bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Substituents and Initial Degree of Functionalization of Alkylated Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Their Thermal Stability and Photoluminescence Properties
Authors: Maeda Yutaka , Takehana Yuya , Dang Jing‐Shuang , Suzuki Mitsuaki , Yamada Michio , Nagase Shigeru
Published: October 2016

Alkylated single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been thermally treated to determine the influence of substituents and the degree of functionalization on their thermal stability and photoluminescence (PL) properties. Alkylated SWNTs were prepared by treating SWNTs with sodium naphthalenide and alkyl bromide. The defunctionalization of the alkylated SWNTs was monitored by absorption and Raman spectra. Selective recovery of the characteristic absorption and radial breathing mode peaks was observed during the thermal treatment, which indicates that the thermal stability of the alkylated SWNTs decreases with increases in SWNT diameter and degree of functionalization. n‐Butylated and phenethylated SWNTs showed higher thermal stability than sec‐butylated and benzylated SWNTs for a similar degree of functionalization, respectively. The diameter selectivity and effect of substituents on the thermal elimination reaction were confirmed by density functional theory. In addition, it was shown that the initial degree of functionalization of the alkylated SWNTs, with the alkyl group and degree of functionalization being kept constant after thermal treatment, strongly affects their PL properties; Stokes shift, and PL peak intensity.
Asymmetric Catalytic Aza‐Diels–Alder/Ring‐Closing Cascade Reaction Forming Bicyclic Azaheterocycles by Trienamine Catalysis
Authors: Li Yang , Barløse Casper , Jørgensen Julie , Carlsen Bjørn Dreiø , Jørgensen Karl Anker
Published: October 2016

An asymmetric catalytic aza‐Diels–Alder/ring‐closing cascade reaction between acylhydrazones and in situ formed trienamines is presented. The reaction proceeds through a formal aza‐Diels–Alder cycloaddition, followed by a ring‐closing reaction forming the hemiaminal ring leading to chiral bicyclic azaheterocycles in moderate to good yield (up to 71 %), good enantio‐ (up to 92 % ee) and diastereoselectivity (up to >20:1 d.r.). Furthermore, transformations are presented to show the potential application of the formed product.
Ruthenium(II) Biscarboxylate‐Catalyzed Borylations of C(sp2)−H and C(sp3)−H Bonds
Authors: Sarkar Suman De , Kumar N. Y. Phani , Ackermann Lutz
Published: October 2016

Versatile borylations of C(sp2)−H and C(sp3)−H were achieved with ruthenium(II) biscarboxylate complexes. The robust nature of the ruthenium(II) catalyst enabled C(sp3)−H borylation on pyrrolidines, piperidines, and azepanes with ample scope and excellent positional selectivity control.
Construction and analysis of tissue microarrays in the era of digital pathology: a pilot study targeting CDX1 and CDX2 in a colon cancer cohort of 612 patients
Authors: Nolte Sarah , Zlobec Inti , Lugli Alessandro , Hohenberger Werner , Croner Roland , Merkel Susanne , Hartmann Arndt , Geppert Carol I , Rau Tilman T
Published: October 2016

CDX1 and CDX2 are possibly predictive biomarkers in colorectal cancer. We combined digitally‐guided (next generation) TMA construction (ngTMA) and the utility of digital image analysis (DIA) to assess accuracy, tumour heterogeneity and the selective impact of different combined intensity‐percentage levels on prognosis.CDX1 and CDX2 immunohistochemistry was performed on ngTMAs covering normal tissue, tumour centre and invasive front. The percentages of all epithelial cells per staining intensity per core were analysed digitally. Beyond classical prognosis analysis following REMARK guidelines, we investigated pre‐analytical conditions, three different types of heterogeneity (mosaic‐like, targeted and haphazard) and influences on cohort segregation and patient selection. The ngTMA‐DIA approach produced robust biomarker data with infrequent core loss and excellent on‐target punching. The detailed assessment of tumour heterogeneity could – except for a certain diffuse mosaic‐like heterogeneity – exclude differences between the invasive front and tumour centre, as well as detect haphazard clonal heterogeneous elements. Moreover, lower CDX1 and CDX2 counts correlated with mucinous histology, higher TNM stage, higher tumour grade and worse survival (p < 0.01, all). Different protein expression intensity levels shared comparable prognostic power and a great overlap in patient selection. The combination of ngTMA with DIA enhances accuracy and controls for biomarker analysis. Beyond the confirmation of CDX1 and CDX2 as prognostically relevant markers in CRC, this study highlights the greater robustness of CDX2 in comparison to CDX1. For the assessment of CDX2 protein loss, cut‐points as percentage data of complete protein loss can be deduced as a recommendation.
Retro‐1 Analogues Differentially Affect Oligonucleotide Delivery and Toxin Trafficking
Authors: Yang Bing , Ming Xin , Abdelkafi Hajer , Pons Valerie , Michau Aurelien , Gillet Daniel , Cintrat Jean‐Christophe , Barbier Julien , Juliano Rudy
Published: October 2016

