bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near‐optimal online routing in opportunistic networks
Authors: Arastouie Narges , Sabaei Masoud , Bakhshi Bahador
Published: December 2018

In opportunistic networks, nodes communicate intermittently based on store‐carry‐forward paradigm while exploiting node mobility. The challenge is to determine the ideal nodes to deliver the messages since there is no end‐to‐end connectivity. The nodes might make this decision based on the data sensed from the network. This technique is not ideal in scenarios where the speed of changes in the network topology is greater than the speed at which the nodes can collect info on the network, which might, in turn, be restricted due to usage constraints and uncertainty of knowledge about future contacts. To tackle the problems raised by the non‐deterministic environments, in this paper, a stochastic optimization model and corresponding algorithm are developed to find the optimal routes by considering the short and long‐term impact of choices, ie, the next hop. Herein, we first propose a stochastic model to resolve the routing problem by identifying the shortest path. In the second step, we show that the optimal solution of the proposed model can be determined in polynomial time. An online algorithm is then proposed and analyzed. The algorithm is O(lognρ) competitive considering the number of nodes and their associated energy. This model can take advantage of the unexpected meets to make the routing more elastic in a short time of contact and with less of a burden on the buffer. The simulation results, against the prominent algorithms, demonstrate significant improvement of the proposed approach in delivery and average delay ratio.
Structural Phase Transition Behavior Observed for a Single Crystal of the Tetrabutylammonium Salt of a Mo18 Polyoxometalate
Authors: Oki Hirofumi , Shiga Misaki , Nakamura Ippei , Nishida Kazuki , Ichihashi Katsuya , Nishihara Sadafumi , Inoue Katsuya , Akutagawa Tomoyuki , Tsunashima Ryo
Published: December 2018

Ionic single crystals of the polyoxometalate [MoV2MoVI16O54(SO3)2]6– salted with tetrabutylammonium were found to exhibit dielectric anomalies at 235 and 302 K. The clear DSC peak at 235 K indicates the first‐order nature of transition. The next transition at 302 K was concluded to be second‐order in nature, demonstrating the existence of three different phases (α, β, and γ). Temperature‐dependent single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that the structural phase transitions occur owing to orientational changes in the structures of the cation alkyl chains and the crystalline solvent of acetonitrile where the structure of Mo18 polyoxometalate was comparable. The polymorphous and flexible configuration of the alkyl chains was reasoned to be the origin of the temperature dependence of the structure.
Synthesis, Conductivity, and Impedance Studies on Metallophthalocyanines Formed Across Adjacent Rings
Authors: Şener Sevil , Selçuki Nursel Acar , Dumludağ Fatih , Salih Bekir , Bekaroğlu Özer
Published: December 2018

The synthesis and characterization of CoII, ZnII, and NiII phthalocyanines (Pcs) 4, 5, and 6, respectively, containing two bis[2‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐propyl]benzene groups formed across adjacent rings at the peripheral positions are described. The Pcs were synthesized by cyclotetramerization of the previously prepared precursor 4,4′‐bis[1,3‐propylbenzene‐2‐p‐phenoxy]phthalonitrile (3) in the presence of metal salt in boiling dry DMF under a dry nitrogen atmosphere. Elemental analysis, UV‐Vis, FT‐IR, and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, as well as MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry techniques were used for the characterization of 4. Conductivity (dc and ac) and impedance spectroscopy (IS) measurements were performed on the films of 5 and 6 between the temperatures 293 and 523 K and frequencies 40 and100 kHz. The dc conductivity values were calculated as 2.11 × 10–10, 3.48 × 10–10, and 1.90 × 10–10 S/cm for the films of 4, 5, and 6, respectively, at room temperature. Activation energy values of the films were also calculated. Conductivity (ac) results suggest that the dominant charge transport mechanisms can be explained by the hopping model depending on temperature and frequency range. From impedance spectra and Cole‐Cole plots, the relaxation time in the Debye dispersion relation is considered as a distribution of relaxation time values rather than as a single relaxation time. To elucidate the structural, spectroscopic, and bonding properties of the obtained compounds, DFT/TD‐DFT calculations were performed.
An Unusual Route to Synthesize Indolizines through a Domino SN2/Michael Addition Reaction Between 2‐Mercaptopyridine and Nitroallylic Acetates
Authors: Roy Suparna
Published: December 2018

A straightforward synthesis of indolizines has been demonstrated from the reaction of 2‐mercaptopyridine and nitroallylic acetates in the presence of a base. The products were obtained in good isolated yield under relatively mild reaction conditions. The mechanistic insight of the reaction has been revealed by performing some control experiments demonstrating that the reaction is initiated by a sequential SN2/Michael addition reaction followed by removal of the sulfur moiety.
Facile in situ Electrosynthesis and High Electrocatalytic Performance of Interconnected Layered Double Hydroxides/Graphene Hybrids for Dopamine Oxidation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Kumar M. Kaleesh , Swaathini K. C. , Jha Niki S. , Jha Shailendra K.
Published: December 2018

