 37°C for at least 3 days in buffer. By devising ways to avoid detrimental effects accompanied by pH reduction and nonspecific binding of 111In to SMA, POPC‐SMA complexes were successfully labeled with 111In without affecting particle integrity. The biodistribution of POPC‐SMA complexes in normal mice was similar to that of discoidal lipid nanoparticles composed of POPC and apolipoprotein A‐I, the major protein constituent of native HDL. Unlike liposomes, the accumulation of POPC‐SMA complexes in the spleen was low, suggesting that these complexes are not recognized as foreign substances. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first in vivo study of HDL‐mimicking phospholipid‐synthetic polymer complexes.
Direct analysis in real time coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry as a rapid tool to assess salmon (Salmo salar) freshness
Authors: Fiorino Giuseppina M. , Losito Ilario , De Angelis Elisabetta , Logrieco Antonio F. , Monaci Linda
Published: July 2018

Direct analysis in real time‐high resolution mass spectrometry (DART‐HRMS) was applied to the detection of lipid species in the lipid extracts of farmed salmon samples collected from a local retailer and analyzed right after the purchase and after storage for 4 and 6 days under refrigerated conditions.

The recognition of type and composition of lipids detected in DART‐HRMS spectra was performed by using the relevant accurate m/z data (accuracy better than 5 ppm) as input for a search on the LipidMaps database. As a result, several fatty acids (FA), either saturated or mono‐/poly‐unsaturated, and triacylglycerols (TAG) were recognized in the three types of samples from the corresponding negative and positive ion DART‐HRMS spectra, respectively. Following, spectral intensities were exploited to monitor the evolution of selected FA and TAG during the refrigeration of salmon meat. In particular, after 4 days of refrigeration, a statistically significant increase was recorded for FA with side chain compositions 18:2, 18:1, 20:5, and 22:6 despite a significant decrease found for TAG with overall side chain compositions 50:4, 52:5, 52:4, and 52:3 after the same time. These evolutions were consistent with a general model already proposed for the effect of low temperature treatments on seafood, implying the action of endogenous lipases, with consequent increase of the free FA amount and decrease in glycerophospholipids and triglycerides contents. The described results indicate DART‐HRMS as a promising MS‐based rapid tool for the assessment of fish, or other seafood, freshness.
Assessing divergent consequences of payments for ecosystem services on rural livelihoods: A case‐study in China's Loess Hills
Authors: Li Qirui , Amjath Babu T. S. , Sieber Stefan , Zander Peter
Published: July 2018

Payments for ecosystem services (PES) are often used as a tool for arresting land degradation and desertification. Nevertheless, deeper investigation of farm household systems (FHSs) changes during PES projects is rather limited. It is important to understand how various FHSs evolve with the divergent resource allocation strategies aiming at livelihood security in response to the PES scheme. Taking the Grain for Green Programme (GGP) in China as an example, the intended and unintended consequences of a PES scheme on land management and conservation are analyzed. Using principal component analysis and cluster analysis, FHSs types are identified, whereas composite indices regarding environmental, economic, and food security are created to assess the livelihood security of each type. This is followed by a regression analysis to explore the determinants of the livelihood security, as well as a cost–benefit analysis that investigates the multidimensional costs and benefits of FHSs types. The results show that seven distinct FHSs types evolved under the GGP PES scheme, with significant differences in livelihood security components. The strategy of setting aside the optimal share of land for ecosystem services, such as erosion reduction, and then compensating the economic loss with permanent and market‐oriented farming activities (greenhouse horticulture and orchards) can establish a positive link between economic development and environmental protection. Findings indicate that careful consideration of market, institutional, and policy interventions for supporting FHSs reorganization under PES schemes is needed to align the environmental goals with food and economic security goals of farm households, ensuring sustainability of the benefits while limiting the unintended consequences.
French publishing attitudes in the open access era: The case of mathematics, biology, and computer science
Authors: Boukacem‐Zeghmouri Chérifa , Dillaerts Hans , Lafouge Thierry , Bador Pascal , Sauer‐Avargues Aude
Published: July 2018

This study investigates the extent to which open access (OA) publishing models affect French researchers’ attitudes. Research questions were: What place does OA have in attitudes of French researchers in mathematics, biology, and computer science? Are French researchers aware of new publishing models? Do they publish in these new outlets? What funds do they use? What kind of feedback and satisfaction can we observe? We used a quantitative approach to identify structural trends. From April to May 2015, the authors gathered empirical data (interviews, training, and meetings) on researchers’ opinions and understanding of OA publishing models to define the variables and build up the questionnaire that was sent out in June 2015. The findings of the survey demonstrated that, when choosing journals to publish their articles, researchers did not rate OA as a criterion but rather impact, prestige, and symbolic recognition. Publishing OA articles is only in its first stages in the publishing practices of researchers. Lack of policy, prescriptions, and lack of rewards explain why OA is not a factor that determines the publishing strategies of French researchers. The researchers who take the risk of OA publishing are biologists, the older and more experienced researchers, and those who are members of editorial teams.
A note on the deductive strength of the Nielsen‐Schreier theorem
Authors: Tachtsis Eleftherios
Published: July 2018