Retro‐1 is a small molecule that displays two important biological activities: First, it blocks the actions of certain toxins by altering their intracellular trafficking. Second, it enhances the activity of oligonucleotides by releasing them from entrapment in endosomes. This raises the question of whether the two actions involve the same cellular target. Herein we report the effects of several Retro‐1 analogues on both toxins and oligonucleotides. We found analogues that affect toxins but not oligonucleotides and vice‐versa, while Retro‐1 is the only compound that affects both. This indicates that the molecular target(s) involved in the two processes are distinct.
Australia's Financial Ombudsman Service: An Analysis of Its Role in the Resolution of Financial Hardship Disputes
Authors: Ali Paul , Bourova Evgenia , Horbec Joseph , Ramsay Ian
Published: October 2016

The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) was established in 2008 to resolve disputes between Australian consumers and financial service providers. This article outlines the role of FOS in resolving disputes under the statutory protections for Australians in financial hardship. This article also sets out the results of a study of data collected by FOS in relation to financial hardship disputes resolved between 2010 and 2014. This data highlights the importance of FOS in a context where most disputes are resolved outside the courts, particularly in the aftermath of the global financial crisis, when the number of financial hardship disputes rose significantly.
A novel PDWC‐UCO algorithm‐based buffer placement in FPGA architecture
Authors: Arumugam Sridevi , Viswanaathan Lakshmiprabha
Published: October 2016

Clock distribution networks consume a significant amount of the whole chip power budget. Therefore, reduction in the power consumption of the clock networks is a significant objective in high‐performance Integrated Circuit (IC) designs. This paper presents a novel Particle Distance Weighted Clustering (PDWC)‐Unity Clustering Optimization (UCO) algorithm for the placement of clock buffers in the Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) architecture. A novel PDWC algorithm is applied for clustering the logical components based on the minimum distance between components. A UCO algorithm is developed to determine the location for the placement of the buffers. This clustering technique reduces the delay rate of the architecture because of the minimum number of logical components. The overall area and power consumption of the FPGA architecture are reduced because of the placement of the buffers and latches. Our proposed PDWC‐UCO algorithm achieves lower delay, power consumption, wire length, latency and skew than the existing Flip‐Flop (FF) merging and register clustering algorithms. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synergic Effect of Naphthylated Carbon Nanotubes and Gold Nanoparticles on Catalytic Performance of Hybrid Films Containing Bilirubin Oxidase for the Dioxygen Reduction
Authors: Grippo Valentina , Pawłowska Joanna , Biernat Jan F. , Bilewicz Renata
Published: October 2016

To improve the direct electron transfer from a multicopper oxidase MvBOd to the glassy carbon electrode surface the naphthylated multiwall carbon nanotubes (Napht‐MWCNTs) are combined with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to form a conductive network at the electrode and to increase its working surface. Such approach allowed to eliminate the necessity of employing mediators to reach elevated current values. The enzyme stability was improved by accommodating it in a biomimetic film of lipidic liquid‐crystalline mesophase of cubic symmetry. The cubic phase hosted the enzyme in its fully active form for days of continuous work of the electrode.
Third‐generation Sulfite Biosensor Based on Sulfite Oxidase Immobilized on Aminopropyltriethoxysilane Modified Indium Tin Oxide
Authors: Saengdee Pawasuth , Promptmas Chamras , Zeng Ting , Leimkühler Silke , Wollenberger Ulla
Published: October 2016

In this paper we report a sulfite biosensor based on immobilization and bioelectrocatalysis of human sulfite oxidase (hSO) on indium tin oxide (ITO). Stable immobilization of catalytically active enzyme in a direct electron transfer configuration was achieved after modification of ITO with aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES). The electrochemical characteristics of the hSO modified electrode have been investigated by cyclic voltammetry for various pretreatment and binding conditions. Amperometry was utilized to demonstrate the current responses of the sulfite sensor toward sodium sulfite in an aqueous solution under the optimized conditions. The proposed sulfite sensor exhibits a fast response and high sulfite sensitivity with a linear range of 0.5 to 2 μM. An additional polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) cover membrane was applied to extend the linear working range. As a result, the upper concentration in the linear range for the sulfite sensor was extended from 2 μM to 20 μM for 5 % PVA. In addition, the sulfite sensor with PVA has improved storage stability when kept in 0.5 mM Tris‐buffer, pH 7.0 at 4 °C.
Janus Micromotors for Electrochemical Sensing and Biosensing Applications: A Review
Authors: Jurado‐Sánchez Beatriz , Escarpa Alberto
Published: October 2016

Self‐propelled micromotors offer considerable promise to solve electroanalytical challenges. This timely review provides a comprehensive overview of the potential of Janus micromotors for new electroanalytical and biosensing applications. We will describe first the use of Janus micromotors to assist electrochemical measurements using strip‐based microvolume electrodes. Recent advances on actively moving electrochemical (bio)sensors, ranging from enzyme‐powered to light‐emitting electrochemically powered Janus micromotors, will be also described. We hope that this Review provides the reader with some general knowledge and future prospect of the potential of Janus micromotors for electroanalysis.
Spectral response measurements of multijunction solar cells with low shunt resistance and breakdown voltages
Authors: Babaro Juan P. , West Kevin G. , Hamadani Behrang H.
Published: October 2016