We are reporting a facile in situ electrodeposition approach to prepare a rational design of M−Al (M: Ni, Co) layered double hydroxide (LDH)/reduced graphene oxide (G) hybrids and its superior electrocatalytic activity towards the electrooxidation of dopamine. Comparatively, the worm like interconnected nano‐chain networks of as‐prepared NiAl‐LDH/G hybrid modified electrode exhibits better performance than the CoAl‐LDH/G hybrid modified electrode. The enhanced electrocatalytic activity is because of its morphological evolution, which is due to its enhanced reduction rate, attachment pathway and incorporation or heterogeneous combination of Al3+ in the bimetallic LDHs/G hybrid. The satisfactory results are obtained for modified electrodes for the real‐time quantitative detection of dopamine in the real injectable medicine as well as human blood serum samples and it has also shown good reproducibility, stability and anti‐interference. This cost‐effective and facile in situ electrodeposition approach will give insights to design high performing hybrid materials and its application to non‐invasive electrochemical sensing which will be useful for daily diagnosis of neurological disorder.
Effects of chemical speciation on the bioaccessibility of zinc in spiked and smelter-affected soils
Authors: Elikem Essouassi , Laird Brian D. , Hamilton Jordan G. , Stewart Katherine J. , Siciliano Steven D. , Peak Derek
Published: December 2018

Previous studies have suggested that understanding soil metal speciation, rather than relying solely on total metal content, can improve the accuracy and utility of contaminated site risk assessments. Because soil properties and reaction time can alter metal speciation, speciation should influence metal bioaccessibility. For example, under gastrointestinal conditions, it is expected that metal species will differ in bioaccessibility depending on their stability in acidic pH environments. We studied the links between metal speciation and bioaccessibility. A combination of synchrotron-based X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) was used to identify the zinc (Zn) speciation in spiked and smelter-affected soils. After conducting in vitro digestion tests on the soil samples, XANES and linear combination fitting were carried out on the residual pellets to identify the species of Zn that remained after digesting the soils in the simulated gastric and duodenal fluids. The metal species that were not present in the residual pellets were inferred to have been dissolved and, thus, more bioaccessible. Sphalerite (ZnS), ZnO, and outer-sphere Zn contributed more to Zn bioaccessibility than franklinite (ZnFe2O4) and Zn incorporated into a hydroxy interlayer mineral (Zn-HIM). The bioaccessibility of Zn-aluminum layered double hydroxides (Zn-Al-LDH) was found to be inversely proportional to its residence time in soil. It was also observed that the relatively high pH of the duodenum favors metal reprecipitation and readsorption, leading to a reduction in bioaccessible metal concentration. These results imply that metal speciation mainly controls metal bioaccessibility. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:448–459. © 2018 SETAC.
Induction of maxillary and mandibular squamous epithelial cell proliferation in mink (Neovison vison) by β-naphthoflavone
Authors: Matz Danielle K. , Chuck Joanna , Hosmer Robin J. , Piper Hannah C. , Link Jane E. , Fitzgerald Scott D. , Steibel Juan P. , Bursian Steven J.
Published: December 2018

A jaw lesion reported in mink exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and TCDD-like chemicals is considered a potential indicator of exposure to these chemicals. Many of the effects of TCDD-like chemicals are induced through interaction with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. The present study indicates that mink dosed with β-naphthoflavone, which is an aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligand but not a TCDD-like chemical, also develop the lesion. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:460–463. © 2018 SETAC
Genomic instability in fragile sites—still adding the pieces
Authors: Irony‐Tur Sinai Michal , Kerem Batsheva
Published: December 2018

Common fragile sites (CFSs) are specific genomic regions in normal chromosomes that exhibit genomic instability under DNA replication stress. As replication stress is an early feature of cancer development, CFSs are involved in the signature of genomic instability found in malignant tumors. The landscape of CFSs is tissue‐specific and differs under different replication stress inducers. Nevertheless, the features underlying CFS sensitivity to replication stress are shared. Here, we review the events generating replication stress and discuss the unique characteristics of CFS regions and the cellular responses aimed to stabilizing these regions.
Potential of storing gas with high CO2 content in salt caverns built in ultra‐deep water in Brazil
Authors: Maia da Costa Alvaro , V. M da Costa Pedro , D. Udebhulu Okhiria , Cabral Azevedo Ricardo , F. F. Ebecken Nelson , C. O. Miranda Antonio , M. de Eston Sérgio , de Tomi Giorgio , R. Meneghini Julio , Nishimoto Kazuo , Ruggiere Felipe , Malta Edgard , Élis Rocha Fernandes Mauro , Brandão Camila , Breda Alexandre
Published: December 2018

Salt caverns have been identified as one of the best options for the underground storage of gases due to salt rock's excellent sealing capabilities and interesting mechanical properties, such as self‐healing when damaged or cracked. It is feasible to build salt caverns in the Brazilian pre‐salt ultra‐deep water environment for gas storage. However, the peculiar geology of the Brazilian province considered here is characterized by the stratification of thick layers of halite with intercalations of carnallite and tachyhydrite salt rock, whose creep strain rate is almost two orders of magnitude higher than halite's creep strain rate under the same conditions of temperature and pressure. Computational mechanics is being used for the design of offshore salt caverns opened by dissolution mining for the storage of natural gas. The challenge presented in this paper requires the storage of natural gas with high CO2 content offshore in ultra‐deep water (2140 m) in salt caverns. If the economics proves feasible, this offshore gas storage station will be the first of its kind in the world. A technical feasibility rock mechanics study of giant salt caverns, 450 m high by 150 m in diameter, has shown that one cavern can store 4 billion Sm3 or 7.2 million tons of CO2. The salt dome studied can accommodate the construction of 15 caverns, thus providing the confinement of approximately 108 million tons of gas. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Framework for Learning in the Chemistry Laboratory
Authors: Seery Michael K. , Agustian Hendra Y. , Zhang Xinchi
Published: December 2018