We show that the Boolean Prime Ideal Theorem () does not imply the Nielsen‐Schreier Theorem () in , thus strengthening the result of Kleppmann from “Nielsen‐Schreier and the Axiom of Choice” that the (strictly weaker than ) Ordering Principle () does not imply in . We also show that is false in Mostowski's Linearly Ordered Model of . The above two results also settle the corresponding open problems from Howard and Rubin's “Consequences of the Axiom of Choice”.
Some remarks on the notions of boundary systems and boundary triple(t)s
Authors: Waurick Marcus , Wegner Sven‐Ake
Published: July 2018

In this note we show that if a boundary system in the sense of (Schubert et al. 2015) gives rise to any skew‐self‐adjoint extension, then it induces a boundary triplet and the classification of all extensions given by (Schubert et al. 2015) coincides with the skew‐symmetric version of the classical characterization due to (Gorbachuk et al. 1991). On the other hand we show that for every skew‐symmetric operator there is a natural boundary system which leads to an explicit description of at least one maximal dissipative extension. This is in particular also valid in the case that no boundary triplet exists for this operator.
High‐order numerical solution of viscous Burgers' equation using a Cole‐Hopf barycentric Gegenbauer integral pseudospectral method
Authors: Elgindy Kareem T. , Dahy Sayed A.
Published: July 2018

We present a novel high‐order numerical method to solve viscous Burgers' equation with smooth initial and boundary data. The proposed method combines Cole‐Hopf transformation with well‐conditioned integral reformulations to reduce the problem into either a single easy‐to‐solve integral equation with no constraints or an integral equation provided by a single integral boundary condition. Fully exponential convergence rates are established in both spatial and temporal directions by embracing a full Gegenbauer collocation scheme based on Gegenbauer‐Gauss mesh grids using apt Gegenbauer parameter values and the latest technology of barycentric Gegenbauer differentiation and integration matrices. The global collocation matrices of the reduced algebraic linear systems were derived allowing for direct linear system solvers to be used. Rigorous error and convergence analyses are presented in addition to two easy‐to‐implement pseudocodes of the proposed computational algorithms. We further show three numerical tests to support the theoretical investigations and demonstrate the superior accuracy of the method even when the viscosity parameter ν→0, in the absence of any adaptive strategies typically required for adaptive refinements.
Technical Note: Development of a phantom for dosimetric comparison of murine micro‐CT protocols with optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters
Authors: Mendez Claudia , Colpo Nadine , Duzenli Cheryl , Atwal Parmveer , Gill Brad
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This work aims to evaluate the utility and accuracy of a mouse‐like phantom and optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters (OSLDs) in measuring dose delivered to the body and lung of mice undergoing micro‐CT imaging.

Methods

A phantom with two cavities for NanoDot OSLDs (Landauer, Inc., Greenwood, IL) was designed and constructed using acrylic to model the mouse body and polyurethane foam to obtain an approximate lung tissue dose. The OSLD dose was compared to ion chamber measurements for the same imaging protocols delivered by a Siemens Inveon micro‐CT (Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc., Hoffman Estates, IL, USA). A whole body scan, using 80 kV, 0.5 mA and 0.5 mm of aluminum filter, was used to compare results to previously published data. Additionally, dose was measured for the whole body scan without the aluminum filter and two chest protocols (full and half rotation).

Results

OSLD dose results agree with chamber measurements within 3%. Average OSLD measurements for the whole body scan without filter were 10.7 ± 0.7 cGy in the abdomen and 11.2 ± 0.7 cGy in the lung. For the full rotation chest protocol, the average dose measured in the lung was 65.8 ± 4.3 cGy and 60.2 ± 3.9 cGy in the abdomen. Average doses were 41.1 ± 2.7 cGy in the lung and 38.2 ± 2.5 cGy in the abdomen for the half rotation chest protocol. The OSLD measurements showed a coefficient of variation under 1.4%. A maximum rotational geometry under‐response of 0.86% with respect to exposure at normal incidence to the OSLD was measured.

Conclusions

The doses measured were found to be comparable to other studies for the scanner configuration and protocols chosen. The phantom built for this study was found to give reproducible dose measurements with 4% uncertainty. In this way, a robust and convenient method is established for future dose assessment of micro‐CT protocols and interinstitutional comparisons.
An integral equation for the second moment function of a geometric process and its numerical solution
Authors: Pekalp Mustafa Hilmi , Aydoğdu Halil
Published: July 2018

In this article, an integral equation satisfied by the second moment function M2(t) of a geometric process is obtained. The numerical method based on the trapezoidal integration rule proposed by Tang and Lam for the geometric function M(t) is adapted to solve this integral equation. To illustrate the numerical method, the first interarrival time is assumed to be one of four common lifetime distributions, namely, exponential, gamma, Weibull, and lognormal. In addition to this method, a power series expansion is derived using the integral equation for the second moment function M2(t), when the first interarrival time has an exponential distribution.
Obesity and healthcare resource utilization: results from Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD)
Authors: le Roux C. W. , Chubb B. , Nørtoft E. , Borglykke A.
Published: July 2018

Background/Objectives

The economic burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) rises with increasing prevalence. This study estimates the association between obesity, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and associated costs in individuals with/without T2D.