Spectral response measurements of germanium‐based triple‐junction solar cells were performed under a variety of light and voltage bias conditions. Two of the three junctions exhibited voltage and light bias‐dependent artifacts in their measured responses, complicating the true spectral response of these junctions. To obtain more insight into the observed phenomena, a set of current‐voltage measurement combinations were also performed on the solar cells under identical illumination conditions, and the data were used in the context of a diode‐based analytical model to calculate and predict the spectral response behavior of each junction as a function of voltage. The analysis revealed that both low shunt resistance and low breakdown voltages in two of the three junctions influenced the measured quantum efficiency of all three junctions. The data and the modeling suggest that combination of current‐voltage measurements under various light bias sources can reveal important information about the spectral response behavior in multijunction solar cells.
Linking hydrology and sediment dynamics of large alluvial rivers to landscape diversity in the Ganga dispersal system, India
Authors: Roy Nonigopal G. , Sinha Rajiv
Published: October 2016

Discharge and sediment load data for several stations along the Ganga River and its major tributaries in the western Ganga plains (WGP) for a period of ~30 years have been analysed to understand the hydrological characteristics and sediment dynamics. In terms of hydrology, the rivers are less flood‐prone than believed, exceeding bankfull discharges less frequently than the expected 1.5 year return interval. This has been attributed to the rivers of this region occupying incised valleys formed in the Late Quaternary period. Rivers draining the WGP are supply‐limited systems compared to those draining the eastern Ganga plains (EGP) which have been characterized as transport‐limited systems. We suggest that such geomorphic diversity as a function of spatial variability in precipitation regime and hinterland geology has existed for at least the Late Quaternary period and they in turn influence the modern day hydrology of the river systems in a significant way. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental and modeling investigation of mass transfer during combined infrared‐vacuum drying of Hayward kiwifruits
Authors: Aidani Emad , Hadadkhodaparast Mohammadhossein , Kashaninejad Mahdi
Published: October 2016

In this work, we tried to evaluate mass transfer during a combined infrared‐vacuum drying of kiwifruits. Infrared radiation power (200–300 W) and system pressure (5–15 kPa), as drying parameters, are evaluated on drying characteristics of kiwifruits. Both the infrared lamp power and vacuum pressure affected the drying time of kiwifruit slices. Nine different mathematical models were evaluated for moisture ratios using nonlinear regression analysis. The results of regression analysis indicated that the quadratic model is the best to describe the drying behavior with the lowest SE values and highest R value. Also, an increase in the power led to increase in the effective moisture diffusivity between 1.04 and 2.29 × 10−9 m2/s. A negative effect was observed on the ΔE with increasing in infrared power and with rising in infrared radiation power it was increased. Chroma values decreased during drying.
A Non‐Intrusive Signal‐Based Method for a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Pahon E. , Yousfi‐Steiner N. , Jemei S. , Hissel D. , Moçotéguy P.
Published: October 2016

This paper presents an experimental study dealing with a non‐intrusive signal‐based method for a fault diagnosis of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The aim of this tool is to define a specific signature of different operating conditions. First, a healthy state has to be defined: an operating condition with fixed parameters values for current, temperature, pressure is used as a reference state. When the operating conditions divert from this state of functioning, a fault is considered. Thanks to the wavelet transform of different signals from the fuel cell system, a signature can be extracted and linked to the considered operating conditions. The energy contents of the wavelet transform is used as an indicator of the state‐of‐health (SoH) of the fuel cell system with the purpose to detect deviations from healthy state operating conditions and to detect the fault related to. The diagnosis tool presented in this paper is based on existing signals acquired on the fuel cell system, in order to minimize the number of actual sensors. The other goals are to minimize the number of extracted parameters from the fuel cell system and to be as less intrusive as possible in the fuel cell system.
Predictors of suicidal ideation in Korean American older adults: analysis of the Memory and Aging Study of Koreans (MASK)
Authors: Na Peter J. , Kim Kim B. , Lee‐Tauler Su Yeon , Han Hae‐Ra , Kim Miyong T. , Lee Hochang B.
Published: October 2016

Objective

Our aim is to investigate the prevalence and predictors of suicidal ideation among Korean American older adults and assess the self‐rated mental health of Korean American older adults with suicidal ideation with or without depressive syndrome.

Methods

The Memory and Aging Study of Koreans is a cross‐sectional, epidemiologic study of a community‐representative sample of Korean American older adults (N = 1116) residing in the Baltimore–Washington area. Participants were interviewed using the Korean version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9K). In addition, demographic information, self‐rated mental health, and self‐rated physical health status were obtained.

Results

In this study, 14.7% of Korean American older adults reported suicidal ideation. Predictors of suicidal ideation included living alone, major or minor depressive syndrome (diagnosed by the PHQ‐9K), shorter duration of residency in the USA, and poorer self‐rated mental health status. Of those who reported suicidal ideation, 64% did not have minor or major depressive syndrome. However, their self‐rated mental health was as poor as that of those with major or minor depressive syndrome but without suicidal ideation.