Designing laboratory activities is a real challenge for those working in higher education. There is often an acknowledged frustration with the status quo, but a lack of clear guidance on what strategies might be useful in considering a redesign. This article aims to address the question: what considerations should be taken into account when designing a laboratory activity? To address it, we first describe an overarching framework for laboratory learning, describing it as a complex learning environment. The reason for this is that two clear overarching guidelines emerge – the first is that the laboratory curriculum should be structured so that each new challenge for student is adequately supported by their prior learning so that they can draw on their knowledge to address the new learning situation, and the second is that guidelines for the kinds of preparation for laboratory learning emerge. Based on this framework, we advocate four core principles for laboratory learning that should be considered when designing a laboratory activity regarding the overall purpose, the role of preparation, the teaching of technique, and the consideration of affective dimensions of learning. We illustrate this framework in practice with examples from our own practice, with suggestions on using the literature on laboratory education as a source for curriculum reform within an institution.
Self‐Assembly of A Novel Ag48 Cluster Encapsulating an Unprecedented [Mo8O28]8− Anion Template
Authors: Wang Zhi , Zhuo Hong‐Yan , Hu An‐Yi , Su Hai‐Feng , Zhao Quan‐Qin , Wang Xing‐Po , Tung Chen‐Ho , Sun Di
Published: December 2018

A novel silver cluster (SD/Ag48a) co‐protected by p‐MePhS− and CF3COO− ligands with an in‐situ generated unprecedented [Mo8O28]8− template has been synthesized under solvothermal condition. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) and electrospray mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) were used to determine the atom‐precise structure and solution behavior, respectively. Interestingly, the rare [Mo8O28]8− ion observed in the center of SD/Ag48a consists of 8 edge‐shared {MoO6} octahedra or can be deemed as three {Mo4O4} cubes fused together by sharing faces. The UV‐Vis spetcrum exhibits that a high‐energy (HE) wide absorption centered at ca. 365 nm, which can be assinged to intraligand (IL) π→π* transition absorption, whereas the low‐energy (LE) shoulder peak centered at ca. 500 nm can be ascribed to ligand‐to‐metal‐charge‐transfer (LMCT, S 3p→Ag 5 s) transition.
Influence of Dentation Angle of Labyrinth Channel of Drip Emitters on Hydraulic and Anti‐Clogging Performance
Authors: Yu Liming , Li Na , Liu Xiaogang , Yang Qiliang , Li Zhangyan , Long Jun
Published: December 2018

The geometric parameters of labyrinth channels play an important role in the hydraulic and anti‐clogging performance of drip emitters. In this study, the flow fields, individual representative sands and sand groups in the labyrinth channel of emitters, with dentation angles of 90°, 60°, 45° and 30°, were firstly simulated using a computational fluid dynamics discrete element method (CFD–DEM) of coupling. Particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) was used to trace individual representative sands. The numerical results were verified with clear water hydraulic performance tests and muddy water anti‐clogging performance tests. The results suggest that the discharge coefficient and flow exponent declined when the dentation angle of the labyrinth channel was reduced. A large number of sand groups were observed to enter the vortex areas and move in a circular manner. The time it took for particles to pass through the labyrinth channel lengthened when the velocity decreased and as a result, the probability of emitter clogging increased. Therefore, by using a recommended angle range of 90° to 60° and a combined higher hydraulic performance level, emitters were less likely to clog. It was a novel approach to adopt a CFD–DEM coupling method to conduct numerical analysis of individual sand particles and sand groups in the investigation of emitter anti‐clogging issues. The findings will increase the design efficiency of flow channels and will save human and material resources. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bone Safety During the First Ten Years of Gender-Affirming Hormonal Treatment in Transwomen and Transmen
Authors: Wiepjes Chantal M , de Jongh Renate T , de Blok Christel JM , Vlot Mariska C , Lips Paul , Twisk Jos WR , den Heijer Martin
Published: December 2018

Concerns about the effects of gender-affirming hormonal treatment (HT) on bone mineral density (BMD) in transgender people exist, particularly regarding the decrease in estrogen concentrations in transmen. Although it is known that HT is safe for BMD in the short term, long-term follow-up studies are lacking. Therefore this study aimed to investigate the change in BMD during the first 10 years of HT, to determine whether HT is safe and if assessing BMD during HT is necessary. A follow-up study was performed in adult transgender people receiving HT at the VU University Medical Center Amsterdam between 1998 and 2016. People were included if they were HT naive and had a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan at the start of HT. Follow-up DXA scans performed after 2, 5, and/or 10 years of HT were used for analyses. The course of BMD of the lumbar spine during the first 10 years of HT was analyzed using multilevel analyses. A total of 711 transwomen (median age 35 years; IQR, 26 to 46 years) and 543 transmen (median age 25 years; IQR, 21 to 34 years) were included. Prior to the start of HT, 21.9% of transwomen and 4.3% of transmen had low BMD for age (Z-score < –2.0). In transwomen lumbar spine BMD did not change (+0.006; 95% CI, –0.005 to +0.017), but lumbar spine Z-score increased by +0.22 (95% CI, +0.12 to +0.32) after 10 years of HT. Also in transmen lumbar spine BMD did not change (+0.008; 95% CI, –0.004 to +0.019), but lumbar spine Z-score increased by +0.34 (95% CI, +0.23 to +0.45) after 10 years of HT. This study showed that HT does not have negative effects on BMD, indicating that regularly assessing BMD during HT is not necessary. However, a high percentage of low BMD was found prior to HT, especially in transwomen. Therefore, evaluation of BMD before start of HT may be considered. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Calcium‐sensing receptor mediates interleukin‐1β‐induced collagen expression in mouse collecting duct cells
Authors: Wu Min , Wang Si‐Si , Cao Jing‐Yuan , Tang Tao‐Tao , Gao Min , Ma Kun‐Ling , Liu Bi‐Cheng
Published: December 2018