Subjects/Methods

This observational cohort study used the United Kingdom Clinical Practice Research Datalink data. Between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2015, total HCRU costs and individual component costs (hospitalizations, general practitioner contacts, prescriptions) were calculated for individuals linked to the Hospital Episodes Statistics database with/without T2D with normal weight, overweight, class I, II, III obesity.

Results

A total of 396,091 individuals were included. Increasing body mass index (BMI) was associated with increased HCRU costs. At each BMI category, costs were greater for individuals with than without T2D. Relative to normal BMI, increasing BMI was positively associated with increased HCRU costs, with similar magnitude regardless of T2D. The total HCRU cost for an individual with class III obesity was 1.4‐fold (£3,695) greater than for normal weight.

Conclusion

In the United Kingdom, HCRU costs were positively associated with increasing BMI, irrespective of T2D status. The combination of T2D and obesity was associated with higher HCRU costs compared with individuals of the same BMI, without T2D. These findings suggest that prioritizing weight management programmes focused specifically on individuals with obesity and T2D may be more cost‐effective than for those with obesity alone.
Improved microfiltration and bacteria removal performance of polyethersulfone membranes prepared by modified vapor‐induced phase separation
Authors: Barzin Jalal , Safarpour Mahdie , Kordkatooli Zahra , Vahedi Mohammad
Published: July 2018

Polyethersulfone (PES) microfiltration membranes were fabricated by a combined vapor‐induced phase separation and wet phase separation method. The effect of different non‐solvent additives in casting solution, ie, acetone, diethylene glycol, and triethylene glycol (TEG) was investigated on the membrane morphology and performance. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the membrane containing TEG additive had a skinless symmetric structure with well interconnected pores. The permeability of the PES/PVP/TEG membranes increased by decreasing PES and TEG and increasing PVP concentration. Bacteria removal performance of the prepared membranes was investigated by the filtration of E. coli suspension. The membrane made from casting solution containing 15 wt.% PES, 16 wt.% PVP, and 20wt.% TEG showed a pure water flux of ~ 5370 L/m2 h at low transmembrane pressure of 10 psi and 100% bacteria removal efficiency. The results of in vitro cytotoxicity test and cell viability assay showed non‐toxic nature of the prepared membranes.
Polymeric micelleplexes for improved photothermal endosomal escape and delivery of siRNA
Authors: Chen Gang , Ding Ling , Wu Pengkai , Zhou Yiwen , Sun Minjie , Wang Kaikai , Oupický David
Published: July 2018

Effective endosomal escape is required for practical application of nucleic acid therapeutics. In this study, we prepared siRNA micelleplexes with photothermally triggered endosomal escape and improved gene silencing activity in vitro. The micelleplexes were prepared from cholesterol‐modified and CXCR4‐inhibiting poly(amido amine)s (PAMD‐Ch). Near‐infrared dye IR780 was encapsulated in cationic PMAD‐Ch micelles, which then were used to form IR780 micelleplexes with siRNA. The micelleplexes displayed improved gene silencing efficiency upon laser irradiation, which was attributed to enhanced endosomal escape because of the photothermal effects of the encapsulated IR780. The IR780 micelleplexes retained the CXCR4 antagonism and inhibition of cancer cell invasion of the parent PAMD. Overall, this study validates codelivery of IR780 in siRNA micelleplexes as promising photothermally controlled siRNA delivery approach.
Micro Nozzle Assisted Spraying Process for Re‐crystallization of Submicrometer Hexanitrostilbene Explosive
Authors: Gupta Shallu , Kumar Pal Dinesh , Jindal Deepika , Sharma Sandeep , Agarwal Arun , Lata Prem
Published: July 2018

Hexanitrostilbene has excellent thermal and shock stability, and shelf life. It has reliable initiation functioning when subjected to short duration pressure pulse stimuli. These characteristics make it one of the potential explosives for miniature devices such as exploding foil initiators, through bulkhead initiator, and fuzes for high ‘g’ applications. It also finds wide application in devices used for civilian applications such as mining and oil exploration. However, preparation of submicrometer HNS (sm‐HNS) explosives and batch‐to‐batch variation is a challenging task in terms of filtering, repeatability of particle size and shape distribution. In our research work, micro nozzle assisted spraying process (MNASP) was developed. The MNASP setup consists of micro fuel nozzle, pressure cylinder for HNS solution, flow meter and pressure gauges. The process attributes such as stirring rate, pressure, temperature, nozzle diameter, flow rate, ultra‐sonication frequency were optimized using weighted average method of Analytical Network Process (ANP) techniques. Laser diffraction‐based particle size analysis showed that sm‐HNS in the range of 300 to 700 nm, with average particle size of 515 nm and narrow standard deviation of 34 nm can be obtained using this process with very high consistency in batch‐to‐batch preparation. 1H NMR investigations were carried out to confirm the purity of sm‐HNS. FTIR spectra confirmed the structure of sm‐HNS. The process is a unique laboratory scale table‐top pilot plant which is highly repeatabe under same conditions, and cost‐effective for large scale production at the rate of 50 grams per hour. The advantage of consistency in preparation of sm‐HNS with narrow particle size distribution is observed in performance of exploding foil initiators. There is consistency in threshold firing voltage of 1.5 kV, with standard deviation of 147 V.
The Impact of Time on the Detonation Capacity of Bulk Emulsion Explosives based on Emulinit 8L
Authors: Mertuszka Piotr , Kramarczyk Bartłomiej
Published: July 2018