Conclusion

Suicidal ideation without depressive syndromes was common among Korean American older adults. For this group of elders with poor self‐rated mental health, future studies should look to improving early detection of suicide risks and developing feasible suicide prevention interventions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and validation of a mathematical equation to estimate glomerular filtration rate in cirrhosis: The royal free hospital cirrhosis glomerular filtration rate
Authors: Kalafateli Maria , Wickham Fred , Burniston Maria , Cholongitas Evangelos , Theocharidou Eleni , Garcovich Matteo , O'Beirne James , Westbrook Rachel , Leandro Gioacchino , Burroughs Andrew K. , Tsochatzis Emmanuel A.
Published: October 2016

Current expressions based on serum creatinine concentration overestimate kidney function in cirrhosis, leading to significant differences between “true” and calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR). We compared the performance of the four‐variable and six‐variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease and chronic kidney disease epidemiology with “true,” or measured, GFR (mGFR) and the impact of this difference on Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) calculation. We subsequently developed and validated a GFR equation specifically for cirrhosis and compared the performance of the new derived formula with existing GFR formulae. We included 469 consecutive patients who had a transplant assessment between 2011 and 2014. mGFR was measured using plasma isotope clearance according to a technique validated in patients with ascites. A corrected creatinine was derived from the mGFR after application of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula. Subsequently, a corrected MELD was calculated and compared with the conventionally calculated MELD. Stepwise multiple linear regression was used to derive a GFR equation. This was compared with the mGFR in independent external and internal validation sets of 82 and 174 patients with cirrhosis, respectively. A difference >20 mL/minute/1.73 m2 between existing formulae and mGFR was observed in 226 (48.2%) patients. The corrected MELD score was ≥3 points higher in 177 (37.7%) patients. The predicted equation (r
2 = 74.6%) was GFR = 45.9 × (creatinine–0·836) × (urea–0·229) × (international normalized ratio–0·113) × (age−0.129 [Corrected November 29, 2016: originally written as “age‐129.”]) × (sodium0·972) × 0.809 (if female) × 0.92 (if moderate/severe ascites). An online calculator is available at http://rfh-cirrhosis-gfr.ucl.ac.uk. The model was a good fit and showed the greatest accuracy compared to that of existing formulae. Conclusion: We developed and validated a new accurate model for GFR assessment in cirrhosis, the Royal Free Hospital cirrhosis GFR, using readily available variables; this remains to be tested and incorporated in prognostic scores in patients with cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2017;65:582‐591).
Compilation and Analysis of Enzymes, Engineered Antibodies, and Nanoparticles Designed to Interfere with Amyloid‐β Aggregation
Authors: Zhao Jun , Ma Buyong , Nussinov Ruth
Published: October 2016

The abnormal accumulation and aggregation of amyloid β (Aβ) is one of the key factors of the synaptic impairment in Alzheimer's disease. Biomolecules, e.g., apolipoproteins, and membrane receptors, are implicated in the aggregation and toxicity of Aβ. Engineered molecules, such as enzymes, antibodies, and nanoparticles, are designed to interfere with these processes. We compile structural information on these molecules and their essential roles in the complex processes of aggregation, disaggregation, degradation, clearance, and inhibition of Aβ. The interactions between Aβ and its partners have no obvious emerging commonalities. One exception is the recognition of the N‐terminal region of Aβ peptides by antibody heavy and light chains, which are facilitated by cooperative interaction not observed in other Aβ‐peptide molecules. Overall, the emerging picture charts a diverse, to date unexplored, landscape and serves as the first‐of‐its‐kind partner‐ and scenario‐specific analysis.
The role of attentional resources in explaining sex differences in object location memory
Authors: Barel Efrat
Published: October 2016

Sex differences in object location memory have been widely studied, with mixed results. The role of attention in mediating the female advantage in object location memory has not been clearly understood yet. Two experiments, involving 181 participants and using an actual object array, were conducted in the present study to examine two learning conditions: incidental and intentional. In each experiment, participants were randomly assigned to divided versus full attention conditions. The study also examined memorizing location‐maintained and location‐exchanged objects. In both experiments, in both incidental and intentional learning conditions, women outperformed men in memorizing location‐exchanged objects in the full but not in the divided attention condition. These findings confirm and extend previous ones concerning the conditions under which the female advantage in the detection of change in an array of objects occurs. The findings are discussed within an evolutionary conceptual framework.
Microwave‐synthesized Pepper Peduncle Carbon, Characterization, and Its Adsorption Studies
Authors: Hemashree Kakunje , Chaithra Padyana , Ishwara Bhat Jathi
Published: October 2016

Adsorption on activated carbon is an efficient method for the removal of toxic dyes. However, since commercially available charcoal is quite expensive, activated carbon obtained from agricultural by‐products may serve as a good replacement. In this study, activated carbon was prepared from pepper peduncle, an agricultural waste product, by microwave activation. The synthesized carbon was characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermal gravimetric analysis techniques. It was then used for the adsorption of methylene blue dye from an aqueous solution, which was studied as a function of the dye concentration, contact time, and temperature. The adsorption data were fitted to Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models. The adsorption kinetics was studied by employing first‐ and second‐order kinetic models, and it was found that the adsorption of methylene blue on the synthesized activated carbon follows a second‐order kinetic model. Effect of temperature on the adsorption process was studied, and the thermodynamic parameters such as activation energy, change in enthalpy, entropy, and free energy of adsorption were calculated on the basis of the absolute theory of reaction rate expressions. About 99.5–91.8% of the dye was removed for an initial dye concentration in the range 20–100 mg/g in 1 h. Thus the synthesized activated carbon was found to be very efficient in adsorbing the dye.
Characteristics of mesoscale convective systems in central East China and their reliance on atmospheric circulation patterns
Authors: He Zhiwei , Zhang Qinghong , Bai Lanqiang , Meng Zhiyong
Published: October 2016