The mechanisms that underlie the profibrotic effect of interleukin (IL)‐1β are complicated and not fully understood. Recent evidence has suggested the involvement of the calcium‐sensing receptor (CaSR) in tubular injury. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate whether CaSR mediates IL‐1β‐induced collagen expression in cultured mouse inner medullary collecting duct cells (mIMCD3) and to determine the possible downstream signaling effector. The results showed that IL‐1β significantly upregulated the expression of type I and III collagens in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner. Moreover, CaSR was expressed in mIMCD3 cells, and its expression was increased by increasing the concentrations and times of IL‐1β treatment. Selective inhibitors (Calhex231 or NPS2143) or the siRNA of CaSR attenuated the enhanced expression of type I and III collagens. Furthermore, IL‐1β increased nuclear β‐catenin protein levels and decreased cytoplasmic β‐catenin expression in cells. In contrast, blockage of CaSR by the pharmacological antagonists or siRNA could partially attenuate such changes in the IL‐1β‐induced nuclear translocation of β‐catenin. DKK1, an inhibitor of β‐catenin nuclear translocation, further inhibited the expression of type I and III collagens in cells treated with IL‐1β plus CaSR antagonist. In summary, these data demonstrated that IL‐1β‐induced collagen I and III expressions in collecting duct cells might be partially mediated by CaSR and the downstream nuclear translocation of β‐catenin.
Esculentoside H inhibits colon cancer cell migration and growth through suppression of MMP‐9 gene expression via NF‐kB signaling pathway
Authors: Ha Sun‐Hyung , Kwon Kyung‐Min , Park Jun‐Young , Abekura Fukushi , Lee Young‐Choon , Chung Tae‐Wook , Ha Ki‐Tae , Chang Hyeun Wook , Cho Seung‐Hak , Kim Jong‐Suk , Kim Cheorl‐Ho
Published: December 2018

A water‐soluble saponin, Esculentoside H (EsH), 3‐O‐(O‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐β‐d‐xylopyranosyl)‐28‐β‐d‐glucopyranosylphytolaccagenin has been isolated and purified from the root extract of perennial plant Phytolacca esculenta. EsH is known to be an anticancer compound, having a capacity for TNF‐α release. However, the effects of EsH on migration and growth in tumor cells have not yet been reported. In the current study, the suppressive effects of EsH on phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA)‐induced cell migration were examined in murine colon cancer CT26 cells and human colon cancer HCT116 cells. Interestingly, the transwell assay and wound healing show that EsH suppresses the PMA‐induced migration and growth potential of HCT116 and CT26 colon cancer cells, respectively. EsH dose‐dependently suppressed matrix metalloproteinases‐9 (MMP‐9) expression that was upregulated upon PMA treatment in messenger RNA levels and protein secretion. Since the expression of MMP‐9 is correlated with nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling, it has been examined whether EsH inhibits PMA‐induced IκB phosphorylation that leads to the suppression of NK‐κB nuclear translocation. EsH repressed the phosphorylation level of JNK, but not extracellular signal‐regulated kinase and p38 signaling when the cells were treated with PMA. Overall, these results demonstrated that EsH could suppress cancer migration through blockage of the JNK1/2 and NF‐κB signaling‐mediated MMP‐9 expression.
Cover Image, Volume 94, Issue 1
Authors: Kalla Sarita , Upadhyaya Sushant , Singh Kailash , Baghel Rakesh
Published: December 2018

The cover image is based on the Research Article Experimental and mathematical study of air gap membrane distillation for aqueous HCl azeotropic separation by Sarita Kalla et al., DOI: 10.1002/jctb.5766.

image
LGBTQ Inequality in Engineering Education
Authors: Cech Erin A. , Rothwell William R.
Published: December 2018

Background

Researchers over the past three decades have documented processes of gender and racial/ethnic inequality in engineering education but little is known about other axes of difference, including the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) persons in engineering. Despite growing interest in LGBTQ inequality generally, prior research has yet to systematically document day‐to‐day experiences of inequality in engineering education along LGBTQ status.

Purpose/Hypothesis

In this article, we use survey data from students enrolled in eight universities to examine LGBTQ inequality in engineering education. Specifically, we explore whether LGBTQ students experience greater marginalization than their classmates, whether their engineering work is more likely to be devalued, and whether they experience more negative health and wellness outcomes. We hypothesize that LGBTQ students experience greater marginalization and devaluation and more negative health and wellness outcomes compared to their non‐LGBTQ peers.

Data/Method

We analyzed novel survey data from 1,729 undergraduate students (141 of whom identify as LGBTQ) enrolled in eight U.S. engineering programs.

Results

We found that LGBTQ students face greater marginalization, devaluation, and health and wellness issues relative to their peers, and that these health and wellness inequalities are explained in part by LGBTQ students' experiences of marginalization and devaluation in their engineering programs. Furthermore, there is little variation in the climate for LGBTQ students across the eight schools, suggesting that anti‐LGBTQ bias may be widespread in engineering education.