One of the elements of enhanced safety of mechanically loaded emulsion explosives is the loss of its explosive properties after a certain period of time, without reference to the particular research. The manufacturer described this time for approximately 48 hours from the time of its charging to the blasting holes with a gas sensitized product. Under regular conditions of mining works, this time is absolutely sufficient for safe mining operations. In practice, some unforeseeable situations may occur that the charged explosive is not fired within the prescribed period of time. The aim of the study was to verify the knowledge regarding the behavior of mechanically loaded emulsion explosives used in Polish underground copper mines by tracking the changes of detonation velocity over time. The subject of research was Emulinit 8L emulsion explosive manufactured by NITROERG from Bieruń, Poland. The measurements were provided using a MicroTrap™ VOD/Data Recorder, which allows for continuous measurement of the detonation velocity of explosives.
Methylation of the N‐terminal histidine protects a lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase from auto‐oxidative inactivation
Authors: Petrović Dejan M. , Bissaro Bastien , Chylenski Piotr , Skaugen Morten , Sørlie Morten , Jensen Marianne S. , Aachmann Finn L. , Courtade Gaston , Várnai Anikó , Eijsink Vincent G.H.
Published: July 2018

The catalytically crucial N‐terminal histidine (His1) of fungal lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) is post‐translationally modified to carry a methylation. The functional role of this methylation remains unknown. We have carried out an in‐depth functional comparison of two variants of a family AA9 LPMO from Thermoascus aurantiacus (TaLPMO9A), one with, and one without the methylation on His1. Various activity assays showed that the two enzyme variants are identical in terms of substrate preferences, cleavage specificities and the ability to activate molecular oxygen. During the course of this work, new functional features of TaLPMO9A were discovered, in particular the ability to cleave xyloglucan, and these features were identical for both variants. Using a variety of techniques, we further found that methylation has minimal effects on the pKa of His1, the affinity for copper and the redox potential of bound copper. The two LPMOs did, however, show clear differences in their resistance against oxidative damage. Studies with added hydrogen peroxide confirmed recent claims that low concentrations of H2O2 boost LPMO activity, whereas excess H2O2 leads to LPMO inactivation. The methylated variant of TaLPMO9A, produced in Aspergillus oryzae, was more resistant to excess H2O2 and showed better process performance when using conditions that promote generation of reactive‐oxygen species. LPMOs need to protect themselves from reactive oxygen species generated in their active sites and this study shows that methylation of the fully conserved N‐terminal histidine provides such protection.
New application of direct analysis in real time high‐resolution mass spectrometry for the untargeted analysis of fresh and aged secondary organic aerosols generated from monoterpenes
Authors: Schramm Sébastien , Zannoni Nora , Gros Valérie , Tillmann Ralf , Kiendler‐Scharr Astrid , Sarda‐Estève Roland , Bridoux Maxime
Published: July 2018

Rationale

Secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) represent a significant portion of total atmospheric aerosols. They are generated by the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particularly biogenic VOCs (BVOCs). The analysis of such samples is usually performed by targeted methods that often require time‐consuming preparation steps that can induce loss of compounds and/or sample contaminations.

Methods

Recently, untargeted methods using high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) have been successfully employed for a broad characterization of chemicals in SOAs. Herein we propose a new application of the direct analysis in real time (DART) ionization method combined with HRMS to quickly detect several hundred chemicals in SOAs collected on a quartz filter without sample preparation or separation techniques.

Results

The reproducibility of measurements was good, with several hundred elemental compositions common to three different replicates. The relative standard deviations of the intensities of the chemical families ranged from 6% to 35%, with sufficient sensitivity to allow the unambiguous detection of 4 ng/mm2 of pinic acid. The presence of oligomers and specific tracers was highlighted by MSn (n ≤ 4) experiments, an achievement that is difficult to attain with other ultrahigh‐resolution mass spectrometers. Contributions of this untargeted DART‐HRMS method were illustrated by the analysis of fresh and aged SOAs from different gaseous precursors such as limonene, a β‐pinene/limonene mixture or scots pines emissions.