Based on mosaics of composite radar reflectivity for a 4‐year period from July 2007 to June 2011, a total of 354 mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) over central East China were identified and their characteristics were investigated. Using the objective classification method of obliquely rotated principal analysis in T mode, the atmospheric circulation patterns over central East China were classified into nine typical types based on the geopotential height fields at 850 hPa. It was found that 62.2% of daytime MCSs and 67.7% of nocturnal MCSs occurred in meridional atmospheric circulations, which were associated with the Western North Pacific Subtropical High (WNPSH) to the east and a low‐pressure system to the west. The relationship between atmospheric circulation types and characteristics of MCSs was also investigated. Composite analyses revealed two different atmospheric circulation patterns at 500 hPa in meridional atmospheric circulations, the pre‐short‐trough pattern and the cold vortex pattern. The former featured relatively stronger vertical wind shear, warm advection, and convergence at the exit region of low‐level jets (LLJs), while the latter was associated with relatively stronger frontal zones and frontogenesis process. Numbers of MCSs decreased significantly from 2008 to 2010, which might be attributed to changes in the location of WNPSH, the trough to the west and LLJs between the two systems.
Spatial and temporal variability of the frost‐free season in Central Europe and its circulation background
Authors: Wypych Agnieszka , Ustrnul Zbigniew , Sulikowska Agnieszka , Chmielewski Frank‐M. , Bochenek Bogdan
Published: October 2016

The aim of the study was to investigate the temporal and spatial variability of last spring and first autumn frost events as well as the length of the frost‐free season (FFS) in Central Europe in relation to atmospheric circulation. Studies were conducted for the period 1951–2010 using gridded, daily minimum air temperature data obtained from the E‐OBS dataset at 0.25° spatial resolution. To assess the possible impact of air temperature variability on plants, late spring frost events and severe frost events were also examined with respect to the beginning of the thermal growing season. The role of atmospheric circulation was described using Grosswetterlagen circulation types and NAO index, and finally estimated using empirical orthogonal function analysis (EOF). The results confirm a significant increase in the length of the FFS, up to 10 days per decade in the western parts of Europe. This is mostly a result of earlier occurrence of last spring frost in the west up to 5 days. The occurrence of first autumn frost shows no significant trend in most of the studied regions. The obtained spatial pattern of the trends reflects oceanic (west) and continental (east) climatic conditions of the study area. Detailed analysis of circulation types favouring the occurrence of frost in Central Europe indicates that anti‐cyclonic situations are mainly responsible. EOF analyses for the springtime confirm that the first mode, which accounts for 56% of total variance, is related to an extensive high pressure system over eastern Ukraine and Belarus, which brings an inflow of cold, continental air masses to Central Europe. The results provide a broaden information on the region climatologically important due to its transitional location, which may be relevant for investigating past and future trends in spring freeze risk for perennial crops, as changes in the frequency of these airflow patterns will result in changes in the risk of frost damage.
Preliminary investigation of mineral content of pollen collected from different Serbian maize hybrids – is there any potential nutritional value?
Authors: Kostić Aleksandar Ž , Kaluđerović Lazar M , Dojčinović Biljana P , Barać Miroljub B , Babić Vojka B , Mačukanović‐Jocić Marina P
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Bee pollen has already proved to be a good supplement rich in iron and zinc. Studies on the application of flower pollen in the food industry and medicine have begun. Bearing in mind the prevalence of maize as a crop culture, its pollen will be easily available. The mineral composition of pollen of seven Serbian maize hybrids was analyzed in order to establish its nutritional value and the benefits of its implementation in the human diet using the inductively coupled plasma method.

RESULTS

The presence of twenty four different macro‐ (nine) and micronutrients (fifteen) was detected. The most common minerals were phosphorus and potassium, while arsenic, cobalt, lead, nickel and molybdenum were found in some samples.

CONCLUSION

Comparing the results obtained with recommended or tolerable dietary intake references for adults, it was found that maize pollen can be used as a very good source of zinc, iron, chromium and manganese for humans. With regard to selenium content, pollen samples proved to be moderately good source of this important micronutrient. Contents of some elements (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cr, Se, Al and V) showed significant differences depending on hybrid type. In some samples increased concentrations of aluminum and vanadium were recorded, which may pose a potential problem due to their toxicity. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Physiochemical, texture properties, and the microstructure of set yogurt using whey protein–sodium tripolyphosphate aggregates as thickening agents
Authors: Cheng Jianjun , Xie Siyu , Yin Yuan , Feng Xianmin , Wang Shuai , Guo Mingruo , Ni Chunlei
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Polymerized whey protein–sodium tripolyphosphate can be induced to gel in an acidic environment provided during fermentation. The variety of thickening agent has an influence on texture that is an essential aspect of yogurt quality affecting consumer preference. Similar to polysaccharide stabilizers, the cold gelation properties of whey proteins can improve the body texture of yogurt products. Polymerized whey protein–sodium tripolyphosphate could be a favorable and interesting thickening agent for making set yogurt.