Conclusions

We call for reflexive research on LGBTQ inequality in engineering education and the institutional and cultural shifts needed to mitigate these processes and better support LGBTQ students.
How does sub‐hourly rainfall intermittency bias the climatology of hourly and daily rainfalls? Examples from arid and wet tropical Australia
Authors: Dunkerley David
Published: December 2018

Statistical rainfall climatologies for application to problems in ecohydrology or urban flood hydrology employ indices such the average rainfall depth per rain day or rain hour, and the average daily or hourly rainfall intensity. These subsume fine‐temporal‐scale aspects of rainfall arrival such as sub‐hourly intermittency that vary among locations with different climatic conditions. Rainfall duration and intensity derived from data aggregated to hourly or daily level thus involve some bias, generally overestimating the duration of rainfall and underestimating rainfall rates, and this bias will vary with location. The magnitude of bias is documented for two Australian locations having rainfall records of high temporal resolution: one arid and one wet tropical.

Rainfall data aggregated to hourly or daily level yield substantial overestimates of time raining, and underestimates of rainfall rates. The magnitude of bias is shown to differ between the two field locations where on average rain is only recorded during 3.6 hr (14.9%) of a rain day at the arid location, but 8.2 hr (34%) at the wet tropical site. Resulting bias in estimates of time raining and of rainfall intensities is worse at the arid location. The significance of intermittency in particular for the detection of the effects of climate change on temporal rainfall climatology is explored. If intermittency varies with climate change, but is concealed through the use temporally aggregated rainfall data, erroneous assessments of changes in rainfall intensities may result. The use of rainfall events rather than clock‐period data appears to reduce some of these effects, but there is still a failure to reflect short‐period, high‐intensity rainfall that may be important to soil erosion and the loss of carbon, nutrients, and agrochemicals from agricultural land.
Bioaccessibility of carotenoids from plant and animal foods
Authors: Chacón‐Ordóñez Tania , Carle Reinhold , Schweiggert Ralf
Published: December 2018

The frequent consumption of carotenoid‐rich foods has been associated with numerous health benefits, such as the supply of provitamin A. To exert these health benefits, carotenoids need to be efficiently liberated from the food matrix, micellized in the small intestine, taken up by the enterocytes and absorbed into the human blood stream. Enormous efforts have been made to better understand these processes. Because human studies are costly, labor‐intense and time‐consuming, the evaluation of carotenoid liberation and micellization at the laboratory scale using simulated in vitro digestion models has proven to be an important tool for obtaining preliminary results prior to conducting human studies. In particular, the liberation from the food matrix and the intestinal micellization can be mimicked by simulated digestion, yielding an estimate of the so‐called bioaccessibility of a carotenoid. In the present review, we provide an overview of the carotenoid digestion process in vivo, the currently used in vitro digestion models and the outcomes of previous bioaccessibility studies, with a special focus on correlations with concomitantly conducted human studies. Furthermore, we advocate for the on‐going requirement of better standardized digestion protocols and, in addition, we provide suggestions for the complementation of the acquired knowledge and current nutritional recommendations. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Dynamic human resource selection for business process exceptions
Authors: Lee Jooseok , Lee Seunghoon , Kim Jinwoo , Choi Injun
Published: December 2018

A key capability of today's organizations is to flexibly and effectively react to unexpected events. A critical case of an unexpected event is sudden unavailability of human resources, which was not properly addressed by existing resource allocation approaches. This paper proposes a systematic approach that analyzes event logs to select suitable substitutes if the initial human resources become unavailable. The approach uses process mining and social network analysis to derive a metric called degree of substitution, which measures how much the work experiences of the human resources overlap, from the two perspectives: task execution and transfer of work. Along with the metric, suitable substitutes are also identified. A simulation demonstrates that the approach identifies suitable substitutes more effectively and accurately than existing allocation methods such as role‐based allocation or random allocation. The proposed approach will increase the effectiveness of dynamic allocation of human resources, especially in an exceptional situation.
A regulatory variant in TBX2 promoter is related to the decreased susceptibility of congenital heart disease in the Han Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Ran‐ran , Cai Ke , Liu Lian , Yang Qian , Zhang Ping , Gui Yong‐hao , Wang Feng
Published: December 2018

Background

Tbx2 plays a vital role in the cardiac cushion development. In this study, we aimed to determine the relationship between common genetic variants in the promoter region of TBX2 gene and the risk of congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods

Blood samples of 516 CHD patients and 587 control subjects were enrolled. Sanger sequencing and SNaPshot analysis were performed for genotyping in our case–control cohort. Luciferase and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) were conducted to uncover the potential modulatory mechanism of the related variants.

Results

Variant rs4455026(c.‐1028G>C) in TBX2 promoter region was found to be associated with significantly lower CHD susceptibility. The risk of CHD in C allele carriers (GC and CC genotypes) decreased by 30% compared to the wild‐type GG genotype subjects (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.55–0.89, p = 0.0038). It was revealed that G to C variation resulted in a decrease in the transcriptional activity of luciferase gene, and a potential change in binding affinity with certain nucleoproteins in EMSA data.