Conclusions

The results show that it is possible to use DART‐HRMS for the identification of tracers of specific aging reactions, or for the identification of aerosols from specific biogenic precursors.
Enzymatic biodegradation of high molecular weight polymers in the sediment–water interface in the coastal river estuary
Authors: Perliński P. , Mudryk Z. J.
Published: July 2018

The level of activity of eight extracellular hydrolytic enzymes responsible for biodegradation of high molecular weight polymers in the water–sediment interface in the coastal river estuary was determined. The ranking order of the mean enzyme activity rates in the sediment–water interface was as follows: lipase > aminopeptidase > phosphatase > β‐glucosidase > α‐glucosidase > xylanase > chitinase > cellulase. The activity of the studied enzymes differed between various parts of the estuary. Each enzyme had its characteristic horizontal activity profile. Extracellular enzymatic activities were strongly influenced by the season. As a rule, tested enzymes showed their maximum hydrolytic activity during the vegetation period.
Ka and Q band propagation experiments in Toulouse using ASTRA 3B and ALPHASAT satellites
Authors: Boulanger Xavier , Castanet Laurent
Published: July 2018

From January 2008 to March 2011, ONERA operated in Toulouse, France, a beacon receiver able to collect the 19.7‐GHz beacon signal of the HotBird 6 satellite. In March 2011, the radio frequency chain was modified to be able to receive the 20.2‐GHz ASTRA 3B beacon to benefit from a higher Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power of the satellite. Since June 2015, a second beacon receiver has been installed and is able to record the 39.4‐GHz beacon signal of the Alphasat satellite. The objective of this paper is to present the results of the first 2 years of measurements (June 2015 to May 2017) of the Q‐band Alphasat propagation experiment in Toulouse, as well as concurrent measurements collected at Ka‐band with ASTRA 3B. First of all, the propagation experiments are briefly described. Second, the results of the statistical analysis are highlighted. Finally, a deep analysis of the performances of the 2 frequency scaling prediction methods recommended in ITU‐R P.618‐13 is performed.
Reaching energy autonomy in a medium‐sized city – three scenarios to model possible future energy developments in the residential building sector
Authors: Dobler Claudia , Pfeifer Dominik , Streicher Wolfgang
Published: July 2018

A city energy model was developed to demonstrate possible future trajectories for the residential building sector up until 2050 for the city of Innsbruck in Austria, a medium‐sized city in the Austrian Alps. It examines final and delivered energy, respectively, from a demand side perspective. Three different scenarios are defined to illustrate the range of future developments in the residential building sector (scenario analysis). The base scenario 1 represents a continuation of recent trends (business‐as‐usual). The middle course scenario 2 is characterized by stricter thermal standards for the building envelope and a beginning of withdrawal from fossil fuels from 2031. The target scenario 3 objective is specified as a 50% reduction in delivered energy and a complete transition to renewable energies by 2050. Scenario 3 differs from scenario 2 primarily in the aspect of an earlier implementation date for certain measures, for example, the beginning of the withdrawal from fossil fuels is scheduled for 2021.
Corrosion Protection of Carbon Steel in Circulating Cooling Water by Open‐chain Carboxyethyltin and Transition Metal Co‐functionalized Tungstogermanates
Authors: Sang Xiaojing , Wang Zhixin , Li Jiansheng , Wang Haidan , Su Fang , Liu Zhaobin , Zhang Lancui , Zhu Zaiming
Published: July 2018

Open‐chain carboxyethyltin and transition metal (TM) co‐decorated double armed type polyoxometalates (POMs) [C(NH2)3]10H2[(TM)2(SnCH2CH2COO)2(B‐α‐GeW9O34)2]•nH2O (abbreviated as GeW9‐TM‐SnR‐COO, TM=Mn, Cu, Zn) were firstly applied as corrosion inhibitors for carbon steel in circulating cooling water, and the corrosion inhibition abilities of them and their parent POMs Na12[(TM)4(H2O)2(GeW9O34)2]•nH2O (abbreviated as GeW9‐TM, TM=Mn, Cu, Zn) were evaluated by gravimetric method and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The morphology, composition and element oxidation state of metallic surface film were characterized by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technologies. Compared with GeW9‐TM, GeW9‐TM‐SnR‐COO organic‐inorganic hybrids improved corrosion resistance of carbon steel. Additionally, GeW9‐TM‐SnR‐COO showed good synergistic effect with polyhydric alcohol phosphate ester (PAPE) and sulfonate copolymer (AMPS), and the maximum inhibition efficiency is up to 97% for GeW9‐Zn‐SnR‐COO+PAPE+AMPS composite.
Synthesis of Functionalized Phenathridine‐6‐carbonitriles via Copper‐catalyzed Annulation of Vinyl Azides and NaN3 in the Presence of PhI(OAc)2
Authors: Zhou Bingwei , Zheng Limeng , Xu Zheng , Jin Hongwei , Wu Qingan , Li Ting , Liu Yunkui
Published: July 2018