RESULTS

The effects of whey protein isolate (WPI), heat‐treated whey protein–sodium tripolyphosphate (WPI‐STPP), heat‐treated WPI and pectin on the storage properties and microstructure of yogurt were investigated. All samples were analyzed for syneresis, pH, titratable acidity, viscosity, texture profile and microstructure during storage. The results showed that incorporating heat‐treated WPI‐STPP had a significant impact on syneresis (32.22 ± 0.60), viscosity (10 956.67 ± 962.1) and hardness (209.24 ± 12.48) (p < 0.05) with uniform body texture.

CONCLUSION

Yogurt fermented with modified WPI‐STPP had higher levels of protein and better hardness compared with yogurt using pectin. The microstructure was observed to be a uniform and denser, complicated network. Heat‐treated WPI‐STPP may be useful for improving yogurt texture. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Hospital costs of colorectal cancer surgery for the oldest old: A Dutch population‐based study
Authors: Govaert Johannes A. , Govaert Marc J.P.M. , Fiocco Marta , van Dijk Wouter A. , Tollenaar Rob A.E.M. , Wouters Michel W.J.M. ,   the Dutch Value Based Healthcare Study Group
Published: October 2016

Background Due to increasing healthcare costs, discussions regarding increased hospital costs when operating on high‐risk patients is rising. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze if oldest‐old colorectal cancer patients have a greater impact on hospital costs than their younger counterparts.

Methods

All colorectal cancer procedures performed in 29 Dutch hospitals between 2010 and 2012 and listed in the Dutch Surgical Colorectal Audit were analyzed. Oldest‐old patients (≥85 years) were compared to patients <85 years. Ninety‐day hospital costs were measured uniformly in all hospitals based on time‐driven activity‐based costs.

Results

Compared to <85‐year‐old patients (n = 9130), the oldest old (n = 783) had longer hospital stays (LOS) (11.3 vs. 13.2, P < 0.001), more severe complications (21.8% vs. 29.0%, P < 0.001), more failure to rescue (13.9% vs. 37.0%, P < 0.001) and higher mortality (3.0% vs. 10.7%, P < 0.001). Deceased oldest‐old patients had significantly less LOS and less LOS ICU. Total hospital costs were 3% lower for oldest‐old patients (€13,168) than for <85‐year‐old patients (€13,644, P < 0.001). In cases of severe complications or death, hospital costs for the oldest old were 25% and 31% lower than those of <85‐year‐old patients (both P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Although frequently assumed to be more expensive, operating on oldest‐old patients with colorectal cancer does not increase hospital costs compared to younger patients. This was most likely due to faster deterioration or less aggressive treatment of oldest‐old patients when (severe) complications occurred. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:1009–1015. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patient selection for the surgical treatment of resectable colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Araujo Raphael L.C. , Riechelmann Rachel P. , Fong Yuman
Published: October 2016

Advances in surgery and chemotherapy regimens have increased the long‐term survival of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Although liver resection remains an essential part of any curative strategy for resectable CRLM, chemotherapy regimens have also improved the long‐term outcomes. However, the optimal timing for chemotherapy regimens remains unclear. Thus, this review addressed key points to aid the decision‐making process regarding the timing of chemotherapy and surgery for patients with resectable CRLM. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:213–220. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polyurethane/polystyrene‐silica electrospun nanofibrous composite for the headspace solid‐phase microextraction of chlorophenols coupled with gas chromatography
Authors: Eskandarpour Niloufar , Sereshti Hassan , Najarzadekan Hamid , Gaikani Hamid
Published: October 2016

A novel electrospun composite nanofiber‐based adsorbent (polyurethane/polystyrene‐silica) was fabricated, characterized, and used in the headspace solid‐phase microextraction of the acetylated derivatives of chlorophenols in water samples before gas chromatography with micro electron capture detection. The surface morphology, chemical composition, thermal stability, and structure of the fibers were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller and Barrett–Joyner–Halenda techniques. The effect of the main parameters influencing the efficiency of the method including extraction temperature, salt concentration, and extraction time was investigated and the optimized conditions were obtained. The linear dynamic ranges were 0.1–800 ng/mL. The relative standard deviations (n = 3) and the limits of detection were 2.64–9.57% and 0.0234–0.830 ng/mL, respectively. The relative recoveries for real samples (river water and sewage of our university campus) were between 90.8 and 111%.
Istamycin aminoglycosides profiling and their characterization in Streptomyces tenjimariensis ATCC 31603 culture using high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Hoang Nguyen Huu , Huong Nguyen Lan , Kim Byul , Sohng Jae Kyung , Yoon Yeo Joon , Park Je Won
Published: October 2016