Conclusion

The minor C allele of rs4455026 in TBX2 promoter region was related with lower CHD susceptibility in the Han Chinese population via repressing its transcriptional activity.
Numerical pricing of geometric asian options with barriers
Authors: Aimi Alessandra , Diazzi Lorenzo , Guardasoni Chiara
Published: December 2018

In this article, a semianalytical method for pricing of barrier options is described and applied in the context of Asian options with geometric mean. The efficiency of the method is tested and compared with two finite difference methods.
XFEM formulation with sub‐interpolation, and equivalence to zero‐thickness interface elements
Authors: Crusat Laura , Carol Ignacio , Garolera Daniel
Published: December 2018

This paper describes a particular formulation of the extended finite element method (XFEM) specifically conceived for application to existing discontinuities of fixed location, for instance, in geological media. The formulation is based on two nonstandard assumptions: (1) the use of sub‐interpolation functions for each subdomain and (2) the use of fictitious displacement variables on the nodes across the discontinuity (instead of the more traditional jump variables). Thanks to the first of those assumptions, the proposed XFEM formulation may be shown to be equivalent to the standard finite element method with zero‐thickness interface elements for the discontinuities (FEM+z). The said equivalence is theoretically proven for the case of quadrangular elements cut in two quadrangles by the discontinuity, and only approximate for other types of intersections of quadrangular or triangular elements, in which the XFEM formulation corresponds to a kinematically restricted version of the corresponding interface plus continuum scheme. The proposed XFEM formulation with sub‐interpolation, also helps improving spurious oscillations of the results obtained with natural interpolation functions when the discontinuity runs skew to the mesh. A possible explanation for these oscillations is provided, which also explains the improvement observed with sub‐interpolation. The paper also discusses the oscillations observed in the numerical results when some nodes are too close to the discontinuity and proposes the remedy of moving those nodes onto the discontinuity itself. All the aspects discussed are illustrated with some examples of application, the results of which are compared with closed‐form analytical solutions or to existing XFEM results from the literature.
shRNA‐mediated PPARα knockdown in human glioma stem cells reduces in vitro proliferation and inhibits orthotopic xenograft tumour growth
Authors: Haynes Harry R , Scott Helen L , Killick‐Cole Clare L , Shaw Gary , Brend Tim , Hares Kelly M , Redondo Juliana , Kemp Kevin C , Ballesteros Lorena S , Herman Andrew , Cordero‐Llana Oscar , Singleton William G , Mills Francesca , Batstone Tom , Bulstrode Harry , Kauppinen Risto A , Wurdak Heiko , Uney James B , Short Susan C , Wilkins Alastair , Kurian Kathreena M
Published: December 2018

The overall survival for patients with primary glioblastoma is very poor. Glioblastoma contains a subpopulation of glioma stem cells (GSC) that are responsible for tumour initiation, treatment resistance and recurrence. PPARα is a transcription factor involved in the control of lipid, carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. We have recently shown that PPARα gene and protein expression is increased in glioblastoma and has independent clinical prognostic significance in multivariate analyses. In this work, we report that PPARα is overexpressed in GSC compared to foetal neural stem cells. To investigate the role of PPARα in GSC, we knocked down its expression using lentiviral transduction with short hairpin RNA (shRNA). Transduced GSC were tagged with luciferase and stereotactically xenografted into the striatum of NOD‐SCID mice. Bioluminescent and magnetic resonance imaging showed that knockdown (KD) of PPARα reduced the tumourigenicity of GSC in vivo. PPARα‐expressing control GSC xenografts formed invasive histological phenocopies of human glioblastoma, whereas PPARα KD GSC xenografts failed to establish viable intracranial tumours. PPARα KD GSC showed significantly reduced proliferative capacity and clonogenic potential in vitro with an increase in cellular senescence. In addition, PPARα KD resulted in significant downregulation of the stem cell factors c‐Myc, nestin and SOX2. This was accompanied by downregulation of the PPARα‐target genes and key regulators of fatty acid oxygenation ACOX1 and CPT1A, with no compensatory increase in glycolytic flux. These data establish the aberrant overexpression of PPARα in GSC and demonstrate that this expression functions as an important regulator of tumourigenesis, linking self‐renewal and the malignant phenotype in this aggressive cancer stem cell subpopulation. We conclude that targeting GSC PPARα expression may be a therapeutically beneficial strategy with translational potential as an adjuvant treatment. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Plant‐mediated gene silencing of an essential olfactory‐related Gqα gene enhances resistance to grain aphid in common wheat in greenhouse and field
Authors: Hou Qiling , Xu Lanjie , Liu Guoyu , Pang Xiaomeng , Wang Xiao , Zhang Yufeng , You Mingshan , Ni Zhongfu , Zhao Zhangwu , Liang Rongqi
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Grain aphid (Sitobion avenae F.) is a dominant pest that limits cereal crop production around the globe. Gq proteins have important roles in signal transduction in insect olfaction. Plant‐mediated RNA interference (RNAi) has been widely studied in insect control, but its application for the control wheat aphid in the field requires further study. Here, we used double‐stranded (ds)RNA feeding to verify the potential of selected Gqα fragments for host‐mediated RNAi, and then evaluated the effect of RNAi on aphid olfaction in transgenic wheat in the greenhouse and field.

RESULTS

Gqα gene was expressed in the aphid life cycle, and a 540 bp fragment shared 98.1% similarity with the reported sequence. dsGqα feeding reduced the expression of Gqα, and both reproduction and molting in the grain aphid. Feeding transgenic lines in the greenhouse downregulated expression of aphid Gqα, and significantly reduced reproduction and molting numbers. Furthermore, our field results indicate that transgenic lines have lower aphid numbers and higher 1000‐grain weight than an unsprayed wild‐type control.