A convenient and efficient protocol for the synthesis of phenanthridine‐6‐carbonitriles has been successfully developed involving a copper(II)‐catalyzed tandem annulation of vinyl azides and NaN3 in the presence of PhI(OAc)2. A variety of functionalized phenanthridine‐6‐carbonitriles were synthesized in moderate to good yields under mild reaction conditions. Mechanistic study revealed that a radical pathway might be involved in this annulation reaction.
An Immobilized Enzyme Reactor for Spatiotemporal Control over Reaction Products
Authors: Grant Jennifer , Modica Justin A. , Roll Juliet , Perkovich Paul , Mrksich Milan
Published: July 2018

This paper describes a microfluidic chip wherein the position and order of two immobilized enzymes affects the type and quantity of reaction products in the flowing fluid. Assembly of the chip is based on a self‐assembled monolayer presenting two orthogonal covalent capture ligands that immobilize their respective fusion enzyme. A thiol‐tagged substrate is flowed over a region presenting the first enzyme—which generates a product that is efficiently transferred to the second enzyme—and the second enzyme's product binds to an adjacent thiol capture site on the chip. The amount of the three possible reaction products is quantified directly on the chip using self‐assembled monolayers for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry, revealing that the same microsystem can be spatiotemporally arranged to produce different products depending on the device design. This work allows for optimizing multistep biochemical transformations in favor of a desired product using a facile reaction and analytical format.
Effective Suppression of Lithium Dendrite Growth Using a Flexible Single‐Ion Conducting Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Deng Kuirong , Qin Jiaxiang , Wang Shuanjin , Ren Shan , Han Dongmei , Xiao Min , Meng Yuezhong
Published: July 2018

A novel single‐ion conducting polymer electrolyte (SIPE) membrane with high lithium‐ion transference number, good mechanical strength, and excellent ionic conductivity is designed and synthesized by facile coupling of lithium bis(allylmalonato) borate (LiBAMB), pentaerythritol tetrakis (2‐mercaptoacetate) (PETMP) and 3,6‐dioxa‐1,8‐octanedithiol (DODT) in an electrospun poly(vinylidienefluoride) (PVDF) supporting membrane via a one‐step photoinitiated in situ thiol–ene click reaction. The structure‐optimized LiBAMB‐PETMP‐DODT (LPD)@PVDF SIPE shows an outstanding ionic conductivity of 1.32 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 25 °C, together with a high lithium‐ion transference number of 0.92 and wide electrochemical window up to 6.0 V. The SIPE exhibits high tensile strength of 7.2 MPa and elongation at break of 269%. Due to these superior performances, the SIPE can suppress lithium dendrite growth, which is confirmed by galvanostatic Li plating/stripping cycling test and analysis of morphology of Li metal electrode surface after cycling test. Li|LPD@PVDF|Li symmetric cell maintains an extremely stable and low overpotential without short circuiting over the 1050 h cycle. The Li|LPD@PVDF|LiFePO4 cell shows excellent rate capacity and outstanding cycle performance compared to cells based on a conventional liquid electrolyte (LE) with Celgard separator. The facile approach of the SIPE provides an effective and promising electrolyte for safe, long‐life, and high‐rate lithium metal batteries.
Wood Derived Composites for High Sensitivity and Wide Linear‐Range Pressure Sensing
Authors: Huang Yan , Chen Yun , Fan Xiangyu , Luo Ningqi , Zhou Shuang , Chen Shih‐Chi , Zhao Ni , Wong Ching Ping
Published: July 2018

Natural wood possesses a unique 3D microstructure containing hierarchical interconnected channels along its growth direction. This study reports a facile processing strategy to utilize such structure to fabricate carbon/silicone composite based flexible pressure sensors. The unique contribution of the multichannel structure on the sensor performance is analyzed by comparing the pressure response of the vertically cut and horizontally cut composite structures. The results show that the horizontally cut composite based sensors exhibit much higher sensitivity (10.74 kPa−1) and wider linear region (100 kPa, R2 = 99%), due to their rough surface and largely deformable microstructure. Besides, the sensors also show little hysteresis and good cycle stability. The overall outstanding sensing properties of the sensors allow for accurate continuous measurement of human pulse and respiration, benefiting the real‐time health signal monitoring and disease diagnoses.
A Dual Carbon‐Based Potassium Dual Ion Battery with Robust Comprehensive Performance
Authors: Zhu Jiaojiao , Li Yali , Yang Bingjun , Liu Lingyang , Li Junshuai , Yan Xingbin , He Deyan
Published: July 2018

Dual carbon‐based potassium dual ion batteries (K‐DCBs) have recently attracted ever‐increasing attention owing to the potential advantages of high performance‐to‐cost ratio, good safety, and environmental friendliness. However, the reported K‐DCBs still cannot simultaneously meet the requirements of high capacity, long cycling stability, and low cost, which are necessary for practical applications. In this study, a K‐DCB with good comprehensive performance including capacity, cycling stability, medium discharge voltage, and energy density is developed by introducing the optimal cathode and anode materials, i.e., KS6 and natural graphite, respectively. An initial capacity of ≈54.6 mAh g−1 and 92.5% capacity retention after 400 cycles can be delivered in a wide voltage window of 2.4–5.4 V at the current density of 100 mA g−1. A high medium discharge voltage around 4.2 V and an energy density up to 158.3 Wh kg−1 are meanwhile delivered by the K‐DCB. In addition, the working mechanism of the devices is understood in detail. It is believed that valuable contributions to the electrochemical performance improvement of the related devices toward practical applications can be provided by this study.
Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries using Conversion‐Type Cathodes: A Perspective and Minireview
Authors: Zhang Zhonghua , Dong Shamu , Cui Zili , Du Aobing , Li Guicun , Cui Guanglei
Published: July 2018