A high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization ion trap tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the robust profiling and characterization of biosynthetic congeners in the 2‐deoxy‐aminocyclitol istamycin pathway, from the fermentation broth of Streptomyces tenjimariensis ATCC 31603. Gradient elution on an Acquity CSH C18 column was performed with a gradient of 5 mM aqueous pentafluoropropionic acid and 50% acetonitrile. Sixteen natural istamycin congeners were profiled and quantified in descending order; istamycin A, istamycin B, istamycin A0, istamycin B0, istamycin B1, istamycin A1, istamycin C, istamycin A2, istamycin C1, istamycin C0, istamycin X0, istamycin A3, istamycin Y0, istamycin B3, and istamycin FU‐10 plus istamycin AP. In addition, a total of five sets of 1‐ or 3‐epimeric pairs were chromatographically separated using a macrocyclic glycopeptide‐bonded chiral column. The lower limit of quantification of istamycin‐A present in S. tenjimariensis fermentation was estimated to be 2.2 ng/mL. The simultaneous identification of a wide range of 2‐deoxy‐aminocyclitol‐type istamycin profiles from bacterial fermentation was determined for the first time by employing high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis and the separation of istamycin epimers.
Comparative Endocytosis Mechanisms and Anticancer Effect of HPMA Copolymer‐ and PAMAM Dendrimer‐MTCP Conjugates for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Mohammadpour Raziye , Safarian Shahrokh , Buckway Brandon , Ghandehari Hamidreza
Published: October 2016

Polymer architecture can influence biodistribution and the mode of presentation of bioactive agents to cells. Herein delivery, loading efficiency, and mode of cellular entry of polymer conjugates of the photosensitizer Meso‐Tetra (4‐Carboxyphenyl) Porphyrine (MTCP) are examined when attached to hyperbranched amine terminated poly(amido amine) (PAMAM) dendrimer or random coil linear N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide (HPMA) copolymer containing free amines in the side chains. The in vitro dark cytotoxicity and phototoxicity of MTCP and related conjugates are assessed on mouth epidermal carcinoma (KB) and human adenocarcinoma alveolar basal epithelial (A549) cells. Phototoxicity of polymeric conjugates increases by ≈100 and 4000 fold in KB and A549 cells compared with nonconjugated MTCP. The increase in phototoxicity activity is shown to result from increased rate of cellular uptake, whereas, cellular internalization of MTCP is negligible in comparison with the conjugated forms. The results of this study suggest the superiority of amine‐terminated HPMA copolymer versus PAMAM dendrimer under study for delivery of MTCP. Treatment with various pharmacological inhibitors of endocytosis shows that polymer architecture influences the mechanism of cellular uptake of the conjugated photosensitizer. Results show that polymeric conjugates of MTCP improve solubility, influence the route and the rate of cellular internalization, and drastically enhance the uptake of the photosensitizer.

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Steady flows of Cosserat–Bingham fluids
Authors: Růžička Michael , Shelukhin Vladimir , dos Santos Marcelo Martins
Published: October 2016

The equations describing the steady flow of Cosserat–Bingham fluids are considered, and existence of weak solution is proved for the three‐dimensional boundary‐value problem with the use of the Lipschitz truncation argument. In contrast to the classical Bingham fluid, the micropolar Bingham fluid supports local micro‐rotations and two types of plug zones. Our approach is based on an approximation of the constitutive relation by a generalized Newtonian constitutive relation and a subsequent limiting process. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Speeding up chaos and limit cycles in evolutionary language and learning processes
Authors: Doungmo Goufo Emile Franc
Published: October 2016

Evolution of human language and learning processes have their foundation built on grammar that sets rules for construction of sentences and words. These forms of replicator–mutator (game dynamical with learning) dynamics remain however complex and sometime unpredictable because they involve children with some predispositions. In this paper, a system modeling evolutionary language and learning dynamics is investigated using the Crank–Nicholson numerical method together with the new differentiation with non‐singular kernel. Stability and convergence are comprehensively proven for the system. In order to seize the effects of the non‐singular kernel, an application to game dynamical with learning dynamics for a population with five languages is given together with numerical simulations. It happens that such dynamics, as functions of the learning accuracy μ, can exhibit unusual bifurcations and limit cycles followed by chaotic behaviors. This points out the existence of fickle and unpredictable variations of languages as time goes on, certainly due to the presence of learning errors. More interestingly, this chaos is shown to be dependent on the order of the non‐singular kernel derivative and speeds up as this derivative order decreases. Hence, can people use that order to control chaotic behaviors observed in game dynamical systems with learning! Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cold pressor gel test: A safe alternative to the cold pressor test in fMRI
Authors: Lapotka Maryna , Ruz María , Salamanca Ballesteros Alberto , Ocón Hernández Olga
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This study describes a new methodology—the cold pressor gel test (CPGT)—for delivering an accessible experimental pain stimulus, which is reproducible and safe for functional MRI (fMRI).

Methods

The cold pressor test was modified to put safety precautions into the CPGT. The material used is cool gelled water with a thickening product, which provides a stable temperature at 0.2 °C. Thirteen women with chronic pelvic pain were scanned using a 3 Tesla (T) MR scanner equipped with a 12‐channel head coil. Changes in BOLD activation during cold‐induced pain were estimated.

Results

The results have demonstrated that gel substances maintain a stable temperature during the experiment, resulting in an insignificant variation. Before the experiment, the mean temperature was 0.2 ± 0.11 °C, and at the end it was 0.7 ± 0.15 °C. The time taken by participants to reach the maximum level of pain during the CPGT was 56.92 ± 11.09 s. The pain intensity during the experiments was 6.92 ± 1.66 on the visual analog scale (VAS). The fMRI analysis showed significant BOLD activation in the main brain regions involved in chronic pain processing.