CONCLUSION

Plant‐mediated silencing of an essential olfactory‐related Gqα gene could enhance resistance to grain aphid in common wheat in both the greenhouse and the field. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
GDPR Brings Openness, Accountability and Trust
Authors: Heeg Robert
Published: December 2018

In May strict new data protection and privacy legislation was introduced in Europe. We look at the impact of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) on the market research and insights industry.
From focus groups to scalable qualitative
Authors: Appleton Edward
Published: December 2018

The growing pains of digital qual research
Heading for the Merge
Authors: Devoy Malcolm
Published: December 2018

When humans and machines become one
The four top global trends disrupting market research
Authors: Brehmer Zandi , Holmes Lisa
Published: December 2018

And what researchers should do to stay ahead
How new EU copyright rules could impact research
Authors: Knibbe Jan Willem
Published: December 2018

One of the hottest debates taking place in Europe is the reform of the copyright regime.
Synthesis of Size‐Expanded Nucleobase Analogues for Artificial Base‐Pairing Using a Ligand‐Free, Microwave‐Assisted Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Reaction
Authors: Radhakrishnan K , Das Soumi , Kundu Lal Mohan
Published: December 2018

Abstract: Quinazolines is an important class of natural products. Size‐expanded isocytosine analogues or 2‐aminoquinazolinones have found significance as pharmaceutically active compounds, for the expansion of genetic alphabets and as biomolecular probes. With an aim for further biomolecular applications, a library of functionalized isocytosine analogues have been synthesized in a one‐pot, microwave‐directed reaction. Syntheses were carried out using simple reactants such as ortho‐halo aromatic carboxylic acids and guanidine hydrochloride, in absence of any additional ligand. The usefulness of the methodology could be justified by the diversity of the compounds synthesized, containing functional groups, natural nucleobases, fluorophores or peptide bonds.
State‐of‐the‐Art Advances and Challenges of Iron‐Based Metal Organic Frameworks from Attractive Features, Synthesis to Multifunctional Applications
Authors: Xia Qi , Wang Hou , Huang Binbin , Yuan Xingzhong , Zhang Jingjing , Zhang Jin , Jiang Longbo , Xiong Ting , Zeng Guangming
Published: December 2018

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs), as an original kind of organic–inorganic porous material, are constructed with metal centers and organic linkers via a coordination complexation reaction. Among uncountable MOF materials, iron‐containing metal organic frameworks (Fe‐MOFs) have excellent potential in practical applications owing to their many fascinating properties, such as diverse structure types, low toxicity, preferable stability, and tailored functionality. Here, recent research progresses of Fe‐MOFs in attractive features, synthesis, and multifunctional applications are described. Fe‐MOFs with porosity and tailored functionality are discussed according to the design of building blocks. Four types of synthetic methods including solvothermal, hydrothermal, microwave, and dry gel conversion synthesis are illustrated. Finally, the applications of Fe‐MOFs in Li‐ion batteries, sensors, gas storage, separation in gas and liquid phases, and catalysis are elucidated, focusing on the mechanism. The aim is to provide prospects for extending Fe‐MOFs in more practical applications.
3D Gold‐Modified Cerium and Cobalt Oxide Catalyst on a Graphene Aerogel for Highly Efficient Catalytic Formaldehyde Oxidation
Authors: Qu Jiafu , Chen Dongyun , Li Najun , Xu Qingfeng , Li Hua , He Jinghui , Lu Jianmei
Published: December 2018

A hard template method is used to prepare porous gold‐doped cerium and cobalt oxide (Au‐CexCoy) materials. A series of 3D Au‐Ce xCoy/graphene aerogel (GA) composites is then fabricated by a facile heating method. The obtained catalysts possess a well‐defined structure of ordered arrays of nanotubes and good performance in formaldehyde (HCHO) oxidation. The composition and surface elemental valence states of the catalysts are modulated by the Ce/Co molar ratio. The Au‐CexCoy catalyst and graphene oxide sheets are well compounded within 60 s through a diamine cross‐linker to form 3D Au‐CexCoy/GA composites. In addition, the resulting catalyst of 3 wt% Au‐Ce3Co/GA achieves ≈55% conversion at room temperature and 100% conversion when the reaction temperature is raised at 60 °C. The synergistic effect between CeO2 and Co3O4 promotes the migration of oxygen species and the activation of Au, which facilitates HCHO oxidation. The method used to prepare the 3D catalyst could be used to produce other catalytic materials with good replication of the template. In addition, these findings provide a simple method for rapid fabrication of catalyst/GA composites. The superior activity and stability of the 3D Au‐Ce3Co/GA catalyst make it potentially applicable in HCHO removal.
S‐Doped Carbon Nanospheres: An Efficient Electrocatalyst toward Artificial N2 Fixation to NH3
Authors: Xia Li , Wu Xiufeng , Wang Yuan , Niu Zhiguo , Liu Qian , Li Tingshuai , Shi Xifeng , Asiri Abdullah M. , Sun Xuping
Published: December 2018