Rechargeable magnesium (Mg) batteries are one of the potential contenders to replace current Li‐ion batteries to power future electric vehicles with lower cost, higher safety, and extended mileage. To achieve this goal, both high‐voltage intercalation‐type cathodes and high‐capacity conversion‐type cathodes are considered. However, there are still no reports to compare rechargeable Mg batteries with the state‐of‐the art Li‐ion batteries in terms of their overall performance. Also, potential cathode materials to deliver higher energy density in rechargeable Mg batteries are rarely summarized. Here, the practically accessible energy characteristics of Mg‐based and Li‐ion chemistry are presented and compared using practical cell‐level modeling. Among the reported cathode materials, only sulfur, a typical conversion‐type cathode, is capable of delivering a higher energy density than current lithium‐ion batteries in terms of energy density. Since the electrochemical performance of the conversion‐type cathode is determined by the electrolyte at the current stage, the recent developments of Mg‐ion electrolytes, particularly those with non‐nucleophilic features, are reviewed. The recent advances are then summarized and the future challenges of high‐capacity conversion‐type cathodes for rechargeable Mg batteries are analyzed. The proposed guidelines provide new insights for developing high‐energy‐density Mg batteries.
Multiphase‐Field Simulation of Cementite Precipitation during Isothermal Lower Bainitic Transformation
Authors: Song Wenwen , Prahl Ulrich , Ma Yan , Bleck Wolfgang
Published: July 2018

In the present work, isothermal lower bainitic transformation with nano‐sized cementite (θ) precipitation is simulated by means of multiphase‐field approach. In order to simulate the very fine cementite, ultra‐small grid spacing, that is, 2 nm, is applied. A faceted anisotropy model is coupled in the simulation of both bainitic ferrite (αB) and cementite (θ) growth. The simulated microstructure evolution and bainite fraction are compared with experimental results. Carbon redistribution across γ/αB and αB/θ phase boundaries during lower bainitic transformation is further discussed.
Effect of MgO in Sinter and Primary‐Slag on Smelting Mechanism of Chromium‐Bearing Vanadium Titanomagnetite
Authors: Tang Wei‐Dong , Yang Song‐Tao , Cheng Gong‐Jin , Gao Zi‐Xian , Xue Xiang‐Xin
Published: July 2018

The effects of MgO in sinter and primary‐slag on smelting mechanism of chromium‐bearing vanadium titanomagnetite (CVTM) are investigated in this work. The XRF, XRD, ICP‐AES, FT‐IR, and rotating cylinder methods are applied to analyze CVTM sinter samples, primary‐slag, and dripped iron. The results show that the softening interval and melting interval decrease and the cohesive zone moves down mildly and becomes narrowly with increasing MgO. The free running temperature of the primary‐slag decreases from 1285 to 1234 °C, the initial viscosity decreases from 1.13 to 0.92 Pa s, and the high‐temperature viscosity decreases from 0.46 to 0.24 Pa s with increasing MgO. The depolymerization of the primary‐slag structure enhances with increasing MgO, which has a significant effect on the shrinkage of primary‐slag formation temperature interval and decreasing permeability of CVTM sinter burden. What's more, the dripping ratio increases from 82.7% to 97.7% and the dripping pressure drop increases from 1.1 to 1.9 kPa and reaches to a maximum value at 3.3% MgO. Moreover, both the recovery ratios of Cr and V increase from 20.49% to 28.07% and from 25.39% to 41.74%, respectively.
Direct and simultaneous determination of methionine sulfoxide and pyroglutamic acid impurities in Compound Amino Acid Injection‐18 AA by ion‐pair reversed‐phase HPLC
Authors: Li Li , Qin Yaru , Ma Bingyuan , Cui Hongyan , Qiao Ping , Jiang He , Zhang Ming
Published: July 2018

A direct and simultaneous determination of methionine sulfoxide and pyroglutamic acid impurities in Compound Amino Acid Injection‐18 AA by ion‐pair reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection is described. The separation of both impurities in Compound Amino Acid Injection‐18 AA was accomplished with gradient elution consisting of acetonitrile and 10 mM diammonium hydrogen phosphate buffer (containing 15 mM sodium 1‐heptanesulfonate and obtaining pH 2.3 by addition of phosphoric acid). The limits of detection (μg/mL, S/N = 3:1) and quantification (μg/mL, S/N = 10:1) of methionine sulfoxide and pyroglutamic acid were 0.02 and 0.08, and 0.06 and 0.19, respectively. The linearity was in the range of 0.08–200.20 μg/mL for methionine sulfoxide and 0.19–201.20 μg/mL for pyroglutamic acid. The relatively simple method proved accurate (recovery 99.68–102.98% for methionine sulfoxide, 98.10–102.00% for pyroglutamic acid, n = 9) and precise (repeatability RSD = 1.06% for methionine sulfoxide, RSD = 0.60% for pyroglutamic acid, n = 6) in its application to commercial Compound Amino Acid Injection‐18 AA.
Targeting mitochondria with folic acid and vitamin B12ameliorates nicotine mediated islet cell dysfunction
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ankita , Prasad Shilpi Kumari , Banerjee Oly , Singh Siddhartha , Banerjee Arnab , Bose Ananya , Pal Swagata , Maji Bithin Kumar , Mukherjee Sandip
Published: July 2018

Nicotine, one of the well‐known highly toxic components of cigarette smoke, causes a number of adverse health effects and diseases. Our previous study has shown that nicotine induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) in islet cell and disrupts islet cell mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). However, supplementation with folic acid and vitamin B12were found effective against nicotine induced changes in pancreatic islet cells. But the toxicological effects and underlying mechanisms of nicotine‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction is still unknown. In this study, nicotine exposure decreases mitochondrial enzymes (pyruvate dehydrogenase, alpha‐ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, aconitase, malate dehydrogenase) activities by increasing cytosolic Ca2+level which may contribute to increased mitochondrial ROS production by raising its flow to mitochondria. This in turn produces malondialdehyde and nitric oxide (NO) with a concomitant decrease in the activities of antioxidative enzymes and glutathione levels leading to loss of ΔΨm. Simultaneously, nicotine induces pancreatic islet cell apoptosis by modulating ΔΨm via increased cytosolic Ca2+level, altered Bcl‐2, Bax, cytochrome c, caspase‐9, PARP expressions which were prevented by the supplementation of folic acid and vitamin B12. In conclusion, nicotine alters islet cell mitochondrial redox status, apoptotic machinery, and enzymes to cause disruption in the ΔΨm and supplementation of folic acid and vitamin B12possibly blunted all these mitochondrial alterations. Therefore, this study may help to determine the pathophysiology of nicotine‐mediated islet cell mitochondrial dysfunction.
Sources of morbidity in lorises and pottos in North American zoos: A retrospective review, 1980–2010
Authors: Simpson Gail M. , Fuller Grace , Lukas Kristen E. , Kuhar Christopher W. , Fitch‐Snyder Helena , Taylor Jessica , Dennis Patricia M.
Published: July 2018

Delineating patterns of morbidity can reveal management practices in need of reassessment to improve individual welfare, as well as population health and sustainability. We reviewed medical records from 38 North American zoological institutions for 276 slender lorises, slow lorises, and pottos born between January 1, 1980 and December 31, 2010. This sample included animals identified as 116 Nycticebus pygmaeus, 84 N. coucang, 48 Loris tardigradus tardigradus, 6 L.t. nordicus (now classified as L. lydekkerianus nordicus), and 22 Perodicticus potto. Taxonomy for lorises and pottos is developing, and two of these populations (N. coucang and P. potto) likely included hybrids and/or multiple species. Our focus was to examine trends based on species and age. Across all species, whole body disease events, abnormalities of bloodwork, and dental diseases were the most common sources of morbidity. Other major sources of morbidity varied by species and included trauma, respiratory disease, and ocular disease. A recent upsurge in research has informed feeding practices for slow lorises living in human care, and a similar, evidence‐based approach is needed to improve diets for other species. Given the prevalence of trauma in this sample, social needs and reproductive management practices are also important areas for further investigation. Species‐level health trends reveal risk factors for individual welfare that can guide husbandry practices in zoos, as well as in sanctuaries caring for the influx of lorises and pottos rescued from the growing wildlife trade.
Experiences of Women Who Have Had Carrier Testing for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Becker Muscular Dystrophy During Adolescence
Authors: Fraser Harry G. , Redmond Rebecca Z. , Scotcher Diana F.
Published: July 2018

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) are X‐linked recessive degenerative muscular conditions. Carrier testing is available to at‐risk females. Though carrier testing is often offered to adolescent females, it raises ethical issues related to autonomy. This study aimed to address the impact of DMD/BMD carrier testing during adolescence, to elucidate what motivates adolescents to seek testing, and to assess the carrier testing experience. Retrospective semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted with 12 women out of 28 initially contacted. Data were coded using thematic analysis. For most (8/12) participants, discovering their carrier status during adolescence appeared to have helped alleviate uncertainty. The majority (9/12) of participants felt that they had made an autonomous decision and most (10/12) seemed to have adjusted well to their test result. Reproductive factors were framed as having been a key motivator prior to testing. However, following testing, participants’ views on prenatal diagnosis seemed more closely linked to their lived experience than to their test result. Just over half (7/12) the participants reported having not had the opportunity for genetic counseling prior to testing and after receiving their result, an issue that warrants further consideration.