Conclusion

The CPGT is an experimental tool to deliver pain that is easily reproducible, particularly in brain functional imaging studies. Moreover, it is cost‐effective, safe, and compatible with fMRI. Magn Reson Med 78:1464–1468, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Lumbosacral spinal segmental contributions to tibial and pudendal neuromodulation of bladder overactivity in cats
Authors: Bansal Utsav , Fuller Thomas W. , Jiang Xuewen , Bandari Jathin , Zhang Zhaocun , Shen Bing , Wang Jicheng , Roppolo James R. , de Groat William C. , Tai Changfeng
Published: October 2016

Aims

To determine the spinal segmental afferent contributions to tibial and pudendal inhibition of bladder overactivity.

Methods

Intravesical infusion of 0.5% acetic acid was used to irritate the bladder and induce bladder overactivity in anesthetized cats. Tibial or pudendal nerve stimulation was used to suppress the bladder overactivity and increase bladder capacity during cystometry. L5‐S3 dorsal roots ipsilateral to the stimulation were exposed by a laminectomy and transected sequentially during the experiments to determine the role of individual dorsal roots in tibial or pudendal neuromodulation.

Results

Transection of L5 dorsal root had no effect. Transection of L6 dorsal root in four cats produced an average 18% reduction in tibial inhibition, which is not a significant change when averaged in the group of 10 cats. Transection of L7 dorsal root completely removed the tibial inhibition without changing reflex bladder activity or pudendal inhibition. Transection of S1 dorsal root reduced the pudendal inhibition, after which transection of S2 dorsal root completely removed the pudendal inhibition. Transection of S3 dorsal root had no effect. The control bladder capacity was increased only by transection of S2 dorsal root.

Conclusions

This study in cats revealed that tibial and pudendal neuromodulation of reflex bladder overactivity depends on activation of primary afferent pathways that project into different spinal segments. This difference may be related to the recent observation in cats that the two types of neuromodulation have different mechanisms of action.
Detrusor overactivity increases bladder wall thickness in male patients: A urodynamic multicenter cohort study
Authors: De Nunzio Cosimo , Presicce Fabrizio , Lombardo Riccardo , Carter Simon , Vicentini Carlo , Tubaro Andrea
Published: October 2016

Aims

To evaluate the role of Bladder wall thickness (BWT) as a predictor of Detrusor overactivity (DO) in patients with Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)/Benign prostatic enlargement without Bladder Outlet Obstruction.

Methods

From January 1996 to December 2000, each new patient, aged 45 years or older with LUTS, underwent standard diagnostic assessment, urodynamic studies (cystometry and pressure flow studies), and ultrasound measurements of the bladder wall thickness (BWT) in two centers. In order to exclude the possible effect of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) on detrusor thickness, patients with a Schaefer class was ≥2 were excluded from the study. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) quantified the predictive accuracy (PA) of BWT for the diagnosis of DO.

Results

Overall 195 patients were enrolled. DO was observed in 98/195 patients (50%). The BWT presented an AUC of 0.70; 95% CI: 0.62‐0.77 for the diagnosis of DO. At the best cut‐off value of 3.85 mm sensitivity was 73%; specificity was 59%; positive predictive value (64%, PPV). Negative predictive value (69%, NPV).

Conclusions

Our study firstly showed, how BWT in male patients may be a consequence of DO other than BPO. Our finding, if confirmed in further studies, could limit the accuracy of BWT in patients with DO and BPO.
Simultaneous detection of valine and lactate using MEGA‐PRESS editing in pyogenic brain abscess
Authors: Lange Thomas , Ko Cheng‐Wen , Lai Ping‐Hong , Dacko Michael , Tsai Shang‐Yueh , Buechert Martin
Published: October 2016

Valine and lactate have been recognized as important metabolic markers to diagnose brain abscess by means of MRS. However, in vivo unambiguous detection and quantification is hampered by macromolecular contamination. In this work, MEGA‐PRESS difference editing of valine and lactate is proposed. The method is validated in vitro and applied for quantitative in vivo experiments in one healthy subject and two brain abscess patients. It is demonstrated that with this technique the overlapping lipid signal can be reduced by more than an order of magnitude and thus the robustness of valine and lactate detection in vivo can be enhanced. Quantification of the two abscess MEGA‐PRESS spectra yielded valine/lactate concentration ratios of 0.10 and 0.27. These ratios agreed with the concentration ratios determined from concomitantly acquired short‐TE PRESS data and were in line with literature values. The quantification accuracy of lactate (as measured with Cramér‐Rao lower bounds in LCModel processing) was better for MEGA‐PRESS than for short‐TE PRESS in all acquired in vivo datasets. The Cramér‐Rao lower bounds of valine were only better for MEGA‐PRESS in one of the two abscess cases, while in the other case coediting of isoleucine confounded the quantification in the MEGA‐PRESS analysis. MEGA‐PRESS and short‐TE PRESS should be combined for unambiguous quantification of amino acids in abscess measurements. Simultaneous valine/lactate MEGA‐PRESS editing might benefit the distinction of brain abscesses from tumors, and further categorization of bacteria with reasonable sensitivity and specificity.