Industrial NH3 synthesis mainly relies on the carbon‐emitting Haber–Bosch process operating under severe conditions. Electrocatalytic N2 to NH3 fixation at ambient conditions is an attractive approach to reduce energy consumption and avoid direct carbon emission. In this communication, it is reported that the S‐doped carbon nanosphere (S‐CNS) acts as an efficient and stable nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) catalyst for ambient N2 to NH3 conversion with excellent selectivity. In 0.1 m Na2SO4, the S‐CNS achieves a large NH3 yield of 19.07 μg h−1 mg−1cat. and a high Faradic efficiency of 7.47% at –0.7 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, much higher than those of undoped CNS (3.70 μg h−1 mg−1cat., 1.45%). Notably, this catalyst also demonstrates high electrochemical and structure stability.
Metallfassade mit flexiblen organischen Solarfolien
Authors: Kuhnhenne Markus , Vontein Marius , Bär Stephan , Strauß Andree , Wiertelarz Kathrin , Meissner Michael , Epperlein Klaus
Published: December 2018

Vor dem Hintergrund der angestrebten Energiewende gewinnt die kontinuierliche Gewinnung, Verteilung und Speicherung der natürlich gegebenen, erneuerbaren Energieträger stark an Bedeutung. Die Nutzbarmachung der Sonnenenergie steht hierbei im Fokus und kann treibender Faktor der Energiewende werden. Gebäudeflächen wie Fassaden, die bisher nur in geringem Maße genutzt wurden, sind künftig für die Stromerzeugung heranzuziehen. Zu diesem Zweck sind Systeme zu entwickeln, die hohen architektonischen Ansprüchen genügen, sich ohne großen planerischen und baulichen Mehraufwand umsetzen lassen und eine hohe Energieeffizienz aufweisen.

Im Rahmen eines FuE‐Projekts, in einer Kooperation aus dem Lehr‐ und Forschungsgebiet Nachhaltigkeit im Metallleichtbau der RWTH Aachen University, der Hans Laukien GmbH aus Kiel und der Heliatek GmbH aus Dresden, wird eine neuartige Fassadenlösung in einer Kombination aus organischer Photovoltaik und einem vorgehängten hinterlüfteten Fassadensystem entwickelt. Die sehr leichten, dünnen und flexiblen Solarfolien eignen sich besonders gut für den Einsatz in Metallleichtbaukonstruktionen, da nur geringe zusätzliche Lasten über die Fassade abgetragen werden müssen. Das neue Fassadensystem ist damit sowohl für den Neubau als auch für die Überkleidung von Bestandsfassaden geeignet. Ziel des FuE‐Projekts ist es, einen marktfähigen Prototypen der Metallfassade mit integrierter organischer Photovoltaik zu entwickeln und zu vermessen.
Der Aussichtsturm „Poissy Galore” im Parc du Peuple de l'Herbe
Authors: Puskas Tivadar , Frommenwiler Simon , Chambolle David , Herloch Tilo , Hartmann Simon
Published: December 2018

Der Aussichtsturm „Poissy Galore” befindet sich in einem 113 ha großen öffentlichen Park entlang der Seine, in Carrières‐Sous‐Poissy, Frankreich. Das Programm umfasst ein Besucherzentrum, ein Museum, ein Restaurant und einen Aussichtsturm (Bild 1). Die Bauten im Park sollen den Besuchern die Möglichkeit bieten, die Landschaft zu betrachten und neue Naturerlebnisse zu begünstigen. Der Aussichtsturm – eine 15 m hohe weiße Stahlkonstruktion – besteht aus vier aufeinandergestapelten hausförmigen Körpern. Je nach Blickwinkel ergibt sich die Illusion, dass einzelne Kuben zu Boden gleiten. Die offene Treppe führt durch die einzelnen „Häuser” auf die oberste Ebene, die einen weitläufigen 360°‐Blick auf den Park und die Seine ermöglicht. Die Körper sind als Stahlrahmenbau angedacht und wurden biegesteif zusammengeschweißt. Stellenweise wurde eine Verkeilung zwischen den gestapelten Körpern installiert, um eine horizontale Plattform zu bilden. Durch das Einfügen von Bindegliedern hebt sich das oberste Haus noch etwas mehr ab und scheint damit in der Landschaft zu schweben. Die Fassaden bestehen aus Holzlamellen, deren Anordnung und Abstände eine Transluzenz bewirken und so die Tragwirkung deutlich ablesbar machen.
Synthesize and Characterization of Flame Retardant Copolyesters PET/Phosphorus Compound
Authors: Abbasi Atiyeh , Shakeri Alireza , Abbasi Alireza
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study was to achieve a fiber‐grade poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) with flame retardancy properties. Flame retardant copolyesters based on ethylene glycol, terephthalic acid, and 3‐(hydroxyphenyl phosphinyl) propionic acid (HPP), as a flame retardant comonomer, were synthesized in presence of antimony trioxide catalyst at laboratory and semi‐industrial scales. At first, copolyesters with the lowest amount of flame retardant comonomer were synthesized at laboratory scale in a one‐pot reactor setup. In the second stage, flame retardant PET was synthesized in semi‐industrial pilot with HPP (PET‐HPP). The obtained copolyesters demonstrated almost identical intrinsic viscosities and other characteristics such as PET. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, and RMS test were performed. Flame retardancies were evaluated by a limiting oxygen index (LOI) test. The results indicated that the presence of FR significantly improved the flame retardancy and thermal stability of PET‐HPP. LOI values increased from 28% (PET) to 33 (PET‐HPP) (at laboratory scale) and 44% (at semi‐industrial scale). Differential scanning calorimetry analysis showed that the HPP polyester chain had a higher flexibility compared to PET, due to lower glass transition temperature. The effect of adding FR with regard to the thermal stability of PET‐HPP was investigated via thermogravimetric analysis. The physical properties of both the polymers are similar and suitable for textile application. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:262–270, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers